Summer is your golden ticket to adventure, memories, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—but only if you make the most of it. Whether you’re craving a quiet mountain escape, a vibrant beach town, or something thrilling and spontaneous, this season is bursting with opportunities across the U.S. to help you live it up. You don’t need to travel far or break the bank to have a summer that sticks with you forever.
This isn’t just any bucket list—it’s the only one you’ll need. We’ve broken it down into five categories to match every kind of summer energy: nature, adventure, culture, food, and relaxation. With 50 exciting ideas, you’ll find the perfect mix of iconic destinations, unique activities, and meaningful experiences. Let’s map out a summer worth remembering.
Nature Escapes
1. Hike the Grand Canyon (Arizona)
Take the Bright Angel Trail for sweeping views and an intense workout. Stay at Phantom Ranch if you plan to go all the way down.
2. Camp in Glacier National Park (Montana)
Pitch a tent near Lake McDonald. Wake up to mirrored water, alpine meadows, and mountain goats.
3. Swim in Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
Rent a kayak or paddleboard. Try Sand Harbor Beach for crystal-clear waters.
4. Explore Acadia National Park (Maine)
Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. It’s the first place sunlight touches the U.S.
5. Walk Under Oregon’s Multnomah Falls
Follow the short paved trail to a viewpoint bridge. The mist feels amazing in summer.
6. Stargaze in Big Bend National Park (Texas)
Camp in the Chisos Basin. Bring a telescope or just lie under one of the darkest skies in America.
7. Float Down the Madison River (Montana)
Bring a tube or rent one nearby. Cold water, warm sun, and endless views.
8. Watch Wildlife in Yellowstone (Wyoming)
See bison, elk, and maybe even bears. Head to Lamar Valley at dawn.
9. Bike the Virginia Creeper Trail (Virginia)
It’s 34 miles of forests, bridges, and rivers. Rent a bike in Damascus.
10. Snorkel in Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)
Accessible by ferry from Key West. Expect shipwrecks, corals, and sea turtles.
Urban Adventures
11. Rooftop Movie in Los Angeles (California)
Catch a flick under the stars at Rooftop Cinema Club. Add tacos and craft cocktails.
12. Kayak the Chicago River (Illinois)
Paddle past skyscrapers and under historic bridges. Book a sunset tour.
13. Explore Pike Place Market in Seattle (Washington)
Watch fishmongers toss salmon. Sample cherries, cheese, and coffee.
14. Walk the Freedom Trail (Boston, Massachusetts)
Follow 2.5 miles of American history. Start at Boston Common.
15. See a Broadway Show (New York City)
Snag same-day tickets at TKTS. Even lesser-known shows feel like magic.
16. Taste Test Food Trucks in Austin (Texas)
Try brisket tacos, vegan donuts, and Thai-fusion noodles. Visit the South Congress area.
17. Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco)
Rent a bike near Fisherman’s Wharf. End in Sausalito and take the ferry back.
18. Take a Riverboat Cruise in New Orleans (Louisiana)
Hop on the Steamboat Natchez. Enjoy live jazz and views of the French Quarter.
19. Watch a Dodgers Game at Chavez Ravine (California)
Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the atmosphere and skyline views are worth it.
20. Walk the High Line in NYC
An elevated park built on old train tracks. Expect gardens, art, and views of the Hudson.
Water Thrills
21. Whitewater Raft the Colorado River (Arizona)
Book a guide to navigate the rapids in the Grand Canyon. It’s an adrenaline rush.
22. Surf in Huntington Beach (California)
Known as “Surf City USA.” Rent a board or just watch the locals shred.
23. Parasail in South Padre Island (Texas)
You’ll float 500 feet above the water. Go in the morning for smooth winds.
24. Paddle the Boundary Waters (Minnesota)
A canoe trip through a maze of lakes and forests. No cell signal. Pure peace.
25. Jet Ski on Lake Havasu (Arizona)
Crystal-clear waters and desert heat make this a perfect thrill spot.
26. Cliff Jump at Rick’s Cafe in Negril (Jamaica)
Just kidding—don’t jump on your U.S. bucket list! Instead, try Quarry Park in Minnesota.
27. Scuba Dive in the Florida Keys
Explore coral reefs and even an underwater Jesus statue at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
28. Windsurf in Hood River (Oregon)
This Columbia River Gorge town is a top spot for catching wind.
29. Swim in Devil’s Den (Florida)
A prehistoric spring inside a cave. Snorkel or scuba in 72°F water year-round.
30. Rent a Houseboat on Lake Powell (Utah/Arizona)
Float, swim, sunbathe, and sleep on the water. It’s part adventure, part luxury.
