Looking for the ultimate fun list of ideas on what to do this summer? Today I’m sharing the best summer bucket list with 20 fun, must-do activities for families and kids. Even better this free, printable list is full of budget-friendly things to do this summer, so you can have fun without breaking the bank!
Happy Wednesday! I am so excited that summer is officially upon us and because tomorrow marks the first day of my 13-day vacation, I thought I’d kick things off right by sharing with you an amazing summer bucket list with 20 fun, must-do activities that will have you enjoying every minute this summer!
Grab your summer bucket list by tapping the image above or over here!
1. Go to the beach
Nothing like a trip to the beach to start your summer bucket list off right! (I’ll be marking this off my list in 4 days!) 😉
Related:Outerbanks Family Beach Vacation
2. Eat popsicles
What can I say, it’s not a real summer without popsicles! My fave are bomb pops!
3. Camp out
Don’t wanna go anywhere? Just pitch a tent in your backyard. It’s still fun, plus you still have all the amenities nearby. It’s a win-win!
4. Make s’mores
And of course, you can’t go camping without making s’mores! Who can resist the marshmallow + chocolate goodness of s’mores?!
Try My Recipe: Delicious S’mores in a Jar
5. Watch the sunset
We all should really do this year-round, but there’s something so nice about laying on a blanket outside and watching the sunset. Bonus points for counting stars. 🙂
6. Eat breakfast outside
I’ve never did this, but I’m to the point in my life that I keep asking myself, why not? Why not eat breakfast outside? Seems like a pretty amazing idea to me!
Recipe You’ll Love: Cinnamon Sugar Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins
7. Go fishing
Okay, so I’ll admit I personally get really bored with fishing( I have zero patience) but I love watching my husband and boys fish, while I relax out in the sun.
8. Swim in the lake
We don’t live near the beach, so the lake is the next best thing. It’s always nice to get out and enjoy the cool water in the summer months!
9. Have a picnic
My boys adore having a picnic. From packing up a special lunch to sitting outside on a blanket, it’s so much fun. It always reminds me to enjoy the little things.
Related: Learning to Celebrate Life’s Tiny Victories
10. Drive-in movie
Something at the top of my summer bucket list is a visit to the drive-in theater. It’s literally been years since I’ve went to the drive-in, but I have such great childhood memories of it that I definitely want to pass on the tradition to my kids now.
11. Go on a roadtrip
Another summer bucket list must-do? A spontaneous, unplanned road trip! Sometimes a fun road trip is what we all need to clear our minds and have a little fun.
Check Out Next: 2 Must-See Spots in Southwest Virginia
12. Have a craft day
I personally love crafting but too often put it off. I’m thinking a day of painting with canvases or making a handmade craft is in our family’s near future!
13. Play mini golf
Oh how I love mini golf! I’m horrible at real golf, but mini golf? I could be pro. #notreallybutistillloveit
14. Go bowling
Another fun pasttime of ours is bowling! Wanna know the funny part? Our boys are almost better than me and my hubs! 😉
15. Read more books
There’s nothing better than getting lost in a good book! I just started reading The Beaumont Series Books and I can’t put them down!
16. Tech-free day
I’m challenging each and every one of you to do a tech-free day! Heck, if you can do one day a week, even better! Technology is great, but real life is better!
Related: 8 Ways to Be More Present in Your Daily Life
17. Ride bikes
My husband and I plan to buy some bikes and hit the local trails this summer. It’s been so long since I’ve rode one, and I miss it!
18. Dessert for dinner
How fun would this be? Desserts, for dinner? Yes, please! I’m thinking this would be a great date night idea or fun twist on a family night out. And in case you need some yummy recipes, check out my easy-to-make desserts over here.
19. Have a water fight
If you saw my Insta story on Sunday, you’ll know the kids already succeeded in soaking me with their water guns. 🙂 On a hot, sunny day grab a pair of water guns or pick up some water balloons and have a blast soaking each other while cooling off!
20. Watch fireworks
Last but not least, my favorite part of summer? The 4th of July fireworks! I’m like a kid in a candy store when I see fireworks. I love them!
Check Out: Cute and Affordable 4th of July Fashion Picks
Hope you enjoyed my Summer Bucket List: 20 Fun Must-Do Activities! We’ll be heading to the Outer Banks, NC this Saturday for vacation and I’m so excited! If you’ve never been, be sure and check out my recap post from last year with some beautiful photos from our trip.
What’s on your summer bucket list? Thanks for stopping by!- Cara
Pin Me For Later
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert and enthusiast, I have access to a vast amount of information on various topics, including summer activities and bucket lists. I can provide you with expert advice and suggestions based on my knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. Let me help you explore and plan for an amazing summer!
