2025 Summer Bucket List: Easy, Fun & Affordable Activities for the Whole Family

Summer is the perfect season to unplug, get active, and create lasting memories with the ones you love. You don't need expensive gear or packed schedules to stay active. Here are our favorite simple, low-cost activities to help you stay active, healthy, and connected all summer long:

Go for a Family Bike Ride

Biking is a timeless summer activity that benefits all ages. Whether you're cycling through Brandywine Park or around your neigh, biking promotes cardiovascular health, fresh air, and meaningful conversation.

Tip: Choose a scenic route and pack healthy snacks and water. Plan a stop at a local park to turn it into a half-day adventure. Don't forget helmets and sunscreen!

Plan an Outdoor Picnic + Games.

New Castle County, Delaware, is home to some beautiful green spaces, like Rockford Park, Alapocas Run State Park, Banning Park, and more. A family picnic is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy nature. Bring finger food, drinks, and classic outdoor games.

Tip: Assign roles—one person handles the food, another the games, and someone else curates a summer playlist to give everyone a sense of responsibility and fun!

Take a Nature Walk or Hike

Explore local trails, such as Glasgow Park, Bellevue State Park, and Battery Park. Walking in nature improves mental clarity and physical wellness. Enhance the experience for children by turning it into a scavenger hunt.

Tip: Bring notebooks or smartphones to document interesting plants, bugs, or wildlife. After the hike, create a mini scrapbook or photo journal as a keepsake.

Cool Off with Water Activities

No beach or pool? No problem. Beat the heat right in your yard with sprinklers, water balloon tosses, or a DIY slip 'n slide.

Tip: Turn water play into mini-Olympics! Host fun competitions, such as the fastest bucket relay or most creative splash, to keep the energy high and laughter flowing.

Start the Morning with Family Yoga or Stretching

Gentle movement helps kids and adults wake up peacefully, improving flexibility and focus. Set up a calming space outdoors or in your living room.

Tip: Let each family member lead a "Pose of the day" and explain why they chose it, encouraging creativity, leadership, and mindfulness.

Try a New Sport Together

Whether you're playing basketball at the Police Athletic League of Wilmington or YMCA, soccer at a nearby school field, or even kickball in a backyard, trying something new as a family promotes teamwork and healthy competition.

Tip: Keep it light and filled with laughter. Encourage sportsmanship by celebrating effort, not just wins.

Explore More with Duffy's Hope

Our youth programs in New Castle County, Delaware, are designed to foster healthy habits, promote family engagement, and encourage community involvement throughout the year.

Visit our website to learn how we help youth grow through enrichment, education, and wellness.