Not a Beach Day? 21 Fun Things to Do in the Summer with Kids

The sun is getting high, and Summer break is ready to break boredom. So, what’s your plan for this summer with kids? Okay, I haven’t decided yet, but I’m just as usual ready to go to the beach.

If you’re a parent or just hanging with kids, you’re probably wondering how to keep them busy without always hitting the beach. Don’t worry—I’ve covered you with 21 super fun things to do in the summer that kids will love.

These ideas are all about making memories, having laughs, and keeping the summer vibes strong.

Plus, I’ll answer some questions like “Why is summer the best season?” and “How to make summer not boring?” So, let’s dive into these awesome things to do in the summer and make this season epic!

21 Joyful Things to Do in the Summer with Kids (Smart Mom’s Guide)

Inside the Article

Why Summer Is the Best Season for Fun?

Summer is the coolest (warmest) season! First, the days are long, so you’ve got tons of time to play outside or chill indoors.

Also, kids are out of school, which means no homework stress and more time for fun. The warm weather makes everything feel alive, and there’s this happy energy everywhere.

Whether you’re splashing in a pool, eating ice cream, or just chilling in the backyard, summer’s all about freedom and good times.

That’s why finding fun things to do in the summer is so important—it’s the perfect season to make memories with kids!

21 Awesome Things to Do in the Summer with Kids

These 21 things to do in the summer are my list that I do throughout the years, which makes my summer fun and memorable, because I’m not a beach person, so I want some fun and exciting escapes. Plus, these are perfect for kids and super easy to pull off!

1. Backyard Camping Adventure

• What’s Cool: Set up a tent in your backyard, roast marshmallows, and tell ghost stories.
• How to Do It: Grab a tent, some blankets, and a flashlight. Make s’mores with a small fire pit (if safe) or a microwave.
• Why Kids Love It: It feels like a real camping trip without leaving home! And ghost stories always the exciting part for kids. I would recommend to enourage kids to tell stories that is more fun and by that you also know what’s going in their mind (which important to know your kid better as they grow)

2. DIY Water Balloon Fight

• What’s Cool: Fill up a bunch of water balloons and have an epic battle in the yard. It’s not hurt anyone and playing with family is much fun than watching to play them.
• How to Do It: Buy balloons at a dollar store, fill them up, and let the kids go wild. Always take insiative and don’t make rules otherwise it can be boring.
• Why Kids Love It: Getting wet and silly is peak summer fun! and you can play this for hours without getting bored in one day. And next time we aware they can start the game first.

3. Make Homemade Ice Cream

• What’s Cool: Whip up ice cream with just a few ingredients—no machine needed! I remeber when I do this first time it was destar in taste but the time we spend while making it still make me smile.
• How to Do It: Mix cream, sugar, and vanilla in a bag, shake it with ice and salt, and enjoy and you can buy Ice cream shape cups. (Now I’m pro)
• Why Kids Love It: They get to eat their creation! Be the encharge but let me be creative with taste and shape.

4. Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest

• What’s Cool: This is one of those things to do in the summer that feels like pure magic because it’s so simple but lets kids go all out with their creativity. Plus, it’s a chance for them to make something big and bold that everyone in the neighborhood can see. It’s not just drawing—it’s like they’re creating their own world right outside your house!

• How to Do It: Encourage them to draw giant murals—like a jungle scene or a superhero city—or play classic games like hopscotch or four-square (you can sketch out the grids together). For extra fun, give them a spray bottle with water to “erase” and start over, or mix in some chalk paint (just blend crushed chalk with water). Set up a little picnic nearby with snacks so they can chill and admire their work. Join them, draw something silly like a goofy self-portrait to make them laugh. When they’re done, take pics of their masterpiece before the next rain washes it away!

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go crazy for this because it’s like having a huge blank page where they can do anything. I remember when I was a kid, my sister and I would spend hours covering our driveway with chalk flowers and pretend castles—it felt like we were famous artists!

5. Scavenger Hunt in the Park

• What’s Cool: A scavenger hunt is one of the most epic things to do in the summer because it turns a regular park trip into a full-on adventure. It’s like they’re pirates or explorers hunting for rare goodies, and every find feels like striking gold.

