50 Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas (By a Travel Blogger)

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Summer is too short for “maybe next year.” The long days, warm nights, and endless possibilities are calling, and 2025 is the year to actually answer. Whether you picture yourself chasing sunsets on a beach, road-tripping with the windows down, or finally ticking off that adrenaline-pumping adventure you’ve been talking about for years, now’s the time to make it happen. I’ve rounded up 50 bucket list ideas that are equal parts fun, inspiring, and totally doable…from simple seasonal joys to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Consider this your ultimate checklist for a summer you’ll never forget.

1. Go on a Spontaneous Road Trip

The best road trips I’ve taken have started with exactly zero plans. One summer, a friend and I pointed the car west “just to see what we’d find,” and three hours later we were eating fish tacos on a pier we didn’t even know existed that morning. There’s something about rolling the windows down, letting your playlist set the tone, and stopping for whatever looks interesting…a farmers’ market, a tiny-town diner, a scenic overlook you didn’t know was there.

Skip the rigid itinerary. Choose a direction, pack snacks and a spare hoodie, and let the road surprise you. Who knows: you might end up watching the sunset in Big Sur or grabbing coffee in a cobblestoned square in some charming town you’ve never heard of.

• Read also: My Ultimate East Coast Road Trip for Summer Getaways

2. Try Paddleboarding or Kayaking

The first time I tried paddleboarding, I spent more time laughing in the water than actually standing up… and that’s half the fun. On a calm summer morning, there’s nothing better than gliding across glassy water with the sun warming your back. Paddleboarding will work your balance in ways you didn’t expect, but once you get the hang of it, it’s pure zen.

If you’d rather sit back and let your arms do the work, kayaking is just as magical. I love hugging the shoreline and discovering little coves no one else seems to notice, or drifting down a lazy river with nothing but the sound of birds and the splash of my paddle. Most lakes and beaches rent gear, so you can show up empty-handed and still get out there. Bonus points if you pack a picnic to enjoy mid-paddle.

3. Visit a national park and explore the trails

Every time I set foot in a national park, it feels like stepping into a giant outdoor cathedral…quiet, humbling, and absolutely breathtaking. One summer morning in Yosemite, I hiked up just in time to see the first light hit Half Dome, and it stopped me in my tracks. Another year in the Grand Canyon, I turned a corner on the trail and suddenly the whole canyon opened up in front of me, glowing orange and gold in the afternoon sun.

Whether you’re taking an easy stroll to a waterfall in Yellowstone or tackling a ridge hike in the Smokies, the magic is the same. It’s just you, the trail, and the wild. Most parks have routes for every skill level, so you don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy them. Lace up your boots, bring more water than you think you’ll need, and give yourself permission to take your time. The views are even better when you’re not rushing.

4. Host a backyard BBQ with friends and family

Some of my favorite summer nights have been the simple ones…a grill going, string lights overhead, and everyone crowded around a table piled high with food. There’s something about the smell of burgers sizzling or veggies charring that instantly puts people in a good mood.

You don’t need to get fancy. Lay out a few lawn chairs, throw a couple of blankets on the grass, and let people bring their own sides or drinks. I like having a cooler full of ice and a stack of mismatched plates so nobody’s afraid to dig in. Add a game of cornhole or a frisbee flying across the yard, and suddenly it’s not just dinner. It’s a night people will talk about for the rest of the season.

5. Explore a Botanical Garden or Arboretum

A few hours in a botanical garden can feel like stepping into a completely different world. I still remember wandering into a greenhouse on a humid July afternoon and being hit with the scent of orchids and damp earth. Every turn revealed something new…a tunnel of roses, a row of giant ferns, a pond with lily pads big enough to hold a small child.

It is the perfect slow-paced summer outing. You can linger in a shaded grove, test your camera skills on vibrant blooms, or simply sit on a bench and soak it all in. I like to bring a notebook with me to jot down the plant names I want to remember, even if I have no idea how to keep them alive at home. By the time you leave, you will feel lighter, calmer, and maybe a little more inspired.

