If you are looking for activities that you and your friends can enjoy together to make this summer extra special, then you’re in the right place.
Summer doesn’t last long for a lot of us, so it’s important to make the most of the summer months while we have them.
Whether you’re on a budget or looking to go on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, you’ll find lots of fun ideas on this list.
Indoor summer activities to do with friends
Even the rainiest summer days can be a lot of fun. Try these things you can do at home when it’s too cold or too hot to venture outdoors.
1. Go shopping for summer outfits
If you’re looking for some rainy day activities, then why not spend the day at the mall shopping for some stylish summer outfits? It’s a great way to hang out with friends and prepare you for when the sun comes out again. If you’re not close to a mall, online shopping will also do.
2. Build a puzzle
Building a puzzle is a great way to spend a peaceful, rainy afternoon with friends. Pick up a challenging piece for you all to work on together, and enjoy the feeling of finally finishing it as a team.
3. Read a book with your best friend
There are few things as nice as spending a rainy afternoon cozy at home reading a book, and there’s no reason you can’t do the same with a friend. Bonus points if the two of you read the same book. If you need some book recommendations, here is a list of some fan favorites.
4. Redecorate your home
When you’re bored at home on a rainy day, why not try a DIY project with friends? Here are some simple home decor ideas for you if you’re not sure where to get started.
5. Make a perfect summer playlist
Looking for something to help make your summer adventures extra special? Spend some time with a friend putting together a playlist of all your favorite summer vibe songs. It’s a cool way to keep that time in your heart for years to come.
6. Learn a new instrument
Learning a new instrument with your friends is a fun way to build a new skill. The ukulele is a great place to start because of how easy it is to learn.
7. Test out your painting skills
If you’re looking for a cheap way to spend a rainy day with friends, pick up some paints and canvases and put your art skills to the test. If you’re not a natural-born artist, there are lots of online paint-along classes like this one with Bob Ross.
8. Plant an indoor herb garden
Not all of us are lucky enough to have big backyards, but that doesn’t mean that gardening is off-limits. If you can’t spend the day outside, spend the day picking out your favorite herbs, seeds, and other supplies with friends, and then head home to plant them together.
9. Host a board game night
If you are looking for a fun way to spend a rainy evening with friends, break out some board game classics. This is also a great idea for any parents looking for ways to spend a day at home with their kids. If you’re looking for some new board games to try out, here is a list of 22 of the best.
10. Have a bake-off with your friends
Have you ever wondered who among you and your friends is the best cook? Now’s your time to find out. A bake-off is a great way for you to be able to test out some unique recipes while also spending quality time with the people you love.
11. Host a movie night
If you’re looking for a free way to spend an evening with friends, then you could try inviting them over for a movie night. Cozy up for an evening spent at home with your favorite snacks and friends.
12. Work out at home
Whether you want to try out yoga or something else, spending a day at home exercising with friends will never be a day wasted! Here is a workout that is great for all levels and doesn’t require any equipment.
13. Learn a new language
Get yourself and your friends ready for your next adventure to another country by learning a new language. Duolingo is a great free resource if you’re not sure where to start.
Outdoor summer activities to do with friends
Make the most of the summer months by indulging in every summer outdoor activity that you can while you can. Here is a list of 16 things that you have to add to your summer to-do list.
1. Run a half-marathon
If you have some crazy friends that are up for a big challenge this summer, why not give a half marathon a try? Start building your endurance now with this guide on how to get yourself ready to run long distances.
2. Camp in your backyard
Want to take a mini-vacation but don’t have the time or money to make it out of the city? Get your friends together and bring the great outdoors to you by camping out in a backyard.
3. Visit an outdoor water park
Outdoor water parks are a great way for you and your friends to get outside and have fun, with or without kids.
4. Go canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding
If you want to expand your horizons, then renting a canoe or stand-up paddleboard can be a unique way to do so. Getting out on the water with friends is one of the best ways to soak up the summer while it’s here.
