120 Summer Bucket List Ideas for 2024 (+free printable): Plan your fun summer today!

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Summer bucket list ideas for 2024! These fun summer activities can be done outdoor or indoor, and are perfect for families with kids, couples on a date, or friends to do together.

Summer bucket list ideas for 2021! These fun summer activities can be done outdoor or indoor, and are perfect for families with kids, couples on a date, or friends to do together.

Have you ever made a summer bucket list?

It’s really fun to put together a list of fun summer activities you want to be sure to do before the season ends.

Try making one this year, so you can ensure you make the most of the season!

I put together a list of indoor and outdoor activities for adults and kids alike that you can use to fill up your list.

So whether you are trying to keep the kids entertained, want summer date night ideas, or are just looking for ways to have a memorable summer with friends, you’ll be inspired by this ultimate list of summer activities.

And guess what? Having fun doesn’t have to be expensive!

Most of these ideas are actually low-cost or completely free things.

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☀️ Psst! Want a free summer bucket list printable to keep track of the fun things you want to do this summer?

Sign up below to get access to the Vault of Awesome Printables! There are bucket lists for every season, plus tons of other helpful printables.

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List, with 120 cheap summer activities and free things to do in the summer. Check out these fun and frugal summer activities!

120 Things to Do This Summer

This frugal summer bucket list is divided up into outdoor and indoor activities. So no matter the weather, you’ll find something fun to do!

Outdoor Summer Activities:

1. Water balloon or water gun fight

Or try water ballon baseball. A great way to cool off on a super hot day.

2. Zoo or petting zoo

Petting zoos tend to be less expensive than big zoos. Check to see if your zoo has a season or yearly pass. It will pay for itself after only a couple of visits.

3. Stargaze

Head out to your backyard or other open outdoor space and see what constellations you can see.

4. Bonfire

Don’t forget the s’mores or other tasty snacks!

5. Fly a kite

When’s the last time you flew a kite? It’s a fun challenge. Just watch out for those trees!

6. Make Chalk art

You’re never too old to create a design with sidewalk chalk.

7. Visit a farmers’ market

Growers’ markets are the ideal place to get very fresh and affordable produce and other goodies.

Ultimate Summer Bucket List

8. Attend fireworks

Many local communities host fireworks during the summer. Bring a blanket or some chairs. The dollar store sells glow bracelets that can add to the experience.

9. Have a picnic

There’s something about the timeless act of having a picnic. You can make it as casual or fancy as you like. This picnic set has everything you need for a great time!

10. Neighborhood potluck or block party

You can plan this small neighborhood event in advance, or just be spontaneous and have everyone bring whatever food they have on hand.

11. ‘Camp’ in your backyard

If you have a tent, camping in the backyard is an easy way to have a memorable experience. Kids in particular get a big kick out of it.

12. Play frisbee or disc golf

Grab your family or some friends and enjoy a pick-up game of Frisbee.

13. Go swimming

This is a summer must-do. If you don’t have a pool, find a friend or neighbor who does. Or check out open-swim hours at your local park or school.

14. Take a bike ride

Don’t forget your helmet!

15. Outdoor concert

Many communities offer free outdoor concert series in the summer.

Frugal Summer Bucket List

16. Movie in the park

Many parks show projection movies for free during the warm weather months.

17. Play tennis

Almost every high school has tennis courts that anyone can use.

18. Yoga in the park

Check out your local parks to see if they offer free or cheap drop-in workout classes. I’ve seen yoga, tai chi, and cardio drumming offered.

19. Go for a hike

It doesn’t have to be a 20 mile strenuous workout. Look for a way to walk through the woods somewhere in your area. It’s just so peaceful.

20. Get ice cream

Visit the Dairy Queen, your local ice cream parlor, or buy something from the ice cream truck.

21. Flashlight tag

Playing tag is kinda fun, but flashlight tag at night is an especially fun treat.

22. Scavenger hunt

This could be done inside or out, and can be made appropriate for all ages. Here are some tips on creating a scavenger hunt.

