Need ideas for things to do with the family, but feel like you don’t have enough time or just aren’t sure what to do? Summer is the perfect time to explore the outdoors, have fun with your loved ones and make time to relax and just enjoy the long, lazy days.
Remember, the season doesn’t technically end until late September! There’s still plenty of time to take advantage of these 10 summer activities that are sure to lead to good times, lots of fun and plenty of adventure.
1. Go Stargazing
There’s a lot to see in the summer night sky. According to National Geographic, in late August you’ll be able to see Mars and Saturn in the same area of the sky, along with Antares, the brightest star in the Scorpius constellation. At the end of August, you can catch both Venus and Jupiter when the two luminous planets have a cosmic close encounter.
2. Hit the Lake (or River, or Creek, or Ocean … )
Don’t limit yourself to the neighborhood or community pool. Before summer’s over, take the family to the nearest natural body of water. Go for a swim, or consider renting kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards. Swimming and water sports are not only fun, but they’re also a great way for the whole family to get some exercise. Or, if you’re in the mood for a lazy day out, just bring some snacks and floats and relax for the day. Don’t have access to a body of water? Be adventurous and hit up a water park instead.
3. Go Camping — or “Glamping”!
Camping is one of the greatest things to do when you want to get close to nature and bond with your family. Without modern distractions such as TVs, video games or smartphones, you can really unplug and be present with your loved ones.
If camping isn’t your thing, maybe a day hike will fulfill your desire for outdoor exploration (and help burn off those summer barbecue calories). You can also consider spending a weekend at a cabin in your local state park instead, or rent a yurt. Yurts come complete with sturdy roofs and floors, and many include basic amenities such as beds and tables. It’s a good way to go “glamping” (a glamorous form of camping that allows you to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing modern comforts) if you’re not so sure about spending a few days sleeping in a tent.
4. Host a Cookout
Getting outside and enjoying the great weather before cooler days creep in is always fun, but it’s even more enjoyable when you can invite your friends and neighbors to experience it with you. Bust out the grill and host a cookout. Invite your favorite people and ask them to bring their tastiest side dish or dessert. You can supply the burgers and hot dogs, and your guests can contribute their best summer side dishes to create a great spread everyone will enjoy.
5. Take in a Game …
Nothing says summer like a day at the ballpark. Grab your peanuts and Cracker Jack, and check out some local teams with your family, from the pros to the minor leagues. Or, if you’re more of a football fan, pack up your cooler, get ready for some tailgating fun, and cheer on your favorite team at a preseason or college football game.
6. … Or Play Your Own!
There are countless outdoor games your family can play, from just tossing a baseball around to a full-fledged game of flag football. You and members of your family can join a recreational league, or you can keep things close to home by setting up some lawn games in your own backyard. Some family favorites include cornhole and horseshoes.
7. Savor Alfresco Dining With a Seasonal Drink
This might not qualify as things to do with the family (at least not the whole family), but that’s alright. The adults in the family should take some time to treat themselves before the summer’s over. Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant with outdoor seating, and (responsibly, of course) enjoy an adult beverage or two.
8. Take a Last-minute Vacation
There’s still time to plan a getaway — or enjoy a second one — this season! You may even be able to score last-minute deals on flights and hotels that want to sell out seats and rooms. Feel like you can’t take the time off or treat yourself to a trip? Research shows that using your vacation time makes you happier, more successful and even more likely to get a promotion at work, according to the Harvard Business Review.
9. Enjoy Free Family Activities
Many communities host free things to do with the family during the summer, from fairs and festivals to outdoor concerts. Look up what’s going on in your local area and plan to attend an event or two before fall arrives.
You can also keep the fun at home by hosting a backyard movie night or a sleep-out under the stars. Or just keep it simple: Pack a picnic and head to your local park. Don’t forget to take plenty of water and something comfy to sit on so you can fully enjoy a few hours outside.
10. Make the Most of Your Money
Not everything is free, but that doesn’t mean you need to pay full price. Log in to My TotalSource® to access ADP’s Discounts, powered by Lifemart. There you can take advantage of deals on summer activities, movies, travel and more for the whole family. You’ll save money and make room in your budget for more summer fun before the season ends.
Time always flies when you keep busy and stay active, but there’s still some summer left to enjoy. Take advantage and try one of these ideas this week.