Summer is the perfect time to embrace adventure, explore new places, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for thrilling experiences, relaxing escapes, or cultural discoveries, this summer bucket list will inspire you to make the most of the season.
I included many ideas on this travel summer bucket list—some you can implement locally, others both locally and internationally.
I also included activities for many types and preferences – because I know different people like different things so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all list, but I am convinced that you will find many suggestions appealing and inspiring.
So use this summer bucket list with travel experiences for inspiration this year – and in the future too!
The Ultimate Summer Bucket List: Travel Experiences for an Unforgettable Season
1. Explore a National Park
National parks offer breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures. Whether you hike the Grand Canyon, camp in Yellowstone, or explore the Great Smoky Mountains, Triglav National Park, Plivtice National Park there’s a park waiting to be discovered.
Include a national park on your travel itinerary no matter where you go – when you have the chance.
2. Take a Road Trip
There’s nothing like the open road and a playlist full of summer tunes. Choose a scenic route, such as California’s Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, or the Blue Ridge Parkway, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Do not think that you can take a scenic road trip only in the USA. There are many road trips in Europe – and on other continents – and this is definitely one of the best things to do in the summer!
3. Have a Beach Getaway
Summer isn’t complete without feeling the sand between your toes and the waves crashing nearby. Visit a tropical paradise, a secluded beach, or a popular coastal town for the ultimate relaxation and fun.
Make sure you pack your beach essentials and the useful, but often forgotten items for your beach trip! You can go on a European beach vacation – this is what you need to pack – or you can discover the beaches in Australia or you can take a one-day trip to a nearby beach (we love these!) Anyway, I cannot create a summer bucket list and not include going on a beach in it!
4. Go on a Sunrise or Sunset Hike
Next on this list with travel inspiration for the summer is a special activity! Witnessing the sunrise or sunset from a mountain peak or a scenic viewpoint is an experience like no other. Try hikes like Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park or Haleakalā in Maui for breathtaking views.
Alternatively, you can choose to admire the sunset or sunrise from the place you are visiting (with my knee issues, I rarely can go on hikes so this is the next best way to enjoy these precious moments)
5. Try a New Water Sport
Make a splash this summer by trying paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing, or even wakeboarding. If you’re feeling adventurous, go scuba diving or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
6. Camp Under the Stars
Disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature by spending a night camping. Whether it’s in the mountains, by the lake, or even in your backyard, stargazing by the campfire is a magical experience.
Yes, this can be a challenging experience for some – it can take you out of your comfort zone – but, who knows, it may be enlightening and you may end up loving each second of it!
7. Attend a Summer Festival
One of my favourite things to do in the summer! Music festivals, food festivals, and cultural events bring vibrant energy to summer. Plan a trip to iconic festivals like Coachella, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, or a local fair in your area.
For instance, we attend 2 or 3 festivals each year in our hometown. And we always have fun!
8. Take a Cruise or Island Hop
Explore multiple destinations in one trip by booking a summer cruise or island-hopping adventure. The Greek Islands, the Caribbean, and the Maldives are all dreamy summer destinations. I plan on taking my family on a cruise soon – it will be my son’s first cruise!
9. Go on a Wildlife Safari
Embark on a safari to see incredible animals in their natural habitats. Whether it’s an African safari in Kenya, a whale-watching tour, or spotting grizzly bears in Alaska, going on a safari is an unforgettable experience.
10. Experience a New Culture
I always like to discover new countries, to immerse myself in the local culture – so you cannot be surprised to see this included on this bucket list of summer things to do.
Travel to a foreign country, try exotic foods, and immerse yourself in a different culture. Explore vibrant cities like London, Paris, or Tokyo and embrace the local traditions.
11. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Now this is for sure an item to add to your summer bucket list adventures!
Soar above stunning landscapes in a hot air balloon for a truly magical view. Cappadocia, Turkey, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, are some of the best spots for this adventure.
12. Visit a Hidden Gem Destination
Step off the beaten path and explore lesser-known destinations that are just as stunning as the popular ones. Places like Slovenia, the Azores, or the Faroe Islands are great options.
13. Go on a Foodie Adventure
Try local delicacies, visit food markets, or take a cooking class to immerse yourself in a destination’s culinary scene. Whether it’s pizza in Naples, sushi in Japan, or tacos in Mexico, food makes travel even more memorable.
14. Explore a Charming Small Town
One of the best summer activities: discovering a new place, off the beaten path!
