Are you looking for fun activities to do with your kids this summer? Look no further! I've put together over 100 Summer Bucket List Ideas! Plus, you can print out these FREE Summer Bucket List Printables to keep track of the activities you're hoping to accomplish!
Hooray for summer! School's out, scream and shout! And then print off a super cute summer bucket list and start making plans for your family to have some summer fun! Summer break is the perfect time to make new memories and try new things!
This printable summer bucket list gives you a place to record Things To Do and Places to Go as well as a place to rate each of your adventures. And in case you're not sure what to include on your summer bucket list, I've put together a whole lotta fun summer bucket list ideas to help spark your imagination!
Summer is one of my favorite times of the year! The weather is great for outdoor activities, the kids are out of school, and the pace of life seems to be a little slower!
And while I'd love to spend the entire summer vacationing, the reality of life and work means that we have to plan wisely!
What Is A Summer Bucket List?
Bucket lists are typically a list of all the things a person hopes to accomplish in their lifetime. And while we think lifetime bucket lists are awesome, some of us are just hoping to make it through the summer.
A Summer Bucket List is a fun way to make sure that you accomplish all the things you hope to accomplish during the summer. We know that not every single person in the family will have the same desires and priorities which is why these printable bucket lists come in so handy.
You can choose one bucket list for your entire family or each family member can print off their own bucket list.
I seriously love summer! When my kids were younger, we tried to fill the summer months with a mix or summer camp, fun summer activities and some down time so they could flex their creative muscles.
But I quickly learned that my idea of the perfect summer activity didn't always line up with my kids' idea of what constituted a great time. By spending time creating our own summer bucket list and working together to create a family summer bucket list, we were able to ensure that everyone had a fantastic summer.
I've created a list of Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas. Many of the things on this lists are things my kids used to look forward to all year (like using the magic bucket at the beach to make sand pudding and going to a water park) and some of them are things that my teenagers think should be included on a summer bucket list.
I love that this free printable summer bucket list can be used by individuals or your whole family. And since there are different styles to choose from, even my teens approve.
While it's possible to plan for a lot of different things during the summer, I also like to keep a list of boredom busters on hand to keep whining to a minimum.
And while some of these cost a pretty penny (like going to the beach if you're not near a beach), there are so many fun things you can do during the summer that won't break the bank! Trips to the local farmers' markets and splash pads are inexpensive and fun!
If you're planning outings or vacations, make sure to check Groupon for deals!
Summer Bucket List Ideas
1. Go to the beach!
Nothing quite says “summer” like a trip to the beach. Whether you spend your beach days building sand castles with your kiddos or reading a book with your toes in the sand, I feel like a trip to the beach is the perfect way to start your summer bucket list.
2. Make sand pudding!
Not only is making sand pudding a unique and tasty activity, it's also a fun way to engage in culinary creativity. It's a conversation starter and a delightful treat, ideal for summer barbecues or family get-togethers.
3. Go to a national park.
Visiting a national park offers the chance to unplug, explore nature's beauty, and challenge yourself with outdoor adventures. It's an excellent way to gain a deeper appreciation for the earth's wonders and create unforgettable memories.
4. Pick wildflowers. And if you're feeling extra ambitious, you can make these DIY Pressed Flower Bookmarks.
Picking wildflowers is a simple pleasure that engages the senses, allowing you to appreciate the diversity of nature's blooms. Turning them into pressed flower bookmarks not only extends the joy of the activity but also leaves you with a charming, homemade keepsake or gift.
5. Go to a farmer's market.
Farmer's markets are a vibrant celebration of local agriculture and craft. They offer a unique opportunity to connect with your community, eat healthily, and discover new local flavors, making each visit a delightful culinary adventure.
6. Fly a kite!
There's a timeless joy in the simple act of flying a kite. Feeling the tug of the wind and watching your kite dance across the sky invokes a sense of freedom and wonder, providing a playful escape from the everyday routine.
7. Get outside and enjoy nature!
Immersing yourself in nature has been proven to reduce stress and increase well-being. From forest bathing to picnics in the park, time spent outdoors offers an abundance of sensory delights and opportunities for physical activity, enhancing your overall mood and health.
8. Use sidewalk chalk to create fabulous art on your driveway!
Use sidewalk chalk to create fabulous art on your driveway! Drawing with sidewalk chalk lets you transform your driveway into a canvas, sparking creativity and artistic expression. It's a fun, outdoor activity that allows you to add a splash of color to your day and share your creativity with your neighborhood.
