Creating a memorable vacation for your kids doesn't have to break the bank. There are tons of budget-friendly options to explore! Simpler outings that don't require much planning or resources allow parents and children to spend quality time together and build strong connections. This is particularly true for outdoor activities.
At AAA, we know creating lasting memories with your family doesn't have to cost a fortune. That's why we've compiled a list of engaging outdoor activities that are kind to your wallet and perfect for all ages.
Hiking and Active Excursions
A fantastic way to bond with your family is by getting some fresh air and exercise together. Below are some fantastic hiking and active excursions to enjoy together.
1. Hike in a National Park
From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the mysterious Mammoth Cave, our national parks brim with breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. There's something for everyone, whether you seek a relaxing outdoor escape or an adventure of a lifetime.
National parks are a great way to connect your family to nature, enjoy beautiful views and get some exercise. Most parks offer trails of various difficulties, catering to whether your family seeks a leisurely stroll or a more intense workout.
If you don't live near a national park, no worries! Just search online for local trails and hikes near you. You may be surprised to find how many hidden gems exist right in your backyard!
2. Go on a Bike Ride
Go cruising on a bike ride with your family. It’s a fantastic way to get exercise while enjoying the fresh air. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, you can customize the bike ride to suit your family’s preferences.
Before you begin, find or plan a route. You may find biking roads or dirt biking trails nearby to explore. Bring plenty of water and ensure your family wears protective gear for safety and hydration.
3. Enjoy Some Aquatic Fun at the Local Pool
A day trip to the local pool can be the perfect way to cool down as the weather warms up. An outdoor community pool is a great place for your kids to splash around, make new friends and soak up the sunshine. Pack plenty of sunscreen, towels and yummy snacks to turn your day into a relaxing poolside escape.
4. Walk Around the Neighborhood
A family excursion can be as simple as a walk around your neighborhood. Gather the whole family, including your pets, to stroll through your local community. It's a wonderful opportunity to meet new neighbors, get some exercise and even discover hidden gems around your home.
5. Try Geocaching
Embark on a thrilling treasure hunt with your family: geocaching! Around the world, people hide small containers called geocaches in unique outdoor locations, and geocache has specific coordinates that you can use to track them down. With your GPS or a free geocaching app, you can gather the coordinates and any available clues to guide your search.
When you find a geocache, don’t forget to have your family sign the container's logbook. Geocaching is a fantastic way to explore new places with your family and have unforgettable outdoor fun!
6. Create an Obstacle Course
Bring on the family competition with a DIY obstacle course in your backyard. Here's how to set it up:
- Plan the course: Sketch out a rough layout, considering your backyard space and the ages of your kids to determine the difficulty level.
- Gather materials: Collect all the items needed to build the obstacle sections, such as ropes, hula hoops and chairs.
- Build the course: Set up the obstacle course with a clear start and finish line. Test it out with a practice round to ensure it's manageable.
Once the course is ready, it's time to play! Each family member can take turns running through the course, and you can time their completion. Consider rewarding the person with the fastest time with a sweet treat or another prize.
Camping and Nature Explorations
Log off your devices and swap screens for scenic views! Below are some great camping and nature exploration activities that will create lasting memories for your entire family.
7. Take a Drive With the Top Down
If you want to breathe in some fresh air, take a scenic drive with the top down, whether it's just around the corner or across the country. The whole family will love the excitement of having the rush of wind in their hair while driving down the road.
No convertible? Not a problem!
You can use your AAA discounts at Hertz , Dollar , or Thrifty to rent almost any car, including a convertible. AAA members can also enjoy special offers and benefits, including deals on daily, weekly and monthly rentals, and enjoy the ride without going broke in the process.
8. Plan a Summer Camping Trip
Going camping with your children can offer numerous benefits, including disconnecting from technology and spending quality time together. It doesn't matter if you go out of state or in your backyard.
This summer activity gives you a chance to bond and make unforgettable memories. To plan a summer camping trip, check out the campground search tool to find the best camp spots near you.
9. Embark on a Nature Walk
Reconnect your family with nature through a leisurely nature walk. Explore a nearby trail or park together. Transform the walk into an interactive adventure by asking your kids questions about their surroundings. Encourage them to identify various plants and animals to keep them interested while nurturing their curiosity about the natural world.
10. Organize a Nature Scavenger Hunt
Encourage your kid’s exploration during a nature walk with a scavenger hunt. Here's how to set it up:
- Create a checklist of items for your family to find, such as different types of leaves, rocks of various sizes and flowers. Include interesting facts about the items on the checklist for your kids to learn.
- Split into teams or have individuals hunt, depending on the size of your family.
- Set a time limit, or let the scavenger hunt run until the end of your walk.
