Financial Friday:

Ballin’ (Slightly) Bigger — A Toddler-Approved Weekend in Portland Under $75

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I have been obsessed with making these little weekend plans for my son and I since I moved here from New Orleans, being able to be outside for the majority of the year is SUCH a game changer. So for this financial friday, because we’re still budget-conscious, but mama got paid and we outside – here is the plan…

Saturday

Morning: Oregon Zoo Adventure

• Where: 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR
• Cost: $24.95 (adult), $17.95 (ages 2–11) — total ~$43
• Why it’s worth it: You’ll get 3+ hours of walking, gawking, snacks, and a guaranteed nap afterward. Also: elephants – baby elephant! 

Pro Tip: Pack snacks and refillable water bottles. Skip the $6 soft pretzels unless you’re feeling wild.

Lunch: Laughing Planet (Kids Eat for ~$4!)

• Where: Multiple locations (NE Alberta, Belmont, etc.)
• Cost: ~$20 for you + kid (bowl, smoothie, mini quesadilla, etc.)
• Why: Healthy-ish, quick, and kid-friendly without being a grease pit.

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Sunday

Morning: Coffee & Breakfast at Prince Coffee

• Where: 2030 N Willis Blvd
• Cost: ~$12 (latte, stroopwafel, milk for the kid)
• Why: Cute AF. Cozy spot where toddlers can snack and chill while you stare into your caffeine like it’s therapy.

Late Morning: Portland Art Museum – Free for Kids Under 17

• Where: 1219 SW Park Ave
• Cost: $25 (adult ticket)
• Why: A little culture never hurt anyone—and there’s plenty of space to wheel a stroller around and whisper-shout “no touching!”

Afternoon: Jamison Square Fountain or Salmon Springs Fountain

• Where: NW 11th & Johnson or SW Naito Pkwy
• Cost: Free
• Why: Splash time. Bring extra clothes. Watch your toddler channel their inner gremlin and enjoy yourself.

Treat: Ice Cream Stop at Fifty Licks or Salt & Straw

• Cost: ~$6 for one scoop + kid sample cup
• Why: You earned it.

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Weekend Budget Breakdown

Item	Cost
Oregon Zoo Tickets (Adult + Toddler)	$43
Laughing Planet Lunch	$20
Prince Coffee Breakfast	$12
Portland Art Museum (Adult)	$25
Ice Cream	$6
Water/Park Play	Free
Total	$74

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Bonus Idea if You Come in Under Budget:

• Head to Green Bean Books (NE Alberta) and let your kid pick a book (~$6–10).
• Stop at Once Upon A Child for gently used toys/clothes if you want to treat your toddler without wrecking your wallet.