Celebrate the sunniest season with this Summer Bucket List! You'll find 75 fun summer activities here (plus, a free printable list). Whether you try one or tackle them all, these creative ideas will will keep you busy all summer long (and beyond)!
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Summer is officially here! Are you ready for it?
It's time to make the most of long days and beautiful weather, get outside, go on vacation (or plan a staycation), cook seasonal recipes with fresh produce, and entertain your kids over summer break!
If you want to make the most of this wonderful season, then you need this Summer Bucket List! It has 75 fun and easy way to celebrate the season, and there's something for everyone, from kids to adults, friends, families, teens, and couples.
Ready to get started? Keep reading for all the ideas, plus a free printable list!
Summer Bucket List
If you’re looking for fun things to do in summer, then you're going to LOVE this list! It's loaded with creative ways to make the most of the season.
You'll find plenty of classic favorites on this list, plus even more ideas for trying new things, all while creating lasting memories with your friends and family. Discover fun outdoor and indoor activities, ways to make the most of a sunny day, creative recipe ideas, and so much more.
At the end of this post, you’ll also find a free printable with all of these summer activities. Print it out, then start checking off your favorite summer things! There’s also a blank printable. Use it to create your own custom to do list.
75 Summer Activities
This summer activities list truly has something for everyone: couples, friends, families, adults, teens, kids, groups, individuals, and more. You'll find oodles of outdoor and indoor activities, so you can choose something based on the weather. Try just a few of these summer ideas, or if you're feeling ambitious, attempt to do them if all!
1. Make homemade lemonade.
Is there anything more summery than a glass of lemonade? Especially if you enjoy while sitting outside, soaking up the sun! Here are a few of my favorite recipes to try:
- Classic - Learn how to make Lemonade with just a few ingredients! Only have one lemon? Make my easy recipe for Lemonade by the Glass instead.
- Flavored - Once you've mastered the basic recipe, you can easily change it up by adding fresh fruit. Let my Strawberry Lemonade, Watermelon Lemonade, and Rhubarb Lemonade recipes inspire you!
- Cocktail - Add a shot to any of the above recipe to create an easy cocktail, or try my refreshing Spiked Raspberry Lemonade and Lemonade Shandy recipes.
- More - For an orange-flavored twist on this drink, make this easy Orangeade recipe, or try this fun Watermelon Punch, which is served in mini melons!
2. Take a road trip.
Summer is the perfect time to take a road trip! The best thing about traveling by car is that you have so many options. Stick nearby for an impromptu day trip, or head out for a long weekend (or even a few weeks). Don't forget to leave time in your schedule for unexpected discoveries (check out Atlas Obscura for sites!), and make sure to check out my road trip essentials list before you go!
Tip: Need some inspiration? Read about my El Paso to Phoenix Road Trip through the Southwest!
3. Go swimming outside.
Sure, you can go swimming year round, but it just hits different when you're outside! Don't let summer pass you by without visiting your neighborhood lake, pond, swimming hole, or pool for a afternoon of fun and relaxation in the sun.
4. Visit an amusement park.
It's amusement park season! Whether you're parent trying to entertain the kids or an adult looking for thrills, a visit to the local amusement park or water park is sure to create core memories! Not sure where to go? Check out this list of the best amusement park in every state.
5. Make homemade s'mores.
S'mores are a classic summer treat, so make sure to add this delicious, gooey treat to your bucket list! If you don't have access to a campfire, learn how to make s'mores indoors with my step-by-step guide.
Tip: Serving a vegan or vegetarian at your campfire? Make sure to stock up on vegan marshmallows, dairy free chocolate, and graham crackers!
6. Watch a parade.
There's nothing that says good, old fashioned fun for kids and adults quite like watching a parade! And with everything from community events to local fairs, 4th of July, and LGBT pride parades, you're sure to find a summer parade near you.