6. Make homemade ice cream

One summer, a friend and I decided we were going to perfect our own ice cream flavor. Three failed batches later, we finally nailed it…a creamy vanilla base swirled with crushed cookies and a ribbon of caramel. It was worth every sticky counter and dish to wash.

Making ice cream at home is pure summer fun. You can keep it simple with classic vanilla or chocolate, or get creative with whatever fruit, candy, or spices you have on hand. Even without a fancy machine, there are no-churn recipes that work beautifully. The best part is gathering around the freezer to sneak a spoonful before it is technically ready. On a hot afternoon, nothing tastes better than something you made yourself.

7. Go stargazing in a dark, rural area

The first time I saw the Milky Way with my own eyes, I was lying on a blanket in the middle of a quiet desert, miles from the nearest streetlight. It felt like the whole sky had opened up…endless stars, a faint ribbon of light stretching across the darkness, and the kind of silence you only find far from the city. Some of my favorite stargazing spots are Joshua Tree National Park and Baxter State Park in Maine.

Pick a spot away from light pollution, pack a blanket, and give your eyes at least twenty minutes to adjust. Bring a thermos of something warm, a pair of binoculars, or even a telescope if you have one. I like to use a stargazing app to help me find constellations and planets, but honestly, just lying there and looking up is enough. The night sky has a way of making everything else feel small in the best possible way.

8. Take a Day Trip to a Beach You’ve Never Visited

There is something exciting about pulling up to a beach you have never seen before. Maybe it is a hidden cove with barely a footprint in the sand, or a lively boardwalk where the smell of salt air mixes with fresh fried food. One summer I drove three hours just to spend the afternoon on a beach I had only seen in photos, and it was worth every minute. I absolutely love these coastal towns in Maine for that reason.

Pack light so you can spend more time exploring…a towel, sunscreen, water, and a good snack are all you really need. Walk the shoreline, dip your toes in the water, and look for seashells or smooth stones to take home as souvenirs. Even if you only have a few hours, the change of scenery will make it feel like a mini vacation.

9. Attend an outdoor concerts or music festival

Some of my favorite summer nights have been spent standing in a crowd, music spilling into the warm air, and the sky slowly turning from gold to deep blue. There is a magic to live music outside. You feel the bass in your chest, see strangers dancing like no one is watching, and catch those little moments when the band locks eyes and smiles because they know the crowd is with them.

Bring a blanket if it is a sit-down show or wear shoes you can stand in for hours if you are near the stage. Try to arrive early to explore the venue and grab a good spot, but leave room for spontaneity. The best part is never knowing if you will discover a new favorite artist or hear a familiar song in a way that gives you goosebumps.

• Read next: The Best Stays Near Tomorrowland

10. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

The first time I snorkeled over a reef, I could not believe how alive it felt. Flashes of neon fish darting between coral, the sound of my own breath in the snorkel, and sunlight rippling across the sandy bottom. It felt like entering a different world.

If you want to take it further, consider getting PADI certified so you can scuba dive. It opens up access to deeper reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life you will never see from the surface. Whether you are floating above a shallow lagoon or descending into the blue, the sense of calm and awe is the same. The water wraps around you, the noise fades, and every movement feels slower and more deliberate. It is an adventure you will remember long after your fins are off.

11. Volunteer for a Community Cleanup Event

A few summers ago, I joined a beach cleanup thinking it would just be a nice way to spend a morning. By the time we were done, we had filled dozens of bags with trash. And I had met people from my community I never would have crossed paths with otherwise.

Whether it is a park, riverbank, trail, or city street, these cleanups make a visible difference in just a few hours. You show up, grab some gloves and a trash bag, and get to work alongside others who care about the same things you do. It is a simple way to give back, get some fresh air, and leave a place better than you found it.

12. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery and Do a Tasting

One summer afternoon, I wandered into a small vineyard in the Finger Lakes on a whim and ended up spending hours there, sipping chilled white wine while the owner told stories about the harvest. Experiences like that make a tasting feel more personal than just ordering a drink at a bar.