• How to Do It: First, grab a piece of paper and make a list of 5-10 things to find that fit your local park—stuff like “a smooth rock,” “a yellow flower,” “a leaf with spots,” or “something shiny.” To make it extra fun, write simple clues, like “Find something red that falls from a tree” for a red leaf. Give each kid a small bag or basket to collect their treasures (reuse old gift bags or lunch sacks). Head to a nearby park, go over the list together, and let them explore! Stay close to keep them safe, but give them space to feel like they’re on a big quest. Take photos of their proud smiles to remember the day.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally lose it over scavenger hunts because it’s like being in a real-life treasure hunt movie! They get to run around, search under bushes, and feel like detectives solving a mystery. I remember doing this with my little neice last summer—she was obsessed with finding “the perfect rock” and carried it around like it was a diamond. The best part? They’re learning about nature without even realizing it, and they love showing off their collection to everyone.

6. Build a Birdhouse

• What’s Cool: Whether you use a simple DIY kit or some leftover wood scraps, this project is all about creativity and feeling proud. It’s hands-on, a little messy, and totally magical when birds start moving in. Plus, it’s a fun way to teach kids about nature and get them excited about the outdoors without spending a ton of money!

• How to Do It: Start by grabbing a birdhouse kit from a craft store like Michaels or Hobby Lobby (they’re usually $5-$15) or check online for free tutorials if you’ve got wood scraps at home. Get some non-toxic paint in bright colors and let them go wild decorating with patterns, like polka dots or stripes. You can even add their name for a personal touch!

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go nuts for this because they get to build something real that actually works! The best part? When birds start popping in, they feel like they’ve done something amazing. I still remember helping my little sis make a birdhouse when we were kids—he painted it neon green and checked it every morning, screaming with joy when a sparrow showed up. It’s such a proud moment for them, and they’ll brag about “their” birdhouse to everyone.

7. Movie Marathon Night

• What’s Cool: Setting up a movie marathon night is one of the best things to do in the summer because it feels like a special sleepover without leaving home. It’s super easy to pull off, doesn’t cost much, and creates those warm, fuzzy memories that kids (and you!) will talk about forever. Plus, it’s perfect for those hot or rainy summer days when you just wanna chill indoors with a fun, family vibe.

• How to Do It: First, pick a few kid-friendly movies—think Finding Nemo, Toy Story, or Moana. Set up your living room like a cozy nest: pile up blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags on the couch or floor to make a giant fort. Dim the lights or hang some fairy lights for extra magic. Create a snack bar with popcorn, pretzels, fruit slices, and juice boxes—lay it out on a table so kids can grab their own treats. For a fun twist, make “movie tickets” from construction paper for each kid to “hand in” before the show starts. Afterward, chat about their favorite parts to keep the fun going.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally lose it over movie nights because it feels like a big, exciting event! They love the sleepover vibe—sprawling out, whispering during funny scenes, and feeling like they’re part of the story. It’s all about that warm, happy feeling that makes summer nights unforgettable.

8. Visit a Farmer’s Market

• What’s Cool: Visiting a local market is one of the most awesome things to do in the summer because it’s like a treasure hunt. It’s a perfect way to get them excited about healthy food, spark their curiosity, and make a sunny day feel like an adventure. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and supports local folks, which feels pretty great!

• How to Do It: Grab a reusable tote bag and some cash (small bills are best for vendors). Let your kids lead the way as you wander through stalls packed with fresh strawberries, crunchy carrots, or even funky stuff like purple cauliflower. Set a small budget, like $5, so they feel in charge. Point out cool crafts, like handmade bracelets or painted rocks, and maybe let them chat with a vendor about how they grow their veggies. Bring a water bottle and snacks in case they get hungry.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go absolutely wild for farmer’s markets because it’s like a big, colorful playground for their eyes and taste buds! They love picking out their own treat—it makes them feel grown-up and special. I remember taking my little sister to a market when she was 5, and she was obsessed with a basket of cherry tomatoes because they looked like “tiny red balls.” She carried them around like a prize!

