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Archive for the ‘Seasonal Fun’ Category

Tree to Tree Opens for the Season

Posted on: March 29th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

This wobbly bridge at Tree to Tree could be your next adventure challenge!

Tree to Tree Adventure Park is now open for its 2013 season, which lasts through mid-November! The aerial ropes courses, zip lines and treetop obstacles make for an invigorating outing, and this picturesque course is located in Gaston, near Hagg Lake–a short drive from Forest Grove.

Tackle the obstacle course high in the trees or venture out on a guided six-line, extreme zip-line tour, which features a 1,280-foot-long zip and 40-foot rappel. This “playground in the trees” was expanded in 2012 to include the latest zipline tour, “Woody’s Ziptastic Voyage.” This features six extreme ziplines (including one that is 1,280′ long!), a bridge and a 40′ rappel.

The original treetop aerial course has 12 ziplines among its 48 treetop elements and obstacles from platform to platform (tree to tree), including wobbly bridges, tight ropes, tarzan swings and more. New this season are two more aerial ropes courses, bringing the total to 80 elements of adventure!

I overcame my fear of heights by relying on the expertise and encouragement of a Tree to Tree staff member, who coached me from the ground while I stood nervously on a platform. The ziplines were thrilling!

Also available now is the 2013 Zip, Sip & Stay Adventure Passport, which includes overnight accommodations from your choice of four area hotels; lunch options at several area eateries; a choice of six wineries for wine tastings (and a wine purchase voucher); and Tree to Tree adventure passes. Packages start at $249 for two people.

Completing a course (or more!) at Tree to Tree requires a reservation, so call or email in advance. Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. until two hours before dusk. For a birds-eye view of the Tree to Tree experience, watch this Koin Local 6 reporter tackle a course (video courtesy of Koin):

Spring Break: It’s Not Just for Kids

Posted on: March 25th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Who says Spring Break is just for kids or college students? It’s time to listen to your inner “Spring Breaker” with these tips for a springtime getaway in Oregon’s Washington County.

Create Your Own Beer & Spirits Tour

It’s no secret that when it comes to craft brews and spirits, Oregon is tops. One of the best-kept secrets, though, is the growing craft beer and distillery scene in Washington County.

To date, there are 10 breweries in the destination, including seven brew pubs and three taprooms where it’s all about the beer, and nothing but the beer (think wine tasting rooms, but for craft brew lovers). Two spirits tasting rooms are located here, including Indio Spirits, which has been producing craft whiskey, vodka and rum for nearly a decade and just opened a new tasting room in Tigard! Every Thursday through Saturday from 2-7 p.m. visitors can sample their wares, as well as tour the distillery.

View the beer and spirits offerings in Washington County. To help you craft your own beer and spirits tour, check out our Saké, Beer & Spirits Trail itinerary.

Play a Round (or Two) of Golf

Pumpkin Ridge’s Ghost Creek is one of 12 golf courses available for play in Oregon’s Washington County. (Photo by Scott Spiker)

With 12 semi-private and public golf courses in Oregon’s Washington County–ranging from nine-hole executive courses to 18 holes and up–there are plenty of tee times awaiting Spring Breakers. Grab the clubs and venture to Washington County for a golfing tour, or add a day of golf to a Spring Break itinerary.

Play one of the first courses built in the Pacific Northwest at the pristine and challenging Forest Hills Golf Course, or walk the same fairways as some of golf’s greatest players at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club or The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club (both have served as host sites for professional and celebrity tournaments). Don’t have time for a full game? Try the 18-hole putting course at Tualatin Island Greens, with each hole a miniature version of challenging holes from world-famous golf courses.

Have an Adventure

The year-round Banks-Vernonia State Trail remains one of Washington County’s top attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. This 21-mile (one-way) linear multi-use path was Oregon’s first rails-to-trails project, and takes hikers, cyclists and equestrians through forests and over trestles and bridges. Cyclists can rent bikes at Banks Bicycle Repair & Rental, located right at the beginning of the trail at the Banks trailhead.

Add some high-flying adventure to your Spring Break. Tree to Tree Adventure Park, an aerial ropes course and zip-line park, opens for the season on March 29th. Challenge yourself on the aerial ropes course: four courses of increasing difficulty, complete with 10 obstacles each to complete before zipping back to the ground.

Check off Birds on Your “Life List”

Spring marks migration season, and now through May, birders can get a sight of these magnificent migratory birds right here in Washington County. Several locations of nature parks and wildlife preserves offer fantastic bird watching opportunities. Updated attractions this season include the renovation of Fernhill Wetlands, with new amenities, including a Japanese garden, picnic shelter and restrooms.

