Summer Bucket List for Families (+ Free Printable!)

If you’re looking for fun, meaningful, and screen-free ways to connect as a family this summer, this post (and the free summer bucket list printable at the bottom) is for you! Whether you are looking for activities throughout the summer or for staycation fun ideas, I’ve got you covered.

Here’s the great news…it works whether your kids are elementary or college age. I’ll show you how.

Why Our Family Uses a Summer Bucket List Every Year

Life gets busy. And if I’m not intentional, the summer slips by in a blur of chores, errands, and way too much time inside. When you stop and take inventory, you don’t have too many summers left with your kids. Why not make them count?

This is something I wish we would have started years ago when our older kids were young. We can’t turn back time but that’s why we’ve made it a tradition to sit down with a printable summer bucket list at the start of every break or holiday season.

Here’s why we love it:

• It gives the kids a voice in how we spend our time.
  When our kids feel like they are part of the planning, they’re more excited for each event. It teaches them how important their voice and ideas are.
• It helps us set fun and low-pressure goals we can look forward to.
  Having something simple (and exciting!) on the calendar gives us all something to look forward to. Simple is the key. Every planned event doesn’t have to be a big deal. Keep it simple.
• It cuts down on boredom, arguing, and the screen time fight.
  When we have a list of fun options ready to go, we’re less likely to fall into the “what should we do today?” rut that usually ends in wasted time and missed opportunities.
• It reminds me (as a mom) to pause and actually enjoy the little things.
  I don’t want summer to fly by in a blur of busyness and chaos. This has happened for far too long in our lives. I want to notice the popsicle-sticky smiles, the stummy laughs (our family term for belly laughs), and the late-night stories.
• We don’t aim to check off every single box. The goal is intentionality and making memories.
  It’s not about perfection…it’s about connection. Even a few simple moments of joy can shape a summer our kids will always remember.

What Makes a Great Summer Bucket List?

The best summer bucket lists are simple and doable. Never let it be overwhelming!! Here’s what we keep in mind when filling ours out:

✅ Mix indoor and outdoor activities (for those rainy days!)
✅ Include a few “big” plans (like a day trip) and plenty of easy ones (like making popsicles or water wars in the backyard)
✅ Let every family member add at least one idea
✅ Keep it visible — we hang ours on the door that leads to the garage! Every time we leave the house we look at it. Talk about accountability!!

TIP: Want to make it reusable? Laminate it and use dry-erase markers for a fresh list each year!

Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas to Get You Started

Need some inspiration? Here are some of our favorite family summer activities:

Outdoor Fun

• Go on a nature scavenger hunt – This can be in your backyard or the nearest forest or park. We live close to a National Park so we can really have a great hunt if we choose.
• Have a backyard campout – The best of both worlds. Camping under the stars and a nearby restroom that is indoors and clean!!
• Host a water balloon battle – Who doesn’t love pelting a loved one with a messy water balloon?

Foodie Fun

• Make homemade lemonade – Save this one for a scorching hot day!
• Have a DIY ice cream sundae night – Make sure to include all of the toppings. Your kids will love this one.
• Try a new summer recipe together – I let my kids cook with me. Yes, it is more work and clean up, but the memories made are priceless.

Creative Time

• Build a blanket fort and read inside – Calling all dads or brothers. The bigger the fort the better.
• Have a sidewalk chalk art contest – My 8 and 10-year-olds already put me to shame but it’s fun to draw together.
• Make a summer scrapbook – Place all of your summer memories in one book. Enjoy looking back and reminiscing on the memories each chance you get.

Family Traditions

• Have a family game night (outdoors if possible!) – We love Dutch Blitz, Uno, and the classic Old Maid for the younger girls.
• Watch fireworks together – Better yet, set them off yourself… AS LONG AS IT IS NOT AGAINST YOUR STATE LAWS AND YOU DO IT RESPONSIBLY. There is your consumer warning. lol!
• End the summer with a “yes day” – Throw caution to the wind. Answer “yes” to as much as you can.

How to Involve Your Kids in Summer Activity Planning

Want to make your summer bucket list even more meaningful? Let your kids help design it! Here’s how:

• Give each child a pen and let them star their favorite activities
• Color-code ideas by person or type (adventure, chill, food, etc.)
• Let your kids take turns picking a weekly “bucket list activity.”
• This teaches responsibility, creativity, and teamwork—and makes the whole summer feel more exciting.

How to Make the Most of Your Bucket List

It’s not about doing everything. It’s about doing what matters.

Try these tips:

• Schedule 1–2 activities per week (don’t overdo it)
• Take pictures and create a summer memory wall or photo book
• Give your kids sticker rewards or a “fun meter” for completed items
• Even just a few intentional activities will feel like a big deal to your kids.
• Treat the summers how you wish your parents would have (within reason).

Download Your Free Summer Bucket List Printable

This bright and colorful summer bucket list printable includes a variety of family-friendly ideas—plus blank spaces for your kids to add their own! It’s a great way to encourage creativity, get everyone involved, and make this summer one to remember.

👉 Click here to download your free Summer Bucket List Printable

Print one for each child or hang it in a central spot—whatever helps you stay inspired all season long!

FAQ Section

What is a summer bucket list?
A summer bucket list is a collection of fun, creative, or meaningful activities you want to do before the summer ends. It’s a great way to be intentional with your time and make memories as a family.

How do I create a summer bucket list for my kids?
Start by sitting down together and brainstorming ideas. Include activities they love, mix in some new ones, and aim for a balance of simple and exciting. You can use our free printable to get started!

Is this summer bucket list printable free?
Yes! The printable is completely free to download and use. You can print one for each child or hang one in a central spot for the whole family.

What age is this summer bucket list for?
This list works for a wide range of ages—from toddlers to college-aged kids. It includes simple, flexible ideas that can be adjusted based on your child’s interests.

Final Thoughts: You Only Get 18 Summers (Get out your tissues)

From the time they’re born, we only get about 18 summers with our kids at home. That truth hits harder every year. I’m on borrowed time with my older kids. This is our daughter’s 21st and son’s 18th summer at home. You better believe we value every minute we get with them. Instead of feeling overwhelmed and sad, I try to see it as an invitation:

• To slow down. – Enjoy every possible moment. We only get a limited number of them in our lifetime.
• Say yes more often. – Take a deep breath and relax. Connect with your family and truly spend quality time together.
• To be present in the popsicles, the messy crafts, and the sidewalk chalk. – Put your phone down. OK. Take your pictures, then put your phone down. Show your kids and spouse that you want to be present with them. Let the memories and traditions be burned into your memory. Feel the moment. Smell the scents (good or bad) lol. Taste the sweet treats. Hear the sound of laughter or inquiry. See the joy and connection your family is feeling in these moments.

I hope this summer bucket list helps your family make this your best summer yet.

Let’s Connect!

What’s one thing you always include on your summer bucket list?
Share your favorite tradition or activity in the comments—I’d love to hear it!

Click to print ———->Summer Bucket List Printable

Summer’s Over – Now What? Check out these back-to-school posts…
Back to School Printable Signs
Back to School Gift Guide