7. Take surfing lessons.
With warmer temps and (often) milder waves, summer is a great time to learn how to surf! Check out these surf schools to get started or find one near you.
8. Look for fireflies.
There is something so magical about fireflies, and summer is the best time to spot them! There are more than 100 species in North America alone. In the U.S., you're most likely to find them in dark fields in the South, Midwest, and Northeast. Learn more about why fireflies glow and the best places to spot them.
9. Go camping with friends or family.
It's camping season! Time to haul out your tent and sleep in the great outdoors. Are you a camping newbie, and not sure where to start? Check out these helpful camping tips for beginners!
10. Spend a day at the beach.
A beach day is a must on any summer bucket list! Whether your idea of fun is relaxing on a beach towel, cooling off in the water, building a sandcastle, collecting seashells, walking the boardwalk, or all of the above, make sure to head to the beach at least once this season.
Need a little beach vacay inspiration? Read more about my favorite beach destinations, including Rockaway Beach in NYC, Isla Verde and Luquillo in Puerto Rico, Chacala in Mexico, and Orange Beach in Alabama!
11. Watch a fireworks display.
Add catching a fireworks display to your summer to do list! Fireworks are ubiquitous on the 4th of July, but you'll find them throughout the summer at sports competitions, community gatherings, and other events. Keep an eye on your local listings to find a fireworks display near you.
12. Make homemade popsicles.
A delicious popsicle is the perfect way to cool off on a hot day! Sure you can buy them, but popsicles are so fun and easy to make. Try one of these recipes the next time you get a craving:
- Watermelon Popsicles
- Breakfast Popsicles
- Strawberry Coconut Paletas
- Red, White, and Blue Popsicles
- Iced Coffee Popsicles
13. Go stargazing.
Looking for a relaxing and magical way to spend a night? Choose a clear night, then put down your phone, find somewhere dark, and look up at the sky! These stargazing tips will help you make the most of the experience.
14. Plant a backyard garden.
Grow something this summer! Start small with a container garden (filled with your fave herbs and flowers), or go all out with a backyard patch. There's no better feeling than eating something you grew yourself. And don't count yourself out if you live in an apartment! For the last few years, I've planted a bunch of herbs on my tiny balcony, and this year, I added cherry tomatoes. It's so rewarding, and I'm able to make homemade pesto all summer long.
15. Take a bike ride.
If you're anything like me, riding a bike makes you feel like a kid again! So park your car this summer, and haul out your bike, take a city bike tour, or rent a bike for a few hours. You won't regret it!
16. Plan a staycation.
You don't need to book an expensive European holiday to enjoy a summer break. Take a staycation instead! A staycation can include relaxing at a local hotel (hopefully, one with a pool), or it can mean exploring your city while staying at home. Make sure to plan activities that you'd normally do on a regular vacation, like relaxing in your backyard, reading a great book, visiting a museum, checking out a new restaurant, taking a walk in a park, seeing your city's sites, or planning an at-home spa day.
17. Watch a beautiful sunset.
There's nothing more relaxing than catching a gorgeous sunset with a cold drink in hand! Make sure to set aside some time this summer to watch a few.
18. Spend an entire day outside.
Embrace the idea of an analog summer (at least for a day), and enjoy a day outside. Spending time in nature has many benefits, including lowering stress, improving your sleep, and reducing your risk of chronic disease. The best part? It's so easy to reap these benefits! Put away your phone, then head to the park for a picnic, play some lawn games, go hiking or for a long walk with friends, or simply hang out in your backyard with a cold drink and good book.
19. Grill a meal.
Why heat up your house this summer, when you can cook a delicious meal on the grill? Here are three easy vegetarian recipes to try this summer:
- Grilled Vegetables - This recipe is endlessly versatile! Serve these veggies as a side, or add them to other dishes, like pasta, salads, or sandwiches.