Whether it’s for a weekend or a full week, plan your Spring Break getaway to Oregon’s Washington County. Create your own unique itinerary with our Trip Planner or view our sample itineraries.

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Birding Bliss

Posted on: March 21st, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

The birds are all aflutter here in Oregon’s Washington County–take a look at what there is to see right outside our Visitors Center in Beaverton:

 

For more area bird information, read “The Birds in Our Backyard” and one of our favorites, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge’s “Watchable Wildlife” detailed guide.

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Bunnies, Brunch and More for Easter

Posted on: March 19th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Easter is appearing in March this year, and whether it’s food or festivities you’re looking for, there are options here. Underwater egg hunt, anyone?

The Easter Bunny has a packed schedule in the area this year. Photo by Frank M., Flickr commons.

Food
Easter Brunch Buffet at McMenamins Grand Lodge
From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Easter Sunday, enjoy a buffet with everything from bagels with lox and cream cheese to maple-glazed all-natural ham. Reservations are required.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Holiday Inn Portland South/Wilsonville
Enjoy lamb, cheesecake and so much more to eat at this buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Easter. The price includes live harp music, an Easter Bunny appearance and egg hunts.

Easter Entertainment
Underwater Egg Hunt
Dive to the depths of the pool at Conestoga Rec Center in Beaverton and hunt for prize eggs. Peter Rabbit will be in the pool as well. Enjoy additional free activities, including an inflatable play structure and crafts. Children must have a parent present, and those younger than age 7 must have an adult over age 18 in the water during the egg hunt. Pre-registration is required.

Spring Egg Hunt & Artisan Bazaar
On Saturday, March 30, enjoy a day of spring fun with handcrafted art, food, spring goodies (including Easter basket fillers) and other wares for sale at the Cedar Hills Recreation Center. Kids can meet the Easter Bunny, color eggs and join in the Easter egg hunt.  Don’t miss out on the tasty pancake breakfast, too!

Spring Egg Hunt
On Saturday, March 30, celebrate Spring, rain or shine, at the Garden Home Recreation Center. Participants are asked to bring their own baskets to fill with eggs and candy. Registration is encouraged but drop-ins are welcome as long as there is space.

Great Westside Family Easter Event
This free event will feature lots of candy and prizes for kids, plus a fire truck, police cars, pony rides, a petting zoo, inflatable bounce houses, games, arts, crafts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and more!  This is at the Washington County Fair Complex in Hillsboro on Saturday, March 30.

Bunny Visit While Shopping
The Easter Bunny is now at Washington Square and will be in residence daily in his Spring Garden in Summit Court, available for visits and photos through Saturday, March 30. Hop on over to meet the bunny before March 28 and opt for the “daffodil special” discount photo package. Also, new this year is the family portrait area, a designated set for a family photo option.

At Cedar Hills Crossing in Beaverton, the Easter Bunny visits on select days. and an Easter egg hunt specifically for the little kids (ages 5 and under) is Thursday, March 28, at 11:30 a.m.

Last, but not least, at Bridgeport Village in Tigard the Easter Bunny will be strolling through the Center Court area, greeting visitors and offering free photo ops (using your own camera), Saturday, March 23 from noon to 2 p.m.

 

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Wine Trail Weekend Coming April 13-14

Posted on: March 12th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

The North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend returns for a fifth year, April 13 and 14, 2013, pairing Oregon wines and small bites with demonstrations, tours and fun.

The scenery--and wine--are the big draws for the North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend

The scenery–and wine–are the big draws for the North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend

This year, more than 25 wineries are participating–each with special offerings. Wine tasting is standard; here’s just a sampling of their special Wine Trail events:

A Blooming Hill Vineyard:  Learn how Port is made during an interactive tasting panel.

Abbey Creek Vineyard: “Wine marries art” featuring artists of different mediums, as well as catered boxed lunches for purchase.

Apolloni Vineyard:  Tour the new barrel cave while enjoying a Sangiovese tasting. Paninis available for purchase.

Ardiri Winery and Vineyards: Learn what makes wine and chocolate such a decadent pairing.

David Hill Vineyard and Winery:  Meet cookbook author Ivy Manning and discover culinary samples from her book.

Helvetia Vineyards: Taste Columbia River spring chinook pairings and see alpaca knitting, felting and spinning demonstrations.