Once the walk is over, have your family review their checklists to see who found the most items. This is a great way to practice friendly competition while learning more about the natural world.
11. Have a Beach Day
If you live close to a beach, consider taking your family on a beach trip. For a day of relaxation, spread out your blankets, grab some delicious snacks and soak up the sunshine. For optimal sun protection, don't forget a pair of sunglasses from Lenscrafters .
Feeling adventurous? Enjoy a leisurely beach walk to explore tide pools, find unique shells and search for sea glass.
Sea glass, also known as beach glass, is weathered glass found in saltwater, giving it a beautiful tumbled appearance resembling rocks. It often comes in shades of blue and green, making it easy to spot along the shoreline.
12. Learn About Animal Tracking
Engage your family’s observation skills with animal tracking. Follow the next steps to set up your tracking adventure:
- Research: Save pictures of animal tracks on your phone or write down descriptions of native animal tracks in your area so you can easily spot them.
- Find and explore: Head to a nearby hiking trail or state park and encourage your kids to bring journals to record their observations.
- Observe and identify tracks: Have your kids closely observe the area for tracks. Once they find one, have them identify the tracks based on your notes and pictures and record their findings.
After your nature walk, spend time with your family learning about the animals you tracked. Discuss how they interact with their environment and their eating habits.
Outdoor Dining and Gatherings
While there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy with your family, adding more people can make the experience even more enjoyable. Below are a few outdoor dining and larger group activities to savor with your family and friends.
13. Host a Backyard Barbeque
Backyard barbeques are a great way to try new recipes and get together with family and friends. They are an occasion where people can relax, tell stories and enjoy each other's company in the warm summer air. Grilling out doesn't just have to be hot dogs and hamburgers; you can cook many unique recipes over an open flame, from grilled vegetables to kabobs.
The basic supplies you'll need for a backyard barbeque are:
- Grill
- Charcoal or propane
- Matches or a lighter,
- Tongs or a spatula
- Oven mitt or heatproof gloves
- Aluminum foil
- Paper plates
- Plastic utensils
Stock up on personalized barbeque essentials for your next hosting gig! Grab chef hats, engraved wood sets, or your favorite sauces from Harry & David .
14. Play “Minute To Win It” Games
Foster some friendly competition with a series of Minute To Win It games in your backyard. These games last exactly 60 seconds and require minimal setup. Here are a few games to try out:
- Cookie Face: Players place a cookie on their forehead and must use facial movements to move the cookie down to their mouth.
- Egg and Spoon Race: Players must balance a raw egg on a spoon, quickly move to a designated spot, and then race back to the finish line.
- Cup Stack: Each player starts with 15 cups in a stack. They must stack the cups into a pyramid as fast as possible and then stack the cups back into a single stack to complete.
Feel free to get creative and invent your own Minute to Win It games! End the games with an award ceremony for the individual who won the most games.
15. Pick up Meal To Go and Enjoy the Outdoors
If you find yourself short on time or want to try something different, opting for to-go meals delivered or picked up is a great way to save time. Some of our favorite restaurants include:
- Landry's Restaurants : Pick up a meal from one of Landry’s Restaurants, from Saltgrass Steak House to Bubba Gump Shrimp Company. Enjoy high-quality steaks, seafood, desserts and other delights. In addition, AAA members can save 10 percent on all food and non-alcoholic purchases.
- Hard Rock Café : The restaurant provides a unique experience with an impressive menu, outdoor dining at select locations and frequent live music shows. AAA members can take advantage of discounts on food and non-charitable merchandise, making Hard Rock Cafe an affordable and exciting experience.
Enjoy your meals outdoors to spend quality time with your family and soak in the fresh air.
16. Make S’mores on a Grill or Fire Pit
Nothing says the outdoors better than gooey s’mores. Gather your s’mores ingredients: marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate, along with your roasting tools. While a firepit is ideal for roasting marshmallows, you can also use a grill. If you don’t have either, you can toast your marshmallows in the oven on a baking sheet. Be sure to enjoy them with your family and friends under the stars!
17. Host a Water Balloon Battle
A scorching hot summer day is the perfect time for hosting a classic water balloon fight. Here's how to set it up:
- Gather the materials: Fill a bunch of water balloons with water. Divide them into buckets and place them around the yard or field for easy access.
- Split into teams: If you have a large group, consider splitting into teams or allowing individuals to participate.
- Battle it out: Once everyone is in place, start the balloon battle! Make sure to have some extra balloons on hand to replenish the buckets and keep the fun going.
There's no winner—it's all about cooling down and having some fun along the way.
Attractions and Adventure Park Experiences
Appease the thrill-seekers in your family by visiting nearby attractions and adventure parks. Here are some of our favorite activities:
18. Visit a Theme Park
Visiting a theme park is an exciting experience for people of all ages. Not only can you enjoy thrilling rides, but you also get to explore and experience unique attractions. With each themed area, there's something new to explore, from the wildest roller coasters and water slides to interactive games and shows.
