The Pearl District
Once an unpaved industrial area, the Pearl was colonized somewhat haphazardly, first by artists, then by empty nesters with large IRAs and small dogs (galleries wedged next to warehouses evoke New York City's SoHo 25 years ago). Now home to young families, the area is experiencing an increase in hip design stores, boutiques, and cocktail lounges—an exotic species in this microbrew capital. Spend the morning in Jamison Square, then take one of the brightly colored streetcars to the funky shops on NW 23rd Avenue. From there, walk to NoLo (North of Lovejoy), the neighborhood's newest enclave of upscale cafés, bars, and shops.
Restaurants
Sip & Kranz
Refuel on blackberry-blueberry scones and fair-trade Stumptown coffee while your kids hit the mod playroom.
901 NW 10th Ave., (503) 336-1335
Organic and locally grown ingredients top the tasty pizzas made inside this 1890 landmark; glass walls separating the brick ovens from the dining area let kids watch the pizza-making.
NW 10th Ave. & Irving St., (503) 595-2342
Shops
Cheeky B
Gifts for every age, including locally made Queen Bee vinyl bags, hand-knit baby caps, and funky wood-block maps.
906 NW 14th Ave., (503) 274-0229
This shop carries items designed by moms, such as maternity tops by BumpStyle and sweet print dresses from the store's Posh Baby line.
809 N.W. 11th Ave., (503) 478-7674
Activities
Jamison Square
On sunny days, families descend on this park to cool off in the enormous (and, yes, energy-efficient) fountain and to picnic on the wide lawns, which are dotted with public art.
810 N.W. 11th Ave., (503) 823-7529
Families will find the ultimate rainy-day refuge at Powell's, the country's largest independent bookstore. Kids love going up and down the staircases to explore the many floors and following the
colored navigation system; there is a large kids' section with mini tables and chairs.
1005 W Burnside St., (503) 228-4651
