Family Fun with Teens in Wilsonville, Oregon

A few years ago, I realized I hadn't spent a lot of time exploring the beautiful area that we live in and I set out to change that. The PNW is arguably the most beautiful place to be in the summer with mountains, rivers, trees, and trails. The weather is mild and it's easy to be outside or relax inside. Our family was hosted by ExploreWilsonville recently and we had the best time. Wilsonville is in the heart of it all and only 16 miles south of Portland, making it the perfect home base to explore Oregon. 

Family Fun with Teens in Wilsonville, Oregon 

If you're like me, you've heard of Portland, but you haven't heard anything about Wilsonville. Maybe you've been in the area, but it was more of a drive-by rather than a stop and explore. I'm telling you now, this town is worth stopping in! It's close to the big city {20 minutes to Portland and 30 minutes to Salem}, offers tax-free shopping, has affordable accommodations, and is the gateway to Oregon's wine country. Wilsonville is family and dog friendly and you'll find plenty to see and do in the area.
Here's what you need to know before you go!

Where to Stay 

Holiday Inn I-5 South

We traveled with our furry family members, so dog-friendly accommodations at the Holiday Inn Portland I-5 South were perfect for our family. It's been newly updated and is conveniently located off of I-5. There is a heated indoor pool {a hit with our teens!}, and a newly-equipped fitness center. 
There were lots of easy-to-access grassy spots and a sidewalk around the hotel to walk the dogs.
The suite has an open floor plan, with a living area, making it the perfect place for the family to gather and hang out. We found that it was a 6-8 minute drive from just about everything we had on our to-do list, so it was the perfect location for us to settle into. And with a fridge in every room, it made it easy to keep the hungry kids fed!

Hilton Garden Inn

The newest hotel in the area {it opened in late 2020}, you'll find upscale accommodations and a new on-site restaurant. 

What to Do in Wilsonville, Oregon

Tonquin Trail

There is no shortage of trails in Wilsonville. You'll find 22 miles of paved trails on the Tonquin Trail. The Tonquin Trail is a nature preserve area, and dogs are allowed only on the paved trail while on a leash. There are plenty of off-shoot trails to explore and the landscape is constantly changing as you wander through wildflowers. FREE
There is also a section of the trail that includes a self-guided tour representing the ancient history in the area called Tonquin Ice Age Trail. Here's more information on the Ice Age Trail. 

Memorial Park

Memorial Park is the city's oldest and largest park. In addition to pickleball and tennis courts, a large play area, basketball, disc golf, and a skatepark, you'll also find a half-mile of Willamette River access. We found an extensive trail system through the park too. There's a great dog park complete with a dog washing station. FREE

Splash Pads

The city has two interactive splash pads, one at Murase Plaza and the other at Town Center Park. Both are very different and are great for all ages to explore. We traveled with teens and I find that most splash pads are filled with young kids, but bigger respectful teens are always welcome. Bonus, the little kids love the big kids and the big kids really enjoyed it! FREE!

Bullwinkles Family Fun Center

Bullwinkles offers both indoor and outdoor fun. You'll find bowling, mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, bumper boats, a ropes course, and a zipline ride to name a few. There's also a full arcade to enjoy. It's definitely a fun place to stay and play for a bit. You can buy a 3-hour unlimited play pass for $39.95 or $29.95 for visitors under 44".

Frog Pond Farm

I'm not going to lie, I kind of thought that the older teens I was visiting with, wouldn't be too excited about a farm tour but I was VERY wrong. This family-run farm offers a self-guided walk with over 80 animals to see, interact with, and feed. 

Frog Pond Farm is a working farm, so you never know what you are going to encounter. We watched an hours-old llama learn to walk and saw baby guinea pigs burrow and hide near their mamas. The farm is open Friday-Sunday from 10-5 and it costs $10/pp. The farm is dog-friendly. 
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Where to Eat 

There are plenty of chain restaurants if you are looking for something familiar, but I'd encourage you to try some of the amazing food that this area has to offer.

Breakfast & Coffee

Corner Coffee Shop

Our favorite morning stop was the Corner Coffee Shop. The fresh baked goods are unbelievable. All five of us voted and hands down, the sourdough bagels were the best any of us had ever had! They were served warm and fresh and I'm still dreaming about them! All of the baked goods are gluten-free and I've honestly never tasted anything so delicious. 
*dog-friendly outdoor seating
Pro Tip: let the teens sleep while you enjoy your morning coffee. Bring breakfast to them at the hotel. Everyone will be much happier!

Lunch & Snacks

Butteville General Store

This historic store is now owned by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department but that doesn't mean you'll be getting camp food! This store has a long history, some of which you'll be able to see on the walls when you enter the store. 
The food service is provided by the Half Pint Brothers and is made with high-quality fresh local ingredients and the ice cream is made from scratch every day at the store. Check the calendar and you'll find everything from a special Taco Tuesdays menu to a Saturday night three-course meal with live music. 
*dog-friendly outdoor seating

Lux Sucre

This is hands down, the most Instagrammable spot in all of Wilsonville! The French cafe vibe is strong with this one and the food does not disappoint! The pink phone booth, flower garland, and comfy patio seating greet you outside, but inside it's just as cozy. You'll find everything from traditional French pastries to homemade bread and delicious salads. You can relax with a custom tea or coffee or order a local beer or wine. 
*dog-friendly outdoor seating

Dinner

McMenamins Old Church & Pub

McMenamins is a family-owned company in the Pacific Northwest. I've been to a few of the locations and every one is different. They are often built in historic locations, this particular one is in {you guessed it!} an old church. Keep an eye out for live music and events.

Boonetown Bistro & Bar

Conveniently located in the Holiday Inn, don't let this hotel lounge fool you! You'll find delicious American cuisine with a modern twist. The new menu is extensive and there's something for everyone! 
Still looking for more ideas? The Explore Wilsonville, Oregon website is one of the best resources I've seen for visitors. You can find events and itineraries so you can plan the best trip for your family to fit their needs. Check it out!

disclaimer: this was a hosted trip but all opinions are 100% my own. I promise, I wouldn't share something I didn't love.