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9. Tie-Dye T-Shirts

• What’s Cool: Tie-dyeing is one of the most epic things to do in the summer because it’s like a crazy art party. The shirts come out with wild patterns in every color of the rainbow, and it’s so fun to see their faces light up when they show off their masterpiece. It’s messy, creative, and perfect for a sunny day outside.

• How to Do It: Head to a craft store like Michaels or grab a tie-dye kit online. Pick a kit with bright colors like red, blue, and yellow, and make sure you’ve got plain white T-shirts. Set up outside on a table covered with plastic bags to keep the mess under control. Follow the kit’s instructions—usually, you soak the shirts, twist them into cool shapes (like spirals or crumples), and squirt on the dye. Let your kids go wild with the colors, but help them tie rubber bands tightly to hold the patterns.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids are totally obsessed with tie-dye because it’s like painting, but they get to wear their art! They love the surprise of unwrapping their shirt to see the swirly patterns, and wearing it makes them feel like the coolest kid on the block. I remember doing tie-dye with my cousins when I was little, and we thought our neon shirts made us look like rock stars.

10. Mini Golf at Home

• What’s Cool: Creating a mini golf course is one of the raddest things to do in the summer because it’s like bringing a fun amusement park vibe right to your home. It’s super silly, totally creative, and lets kids feel like they’re playing a real sport—except way more fun and with zero boring rules.

• How to Do It: First, grab a kid-friendly plastic golf set with a putter and a few balls. If you’re outside, use your backyard; if it’s too hot or rainy, your living room works just as well. Make “holes” by placing plastic cups on their sides or digging small divots in the grass (use paper cups indoors). Create obstacles with stuff you already have: cut pool noodles into arches or tunnels, stack cardboard boxes for barriers, or use hula hoops as targets.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go bananas for this because it’s like playing at a real golf course, but with all the fun, wacky stuff they love! They love the challenge of getting the ball in the cup and the thrill of making up their own rules. It’s a summer activity that makes them feel like champions!

11. Lemonade Stand

• What’s Cool: Setting up a lemonade stand is one of the most classic things to do in the summer because it’s like a mini adventure in being a grown-up entrepreneur. Kids get to mix, sell, and chat with neighbors, feeling like total bosses while making a few bucks.

• How to Do It: Start by helping your kids whip up a big pitcher of lemonade—use a simple recipe (like 1 cup lemon juice, 1 cup sugar, and 5 cups water) or grab a powdered mix from the store. Set up a small table or even a cardboard box in your front yard or a busy spot (check local rules first). Let them make a bright sign with markers and poster board that says “Lemonade 50¢” or whatever price you choose—make it big and colorful so cars can see it! Grab some disposable cups, a cooler with ice to keep the lemonade cold, and maybe a little jar for cash.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids are totally obsessed with lemonade stands because it makes them feel like real grown-ups running their own shop! They love the thrill of someone saying, “Wow, this is yummy!” and dropping coins in their jar. I remember when I was little, my best friend and I set up a lemonade stand, and we felt like millionaires with our $3 in quarters. They’ll be buzzing with pride and begging to do it again next weekend!

12. Nature Bracelet Craft

• What’s Cool: Making nature bracelets is one of the most awesome things to do in the summer because it’s like a mini adventure that mixes exploring the outdoors with artsy fun. Your kid gets to be a nature detective, picking out the prettiest bits of the world around them, and then wear their creation like a badge of honor.

• How to Do It: All you need is some clear packing tape or duct tape and a spot outside—like your backyard, a park, or even a nature trail. Cut a piece of tape long enough to wrap around your kid’s wrist (about 6-8 inches). Encourage them to pick things like tiny flowers, soft leaves, bits of grass, or even a small feather—anything flat and light enough to stick. Help them press their finds onto the tape to create a cool pattern, like a flower crown for their wrist. Take a walk together to find the best stuff, and maybe make your own bracelet to show off too!

