Multnomah Arts Center
About
Nestled in charming Multnomah Village, this beloved community arts center transforms creativity into family fun with hands-on art classes, pottery workshops, and children's programs in a historic building. From parent-child art sessions to drop-in creative activities, it's a welcoming space where kids can get gloriously messy while exploring painting, clay work, and theatrical arts.
Highlights
- ✓Hands-on pottery wheels where kids create take-home treasures
- ✓Family art classes that let parents and kids create together
- ✓Seasonal art camps during school breaks with different themes
- ✓Children's theater programs and performances
- ✓Historic, character-filled building that inspires creativity
Pro Tips
- 1.Register early for popular pottery classes,they fill up quickly, especially during school breaks
- 2.Dress kids in clothes that can get messy; clay and paint are part of the fun here
- 3.Check their quarterly catalog online for seasonal camps and special family workshop days with drop-in activities
- 4.Parking can be tight,arrive 10 minutes early or use the small lot behind the building off SW 35th Avenue
- 5.Explore the charming Multnomah Village shops and boutiques before or after your class for a full afternoon outing
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (3-5 PM) offer the most class options for school-aged kids, while Saturday morning workshops are perfect for families wanting a creative weekend activity. Summer camps run weekday mornings and are excellent for week-long creative immersion.
What to Know
Class fees vary by program (typically $50-150 for multi-week sessions, with drop-in options sometimes available). Free street parking is available in the village, though it can be limited. The historic building is charming but check ahead about accessibility needs.
Seasonal Notes
Summer art camps are extremely popular and require advance registration. The center is closed Sundays year-round. Holiday-themed workshops appear in their winter catalog (gingerbread houses, festive pottery). Check quarterly program guides as offerings change with each season.
Nearby Eats
Grab pizza at Tastebud or enjoy family-friendly breakfast/lunch at Fat City Cafe, both within easy walking distance in Multnomah Village. The village also has an old-fashioned ice cream shop perfect for post-art class treats.
More Activities Near Multnomah Village
Gabriel Park
Gabriel Park is a sprawling 90-acre neighborhood gem in charming Multnomah Village that offers something for every family member. With its well-maintained playground, open sports fields, winding trails through wooded areas, and plenty of grassy spaces for picnics, it's the perfect spot for families looking to spend a few hours outdoors without venturing far from the city.
Bing's Bodacious Bagels
Bing's Bodacious Bagels is a cozy neighborhood spot perfect for fueling up before a day of family adventures or enjoying a relaxed weekend breakfast. Kids love choosing from the variety of fresh-baked bagels with fun spreads and toppings, while parents appreciate the quality coffee and welcoming atmosphere that doesn't fuss over a little crumb-dropping chaos.
O'Connor's Vault
O'Connor's Vault offers a unique dining experience for families in a historic converted bank vault in charming Multnomah Village. Kids are fascinated by the authentic vault door and old-world Irish pub atmosphere, while parents appreciate the family-friendly menu with options that go beyond typical pub fare. The quirky architectural features make it a memorable outing that combines a meal with a mini history lesson.
Alpenrose Velodrome
Alpenrose Velodrome is a historic outdoor bicycle racing track that brings the excitement of competitive cycling to families in a welcoming, community-focused environment. Kids can watch thrilling velodrome races from the infield, participate in youth cycling programs that teach bike handling skills, or enjoy family cycling events on this unique banked track that's been a Portland institution since 1967.