Whether it is a winery tucked into rolling hills or a craft brewery in a converted warehouse, tastings are a chance to slow down and really notice what you are drinking. Ask questions, try something you would not normally order, and take your time between sips. The flavors, the atmosphere, and often the people you meet make it more than just a drink.

• Read next: My Favorite Wine Regions in the World

13. Enjoy a Summer Movie Marathon

There is a certain charm to dedicating an entire day or night to movies, especially when the lineup is pure summer escapism. Think road trip comedies, classic beach flicks, or that feel-good film you can quote line by line. One July evening, I set up a projector in the backyard, draped string lights overhead, and invited friends to bring blankets and snacks. It felt like our own little outdoor cinema.

You can keep it simple indoors with air conditioning and popcorn, or go big with a themed setup. Even matching the food to the movies you pick. However you do it, the best part is giving yourself permission to slow down, sink into a story, and share the experience with others.

14. Roast Marshmallows

Some summer nights call for nothing more than a crackling fire, a sky full of stars, and sticky fingers from perfectly toasted marshmallows. I still remember the first time I made a s’more over a beach bonfire. The chocolate melting faster than I could eat it and the sound of waves just beyond the glow of the flames.

Whether you are in your backyard, at a campsite, or by the shore, a bonfire has a way of pulling people in. Bring extra wood, a few blankets for when the night cools down, and all the s’mores supplies you can carry. Between the laughter, the stories, and the quiet moments staring into the embers, it is the kind of simple pleasure that never gets old.

15. Attend a Sports Game like Baseball or Soccer

There is something amazing about being in a stadium on a summer evening, surrounded by fans all cheering for the same thing. The smell of popcorn and hot dogs drifts through the air, kids wave foam fingers, and every big play makes the crowd erupt. I once caught a foul ball at a baseball game and rode that rush of excitement for weeks.

Whether it is baseball, soccer, or another sport you love, being there in person is a completely different experience from watching at home. Go early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere, grab your favorite stadium snack, and let yourself get swept up in the energy. Win or lose, it is an unforgettable way to spend a summer day.

16. Take a Scenic Bike Ride Along a Coast or Through the Countryside

One of my favorite summer mornings started with nothing but a rented bike and a stretch of quiet coastal road. The air smelled like salt and wildflowers, and every curve revealed a new view…cliffs dropping into turquoise water, fishing boats bobbing in the distance.

A scenic ride can be as leisurely or as challenging as you want. Follow a trail through rolling farmland, weave along a lakeshore, or hug the curves of a coastal highway. Stop when you feel like it, whether for photos, a picnic, or just to catch your breath and take it all in. It is a perfect mix of movement, scenery, and that deep summer contentment you get from being outside all day.

One of my favorite scenic bike ride locations in the world? Definitely the Cotswolds! Add this region of England to your bucket list!

17. Visit an Amusement Park and Ride All the Roller Coasters

There’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of a day at an amusement park, tackling every roller coaster you can find. Imagine the buzz as you strap in at at a park like Six Flags Magic Mountain in California, heart racing, and then the pure thrill as you rocket down the track.

18. Explore a New Hiking Trail

Trying a new trail is one of the easiest ways to turn an ordinary summer day into an adventure. You never know if it will lead to a panoramic lookout, a hidden swimming hole, or a wildflower meadow buzzing with bees. One of my favorite surprises was hiking the Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park. I had only planned for a quick morning walk, but the iron rungs and cliffside views over the Maine coastline made it unforgettable.

If you are on the West Coast, you could tackle the Mist Trail in Yosemite, where the spray from Vernal Fall cools you as you climb. In the Rockies, the Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park rewards you with alpine lakes framed by jagged peaks. Even close to home, there are often lesser-known paths waiting to be explored. Check local hiking maps, grab your boots, and see where a new trail can take you.

19. Attend a Local Fair or Festival

Summer is prime time for fairs and festivals, where the air smells like fried dough, the music drifts from a main stage, and every corner offers something new to see or taste. One of my favorites was the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Waking up before dawn to watch hundreds of hot air balloons lift into the desert sky was pure magic.

