fun trip activities

20 summer vacation ideas across the U.S.

Make the most of your time off this summer..

This story was updated in April 2024.

There can be a lot of pressure around picking the right destination for your summer vacation. How do you find a place the whole group will like, one that offers the right mix of activities and relaxation? Take the guesswork out of planning with this guide to some of the best warm-weather vacation spots in the United States. From Seattle to Portland, Maine , and Florida’s Delray Beach to Bozeman, MT—there’s something for everyone.

Sunshine and 70-degree weather are Seattleites’ reward for enduring a long winter, so expect to see locals out enjoying the surrounding mountains, lakes, beaches, and national parks. ( North Cascades National Park and Olympic National Park are both within a two-hour drive.) Summer brings the least amount of rainfall and with it peak visibility, making it an ideal time to look out over the city from the iconic Space Needle , spot orca whales near the San Juan Islands , or simply post up on a patio with a view and a cold one (a self-guided tasting tour of the Ballard Brewery District highlights Washington’s status as the largest producer of hops in the country).

A quintessential summer must-do: Pike Place Market features an evening farmer’s market and Sunset Supper, an alfresco fundraiser with nearly 100 local chefs.

The underrated pick: Seattle has several sandy beaches ( Alki Beach is a popular spot) but because the water stays cold year-round, many opt for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Rent from an area outfitter and put in near the quirky Gas Works Park on Lake Union for panoramic skyline views.

Where to stay

Bozeman, MT

Hiking trails lined with wildflowers, horseback riding, mountain biking, fly fishing—there’s no shortage of things to do in Montana come summertime. And while it’s not unheard of to have snow flurries in June (pro tip: pack layers), temperatures in Bozeman typically hover in the 80s during the day and drop down into the 40s at night—ideal conditions for gathering around a campfire. Get your fill of Americana at the weekly Valley View Rodeo or the annual Bozeman Stampede in August. You can also easily tack on a trip to the nation’s first national park since Yellowstone is only an hour and a half away.

A quintessential summer must-do: Locals love a leisurely float along the Madison River and Madison River Tubes makes it easy with tube rentals and shuttle service. For a more hair-raising experience, join a guided whitewater rafting trip down the Gallatin River.

The underrated pick: Big Sky Country boasts epic sunsets and plenty of spots for unobstructed viewing, including the wheelchair-accessible Peet’s Hill at Burke Park . The popular College ‘M’ Trail requires more effort but provides a bird’s-eye view of the Gallatin Valley—just be sure to bring a headlamp for the hike down.

With a population of less than 5,000, Vail is a tiny town with a big reputation for outdoor fun. As in the winter, summer activities revolve around Vail Mountain , one of the country's largest ski resorts. Two lifts continue to run even after the snow is gone: Gondola One will take you from the Bavarian-inspired Vail Village to casual mountain-top dining and scenic hiking trails, while the Eagle Bahn Gondola leaves from Lionshead Village and heads to Epic Discovery , a high-altitude playground with a mountain coaster, tubing hill, and mini-golf course. At the base of the mountain, explore the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens or get tickets to one of the many seasonal fests, from the Vail Dance Festival to the months-long Bravo! Vail music festival.

A quintessential summer must -do: The open-air Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater , a.k.a. The Amp, puts on a picturesque, free concert series called Hot Summer Nights . Pack a picnic with supplies from The Grazing Fox or Root & Flower .

The underrated pick: Every Saturday, stretch out at one of Mountain Top Yoga ’s outdoor classes overlooking the valley.

This charming SoCal city has warm weather year-round, but the summer is a particularly great time to visit, thanks to a full calendar of events. Taste pale ales at San Diego County Fair ’s International Beer Festival in June or celebrate the Fourth of July by watching the state’s largest fireworks show from the flight deck of the USS Midway , America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier. Throughout the summer, the world-famous San Diego Zoo stays open late for a chance to see nocturnal critters and the vast Balboa Park hosts Food Truck Fridays with live music, kids' activities, and discounted, after-hours admission to the San Diego Natural History Museum , the San Diego Museum of Art , and more.

A quintessential summer must-do: La Jolla Cove routinely ranks as one of the best beaches in the country in our Travelers’ Choice Awards . Go for the crystal-clear water and the opportunity to snorkel with (harmless) leopard sharks but stay for the jaw-dropping sunsets.

The underrated pick: Take the trolley to Old Town San Diego to see the 200-year-old adobe buildings that make up California’s oldest settlement. Afterward, indulge in freshly made tortillas and a margarita sampler at Cafe Coyote .

Portland, Maine

Maine is synonymous with fresh seafood and you’re guaranteed to get your fill in the summer. Plan your trip around the Yarmouth Clam Festival in July or the Maine Lobster Festival held the first weekend of August in nearby Rockland. Or simply stroll along the cobblestone streets of Portland’s picturesque Old Port and pick between one of the area’s stand-out restaurants: Scales serves everything from “chowdah” to whole steamed lobsters, while the James Beard Award–winning chefs at Eventide Oyster Company offer a twist on the classic lobster roll.

A quintessential summer must-do: Board a wooden, made-in-Maine Windjammer with Portland Schooner Co. to explore Casco Bay.

The underrated pick: May through October, take a docent-led tour of the Portland Observatory , a relic of the “Golden Age of Sail” and the country’s only remaining historic maritime signal station.

Napa Valley and Sonoma, CA

Summer is growing season in California’s lush wine region and while the grapes will be out in full force, harvest doesn’t happen until the fall. Get a sense of what’s to come at Taste of Sonoma in June and Taste of Napa in July. The latter is part of Festival Napa Valley , a weeks-long celebration of local talent, including chefs, artists, and musicians. Another musical event worth planning a trip around is the Broadway and Vine series, which brings Tony Award–winning stars to town to perform show tunes and raise money for educational programming. And what better backdrop than the vineyards?

A quintessential summer must-do: While the area is famous for its Bordeaux-based red wines, the warm weather is a perfect excuse to sample another varietal—Chardonnay—in chilled form. Rombauer Vineyards has the ultimate buttery version or you can do an all-white tasting at Cakebread Cellars .

The underrated pick: Schedule in some R&R with a spa day at The Four Seasons —think Calistoga mud treatments and outdoor garden loungers—or The Meritage Resort ’s underground spa built into the side of a wine cave. Both are open to the public.

Jackson Hole, WY

There’s a sign at the top of Teton Pass that points to the Jackson Hole valley below and declares it “The Last of the Old West.” Ride around the Town Square in an old stagecoach, catch a reenactment of the Jackson Hole Shootout , attend a biweekly rodeo , or head into the woods for a chuckwagon dinner .

Summer also showcases a different side of the area’s famous ski resorts. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers discounted evening gondola rides to The Deck @ Piste for an unforgettable happy hour, while Snow King Mountain has an observatory for stargazing at 8,000 feet and a concert series at the summit featuring Grammy Award–winning acts.

A quintessential summer must-do: Don’t leave without tackling at least one hike in Grand Teton National Park , located roughly 10 minutes to the north. The Jenny Lake Trail features stunning views of the alpine lake below and Hidden Falls —plus the option to take a boat ride back.

The underrated pick: The bumpy dirt road leading to Granite Hot Springs Pool is not for the faint of heart (a 4x4 is recommended) but it’s worth it for a serene soak amidst mountain views.

Friday Harbor, WA

Getting to this picturesque coastal town that’s considered the gateway to the San Juan Islands is half the fun. Most visitors take the Anacortes Ferry , but you can also charter a boat or seaplane from Seattle . Once there, go for a stroll and admire the colorful architecture along the waterfront, then pop into the boutiques and cafes lining Spring Street. The Saturday San Juan Island Farmers Market showcases the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, while the July lavender festival at Pelindaba Lavender Farm promises cooking demos, tours, and picnics in the fragrant fields.

A quintessential summer must-do: While orcas live here year-round, migrating whales (including humpback and minke) are abundant in the summer. Spot from the shores of Lime Kiln Point State Park or get a closer look on a boat tour with Maya’s Legacy Whale Watching .

The underrated pick: Check out the burgeoning art scene at the free San Juan Islands Sculpture Park or, on a rainy day, head to the San Juan Islands Museum of Art to view works by William Morris, Ansel Adams, and Ai Weiwei.

Delray Beach, FL

Delray Beach is West Palm Beach ’s more laid-back, artsy cousin, making it a great place for vacationing families. Head to the town’s eponymous beach along the Atlantic Ocean for surfing, sunbathing, and pick-up games of sand volleyball. When you’ve had enough sun, there’s the palm-tree-lined Atlantic Avenue with its antique shops and art galleries or Sandoway House Nature Center , a converted 1930s home with exhibits on Florida’s ecosystems and a stingray touch tank. Low-key nightlife options include the First Friday Art Walk , a free twilight concert series at Old School Square , and Art & Jazz on the Avenue , a street fair with dining, dancing, and live mural paintings.

A quintessential summer must-do: Pick up some gardening tips at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens , a 200-acre cultural center that honors the contributions of Japanese farmers who called the area home in the early 1900s.

The underrated pick: The Silverball Museum packs a nostalgic punch with retro video games, pinball machines, and the original skeeball alleys from New York’s Coney Island Arcade.