J. Albin Winery at Quail Run Creamery:  Enjoy farm creamery tours, which will include adorable baby goats.

Plum Hill Vineyards: Plant your own grape plant to take home, and enjoy a live cooking demonstration.

Provincial Vineyards at Smith Berry Barn:  Provincial’s “top 10” Wine Entertaining Tips with take-away help aids

SakeOne: Sample chocolate and saké pairings by Smitten Truffles.

The Tasting Room at 1910 Main: Discover the new tasting room and small independent producers including Gresser Vineyard and Provincial Vineyards

Tualatin Estate Vineyard: Meet furry friends from the Oregon Humane Society, and choose from a lunch option.

 

New this year is an “early bird” breakfast offering. Prior to heading out on the wine trail, start with one of these specials:

1910 Main: An American Bistro (Forest Grove)
8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Enjoy the full restaurant menu with 50% off one breakfast entrée for all Wine Trail participants.

Claeys Catering at Abbey Creek Winery (North Plains)
9 – 11 a.m.  Enjoy a breakfast buffet that includes fresh fruit, muffins, savory crepes, chicken sausage and potatoes.  $10 per guest.

Maggie’s Buns (Forest Grove)
7 a.m. – 1  p.m.  Enjoy the full café menu–including the famous cinnamon rolls–with 10% off for all Wine Trail participants.

Each Wine Trail ticket holder will receive a commemorative wine glass from event coordinator, North Willamette Vintners. Tickets are $45 per person, which covers both days, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. A Sunday-only ticket is $30, and designated driver ticket is $10. Buy tickets. Note: Purchase full-weekend tickets by March 31st and receive $5 off using the promotional code NWVPartner.

 

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Welcome, Spring!

Posted on: March 8th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Henry Hagg Lake

Fishing Pier at Henry Hagg Lake (Photo by Paul Loofburrow)

Spring is around the corner in Oregon’s Washington County, and the first hints of spring are popping up like wildflowers. Colorful tulips and bright daffodils dot the landscape and seasonal attractions dust off their “closed for the winter” signs and have opened for the season.

Trout fishing season is now open at Henry Hagg Lake and Scoggins Valley Park, located in western Washington County in Gaston. The lake is a popular fishing, boating and swimming spot, and the park features more than 15 miles of hiking trails, an 18-hole disc golf course and wildlife observation decks. Hagg Lake also is home to various duathlons and triathlons throughout the year, such as the Dirty Du & Dirt Dash (April 14), an epic off-road duathlon with a five-mile trail run and 15-mile bike ride.

Opening for the season March 29th is Tree to Tree Adventure Park, an aerial ropes course and zip-line park. Tackle the obstacle course high in the trees or venture out on a guided six-line, extreme zip-line tour, which features a 1,280-foot-long zip and 40-foot rappel. Plan a visit with a Zip, Sip & Stay Adventure Passport, which includes overnight accommodations, lunch, wine tastings and Tree to Tree adventure passes. Packages start at $245

We can’t think of a better way to explore the wonders of spring in Oregon’s Washington County than a drive along the Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route, a 60-mile journey through rural towns and the north Willamette Valley farm and wine country. Families of alpaca and bison, farmlands blooming in preparation for a summer harvest, quaint rural stores, and historic pioneer sites align the countryside along the drive through the lush Tualatin Valley.

Explore these attractions and more this spring, and plan an Oregon’s Washington County getaway today!

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Fishing Season Launches at Hagg Lake

Posted on: February 28th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

March is the month that esteemed fishing spot Henry Hagg Lake in Gaston opens for fishing.

One of the many views of Hagg Lake, where the fish should be biting.

This stocked 1,110-acre lake offers good bank, dock and boat fishing with multiple boat ramps as well as a fully accessible, 260-foot fishing pier. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are welcome. Thanks to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and its stocking program, the lake is known for its plentiful brood trout, though the statewide bag limit on trout is one (20 inches or larger) per day. Also found in the lake are bass, crappie, perch and bullhead catfish–though many an angler catches trout.

Anglers 13 and older need a fishing license. In addition, there is a day-use fee of $5 (cash only!), payable at the entrance. This is good for the day’s entirety, from “sunrise to sunset” hours, according to Washington County. Boat rental–including kayaks, paddle boats and small motor boats–is also offered on site, call for availability, 503-927-5489.

Take a break from fishing to enjoy all the other recreational draws of the area. This includes five different designated picnic areas, all of which have grills, and two of which have covered pavilions. Another highlight is the multi-use 15-mile path circling the picturesque lake. The Sain Scoggins 18-hole disc golf course is along the west shore as well.