If you love music, the Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island combines legendary acts with waterfront views. Foodie? Try the Gilroy Garlic Festival in California for garlic ice cream, garlic fries, and more garlic than you thought possible. Even your hometown likely has hidden gems… county fairs, art walks, or street food nights that make an ordinary weekend feel like a celebration. Wherever you are, find a date on the calendar, bring your camera, and let the festival energy pull you in.

20. Go Horseback Riding

There is something timeless about exploring a landscape from horseback — the steady rhythm of hooves, the sway of the saddle, and the way the scenery unfolds at a slower pace. I still remember riding through the Waipiʻo Valley in Hawaii, where towering cliffs rose on one side and taro fields stretched toward the ocean on the other.

In the American West, you can saddle up in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and ride through wildflower meadows with the Teton Range as your backdrop. For a coastal twist, try horseback riding along the wide-open sands of Pismo Beach, California, where you can trot right through the surf. Whether it’s a mountain trail, a vineyard path, or a stretch of shoreline, horseback riding lets you experience summer landscapes in a way hiking or driving simply cannot match.

21. Have a Beach Bonfire

Few summer nights top the simple magic of a beach bonfire…the glow of the flames, the smell of woodsmoke, and the sound of waves rolling in. One of my favorite spots for it is Ocean Beach in San Francisco, where public fire pits let you gather with friends as the sun melts into the Pacific.

On the East Coast, Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware offers evening bonfire permits so you can roast marshmallows right on the sand. And in Southern California, beaches like Huntington City Beach have first-come, first-served fire rings perfect for a spur-of-the-moment gathering. Wherever you are, check local rules first, pack s’mores supplies, and bring extra blankets. By the time the stars come out, you’ll be glad you made the effort.

22. Try Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is equal parts physical challenge and mental puzzle, and summer is the perfect time to give it a try. My first outdoor climb was in Joshua Tree National Park, where massive boulders and golden light made even the beginner routes feel epic.

If you want a dramatic backdrop, head to Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas, where sandstone cliffs glow at sunset, or test your skills on the granite walls of Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows. Beginners can start at an indoor climbing gym to learn the basics, then take those skills outside with a guide.

23. Attend a Food Truck Festival

Food truck festivals are like culinary treasure hunts, where every few steps brings a new smell, a new flavor, and a new reason to grab “just one more” plate. One of my favorites is the SoWa Open Market in Boston, where rows of food trucks park alongside craft vendors and live music.

If you find yourself in Portland, Oregon, check out Cartopia for late-night eats ranging from wood-fired pizza to gourmet poutine. In Los Angeles, the Smorgasburg LA market turns Sundays into a global street food adventure, with vendors serving everything from vegan ramen to handmade churros. Bring friends, wear stretchy pants, and make a plan to share dishes so you can sample as much as possible.

24. Take a Yoga Class in the Park

Outdoor yoga blends movement with nature in a way that’s hard to match. There’s something about feeling the grass under your mat and hearing the wind in the trees as you move through each pose. One of my favorite experiences was a sunrise class at Central Park in New York City, where the skyline framed the morning light.

On the West Coast, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park hosts free weekend yoga sessions under towering eucalyptus trees. If you’re by the beach, try a coastal flow at Santa Monica Beach or Miami’s South Pointe Park, where you can end savasana with your toes in the sand. Many cities run summer-long outdoor yoga programs, so you can roll out your mat in a new setting every week.

25. Take a Scenic Drive

Some of the best summer memories happen with the windows down, music up, and no rush to get anywhere. One of my favorite scenic drives is California’s Pacific Coast Highway, where every curve reveals a fresh view of cliffs, beaches, and the endless Pacific.

In the mountains, Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park offers jaw-dropping vistas of alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks, while the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina and Virginia winds past rolling mountains, wildflowers, and countless hiking pull-offs. Even shorter drives, like Maui’s Road to Hana, turn into full-day adventures when you stop for waterfalls, roadside fruit stands, and hidden beaches. Wherever you are, pick a route known for its scenery, pack snacks, and let the journey be the highlight.