Small towns often have hidden treasures, from historic architecture to cozy cafés. Consider visiting places like Asheville, North Carolina, Sedona, Arizona, or Hallstatt, Austria.
15. Take a Staycation and Be a Tourist in Your Own City
Sometimes, adventure is closer than you think. Explore your city’s attractions, try new restaurants, or book a weekend stay at a local boutique hotel.
This is one of my favourite things to do – because there will always be new exhibitions, new designs for gardens or parks in the city, new museums opening, etc.
16. Capture Your Summer Memories
Document your summer adventures through photos, videos, or journaling. Create a scrapbook, start a travel blog, or share your journey on social media.
17. Sleep in a Treehouse or Unique Stay
Ditch traditional accommodations and book a treehouse, glamping tent, or overwater bungalow for a one-of-a-kind getaway.
If you prefer the comfort of a hotel, choose something different – hotels where beds have different shapes (cars etc.) or a overwater bungalow – you get the idea: something unusual!
18. Volunteer for a Cause
Spend a day giving back to the community. Help clean a beach, participate in a conservation project, or work at a local shelter. Include this on your summer bucket list especially if it was on your travel resolutions or goals list!
19. Learn a New Outdoor Skill
Take up something exciting like rock climbing, archery, or fishing. Mastering a new skill can make summer extra rewarding.
20. Go on a Mystery Road Trip
Pick a direction and drive without a set plan. Stop at roadside attractions, charming towns, and unexpected places along the way.
Trust me, you will find accomodation and things to see – and it will become one of your best travel experiences.
21. Chase Waterfalls
I love waterfalls, both big and small. I could spend hours watching them, listening to the sound of water – and this is one of the fun things to do in the summer.
Find and explore breathtaking waterfalls, whether it’s a hidden gem in your local area or a famous spot like Niagara Falls or Plitvice Lakes in Croatia.
22. Attend an Outdoor Movie Night
Host a backyard movie night or visit a drive-in theater for a nostalgic and cozy summer evening.
23. Take a Train Journey
Travel by train and enjoy scenic landscapes. Consider routes like the Glacier Express in Switzerland or the Coastal Starlight in California.
24. Try an Unusual Ice Cream Flavor
Step out of your comfort zone and taste bizarre or exotic ice cream flavors—think black sesame, lavender honey, or even wasabi or coliva (the latter is in Romania).
25. Have a Themed Picnic
Plan a picnic with a fun theme—Parisian-style with fresh baguettes and cheese, tropical with fresh fruits, or retro with classic homemade sandwiches and lemonade.
26. Take a Digital Detox Weekend
Spend a weekend completely unplugged. No social media, emails, or screens—just nature, books, and quality time with loved ones.
27. Go Wildflower Hunting
Find a local meadow or national park where wildflowers are in bloom and take stunning photographs.
28. Try a Sunrise Paddleboarding or Canoeing Trip
Enjoy the tranquility of the water at sunrise for a peaceful and rejuvenating start to your day. Yes, this is a challenging bucket list idea for many – but, if you are athletic and want a special experience, give it a go!
29. Visit an Unusual Festival
I mentioned above visiting a summer festival and I also said that I go to a few in my hometown. But you can turn this activity into one with a twist!
Check out unique festivals like the Hot Air Balloon Festival in New Mexico, La Tomatina in Spain, or the Lantern Festival in Thailand.
30. Sleep Under the Northern or Southern Lights
If you’re in the right region, chase the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in places like Iceland or Canada, or the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) in New Zealand.
31. Explore a Local Farmers’ Market
Support local farmers and discover fresh, seasonal produce, handmade goods, and unique treats.
32. Plan a DIY Backyard Campout
Set up a tent, make s’mores, and tell stories under the stars—no travel required!
33. Take a Cooking Class Featuring Global Cuisine
Learn how to make sushi, pasta from scratch, or traditional dishes from another culture.
34. Visit a Ghost Town or Abandoned Place
Explore eerie and fascinating abandoned places with rich history and stories to tell. Remember to always prioritize safety!
35. Try a New Form of Art or Creativity
Paint outdoors, take up pottery, or try making nature-inspired crafts to embrace your artistic side this summer.
Summer is a season of exploration, excitement, and relaxation. No matter how big or small your plans are, make the most of every moment and create unforgettable memories. What’s on your summer bucket list this year?
Photo sources: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
