Summer is such a fun time to do things with your family. School is out and why not enjoy the time you have together before you have to get back into your school routine. When it’s hot, it can be easy to just turn on the TV and sit at home all day. Try these summer activities to do as a family to switch it up and have fun!

Go Camping

This is the classic summertime family activity. Pick a location, it doesn’t have to be far, and go for a family camping trip. Some locations require reservations or get booked up fast, so plan ahead so you can get the spot you want. A few days in the great outdoors will leave you feeling refreshed and will give you quality time away from screens. Don’t forget the s’mores ingredients! Check out our s’mores recipes recommendations.

If you can’t secure a campsite or don’t want to travel too far from home, set up the tent in the backyard. A night under the stars and stories around the fire pit can be just as fun as camping at a campground.

Have A Water Balloon Contest

Pull all the water toys out and get cool with a water balloon contest. Fill up some water balloons, turn on the sprinklers, and fill up the kid pools with water too. Decide on your contest rules. The winner is the one who has the most fun and stays cool on a hot day!

Fly A Kite

Flying a kite is a classic childhood activity that is great to try during the summer. You can fly a kite any time of the year if the wind is right. This one is weather dependent, so you can make or purchase a kite and have it ready for that perfect day of wind. If purchasing, look at the recommended wind range on the kite you buy, then check your local weather forecast to see if it’s blowing within the recommended range of use. If you fly a kite on a day when the wind is too strong, you may lose the kite.

Plant A Garden

Planting a seed and seeing it grow into something you can eat is an extremely rewarding experience. This summer, teach the kids about the process and patience of growing a garden. Gather your supplies and let them pick out what seeds to sow. Tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers all grow well in the summer. Sunflowers are a great late summer addition to any garden. Start thinking about fall plants now and get some pumpkin seeds in the ground too. Kids will enjoy seeing the growth process and will also learn patience and dedication as they water the garden daily.

Explore Your City By Bike

Going for a family bike ride is a great way to explore the world around you! Choose a route in your neighborhood, or ride to a nearby park for some fresh air and sunshine. Let each family member take a turn picking the destination. Don’t forget your helmet!

Go On A Picnic

Why eat inside when you can pack everything up and take it to your favorite outdoor spot? Whether that’s on a hill overlooking the lake or underneath your favorite tree, picnics are always a fun choice for a family outing during the summer. Securely pack your lunch in your picnic basket so food doesn’t drip everywhere on the ride over. Sandwiches are an easy choice for convenience, but you can really bring anything with you on a picnic, so think outside the box! Don’t forget a blanket so you don’t have to sit on the ground. You may also want some wipes or napkins so you can clean up easily once done. Always remember to pack it out, pack it in. Bring your trash home with you or properly dispose of it in a waste receptacle so the next person can enjoy the spot too.

Try these summer activities for family fun and let us know what you liked best!