Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty of time to squeeze in a few more quintessential Portland adventures. From splash pads and sunflower fields to outdoor movies and trips to the coast, here are 10 of our favorite end-of-summer things to do in Portland with kids before school starts.
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 list of Portland’s splash pads here.
Amuse yourself. Nothing says summer in Portland like a day at Oaks Amusement Park. Families with little kids can squeeze in a Chipper’s Preschool Rides morning Tuesdays and Wednesdays through September 2. Kids 6 and younger get two hours of rides plus snack and story time for $13.50, and one adult rides free with each paid child.
Stroll through sunflowers. Head out to one of our favorite sunflower fields, and don’t forget to snap photos!
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.
Stock up on local deliciousness. Yes, many farmers markets go year round, but summer is 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. Up for a short road trip? Tour the Hood River Fruit Loop instead!
Turn in your summer reading card. Did you make it through your summer reading game card at one of the local libraries or bookstores? Turn it in for prizes and bragging rights.
Go to a street fair. We’re still in peak street fair season. This month you can explore a number of cultural festivals.
Explore Sauvie Island. Attend a free animal talk at Topaz Farm, go swimming at the public beach (but probably not Collins clothing optional beach), check out the animals at the Pumpkin Patch, and stop by a local farm stand for some healthy, fresh food for a summer picnic. Heads up: If you’re heading to Walton, Collins or North Unit beach on a summer weekend or holiday, you’ll need to reserve a $10 Sauvie Island Beaches Parking Permit before you go. Permits are limited and can sell out on hot weekends.
Catch a movie or concert in the park! Pack a picnic and a blanket and make the most of Portland’s warm summer evenings with a free outdoor show. Portland Parks & Recreation’s Summer Free for All includes movies under the stars, live music and cultural events in parks around the city through the end of August. You can also check our Kids Calendar for even more outdoor concerts and movies happening around Portland.
Visit the coast. Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach. We’re big fans of hidden gem Short Sand Beach.
Looking for more ideas? We’ve got 101.