5. Go skinnydipping
Where you decide to make this suggestion happen is up to you, but skinnydipping, especially in an amazing lake or river in a scenic location is the ultimate feeling of freedom. 6. Set up a kiddie pool
Contrary to popular belief, a kiddie pool is also a great option for adults. If you’re still not sure, check out this article all about why you should test it out this summer. Keep cool with your best friends this summer, even if you don’t live close to a public pool or beach.
7. Outdoor photoshoot
If an outdoor photoshoot isn’t already on your list of to-dos this summer, then it definitely should be. Here is some great photoshoot inspo if you’re not sure where to start. Doing a fun outdoor shoot is a good way to make a day spent in nature with friends extra special.
8. Sketch some beautiful outdoor scenery
It’s possible to combine spending time in nature while also getting your artistic juices flowing. Bring a sketchbook and a pencil next time you and your BFF decide to spend time outside and see what sort of magic you can create.
9. Attend an outdoor sporting event
It’s not every day that we can have the pleasure of watching a sporting event outdoors. Take advantage of the beautiful weather by watching your favorite team play while you soak up some sun with your friends.
10. Read in a hammock
There’s something special about those friends that we can do nothing with. If you’re lucky enough to have a friend like that, why not spend an afternoon with them lounging in a hammock?
12. Go hot air balloon-ing
Going for a ride in a hot air balloon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you want to know the best spots for you and your friends to enjoy this unique experience, here is a list of the best ten places to check out.
13. Join a beer league sports team
You don’t have to be an all-star athlete to be a part of a beer league sports team. If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity to keep you and your friends busy this summer, check out any local teams in your area.
14. Go rollerblading or biking
Rollerblading is a super fun way to get in shape and get outside when the weather is nice. If you’re not the most stable on your feet then biking is also a good option. If you’re out with a friend on a bike, you can always hitch a ride on the back.
15. Spend a day at the beach
One of the simplest ways to spend a beautiful summer day is at the beach. To make sure that you make the most of your day at the beach with friends, check out this list of beach must-haves.
16. Camping
Sitting around a campfire with all of your best friends is one of the best ways to make the most of your summer vacation. Leave the distractions of the city behind and spend time with the people you love distraction-free. If you need help figuring out a way to bring this dream to life, here is a great guide that can help.
Low-cost summer activities to do with friends
Summer doesn’t last for long, so it’s important for you to fill up your schedule with fun summer activities while you can. Even if you are on a budget, you can still find fun things to do without spending much. Here is a list of cheap or free summer activities for you to enjoy with your friends.
1. Tie-dye something
Summer is the perfect time to play with some colorful and fun outfits, and tie-dying is a cheap way to give your wardrobe a little extra umph. Here is a guide to help you and your friends bring your creative dreams to life.
2. Make sidewalk chalk art
You may think that making sidewalk art is only for children, but the truth is that getting outside and creating a masterpiece is for anyone, including you and your friends. You can get big boxes of chalk that can last the entire summer for under $10.
3. Paint rocks
If you’re looking for a fun idea that is basically free, you can try going for a walk on a beach or through a river valley with a friend and collecting a few rocks. Afterwards, spend the afternoon decorating the rocks and placing them in your garden or on your balcony. Here is some inspo for you to get your creative juices flowing.
4. Have a water-balloon fight
If you want to cool down while also having fun with your friends, a water balloon fight might be the perfect way for you to combine the two. There are a lot of fun ways for you to make this happen, check out this list if you need some ideas.
5. Have a sandcastle competition
Beach days with your friends never have to be boring. If you have some crazy friends that are game to get a little sandy, challenge them to a sandcastle contest and have fun getting a little bit messy.
6. Do outdoor yoga
Practicing yoga in a park with your friends is fun and absolutely free. If you’re feeling adventurous, then you might want to try partner yoga, otherwise known as acro yoga. Embrace your inner peace with the people you love.
7. Check out some local garage sales or flea markets
If you want to do some shopping with friends on a budget, then look for some garage sales in your area, or take advantage of some of the special markets that only happen when the weather is good.
