For many students, spring break provides a rest from daily routines, classes, and homework. (For many parents, the opposite may be true!) Planning enjoyable activities during this time is crucial for making the most of this well-deserved break. If you’re still undecided about your vacation plans, this blog is your ultimate guide to ensuring a fun-filled spring break for the whole family.
Spring Break Camps
During spring break, numerous camps in Portland cater to diverse interests. These camps range from recreational to educational, offering children unique opportunities for fun and growth. Here are the local spring break camps your kids will surely love:
Trackers Earth Portland Spring Break Camps
Cost: starts at $85
Trackers PDX provides Spring Break Camps divided into two categories: Basecamps and Adventures. Basecamps offer onsite classes for K-4 and 5-8 campers, including activities like biking, martial arts, and archery. Adventures, available for K-5 and 6-12 campers, involve guided tours to epic places with activities such as fishing, role-playing, and wilderness survival.
Northwest Children’s Theater Spring Break Camps: Downtown
Ages 6-9 & 8-11| Cost: starts at $240
NWCT Spring Break Camps at The Judy blend role-playing, adventure, and imaginative scenarios to engage students in theater. Classes include Bugs: The Musical, Roblox World, and Mixed Up Magical Realms. For the musical camp, friends and families are invited to the final performance, held on the last day of camp.
Bird Alliance of Oregon Spring Break Camp
Grades 2-3 & 3-6 | Cost: $225
There’s no better place to experience the vibrant wildlife than the Bird Alliance of Oregon’s sanctuary. They offer day camp adventures, creating springtime art and exploring birds, mammals, native plants, and amphibians. Moreover, families can pay at the level that works for them, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to experience their spring break camp.
BaxterSports Spring Break Camp
Ages 7-13 | Cost: $345
If your tweens prefer a fun and engaging week of spring break, then you should check out this Spring Break Camp at Sellwood Middle School. Participants dive straight into sports like basketball, dodgeball, and soccer. Additionally, they can have fun playing games like Freeze Dance, obstacle courses, and Zombie Tag.
Local Trips
Go on exciting adventures to nearby attractions, offering entertainment and education for the whole family.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
Just an hour’s drive south of downtown Portland, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is, without a doubt, one of the state’s top spring attractions. The event showcases millions of blooming tulips across 40 acres and offers a variety of activities for all ages. The farm expects its best color display in the first two weeks of April, making this festival a great spring break escapade for families looking to take in the beauty of nature.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry sparks curiosity for all ages and interests. The special exhibit Tyrannosaurs – Meet the Family highlights the latest discoveries, rare fossils, and lize-sized skeletons, including real bones from one of the first T.rex specimens. With interactive exhibits, and a 30-foot tunnel showcasing tyrannosaurs in a modern setting, it’s a thrilling spring break activity for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
Trillium Festival
The 43rd Annual Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek State Natural Area is an educational event celebrating forest renewal. Hosted by Friends of Tryon Creek and partners, it features educational activities and the Native Plant Sale. This free family-friendly event offers many educational stations around the Nature Center and trails.
Stay-at-Home Activities
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars just to enjoy spring break with the whole family. Instead, opt for a cozy staycation filled with enjoyable activities right from the comfort of your home. Here are some ideas to make your staycation memorable and fun.
Arts and Crafts
Tap into your creativity with arts and crafts projects such as:
- Creating a family scrapbook filled with memories from past adventures
- Designing and painting your own ceramic mugs or plates
- Making friendship bracelets or keychains to exchange with friends and family
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and tailor your arts and crafts activities to suit the interests of everyone involved.
Movie Marathon
Transform your living room into a cinema and host a movie marathon. Select a theme or binge-watch your favorite film series, complete with themed snacks and beverages. Don’t forget to cozy up with blankets and create a cinematic atmosphere with dim lighting.
Spa Day at Home
Treat yourself and your family to a luxurious spa day without ever leaving the house. Set the mood with calming music, soft lighting, and aromatic candles. Create DIY face masks, scrubs, or bath bombs using simple ingredients for a rejuvenating experience.
Outdoor Adventures
Spring break is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine and embrace the great outdoors. Portland offers a plethora of family-friendly outdoor activities. For spring break adventure, here are some exciting experiences you and your family can enjoy:
Nature Walks and Birdwatching
Explore the beauty of local parks or nature reserves with leisurely nature walks and birdwatching adventures. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and beverages to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings.
- Tip: Choose trails that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. Also, bring along binoculars and a field guide to identify different bird species.
Planting & Gardening
Get your hands dirty and cultivate your green thumb by planting new flowers or starting a small garden. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a cozy balcony, gardening can be a rewarding and therapeutic activity for the whole family.
- Tip: Involve children by letting them choose their favorite flowers or vegetables to plant and care for.
Outdoor Sports Fun
Engage in outdoor sports or recreational activities such as horseback riding, frisbee, or soccer. Rent equipment or gear if you don’t have your own to try new activities on a budget. Encourage friendly competition to enhance the fun factor.
- Tip: Look for local community centers or parks that offer rental services of equipment.
As spring break approaches, it’s time to start planning for an enjoyable and memorable vacation with your loved ones. Whether you’re embarking on local adventures or having a cozy quality time at home, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this time together. Remember, spring break is all about fun, cherishing each moment, and making them count.
Now, let’s hear from you! What are your plans for spring break? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below.
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