23. Geocaching

Geocaching is the ultimate treasure hunt. And it’s free!

24. Host a bbq

Invite some family or friends over for some tasty grilled food.

Related: How to BBQ Indoors When You Can’t Get Outside (or don’t have a grill!)

25. Visit a state or county park

Many parks are completely free or have an affordable yearly pass.

26. Try (inter)tubing

Tubing down a river is a relaxing and fun way to stay cool.

27. Canoe or kayak

If you don’t have your own, it doesn’t cost very much to rent one for the day. Or see if any local kayak shops offer trial days where you can try one out for free.

Cheap Summer Activities

28. Local festivals

A variety of street fairs, art fairs, or food festivals will probably start opening in your area.

It can be a completely free outing f you don’t get suckered into buying anything. : )

29. Lemonade stand

Your kids especially would love to host a lemonade stand. You can raise money for charity if you’re so inclined.

30. Sunbathe

Not a popular option with the dermatologists, but I think most people enjoy sporting a summer tan!

31. Take your dog to a dog park

Your dog would probably love to meet some new dog friends!

32. Have a yard sale

Whether you’re drowning in clutter, or just want to make some extra cash, having a yard sale can be a good way to streamline your belongings.

Try getting a few families together and host a big one to draw bigger crowds. Don’t forget to advertise it on Craigslist.

33. Go fishing

It’s so relaxing to be near water. If you catch something, you can have a free meal, or just throw them back like we do.

34. Run through the sprinkler

Another timeless way to have some summer fun on a hot day.

35. Go to a lake

Visit a lake or river in your area. Swim, have a picnic, or just relax.

36. Garage sale shop

You can really find some hidden treasures at garage sales. For very affordable prices!

37. Play baseball, football, capture the flag, etc.

Playing a game is a fabulous way to get some exercise whilst having fun.

38. U-pick fruit farm

I loved going strawberry picking as a child. Depending on what fruit grows in your area, there are probably some fruit farms that let you pick your own.

39. Walk or play in the rain

You’re never too old to splash in a puddle!

40. Photo shoot

Hone your photography skills by taking photos of people or the beauty of nature.

Summer Bucket List: free things to do in the summer

41. Wash the car

This is both productive and fun!

42. Watch the sunrise

There’s something magical about being awake before everyone else and watching the sun come up.

43. Watch the sunset

If you’re not an early riser, enjoy a lovely sunset instead.

44. Breakfast on the grill

Shake up your grilling routing by cooking a weekend breakfast. I have these awesome grill mats , and nothing sticks. You can even do pancakes or eggs on the grill!

45. Watermelon spitting contest

Or if that sounds gross, try carving a watermelon into fun shapes.

46. Make sun tea

There’s just something extra special about sun tea.

47. Look for shapes in clouds

Lay on a blanket and see what shapes you see in the clouds.

48. Noodle war

Kids would love having a noodle fight with pool noodles. : )

49. Play with sparklers

The dollar store sells sparklers that are a festive way to spend a summer evening.

50. Plant an herb garden

Herbs are an easy and rewarding way to start gardening.

51. Visit botanical farm or arboretum

Many flower farms and arboretum are free to visit.

Cheap things to do in the summer

52. Drive-in movie

If you can find a drive-in movie theater, give it a try!

53. Act tourist-y in your own town

Visit the local landmarks that you thought were just for tourists. You may find something you really enjoy.

54. Watch a parade

There are probably quite a few parades going on in your area throughout the summer.

55. One day road trip

Pick somewhere fun that’s a couple hours away (or less) to go visit. You’ll have the road trip feel without the cost of a hotel stay.

56. Feed the ducks

Any park with a pond most likely has some ducks swimming around. Bring them some bread or food. They love it!

57. Tie-dye

Tie-dyeing your white shirts or socks (or whatever else you can think of) is a fun project. This tie-dye kit has everything you need.

58. Skip stones

If you’re near a pond, river, or lake, find a smooth stone and work on your stone-skipping skills.

