Family-Friendly Stops Along the Route

Planning a family getaway by train? Discover kid-approved, parent-loved stops along Amtrak’s Pacific Northwest routes—fun, educational, and easy to reach.

First published March 22, 2025

Make unforgettable memories on your next train trip—with stops that delight travelers of all ages.

🚂 Train Travel + Kids = A Winning Combo

Family vacations can be exhausting—but they don’t have to be. When you travel by Amtrak through the Pacific Northwest, the stress of traffic, parking, and backseat meltdowns gets replaced by wide windows, snack breaks, and built-in adventure.

Whether you’re riding the Amtrak Cascades, the Coast Starlight, or the Empire Builder, here are some of the best family-friendly stops to hop off and explore. From hands-on museums to beach walks and animal encounters, these stops make train travel a treat for the whole crew.

🧒🚏 Top Family-Friendly Train Stops in the Pacific Northwest

1. Seattle, WA – Urban Fun with a Kid-Friendly Twist

Station: King Street Station

Must-Do with Kids:

Seattle Aquarium – Touch tanks, sea otters, and underwater tunnels.
The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – Interactive exhibits on music, sci-fi, and video games.
Ride the Monorail – A short, fun ride from downtown to the Space Needle.

Parent Perk: Excellent public transit, stroller-friendly, and tons of dining options.

2. Portland, OR – Weird, Wacky, and Wonderful

Station: Union Station

Must-Do with Kids:

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) – Hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a real submarine tour!
Portland Children’s Museum – Creativity runs wild here (great for ages 2–10).
Washington Park – Home to the zoo, gardens, and plenty of space to play.

Parent Perk: Portland is compact and easy to navigate. Great coffee shops nearby for refueling.

3. Eugene, OR – Nature and Nurture

Station: Eugene Station

Must-Do with Kids:

Science Factory Children’s Museum & Planetarium – A hidden gem for curious minds.
Alton Baker Park – Rent a family bike, feed ducks, or have a picnic.

Parent Perk: Slower pace, clean air, and friendly locals make this a relaxing stop.

4. Leavenworth, WA – A Bavarian-Style Wonderland

Station: Leavenworth Icicle Station (Empire Builder route)

Must-Do with Kids:

Nutcracker Museum – Quirky, colorful, and full of surprises.
Riverfront Park – Trails, river views, and perfect picnic spots.
Christmas All Year – Even in summer, this village feels festive.

Parent Perk: Great food, small-town charm, and lots of room to wander safely.

5. Tacoma, WA – Small City, Big Fun

Station: Tacoma Dome Station

Must-Do with Kids:

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Tigers, jellyfish, and a kids’ play zone.
Children’s Museum of Tacoma – Free entry and thoughtfully designed exhibits.
Ride the Light Rail – A short, free loop that’s perfect for little legs.

Parent Perk: Less crowded than Seattle, but packed with fun. Easy for short stays.

🧳 Tips for Smooth Family Travel by Train

Book Early: Get seats together and secure discounted child fares.
Bring Snacks & Entertainment: Though the café car is a hit, familiar snacks and small games go a long way.
Use Station Lockers or Parcel Check: Store bags so you can explore freely.
Plan Short Stops or Overnight Layovers: Choose places where the fun starts quickly—walkable, engaging, and welcoming.

🎉 The Journey Becomes the Vacation

One of the best parts about traveling by train with kids? It’s part of the adventure. From pointing out wildlife through the windows to sharing snacks in the observation car, train rides give your family time to connect without the constant “are we there yet?”

So whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full summer itinerary, these family-friendly stops add joy to every mile. Let the train be more than just your ride—let it be the beginning of something unforgettable.