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Ultimate Summer Bucket List: 50 Fun Ideas for Families to Help Make this the Best Summer Break Yet

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Hey there, mama! Summer is here, and it’s time to dive into a world of sun-drenched adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime. As moms, we know how precious these summer days are, and that’s why I’ve created the ultimate guide to help you plan an unforgettable summer with your kids. So grab your shades, slather on that sunscreen, and get ready for a summer filled with laughter, exploration, and endless possibilities. Plus, don’t forget to download my special summer bucket list to add an extra splash of excitement to your family’s summer escapades!

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s time to seize the season with a bucket list packed full of fun activities. Summer is the perfect time for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together. From exciting outdoor escapades to cozy indoor bonding experiences, this curated list promises something delightful for everyone in the family. Join us on a journey of exploration and discovery as we dive into 50 fantastic ideas to make every moment count this summer.

1. Go on a Family Hike

Explore winding trails and hidden gems in your local area, immersing yourselves in nature’s beauty. Take in breathtaking views, discover native flora and fauna, and enjoy quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit or along the trail, and don’t forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

2. Picnic in the Park

Spend a leisurely day outdoors with a picnic in the park. Pack a basket with your family’s favorite snacks, sandwiches, and refreshing beverages. Bring along a blanket or portable chairs for lounging, and don’t forget to pack some outdoor games like frisbee, soccer, or a friendly game of catch. Take advantage of the open space to run, play, and soak up the sunshine.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

3. Backyard Camping Adventure

Experience the excitement of camping right in your own backyard. Set up a tent, roll out sleeping bags, and gather around a crackling fire pit for s’mores and storytelling. Spend the evening stargazing and identifying constellations, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature all around you. Backyard camping is a fun and convenient way to introduce young children to the joys of camping without straying too far from home.

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4. Farm Fresh Fun

Take a trip to a nearby farm and immerse yourselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of rural life. Explore fields of fresh produce, orchards bursting with ripe fruits, and friendly farm animals eager for a visit. Many farms offer pick-your-own experiences, allowing you to harvest your own fruits and vegetables to take home. Enjoy farm-fresh snacks like apple cider donuts, homemade ice cream, and freshly squeezed lemonade as you make memories that will last a lifetime.

5. Beach Day Bonanza

Escape to the coast for a day of sun, sand, and surf at the beach. Build towering sandcastles, splash in the waves, and hunt for seashells along the shoreline. Pack a beach bag with towels, sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Bring along beach toys like buckets and shovels for building sand sculptures, and don’t forget to pack a beach umbrella or canopy for shade. Spend the day swimming, playing beach games, and soaking up the sun’s warm rays.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

6. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of items for a nature scavenger hunt and head to your local park or nature reserve. Encourage your family to explore their surroundings, search for hidden treasures, and learn about the flora and fauna in your area. From spotting animal tracks and birdwatching to identifying different types of trees and flowers, a nature scavenger hunt is a fun and educational way to connect with the natural world.

  • Check out my Earth Day Scavenger Hunt Printable HERE
earth day scavenger hunt printable

7. Kayaking or Canoeing Adventure

Spend a day on the water with a kayaking or canoeing adventure. Explore tranquil lakes, winding rivers, or scenic waterways as you paddle together as a family. Keep an eye out for wildlife like ducks, turtles, and fish, and take breaks to swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. Rent equipment from a local outfitter or bring your own for a day of outdoor exploration and adventure.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

8. Movie Marathon Madness

Beat the heat with a movie marathon in the comfort of your own home. Set up a cozy viewing area with blankets, pillows, and your family’s favorite snacks and beverages. Create a lineup of family-friendly films, from classic favorites to recent releases, and settle in for a day of cinematic adventure. Take breaks between movies for popcorn refills and lively discussions about your favorite scenes and characters.