• Why Kids Love It: It’s so exciting for them because they’re not just making something—they’re telling a story about their adventure outside. Plus, it’s a fun way to get them noticing the little details in nature, like the texture of a fern or the smell of a flower, and they’ll be buzzing with pride over their wearable art!

13. Library Story Time

• What’s Cool: Visiting your local library for story time and crafts is one of the best things to do in the summer because it’s like a mini party packed with books, creativity, and new buddies—all for free! It’s the perfect way to keep kids entertained, spark their love for stories, and give them a chance to socialize on a hot or rainy day.

• How to Do It: Start by checking your local library’s website or giving them a call to find out their summer story time schedule—most libraries have weekly sessions for preschoolers, often with crafts included. Look for events aimed at 3-5-year-olds, and see if you need to sign up in advance (some fill up fast!). Pack a water bottle and a small snack for after, then head to the library with your kiddo.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally flip for library story time because it’s like stepping into a world of imagination! The crafts are a huge hit too—gluing and coloring make them feel like little artists. Kids also love making new friends, even if it’s just sharing crayons or giggling together.

14. DIY Obstacle Course

• What’s Cool: Building a DIY obstacle course is one of the most exciting things to do in the summer because it turns your yard into a wild adventure playground. It’s all about running, climbing, and laughing, and your kid will feel like a champion tackling each challenge.

• How to Do It: Raid your house for random items to build the course—think hula hoops, traffic cones (or plastic bottles), jump ropes, or even old boxes. Set it up in your backyard (or a park if you want more space) on a nice day. Create 5-7 stations: lay a hula hoop for kids to jump into, tie a rope between chairs for a “laser maze” to crawl under, or stack boxes for a hurdle. Use a broomstick balanced on buckets for a balance beam or scatter pool noodles as “logs” to step over. Make it simple but fun, and let your kid help arrange things to feel involved. Time their runs with your phone’s stopwatch, or have them race against siblings or friends.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go absolutely nuts for obstacle courses because it’s like being on their favorite TV game show! It’s super active, so they burn all that summer energy, and the silly obstacles make them laugh like crazy.

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15. Bubble Bonanza

• What’s Cool: Blowing giant bubbles with a homemade mix and DIY wands is one of the most magical things to do in the summer because it’s like creating your own sparkly, floating wonderland. These aren’t your average tiny bubbles—these are huge, wobbly ones that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale.

• How to Do It: Making giant bubbles is so easy! Mix up a bubble solution with 6 cups water, 1 cup dish soap (Dawn works best), and ¼ cup glycerin (find it at a pharmacy or online for a few bucks). Stir gently and let it sit for a few hours for the best bubbles. For wands, bend a wire coat hanger into a big circle or loop two straws together with string to make a wand. You can also use a hula hoop for mega bubbles! Set up in your backyard or a park on a calm, sunny day (wind can pop bubbles fast). Pour the mix into a wide, shallow container like a baking tray, dip your wand, and slowly wave it to create giant bubbles. Show your kids how to dip and wave, then let them try.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go totally wild for giant bubbles because chasing and popping them is like catching a piece of magic! It’s super active and silly, plus they get to make the bubbles themselves, which makes them feel like wizards.

16. Picnic in the Park

• What’s Cool: Packing a picnic and playing outdoor games is one of the most awesome things to do in the summer because it turns a simple lunch into a full-on adventure. It’s like a mini vacation right in your local park or backyard, with yummy food, fresh air, and tons of fun.

• How to Do It: Grab a blanket or old sheet, and pack a simple lunch—think peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, apple slices, Goldfish crackers, and juice boxes. Use a reusable lunch bag or cooler to keep things fresh, and toss in some napkins and a trash bag for easy cleanup. Pick a shady spot in a nearby park, your backyard, or even a community green space. Spread out the blanket, set up your picnic, and let the kids dig in. After eating, pull out some toys for games: a frisbee for tossing, a soccer ball for kicking, or even a kite if it’s windy. You can also play classics like tag or “Simon Says” to keep things lively. Let your kid help choose the menu or games to make it extra special. Bring a portable speaker for some upbeat music, and don’t forget sunscreen and hats for sunny days. Snap a few pics of their happy picnic faces to look back on later!

