When it comes to our grandparents, there is love, laughter, and memories. Nothing can compare to the special bond we have with our grandparents. Personally, one of the fondest memories I have of my noni was when she used to let me lick the brownie batter of a spoon and then me sharing it with my siblings. Now that Grandparents Day is approaching (September 8), you can make new memories as a family, too!
A waterfall can be a lovely way to spend the day. Native American history says that these falls were created for true love. If you go here, stop by the lodge as well. They have maps for hiking and lots of treats and snacks that you can enjoy. They even have a restaurant near the base of the falls.
If you want the basic view, you can see the top from the highway, but I say let’s get up close and personal. Walk a few hundred feet up the paved trail to the bridge. You’ll have the best view! The spray can be cold, so bring a coat if grandma and grandpa get cold quickly.
If you’re in the mood to have fun, you can’t miss Oaks Park. While some rides might be too much for grandparents, most are great for any age. Ride the carousel or bumper cars with your grandparents, the train, boats, and much more. If you still feel it might be too intense, celebrate Grandparents Day in the arcade and watch Grandpa get a million points on Skeeball. They also offer a great miniature golf course that provides hours of fun. Additionally, they offer roller skating, and I don’t know about you, but I would have loved to see my nana on skates.
When you’re hungry, you can stop by multiple areas. The grill offers burgers, pulled pork, and salmon sandwiches, while the cafe offers pizza, chicken, burgers, and snacks for little ones, including ice cream sandwiches. The park also offers a restaurant solely for pizza and Sugar Rush, which offers nothing but sweets, including deluxe funnel cakes that you have to try because they are mouth-wateringly delicious.
Bring on the trains! Portland is considered to be a city full of history and industry. The city’s heritage has had many different railroads over the last century. When you want to spend a great day learning about the city’s diverse history, you can’t miss this spot. They have train rides, a machine shop, and three locomotives that you can look at and learn about. Through volunteers and hard work, the three trains have been restored and cared for to their former glory. Two are even operational again! The oldest train is the Navigation 197, which was built in 1905!
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Portland is this garden. You can participate in interactive scavenger hunts, look at all the beautiful plants and learn how they are cultivated, and explore with Dragonfish. The goal of the garden is to raise cultural awareness, and the gardens are a peaceful place to spend your day. They also have a tea house, which is lovely.
The gardens offer over fifty plants, including rare flowers, shrubs, and cultivated flowers you cannot see daily. The tea house offers the complete experience of tea service and a menu with traditional Chinese comfort foods, including wonton soup. They also offer gluten-free and vegan options. The menu is seasonal, but I’d recommend the Lotus Root Salad and BBQ Baked Bao.
Oregon Museum Of Science And Industry
This museum is fun for those young and older. Its goal is to create fun and exciting learning experiences. With your ticket admission, you can explore the dinosaurs, the light area, and the science playground. For an additional fee, you can see the planetarium of the submarine or check out their theater. The light area is intense, however, so if you have sensory issues or epilepsy, you should skip this area. They offer reduced sensory experiences during low sensory hours. It’s a good idea to call ahead to get information on this.
Celebrate In Style
The great thing about Portland is that it’s a city that has something fun for everyone. You can find so many ways to make memories, learn, see true beauty, and have a great meal. The list above will surely give your grandparents a great day where the families can bond and enjoy themselves to the fullest. Be sure to top off the day of fun and laughter with some ice cream!
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.