Kid-Friendly Ways To Cool Off In Mt. Hood Territory

Escape the hustle and bustle of the urban area of Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory and embark on a "cool" family adventure. These cities offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat, with a perfect blend of outdoor locations, indoor fun and delicious treats. From splashing in the river to a thrilling laser tag arena, there's something for every age and interest. Let's dive into your next summer getaway!

When you want to get outside and leave the city life behind, head to parks located along the Willamette River in West Linn, Lake Oswego and Oregon City. These lush green spaces offer a welcome escape from the urban heat, providing ample room for picnics and frisbee as well as places for kids to swim.

• Willamette Park in West Linn: Known for its serene atmosphere and ample picnic areas, Willamette Park and Bernert Landing Boat Ramp are located where the Tualatin River meets the Willamette River. This scenic 15 acre park offers a playground, a splashpad, horseshoe pits, sports fields, river access and picnic areas.
• George Rogers Park in Lake Oswego: George Rogers Park boasts a large swimming area with a sandy beach, and a popular boat launch for those looking for water-based activities. Don't have your own kayak or standup paddleboard? No worries! Alder Creek offers seasonal rentals from the beach. As a bonus, the park is home to the Oswego Iron Furnace, built in 1866 this was the first iron furnace on the Pacific Coast.
• Clackamette Park in Oregon City: Clackamette Park sits right at the conjunction of the Willamette River and the mouth of the Clackamas River. This is a lovely scenic park and is a great place to cool down on hot days and just have a picnic.

The splash pad at Willamette Park in West Linn is a great way to cool off.

When the heat becomes unbearable and you're ready to seek refuge indoors, we've got the perfect locations for you.

• Ultrazone Laser Tag: There is laser tag and then there is the Ultrazone's ultimate laser experience. This arena is one of the largest in the entire Portland area and features two levels, three ramps, a mirror room and special effects. They also offer some of the longest play times in the area.
• North Clackamas Aquatic Park: Want to play in the water but get out of the sun? Head to North Clackamas Aquatic Park where you'll find multiple swimming pools, including a wave pool, fountains, water slides and a hot tub.
• MindTrix Escape Room Games: Featuring the most technologically-advanced and immersive escape rooms in the Portland area, MindTrix Escape Room Games are appropriate for any age! They are a fantastic activity for families to have fun and get indoors.

Have a blast on the water slides at the North Clackamas Aquatic Park.

Indulge in a delicious ice cream treat as a reward for a day of fun in the sun! Mt. Hood Territory boasts a variety of charming ice cream shops offering a mouthwatering array of flavors. Grab a cone and enjoy it while strolling through a picturesque downtown.

• Luna's Ice Cream: Luna's Ice Cream started in 2023 and features handcrafted ice cream in unique flavors. Additionally they offer rotating vegan and gluten free flavors. 
• Salt & Straw: Conveniently located in the Lake View Village, Salt & Straw is a great place to grab a scoop of a traditional flavor or maybe one of the exotics. Their flavors change often so you never know what you'll get to try!
• Mike's Drive-In: With locations in Oregon City and Milwaukie, you can swing into Mike's Drive-In for an incredible selection of milk shakes including flavors like orange creamsicle, espresso and peppermint.

Mike's Drive-In offers a large selection of incredible milkshake flavors.