Looking for a destination that offers an abundance of activities for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences? Look no further than Oregon’s Willamette Valley! The region offers something for every family member with scenic vineyards, charming small towns, and outdoor adventures.
Day 1: Arrival & Exploration of McMinnville
Morning: Arrival and Breakfast
Start your journey in the quaint town of McMinnville, known for its historic charm and vibrant culture. Check into a family-friendly hotel like the McMenamins Hotel Oregon, which offers comfortable accommodations in a unique setting.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Crescent Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious homemade dishes. Try their famous pancakes or an omelet made with locally sourced ingredients.
Late Morning: Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
Just a short drive from downtown McMinnville, the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a must-visit. This impressive museum features a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft, including the iconic Spruce Goose. Interactive exhibits and the on-site IMAX theater ensure that both kids and adults are entertained and educated.
Afternoon: Lunch and Stroll Through Downtown
Head back to downtown McMinnville for lunch at 1882 Grille to enjoy a cozy atmosphere and a variety of tasty dishes. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along Third Street, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and bookstores. Be sure to visit Joysticks Arcade for a playful dose of family competition before stopping by Serendipity Ice Cream for a sweet treat that the whole family will love.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Enjoy dinner at Golden Valley Brewery, offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, including a kids’ menu. Parents can sample some of the locally brewed beers while the kids enjoy their meals.
Return to your hotel for a restful night, preparing for the adventures of the next day.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures & Vineyard Visits
Morning: Silver Falls State Park
Grab an easy breakfast from one of McMinnville’s bakeries such as Alchemist’s Jam or Bodhi Bakery and plan on enjoying your leftover treats at your destination. Your second day kicks off with a visit to Silver Falls State Park, about an hour’s drive from McMinnville. Known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon State Parks, Silver Falls offers miles of hiking trails suitable for all ages. The Trail of Ten Falls is particularly popular, allowing families to walk behind stunning waterfalls and enjoy the lush forest scenery.
Afternoon: Family-Friendly Vineyard or Berry Picking
No trip to Willamette Valley would be complete without visiting a vineyard. Many vineyards are family-friendly and offer activities for kids. Brooks Wine, for example, has a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful grounds, award-winning wines for the adults to taste, non-alcoholic beverages for kids, and yard games for everyone! Enjoy the picturesque views while the kids jump and skip along the garden paths. Don’t forget to review the winery’s monthly food pairing offerings for lunch and snack ideas. Reservations are recommended.
Another family-friendly option for the afternoon is to go berry picking! Farms like Sublimity Blueberries, Fordyce Farm Inc, and Smith Berry Barn offer U-pick options where kids can have a blast gathering fresh berries to take home. Many farms close to the public outside of harvest season, so confirm operations hours ahead of time.
Evening: Dinner in Newberg
Head to the nearby town of Newberg for dinner. Red Hills Market offers a casual meal with wood-fired pizzas and sandwiches.
Day 3: Cultural & Educational Activities
Morning: Oregon Garden in Silverton
Start your final day with breakfast at Wildwood Cafe, a favorite with the locals. Then make a visit to the Oregon Garden in Silverton, a beautiful botanical garden that features over 20 specialty gardens, including a Children’s Garden. This is a perfect spot for kids to learn about different plants and wildlife while having fun.
Afternoon: Lunch and Hands-On Learning
Have lunch at the Silver Falls Brewery before heading to the Enchanted Forest Theme Park. This whimsical park features fairy-tale-themed attractions, rides, and live performances that will delight children and adults alike.(Psst…among the many other lunch options along the way, consider ACME Cafe or Turner Pizza & Taphouse as local favorites closer to the park.)
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Celebrate your last evening with a dinner at HoneyPie Pizza in McMinnville, where you can enjoy New York style pizzas inside MAC Market, a collaborative and community-driven eating, drinking, and shopping center. Reflect on your adventures and enjoy a delicious meal as a family.
Willamette Valley, Oregon, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and family-friendly activities. This itinerary ensures that every member of the family will have a memorable experience, whether exploring the great outdoors, learning about history and science, or enjoying delicious local food. Plan your visit to Willamette Valley for an unforgettable family adventure!