Williamsburg, VA

Colonial Williamsburg brings the pomp and pageantry to Independence Day, kicking things off with a reading of the Declaration of Independence by “Thomas Jefferson” (just one of many costumed interpreters who bring the past to life at the 300-acre living history museum). In town, the Williamsburg Inn puts on a special afternoon tea with a Revolution-inspired menu. And, of course, there’s the grand finale: a firework show over the Governor’s Palace .

Any other day, visit Historic Jamestowne to learn about the English settlement with a mysterious past or take a self-guided tour of the wineries, breweries, distilleries, and meaderies that make up the Williamsburg Tasting Trail .

A quintessential summer must-do: On a hot day, locals flock to Water Country USA , the state’s largest water park and an offshoot of Busch Gardens Williamsburg .

The underrated pick: A candle-lit Haunted Williamsburg tour takes you inside several 18th-century buildings to hear spooky tales.

Savannah, GA

Savannah has a subtropical climate, which is to say the summers are hot and humid. Still, when you need a respite from the heat, it’s easy to find: under the city’s famous moss-draped oak trees, on a riverboat cruise , or in one of the air-conditioned museums. The American Prohibition Museum details Savannah’s history as the “Bootleg Spigot of the South” while the Pin Point Heritage Museum , housed in a former oyster and crab factory, explores Gullah/Geechee culture. Just outside the city, Tybee Island beckons with a top-notch beach , a town-wide water gun fight at the annual Tybee Beach Bum Parade , and Little Tybee Island , an often-overlooked, uninhabited nature preserve only reachable by boat.

A quintessential summer must-do: Order a scoop (or two) at Leopold’s Ice Cream , an old-fashioned soda fountain that opened in 1919.

The underrated pick: The luxe Lucas Theatre was the city’s first air-conditioned public building. Today, it periodically screens summer blockbusters, like Jaws and Dirty Dancing . Stop by on Wednesdays for a free tour and demonstration of its Wurlitzer organ.

Charleston, SC

Charleston is known for its southern charm and pastel architecture, but also its distinct Lowcountry cuisine. Many of the city’s best chefs are focused on hyper-local ingredients that abound in the warmer months. James Beard Award–Winners FIG and Husk deserve every bit of praise, but relative newcomers like Tempest are worth checking out, too. For a classic Lowcountry boil, go to Bowen’s Island .

When you’re not chowing down, take part in the renowned summer Spoleto Festival , Sweetgrass Festival , or Charleston Carifest . The latter is a colorful, three-day event in June that reflects early settlers’ ties to Barbados. Expect lots of dancing to soca and reggae, a carnival parade, and even more food.

A quintessential summer must-do: Sail through Charleston Harbor and past historic Fort Sumter on The Schooner Pride , a tall ship modeled after 18th-century trading vessels. Book well in advance for the full-moon tour.

The underrated pick: On select Saturday evenings, boogie with the locals on Mount Pleasant Pier as part of the Dancing on the Cooper summer series.

Newport, RI

During the Gilded Age, Newport was the summertime playground of the country’s wealthiest elite, including the Vanderbilt family. Take a peek inside their former home, The Breakers , now a National Historic Landmark, before admiring other notable mansions along the scenic 3.5-mile Cliff Walk . The Marble House hosts The Newport Flower Show in June and several estates double as venues for The Newport Classical Music Festival in July. Also in July: the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in nearby Bristol and a same-day, 21-gun salute by the Artillery Company of Newport that uses cannons cast by Paul Revere. Rounding out the social calendar is the legendary Newport Jazz Festival , now in its 70th year.

A quintessential summer must-do: Vie for an Adirondack chair on The Lawn at the Castle Hill Inn and breathe in the salty air, gin and tonic in hand.

The underrated pick: Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame and play a round on the same courts where the US Open got its start.

Minneapolis

Embrace lake life in Minneapolis , where a chain of 22 urban lakes—including ​​ Bde Maka Ska , Lake Harriet , and Lake of the Isles —make it easy to get out on the water. Or, cycle along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway , which connecting 50-plus miles of bike paths around the city. Brake for sites like Minnehaha Falls and the downtown riverfront, home to the Mill City Museum and Stone Arch Bridge . The latter is the inspiration for the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, a long-standing event in June that features a juried art show, food trucks, and a classic car show. Another must is the Minnesota State Fair , held in late August just over the river in Minneapolis’ twin city, St. Paul.

A quintessential summer must-do: The Mall of America takes mall hangouts to the next level with an indoor amusement park, go-kart race track,18-hole mini golf course, and more than 500 stores.

The underrated pick: Stretching over 11 acres, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is one of the largest urban sculpture parks in the country. Don’t miss "Spoonbridge and Cherry," a 29-foot Pop Art–inspired fountain.

Memphis, TN

If live music is what you’re after, look no further than the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. In addition to the usual bars and buskers on Beale Street , Memphis has a summer lineup that includes the Riverbeat Music Festival and Beale Street Music Festival in May and the Memphis Botanic Garden ’s ongoing Live at the Garden series (past headliners include Lady A, Train, and Matchbox Twenty). For a dose of nostalgia, the Orion Free Concert Series is hard to beat. Dating back to 1936, it’s one of the only Depression-era bandshells still in use today and also where Elvis made his debut. Speaking of The King, fans from all over the world gather at Graceland for Elvis Week in August.

When the mercury climbs, several acclaimed museums offer a reprieve. The National Civil Rights Museum is powerful with more than 250 artifacts, films, oral histories, and interactive exhibits, while the nearby Blues Hall of Fame Museum and Stax Museum of American Soul Music are musts for music lovers.

A quintessential summer must-do: Mosey down the mighty Mississippi River on a paddle wheeler. Memphis Riverboats has several tours, including a Sunday blues brunch.

The underrated pick: Covering 4,500 acres, Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Try out the treetop adventure course, take the kids to the expansive “sprayground” splash pad, or rent a boat and explore Hyde Lake.

Anaheim, CA

Even if you’ve been to Disneyland , it’s worth visiting again for summer events like Pixar Fest and Disneyland After Dark–themed nights . Both Disneyland and nearby Universal Studios Hollywood do spectacular Fourth of July fireworks shows, set to patriotic tunes. And in 2024, Knott’s Berry Farm opens a reimagined Camp Snoopy inspired by the classic Peanuts column and California’s High Sierra. Warm-weather havens like the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are also only an hour away.

A quintessential summer must-do: Dine al fresco at the Anaheim Packing District , a buzzy food hall inside a restored citrus packing plant.

The underrated pick: The Oak Canyon Nature Center consists of three adjoining canyons in the Santa Ana foothills. Bring a flashlight and join naturalists for a guided nighttime hike on the third Saturday of the month.

Set in the heart of the enchanting Black Hills, Custer is more than a stopover on the way to Mount Rushmore . In the summer months, it's a gateway to outdoor adventures. Go underground and explore Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park , or take in granite peaks, rolling grasslands, and a herd of more than 1,400 free-roaming bison at Custer State Park . Crazy Horse Memorial —the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving—is impressive from any vantage point, but Volksmarch , a 10K walk in June, allows you to get up close for a nominal fee.

A quintessential summer must-do: Every year in July, the town turns out for Gold Discovery Days , featuring a carnival, cornhole tournament, and hot air balloon rally.

The underrated pick: A semi-finalist for a James Beard Award, Skoken Kitchen serves up delicacies like morel mushrooms and buffalo short ribs.

The best way to experience a Boston summer? Go for a walk. Nicknamed “America’s Walking City,” there’s no shortage of beautiful (or informative) strolls. Admire the architecture of Beacon Hill ; seek out the former haunts of literary giants such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau; or make your way along The Freedom Trail , which connects historic sites like Faneuil Hall and The Paul Revere House . In the summer, NPS rangers also lead free guided tours along The Black Heritage Trail . If you prefer to get your steps in with a cannoli in hand, don’t miss the North End Feasts, which tap into Boston’s Italian heritage and honor a different saint or martyr with parades and street food.

A quintessential summer must-do: Root for the home team at Fenway Park , the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. Guided history tours are offered daily, but if you’re in town on game day book the Pregame Tour for a special behind-the-scenes look at the action.

The underrated pick: The greater Boston area boasts more than 25 farmers’ markets, including Haymarket , one of the oldest open-air markets in the country.

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is home to roughly 100 courses (most of them public), including the acclaimed Caledonia Golf & Fish Club , the tricky Tidewater Golf Club , and the King’s North course at Myrtle Beach National , designed by Arnold Palmer. For a little friendly competition, sign up for the long-standing Father & Son Team Classic , part of Family Golf Week in July. Earlier in the month, locals celebrate Independence Day with decorated floats that actually float at the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade (set up along the MarshWalk for great views) and The Salute From the Shore flyover featuring vintage aircraft.

A quintessential summer must-do: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade is a must for old-school arcades, thrill rides, and the SkyWheel , a 20-story Ferris wheel with private, climate-controlled gondolas and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The underrated pick: Rent a fishing pole from the Second Avenue Pier tackle shop and cast a line for flounder, mackerel, and barracuda.

Boise, Idaho

Surrounded by mountains and the Sawtooth Wilderness, the Treasure Valley has some real hidden gems. Cycle along the Boise River Greenbelt and stop to watch surfers in wetsuits take on “The Wave” at the Boise Whitewater Park . Learn about the area’s thriving Basque community at the Basque Museum & Cultural Center . Or if you’re in town in July, attend the San Inazio Festival, which honors the patron saint of the Basques with dancers in traditional garb, pala games (similar to racquetball), and all the pintxos you can eat. For an extra special treat, time your visit to Jaialdi, the world’s largest celebration of Basque culture that happens every five years.

A quintessential summer must-do: The melodies of songbirds mix with Shakespeare’s sonnets in a bucolic setting at the multi-month Idaho Shakespeare Festival .

The underrated pick: Travel back in time and see a flick under the stars at the Terrace Drive-In Movie Theater , located 30 minutes away in Caldwell, Idaho.

30 Best Road Trip Games That Are Super Fun

Road trip games can make any journey more enjoyable and fun whether you're going on a long drive across the country or spending a few hours in the car with the kids.

Our list of the 30 of the best road trip games will provide entertainment for children and adults alike, ranging from music-related games and foodie challenges to word contests and devious pranks.

You will never have to think of what to do on a long car ride again! The following is the ultimate list of games you can play on a road trip.

1. The Story Game

Entertaining for adults and kids alike, this is storytelling with a twist - you go round the car and each passenger adds just one word following on from the player before.

See how crazy you can make the story, and get someone to record it on their phone so you can listen back to the hilarious progression of the plot as you make way along your road trip. You could go from sunbathing in Spain to training alpacas in Chile in a matter of seconds.

Trust us, you're in for a laugh with this one and if your passengers are good, these stories can get seriously long!

2. I'm Going On A Road Trip

This road trip game requires a bit more brain power than some of the others, but is still really entertaining and great for all ages. To play, passengers take it in turns to state 'I'm going on a road trip and I'm bringing…' followed by an item of their choice.

The next person has to repeat the phrase, saying the last person's item and adding one of their own and so on - eventually you'll have a really long list of crazy items to try and remember, and it's always amusing watching people try and get it right a few rounds in.

Be sure to throw in a few weird and wonderful items to confuse the rest of the players!

3. The Quiet Game

This game is a bit of a joke for the adults who want a few minutes of peace and quiet from their squabbling kids. The rules are hilariously simple - just say 'who can stay quiet the longest?' and breathe as the competitive siblings fall instantly silent.

Just a word of warning though: don't expect it to last very long, so have another kid-friendly car game lined up for when they get bored.

4. The Banana Game

This game is all about the color yellow and is super simple - points are awarded whenever a passenger spots a yellow vehicle.

Come up with a scoring system for different types of vehicle (e.g. one point for a car, two for a van, and three for a lorry) and whether you saw it parked (one point) or in motion (two points). Add any extra rules you fancy, and prepare to get competitive about who saw it first.

5. Never Miss A Beat

This game may be more of a singalong than a game, but it's still awesome!

Never miss a beat offers another chance to show off your singing skills and unusually gets everyone playing together rather than against each other.

All you need to do is stick on your family's favorite song or a song everyone knows the words to and start singing. Someone then needs to turn it down for 10 seconds whilst everyone keeps singing, before turning it back up again to see if you've kept the beat and stayed in time.

This game is mainly just a bit of fun, but you could always turn it into a competition by splitting into teams!

Another classic you've probably played a thousand times before but never get bored of.

Passengers take it in turns to find an object either inside or outside the car and say "I spy with my little eye something beginning with…" the first letter of whatever the object is.

The other passengers must then try and guess the answer (clues can be given if it's really hard), with the winner taking the next turn. This is an easy car game to play with kids and always a great one to keep bored passengers entertained for a surprisingly long time.

7. 20 Questions

This classic road trip game probably doesn't need much of an introduction - simply choose one passenger to start by thinking of a random object, and the other passengers take turns asking 20 yes-or-no questions to guess the object.

Whoever finds the answer first gets to think of the random thing in the next round, but if the object has everyone stumped, they get to keep their role for the next round.

There are no rules on the object you can pick, but lying in your answers is strictly forbidden!

8. Car Bingo

This kid-friendly game takes a little prep before you set off, but it's well worth it if you need to keep the kids entertained on a long journey.

Make a list of things the children might see along the road trip route - e.g. cows, a tractor, a red car etc, to give to them when you get into the car.

As you drive they can cross things off as they see them, not only distracting them from boredom but also encouraging them to look around and learn about the places they're visiting.

Make the list as specific to the place you're going as you want. In Texas you might have anything mentioning the Lone Star and in Wyoming you might be on the lookout for elk!

You can tailor the difficulty and number of things to find depending on the age of your children.

9. Sweet Or Sour

The rules of this road trip game are super simple: passengers take turns waving at passing pedestrians or people in nearby cars. If they wave back they're sweet, if not they're sour. You win a point for every sweet passerby you get, so aim to find as many friendly people as possible along the way.

For obvious reasons, the driver should opt out of this one, but it can be extra fun if they divert the car through a busy area of town to rack up some extra waving opportunities!

Remember not to distract other drivers!

10. Secret Place Race

Make use of that old road map that sits in the car seat pocket to entertain the kids. All you need to do for the secret place race is pick a place they're unlikely to know such as a tiny village, river, or mountain, and see how long it takes them to find it on the map.

This can be incredibly entertaining in a Where's Waldo kind of way, except their mission in finding the village can be made critically important for the driver to be able to find the right way!

Have a reward on hand if they're able to find it in less than 5 minutes, and watch as they're completely engrossed in the task. A simple yet satisfyingly effective game.

11. Punch Buggy

First gaining popularity as part of one of Volkswagen's marketing campaigns in the 1960s, the aim of this game is to give your fellow passengers a playful punch whenever you see a VW Beetle drive past.

This is one of those road trip games that is universally loved by children (as long as you monitor the punching to avoid disaster), although we don't see why the adults wouldn't enjoy it too.

Granted - in some parts of the world, seeing a Beetle is incredibly rare, so if you're struggling to see many Beetles, you could always choose a specific color of car or another funny model as the target instead to make it a touch easier.

12. Regional Car Pantry

One for the foodies. Stretching across the full duration of your road trip, collect as many local snacks as you can at every stop along the way to build up your car pantry.

Make sure you take pictures of each snack (or buy duplicates if they'll keep) so you can see what you've managed to collect at the end of the trip, and be sure to take some weird and wonderful treats home for friends and family to try.

Do some research beforehand and make a list of all the foods you want to find, or just wing it and see what local delicacies you stumble across as you go.

13. The License Plate Game

You'll need pens and paper for this game so make sure you've packed some before you head off. The aim is to spot license plates from as many different countries or US states (depending on where your road trip is taking place) as possible.

Write a list of the places you've seen and compare it with the other passengers at the end of the drive. This is the ideal game for those long stretches of boring motorway where you'll probably rack up a surprisingly long list, and the person with the most countries gets to ride shotgun for the next leg of the journey.

The end of this road trip game can get very controversial - if you spot a real game winner, photographic evidence is a good idea so get your phone out and take photos in secret!

14. The Fortunately - Unfortunately road trip game

This is similar to the Story Game (see #1 above), however players get a little more control and creativity. You can say more than one word this time!

One player starts off with a 'fortunately' sentence, and the next has to follow with an 'unfortunately' sentence to build a story of luck and misfortune. For example, one player might start with 'fortunately, the sun was shining' with the second player adding 'unfortunately they had a long drive ahead of them' and so on.

This game can make it a little easier to remember the long string as everything has to be either fortunate or unfortunate! Get as creative as you can and you'll find yourself at your destination in what seems like no time at all.

15. The Complete Food Menu Game

This is the perfect road trip game to play if you're passing through a few towns on your way although roadside restaurants and chains will do just fine.

Print out a sheet with all the food types you can think of in a grid against the names of people in the car.

Every time you drive past a restaurant of some kind, the first person to spot it gets to collect the tick for the food type it serves. Steaks and pizzas should be easy to collect by everyone, but you might just win if you're the only one who spotted the seafood restaurant in the middle of Oklahoma!

16. The Name Game

This is another simple game that keeps your brain occupied during a long drive without being too strenuous. One person simply says any name they can think of and the next person must say another name that begins with the last letter of the name before, and so on.

For example if passenger one says Tom, passenger two might say Mary. If you've made any friends during your road trip, try and include their names to make it a tad more topical.

Obviously adding the rule of not repeating the same names once they have been mentioned makes this a whole lot more interesting as the game progresses although you're guaranteed to have a disagreement over whether a name has or has not been mentioned already!

17. Guess The Song

If you're comfortable in your musical knowledge you'll definitely want to suggest playing this one. The rules are simple: get the front passenger to play the first few seconds of a song and whoever can guess the artist and song title the quickest wins a point.

This is much easier if you can connect your phone to the car for the road trip and play songs from there so you can easily search and pause the music.

The person with the most points after half an hour gets control of the music for the rest of the journey, so there's a lot at stake...

18. Sing The Next Line

A variation on the Guess The Song game above, except this game relies on your vocal chords.

Instead of just guessing the song after a few seconds, players have to rack their brains and try and sing the next line, and the person who successfully remembers it first wins a point. Think of a reward for whoever wins, and if you attempt it but get it wrong you have to do a forfeit chosen by the driver.

19. Radio Roulette

This game's a little less hands-on but no less entertaining. Use your road trip driving time to discover all the local radio stations of the place you're visiting by re-tuning every ten minutes and choosing a new station at random.

You'll probably find some pretty wacky programs and get to know traditional and popular music in that country - a great way to appreciate culture even when you're between destinations.

If you a radio station that is really wacky, let us know!

20. Would You Rather

This road trip game can be be as PG or as outrageous as you like depending on the age of the passengers.

Take turns asking the car whether they would rather do one thing or another (e.g. 'would you rather go to France or Spain?') and see what they answer. Make it as difficult as possible to choose between the two options for maximum entertainment value, whether that's making them equally amazing or equally horrible, it's up to you…

You can see how this game can get as interesting in group of adults as with kids - answering the question is compulsory and providing reasons is where it gets fun!

21. Car Rules Road Trip Game

Everyone in the car gets to make up a silly rule, e.g. whenever we cross a bridge everyone has has to touch their nose, or whenever we stop at a red light everyone has to touch the roof of the car.

The last person to join in when an action is enforced gains a point, and the person with the most points at the end of the drive loses. Get as creative as you like with the rules and try and catch people out where possible so you can take the victory.

The loser has to go pay for parking or buy ice creams at the next stop!

22. Hot Seat

If you're that nosy friend that wants to find out all of your companions' deepest secrets then you'll like this one. Passengers take it in turns to be in the hot seat and are asked 5 questions, one of which they're allowed to veto and the other four must be answered honestly.

This is best played in an adult-only car (questions get notoriously cheeky) and is the ideal way to pass the time finding out some interesting new facts about your road trip friends.

You can use it as a warm up or a step up from the car version of Truth or Dare (see #27 below) depending on how close your friendships are!

23. People Watching

Someone picks a car full of people that everyone can see (this works best if you're stuck in traffic), and together you make up a story about the people - who they are, where they're going, what they do for a living. The funnier and more far-fetched the story, the better - just make sure you're not staring too obviously at your subjects or it might get a little awkward...

Use your imagination to make the stories controversial and see how far you can go with making things up!

You might just surprise yourself how the most innocuous of road trip games will make you spot things you would never otherwise see just by looking at the cars around you.

24. Kiss, Marry, Avoid

Another one for the older crowd. Take turns listing three famous people and the other passengers in the car have to choose which person they would kiss, which they would marry, and which they would avoid.

Make it really hard to decide so that everyone has a bit of a laugh, and try to predict each other's answers to add an extra twist to the game.

If you want to add a little spice to the game, use people you all know or move to people in the car!

25. While You Were Sleeping

There's nothing more tempting than pulling a prank on a passenger who falls asleep en route, and whilst we don't dispute the whole drawing-a-mustache classic, we've got something even craftier.

Whilst they're taking a nap on the road trip, have a brainstorm with the awake members of the party and come up with an epic story or scenario of something that they missed during their nap.

The aim of the game is to get them to believe the story, so make sure nobody laughs or breaks character (come up with a forfeit if they do), and keep the lie going for as long as possible. If you manage to pull it off this is far better than a DIY mustache... but by all means, draw one on for good measure.

This classic road trip game can really take a turn for the worse if you want it to. A simple horror story about a truck that followed the car for miles that you just managed to pull away from before getting a flat tyre can go a long way as you're parked on the side of the road. Peer into the rear view mirror in horror and watch their face when a random truck appears on the horizon!

26. Categories

Popular with kids and adults alike the world over, Categories can be an awesome game to play on road trips as well.

The premise is simple - somebody picks a category which can have multiple different answers. Fruit or Beatles' songs can both be great options.

Players have to then take turns to name one item from the category at a time. Players are eliminated when they can't name one until there's one winner. Either the winner or the next person in turn gets to choose the next category.

That brings our list of the best road trip games to an end. Do you have other games you enjoy? Get in touch to let us know and we'll add it to our list!

27. Truth Or Dare (The Car Edition)

The old classic can and should be played on road trips! Players take turns to either answer an embarassing question truthfully or perform a dare set by other players.

The dares obviously have to be contained to the realms of the car or the roadside so you'll have to get creative.

Needless to say, this game is very different when played with kids as a family or with adult friends and is equally great in both cases!

28. 6 Degrees of Separation

This is a road trip game that will require some imagination and provide plenty of topics for conversation.

Take turns and pick two people who you may know or make them up (e.g. a Shaolin monk). The more different the background and location of these people the better!

Then proceed to discuss how these two people are connected through 6 connections or less. You don't have to know the whole chain - that's actually where the fun is.

How is a gaucho from a remote farm in southern Argentina connected to Prince Charles? The gaucho must know his ranch's boss (1). The boss knows the boss of the company that buys beef from local producers (2). That company has a liaison manager in a UK-based Argentinian beef importing firm (3). This manager has a colleague who imports fine wines from around the world for the same company (4). The colleague personally provides the fine wines to the Royal sommelier (5) and the sommelier personally knows Prince Charles (6). Bingo!

29. The Stop Joker Card road trip game

If you're going on a long trip and you're going to be driving all day or even longer than that, this is a great way to give everyone in the car, kids included, a way to have a bit of control.

At any point during the trip, each person can enact their Stop Joker Card - this means the car has to stop wherever they are passing and spend some time there doing an activity or just relaxing.

Your kids might see something really fun halfway along and use their card to break up the journey and everyone gets to have their stop along the route!

30. Pick One Car road trip game

This one is a game of patience and opportunity. Every person in the car has one chance during the journey to pick a car that you can see on your way as their ultimate One Car. The objective is to pick the coolest/fastest/most amazing car possible.

Once you've chosen a car, you can't change it - you only have one go so you better make it count - if you're passing something that is decent but not stellar, you might have to make a tough choice.

The game is made even more difficult by the fact that the first person to call the car out gets to have it so you have to be alert and on the lookout if you haven't got one yet.

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100 Fun Things to Do This Summer — From Outdoor Concerts to Hiking Adventures

Take advantage of the sunshine, with these cultural experiences across the country, last-minute travel ideas, and ways to stay active all summer long.

It goes without saying that this summer looks completely different from last summer, and we could not be more excited, or more grateful. While summer 2020 was filled with Zoom calls, canceled vacation plans, and a frantic search for virtual activities to keep us occupied, summer 2021 is all about getting back out there. That means reclaiming a life of travel, restaurants, in-person sporting events, and even — dare we say it — concerts. As you use this summer to return to your own personal version of normal (which may include a packed social calendar, or may simply include more socially distant hikes with friends), we've gathered 100 things to do this season.

From booking tickets to "Immersive Van Gogh" to jetting off to Europe to reinventing your backyard, here are 100 ideas to inspire your summer.

Culture Experiences IRL — From Outdoor Theatre to Returning to Disneyland

See an outdoor American Ballet Theatre performance.

Book your tickets to the "Immersive Van Gogh" experience that's happening across the U.S. this summer.

Visit the new Avengers Campus at Disneyland and tap into your inner superhero.

Take a boat tour of your home city — whether it's a duck boat tour on the Charles River in Boston or a cruise to the Statue of Liberty from Lower Manhattan.

Visit the best and most ethical zoos in the U.S.

Attend the concert of the century with 60,000 people at Central Park on August 21 to celebrate the city's reopening.

Attend an outdoor movie in your area — from Cinespia in Los Angeles to Bryant Park movie nights in NYC.

Head to California to return to Disneyland — the park is open to out-of-state travelers as of June 15.

Bring your summer to new heights with a visit to this newly renovated observation deck in Chicago.

Take in a New York Philharmonic concert in Central Park.

Enjoy the amazing Disney Parks fireworks — they're coming back July 1, and we're beyond ready.

Check out New York City Theatre's website for the best stand-up comedy shows in the city this summer, and go catch one of your favorite comedians.

Go to an actual sporting event — in person. Weep tears of joy over your hot dog and beer.

Make a triumphant return to Disney World and rank every single one of the park's rides.

See Haim in concert this summer at the Santa Barbara Bowl in California.

Go roller skating on the JFK tarmac.

Find Relaxation and Restoration This Summer

Find your inner Zen with a yoga retreat or wellness vacation to bring a renewed sense of calm into your post-vaccine life.

Take up bullet journaling as a way to organize your thoughts and bring a sense of calm to your mornings.

Immerse yourself in travel with these books by Asian and Pacific Islander authors.

Let Alexander Skarsgard lull you to sleep with a bedtime story. Yes, that's a real thing you can do this summer. It's — wait for it — the dream.

Seek refuge from the world at an Italian day spa — on Governors Island.

Grab an amazing beach read from this list of highly anticipated books for summer 2021.

If you're comfortable heading to a spa, try one of the new treatments your favorite hotel is now offering as a way to heal your mind and body.

Book a Last-minute Vacation to Make Up for the Lack of 2020 Travel

Take a road trip to a National Park you've never visited — and do at least one hike that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Plug a few reopened European destinations into your preferred flight search engine, find the cheapest flight, book it, and GO.

Do it up right and book a weekend in the Hamptons, you deserve it.

If you live in New York City, play hooky for the day and go to Coney Island on a whim.

Rent an RV and visit one of these nine most spectacular RV campgrounds in the U.S.

Take a leaf out of President Biden's book and plan a weekend getaway by train.

If you're ready for a city break but not ready for the crowds, drive to one of the least crowded cities in the U.S.

Go stargazing in Hawaii with an actual NASA ambassador and take your space fandom to the next level.

Use travel as a form of education by visiting one of these destinations in the U.S., which will help you learn more about Black history in this country.

Visit the oldest city in the U.S. with your girlfriends or female family members.

Scope out the most popular vacation rental spots of the summer — then book one.

If you're heading back to an office this fall, take advantage of your last fully Work From Home season and work from a rented lake house for a week.

Want the glamorous luxury hotel experience without the price tag? Book a day pass to your dream hotel this summer instead.

Take a solo staycation in your own city, and you might just learn something about yourself.

Trade in your home office for a lounge chair on this private beach in Mykonos and make your aspirational Zoom backgrounds a reality.

Wine and Dine All Summer Long (At Home and Out in the World)

Go to a cookie speakeasy in Philadelphia. That's it, that's the whole pitch.

Visit the restaurant where Anthony Bourdain began his culinary career.

Learn to make IKEA's Swedish meatballs — through illustrated instructions, of course.

Make limoncello at home in preparation for a future trip to Italy.

Take a live cooking class with Sur La Table — get your whole house involved.

Learn to make a perfect martini, a classic negroni, and even marinara sauce with the one and only Stanley Tucci .

Learn to make an original Piña Colada and enjoy an island vacation from the comfort of your own home.

Go find this hidden Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City (psst, we'll tell you where to find the key).

Start learning more about natural wine and orange wine — then invite your friends over for a dinner party so you can effortlessly describe your favorite skin contact vinos.

Celebrate Pride (in June and beyond) at home with these cocktails and recipe ideas.

Try Something New, and Learn Something About Yourself

Buy a Polaroid camera and learn to take the perfect Polaroid picture to make your summer memories last.

Take an introduction to woodworking class with The Weekend Woodworker.

Take a DNA test and trace your ancestral roots to learn more about yourself and your family — maybe it will inspire your future travels.

Join the Kimpton Hotels book club and dive into your next read with travelers from around the world.

Take virtual art classes with the MoMa.

Stay on top of current events by listening to The Daily every morning — and challenge yourself to take a walk as you listen.

Dye your hair a fun, unexpected summer color that you might not ordinarily try.

Adopt a puppy and change your life for the better.

Try self-tanner before your next beach vacation — and soak in the compliments.

Learn the art of packing light from Mario Lopez.

Summer Home Improvement That's Actually Fun

Spruce up your outdoor space (look for inspiration from your favorite hotel common areas).

Organize your travel-oriented brain by decorating with a world map that lets you mark off every destination you've been to.

Build yourself a small, at-home vegetable or herb garden, whether you have an entire backyard, or just a small city terrace.

Create the perfect home bar with iconic glassware and must-have spirits.

Upgrade your sound system and curate a retro corner of the house, with a new record player and a console to display your best vinyl.

Upgrade your kitchen with new cookware and use it as an excuse to go full Ina Garten this summer.

Make your home more like your favorite hotel — by incorporating luxe pieces from iconic five-star hotel brands

Become a plant parent and have a blast curating plants for every room of your apartment or house.

Bring the camping experience to your backyard with these eight portable fire pits you absolutely need.

Take a leaf out of Sweden's book and create your own al fresco bar.

Opt Outside and Get Active

Hike through towering redwoods on a newly opened California hiking trail.

Become a certified yoga teacher by taking a 200-hour teacher training course, either online or in person.

If you live in a major city, start taking daily nature walks with the help of a meditation app.

Get a glam Airbnb in California's Yucca Valley and experience some of the most impressive stargazing of your life.

Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks as they resume bus tours this summer.

Train for the New York City marathon.

Visit at least one of Utah's two brand-new state parks.

Learn to actually enjoy camping by bringing an air mattress for your tent instead of your sleeping bag — trust us, it's a complete game-changer.

Stargaze at Zion National Park, which just got its official Dark Sky status.

Go find the best hike in your state — and try as many other trails as possible along the way.

Rent a Citi Bike (or rentable bike in your area) and explore your neighborhood by bike to see it through a different lens.

Take a yoga class on the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.

Tap into nature on a more localized level and explore nearby state parks this summer.

Start literally chasing waterfalls by planning one waterfall hike a month for the rest of the summer.

Trek this little-known, 82-mile trail in Northern Ireland for an impromptu hiking adventure you'll never forget.

Not ready to go back to in-person workouts? Take online yoga classes at home with Y7 Online.

Visit New York City's newest pier, "Little Island" — it just opened in May.

Try electric biking for the first time — the ease-of-use will instantly make you a cycling fan.

Virtual Experiences for When You're in Need of a Cultured Activity Without Leaving the House

Livestream iconic operas from the MET with their ongoing Nightly Opera Streams series.

Watch the original cast performance of 'Hamilton' if you haven't already — it's still on Disney+ .

Experience the best international Disney rides — that you wouldn't find in California or Florida — virtually.

Create a movie theatre at home, snacks and all, and screen a double feature for your household.

Binge watch these Scandinavian TV shows and get inspired to head to Denmark and Sweden.

Enjoy a number of experiences — cooking and dance classes, for example — with Bahamanian locals, and you'll feel instantly like you're on island time.

Post old travel photos of yourself on the beach (with adorable captions, the whole works) while actually sitting on your couch in sweatpants. We won't tell.

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Fun Things to do on Vacation: Planning Activities

by Danielle Owen | Mar 26, 2023 | Travel | 0 comments

Once you’ve decided where you’re going and who you’re going with, and sorted out accommodations and flights, it’s time to start thinking about fun things to do on vacation.

Trip activities depend on plenty of different factors. Is everyone you’re traveling with athletic enough to handle an intensive 8-hour hike? Does everyone know how to swim and feel comfortable being near the water? Do all the youngsters in the group meet height/weight requirements for certain activities?

Fun things to do on vacation can primarily be broken down by type of trip , and within the type of trip, the destination will ultimately guide your activity choices. Here are a few suggestions for group trip activities based on where you’re going and who you’re going with. 

Fun things to do on vacation based on your trip type

Friends trip.

Friend trips are often the easiest to come up with an activity list as the group frequently shares similar interests. This is where voting can come in handy to get an honest idea of what everyone finds enticing. Research a handful of activities, excursions, or outings at your destination and use Troupe to allow group members to vote on their favorites.

Friend trips are actually one of our favorite types of vacations to plan in an activity-centric way. If everyone in the group skis (or is okay being a lounge bunny) mountain cabin vacations offer plenty of fun things to do on vacation with friends.

Otherwise, all-inclusive resorts – in places like Mexico and the Caribbean – take all the guesswork out of dealing with shared budgets on group trips . In addition, these resorts will often have activities like paddle boarding, beach volleyball, and more included in the price. Additional activities, like excursions, parasailing, or jet skiing, are also easily organized through the resorts for an additional fee.

Fun things to do on vacation with friends:

• Skiing/snowboarding
• All-inclusive resorts
• Wine-tasting or brewery tours

Discover our favorite girls weekend ideas

Multi-generational family trips 

Multi-generational family trips can pose some of the hardest situations to come up with ideas for fun things to do on vacation that grandparents will enjoy as much as the grandkids. Regardless of the destination, some of the best activities for multi-generational groups are good, old-fashioned games like charades. Especially if you’re renting a big house or cabin for everyone to stay together, it’s often worth bringing your favorite board games from home on multi-generational family trips. 

Beach vacations are great for trips with multiple generations since there are no age restrictions on enjoying some time lounging on the sand or swimming in the sea. 

More fun things to do on vacation for multi-generational family trips:

• Pool time 
• Easy hikes 
• Board games
• Cooking together

Families (with young kids)

Families with young kids naturally plan their destinations around the activities available to the specific ages of their little ones. Buy beyond Ski School or the Kiddie Pool at the resort, what are some lesser-thought of activities while you’re spending more time than usual together on vacation? 

Similarly to multi-generational family trips, it’s often worth bringing some of your family’s favorite board games or card games from home to play while on your time away. Part of the fun of planning a family vacation once your kids are a bit older can be to research activities at your destination as a family and let them help choose what you see and do while you’re there. Parents will often be surprised at some of the activities that interest their kids. 

More fun things to do on vacation for families with young kids:

• City walks (give your kids their own disposable cameras to capture their favorite things through their own lens) 
• Family sandcastle building competitions 
• Boardgames/card games

Traveling with coworkers is a unique situation. Not only is this frequently a group travel situation that spans multiple ages and personality types, but it’s also often focused on bonding activities, especially if coworkers are new or they don’t always share an office. Team building activities are often the focus of coworker trips.

Fun things to do on team building vacations:

• Escape Rooms 
• Bowling 
• Minigolf 
• Nights out or daytime drinking activities (beer bikes/brewery tours/wineries)
• Cooking classes

Couples’ Trips 

Couples’ trips (with multiple couples) offer a great opportunity to travel with your significant other and still make a “friends” trip out of it. These trips are the perfect way to spend quality time with the other friends in your life that are coupled up, without worrying about “third wheel” dynamics. 

When it comes to fun things to do on vacation for couples’ trips, it frequently depends on how close you already are to the other couples. For a group that knows each other well to begin with, most of the activities for friend trips are equally as enjoyable when done as a group of couples, like renting a cabin in the mountains and making a ski trip out of it. Otherwise, international destinations to places like Paris or London, give you plenty of opportunity for dining out and exploring the sites of a new place with new-ish friends. 

Some more activities to consider on couples’ trips include: 

• Museum visits
• International cooking classes 
• Wine tastings
• Trivia nights
• Dance classes

Ready to start planning your dream vacation? No matter who you’re traveling with, Troupe makes it easy to plan group travel. Suggest possible dates, destinations, and accommodations to the group, and then everyone can vote on their favorites. Then, share flight information, links to tour groups, notes on where to eat, and everything else!

Check out Troupe’s group trip planner app to learn more.

50 Fun Road Trip Activities for Kids to Keep Busy

I f your family is planning on hitting the road this fall or holiday season here are 50 fun road trip activities for kids to keep busy. 

Family road trips are fun any time of year and many families, including ours here at Two Kids and a Coupon love to hit the road in the fall and during the holidays for some fun new adventure.

If your family will be hitting the highway sometime soon, chances are you're looking for some fun activities to keep your kids busy. 

Photo by Kampus Production via Pexels

 From books to music, games to i-spy adventures , there are lots of ways to keep young kids as well as teens and tweens busy when you're traveling. Here are some of our favorite road trip activities for kids to keep everyone entertained.

This master list includes links to some fun how to's as well as some inexpensive items (and where to get them) to keep everyone busy and engaged for the miles to come.

We've also included some of the fun projects and printables from here at Two Kids and a Coupon that your family can take on the go.

Have a fun activity that is missing from this list? Leave a comment below and we'll be sure to add it in. 

Photo by JAGMEET SiNGH via Pexels

50 Fun Road Trip Activities for Kids

Coloring - Coloring is an easy and affordable way to keep kids busy when you're traveling.

Inexpensive coloring books or free printable coloring pages can keep both little and big kids busy.

Pack crayons, pens or c olored pencils and for tweens or teens, choose more complicated designs or adult coloring books to keep them challenged. 

Tic-Tac-Toe - Who doesn’t enjoy a good game of tic-tac-toe? Let the kids play together in the backseat to see who will win the most times! We love these magnetic tic-tac-toe games for taking on the road. 

Photo by RODNAE Productions via Pexels

I Spy - Get everyone involved in a fun game of I Spy, where you can try to guess what your children have spotted while passing through different areas on the road trip.

Pick out road side attractions, businesses, street signs and more. Want a paper version that you can keep in your vehicle? Don't miss our printable i-spy games or these fun I spy books . 

Word Puzzles - Pick up a few crossword puzzle books or word search books or print some of these puzzles at home before leaving for the road trip. They’ll test your family’s knowledge while keeping them occupied and entertained for miles. Don't miss all of the fun and free printables we have here on Two Kids and a Coupon! 

Drawing - Supply the kids with blank sheets of paper, or a sketch pad, pencils and coloring utensils and see what they can create. You never know what types of masterpieces they might draw.

  Doodle Board - Purchase fun doodle boards for the kids and let them go to town. These boards are entertaining and less messy. They are also great to play games like hangman and tic-tac-toe on the go. 

Play-Doh - If you have plastic trays for your children to place over their laps, why not let them play with Play-Doh ? It will keep them busy while they create different shapes and objects using their clay. Be sure to check out our favorite homemade Play-doh recipe . 

Sticker Art - Provide the kids with blank sheets of paper and a bunch of different stickers. Let them get creative while making sticker art. These paint by sticker books are another fun way to create art on the go. 

Silly Putty -  Silly putty is another fun product to let the children use. It’s a sensory activity that can engage the senses and entertain themselves for miles. 

Photo by Tim Mossholder via Pexels

Make Beaded Bracelets - When you have older children, making beaded bracelets is a lot of fun. Be sure to supply the beads and string so that they can create their jewelry and a small organizer can help them keep their supplies organized and tidy on the go.

Educational Apps - If you don’t mind your children using electronics and having some screentime, you can let the kids play on their phone, iPad or tablet. There are lots of age-appropriate and educational games available to keep kids of all ages busy.

  Twenty Questions - Play a good ol’ game of twenty questions! Come up with a list of questions before you even head out on the road trip.

Checkers - Pull out a game of checkers to play with the children. If you have the space for it, you can have a lot of fun and magnetic checkers games can be easy and affordable entertainment. 

Card Games - If you have a deck of cards, enjoy playing assorted card games with the family. You can play Speed, Go Fish, and much more.

Photo by Neil Ryan Famoso Saraña via Pexels

  Audio Books - Put an interesting and engaging audiobook in the car for your children to listen to. This is a great way to learn about new topics. Don't have any audio books? See if you can check some out from your local library or get 2 free audio books here . 

Simon Says -  You can’t go wrong with an old-fashioned game of Simon Says. It will have everyone in the car laughing! You may have to get creative since everyone is strapped into the seat belts, but it can make the game even more fun and challenging. 

  Magnetic Face Book - For a fun and silly activity, supply your younger kids with a magnet face book . The book is magnetic and allows children to create different faces using colorful, fun magnets.

Blow Bubbles - Grab mini bottles of bubbles and let the kids see who can blow the biggest ones. If you don't want the kids blowing bubbles in your car, have them blow them out the window, or when you stop at rest stops to stretch your legs. 

  Sensory Board - Make or buy sensory boards for each child. These boards are perfect for younger children and can improve their fine motor skills.

  Printable Worksheets - Find fun printable worksheets for the kids to do. You can find plenty of free options that are entertaining and full of unique activities including our rocket counting worksheets , alphabet coloring pages and more free printables . 

  Color by Number - Make coloring more of a challenge with color by number books. These books will help your children follow rules while creating colorful masterpieces.

Sticker by Number - In addition to color by number books, you can find sticker by number books that are just as fun for younger children.

Seek and Find Books - Look for some fun seek and find books and let your children go to town with them. These books will keep them searching for different items for hours.

  Read Books - Reading is always a great activity on the go for quiet time and one of our favorite road trip activities for kids. A great book or two is a must for road trips. Need something new for your kids to read? Hit the local library or check out where to get free books for kids . 

  Magnetic Letter Board - A  magnetic letter board encourages children to spell words and sentences. It’s a great activity for younger children who are still learning how to spell various words and you can have them practice their spelling list from school or other words. 

  Play School - Let the kids take turns being the teacher while playing school on the road trip! It’s a silly and fun activity that the children under 10 will like because they get to be in control for a bit.

Photo by Gustavo Fring via Pexels

  Snack Fun - While it’s not necessarily a big activity, providing the kids with fun snacks to eat and enjoy is a great way to keep them entertained for at least 30 minutes.

Busy Bags - Make busy bags for the kids to play with that include different items, including buttons, pipe cleaners, and other simple items. They can get creative with these interesting items and stay busy!

  Sing-Along Songs - Put on some sing-along songs and have the time of your life with the kids. Sing with the songs for lots of laughs and good times.

Movies - Use a portable DVD player to play a movie that the children can watch and enjoy when they’re on the road.

  Hand Games - Show your children how to play different hand games like you did when you were a child.

Action Figures - Pull out the action figures for the road trip. Kids can use their creative side and imagination to create different scenarios while playing with the figures.

  Barbie Dolls - The same thing goes for Barbies! Let your kids play with action figures and Barbies in the car to keep themselves entertained.

  License Plate Search Game - Enjoy the license plate game. Ask your kid if they can find a license plate with a specific state on it! The game keeps them looking until they find it.

Travel Bingo - Play games of travel bingo in the car. You can print the cards out online so that you don’t even have to buy them at the store. We have lots of free printable bingo games here on Two Kids and a Coupon including Halloween bingo , Thanksgiving Bingo , Christmas Bingo , Alphabet Bingo and more. 

  Paper Plate Crafts - Give the kids paper plates and markers and encourage them to create a mask. They can hold the face up when they’re done, using it like a mask.

Play Hangman - Who can go wrong with a good game of hangman? You can use a dry-erase board to play hangman in the car with the kids or try these fun travel hangman games . 

  Sign Search - Play a sign search game where the kids will look for specific signs, such as stop signs, one-way signs, and more.

Photo by Muhammad-taha Ibrahim

  Create Silly Songs - Ask the children to help you create silly songs to sing throughout the journey. It’s a lot of fun!

Play with Felt - Bring some felt supplies and let your children play with them. They can even create different things out of felt.

  Connect Four - Consider bringing the game of Connect Four for the ride. It’s a fun game that requires quick thinking! Place it on a tray or cookie sheet to help keep the discs contained when emptying out the board for the next game or check out these travel Connect Four games for the road. 

Guess Who? - If you have the space for it, a game of Guess Who can keep your older children entertained. We love this travel version of Guess Who . 

Color Rocks  - Rather than painting rocks and making a mess in the car, supply the kids with markers or paint pens and rocks to color them. Have them leave their artwork behind at rest stops and other locations along your travels for others to find and pick up more rocks every time you stop to decorate more. 

Photo by Wendy Wei via Pexels

  Photo Scavenger Hunt - Do your kids have phones or cameras? Give them a photo scavenger hunt list of things to photograph and have them search for the items during your travels. 

Fidget Toys -  Want to keep the kid's hands and minds busy? One of the favorite things we ever packed for a road trip was a bag of assorted fidget toys . The kids spun, popped and played for hours. 

  Sticker Letters - Have the kids practice spelling skills and create words and phrases using sticker letters to see what types of silly things they can come up with in the car.

  Printable Road Trip Games  - Find and print some easy road trip games that will keep the entire family entertained while out on the road. Don't miss our fun road trip word scramble and road trip word search !  

Photo by Breno Cardoso via Pexels

Binoculars - Let the kids use binoculars to see what they can find, such as birds lingering on tree branches. These are also handy to use when visiting attractions or attending events on your travels. 

Nail Painting - If you don’t mind the smell, older kids might enjoy painting their nails on a road trip. Have them bring a small tray or a cookie sheet to help keep things confined and prevent spills. 

Gel Pen Designs - Don’t forget about gel pens ! Let the kids doodle with them to create bright and sparkly designs! Have them use sketch pads or sketch pads to create fun designs and color them in. 

Keeping kids busy when you're on the road can keep them entertained and make the miles go faster. Not every activity has to be on electronics and this time can be a great time for kids to get creative and be unplugged. 

Disclosure: This author may receive commission through recommended links in this content. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. All opinions and love of saving money are completely and totally our own. 

30+ Engaging Travel Activities for Kids

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When you’re traveling with kids, you want to make sure you’ve prepared some activities to keep them entertained on the trip. 

We are always on the search for awesome plane and road trip activities for kids. On our many, many trips with our kids, we’ve discovered through experience that some travel activities are better than others. 

Buuut it’s not so fun to discover that you have a dud once you’ve already left on your trip. We’re here to help you out by finding the very best travel activities for kids so you can relax and enjoy your trip!

Whether you’re going on a road trip or traveling by plane, these travel activities for kids are approved by both kids and parents!

Travel Activities for Kids

Water wow activity pads.

Water Wow Activity Pads are a truly mess-free travel activity for kids. Simply fill the pen with water and watch as colorful pictures appear as the brush goes across the page. The picture dries after about ten or fifteen minutes and can be used again!

There are a few different kinds of pads, ranging from simple pictures to number and alphabet activities to mazes and seek-and-find activities . 

This activity appeals to a broad age range, as kids get a huge kick out of seeing the picture magically appear on the page as they color. We as parents even have fun doodling on the pages when our kids are done!

Paint by stickers

These paint by sticker books are a great way to entertain kids on a trip. Each picture is completed by placing the little stickers on the correct number in the picture (think paint by numbers, but with stickers). It’s a great calming, focused activity for any kind of travel.

And when you’re finished, you have a gorgeous and vibrant picture! Our son likes to hang them up in his room when he’s done making them. 

These books have been a huge hit with my kids while traveling. And I love how focused they keep my kids and that they are mess-free!

Guess in 10 Game

Ages 6+ (or junior version for ages 3-6)

Guess in 10 is a game that requires two people to play (or up to 6), but is sure to keep your child wanting more! Each person can ask up to 10 questions to guess the animal on the other person’s card. The first person to collect 7 game cards wins.

One of the best things about this game is how simple it is. No complicated rules or setup, just grab a card and start playing! And it’s so fun to learn new interesting facts about the animals on the cards.

In addition to Guess in 10 Animal Planet , there are lots of other versions of the game depending on your child’s interests, such as Guess in 10 Junior (for kids ages 3-6), Countries of the World , Deadly Dinosaurs , Things that Go , and World of Sports .

Tip: When playing with younger children, it can be helpful to choose a small group of 10-15 cards and then review them before playing. This narrows the scope of guessing to a more reasonable level for young children, especially if they aren’t familiar with a wide range of obscure animals.

Magic clay , also called air dry clay or model magic, is a creative outlet for kids of all ages while traveling. Unlike playdough (which I wouldn’t bring on a plane or into my car in a million years), this light clay does not make a huge mess when used. Its foamlike texture holds together and doesn’t crumble apart or squish into carpets, seats, etc.

My kids have the best time with this activity when we travel and it’s always fun seeing the creative ideas they come up with.

We actually bought this big set of magic clay , which contains a 36 resealable little tubs of the clay, so it’s easy to just grab a couple of containers whenever we have a trip. And my kids can also make fun creations at home. If you want a smaller quantity, you can also buy a pack like this .

Mental Blox Go!

Mental Blox Go! is a set of over 30 games and puzzles in a compact travel case. This portable puzzle set includes ten different puzzle types with various levels of difficulty. Some games can be played individually, while others require multiple players.

Some of the games include memory match, shapes sudoku, and 4×4 chess, to name a few. The pieces are sturdy and chunky, making them difficult to lose.

I love that this game is small enough to be quite compact, without being so small that you lose the pieces, and my kids love the variety of games that you can play with just the one set!

Tangram Magnets

This Trangram Puzzle Book has a variety of different puzzles children can make with the shapes at increasing levels of difficulty. And because the wooden shape pieces are magnetic, they stay in place when kids are playing with them on the go!

Although it is marketed for children ages three and up, this one will probably work better for older children as most of the puzzles are quite challenging.

Hidden Pictures Book

Ages 3-6 yrs

Hidden picture books will keep your child engaged as they search for the images concealed in plain sight in each picture. 

This Things that Go Hidden Pictures Book has 96 pages with a variety of transportation-related scenes. On some of the images, there are matching stickers to put on the hidden picture once you find it, while on others you’re meant to circle the hidden picture.

Our preschooler loved the things that go theme and especially enjoyed the pages with stickers to put on the pictures. There are also other themes you can choose from, including Pet Hidden Puzzles , Adventure Sticker Puzzles , etc.  

Fidget popper

For some simple and compact travel activities for kids, fidget poppers are a great choice. They give your child something to do with their hands while on the go.

It’s surprising how entertaining popping those little buttons in and out can be, for kids and adults. They are also a great sensory activity if a child is feeling agitated or anxious.

If you’re traveling with a young jokester, consider bringing a joke book to keep them laughing. They will love learning new jokes to share and you might get a few laughs too. 

The Silly Kids Joke Book has over 500 jokes in large, easy-to-read font, perfect for young comedians on the go. The jokes are divided up into different categories, such as food jokes, knock-knock jokes, animal jokes, etc. so that your child can find the perfect joke for any occasion!

Puffy Sticker Activity Book

One of my favorite travel activities for kids, the Melissa and Doug Puffy Sticker Activity Books can keep a child busy for a long time on a trip. The sets come with background scenes and dozens of little stickers to decorate each picture to their own liking. 

And the best part is that they’re reusable! And they actually are, unlike some sets that say they are but have stickers that are hard to get off or lose their stick. The set we have has lasted us several years and countless trips. My son always checks to make sure I’m bringing his puffy sticker set when were packing for a trip.

There are many different puffy sticker set options, depending on your child’s interests. We have the farm, chipmunk house (by far our kids’ favorite), and safari set , but you can also find princess, dress-up, and mermaid, dinosaur, ocean, safari , etc.

Wikki Stixs

Wikki Stixs are a fun, mess-free activity that can grow with your child. Younger kids will enjoy squishing and twisting the bendable wax sticks, while older children can make more elaborate creations, such as shapes, words, people, animals, etc. The sky is the limit with this travel activity!

I love seeing the creative ideas my kids come up with when deciding what to make with their Wikki Stix. And since they are reusable, you can just unbend them when you’re done to make new projects!

Secret Decoder Activity Books

Let your kid become a detective with these Secret Decoder Activity Books by Melissa and Doug. This set comes with three activity books and spy tools to help them reveal clues. In each book they will find a mystery to uncover using different spy techniques such as code breaking, unscrambling messages, and completing mazes.

This is such a fun and engaging way for kids to pass the time while traveling! They will love solving mysteries as they build skills such as attention to detail, problem solving, and following directions.

Scratch art

Scratch art is a fun, creative activity that’s easy to do on the go. Kids will love creating their own colorful pictures simply by scratching off the top black coat with the wooden sticks provided. And this set comes with several stencils for kids who want a little help knowing what to draw.

Honestly, I got this on a whim before a trip, not knowing how incredibly entertaining my 5-year-old would find it. This kept him entertained for hours at the hotel, in the car, on the plane…. He had so much fun drawing pictures of all the places we were visiting for everyone he knows. 

It does create a little bit of black residue from scratching off the topcoat, but not enough to be too annoying. And the entertainment value far outweighs that minor inconvenience.

A tablet can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling. I’m all about bringing lots of hands-on activities for my kids to do while traveling, but sometimes screentime is the best way to keep a child occupied or distract them from a meltdown. 