26. Visit a Butterfly Garden

Walking into a butterfly garden feels like stepping into a living rainbow. The air shimmers with flashes of orange, blue, and yellow as butterflies flit from flower to flower, sometimes landing on your shoulder if you stand still long enough. One of my most memorable visits was to the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville, where hundreds of free-flying butterflies create an immersive, tropical escape.

On the West Coast, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Butterfly Jungle brings in thousands of species each spring, while Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory in Ontario offers a lush indoor oasis that’s perfect even on rainy days. Whether you visit a large conservatory or a small botanical garden, it’s a chance to slow down, take photos, and appreciate these delicate creatures up close.

27. Have a Water Balloon Fight

Sometimes the simplest summer joys are the most memorable. A water balloon fight is pure, unfiltered fun…and the perfect way to beat the heat. Last summer, we staged one during a beach day at Cape Cod National Seashore, and it turned into a hilarious free-for-all between friends, families, and even a few strangers who joined in. I also did a water balloon fight at an adult summer camp…what a bucket list experience that was! All you need is a few buckets, a faucet, and a group of willing participants for a summer memory that’s guaranteed to end with smiles.

28. Visit a Zoo or Aquarium

A summer trip to a zoo or aquarium is more than just seeing animals… it’s a chance to connect with wildlife from around the world in one afternoon. One of my favorite aquariums is the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, where giant kelp forests sway in crystal-clear tanks and sea otters steal the show.

If you’re more of a land-animal person, San Diego Zoo is legendary for its open-air habitats and rare species like pandas and koalas. In the Southeast, the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta offers a front-row seat to whale sharks gliding by in their massive Ocean Voyager tank.

29. Go to an Outdoor Theater Performance

There’s something magical about watching live theater under an open sky, where the setting becomes part of the story. One summer, I caught a performance at Shakespeare in the Park in New York City, and the rustle of leaves and distant city sounds added their own kind of soundtrack.

In the UK, the Minack Theatre in Cornwall stages plays on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, so you can watch actors perform with waves crashing in the background. Out west, the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City turns summer evenings into cultural celebrations with beautifully staged classics.

30. Go on a Wildlife Safari

You don’t have to fly to Africa to have a safari-style adventure — though seeing lions on the Serengeti is the ultimate bucket list dream. In the U.S., you can drive through Custer State Park in South Dakota to watch bison roam across golden prairies or head to Yellowstone National Park for a chance to spot wolves, elk, and grizzlies in the wild.

For a more exotic trip, a sunrise game drive in Kruger National Park, South Africa might bring you face-to-face with elephants and leopards, while Chobe National Park in Botswana is famous for its massive herds of elephants along the Chobe River.

31. Take a Pottery Class

There’s something grounding about shaping clay with your own hands and watching it transform into something beautiful. One of my favorite experiences was joining a pottery workshop in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where local artists taught traditional Pueblo techniques passed down through generations.

If you’re traveling abroad, try a class in Okinawa, Japan, famous for its rustic Ryukyu pottery, or in Florence, Italy, where you can work in centuries-old studios surrounded by Renaissance art. Even at home, local community centers and art collectives often run summer sessions where you can throw your first pot or hand-build something unique.

32. Attend a Fireworks Show

Few things feel more like summer than lying back and watching a night sky explode in color. In the U.S., the Fourth of July fireworks in Washington, D.C. are legendary, lighting up the National Mall over the Lincoln Memorial and reflecting off the Potomac River.

If you want to pair fireworks with music and waterfront views, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a classic, while Navy Pier in Chicago puts on dazzling weekly displays all summer long. For an international spin, Vancouver’s Celebration of Light combines choreographed fireworks with live music in one of the city’s most scenic bays.

33. Visit a Science Museum

A good science museum turns learning into pure fun, whether you’re geeking out over space travel or diving into the mysteries of the deep sea. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. lets you stand under Apollo spacecraft and touch a real moon rock, while the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco packs an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome into one building.

If you’re in Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry has everything from a captured WWII submarine to a model coal mine you can “ride” through. Even smaller cities often have hidden-gem science centers, perfect for a rainy summer day.

