5 Incredible Soaking Pools and Saunas Right in the Heart of Portland
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I’m always on the hunt for relaxing hot pools and saunas, even in urban centers! I’m from Portland, Oregon, originally and spend lots of time there during the summer months visiting family.
You might think you have to drive an hour or two outside of the city center to find relaxing hot springs, but you don’t! There are several places to enjoy right in in town.
Cascada Thermal Hot Springs And Spa
When you visit Cascada Thermal Hot Springs and Spa, you step into a unique spot right in the Alberta Arts District of Portland. This underground spa is for adults 21 and over, so you can expect a peaceful and relaxing environment.
Your visit at Cascada includes a three-hour session. You get access to mineral hot springs, saunas, and a cold plunge pool. The space is designed to help you unwind and recharge.
You can also book a fitness class or spa treatment, which includes a soaking and sauna session.
Here’s what you’ll find at Cascada:
- Several underground pools, sauna, steam room and loungers. This area is a silent retreat
- An upstairs pool and solarium to hang out and relax
- Urban resort setting with incredible food and rooms you can stay in
You can also enjoy extras like spa treatments and a fitness center. Guests often mention that Cascada feels like an American ryokan, combining modern style with traditional touches. The atmosphere is calm and inviting.
Tips for your visit:
- Bring your own swimsuit.
- Book your session ahead of time since space fills up fast.
- Check age limits—no one under 21 is allowed.
Learn more about this amazing urban retreat in my blog post about Cascada.
Everett House Hot Springs And Sauna
If you’re looking for a relaxing spa experience in Portland, you should check out the Everett House. This peaceful spot offers a blend of hot springs-inspired amenities and a cozy sauna environment.
We’ve been to Everett House several times and we love this backyard oasis right in the heart of a Portland neighborhood.
You can use the saltwater soaking pool, which feels a lot like a large hot tub, but set outdoors with greenery around you. There are several white clawfoot tubs nearby that serve as cold plunges.
Spa Amenities:
- Two dry saunas
- A steam sauna
- Hot soaking pool
- Cold plunge baths
There are both individual and social spaces, so you can visit alone or with friends. The spa is open seven days a week, which makes it easy to fit a visit into your schedule. Please keep in mind that The Everett House is co-ed and clothing optional.
Many guests mention the warm and inclusive atmosphere. If you are new to visiting spas, you will find the Everett House to be a welcoming place for first-timers. When you’re booking, check to
You can find more details about the spa’s features and make appointments by visiting the official Everett House Community Healing Center website.
Knot Springs Portland
If you want a relaxing place right in the city, you should check out Knot Springs in Portland. It’s located at 33 NE 3rd Ave, easy to reach in the Central Eastside.
I’ve been to Knot Springs once and loved the clean indoor pools, the view of Portland and the West Hills, and the large sauna.
Knot Springs is more of a luxury wellness club than a traditional hot spring. But you still get to enjoy a spa experience with their signature hot tubs, steam room, sauna, and cold plunge. You can book a two-hour session to access all these parts of the Springs area.
You need to book in advance, especially if you want to visit during busy hours. Their reception and booking are open daily.
Here’s what you get with your two-hour visit:
- Use of the hot tubs, steam room, and sauna
- Access to a cold plunge for a refreshing dip
- Showers and changing rooms
People say Knot Springs is one of the cleanest and most modern spas in town. If you want more info or want to see photos, check them out on Yelp or their Instagram.
Common Ground Wellness Cooperative
We’ve also really enjoyed the Common Ground Wellness Cooperative. This is a beautiful outdoor retreat in a courtyard, right near the Alberta Arts District. This is also a clothing optional retreat, so keep that in mind when you book.
You can enjoy their saltwater hot pool and a dry cedar sauna. The pools are outside and surrounded by plants, so it feels peaceful, even in the city.
Here’s what you’ll find at Common Ground:
- Hot pool
- Cold outdoor waterfall shower
- Dry cedar sauna
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Natropathy
You don’t need to be a member to visit—walk-ins and guests are always welcome. You can check their website for hours and to book your spot.
If you want to unwind, schedule a soak, sauna, or even a massage during your trip.
Kennedy School
If you’re looking for a unique hot soaking spot in Portland, you’ll want to check out the Kennedy School. This old elementary school has been transformed into a hotel, restaurant, and gathering place with a popular soaking pool.
The soaking pool is outside, set in a private courtyard surrounded by gardens. It’s a heated, saltwater pool that gives you a relaxing way to enjoy some fresh air. You’ll find the pool where the old Teacher’s Lounge once was—now, it’s filled with warm water and inviting vibes.
Highlights of the Kennedy School Soaking Pool:
- Temperature: Warm and comfortable all year.
- Setting: Outdoor, with lots of plants and flowers.
- Saltwater: Easier on your skin than regular chlorine pools.
- Artistic tile work: Adds a colorful look to the pool.
Your visit is open to all, whether you’re staying overnight or just stopping by. There’s a fee of about $10 per person for an hour soak (ages 3 and up), while kids 2 and under are free.
It’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends.
So if you’re searching for a hot springs experience right in Portland, Kennedy School gives you a fun, local twist.
Clothing Optional vs Swimsuit Hot Springs in Portland
When you visit hot springs and saunas in Portland, Oregon, you might wonder what to wear. Some spots encourage swimsuits, while others are clothing optional.
Clothing-optional hot springs let you choose if you want to wear anything. These places are often relaxed. The vibe is usually friendly, so you can do what feels comfortable. Expect to see a mix of swimsuits and bare skin at these locations. One example is found on this list of best hot springs near Portland.
Swimsuit required hot springs and spas have clear rules. These places want everyone to wear swimwear. If you like more privacy or want structured settings, you might prefer these. Resorts like Knot Springs or Cascada require you to wear a swimsuit.
In Portland, both Everett House and Common Ground are clothing-optional.
We Hope You Love These Spots as Much as We Do!
Next time you’re looking for an urban retreat right in Portland, look no further than these soaking pools and saunas. We love that they are located in vibrant neighborhoods, and you can walk to dinner or to have beers right before or after your soaking experience.
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
Hi, I’m Kristin Hanes, and I’ve spent years traveling the globe to uncover the most serene hot springs, saunas, and wellness retreats. As a journalist and avid hot springs enthusiast, I’ve combined my passion for relaxation with my love of storytelling to create BlissfulSoaks.
