As the end of summer approaches, you might find yourself counting down the days till school starts. Vacations and summer camps are replaced with back-to-school shopping and preparing for the school year. However, your kids might feel the end-of-summer boredom with nothing to do but wait for the first day of school. Fortunately, there are lots of family-friendly activities that you can do to keep everyone entertained. Here are some great ways to beat the end-of-summer boredom with your family. 

1. Explore Portland’s Parks and Gardens

Exploring Portland’s parks and gardens is a great way to get outdoors with the whole family. Here are some options to get you started. 

  • Washington Park: This expansive park has something for everyone. Kids will love exploring the Oregon Zoo, which is home to almost 2,000 animals. The Rose Garden Children’s Playground, also located in Washington Park, offers a playground with swings and a sand pit for kids to access.
  • Forest Park: Take the family on a nature hike through Forest Park. The Wildwood Trail is a favorite for its accessible paths and beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to bring snacks for a picnic along the way!
  • Peninsula Park: This historic park in North Portland features a stunning rose garden, the second oldest playground in the city, and a splash pad, making it a perfect spot for families to relax and play.

2. Visit Local Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets in Portland are a delightful way for families to experience local culture and enjoy fresh, seasonal produce. These are just a couple of suggestions to get you started, but there could be one closer to your area.

  • Portland Farmers Market: This bustling market offers everything from fresh fruits and veggies to baked goods and local crafts. Kids can enjoy sampling treats while learning about where their food comes from. You can visit their website for more information.
  • Hollywood Farmers Market: This neighborhood market is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. In addition to fresh produce, it often features live music and kid-focused activities.

3. Take a Day Trip to the Columbia River Gorge

A short drive from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers spectacular natural beauty and plenty of family-friendly activities. You can find many hiking trails ranging from easy to hard. It can become a mini family trip to explore new areas, see beautiful waterfalls, and wrap up the summer with sweet memories.

  • Multnomah Falls: This iconic waterfall is a must-see, and the short, paved hike to the viewing platform is perfect for families with young children. The visitor center also offers educational exhibits about the area’s history and ecology.
  • Bonneville Fish Hatchery: Stop by the hatchery to see huge sturgeon, playful trout, and learn about fish conservation efforts. It’s an educational experience that can also be fun for kids.

4. Discover Portland’s Art and Culture

Portland’s vibrant arts scene has plenty to offer families looking for creative and educational experiences.

  • Portland Museum of Art: The museum often hosts family days with hands-on activities and kid-friendly tours that make art accessible and fun for all ages.
  • The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): OMSI is a favorite among families for its interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. With a wide range of topics covered—from dinosaurs to space exploration—it’s a place where learning and fun go hand in hand. You can also find “Science at Home” activities on their website if you can’t make it out to the museum with your kids.

5. Get Out on the Water

Portland’s rivers provide a refreshing way for families to cool off and have fun together. You can explore lots of different options to try new or familiar water sports or just go for a swim. 

  • Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent a tandem kayak or a family-sized paddleboard and explore the Willamette River. There are several calm spots that are ideal for beginners. You can find several businesses throughout Willamette Valley offering a variety of paddlesports-related rentals, retail, and instructions on their Local Outfitters & Guides website.
  • Family-Friendly River Cruises: Consider taking a family river cruise on the Portland Spirit. With options for lunch and dinner cruises, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s waterfront views together.

6. Join a Family Workshop or Class

Hands-on activities are always a great way to keep kids occupied and entertained. Portland offers a variety of workshops and classes designed for families and children to learn new skills.

  • Craft Workshops at SCRAP PDX: This creative reuse center offers workshops where families can make art and crafts using recycled materials. One of their family-friendly workshops is called “Crafternoon,” where adults and children ages 6 and up can work on different projects. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to spend time together.
  • Cooking Classes at The Merry Kitchen: Enroll in a family cooking class where everyone can learn to prepare delicious meals together. It’s a hands-on way to teach kids about healthy eating and cooking skills. You can find their calendar of upcoming cooking classes here.

7. Visit an Amusement Park 

Amusement parks are a great way to keep kids entertained and hold off the end of summer boredom. There are a few amusement parks you can visit in Portland for all ages.

  • Oaks Park: This attraction has something for the whole family! They offer mini golf, games, family rides, kiddie rides, and thrills 6 days a week. You can also find a roller rink here for some indoor fun. 
  • North Clackamas Aquatic Park: This aquatic park offers several swimming pools, waterslides, a wave pool, and a kiddie pool during their Big Surf! recreation swims. They also have a 29-ft rock wall with 3 different routes for more adventurous kids to climb. You can pre-register online to secure your spot as you plan your visit.

8. Volunteer as a Family

Volunteering is a fantastic way for families to bond while giving back to the community. Portland offers numerous opportunities that welcome families with children of all ages.

  • Oregon Food Bank: Families can help sort and package food donations that will be distributed to those in need. It’s a hands-on way to teach kids about compassion and the importance of helping others.
  • SOLVE Oregon: Participate in community clean-up events around the city and nearby natural areas. SOLVE hosts family-friendly events where you can help remove litter, plant trees, and restore habitats.
  • The Children’s Book Bank at SMART Reading: If your family loves books, consider volunteering with The Children’s Book Bank. Volunteers 10 and up assist with cleaning and restoring gently used books, which are later distributed to thousands of children in the Portland area.

Final Thoughts

Portland offers lots of family-friendly activities that can help you make the most of the end of summer. Whether you’re exploring nature, diving into arts and crafts, trying new water sports, or volunteering, there’s something to keep everyone in the family entertained. So pack up the kids, head out the door, and enjoy all that Portland has to offer before summer slips away!