Picture this: it’s a Saturday morning. The sun is out, it’s the perfect temperature, and there’s not a cloud in the sky. You know what that means – It’s time to get outside!
If you’re anything like us, then you know how special the outdoors can be. There’s something so magical about breathing in the fresh air, exploring someplace new, or simply relaxing in the sun. In fact, studies show that being outside can reduce stress while improving your mood, focus, and overall well-being.
There’s also no shortage of fun things to do outdoors. From family-friendly activities such as fishing and kite flying to thrilling nighttime adventures like bioluminescent kayaking, there’s something for everyone in the great outdoors! So, if you’re looking for the perfect outside activity, look no further! Keep reading to discover 75 Fun and Adventurous Things to Do Outside.
FUN THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE WITH FRIENDS
1. SET OUT ON A PEDAL PUB CRAWL
Imagine bar hopping with your best friends, but instead of walking in between stops, you pedal! Party bikes are incredibly fun, multi-passenger vehicles powered by you. Simply sit, enjoy a drink, and pedal across the city! It’s the perfect way to get outside and enjoy some time with your friends.
2. GO ROCK CLIMBING
Get out of your comfort zone and discover the thrilling sport of rock climbing! This incredible outdoor activity will not only challenge you physically, but mentally as well as you learn how to scale up steep walls. Problem solve with your friends and see who can make it to the top first!
3. DISCOVER A NEW TRAIL
In our opinion, hiking is one of the best ways to get out and explore nature. So, lace up your hiking boots and discover a new trail with your friends! Walk to a secret waterfall, wander through the woods, or climb to the top of a mountain. Wherever you end up, don’t forget to snap some photos along the way!
4. PLAY A ROUND OF GOLF
Whether you’ve been whacking golf balls your whole life or you’re more of a mini golf person, this social sport is perfect for those sunny days. A little chilly outside? Don’t worry! With these golf party packages, you can still enjoy a round of golf from the comfort of an all-weather hitting bay!
5. ENJOY A GAME OF PAINTBALL
Don your camo pants and challenge your friends to a round of paintball! Before the game begins, circle up your team and devise a winning strategy. Then, search the arena for your opponents or take cover behind a bunker. Whatever you do, don’t get hit!
6. GO TO AN AMUSEMENT PARK
Love roller coasters? Us too! Enjoy those clear, blue skies as you zip, fly, and spin through the air. In between rides, play a few carnival games and see if you have what it takes to bring home a giant stuffed animal!
7. EMBARK ON A SCAVENGER HUNT
Scavenger hunts are an incredibly easy way to get outside and have fun. Simply come up with a list of things your friends have to find in order to win. Some fun examples include a heart-shaped rock, a yellow leaf, or even a photo of them hugging a tree. Don’t feel like coming up with your own list? Check out these app-led hunts!
8. HAVE A POOL PARTY
What’s the best way to enjoy a sunny day? Next to a pool, of course! All you need to host the perfect pool party is an assortment of fun pool floats (think fun shapes like pizza slices or unicorns), a poolside beverage (pina coladas, anyone?), and plenty of space to lay out in the sun.
9. BOOK A WALKING FOOD TOUR
Get outside AND satisfy your cravings with a walking food tour! From tacos and pizza to homemade pasta and authentic dumplings, you’ll sample decadent flavors from some of the nation’s tastiest restaurants. Our must-do foodie tour? Indulge in scrumptious treats on a one-of-a-kind donut tour!
10. RIDE ON A SEGWAY
Roll into an unforgettable outdoor adventure with a guided Segway tour! You won’t believe how easy it is to maneuver these two-wheeled vehicles and before you know it, you’ll be zipping around like a pro!
11. EXPLORE A NEW CITY
For those of you who would rather walk instead of Segway, these guided sightseeing tours are for you! Take a stroll through America’s most iconic cities and visit famous landmarks. If you’re looking to do more in the city, these Go City passes are the perfect way to save money while you explore!
12. THROW AROUND A FRISBEE
Hanging out with friends in the great outdoors doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, one of our go-to things to do with friends is tossing around the good ol’ frisbee. Simply find a park or open space and let the good times roll. For some added fun, find a frisbee golf course or play a round of ultimate frisbee!
