When the Livin’ is Easy: 10 Things to Do in the Summer

5 min readMar 19, 2019

During the winter, it’s totally understandable if you would prefer to stay in and binge on your latest Netflix obsession. It’s cold, it’s completely dark out by 6:00PM, and donning five layers of clothes isn’t worth the effort. But it’s summertime! We all should be taking full advantage of the longer days and the accompanying sunny warmth.

Don’t coop yourself up at home spending hours watching TV; get outside and soak up some Vitamin D. Don’t text friends to only talk about plans; make the plans happen. Don’t get FOMO from other people’s Instagram Stories; make the most out of your ownsummer.

Check out below for ten ideas to kick up the summertime fun and antics. Make sure you get yourself some quality deodorant and put on some SPF.

1. Visit that national park / museum on your bucket list.

In the United States alone, there are officially 60 national parks all across the nation. Depending on where you live and proximity to a national park, there might be some planning and traveling involved. If national parks are not your thing, spending a day at a museum or gallery is a good alternative. While the scenic views won’t be the same through a frame, blasting AC while checking out a few exhibits doesn’t sound too shabby either.

2. Spend some time in the great outdoors by going camping.

Camping is a great way to unplug and recharge. Many campsites are in remote areas with limited or no network connection. You won’t have to worry about being distracted by the dings and pings of your phone or the urge to connect your laptop — as there is no Internet access. Take in your surroundings, take in the crisp air. Invigorate your mind, body, and soul. Just beware of ravenous bears and pesky mosquitos.

3. Be one with nature by going hiking.

Whether it is scaling the side of a mountain or leisurely walking up a paved trail, hiking is a summertime activity almost anybody can enjoy and is usually free. Hikes can be extremely rewarding because, at the end, you feel a sense of accomplishment while also taking in a breathtaking view. Make sure to put your phone away to give your full attention to the path ahead (safety first!), and remember to stay hydrated while on your hiking adventure.

4. Revive your inner child at an amusement park or fair.

Amusement parks and fairs are the epitomai of summer. Half screaming, half laughing from the chills and thrills of the lit-up rides. Stuffing your face with delicious, calorie-laden foods ranging from deep-fried candy bars to bacon bombs. Testing your luck at the carnival games hoping to win the ultimate giant rainbow plushie. Who doesn’t want to forget about all worries for a day and run around the park like a kid again?

5. Jam out at an outdoor concert.

The sun is gonna keep on shinin’. Everything’s gonna be alright! Many cities organize local events throughout the summer as a way for people to get outdoors and enjoy free or low-cost entertainment. Whether you want to rock out or unwind on a summer’s night, why not take a moment to take in some of your favorite tunes or get lost in the music?

6. Host a BBQ or picnic and get major brownie points from family and friends.

BBQs and picnics are an easy way to bring together a large group of people. After all, sharing a meal is the most communal and binding thing — it’s the constant that unites all people. Summertime BBQs can be as laid-back or as formal as you want it to be. Fire up the grill, turn up the music, and eventually, everyone’s hearts and bellies will be full.

7. Get active: ride a bike!

Riding a bike is not necessarily only a summertime activity but it’s a whole lot more enjoyable when you’re not wearing a heavy jacket, the sky’s not gloomy, and the roads aren’t slippery. Biking is also a great way to explore a new or old place while simultaneously getting your daily cardio in. Win-win scenario.

8. Attend a sporting event and root for your favorite team (or be a fair-weather fan).

Baseball: America’s favorite pastime. Hot dogs, ice cold beers, and good ol’ competitive spirit. If baseball is not your thing, soccer is also a pretty popular sport in the summer. Whether you’re sitting in the nosebleeds or have prime seats down low, watching a game IRL is always going to be better than watching through a screen.

9. Be a farmer for a day and check out a pick-your-own farm.

Tomatoes and cherries and corn (oh my!)… the list goes on. Sweet fruits and refreshing veggies are in peak season during the summer. Take advantage of the beautiful, sunny weather and plan a day trip to a nearby farm that offers a pick-your-own experience. The crops are fresh, handpicked by you, and it’s typically worth it for the amount of produce you ultimately get to bring home.

10. Unwind and discover your new go-to drink at a distillery, brewery, or winery.

Get your buzz on with other like-minded adults who enjoy learning a bit about how their favorite drink is made. Many places host tours throughout the day. The summer is a great time to visit as many of them make seasonal batches and limited edition styles only available for a few months. Don’t forget to bring your ID!