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9. Crafty Creations Galore

Get creative with a DIY craft day that’s sure to inspire your inner artist. Set up a crafting station with supplies like paints, markers, glue, scissors, and a variety of craft materials. Choose from a range of projects, from tie-dye t-shirts and painted rocks to handmade jewelry and recycled art. Encourage your family members to let their imaginations run wild as they create unique masterpieces to treasure or give as gifts.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Hit up Michael’s for all your crafty stuff!
  • Try KIWI if you’re not into DIY stuff – they send you kits all ready to go! Get your first crate free on the KiwiCo Summer Adventure Series with code ADVENTURE. Ends 5/6.
  • Check out CrateJoy. Similar to KiwiCo, there’s so many options for kits to keep your kids busy for hours! Sensory, STEM, experiments, crafts, etc. There’s even kits for adults 🙂

10. Bake-a-Thon Bonanza

Spend a day in the kitchen whipping up sweet treats and tasty delights with a family bake-a-thon. Choose from a selection of recipes for cookies, cakes, cupcakes, pies, and other baked goods, and get to work measuring, mixing, and baking together. Experiment with different flavors, decorations, and techniques as you create delicious desserts to enjoy as a family or share with friends and neighbors. Don’t forget to save some extra treats for later, and be sure to clean up any messes as you go.

If you aren’t into all that baking, or just want to try something different, have you heard of Baketivity? They send you kits all ready to go. There’s everything from cake pops to birthday cake, even gluten free options! Click here to save 10% on your first order!

11. Blanket Fort Bliss

Transform your living room into a magical hideaway with a blanket fort building extravaganza. Gather blankets, sheets, pillows, and cushions to create a cozy fortress where you can relax, play, and let your imaginations soar. Use furniture, chairs, and other household items to support your structure and create different rooms and passageways. String up fairy lights or hang a lantern for added ambiance, and stock your fort with books, games, and snacks for hours of entertainment.

12. Game Night Extravaganza

Gather the family for a night of friendly competition with a game night extravaganza. Dust off your favorite board games, card games, and puzzles, and challenge each other to a series of thrilling contests and showdowns. Set up a game table with snacks and beverages to keep everyone fueled and hydrated, and designate a scorekeeper to track wins and losses. From classic games like Monopoly and Scrabble to modern favorites like Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let the games begin!

OUR FAVORITES:

13. Backyard Movie Night

Set up a projector or outdoor screen in your backyard for a memorable movie night under the stars. Hang fairy lights, lay out blankets and cushions, and prepare popcorn and snacks for a cozy and cinematic experience with your family.

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14. Sunset Picnic

Pack a basket with your favorite snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, and head to a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic during sunset. Watch as the sky changes colors and the sun dips below the horizon, creating a magical backdrop for your evening together.

15. Family Bike Tour

Plan a family bike tour to explore your city or town on two wheels. Choose a route that passes by landmarks, parks, and interesting neighborhoods, and take breaks along the way to admire the sights and take photos.

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16. DIY Outdoor Art Gallery

Turn your backyard into an outdoor art gallery by displaying your family’s artwork on easels or hanging them from trees and fences. Invite friends and neighbors to view the exhibition and celebrate your creativity together.

17. Watercolor Nature Painting

Set up an outdoor painting session with watercolor supplies and paper. Encourage your family to paint scenes from nature, such as landscapes, flowers, or animals, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of creating art outdoors.

18. Family Karaoke Night

Host a family karaoke night and take turns singing your favorite songs. Set up a karaoke machine or use a smartphone app, and let loose with some spirited performances and plenty of laughter.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

19. DIY Bird Feeder Making

Get crafty by making homemade bird feeders with your family. Use recycled materials like milk cartons, pinecones, or empty soda bottles, and fill them with birdseed to attract feathered friends to your backyard. Check out Country Living’s post about different kinds you can make.

20. Outdoor Storytelling Circle

Gather around a campfire or outdoor seating area for a storytelling session with your family. Take turns sharing stories, anecdotes, or tall tales, and enjoy the warmth of the fire and the camaraderie of being together outdoors.