13. SNOWSHOE INTO THE MOUNTAINS
Just because it’s snowy outside doesn’t mean you can’t go outside. It just means you get to have fun while wearing a warm and fuzzy hat! One of our favorite winter activities (hands down) is snowshoeing. There’s just something so peaceful about walking through a snow-covered forest. Be sure to wear warm clothing and check the avalanche conditions before you go!
ROMANTIC THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE
14. GO FRUIT PICKING
From summer berries to autumn apples, fruit picking is a fun date idea that you can enjoy at almost any time of the year. Not sure what to do with all that fruit? Freeze it for smoothies, learn how to make jam, or bake a fresh pie for your sweetie!
15. PUCKER UP ON A GONDOLA CRUISE
Feel like you’re in Venice (no airfare required) with these romantic gondola rides! You and that special someone will board an authentic Venetian gondola and cruise down breathtaking waterways. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and let your expert gondolier do the paddling.
16. FLOAT IN A HOT AIR BALLOON
Take your relationship to new heights in a hot air balloon! You’ll experience a wave of excitement as you climb into the basket and feel the ground disappear beneath your feet. Once in the air, you’ll be treated to one of the most spectacular and tranquil experiences of your life!
17. HAVE A PICNIC
Lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy a romantic lunch in a park or another scenic area. Bring along a couple sandwiches, your favorite snacks, and a couple beverages. Afterward, walk hand-in-hand through the park or enjoy a game of frisbee.
18. SAY CHEESE WITH A COUPLE’S PHOTOSHOOT
From enchanting forests to epic cityscapes, some of the best photoshoot backdrops are in the great outdoors. So, grab your cell phone (or hire a professional photographer) and snap some photos with your sweetheart!
19. WATCH A SUNRISE
Find a comfy place to sit, bring along a thermos of coffee, and greet the new day together. The two of you will bask in the morning light as the sky turns vibrant shades of pink, orange, and golden yellow.
20. GO HORSEBACK RIDING
Surprise that special someone with a romantic horseback ride! From scenic desert rides to relaxing sunset adventures, these horseback riding experiences are the perfect outing for you and your boo!
21. RIDE IN A HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE
Your relationship will feel like a fairytale when you ride in the back of a horse drawn carriage! Cozy up under a blanket and listen to the relaxing, clip-clop of horse hooves. If it’s a chilly day, consider bringing along some delicious hot cocoa to keep you warm.
22. PADDLE A TANDEM KAYAK
If you’ve never kayaked before, then there’s no better way to start than in a tandem kayak with your partner! Tandem kayaks are wider and more stable than single kayaks, making them perfect for beginners. Plus, you’ll have a blast syncing up your paddling and seeing how fast you can zip through the water!
23. RUN A RACE TOGETHER
While running isn’t for everyone, studies show that running with your partner can help strengthen your emotional connection. Plus, it’s a great work out! Go on a daily run together or train for a 5K! Don’t know where to start? This 12-Month Virtual Running Club Membership will help you reach your goals in no time!
24. VISIT A WINERY
If your ideal outdoor date involves a freshly opened bottle of wine, then visiting a winery should be at the top of your list! Whether you prefer jammy reds or sweet whites, these wine tours will take you to some of the country’s best vineyards and wineries.
25. SAY BON VOYAGE ON A SUNSET SAIL
Nothing says romance like watching the sunset aboard a luxurious watercraft! On these scenic sunset cruises, you and that special someone can enjoy an unforgettable evening outdoors. Gaze into each other’s eyes as the sun slowly dips below the horizon, painting everything in brilliant hues of yellow and orange!
26. SIGHTSEE IN A HELICOPTER
There’s something so surreal and unique about hovering in a helicopter. With these high-flying adventures, the two of you will be equipped with headsets before lifting off the ground. After making a safe landing, surprise them with dinner or a glass of champagne!
27. DANCE IN THE RAIN
Sure, it might be a little cliché, but let’s face it: dancing in the rain is so much fun! Twirl, spin, and laugh as you splash through puddles. Then, head back inside and warm up with a cup of cocoa or cozy up in front of a fire.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE
28. GO FISHING
From colorful rainbow trout to hungry bass and pike, America is home to a variety of fish. Treat the whole family to a day outside and see if you can hunt down ‘the big one.’ If you’re not sure where to start, consider booking a guided fishing trip. Everyone in your family will have a blast casting their lines and wondering what they might reel in!