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally flip for picnics because eating outside feels like a big, exciting adventure! They love the freedom of running around, tossing a ball, or chasing each other after lunch.

17. Plant a Mini Garden

• What’s Cool: Growing easy plants like herbs or flowers in pots is one of the most awesome things to do in the summer because it’s like a science experiment that turns into a living, growing buddy. Your kid gets to be a mini gardener, watering their plants and cheering them on as they get bigger.

• How to Do It: Head to a garden center, dollar store, or even Walmart to grab some small pots, potting soil, and easy-to-grow seeds or starter plants—think basil, mint, or marigold flowers, which are perfect for beginners. Seeds are super cheap (like $1-$3 a pack), or small plants are around $5. Set up a sunny spot on your porch, patio, or a windowsill. Let your kid fill the pots with soil (expect some mess!) and plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep or pop in the starter plant. Show them how to water gently with a small watering can or cup, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Make it fun by letting them decorate the pots with paint or stickers—maybe add their name or draw a smiley face. Help them check their plants daily and water every couple of days. For herbs, pinch off a leaf to smell together; for flowers, count the buds as they appear. Take pics of their progress to make a “plant growth” scrapbook!

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go totally bonkers for growing plants because it’s like watching a miracle happen right before their eyes! They get so proud when a flower blooms or they spot a new leaf, and it’s like they’re superheroes making life grow. They’ll be obsessed with their little garden all summer long!

18. Watercolor Painting Party

• What’s Cool: Setting up an outdoor art station with watercolors is one of the most fun things to do in the summer because it’s like giving your kid a ticket to their own colorful imagination. They get to paint whatever pops into their head, make a glorious mess, and feel like real artists under the summer sun.

• How to Do It: Grab some basic supplies from a dollar store or places like Walmart—think a watercolor paint set (the kind with little color blocks, about $2-$5), a stack of thick paper (construction or watercolor paper works, around $3), and some cheap paintbrushes. Set up a “studio” outside on a folding table, picnic blanket, or even the grass—cover it with an old sheet or trash bags to catch spills. Fill a cup with water for rinsing brushes, and toss in some paper towels for quick cleanups. Let your kid go wild painting anything they want—maybe a flower, their pet, or just a big colorful blob!

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally lose it over watercolor painting because it’s like having a magic wand that makes colors come to life! They love mixing colors to see what happens, like turning blue and yellow into green. They feel like big-time artists, especially when they show off their paintings to everyone.

19. Stargazing Night

• What’s Cool: Stargazing with a constellation guide is one of the most magical things to do in the summer because it turns a regular evening into a cosmic adventure. Your kid gets to explore the universe, spot planets, and feel like a little astronomer, all from your backyard. This is the kind of activity that’ll have them dreaming of stars for weeks!

• How to Do It: Pick a clear summer night (check the weather to avoid clouds) and head to your backyard, a park, or any spot away from bright city lights. Lay out a big blanket or a few sleeping bags to make a comfy stargazing nest—add pillows for extra coziness. Download a free app like SkyView or Star Walk (they’re awesome for finding stars), or grab a library book like a kids’ constellation guide with simple star maps. Use the app or book to find cool constellations like the Big Dipper or Orion, and point them out together. Bring a flashlight (cover it with red cellophane to keep your eyes adjusted to the dark) to read the guide. Pack some snacks like popcorn or marshmallows, and maybe tell a story about the moon to keep the magic going.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids go totally bonkers for stargazing because it’s like diving into a real-life space movie! They love pointing out shapes like a “bear” or “spoon” in the constellations and get so excited when they spot something on their own.

20. Bike Parade

• What’s Cool: Decorating bikes and having a parade is one of the most awesome things to do in the summer because it’s like throwing a mini festival right in your own community. Your kid gets to show off their fancy ride, feel like the star of a big celebration, and have a blast with friends or neighbors.

