Kids Summer Bucket List: 50 Fun Ideas + Free Printable

Summer is just around the corner, and if you're looking for the ultimate kids summer bucket list, you're in the right place. 💗

I've rounded up 50 of the best summer bucket list ideas for kids — everything from classic old-school fun (sprinklers! sidewalk chalk! water balloons!) to new family traditions your kids will ask to do every year. Whether you have a toddler, a preschooler, or a middle schooler rolling their eyes at you, this list has something for everyone.

👇 Grab the free printable summer bucket list for kids below — three versions included so you can pick the one that works for your family.

And yes, I know May nearly broke you. Between the tournaments, the spirit days, the classroom parties, and somehow also planning an entire summer… you deserve a plan that's actually fun to use. Let's do this. ☀️

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Why Every Family Needs a Summer Bucket List

Is a summer bucket list worth it? I think so! Here are a few reasons why: 

• Summer always feels like it goes by so quickly! By putting together some ideas for a summer bucket list, you can make sure you have time for all the fun summer activities you want to do as a family. 

• Battle boredom with purpose. First, it’s ok — and good — for kids to be a little bored! This is often what sparks their imagination and creativity. But if kids are continuously complaining that they have nothing to do, that isn’t fun for anyone. Having a list of ideas ready to go can help!

• Many people crave the slow, flexible, and unstructured days of summer. But in reality, we all need a little structure! Routines, especially, give kids a sense of control and independence. 

• Explore the possibilities of summer fun for all ages. There are some things that are just better during summer! My ideas for a summer bucket list can help remind you of your favorite summer activities and encourage you to go on new adventures. 

How to Create (and Use) a Summer Bucket List Your Kids Will Love

• Brainstorm summer bucket list ideas together as a family. Remember, there are no bad ideas during a brainstorm! Even if it sounds silly or unrealistic, write it down. 

• If you’re feeling stuck, ask everyone what their favorite things about summer are or if there’s anything new they want to try. Consider mixing classic activities with new experiences — maybe your kids want to try that lemonade stand you had as a kid!

• Use these ideas along with my printable to create your family’s summer bucket list. If you want, you can prioritize activities by starring the ones that everyone wants to do. Or you can narrow it down with your top 20. 

• Remind yourself to plan ahead. Make sure to note which of your summer bucket list ideas will need you to purchase a ticket or reserve something in advance.

• Put all events with a specific date on your calendar so you don’t miss them. This could be a street fair, outdoor concert, or a barbecue with friends. Anything that requires a ticket or reservation should also go on the calendar. 

• Remember to have fun! Planning activities for your family can be stressful sometimes, so try to remain flexible, take breaks when needed, and bring lots of snacks (always!). 

• Create a "boredom buster" jar for spontaneous fun. Write out all of the activities from your summer bucket list for kids that are easy to do on a whim, and put them in a jar. When your kids feel bored and say they have nothing to do, have them choose one of the ideas.  

• Make it visible. Hang your summer bucket list for kids somewhere visible so it’s easy for everyone to look at and use. I have a few printables for you below!

• Remember it’s ok for kids to be a little bored and not fill their days with tons of activities or outings. Summer is a delicate balance of giving kids structure and things to do while also giving them time to use their own imagination and rest. 

Summer Bucket List by Age

Not all summer fun looks the same and that's a good thing! Here's a quick breakdown by age so you can find the ideas that are the best fit for your kids. (And yes, if you have multiple ages at home like I do, just mix and match.)

Toddler & Preschool Summer Bucket List (Ages 2–5)

Little ones don't need much, they just need you, some water, and permission to get messy. These are the ideas toddlers and preschoolers absolutely love:

• Run through the sprinklers or splash in a splash pad
• Make popsicles together (they can "help" by licking the spoon 😂)
• Do sidewalk chalk art on the driveway
• Visit a farm or pick berries at a u-pick
• Set up a backyard water sensory bin

Bonus: Grab the visual version of the free printable — perfect for little ones who can't read yet but love checking things off!

Elementary Kids Summer Bucket List (Ages 6–10)

This is the sweet spot. They are old enough to do almost everything, young enough to still think everything is the coolest. These ideas are big hits with this age group:

• Set up a scavenger hunt in the backyard or neighborhood
• Have a yes day (brace yourself 😅)
• Camp out in the backyard & make s'mores
• Create a summer reading challenge with a prize at the end
• Tour local ice cream shops & crown a summer champion

Middle School Summer Bucket List (Ages 11+)

Middle schoolers still want to have fun, they just need to feel like it was their idea. Give them some ownership and watch them come around. These ideas tend to land:

• Plan & execute a day trip somewhere new (let them research it)
• Sign up for a sleepaway camp or week-long sports camp
• Start a summer journal or photo book to document the season
• Go kayaking, fishing, or try a new outdoor adventure
• Host a patio party or movie night for their friends

Looking for more free printables? Head to my Freebies page for more mom-approved downloads. 💗

50 Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids

Classic Outdoor Summer Activities (Old-School Fun That Never Gets Old)

1. Run through the sprinklers.  Just like you did as a kid! If your kids love playing in the water, consider getting an inflatable splash pad or water slide for your backyard.