8. Have a beach bonfire
There are few things that say summer more than gathering around a cozy campfire with some of your best friends. All you need is some firewood and maybe some supplies to make s’mores, making this the perfect low budget summer activity.
9. Outdoor picnic
When the weather is good, it’s important to take advantage of your opportunity to spend time outside. Skip an expensive restaurant and instead pack all the picnic essentials, like a delicious meal and a blanket, and enjoy a romantic meal with someone you love.
10. Look for shapes in the clouds
Relax in the grass with a friend, and let your imagination run wild for a little while. Who knows what sort of beautiful shapes you two will see in the clouds.
11. Go bird watching
We are constantly surrounded by amazing animals that we often know very little about. Take some time to get to know the wildlife that surrounds you by spending some time birdwatching with a friend.
12. Play ultimate frisbee
Ultimate frisbee is a great game to play with friends because all it requires is one simple disc. Figure out who your competitive friends are by heading to a nearby park and challenging them to a friendly game of ultimate frisbee.
13. Do some volunteer work
Spend your spare time giving back to your community by doing some volunteer work. Local animal shelters are always looking for dog-walkers, so teaming up with a friend to do some dog-walking is a great way to give back.
14. Sunbathe
If you have a free afternoon to spend relaxing, then a little afternoon sunbathing might be just the thing to do. You and your friend can listen to an audiobook if you want to feel a little more productive or simply get some vitamin D.
15. Go swimming
Whether you decide to go to an outdoor pool or head to your nearest beach, getting together with your friends to cool off and enjoy a swim is always a great idea.
16. Plant a garden
There are very few things in life that feel as satisfying as watching your plant babies grow up. Planting a garden is a fun summer project that can keep you and your friends busy, and the bonus is getting to feast on healthy food straight from your garden.
17. Go for a walk somewhere beautiful
Going for a walk is always free. Get out of the house while sharing some lively conversation with a close friend or two. It’s a great way to get fresh air while also doing something good for your body.
18. Fly a kite
Not sure how to spend a day that is a little on the windy side? Pick up a kite or two and have fun trying to fly them with friends.
You might also like this list of low-cost things to do with friends that apply for any occasion, not just the Summer.
Summer activities to do with friends on the weekend
Don’t waste a single weekend this summer. Spend your weekends creating summer memories that will last a lifetime with the people you love.
1. Explore a new part of your city
Regardless of how long you’ve been living in your city, chances are there are still a lot of spots that you have yet to explore. If you have some free time, spend a day with friends being a tourist in your own city.
2. Catch a sunrise somewhere beautiful
Waking up early enough to catch a sunrise can be a bit of a commitment. But putting in the extra effort to be able to catch a beautiful sunrise with friends is worth missing out on some sleep. Just make sure that your choice of location faces East!
3. Go to an outdoor concert
One of the great things about summer is all the extra special events, like outdoor concerts and music festivals. Find a friend or two with a similar taste in music, and take advantage of all that your city has to offer during the summer months.
4. Go stargazing
Pick out a spot with a clear view, pack some warm clothing, and head out to revel in a night of stargazing with a friend or two. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll see a shooting star.
5. Have a stay-cation
If you want a way to make a weekend extra special, book yourself a stay somewhere beautiful. Spend the weekend with some of your best friends, feeling like a tourist without the hassle of traveling to another city.
6. Do a weekend brunch
Whether or not you choose to do this hungover will be up to you. But catching up with your close friends over morning brunch is a great way to make the most of your weekend.
7. Go to a music festival
Out of town, weekend music festivals are one of the things that make summer so special. Make a weekend extra special by dancing the night away with some of your favorite people.
8. Rent an Airbnb with friends
There are so many hidden gems to check out on Airbnb, and spending an entire weekend connecting with friends is a great way to take advantage of summer while it’s here. Complete with a hot tub to help you really soak up your stay.
9. Host a capture the flag tournament with a big group of friends
Throwback to a childhood favorite. Playing capture the flag with friends is something that a lot of us enjoyed doing as children, and there’s still a lot to love as adults. Here is a great article that includes some more adult-friendly versions.
