Let’s face it, life can sometimes throw us a curveball and make it tough to stay close to our loved ones. We’re constantly going somewhere—running kids from the soccer field to band rehearsal, but actual quality time seems to be rare in our hustle. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! We’ve come up with some super fun, feel-good family outing ideas that aren’t only fun but offer the chance to get in some healthy conversation and bonding time. Spending time with your family should be a blast, but it can also be a great way to learn new things and create unforgettable memories. Trust us, with these activities, your family will be thriving in no time!
Deepen your family bonds with Let’s Roam!
When you decide on a family outing, don’t forget your copy of Adventures from Scratch: Family Edition. It’s packed with ideas for things to do with the entire crew. Each activity is a blend of bonding moments and straight-up fun! Kids will love scraping the surface of each page to uncover the next adventure, and there’s space to write down humorous events and favorite memories. We think you’re family is going to love it!
30 Feel-Good Family Outing Ideas
Good news! We’ve got a whole bunch of feel-good family outing ideas that will put a big smile on the whole family’s face. From low-key, low-cost activities to some seriously epic bucket-list stuff, we’ve got something for everyone. So pick and choose the ones that work for you, and get ready for some serious family fun time!
1. Explore with a scavenger hunt.
One of the best ways to get the whole family involved is to do a scavenger hunt. Let’s Roam’s hunts take you on an adventure you’ll never forget! Our team of intrepid explorers has cooked up some seriously cool experiences in over 600 cities worldwide. We’re talking app-driven scavenger hunts, bar crawls, ghost tours, and a whole lot more. Each adventure is crafted to help you explore, have a good chuckle, make some discoveries, and bond with your crew. It’s like memory-making on steroids! Get ready to roam like never before. Just download the scavenger hunt app and get started anytime!
2. Check out the library.
Did you know your local library is a treasure trove of fun-filled activities? It’s not just a place to borrow books and get your reading fix! Let us spill the tea on what you can get up to at your local library.
First up, you get free story-time sessions by animated educators for the little ones. You don’t have to be a bookworm to attend these sessions. Just bring your good vibes and get ready to be entertained.
Next, let’s talk about the rockstar librarians who are always eager to introduce you to new books. They’re like your personal book fairies, waving their magic wands and recommending the best stories for each of you. On rainy days, going to the library is the perfect way to get your kids out of the living room and tap into their imagination.
3. Take a hike.
Are your kids spending too much time playing video games or on their phones? Are they in need of some fresh air? Taking your family on a hike is a perfect way to unwind and soak up the great outdoors and get in some interesting convos.
First things first, let’s do some research! Check out your community’s website or do some Googling to find nearby trails that suit your family’s fitness levels. If you have little ones in tow, look out for kid-friendly options with shorter distances. All Trails is a good resource for most regions.
Now, let’s pack some essentials! Make sure to take plenty of water bottles to stay hydrated and some healthy snacks to munch on while you trek. Granola bars, fruit, and nuts are great options to keep your energy levels up. Don’t forget to carry a first aid kit, too (just in case any minor bumps or scrapes happen along the way).
As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for any animals or birds that may cross your path. You can also make it a fun learning experience by identifying plants and trees and putting them in a journal. If you come across a water feature, don’t be shy to dip your toes in and splash around. It’s all about having fun and enjoying the moment!
Take plenty of pictures and document your adventure. You can create scrapbooks or photo albums to look back on and reminisce about the good times. Who knows, you may even discover a new family hobby and make hiking a regular adventure!
4. Visit a fire station.
Have you ever thought about visiting your local fire station? It’s not just a place for firefighters to hang out and wait for emergencies, they actually have some pretty cool programs for visitors! You’ll need to call ahead and make an appointment. You don’t want to just show up unannounced and interrupt their daily routine.
When you arrive, the firemen will do a demonstration on fire safety! The firefighters are experts in their field and are more than happy to share their knowledge with you. They’ll teach you all about the importance of smoke detectors, how to create a fire escape plan, and even how to use a fire extinguisher. It’s like going to school, but with real-life heroes as your teachers!
The best part? You get to check out their super cool trucks up close! You can climb aboard, ring the bell, and even try on some of the gear that the firefighters use. Why not bake cookies and bring them to show your appreciation for their service? Firefighters work hard to keep our communities safe, so a little gesture of gratitude can go a long way! Plus, gift-giving always makes you feel good!
