Photo: Tammy Steffens
Photo: Casey K.C. Chen
Photo: Timothy Reeves
Sherwood Center for the Arts
★4.8(232 reviews)$Theater
🕑 Most performances run 1.5-2.5 hours including intermission; plan extra time for pre-show arrival and post-show discussions👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger elementary-aged children (5-10) particularly enjoy the interactive youth performances and fairy tale productions, while tweens and teens can participate in theater programs and appreciate more sophisticated shows like musicals and concerts.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
The Sherwood Center for the Arts brings culture and creativity to life for families in the Portland metro area. This welcoming community theater offers an impressive lineup of family-friendly performances throughout the year, from Broadway-style productions to youth theater showcases where local kids take the stage. With its stellar 4.8-star rating and diverse programming, it's become a beloved destination for introducing children to the magic of live performing arts.
Highlights
- ✓High-quality family-friendly theatrical productions including musicals and plays
- ✓Youth theater programs that allow kids to perform on stage themselves
- ✓Diverse cultural events and concerts exposing children to different art forms
- ✓Intimate theater setting where even young children can see and hear clearly
- ✓Community atmosphere that makes first-time theater-goers feel welcome
Pro Tips
- 1.Check their website ahead of time for the performance schedule and book tickets early for popular family shows, as they often sell out quickly in this tight-knit community
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find parking, use restrooms, and let kids explore the lobby before the show starts,it helps wiggly ones settle in
- 3.Consider enrolling your child in their youth theater programs if they show interest after a performance; it's a great way to build confidence and make friends
- 4.Sit toward the aisle if you have younger children who might need a quick bathroom break during performances
- 5.Pack a quiet snack for very young children, though most performances are engaging enough to hold their attention throughout
Best Time to Visit
Evening and weekend matinee performances are when most family-friendly shows are scheduled. Weekday office hours (Monday-Friday, 10 AM-6 PM) are perfect for stopping by to pick up tickets in person or inquire about youth programs without the crowds.
What to Know
The office is open weekdays 10 AM-6 PM for ticket purchases and program information, though performance times vary by event. Check their event calendar online for specific show times, ticket prices (which vary by production), and age recommendations for each performance.
Seasonal Notes
Holiday performances during November and December are especially popular with families and book quickly. Summer often features youth theater camp productions, giving parents a chance to see local kids showcase their talents. Check the seasonal calendar as programming varies throughout the year.
Nearby Eats
Head to Brickhouse Pizza Company just minutes away for family-friendly pizza and salads, or stop by Symposium Coffee for quick sandwiches and treats,both are popular pre-show dining spots with Sherwood families.
More Activities Near Sherwood
Park
Murdock City Park
Free❤️12
Murdock City Park is a classic neighborhood park perfect for casual family outings in Sherwood. With its combination of playground equipment, open grassy spaces for running around, and a basketball court for older kids, it offers simple but satisfying outdoor fun that lets children burn energy while parents relax at the picnic tables.
Adventure
Cedar Creek Trail
Free
Cedar Creek Trail in Sherwood offers families a peaceful, paved pathway perfect for introducing little ones to outdoor adventures without the challenge of rough terrain. This scenic trail winds alongside Cedar Creek, making it ideal for everything from leisurely stroller walks to beginner bike rides, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the rippling water views along the way.
Farm
Southwest Langer Farms Parkway
$
Southwest Langer Farms Parkway leads to a delightful working farm where kids can experience agriculture hands-on through seasonal u-pick harvests, meeting friendly farm animals, and bouncing through pumpkin patches. This is the perfect destination for families wanting to escape screens and teach children where their food comes from while creating lasting fall memories on hayrides through the fields.
Park
Snyder Park
★4.8Free❤️20
Snyder Park is a beloved Sherwood neighborhood gem that delivers everything families need for an active day outdoors. With well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts for energetic kids, and plenty of shaded spots for relaxing while little ones play, this park strikes the perfect balance between active play and peaceful downtime. The open green spaces are ideal for impromptu soccer games, kite flying, or spreading out a blanket for a leisurely family picnic.