Things for Teenagers to Do This Summer
Summer offers an abundance of fun summer activities for teens, such as exploring new pastimes, nurturing hobbies, and engaging in outdoor adventures.
From learning a new sport to positively impacting your community through volunteering, the warm months are ideal for trying out fun activities that may evolve into lifelong passions.
Even though you probably don't have the final say in your summer schedule, having a list of preferences or even a plan you prepare in advance can help your parents plan your family's summer schedule.
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Outdoor Activities - The Best Things for Teens to Do in the Summer
Summer is all about having fun in the sun and getting into some awesome outdoor activities. It's a time to leave your room, breathe in the fresh air, and do cool stuff that makes you happy.
Whether chilling by the water or exploring nature, there's something out there for you. Let's dive into some of the best things teens can do outdoors during those sunny summer months.
Hiking and Camping Adventures
Hike It Out: Gear up with comfy hiking shoes and a can-do attitude. Places like national parks or local trails are packed with beautiful scenery and incredible wildlife. Remember to bring along water, tasty snacks, sun protection, and a map so you can enjoy the journey worry-free.
Camp Under the Stars: Pick out a cozy tent and a warm sleeping bag to snug up in. Camping is all about finding that perfect spot, whether by a peaceful lake or in a secret place deep in the woods. Spending nights under the starry sky can turn into unforgettable summer memories.
Beach and Pool Days
Fun at the Beach: The beach is a fantastic spot for both chilling and playing. Toss a frisbee, play volleyball, or just relax to the calming sound of the waves. If you're into reading, there's nothing like getting lost in a book with the sound of the ocean in the background.
Pool Time: Dive into the cool pool water for fun swims or energetic water games. Pools are perfect for beating the heat and having a blast with friends. Pack your sunscreen and some floaties for an extra good time.
Biking and Walking Trails
Biking Exploration: Discover local spots by biking through them. It's a fun way to see new sights, whether you're cruising by a lake or pedaling through a park. Plus, it's good for the environment and a great workout.
Stroll Around: Walking trails are a chill way to soak up the outdoors. These paths can lead you through city green spaces, beautiful gardens, or by the river. Wear comfy shoes, and you're set for a relaxing summer walk.
Other Outdoor Adventures
Skateboarding and Rollerblading: Hit the skate park or find a smooth path to show off your moves. It's a fun way to express yourself and get some exercise.
Outdoor Movie Nights: Set up a projector and screen in your backyard or find a local park hosting movie nights. Watching films under the stars with snacks and friends is magical.
Gardening: Start a garden or help out in a community garden. It's relaxing; you get to grow your own food or flowers, and it's a green thumb's dream.
Water Sports: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing. They're exciting ways to get on the water and experience something new.
Picnics with Friends: Pack a basket with food, grab a blanket, and head to a scenic spot. Picnics are a laid-back way to enjoy good food and great company.
Creative Projects for Teens This Summer
This summer, unleash your inner artist with a bunch of cool and creative projects. Summer's the perfect time to explore new hobbies or get really good at what you love doing.
Whether you're into making stuff with your hands, jamming to music, or capturing moments through a lens, there's plenty out there for you to dive into. Let's check out some fun ideas to make this summer your most creative one yet.
Arts and Crafts
Get Crafty: Arts and crafts are not just fun; they're a way to show off what's unique about you. You could start a scrapbook filled with your summer memories or get into making your own jewelry. It's an excellent way to keep busy and have something extraordinary to show at the end of it.
- Scrapbooking: Gather all your photos, tickets, and other fun stuff to create a scrapbook. It's like a diary but way cooler because it's full of memories you can actually see.
- Jewelry Making: Try making your own necklaces, bracelets, or even earrings. Use beads, strings, or anything shiny. It's a fun way to make fashion statements that are totally you.
Music and Performance
Turn Up the Music: If music is your thing, summer is a great time to crank it up. Make a playlist of your summer anthems, start writing your own songs, or hit up local concerts for some live tunes.
- Playlist Creation: Put together a killer playlist that captures your summer mood. Share it with friends, or keep it for those solo jam sessions.
