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My favorite thing to do in the summer is go to the beach.

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The kids at my summer camp love ice cream wednsdays.

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In the summer, flowers are blooming!

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In my home town there is a carnival every summer.

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Picnics are always a fun summer activity!

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Need inspiration for summer fun? Check out our list of activities and see how many you can cross out before Labor Day hits.

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Bloomsburg is a well-known town in Northeastern Pennsylvania. This town is the county seat of Colombia County and is the only Pennsylvanian municipality recognized as a town.

It is one of the two major communities of the Bloomsburg-Berwick PA Metropolitan Statistical area.

This town is home to many fun places and attractions. Many other historical establishments and businesses of great historical significance are situated in Bloomsburg.

Here are the best and fun things to do in Bloomsburg, PA.

Things to Do In Bloomsburg, PA

1. Bloomsburg Fountain

Indecisive about what to do in Bloomsburg, PA? Explore The Bloomsburg Fountain, a unique attraction in the city. This majestic and beautiful fountain is a sight to behold. Visitors can see the water elegantly fall out of the spray on their visit to the attraction.

The Bloomsburg Fountain is a perfect destination for visitors seeking a quiet and solitary place to sort out their thoughts, read, meditate, or relax. The lights attached to the fountains shine brightly at night and create a more beautiful sight.

If you need a place to reflect, relax, and enjoy stunning sights, the Bloomsburg Fountain is the place for you.
Address: 93 W Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States.
2. Turkey Hill Brewing Company

Turkey Hill Brewing Compan y is a cool place to relax after a day touring the city. This Brewing Company is known for its European craft and house-brewed American beers.

Visitors can relax under the roof of the reconstructed barn and enjoy various well-crafted beers. They also serve tasty burgers and other meals and feature live music.

Turkey Hill Brewing Company is unique and beyond just a brewing company. It offers many other amenities, including lodging at the Farmhouse Inn and dining at the Pub and Grill.

Relaxing at Turkey Hill Brewing Company is one of the best things to do in Bloomsburg, PA. They are closed on Sundays and open from 4 pm to 10 pm every other day.
Address: 991 Central Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
3. Lightstreet Hotel

The Lightstreet Hotel is a historical establishment founded in 1856. This establishment has gone through various phases since its establishment, including recessions, ownership changes, and the Civil War.

The Lightstreet Hotel overcame every negative part of history and is still standing. This diner is known for its bar and grill that whips up delicious meals. Visitors can visit the Lightstreet Hotel to taste and enjoy their sumptuous dishes.

Some meal options at the Lightstreet Hotel include cheesesteak, crab fries with fresh crab meat, pecan-crusted chicken, and many more. They also serve quick bites like burgers, sandwiches, and French fries.

Lightstreet Hotel offers a remarkable dining experience. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays and open from 3 pm to 9 pm every other day.
Address: 1361 Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
4. Bill's Old Bike Barn

Bill's Old Bike Barn is a 55,000-square-foot structure housing over 200 exciting vintage Motorbikes. Visitors can enjoy checking out old bikes and comparing them to modern ones. This motorbike spot is a must-visit destination for vintage motorbike lovers.

The barn was founded in the 1800s but was restructured to its current state in 1998 when Bill Morris decided to focus on his dream of displaying vintage bikes. Before being managed by Bill Morris, this barn was a run-down structure.

This unique vintage motorcycle spot in Bloomsburg has a section specifically for military bikes. It is a remarkable place to visit in the city. They are closed from Monday to Wednesday and open from 10 am to 6 pm every other day.
Address: 7145 Columbia Boulevard, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
5. Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Endeavor to visit or tour the Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. It is situated at the center of Susquehanna River Valley and is a popular attraction in the region.

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania was birthed in 1839. It is a prime destination for those looking to learn about the history of the city and the State. The University has interesting historical pieces and amazing sights.

Visitors can roam this learning institution and educate themselves on the various historical facts of the region.
Address: 400 E 2nd Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
6. Bloomsburg Children's Museum

Bloomsburg Children's Museum is an amazing, fun family establishment and a must-visit for visitors with children. It is a fun place to spend time and an educational site for the children.