Beach Activities
31. Surf the Waves in Huntington Beach, California
Known as Surf City USA, this beach has consistent waves and a laid-back vibe. You can book a surf lesson in Huntington Beach or rent a board and ride solo.
32. Snorkel in Hanauma Bay, Hawaii
This nature preserve on Oahu is perfect for snorkeling. With crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and tropical fish, it’s easy to see why it’s a top spot. Check out Hanauma Bay reservations and gear rentals.
33. Kayak Through Bioluminescent Waters in Florida
Merritt Island and Mosquito Lagoon offer nighttime kayaking where glowing plankton light up the water. Book a guided bioluminescent kayak tour for an unforgettable evening.
34. Relax on the White Sand of Siesta Key Beach, Florida
Powdery sand and calm, shallow waters make this one of the best beaches in the U.S. Explore beachfront hotels in Siesta Key to stay close to the shore.
35. Go Whale Watching in Monterey Bay, California
Summer is peak humpback whale season. Join a whale watching tour from Monterey Harbor and experience the sights up close.
36. Ride ATVs on the Oregon Dunes
Race over sand hills and open spaces at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Rent ATVs from Spinreel and explore the terrain at your pace.
37. Visit the Boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland
A classic beach boardwalk packed with rides, arcade games, and food stands. Find accommodations near Ocean City Boardwalk to stay close to the action.
38. Go Parasailing in South Padre Island, Texas
Calm winds and sunny skies make this a top parasailing destination. Reserve a parasailing session in South Padre and soar over the water.
39. Explore the Tide Pools in La Jolla, California
At low tide, walk along the coast to see starfish, crabs, and sea anemones. Learn more about La Jolla tide pool access and tours.
40. Try Paddleboarding in Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
Lake Tahoe’s alpine water and mountain views are perfect for paddleboarding. Rent paddleboards in Lake Tahoe and explore the lake at your own pace.
Chill and Recharge
41. Picnic in Central Park (New York City)
Find a shady spot at Sheep Meadow and grab fresh bagels from a nearby New York City bakery delivery service. Pack cold lemonade with a portable insulated cooler for an easy setup.
42. Watch Fireworks at the National Mall (Washington, D.C.)
Head out early and bring a compact foldable chair for the best view. Don’t forget to preload a patriotic flag beach towel to spread out on the grass.
43. Relax in a Hot Spring in Pagosa Springs (Colorado)
Book access to the San Juan River hot spring pool. Bring a quick-dry microfiber towel for easy packing and drying.
44. Glamp in Zion National Park (Utah)
Reserve a luxury tent at a Zion glamping resort with private views of red cliffs and starlit skies. Pack a portable camping lantern for cozy evenings.
45. Spend a Day at the Jersey Shore (New Jersey)
Explore Asbury Park and rent a boardwalk bike to cruise the promenade. Carry snacks in a beach tote with waterproof pocket.
46. Explore Mackinac Island (Michigan)
Skip cars and bike the island with a Mackinac Island bike rental. Treat yourself to fudge and pack a compact picnic backpack.
47. Watch the Sunset at Mallory Square (Key West, Florida)
Grab a front-row spot and enjoy street performers. Keep your phone steady with a mini tripod stand for sunset shots.
48. Swing in a Hammock on the Outer Banks (North Carolina)
Book a beach cottage and hang a double hammock with stand for perfect relaxation all day.
49. Lounge on the Sand in Coronado Beach (California)
Soak in gentle waves while you lie back on a sand-resistant beach blanket. Spot the historic Hotel del Coronado in the distance.
50. Savor Ice Cream in Ben & Jerry’s Hometown (Burlington, Vermont)
Visit the original scoop shop and try unique flavors you won’t find in stores. Bring a chilled insulated ice cream tumbler to savor leftovers on the ride home.
Adventure and Thrill
51. Raft the Colorado River, Arizona
Sign up for a whitewater rafting tour through the Grand Canyon and bring a waterproof dry bag to protect your gear.
52. Skydive over Oceanside, California
Experience a 13,000-foot jump with GoJump Oceanside. Capture the moment using a wrist-mounted action camera.
53. Zipline in New Hampshire’s White Mountains
Soar above forest canopies with Alpine Adventures. Keep your phone safe with a secure lanyard strap.
54. Go dune buggying in Glamis, California
Tear through sand with a sand rail or ATV rental and pack a dust-proof safety goggles.
55. Surf the waves in Waikiki, Hawaii
Take a beginner lesson with Ohana Surf Project. Stay sun-safe with a reef-safe sunscreen stick.
56. Paraglide off Lookout Mountain, Georgia
Launch from the summit with Lookout Mountain Flight Park. Keep your feet warm with thermal socks.
57. Cliff jump at Crater Lake, Oregon
Leap off Cleetwood Cove Trail with confidence. Bring a water-resistant backpack for your towels and snacks.
