7-Day Family-Friendly Seattle and Portland Itinerary

Thursday, August 31: Arrival in Seattle

Arrive in Seattle and check into your hotel. Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Space Needle in the morning. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore Pike Place Market, known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and unique shops. End the day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.

• Space Needle: Check Prices, Approximately 2 hours
• Pike Place Market: Free, Approximately 2-3 hours

Friday, September 1: Seattle Exploration

Start your day with a trip to the Museum of Pop Culture, a family-friendly museum showcasing music, film, and popular culture. In the afternoon, visit the Seattle Aquarium and discover the marine life of the Pacific Northwest. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Olympic Sculpture Park.

• Museum of Pop Culture: Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Seattle Aquarium: Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Olympic Sculpture Park: Free, Approximately 1-2 hours

Saturday, September 2: Seattle to Portland

Check out of your Seattle hotel and head to Portland, Oregon. Enjoy the scenic drive or opt for a quick flight. In the afternoon, visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) for interactive exhibits and educational fun. In the evening, explore the vibrant Pearl District and indulge in its diverse dining options.

• Drive or Flight to Portland: Check Prices, Approximately 3-4 hours (drive)
• Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Pearl District: Cost varies, Approximately 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Exploring Portland

Start your day with a visit to the International Rose Test Garden, home to over 10,000 rose bushes. In the afternoon, explore the Oregon Zoo and get up close with various animal species. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Willamette River waterfront and enjoy the beautiful city skyline.

• International Rose Test Garden: Free, Approximately 1-2 hours
• Oregon Zoo: Check Prices, Approximately 3-4 hours
• Willamette River Waterfront: Free, Approximately 1-2 hours

Monday, September 4: Portland Day Trip

Take a day trip to the picturesque Multnomah Falls, located in the Columbia River Gorge. Enjoy a hike to the top of the falls for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the Oregon Museum of History and Industry to learn about the region's rich history. End the day with a visit to Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.

• Multnomah Falls: Free, Approximately 4-5 hours (including hike)
• Oregon Museum of History and Industry: Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Powell's City of Books: Free, Approximately 1-2 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Portland Exploration

Start your day by visiting the Portland Japanese Garden, known for its serene beauty. In the afternoon, explore the Portland Children's Museum, offering interactive exhibits and activities for kids. In the evening, wander through the vibrant Hawthorne District and browse its eclectic shops and cafes.

• Portland Japanese Garden: Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Portland Children's Museum: Check Prices, Approximately 2-3 hours
• Hawthorne District: Cost varies, Approximately 2-3 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Departure

Check out of your Portland hotel and depart for your next destination.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a fun and family-friendly off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the Museum of Flight in Seattle. It offers an extensive collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits, perfect for aviation enthusiasts and curious minds. In Portland, don't miss the Oregon Museum of Puppetry, where you can discover the art and history of puppetry through fascinating displays and performances.