Bloomsburg Children's Museum features more than 50 hands-on exhibits that children can interact with and learn from. This museum also houses Molly the Turtle's indoor habitat, one of the most fascinating attractions in the establishment.

The museum offers various educational classes and programs for children in the summer. They are closed on Sundays and open from 10 am to 4 pm every other day.
Address: 2 W 7th Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
7. Marley's Brewery and Grill

Marley's Brewery and Grill is a fun dining location in Bloomsburg, PA. This restaurant offers various tasty meals and snack options.

This diner was first established within the Hotel McGee premises in 2011. After amassing many customers, locals, and visitors, the owners decided to move to a separate location to cater to more patrons.

The Brick Oven Cuisine served at Marley's Brewery and Grill is known to be one of their best. This restaurant also offers plenty of dishes, entrees, and snacks. Visitors can enjoy their favorite popular meals, including Salads, Pizzas, and Sandwiches.

This restaurant is closed on Mondays and open from 11 am to 9 pm every other day.
Address: 1323 Columbia Boulevard, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
8. Skatetown Hysteria

Skatetown Hysteria is known for its various amazing attractions pleasing to residents and visitors. Visiting Skatetown Hysteria is one of the top things to do in Bloomsburg, PA, if you are in for immense fun.

This attraction features amenities for playing arcade games, roller skating, and a wholesome Apocalypse laser tag game. They also house a snack shack with many tasty snacks for hungry stomachs.

Many snacks and appetizers can be enjoyed at the Snack Shack, including pizza, sandwiches, salads, burgers, and many others. Gamers can also redeem their game points from various games on the premises for exciting gifts.

Skatetown Hysteria is also perfect for party hosting. This fun establishment takes care of the planning and decorations to give you the best parties. Skatetown Hysteria is for all ages.
Address: 2845 Skatetown Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States Are you planning to explore Pennsylvania? Check out our guide on things to Do in Greensburg as well as things to do in Mechanicsburg for an amazing time.
9. Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble

One of the most famous attractions and best places to visit in Bloomsburg, PA, is the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. This entertaining location in the town hosts several exhilarating shows throughout the season.

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble offers visitors the chance to experience excellent, high-quality shows and performances. This unique theatre also sells tickets until the show begins, so ticket reservation is not hassle-free.

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble also hosts a summer theatre school where visitors can practice theatre techniques, i.e., mock fighting, and learn about theatre makeup. Visitors can visit their websites for their schedule and availability.
Address: 226 Center Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
10. Bloomsburg's Can U Xcape

This establishment is a well-known escape room and gaming center in Bloomsburg, PA. This escape room is one of the town's most exciting and family-fun attractions.

This escape room features various themes and requires participants to think, use clues, and interact with one another to escape the game room. Some interesting themed games include Upside-Down Room, Steampunk Room, and Tornado Room.

Visitors can visit this establishment alone and enjoy the games with strangers or bring some friends or family along on this fun adventure. This establishment isn't only delightful, but it also helps your brain think in time-limited scenarios and connect puzzles.

This gaming center is closed from Sunday to Tuesday and open from 11:30 am to 10 pm every other day.
Address: 204 W Main Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
11. Columbia Creek Farms

Another lovely place to visit when in Bloomsburg, PA, and surrounding areas is the Columbia Creek Farms. This farm is owned and managed by a family called the Alpaca Select Group.

The Alpaca Select group was founded in 2019, aiming to improve educational opportunities for the alpaca community. This group also promotes products made from alpaca, the sale of alpaca fiber, and the sale of alpacas.

Visiting Columbia Creek Farms is highly recommended, as it offers a unique experience. This spectacular establishment has various amazing alpaca-related items for sale on its website.
Address: 200 W Hillcrest Drive, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
12. Bloomsburg Fair

Among the fun things to do in Bloomsburg, PA, is to attend and participate in the Bloomsburg Fair. The Bloomsburg Fair is one of the country's biggest, longest, and most exciting fairs.

Bloomsburg Fair started in 1855 as an agricultural exhibition. Various exhilarating shows and contests can be seen at this fair.

