75 Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas for Teens

This summer bucket list for teens came out of years of trial and error with my own teen, some ideas were total wins, others flopped hard (turns out not every 14 year old wants to make friendship bracelets).

But what stuck were the activities that felt low-pressure, a little adventurous, and gave him something to talk about after.

Whether your teen’s into trying new things or just looking for ways to beat the summer slump, these 75 ideas are a mix of fun, freedom, and stuff they might actually want to do.

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Your Summer Bucket List for Teens Starts Here

Summer always felt like it should be a break, but with teenagers, it can turn into a stretch of boredom fast.

That’s why we’ve put together this summer bucket list ideas for teens based on what’s actually worked in our house: a mix of outdoor adventures, creative projects, and easy, low-effort wins that still feel fun.

Whether your teen’s up for hiking and kayaking or more into chill nights and creative challenges, there’s something here to help make this summer one to remember, without a packed schedule or pressure to be productive.

1. Hit the Trails

Explore nature by hiking on local trails. State parks often have scenic routes that are perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.

2. Bike Adventures

Grab your bike and hit the biking trails. Whether you’re into mountain biking or a casual ride through the park, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

3. Kayaking Fun

Find a nearby lake or river and spend a day kayaking. It’s a fun way to cool off and enjoy the water.

4. Visit an Amusement Park

Spend a thrilling day at an amusement park. Ride roller coasters, play carnival games, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

5. Backyard Camping

Set up a tent in your backyard and enjoy a night under the stars. Make s’mores, tell stories, and enjoy the simple joys of camping without leaving home. Why not use our free kids camping scavenger hunt too! Even if the tent collapses halfway through the night (true story), it still counts.

6. Water Balloon Fights

Gather friends for an epic water balloon fight. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.

7. Summer Reading Challenge

Visit your local library and pick up some books for a summer reading challenge. Set goals and enjoy diving into different worlds. We’ve done this every summer since my son was 10, it’s the only ‘challenge’ he actually looks forward to.

8. DIY Crafts

Get creative with some DIY summer crafts. Make friendship bracelets, decorate your room, or create unique art pieces.

9. Outdoor Movie Night

Set up a projector in your backyard and have an outdoor movie night. Don’t forget the popcorn!

10. Go Horseback Riding

Spend a day horseback riding. It’s a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful ride.

11. Try Paddleboarding

If you live near water, try paddleboarding. It’s fun, challenging, and a great way to enjoy the summer sun.

12. Explore a State Park

Visit a state park and spend the day hiking, picnicking, or exploring the natural beauty.

13. Beach Day

Head to the beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf. Build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, and enjoy the waves.

14. Go Canoeing

Rent a canoe and explore a local lake or river. It’s a peaceful way to spend the day on the water.

15. Fun with Sidewalk Chalk

Get creative with sidewalk chalk. Draw murals, play games, and transform your driveway into a colorful masterpiece.

Print out our free summer bucket list free printable for even more ideas.

16. Waterpark Adventures

Visit a waterpark and enjoy the slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. It’s a perfect way to cool off.

17. Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Organize a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood or a local park. It’s a fun and adventurous way to spend time with friends. Use one of our free scavenger hunt printables.

18. Attend a Summer Festival

Check out local summer festivals. Enjoy live music, food stalls, and various entertainment options.

19. Try Geocaching

Join the modern-day treasure hunt by geocaching. Use a GPS to find hidden caches in your area.

20. Backyard Barbecue

Host a backyard barbecue. Invite friends, grill some food, and enjoy a relaxed summer evening.

21. Go Mini-Golfing

Spend an afternoon playing mini-golf. It’s fun, competitive, and perfect for a group outing.

22. Explore a Nature Center

Visit a nature center and learn about local wildlife. It’s educational and a great way to appreciate the environment.

23. Play Frisbee Golf

Try your hand at Frisbee golf. It’s a fun and active way to spend time outdoors.

24. Have a Game Night

Host a game night with your favorite board games. It’s a fun way to stay entertained on a rainy day. Check out the best card games for teenagers for inspiration.

25. Visit an Aquarium

Spend a day at an aquarium and marvel at the sea life. It’s both relaxing and educational, take our aquarium scavenger hunt printable with you.

26. Go Bowling

Head to your local bowling alley and have a friendly competition with friends.

27. Try Skateboarding

If you’re into thrills, try skateboarding. Find a skate park and practice some tricks.

28. Participate in a Summer Camp

Join a summer camp that interests you. Whether it’s arts, sports, or adventure, it’s a great way to meet new friends and have fun.

29. Host a Pool Party

If you have access to a pool, host a pool party. Play games, swim, and enjoy the water.

30. Visit a Museum

Check out a local museum. It’s a great way to enjoy summer learning and escape the summer heat. We always bring a museum scavenger hunt—it keeps the eye rolls to a minimum.

31. Go Fishing

Spend a peaceful day fishing. Whether at a lake, river, or the ocean, it’s a relaxing activity.

32. Organize a Sports Tournament

Get your friends together and organize a sports tournament. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or volleyball, it’s fun and competitive.

33. Enjoy a Drive-In Movie

Find a drive-in theater and enjoy a movie from your car. It’s a nostalgic and unique way to watch films.

