These summertime Portland activities are a must for locals and tourists alike.

Summer. The word alone brings to mind ice cream melting over a sugar cone, the sound of happy children playing outside, and the smell of freshly cut grass. But the best part? During the summer months, Portland typically sees less rain, leaving us with more sunny days, modest humidity and comfortable nights. Such weather offers ample opportunity to get outdoors and try new things to do in Portland, Oregon. To make the most of your summer, try these three fun Portland activities:

Hit the Trails on a Portland Hike

Hoyt Arboretum Trails in Portland, Oregon. Image Courtesy of James R Wilson via AllTrails.com

On our list of summer activities, a Portland hike ranks pretty darn high. 

Hiking near Portland offers gorgeous views, an opportunity for exercise, and a chance to experience flora and fauna. Take a Portland hike with family—including the kiddos—friends or significant other. For an amazing hiking experience along miles of trails, check out these seven incredible Portland trails:

  • Tolinda to Waterline Trail, a hike VIDA founder, Melanie Marconi, does every Saturday!
  • Maple-Wildwood Loop Hike
  • Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion
  • Hoyt Arboretum Trails
  • Tryon Creek Triple Bridge Loop
  • Washington Park Loop
  • Forest Park Ridge Trail
  • Mount Tabor Loop Trail

Take a Scenic Bike Ride in Portland

Image by @ebonygrows at This Year’s Pedalpalooza in Portland

Portland is a city of bicycle enthusiasts. If you’re one of them (or aspiring to be one of them), you have to participate in at least one of the city’s many biking events. Portland cyclists love Pedalpalooza, a summer-long biking event with over 100 events throughout the city organized by locals. Browse the available listings to find the perfect cycling experience, including romantic rides or ones for your entire family. 

If you’re looking for other bike rides in Portland, check out the Gourmet Century in July and the Bridge Pedal in August. If you can’t wait for these events, Portland cyclists take weekly rides during Sunday Parkways. 

Entertain Children with Kid-Friendly Attractions

A Polar Bear at the Oregon Zoo in Portland. Image Courtesy of Oregon Zoo

It can be a real hurdle to keep your kids entertained all 10 weeks of summer break. But the Portland, Oregon, area has many resources to ensure your children have family-fun all season long. 

For kids interested in science and other super-cool stuff, check out the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, one of the best Portland museums. It features a planetarium, big-screen theater and exhibits for all ages. 

Animal-loving children will love a day at the Portland Oregon Zoo, located in downtown Portland in Washington Park. This zoo houses more than 2,600 animals, plus a Penguinarium and the Howard Vollum Aviary. 

One of the most popular fun centers and amusement parks in Oregon is Portland’s historic Oaks Amusement Park. Kids can enjoy a roller rink, a mini-golf course, rides and games. 

Need more options? Take your children to watch races at the Portland International Raceway or a show at Northwest Children’s Theater and Imago Theatre. 

If you’re looking for a summer experience your child will adore, check out VIDA Coworking Summer Camp program! While you’re diligently working in our unique and beautiful shared workspace in Portland, Oregon, your children will enjoy hands-on learning and open-ended play in the same building. Contact us to schedule a tour.