When camping with kids, we've decided that if it is raining or if there is a chance of rain (when is there not in Oregon) , and when our budget allows, we will stay in cabins. Mark and I have explored this state for many years, first with our siblings and parents, and then with each other, and now with our kids. The cabins that we would recommend to others are as follows:
Leaping Lamb Farms: Charming cozy cabin located on a small Oregon farm featuring a meandering stream and farm fresh eggs and produce available for purchase. When you stay here breakfast is provided. After enjoying local nourishment and walking the perimeter of the farm, take off your shoes and dangle your feet in the creek. Cocktails and appetizers on the deck complete a lazy summer day. Escape for a relaxing weekend, or even month. Call 541-487-4966 for more details.
L.L. Stub Stewart State Park: These cabins are ideal for several families. You can reserve a block of them, 1/family. Look down the ridge and out toward the coast range mountains over a crackling, wind whipped fire. Enjoy evenings, sitting around a fire, roasting smores, watching kids race bikes down trails. For an adventurous day trip follow one of the newest "Track to Trails" renovations. This trail stretches for 20 miles from Vernonia to Banks with the campground located 1/2 way between these two communities. If you head down to Banks, you literally don't have to pedal for 7 miles. Once you turn around it can be a difficult for children to pedal the entire distance back to the campground. Or you can do what I did and stay at a rest area, hit up strangers for wine, and let your husband hustle up the hill to the van, coming back to retrieve you once you're fully "relaxed" (or you could do a shuttle, but eehhh...I like the husband option, granted he's willing). Call 1-800-452-5687 for reservations.
Suttle Lake Yurts: Although we didn't have a pleasurable experience when we went (thanks to buckets of rain and no wood), a magical weekend could be had if you had plenty of fire wood and snow was plentiful enough to snowshoe/cross-country ski around the lake. It could actually be quite magical and peaceful if weather conditions cooperate (which they usually do at this elevation). Makes a wonderful mid-winter getaway.
Harstine Island: This is the one structure not in Oregon, but it is a great destination if you want to spend time on Puget Sound. It is remote and best if you bring all of your food for the entire time. If you correlate your trip with a minus tide the amount of sea life to explore and observe is absolutely breathtaking. Kayaks and canoes are great for the experienced but must be used with caution (Puget Sound can be dangerous and cold-hypothermic inducing 45 degree water). Great views, enticing decks, and right on the beach, this house is a great location for isolated time with family and friends. Call 503 936-3664 for more information. Also if you could mention my name if you do make a reservation I'll get a little monetary reimbursement.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Restaurants that don't suck (and are kid friendly)
Living where we do, I feel a bit spoiled when it comes to good food. The slow food movement, abundance of small farms, more choices for organic and local foods along with increased knowledge about pesticides and mass produced food have led many communities in the Willamette Valley to embrace natural, whole, organic, local, sustainable foods. We are sandwiched between two larger cities which spotlight the culinary arts giving us many amazing choices for where we eat and what we put into our bodies. Although, I enjoy eating anywhere I'm going to focus on the nourishing places that exist closer to Corvallis.
Buena Vista House Cafe and Bed and Breakfast: Nestled under apple trees, with a guitar's song weaving through branches, pizza's waft blended with fragrant blossoms, the tables are dressed for guests. The tri-fecta perfection is present on the menu with local, organic, and seasonal food and wine. A blend of outdoor friendly weather, 2 to 3 families, a reservation and pizza make a memorable evening. The Buena Vista House could not be located in a more appropriate location as this Willamette Valley that spotlights quality farm to table dining. Dinners are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Brunch is also available Saturday and Sunday mornings. Reservations only. Call (503) 838-6364 for more information.
Cornucopia-Eugene, OR (the one on 17th): After picking up my husband from the airport, a bite to eat was in order. We wanted to eat outside (it was uncharacteristically not raining), allow the kids to have some fun, and we wanted good food as well as an exciting beer selection. Cornucopia on 17th in Eugene provided all of these things. After sitting out back under the arms of Douglas (Fir) and some awnings/sails, we basked in the few minutes the sun peeked from behind the rain makers. They do have a kid's menu, but since I steer clear of these (non-nutritious nasty stuff-that tastes awesome!), I chose food for my chillens off the grown up menu, splitting plates for their dining pleasure. The beer selection is fab, on tap as well as an entire self-select double glass paneled refrig. full of the stuff. Since it was Friday, fish was what we craved and their fish and chips were splendid (not too greasy). The kids adult grilled cheese was so cool according to Anna because there were two colors of cheese (white and orange). Salads looked amazing, soups wafting over from the next table smelled heavenly, and other entrees left me curious enough to want to come back again. For hours call (541) 485-2300.