58. Ride horses through Monument Valley, Utah
Book a Navajo-guided tour and wear a wide-brimmed sun hat to stay protected on open trails.
59. Hike Angel’s Landing, Utah
Apply for a permit and tackle Zion’s iconic trail. Carry essentials in a lightweight hydration pack.
60. Sail a catamaran off Key West, Florida
Enjoy a sunset cruise with Fury Water Adventures and secure your camera on a floating hand grip.
Nature and Scenery
61. Watch the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, Maine
Drive up to Acadia National Park and stay overnight nearby to catch the U.S.’s first sunrise during certain months.
62. Camp under the stars in Joshua Tree, California
Book a campsite for quiet, star-filled skies and surreal desert landscapes.
63. Hike the Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin
Tackle the Devil’s Lake Segment for cliffs and water views. Stay nearby to make the most of it.
64. Cruise Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Rent a boat or book a cruise for stunning views of turquoise water and forested mountains.
65. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
Make stops at Linville Falls or Mount Mitchell to enjoy the scenic overlook.
66. Spot wildlife in Denali National Park, Alaska
Join a guided bus tour to increase your chances of seeing bears, moose, and caribou.
67. Swim in Barton Springs Pool, Texas
Stay close to Zilker Park and cool off in Austin’s natural spring-fed pool.
68. Kayak through the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Book a kayak tour with Trek & Trail to explore the iconic sea caves and beaches.
69. Visit the Great Sand Dunes, Colorado
Slide down the massive dunes, splash in Medano Creek, and stay at Great Sand Dunes Lodge nearby.
70. See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska
Stay at Aurora Borealis Lodge to increase your chances of spotting the lights.
Food and Flavor
71. Eat lobster rolls in Bar Harbor, Maine
Grab one at Thurston’s Lobster Pound.
72. Go on a taco crawl in Austin, Texas
Start with Torchy’s Tacos and head to Veracruz All Natural.
73. Try deep dish pizza in Chicago, Illinois
Sample the original at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s.
74. Sample craft beers in Portland, Oregon
Take a brewery tour and visit Deschutes or Breakside.
75. Sip wine in Napa Valley, California
Book a tasting at Castello di Amorosa, the castle winery.
76. Go blueberry picking in New Jersey
Visit Hammonton, known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World.”
77. Enjoy beignets in New Orleans, Louisiana
Don’t miss the powdered sugar treats at Café du Monde.
78. Eat fresh seafood in Seattle’s Pike Place Market
Try the chowder at Pike Place Chowder and watch the fishmongers in action.
79. Try Navajo tacos in Arizona
Order fry bread topped with beans and cheese at Cameron Trading Post.
80. Have BBQ in Kansas City, Missouri
Head to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que for ribs and burnt ends.
Culture and History
81. Tour the Smithsonian Museums, Washington D.C.
Plan your visit and explore dozens of free museums.
82. Walk the Freedom Trail, Boston, Massachusetts
Use the official map to find all 16 historic sites.
83. Visit Alcatraz Island, San Francisco
Book a ferry tour to explore this iconic prison.
84. Explore the Getty Center, Los Angeles
Visit the Getty website for details and hours.
85. Attend a powwow in Montana
Check Visit Montana for schedules and event info.
86. Explore Native cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde, Colorado
Reserve a ranger-guided tour to visit the ancient ruins.
87. Catch Shakespeare in the Park, NYC
Reserve tickets on The Public Theater’s site.
88. Take a mural tour in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Explore public art with the Mural Arts guide.
89. Explore ghost towns in Nevada
Visit Rhyolite near Death Valley for photo-worthy ruins.
90. Walk the San Antonio River Walk, Texas
Book a Go Rio cruise or eat along the water.
Fun and Family
91. Visit Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
See geysers and wildlife. Book lodging early.
92. Spend a weekend at Disney World, Florida
Plan your trip and make park reservations.
93. Tour Niagara Falls, New York
Hop aboard the Maid of the Mist for a thrilling view.
94. Bike Mackinac Island, Michigan
Rent a bike and circle this car-free island.
95. See giant trees in Redwood National Park, California
Use nps.gov to find the best trails and visitor tips.
96. Play on the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama
Stay at The Lodge inside Gulf State Park.
97. Watch hot air balloons in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Visit during the Balloon Fiesta or book a ride.
98. Go tubing in Helen, Georgia
Float with Cool River Tubing on the Chattahoochee.
99. Visit Hersheypark, Pennsylvania
Buy tickets here.
100. Explore Coney Island, New York
Plan your visit and ride the Cyclone or hit the boardwalk.
Pick a few or go for all 50. Just don’t let summer pass without making some real memories.