21. Nature Photography Expedition

Grab your cameras or smartphones and embark on a nature photography expedition. Explore local parks, nature reserves, or even your own backyard, capturing the beauty of the natural world through your lens. Encourage family members to experiment with different angles, perspectives, and subjects, and create a photo album or digital gallery to showcase your favorite shots.

22. DIY Birdhouse Building

Get hands-on with a DIY birdhouse building project that’s sure to attract feathered friends to your backyard. Gather materials like wood, nails, and paint, and work together as a family to construct custom birdhouses. Hang them in your yard or garden and watch as birds flock to their new homes, bringing joy and excitement to your outdoor space.

Watch THIS VIDEO below to see how to make one from recycled material.

23. Fruit Picking Adventure

Visit a local orchard or fruit farm and spend the day picking your own fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Wander through rows of ripe produce, filling baskets with fresh-picked treasures straight from the vine or tree. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor and take home a bounty of delicious fruits to enjoy as snacks, desserts, or ingredients in homemade jams and pies.

24. Outdoor Concert or Movie

Check local event listings for outdoor concerts or movie screenings in your area. Pack a picnic dinner, blankets, and folding chairs, and head to the venue for an evening of live music or cinematic entertainment under the open sky. Dance to the rhythm of the music or cozy up with loved ones as you enjoy an unforgettable outdoor experience.

25. Family Bike Ride

Explore your neighborhood or local bike trails with a family bike ride. Dust off your bicycles, pump up the tires, and hit the road together for an adventure-filled outing. Pack a picnic lunch or stop at a nearby cafe for a refreshing treat along the way. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature as you pedal together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

26. Stargazing Night

Spend an evening stargazing with your family and marvel at the wonders of the night sky. Set up a telescope or lay out blankets and pillows for comfortable viewing, and head to a location away from city lights for optimal visibility. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations, planets, and other celestial objects, and share stories and myths from different cultures about the stars above.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

27. Community Service Day

Give back to your community with a family volunteer day. Choose a cause or organization that’s meaningful to your family, whether it’s cleaning up a local park, volunteering at a food bank, or visiting elderly residents at a nursing home. Work together to make a positive impact in your community and instill values of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility in your children.

28. Outdoor Yoga or Tai Chi

Start your day with a family yoga or tai chi session in the great outdoors. Find a peaceful spot in your backyard, local park, or beach, and practice gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques together. Connect with nature and each other as you move through flowing sequences and embrace the serenity of the natural world.

RELATED:

29. Water Balloon Fight

Beat the heat with a DIY water balloon fight that’s sure to cool you down and bring laughter and joy to your family. Fill up balloons with water and divide into teams, then let the fun begin as you chase, dodge, and splash each other with abandon. Create makeshift forts or barriers for added excitement, and don’t forget to capture the action with photos or videos to relive the memories later.

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30. Explore a New Neighborhood

Take a day trip to a nearby town or neighborhood and explore its streets, shops, and attractions together as a family. Wander through quaint downtown areas, browse local shops and boutiques, and sample delicious foods at cafes and restaurants. Discover hidden gems and unexpected surprises around every corner, and enjoy the thrill of exploration and discovery in a new environment.

31. Tie-Dye Party

Host a DIY tie-dye party in your backyard and unleash your creativity with vibrant colors and bold patterns. Set up a tie-dye station with plain t-shirts, socks, or bandanas, and provide plenty of dye, rubber bands, and gloves for everyone to use. Experiment with different folding and twisting techniques to create unique designs, and let your creations dry in the sun before unveiling your colorful masterpieces.

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32. Family Book Club

Start a family book club and embark on a literary adventure together. Choose a book to read as a family and set aside time each week to discuss your thoughts, share favorite passages, and explore the themes and characters in depth. Create a cozy reading nook in your home or backyard, complete with blankets, pillows, and snacks, and immerse yourselves in the magical world of storytelling.