Papa's Soul Food Kitchen: After visiting Memphis several time as the Nanny of a family who's relatives were from there, I learned the delectable delight of pulled pork with slaw on a bun. As I sunk my teeth into this not just a sandwich, I was instantly hooked...no addicted. Being raised on Mormon casseroles, rice and raisins, and other large family fare, which definitely have their place, I had never experienced much in the way of spicy, deep, smoky, intense flavor as I experienced that night. I had no idea what a dry rub was. Pork shoulder? No gravy? homemade BBQ sauce that's spicy? It was amazing! Since that day and many other sandwiches from The Commissary in German Town, TN, later, I have been on a search for the perfect pulled pork sandwich in the Northwest. I think I may have found it at PSFK. Along with their lovely outdoor seating (very agreeable to kids) and adult kool-aid served in mason jars (not agreeable to kids), PSFK is a don't miss spot when headed to Eugene. Located on Blaire in a funky neighborhood. Call (541) 342-7500 for hours and directions.
Junkyard Dogs: The best hot dogs west of Chicago or even, dare I say it N.Y.? and they have a choice to honor every famous hot dog city. You have spicy, jalapeno, neon green relish dog, Louisiana style. Dogs with pickles, dogs with mayo, french dressing, cheese, if you like dogs and toppings there's a hot dog there for you. They also have kids' trays with a hot dog on a stick and a hot dog candy (gross-but they love it)...if you're going for hot dogs you may as well throw healthy eating to the wind, even for the kids! The outdoor seating is fun but can be a little distracting when a semi rolls by (keep the kids close). On 99E between Harrisburg and Junction City. For more information call: (541) 998-3232
Block 15: Consistently the best beer of any brewery that I've been to. Not only do they have their very lovely "regulars" but their ability to come up with interesting, amazingly strong and tasty selections wows me every time. I also love that they support many local small farms and provide many organic and sustainable (the tri-fecta perfection again) meals. The chalkboard tables and happy hour menu pair perfectly with children as does their story book menus. Only drawback are the crowds. Get there early for dinner (like 4:30). 541-758-2077 is their phone.
Nutcakes: I love having high end baked goods, especially done right at a French Bakery, however there is always a need every once in a while (I've been here 4 times in the last 7 days) for a good doughnut. Maple bars with bacon, Smore's bars with marshmallow cream filling and graham cracker sprinkles on chocolate frosting, and lemon curd filled doughnuts is just a sampling of the amazing selections at this newest shop in Philomath, OR. They also have started to serve lunch and breakfast, but I think their doughnuts are the shining star. Their prices are also amazing. A box of 15 to 20 day old doughnuts is $8.00. They just have coffee, not fancy lattes, which I kind of appreciate (specializing in the one thing you do well is sometimes lost). Once you discover this place you may have to erase your memory before you have to erase some extra booty. Sitting outside in the early sunshine, enjoying coffee, and delectable doughnuts while your kids destroy the flowerbed searching for bugs and tromping on plants, nothing could be better (Hey kids get outta there). For details call (541) 929-3333
Destination Restaurant
Beck (Not Kid Friendly): It is very rare for a restaurant to get it ALL right. Atmosphere-waterfall wall, floor to ceiling windows overlooking Whale Cove as waves crash over the rocks, view of simple manicured garden below restaurant on bluffs, tables spaced far enough apart to afford a little romantic privacy. Wine/Beer-extensive list many local choices and pairings with food, including special meals, where each course is paired with a different wine. Service-never lacking, someone always meeting your needs. Creative-if you don't see something on the menu you like let your server know. Chef is open to wowing you. And lastly and most importantly The Food- Amazing, inventive, simply delicious. I will go back every time I can afford to. Hands down the best place ever to eat a meal. The chef has even been nominated by Food and Wine magazine as Best New Chef. Located just South of Depot Bay. Call 541-765-3220 for hours and directions.