59. Go camping 

Camping is one of the most affordable ways to have a getaway!

60. Night swim

Swimming at night is especially fun for all ages.

61. Make a tire swing

Nothing says summer quite like a tire swing.

Cheap Summer Activities

62. Build a sandcastle

If you go to the beach, you simply MUST build a sandcastle. Or you can make one in the sandbox at home!

63. Pick wildflowers

Make a lovely bouquet for your home from wildflowers.

64. Catch fireflies

Just be sure to let them go before too long.

65. Go rollerblading

Got some old roller blades lying around? Consider taking them out for a spin.

66. Visit a car show

There are tons of free car shows throughout the summer.

67. Flea market

Visit a flea market and see what treasures you come across.

68. Train for a 5k

A 5k race is a great way to challenge yourself, attend a fun event, and try something new.

69. Visit a splash pad

Many parks have a free splash pad area. Perfect on a hot day!

70. Play lawn games

From darts to bean bag toss to croquet, lawn games have a wonderful nostalgic feel.

71. State or county fair

As long as you don’t eat too many funnel cakes, a state fair should be a relatively affordable outing.

72. Blow bubbles

Blowing bubbles is so relaxing!

Cheap summer bucket list

73. Clean out your garage

This might not be the most fun thing on the list, but boy will it be nice when it’s done.

74. Cook over an open fire

Have that campout feel in your own backyard by cooking your dinner over a fire.

75. Jump rope or play hopscotch

Get some exercise and feel like a kid again.

Grab your copy of the printable summer bucket lists, and get access to our Vault of Awesome Printables in the sign-up box below!

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List, with 120 cheap summer activities and free things to do in the summer. Check out these fun and frugal summer activities!

 

Indoor summer fun activities:

If it’s raining, or you’re sick of being outside in the heat, try some of these cheap summer fun activities you can do inside!

76. Visit the library

Libraries usually have a variety of activities for kids, plus books, magazines, newspapers, and movies for everyone.

If you want a particular one, call ahead or ask at the desk. They will probably order it for you.

Cheap things to do in the summer

77. Window shop

Enjoy the cool air conditioning at the mall!

78. Cheap matinee movie

Most theaters have special summer matinee pricing on certain days during the summer. Bring your own snacks to keep it affordable.

79. Volunteer at an animal shelter

Places like animal shelters and ‘soup-kitchens’ are in need of help year-round.

80. Visit local nature center

Check to see if there’s a nature center in your community.

81. Make homemade popsicles

Make popsicles out of your favorite drink. These silicone molds make it so easy!

82. Start a side hustle business

Summer is a great time to think of a way to earn extra money. Options range from babysitting, gardening, house-sitting, dog-walking, tutoring, and many more.

Read next: 13 Legit Ideas Ways to Make Money From Home 

83. Visit local free museum

Many communities have local history museums that are free to visit. Some major museums have free days as well.

84. Have a dance party

Crank up your favorite playlist and dance around your living room.

85. Spa night

Alone or with friends, a spa night at home is a relaxing way to spend a summer evening.

86. Game night

Bust out those boardgames or a deck of cards and enjoy some friendly competition.

87. Thrift shop

Look for some summer or fall clothing at your local thrift store. Check to see if they have sale days with extra discounts.

88. Take a free workshop

Lowe’s and Home Depot offer free workshops where you can learn a new skill.

89. Build an indoor fort

Kids love making a fort with blankets in their bedroom or the living room.

90. Make homemade ice cream

Try making your own ice cream for an extra special treat. This ice cream maker  does all the work for you!

Frugal things to do in the summer

91. Christmas in July 

Have a Christmas in July evening or party. Put on some festive music or movies, and make some Christmas-y food.

Related: Check out this list of the Best Christmas Movies

92. Movie night

A movie night at home is a very fun and relaxing way to spend a rainy evening. Don’t forget the snacks!

Related: Here’s the Ultimate List of the Best Summer Movies!