- Concerts and Gigs: Check out live music around your area. It's a fun way to discover new bands and get inspired.
Photography and Filmmaking
Capture the Moments: If you love telling stories, why not do it visually? Grab a camera and start taking photos, or even make your own movie. It's a fantastic way to express yourself and keep those summer memories alive.
- Photography: Experiment with taking pictures at different times of the day to capture unique lights and shadows. Play around with angles and subjects to get that perfect shot.
- Filmmaking: Get your friends together and make a short film. It can be about your summer adventures or something entirely from your imagination. Your phone's camera is a good place to start.
Other Creative Ideas
Writing and Blogging: Got a knack for writing? Start a blog or a book. Whether it's short stories, daily diaries, or reviews, writing is a great way to share your thoughts and experiences.
Painting and Drawing: Whether it's with pencils, paints, or digital tools, drawing and painting are excellent ways to let your creativity flow. You can draw from real life or your imagination or even create your own comic strip.
DIY Projects: Look for DIY projects online. You could upcycle old clothes, decorate your room, or even build something from scratch. It's rewarding to see your projects come to life.
Learning New Skills: Summer's a great time to learn something new. Try coding, graphic design, or even a new language. There are plenty of free resources online to get you started.
Social and Community Activities for Teens to Do in Summer
Summer is your ticket to dive into the heart of your community and forge new connections. It's a time filled with fun, learning, and lots of chances to grow. Here's a look at some social and community activities perfect for teens wanting to make the most of their summer break.
Volunteering Opportunities
Give Back: There are tons of places in your community that would love your help. Volunteering lets you do some good and meet people who care about the same things you do. You could lend a hand at a food bank, help keep your town clean, or spend time at an animal shelter. It's a great way to make a difference and find friends along the way.
- Food Bank Help: Get involved by sorting out donations or packing food parcels.
- Shelter Support: Assist in organizing activities or be there to offer support and kindness.
- Beach or Park Cleanups: Join efforts to keep your local beaches or parks clean. It's rewarding work that helps the environment and brings the community closer.
Group Sports and Games
Play Together: Whether you're all about that competitive spirit or just looking for a fun hangout, group sports are the way to go. Parks often have teams for soccer, basketball, or ultimate frisbee. Not only is it a blast, but you also get to build lasting friendships.
- Local Park Leagues: Jump into team sports like soccer or basketball.
- Casual Games: Set up a volleyball net or have a kickabout for fun.
Local Exploration
Adventure Close to Home: Your own backyard is full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Check out local nature trails, historical spots, or just invent a scavenger hunt with your friends. It's a cool way to see your community from a fresh perspective and stumble upon new favorite spots.
- Nature Adventures: Explore local reserves or scout for wildlife.
- Historical Treasures: Dive into your area's history or set off on a photo hunt for historic landmarks.
- Farmer's Markets and Local Fairs: Spend a day at a local farmer's market or fair. It's an excellent way to support local businesses, taste some amazing food, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Art and Cultural Events: Look out for art shows, music festivals, or cultural exhibitions happening in your town. These events are not only fun but also a great way to support local artists and learn something new.
Summer Learning and Development for Teens
Summer is your time to shine and maybe learn a few cool things along the way. Dive into these activities, and who knows? You might find a new hobby, interest, or even a future career path. Plus, you'll definitely have some incredible stories to tell when school starts back up.
Educational Tours
Hit Up a Museum: Ever wanted to stand face-to-face with a dinosaur or get lost in a painting? Museums are treasure troves of cool stuff from the past and mind-blowing art. During summer, they often have special tours that can make you feel like you've stepped into a whole other world. It's a chill way to learn something new without even trying.
Skill Building Workshops
Learn Something Awesome: Summer workshops are all about learning new skills in a fun way. You could get your hands dirty in a pottery class, learn how to fix your bike, or even dive into coding. These workshops are a great opportunity to try something out of your usual zone and maybe even discover what you're passionate about.
Language Learning: Ever thought about learning another language? Summer's a great time to start. There are apps for that, local classes or even online buddies you can practice with. Speaking another language is like having a superpower (plus, it looks pretty cool on a resume).
