07/21/2026
As the temperatures rise, don't let the sweltering heat put a damper on your summer plans.
Here are some fun things to do this summer to make sure you are nice and cool! 😎
Swim/Splash:
- Rogue River at Griffin Park: A 12-acre park with drive-up river access for swimming, grassy shaded areas, and outdoor BBQ setups
- Six Mile day use area: Located on the Illinois River, this local favorite features natural diving rocks and clear, chilly water for a perfect cool down.
- Fish Hatchery Park: Provides day-use access to the cool, meandering waters of the Applegate River, making it an excellent spot to swim, fish, or wade.
- Baker Park: Located right in the middle of town at 760 E Park St, this park features excellent frontage on the Rogue River with a sandy beach area commonly used for swimming. They have free public lifejackets available for kids to use, making it a convenient outdoor swimming spot
Escape the sun:
- Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve: Descend into the Marble Halls of Oregon, where the cave temperature remains a steady and refreshing 44°F (7°C) year-round.
- Grants Pass Museum of Art: Browse the cool, air-conditioned galleries.
- The Glass Forge Gallery and Studio: Located right in downtown Grants Pass at 501 SW G St. You can step out of the sun and sit inside to watch professional artisans transform 2000°F molten glass into stunning vases, bowls, and ornaments. They also offer interactive workshops where you can try blowing your own glass keepsake.
Water Excursions:
- Hellgate Jetboat Excursions: Enjoy a breezy, action-packed 36-mile boat ride through the cool canyon waters, or take a scenic evening dinner excursion on the Rogue River.
- Orange Torpedo Trips: The premier, most experienced whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking outfitter on the Rogue River. Operating since 1969, they specialize in guided, active river adventures located just a 16-minute drive outside of Grants Pass.
Ice Cream:
- Udders Ice Cream and Gelato: A highly rated local favorite at 1893 NE 7th St. They serve up unique, handmade ice cream and premium gelato inside a fun, family-friendly shop complete with handmade waffle cones and creative flavors.
- House of Glory: Situated at 115 SW G St, it is practically on the same block as the Glass Forge. It is a wonderful artisanal dessert cafe perfect for grabbing a gourmet cup of Italian gelato, customized with your choice of base, toppings, and drizzles.
- Chilly Goose: Located at 115 SW H St, this cute shop offers an alternative twist to traditional ice cream with high-quality, handmade popsicle treats crafted from real, organic ingredients.
- Scoops & More: Located along the Rogue River Highway (6415 Rogue River Hwy), this is a classic, casual spot to grab thick milkshakes and traditional ice cream cones.
Parks and things for kids/Family:
- Little Beans GP: Located downtown at 411 NE F St, this dedicated indoor playroom is ideal for younger children, toddlers, and infants. It features intentional soft play structures and imaginative pretend-play spaces.
- Caveman Bowl:
Located at 123 SE K St, this family-friendly bowling alley is open 7 days a week. It provides a full afternoon of indoor entertainment with a dedicated arcade game room and an on-site cafe.
- Pottery Canvas & Stone: Located right downtown at 130 NE F St, this paint-your-own-pottery studio allows families to drop in, choose ceramic pieces, and spend a few quiet hours painting together in the shade.
- Riverside Park Splash Pad: Located at 304 E Park St, this is the top local outdoor spot to cool down. The park features an expansive, well-maintained water spray park right next to a shaded playground and the Rogue River.
- Morrison Centennial Park: Tucked along Fruitdale Drive, this smaller neighborhood park offers a direct alternative with its own public splash pad and grassy recreation field.
- Caveman Pool: This is the main city public pool located right across from the high school at 801 NE 9th St. It is fully open for the summer season. Operated by the YMCA, it features a large outdoor swimming space, a dedicated children's section, and a snack shop. Daily admission is very affordable: kids under 4 are free, youth tickets are $5.00, adults are $6.50, or you can get a family pass (up to 4 people) for $12.00. Note that children under 10 require a parent present.
- YMCA of Grants Pass: Located at 1000 Redwood Ave, this indoor facility features a clean, warm saltwater pool. They host dedicated "Family Swim" sessions specifically designed for parents to play and swim safely with children ages 5 and under in a quieter environment.
So, seize the day, embrace the warmth, and make this summer one to remember. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay thriving – because the best way to beat the heat is to enjoy every moment of the sunshine season! 🌞
- Leanna