Visitors can also play games and eat delicious meals from food stands during this fun fair. This event showcases the historical presence of the city. The various activities exhibited at this incredible event are fun for all ages.

The Bloomsburg Fair is held during the fall. For more information, you can visit the Bloomsburg Fair Administration office. They are open from 7 am to 9 pm every day.
Address: 620 W 3rd Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States.
13. Hemlock Creek

Hemlock Creek is popular because of its beautiful scenery and amazing golf course. The golf course was formerly called Windsor Heights Golf Course.

Hemlock Creek is a great golfing location for beginners and experts. This golf course aids beginners' learning due to its flat form with wide-open fairways. Hemlock Creek is a fun location in Bloomsburg.

Hemlock Creek Golf Course aids players' accuracy and allows visitors to have fun in various ways. A round of golf at this golf course is one of the fun things to do in Bloomsburg, PA.
Address: 55 Williamsburg Boulevard, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
14. Boat Rental Bloomsburg

Another entertaining way to spend time in Bloomsburg, PA, is by booking a boat at Boat Rental Bloomsburg and enjoying the unique scenery and adventure the town rivers offer.

After renting a boat at this rental spot in the city, visitors can enjoy the clear, peaceful water of the Susquehanna River. Visitors can see plenty of nature along the river banks whenever the weather is superb, including clear blue skies and tall trees.

The sights and experiences are worth your time. Ensure to come along with someone for a maximum fun experience.
Address: Boat Rental Bloomsburg, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States.
15. Three Dogs Vino

Three Dogs Vino is a popular winery in Bloomsburg. It is known for its abundant wines. Visitors can learn more about winemaking at this facility.

Three Dogs Vino, established in 2005, is a winery with passionate workers exploring various types of wines. This winery was named after the three dogs situated on the residence.

Three Dogs Vino also caters to various groups and events. The facility is closed from Monday to Wednesday and open from 4 pm to 7 pm every other day.
Address: 129 Hidlay Church Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
16. Bloomsburg Town Park

Your trip to Bloomsburg, PA, is not complete without visiting the Town Park, as it is one of the best places to visit in Bloomsburg, PA. Bloomsburg Town Park is a quiet, large land area with many fun amenities and space for entertaining outdoor activities.

Bloomsburg Town Park offers an exciting outdoor experience for everyone. This Park features various sports fields for sports lovers. You can enjoy an incredible baseball game on the field; visitors can dribble their friends on the basketball court.

This Park also features an amazing tennis court and scenic trails perfect for strolling, jogging, or hiking. Visitors can enjoy picnics with friends and families and relax at the multiple pavilions on the park grounds.

Bloomsburg Town Park has the perfect outdoor recreational activity for everyone. This Park is open 24 hours every day.
Address: Market Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
17. The Marketplace at 10th Street Plaza

Another breathtaking antique store is the Marketplace at 10 th Street Plaza. This antique store is a popular tourist destination in the region, known for its unique variety of vintage items.

The Marketplace at 10 th Street Plaza features multiple amenities and items to make your vintage shopping experience rewarding, fun, and comfortable. Antique shopping at The Marketplace at 10 th Street Plaza should be on your itinerary of what to do in Bloomsburg, PA.

This vintage mall features many vendors in a clean atmosphere. The establishment is also known to have friendly and respectable staff members. The Marketplace at 10 th Street Plaza offers an overall amazing vintage shopping experience.

The store is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and opens every other day from 9 am to 4 pm.
Address: 95 E 10th Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
18. Columbia County Historical and Genealogical Society

The Columbia County Historical and Genealogical Society is an educational establishment in Bloomsburg, PA. This educative site is the perfect place to learn about the history of the city, region, county, and State.

This historical society was founded in 1914 and has been tasked with collecting and preserving records for over 100 years. This well-known site merged with the Central Susquehanna Valley Genealogical Society in 1999.

Visitors can visit this historical establishment and explore deeds, cemetery files, genealogy files, photos, church files, tax lists, newspaper clippings, censuses, and more. Check out their website for membership fees and card catalogs.
Address: 225 Market Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
19. Artspace A CO-OP Gallery

This popular art gallery is known for its large variety of artworks in different forms. The gallery is a well-visited spot in the town.

