Late-Summer Bucket List
It's crazy that summer is already coming to an end, but that doesn't mean it's time to retreat to the indoors just yet. Before the season slips away and transitions to fall, there's still plenty of time to make the most of the balmy weather and sunny skies—and we've got just the list. From picnics to bonfires, here are 20 fun things you must do before summer comes to an end.
1. Go on a Picnic
With the weather so nice out, it'd be a waste not to go on at least one picnic before summer ends! Fix up your favorite dishes—such as PB&J sandwiches and homemade baked goods—then lay out a blanket at the park to soak up the sun.
2. Visit a Farmers' Market
Search for local farmers' markets in your area and browse through them! You're bound to be met with plenty of fresh produce and ripe fruit, and it's a great way to support your local vendors. Pick out some ingredients for a homemade meal or dessert!
3. Watch an Outdoor Movie
Why watch a movie at an indoor theater when you can do it outside? With all that open air and breeze, you don't only get to see the sun set, but get to enjoy a film while being surrounded by nature and good company. What more could you ask for?
4. Host a Backyard BBQ
If you haven't already, hosting a backyard BBQ (or attending one, if you don't own a grill yourself) is a must for the summer. Cook up some smoked meat, buns, and burgers, and set out some fun outdoor games for your friends and family to play while the smell of barbecue wafts in the background.
6. Plan a Beach Day
There can never be enough beach days in the summer, so plan another one before the season comes to an end. Pick out a shore that you haven't visited yet or that isn't as crowded, then spend a day swimming and basking under the sun. Just remember to wear plenty of sunscreen!
7. Go on a Road Trip
If you haven't already gone on a trip for the summer, make the last few weeks of it count by heading on a road trip! Or, if that's too much of a hassle to plan, you can do a day trip as well. Choose something interesting to visit, like a lake or hiking trail, then pack your bags for the ride.
8. Head to a Water Park
What's a better way to cool down in the summer than by spending a day at a water park? Whether you're going down looping slides, diving into the deep end, or splashing in the wave pool, you're guaranteed to have tons of fun while making incredible memories.
9. Catch the Sunset & Go Stargazing
With the days ending later in the summer, why not head out to watch the sunset? Afterwards, soak in the starry night and see if you can point out any constellations or catch sight of shooting stars. If you're more of a morning person, though, you can also watch the sunrise instead.
10. Attend a Local Concert or Festival
If you live in a populous city, there's probably plenty of events going on each month, so make sure to take advantage by attending some of them, such as a local concert or festival! Even if you live in a smaller town, you might still be able to catch live bands playing in cafés or on the beach, so make sure to keep an eye out.
11. Go on a Hike
Hiking is another must during the summer, so grab your gear and get walking! There are so many incredible, breathtaking sights to see at the end of the trail, so let that be your motivator as you climb your way up. Plus, it's a great way to get some exercise in.
12. Go Cycling
Instead of driving everywhere, why not hop on your bike and cycle to your favorite spots instead? Going biking is another great way to get more exercise in, and in the summer, you have the perfect weather to do it in. Take full advantage of the sunny skies before autumn brings in the rain!
13. Go Fruit-Picking
Whether it's blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries, going berry-picking is a must in the summer, especially if you're a berry lover. Grab a wide-brimmed hat to block out the sun, then plan a day to collect some sweet, ripe fruit. We guarantee they'll taste even juicier than the ones you can buy at your local grocery store.
14. Plan a Bonfire Night
Instead of just spending a day at the beach to swim and suntan, why not end it off on an even more memorable note by planning a bonfire? Grab some sticks and marshmallows and stargaze while you bask in the warm glow, or go around the circle so everyone can share their standout summer moment.
15. Blow Bubbles
There's something about blowing bubbles that makes you feel like a kid all over again, so why not lean into that nostalgia and head to a nearby park to decorate it with bubbles? Better yet, bring the bottle with you wherever you go, so you can enjoy this activity at the beach, amusement park, or anywhere else.
16. Go Camping
Love the outdoors? Then why not go camping? Sure, it might be hot in the summer, but it's a lot better to set out a tent in good weather than wait until autumn comes with gloomy skies and nonstop rain. If you're already planning a day to hike, make it a camping trip!
17. Try a New Sport
Whether it's tennis, golf, baseball, or soccer, there are plenty of sports you can enjoy out in the sun. So, if you've been wanting to take up a new hobby or try a new sport, summer is the perfect chance to do just that.
Guilherme Maggieri on Unsplash
18. Visit a Botanical Garden
What's better than strolling through a lush garden with bright, vibrant blooms? Even if you're not a plant enthusiast, visiting a botanical garden is a great way to unwind, soak in the serene landscape, and put you in the right mindset for the shift in seasons.
19. Create a Summer Scrapbook
Another fun activity to do before the summer ends? Document all your memories in a scrapbook! That way, you'll be able to come back to it and relive your experiences all over again. You can even come back to it next summer to add more moments.
Kristyna Squared.one on Unsplash
20. Soak Up the Sun
Before summer shifts into fall, go outside and soak up the sun every chance you get. Sure, autumn can sometimes bring sunny skies and clear weather, too, but you won't get the warmth that summer is known and loved for. So, layer on some sunscreen and head out!
