Hey friends! Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to hit pause on the chaos and make some magical memories with your family. Whether you’re sticking close to home or hitting the road, a summer bucket list is a fun way to make sure you don’t miss the moments that matter most.
To make it easy, I’ve pulled together a friendly checklist you can print, pin, or screenshot. There’s something here for every kind of family—from nature lovers and foodies to creative crafters and laid-back loungers.
You can download and print this Summer Bucket List as a PDF at this link: DOWNLOAD PDF
✅ How to Create a Summer Bucket List That Works for Your Family
-
Gather Ideas Together
Have a family meeting (or just a chat over dinner) and ask: “What’s one thing you really want to do this summer?” You’ll be surprised by the answers! -
Choose 10–20 Activities
Keep it manageable. Your list should be exciting—not overwhelming. -
Add Dates to Your Calendar
Some bucket list items (like a local fair or beach day) need planning. Use a shared calendar or even a paper wall planner to block out time. -
Keep It Visible
Tape your list to the fridge or family bulletin board to keep the fun front and center. -
Take Pictures and Celebrate Progress
Create a “Summer Memory Jar” or a shared photo album as you check things off.
Wall Calendar. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/45rwUCe
Memory Jar. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4jWbGQv
📋 The Ultimate Summer Family Bucket List
You can pick and choose what fits, or challenge yourselves to do them all!
Outdoor Adventures
-
🌳 Go on a nature walk or easy hike
-
🏖 Spend a day at the beach or lake
-
🚲 Take a family bike ride
-
🐚 Go tide pooling or shell hunting
-
🌌 Have a backyard stargazing night
-
🏕 Camp out—even if it’s in the backyard
Stargazing telescope for beginners. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4jY17wf
Water + Sun Fun
-
💦 Run through the sprinkler or set up a splash pad
-
🍧 Grab snow cones or make homemade popsicles
-
🎣 Try fishing or skipping stones at a pond
-
🏊 Visit a community pool or water park
Set of 6 Stainless Steel Popsicle Molds Kit. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4n54rrU
Seasonal Eats + Treats
-
🍓 Pick your own berries at a local farm
-
🍔 Host a backyard BBQ or picnic at the park
-
🧁 Bake cupcakes and let the kids decorate them
-
🍕 Make “build your own” mini pizzas
Cuisinart Salad Spinner, washes fruit, too. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3HYVtfN
Local Outings
-
🎡 Go to a fair, carnival, or outdoor concert
-
📚 Visit the local library’s summer reading events
-
🖼 Explore a museum or botanical garden
-
🛍️ Hit up a local farmer’s market
Folding Market Basket. I’ve bought this as a gift and the recipient loves it and still uses it years later. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4e8hkOb
At-Home Fun
-
🎥 Have a movie night with popcorn and cozy blankets (Read my earlier blog post to season this delicious copycat popcorn: https://livingwithdana.com/2025/04/diy-flavored-popcorn-a-delicious-nutritious-alternative-to-store-bought-snacks/
-
🎨 Try a craft kit or paint rocks for the garden (read my earlier blog post about painting rocks at this link: https://livingwithdana.com/2025/06/painted-rocks-that-spread-joy/
-
🏠 Build the ultimate indoor fort
-
🎲 Host a game night with prizes
-
🍿 Make s’mores—no campfire required!
Avlcoaky Tackle Box Large 3 Layers Plastic Portable Storage Box Fishing White Tackle Box Organizer Art Craft Tool Box #Amazon #affiliate link https://amzn.to/3XbL8mu
Marshmallow Roasting Sticks, Telescoping Smores Sticks for Open Fire Pit, 32 Inch Long #Amazon #affiliate link https://amzn.to/4cbzgVK
MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit, 45 inches Extra Long, 4-pack. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4l1MLff
💡 Bonus Tips for Busy Parents
-
Plan in blocks: Do one “big” outing per week, then fill in with small, easy wins.
-
Keep a go-bag: Stock it with sunscreen, water bottles, hand wipes, and snacks—ready for spontaneous fun.
-
Don’t stress: You don’t have to do everything. Even a few intentional moments can make a big impact.
Let this be the summer of joy, laughter, and memory-making. 💛 I’d love to hear what’s on your family’s bucket list—leave a comment or tag me @LivingWithDana if you post on Instagram! Stay safe, have fun, and make this summer count.
xo, Dana