29. WALK A NATURE TRAIL
Get up, unplug from your phones, and go for a family walk! Explore a nature trail near your home or set out on a grand adventure with one of these guided hikes. No matter where you end up, walking in nature can increase energy levels, reduce fatigue, and make you feel happier!
30. TAKE YOUR FAMILY CAMPING
Some of our best memories growing up are from camping in the great outdoors. There’s something so nostalgic about camping out in nature, sharing stories around the fire, and staring up at the stars. Find the perfect campsite in your neck of the woods or book a guided camping trip! Don’t forget to bring the marshmallows!
31. EXPLORE A NATIONAL PARK
From the desert rocks of Zion to the swamps of the Everglades, America is home to some of the world’s most stunning national parks. Discover these breathtaking parks for yourself by exploring a trail, taking a scenic drive, or embarking on one of these guided adventures!
32. BUILD A SANDCASTLE
Did someone say beach day? Grab your sunscreen, swimsuit, and all the sandcastle building tools that you can find. As a family, work together to build a towering castle or create a whimsical sand sculpture. You don’t have to live next to the ocean to enjoy some time in the sand. Instead, head out to your nearest reservoir, lake, or stream!
33. SWIM LIKE A MERMAID
Ever wondered what it would be like to be a mermaid? Well, now you can! With these enchanting packages, you’ll slip into a colorful mermaid tail and learn how to swim with a mono-fin. Don’t forget to snap plenty of photos!
34. WATCH WHALES
Come face-to-fin with some of the sea's largest creatures on these unforgettable whale watching cruises! Everyone in your family will watch in awe as magnificent whales swim, breach, and dive below the waves.
35. PLAY AT THE LEGOLAND® RESORT
Discover, build, and bring your LEGO® dreams to life with a trip to one of the LEGOLAND® Resorts! From thrilling roller coasters to relaxed train rides, your whole family will have a blast exploring this epic theme park. Ride the iconic green Dragon Coaster, meet your favorite characters from THE LEGO® MOVIE™, and build one-of-a-kind LEGO® creations!
36. CREATE AN ECOSYSTEM IN A JAR
If your child loves science, then this fun and easy activity should be at the top of your list! All you have to do is grab an empty jar and visit a local pond, lake, or stream. Gently fill your jar with water and scoop up a few rocks and plants, too. You won’t believe your eyes as microscopic critters begin to dart through the water. See how many different species you can spot!
37. PEDAL AROUND ON A BICYCLE
Not only is cycling a good work out, but it’s also incredibly fun! You’ll feel like a kid again as you joyride through the streets with your family. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Check out these city bike tours!
38. RUN THROUGH THE SPRINKLERS
Turn your backyard into a thrilling water park with a simple flick of the sprinkler system. Or attach a fun sprinkler head to the end of a garden hose. Your whole family will have a ball running, jumping, and dancing through the water.
39. MAKE TIE-DYE SHIRTS
Transform one of your child’s plain white t-shirts into an eye-catching masterpiece! Simply fold and curl the shirt into your desired shape and secure it with rubber bands. Then, let your child choose their favorite shades of dye and carefully saturate the fabric. Your kiddo’s eyes will light up when you unravel their vibrant creation!
40. FLY KITES
Perfect for those breezy days, flying kites is a great way to get outdoors. Choose to buy a kite or try your hand at creating one from scratch. Once outside, start by standing with your backs to the wind. Then, hold up your kite by its frame and let the line out. Watch in awe as your colorful kite soars through the air!
41. GO ON A TRAIN RIDE
Chugga, chugga, chugga, choo choo! If you have a child that’s obsessed with trains, then a scenic ride is a must-do. Shout all aboard and listen to the train whistle blow. Your child will glow with excitement as the train begins to chug along.
42. ZIP AROUND IN AN AIRBOAT
Featuring a flat, aerodynamic bottom and a fan-like propeller, airboats are the most thrilling way to explore America’s wetlands. Feel your hair fly through the wind as you zip, soar, and splash across the water.
43. BUILD THE PERFECT SNOWMAN
Don’t let those chilly temperatures keep you inside! Bundle up with hats, gloves, and boots before heading out to play in the snow. Work together to build the perfect snowman…or make it a contest! Whoever makes the best snowman wins! Afterwards, head back inside for a well-deserved cup of hot cocoa.
