Read a Book (Or Finish The One You Started)
At the beginning of the season, you probably set a goal to read all the books at the top of every best-sellers list. And how did that work out? Or maybe you actually picked up a book but stopped midway through because the call of other summer activities was just too tempting. Either way, it's time to finish what you started. Pick up that abandoned romance novel or start that sci-fi thriller before your weekends get jam-packed with other things like apple picking or housewarming parties.
Kick it At a Music Festival
No use in lamenting that you missed the opportunity to see your favorite band perform live. Music festivals are the stuff summer Instagram pictures are made of, so get in on the fun. Grab your friends, grab a ticket (or better yet, look for a free concert), and grab a seat. You'll feel better knowing you didn't miss out.
Play Tourist in Your Own City
You don't need to travel to have a great time. Chances are, there are plenty of things and places in your town or neighboring ones that you haven't yet explored. Take a day to try out a new restaurant or see an exhibit at that museum that just opened. Better yet, get an out of town guest to come with you so you can show off how cool your city actually is.
Head to the Beach
This one seems obvious, but how many times have you felt the sand between your toes (or tasted it in the sandwich you brought with you) this year? Probably fewer than you can count on one hand. That means you need to head to the beach ASAP. Don't live anywhere near one? Park it next to any body of water that can lull you into a blissful state of relaxation. Try a lake, a neighbor's pool, or maybe a small stream. While nothing really beats attempting to get the salty air and sand out of your scalp, studies have shown that being around water in general can help you tap into your most calm and creative self.
Nap Outside
Sure, not all of us have the luxury of a hammock at the ready, but sometimes a good nap outdoors on a blanket in the park, a towel on the beach, or in a chair on your porch is just what you need to feel refreshed and recharged. What's the point of summer anyway if you can't bend the rules a bit and eat, drink, and sleep whenever you want? You can thank us later for this great suggestion.
Embark on a Road Trip
Pack your bags, gas up the car, and head out on the road with the windows rolled down the whole way. Summer = carefree days full of sunshine and adventure (or so we like to think), which means journeying somewhere new is always a good call. Drive a few hours or even a few days. No matter how you roll, just make sure you have a really great playlist or podcast to go with it. Were partial to this one.
Chow Down on Seafood
Does anything say summer more than a fresh plate of seafood? Slather it in butter, drizzle on some sauce, or add a dash of spicehowever you like yours served, there's no denying that summer is the best time to get your fix. Even if you're landlocked, find a market or eatery that flies it in from seafood capitals like Maine, Florida, New York, or San Francisco. No summer season can end successfully without at least one bite.
Pick Fresh Fruit or Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables straight from the vine (or earth) are best enjoyed outside on a grill or while sitting on a porch swing. Ripe avocados anyone? Juicy mangos, plums, peaches, and strawberries too? We're getting hungry just thinking about it. Make sure you fill up before they're no longer in season.
Attend an Outdoor Screening of a Film
You've watched your favorite movie 10 times over, but have you experienced it on the big screen yet? With a bag of popcorn in one hand, the grass beneath you, your favorite flick playing in front of you, and the sunset behind you, it'll be the most quintessential summer evening.
Host a Picnic or Grill Out
If you've learned anything from reading this far, it's that here at Birchbox we love talking about food almost as much as we love spilling our beauty secrets. With that in mind, we suggest you plan a picnic outdoors with friends before the cooler temps arrive. All you need is a basket, a blanket, and some delicious grub to fill you up. But if you still haven't indulged in a good 'ol hotdog, corn on the cob, or cheeseburger yet this season, hosting a grill-out is also a route you can go. Ending the summer with a full belly is never not a good idea.
Go for a Bike Ride or on a Hike
Embrace the outdoors whether your feet are on the ground or on a pair of bike pedals. Getting off your phone and out into Mother Nature is the best way to take advantage of the warm weather and longer days. Find a nearby trail to take your bike or walk along it with your best sidekick (dog, significant other, BFF). Save that Netflix binge for when it's below freezing outside.