5 FAMILY FRIENDLY BOOK FAVORITES:

  • “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling: The magical world of Hogwarts, filled with adventure, friendship, and wizardry, captivates readers of all ages. Follow Harry Potter and his friends as they embark on their first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and encounter mystery, magic, and danger.
  • “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis: Enter the enchanting world of Narnia, where ordinary children discover extraordinary adventures in a land ruled by talking animals, mythical creatures, and powerful magic. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter as they journey through the wardrobe and encounter the majestic lion, Aslan, in their quest to defeat the White Witch and restore peace to Narnia.
  • “Matilda” by Roald Dahl: Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with extraordinary intelligence and magical powers. Follow Matilda’s journey as she navigates the challenges of family, school, and friendship while discovering the joy of books and the power of imagination.
  • “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White: Delight in the timeless tale of friendship and loyalty between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte. Set on a farm in rural America, this heartwarming story explores themes of love, loss, and the circle of life as Wilbur and Charlotte embark on a remarkable journey to save Wilbur from the butcher’s block.
  • “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls: Experience the powerful bond between a young boy named Billy and his two loyal hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, in this classic tale of love, loss, and redemption. Set in the Ozark Mountains, this touching story follows Billy’s adventures as he trains his dogs, competes in hunting competitions, and learns important lessons about courage, determination, and the true meaning of friendship.

33. DIY Backyard Obstacle Course

Transform your backyard into a thrilling obstacle course that’s sure to challenge and entertain your family. Use household items like hula hoops, cones, jump ropes, and pool noodles to create a series of obstacles and challenges for your family to complete. Set up a timer and keep track of your best times as you race against each other or work together to conquer the course. Get creative and have fun designing and customizing your own backyard adventure zone.

34. Family Talent Show

Showcase your family’s talents and skills with a fun and entertaining talent show. Set up a stage area in your backyard or living room, complete with a microphone, speakers, and spotlight, and invite family members to perform their favorite songs, dances, magic tricks, or other talents. Encourage creativity and self-expression, and celebrate each other’s unique abilities with applause and cheers.

35. DIY Science Experiments

Get hands-on with some DIY science experiments that are both educational and entertaining. From homemade lava lamps and baking soda volcanoes to DIY slime and balloon rockets, there are endless possibilities for scientific exploration and discovery. Set up a makeshift laboratory in your kitchen or backyard, gather supplies like vinegar, baking soda, food coloring, and household items, and let the experimentation begin. Encourage your family to ask questions, make observations, and draw conclusions as they explore the fascinating world of science.

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36. Create a Family Time Capsule

Preserve precious memories and create a lasting legacy with a family time capsule. Gather items, photographs, and mementos that represent your family’s interests, hobbies, and achievements, and seal them in a waterproof container. Choose a location to bury or store the time capsule, and set a date in the future to unearth it and revisit the memories together as a family. Capture the moment with photos or videos, and enjoy the excitement of uncovering treasures from the past.

37. “YES” Day

On ‘Yes’ Day, the whole family gets to choose activities, treats, and experiences without hesitation or restrictions. Whether it’s trying a new restaurant, visiting a local attraction, or indulging in a favorite treat, each member gets a chance to say ‘yes’ to their heart’s desires. From silly requests to grand adventures, ‘Yes’ Day is all about saying yes to new experiences and creating unforgettable memories together. So, let your imagination run wild, and get ready for a day filled with laughter, surprises, and endless possibilities!

CAVEAT: Set a spending limit beforehand!

Have you seen the movie “Yes Day” with Jennifer Garner? Its a good one, we all enjoyed it!

38. Outdoor Water Park Adventure

Spend a day at an outdoor water park, splashing and sliding down thrilling water rides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Enjoy the sunshine and cool off in the refreshing water with your family for an unforgettable day of aquatic fun.

39. Family Camping Trip

Plan a weekend camping trip to a nearby campground or national park. Set up tents, build a campfire, roast marshmallows, and share stories under the stars. Connect with nature and bond as a family while enjoying the great outdoors. If you don’t want to travel, you can just have a camping night in your own backyard!

40. DIY Ice Cream Sundae Bar

Create a DIY ice cream sundae bar at home with an assortment of ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces. Let each family member customize their own sundae with their favorite toppings, from sprinkles and chocolate chips to fresh fruit and whipped cream.