2. Have a water balloon fight . The ultimate 90s throwback activity. My family loves these reusable water balloons. Easy to use and less of a mess!

3. Create a sidewalk chalk mural. A timeless summer classic. Challenge your family to decorate the driveway or sidewalk with an epic mural or encouraging messages for neighbors.

4. Fly a kite.  Old-fashioned fun that's still magical. A classic summer tradition that my family loves to do!

5. Have a picnic.  Screen-free family time at its best. Pack everyone's favorite summer foods and enjoy a picnic at the park — or in your own backyard.

6. Go biking. Bike around the neighborhood or find a fun trail to explore.

7. Go on a hike. Use a site like All Trails to find hikes near you. You can also filter by driving distance, difficulty level, and trail length.

8. Play a lawn game. Try bocce ball, frisbee golf, croquet, capture the flag, or cornhole.

9. Scoot, skip, or rollerblade. Looking for fun physical activities? Grab rollerblades, a scooter, or a skip ball for your kids.

Water Fun & Summer Favorites

10. Go to the pool. We love the pool! Check out my post for my family's favorite pool toys, tips, and more.

11. Splash in a splash pad. Search online to see when your local splash pads open. Don't forget towels and a change of clothing!

12. Go to the beach. If you need help planning a beach trip, check out my favorite beach toys, gear, and more.

13. Try a new outdoor water activity for adventurous families. Go fishing, kayaking, surfing, or horseback riding.

14. Eat (or make) popsicles. Summer's sweetest tradition. These popsicle holders are perfect for kids. You can also make any kind of popsicle you want with a popsicle mold.

15. Make ice cream sundaes. Grab your family's favorite ice cream flavors and toppings to make your own sundaes.

16. Tour local ice cream shops.  Create your own "Best of Summer" rankings. Make a list of 3–5 nearby spots and rate the flavors, cones, and vibes. Maybe crown a "Best Ice cream of the Summer."

Nature & Adventure Activities

17. Go to the zoo. Look ahead for fun events your kids will like and to make reservations.

18. Visit your local aquarium or museum. Look ahead for any events and to make reservations.

19. Visit a national park or state park. Plan ahead to see which parks are nearby or are worth driving to. Some parks also require a reservation in advance.

20. Plant veggies or flowers. Do a quick search online to see which vegetables and flowers thrive during summer, then grab some starts. If you need some inspiration, check out my kids gardening guide for tips on getting started!

21. Visit a farmer's market. Pick 2-3 markets to check out this summer and see how they compare.

22. Pick berries. Check your local farms for u-pick berries. Look ahead to see which fruit is available and for how long.

23. Visit a farm. Check your local farms to see what events they have going on — or just go for the wide open spaces, fresh food, and cute marketplaces.

24. Take up birdwatching.  Nature connection for the whole family. According to NPR, more kids are getting into bird and nature watching! Set up a simple bird feeder or grab a high-tech feeder that identifies birds.

25. Watch the sunset or sunrise.  Simple moments that create lasting memories. Plan a calm evening or early morning to pause and enjoy nature together. Bring a blanket and a special treat.

Creative & Indoor Summer Activities

26. Have an arts & crafts day. Perfect for indoors (when it's too hot) or outdoors! Here are some arts & crafts ideas for toddlers, preschoolers, and older kids.    

27. Start a journal. This is a great way for kids to get out their thoughts and feelings, write about their summer experiences, or start practicing gratitude.

28. Bake a yummy dessert. Bake family favorites or try something new! If your kids love to help in the kitchen, check out my tips and ideas for baking with kids.

29. Have a movie marathon.  Cozy summer days have their place too. Perfect for those days where kids just want to be cozy inside! Here are our favorite family movies, the best family sports movies, movies for tween girls, and the best summer movies for kids.

30. Play games when it's too hot outside. Too hot to go outside? Spend the day playing games instead. Here are my family’s favorite games.

31. Try a kid's workshop for hands-on learning. Check out your local home improvement stores to see if they offer skill-building classes for kids.

32. Make a photo book to document your summer adventures. Document your family's summer adventures so everyone can talk about their favorite experiences. I love this instant photo printer for printing photos quickly at home.

Community & Social Summer Fun

33. Camp out and make s'mores.  Backyard camping counts! If it's too hot outside, try camping in your living room.

34. Go to a playground. Now's the time to check out playgrounds past your neighborhood.

35. Go to a fair, carnival, or amusement park. Search ahead to see when state fairs and other fairgrounds open.

36. Plan a patio party.  Summer entertaining made easy. Have family, friends, or neighbors over for a summer celebration. Keep it casual or go all out with a themed party.

37. Go to an outdoor concert. Look ahead to see which bands and artists are coming to your city this summer.

38. Enjoy movies outside.  Summer cinema under the stars. See if your city hosts movie nights at parks — or set up your own movie night outdoors with a projector and white sheet.

39. Check out a garage sale. Many people set up garage sales in the summer. Scout them out with your family and see what unique treasures you can find!

