Now’s the time to getaway for some summertime downtime – while the weather is beautiful and the kids are out of school. 

Beach Vacation

Ocean or lake, summertime is the perfect time to get more than your feet wet. Close-by beaches are great for family day trips. Bring along a cooler full of drinks and sandwich fixings, your sunscreen and floppy hat and you’re off! If you have little kids – include plastic toys or even spoons and bowls to play in the sand. 

National Park Outing

Are your kids hiking fans? Love orienteering? Pack your backpacks with lunch, put on your sturdy shoes and head to your nearest park. In summer, national parks are in full bloom and the hiking trails are plentiful. Bring along wading shoes for trails near rivers, plenty of water, binoculars, and don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray!

River Float Trip

Spend the day relaxing in an inflatable raft floating down a lazy river. Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks to enjoy right on the water. Wear water shoes and plenty of sunscreen, as well as a hat, sunglasses and life-vest. Your kids will see all kinds of beautiful scenery, and perhaps even a wild animal or two as they float. 

Whichever outdoorsy day trip you plan, research a few excursions nearby that kids would enjoy – like science museums or aquariums – for late afternoon fun when the sun is too hot and it’s time to cool down before heading home.