When Portland decides to turn up the heat (like … right now …), it doesn’t mess around. One day you’re debating whether to grab a light sweater for your morning walk, the next you’re wondering if it’s possible to grill an egg on your driveway. (Technically yes, but your HOA may send a polite but strongly worded letter.)
For families, staying cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping everyone safe, hydrated, and happy when the mercury spikes. Luckily, Portland offers plenty of options to chill out—literally. Here’s your family-friendly survival guide for the next big heatwave.
1. Splash, Spray, and Soak
Portland Parks & Recreation keeps a lineup of splash pads and interactive fountains running all summer. They’re free, easy, and a guaranteed way to tire out the kids before bedtime.
- Jamison Square – This Pearl District favorite features a gradual beach-style entry for little ones and plenty of space for bigger kids to splash. Map & details
- Salmon Street Springs – Located in Tom McCall Waterfront Park, it’s open 24/7 and offers a beautiful backdrop for cooling off. More info
- Teachers Fountain – Smack in the middle of Director Park, it’s a great option if you’re downtown.
💡 Pro tip: Pack water shoes for grip on slippery surfaces, plus towels and dry clothes for the ride home.
2. Libraries: Your Free AC Haven
When it’s blazing outside, step into the cool, quiet world of the Multnomah County Library. Not only do you get air conditioning, but the Summer Reading 2025 program is still in full swing.
- Kids & Teens: Weekly prizes, reading challenges, and events ranging from craft sessions to storytime. Sign up here
- Adults: A quiet corner, a good book, and maybe a sneaky hour of alone time while the kids are occupied.
💡 Pro tip: Check your nearest branch’s event calendar—you might find puppet shows, STEM activities, or family movie nights.
3. Cooling Centers & Misting Stations
When temperatures hit dangerous levels, Multnomah County opens designated cooling centers for anyone who needs a break from the heat. These often include community centers, churches, and some library branches.
- Find the latest list of cooling centers and extended library hours here.
- The City of Portland also sets up misting stations at select parks during heat waves. Check locations here.
💡 Pro tip: Even if you have AC at home, these can be lifesavers for grandparents, neighbors, or friends in older homes.
4. Pools and Water Play Beyond the Splash Pads
If you want a full swim session, try Ida B. Wells-Barnett Outdoor Pool or Grant Outdoor Pool. They’re family-friendly, affordable, and often have open swim sessions in the evenings when it’s cooler.
- Portland pool schedules: View here
💡 Pro tip: Evening swims are less crowded and still warm enough to enjoy.
5. Cool Zone Hacks at Home
Sometimes you just need to keep the family indoors and ride it out. Here’s how to do it without cranking the AC all day:
- Close blinds before the sun hits your windows.
- Position fans strategically—placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan makes a surprisingly effective budget AC.
- Switch to no-cook dinners: pasta salad, wraps, charcuterie boards, or cold noodle bowls are easy wins.
6. Time Your Outdoor Fun
Plan hikes, farmers market trips, and bike rides early in the morning or after sunset. Places like Forest Park or shaded sections of the Springwater Corridor trail are cooler even midday.
💡 Pro tip: Pack spray bottles of water for the kids—instant cooling and endless fun.
The Bottom Line
Summer in Portland can be beautiful, but when the heat hits hard, a little planning keeps everyone safe and happy. Between splash pads, air-conditioned libraries, cooling centers, pools, and smart home hacks, there’s no reason to let high temps ruin your family’s fun.
Now go forth, hydrate, and chill. And maybe save that egg-on-the-sidewalk experiment for Instagram.
Tiffany Wilson is a 42-year-old stay-at-home mom from Tigard, Oregon, raising three kids—Sophie, Noah, and Riley. She’s a warm, hands-on parent who mixes daily routines with creative fun, whether it’s a backyard scavenger hunt or building a blanket fort in the living room.