Underrated Summer Activities

Summer, the undisputed champion of seasons. With its abundant sunshine, long nights, and beautiful weather, it sets the perfect stage for a myriad of activities.

However, when it comes to summer pastimes, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of predictability. It's time to break free and discover a world of underrated and nostalgic seasonal activities that will elevate your summertime pastimes. Let's delve into these hidden gems that absolutely deserve a prime spot on your summer activity agenda.

1. Water park
There's nothing better than a trip to a water park if you're looking for some refreshing relief during the hot summer months. While some water parks feel like stepping back into the 1980s, these well-worn aquatic adrenaline parks shouldn't be forgotten. Whether it's thrilling slides that will make your heart race or lazy rivers where you can float away your worries, water parks offer a perfect combination of excitement and relaxation.

2. Drive-in or outdoor movie
In the era of streaming services and on-demand entertainment, movie theaters seem to have lost some of their magic. Revive nostalgia with drive-ins and outdoor movies. Gather your family, head to a drive-in theater, and enjoy a film under the stars. Alternatively, look for outdoor screenings or set up your own backyard theater. Unfold a blanket, indulge in popcorn, and lose yourself in the allure of cinema amidst the natural surroundings—a perfect fusion of vintage charm and summertime enchantment.

3. Matinee Movie
If the stars refuse to align for an epic outdoor movie night (and we get it, a projector can be hard to scrounge up and the nearest drive-in could be several counties away.) Sometimes you just need a break from the daytime heat (hello, Texas!). Escaping to a matinee movie in a theater with sweet, sweet air conditioning is the ultimate way to kill some time during the sweltering midday madness. So sit back, relax, stay cool, save money on the latest flick, and let the silver screen whisk you away to a world of perpetual A/C and bottomless popcorn.

4. Berry picking
Berry picking allows you to connect with nature and relish the fruits of the season. It's a hands-on experience where you can learn about various berries and how they grow. Whether you prefer strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or huckleberries, you’re going to be in for a berry good time. Do some research to find local farms or plan hikes to discover wild berries. Just try not to eat them all before you have the chance to incorporate them into various culinary creations, or preserve them as jams and jellies. 

5. Patio Dining
Not all summer activities have to be extravagant. Finding a restaurant with a nice covered patio is the perfect way to spend an afternoon outdoors, while still tolerating the heat. You can enjoy the weather,  your favorite meal, and maybe even a few drinks!

6. Themed Dinner Parties
Unable to dine out? Enjoy extended daylight hours by hosting themed dinner parties with your pals at the comfort of home. Whether indoors or outdoors, embrace the warm atmosphere and indulge in summertime food. Or lean into the occasion even more with various themes such as exotic dishes, seasonal soirées, or festive attire.

7. Roller Skating/roller blading
Even though they're having a resurgence, rollerblading and skating can still bring back those retro vibes. It is a reminder of carefree summers, good times, and gliding through life. No matter how experienced or new you are, wearing those wheels lets you cruise like a pro. Scope out local roller rinks or scout for an outdoor spot to get your glide on. Relive the rush of zooming around like a kid again. So lace up, head out, and let the good times roll.

8. Water Balloon FIght
There's nothing better than water balloon warfare. Brace yourself for a balloon brawl that'll leave you soaked and in stitches. The epic clash of aquatic ammunition isn't for the faint of heart. Stock up on your H2O-filled orbs, strategize your attack and fire away.

9. Tie-Dying T-shirts
Part art project, part fashion statement. Though its heyday might have been in the ’60s and ’70s, tie-dying too is making a big comeback. All you need is a few plain white tees and a tie-dye kit from your nearby craft store. Soak those shirts in various technicolor dyes, hang them on a line, and get ready as your one-of-a-kind design starts to reveal itself.

10. Wine Tours
There is no better time to go on a wine tour other than summer. Grab a friend, go solo, or make it a date night! Enjoy different wines, light snacks, and let the conversation and drinks flow.

Pro Tip: Book an evening tour, you’ll have plenty of daylight left without the extreme heat.