Buena Vista House Cafe and Bed and Breakfast: Nestled under apple trees, with a guitar's song weaving through branches, pizza's waft blended with fragrant blossoms, the tables are dressed for guests. The tri-fecta perfection is present on the menu with local, organic, and seasonal food and wine. A blend of outdoor friendly weather, 2 to 3 families, a reservation and pizza make a memorable evening. The Buena Vista House could not be located in a more appropriate location as this Willamette Valley that spotlights quality farm to table dining. Dinners are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Brunch is also available Saturday and Sunday mornings. Reservations only. Call (503) 838-6364 for more information.
Cornucopia-Eugene, OR (the one on 17th): After picking up my husband from the airport, a bite to eat was in order. We wanted to eat outside (it was uncharacteristically not raining), allow the kids to have some fun, and we wanted good food as well as an exciting beer selection. Cornucopia on 17th in Eugene provided all of these things. After sitting out back under the arms of Douglas (Fir) and some awnings/sails, we basked in the few minutes the sun peeked from behind the rain makers. They do have a kid's menu, but since I steer clear of these (non-nutritious nasty stuff-that tastes awesome!), I chose food for my chillens off the grown up menu, splitting plates for their dining pleasure. The beer selection is fab, on tap as well as an entire self-select double glass paneled refrig. full of the stuff. Since it was Friday, fish was what we craved and their fish and chips were splendid (not too greasy). The kids adult grilled cheese was so cool according to Anna because there were two colors of cheese (white and orange). Salads looked amazing, soups wafting over from the next table smelled heavenly, and other entrees left me curious enough to want to come back again. For hours call (541) 485-2300.
Papa's Soul Food Kitchen: After visiting Memphis several time as the Nanny of a family who's relatives were from there, I learned the delectable delight of pulled pork with slaw on a bun. As I sunk my teeth into this not just a sandwich, I was instantly hooked...no addicted. Being raised on Mormon casseroles, rice and raisins, and other large family fare, which definitely have their place, I had never experienced much in the way of spicy, deep, smoky, intense flavor as I experienced that night. I had no idea what a dry rub was. Pork shoulder? No gravy? homemade BBQ sauce that's spicy? It was amazing! Since that day and many other sandwiches from The Commissary in German Town, TN, later, I have been on a search for the perfect pulled pork sandwich in the Northwest. I think I may have found it at PSFK. Along with their lovely outdoor seating (very agreeable to kids) and adult kool-aid served in mason jars (not agreeable to kids), PSFK is a don't miss spot when headed to Eugene. Located on Blaire in a funky neighborhood. Call (541) 342-7500 for hours and directions.
Junkyard Dogs: The best hot dogs west of Chicago or even, dare I say it N.Y.? and they have a choice to honor every famous hot dog city. You have spicy, jalapeno, neon green relish dog, Louisiana style. Dogs with pickles, dogs with mayo, french dressing, cheese, if you like dogs and toppings there's a hot dog there for you. They also have kids' trays with a hot dog on a stick and a hot dog candy (gross-but they love it)...if you're going for hot dogs you may as well throw healthy eating to the wind, even for the kids! The outdoor seating is fun but can be a little distracting when a semi rolls by (keep the kids close). On 99E between Harrisburg and Junction City. For more information call: (541) 998-3232
Block 15: Consistently the best beer of any brewery that I've been to. Not only do they have their very lovely "regulars" but their ability to come up with interesting, amazingly strong and tasty selections wows me every time. I also love that they support many local small farms and provide many organic and sustainable (the tri-fecta perfection again) meals. The chalkboard tables and happy hour menu pair perfectly with children as does their story book menus. Only drawback are the crowds. Get there early for dinner (like 4:30). 541-758-2077 is their phone.
