In a few years, our youngest child will be a high school graduate. I can count the number of summers left with her on one hand. Gulp. The crazy thing about raising a child with the goal of her being an independent and confident adult is that, eventually, she becomes one. But she’s not one yet, so while adventure awaits her after she leaves home, we still have a few summers of adventure left to embrace under our roof.
Before your teen graduates, you still have time to squeeze in a few more childhood memories, too. See how many of these 10 summer activities for teens you and your kid can check off for the best summer ever.
1. Go on a road trip—just the two of you.
Make it a day trip by exploring a nearby attraction or area new to you both or plan an overnight trip. Stay somewhere unusual, like a tiny house, yurt, or a sailboat. Or try your hand at tent camping or stay at a working farm.
2. Eat at a fancy restaurant and dress the part.
Who says those prom clothes need to be reserved just for the big dance? And what about that old bridesmaid’s dress stuffed in the back of your closet? It’s finally your chance to wear it again! And, hey, if the menu is a bit too pricey for your tastes, go for appetizers. Or better yet, dessert!
3. Take a trip down memory lane.
Make a list of 10 to 12 places in your area where you and your child spent special moments together. Maybe it’s the swings she loved being pushed in “again again” at that one playground. Or that fast food parking lot where you’d share a special treat after school “just because.” Or how about the street where he learned to ride a bike or the field where he scored his first soccer goal? After making your list, surprise your child by visiting each spot. Take a photo and record a video together, sharing why that location holds a special place in your heart. Add to the adventure by blindfolding your child as you drive from one spot to the next.
4. Get tickets to a summer music festival or concert.
Summer activities for teens don’t need to include big-name acts or tours. Think small, and support your local music scene. You and your child just might discover the next big musical artist or your new favorite song.
5. Schedule a photography day.
Go to a lake, a parking deck overlooking the city, or a park setting and take photos. Try out some of the photography tricks you scroll past on social media, like placing a stool in water so it looks like you’re standing on the water or pretending to walk while snapping a photo—or grab a few of these.
6. Visit all of the state parks in your state—or just one.
With thousands of state parks in the United States, you can probably easily drive to one near you. Plus, a specific state park might already be on your teen’s bucket list. Pack a picnic, plenty of water and sunscreen, and explore the outdoors with your kid. Combine it with a photography day by asking your teen to find the best places to take photos.
7. Eat at all the Waffle Houses in your town and tip like you’re at a fancy restaurant.
Teaching kids generosity continues into the teen years, too. Experience with your child the impact an unexpected tip can make in the life of someone who serves you. After your meal, you can either do it face-to-face or secretly leave the tip and watch the server’s reaction through the restaurant window while sitting in your car. By the way, if you don’t live near a Waffle House, try a small diner instead.
8. Tie-dye a hoodie.
Yes, it’s summer and probably hot where you live. However, hoodies and teens still somehow find a way to be together. So, why not grab a couple of white ones and create unique masterpieces together? Epic summer activities for teens can involve the little moments, too. It’s really all about spending time together.
9. Host a murder mystery dinner.
Keep the mystery to your immediate family or invite families from your teen’s friend group, sports team, or church small group. Order a murder mystery kit online and get to sleuthing! Encourage people to dress the part.
10. Plan a gaming tournament.
Does your teen love playing video games? Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, and THEN beat them at their own game. Head to your local arcade or grab a controller for your teen’s gaming system and join in. Tip: If you’re playing at home, sneak in a few practices beforehand and surprise your kid with your hidden abilities. Depending on the game, consider keeping a running tally of your total scores throughout the summer break. The highest number before school starts wins!
What do you think qualifies as epic summer activities for teens?
