Summer Bucket List: Fun Activities to Check Off in Boston Before School Begins

As the summer days continue to stretch out before the start of the school year, there are still plenty of fun activities to enjoy in Boston with your family. From festivals to outdoor adventures, Boston has something for everyone to make the most of the remaining warm days and long nights. So, put away those pencils and books for now and check out our end-of-summer bucket list for Boston families.

1. Get Festive: Boston is known for its vibrant summer festivals and fairs, such as the Fisherman’s Feast and St. Anthony’s Feast in the North End. These events offer a mix of delicious food and fun activities that are perfect for creating lasting family memories.

2. Swing Away: Explore some of the best playgrounds in the Boston area, where kids can enjoy cool equipment and exciting slides. These urban oases and suburban gems are great for a day of outdoor play.

3. Spend The Day Boating: Take advantage of Boston’s boating community by enjoying boat rides on the Charles River or in the Harbor. It’s a great way to soak up the sun and enjoy the water with your family.

4. Take A Break From The City: Visit one of the many farms near Boston where kids can explore and interact with animals. Plus, don’t forget to treat yourself to some homemade ice cream while you’re there.

5. Get In A Few Laps: Cool off at one of Boston’s free swimming pools for a fun and budget-friendly activity with the family.

6. Take In A Flick: Pack some popcorn and blankets for a movie night under the stars at one of Boston’s free outdoor movie screenings.

7. Go For A Hike: Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery at one of the great hiking trails near Boston. These trails offer a peaceful escape from the city without venturing too far.

8. Pond Away: Pack a lunch and spend a leisurely day at one of the swimming lakes near Boston. These freshwater gems are perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

9. Dance The Night Away: Attend an outdoor concert for an evening of live music and dancing with the family.

10. Explore A Tide Pool: Head to one of the beaches with tide pools near Boston to search for crabs and sea stars with the kids.

11. Set Sail On A Whale Watch: Experience the thrill of whale watching on one of the cruises departing from the Boston area.

12. Treat The Kids To Ice Cream: After a day of adventure, treat the family to some delicious ice cream at a new spot in town.

13. Treat Yourself To A Beer: Visit one of Boston’s family-friendly breweries or beer gardens for a relaxing afternoon with craft brews for the adults and kid-friendly offerings for the little ones.

14. Take A Day Trip: Explore a new destination on a summer day trip from Boston for a change of scenery and some family fun.

15. Cool Off At A Boston Spray Park Or Splash Pad: Beat the heat at a sprinkler park or splash pad in the city to keep the fun going even on the hottest days.

16. See The Animals: Visit one of the area zoos near Boston to see wildlife from around the world with the family.

17. Pet The Animals: Interact with cute and cuddly critters at the petting zoos around Boston for a hands-on experience.

18. Go Blueberry Picking Near Boston: Enjoy outdoor activity and teamwork by picking blueberries at a local farm, followed by a delicious blueberry treat.

19. Raft The Rapids: Add some excitement to the end of summer with white water rafting and river tubing near Boston.

20. Dine Out With The Family: Enjoy an afternoon or evening at an outdoor restaurant for a fun family meal.

21. Hit The Beach Near Boston: Make the most of the last beach days at one of the best beaches near Boston or discover a hidden gem for a relaxing day by the water.

22. Go Camping Around New England: Experience the classic summer activity of camping at a family-friendly campground with plenty of fun extras for kids.

23. Get Out And Play: Have some fun close to home by playing outdoor water games in your backyard or at a nearby park.

24. Go To A Drive-In Movie Near Boston: Experience the nostalgia of a drive-in movie theater by watching a film with the family in your pajamas.

25. Do Some Urban Hiking Around Boston: Explore walkable cities north of Boston filled with shops, restaurants, and places to discover with the family.

26. Tee Off With Mini Golf: Challenge the family to a game of miniature golf for some friendly competition and fun.

27. Visit A Museum Such As The MFA or Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Explore the world of art and culture at one of Boston’s spectacular museums, many of which offer free admission.

28. Stop And Smell The Flowers: Visit floral fields and farms near Boston where kids can pick flowers and enjoy the beauty of nature.

29. Splurge On A Day Pass: Cool off at one of the special outdoor pools in the area for a day of relaxation and fun.

30. Spend A Day At A New England Amusement Park: Visit one of the incredible theme parks in New England for a day of family-friendly thrills and excitement.

With this end-of-summer bucket list in hand, you can make the most of the remaining days before school starts and create unforgettable memories with your family in Boston. So, don’t pack up those beach towels just yet—there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the city and beyond. Enjoy the summer to the fullest and make the most of these magically long days and warm nights before the season comes to an end.