BUCKET LIST THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE
44. GO ZIPLINING
Ready, set, zip! These zipline adventures are the perfect way to get outside and enjoy a good old adrenaline rush! First, you’ll climb higher and higher before reaching a platform. Take a deep breath, don’t look down, and take a leap of faith. You’ll have a blast as you soar through the air and land back down on solid ground!
45. TRY WHITEWATER RAFTING
Adventure seekers, this one's for you! During these thrilling whitewater adventures, you’ll board an inflatable raft before paddling down the nation's top rivers. Feel a rush of adrenaline as you navigate fast-moving currents, big waves, and raging rapids!
46. BUNGEE JUMP OFF A BRIDGE
Looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush? For us, this Bridge to Nowhere Bungee Jump takes the cake! Located in the beautiful Angeles National Forest, the Bridge to Nowhere stands high above the raging San Gabriel River. Feel your palms begin to sweat before free-falling 10 stories. Now that’s a thrilling day!
47. DRIVE AN ATV
Take your adventure off-road with one of these thrilling ATV adventures! Hop aboard an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and kick up some dirt as you speed through forests, deserts, grasslands, and more!
48. SWIM WITH MANATEES
Located along the western coast of Florida, Crystal River is one of the only places in the world where you can swim with gentle manatees! Come face-to-whiskers with these adorable critters and take home a collection of photos with this incredible Manatee Swim package!
49. LEARN HOW TO SCUBA DIVE
During these introductory scuba lessons and experiences, you’ll become one with the ocean! Explore enchanting underwater worlds while learning how to scuba like a pro. The skills you learn in the water are sure to last you a lifetime!
50. GO SPELUNKING
Don your headlamp and take your journey underground! Discover fascinating formations like columns, stalactites, stalagmites, and more. For the thrill seekers, see if you can shimmy through tiny cracks and crevices (just be sure to bring along a guide so you don’t get lost!)
51. PHOTOGRAPH WOLVES IN YELLOWSTONE
Home to around 100 different wolves, Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places in the world to observe wolves in the wild. On this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife safari, you’ll search Yellowstone’s valleys for these magnificent predators. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a grizzly bear, bison, or bull elk!
52. WANDER THROUGH A SLOT CANYON
You’ll feel like you’re living on an alien planet as you wander through the ins and outs of a desert slot canyon! Stare up at the canyon’s vibrant, red-orange walls while learning about the area’s fascinating geology.
53. CATCH THE PERFECT WAVE
Wax up your board and learn how to catch the perfect wave with a surfing lesson! You’ll learn everything from paddling to reading the ocean and even how to stand on your board. You’ll never want to leave the water after a day on the waves!
54. CLIMB ON A GLACIER
Feel the crunch of ice beneath your feet as you climb up the side of a glacier! With these action-packed adventures, you’ll learn how to climb on vertical glacier ice using ropes, crampons, and ice axes!
55. RIDE ON THE BACK OF A DOGSLED
Imagine cozying up on the back of a sled as a team of energetic dogs pull you gracefully through the snow. On these wintry tours, you’ll do just that! Enjoy views of snow-capped mountains and icy trees as you listen to the pitter-patter of puppy feet. Afterward, don’t forget to take a selfie with the world’s cutest tour guides!
RELAXING THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE
56. NAP IN A HAMMOCK
For all of the nature lovers out there, hammocking in the woods is one of the best ways to relax in the great outdoors. Simply hike to your favorite spot, find two trees, and set up your portable hammock. If you don't feel like napping, you can bring a book, stare up at the trees, or listen to the birds sing.
57. MEDITATE IN NATURE
You don’t have to be a self-proclaimed yogi to meditate in nature. Simply find a quiet place in the forest or beside a creek and close your eyes. Taking some time to breathe in the fresh air will leave you feeling relaxed and ready to take on the world!
58. VISIT A DESERT VORTEX
To put it simply, vortexes are swirling centers of energy that promote healing, meditation, and self-reflection. During this Guided Vortex Hike and Yoga Session, you’ll visit one of Sedona’s iconic vortexes and experience the energy of these sacred lands firsthand!
59. TRY FOREST BATHING
Don’t worry, there’s no actual bathing required! Instead, forest bathing is a relaxing and meditative way to connect with nature. Using all your senses, you’ll take a restorative walk through the woods. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to a babbling brook, feel the texture of a tree, and admire the stunning scenery around you.