Enjoy That Final Glass of Rooftop Ros
Snap those last pics of you and your best friend clinking glasses of ros as you watch the sunset from a rooftop. Soon summer's official drink will have to make way for glasses of red wine by the fire.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in leisure activities and summer fun, I can provide information related to the concepts mentioned in this article. Let's dive into each concept:
Read a Book (Or Finish The One You Started)
Reading a book is a great way to relax and expand your knowledge. If you're looking to finish a book you started, set aside some dedicated time each day to read. Find a quiet and comfortable spot, eliminate distractions, and immerse yourself in the story. If you're unsure which book to pick up, consider exploring the best-sellers list or asking for recommendations from friends or online communities.
Kick it At a Music Festival
Attending a music festival can be a thrilling experience. Check local event listings or websites to find upcoming music festivals in your area. Some festivals may require tickets, while others may offer free concerts. Gather your friends, plan your schedule, and enjoy the live performances of your favorite bands or discover new artists.
Play Tourist in Your Own City
You don't always need to travel far to have a great time. Take the opportunity to explore your own city or neighboring towns. Visit local attractions, try out new restaurants, or attend events and exhibitions. You might be surprised by the hidden gems and interesting places you discover right in your own backyard.
Head to the Beach
Visiting the beach is a classic summer activity. If you live near a beach, pack your essentials like sunscreen, towels, and snacks, and spend a day enjoying the sand, sun, and water. If you don't have access to a beach, consider alternatives like lakes, pools, or even a nearby stream. Being around water can have a calming and rejuvenating effect.
Nap Outside
Taking a nap outdoors can be a refreshing way to recharge during the summer. Find a comfortable spot in a park, on the beach, or on your porch, and relax. Bring a blanket or a towel, and let yourself unwind while enjoying the fresh air and nature around you.
Embark on a Road Trip
A road trip is a fantastic way to explore new places and create lasting memories. Plan your route, pack your bags, and hit the road. Whether it's a short day trip or a longer adventure, make sure to have a great playlist or podcast to keep you entertained along the way.
Chow Down on Seafood
Summer is a great time to indulge in fresh seafood. Look for local markets or restaurants that offer a variety of seafood dishes. Whether you prefer lobster, shrimp, crab, or fish, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. If you're landlocked, some establishments may import seafood from coastal areas, so you can still enjoy the flavors of the sea.
Pick Fresh Fruit or Vegetables
Take advantage of the summer season to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit local farmers' markets or pick-your-own farms to get the best produce straight from the source. Treat yourself to ripe avocados, juicy mangos, plums, peaches, strawberries, and more. Grilling or enjoying them outdoors can enhance the experience.
Attend an Outdoor Screening of a Film
Watching a movie outdoors can be a unique and enjoyable experience. Look for outdoor screenings in your area, such as movie nights in parks or rooftop cinemas. Grab a blanket, some popcorn, and enjoy your favorite film under the stars.
Host a Picnic or Grill Out
Gather your friends and enjoy a picnic in a park or host a grill-out in your backyard. Prepare delicious food, pack a basket with snacks and drinks, and enjoy a leisurely meal outdoors. It's a great way to socialize, relax, and savor the flavors of summer.
Go for a Bike Ride or on a Hike
Explore the outdoors by going for a bike ride or a hike. Find nearby trails or scenic routes where you can enjoy nature and get some exercise. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a challenging hike, spending time in nature can be invigorating and rejuvenating.
Enjoy That Final Glass of Rooftop Rosé
As summer comes to an end, savor the moment with a glass of rooftop rosé. Find a rooftop bar or a scenic spot where you can enjoy a beautiful view while toasting to the end of the season. Capture the moment with photos and create lasting memories.
Remember, summer is a time to relax, have fun, and enjoy the outdoors. Choose activities that bring you joy and make the most of the season.
