What’s to Love: I know I might catch some flack for putting a fast food restaurant on my site. However, Burgerville has clearly distinguished itself as a company with a local/regional focus on sustainable practices, which aligns well with our Guiding Principles at Portland Family Adventures. I remember an E coli outbreak in beef a few years ago. In response, Burgerville was “…the first fast food company to join Food Alliance and feature all natural, grass-fed Oregon Country Beef in all its burgers, Burgerville has a reputation for taking sustainability to the masses.” ( source)
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What’s to Love: You may think you know where to find the best burger in Portland. Well…you’re wrong! Unless of course, you were thinking “Hopworks Urban Brewery.” I generally don’t single out restaurants for their food ONLY, but I couldn’t resist mentioning the burger. Usually, when I check-out a restaurant, I’m looking for good value with an atmosphere that is “family friendly” (i.e., they won’t kick you out if your kids has a meltdown, or you won’t get dirty looks while breastfeeding your kid).
What’s to Love: Bullwinkle’s is actually a family-style restaurant, which is located within the confines of the “Family Fun Center.” It appears to be all one business to me, but I have to admit – I’ve never eaten at the restaurant. The food is not why we go to the Fun Center. We go to the Fun Center for the “Kidopolis” indoor playland. Their website describes it as a “…five-level, soft play area is for children 5 feet tall and under. One Frog Hopper Ride is included with the Kidopolis Playland admission price. Socks are required. No wet clothing allowed.” It’s a big collection of tunnels, slides, ups, downs, twists and turns. It’s a great time! Overall, the Fun Center is clean and well kept. There are also many other options for families…
What’s to Love: As parents, how many times have you gone out to dinner with friends and had an opportunity to converse freely without being interrupted by “Hey mom?” Perhaps, the kids all decide to have a “meltdown” at the same time while trying to wait patiently for the food to arrive. Maybe, you’ve completely given up on the possibility of ever going out to dinner. Our “going out” for dinner or lunch has been strictly confined to New Seasons’ sitting area. I think we’re in the same boat with a lot of you – my friendly and devoted readers. If any of this applies to your family, don’t worry, there is another option for dining that will make the whole family happy. Read on about “Me Too!,” – a family-friendly restaurant that will surely give relief to many, if not all, of your anxieties concerning dining out with your kids.
What’s to Love: This is not only a great place to get groceries, but has become one of our favorite places to eat; thus, that’s why it’s in the restaurant section of this site. In my opinion, Portland should be very proud of New Seasons Market. In many ways, it epitomizes the Portland spirit of independence, supporting local businesses, the organic lifestyle, sustainability, and community building. When we were thinking of moving from Portland, New Seasons Market was probably the place we’d miss the most! We’re there nearly everyday – I know people in my local store, and they know me. It feels like a big family there.
What’s to Love: Is Bob’s Red Mill a Portland Family Adventure? Sure! You know Bob’s Red Mill – they process the most gluten-free grains you’ll find this side of the Mississippi, if not the entire country. Where else could you possibly find Amaranth, Date, Tapioca, Quinoa, Teff, Brown Rice, Millet and Kamut flour? Many of these products are certified organic and kosher. This little shop offers a couple other pleasant surprises, if you’re out that way.
What’s to Love: This could easily turn into another generic article on the iconic Timberline Lodge. Built during the Great Depression, it has been in operation since 1937 and literally every aspect of the lodge has been covered by a multitude of articles, documentaries, Hollywood films, photographers, etc. Even folks disinterested in the history or craftsmanship of the lodge are genuinely moved as they enter the lobby. Can I possibly say something fresh and new about Timberline? I’ve had so many pleasant experiences up here, but I think I finally have a new angle. Due to my focus on kids, I hope to present a unique view of Timberline for all my parent-readers out there. Perhaps, you’ll see Timberline Lodge in a whole new light. And, you’ll make the drive up the mountain for a night’s stay, skiing, snowshoeing, a joy-ride on the “magic mile” chair lift, dinner at the Cascade Dining Room, or simply to relax by the fire and enjoy the amazing “Cloud Cap Hot Cocoa!” Woody Guthrie would be proud to hear me say, “This is YOUR lodge!”
What’s to Love: This is my favorite McMenamins in Portland city limits. I’ll admit, I’ve never been a big fan of their food, and my wife the Naturopath isn’t too keen on bar food, but they do have a few items worth mentioning. I always enjoy the Captain Neon Burger with spicy fries, and their fish-n-chips are pretty good. If you enjoy a good soda, definitely have their draft root beer, which is like a dessert.
While the food doesn’t knock my socks off, don’t let it deter you from making a trip with the whole family to the Kennedy School. The atmosphere and the “cool factor” more than make-up for any shortcomings. Located in NE Portland near 33rd and Killingsworth (see Website), the Kennedy school is a revamped elementary school complete with quirky bathrooms, a detention room bar, soaking pool, gym for larger events, plenty of classrooms turned into meeting rooms, and an amazing outdoor fireplace.
My son just enjoys wandering around the halls looking at all the different pictures. Accessibility-ramps have been added to maneuver around stairs, and children love running up and down these big ramps. As parents, you’ll admire all this whimsical art/tile work. The main dining area has a good family vibe, and when you’re done eating, you can always go check-out a movie!
