Bring Your Family to Springfield!

Kid-Friendly Entertainment & Amusement

In Springfield, the performing arts scene is great for families. From the creative collaborations presented at Pegasus Playhouse to the shows brought to the Richard E. Wildish Community Theater, there are family-friendly productions offered year-round. For interactive experiences, try out an escape room or play mini golf. There are several museums and art galleries along Main Street with engaging exhibits. The Springfield History Museum has permanent collections on Springfield's early history from Indigenous people to local logging and craft brewing. At the Emerald Art Center you check out the couch from "The Simpsons'" movie promotion. At The Shoppes at Gateway there is a movie theater and mall shopping. 

Recreation & Outdoors

Springfield is made for the active family with miles of riverbank bike paths, access to the Willamette River with fishing and floating, and many parks featuring playgrounds and frequent family festivals. Highlights include the indoor wave pool, Splash!, which has water play and wading pools alongside the wave pool and a mega-hot tub for adults.

Clearwater Park is just one of Springfield's many parks and natural areas that make this city an outdoor destination. With plenty of parking, restrooms and easy access to the Willamette River, this is a very family-friendly entrance point for exploring the riverbank along the bike paths. Dorris Ranch, closest to the historic section of Main Street, is also an excellent spot for exploring. Here the river is just beyond groves of filbert trees. There is also a collection of historic and replica historical housing from the region.

Mountain biking families can head to Thurston Hills Natural Area for a variety of beginner to advanced mountain biking trails and great hiking too!

Family Dining & Treats

Some of the best family dining can be found in Springfield. Roaring Rapids Pizza Company features a carousel and arcade games overlooking the river. Flashback Grill serves up burgers and shakes in a nostalgic setting and Main Street Sweets is the ideal stop for treats. Discover Lovely, a wholesome eatery presenting a rainbow of fresh and organic bowls, sandwiches and juices. And of course, Cornucopia Main Street and Mezza Luna Pizza are always popular with the kids.

Around The Shoppes at Gateway, there are many familiar chain restaurants as well as family-friendly pubs like Hop Valley Brewing Company and regional favorites like Cafe Yumm.

Area Attractions & Events

From a central location in Springfield, there are many regional attractions suited for family trips. Close to Autzen Stadium, Mathew Knight Arena and Hayward Field; Springfield is an ideal sports fan basecamp or hub for families visiting the University of Oregon campus. To the northeast there is river rafting and hot springs, to the southeast there is mountain biking and skiing and to the west is the Oregon Coast.

Annually, Springfield draws hundreds of families for the Haunted Hayride at Dorris Ranch, the "oldest and coldest" Christmas parade, and fireworks at the Light of Liberty celebration at Island Park. Come out for a monthly art walk or one of the many programs hosted by this friendly community.