The lake is located seven miles southwest of Forest Grove off Highway 47, and is open for fishing until Nov. 23, 2013.

This article has a list of area fishing holes. Enjoy the angling!

 

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Luck O’ the Irish

Posted on: February 25th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, then you’re lucky enough.”

Saint Patrick’s Day is nearly upon us. Don’t miss out on this fun slate of events to celebrate this festive holiday weekend.  Wear your green, and raise your glass of green beer and toast to St. Patty’s Day in Oregon’s Washington County. Sláinte!

Friday, March 15 – Sunday, March 17

Clancy’s Family Restaurant in Sherwood will host its 25th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party all weekend long, featuring local Irish music, bagpipe and drum performances and door prizes. Don’t forget the traditional Irish fare; corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew will be served. Kids are welcome with parents until 9 p.m. Must be 21+ after 9 p.m.

The party doesn’t stop at the Thirsty Lion, which celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with a three-day festival of live music, bagpipers and Irish food specials. The annual “St. Baldrick’s” head-shaving event to benefit Children’s Cancer Research will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Live music starts at 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, all day on Sunday.

Saturday, March 16

It’s not St. Patrick’s Day without a parade, and this year Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Party will feature local businesses, car clubs, schools, motorcycle drill team and more. The parade will start and end at Hare Field at Hillsboro High School (151 Northeast Grant Street Hillsboro) and the festivities continue with a traditional corned beef and cabbage meal. Parade starts at 11 a.m. Admission is free.

Luckython 2013Kick off St. Patrick’s Day weekend at the Beaverton Farmers Winter Market (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Shop for seasonal produce and artisan food products while enjoying live performances from the Sir James McDonald Pipe Band and the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance and more. Admission is free.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a Luckython run (first race starts at 3 p.m.). Choose from the 5K, 10K, 15K team relay and a 5K “HeadLamp” nighttime run/walk at The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club. The little kiddies can take part in the “Lil’ Leprechaun Dash,” which starts the evening of events. There’s a pot o’ gold at the finish line, with a full Irish potato bar with all of the fixings.  Registration starts at $30 For more information or to register, visit the Luckython website.

Sunday, March 17

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish style at McMenamins Grand Lodge in Forest Grove and Cornelius Pass Roadhouse & Imbrie Hall in Hillsboro. All ages are invited to enjoy live music, bagpipers and leprechauns at this day-long event.  McMenamins’ Irish Stout beer, Irish coffee cocktails, Irish food specials and more will also be available. Admission is free.

The Dublin Pub hosts a day of live music starting at 12 noon. This Irish-themed pub is a St. Patrick’s Day institution, and features 59 beers on tap–including Irish beers. Must be 21+. Cover charge may apply.

Keep St. Patrick’s Day weekend safe, please drink responsibly. 

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Be Mine, Valentine: Kayak, Dinner, Bowling, Plays for Valentines

Posted on: February 7th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Valentine’s day deserves some recognition. Whether you enjoy kayaking, comedic plays or a steak dinner, Oregon’s Washington County has these offerings and more to make the holiday your own.

Package Deals

Nothing says romance like a romance package! These hotel packages include special “romantic extras,” such as wine, chocolates, gift cards, movie tickets and more–which can save you money and offer a realm of possibilities of what to do. Or, for a full night’s change of scenery, book a lodging and dining package.
McMenamins Grand Lodge has a special “Sweethearts Package” running for the nights of Feb. 8-16, with an overnight hotel stay, dinner, wine and breakfast. Optional extras are at Ruby’s Spa on the premises.

Dinner & More

A steak dinner is just one Valentine’s Day option out of many here.

The historic Jenkins Estate in Beaverton hosts its 15th annual Chocolate Fantasy on Friday, Feb. 8.  Enjoy a showcase of the finest chocolate delicacies from local chocolatiers, treats from local bakeries, sips from area wineries, and unique Valentine’s Day gift items available for purchase.  Admission $5 per person; 2 years and older.

A Daddy-Daughter Dinner Dance is Friday, Feb. 8 in Portland from 6-8 p.m. Dress in your best, dance to your favorite music, have a special dinner, and celebrate Valentine’s Day together.

A Feb. 14 valentines dinner at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse includes a multi-course dinner with a choice of appetizers, a selection of entrees (including prime rib) and dessert.  Vegetarian options available; please request when booking.

Five courses are on the menu for dinner, and live music is offered as well on either Thursday, Feb. 14 or Friday, Feb. 15 at Primrose & Tumbleweeds in downtown Hillsboro. Each dinner course will be paired with an Oregon wine. Dinner highlights include a Dungeness crab cake and specialty dried charcuterie from Portland’s Olympic Provisions. Reservations are required.