Artspace Gallery is one of the region's oldest art and craft galleries. It has exhibited and sold multiple original pieces created by local artists. Artspace Gallery has been around for over 20 years and is an amazing part of the town.

This gallery is the perfect destination for art lovers as it features art in various forms. Some of the works found here include drawings, fiber art, jewelry, photography, woodwork, ceramics, encaustics, fused glass, paintings, and prints.

Artspace Gallery is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays and open from 12 pm to 6 pm every other day.
Address: 221 Center Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
20. Fernville Family Park

Fernville Family Park is an exciting place to check out on your trip to Bloomsburg, PA. This Park is great for spending quality fun time and bonding with family.

This Park is about three acres large and is one of the ten largest parks in the town. Families looking to bond and have some alone time can visit the Fernville Family Park.

Some enjoyable activities include retreats, picnicking, exploration, and many others. The Fernville Family Park is filled with fun family activities and amazing scenery. They are open from 7 am to 9 pm every day.
Address: Bloom Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States.
21. The Blind Pig Kitchen

One of the top things to do in Bloomsburg, PA, is to dine at Blind Pig Kitchen. It is loved and well-visited because of its initiative of supporting local farms.

The ingredients used to produce sumptuous meals at the Blind Pig Kitchen are fresh and obtained from local farms that don't use pesticides and antibiotics.

Due to their sustainable harvesting and cooking methods, the restaurant's menu is changed frequently. Some recurring tasty meals on the menu include rainbow trout, sockeye salmon, and Duck confit.

Another amazing meal that can be enjoyed at this diner is the weeds and seeds salad. The Blind Pig Kitchen is a great dining establishment in the city. They are open only from 6 pm to 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 236 Iron Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
22. Lavender and Old Lace

This antique store is a must-visit location in Bloomsburg, PA. Lavender and Old Lace store attracts multiple tourists and city residents.

Lavender and Old Lace is known for its large array of vintage items and fun, educative, and informative conversations that will be had with the owners. It is filled with beautiful vintage treasures that will appeal to all.

This antique store features various items, including linens, kitchen utensils, jewelry, small furniture, Books, China, and many more. Lavender and Old Lace is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays and open from 10 am to 5 pm every other day.
Address: 1111 Lightstreet Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States
23. Scoreboard Sports Tavern

Scoreboard Sports Tavern is a well-known entertainment spot in the town. It also provides accommodation. The Tavern is well-visited by tourists in the region.

Scoreboard Sports Tavern serves tasty meals and cold, relaxing drinks. Visitors and locals often visit this bar to relax, socialize, dine, or catch up with friends in the area.

This Tavern features a giant HD TV constantly showing popular sporting events. Scoreboard Sports Tavern is no doubt an exciting bar and a great hangout spot for friends. They are open from 11 am to 10 pm every day.
Address: 6190 4th Street, Bloomsburg, PA 17815, United States Check out more cities in Pennsylvania. Here is a guide on things to do in Wellsboro, things to do in Hanover, and Things to Do in Stroudsburg for a fun time
Plan Your Trip to Bloomsburg

There are many amazing ways to have fun in Bloomsburg, PA. Above are some of the best. Ensure to refer to this guide when you eventually visit.

Discover many exciting places, things, and spots during your stay in Bloomsburg, PA.

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23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Bloomsburg (PA)

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In search of what to do in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania? We've compiled the best and fun things to do in Bloomsburg, PA, for a fun-filled stay.

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Whether you work from home, are a stay-at-home parent, or work outside of the house, you need a go-to list of practical summer activities for your kids to keep them busy-and learning-during the dog days of summer. Otherwise, you run the risk of them getting too much screen time, which is not good for their mental or physical health.

Below we've put together a list of 100 summer activities for kids that will keep things fun and enriching. Not only will you never be short on ideas, but you're also sure to find something that will work for your family-no matter your child's interests and preferences.

Whether you turn these ideas into your summer bucket list, or you just pick a few of your favorites, you will make some great memories along the way. The key is to slow down and enjoy the summer months with your family.

Nature Summer Activities for Kids

Take advantage of long sunny days by exploring the natural world-just don't forget the sunscreen and the bug spray! Here are some of our favorite ways to spend time outdoors.