- Grilled Portobello Tacos - Tacos on the grill? Yes, please! These yummy tacos are simple to prepare, and they make an excellent dinner any night of the week.
- Grilled Halloumi Salad - This colorful salad is so delish! Serve it as a entrée or as a side dish.
20. Go kayaking or canoeing.
If you're looking for an enjoyable physical activity this summer, try kayaking or canoeing. It's easy to find rentals near any lake or river, you don't need any experience, and once you get the hang of things, it's so relaxing to glide along the water. Need some inspiration for your trip? Check out my tips for Canoeing the Kickapoo River, the crookedest river in Wisconsin!
21. Plan a picnic.
A picnic is a must for any summer bucket list! For a low effort picnic, simply clean out your fridge, grab snacks from your pantry, or hit your local grocery store for cheese and crackers on the way to the park. Or plan ahead, and make one of these delicious recipes:
- Baguette Sandwich - Super simple to make and so delicious! For a fun French touch, wrap the sandwiches in parchment paper tied together with colorful twine.
- Easy Pasta Salad - This delicious recipe only has four ingredients, so you can throw it together in minutes. Customize it based on what's in your fridge.
- Bulgur Veggie Salad - I like to bring heartier, wilt free salads on picnics, like this easy grain salad, which has a bright flavor you're sure to love. This scrumptious Caprese Freekeh Salad would also be delish!
- Peach Green Tea - Of course, you need a cold drink, and this one is so tasty and refreshing. Classic Lemonade is always a hit, too!
- Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies - Don't skip the dessert. Cookies are perfect for picnics, because they're so easy to transport.
22. Create a summer playlist.
Take time to make a custom summer playlist now, and you'll enjoy the good vibes all summer long! For my own playlist, I included a mix of classic summer hits (like "Summertime" by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince and "Hot Fun in the Summertime" by Sly & The Family Stone), along with laid back faves (like "Sunny Afternoon" by Benny Sings and "Lovely Day" by Bill Withers).
Don't have enough time to make your own? Search for summer mixes on music apps, like Spotify or Apple Music. You'll find many to choose from!
23. Transform your backyard into an oasis.
You don't need a lot of time, effort, or money to transform your backyard (or porch) into a summer oasis. Simply add a few string lights, some comfy seating, and a plant or two. For shade, set up an umbrella, and for easy summer meals, don't forget the grill. If you need a little inspiration, check out my tips for decorating a small patio on a budget!
24. Go for a boat ride.
Enjoying a boat ride is one of those quintessential summer activities that brings so much joy! It's the perfect way to spend a sunny day, and gazing out at the water is actually good for you, too. Don't have your own boat? Look for boat rides in your area (or while on vacation).
25. Visit your local aquarium.
When it's too hot outside, skip the beach, and enjoy an aquatic scene indoors instead! Aquariums are a great way to entertain to kids, but adults will get a lot of enjoyment, too. Find an aquarium near you here.
26. Read a book outside.
Whether you're lounging poolside or kicking back in your yard, reading a great book outside is one of the most relaxing summer experiences!
Looking for some bookspiration? Here are a few books I've read that would make great summer reads:
- The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (Mystery) - One morning, a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. But Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the wealthy family that owns the summer camp, and this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child to disappear. Find it on Bookshop and Amazon.
- The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson (Romance) - Daphne isn't a baseball fan, but it beats sitting at home in the days after signing her divorce papers. After one too many ballpark beers, she heckles Carolina Battery player Chris Kepler, who quickly proves there might actually be a little crying in baseball. Horrified, Daphne reaches out to Chris on social media to apologize, but forgets to identify herself as his heckler in her message. Find it on Bookshop and Amazon.
- Change the Recipe by José Andrés (Nonfiction) - If you're looking for an inspirational read, you'll love these short essays! This book would also make a great gift for new grads. Find it on Bookshop and Amazon.