Enjoy a special Sweetheart Valentine’s Dinner the night of Feb. 14 at Champions Grill in the Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in North Plains. Entree options include smoked prime rib, Pacific halibut and grilled pork tenderloin. A wine list will also be available. Reservations are recommended.

Staged Events

Love Letters (February 14): Returning for a one-night-only performance is this production, where two actors read aloud the letters written to each others characters over the course of their lives. (Tickets are $28 each)

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (through February 24): The Broadway Rose Theatre Company–one of the Greater Portland’s most acclaimed theatre companies–will take you on a musical trip from dating to marriage, through the truths and myths behind the contemporary conundrum known as “the relationship.” (Tickets start at $20 each)

How the Other Half Loves (February 15-March 3): This punchy comedy is about the interaction of sex and social class in modern English society, performed by Hillsboro’s HART Theatre.  The play juggles time and environment to present the lives and loves, passion and panic of three married couples.  (Tickets are $14 each)

Bowling & Kayaking!

Spend Valentine’s Day at Big Al’s and get special pricing! From 5 p.m. to close on Thursday, Feb. 14, enjoy 2 personal pizzas, 2 medium sodas, choice of dessert, $10 fun (gaming) card, 2 games of bowling, and 2 shoe rentals for $30.

Explore the waters of the Tualatin River on Saturday, Feb. 16 with Kyle Sheeley of OutKayaking, Portland’s LGBT kayaking club, on a three-hour Valentine’s kayak paddle.  This trip is suitable for all skill levels; be sure to pack a lunch and snacks.

We’ve also chronicled the wine-related Valentine’s offerings in the area, including a special “Valentine’s Wine Loop” self-guided winery tour Feb. 15-17 — so be sure to find what your heart and wine palate desire!

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Cure for the Wintertime Blues

Posted on: January 28th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

After the buzz of the holidays has worn off and the New Year’s resolutions are all but forgotten, there is still much to be excited about during these winter months. Located 90 minutes from Mt. Hood, a popular winter destination, and less than 30 minutes from downtown Portland, Oregon’s Washington County is a hot cool-weather destination, with many things to do and see.

Elk Cove Vineyard in the winter (Photo: Janis Miglavs)

Sip Your Way Through North Willamette Wine Country
With more than 30 wineries open for business, enjoy flights of fancy with tastes of estate-grown Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and other varietals. Map out a self-guided wine tour of Oregon’s Washington County, and taste to your hearts content. Plus, if you visit in February, many wineries will be hosting Valentine’s Day-related events and special tastings!

Observe Birds of Prey at a Wildlife Preserve
The winter months are prime sightings for bald eagles, red tail hawks, turkey vultures and other birds of prey. Watch these birds in action at protected wildlife preserves, such as the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, Jackson Bottom Wetlands and Fernhill Wetlands.  Read more about birding in Oregon’s Washington County. Catch a glimpse of some of the birds that can be found in Washington County  (watch the video).

Indulge in Tax-free Shopping 
From antiques and boutiques to specialty holiday shops, unique wares at reasonable prices (and tax-free) are found here. Select Oregon treasures from Made in Oregon,  Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals gift shop, or Oregon Orchards/Hazelnut Growers of Oregon. Get a jump on this year’s holiday shopping at Sleighbells Gift Shop or Miki’s Christmas Shop. “One-stop” retail centers include Bridgeport Village,  The Streets of Tanasbourne and Washington Square.

Relax with Locally Roasted Coffee & Tea
The Pacific Northwest is known for its coffee, and Oregon’s Washington County has a great selection of local roasters and coffee shops. A handful of local favorites include Longbottom Coffee & Tea, one of the area’s oldest, organic coffee roasters, plus Insomnia Coffee Company, Ava Roasteria and BJ’s Coffee Co. Or enjoy a lavish or casual tea at one of the area’s two tea houses: Tea Thyme & Lavender Vintage Antiques and Tea House and Tea’s Me.

Escape in Works of Art, or Create Your Own
Explore local art at one of Washington County’s art galleries. Or try your hand at making your own work of art at Live Laugh Love Glass, the area’s newest glass-blowing studio, or create a masterpiece to pour into a glass with your own wine blend made at Tigard Wine Crafters.

From bird watching to wine tasting, and many things in between, come see why this is one of the best seasons to explore the region. This winter, plan your escape to Oregon’s Washington County!

Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.