6 summer activities that are FREE and FUN!
It can be pricey to keep kids entertained during the summer. Camps and clubs and classes can cost an arm and a leg, and if you haven’t got that kind of cash, it might feel like you’re out of luck.
Fear not!
There are enough free activities in the Portland metro area to keep you and your little ones busy every day of the summer. Check out our collection of excellent and completely free stuff to do this summer.
Bowl
Kids 15 years and younger can bowl two free games a day, all summer long, at participating bowling alleys. Just pay for shoe rental or purchase an unlimited shoe rental pass which will pay for itself after a few uses.
Read with Rewards
Sign your child up for your local library’s summer reading program and grab a schedule of summer events. Check out magic shows, juggling acts, musical performances and more all while earning prizes for reading.
Barnes and Noble Summer reading program rewards kids who complete a simple reading log with a free book. Pottery Barn Kids has weekly reading time every Tuesday from 11-11:30am. After your fifth visit, you’ll receive a $10-off coupon to use in the store.
Cool Off
When the temperature starts to creep up, it’s time to cool down in one of Portland’s public fountains or splash pads. Jamison Square is a popular spot for kids, adults and even dogs to cool off. If it gets crowded, head a few blocks north to Tanner Springs which should be less congested. Salmon Street Springs is the iconic public fountain at the south end of Tom McCall waterfront park and not too far from the Keller Fountain Park with its angular design and shallow wading pools.
Music and Film Making
Concerts in the Park series through Portland Parks and Rec offers over 250 free concerts at different locations throughout the summer. Pack a picnic dinner, bring a blanket and enjoy an evening of live music. Noon Tunes in Pioneer Courthouse Square is an easygoing, hour-long concert with enough space for little ones can get up and dance. Plus, vendors and sports teams often stop by with free samples.
If you’ve got a budding filmmaker in your house, get him or her to Apple Camp for a free, three-day movie making experience using iMovie, a camera and Garage Band. Camp ends with Apple Camp Film Festival and a free t-shirt.
Factory Tours
See how Bob’s Red Mill makes all their whole grain products, or watch bagels being baked at Franz Bakery on a free factory tour. For those with a sweet tooth, Pacific Hazelnut in Albany will show you how they make their famous candies. Kids will love watching the big machines turn out products, while adults will love the free samples.
Food
Portland Parks and Rec is sponsoring Playgrounds and Lunch where kids can get a healthy free lunch. Check with your school district for free lunches for kids in your area.
Know of any free activities I left off this list? Comment and let me know.
