It is important to me, as a parent, to ensure that my kids are well socialized. Being able to learn how to advocate for themselves and hold thoughtful conversations while also picking up non-verbal cues is a tremendous skill set.
More than 40 years of research have shown that parents cannot dictate their kids’ personalities; instead, it is their child’s surrounding environment that helps to mold them. So, not too long after each of my kids was born, my wife and I began taking them to places around town. From local parks and art museums to story time at the library and restaurants with a kids’ menu, our quest to socialize them began almost immediately. We take them all over the place to help develop their own confidence and social levels while also enjoying quality family time.
As many parents know, the word free is music to our ears, and Oregon has a ton of family-friendly options that don’t cost a dime (I was going to say don’t cost a penny, but we aren’t using those anymore). However, just because it is free doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be good… or fun. Fortunately, there is a wonderful space just outside downtown Portland that the whole family will enjoy, generally not overcrowded but not isolated either.
The Pittock Mansion is a famous landmark in this City of Roses and is well worth seeing in person. Nestled in the West Hills of Forest Park, it sits high up on a hill with a view you will remember forever. Accessing the outside property of the Pittock Mansion is totally free as well, so taking advantage of this during the summer months is very much worth it. There is a large city-run parking lot that charges a small fee, but there is no financial barrier to roaming the mansion grounds.
This is a favorite family activity because it is spacious and rarely jam-packed. Other parents also seem to love taking their kids there, which is great for our own kids to make new friends and play together. Our toddler also enjoys running around up there and looking at the beautiful plants and flowers on the property, and our baby is happy to be along for the ride.
On the outside property are park benches, paved walking paths, and plenty of space for the kids to run around. I recommend bringing a packed lunch and snacks for a picnic, which is an ideal way to spend time up here. The Pittock Mansion is truly one of the most beautiful places in Portland, so wandering alongside the home is a lovely experience. If you want to check out the inside of the mansion with your family, you can purchase tickets for it online. However, tickets are not needed to spend time outside on the property.
Operating hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm, and they open at noon on Tuesdays. Adults are $16, Seniors are $14, Youth ages 6-18 are $12, and children under 6 are free. Located at 3229 NW Pittock Drive, Portland, OR 97210, parking can fill up quickly during the summer season, so I recommend getting there early.
For parents with young kids who like to cruise around in a stroller, the Pittock Mansion offers a stroller check-in. Just keep in mind that strollers cannot go through the home due to limited space. There is no on-site restaurant or café, but they do have a gift shop that serves light snacks if you need a quick bite.
Exploring this 16,000-square-foot mansion with your family is a really cool experience. It was designed to overlook Portland, and seeing the city from this vantage point is breathtaking and makes you really appreciate this city. Viewing all 23 rooms, including its library, music room, and sewing room, also highlights the remarkable craftsmanship that went into its construction.
Lasting until April 19th, the Pittock Mansion is hosting an exhibition titled The Life & Art of Harry Wentz. This exhibition is included with your general admission ticket, so it does not cost more to see, and it is well worth viewing. It showcases one of Portland’s most influential artists and educators of the 20th century.
If you are looking for a place to take the kids that is not a playground or an indoor play place infested with the flu virus, the Pittock Mansion grounds are a wonderful option. Additionally, there are hiking trails right next to Pittock Mansion that everyone can stroll through.
One of my favorite television shows of all time is Downton Abbey. Something the main characters regularly mention is that they do not view themselves simply as the owners of their estate, but also as its stewards. Their primary goal was to have their home last throughout generations as both a structural and familial legacy. This powerful way of thinking is how I view the Pittock Mansion. While it has been many years since anyone has lived in this home, there are still helpful stewards who ensure this place can be enjoyed for many years to come.
Alex is a devoted husband and father born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He is a professional artist, author, and advisor for both Yale and Harvard University’s arts departments. His books, ‘Selling Leonardo: The Art World’s Greatest Scandal’ and ‘Holy Ghost: Decoding Leonardo da Vinci’s Final Painting’ are available wherever books are sold.