Go bird watching. Take photos and keep track of your sightings. Then, use an app or guidebook to identify feathered friends.

Grow fresh herbs in containers. Use old coffee cans, milk jugs, mason jars, plastic cups, or anything else you have around the house to plant your herbs. Once complete, keep your herb garden on a patio or windowsill and watch them grow.

Look for shapes in the clouds. Put a blanket in the grass and stare up at the sky. Then, take turns talking about what you see in the clouds.

Make a bird feeder. Watch birds visit your yard and add to your list of bird sightings.

Make fairy houses. Use moss, bark, and leaves to create a dwelling fit for Thumbelina.

Pick your own plants. Find a farm with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, veggies, or flowers and get picking.

Plant a butterfly or hummingbird garden. Create a backyard wildlife habitat and watch these fascinating creatures enjoy it all summer.

Rainy Day Activities for Summer

When the weather keeps you indoors, there's still plenty to do. Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly summer activities for a rainy day.

Break out your movie collection or use Netflix. Have a movie marathon complete with popcorn. Be sure to get in plenty of snuggles.

Build a fort. Put pillows in the living room or cardboard boxes in the yard to create a hideaway of your child's dreams.

Build a Lego castle. Clear off a table and make Lego castle-building a family project. You can even add to it or work on it all summer.

Camp in. Put the sleeping bags on the floor and have a family slumber party.

Experiment with new hairdos. Let the kids try out non-permanent colors, braids, or a spiked, gelled look.

Get an origami book and fun paper. Create fun animals and shapes and give them to friends or family members as gifts.

Have breakfast in bed. Take turns being the server and the served.

Hold marble races. Use an old pool noodle as the track. Simply cut it in half, making two tracks of equal length. Then, race the marbles down the tracks to see who has the fastest one.

Make a time capsule. Have each family member write down something they are grateful for and include a special item in the time capsule. Then, store it away until a designated date. You can open it as early as Thanksgiving day or as far off as high school graduation.

Make paper airplanes. See whose airplane goes the farthest or create other contests.

Play a card game. Choose from crazy eights, spoons, go fish, or even poker-take your pick. Or buy a board game for the family to enjoy.

Play charades. Turn all the summer drama into a game.

Rearrange the furniture. Give the kids graph paper and have them draw out a plan first. Then, get to work moving furniture around.

Set a goal and complete a home project. Whether it is cleaning the garage, organizing the basement, or redecorating the spare bedroom, find ways to let the kids help.

Local Sites for Families to Visit

Summer is ideal for a few staycation experiences. If you have friends or family visiting, bring them along to see what's special in your area.

Eat at the counter of a diner. Let the kids enjoy fried food and milkshakes.

Find a free concert near you. Kick back, enjoy some tunes, and nurture their love of music.

Go to a demolition derby. Expect to see some major crashes.

Go to a flea market or garage sale. See if the kids are better negotiators than you.

Go to a local carnival or county fair. Not only should you enjoy the rides and entertainment, but you also should eat cotton candy, elephant ears, or something really sugary at least once this summer.

Pack a picnic. Plop down to eat your picnic just about anywhere such as a free concert, at a playground, or in a state park.

See a dramatic performance together. Whether it's a puppet show in the park or a touring Broadway show, enjoy seeing the performance as a family.

See a matinee. Find a bargain movie house and enjoy an afternoon at the movies.

Take a garden gnome with you. Take the gnome's picture at each destination you visit. At the end of the summer, create a scrapbook with the photos.

Take a road trip to a nearby city. Spend the night if you can or just make it a day trip exploring the sights.

Take in a minor-league baseball game. The parks are super family-friendly, and there's always a fun giveaway or chance to win a prize.

Visit a historic house or farm. Learn how times have changed and what people back then lived without.

Visit a local farmers' market. Feast on the fruits and veggies of the season and enjoy a few locally-made treats.

Summer Activities for Kids that Exercise Their Brains

Avoid the summer slide by keeping kids thinking and learning while school is out. Here are some great ways to exercise those brain muscles during those summer months.