- The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks by Shauna Robinson (Cozy) - When Maggie arrives in Bell River to run her best friend's struggling bookstore, she expects to sell bestsellers to the small-town clientele. But Bell River's literary society insists on keeping the bookstore stuck in the past, and she's banned from selling anything written this century. Maggie soon realizes that she'll have to get creative to keep the shop afloat. Find it on Bookshop and Amazon.
- Hunger and Thirst by Claire Fuller (Mystery) - In this creepy gothic thriller (slow burn), the storyline alternates between 16-year old Ursula, who grew up in foster care and is struggling to find for love and acceptance, and fifty-something Ursula (now known as Uschi), a famous sculptor whose life is thrown into turmoil when a documentary filmmaker starts digging up her past. Find it on Bookshop and Amazon.
27. Create a list of must-try summer recipes.
With fruits and veggies at their very best, summer dishes are full of fresh, bright flavors. Don't let the season of perfect tomatoes and juicy peaches pass you by, create a list of recipes to try! Here are some recipes you'll love:
- Summer Favorites - Classic seasonal recipes, like Pasta Salad, Fresh Tomato Sauce, Potato Salad, or this creative twist on Strawberry Shortcake, are must makes for a reason!
- No Cook Recipes - Why heat up your kitchen when you can make a tasty no cook recipe instead? Start the day with the easiest Overnight Oats (pick your fave toppings), snack on this herby Green Goddess Dip or these yummy Caprese Skewers, pair this easy Marinated Tomato and Onion Salad with crusty bread for a simple meal, or enjoy this cooling Watermelon Gazpacho, then cool off with a batch of homemade Mango Sorbet.
- Pizza - Add some seasonal produce to your pizzas! You'll love this easy Summer Pizza recipe, which is loaded with fresh veggies. Feeling creative? Try this mouthwatering Peach Pizza, which has a wonderful combo of sweet and savory flavors!
- Crisps + Crumbles - An easy-to-make crisp or crumble is the perfect summer dessert. This Mixed Berry Crumble and this Peach Crisp are two of my favorites.
- Unique Ingredients - Give your go-to recipes a fun twist! If you're an iced coffee fan, you'll love this refreshing Orange Coffee (or Grapefruit Coffee), or add ice cream to make an Aussie Iced Coffee. This tasty Tropical Rice Salad has a unique mango dressing, and this colorful Watermelon, Feta, and Quinoa Salad is bursting with summery flavors. Give your typical potato salad a Tex Mex flavor with this delish Sweet Potato Salad with Black Beans. These Radish and Butter Sandwiches are perfect for a hot day, and this pretty Pink Pineapple Salsa recipe makes a eye-catching appetizer or snack.
28. Fly a kite.
If you're looking for summer activities for the whole family, get out your kites! Flying a colorful kite (like this cute Rainbow Kite!) is sure to make you smile, whether you're a kid or an adult.
29. Get a summer haircut.
Summer is an ideal time to try a new, breezier hairstyle. Trying a short haircut, or simply experimenting with different hairstyles, like a polished ponytail or fishtail braid, is an easy way to refresh your style while staying cool. I chopped off my long locks for a chin-length cut two years ago, and haven't looked back!
30. Cool off with a summer cocktail (or mocktail).
Summer is all about taking time to kick back and relax, with a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) in hand, of course! You'll love this colorful Watermelon Margarita, unique Rhubarb Shrub Cocktail, and this classic Daiquiri. Looking for something alcohol free? Try my Mojito Mocktail, this delish Watermelon Agua Fresca, or this lovely Apple Cider Mocktail instead!
31. Explore a new-to-you neighborhood.
After holing up all winter, summer is a time to explore, and you don't need to go far. Simply head to a new-to-you neighborhood, nearby small town, or a even a new park or restaurant. You may just find a new favorite that you'll return to again and again!