5. Find local entertainment.
Instead of a movie night, take the family out for some local entertainment. From high school productions to community theatre groups, there are bound to be some awesome shows happening right in your own backyard. Do a little research to find out what’s playing. Check out the websites of local high schools and colleges to see if they have any upcoming drama productions. These shows are often really good and ticket prices are usually very reasonable.
You can also check out local coffee shops and cafes for some live entertainment. From open mic nights to acoustic sets, these spots offer a cozy atmosphere and some great talent. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening with your teens enjoying some local music.
Don’t be afraid to get involved! Community theatre groups and drama clubs are always on the lookout for volunteers to help with everything from set design to stage crew. It’s a great way to meet new people and be a part of something creative.
6. Visit a local museum.
Going to a museum is a great way to spend a day together as a family, and maybe even learn a thing or two! First, find the perfect museum for your family’s interests. Are you into science? History? Art? There’s a museum for just about everything, so pick one that everyone will enjoy.
When you get there, get ready to explore! Most museums offer interactive exhibits, so you can touch, feel, and even play with the displays—perfect for younger kids. You can even make your own game out of it! Challenge your family to a scavenger hunt to find certain items in the exhibits, or have them find the answers to item trivia questions. It’s a great way to keep everyone engaged and excited.
7. Explore local sporting events.
Hey there, sports fans! If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, why not explore your local sports venues? There’s nothing like cheering on your favorite team or player in person.
Start by checking out your local high school or college sports schedules. You might be surprised at the variety of sports available to watch! From football to swimming to track and field, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye. If you live in a bigger city, you can take it up a notch and catch a practice session or front-row tickets for a minor or major league team. Who knows, you might even bump into some famous players and score an autograph or two.
8. Find a volunteering opportunity.
If you’re looking for a family outing that will not only bring you closer together but also make a positive impact in your community, find a place to volunteer. You could help out at a local food bank, assist at an animal shelter, or even volunteer to clean up a local park or beach. The possibilities are endless!
9. Watch a family movie.
Head to the movies! It’s a great way to spend some quality time together while enjoying a good film. You’ll smell the buttery aroma of popcorn and see colorful movie posters lining the walls. You’ll pick out your favorite snacks and drinks and settle into your seats, ready for the show to start. There’s something for everyone at the movies, from animated kids’ films to action-packed blockbusters. You can share a laugh at a comedy or shed a tear at a touching drama. Most movie theaters have matinees which are perfect for those rainy days. Plus, they’re easier on the wallet.
10. Go bowling.
Bowling is the perfect activity for a family game night, even the little ones can join in on the fun with bumpers to keep their balls on track. Turn up the competition and split up into teams for a full-blown family tournament. Who will come out on top and be crowned the family bowling champion?
11. Go ice skating.
Whether you’re lucky enough to find a frozen pond or lake, or you head to an indoor rink, ice skating is a great way to have fun and get some exercise. Winter scenery makes for a picturesque setting, too.
Hold hands with your little ones and glide across the ice, or challenge each other to see who can learn to skate backward first. It’s the perfect opportunity to bond as a family and make some special memories. After your ice skating adventure, warm up with a cup of delicious hot cocoa. It’s the ultimate treat to reward yourselves for a job well done on the ice. For a summer alternative, go roller blading in your local rink or park!
12. Have a family picnic.
You’ll have to break out that dusty old picnic basket for this family activity, but it’s quite simple to put together a picnic. Just getting some refreshments and heading to a local park, mountain or canyon will do the trick. While you’re enjoying the fresh air and sun, break out your family’s favorite board game, or play some card games. If you’re feeling more active, grab a hula hoop and have a contest on who can keep it up the longest. When you get too hot, grab some ice cream and take a stroll.
13. Go swimming.
The sun is shining and the birds are singing—it’s the perfect day for a family getaway to the nearest body of water. Pile into the car with towels and sunscreen and get going. Whether it’s heading to the local swimming pool and practicing your cannonballs, or going to the beach to play in the sand, a day of swimming is a blast for the whole family. Make sure to include some fun activities like building a sand castle, throwing a football or frisbee, kicking a soccer ball, or playing volleyball. You can also grab a snorkel and explore the water.
14. Play mini-golf.
Mini golf is entertaining for the whole family regardless of age. This fun family-friendly activity doesn’t require a lot of physical strength, so regardless of age, anyone can win. Get ready for healthy competition, as you compete for the lowest score. A lot of mini-golf courses also have a video game room to explore after!
