10 Not-to-Be-Missed End of Summer Activities in Portland

Hate to say it, but summer’s almost over. Only a short time until school starts up again and these dog days come to an end. We’ve come up with our favorite, iconic, not-to-be-missed, Portland family summertime activities. Make sure you cross these off your list before heading back to school!

1. Splash Around. If you’re looking for a fresh, free way to cool down, look no further than a splash pad. From your local pad to the iconic, you can find a map of Portland’s splash pads here.
2. Amuse Yourself. Nothing says summer in Portland like a day at Oaks Amusement Park. If you’ve got young kids, be sure to stop by for Chipper Preschool Mornings. From 10a to 12:30p on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through August 31, you get unlimited access to preschool rides for just $11 per child.
3. Take them out to the ballgame. What more iconic summertime activity is there than heading out to a ballgame? Check out local teams like The Hillsboro Hops (The Portland Pickles season is over, but get on their waitlist for next year!).
4. Dive in. Ready for a true summer adventure? Hit the road and the water with a trip to a swimming hole. Stay local, or go farther out to spots like Daybreak Park in Washington or Dewey Pool in Vernonia.
5. Stock up on local deliciousness. Yes, many farmers markets go year round, but it’s summer when they really shine. In August you’ll find kale, peaches and other stone fruits, cucumbers, summer squash and the first apples of the season. For a truly remarkable farmers market experience, head to the PSU park blocks for dozens and dozens of vendors, music, and food carts. But your local farmers market is just great, too.
6. Turn in your summer reading card. Did you make it through your summer reading game card? Turn it in for a free t-shirt and bragging rights.
7. Go to a street fair. We’re still in peak street fair season. This month you can explore a number of cultural festivals. Don’t forget to treat yourselves to some shaved ice while you’re there!
8. Explore Sauvie Island. Berry picking is about over for the season, but Sauvie Island remains a great summer destination. Go swimming at the public beach (but not Collins beach, unless you want to go nude), check out the animals at the Pumpkin Patch, and stop by a local farm stand for some healthy, fresh food for a summer picnic.
9. Try something new! Looking for inspiration? Try one of this year’s reader poll winners for Family Fun.
10. Treat yourself. Nothing says summer like ice cream, and any of these six local scoop shops is sure to be a winner.