Looking for fun, kid-friendly things to do in and around Troutdale, Oregon? The area is bursting with opportunities for kids to explore, learn, and play—both indoors and out. This cute little town, also known as The Gateway to the Gorge, is tucked between the Columbia and Sandy Rivers, with amazing access to nature while also only moments from all the conveniences of urban life. From exploring parks and hiking trails along Beaver Creek and the Sandy River to indoor activities for all ages sponsored by the Troutdale Recreation Department, there’s something for everyone in this great little town.
The City of Troutdale Recreation Department has activities for all ages:
For ages 0 to 4, check out Little Trout Play Park – a drop-in indoor play space run by the City of Troutdale. It is open every Tuesday from September 9th to December 9th, from 10am to 11:30am and is only $2 per child, with no prior registration required.
For slightly older kiddos and families, the City will also be hosting free drop-in Game Days once a month throughout the fall – September 13, October 11, and November 8 from 1pm to 6pm. A variety of board games and card games will be available, with volunteers to help you get started and even teach you how to play new games!
Rock Haven Climbing Gym hosts Troutdale Community Climb Days on the first Monday of each month, with half-priced admission for Troutdale residents – only $11, including shoe rentals and chalk. They’re open from 9am-9pm; children under 18 must have a guardian’s signature.
Trick or Treat! Enjoy a safe, fun trick or treating experience this year in Troutdale’s historic downtown. Businesses will be accepting trick-or-treaters of all ages from 4:00-5:30pm on Halloween evening. To keep the party going, the Columbia Gorge Outlets will be hosting trick-or-treating from 5:00-7:00pm.
Natural areas and playgrounds are around every corner.
Kids of all ages can appreciate a good playground – and Imagination Station is a great one. Besides being huge, it has a huge variety of play surfaces and equipment, with a separate area for younger kiddos. With rock climbing walls, rope ladders, castles, ships, swings, and slides galore, there’s something to spark the imagination of even the pickiest playground connoisseur… or at least tire them out.
While hanging out at the river might seem like a summer-only activity, consider taking your kiddos out to one of the Sandy River beaches during the fall: maybe you won’t swim when it’s only 60 degrees out, but there’s still plenty of splashing, sand castle building, fishing, nature-exploring, and general getting-dirty-outside to be done on these beautiful riverbanks. And as a little bonus, you won’t have to listen to the entire city of Portland blasting music as they float by. Finish up the day at Sugarpine Drive-In for some elevated soft serve and excellent food.
Outside of Troutdale but still close by, you can explore several farms with Pumpkin Patches.
Here are a few farms that are celebrating fall with a month or more of fun activities for kids:
- Liepold Farms Fall Festival: Month-long event in October featuring a corn maze, organic pumpkins and gourds, an “Under the Sea” exhibit, family farm fun, and seasonal treats at the farm stand.
- Bushue’s Family Farm Festivities: Open Thursdays through Sundays for hayrides, a mini corn maze, pumpkin patch, pig train rides, and crafts like “dirt baby” kits designed for kids.
- Dolan Creek Farm Fall Events: Family-friendly farm experiences, including tractor rides, pumpkin picking, animal feeding, and a special Halloween celebration with a Trick or Treat Trail.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Take a day trip into the Columbia River Gorge!
There are many different tour companies who will do the driving and take you to all the highlights so you can just relax and take in the gorgeous (sorry) scenery without worrying about parking, or you can plan your own adventure. Two must-see spots are Multnomah Falls for the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the Vista House for sweeping views of the Gorge – but be aware that parking can be difficult on the weekends. (During summer months a parking permit is required at Multnomah Falls – more info here.)
When you’re done with waterfalls, continue heading east on I-84 to Hood River, a beautiful small city with tons of breweries, restaurants, and shops – and don’t skip stopping at Mike’s, an adorable ice cream shop with shocking scoop sizes that is totally worth the wait.
In the autumn, take a drive around the Hood River Fruit Loop – a self-guided tour of 32 fruit stands, farms, orchards, wineries, cideries, and flower fields. Many of them offer U-Pick apples, pears, and flowers, and several offer baked goods and are hosting fall festival activities as well. You can check out the map and specific farm info here.
Many of these beautiful spots are also great for family photos!
Do you want a family photo session that feels easy, fun, and adventurous – without the hassle and stress? I can help! Troutdale and the Gorge have lots of perfect locations for family photos, and I will help you plan and prepare so your photo session feels as easy as possible. Click here to learn more and get your session booked!
