How to Entertain Portland Little Kids Indoors

We’re bound to get another round of winter — or at least rain — after this past false spring. So what’s the best fun around for the little ones when they’re stuck indoors? Today I have some options for you:

🔍 The Best Indoor Exploration

OMSI's little kids room for hands-on exploration offers little ones the chance to poke around with their hands. It’s a museum exhibit that’s not just for their eyes. Officially named the Science Playground, it’s top-notch fun for the tiny tots. Kids up to 6 years of age are welcome.

🛝 Indoor Playgrounds

Check out indoor playgrounds with beer or coffee for the parents, including The Wiggle Room (geared toward ages 0 to 7) and PlayDate PDX.

I'm not going to lie, you may hate that last spot, but they do serve beer and the kids will love it.

🌊 Indoor Public Pools

The best slide around, IMHO, is at the Southwest Community Center pool. Yes, even the little ones can go slip-sliding down as long as they’re with their parents or other adults.

These days, the slide’s availability depends on staffing levels. Look for it during open swims (not family swims). The pool is awesome too, but check with staff if you want to make sure the slide is open.

🎵 The Tiny Tots Music Scene

Yep, Portland has plenty of music shows for the under-5 set.

Check out Red Yarn, Kelli Welli, Mr. Ben, Tallulah's Daddy, and Mo Phillips, among other musicians. There's near-daily shows.

📚 Story Hour

Join other parents and little ones to listen to a reading. There are plenty of library story hours and bookstore events for kids, including on Tuesdays at Green Bean, on Northeast Alberta, and Saturdays at Powell’s in the Pearl.

What are your favorite rainy-day activities?