Tech Tinkering: Got a thing for gadgets? Try learning how to code, build a robot, or even take apart old electronics to see how they tick. It's a fun way to get a sneak peek into how our digital world works.
Learn an Instrument: Have you ever wanted to play guitar, piano, or another instrument? There are loads of online tutorials that can help you get started. It's a fun way to challenge yourself and maybe discover a hidden talent.
Book Clubs and Reading
Join a Book Club: Imagine chilling with a bunch of people who've all read the same book and are dying to talk about it. Book clubs are not just about reading; they're about sharing ideas, debating stuff, and maybe getting into the occasional heated discussion about whether that character should have done that thing. Or, you can just set a goal to read some books on your own. Either way, it's a win for your brain.
At-Home Fun Activities for Teens in Summer
Summer at home can be just as exciting as going out. With these activities, you'll not only keep boredom at bay but also learn something new, create something amazing, or even discover a new hobby. So, dive in and make this summer one to remember!
RELATED: Things to Do When Bored for Teens: 11 Energizing Ideas
DIY Projects and Crafts
Get Crafty: Why not give your room a new vibe with some DIY decor? You could make some cool wall art using stuff you already have around the house. Or, get into the tie-dye trend and jazz up your wardrobe with some unique designs. Scrapbooking is another fun way to get creative and keep all your summer memories in one place.
Baking and Cooking
Chef It Up: Ever wanted to try making those fancy desserts you see online? Summer is the perfect time to test your skills in the kitchen. Whip up some cookies, a cake, or even learn to make bread from scratch. You could also try making dinner for your family one night, experimenting with flavors and maybe even starting your own recipe book.
Game Nights
Game On: Dust off those board games and set up a game night with your family or friends. It's a great way to spend time together, have a few laughs, and maybe show off your competitive side. From strategy games that make you think to party games that are just silly fun, there's something for everyone.
More Fun Home Activities
Movie Marathon: Pick a series or a bunch of movies you've never seen before and have a movie marathon. Don't forget the popcorn, and maybe even create your own cinema tickets for fun.
Start a YouTube Channel or Podcast: Got something to say or share? Starting your own YouTube channel or podcast can be a great way to express yourself and connect with others who share your interests.
Yoga and Fitness Challenges: Stay active by starting a yoga routine or a fitness challenge. There are plenty of free apps and online videos to guide you. It's a great way to keep fit and relax your mind.
Gardening: If you have a garden or even just a small space for some pots, try growing some plants or veggies. It's rewarding to see them grow, and you can learn a lot about different plant species.
Wellness Summer Activities for Teens
Summer is the perfect time to try new things, especially when it comes to keeping yourself happy and healthy. So, whether you're sweating it out on the soccer field, finding your zen in yoga, or cooking up a storm in the kitchen, make wellness a big part of your summer fun.
Fitness and Sports
Get Moving: There's no better time than summer to step up your fitness game. Whether you're hitting the gym for some serious workouts or joining a local sports team, staying active is vital. Swimming, soccer, and basketball are not just great workouts; they're a blast to do with friends. And if you're up for something a bit different, why not try frisbee golf or rock climbing? It's all about having fun while keeping fit.
- Gym Time: Perfect for getting stronger and improving your fitness with some weight training or cardio.
- Team Sports: Join a team to have fun, make friends, and learn teamwork through sports like soccer, volleyball, or basketball.
- Outdoor Adventures: Take your bike out on a trail or go for a hike. It's a great way to see some beautiful sights while getting your exercise in.
Mental Health and Relaxation
Your mental health is just as important as physical fitness. Take time to sleep in when you can, as rest is vital for your cognitive functions and mood stabilization.
Practices like yoga can offer a calming effect and help you develop mindfulness and stress management skills. Don't overlook the simplicity of reading a book or spending time on a creative hobby, which can both be incredibly soothing for the mind.
Yoga and Meditation: If you're looking for a way to relax and de-stress, yoga and meditation might just be your thing. It's a great way to stretch out, chill your mind, and learn some cool poses along the way.
