Summer offers children enriching, low-cost activities to stay active, learn, and have fun. Programs include free meals, museums, outdoor movies, spray parks, and nature-based play areas for families.
Now that the school is drawing to a close it is time to start thinking about finding enriching ways to keep our children occupied and entertained. Throughout the summer we will be posting fun and low cost and/or free activities and events geared towards children and families. Here are some great activities occurring during the month of June.
Ongoing Summer Programs
Summer Meal Program
Did you know that there are over 600 free meal sites in the state of Oregon? Each one of these sites provides a free lunch to children ages 1-18. And many of these locations provide a free breakfast as well. Go to www.summerfoodoregon.org where you can search by city to find all the locations near you that provide this fantastic program.
Museums
Portland Children’s Museum
Many families don’t know this but Target sponsors free admission from 4-8pm on the first Friday of each month. Occasionally the date is changed to another day in the month so please visit their website for the most up-to-date information. http://www.portlandcm.org/visit
Portland Art Museum
Fourth Free Friday and free admission after 5 pm. Visit their website at http://portlandartmuseum.org/events-programs/calendar/
We all love a good movie. Whether it’s inside an air-conditioned theatre on a hot summer day or outside enjoying the cool breeze on a summer’s evening, enjoying a movie as a family is a lot of fun. Many cities around the Portland area offer free outdoor movies throughout the summer. Furthermore, Regal Cinemas offers their “Summer Movie Express” and Cinemark offers their “Summer Movie Clubhouse” for only $1 admission. For more information and the links to specific locations go to: http://www.frugallivingnw.com/free-or-cheap-summer-movies-for-kids-in-the-portland-metro-area/
Spray Parks are a fun way to keep cool on those warm summer days. Take your children, a picnic lunch and a towel and you are ready to enjoy the afternoon. Children love the anticipation of watching to see where the water will come from next. And the best part about these spray parks? They are free.
Rivercrest Spray Park and Carnegie Spray Parks, both in Oregon City are opened daily throughout the summer 10:00am-7:00pm. Rivercrest Spray Park features inground and aboveground spray nozzles, water cannons, splash buckets and much more. http://www.orcity.org/parksandrecreation/rivercrest-spraypark
To find the closest spray park check out the list of parks in Portland Area that have spray parks/splash pads in the link below. http://www.metro-parent.com/portland-area-water-parks/
Westmoreland Park is made up of 42.01 acres which includes: accessible restroom, baseball field, basketball court, football field, nature-based play area, paths – paved, paths – unpaved, picnic site – reservable, picnic tables, playground, soccer field, softball field, statute or public art, and tennis courts. This is a must see park! https://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/finder/index.cfm?action=ViewPark&ShowResults=yes&PropertyID=852
Conclusion
As summer begins, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore programs and events that not only keep children engaged but also create meaningful family experiences without straining your budget. From free meals through the Summer Meal Program to museum visits supported by community partnerships, there are plenty of enriching and affordable ways to spend time together in June. By taking advantage of these local resources, families can make lasting memories while ensuring kids continue to learn, grow, and thrive throughout the summer months.
At New Horizons Wellness Services, our team is here to support families all year round with resources that encourage growth and development. In addition to fun community programs, we offer:
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Counseling Services – helping children and families navigate emotional challenges and strengthen resilience during transitions like summer break.
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Occupational Therapy Services – providing strategies and support for building independence in daily activities, from play to learning routines.
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Pediatric Occupational Therapy – designed to help children develop motor, sensory, and social skills so they can fully enjoy both structured programs and unstructured summer fun.
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Social Skills Group – offering kids opportunities to practice communication, teamwork, and friendship-building in a supportive environment.
Contact us today to learn how we can partner with your family to make this summer both enjoyable and meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can families find free or low-cost activities for kids during the summer?
Many organizations, museums, and community programs offer special free admission days or events. Checking local websites and community calendars can help families discover activities nearby.
Are summer meal programs only available in certain cities?
No, summer meal programs are widespread. In Oregon alone, there are more than 600 free meal sites. Families can search online by city to find the closest locations offering meals for children.
Do museums in Portland offer ongoing free admission opportunities?
Yes, both the Portland Children’s Museum and Portland Art Museum offer designated times each month when admission is free, making them great options for families on a budget.
Why is it important to plan summer activities for children?
Planning ahead ensures children stay engaged, continue learning, and have opportunities to socialize. It also helps families create memorable experiences while balancing structure and fun throughout the summer.
Yours in Health,
New Horizons Wellness Services8880 SW Nimbus Ave Suite C.,
Beaverton, OR 97008
- https://g.page/newhws
New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.