By Tracey WinikoffAhh, summer. The warm weather invites us to dive into glistening oceans and sparkling pools, gather around campfires beneath twinkling stars, discover new hiking trails dotted with wildflowers, and hop on our bikes and explore paths off-the-beaten track. Celebrate the sunshine and fresh air with a digital detox, family style. In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine life without our many electronic devices. While screens certainly have their place, our best memories are made when we unplug and embrace this slower, more relaxed season together, soaking up all that nature—and life—have to offer. No need for elaborate plans or expensive outings. Here are 50 screen-free activities for families that spark connection, imagination, and good old-fashioned summer fun.Outdoor AdventuresFresh air and sunshine are summer’s magical elixir for our souls.1. Go on a nature hikeExplore local trails and wildlife along the way.2. Visit a nearby park or nature preserveTry out a new park or outdoor space. For even more family fun, pack a picnic.3. Fly kitesWatch your children’s faces light up as their kites soar on a breezy day.4. Plan an outdoor scavenger huntCreate a list of things to find—the options are endless.5. Ride bikes togetherExplore neighborhood streets, scenic bike paths, or quiet country roads.6. Try geocachingOkay, so we’re cheating a little with this one! Phones or GPS are necessary here, since they serve as our guide on this super fun treasure hunt to locate hidden nearby containers with surprises inside.7. Visit a botanical gardenEnjoy colorful flowers, native plants, tranquil walking paths, and diverse landscapes.8. Explore tide pools or lake shoresDiscover interesting creatures and nature, including shells, small fish, and crabs.9. Build a backyard obstacle courseGet creative and use objects you have on hand—hula hoops, jump ropes, cones, balls—to create a fun course. You (or the kids!) get to choose the challenge level.10. Water or outdoor adventure parksFrom water slides and lazy rivers to ziplining and rope challenges, everyone is sure to have a blast!Backyard FunTurn your backyard into an outdoor wonderland!11. Run through the sprinklers Beat the summer heat and cool off with this family favorite activity.12. Build a backyard fortTowels, chairs, cushions, and cardboard boxes create a perfect secret hideout.13. Host a backyard barbecue nightLet everyone in on the fun of preparing an alfresco, picnic-style barbecue dinner.14. Create a mini golf courseUse outdoor-friendly cups, cardboard, and household objects to build creative “holes.” Tape a few long sticks or branches together to serve as golf clubs.15. Play classic outdoor gamesTag, hide-and-seek, and a water balloon toss never go out of style.16. Set up lawn gamesCornhole, ring toss, croquet, and lawn bowling always bring the laughs . . . and a little friendly competition!17. Plant a small garden togetherThe joy of getting dirty! The kids will love sinking their hands in fresh soil, planting flowers, herbs, and vegetables, and watching them grow.18. Indulge in a cool, summer treat from the ice cream truckAlways a kid (and adult) favorite! Nothing beats the joy of hearing the ice cream truck music as it makes the rounds, delivering yummy treats throughout the neighborhood.19. Blow giant bubblesWhat would summer be without blowing bubbles? You can even make the bubble solution yourselves with a little water, dish soap, and light corn syrup or glycerin.20. Camp in the backyardPitch a tent, tell stories, and drift off to sleep, lulled by an exquisite summer concert, courtesy of nearby crickets and frogs.Creative ActivitiesEncourage kids to tap into their imagination and creativity.21. Paint rocksDecorate stones and hide them around the neighborhood for others to find.22. Draw sidewalk chalk muralsTurn the driveway or sidewalk into a colorful art gallery. Hopscotch works too!23. Build a cardboard creationBoxes can transform into castles, pirate ships, or even, entire towns.24. Put on a family playWrite a simple script, design costumes, and perform for and alongside each other.25. Make homemade popsiclesBlend fruit juice or yogurt for refreshing summer treats.26. Start a summer scrapbookCollect photos, ticket stubs, drawings, and memories of your escapades.27. Try outdoor watercolor painting (or finger painting, depending on age)Nature’s backdrop serves as a beautiful subject for young artists, whether it be a gorgeous sunset, babbling brook, or colorful ladybug or butterfly.28. Make friendship braceletsColorful string and beads morph into meaningful and wearable art.29. Create a family time capsuleFill a box with photos, letters, and mementos to open years later.30. Build something with recycled materials from homeCreative masterpieces await with materials you may already have, including cardboard, bottles, and paper towel tubes.Explore Your CommunitySometimes the best experiences are just around the corner.31. Visit a local farmers marketEnjoy fresh produce, live music, and fun activities while supporting local vendors.32. Movies in the parkOften, local parks will host summer movie nights under the stars for families.33. Tour a museumCheck out family-friendly (and often free) exhibits and summer programs.34. Walk through a historic downtown areaMeander shops, architecture, and local history.35. Attend a library summer programLibraries often host storytelling, crafts, and reading challenges.36. Enjoy an outdoor concert or festivalSummer evenings come alive with great music and entertainment for all.37. Try a new ice cream shopA sweet treat is always a delight—even better, turn it into a backwards dinner!38. Take a scenic drivePlay tourist and discover the beauty and hidden gems surrounding your town.39. Visit a nearby lake or beachSwimming, sandcastles, and sunshine are the epitome of summer.40. Try out a new activity as a family How about a kayak sea cave tour, pizza-making class, or volunteering together? Evening Family TraditionsSummer evenings offer the perfect opportunity to wind down and connect.41. Watch the sunset togetherEnjoy nature’s vibrant, unique masterpieces of gold, orange, and pink.42. Tell stories around a fire pitShare funny memories, sing songs, tell jokes, or share family history.43. Make s’moresThe ultimate classic summer treat.44. StargazeLook for constellations and shooting stars.45. Take an evening neighborhood walkCooler temperatures make evening strolls especially enjoyable.46. Catch firefliesA magical activity for kids on warm summer nights.47. Movie night in the backyard Gather the family—and popcorn, of course—in the backyard for your own private movie theater on a projector screen.48. Family game nightBoard and card games bring everyone together for a night of laughs.49. Read books aloudSharing stories before bedtime is a peaceful way to wind down from the day’s fun.50. Sharing favorite things about the dayEach person talks about their favorite moments from the day.Craving a little more excitement this summer? Take your family for a spin on the open road. Before you head out, explore our Ultimate Guide to Family Road Trip Planning for ideas on snacks, games, and travel essentials to keep the journey enjoyable and smooth. Planning a getaway beyond the driveway? Our Ultimate Family Summer Travel Checklist will help you pack smarter, stay organized, and make the most of every moment.From backyard games to camping to gardening and craft supplies, summer fun has a way of taking over your space. Reclaim that valuable breathing room while keeping your seasonal and bulky items safe, organized, and easy to find with this storage unit facility in Arroyo Grande.Unplugging might be the greatest gift you give your family this summer, creating opportunities for priceless connection—the moments that matter most. These memories will last long after the sun sets on summer. FAQ'sLooking for more of our storage features? Check out our Storage Types page.Looking for seasonal blogs, and overall storage advice? Head over to our Blogs page.Want to rent a storage unit with Rock Safe Self Storage? Press on 'Select a Space' and choose the best storage unit for you!Not sure what size storage unit you need? Visit our Size Guide.Questions? Contact us!