15. Be a tourist in your own city.
There comes a time when you don’t think your city is special… maybe even boring. You can revive your love for your home by becoming a tourist in your own city. Visit a small museum you have never been to. Go looking for urban art. Take a cooking class for local cuisine, check out the skate park, or go on a tour of cute churches in the area. Check out your city website for local events, or join a Let’s Roam scavenger hunt. Whatever you choose, you’ll find that your town has more to offer than you thought!
16. Go horseback riding at a dude ranch.
Whether it be on a forested trail or along the beach, horseback riding is another amazing way to enjoy time with your family in nature. As you ride, you will start to connect with your horse and learn how to navigate together. It’s the ultimate exercise in teamwork. You can even take it a gallop further, spending some time at a dude ranch, where you’ll be immersed in ranch life while learning valuable riding techniques.
17. Visit a national park.
The beauty and wonder of national parks are something to behold. With abounding options of landscapes, from the weird hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park to the unique structures of Arches, to the natural beauty of Olympic National Park, there is something for everyone. Go camping, fishing, or just take a hike through beautiful landscapes. National parks usually have a museum where you can learn more about the area, and they offer ranger programs to keep little ones engaged.
A great way to visit national parks is to take a road trip to one or more using our “Ultimate National Park Road Trip.”
18. Go to a carnival.
Face painting, spinning teacups, and caramel apples—who doesn’t love a good carnival? You can also ring toss, balloon darts, ball toss, and whac-a-mole to see who is the first to win a prize. Games aren’t the only thing to keep your crew entertained. There are also rides that provide lots of fun for the more adventurous of your family. Get a high view of the whole carnival on a Ferris wheel, get dizzy on the round-up, or get some aggression out with bumper cars. Let’s not forget about all that carnival food from funnel cakes and candy apples and fried Oreos!
19. Go to a drive-in movie.
If you’re looking for a unique and cheap family movie night, how about going to a drive-in movie? They may be more difficult to find these days, but they’re a whole lot of fun when you do. Look at Drive-In Movie to locate the nearest one.
20. Have a water balloon fight.
While we all love to feel the sun on our faces, sometimes the heat of summer can get a little too… toasty! On those days, very few things even come close to feeling as good as having a cold shower, but the next best thing is to have a water balloon fight. Fill them up by the dozen and target your favorite family member while trying to stay the driest of the bunch. Invite some friends, too. The more the merrier!
21. Visit an Aquarium.
Want to explore the fascinating world beneath the waves with your family? Head to an aquarium! You’ll see tanks filled with colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and majestic sharks. You can watch a feeding session, touch a stingray, or even take a behind-the-scenes tour.
You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting our oceans. It’s a great way to teach your kids about environmental responsibility. You’ll be mesmerized by the beauty and wonder of the underwater world, and your kids will be delighted by the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
22. Hit the skies.
In cities all over the country, indoor skydiving and anti-gravity labs have popped up providing an easy family outing with some extreme adrenaline. You and your crew will be suited up in a flight and safety suit, given all the necessary instructions, and then set free in a Willy Wonka-esk chamber where you’ll feel the exhilarating rush of skydiving and the weird weightlessness of floating through the clouds without having to actually jump from a plane! It’s something your kids will talk about for weeks afterward!
23. Complete a ropes course.
Ropes courses are an epic way to challenge yourself and bond with your loved ones at the same time. A ropes course is basically an obstacle course, but up in the air. You’ll be greeted by a team of friendly guides who will help you get geared up. You’ll learn the basics of safety and technique before you climb up to the course itself. Once you’re up there, you’ll feel like you’re in a world of your own with obstacles that will test your strength, balance, and agility.
Of course, there will be plenty of laughs and giggles along the way, too. You might slip or stumble, but that’s all part of the fun! And when you reach the end of the course, you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something amazing together.
24. Try a new food.
It’s easy for families to get in a food rut and eat the same thing every week. Trying new foods is a great way to have an adventure without ever leaving your hometown! You can explore new cuisines from sushi to Mediterranean cuisine to Indian food. Not only is it a fun and delicious way to spend time together, but it’s also a great way to broaden your horizons and expand your palate. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite dish!
25. Take a road trip.
When the walls start closing in and your family just needs a change of scenery, pack your bags for a family road trip! There’s something magical about hitting the open road with your loved ones, with the wind in your hair and the music cranked up.