93. ‘Chopped’ competition

Make some room in your pantry or freezer by hosting a Chopped competition. (Like the Food Network TV show)

94. Try out a new hobby

Summer is the perfect time to start a hobby you’ve been meaning to try.

95. Clothing swap

Consider hosting a small clothing swap. You can trade clothes or accessories with friends or family members, and all get ‘new’ stuff for free!

96. Bake cookies

Or brownies, or cupcakes, or anything that sounds delicious.

97. Try a new recipe

You don’t need an excuse to try a new recipe. But if you add it to your summer bucket list, you’ll be sure to do it.

98. Go bowling

Many of us tend to forget how fun it is to go bowling. And some bowling alleys offer deep discounts to kids on summer afternoons.

Ultimate Summer Bucket List

99. Make root beer floats

Grab a 2-liter of root beer and some vanilla ice cream, and enjoy a delicious root beer float.

100. Polish your nails or toes

Preferably a bright summer color. : )

101. Turn a pair of jeans into jean shorts

It’s easier than it sounds!

102. Read a summer-y book

Beach reads are an excellent way to get that summer-y feeling. You could create a summer reading challenge for yourself, and try to read as many books as possible.

103. Color or sketch

The dollar store sells a huge variety of coloring books and sketching notepads. You’ll feel like a kid again!

104. Take a nap

Preferably in a hammock, like this one.

Cheap summer activities

105. Listen to a podcast

It’s the perfect way to learn more about something that you’re interested in.

106. Organize your closet 

This is more fun than it sounds. You’ll discover clothes you forgot you had, and enjoy knowing where everything is for a change.

Related: Here are 10 easy closet organizing ideas you can try today

107. Lighthouse caretaker

Did you know that many lighthouses will let you stay there for free for a few days if you volunteer to take care of it? You can learn more about lighthouse accommodations here.

108. Host a brunch

Brunch is an especially affordable way to entertain.

109. Screen-free day

Don’t throw rocks at me for suggesting this, but I think we could all use a day without our technology screens.

It might be the most memorable day we’ve had in a while!

110. Play dress up or have a fashion show

If you’re organizing your closet, you’ll want to try on a bunch of outfits. Or let your kids play dress up and put on a fashion show.

111. Perform a Puppet show

Your children would love to watch a puppet show, or put one on for you.

112. Paint a room

You can completely change the look of a room with just a can or two of paint. And it’s totally a one-day project.

113. Make potpourri

It’s a fun, easy project. Here are some simple instructions.

114. Tea party

Ladies of all ages would enjoy a tea party. Whether or not to wear the fancy hat is up to you.

115. Make jam

Here’s a super easy way to make homemade jam.

Cheap summer activities

116. Put together a puzzle

Kick it old school and relax with a jigsaw puzzle.

117. Make snow cones

Snow cones or Hawaiin ice is the perfect summer treat. Here’s a way to make them easily at home.

118. Visit a friend or relative 

If you’ve only seen each other on Facebook lately, go and visit your loved one in person.

119. Look through photo albums

Looking through old photo albums is a great way to relive your fun memories.

120. Binge watch a new show

Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime make it so simple to watch an entire season of your new favorite show.

👉 Click here to get a 30 day free trial of Amazon Prime!

Ready to make your summer bucket list?

I hope you enjoyed this ultimate summer activities list, and you’re feeling inspired to:

  • Do tons of fun things this summer
  • Create your very own 2024 summer bucket list.

Rain or shine, there are tons of fun summer plans to make this year!

P.S. Don’t forget to download your summer bucket list, and design your very own fun summer!

Be sure to also check out:

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List, with 120 cheap summer activities and free things to do in the summer. Check out these fun and frugal summer activities!

Ultimate Summer Bucket List: 120 cheap summer activities and free things to do in the summer. Check out these fun frugal summer activities (+ printable!).

Cheap Summer Bucket List

 

Check out this Ultimate Summer Bucket List, with 120 cheap summer activities and free things to do in the summer. Check out these fun summer activities!

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