Below are some of our favorite theme parks to visit:
- Disney theme parks are among the world's most popular and iconic family destinations. From California's Disneyland to Florida's Walt Disney World , these magical places are filled with attractions that will capture your imagination and make you feel like you're in a different world.
- Universal theme parks provide an unforgettable experience, whether you're looking for a fun family outing or an adventure-filled day out. From Universal Studios Hollywood to Universal Orlando Resort, these parks offer unique rides and experiences based on blockbuster movies and shows.
So whether you're looking for a place to take your family on vacation or have some fun on the weekend, visiting a theme park will provide an unforgettable experience and save on all attraction tickets with AAA.
19. Play Tourist for The Day
Many people think they must go far away to explore new places, but that's not necessarily true. Depending on where you reside, you can drive for less than an hour in any direction and discover an attraction that you've never seen before.
By taking a day trip, you and your family can have a great time discovering new sights and gaining a newfound appreciation for your hometown. If you plan to visit a paid attraction, check out AAA Tickets to see if you can get a discount on the admission fee.
20. Visit the Local Zoo
The zoo is a fantastic opportunity for your kids to learn more about animals from around the world. Visit a nearby zoo and explore its numerous exhibits, allowing your children to discover their favorite animals and even watch live demonstrations. The zoo can provide both an enriching experience and be a great source of entertainment for the entire family. AAA Members can purchase zoo tickets through AAA Tickets at a discounted rate.
Gardening and Outdoor Craft Projects
Getting creative outdoors is a great way for your family to tap into their artistic sides. Below are a few gardening and outdoor craft ideas for your family to enjoy.
21. Plant Some Seedlings
Planting seedlings is a great way to connect to nature and learn about the plant's life cycle.
- Choose seeds that are easy to grow, such as herbs or fun options like cherry tomatoes.
- Purchase a couple of planters with drainage holes to prevent overwatering the seedlings.
- Grab a potting mix specifically made for seedlings and other necessary tools like spoons and a watering can.
- Prep each planter with soil and follow the sowing instructions for your seeds. Show your kids the correct watering techniques and ensure the plants are placed in the correct lighting.
Your family can continue to observe your plants' growth. Encourage your kids to record their observations to document their plant’s progress.
22. Complete Nature Crafts
The outdoors can provide great canvases for creating unique pieces of artwork. Try these nature-involved crafts with your family:
- Painted rocks: Find a couple of small rocks from your neighborhood. Provide your kids with some paint and encourage them to paint different designs on the rocks. Once the rocks are complete and dry, display them around your yard for a touch of creativity.
- Pressed flowers: Collect a handful of beautiful flowers and leaves. Place them on a page in a heavy book and close the book to press them flat. Allow the book to sit undisturbed for a few days, then reveal the page to find beautifully pressed flowers, perfect for adding to a collage or card.
- Leaf prints: Gather a few large leaves, some paint and newspapers. Lay the leaves on the newspaper and fully cover one side of each leaf with paint. Then, place a canvas or piece of paper underneath the leaf and press it firmly onto the surface. Carefully lift the leaf to reveal a beautiful leaf print. Allow it to dry, then display the artwork around your house.
23. Have a Paper Plane Competition
Have a stack of blank paper lying around? Use it for a good old-fashioned paper plane competition:
- Build and design the planes: Have each family member fold up a paper plane. Allow them to get creative by designing their paper planes with markers or crayons.
- Set up the rules: Create some easy rules for your family, including the number of rounds and how to launch the plane. Mark a certain distance the planes must fly to move to the next round.
- Fly and measure the distances: Have each person launch their planes. Keep track and measure the distances each plane flies. At the end of the last round, crown the winners with the longest distance and best design.
24. Set Up Canvases To Paint
Bring out your family's inner artists with some outdoor painting! Grab some canvases, acrylic paints and plenty of brushes. Set up your open-air art studio in your backyard or a nearby park. Let your kids choose their subjects: paint the inspiring landscapes around them, or use their imaginations and paint whatever their hearts desire.
Set the creative mood with some music while everyone paints. Once the masterpieces are complete, gather your family for a "show-and-tell" session to admire each other's stunning artwork. You can even frame the pieces together and create new, meaningful décor for your home.
25 . Build Bird Feeders
Do you have a friendly flock of birds visiting your neighborhood? Attract them with a couple of bird feeders! You can purchase build-your-own bird feeder kits or build them from scratch if you're feeling handy. There are tons of fantastic DIY bird feeder plans available online for all skill levels.
