Peter's Walking Tours and Continuing Education Courses
OMSI & More
Saturday, March 1, 2025
Course Number SS411b or SS511b 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
Discover dozens of science, history, art and architectural lesson ideas, as we tour two impressive museums on Portland’s east side. We’ll visit OMSI and the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, and we will tour the outside exhibits adjacent to OMSI and discuss the natural and human history of the Willamette River. Along the way, we’ll discover lots of ideas for bringing the study of science, history and math to the classroom.
Exploring Portland's Orange Line MAX: Art, Architecture, History & Transportation
Saturday, March 8, 2025
Course Number: SS417Q/SS517Q 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this exciting new class, we‘ll explore the entire 7.3 mile length of the new Orange Light Rail MAX line, as it extends from the city of Milwaukie to Portland State University in SW Portland.. Along the way, we’ll discover local neighborhoods from Milwaukie to PSU, where we will examine the area’s amazing new artwork, natural areas along the Willamette River, a diversity of architecture and a wealth of local history. In addition, we will explore the new Tilikum Crossing Bridge, the first bridge in the nation designed specifically for public transportation vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles. Most importantly, we’ll discuss ways to bring the study of art, nature, local history, culture, transportation and recreation to our students through meaningful classroom lessons and on field trips. Our adventures will provide ideas that will energize history, science, math, writing and art activities across the curriculum in K-12 classrooms.
Portland’s Willamette River Greenspace
Sunday, March 23, 2025
Course Number SS417V/SS517V 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this fun and informative new class, we’ll discover both the natural and human history of the Willamette River Green Space, as we explore both sides of Portland’s waterfront. Our journey will take us to the site of “The Clearing,” where Native Americans flourished and early pioneers settled. We’ll explore Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where history, memorials, public art and recreational activities abound, and we’ll visit the Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade and North America’s longest floating walkway. Included will be a discussion of Portland’s bridges, urban wildlife, and transportation options. As you explore the green space, you’ll develop lesson ideas for integrating Portland’s geography, history, bridges and art throughout the curriculum.
Trail, Tram, Trolley, and Train
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Course Number ED413U or ED 513U 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
Experience four diversified transportation options as we make a four mile loop from Washington Park to the Willamette River, through Downtown and back. Along the way, we'll learn local history, encounter dozens of trees and plants, and develop lots of ideas for the classroom and field trips. During the day, you'll have an opportunity to ride the Aerial Tram, the Portland Streetcar and MAX. We'll begin with a 2.0 mile hike from the Hoyt Arboretum to Council Crest Park, Portland's highest point. Next, we'll make our way to Oregon Health & Science University, where we can ride the tram to the waterfront. From there, the Portland Streetcar will take us to Downtown Portland. We will conclude with a MAX ride back to Washington Park to complete the loop.
Oregon Zoo and World Forestry Center
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Course Number SS415Q/SS515Q 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
Discover the variety of educational opportunities available at the Oregon Zoo. We will visit diverse habitats, where we see more than 100 animal species from five different continents. Our extensive stay at Zoo will provide participants with information and ideas that can be implemented with students across the curriculum. In addition, our visit to the World Forestry Center will provide us with information about local, national and international forests, and how we can implement environmental education with our students.
Historic Oregon City
Saturday-Sunday, March 29-30, 2025
Course Number HI406z or HI506Z 2 Credits $275
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
Explore two museums that focus on the Oregon Trail, Clackamas County History and pioneer life. We’ll also explore the historic section of the city, and we’ll ride the municipal elevator that connects the upper and lower cities. Discussions, and visits to several historic sites and natural areas will provide lots of ideas for making history come alive for your students.