Build your brain. These brainteaser games can help.

Get a book of riddles. See if you can stump each other; then write your own riddles.

Get the summer homework done. Not exactly fun, but you'll be happy to get these assignments out of the way.

Have a puzzle race. Use 100-piece puzzles and see who finishes first.

Interview an older relative. Write out your family history or even create a family tree.

Join a summer reading club at your library. Or create your own reading club, keeping a list of all the books read over the summer. It's a great way to nurture a love of reading.

Master a new skill together. Learn to juggle, play the harmonica, or sew.

Read a chapter book aloud. Plan to read a chapter or more a night. You can even read a whole series together.

Show the kids that science is fun. Try doing experiments with your kids or visit a science museum together.

Write and illustrate a comic book. Make it a group effort or let everyone do their own.

Write in a journal each day. Allow older teens to create a bullet journal if they prefer. Then, at the end of the summer, share selections with each other about the highlights of summer.

Artsy Summer Activities for Kids

If your child loves DIY or has an artistic flair, get out those craft kits you've been saving, or try one of these artsy summer activities. Even kids who are not particularly interested in art will enjoy getting a little creative from time to time.

Collect rocks and paint them. Turn their painted creations into pet rocks, garden ornaments, or gifts for family members.

Create a summer mural. Stretch a long piece of white craft paper across a wall in the basement or garage and create a family mural. Include hand-drawn, painted, or colored pictures of your summer activities. Work on it all summer, adding to it little by little. Hold an "unveiling" party for relatives at the end of the summer.

Decorate your walkways with chalk. Use regular sidewalk chalk or make your own using cornstarch, water, and food coloring.

Keep a summer sketch diary. Take turns sharing your sketches at the end of the summer.

Hold a photoshoot. Plan different outfits and poses and take pictures outside or around town. Older kids and teens can then edit the photos on a computer.

Make music. Play traditional instruments or make your own. Record your musical creations if you want.

Make playdough creations. Make your own playdough to mold into creative shapes. Then rip them up and do it again.

Play with clay. Then bake your creations to make them permanent.

Press summer flowers. Make a pressed flower picture with waxed paper.

Put on your own dramatic performance. Write a script, make costumes, or just do a little improv.

String beads. Beading projects can be as simple or complex as you choose.

Summer Activities for Kids that Promote Exercise

Staying active and moving every day is important for your child's growing body. All you need is a little space and sunshine for these activities that get kids moving.

Build a water blob or a slip 'n slide. Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to create large plastic pillows (or water blobs) filled with water. Set the blobs up in the yard and allow kids or teens to hop from one blob to another. Or use a plastic tarp and a garden hose to create your own slip 'n slide.

Build an obstacle course in the backyard. Pretend to be America Ninja Warriors and see how quickly you can each get through the course.

Climb trees together. Of course, do this only if the kids are big enough, it's safe-and you are brave enough.

Fly a kite. Make your own kite or buy one at the dollar store. Spend a few hours flying it in an open field.

Go fishing. In many states, kids can drop a line in without a license, but you want to doublecheck just to be sure before the fish start biting.

Have a bubble gum bubble blowing contest. See who can blow the largest bubble without it popping.

Have a water balloon baseball game. Use a plastic bat, a bucket of water balloons, and old towels as bases and you are all set. Play the traditional way or create some water balloon games of your own.

Have a water gun race. Put a hole in the bottom of two or more plastic cups and thread string or yarn through each one. Secure the ends of the yarn to a starting point and an ending point. Use full squirt guns to shoot water into the cups so that they race along the string. The first cup to the finish line is the winner.

Hold a hula hoop contest. See which family member can hula the longest.

Jump rope. Take turns jumping alone or use a larger rope to jump together. You could even try singing a few rhymes as you do.

Make good use of nearby parks. Go to your local park's website. Print the schedule of activities and hang it on your refrigerator.

Paddle a canoe. Look for a local park that offers canoe rentals and spend a little time out on the water.

Play balloon tennis. Gather a balloon, paper plates, and painting sticks and you are all set. Attach the sticks to the paper plates to make the paddles and use the balloon as the ball. This is a great activity for indoor or outdoor play.