Nutcakes: I love having high end baked goods, especially done right at a French Bakery, however there is always a need every once in a while (I've been here 4 times in the last 7 days) for a good doughnut. Maple bars with bacon, Smore's bars with marshmallow cream filling and graham cracker sprinkles on chocolate frosting, and lemon curd filled doughnuts is just a sampling of the amazing selections at this newest shop in Philomath, OR. They also have started to serve lunch and breakfast, but I think their doughnuts are the shining star. Their prices are also amazing. A box of 15 to 20 day old doughnuts is $8.00. They just have coffee, not fancy lattes, which I kind of appreciate (specializing in the one thing you do well is sometimes lost). Once you discover this place you may have to erase your memory before you have to erase some extra booty. Sitting outside in the early sunshine, enjoying coffee, and delectable doughnuts while your kids destroy the flowerbed searching for bugs and tromping on plants, nothing could be better (Hey kids get outta there). For details call (541) 929-3333
Destination Restaurant
Beck (Not Kid Friendly): It is very rare for a restaurant to get it ALL right. Atmosphere-waterfall wall, floor to ceiling windows overlooking Whale Cove as waves crash over the rocks, view of simple manicured garden below restaurant on bluffs, tables spaced far enough apart to afford a little romantic privacy. Wine/Beer-extensive list many local choices and pairings with food, including special meals, where each course is paired with a different wine. Service-never lacking, someone always meeting your needs. Creative-if you don't see something on the menu you like let your server know. Chef is open to wowing you. And lastly and most importantly The Food- Amazing, inventive, simply delicious. I will go back every time I can afford to. Hands down the best place ever to eat a meal. The chef has even been nominated by Food and Wine magazine as Best New Chef. Located just South of Depot Bay. Call 541-765-3220 for hours and directions.
Summer Fun in Oregon
Mark and I, I must admit are the adventurous sort. We car camp at places with few amenities (mainly no flush toilet or showers), hike, take the long way, travel most of the summer, and love to find out of the way places. With summer coming up and people asking where some good places to spend some time off the beaten path that may be hidden, I thought I would list a few.
Bike Path/Eugene Oregon: The extensive pathway along the Mckenzie River in Eugene, Oregon wind through parks, near community gardens, and at the base of Skinner's Butte, with an amazing viewpoint of the city, if you choose to hike it. You can pack a picnic lunch and eat at one of the continuous green spaces with mature shade giving trees, at one of the expansive and child awing play structures, or within earshot of the river's bubbling course. Or you can choose to eat at Mcmenamins-North Bank or Valley River Inn, both with tables outside within view of the river and right along the bike path. Biking here with the family makes a great family outing. Bring Frisbees, soccer balls, etc. for a side activity. Parks also are inhabited by many ducks that are fun to observe as well as other wildlife. To get there, drive to Valley River Center, parking in the back (near Macy's) and follow the bike paths East. If you want to eat at a restaurant stay on the North Side of the river. If not, the South side is a bit more picturesque and is easier on the senses (less traffic noise). Note: If you are into biking with the fam., there is another path South of Eugene near Cottage Grove that is part of "Tracks to Trails". Running through small communities and open country, this trail is ideal especially if you start at the East end (higher elevation and ride "downhill" coasting most of the way, which makes it a breeze for kids to go long distances,) and end at the West end of the trail. Two cars would be needed, one at each end. Another Tracks to Trails bike path runs between Vernonia and Banks, West of Portland near the coast range mountains.
Lone Pine Farms: Fresh produce (mostly-some from Mex. and Chile), entertaining playground for the kiddos (complete with merry-go-round), Goats that run on an above building ramp that has food bins and a hoist that allows you to feed them, a gold fish pond, local ice cream, and other animals present in the corrals and fields for observing. Perfect for a picnic lunch. LPF is located on River Road, which runs from Junction City to Eugene. For more information call 541.688.4389.
Pfeiffer winery: One of Oregon's oldest vineyards, this winery boasts ponds that trickle into each other providing soothing sounds while you enjoy the ample picnicking space. Although the tasting room doesn't allow children, two families could take turns tasting while kids catch bullfrogs and enjoy a pre-packed snack. Southwest of Monroe off Territorial Rd. In Monroe turn right off of Hwy 99 onto Territorial. Drive about 4 miles and look for signs on the right that will eventually lead you to Pfeiffer. For further details call (541) 998-2828.
Chatoe Rogue: A lovely tasting room with Rogue Beers on tap. Their menu is a little weak, but you can bring your own food (get salami and cheese from Natalia and Cristoforo's in Corvallis). You can only eat the food you've brought outside so make sure the weather is cooperative before heading here. Outside the picnic table and completely flat lawn invite children and adults to play soccer, boccie ball, croquet, and any other number of fun outdoor activities. The farmhouse located on the property can be rented by room or the entire house. If you rent the entire house you can have friends camp on the lawn, making this an ideal place for weddings. Another perk of this particular tasting room is that since it is located on the Willamette River, you can float here from Corvallis and arrange a pick up after you've enjoyed some libation. To get here, take 99w North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is officially located in Independence. Call for more details (503) 838-9813.