32. Celebrate the 4th of July.
Celebrating the 4th of July is always a highlight of the summer! Make the most of this patriotic day by gathering with friends and family, taking a U.S. history-themed trip, or reading a relevant book (this roundup of American history books has something for every interest). Try one of these recipes and ideas to make the day extra special:
- Individual Berry Trifles
- Mini Red, White, and Blue Cakes
- Strawberry Ice Cream Cake
- Red, White, and Blue Cheesecake Tart (No Bake)
- Summer Berry Ice Box Cake
- 30 Patriotic Recipes, Crafts, and Decor Ideas
- Printable Star and Stripes Banner
33. Go hiking.
Summer is peak hiking season! Whether you're headed to a nearby trail or planning a trip to a bucket list-worthy destination, there's a hiking trail for all ages and experience levels. If you're new to this fun activity, check out these hiking tips for beginners. Looking for a nearby trail? AllTrails is a great resource, no matter where you live.
34. Make pizza on the grill.
Cooking pizza on the grill should be on everyone's summer to do list! It's surprisingly easy and fast (especially if you use store bought dough), super fun, and of course, it's delicious. My favorite summery combo is tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, but you can really get creative with different toppings. Check out my pizza recipes for ideas!
35. Plan a scavenger hunt.
If you're looking for a fun boredom buster, go on a treasure hunt! This cute Printable Summer Scavenger Hunt is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. If you're working with an older crowd, check out these Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Adults or this relaxing Self-Care Scavenger Hunt.
36. Have a water balloon fight.
When it comes to classic summer activities, it's hard to beat a good old-fashioned water balloon fight. I love these re-usable water balloons! They're easier to fill than traditional balloons, they don't hurt when hit, and you can use them over and over again all summer long!
37. Attend an outdoor concert or festival.
Attending an outdoor concert or festival is one of the very best things to do in summer. Look for local events in your area, attend a multi-day festival (we went to Primavera Sound one year, and it was amazing), or see your favorite artist at an outdoor arena.
38. Go berry picking.
Summer is berry season! Skip the store bought berries, and unlock a core summer memory by pick them yourself. Once you've gathered your berries, try one of these berry recipes, or make a batch of freezer jam (it's so much easier than you'd think).
39. Eat all your favorite summer veggies.
Don't let summer pass you by without making the most of the bountiful summer produce! Looking for recipe ideas? Here's are the most popular summer veggies, plus five ways to use each one:
- Tomatoes - 1. Tomato Crostini 2. Pan con Tomate 3. Tomato Galette 4. Caprese Pizza 5. Roasted Tomato Pasta
- Corn - 1. Curry Corn Chowder with Coconut Milk 2. Black Bean and Corn Salsa 3. Southwest Hummus with Corn Relish 4. Harvest Veggie Enchiladas 5. Elote
- Zucchini - 1. Vegetable Galette 2. Cold Noodle Salad 3. Zoodles with Tomato Artichoke Sauce (or Romesco Sauce and Feta) 4. Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini 5. Roasted Vegetable Quesadillas
- Cucumbers - 1. Garden Salad 2. Greek Tortellini Salad 3. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl 4. Arugula Quinoa Salad 5. Greek Veggie Burgers
- Bell Peppers - 1. Feta, Pepper, and Olive Bites 2. Roasted Veggie Breakfast Sandwiches 3. Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers 4. Bell Pepper Nachos 5. Black Beans and Rice
40. Make a pie or tart.
Homemade pies are an awesome ways to use up fresh fruits and veggies! I especially like making free form, rustic pie, like this amazing Strawberry Rhubarb Galette, and mini desserts, like these yummy Mini Cherry Tarts (which have a been a favorite of Hello Little Home readers for years). You can also go savory, and bake a mouthwatering Tomato Pie or this delicious Mushroom, Kale, and Cheddar Quiche! Looking for something else? Check out Sally's Baking Addiction. She has a huge selection of pie recipes to choose from!
