The final countdown to summer has officially begun! With the school year wrapping up and sunny days ahead, it’s the perfect time to make the most of that end-of-school energy. Whether you’re looking for low-key family fun or an all-out celebration, here are 10 fun ways to kick off summer break in and around the Portland metro:
1. Throw an End-of-School Backyard Bash
Celebrate the end of homework and early mornings with a backyard water party. Set up a slip-n-slide, splash pad, or water balloon games—and don’t forget the popsicles. Invite friends over and let the kids run wild. Summer starts now.
2. Cool Off at a Local Splash Pad or Pool
When in doubt, water is always a win. Try:
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Happy Valley Park Splash Pad (Happy Valley)
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Hammerle Park (West Linn)
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George Rogers Park (Lake Oswego)
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North Clackamas Aquatic Park (Milwaukie)
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Sellwood Pool (SE Portland)
3. Create a Family Summer Bucket List
Grab a whiteboard or poster and let everyone add their must-do activities—think day trips, hikes, ice cream stops, reading goals, and lazy PJ days. It sets the tone for an intentional, memory-filled summer.
4. Go Strawberry Picking
June means strawberry season! Head to a local U-pick farm like:
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Smith Berry Barn (Hillsboro)
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Hoffman Farms (Scholls)
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Bella Organic (Sauvie Island)
It’s hands-on, delicious fun (and makes for adorable photo ops, too).
5. Kick Off a Treat Crawl
Why settle for one dessert when you can try three? Build your own frozen treat tour with stops like:
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Salt & Straw (multiple locations)
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Wailua Shave Ice (Downtown Portland)
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Nico’s Ice Cream (NE Portland)
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Joe’s Donuts (Sandy – worth the drive!)
6. Explore a New-to-You Park or Trail
Pack a picnic and check out a local trail or nature park you haven’t visited yet. Some family favorites:
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Tualatin Hills Nature Park (Beaverton)
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Mount Talbert Nature Park (Clackamas)
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Cook Park (Tigard)
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Tryon Creek State Natural Area (Portland/Lake Oswego)
7. Catch an Outdoor Movie Night
Cities like Wilsonville, Happy Valley, and Oregon City host free summer movie nights in the park. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and some snacks for an easy, feel-good evening.
8. Let the Kids Plan a “Yes Day”
With some boundaries (and coffee for the grown-ups), give your kids control for the day—where to go, what to eat, what games to play. It’s chaotic, yes. But it’s also wildly fun and memorable.
9. Check Out a Local Festival
June kicks off a whole season of outdoor events. A few highlights:
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Portland Rose Festival
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Tigard Festival of Balloons
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Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts
Music, food, crafts, and rides? Yes, please.
10. Do Absolutely Nothing
Sometimes, the best way to start summer is with a day of zero plans. Sleep in, wear pajamas all day, order takeout, and enjoy the pause before summer gets busy.
Whether you’re raising little ones or parenting teens, that last day of school is a big deal. However you celebrate, take a moment to mark the milestone, soak in the sunshine, and enjoy the simple joys that come with summertime in the PNW.