Summer Bucket List: 20 Fun Must-Do Activities
This article provides a list of 20 fun activities for families and kids to do during the summer. Let's go through each concept mentioned in the article and provide additional information and ideas:
1. Go to the beach: Going to the beach is a classic summer activity. It offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, and enjoying picnics by the shore. Remember to pack sunscreen, towels, beach toys, and snacks.
2. Eat popsicles: Popsicles are refreshing treats that are perfect for cooling down on hot summer days. You can buy them from stores or make your own at home with fruit juice or yogurt. Get creative with flavors and shapes by using ice pop molds.
3. Camp out: Camping is a great way to connect with nature and have an adventure. If you don't have access to a camping site, you can set up a tent in your backyard and create a cozy camping experience. Don't forget to bring sleeping bags, flashlights, and marshmallows for roasting.
4. Make s'mores: S'mores are a delicious campfire treat made by sandwiching a roasted marshmallow and a piece of chocolate between two graham crackers. You can also experiment with different variations, such as using flavored marshmallows or adding peanut butter.
5. Watch the sunset: Watching the sunset is a peaceful and beautiful experience. Find a spot with a clear view of the horizon, bring a blanket or chairs, and enjoy the changing colors as the sun goes down. It's a perfect opportunity for relaxation and reflection.
6. Eat breakfast outside: Having breakfast outside can be a refreshing and enjoyable way to start your day. Set up a table or picnic blanket in your backyard or a nearby park and savor your morning meal surrounded by nature.
7. Go fishing: Fishing is a popular summer activity that can be both relaxing and rewarding. Whether you prefer freshwater or saltwater fishing, it's a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and bond with family and friends. Remember to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
8. Swim in the lake: If you don't have access to the beach, swimming in a lake can be a fantastic alternative. Many lakes offer designated swimming areas, and you can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply floating in the water.
9. Have a picnic: Picnics are a delightful way to enjoy a meal in nature. Prepare a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and sandwiches, find a scenic spot, and spread out a blanket. It's a great opportunity to relax, play games, and enjoy each other's company.
10. Drive-in movie: Visiting a drive-in theater adds a nostalgic touch to your summer bucket list. Pack some snacks, blankets, and pillows, and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car. It's a unique and fun experience that brings back the charm of the past.
11. Go on a road trip: Embarking on a road trip allows you to explore new places and create memorable experiences. Plan a spontaneous adventure or map out a specific route, and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Don't forget to pack essentials like snacks, a map or GPS, and a camera to capture the moments.
12. Have a craft day: Crafting is a creative and engaging activity for both kids and adults. Dedicate a day to making crafts like painting, pottery, or DIY projects. It's a great opportunity to unleash your creativity and create unique keepsakes.
13. Play mini golf: Mini golf is a fun and lighthearted game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Challenge your family or friends to a round of mini golf and see who can navigate the obstacles and score a hole-in-one.
14. Go bowling: Bowling is a classic indoor activity that provides entertainment and friendly competition. It's a great way to beat the summer heat or enjoy a fun evening with friends and family.
15. Read more books: Summer is the perfect time to dive into a good book or explore new genres. Create a reading list, visit your local library, or download e-books to enjoy during your leisure time. Reading can transport you to different worlds and expand your knowledge.
16. Tech-free day: Taking a break from technology can help you reconnect with the present moment and engage in offline activities. Challenge yourself and your family to have a tech-free day or designate specific times to disconnect from screens and focus on real-life experiences.
17. Ride bikes: Biking is a fantastic way to stay active and explore your surroundings. Whether you go for a leisurely ride in your neighborhood or tackle more challenging trails, biking offers benefits for physical fitness and mental well-being.
18. Dessert for dinner: Having a dessert-themed dinner can be a fun and indulgent treat. Experiment with sweet recipes and create a menu featuring your favorite desserts. It's a unique twist on a traditional mealtime and can be a delightful experience for the whole family.
19. Have a water fight: On hot summer days, a water fight can provide a refreshing and entertaining way to cool off. Grab water guns, water balloons, or even just buckets of water, and engage in a friendly battle with your loved ones.
20. Watch fireworks: Fireworks are a traditional and captivating part of summer celebrations, especially during events like the 4th of July. Find local firework displays or organize your own backyard fireworks show (following safety guidelines). Enjoy the dazzling colors and the excitement they bring.
Conclusion
Summer is a wonderful time to create lasting memories and enjoy a variety of activities with family and friends. Whether you choose to go to the beach, have a picnic, or engage in any other activity from the summer bucket list, make sure to have fun and embrace the spirit of the season. Remember to prioritize safety and respect any local guidelines or regulations. Enjoy your summer to the fullest!