41. Go mini golfing.
When was the last time you went mini golfing? Puttering around a fun course is a great way to entertain kids and adults for hours! Tip: If you live in Dallas, check out Another Round! It's an indoor course that looks like something an crafty dad would have built back in the day. So fun for all ages!
42. Turn off your phone for a day.
Take advantage of beautiful summer days, and turn off your phone. Doing a digital detox has many benefits, including improving your mood, sleep, and attention span. Not to mention, all that extra time you'll have! And summer is the perfect time to take advantage. Use the free time to connect with a friend or relative, make a delicious meal, play a board game, go for a walk, or enjoy another phone free activity.
43. Plant a flower bed.
A beautiful bouquet is an easy way to brighten your home (and your day), but flowers can be expensive. Rather than relying on store bought bouquets, consider planting your own flowers, and you'll reap the benefits all summer long. If you're a newbie, learn how to how to plant a flower bed and how to choose the best cut flowers for each USDA zone. This guide to native wildflowers by region is also helpful!
44. Tie-dye a t-shirt.
Tie-dying a t-shirt is a classic activity for any summer to do list! It's fun for all ages, and the process is actually really easy! Learn how to tie dye (plus get lots of unique and trendy ideas) with this helpful guide.
45. Make a summer craft.
Get crafty this summer! Here are a some fun + easy ideas to try:
- Create a Cigar Box Frame for a favorite summer photo.
- Paint a set of Striped Burlap Coasters to use on your deck.
- Wrap up your sunnies in a DIY Sunglasses Case.
- Make one of these adorable DIY Donut Crafts to celebrate your fave treat.
46. Visit or host a garage sale
You know the old saying: one man's junk is another man's treasure. And garage sales are the perfect place to find some bargains for your home or wardrobe!
Is your own home bursting at the seams? Hold a garage sale is the perfect excuse to clean out clutter and get organized, all while making a few bucks. If you're feeling ambitious, you could even get your whole neighborhood involved! Check out these helpful yard sale tips to get started.
47. Toss a frisbee.
Kick it back to your childhood days, and head outside with a frisbee! This simple, cheap plastic disc can provide hours of fun. If you find frisbees hard to control, check out these popular flying rings. They're a unique take on the classic frisbee, and they're super easy to use, even for young kids! And if you're a disc golf player, looks for nearby courses at UDisc.
48. Find your city's best street art.
Street art is super popular these days! You can find colorful murals everywhere from tiny villages to huge metropolises, and many cities even host street art festivals. Spotting murals is also a fun travel activity. Find murals on Street Art Cities interactive map. You can even add street art near you!
49. Treat yourself to an ice cream float (or shake).
Sure, ice cream is delicious on its own, but there's something about floats and milkshakes that's even more special! To make an ice cream float, add a scoop (or two) of vanilla ice cream (or another flavor) to a glass of soda. Root beer is traditional, but orange, grape, cola, and other flavors also work.
To make a milkshake, blend any type of ice cream with milk (try two cups ice cream and a half cup milk), along with other flavorings (like chocolate syrup, fresh berries, or peanut butter). To create a malt, add malted milk powder, too. And of course, you can get really creative and over-the-top with unique ingredients (check out my S'mores Freak Shake recipe for inspiration).
50. Build a campfire.
This summer, plan to spend an evening gathered around a campfire! If you're a newbie, check out guide to building a campfire, plus a few safety tips, before getting started. Make sure to round up s'mores supplies and classic campfire stories to make the night even more enjoyable.
51. Visit a State or National Park.
Get outside this summer at local park! State Parks are easy to access, and they're full of fun activities, ranging from hiking to fishing and more. You'll find National Parks in every state, too.
To explore some of my favorite National Parks, read my Texas National Parks, Puerto Rico National Parks (which includes the Old San Juan Forts), and White Sands National Park guides!
52. Buy a bunch of sunflowers.
Is there any flower more summery than the sunflower? By yourself a bunch to cheer up your day! Tip: Learn more about sunflowers, including their meaning and the origin of their name.