Healthy Cooking Classes: Ever wanted to whip up meals that are as tasty as they are good for you? Summer's a great time to learn. Look for healthy cooking classes or find recipes online to test out. You could be the next big chef in your house!
Journaling: Keeping a journal is a fantastic way to reflect on your day, jot down thoughts, and maybe even get creative with some writing. It's a personal space just for you to express yourself.
Sleep Schedule: It might sound boring, but keeping a good sleep schedule is super important for your health. Try to get enough sleep each night so you can feel your best every day.
Dance Classes: Whether it's hip-hop, ballet, or just freestyle dancing in your room, moving to the beat is an awesome way to stay active and have a ton of fun.
Adventurous Activities for Teens
Summer is the perfect season to push your limits and try something that gets your heart racing. Whether you're gliding through water, flying down a mountain bike trail, or learning how to survive in the wild, there's an adventure waiting for you. So, go ahead and make this summer an adventurous one!
Water Sports
Kayaking: Grab a paddle and hit the water! Whether it's the calm of a lake or the thrill of river rapids, kayaking is an awesome way to explore and get in a great workout. It's all about adventure and seeing places from a new perspective.
Swimming: Cool off and challenge yourself with some swimming. Race your friends in the pool or enjoy the waves at the beach. It's a classic summer activity that never gets old.
Extreme Fun
Roller Coasters: For thrill-seekers, there's nothing like the rush of a roller coaster. Head to an amusement park and challenge yourself to ride the biggest and scariest coasters you can find. It's an instant adrenaline boost.
Ice Skating and Roller Skating: Not just for winter, skating can be a fun way to spend a summer day. Indoor rinks offer a cool escape from the heat, and roller skating at a park or rink is a retro way to have fun and stay active.
Mountain Biking: Hit the trails on a mountain bike and feel the thrill of speeding down slopes and navigating through challenging terrains. It's a great way to explore nature and get an adrenaline rush.
Rock Climbing: Indoor or outdoor rock climbing tests your strength, strategy, and fear of heights. It's a rewarding challenge that leaves you feeling on top of the world.
Surfing: Catch some waves and feel the rush of surfing. Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your skills, surfing is a fun and exhilarating way to spend your summer days.
Zip Lining: Fly through the air on a zip line and get a bird's-eye view of the scenery below. It's a unique way to experience nature and get an adrenaline kick.
Bungee Jumping: For the ultimate thrill, try bungee jumping. It's a leap of faith that's not for the faint-hearted but promises an unforgettable rush.
Outdoor Survival Skills
Camping Skills: Ever wanted to know how to survive in the wild? Learning camping skills like starting a fire, building a shelter, or using a compass can turn a regular camping trip into an epic adventure. It's not just useful; it's seriously cool to know you can handle the outdoors.
Summer Jobs and Internships for Teens
Summer offers a prime opportunity for you to gain work experience and earn money. Through summer jobs and internships, you can explore your interests, develop professional skills, and even contribute to the community.
RELATED: How to Earn Money as a Teenager: 12 Ways to Head-Start Your Career
Local Business Employment
Join the Local Biz Scene: Small businesses in your area might be looking for some extra help during the summer rush. Whether it's helping customers at a retail store, serving up meals at a local eatery, or keeping things running smoothly at a park, these jobs can be a fun way to earn money and learn how businesses work. And don't forget about farms! Working with plants or animals can be super rewarding and a great way to enjoy the summer outdoors.
Creative Freelancing
Unleash Your Inner Creative: Got a talent for making things look good or writing killer content? Freelancing could be your summer gig. Whether you're designing websites, whipping up logos, or managing someone's social media, there's plenty of room to turn your skills into cash. Platforms like Etsy for crafters or Fiverr for digital services are perfect for getting your work out there. Plus, you get to be your own boss, which is pretty cool.
Academic Tutoring
Share Your Smarts: If you're ace at academics, why not help someone else get there too? Tutoring younger students in subjects you're passionate about can be really rewarding (and not just in a feel-good way—you can get paid, too!). It's a chance to give back and keep your brain sharp over the summer. Plus, teaching others is a great way to reinforce your own knowledge.