34. Have a Photo Scavenger Hunt

A photo scavenger hunt turns exploring a city or neighborhood into a game. Create a list of things to find — like a street mural, a historic building, a food truck, or someone walking a dog in a funny hat — then set off with your camera or phone to capture them all.

This works perfectly in places packed with visual variety, like New York City’s Lower East Side, where you can hunt for iconic fire escapes and hidden speakeasies, or Lisbon, Portugal, with its tiled facades and colorful trams. I once did one in Savannah, Georgia, and ended up discovering quiet squares, quirky shops, and a bar inside an old mansion I’d never noticed before.

35. Go on a Boat Parade

A boat parade is like a festival on the water, where vessels of all shapes and sizes get dressed up in lights, flags, and outrageous decorations. In the summer, you can catch some spectacular ones like the Aquapalooza on Lake Travis, Texas, where hundreds of boats gather for a massive floating party, or the Seattle Seafair Torchlight Parade on the water that’s paired with air shows and live music.

Even smaller coastal towns join the fun. I once stumbled on a parade in Newport Beach, California, and ended up watching from a dockside cafe as sailboats glided by, each one trying to outdo the last with creative themes. Check local events calendars for harbors, lakes, or riverfronts near you, then find a good viewing spot or, better yet, hitch a ride on a friend’s boat and be part of the show yourself.

36. Try Archery

Archery isn’t just for medieval fairs or Olympic athletes. It’s surprisingly accessible and a satisfying skill to try. Honestly, it’s pretty meditative as well, as I learned at the Miraval Berkshires. Many outdoor adventure parks and recreation centers now offer beginner-friendly lessons. In the U.S., you could practice your aim at places like Bear Mountain State Park in New York, which has a public archery range, or Wilderness Adventure in Virginia, where you can pair archery with hiking and camping.

For a more immersive experience, head to the Scottish Highlands and take a lesson at a country estate where you’ll shoot in a setting that feels straight out of “Braveheart.” I tried archery once in Banff, Canada, with the Rockies as my backdrop, and let’s just say it’s a lot more fun when the view distracts you from missing the bullseye.

37. Take a Historical Walking Tour

A historical walking tour is the perfect mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and unexpected discoveries. You’re not just looking at old buildings…you’re hearing the drama, gossip, and pivotal moments that shaped a place. In Boston, the Freedom Trail winds you past revolutionary landmarks like Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church. In Charleston, South Carolina, cobblestone streets and antebellum mansions set the stage for stories of pirates, duels, and Southern tradition.

If you want something a little eerie, try a ghost-themed historical tour in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where you’ll explore hidden closes and hear chilling tales from the city’s past. I once joined a tour in New Orleans’ French Quarter and ended up learning more about Creole culture and voodoo history than I ever expected. Plus, I got restaurant tips I never would’ve found on my own.

38. Grab Breakfast at a Farmers’ Market

Start your morning with the smells, colors, and flavors of a local farmers’ market. It’s not just about shopping…it’s about tasting the place you’re in. In Portland, Oregon, the Saturday Market is a breakfast paradise where you can grab a flaky croissant, fresh berries, and a locally roasted pour-over before browsing handmade crafts. In Nice, France, the Cours Saleya market serves up pastries alongside piles of sun-ripened Mediterranean produce.

One of my favorite mornings was in Honolulu’s KCC Farmers’ Market, where I ate a plate of fresh poke and chased it with a tropical smoothie while watching the sun climb over Diamond Head. Go early for the best selection, and don’t be shy about chatting with the vendors. They often have the best tips on how to enjoy their produce or where else to explore in town.

39. Give Kite Surfing a Try

Kite surfing is part adrenaline rush, part dance with the wind. You strap in, launch your kite, and let the breeze pull you across the water while you carve turns or catch air. It’s a steep learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, the thrill is addictive.

Some of the best spots to try it include Maui’s Kanaha Beach Park in Hawaii, known for steady trade winds and turquoise water, and Cabarete in the Dominican Republic, a mecca for kite surfers from around the world. If you want something closer to home, check out South Padre Island, Texas, where the shallow Laguna Madre offers a forgiving place to practice.