IDEA: This activity would go great with your Movie Marathon Day!

41. Outdoor Sports Tournament

Organize a family sports tournament with a variety of outdoor games and activities. Set up stations for games like soccer, volleyball, badminton, and frisbee golf, and compete against each other in friendly matches. Award prizes for winners and celebrate with a post-tournament barbecue.

42. Family Road Trip

Plan a family road trip to explore new destinations, attractions, and landmarks. Choose a scenic route, pack snacks and beverages, and hit the open road for an adventure-filled journey. Stop along the way to stretch your legs, take photos, and discover hidden gems along the route.

43. DIY Mini Golf Course

Transform your backyard into a mini golf course with homemade obstacles and challenges. Use household items like PVC pipes, cardboard boxes, and pool noodles to create unique holes for a family-friendly golf tournament.

(Or just go to your local putt-putt course and no DIY required!)

44. Outdoor Cooking Challenge

Challenge your family to an outdoor cooking competition where each member is tasked with preparing a dish using only ingredients found in a mystery basket. Set up grills or portable stoves in the backyard and let the culinary creativity shine.

45. DIY Backyard Carnival

Create a backyard carnival complete with homemade games, prizes, and carnival treats. Set up booths for activities like ring toss, bean bag toss, and balloon darts, and award tickets for winning games that can be redeemed for prizes. This would be a fun activity to get your friends and neighbors involved too!

RECOMMENDATIONS:

46. Family Outdoor Concert

Host a backyard concert featuring performances by family members showcasing their musical talents. Set up a stage area with microphones and instruments, and invite friends and neighbors to enjoy an evening of live music and entertainment.

47. Go on a Wildlife Safari

Go on a family wildlife safari adventure to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Visit wildlife reserves, nature trails, or botanical gardens where you can spot birds, insects, amphibians, and other fascinating creatures. Bring along binoculars and a field guide to identify different species and learn more about their behaviors and habitats.

48. DIY Backyard Water Park

Beat the heat with a DIY backyard water park featuring homemade water slides, sprinklers, and water games. Set up inflatable pools, slip ‘n slides, and water balloons for a day of splashing and soaking fun. Add water-themed activities like water limbo, water balloon toss, and sponge relay races for extra excitement.

49. Outdoor Fitness Challenge

Create a family outdoor fitness challenge with a series of physical activities and obstacles designed to promote health and wellness. Plan a circuit-style workout with exercises like jumping jacks, lunges, squats, and push-ups, and include fun challenges like a mini obstacle course, relay races, and agility drills. Encourage friendly competition and teamwork as you work up a sweat together.

50. Family Reflection and Goal Setting

End the summer with a family reflection and goal-setting session. Sit down together to reflect on your favorite memories and experiences from the season, and discuss your hopes and aspirations for the future. Set goals as a family for the upcoming year and brainstorm ways to support each other in achieving them.

Download Your Summer Bucket List

To add an extra splash of excitement and keep track of your summer adventures, don’t forget to download my special summer bucket list! It’s packed with even MORE fun and engaging activities for the whole family to enjoy. From scavenger hunts and backyard picnics to star-gazing nights and homemade lemonade stands, this bucket list will inspire you to make the most of the season.

summer bucket list

FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW TO GET YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX!

Moms, it’s time to embrace the sun-drenched fun and create unforgettable memories with your kids this summer. From discovering nature’s playground to making a splash, channeling your inner artist, exploring local gems, camping under the stars, enjoying ice cream adventures, there’s no shortage of excitement waiting for you. So download this summer bucket list, gather your family, dive into the summer spirit, and embark on a journey of laughter, joy, and endless possibilities. Let’s make this summer the best one yet!

I hope you enjoy this bucket list as much as my kids do! We have already crossed off several things. I love this bucket list because it’s all affordable and fun for everyone. It makes me miss my childhood a little bit because we did so many of these things, and I had a blast making memories. I hope your kids make awesome memories this summer as well!

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