As you drive, you’ll pass through beautiful scenery from rolling hills to winding rivers to quirky roadside attractions. Stop at diners for delicious meals, and maybe even indulge in some sweet treats along the way. Of course, there might be some bumps in the road—a flat tire here, a wrong turn there—but that’s all part of the adventure!
When you finally reach your destination, whether it’s a national park or a big city, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement. Of course, if you don’t have a lot of time off, a day trip to the nearest attraction can be just as fun. The most important part is quality family time.
If you need some fun road trip games to play check out “The Best Road Trip Games for Kids, Teens, and Adults.”
Every road trip is better with a theme! Take a look at our “20 Remarkable Road Trip Theme Ideas” to find the perfect idea for your crew.
26. Take a family camping trip.
Gather ’round the campfire, folks—it’s time for some serious family bonding. Camping is the perfect way to get back to nature and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones. As you pitch your tent and set up camp, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and adventure. You’ll spend your days exploring the great outdoors, from hiking trails to fishing spots to scenic vistas. At night, you’ll gather around the campfire, grab marshmallows for s’mores, tell stories, do some stargazing, and maybe break out card games or play a fun game of charades.
Sure, there might be a few bugs and the occasional rain shower, but that’s all part of the fun! Best of all, camping allows you to unplug from the stresses of everyday life. You’ll feel refreshed and rejuvenated after just a few hours in nature.
28. Go on a bike ride.
Hop on your bikes and hit the open road for a fun, healthy day. As you pedal along, you might discover new bike paths or hidden gems in your community that you never knew existed. You’ll chat, laugh, and bond with your family members as you try silly handlebar tricks and challenge each other to races. You can make it as leisurely or as challenging as you like, from a slow-paced ride through the park to a more intense ride on hilly terrain. If you get tired or hungry, roll right up to the ice cream parlor of the food truck for an outdoor meal.
29. Have a fancy dinner.
Dress up in your fancy clothes, break up the dinner monotony, and head to a fine-dining restaurant for a special meal. It doesn’t have to be a special occasion, just treat yourselves to a luxurious meal. You’ll be seated at a table with crisp linens and sparkling silverware, and you’ll peruse the high-end menu with anticipation. From decadent appetizers to sumptuous entrees to indulgent desserts, you’ll savor every bite of your exquisite meal, and have a new cultural experience while you’re at it!
30. Go to an amusement park.
Amusement parks are the perfect place to let loose, have fun, and make memories with your loved ones. As you enter the park, you’ll feel the energy and excitement all around you. You’ll see colorful rides, hear screams of delight, and smell the delicious aroma of cotton candy and popcorn. There’s something for everyone at an amusement park, from gentle kiddie rides to heart-pumping roller coasters. You can spend your day racing go-karts, playing carnival games, and enjoying live shows.
Ready for family fun?
We hope these fun family activities have given you a good starting point for planning your family outing. Of course, there are thousands of options to consider when it comes to outings with loved ones, but hopefully, this has sparked some inspiration. Don’t hesitate to make these fun ideas your own. Every family is different, and adding your own special twist to a recommendation is where you get to shine!
Remember, there’s no need to have everything figured out from the get-go. Take it one step at a time, communicate openly with your family about their needs and preferences, and be flexible and adaptable as you go. The goal is quality time and adventure, and it’s just outside your door. It doesn’t need to be extravagant, expensive, or extensively planned. Just get out there and explore! Fabulous finds, exhilarating adventures, and better family relationships are all just around the corner.
Do you have a family reunion coming up and need activities to do? Check out our “40 Refreshingly Unique Family Reunion Activities” to help you make it special.
For more family outing ideas, check out these articles on our sister site, Let’s Roam:
“The 20 Best Places to Travel With Kids”
“How to Travel (on a Budget) With Your Family”
Frequently Asked Questions
Going on a scavenger hunt is a great family outing! Having a picnic in the park is a classic family outing that is easy to prepare and fun for everyone.
Volunteering in your community is a meaningful activity every family can do. Visit your local fire station and bring them baked goods to show your appreciation.
Going swimming over the weekend is a great activity for the family. Going on a weekend camping trip or taking on a ropes course are amazing ways to get some fresh air.
Going on a bike ride, doing a ropes course, going for a hike, and bowling are great active things you can do with your family.
A great way to fight family boredom is to do something active. Adventures From Scratch: Family Edition has 50+ scratch-off challenges to help break the family boredom.