I learned in Tarifa, Spain, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet. My arms were sore for days, but the grin stayed on my face the entire trip.

40. Go on a Scenic Train Ride

A scenic train ride turns the journey into the highlight of the trip. You can just sit back, sip a coffee, and watch the landscapes roll by. No traffic, no maps, no stress. In Colorado, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad winds through dramatic canyons and past the Animas River on a vintage steam train. In Switzerland, the Glacier Express links Zermatt and St. Moritz with sweeping alpine views, snowy peaks, and fairytale villages.

For coastal beauty, ride the Pacific Surfliner in California, where the tracks hug the edge of the ocean for miles. One of my personal favorites was the West Highland Line in Scotland…the same route the Jacobite Steam Train takes to the Glenfinnan Viaduct (yes, the “Harry Potter” bridge).

41. Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Spending a few hours at an animal shelter can turn an ordinary summer day into something unforgettable. You might walk energetic dogs who wag their tails at every squirrel, cuddle shy kittens learning to trust, or help feed rescued wildlife.

In Austin, Texas, the Austin Pets Alive! program welcomes travelers who want to lend a hand…you can even take a dog on a “day trip” around the city to help socialize them. In Vancouver, the BC SPCA sometimes offers seasonal volunteer slots for visitors, perfect if you’re on an extended stay.

I once volunteered at a shelter in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and ended up hiking with a group of rescue dogs through rice fields. The experience was equal parts heartwarming and hilarious.

42. Explore a Hidden Waterfall

There’s something magical about finding a waterfall that’s not on every tourist map. The sound of rushing water grows louder as you follow the trail, until suddenly it’s there…cascading into a misty pool surrounded by mossy rocks.

In Iceland, the Gljúfrabúi waterfall hides behind a cliff near the more famous Seljalandsfoss, and stepping through the narrow gap feels like entering another world. In Hawaii, hike the Pipiwai Trail in Maui’s Haleakalā National Park to reach the towering 400-foot Waimoku Falls, framed by bamboo groves. Closer to home, Oregon’s Abiqua Falls is a lesser-known gem tucked away in a basalt amphitheater.

One of my most memorable finds was in Costa Rica, where a local guide led me to a waterfall deep in the jungle. We swam under the spray, then lounged on warm rocks with nothing but the sound of the forest around us. These moments feel like nature’s best-kept secrets!

43. Plan a Weekend Camping Trip

A weekend camping trip is the perfect excuse to unplug, trade screens for starlight, and fall asleep to the sound of crickets. Two nights outdoors can feel like a full reset.

In the US, you could camp beside the turquoise waters of Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, or choose a site along the rim of Bryce Canyon in Utah, where the sunrise turns hoodoos gold. In Canada, Jasper National Park offers riverside spots where elk might wander past your tent. If you want comfort without roughing it, try a luxury glamping site in the Catskills, where you can still sip coffee in a cozy bed while listening to the morning birdsong.

One summer, I camped on the shores of Loch Morlich in Scotland, waking up to mountain reflections dancing on the water. It’s the kind of simple, peaceful beauty that sticks with you long after you pack up the tent. Pack up your luxury camping tent and essentials, and head out to a campsite that’s far enough away to feel like a real escape.

44. Go Parasailing Over the Ocean

Parasailing is like getting a bird’s-eye view of paradise. You’re strapped into a harness, the boat picks up speed, and suddenly you’re soaring above the water with the wind in your face and the whole coastline laid out below.

In Key West, Florida, parasailing gives you sweeping views of turquoise waters and colorful reefs. Maui’s Kaʻanapali Beach offers a chance to spot sea turtles and maybe even dolphins from above. For a more dramatic backdrop, try Cape Town, South Africa, where Table Mountain looms on one side and the Atlantic stretches endlessly on the other.

My favorite was in Santorini, Greece, where the view included whitewashed villages clinging to volcanic cliffs. Up there, the world feels quiet and peaceful…just you, the sea, and the horizon.

