There’s something about summer that just feels different when you’re a parent.
Longer days, sticky fingers from melty popsicles, the freedom of no real schedule… and that moment when your kids look up at you and ask, “So, what are we doing today?”
That’s exactly why we started making a summer bucket list. Not to check off more to-dos, but to give our days some shared direction. We wanted little moments of adventure and joy that felt intentional instead of last-minute or rushed.
This summer feels extra meaningful for us. It’s our last before both girls are in school, and I just want to soak it all in. Every spontaneous splash in the kiddie pool. Every barefoot giggle in the backyard. And even every bedtime story under a sky full of stars.
We’re building our little homestead here, with a growing garden, buzzing bees, chickens we’re counting down to meet, and a foster pup or two keeping our sweet old dog Tucker company. Every morning, we head outside to see what’s sprouted. I can only imagine how excited the girls will be when we find our first egg.
If you’re craving more connection and fewer frantic days this season, here’s how to make your own family bucket list. Plus, I’m giving you a peek at what we’re planning in our little corner of the world.
Why Bother with a Summer Bucket List?
Maybe the word “list” makes you roll your eyes because, let’s be real, life already has a lot of them. But this one? It’s different. It actually makes things easier, not harder.
Here’s what I’ve noticed:
- It gives the kids something to look forward to and makes them part of the fun.
- It helps us plug into our community in small, beautiful ways.
- And honestly? It reminds me to slow down and be present for the moments that matter.
- It helps us be intentional with our time, so we don’t get to the end of August wondering where it all went.
We’ve done simple versions before, but this year we’re making it visual. We’ll hang it in the kitchen or the mudroom where we can see it every day. I want those little nudges to make space for joy, and not just talk about it.
How to Make a Family Summer Bucket List That Works
1. Start with a Family Brainstorm
We’ve found our kids are way more into this when they get to contribute. Over breakfast or in the car, ask them: “What would make this summer feel amazing to you?”
Their answers will probably surprise you (and won’t always cost a dime!). Write it all down, because honestly, no idea is too small or silly.
2. Mix Local Gems with Universal Joy
We love combining “only-in-Duluth” adventures with those universal, childhood-magic moments. Whether it’s picking wildflowers in our yard or visiting a spot we’ve never explored before, it keeps things fresh.
3. Lean into Free & Budget-Friendly Fun
Some of our favorite days have cost nothing. Watching bees buzz around the garden or chasing the chickens in the yard (okay, that one’s chaotic but hilarious) can become the highlight of the week.
4. Put It on the Calendar
I learned this with rowing. I joined a local team last year just to try something new, and I completely fell in love with it. This year, I’m actually penciling in the days I want to row so I can catch those early sunrises on Lake Superior. When it’s on the calendar, it actually happens. And bonus? The family usually meets me down at the beach when I’m done.
5. Make It Visual (and Visible!)
This year, we’re turning our list into a poster or chalkboard we can hang where everyone can see it. That daily reminder helps us keep the fun front and center and reminds everyone that we’re making memories together because we created it together!
Steal Our Family’s Duluth Summer Bucket List
Don’t skip over this section even if you don’t live in Minnesota! Here’s a peek into what we’re planning this summer in our little corner of the world:
1. Ride the Train from the Depot
We got married at the Depot, and every summer we ride the scenic train to celebrate our anniversary. It’s a tradition that just keeps getting sweeter with our girls along for the ride.
2. Line Dancing at DoveTail
Coco loves folk music and dancing, and we want to show up intentionally this year. Let the girl dance! (And I usually get roped into joining, too…)
3. Tour Glensheen Mansion
Duluth friends, don’t laugh! But I’ve lived here most of my life and still haven’t toured this place. Oops! I want to! It’s got all the intrigue of a real-life Clue board, and I’m finally saying yes this year.
4. Catch Music in the Park
We bring a picnic blanket, soak in the local talent, get some yummy food truck food and even jump in the lake if it’s warm. These nights feel like everything summer should be.
5. Sauna + Cold Plunge on the Floating Sauna
Our childhood friend started this business and it’s absolutely magical. I want a night with the grown-ups to laugh, sauna, and jump in the lake. Yes, please!
6. Join the Music Circle at Studio Cafe
Most weekends, we’re here painting and sipping coffee while live music plays. This year, we’re bringing instruments and joining in… kazoo, Hello Kitty ukulele, and all.
7. Row Another Regatta
Last year’s attempt was… enthusiastic! But this year, I want to get back on the water and row in rhythm. Wish me luck!
8. Celebrate Our First Homestead Harvest
We’re waiting (not so patiently) for the chickens to lay their first egg and for our garden to really take off. We might throw a tiny backyard party just to mark the moment.
More Outdoor Summer Bucket List Ideas
Even if you’re not in Duluth, these ideas are easy to adapt wherever you are:
- Backyard camping with s’mores and stories
- Sidewalk chalk art contests
- Family bike rides with scavenger hunts
- Water balloon battles (always a hit)
- Stargazing night with hot cocoa and wish-making
- Visiting a place in or around where you live that you’ve always wanted to
What to Do on a Rainy Summer Day with Kids
For those gray days that call for coziness:
- Summer-themed movie marathon
- Blanket fort picnic
- Ocean or sunshine-inspired craft day
- Bake cookies or make homemade popsicles
- Game night with silly trophies (like “fastest Uno shuffler”)
How to Capture Your Summer Bucket List Memories
Here’s how we like to capture it all so we can always look back on our good bucket list adventures:
DIY Summer Scrapbook: Add photos, tickets, and funny quotes.
Create a Family Hashtag: Even if it’s just for you, it’s fun to scroll later.
Memory Jar: Write a favorite moment each week and read them at summer’s end.
What’s On Your Summer Bucket List?
Are you making one this year too? Do you have a favorite hometown gem we need to know about?
This season feels full of beauty, and I’m so thankful we get to create a life that makes space for the little things. Let’s slow down, notice what’s right in front of us, and soak it all up.
Want more ways to live intentionally, shop thoughtfully, and simplify your life?
Check out my Lifestyle Faves, only things that make life better, not busier!
