Oregon City is a historic town in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Initially established as a trading post in the 1830s, the town grew rapidly during the early years of the Oregon Trail. Today, Oregon City is a thriving community with a wealth of kid-friendly activities.
The Oregon City Municipal Elevator is a must-see for any visitor to the town. The vintage elevator car travels between the historic downtown and the blufftop section of town, offering stunning views of the Willamette River.
The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is a great place to learn about the history of the town and the Oregon Trail. The center features a variety of exhibits, a short film, and a gift shop.
The Oregon City Gateway is a beautiful park located in the heart of downtown. The park features a large fountain, walking paths, and a scenic overlook of the Willamette River.
The McLoughlin House is a historic house museum that tells the story of the early days of Oregon City. The house was the home of Dr. John McLoughlin, a Hudson’s Bay Company doctor who was instrumental in the early development of the town.
For a taste of the local food scene, be sure to check out the Oregon City Farmer’s Market, held every Saturday from May through October. The market features a variety of locally grown produce, artisan goods, and food trucks.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Oregon City, Oregon
1. Visit the End of the Oregon Trail Visitor Center
The End of the Oregon Trail Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the history of Oregon City and the Oregon Trail. The center has interactive exhibits, a short film, and a gift shop.
2. Take a Tour of the Stevens-Crawford Heritage House
The Stevens-Crawford Heritage House is a historic house museum that was built in 1849. The house is furnished with period furniture and there are also a few exhibits on the history of Oregon City.
3. Visit the McLoughlin House
The McLoughlin House is a historic house that was built in 1846. The house is open for tours and there is also a small museum on the property.
4. Go on a Hike
There are many great hiking trails in Oregon City. Some of the more popular trails include the Clackamette Cove Nature Trail, the Table Rock Loop Trail, and the McLoughlin Promenade.
5. Play at the Park
There are several parks in Oregon City that are perfect for kids. The George Rogers Park has a playground, a spray park, and a swimming pool. The Mountain View Park also has a playground and a picnic area.
6. Go on a Scavenger Hunt
The Oregon City Public Library offers a free scavenger hunt for kids. The hunt leads kids all around Oregon City and they learn fun facts about the city along the way.
7. Visit the Oregon City Municipal Elevator
The Oregon City Municipal Elevator is the world’s only outdoor municipal elevator. The elevator takes riders up to a viewpoint of the Willamette River and there is also a small museum on the top floor.
8. Go Fishing
Oregon City is home to the Willamette River and there are several spots where you can go fishing. The Clackamette Park Boat Ramp is a great spot for kids to fish from the shore.
9. Go to the Movies
The Oregon City Cinema is a great place to take the kids. The cinema shows both new releases and classic movies.
10. Visit the Oregon City Farmers Market
The Oregon City Farmers Market is open from May through October. The market has a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as local crafts and products.