9. Go to a baseball game {pro or little league).
Whether it's the thrill of a professional match or the charm of a little league game, attending a baseball game is a quintessential summer experience. The smell of popcorn, the cheers of the crowd, and the spirit of friendly competition all combine to create a joyful, community-focused event.
10. Run a 5k. {This is my favorite 5k training program}
Training for and running a 5k is a fantastic way to set a personal goal and achieve it. It promotes physical health, provides a sense of accomplishment, and might even connect you with a community of runners. Plus, it's an activity that allows you to appreciate the warmer weather and longer days of summer.
11. Make pink lemonade sorbet!
Nothing tastes more like summer than a scoop of homemade pink lemonade sorbet. It's a refreshing activity that results in a delightfully tangy and sweet treat, perfect for cooling down on hot afternoons and impressing guests at garden parties.
12. Tackle the spring cleaning you didn't get to in the spring. {I know this is boring, but there is something so satisfying about tackling your home.
Though cleaning might not be the most exciting task, the satisfaction of a clean, organized home can be deeply rewarding. Not only does it provide a fresh and tidy living space, but it also offers a chance to declutter, bringing clarity and peace to your surroundings.
14. Go on a bike ride.
Bike riding is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore your local area. Feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin while pedaling along scenic routes can provide a much-needed sense of freedom and connection with the environment.
15. Take a day trip to a state park. We have a bunch of state parks near us and have found that our state park annual pass has allowed us to take regular trips without draining our bank account.
With an annual pass to your state parks, you have an open invitation to explore the natural beauty around you. Regular day trips offer a chance to discover new hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife, providing a wealth of budget-friendly adventures throughout the summer.
16. Make hot cocoa bombs on a rainy day!
Making hot cocoa bombs is a creative and enjoyable way to spend a rainy summer day indoors. You can customize your hot cocoa bombs with your favorite colors and your favorite flavors. Once done, you get to cozy up with a deliciously warm treat that's made even sweeter by your effort.
17. Watch the sunrise!
Waking up early to witness the sunrise offers a moment of tranquil beauty and introspection. It's a poignant reminder of the world's natural rhythms and an excellent way to start the day with a sense of peace and wonder.
18. Watch the sunset!
Just as beautiful as a sunrise, a sunset provides a serene moment to reflect on the day. With its stunning colors and calming effect, watching the sunset is a wonderful, shared experience that punctuates the close of a summer day.
19. Make S'mores!
Making S'mores is a classic summer pastime. The combination of gooey marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers creates an irresistibly sweet treat that brings joy and nostalgia, especially when enjoyed around a bonfire with loved ones.
20. Have a bonfire!
A bonfire is a symbol of summer nights spent under the stars. Whether used for cooking, warmth, or just ambiance, the flickering flames and crackling sounds create a cozy atmosphere that invites storytelling, music, and camaraderie.
21. Make deviled eggs. {We use this to make hard-boiled eggs!}
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that can be customized to taste. Making them is a great way to practice your culinary skills, and the end result is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for summer potlucks or picnics. We think these football deviled eggs are super fun!
22. Dance in the rain!
Dancing in the rain encourages you to embrace the moment, even if it's not what you planned. It's a chance to be carefree, feel the refreshing raindrops on your skin, and experience pure, simple joy.
23. Go fishing!
Fishing offers a calming connection to nature and an exciting anticipation of the catch. It's a chance to hone patience and perseverance, and the serenity of a quiet lake or river can provide a welcome respite from the busyness of daily life.
24. Give yourself a fun summer manicure!
A summer manicure can be a vibrant expression of your personal style. Choosing bright, tropical colors or playful designs can boost your mood, and the process itself is a relaxing, self-care activity.
25. Go to the zoo!
A visit to the zoo is a fascinating journey that brings you face-to-face with creatures from all corners of the world. It's a chance to learn about different species, their habitats, and conservation efforts, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages. The thrill of seeing animals up close and the joy of discovering new facts makes each zoo trip an adventure in its own right.
26. Bake cookies!
Baking cookies is a sweet way to spend an afternoon, literally! Not only does it fill your home with a delightful aroma, but the process of mixing, shaping, and decorating cookies also encourages creativity and patience. And of course, the best part is enjoying your homemade treats!