53. Check out a local museum.
Museums are the perfect place to spend a too hot day! Find a museum near you, then enjoy the A/C. If you think museums are boring, you just haven't found the right one. You'll find museums for every interest, from cars to boobleheads to mustard, pinball, clowns, and more. This list of unusual museums has lots of unique ideas!
54. Play a classic summer game.
Looking for a boredom buster? A classic summer game may just be the answer! Backyard games, like tag (or flashlight tag at night), ghosts in the graveyard, kick the can, red rover, hopscotch, four square, dodge ball, kickball, hide-and-seek, Simon says, duck duck goose, and red light green light, require very few supplies, yet they provide hours of fun. For more permanent games (that you'll play again and again), try bocce, pétanque, corn hole, giant jenga, or make your own DIY Summer Yard Games!
55. Buy a new pair of sandals.
Summer is sandal season, and it's the perfect time to treat yourself to a new pair (or two)! Put your best foot forward with a DIY pedicure, too!
56. Celebrate Christmas in July.
Looking for a unique summer party idea? Then you'll love Christmas in July! Here are a few ideas to help you celebrate:
- Put up a tree and decorate with summery items (like shells or flowers), or stick to a traditional color scheme.
- Bake your favorite Christmas cookies.
- Host a secret Santa or white elephant gift exchange.
- Play holiday music or sing Christmas carols.
- Wear a festive outfit, such as Hawaiian shirts with a Santa hat or Christmas lights necklace.
- Have a holiday movie marathon.
- Cook a Christmas feast, featuring all your favorite holiday recipes.
57. Visit your state or county fair.
If you're searching for a wholesome, family friendly activity this summer, head to your local state fair! Most fairs are held during summer, although some hot weather states hold theirs in early fall (like the Texas State Fair, which starts in late September). You'll find so many different things to entertain you at the fair, including farm animals, rides, arts and crafts, music, and more.
58. Go to a baseball game.
Hit the ballpark to see your favorite team (major or minor league) this summer! The relaxed atmosphere and yummy snacks make ballgames an ideal activity for families, couples, and friends.
59. Eat ice cream for dinner.
Every once in a while, it's okay to eat dinner for ice cream. Especially on hot summer days when you can't bear to cook! And this fun, no stress meal is guaranteed to please kids and adults. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Head to your local ice cream parlor for scoops of your fave flavor.
- Set up an Ice Cream Sundae Bar (or Waffle Sundae Bar).
- Dig into a Homemade Ice Cream Cake.
- Make M&Ms Sundaes with leftover candy.
- Serve this delicious Salted Caramel Affogato for an after dinner drink.
60. Embrace your inner child.
Calling all adults? Stop being so serious and have a little fun! Do a cartwheel, roll down a hill, walk barefoot in the grass, have a water fight, do a cannonball, swing in the sun, float in the pool, or jump off the diving board.
61. Make homemade iced tea.
Having a pitcher of homemade iced tea in the fridge is a gift to yourself that keeps on giving! Here are a few unique recipes to try:
62. Watch a movie at a Drive-In Theater.
For a nostalgic movie-watching experience, head to a drive-in theater! These old-fashioned cinemas are becoming increasingly rare, so support your local outdoor theater before it disappears. Use this drive-in movie theater directory to find a screen in your state. Tip: Many cities have outdoor movie screenings in local parks, too! Check out your city's event websites to find them.
63. Enjoy an outdoor workout.
Break out of your boring gym routine and exercise outside! There's an activity for everyone and every ability, including biking, running or walking, hiking, swimming, yoga, canoeing or kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, basketball, baseball, kick ball, and so many more. Try a new one, or stick to a fave. Here are 10 outdoor workout routines to inspire you!
