Summer Activities That Don’t Require Planning

Summer always seems full of plans, but most plans are big things that require lots of planning. But when it’s too hot to think and/or you’ve got kiddos who need entertaining, then summer activities are all that more important (and even better when they aren’t cost prohibitive).

Every town and city has their own offerings, but here are some good basic summer activities to look for. They aren’t all free or all kid-friendly, but they’re good places to get started and work on having a wonderful, memorable season!

If you’re local to Sacramento, check out our go to day trips from Sacramento!!

Summer Activities

1. Library

I never appreciated all that my local library has to offer until I got a card here in Sacramento…now I can’t get enough. While they’re a great source for hardcover and ebooks for adults and kids (yes, board books for kiddos), they’re so much more.

We recently borrowed out first DVDs from the library, including Disney classics, and kids board games.

Our library also has a “library of things” from which you can borrow things like corn hole, circuit machines, DSLR cameras, guitars, gaming consoles, and stand mixers. Yeah. For free! 

Local libraries also offer a lot of reading circles, book clubs, reading challenges, and a lovely air-conditioned place for those hot, hot days!!

2. Farmers Markets

Summer is when farmers markets are open everywhere. Besides great places for getting seasonal produce, you can also get morning pastries, lunches, or dinners (depending on the time of day).

They often offer seating areas and sometimes live music – think of farmers’ markets as destinations and fun things to do – not just a spot for getting fruits and vegetables.

I’m also a big fan of taking our kiddo and us all trying new (to us) fruits and vegetables! Most stalls will let you sample items!

If you’re able to have an impromptu dinner with friends at your house, check out these summer dinner party menu ideas that will totally take advantage of the farmer’s market goodness!

3. Bowling

It turns out – I like bowling! As does my husband, son, mom, sister, brother, and basically everybody I know. They, too, are indoors and air conditioned for hot days. Check out your local alley’s bargain prices/times. 

If you have a kiddo, check out Kidsbowlfree.com where you can get passes to participating alleys (across the country) for kids to bowl free. They also have $45 family passes that include free bowling for the summer for up 2-4 adults (not including the kiddos). Then you just pay for shoe rentals!

4. Concerts in the park

Concerts in the park are usually a free, recurring event. Check out the schedule and take a picnic dinner or support local food trucks if available.

It’s a great way to plan get-togethers with others – even with little kiddos! Andif you ever need to pass the time with kiddos during wait times (the struggle can be real!), try some fun get to know you questions with everyone!

5. Wine Tastings

Duh! Don’t limit yourself to wineries and day trips though. Check out local wine bars or even local restaurants doing special events. You could even DIY your own wine tasting with friends, selecting wines all from the same vineyard or similar varietals from different areas!

See my visit to Betty Wine Bar here in Sacramento and our family-friendly list of things to do in Sonoma County as well as the best St. Helena wineries!

Rather drink coffee? Try coffee around your city/town. In Sacramento, check out my favorite Sacramento cafes!

6. Eat Locally

Last summer, I set a goal of trying 5 new (to me) restaurants in Sacramento. I made it to 4 of them and enjoyed it. I got my family involved and we planned it all out. Whether you’re trying to find the best tacos, happy hour, or ice cream – set a fun goal for the summer the whole family or you and friends can do!

• Library Offerings
• Farmers Markets
• Free Bowling
• Concerts in the Park
• Wine Tastings
• Eat Locally

And a lot of these sweet summer dates require little planning (with or without kiddos).