More Summer Work Ideas
Event Planning Assistance: Love organizing and making things happen? Event planners often need extra hands during the busy summer season. From weddings to festivals, you could help make the magic happen behind the scenes.
Pet Sitting/Dog Walking: Animal lovers, this one's for you. Busy summer schedules mean lots of folks need help taking care of their furry friends. It's a fun way to earn money and get in some pet cuddles.
Lifeguarding: If you're a strong swimmer, consider lifeguarding. It's a big responsibility, but it's also rewarding and a fantastic way to spend your summer days by the water.
Camp Counselor: Love working with kids and having fun? Being a camp counselor is a great way to lead, inspire, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Tech Support/IT Services: If you're tech-savvy, offering your skills as IT support can be a lucrative summer job. Small businesses or individuals need help setting up computers, troubleshooting issues, or creating websites.
RELATED: Financial Literacy for Teens: 8 Resources to Start Financial Freedom
Special Events and Festivities for Teens to Attend This Summer
Summer brings a wealth of special events and festivities that are perfect for teens looking for entertainment and cultural experiences. From lively music festivals to dazzling fireworks displays, here's what you can look forward to this season.
Music and Cultural Festivals
Rock Out or Chill Out: Imagine spending your days surrounded by music and art, where every turn brings a new sound or sight. Music festivals aren't just about catching your favorite bands live; they're about experiencing the pulse of current cultures and artistic expressions.
Places like Coachella are famous for mixing tunes with stunning art installations, making them a feast for both your ears and eyes. Don't forget to check out local events, too, where you might discover everything from a serene classical music concert in the park to an electrifying rock show under the stars.
Summer Fairs and Carnivals
Step Right Up: Summer wouldn't be complete without the buzz of fairs and carnivals. It's where you can ride the Ferris wheel, challenge your friends to carnival games, and indulge in all the cotton candy and funnel cakes you can handle. These events are like stepping into a world where fun is the main goal, and every moment is a chance to make memories that stick with you long after the summer sun has set.
More Summer Special Events
Fireworks Shows: When the sky lights up with dazzling fireworks, it's a signal that summer is in full swing. These shows are often free and held in public places like parks or along waterfronts, making them a spectacular way to spend an evening.
Outdoor Movie Nights: Many communities host outdoor movie screenings, where you can bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a film under the stars. It's a cozy way to catch up on classics or recent hits with friends or family.
Street Markets and Food Festivals: Explore the flavors of summer at a street market or food festival. It's a great opportunity to try new foods, shop for handmade goods, and enjoy live entertainment.
Theater Performances in the Park: Some communities offer live theater performances in local parks. From Shakespeare to modern plays, it's a unique way to experience the magic of the stage in a casual, outdoor setting.
Beach Parties: If you're near the coast, look out for beach parties and bonfires. They're a quintessential summer experience, complete with music, dancing, and the sound of waves in the background.
Art Walks: Many towns host monthly art walks, where galleries open their doors for free viewings, often with snacks and live music. It's a laid-back way to appreciate local art and maybe even meet the artists.
Personal Growth and Goals
Summer offers the perfect opportunity for you to focus on personal aspirations and develop new skills that align with your future goals.
Vision Boards and Future Planning
Map Out Your Dreams: There's something special about seeing your dreams laid out in front of you. Creating a vision board is like crafting a visual wish list for your future. Grab some magazines, print out quotes, or sketch your dreams. Then, arrange them on a board where you'll see them every day. This could be about acing the SATs, picturing yourself on a college campus, or imagining the first steps of your dream job. It's a daily nudge to keep pushing towards your goals.
Learning New Instruments
Strike a Chord with Music: Ever wanted to jam out on a guitar or serenade someone on the piano? Summer's the perfect time to start. Learning an instrument does more than just fill your home with music—it sharpens your mind and might even spark a new passion. Whether it's strumming a guitar, tickling the ivories, or drawing a bow across a violin, set aside time each day to practice. Lessons, whether in-person or online, can also help speed up your progress.
