17 Kids Outdoor Fun (and Inexpensive!) Ideas for the Summer

Ah, summer—the perfect time to kick off the shoes, step outside into the fresh air, and soak up some sunshine! It’s the season when the days stretch out before you, filled with endless possibilities and the promise of adventures yet to come. 

Whether you’re looking for a fun way to keep the little ones entertained, encouraging them to burn off some of that boundless energy, or simply creating unforgettable memories together, this list has got you covered.

From fun outdoor activities in your own backyard to explorations that’ll take you a bit further afield, we’ve compiled 17 fun-packed outdoor activity ideas and fun games that kids of all ages will love. 

Fly Swatter Bubbles

Discover a delightful way to play with bubbles without the need to blow them! Fly Swatter Bubbles introduces an interactive fun activity for toddlers using common household items.

No-Sew Bean Bags for Outdoor Games with Kids

Learn how to make no-sew bean bags in just 30 minutes—a perfect craft for a fun family game night.  For detailed instructions, check out this simple No-Sew Bean Bags tutorial.

Fun Neighborhood Outdoor Scavenger Hunt with Sidewalk Chalk

Engage your whole neighborhood in a creative scavenger hunt using sidewalk chalk. This Fun Neighborhood Outdoor Scavenger Hunt provides a great way to get kids active and exploring outdoors.

DIY Magic Sidewalk Chalk Paint Recipe

Mix up a batch of washable sidewalk chalk paint that kids can use to decorate driveways and sidewalks. This DIY Magic Sidewalk Chalk Paint Recipe is easy and fun for younger and older kids.

DIY Bird Feeders with Thrift Store Finds

Create unique bird feeders using items found at thrift stores. This guide on DIY Bird Feeders offers a great way to recycle and engage with nature.

Reuse K-Cups for Your Garden

Turn used K-Cups into useful garden tools with this innovative guide. Reuse K-Cups for Your Garden teaches you how to make the most out of everyday items.

Cardboard Coloring

Set up a quick and engaging activity for kids with nothing more than cardboard and different colors of markers. Cardboard Coloring is a perfect low-prep craft to encourage creativity.

Nature Bingo Activity For Kids | Free Printable Game

Take this printable Nature Bingo game on your next fun outdoor activity to a local park and watch kids have fun learning about their natural surroundings.

How to Make Bubble Foam for Sensory Play

Create a safe and fun sensory play with bubble foam. This guide on How to Make Bubble Foam provides easy steps for a mess-free playtime.

Sponge Bombs & Sponge Toss Water Game

Gear up for summer with a water game that’s perfect for the whole family. Learn how to make Sponge Bombs and enjoy hours of extra fun on a hot day.

Easy Nature Fairy Houses for Kids!

Help younger kids tap into their creative ways by building fairy houses using natural materials. These Easy Nature Fairy Houses provide a magical crafting experience.

Summer Tuff Tray Ideas that are Easy and Frugal

Set up engaging and educational playstations with these easy Summer Tuff Tray Ideas. A perfect solution for budget-friendly summer fun.

Water Play Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Fun, Easy, and Low-Prep

Keep toddlers cool and entertained with these Water Play Activities. Ideal for hours of outdoor fun and learning.

Have a Rock’n Game Night with an Outdoor DIY Tic-Tac-Toe Game

Enjoy a family outdoor game night under the stars with this Outdoor DIY Tic-Tac-Toe Game. It’s easy to have so much fun for families of all ages.

Build Your Own Cornhole Game

Craft your very own cornhole game board with this straightforward DIY Cornhole Game Board guide. A fantastic addition to any outdoor gathering.

Stomping Bubble Wrap Painting (VIDEO)

Combine active play and creative expression with Stomping Bubble Wrap Painting. A fun, energetic way to create art.

Backyard Bug Hunt – Free Printable!

Learn about local insects with a Backyard Bug Hunt. This free printable makes it easy and educational for young children to explore their environment on a nature walk. Grab a magnifying glass and enjoy nature in the great outdoors.

hand reaching for water balloons in a tub

Enjoy the Best Outdoor Activities This Summer

These fun activities promise a great time and encourage creativity, physical activity, and appreciation for the natural world. Whether crafting with natural materials, exploring your neighborhood with a bike ride, or simply enjoying water play, the memories made during these summer days will undoubtedly last a lifetime. 

So, grab your sunscreen, gather the kids, and step outside to make the most of the sunny season!

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Kristen

Kristen is the founder and content creator at Mom Managing Chaos where she teaches busy moms how to simplify and organize their life and finances. She writes about frugal living, budgeting, productivity and organization.