Check out this list for more ideas on fun things to do with your friends.
Summer travel ideas for friends
The summer is a great time to get out and see the best of what your country has to offer. Get outside of your comfort zone by visiting some summer bucket list spots.
1. Go on a hot spring road trip
If you and your friends want to have an epic road trip together, plan a trip around visiting some beautiful hot springs. Here is a list of some of the most iconic hot springs in the states.
2. Find an extra special adventure buddy
To make the adventures you and your friends go on extra memorable, pick up an inanimate friend that you can treat to the trip of a lifetime. This is the tale of a gnome that also went on a similar adventure.
3. Go on a hike
America is home to some of the most amazing natural wonders in the world. If you and your friends are looking to do an extra special trip this summer, why not check out one of the many breathtaking hikes that the country has to offer.
4. Enjoy a wine tasting
If you’re not lucky enough to live in wine country, then planning a trip to a winery is a great way to spend a weekend with friends.
5. Go on an RV adventure
Exploring with an RV or camper van is a great way to explore a new area without the bother of having to find hotels or campgrounds every night. Bring your home with you wherever you go, and have the freedom to explore wherever you and your friend’s hearts desire.
6. Explore a new place
If there are some spots that you’ve always wanted to check out, summer is the best time to finally make the trip. Rally your friends to go and make the most of the summer months while checking a spot off your list of must-sees. If you live in America, here is a list of the best states to visit during the summer.
7. Rent a boat
Boating is one of the simple joys of summer. It’s not every day that we have the opportunity to get out on the water and soak up some sunshine while we do so. Make the most of the summer months by renting a boat with some of your best friends.
8. Book a segway tour
Although segway tours might seem a little dorky, they’re a fun and easy way to explore a new city. If you want to rally your friends for a new adventure, try out a segway tour. If you’re still not sure, check out this list of reasons why people love them.
9. Visit a local farm
It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of living in a city. Soak up some uninterrupted time in nature by taking you and your friends out into the country by visiting a local farm.
If you choose to travel to a place where it’s wintertime, you might like this list of fun things to do in winter with friends.
Food-related summer activities to do with friends
The following are 9 ideas perfect for any foodie. Make the most of the fresh local produce in your area, and connect with the people you love while sharing a delicious meal.
1. Make s’mores on an open fire
Summer isn’t complete without at least one s’more. Pencil in some time to get together with friends and build a fire so you can roast your marshmallows to perfection. Don’t forget your weenie roasting sticks!
2. Go to a u-pick farm
One of the best parts of summer is all of the fresh produce. Take the time to head to a farm near you to stock up on the fruit of your choice for cheap. Bonus points if you and your friends make jam or a delicious pie with your stash.
3. Have a big BBQ
If your barbeque has been collecting dust all winter, what better way to put it to good use than hosting a backyard BBQ with all your best friends? Share a delicious meal with all of the most important people in your life.
4. Go to a farmers’ market
Take advantage of all the fresh produce in your area while supporting local farmers by visiting a farmers’ market with a friend to do your shopping.
5. Try a new cocktail recipe
Enjoying a fresh cocktail with friends while soaking up some sunshine is one of the simple pleasures of summer. Test out a new drink recipe that you’ve always wanted to try, complete with a cocktail umbrella to help you fully embrace the summer vibes.
6. Eat mini donuts
Feel like a kid at a carnival again by treating yourself to delicious mini donuts. Or skip the line altogether and bake your own at home with this recipe.
7. Squeeze fresh lemonade
Staying hydrated during the hot summer months can be a challenge, but luckily there is a delicious way for you to do so. Whip up a batch of homemade lemonade for you and your friends to sip on all summer.
8. Go to a heritage food festival near you
Celebrate multiculturalism while also treating your taste buds by visiting a food festival in your city with your friends.
9. Make your own popsicles
Popsicles are a tasty way to cool down during the summer. If you’re looking for an alternative to a sugary freezie, test out some delicious at-home popsicle recipes and enjoy them with your friends.
The most boring ideas ever
Slayy I love this I got so many Ideas with my bestie