14 Family Summer Activities

Some of the best summer memories happen right at home. These 14 family summer activities are a great break from the regular routine to connect and have fun as a family.

Make a Splash

Water-based activities are a must when temps soar to triple digits.

• Build a Giant Slip-and-Slide: Store-bought slip-and-slides typically run a measly 20 feet. For some serious slide action, build your own with a 100-foot sheet of plastic for five times the runway!
• Host a Pool Party: Buy fun inflatables and invest in unbreakable plastic plates and cups for guests to enjoy snacks and stay hydrated poolside. Brush up on pool safety prior to the big day.
• Host a Dive-In Movie Night: Capture the nostalgic vibes of the drive-in movies while cooling off in your pool.

Connect With Nature

Any day spent in green spaces is a good day.

• Start a Scavenger Hunt: There’s a world of wonder waiting to be explored in your backyard. Send the kids on a mission to find the fascinating plants and critters hiding right under their noses.
• Try Cactus Gardening: Look no further for the lowest-maintenance potted garden to teach kids the principles of gardening.
• Press Flowers: Create mementos of your summer garden with this flower preservation method.

Savor the Summer

Enjoy every last drop of summer by making creative meals and snacks together.

• Plan a Picnic: Picnics are never going out of style. Curate the menu based on a theme that suits your tastes. 
• Make Homemade Ice Cream: It sounds intimidating, but it’s quite simple, and there’s no special equipment required.
• Or These Fruity Frozen Summer Treats: Dairy free? No problem. Satisfy your sweet tooth with these frosty delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat.
• Make a DIY Retro Slushie: In case you haven’t noticed, the ’90s are back, and retro slushies are a very cool addition to any summer get-together.
• Make Lemonade and More: When life gives you lemons, the possibilities are endless. Cool off with fresh-squeezed lemonade and simple lemon sorbet.

Throw a Summer Celebration

Transform ordinary summer days into an occasion.

• Recreate Summer Camp at Home: Recreate the magic of summer camp at home with DIY tie-dye, field day activities, theater performances, and more.
• Host Your Own DIY Carnival: The best part? No lines!
• Make DIY Outdoor Games: Build classic backyard games like cornhole, kick the can, and capture the flag using household materials.

Is the family pup participating in outdoor family fun? These six tips can keep your fur baby safe this summer.