The 60 Best things to do in the summer | microadventure edition

If you’re new around here, welcome to Postcards From, where we believe that adventure doesn’t have to mean far-flung flights or big budgets. A microadventure is a small, simple, and often local trip that brings a sense of joy, novelty and exploration into your everyday life. And when it comes to things to do in the summer, microadventures are the perfect match.

With longer days, warmer weather (fingers crossed!) and a bit more free time, summer offers so many chances to get outside and make memories. Whether you’re looking for solo ideas, things to do with friends, or activities for a rainy day, this list is full of inspiration.

The best things to do in the summer

Ready to have a summer filled with adventures? Here are 60 of the best things to do in the summer, filled with lots of microadventures to try, whatever your mood, schedule or budget.

Outdoor micro-adventures

These microadventures are perfect for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the great outdoors.

1. Have a picnic in your local park
2. Explore a nearby hiking trail
3. Spend the day at the beach and go for a swim
4. Try geocaching and search for hidden treasures
5. Wander through a new neighbourhood on foot
6. Visit a botanical garden and learn about local plants
7. Pick berries at a nearby farm
8. Take a cable car or gondola for some scenic views
9. Hunt for local waterfalls
10. Join a historical walking tour in your area

Active summer microadventures

Get your body moving with these energising summer activities.

1. Cycle along a scenic trail
2. Go for a sunrise or sunset hike
3. Try kayaking or canoeing on a local river
4. Rent a paddleboard and explore a peaceful lake
5. Learn a new water sport like surfing or wakeboarding
6. Go horse riding through the countryside
7. Explore a cave or cavern nearby
8. Give paddleboard yoga a go
9. Try river tubing or rafting
10. Join an outdoor fitness or yoga class

The best things to do in the summer : rainy day edition

Because it isn’t always sunny in the UK…

1. Take a scenic drive to a nearby town.
2. Go on a spontaneous road trip to a nearby attraction.
3. Try rock climbing at an indoor climbing gym.
4. Visit a local museum or art gallery.
5. Have a rainy day picnic at home with a selection of your favourite snacks and drinks.
6. Take a pottery or painting class and unleash your creativity.
7. Visit an indoor trampoline park and have a fun-filled jumping session.
8. Try indoor ice skating or roller skating at a nearby rink.
9. Plan a board game or card game tournament with friends or family.
10. Take a cooking or baking class to learn a new recipe or technique.

Solo summer microadventures

These microadventures are perfect for when you want some time to yourself

1. Visit a farmers market and try new fruits or vegetables.
2. Go bird watching in a nature reserve.
3. Have a day of fishing at a local pond or lake.
4. Take a scenic train ride to a nearby destination.
5. Take a photography walk and capture exciting sights.
6. Take a guided nature walk with a local expert.
7. Visit a nearby park and have a solo picnic while enjoying a good book.
8. Plan a solo camping trip in a local campground or even your backyard.
9. Go for a solo hike in a nearby nature reserve or trail.
10. Explore a nearby forest or woodland and embrace the solitude and tranquility.

Microadventures with friends this summer

Grab your pals, and make some memories together. Bonus points for bringing a film/disposable camera with you for the ultimate hit of nostalgia.

1. Have a bonfire and roast marshmallows.
2. Attend an outdoor concert or music festival.
3. Take a hot air balloon ride.
4. Have a beach volleyball/tennis/any game tournament with friends.
5. Attend an outdoor movie screening or theatre performance.
6. Go on a food-tasting tour of your city’s diverse cuisines.
7. Try your hand at archery or axe throwing.
8. Have a beach bonfire and watch the stars.
9. Try your luck at outdoor mini-golf
10. Organize a photography challenge and see who can capture the best shots in a designated area.

Completely free things to do in the summer

Zero budget? No problem. These microadventures won’t cost a thing.

1. Go wild swimming
2. Go camping in your backyard
3. Have a DIY photo shoot in a picturesque location.
4. Go stargazing on a clear night.
5. Have a day of exploring local street art.
6. Have a day of exploring local lakes and swimming holes
7. Take an online yoga or meditation session (look on YoutTube) in a peaceful outdoor setting.
8. Volunteer for a community clean-up project in a local park or beach.
9. Have a DIY movie night under the stars in your backyard.
10. Take a walk in a nearby park and explore its trails.

Whatever your summer looks like—busy weekends, quiet weekdays, or everything in between—I hope this list gives you loads of inspiration for things to do in the summer. Microadventures are about making the most of your time, wherever you are.

And I’d love to see what you get up to! Tag me in your microadventures over on Instagram @postcardsfromkatie_ or share your favourites in the comments below.

Looking for more summer inspiration? Have a scroll through my UK staycation ideas and day trip guides for even more ways to make the most of the season.