60. RELAX IN YOUR BACKYARD
You don’t have to go far to reconnect with nature. Lay out a blanket in your backyard or soak up some sun rays in a comfy chair. Listen to the sounds of birds chirping, bugs buzzing, and let your mind wander. If you live in a noisy neighborhood, consider bringing out some earplugs or listen to an audiobook instead.
61. PLANT A GARDEN
If you’ve always wanted to plant an herb garden but never seem to have the time, then this is your sign to go out and do it! In addition to herbs, you can start a veggie garden or plant a beautiful bed of flowers.
62. TRY PADDLEBOARD YOGA
You’ve never experienced yoga quite like this! Find your balance as you hop aboard a sturdy paddleboard and take your yoga session beyond the mat. Move into tree pose or downward dog and let the beauty and harmony of the water put you into a relaxed state of mind.
63. SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
The US landscape is full of backcountry hot springs. If you’ve never experienced the serenity of soaking in one of these natural wonders, then you’re missing out! Hike to a hot spring near you or treat yourself to a rejuvenating getaway with this Two-Night Cabin Stay and Hot Springs For Two package in Corwin Springs, Montana!
64. READ UNDER A TREE
Find a tree with a wide, sturdy trunk and camp out with a good book. If reading isn’t your thing, you can watch the clouds instead, or simply sit and daydream.
65. PAINT A NATURE SCENE
Grab a blank canvas or your sketchbook and paint a nature scene…in nature! This activity can be as simple as painting the oak tree or flowers in your backyard. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a scenic drive and paint someplace you’ve never been before.
66. SWING IN THE PARK
Got a park nearby? Great! Hop on the swing set and fly through the air. While it might seem weird to swing as an adult, swinging is actually a great way to relieve stress, build core strength, improve balance, and so much more! Plus, studies show that swinging can burn up to 200 calories an hour!
THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE AT NIGHT
67. GAZE UP AT THE STARS
Pack up the car, drive away from the city, and lay beneath a sea of stars. For a truly memorable experience, consider planning your evening around an astronomical event such as a meteor shower. You’ll feel awestruck as countless shooting stars flash across the night sky.
68. EXPERIENCE BIOLUMINESCENCE
What could possibly be better than stargazing? Bioluminescent kayaking, of course! You won’t believe your eyes as you kayak beneath the stars and through a spectacular light show. With each paddle, the seemingly dark water suddenly becomes illuminated in a flash of sparkling light!
69. CATCH FIREFLIES
If you’re lucky enough to call the eastern United States home, then you’ve probably experienced the magic of glowing fireflies. To catch these enchanting creatures, all you’ll need is a jar (make sure to poke holes in the top) and a net. If you choose to keep your new six-legged friend, make sure to keep the jar humid and feed your firefly fresh apple slices.
70. EXPLORE A HAUNTED CITY
Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, these walking ghost tours will take you past some of America’s most haunted places. Look out! There could be a ghost floating right beside you!
71. MAKE S’MORES
For the perfect s’more, all you need is a box of graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows, and a warm fire. Using a stick or skewer, carefully roast your marshmallow over the fire. Once it’s the perfect golden brown, layer it with a block of chocolate and sandwich everything between two pieces of graham cracker. Yum!
72. GO ON A FULL MOON HIKE
If you’ve never gone on a full moon hike, you definitely should! By day, many trails across the US become hot and overcrowded. But once the sun goes down, you’ll likely have the whole trail to yourself. Wander beneath a sea of stars, let the moonlight guide your way, and enjoy a peaceful night with nature.
73. WATCH A FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Fireworks aren’t just for the Fourth of July! In fact, many cities shoot off fireworks throughout the summer or even all year long. No matter the time of year, 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!
74. LOOK FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
For a whole different kind of light show, travel to the northern US and search for the aurora borealis! Also known as the northern lights, this natural phenomenon occurs when waves of energized solar particles enter our atmosphere. During this once-in-a-lifetime Northern Lights Dogsled Tour, you’ll watch in awe as waves of green, pink, and red dance across the sky.
75. SNORKEL WITH HAWAII’S MANTA RAYS
Snorkel with manta rays? You can actually do that? You sure can! These gentle giants visit the plankton-rich waters of Kona, Hawaii almost every night. Swim alongside these majestic animals on one of these incredible, nighttime snorkeling excursions!
Still looking for more fun things to do outside? Discover all of our one-of-a-kind outdoor adventures here!