Once you've completed your bird feeders, fill them with a mix of seeds, nuts and other bird-friendly snacks. Hang the feeders close to the birds' natural habitat, like on a tree branch. It’ll take a few days for the birds to discover your new feeders, but soon enough, you'll find them around your home enjoying their tasty treats.
This is a fun and educational activity for the whole family, as your kids can learn all about the native bird species in your area.
26. Create a Fairy Garden
Bring a touch of magic to your outdoor space with a quaint fairy garden—a miniature whimsical creation that uses small objects to resemble a fairy home. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose the perfect spot: Find the ideal home for your fairy garden, such as the base of a tree or a flowerbed.
- Gather supplies: Personalization Mall offers a variety of garden accessories, from small pebbles for walkways to miniature fairy houses, bridges, and figurines.
- Build the fairy garden: With your collected items, create the fairy garden. Plant smaller plants around the garden, like flowers, to make the area feel more mystical.
Once the fairy garden is complete, let your children's imaginations run wild. They can create stories about the fairies who might live there, care for the plants and watch their miniature world grow.
Relaxing and Family Bonding
Sometimes, a bit of relaxation outdoors is just what your family needs. Below are some great activities to promote tranquility and family bonding in the open air.
27. Listen to a Book Together
Select a book for your family to listen to together. For a limited time, enjoy two free months when you purchase and download audiobooks with an audio entertainment app like Audible . Choose from various genres, ensuring it's at a level your kids can understand and enjoy. Take breaks between chapters to discuss the book with questions and feedback, fostering engagement and comprehension.
28. Watch a Movie in the Backyard
Gather your cozy blankets and favorite snacks for an outdoor movie night. Set up a movie-watching spot in your backyard using your computer, whether it's a Dell or HP . To resemble a night out to the movies, you can:
- Set up a projector: Connect a projector to your computer for a larger-than-life movie experience. AAA members can also enjoy discounts on Samsung projectors. Hang up a large white sheet or project onto a blank side of your house.
- Create a concession stand: Transform a table into a concession stand. Grab your kid’s favorite snacks and treats and create a fun sign for the snack station. Provide fake money to “purchase” their sweet treats before the movie screening.
- Grab your cozy items: Deck out your movie-watching area with plenty of blankets and pillows to build a cozy fort under the stars.
Choose your family's favorite movie or a new one to enjoy together under the night sky.
29. Stargaze Together
A clear, starry night presents the perfect opportunity for some family stargazing. To make the most of it, you'll need to:
- Find your perfect spot: Whether it's an open field or your backyard, choose a location with minimal light pollution for the best views of the night sky.
- Grab supplies: Gather plenty of comfy blankets and chairs for everyone to relax on. Don't forget to pack bug spray to protect your kiddos from pesky insect bites.
- Grab your tools: Utilize online stargazing tools to help navigate the constellations and planets. Consider downloading a stargazing app or printing out a star chart.
When you spot a constellation, look up its name and learn about its unique stories. Stargazing presents a wonderful opportunity for you and your family to delve into fascinating astronomy.
30. Create a Family Talent Show
Showcase your family's unique talents with an intimate talent show. Here's how to set it up:
- Choose talents: Encourage each family member to practice and present a talent of their choosing, whether it's singing, imitations or even juggling apples. Use SiriusXM for a musical background or to play between talent presentations.
- Create a venue: Set up a DIY performance space with streamers, balloons and other glitzy decorations. Arrange chairs for your family to sit on while they aren't performing.
- Put on the show: Have everyone dress in their best outfits (or attire appropriate for their talent) and kick off the show.
Remember to capture the memories: Take plenty of pictures and videos to cherish the moments from the talent show. Create a scrapbook memory book full of these pictures with Shutterfly to preserve these memories.
31. Connect Through Family Yoga
Bring your family a sense of calm and tranquility with a yoga or meditation session. There are numerous online family yoga resources available that you can use to either guide the session or customize your own.
Play calming music, gather a few yoga mats or blankets and lead your family through breathing and meditation exercises. Treat this meditation as a perfect addition to a family staycation . Spend time stretching your bodies with basic yoga poses. Yoga is a wonderful way to foster a deeper connection to your body and promote relaxation for everyone, including the little ones.
32. Play Chalk Games
Rekindle childhood memories with a box of chalk. Head to your driveway or any cemented area and set up some chalk games for your family to enjoy, such as hopscotch, tic-tac-toe and four square. For younger ones, you can simply let their creativity flow by drawing beautiful artwork with the chalk.
Use Your AAA Membership for Outdoor Activities
Planning a fun-filled day outdoors with your family? Whether you're seeking thrills at a theme park or grabbing plants for a fairy garden project, a AAA membership can help you save money on various outdoor activities for families. Sign up today to make your family excursions one to remember, all while saving on expenses.