What to do around Lake Oswego during Spring Break

Editor's note: This story appears in the March issue of LO Monthly.

When Punxsutawney Phil declared an early spring this Groundhog Day, he probably wasn’t thinking of Oregon. With spring break right around the corner and rainy weather likely to persist through the spring, Lake Oswego locals staying in town for the break may have to get creative to find some fun.

Luckily, Lake Oswego is packed to bursting with activities, classes, parks and businesses to wile away the weeklong break.

Take a hike at Tryon Creek State Park

Even though Oregon is known for switching between rain and sun at the drop of a hat, that shouldn’t stop you from getting out of the house and into nature. Tryon Creek State Natural Area is right in Lake Oswego’s backyard. Oregon State Parks provide a checklist of local plants so you can hike along eight miles of trails and learn about local flora along the way.

See a ‘A Few Good Men’ At The Lakewood Center For The Arts

See the play that helped catapult playwright and screenwriter Aaron Sorkin to Hollywood at The Lakewood Center for the Arts. “A Few Good Men” opened Friday, March 1 and runs until April 7 on the Lakewood Mainstage. “A Few Good Men” is Sorkin’s first dramatic work and tells the riveting story of a military trial following the death of a marine. “A Few Good Men” was turned into a film in 1992 starring Jack Nicholson, Tom Cruise and Kevin Bacon.

Visit ‘The Portal’

What from the outside seems like a normal Bryant neighborhood 3-bedroom house conceals “The Portal,” one of the Portland area’s most popular Airbnbs. “The Portal” features giant cat art, funky furniture and a wall-to-ceiling mirror bedroom that creates a unique infinity sleeping experience. With bookings still available over spring break, you can experience this local piece of immersive art created by artist Steven Ochs.

Treat yourself to a UV sauna experience at SweatHouz

Although summer may seem right around the corner, winter-like temperatures continue to find their way into Lake Oswego even in March. Warm yourself up with a high-quality UV sauna experience at SweatHouz on Mercantile Drive. Combine your UV sauna session with a cold plunge to experience the health benefits of hot and cold in succession.

Grab brunch at Babica Hen Cafe

Why not enjoy a fresh waffle from the cafe voted “Best Breakfast” by readers of the Lake Oswego Review and West Linn Tidings? Babica Hen Cafe is open every day but Mondays and provides the sort of comfort that only a hearty breakfast can.

Hear some music at The Same Old New Gemini

Westicana Jones and Friends perform every Wednesday evening at the Same Old New Gemini on State Street. Billed as “an impromptu musical carnival,” you never know what you’re going to get at the Same Old New Gemini on a Wednesday night, you’ll just have to swing by to find out.

Attend a spring break camp

Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation’s Living Well in LO guide can provide plenty of information on the array of spring break camps available for local students during their week off in March. Here’s a short list of some of the camp offerings from Parks and Rec.

In My Backyard Camp at Luscher Farm: Explore the world of plant and animal life right here in Lake Oswego at Luscher Farm. Ages 5-12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 25-29.

Pokemon Master Challenge with Lego Materials: Build your favorite pocket monsters with the assistance of Lake Oswego Play Well staff at Christ Church Parish. Ages 7-12, 1-4 p.m., March 25-29.

Junior Spring Break Tennis Camp at Indoor Tennis Center: Spend Monday through Thursday of spring break honing your tennis skills. Open to all experience and skill levels. Ages 7-14, 1:30-4:30 p.m., March 25-28.