For many, Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer, with kids getting out of school and many starting summer work schedules and taking long weekends at the lake. Whether you have big vacation plans or simply want to enjoy a staycation in your own backyard, it’s time to plan your summer bucket list so you can get the most out of the sunny season!

Gather your family, grab some lemonade, and start making your own summer bucket list, making sure to include plenty of ideas to get everyone outside. Here are some family-friendly ideas to give you inspiration.

1. Make s’mores. Ooey, gooey and oh-so-delicious, s’mores are a summertime staple and a must-add item for your summer bucket list. Whether you plan a traditional bonfire, make use of a convenient fire table, or even cheat and make them inside in the oven, your family will be too busy chewing marshmallow and chocolate goodness to complain about your method! You can even take your recipe up a notch with these smore’s bar party ideas to help you think outside the graham cracker.

2. View the Northern Lights. Does it seem like everyone is posting gorgeous photos of the Northern Lights lately? There’s a reason. We’re in the middle of a solar maximum, when there is more solar flare and eruptions. What does that mean for you? There may be more chances to view the Northern Lights from your own backyard this summer, or a drive outside the city if you are feeling adventurous. The only must-have supplies are an outdoor seat or two for getting comfy. Reclining is a plus! If you don’t see the Northern Lights, you can still enjoy some star gazing on a beautiful, clear night. Sounds like a win, win star-gazing situation to us.

3. Host an outdoor cookout. Fire up the grill or take your outdoor dining experience up a few notches by preparing a feast on the ultimate outdoor cooker, the Big Green Egg. There’s nothing like a BBQ with burgers and brats to bring the neighborhood together. However, you don’t have to stick with the classics. Try a pizza or the grill, a new chicken recipe, or even some grilled vegetable favorites.

4. Watch the sunset. The whole neighborhood seems to be out on beautiful summer days. Take advantage of the company and the views by spending warm summer evenings on your front porch, sipping on a favorite beverage and taking in the views of the sunset. A bistro table and set of chairs will fit well in many people’s front porches, and makes a versatile seating arrangement that’s sure to get lots of use. Consider a stylish set of Adirondack chairs and an end table to set your beverages.

5. Go on a hike. There are plenty of trails throughout the Midwest, and the summer time is a great time to explore them. Get everyone off their devices, and into the great outdoors. Pack plenty of water, some trail mix, and your adventurous spirits!

6. Plant some vegetables. Whether you love spending hours and hours in a large garden, or you simply want to plant a few vegetables such as a tomato plant and some lettuce in pots on your deck, now’s the time to do it. Get the kids in on the watering, weeding, and harvesting when your produce is ready!

7. Have a lemonade stand. It’s an oldie but a goodie. Lemonade stands are a great way to entertain kids, and teach them a little bit about making change and managing money. Choose a sunny day, and make sure to set up an outdoor umbrella to keep your kiddos and lemonade supply cooler.

8. Make popsicles. Let kids create their own refreshing summer treat by combining juice and cut up, fresh fruit. You can put them in popsicle molds, or simply use Dixie cups. Freeze with popsicle sticks, and you'll have a perfect snack for cooling down and recharging for more outdoor play!

9. Take a day trip. Whether you are in search of parks, beaches, restaurants, a winery, brewery or other entertainment, summer is a time for exploring. Load up the car, map out directions, and don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks!

10. Go to a zoo. Enjoy a trip to your local zoo, and the kids will be sure to enjoy a morning or afternoon watching all their favorite animals up close. Bring snacks and sunscreen, and strollers are a must for families with young kids.

11. We all scream for ice cream! Treat your family to a sweet treat this summer (or several!) and become ice cream connoisseurs. With so many ice cream shops available, it’s hard to choose just one—so don’t. Make this the summer of ice cream by trying a scoop or two of your favorite flavor at a variety of shops, and maybe sampling some new flavors along the way.

12. Run a 5K. You can train during the summer and sign up for a run in later summer or early fall. There’s lots to pick from, including some that support important charities. If you live near the Twin Cities, consider signing up for HOM Teal Strides to support the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA). It’s Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Rosland Park in Edina, Minnesota. Not feeling that ambitious? Lots of events have less strenuous options like the HOM Teal Strides 2K Walk and Kids Fun Run. Learn more here .