Here are some of our favorite cooke recipes!
- Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Copycat Crumbl Turtle Cookies
- Copycat Crumbl Sugar Cookies
- Copycat Tagalong Girl Scout Cookies
- Easy Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
- Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies
27. Make homemade lemonade!
Homemade lemonade is a classic, refreshing summer drink. Squeezing the lemons, mixing in sugar, and stirring it all together can be a fun and sensory activity. Plus, you get the satisfaction of crafting a beverage that is far tastier and fresher than anything store-bought.
28. Visit your local library!
I am obsessed with the library. Where else can you find books, digital downloads, and programs that give you free stuff just for reading? Check with your local library to see what types of programs and events they have this summer. We have found lego clubs, events for teens and so many other fun learning experiences at our library.
29. Go garage-saleing!
Garage sales and yard sales are like treasure hunts right in your neighborhood. You never know what hidden gems you might find. We've purchased everything from tools and books to a car. {Yep, we once went to a garage sale and bought a car for $500. We drove that car for 2 years without doing any maintenance other than changing the oil…and then we sold it for more than we paid for it.}
30. Take family pictures!
Capturing moments with your family is a lovely way to document growth, changes, and shared experiences. These pictures become cherished keepsakes, marking the passage of time with smiles, laughter, and shared memories. Plus, it's fun to gather together, strike poses, and make each other laugh for the camera.
31. Go on a scavenger hunt!
Scavenger hunts can turn ordinary experiences into extraordinary memories. These Summer Selfie Scavenger Hunts are perfect for road trips, beach trips, or camping and can be a fun way to accomplish family photos and a scavenger hunt in one activity!
32. Have a family game night!
Family game nights foster bonding, laughter, and friendly competition. It's a chance to put away screens, enjoy each other's company, and create some of the best summer memories over board games, card games, or even homemade games.
33. Do Random Acts of Kindness!
Performing a random at of kindness is a fun way to teach your family about the joy that can come from blessing someone else. From helping a neighbor to leaving a few bucks taped to a rack in the toy section of the dollar tree, your kids will learn that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
34. Feed the ducks at a pond.
Feeding ducks can be a tranquil and delightful activity that offers an opportunity to interact with wildlife (be sure to feed them duck-friendly foods!). It can spark interest in nature and teach respect for animals, making it an enjoyable learning experience.
35. Learn to skip rocks.
Skipping rocks is a timeless, simple pleasure that connects you to nature. Mastering the flick of the wrist to make a rock skim and bounce across water can be both meditative and satisfying. It's a small skill that delivers a big sense of accomplishment.
36. Create rock art!
Rock art is an outdoor activity that encourages artistic expression and creativity. The natural textures and shapes of the rocks make each piece unique. Plus, they can be displayed in a garden or given as handmade gifts, making your creations both a fun activity and a lasting memento.
37. Blow bubbles!
Blowing bubbles is a simple yet magical activity that never fails to delight. Watching them float and shimmer in the sunlight brings instant joy and fascination. It's a perfect, uncomplicated way to enjoy the outdoors and tap into the playful side of life.
38. Play hopscotch.
Hopscotch is a classic outdoor game that combines physical activity with a bit of strategy. It encourages agility and balance and offers a healthy dose of nostalgic fun. Plus, drawing your own hopscotch grid with chalk adds a creative element to the game.
39. Go to a waterpark!
Visiting a waterpark is the ultimate summer thrill. The exciting water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones offer endless amusement. It's a fantastic way to cool down, have fun, and create memorable summer experiences.
40. Take a picnic to the park! {We love this waterproof picnic blanket!}
Packing a picnic and enjoying it at the park is a delightful way to spend a sunny afternoon. From choosing your favorite foods to finding the perfect spot under a tree, every step of a picnic feels special. And with a waterproof picnic blanket, even dewy grass can't dampen the fun.
41. Watch a movie at home with movie-themed snacks.
Pairing a film with themed snacks is an entertaining way to make movie nights more immersive. From Star Wars movies with Star Wars Oreos to one of the Despicable Me movies with Minion Cupcakes, the creative snacks add an extra layer of fun to the experience.
- Star Wars Snack Idea
- Minions Snack Idea
- Dory and Nemo Rice Krispy Treats
- Dory Snack Idea
- Cat in the Hat snack idea
42. Spend time stargazing! (This book can help your kids pick out constellations!
Stargazing is a peaceful and awe-inspiring activity. With a book to guide you, identifying constellations and planets becomes an educational adventure. It's a great way to foster curiosity about the universe and enjoy the beauty of a clear, starlit night.
43. Make some yummy popcorn and have a family movie night!
Combining the classic comfort of popcorn with the shared enjoyment of a family movie night is a recipe for warm memories. It's a fun way to spend an evening, allowing everyone to relax and connect over an old favorite or a new movie everyone's been dying to watch.
44. Write a handwritten note to a friend!
Writing a handwritten note is a personal and thoughtful gesture. It provides a chance to express your feelings, connect on a deeper level, and brighten someone's day. And when we encourage our kids to send handwritten notes, it provides a chance for them to work on their composition skills as well as their penmanship. It's a win-win!
45. Volunteer somewhere as a family.
Volunteering together not only strengthens your community but also teaches valuable lessons of empathy, teamwork, and responsibility. It's a rewarding way to spend time as a family, making a positive impact and creating shared experiences that will be remembered.
46. Go swing at the park.
Swinging at the park is a liberating activity that combines a sense of freedom with the simple joy of outdoor play. The sensation of the wind rushing past as you swing high and low is exhilarating and can bring out the child in everyone.
47. Make mud pies!
Making mud pies is a tactile, outdoor activity that invites you to get your hands dirty and lets your creativity run wild. This earthy craft can lead to hours of imaginative play and is a fun way to connect with nature.
48. Build a blanket fort!
Building a blanket fort is an activity that kids have been doing forever. The finished fort provides a cozy hideaway where you can read, play games, or just enjoy some quiet time. It's an indoor adventure that can turn an ordinary day into something special.
49. Learn to hula-hoop! (I used this hoop to learn)
Hula-hooping is a fun, rhythmic activity that tests your coordination and agility. Whether you're spinning the hoop around your waist or getting creative with tricks, the act of keeping the hoop in motion can be an exciting and satisfying challenge.
50. Fly paper airplanes.
Do you know how to build a paper airplane? Whether you're using your crafty skills to make paper airplanes or figuring out how to fly them, the whole process can be educational in a way that doesn't feel at all educational. 😉
51. Have a whipped-cream fight! (Wear old clothes as the smell may never come out)
Having a whipped-cream fight is a wild and silly way to spend a summer afternoon. It promises lots of laughs, memorable photos, and a sticky, sweet mess that will be talked about for years. Remember to wear old clothes!
52. Have a water gun fight!
A water gun fight is a cool way to beat the summer heat. It encourages exercise and strategic thinking, and most importantly, it provides plenty of laughs and cool relief on hot days.
53. Jump on a trampoline!
Jumping on a trampoline can make you feel like you're defying gravity. It's a thrilling activity that promotes fitness and coordination while providing a sense of freedom and fun. Plus, learning new jumps or tricks can add an extra challenge.
54. Have a dance party!
A dance party is a fantastic way to let loose, express yourself, and have fun. Whether you're perfecting your moves or just shaking off the day, it's a fun activity that boosts your mood and gets your heart pumping.
55. Spend time reading outside!
Reading outside combines the pleasure of a good book with the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether you're under a tree or on a hammock, the fresh air, natural light, and peaceful surroundings can make your reading time more fun and provide a relaxing escape.
56. Make homemade bread!
Making homemade bread is an experience that engages all your senses, from the tactile pleasure of kneading the dough to the delightful aroma of baking bread filling your home. Plus, the end product – a warm, crusty loaf – is immensely satisfying and far exceeds store-bought in both taste and sentiment.
57. Take a walk on a beach.
A walk on the beach can be one of the most serene and contemplative experiences. The rhythmic sound of waves, the feel of sand beneath your feet, and the sight of the endless ocean create a calm atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding or deep thought.
58. Make a sandcastle!
Building a sandcastle sparks creativity and playful engineering. Whether you're molding simple shapes or constructing a sprawling fortress, it's an activity that encourages imagination, patience, and even teamwork, making it a fun activity for everyone. {And while most people think you have to be at the beach to build a sandcastle, you can also build sandcastles in a sandbox or at a local park that has a sandy play area.
59. Visit someplace new.
Visiting a new place offers a refreshing break from routine and a chance to broaden your horizons. Whether it's a new town, a different park, or an unexplored part of your city, each unfamiliar environment holds the promise of new experiences and discoveries.
