People from away are often surprised to find that Maine does actually get hot in the summer. While we may not feel it every day, when we do you’ll find us flocking to lakes, ponds, and the coast. The only problem? We’re not the only people with this idea. Warm weather means that spots like this can get busy, making parking hard to come by. If you’d rather avoid that consider making your way to this little oasis in the center of a bustling city!

Deering Oaks Park in Portland was created by Frederick Law Olmsted. That name might not mean a whole lot, but he's the same mind behind the development of New York City's Central Park. The area offers tons of activities, from tennis to a playground to skating in the winter.
Portland Maine Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department / Facebook
But follow the paths through the park to the center and you'll find a fun surprise.
Michelle Starin
Just beyond the footbridge is the Deering Oaks Ravine, the children's splash pool.
Michelle Starin
Michelle Starin
It's not deep enough for swimming, but that's also not what it's meant for.
AlexanderD / TripAdvisor

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This fun cool-down spot is meant for splashing around to relieve the summer heat.
Management / TripAdvisor
It's perfect for kids with adult supervision who want to feel like they can play like big kids without having to wear things like swimmies on their arms.
Michelle Starin
The water is clear and cool. It's so refreshing that it's not uncommon to find adults ankle deep, too!
Michelle Starin
In addition to be a great place to cool down, the surrounding landscape is lots of fun for adults, too. With rock features and natural pools, this is a lovely place to spend the day.
Michelle Starin
The splash pool stays open throughout the summer, but once the season is over the splash area will close. So be sure to enjoy it now!
Michelle Starin

Deering Oaks Park is open year-round and you might be surprised to find it just as busy in the winter as in the summer. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. To access the Deering Oaks Ravine splash pool find parking on the street of any side of the park and head towards the middle. This might sound harder than it really is, but we assure you you’ll hit it. If you get lost, simply ask around. You can learn more about the park by visiting the Friends of Deering Oaks website. And you can follow the Portland Maine Parks, Recreation and Facilities Department on Facebook to keep up with all the fun things to do in town. You can reach them on 207-808-5400.

And if the beach is still what you crave, there are plenty here to enjoy. With 2,800 feet of white sandy dunes, Drake’s Island Beach in Maine is a top-notch day trip!

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Deering Oaks, Portland, ME 04101, USA