Family fun in Portland

Pizza, parks, and matinees in Montavilla

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The renovated Academy Theater lets the whole family take in a flick for $3 a ticket.

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by Susan G. Hauser

While other pockets of Portland have gone trendy to attract the swinging-single set, Montavilla has gone family-friendly.

A stretch of southeast Stark Street near 76th Avenue has exploded with colorful new shops, great restaurants, and a restored '40s-era movie palace, nearly all geared toward parents and kids.

Montavilla got its name in 1889 from Mt. Tabor Villa, then a farming suburb; today, the only farmers are at the Montavilla Farmers Market (Sun Jun � early Oct). Little ones will love a romp around Mt. Tabor Park followed by a matinee. Even the Bipartisan Cafe has a toy corner for the kiddies.

GO

Mt. Tabor Park Few realize that Montavilla lies at the foot of a volcano that fizzled out after its last eruption. See the actual cinder cone on top while enjoying gorgeous city views. INFO: S.E. Belmont St. at S.E. 69th Ave.; 503-823-2223.

Academy Theater Spiffed up in 2006, this 1948 movie house runs cheap movies on three screens. Kids accompanied by parents are welcome until 8 p.m.; on-site child care allows Mom and Dad to enjoy pizza, microbrews, and a flick � in peace. INFO: 7818 S.E. Stark St.; 503-252-0500.