Planning a family trip can feel like trying to please everyone at once—someone wants adventure, someone else just wants a snack, and somehow, someone always forgets their shoes. Luckily, Sisters, Oregon makes it easy to keep the whole family smiling. This charming mountain town offers endless kid-friendly adventures, a walkable downtown, and plenty of dining options that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. A family trip to Sisters means less “Are we there yet?” and more “Can we stay longer?”
Day 1: Coffee, Pastries, and a Walk by the Water
Morning: Start with Coffee and a Scenic Drive
Start your trip with breakfast at Sisters Coffee Company, where parents can grab strong lattes, kids can enjoy hot chocolate with whipped cream, and everyone can indulge in one of the delicious rotating scones.
From there, embark on a scenic drive along the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway. The winding road takes you through lava fields and forests before reaching Dee Wright Observatory. Here, interpretive signs explain the region’s volcanic history, and the short Lava River Recreation Trail offers a chance to walk through an ancient lava flow. Kids will love exploring the rock formations and spotting the Cascade peaks through the observatory’s framed viewing windows.
On the way back, stop at Sahalie and Koosah Falls. The falls are easily accessible with paved viewpoints just steps from the parking lots. If you’re up for a longer outing, take the 2.6-mile family-friendly loop trail connecting the two waterfalls, which follows the stunning McKenzie River.
Midday: Picnic and Play at Village Green Park
After your morning adventure, return to town and pick up a picnic lunch at Angeline’s Bakery, which serves fresh salads, sandwiches, and wraps with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options.
Head to Village Green Park, a central green space with a playground, shade trees, picnic tables, and open lawn areas perfect for a laid-back meal. Kids can burn off energy at the playground, while the wide, grassy lawn is perfect for cartwheels, sun-soaked naps, or a spontaneous game of tag.
Evening: Dinner at The Barn and a Cozy Movie Night
Dinner at The Barn is a crowd-pleaser. This family-friendly food cart pod features wood-fired pizza, grain bowls, burgers, tacos, and kid-friendly bites. Parents can enjoy a local craft beer while kids explore the open space and grab favorites like french fries or pizza from one of the vendors.
Cap off the night with a movie at Sisters Movie House. This intimate, independent theater screens family-friendly films, indie gems, and documentaries in a cozy setting with in-theater dining options.
Day 2: A Full Day at Suttle Lake
Morning: Breakfast and a Leisurely Start
Start your day with breakfast at The Cottonwood Café, a local favorite known for its pancakes, scrambles, and farm-fresh eggs. If the weather’s nice, grab a spot on the sunny patio before heading out for the day’s adventure.
Midday & Afternoon: Suttle Lake Fun
Next stop: Suttle Lake, where you can easily spend the entire day enjoying paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing, all available for rental from the Suttle Lodge Boathouse. The calm, clear waters make for an ideal paddling spot, with options for both beginners and more experienced adventurers.
For those who prefer land-based fun, the 3.5-mile loop trail around the lake offers an easy, flat hike with views of Black Butte and Mt. Washington. Kids can also enjoy time at the small sandy beach area near the lodge, perfect for wading and lounging.
When hunger hits, head to the Boathouse Restaurant for lunch. The fish sandwich and shrimp roll are standouts, and the kid-friendly grilled cheese never disappoints. Grab a table on the outdoor deck, or take your meal to the grass for a picnic-style lunch with the lake as your backdrop.
Evening: Dinner at Sisters Saloon
After a day at Suttle Lake, head back to town for a laid-back meal at Sisters Saloon & Ranch Grill. Housed in a historic 1912 Western saloon, this family-friendly spot serves up hearty favorites like juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, and more. Kids will love the Old West charm, and with its welcoming vibe and generous portions, it’s the perfect way to end the day.
Day 3: Explore and Unwind
Morning: Downtown Strolling and Shopping
Kick off your last day with a visit to Sisters Bakery, where the apple fritters are a must-try. Then, take a leisurely stroll through downtown, stopping by Paulina Springs Books, which has a cozy kids’ section, or The Stitchin’ Post, a craft store that might inspire your little artist’s next project.
Midday: Whychus Creek Adventure & Farewell Lunch
Before heading out, get one last taste of the great outdoors on the Whychus Creek Trail. The 2.5-mile loop is flat and easy, winding through towering ponderosa pines with stunning views. To access the creek for wading or stone-skipping, take the short but steep spur trail into the canyon, which adds about 0.8 miles each way to your hike.
For a farewell meal, head to Sno Cap Drive-In, a Sisters classic known for its juicy burgers, crispy fries, and famous milkshakes (the marionberry shake is a local favorite!). Essential road trip fuel before you head home.