Play croquet on the lawn. And try bocce ball too.

Play HORSE. Use your basketball hoop or one at the park to play a challenging game of HORSE. With little ones, set up a mini basketball net next to the real one.

Play miniature golf. Go to a local course or build your own course on the driveway.

Play outside in the rain. Smell the rain on the pavement; splash in puddles; make mud pies.

Run in the yard. Play kickball, frisbee, tag, and other outdoor games. You could even create your own summer Olympics.

Set up a badminton net. Have a family badminton tournament or use the net to play volleyball with a beach ball.

Take a hike. Choose a route near your house or take a drive to a more distant park.

Take bike rides for fun. Grab your bikes and leave from your house or drive to biking trails.

Teach the kids to skip stones. Turn this fun pastime into a competition.

Nighttime Summer Fun

Arm yourself with bug spray and you're ready for an evening in the night air. Here are some ideas for enjoying an evening outside.

Camp in the backyard. Pitch a tent and bring out the sleeping bags. Sleep as a family under the stars.

Catch lightning bugs. And then watch them flicker away into the night.

Go to the drive-in. If there isn't a drive-in in your town, look for one nearby or at your vacation spot. Every kid should go to the drive-in at least once!

Have a bonfire. Roast marshmallows and hot dogs. Make s'mores.

Host an outdoor movie night. Rent or borrow a movie projector and show a movie on a white sheet draped across PVC pipe in the backyard. Or, use the side of your house as the screen. Bring sleeping bags, air mattresses, and pool rafts out as the seating and enjoy the show (with popcorn of course).

Listen to an audiobook under the stars. Your library probably has a great collection of classics and newer titles.

Stargaze. Invite friends and make a party of it under the stars.

Summer Activities for Kids and Their Friends

Staying in contact with friends or family over the summer is important for your child's social and emotional health. Gather cousins, neighbors, or school friends your kids miss seeing and do something fun together. Here are a few of our favorite ways to spend time with others.

Bake cookies for an older neighbor. Deliver the cookies with a heartfelt note or picture.

Create a treasure hunt. Hold a scavenger hunt on your own property or around town. Change things up a little and make it a photo scavenger hunt where the kids need to take photos either with their phones or disposable cameras of various things on the list. Examples might include: Take a picture of a flower. Take a photo of something red.

Have a backward day with friends. Wear your clothes backward. Eat dessert for breakfast, breakfast for dinner, and even try talking backward.

Have a cookout in the backyard. Make a burger bar where kids can choose their own toppings, or set up a "make your own sundae" station. Put on some tunes and maybe have a bubble machine blowing in the yard.

Host a board game night. Have a kids' game table and an adult one too.

Invite kids' friends for a sleepover. Let them stay up late, watch movies, play games, and eat snacks.

Meet friends at the playground or the pool. Make these playdates a regular occurrence to strengthen the bonds they share.

Organize a neighborhood garage sale. Allow the kids to make some extra cash by selling their old stuff.

Go on Zoom or Skype with grandparents or other relatives. Talk about your summer plans and adventures.

Visit a nursing home or retirement community. Play games, sing songs, or have lunch with the residents.

Cooking Projects for Kids

With summer's slower schedule, let kids take on some cooking projects. Not only are you imparting a valuable life skill, but it also expands their interests in different types of food. Here are a few examples of summer cooking projects for kids.

Create and bake your own pizzas. Kids will enjoy picking their own toppings. They can help prep by shredding cheese, washing mushrooms, chopping veggies, and so on.

Let the kids cook dinner. Encourage them to plan the menu and shop for ingredients. Then allow them to cook dinner for the family. Supervise younger kids, but allow teens to go it alone.

Make fresh lemonade or sun tea. Enjoy a cool drink on the front porch with some homemade cookies or sell it at a lemonade stand.

Make ice cream. Turn your creation into ice cream sandwiches or enjoy it on its own.

Teach the kids how to make your favorite childhood treat. Let them add their own twist or variation to the recipe.

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100 Activities to Keep Your Kids Busy This Summer

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Do you need ideas for fun things to do this summer? Here are 100 summer activities for kids and parents that will keep your whole family entertained.