40. Visit your local community center. Look ahead to see what sort of classes or events your community center is offering over the summer.

Adventure & Travel Ideas

41. Take a road trip. If you need some help with the planning, check out my travel posts: Travel Games, Travel Activities, and Travel Gear for Kids.

42. Plan a day trip. Think about somewhere fun you can go that's only an hour or two away. Then list out what you'll do while there.

43. Fly somewhere fun. Bigger trips usually take 6 months to a year of planning and booking ahead, but quick weekend getaways can be done 1-3 months in advance!

44. Sign up for a sleepaway camp. Two of my daughters love doing this every summer! Here are my kids’ summer camp favorites if you need tips and ideas for what to pack.

Special Summer Traditions

45. Create a summer reading challenge.  Learning disguised as fun. Check your local library to see if they have their own challenge with prizes— and grab my roundup of the best summer books for kids to stock up on great reads!

46. Play a sport. Summer is a great time to find a week-long sports camp, try a new sport, or just play around in the backyard. Here are my favorite yard games for kids that the whole family will love.

47. Set up a scavenger hunt. Make it even easier on yourself with scavenger hunt cards. Have little ones? Grab these cards for toddlers.

48. Enjoy your favorite summer foods. This could be watermelon and cherries, hotdogs and potato salad, or anything grilled on the barbecue. Check out my favorite easy summer dinners the whole family will actually eat.

49. Get messy outside. Summer freedom at its finest. Summer days are the perfect time for kids to finger paint, play with mud, and blow bubbles. Check out this post for other outdoor play ideas for little kids.

50. Have a "yes day". Controlled chaos that creates amazing memories. Within reason, say "yes" to (almost) everything the kids ask for that day — from food choices to activities. It's chaotic, but memorable.

Kids' Summer Bucket List Supplies 👆

Summer Bucket List for Kids FAQs

What should be on a summer bucket list for middle schoolers?

Middle schoolers are at a fun age as they're capable of way more independence, and they genuinely want experiences that feel meaningful (even if they'd never admit it). Great bucket list ideas for this age include trying a new outdoor adventure like kayaking or hiking a new trail, planning a day trip somewhere they've chosen themselves, signing up for a sleepaway or specialty camp, hosting a friend get-together, or starting a summer photo book. The key with tweens: give them some ownership over the list and they're way more likely to be into it. 💗

What's a good summer bucket list for preschoolers or kindergartners?

Keep it simple & sensory, that's the preschool sweet spot. Sprinklers, sidewalk chalk, popsicle-making, sandbox play, berry picking, and trips to the splash pad are all total wins for this age. The free printable I include has a visual version that's perfect for little ones who love the satisfaction of checking something off even before they can read. If you're looking for a summer before kindergarten bucket list specifically, focus on activities that sneak in some learning — nature walks, library reading challenges, and planting a small garden are all great picks. 

What if we don’t finish everything?

That’s totally fine! The list is meant to inspire, not stress you out. Pick your top 10–20 favorites, and anything extra is a bonus.

Do I need to plan every week in advance?

Not at all. Plan the big things (camps, trips, ticketed events), and use the summer bucket list for ideas when you don’t have plans! It will be spontaneous fun. 

How can I get my kids involved?

Let them help brainstorm ideas and decorate the printable list. The more involved they are, the more excited they’ll be to do the activities.

What if it’s too hot where I live?

Prioritize morning and evening activities, and lean into indoor options like museums, movie marathons, crafts, or puzzles  — there are plenty of ways to have an amazing summer regardless of the weather.

How can I give my kids a nostalgic, old-fashioned summer experience?

Focus on screen-free activities like sidewalk chalk, sprinkler runs, nature walks, and homemade treats. Many of the activities on this list will naturally give kids that timeless summer feeling you remember from your own childhood.

What's a good summer activity list for kids who are always bored?

First, a little boredom is actually good as it sparks creativity and imagination! But when "I'm bored" becomes a full-time job, that's where this list comes in. 😂 My biggest tip: make a boredom buster jar. Write your favorite easy bucket list ideas on slips of paper and put them in a jar. When the complaining starts, they pick one — no negotiating. Works like a charm. You can also print out the free printable and hang it somewhere visible so kids can browse it themselves when they need inspiration.

What's the difference between a summer bucket list and a summer to-do list for kids?

A to-do list is about tasks. A summer bucket list is about memories. 🙌 Think of it less like a checklist and more like a menu of fun — you don't have to order everything, but it's great to know what's available. The goal is to go into summer with a loose plan so you don't blink and find yourself in August wishing you'd done more. Use the free printable to map out your family's favorites and keep it somewhere visible all summer long.

Where can I get the printable summer bucket list for kids?

Right here! There are three downloads for you — the ultimate summer bucket list, the summer bucket list highlights, and a blank option for you to write down the ideas for a summer bucket list that work best for your family.

Whether you check off every item or just a few, remember — summer doesn't need to be perfect to be memorable. Use this list loosely, intentionally, or somewhere in between, and don't be afraid to mix the nostalgia of summers past with brand new adventures. You've got this, mama. ☀️