64. Learn how to play a court sport.
Speaking of outdoor exercise, summer is the best time to try a court sport! And you've got so many options, including the increasingly popular pickleball, classic tennis, padel (a cross between tennis and squash), fast-paced badminton, old school handball, and more!
65. Create an activity jar.
Head off boredom by creating a summer activity jar! Simply find a large jar (or other container), then fill it with slips of paper, each listing a unique activity. When you can't think of anything to do, pull out an idea. Activity jars aren't just for kids, they're great for couples, singles, and groups of friends, too.
To keep things super easy, use the ideas on this summer bucket list, or fill the jar with your own activities. Need a little inspo? Here are 50 ideas perfect for kids!
66. Visit the farmers market.
Get your fruits and veggies straight from the farmer this summer! They'll be fresher, and they'll taste better, too. Farmers markets are a great way to spend a morning, and many markets include food trucks, craft and food artisans, mobile coffee shops, and other fun businesses. Search for a farmers market near you here.
67. Relax in a hammock.
Looking for relaxing ideas? Set up a hammock, then spend your afternoons swaying in the breeze!
68. Get lunch or dinner at a food truck.
Want to eat outside without the effort of a picnic or grill? Grab lunch or dinner at a food truck! These mobile restaurants make trying different types of food easy. Many cities now have food truck parks, and trucks often group together too, which means you can find a dish to temp everyone in your group.
69. Attend a community event.
Get together with your community this summer! Look for local events, like wine walks, fun runs, and fundraisers at your local parks, favorite businesses, block parties, carnivals, art festivals, and other neighborhood events.
70. Blow bubbles.
Blowing bubbles is a foolproof way to entertain kids, and adults will find it pretty enjoyable, too. Pick up bubble wands and solution at any local store, or create your own bubble solution. You can even make your own Bubble Wands with a little wire and some colorful beads!
71. Go roller skating outside.
Strap on your roller skates or in-line skates (roller blades), then hit the trails this summer! Skates and a smooth sidewalk / paved trail are all you need to get started. Learn how to in-line skate here. Too hot to skate outside? Find a rolling skating rink near you here.
72. Make homemade ice cream or froyo.
Treat yourself to homemade ice cream or frozen yogurt this summer! Learn how to make vanilla ice cream, or try one of my easy frozen yogurt recipes:
73. Run through a sprinkler.
You don't need a pool to get soaked this summer! Set up the sprinkler, then run through it! These slip and slides and large inflatable pools are super fun, too.
74. Sit on your porch or patio.
For the simplest of activities, grab a comfy chair and a cold drink, then sit on your porch or patio! It's free, relaxing, a great way to slow down time.
75. Cool off inside.
While summer is the best time to get outdoors, sometimes it's just too hot! When that happens, try one of these indoor ideas instead:
- Play a board games.
- Work on a puzzle.
- Host a movie marathon.
- Read a book.
- Make a no cook meal.
- Complete a crossword puzzle
- Have an indoor scavenger hunt.
- Workout to an exercise video.
- Write a letter.
- Enjoy a homemade dessert.
- Treat yourself to a DIY spa day.
- Give yourself a manicure (or pedicure).
- Make a junk journal filled with all your summer adventures.
- Organize a messy closet or room
- Go bowling.
- Build a fort.
- Visit a library or bookstore.
Printable Bucket List
Ready for that summer to do list? You'll find two bucket list printables below: one with all 75 summer activities, plus a blank printable so you can make your own Summer Bucket List.
To download the free printables, click anywhere on the thumbnail images below. I’d recommend printing the files on card stock. That way, your list will last all season long, and you can reference it anytime you're looking for something to do or feeling bored!
Tip: Depending on your printer, you may need to shrink the pdf size slightly before printing (so the images around the page do not get cut off). These settings should pop up in your printer's dialog box before printing.
I hope you found these summer bucket list ideas helpful! Let me know in the comments if you try any of them.
And don't forget to PIN this post and save these ideas for later:
