Ah, summertime. The days are long, the sun is out, and there’s an endless number of fun things to do. From hot air balloon rides to overnight camping trips, summer is the perfect time to tick things off your bucket list!
However, as we all know, those warm days are numbered. While the end of summer may seem like a million miles away, autumn arrives before you know it and suddenly you realize that you haven't done any of the things you wanted to. That’s why we take the time every year to jot down our summer must-dos. Writing down your summer bucket list will not only help you keep track of all the fun things you’ve done, but it can also help fill in those inevitable moments of boredom.
Not sure what you want to do this summer? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up our Summer Bucket List to help guide you. If you’re looking for fun things to do with your friends, consider a thrilling zipline adventure, Segway tour, or wine tasting. Hunting for something a bit more family-friendly? Experience the magic of America’s national parks, make homemade lemonade, and more!
Whatever you’re searching for, this list of 41 Amazing and Fun Things to do will make this summer your best yet!
SUMMERTIME THINGS TO DO WITH FRIENDS
Those long summer days were made for hanging out with friends! From brewery tours to axe throwing, these activities are perfect for creating summer memories.
1. GO WHITEWATER RAFTING
Make a splash and cool off this summer with a thrilling whitewater rafting trip! Whether you’re looking to conquer Class IV rapids or enjoy a relaxing float down the river, these rafting trips are perfect for all skill levels.
2. RIDE ON AN ATV
Nothing says summer adventure like a ride on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV)! During these action-packed ATV excursions, you and your best buddies will kick up some dirt while exploring mountain trails, forests, and even desert sand dunes.
3. ZIP AROUND ON SEGWAYS
Hop aboard a zippy Segway and embark on a fun, two-wheeled adventure. Trust us, they’re way easier to ride than you’d think! You’ll roll down city streets, past iconic landmarks, and so much more. Exploring the city has never been more fun!
4. EXPLORE A WINERY
Raise a glass to the perfect summer day with these winery tours and tastings! Link arms with your BFF as the two of you wander past lush vineyards while sipping on perfectly blended reds and refreshing whites. Now that’s a summer adventure we can say cheers to!
5. SIP ON CRAFT BEERS
Not much of a wine drinker? Trade in the winery for a brewery with a craft beer tour! Whether you prefer your beer light and crisp, or dark and malty, you’ll sample some of the country’s best brews.
6. HOST A SUMMER BBQ
Sun’s out, grill’s out! Stock up on hot dogs and invite over your favorite people for a delicious summer BBQ. Make the evening extra fun by setting up a few yard games!
7. BLEND UP THE PERFECT MARGARITA
What’s the perfect addition to your summer BBQ? A refreshing margarita, of course! With this convenient kit, everything you need to create the perfect marg (minus the tequila) will be shipped to your front door. As soon as you take your first sip, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise!
8. FLOAT IN A HOT AIR BALLOON
Those calm and cool summer mornings are perfect for floating in a hot air balloon! Snap photos of your friends as everyone hops aboard and watch in awe as the balloon inflates high into the sky. If flying isn’t your thing, consider attending a hot air balloon festival instead!
9. LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC
For us, it’s not summer without a few outdoor concerts! Gather your friends, grab a few lawn chairs, and enjoy an evening together listening to live tunes. If you’re feeling extra funky, don’t be afraid to get up and dance!
10. HIKE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Summer is arguably the best time of year to explore the great outdoors. Hiking trails are dry, the weather is warm, and the days are long. Stroll down a familiar path or venture someplace new with a guided hiking tour!
11. GO AXE THROWING
While axe throwing might seem impossible, it’s actually super easy (and fun) to get the hang of! After a brief lesson in throwing, you’ll soon be hitting the target like a pro. Challenge your friends to a friendly throwing competition and see who has what it takes to bring home the title of axe throwing champ.
THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR FAMILY THIS SUMMER
Share the magic of summer with your loved ones and try out these family-friendly adventures!
12. EXPLORE A NATIONAL PARK
From the depths of the Grand Canyon to the swamps of the Everglades, America is home to some of the world’s most spectacular national parks. Pile in the family car and explore a national park near you, or experience nature alongside a professional guide one a sightseeing tour!
13. GO ON A FAMILY BIKE RIDE
Tell the kids to put down their phones, turn off the TV, and get outside for a family bike ride! Pedaling around with your family can help improve everyone’s health, fitness, mood, and more. If you don’t own a bike, then think about going on a group walk instead!
14. TIE-DYE T-SHIRTS
The perfect craft for summer! Simply fold and curl plain white t-shirts before securing them with rubber bands. Then, let your family choose their favorite shades of dye and carefully saturate the fabric. Your kiddo’s eyes will light up when you unravel their vibrant creation!
15. RUN THROUGH THE SPRINKLERS
A summertime essential! All you have to do is attach your garden hose to a sprinkler (or turn on your home’s sprinkler system) and voila! Your backyard will feel like a splash park (without the crowds, of course!) Run, laugh, and create fun memories while cooling off under the hot summer sun.
16. SWIM LIKE MERMAIDS
Make your family’s mermaid dreams come true with a one-of-a-kind swimming experience! Everyone will feel like a real-life mermaid as they slip into a rainbow-hued tail and learn how to glide through the water. Don’t forget to snap a few photos of everyone in their mermaid tails!
17. BUILD THE PERFECT SANDCASTLE
You don’t have to live next to the ocean to enjoy some time in the sand! Grab your sunscreen and head out to a local beach, reservoir, or lake. As a family, work together to build a castle (complete with towers and a moat) or create a whimsical sand sculpture!
18. GO FISHING
From giant catfish to colorful rainbow trout and perch, America’s lakes and streams are teeming with all sorts of incredible fish! You just never know what might bite at the end of your line! See if you have what it takes to catch the big one on a guided fishing charter.
19. WATCH A FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Fireworks aren’t just for the Fourth of July! In fact, many cities shoot off fireworks throughout the summer. You’ll watch in awe as brilliant colors explode across the night sky. Looking for a display near you? Check out these dazzling firework experiences!
20. MAKE ICE CREAM FROM SCRATCH
Instead of chasing down the ice cream truck, make a delicious summer treat at home! All you’ll need is a couple of resealable bags, cream, sugar, vanilla, ice, and kosher salt. In one bag, combine the cream, sugar, and vanilla. Then, seal this bag and place it inside a larger bag filled with ice and salt. Simply shake for 7 to 10 minutes, or until your ice cream has hardened. The only thing left to do is add your favorite toppings!
21. CAMP UNDER THE STARS
There’s something so magical and nostalgic about summer camping trips. Before falling asleep in your tents, gather around the campfire to share stories, make s’mores, and gaze up at the stars. Camping not your thing? Experience the great outdoors (without having to give up everyday amenities) with these luxurious glamping trips!
22. PADDLE A TANDEM KAYAK
Tandem kayaks are wider and more stable than single kayaks, making them perfect for beginners and families! During these kayak tours, you’ll follow a fun and experienced guide while paddling across gorgeous waterways.
23. EAT A PICNIC LUNCH
Lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy a fun outdoor lunch! Bring along your family’s favorite sandwiches, snacks, and goodies (and maybe a glass of wine for yourself!) After everyone’s done eating, play a round of frisbee with your kiddos or go for a family walk.
SOLO SUMMERTIME ACTIVITIES
Who says you can’t have a good time by yourself? Sprinkle some me time into your summer plans with these one-of-a-kind solo activities!
24. GOLF WITH A PGA PRO
Does your ideal summer morning take place on the green of a golf course? If so, it’s time to take your game to the next level! With these one-of-a-kind lessons, you’ll golf alongside a PGA pro who will share expert tips and tricks to lower your score. Learn how to swing, drive, and putt like never before!
25. START A SUMMER GARDEN
Those warm sunny days are perfect for growing your favorite veggies, flowers, and herbs! One of our favorite things to grow during the summer is tomatoes. These hearty plants thrive in the ground or in a pot. With proper watering and sunlight, you’ll be rewarded with juicy and flavorful tomatoes all summer long!
26. BALANCE ON A STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD
Since there’s only room for one person, stand-up paddleboarding is perfect for those solo summer adventures. They’re also way easier to maneuver than you might think! Simply stand atop the board with your feet facing forward and your knees slightly bent. Not sure if you’re ready to paddleboard by yourself? Consider booking a guided tour instead!
27. PRACTICE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS
Photography is a great hobby to have! Not only does it allow you to capture images of your day to day life, but it can also be a great stress reliever and can help you see the world in a new and inspiring way. Take a walk and snap some photos along the way or book one of these incredible photography tours!
28. LEARN HOW TO FLY A PLANE
During these hands-on learn to fly experiences, YOU’RE the pilot! You’ll feel a wave of excitement as the engine rumbles to life and the propeller begins to spin. Before you know it, you’ll take over the controls and discover the freedom of flight!
29. BOOK A HANG GLIDING LESSON
Do something out of your comfort zone this summer and try your hand at hang gliding! With these introductory lessons, you’ll ride in tandem with an experienced instructor. After being towed high above the ground, you’ll soar through the air with the wind at your back. As you glide, dip, and float, you’ll understand why hang gliding is often considered the purest form of flight!
30. TRY YOUR HAND AT SURFING
Cool off under the sizzling summer sun with a surfing lesson! Starting with the basics, you’ll learn how to position yourself on your board. Then, paddle out into the ocean and feel the rhythm of waves beneath your body. Whenever you’re ready, slowly stand up and see if you can catch the perfect wave!
31. PLAN (AND BOOK) YOUR DREAM WEEKEND GETAWAY
Daydreaming about getting away? Well, this is your sign to finally do it! Whether you’re looking to book a relaxing weekend or a multi-day adventure, these overnight getaways and retreats will make your summer one to remember!
32. RELAX IN A HAMMOCK
You don’t have to go far to enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon. Simply find two trees (in your backyard, at a park, or in the forest) and fasten a hammock in between them. This summertime essential pairs perfectly with an ice-cold glass of lemonade!
33. DO OUTDOOR YOGA
Nature is the best yoga studio! Grab your trusty yoga mat and allow the great outdoors to soothe your soul. Listen to the birds, the rushing river, or even the wind as it blows through the trees. If you’ve never tried yoga before, then don’t miss out on these guided yoga sessions!
THINGS TO DO ON A BUDGET THIS SUMMER
Looking for fun things to do, but don’t want to break the bank? These cheap and affordable activities are great for those long summer days!
34. MAKE HOMEMADE LEMONADE
Summer and lemonade go together like peanut butter and jelly! It’s also super simple to make. All you need to make the perfect batch of lemonade is 4 to 6 lemons, 1 cup of sugar, and about 2 quarts of ice-cold water. Simply squeeze each lemon, stir in the sugar, and combine with the cold water. Delicious!
35. ORGANIZE A SCAVENGER HUNT
Scavenger hunts are an easy way to get outside and have fun. Simply come up with a list of things your friends or family have to find in order to win. Some fun examples include a heart-shaped rock, a rainbow, or even a photo of them hugging a tree. Don’t feel like coming up with your own list? Check out these budget-friendly hunts!
36. VISIT A LAVENDER FARM
Imagine wandering through fields of enchanting, purple flowers. At a lavender farm, you’ll experience just that! Depending on the location, lavender fields can bloom all summer long, with peak blooms occurring in July.
37. CONQUER AN ESCAPE ROOM
Take a break from the hot summer sun and step inside an air-conditioned escape room! You’ll have just 60 minutes to find clues, solve riddles, and escape the room. Only the cleverest teams have what it takes to escape. Are you up to the challenge?
38. EXPERIENCE A BONE-CHILLING GHOST TOUR
Starting at just $20, ghost tours are a fun (and affordable) way to enjoy a spooky night out! You’ll explore some of America’s most haunted places and listen to terrifying tales from beyond the grave. Look out! There could be a ghost floating right beside you!
39. GO FRUIT PICKING
From peaches in late August to fresh blueberries in July, summer is the best time to visit a local farm and pick your own fruit! Hunt for the biggest strawberry or see how many apples you can fit inside your basket. After, take your fruit home and learn how to make homemade jam or fruit pie!
40. SHOP AT A FARMERS MARKET
Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, homemade salsas, or even one-of-a-kind art, farmers markets are a great way to support local businesses.
41. VOLUNTEER FOR A LOCAL CHARITY
Volunteering is an easy way to give back to your community this summer. Spend a Saturday morning walking dogs for a local shelter, help clean up a park, or assemble care packages for those in need. No matter which cause catches your eye, giving back not only helps the community, but can also improve your self-confidence, mental health, physical fitness, and more!
Looking for even more summer fun? There’s plenty more where these came from! Make this summer one to remember with a one-of-a-kind experience!
