Best Arts & Creative Summer Camps in Portland, OR (2026)

Circus / Aerial Arts · 8130 SW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97219

At Trampoline Town's Circus Camp, your child will embark on an unforgettable summer adventure, exploring the magic of circus arts in a supportive and encouraging environment. Campers will learn a variety of skills, including aerial silks, trapeze, lyra, trampoline, and acrobatics. The week culminates in a unique performance created by the students to showcase their newfound talents for family and friends.

Circus / Aerial Arts · 1829 NE Alberta St Suite 11, Portland, OR 97211

At Afterglow Aerial Arts, your child will embark on a week-long journey of creativity and physical expression. Campers develop confidence and strength as they learn tricks and drops on the sling, silks, trapeze, and lyra. The program fosters character development through playful activities, theatrical performance, and team-building exercises. With a focus on both aerial skills and foundational gymnastics, this camp offers a unique opportunity for kids to explore their artistic voice while making new friends.

Dance · 8975 NE Walker Rd, Suite 150, Hillsboro, OR 97006

At New Vision Dance Center, young dancers will embark on magical adventures inspired by their favorite stories. Campers will learn new dances, create cool crafts, and engage in storytelling, all while exploring themes from "Frozen," "Wicked," and tropical island adventures. This camp focuses on building confidence, creativity, and a love for dance in a fun and supportive environment. It's a perfect place for your child to express themselves and make new friends.

Theater · 1000 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205

Northwest Children's Theater and School offers a variety of summer camps for children of all experience levels. Younger campers in First Stage Camps will enjoy creative play and imaginative adventures, while older kids in Explore Camps and Playlabs will build their skills in acting, singing, and dancing, culminating in a final performance. Whether your child is new to theater or a seasoned performer, they will find a supportive and fun environment to express their creativity and collaborate with others.

Dance · 8051 SE 16th Ave, Portland, OR 97202

At Dance With Joy Studios, your child will experience a summer of creativity, friendship, and fun in a supportive and welcoming environment. Campers explore a wide variety of activities including music, theater, art, and nature walks, with a special focus on dance. Each week, children are introduced to diverse dance styles such as ballet, hip hop, and Bollywood, all while building confidence and making new friends. The camp's philosophy centers on kindness and community, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for every child.

Arts & Crafts · 2300 SE Harrison St, Milwaukie, OR 97222

At Portland Waldorf School's summer camp, your child will immerse themselves in a world of creativity and nature. Through hands-on activities like handcrafts, watercolor painting, and beeswax modeling, campers will develop their artistic skills and imagination. The camp's philosophy is rooted in Waldorf education, which emphasizes holistic development and a deep connection to the natural world. Children will also enjoy outdoor play and storytelling, fostering a love for both art and nature in a nurturing and inspiring environment.

Dance · 818 SE 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97214

Oregon Ballet Theatre's Summer Intensive is a pre-professional, audition-based program for serious ballet students. Dancers will receive rigorous, well-rounded training in a variety of disciplines, including ballet technique, pointe, variations, and contemporary dance. The program's holistic approach also includes classes in Pilates, yoga, and seminars on topics like nutrition and dance history, all taught by OBT's esteemed faculty and guest artists. This immersive experience is designed to refine technique, build strength, and prepare young dancers for a professional career.

Music · 2522 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210

At Cascade School of Music, young musicians can explore their passion in a supportive, non-profit community setting. With a variety of summer programs like Rock Band Camp, String Orchestra, and Piano Intensive, there's something for every interest. The school's mission is to make music accessible to all, fostering lifelong engagement and personal growth through exceptional instruction from a dedicated faculty. Students will not only develop their musical skills but also build confidence and connect with others who share their love for music.

Theater · 1515 SE 37th Ave, Portland, OR 97214 and 1420 NW 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

At Echo Theater Company, your child can run away to the circus without leaving Portland! Whether they're a budding acrobat, a parkour enthusiast, or a future stage star, there's a camp for them. Younger kids will love the imaginative play of Circus Theater Camp, while older kids and teens can hone their skills in aerial arts, auditioning, or intensive circus training. Echo Theater's experienced instructors create a supportive and fun environment where kids can build confidence, strength, and creativity.

Dance · 720 S Bancroft St, Portland, OR 97239

At Oregon Ballet Theatre's summer camps, young dancers are introduced to the joy of ballet through creative movement and music. Guided by OBT’s professional faculty, children learn ballet basics, build confidence, and explore magical story ballets in themed camps like Snow White and Cinderella. This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to develop coordination, creativity, and a lifelong love for dance in a fun and engaging environment.

Dance · 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683

At DanceWorks Performing Arts, young dancers can immerse themselves in a world of movement and creativity. With a variety of themed camps like Fantasy Fairies and Unicorn Palooza, children will learn new dance styles, create crafts, and make new friends. The studio also offers specialized classes in acro, aerial silks, ballet, and hip-hop, providing a well-rounded experience for both new and experienced dancers in a fun and supportive environment.

Circus / Aerial Arts · 1420 NW 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

At Echo Theater Company, your child can run away to the circus for the summer, learning everything from aerial arts and acrobatics to parkour and theatrical performance. With a focus on creative expression and collaborative performance, their camps guide students in developing both physical skills and stage presence. Whether your child is a beginner exploring the basics in a 'Mini Circus Theater Camp' or an experienced performer honing their craft in a 'Circus Intensive,' they'll find a supportive and inspiring environment to build confidence and creativity.

Film & Media · 813 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97205

At the Portland Film Institute's youth camps, young creators will dive into the world of filmmaking. Campers can explore a variety of disciplines, including screenwriting, documentary production, and stop-motion animation. With a focus on creating, sharing, and inspiring, this camp provides a supportive environment for kids and teens to develop their storytelling skills and bring their cinematic visions to life.

Music · 2 N Killingsworth Street, Portland, OR 97217

At Ethos Music Center, young musicians of all skill levels can find a summer camp to ignite their passion. From Rock Band Camp and Queer Rock Camp to specialized programs in strings, keyboard, and jazz, there's something for everyone. Campers learn from expert instructors, collaborate with peers in a supportive environment, and showcase their new skills in a final performance. Ethos fosters a sense of community and self-expression, making it a welcoming space for all children to explore their musical talents.

Music · Multiple Portland locations

At School of Rock Portland, your child will learn more than just how to play an instrument. They'll join a community of fellow musicians and learn to play together as a band, culminating in a live performance on stage. With a variety of camps for all skill levels, from Rock 101 for beginners to songwriting and performance camps, there's something for every aspiring rock star. The School of Rock Method™ focuses on performance-based music education, giving kids and teens the confidence and skills to rock.