60. Go bowling.
Bowling is an activity where age or skill level doesn't matter; the main objective is to have fun. The thrill of aiming for a strike and the friendly competition make it a hit for all.
Check out the Kids Bowl Free program to make this a regular part of your summer!
61. Go to a drive-in theater.
Going to a drive-in theater is a nostalgic and unique way to enjoy a movie. The comfort and privacy of your own vehicle, coupled with the large outdoor screen and the starry sky above, combine to make the experience magical and unforgettable.
62. Pick up litter!
Picking up litter combines outdoor activity with making a positive impact on your local environment. It cultivates a sense of responsibility for your surroundings and results in immediate, visible change – a cleaner, more beautiful space for everyone to enjoy.
63. Make cards and deliver them to a hospital or nursing home.
Creating and delivering cards to a hospital or nursing home is a thoughtful act of kindness that can brighten the day of those who might be going through a tough time. The creative process can be therapeutic, and knowing that your handmade card can bring a smile to someone's face adds to its value.
64. Catch fireflies!
Catching fireflies on a warm summer night is a magical experience. The gentle hunt for these glowing creatures can instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature's small marvels, while the soft light of the captured fireflies creates a sense of enchantment.
65. Take a walk in the rain.
Walking in the rain can be an unexpectedly soothing and refreshing experience. The sound of raindrops, the smell of the wet earth, and the sensation of rain on your skin can all be incredibly calming. It's a simple pleasure that breaks the monotony of sunny days and offers a different perspective on the world.
66. Try a new recipe!
Trying a new recipe is a fun way to teach your kids new skills in the kitchen and to encourage them to try new foods. Whether it's an exotic cuisine, a complex dish, or a simple treat, the process of making something delicious can be a fun family activity.
67. Pick berries!
Berry picking is a quintessential summer activity that connects you with nature and the source of your food. The act of foraging for the ripest berries is both relaxing and rewarding, with the added bonus of a fresh, flavorful reward.
68. Lie on a blanket and look for shapes in the clouds.
Lying on a blanket and looking for shapes in the clouds can spark imagination and foster a sense of wonder. The constantly changing canvas of the sky offers endless possibilities for interpretation, making it a delightful and relaxing pastime.
69. Hunt for old records at thrift stores and dance to them.
Hunting for old records at thrift stores is like a treasure hunt through musical history. Finding a hidden gem and then dancing to the nostalgic tunes at home can provide a uniquely vintage and enjoyable experience.
70. Make shortcake or cobbler with the berries you picked.
Making shortcake or cobbler with freshly picked berries elevates the fruit's natural sweetness and creates a summer dessert that's both delicious and satisfying. Plus, the act of transforming your berry harvest into a delightful treat makes the result even more gratifying.
71. Go on a road trip.
Going on a road trip can be an adventure filled with unexpected discoveries and bonding experiences. It provides an opportunity to explore new areas, create shared memories, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
72. Make a Pinterest craft!
Creating a Pinterest craft allows you to express your creativity and potentially learn a new skill. Following a project from start to finish, and then seeing the final result of your efforts, offers a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
73. Make cupcakes.
Making cupcakes is a delightful baking project that combines creativity and indulgence. The decorating process allows for personal expression, while the act of sharing and enjoying the cupcakes adds a sweet touch to any gathering.
74. Make homemade ice cream or homemade FroYo!
Crafting homemade ice cream or FroYo is a fun, hands-on kitchen project that results in a tasty and cooling summer treat. Experimenting with different flavors and mix-ins allows for customization and adds a personal touch to the dessert.
75. Make homemade slime in fun summer colors!
Creating homemade slime in fun summer colors is a tactile and entertaining activity. The process of mixing the ingredients and watching them transform into gooey, stretchy slime is fascinating, and playing with the final product offers hours of amusement.
76. Make a copycat recipe!
Making a copycat recipe allows you to bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant or brand home. I absolutely LOVE creating copycat recipes! It's so fun to create our family's favorites and sometimes we even do taste tests where we buy the original and compare it to our homemade version!
Here are some of our favorite copycat recipes!
- Copycat Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls
- Copycat Starbucks Banana Bread
- Copycat Nothing Bundt Cake White Chocolate Raspberry Bundt Cake
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
77. Make homemade pizza.
My husband makes the best homemade pizza and my kids love to help. Whether you're kneading the dough, making the sauce, or selecting your favorite toppings, every step is a creative opportunity. The end result is a delicious, personalized pizza.
