Looking for a summer bucket list for adults? Being an adult or adult-ish is fun and all, but sometimes I miss the excitement of summer break as a teenager. Back then, having two months off from school felt like pure freedom, giving me time to relax and fully enjoy seasonal activities. That’s what inspired me to make summer bucket lists in the first place.
Now, as a working adult, I don’t have the luxury of a long summer break. But I still want to make the most of the season! If you feel the same way, here are some fun and practical summer bucket list ideas that fit into a busy work schedule.
How to Create a Summer Bucket List for Adults
The key to making a summer bucket list as an adult is figuring out how to fit fun activities into your work and overall life schedule. Here are some simple ways to make it work:
Plan Around Your Work Schedule: If you work Monday through Friday, focus on activities you can do on weekends to make the most of your free time. Also, look for things you can do in the evenings after work.
Choose Activities That Fit Your Lifestyle: Think about what interests you and when you realistically have time. For example, you could try a new restaurant on a weeknight, visit a strawberry field on a Saturday, or plan a weekend road trip.
The goal is to find fun, seasonal activities that work with your existing schedule so you can enjoy summer without feeling overwhelmed.
Include Friends and Family: One of the best parts of summer is all the family friendly events and activities happening. Plan outings with loved ones to make the most of the season and create lasting memories together.
Summer Bucket list for Adults
1. Host a Summer Dinner Party
Invite your friends and family for a fun and cozy summer dinner party! Whether you cook the meal yourself, cater, or order takeout, there are plenty of ways to make it work without too much stress on your part.
Want to add a unique twist? Try a themed dinner party! Here are a couple of fun ideas:
Seasonal Ingredient Theme: Pick a fruit or veggie, like strawberries or tomatoes, and incorporate it into every dish and drink.
Breakfast for Dinner: Serve classic breakfast favorites like pancakes, eggs, and bacon, or elevate it into a brunch-style menu with heartier options like breakfast casseroles or chicken and waffles.
If you want some more themed dinner party ideas, check out the link below for creative ideas that your guests are going to love.
RELATED: 20 Themed Dinner Party Ideas for a Fun and Delicious Gathering
2. Go Strawberry Picking
Summer is peak berry season, making it the perfect time to visit a strawberry farm, especially if you have one nearby. Not only is it a fun outdoor activity, but you’ll also get to take home fresh, juicy strawberries. You can enjoy them on their own or use them to make delicious desserts and drinks.
3. Try a Seasonal Summer Drink from Your Favorite Café
Similar to how Starbucks rolls out its seasonal pumpkin spice latte in the fall, many cafés offer special summer drinks during the warmer months. Treat yourself to a seasonal option like a fruity lemonade, iced refresher, frappé, or cold brew. It’s a simple yet fun way to embrace the summer vibes.
4. Do a Summer Cleaning
If you didn’t get around to spring cleaning, summer is the perfect time for a deep clean and refresh. Open the blinds, let in some fresh air, dust, vacuum, and organize your space to start the season feeling fresh and clutter free.
5. Switch Up Your Bedding
With the summer heat in full swing, it’s the perfect time to swap out your bedding! If you’ve been using heavy duvets and comforters during the winter and early spring months; switch to lighter fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.
6. Watch Fireworks
Watching fireworks is a must for your summer bucket list! With Fourth of July landing in the summer, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a festive night and end the celebration with a dazzling fireworks show.
Summer Bucket List Ideas for Adults
7. Have a Christmas in July Party
If you’re already tired of the summer heat and craving the cool, cozy, and festive vibes of the holiday season, consider hosting a Christmas in July party. This fun theme is a great way to blend Christmas elements with a summery twist.
For example, instead of an ugly sweater party, throw an ugly T-shirt party. And if you’re feeling extra festive, bring out your Christmas tree from storage. And decorate it with summer inspired ornaments like seashells, flip flops, and flamingos.
RELATED: 15 Epic Ideas for a Christmas in July Party Theme
8. Read at Least One Book
If you’re trying to make reading a habit like I am, set a goal to read at least one book this summer. It could be anything. From personal development to fiction, non-fiction, drama, comedy, whatever interests you!
9. Spend a Day at the Beach
Grab your sunscreen, beach towels, and flip-flops, and head to the beach for a day of fun by the water. Whether you’re lounging on a beach chair, splashing in the water, or collecting seashells, there’s plenty to enjoy at the beach.
For a list of fun beach activities to try on your next visit, check out the link below.
RELATED: 15 Fun Things to do at the Beach
10. Go on a Picnic
I highly recommend going on a summer picnic during the cooler parts of the day, like early in the morning or late afternoon. This way, you can avoid the intense midday heat while still enjoying a pleasant outdoor experience. Pack some classic picnic foods like sandwiches and fruits, and take the time to relax, unwind, and soak in the fresh air.
11. Go Out for Brunch
There’s something so classic and chill about a weekend brunch. Sleep in, take it slow, and head out for a delicious meal with a friend or family member to kick off your weekend in the best way.
12. Create a Summer Capsule Wardrobe
Build a summer capsule wardrobe by selecting a few versatile pieces that you can mix and match to create different outfits throughout the season. You can stick to neutral basics for a classic look or incorporate bold, colorful pieces to embrace the vibrant summer vibe.
13. Prepare a Summer Inspired Recipe
From pineapple salsa to grilled dishes try out a seasonal summer inspired recipe.
14. Go on an Alphabet Themed Date
Try an alphabet themed date with your partner this summer. (or use it as fun ideas for a solo date!) The idea is simple: pick a letter and plan your date around it. For example, if you choose “C,” you could go to a comedy show, take a cooking class, or go camping. If you pick “I,” you might get ice cream, visit an Italian restaurant, or try indoor rock climbing.
For a complete list of alphabet themed date ideas, check out the link below.
RELATED: Alphabet Date Ideas for Fantastic Dates
15. Make S’mores
If you’re in the mood for s’mores but don’t have a campfire, you can easily make them indoors. I love roasting the marshmallow over my stovetop with a skewer. You can also try making a s’mores dip in the oven for a yummy twist.
16. Get a Summer Manicure
Change up your nails with a cute summer manicure. Summer is all about bold, bright colors, so embrace the vibe with a colorful or playful design. It’s the perfect way to transition from spring’s pastels and Valentine’s heart patterns to a fresh, seasonal look.
RELATED: 45 Summer Nail Ideas to Brighten Your Look
Summer Bucket List Ideas for Young Adults
17. Take a Day Trip to a Nearby City
If you can’t take a full week long vacation, consider a day trip to a nearby city. It’s a budget friendly way to explore without worrying about hotel stays or plane tickets. Just research local attractions, restaurants, and sightseeing spots, then enjoy a fun filled day packed with new experiences.
18. Watch a Movie at the Movie Theater
So many movies are released during the summer time. So head to the movie theater and watch the latest blockbuster film.
19. Have a Summer Themed Party
Celebrate the summer season with a summer themed party. From a classic pool party to ice cream party and even a carnival themed party, there are so many fun themes to choose from.
RELATED: 25 Unique Summer Party Ideas to Recreate this Year
20. Buy Fresh Flowers for Your Home
Brighten up your space with fresh flowers. Place them on your dining table, in the living room, or anywhere you want to add a touch of life and color. I don’t know about you but there’s something about fresh flowers that instantly lifts my mood and brings a smile to my face.
21. Host a Game Night
From board games to trivia and DIY games, have a playfully competitive game night.
22. Go on a Nature Walk
If you love the outdoors, take a relaxing nature walk. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to go when the sun isn’t too hot. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful trees, and peaceful surroundings. And don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray, especially since summer comes with plenty of flies.
