Whether you’re embracing the concept of “the last summer” or reclaiming summer break vibes—WE OUTSIDE THIS SUMMER. I really want to channel the joy and the endless possibilities of summer vacation even though I’m an adult with a full-time job. Sometimes, I find myself in a loop of “living for the weekend” which leaves very little room for fun during the week. With the longer days and a little more intention on my part, I’m sure this season can break the cycle.
Here is what’s on my summer bucket list:
Visit a new city every month
While I don’t currently have any big summer trips on the agenda, this could be a good opportunity to consider getaways that are a few hours away.
Meet a VBF IRL
Fostering virtual friendships has brought me great joy in the last few years. Time to take some of these friendships offline so that we can meet IRL!
See an outdoor movie
Outdoor movies just scream summer to me. I’ve only had the opportunity to do it a couple of times but luckily there are plenty of options in the DC area. If you’re local and planning to add this item to your list as well, this article contains a good list of upcoming opportunities for outdoor movie viewing!
Attend Smithsonian Solstice Saturday
Are you a fan of the Night at the Museum movies? I thought they were hilarious growing up (ok, I still think that they are pretty funny), and love that the Smithsonian in DC got their movie moment. In celebration of the summer solstice, the Smithsonian offer special programming and extended museum hours—some open as late as midnight! I’m looking forward to having my own Night at the Museum moment this summer.
Create new artwork
There was a punch needling kit that I bought a year ago that I finally got around to completing last week. It reminded me how nice it is to create away from screens and how fun it is to try something new.
Visit the aquarium
One of the items on my brother’s summer bucket list is to go to Baltimore. As a kid, I really enjoyed the National Aquarium and would like to visit again as an adult!
Participate in a library event
Local libraries usually have a plethora of programming that I rarely take advantage of. This summer I want to support the library and engage in my community by participating in an event.
Ride bike more
I will ride my bike this summer. I WILL.
Plan fall travel
Where is your favorite place to visit in the fall?
Eat alllll the frozen treats
On a mission to try as many ice cream/frozen custard/gelato/milkshake/etc places this summer. I feel a new series coming!
Attend a baseball game
I attend baseball games for the ambiance, not necessarily the sport itself. However, my brother expressed interest in attending a game this summer and I’m happy to oblige.
Take a road trip
Are you more of a solo road tripper or do you like driving companions? I usually like to hit the road alone but my sister may have convinced me to take one together. Stay tuned.
Complete summer reading
As someone who may or may not have benefited from some book sales recently, my tbr is starting to fill up again. I love summer reading because the weather provides an opportunity to change up the location and read outside more. What is on the top of your summer reading list?
Try a new exercise class
I love trying exercise classes, but this summer I’m hoping to take it a step further by doing something unconventional. Maybe a trapeze class? Trampoline? Silk ribbons? Pole dancing? Only time will tell.
Go horseback riding
My sister has had horseback riding on her list for a while and I feel like this might be the year that we finally check it off for her. Shhhhh don’t tell her 😉
Attend one meet-up a month
There are a couple of reasons that I decided to include this on the list. The first is that adult friendship is hard and I have been feeling like it might be nice to have more local friends in the same stage of life as me (if you’re reading this and we’re friends—I love you!). The other reason is that this will encourage me to have new experiences, get out more, and increase my community engagement.
Spend time by/in/on water
I just love being by the water. It helps me feel calm and makes for gorgeous views.
Rooftop happy hours
ISO is the best rooftop happy hour in the DC area. Join me?
Play outside
When was the last time that you played outside? Like really played? I can’t recall but I know some littles who wouldn’t mind helping me get into the spirit to play again.
Harvest from my garden
My little garden has been working hard this season and I’m hoping to harvest some produce that I have tended to. New to the garden is a Meyer lemon tree (more of a bush currently) and it has been exciting to watch the baby lemons form! Can’t wait to try them once they reach maturity!
I had fun creating this list because I was able to rope in my siblings and friends to complete some of the items. What’s on your summer bucket list?