Personal Projects
Turn Ideas into Reality: Got a great idea for a blog, an app, or maybe an invention? Summer is your stage to bring those ideas to life. Dive into whatever project makes your heart race—writing, coding, building; you name it. Not only do these projects give you a sense of accomplishment, but they also stand out on college applications and resumes, showing off your initiative and creativity.
More Ways to Grow This Summer
Read Widely: Build your own summer reading list with a mix of fun reads and challenging material. Books can be gateways to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives.
Volunteer: Find a cause you're passionate about and give back. Volunteering can introduce you to new people, help you develop new skills, and make a real difference in your community.
Fitness Goals: Use the summer to kickstart a fitness routine. Whether it's running, yoga, or joining a local sports team, find a way to move that feels good for you.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Start practicing meditation or mindfulness. It's a great way to clear your mind, reduce stress, and improve your focus—plus, it's a habit that can benefit you for a lifetime.
Learn a New Language: With apps, online courses, and community classes, learning a new language has never been more accessible. It's not just about adding a skill to your resume; it's about opening doors to new cultures and ways of thinking.
Connecting with Nature
Embrace the outdoors and create unforgettable summer memories by engaging in activities that connect you with the natural world. Whether you're lying under a blanket of stars, quietly observing wildlife, or feeling the tug of a fishing line, nature offers a variety of experiences for you to enjoy.
Stargazing Nights
Look Up and Get Lost: Grab a blanket, find a spot far from the city glow, and look up. The night sky's a whole show just waiting for you to press play. With a stargazing app or guidebook, you'll start spotting constellations and planets like you're an astronomy pro. It's not just about what you see; it's about the quiet moments and the immense universe feels.
Wildlife Observation
Go on a Creature Quest: Lace up your walking shoes and hit a nature trail or wildlife reserve with a pair of binoculars. If you're stealthy and patient, you might spot all sorts of animals doing their thing. It's like a real-life nature documentary, but you're in it. Just remember to keep a respectful distance to keep both you and the wildlife safe.
Fishing Trips
Reel in Some Calm: Head to your local water spot with a fishing rod to enjoy the stillness that comes with fishing. Make sure you've got the right permit if you need one. Whether you're there for the thrill of the catch or just to zone out by the water, fishing is all about the chill vibes and the connection to the water and the life it holds.
Attending Summer Camps By Interest
Summer camps are a fantastic way to dive deep into what you love, meet people who share your passions, and create memories that last a lifetime. So, take your pick, pack your bags, and get ready for an epic summer adventure!
- Arts Camps: Got a flair for the creative? Art camps are where you can paint, act, sing, or snap photos to your heart's content. It's a chance to let your creativity flow, learn new techniques, and maybe even show off your masterpieces.
- Adventure Sports Camps: If you're all about that adrenaline rush, look for camps that get you climbing rocks, paddling rivers, or trekking through the wilderness. These camps are all about pushing your limits, learning to tackle challenges, and having a blast in the great outdoors.
- STEM Camps: Love solving puzzles or building things? STEM camps dive into science, tech, engineering, and math through cool, hands-on projects like coding games, building robots, or conducting experiments. It's a great way to learn and have fun at the same time.
- Leadership Camps: If you're keen on becoming a leader, these camps focus on building confidence, independence, and team skills. It's about getting ready to take on the world, one fun activity at a time.
- Environmental Conservation Camps: Interested in saving the planet? These camps focus on conservation efforts, learning about the environment, and how you can make a difference.
- Performing Arts Camps: If the stage calls your name, look for camps that offer dance, theater, or musical performance opportunities. It's a great way to improve your skills and shine in the spotlight.
- Language and Culture Camps: Want to learn a new language or explore a different culture? These camps immerse you in new experiences and help broaden your horizons.
How to Pick the Perfect Camp:
- Think About What You Love: Start by jotting down your hobbies and what you're curious about. This can help narrow down the kind of camp you'd enjoy most.
- Do Some Detective Work: Look up camps that specialize in your interests. There are camps for almost everything, from filmmaking to fencing!
- Check Out Reviews: See what other campers say about their experiences. It can give you a good idea of what to expect.
- Match Your Values: Make sure the camp's vibe and values feel right to you. It's essential that you feel like you belong.