Now that the weather’s warming up, chances are you and your family are already thinking about all the fun things you want to do once school’s out for summer. It’s the perfect time to start planning some outdoor activities!
Whether you’re gearing up for a big trip or just looking to enjoy local fun, there are plenty of ways to keep your summer packed with excitement. Here’s a list of outdoor activities to get you outside, explore nature, and make unforgettable family memories.
Take a Camping Trip
Spending a night under the stars might be just what you need! Camping is a fun and affordable way to enjoy the great outdoors, and you can find campsites at a reasonable price, depending on what kind of amenities you want. If you’re up for an old-school adventure, pitch a tent and experience camping like people did before RVs. Prefer a little more comfort? Renting a cabin is always an option!
Camping is the perfect time to watch wildlife, cook over an open fire, and explore nature trails. Show the kids how to find the perfect stick for roasting marshmallows, and if your campsite has a pool, be sure to take a dip!
The best part? You don’t even have to leave home to enjoy a camping experience. Set up a tent in the backyard, build a small fire, and relax under the stars for a fun family night right at home!
Take a Local Tour
No gas money for a big trip? No problem! Explore your neighborhood instead. Chances are, there are places you’ve never visited in your hometown so why not turn it into a local adventure?
Check out nearby museums or art galleries, browse local shops, or have a picnic at the park. Try a restaurant you’ve never been to, or if there’s a local theater, catch a play for some live entertainment. You might be surprised at how many fun things are right in your own backyard—you have to take a moment to look!
Go to the Beach
No matter where you live, there’s probably a great swimming spot just a short drive away—whether it’s a lake, river, or the ocean. Why not pack up the family and head to the beach for sun, sand, and relaxation?
Before you go, check out some comfy beach chairs and grab other beach must-haves. If you’ve got little ones, bring a bucket and shovel for sandcastle building. Make sure everyone has a fit swimsuit, and maybe toss in some fun beach toys like a ball or frisbee.
And don’t forget the sunscreen! Nothing ruins a beach day faster than going home looking like a lobster and dealing with painful sunburns. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy your time in the sun!
Take in a Ball Game
Baseball isn’t called America’s pastime for nothing! Whether cheering on a Little League game, catching a local softball matchup, or heading to a Major League stadium, it’s a great way to spend time with the family and root for your favorite team.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, local sandlot games are free, and with a bit of research, you can often find discounted tickets for minor and major league games. So grab some peanuts and a hot dog, and enjoy a classic day at the ballpark!
Go Hiking
Hiking is a fantastic way to get outside, exercise, and explore the beauty of nature. Whether it’s a scenic trail at a national park, a local nature preserve, or even a walking path through the woods, something is refreshing about being surrounded by fresh air and greenery.
For families with kids, turn it into an adventure by looking for wildlife, collecting interesting rocks or leaves, or even doing a scavenger hunt. If you’re up for a challenge, try a longer hike with a rewarding view at the top! Just don’t forget to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and maybe pack a picnic to enjoy along the way.
Go Biking
Whether cruising through your neighborhood, hitting a scenic bike trail, or exploring a local park, biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and exercise. It’s fun for all ages, and you can make it as relaxing or adventurous as you like.
Find a paved path or bike-friendly park for a family-friendly outing. If you want more excitement, try mountain biking on off-road trails. You could even plan a biking day trip with stops for snacks, sightseeing, or a picnic. Just make sure everyone has a helmet and plenty of water!
Go Fishing
Fishing is a relaxing and rewarding outdoor activity for the whole family. Whether you’re casting a line at a local pond, lake, river, or even the ocean, it’s a great way to spend time in nature and maybe even catch dinner!
For beginners, start with a simple rod and bait, and don’t forget a fishing license if required in your area. Kids will love the excitement of reeling in their first fish, and even if you don’t catch anything, it’s still a peaceful way to spend the day by the water. Bring some snacks, enjoy the fresh air, and make it a fun outing!
Go Kayaking Or Canoeing
Paddling through a lake, river, or ocean is a great way to explore nature from a different perspective. It’s peaceful, fun, and a great workout! Whether gliding through calm waters or tackling a more adventurous river route, kayaking and canoeing can be a perfect outdoor activity for all skill levels.
For beginners, look for rental spots at local parks or lakes where you can get started with easy, flat water. If you have kids, consider a tandem kayak or canoe so they can ride along. Pack a picnic, enjoy the wildlife around you, and soak up the beauty of the water! Just don’t forget life jackets and sunscreen.
Geocaching
Geocaching is like a modern-day treasure hunt using GPS! You need only a smartphone or GPS device to search for hidden caches (small containers) placed by other adventurers in parks, trails, and even urban areas.
It’s a fun way to explore new places, get some fresh air, and add an element of excitement to your outdoor adventure. Some caches have little trinkets inside that you can trade, while others have a logbook to sign your name. It’s an excellent activity for kids and adults alike, and you never know what cool spots you’ll discover along the way!
Download a geocaching app, pick a location, and start your hunt!
No matter what kind of outdoor activities you choose, the most important thing is spending quality time together and making lasting memories. Whether exploring new trails, splashing in the water, cheering at a baseball game, or discovering hidden treasures through geocaching, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. So grab your gear, get outside, and make this summer one to remember!
Can’t wait for the weather to look up, still raining here! I must say that the best outdoor times I’ve ever had were in my parents pool when I was younger. Nothing better than kicking back with some friends and enjoying a glass of lemonade. Another great post 🙂
Pauline
I’ve recently started spending more time with the kids, or I suppose I should say they’ve started spending more time with me and I feel truly blessed. Camping and hiking is now one of our favorite things to do together. To call these activities “must-do” is so true, family time is so very important.
I am so glad that I saw this post…so timely. My sister and her granddaughter will be coming to stay for a week and I was trying to think of some things we could do that would be different and get us out of the house. DUH! was what I thought when I say the tour suggestion. We have several around here that are free and fun. We could even go to the State Park 20 minutes from here and spend the day since I don’t camp. Thanks for the ideas!