Summer is a busy time, especially if you are a hard working professional. Just remember that it is important to plan some downtime this summer. It keeps you refreshed, and has a way of keeping things in perspective when we take time out of our busy schedules to stop and smell the roses.
If a nice long vacation just isn’t in the cards for you, here are 30 fantastically simple ideas to get in some quality downtime this summer!
1. Plan a weekend getaway
Whether it’s a big city, a quaint small town, or a remote cabin in the woods, it’s pretty easy to find somewhere unique to go for a weekend– just to get away and take a break!
2. Go for a drive
Have you ever just taken off in your car to explore? Take a day to just drive anywhere and stop at whatever tickles your fancy along the way! You never know what kind of treasures you will find…
3. Watch the sunset
Take some time to just take it in. If you can’t see it well from your own place, find a nice park or lake where you can sit and take in the beauty of a sunset… it can be very therapeutic.
4. Put up a hammock
Even if you don’t have two trees spaced well for a hammock, you can get a stand. This will encourage you to relax outside more often. Grab a cold drink and spend a few minutes in the evenings– unwind and let the stress of the day melt away.
5. Read a good book
Find some time to get comfy and catch up on some reading. Not much of a reader? try an audiobook or some movies you’ve been wanting to see!
6. Go on a picnic
Pack a blanket and lunch or pick up some lunch from somewhere and head to a park or nature reserve. Enjoy some time outside with someone you care about.
7. Go canoeing or boating
Take a boat out on a lake or river. If you don’t have a boat, check local parks or recreational facilities that rent canoes or paddle boats. Or you could make a reservation for a dinner cruise on a river!
8. Have a bonfire
Have a family night or invite some friends or neighbors over for a bonfire. Roast hot dogs and make s’mores!
9. Go to a drive in movie
That’s right, drive in theaters still exist! If you don’t know of one, I bet you can find one within driving distance. If not, maybe a fun movie night in your own back yard?
10. Berry picking
Picking berries is not only surprisingly enjoyable, but inspiring! Try to make a new dessert or pie!
11. Go fora bike ride
Time to dust off that bicycle that has been hanging in the garage… lubricate the chains and take it for a spin! Head out to a local bike trail and enjoy the wind in your hair!
12. Go horseback riding
Find a place where you can reserve a horseback riding session. Enjoy a nice trail ride!
13. Paint
Get creative! Plan an outing as a couple or with some friends to enjoy a painting session at one of many art studios where you can have wine and learn to paint!
14. Enjoy a concert
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy an outdoor concert– ok, indoor works too, but those happen all year… 😉
15. Go to a sporting event
Head out to a baseball game, a beach volleyball match, or a gold tournament!
16. Play a sport
There are plenty of adult sports leagues, or just get together with some friends to shoot some hoops, play a round of golf, a game of baseball, or even frisbee golf! The possibilities are endless…
17. Take in some local history
Chances are you won’t have to drive far to find some fascinating historical sites. Check your local Historical Society to learn all about sites and tours.
18. Take in some local culture
Visit your local downtown area, or a neighboring town. Local shops and eateries are everywhere these days. Explore your area and enjoy the culture that is all around but often overlooked.
19. See fireworks
Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day are all big days for fireworks, but lots of other events may prove to have great fireworks displays as well!
20. Visit a festival
Summer is a great time to visit a local festival or fair. Check your local news website or Events listings to find festival listings.
21. Do some yard work
This may not be for everyone, but doing some yard work or planting a garden can be very calming as well as rewarding! When you’re done, invite some friends over for a cookout to enjoy your lovely outdoor setting!
22. Visit local attractions
Spend a day at a local amusement park or museum.
23. Plan some outdoor fun
Get crazy and have a water fight, maybe have a pool party or cookout. Play some yard games or sports with friends in your own back yard!
24. Stargaze
Turn off the TV and head outside before you go to bed. Look up on a clear night and take in the beauty of the cosmos. Maybe you could even drive into the country for a brighter, more unobstructed view!
25. Go for ice cream
Head out to your favorite local ice cream joint and have a few scoops!
26. Take a road trip
Plot a course! Plan to visit several places, visit some friends and family, or be completely spontaneous! Hit the road, Jack! You should definitely come back though. (If you’re confused… it’s an old song reference)
27. Go to the beach
Take a trip to the beach! If you don’t have a beach within driving distance, try a lake or waterpark!
28. Go Fishing
Not one for fishing? A hike or creek walking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors!
29. Work on a project
Do you like to tinker with cars? Decorate a room? Create something! Completing a project is very satisfying.
30. Go camping
Enjoy the outdoors with a weekend camping trip. It could be a tent or cabin, or maybe even just a small tent in the back yard with the kids.