45. Cook a Farm-to-Table Meal

There’s something deeply satisfying about building a meal around the freshest ingredients you can find. Start with a visit to your local farmers’ market or a nearby farm stand, then let the day’s best produce inspire your menu. Maybe it’s roasted garden carrots with honey and thyme, grilled zucchini ribbons with lemon, or a simple tomato salad bursting with summer sweetness.

If you’re traveling, this can be an adventure in itself. In Tuscany, you might grab vine-ripened tomatoes, pecorino cheese, and crusty bread for a rustic panzanella. In Maine, think lobster with buttered corn and blueberry pie. Even at home, a farm-to-table dinner feels special…especially when you pair it with local wine or craft beer.

46. Take a Surfing Lesson

Learning to surf is equal parts wipeouts, laughter, and pure exhilaration. The first time you paddle out, you’ll feel the pull of the waves and the salt on your skin. Standing up for even a few seconds is a victory. And when you finally ride one all the way in, you’ll be hooked.

In the US, Waikiki Beach in Honolulu is ideal for beginners with its gentle, rolling waves and legendary surf schools. On the East Coast, Cocoa Beach, Florida, is home to warm waters and a laid-back surf culture. For something more exotic, try Bali’s Kuta Beach, where soft sandy bottoms make it beginner-friendly and the sunsets are unreal. Most surf schools provide the board, rash guard, and a patient instructor who’ll cheer you on with every small win. By the end of the day, you’ll be salty, sore, and grinning from ear to ear.

47. Attend an Outdoor Yoga Retreat

An outdoor yoga retreat blends movement, mindfulness, and nature into one soul-refreshing escape. You start your day with sun salutations as the light filters through the trees or reflects off the water, followed by deep stretches and guided meditation that leave you feeling grounded.

For coastal bliss, head to Tulum, Mexico, where beachfront yoga decks overlook turquoise water and the sound of waves becomes your soundtrack. In Arizona, Sedona offers retreats surrounded by red rock formations and the energy of its famous vortex sites. If you want cooler mountain air, Lake Tahoe has alpine retreats where you can pair yoga with hiking and lake swims.

Retreats often include nourishing meals, time for journaling, and plenty of space to disconnect from screens. You come away with more than just improved flexibility — you return with a clearer mind and a lighter spirit.

48. Organize a Beach Volleyball Tournament

There’s no better excuse to gather friends than a day of sun, sand, and spiking. Set up a net on a wide stretch of beach, split into teams, and let the games begin. The laughter between points, the friendly rivalries, and the occasional dramatic dive into the sand make it just as fun to watch as it is to play.

If you want a backdrop worth remembering, Santa Monica Beach in California is legendary for its volleyball culture and ocean views. On the East Coast, South Beach in Miami delivers warm water, palm trees, and a party atmosphere after the final match. You could even make it part of a trip to Oahu’s North Shore, mixing in some snorkeling or paddleboarding between games.

49. Join a Summer Sports League

Summer leagues are about more than the sport itself. They’re an instant ticket to a community. Whether you’re chasing a soccer ball at sunset, swinging for the fences in softball, or tossing a frisbee in ultimate, you’ll look forward to game night all week.

Many cities have casual leagues that welcome all skill levels. In Austin, Texas, you can join co-ed sand volleyball or kickball leagues that end with a cold drink at a local brewery. In Denver, summer softball teams mix mountain views with friendly competition. If you’re traveling, places like Sydney, Australia, even have drop-in beach soccer nights that are perfect for visitors.

50. Create a Summer Scrapbook

A summer scrapbook is more than a photo album…it’s a time capsule of the season. Gather your favorite snapshots, ticket stubs, pressed flowers, and little keepsakes from your adventures, then spend an afternoon piecing them together. Add handwritten captions, doodles, or even snippets from your travel journal to make each page personal.

If you’ve been on trips, include small maps marking your routes…maybe from a California road trip down Highway 1, a weekend exploring Nashville’s live music scene, or a hike through Banff National Park. Mix in Polaroid prints, seashells from that secret beach you found, or dried lavender from a farmers market. By the time fall rolls around, you’ll have a book you can flip through to relive sun-soaked days and spontaneous adventures for years to come.