The Ultimate Summer Bucket List: 50 Fun Ideas to Make the Most of Your Summer

Want to make the most of this summer? Get ready for a fun-filled action packed season with these epic summer bucket list ideas!

I love love love summer.

I’m not being dramatic. It’s my favorite season.

There’s just something about endless sunshine, exciting new adventures, and the carefree nature of summer that just fills me up! For me, summer is such a joy-filled season.

I also love a bucket list. Making a list of things to dream about and to look forward to is the perfect way to get intentional about making space for MORE of what matters in life.

So, let’s get started! I’ve made a list of 50 fun things to do this summer. But because I realize not everyone likes the same things, I’ve also included a few blank bucket list templates. Use my summer bucket list ideas as inspiration to come up with your own list.

Have fun, dream big, and start living your best life!

Fun Things To Do This Summer

Summer is the perfect time to make memories, try new things, and embrace the warm weather.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or creativity, this summer bucket list has something for everyone. Here are 50 fun ideas to make this summer unforgettable, along with tips on how to make the most of each experience!

Summer Activities and Adventures

1. Play in the sprinklers – Cool off and relive childhood fun by running through the sprinklers on a hot day.
2. Go to an amusement park – Ride roller coasters, play carnival games, and enjoy delicious fair food.
3. Go fishing – Spend a peaceful day by the water and see if you can catch dinner!
4. Chase waterfalls – Find a local waterfall and enjoy the beauty of nature. Need a little inspo? Here’s a list of 21 epic waterfalls in the USA!
5. Attend a summer festival – Music, food, and fun—what’s not to love?
6. Road trip! – Pick a destination and set off on an adventure with friends or family. Need help choosing your next road trip? Get inspired with over 50 fun road trip itineraries all over the USA!
7. Do a phone-free day – Disconnect and be present in the moment. You might be amazed at the fun you can find when you put your phone down and intentionally connect with the people around you. (That probably sounds a little preachy, but it’s true.)
8. Watch the sunset – Find a scenic spot and take in the breathtaking view.
9. Tie-dye a shirt – Get creative and make your own colorful summer fashion.
10. Create a vision board – Set goals and get inspired for the rest of the year.

Summer Bucket List Ideas with Friends

11. Host a homemade pizza night – Gather toppings and some friends and have fun making custom pizzas. Not into making your own? Pick up pizzas from two or three different local pizza restaurants and do a tasting and rating night. Pick your fave local pizza place!
12. Have a picnic in the park – Pack your favorite snacks and enjoy a meal outdoors. Get as fancy as you want to!
13. Go on a scenic hike – Take in the beauty of nature while getting some exercise. (Confession time: Hiking used to intimidate me. Then I realized that there are hikes for all levels of hikers from newbies like me to advanced trails. Give it a try and see what you think!)
14. Try paddle boarding or kayaking – A fun way to explore your local lakes and rivers. Don’t have the equipment? Don’t worry- there are tons of places that rent this stuff at very reasonable rates. You could also sign up for a group tour if you feel more comfortable with a guide.
15. Eat lots of watermelon – It’s the ultimate summer snack!
16. Watch fireworks – Find a local display or create your own light show.
17. Take a nap in the sunshine – Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
18. Make friendship bracelets – A nostalgic and fun way to bond with friends.
19. Make a summer playlist – Curate the perfect soundtrack for your adventures.
20. Visit the farmer’s market – One of my favorite summer activities! Pick up fresh produce and local treats.

Are you travel obsessed like me? Check out our huge US bucket list and get started planning your next epic adventure!

Adventures & Experiences

21. Make a gratitude list – Take time to reflect on the good things in life by making a list of things you are thankful for.
22. Visit a National Park – Explore the great outdoors and see stunning landscapes. Our personal favorites are Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park in Utah.
23. Play mini golf – Challenge your friends to a fun round of putt-putt.
24. Go camping – Whether it’s in a tent or under the stars, camping is a must-do.
25. Have a pool day! – Grab a float and enjoy some time in the water.
26. See a summer concert – Enjoy live music under the stars.
27. Go to a baseball game – Experience the excitement of America’s pastime.
28. Beach day! – Swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles. What can I say, I’m a beach girl through and through. If you need a little beach inspo, I’ve got you covered with a huge list of my favorite beaches and the ultimate beach day packing list.
29. Make homemade ice cream – Experiment with flavors and enjoy a cool treat.
30. Visit a botanical garden – Admire beautiful flowers and plants.

Have a teenager in your house like me? Check out my teen’s summer bucket list!

Fun & Relaxation

31. Go fly a kite – Find a windy day and let it soar.
32. Ride a Ferris wheel – Take in the views from the top.
33. Go stargazing – Lay on a blanket and admire the night sky.
34. Take a day trip to a new town – Explore somewhere you’ve never been before.
35. Start journaling – Capture summer memories and thoughts.
36. Have a water balloon fight – Beat the heat with some splashy fun.
37. Take an outdoor yoga class – Relax and stretch in the fresh air.
38. Make homemade lemonade – Refreshing and easy to make!
39. Have an outdoor movie night – Set up a projector and enjoy a film under the stars.
40. Go horseback riding – A fun and unique way to explore nature.

Summer Bucket List Ideas For Families

41. Visit a waterpark – Slip and slide your way to a fun-filled day.
42. Ride bicycles – Explore your neighborhood or a scenic trail.
43. Draw with sidewalk chalk – Create colorful masterpieces on the pavement.
44. Have a backyard BBQ – Fire up the grill for some summer classics.
45. Go to the zoo – Spend the day learning about amazing animals.
46. Build a birdhouse – A fun DIY project that helps local birds.
47. Walk in the grass barefoot – Feel the earth beneath your feet.
48. Make a flower crown – Gather wildflowers and create something beautiful.
49. Do an Insta-worthy photo shoot – There’s no shame in my game. Find a picturesque spot around town and capture the best moments of summer.
50. Play in the rain – Embrace the fun and dance in a summer downpour.

Need more inspo? Check out our huge bucket list for families– tons of ideas for all ages and stages!

Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer

• Plan ahead – Pick a few activities each week so you don’t miss out on anything fun. By planning ahead you will also prevent yourself from over-scheduling or over-committing.
• Stay present – Enjoy the moment instead of worrying about capturing it for social media.
• Try something new – Step outside your comfort zone and make new memories.
• Balance adventure with relaxation – It’s great to be active, but don’t forget to slow down and recharge.
• Include friends and family – Experiences are even better when shared!

Free Printable Summer Bucket List Template

By now you probably already know I’m a dreamer. If you are too, grab my favorite bucket list quotes and captions and add them to your vision board, scrapbook, journal, or social media!

Want FREE printable PDF copies of these templates? Just subscribe here!

Feel free to simply screenshot or download our free bucket list template to get started making your own!

With this bucket list, your summer is sure to be filled with adventure, creativity, and unforgettable memories. What’s on your summer bucket list?

Sad to see summer go? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with an epic winter bucket list too!