Who else is ready for sun-kissed skin, beach waves, and unlimited ice cream? Yep, summer’s just around the corner, and it’s time to get planning. So, I’m serving you the ultimate summer bucket list that’ll make your heart happy. Ready to elevate your sunny days? Let’s dive into this curated list of must-dos!
1. Sunset beach picnic
Grab your favorite summer snacks, and a cozy blanket, and hit the beach for a sunset picnic. Nothing beats the sound of waves crashing while you munch on some delish bites.
2. DIY tie-dye party
Summers and tie-dye are like avocado and toast—just meant to be! Invite some friends over and get colorful. Plus, you’ll end up with some new wardrobe additions. A couple of years ago tie-dye was trending and I’m pretty sure it’s coming back.
3. Sip a cocktail on a rooftop bar
NYC or not, a rooftop view with a cocktail in hand screams summer season. Here is a list of the best NYC rooftops — Panorama Rooftop in Roosevelt Island is a personal favorite.
4. Sip a cocktail on a rooftop bar
5. Go thrift shopping
Take a day to hunt for thrift store gems and then spend the afternoon flipping them into trendy pieces. Perfect for my sustainable fashionistas out there!
6. Cookout with your friends
Honestly, is there anything better than food, friends, and the great outdoors? Fire up the grill and let the good times roll.
7. A day of water sports
Whether it’s paddleboarding, jet skiing, or just a good old swim, spend a day in the water.
8. Master a signature summer dish
Get into the kitchen and whip up a summer dish that’ll make you the star of every BBQ. Think mango salsa, coconut shrimp, or a killer vegan burger. As someone who is not a good cook, I absolutely love making spring rolls during the summer — super easy to make and delicious!
9. Create a summer scrapbook
If you love doing arts & crafts, a scrapbook can be a fun summer project. Document all your adventures, add polaroids, concert tickets, and little notes. It’ll be cute to look back into in the future.
10. Outdoor movie night
Invest in a projector and make your own outdoor cinema. Bonus if you theme the night around the movie!
If you’re in NYC, there are movie nights hosted on Fridays in Bryant Park and near the Vessel.
11. Sunrise yoga
This has been on my list forever! Nothing beats the serenity and natural high of a sun salutation as the sun rises.
If you want an extra nice view and are in NYC, try doing yoga at the Edge in Equinox. It is a bit pricy ($70) but the view is worth it.
12. Go on a hike
Grab your favorite humans and escape into nature for a day. And while you’re at it, put that phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ to fully immerse in the moment.
13. Sweat it out, but make it scenic
Trade the gym for an outdoor workout. Whether it’s beach yoga, park pilates, or mountain trail running.
14. Glamping weekend
Probably my favorite idea on this summer bucket list.
Because some of us love nature but also appreciate a comfy bed and Wi-Fi.
15. Salsa dancing
Turn up the heat with a little salsa dancing. It’s sensual, fun, and you get to dress up! Let loose and dance the night away – it doesn’t matter if you are a bad dancer, what’s important is to have fun.
16. Unplug
Unplug for a full day and be present. You’d be surprised how much you can experience when you’re not behind a screen.
17. Go berry picking
It’s berry season! Make a day of picking your own fresh berries.
18. Hit up the fair
Corn dogs, rollercoasters, and prize-winning pumpkins. Need I say more?
19. Explore your own city
Be a tourist in your own city for a day. You’ll discover hidden gems you never knew existed.
20. The classic road trip
Last but definitely not least, hit the road, Jack! A road trip is the epitome of summer freedom.
21. Visit a museum or aquarium
If it’s raining, instead of staying in, go to a museum or aquarium. Trust me, it’s way cooler than you remember.
22. Go to a live concert
Nothing says summer like a live concert. Feel the bass, sing your heart out, and forget about everything else.
23. Rollercoasters and funnel cakes
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just there for the snacks, an amusement park day is always a good idea.
24. Karaoke night
Unleash your inner Beyoncé. Whether at a bar or your living room, let’s hit those high notes.
25. Food truck hopping
Why settle for one cuisine when you could sample several? Spend a day following your city’s food truck scene.
26. A day of random acts of kindness
Flip the script on a regular day by making it all about spreading good vibes. Pay for someone’s coffee, leave inspirational notes in random places, or give out free hugs (only to those who are into it, of course).
So there it is—your all-inclusive, summer bucket list! Let’s make this the best summer yet, shall we?
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