78. Play miniature golf.
Playing miniature golf (or Putt Putt) is a fun activity (or competition) that your whole family will enjoy. The whimsical courses with their unexpected challenges add an element of excitement, making it a perfect pastime for all ages.
79. Have a water balloon fight!
Having a water balloon fight is a delightful way to cool off on a hot day. The anticipation of the incoming splash, the thrill of a direct hit, and the cool, refreshing after-effect make it a hilarious and exhilarating activity.
If the idea of filling a gazillion water balloons fills you with dread, check out these quick fill balloons. They've been a total game-changer for us.
80. Eat ice cream from the ice cream truck.
Enjoying ice cream from an ice cream truck brings back the pure, simple joy of childhood summers. The sound of the ice cream truck's jingle, the anticipation as it approaches, and the pleasure of savoring the cool treat can make any summer day feel special.
81. Make cupcake bath bombs!
Making cupcake bath bombs combines crafting and self-care into a single activity. These delightful creations not only look adorable but also enhance your bath experience, making it more relaxing and luxurious.
82. Go to a museum!
Visiting a local museum offers an enriching journey through different cultures, periods, and themes. The diverse exhibits inspire curiosity, evoke emotion, and provide learning opportunities, making it a rewarding experience for all ages.
83. Listen to an audiobook as a family.
Listening to an audiobook as a family is a fun experience that can bring everyone together. We've had great discussions about the books we've listened to as a family. {This is a great way to pass the time on a road trip.}
Use this link to get up to 2 free audiobooks from Audible!
84. Have breakfast outside in your PJs. {A breakfast picnic may become a favorite family tradition}
Having breakfast outside in your PJs is a wonderful twist on a typical morning routine. The combination of delicious food, fresh air, and the comfort of pajamas creates a relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere that could easily become a cherished family tradition.
85. Have a garage sale.
Hosting a garage sale is not only a practical way to declutter your home but also a great opportunity to interact with your neighbors. It's a unique chance to find new homes for your pre-loved items while potentially earning a bit of extra moolah.
86. Make homemade donuts!
I seriously LOVE donuts and making them at home is sooo much fun. Here are some of our favorite homemade donuts recipes.
87. Host a potluck at your house.
Hosting a potluck at your house brings together friends or family over a shared meal, fostering a sense of community. The variety of dishes that each guest brings adds an element of surprise to the gathering, making it an enjoyable culinary experience.
88. Visit a flea market.
Visiting a flea market is like going on a treasure hunt. You never know what you might find, from vintage goods and antique furniture to handcrafted items and unique trinkets, making each visit an exciting adventure.
89. Make homemade popsicles.
Making popsicles is a refreshing way to beat the summer heat. From selecting the ingredients to pouring them into molds and waiting for them to freeze, the whole process is a fun exercise in patience and anticipation.
90. Exercise together as a family!
Exercising together as a family promotes healthy habits and strengthens family bonds. During Covid, we purchased a Peloton Bike+ and while we all used the bike to take our favorite style classes, we also used some of the other classes as a family. {Use this link to save $200 on a Peloton Bike, Bike+, Tread or Row.}
My son and I are now using this system daily. It's made more of a difference building muscle than anything else I've ever tried!
91. Spend a rainy day coloring!
Spending a rainy day coloring is a relaxing activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Coloring can help with kids improve their fine motor skills and it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
92. Build a birdfeeder!
Building a birdfeeder combines crafting with nature appreciation. Watching the birds come to enjoy the food you've provided can be a rewarding experience, sparking interest in local bird species and contributing to wildlife conservation in a small, personal way.
93. Show your kids a movie you used to love when you were little.
Sharing a movie from your childhood with your kids is a special way to connect over shared media experiences. It offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for you and potentially a new favorite for your children.
94. Facetime with a faraway friend or relative.
Living far away from family and friends can take its toll. Thanks to FaceTime, you can still catch up on a regular basis without losing that face-to-face feeling.
95. Make a funny family video.
Creating a funny family video is a hilarious and creative activity that results in a lasting memory. It fosters teamwork, ignites creativity, and provides plenty of laughs both during the process and when watching the final product.