34. Visit a Local Farm

Spend a day at a local farm. Pick fresh fruits, meet animals, and enjoy the countryside.

35. Try Zip-lining

For the adventurous, try zip-lining. It’s an exhilarating way to see the world from a different perspective.

36. Go Whitewater Rafting

If you’re near a river, try whitewater rafting. It’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

37. Have a Picnic

Pack a picnic and head to a park. Enjoy good food, nature, and a relaxed atmosphere.

38. Try Ice Cream Making

Make your own homemade ice cream. Experiment with different flavors and enjoy a sweet treat.

39. Visit a Trampoline Park

Spend a day at a trampoline park. It’s a fun way to stay active and have a blast.

40. Attend a Concert

Check out local concerts and enjoy live music. It’s a great way to spend a summer evening.

41. Go Mountain Biking

Find a trail and go mountain biking. It’s challenging and a great workout.

42. Try Surfing

If you’re near the ocean, take a surfing lesson. It’s a thrilling way to enjoy the waves.

43. Visit a Lighthouse

Explore a nearby lighthouse. Learn about its history and enjoy the scenic views.

44. Host a Sleepover

Invite friends for a sleepover. Watch movies, play games, and stay up late talking.

45. Try Gardening

Start a garden and grow your own vegetables or flowers. It’s rewarding and relaxing.

46. Explore a New Town

Take a day trip to a nearby town. Explore its shops, restaurants, and local attractions.

47. Have a Lemonade Stand

Set up a lemonade stand in your neighborhood. It’s a fun way to make some extra money.

48. Visit an Animal Sanctuary

Spending time at an animal sanctuary is always a favorite in our house—it’s calm, meaningful, and a great way to learn more about how different animals are cared for. My teen still talks about the goat that tried to eat his shoelaces.

49. Create a Photo Journal

Document your summer adventures in a photo journal. Capture memories and create a keepsake.

50. Volunteer

Give back to your community by volunteering. It’s a fulfilling way to spend your time and make a difference.

51. Try Fly-Fishing

Head to a local stream or river and try fly-fishing. It’s a relaxing and skillful activity.

52. Decorate Your Room

Use your creative skills to redecorate your room. Change up the décor and make it a fun summer project.

53. Go Boating

Spend a day boating on a lake. Whether it’s sailing, motor boating, or rowing, it’s a great way to enjoy the water.

54. Take a Cooking Class

Sign up for a cooking class and learn to make new dishes. It’s a great way to develop a new skill.

55. Play Capture the Flag

Organize a game of capture the flag with friends. It’s active, strategic, and loads of fun.

56. Visit a Botanical Garden

Spend a day at a botanical garden. Enjoy the beauty of various plants and flowers.

57. Tree-top Obstacle Course

This was one of the biggest surprises for us—my teen was hesitant at first but ended up racing through the course like a pro (and sleeping like a rock that night). It’s a fun mix of challenge, adrenaline, and fresh air.

58. Learn a New Instrument

Pick up a musical instrument and teach yourself to play. It’s a rewarding and creative way to spend your time. Check out the best online piano lessons for kids.

59. Create a Summer Playlist

Compile your favorite summer songs into a playlist. It’s perfect for any summer activity.

60. Stargazing

Spend a night stargazing. Find a quiet spot, lay down a blanket, and enjoy the night sky.

61. Go Rock Climbing

Find a local rock climbing gym or outdoor site. It’s a great way to challenge yourself physically.

62. Visit an Art Gallery

Spend a day exploring an art gallery. Enjoy the creativity and inspiration from various artworks.

63. Go Sledding on Sand Dunes

If you live near sand dunes, try sledding on them. It’s a fun twist on traditional sledding.

64. Participate in a Fun Run

Join a local fun run or charity walk. It’s a great way to stay active and support a good cause.

65. Try Archery

Take an archery lesson and test your skills with a bow and arrow. It’s fun and challenging.

66. Build a Treehouse

If you’re up for a project, build a treehouse. It’s a fun summer activity and creates a cool hangout spot.

67. Try an Escape Room

We tried our first escape room last summer, and it was 60 minutes of chaos, laughs, and surprisingly good teamwork. If your teen likes puzzles or a bit of pressure, this one’s a win.

68. Take a Road Trip

Plan a road trip with friends or family. Explore new places and create lasting memories. Take our car bingo game with you and have fun on your way. Ours usually starts with excitement and ends with snack wrappers everywhere—but totally worth it.

Have fun with our favorite printable games for road trips too!

69. Go Whale Watching

If you’re near the coast, go on a whale-watching tour. It’s a breathtaking experience.

70. Try a New Sport

Pick up a new sport like tennis, golf, or even frisbee. It’s a great way to stay active and have fun.

71. Do a Puzzle

Work on a large jigsaw puzzle. It’s a relaxing activity that you can do alone or with friends.

72. Attend a Drive-In Concert

Check out if there are any drive-in concerts near you. Enjoy live music from the comfort of your car.

73. Go Kite Flying

Find a windy day and fly a kite. It’s a simple but enjoyable activity.

74. Explore a Historical Site

Visit a nearby historical site. Learn about the history and significance of the place.

75. Have a Photo Scavenger Hunt

Organize a photo scavenger hunt. Create a list of items to find and photograph around your town.

Last Updated on 22 April 2025 by Clare Brown