• How to Do It: Grab some supplies from a dollar store or your craft stash—think crepe paper streamers, ribbons, pipe cleaners, or even shiny tinsel. You’ll also need tape or zip ties to attach everything securely. Pick a sunny day and set up a “bike decorating station” in your driveway or garage. Let your kid pick their colors and help wrap streamers around the handlebars, weave ribbons through the spokes, or tape pipe cleaners to make funky antennae. Add a bell or horn for extra flair if you have one! Plan a short, safe route around your neighborhood—stick to quiet streets or a cul-de-sac, and check for any local rules. Invite a few friends or neighbor kids to join, and make sure everyone wears helmets.

• Why Kids Love It: Kids totally lose it over bike parades because it’s like being in their own big, colorful celebration! They love the wind-in-their-hair vibe and showing off their creation to everyone.

21. Ice Block Treasure Hunt

• What’s Cool: Freezing small toys in ice for an ice block treasure hunt is one of the coolest things to do in the summer because it’s like turning your backyard into an archaeological dig site. Your kid gets to be a mini explorer, smashing and scooping to rescue their treasures, and it’s so exciting they’ll be giggling the whole time.

• How to Do It: Grab a big plastic container. Collect small, waterproof toys—think plastic animals, marbles, LEGO pieces, or fake gems (check your kid’s toy box or hit the dollar store). Place a few toys in the container, fill it halfway with water, and freeze it for a few hours. Once it’s solid, add more toys and water to make another layer, then freeze again (this makes it last longer). On a sunny day, pop the ice block out onto a tray or straight into the yard. Give your kid a spoon, a toy hammer, or even a plastic knife (with supervision) to chip and dig out the toys. Set up in the shade so the ice doesn’t melt too fast, and put a towel underneath to catch the mess. Let them splash water or use a squirt bottle to help “excavate.” Cheer them on as they uncover each treasure, and snap pics of their triumphant grins when they free their prizes!

• Why Kids Love It: They love the thrill of smashing and scooping, plus the cold ice is super fun on a hot day. It’s perfect for them because it’s hands-on, a little messy, and sparks their imagination as they pretend to be explorers.

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What Activities Do You Do in the Summer?

So, what are the best things to do in the summer? Honestly, it’s all about mixing outdoor fun with some chill indoor stuff.

Outside, you can do things like water fights, scavenger hunts, or bike rides, because the warm weather makes everything more exciting.

Inside, try crafts like tie-dye or movie nights when it’s too hot or rainy. The key is to keep kids moving, laughing, and trying new things.

Mix up active stuff (like obstacle courses) with creative stuff (like painting) to make every day different and fun!

How to Make Summer Not Boring?

Nobody wants a boring summer, right? To keep things to do in the summer exciting, try these tricks:

• Make a Summer Bucket List: Write down all the fun stuff you wanna do, like making ice cream or stargazing, and check them off.

• Switch It Up: Don’t do the same thing every day. One day, go to a park; the next, do a craft.

• Get Kids Involved: Let them pick activities or help plan, like decorating for a picnic.

• Try Free Stuff: Libraries, parks, and community events have tons of free things to do in the summer.

• Add Surprises: Throw in a random water balloon fight or a new game to keep it fresh.

With these ideas, summer will be anything but not boring!

Why You Should Try These Things to Do in the Summer

These things to do in the summer are all about making kids happy and creating moments you’ll all remember.

They’re super easy to set up, don’t cost a ton, and work for kids of all ages.

Plus, they get kids outside, moving, or being creative, which is way better than staring at screens all day.

Whether you’re in a city or a small town, these activities bring the summer magic right to you. So, grab some chalk, a water balloon, or a blanket, and start having fun!

Let’s Make This Summer Epic!

From backyard camping to ice block treasure hunts, there’s something for every kid to love.

Summer’s the best time to laugh, play, and make memories, so don’t let it pass by without trying a few of these ideas.

Pick one, get the kids excited, and watch the fun happen!

Now, this blog took so much time (even though I loved it), so if you read this to the end, you’re awesome, and I hope you found it helpful. Okay, now I’m gonna go make some lemonade and chill. Meet you in the next blog! Bless you!