96. Make Polar Bear Toast (even my teens love this!)
Making Polar Bear Toast is a playful take on breakfast that's sure to delight both kids and teens. Transforming a simple piece of toast into a cute polar bear face is a whimsical start to the day, proving that food can be fun as well as nourishing.
97. Have a fun family photoshoot.
Having a fun family photoshoot is a chance to let loose, get creative, and capture these special moments together. Whether you opt for matching outfits or a particular theme, the results will be treasured keepsakes that encapsulate your family's unique dynamic.
98. Go to a botanical garden.
Visiting a botanical garden is an amazing way to experience natural beauty. Some botanical gardens offer fun children's programming and children's areas that allow kids to experience nature in a way that they'll thoroughly enoy!
99. Play paintball (my son asked me to add this)
Playing paintball is an adrenaline-pumping activity that combines strategy, teamwork, and physical activity. The thrill of the chase and the camaraderie developed through the game make it an exciting and memorable experience. {PSA: I have ZERO interest in paintball as I don't find it enjoyable to get shot at and I hate the pain and bruises that can be a part of paintballing.}
100. Do a photo shoot with your pet.
Doing a photoshoot with your pet allows you to capture their unique personality and charm in a lasting way. It's a fun activity that lets you experiment with different poses and settings, resulting in adorable and heartwarming pictures.
101. Make homemade cinnamon rolls!
Making homemade cinnamon rolls is a cozy, sweet-smelling kitchen endeavor that results in a delightfully indulgent treat. This Copycat Cinnabon recipe has been shared over 800,000 times and is absolutely to-die-for!!!
102. Create a “Songs of Summer” playlist.
Creating a “Songs of Summer” playlist is a fun way to provide the soundtrack for your summer. Before we started homeschooling, we put together a playlist that we listened to every day on the way to school. To this day, whenever we hear one of those songs, it always makes us think about those early morning drives to school in the convertible.
103. Put together a scrapbook of your favorite summer pictures.
Putting together a scrapbook of your favorite summer pictures is a creative and nostalgic way to reflect on and celebrate the season's highlights. Gathering photos, mementos, and captions into a cohesive, artistic layout results in a tangible memory book to look back on.
If you have younger kids, consider one of these notebooks and have them write their captions below their favorite pictures. The phonetic spelling and the things that they will focus on usually make for hilarious keepsakes that you'll look back and laugh at as they get older.
104. Make a dream board or vision board of everything you want to accomplish during the next school year!
Making a dream board or vision board for the next school year provides a visual representation of your goals and aspirations. It's a motivational tool that not only sparks creativity but also keeps your ambitions front of mind as you navigate the upcoming academic year.
105. Host an Outdoor Movie Night!
When we lived in Phoenix, we loved going to movie nights at local parks. When we discovered how easy it was to host movie nights in our own backyard, we were ecstatic.
We use this Mini Projector to watch movies on the cover of our hot tub when it's flipped up, but you can also project on to a large white sheet or use an outdoor movie screen like this one.
106. Join a local book club.
Visit your local library to see if they have any book clubs meeting for the summer. While you're there, be sure to sign up for their summer reading programs as many of them offer prizes for reading.
107. Attend an outdoor concert or music festival!
There's just something about live music that screams summer fun. When I was in my 20s, my closest friends and I kicked off each summer by heading to a musical festival. We met new friends and made so many memories! We always had the best time!
108. Visit an amusement park!
Whether you're into roller coasters and thrilling rides or you're more of a ferris wheel fan, an amusement park is a great way to spend a summer day. We used to take our high school youth group to Cedar Point every summer and it was always such a fun adventure!
109. Visit a splash pad!
When you have littles, there's no better way to spend hot summer days than cooling off at a splash pad. Whether you spend the whole day there or just an hour or two is up to you, but make sure to pack some water and sunscreen!
110. Watch a movie at the theater on a rainy day!
When my kids were little, it was easy to keep them entertained on bright, sunny days, but on days where we had thunderstorms, it took a little more creativity…especially if they'd been looking forward to outdoor activities. Going to the movie theater on a rainy day was one of the activities I saved for rainy days. It always felt like such a treat. And with movies like IF, Inside Out 2 and Despicable Me 4 playing this summer, you're sure to find something your family will love!
What other fun ideas would you add to this list?
Pin These Summer Bucket List Ideas for Later
Need More Bucket List Ideas?
Printable Christmas Bucket List
Printable Stay At Home Bucket List (perfect for when you're quarantining)
Originally posted May 2021