Wings of Wonder: This butterfly house and garden is wonderful on a rainy summer day (which we know occurs in Oregon more than absolutely necessary). The butterflies (some larger than my toddler's head) are breathtaking. You may find yourself slipping into childlike behavior as a butterfly alights upon your shoulder and the whole world seems insignificant as you closely examine spots, lines, and metallic shimmers. Wings pulse up and down even when not in flight, children squeal, and we forget about time, dinner, errands, meaningless responsibilities. To find this peek into a rain forest follow 99W North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is located in Buena Vista (and while you're there ride the ferry across the river and back-the kids love this-check the schedule. Hours vary. Call (503) 588-7979 for current closures). Call for more information (503) 838-0976 on WoW.
Bike Path/Eugene Oregon: The extensive pathway along the Mckenzie River in Eugene, Oregon wind through parks, near community gardens, and at the base of Skinner's Butte, with an amazing viewpoint of the city, if you choose to hike it. You can pack a picnic lunch and eat at one of the continuous green spaces with mature shade giving trees, at one of the expansive and child awing play structures, or within earshot of the river's bubbling course. Or you can choose to eat at Mcmenamins-North Bank or Valley River Inn, both with tables outside within view of the river and right along the bike path. Biking here with the family makes a great family outing. Bring Frisbees, soccer balls, etc. for a side activity. Parks also are inhabited by many ducks that are fun to observe as well as other wildlife. To get there, drive to Valley River Center, parking in the back (near Macy's) and follow the bike paths East. If you want to eat at a restaurant stay on the North Side of the river. If not, the South side is a bit more picturesque and is easier on the senses (less traffic noise). Note: If you are into biking with the fam., there is another path South of Eugene near Cottage Grove that is part of "Tracks to Trails". Running through small communities and open country, this trail is ideal especially if you start at the East end (higher elevation and ride "downhill" coasting most of the way, which makes it a breeze for kids to go long distances,) and end at the West end of the trail. Two cars would be needed, one at each end. Another Tracks to Trails bike path runs between Vernonia and Banks, West of Portland near the coast range mountains.
Lone Pine Farms: Fresh produce (mostly-some from Mex. and Chile), entertaining playground for the kiddos (complete with merry-go-round), Goats that run on an above building ramp that has food bins and a hoist that allows you to feed them, a gold fish pond, local ice cream, and other animals present in the corrals and fields for observing. Perfect for a picnic lunch. LPF is located on River Road, which runs from Junction City to Eugene. For more information call 541.688.4389.
Pfeiffer winery: One of Oregon's oldest vineyards, this winery boasts ponds that trickle into each other providing soothing sounds while you enjoy the ample picnicking space. Although the tasting room doesn't allow children, two families could take turns tasting while kids catch bullfrogs and enjoy a pre-packed snack. Southwest of Monroe off Territorial Rd. In Monroe turn right off of Hwy 99 onto Territorial. Drive about 4 miles and look for signs on the right that will eventually lead you to Pfeiffer. For further details call (541) 998-2828.
Chatoe Rogue: A lovely tasting room with Rogue Beers on tap. Their menu is a little weak, but you can bring your own food (get salami and cheese from Natalia and Cristoforo's in Corvallis). You can only eat the food you've brought outside so make sure the weather is cooperative before heading here. Outside the picnic table and completely flat lawn invite children and adults to play soccer, boccie ball, croquet, and any other number of fun outdoor activities. The farmhouse located on the property can be rented by room or the entire house. If you rent the entire house you can have friends camp on the lawn, making this an ideal place for weddings. Another perk of this particular tasting room is that since it is located on the Willamette River, you can float here from Corvallis and arrange a pick up after you've enjoyed some libation. To get here, take 99w North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is officially located in Independence. Call for more details (503) 838-9813.
Wings of Wonder: This butterfly house and garden is wonderful on a rainy summer day (which we know occurs in Oregon more than absolutely necessary). The butterflies (some larger than my toddler's head) are breathtaking. You may find yourself slipping into childlike behavior as a butterfly alights upon your shoulder and the whole world seems insignificant as you closely examine spots, lines, and metallic shimmers. Wings pulse up and down even when not in flight, children squeal, and we forget about time, dinner, errands, meaningless responsibilities. To find this peek into a rain forest follow 99W North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is located in Buena Vista (and while you're there ride the ferry across the river and back-the kids love this-check the schedule. Hours vary. Call (503) 588-7979 for current closures). Call for more information (503) 838-0976 on WoW.
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