100 Sensational Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids 2025

I’m so glad you clicked! I am so tired of seeing summer bucket lists like “take the kids to Singapore” or “Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro.” Hey, good for you, if that’s your thing. I don’t think for my kids, that will be on their summer bucket list for teens. (they’re both teens now.)

That’s not my thing. When you have a child with as many medical needs as my child has, remote places in the world are not an option. Still, I wanted to have ideas and activities for us to do this summer—you know, a summer bucket list for kids.

But I still want us to have fun.

Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids

I have a mental list of things I want to do. And every summer,  I never do what I planned to do. With this summer bucket list for kids this year, we will have a great summer.

Finally, no more “what should we do today?” Or my all-time favorite, “I’m bored!”

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Most of these activities can be adapted for all ages.

Running through the sprinkler might be too babyish for a teenager.

But a Nerf water gun battle isn’t too babyish!

Summer Bucket List

Really, I’m trying not to get totally crazy with summer planning. But, today was an absolutely GORGEOUS day here, just simply perfect weather. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

And several times, I had to remind my son that it was a screen-free day and to get him off the Minecraft! put down the Fortnite and go outside! (this is an older post that I’m updating, so he’s not into Minecraft anymore)

So frustrating; what is it about some of these games? He always has fun once he gets outside. Sometimes he needs a nudge. I don’t want to overschedule him with camps and other organized activities.

Plus, I am NOT “that mom” who creates craft projects at home. I created this sheet for us to follow. Every year, I say that I want the BEST SUMMER EVER. This year, we will do it!

Summer Bucket List for Kids

Day trips don’t have to be super far or super expensive. Use the internet to find free and low-cost options for local day trips. Even going to the library for their summer reading program can be fun, and free!

You may want to check out a local farm and pick your own produce. Go to a nearby creek and wade in the water, skimming rocks. Most importantly, I want my kids outside!

So here you go, a super low-key printable to remind yourself and your kids to get outside and have some fun.

Summer Bucket List for Kids

Here you go, your printable summer bucket list for kids.

Suppose the 100 summer fun activities list for kids and teens is too overwhelming. No worries. I got you!

Here is a simpler, blank summer bucket list for kids. This is for those who need to tackle it in smaller bites. It’s the low-stress, low-activity version.

Summer Ideas

Here are a few more summer bucket list ideas for kids.

Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore, learn, and have fun outdoors. Creating a summer bucket list can ignite excitement and make the most of those sunny days. Here are some ideas to include in a kid-friendly summer bucket list:

1. Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt: Explore parks, forests, or even your backyard to find items like different types of leaves, rocks, or insects.
2. Have a Picnic: Pack a basket full of snacks and sandwiches, find a cozy spot outdoors, and enjoy a delightful picnic with friends or family.
3. Visit a Zoo or Aquarium: Spend a day learning about fascinating animals from around the world. It’s both educational and entertaining.
4. Create Sidewalk Art: Use chalk to draw colorful masterpieces on the sidewalk or driveway. Get creative with hopscotch, mazes, or your own imaginative designs.
5. Build a Fort: Let imaginations run wild by constructing a fort out of blankets, pillows, and chairs. It’s a cozy hideaway for reading, playing games, or even having a backyard campout.
6. Learn a New Outdoor Sport: Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or even frisbee, summer is the perfect time to pick up a new sport and practice outdoors.
7. Host a Lemonade Stand: Teach kids about entrepreneurship by setting up a lemonade stand in your neighborhood. They can learn about money management while having fun serving refreshing drinks.
8. Go Stargazing: Stay up late one night and lay out under the stars. Try to spot constellations or simply enjoy the beauty of the night sky.
9. Plant a Garden: Get hands-on experience by planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables. It’s a great way to learn about nature and responsibility.
10. Have a Water Balloon Fight: Beat the summer heat by organizing a playful water balloon fight with friends or family. It’s a guaranteed way to create lasting memories and laughter.

With these summer bucket list ideas, kids can make the most of their summer vacation while having unforgettable experiences and learning new things along the way.

Whatever you do this summer, enjoy it!