The Kindle Fire comes with a tough, child-proof case and a two-year warranty. You can choose to stream content through wifi or download it onto the device.

Tip: Be sure to download some favorite movies, shows, or apps before getting on the plane. 

Learning Workbooks

Learning workbooks are a nice way to combine academic learning with entertaining travel activity. And although these workbooks do have educational value, they are also a lot of fun for kids to work on while traveling.

You can find all sorts of interesting workbooks with a variety of interesting activities based on your child’s age. For kids ages 3-6, the Little Get Ready! series has some really engaging activity books. Another favorite is Highlights , which also has a wide rage of learning workbooks for all different grade levels and topics.

Help your child learn a craft to keep them entertained while traveling. Our 5-year-old recently expressed a desire to learn to crochet, and that can keep him engaged for hours!

A craft like crocheting, knitting, weaving, or needlework is perfect for keeping a child occupied on trips, whether you’re traveling by car or plane. (And yes, you can bring knitting and sewing needles on a plane!)

This is usually one that you want to prep a bit beforehand though so that they can learn the basics and you can see if it’s really something that will keep their attention. You can get your child started with this beginner crochet set or a loom kit for making hats and infinity scarves .

And of course, there are a lot of other interesting crafts out there. See what appeals to your child and help them to develop that talent as they travel!

Drawing book

For your little budding artist, bring a book that teaches them to draw pictures. This is a another way for them to learn some new skills while they pass the time.

For younger children, consider a book like How to Draw Animals for learning to draw basic pictures. For older children up for a bit more of a challenge, How to Draw All the Things for Kids has detailed tutorials for 42 different projects. 

Pair it with a small sketch pad and a couple of colored pencils or mechanical pencils (so that you don’t have to worry about the tip breaking) and your child will be all set to draw to their heart’s content!

Look-and-find book

Look-and-find books are a fun way to keep children entertained while traveling. They will love exploring the detailed pictures as they search for various items on each page. 

We love the 1001 Things to Spot books by Usborne. The pages are so interesting and our kids have a great time looking for all the different objects in the pictures. Usborne has a lot of books in the 1001 Things to Spot series, including Animals , Bugs , Monsters , and so on.

Magnetic tin playset

A magnetic tin playset is a self-contained activity that provides lots of creative fun for kids. The inside of the tin contains a background onto which your child can stick the magnets to create a fun scene. Each set comes with dozens of small magnets that match the theme of the set you chose. 

These are a great entertainment option for traveling by car or plane, or for using as entertainment when you arrive at your destination. My kids love arranging and rearranging the magnets to create new scenes and stories!

Tip: Bring a small plastic bag to use for storing the magnets you aren’t currently using, otherwise the scene ends up getting a bit too crowded. 

Usborne Wipe-Clean book

These Wipe Clean books by Usbourne Books and More have been one of my go-to travel activities for kids for years. There are a lot of different options depending on what your child is ready for or interested in, including Wipe Clean Travel Activities , Wipe-Clean Space Activities , Wipe Clean First Math , Wipe Clean Travel Puzzles , and the list goes on and on.

One of the nice things about these books is that they incorporate all sorts of learning activities without making it feel like a workbook. I also love the fun and engaging pictures and that it’s endlessly reusable. Just wipe it off and start again!

Tip: Don’t forget to bring some extra dry erase pens for when your child inevitably misplaces theirs!

Would You Rather Book

For kids who love a good laugh, this Would You Rather Book for Kids is sure to keep them enteretained as they think through various “would you rather” scenarios.

This book contains 200 would you rather questions to get your child thinking and laughing. It’s a fun way to get conversation going and bond as a family as you talk through different outlandish situations.

The book is compact and easy to pack, but contains hours of entertainment for your trip!

Color by Numbers

Color by Numbers books are a fun way for kids to entertain themselves while traveling.

This set comes with numbered pens that correlate to the numbers on the pictures so kids know which color to use for each section of the picture. The numbers disappear after you color over them, leaving just the art behind!

Our son loved seeing the colorful picture appear as he used the numbered markers.

If you have a kid who enjoys puzzles, consider bringing a small puzzle or two to help them pass the time.

These small 20-piece puzzles are a great travel activity for younger kids. They have a frame and travel bag, so it’s easier to keep all the pieces contained and to pack up when it’s time to go.

For older kids, consider a larger puzzle as a hotel activity to keep them occupied if you have some downtime in your room. 

One great way to pass the time while traveling is listening to podcasts. There are some really fun and entertaining podcasts for children out there that are sure to keep kids entertained on a trip. Our son could listen to his favorite podcast (Little Bedtime Stories) for hours!

Just make sure to bring a good pair of headphones for an ideal listening experience. For our younger kids, we typically use toddler headphones , but when they get older we prefer a pair of wireless headphones .

Tip: Preview the podcasts before your trip so that you know that it’s something that your child will find entertaining and also something that is appropriate for your child. Also, be sure to download the podcasts in advance so that you have access to them when you don’t have internet access.

Riddles Travel Game

Get the gears turning by bringing along some riddles for your child. The 100 PICS Riddles Travel Game is a pocket-sized deck of 100 riddles, perfect for travel!

At the bottom of each card is the scrambled answer to the riddle, so you have an extra clue if you need help. Once you’ve guessed what it is, slide open the shutter to reveal the correct answer.

The small size and portable case make this a perfect travel activity for kids!

Sticker books

You can’t go wrong with sticker books for travel. And these days, there are so many different options that kids of all ages will love!

Our 3 and 5-year-old sons both loved the First 100 Trucks and Things That Go Sticker Book . It’s full of fun sticker activities, from color matching to creating your own construction site. This was one sticker book that our kids kept coming back to again and again throughout our trip!

Origami Craft Activty Set

For kids who love crafts, origami is a fun way to engage their creativity while traveling.

This On the Go Origami Kit from Melissa and Doug comes with all the materials you need to make 40 paper animals, along with detailed instructions. The papers have marks on them to show where to where to fold and include stickers to add eyes and embellishments to the completed animals.

There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced projects, so your child can challenge themselves with more difficult creations when ready.

Travel journal

Kids will love recording their travel memories and experiences in a travel journal! 

The Ultimate Travel Journal for Kids provides a creative forum for little travelers to think about and write about their travel experiences. This book includes guided travel writing prompts as well as games and activities for keeping kids entertained on the go. And there’s space to write about four trips, so your child can look forward to using it on their next trip too!

This is one of those perfect travel activities for kids that gets them really thinking and engaging in their trip. Plus it’s a great way for them to record memories to look back on for years to come!

I don’t know what it is about stencils, by my kids find them so fun to play with! Maybe it’s that they can get really fun and detailed pictures that would be challenging for them to draw on their own. 

And there are some really fun stencil sets out there. This set comes with 16 stencil sheets with a wide variety of subjects (planes, dinosaurs, letters and numbers, animals, princesses, flowers… the list goes on and on). It also has pencils, a sharpener, and a sturdy little carrying case for everything.

But if you’re looking for something more basic, just get a small set to give your child something to work with. The key is just to find a set that appeals to your child and set them loose to see what they create!

Travel Scavenger Hunt

This Travel Scavenger Hunt is a great way to pass the time on a long road trip! The cards are easy to read with big pictures, making it easy for kids of all ages to play.

And in addition to the typical cards of objects to look for, there are also special cards for things to hear (like a siren), feel (like the car going over a big bump), and smell (like a skunk or something stinky).

The one downside for this game is that it doesn’t work as well in more remote areas, as it’s a lot harder to find the items on the cards. But save it for when you’re driving through more urban areas and you’ll have a fun game that everyone will enjoy!

All ages (find age-appropriate books)

Reading is one of the best ways to pass the time while traveling, for children and adults! Find a topic or author that appeals to your child and bring along a book or two for them to read on the trip.

You can choose informative, non-fiction books or gripping fiction, depending on your child’s preference.

We love the Usborne Lift-the-Flap books on all different topics, such Look Inside Space , which has over 70 flaps with interesting facts about space, and Look Inside How Things Work , which teaches all about the inner workings of machines, vehicles, household items, and more. I love these books for travel because one book contains so much information to hold a child’s interest throughout the trip.

Or you can choose a fun fiction book like the Magic Treehouse series (our 6 year old’s favorite), the hilarious and wacky Wayside School series , or an adventure story like Fablehaven .

Whatever your child’s age or interests, you can find fun and interesting books that they will love for your trip! This is probably one of our favorite travel activities for kids because of how engaging a good story can be.

Final Thoughts

When taking a trip with kids, it’s important to bring some fun activities to keep your child entertained. Bringing a few fun items to engage your child during travel will help make for a smoother trip for them and you.

And if you’re looking for some great options, you can’t go wrong with any of these travel activities for kids.

Other posts you might be interested in:

21 Airplane Toys and Activities Your Toddler Will LOVE!

50+ Road Trip Food Ideas- Easy Meals On the Go!

Road Trip Activities for Toddlers (That They Will Really Love!)

Related Posts:

Beach Bucket List: 60 Fun Things to Do at the Beach

When you think of the beach, are you like me and imagine yourself relaxing on a chair with the cool ocean breeze brushing your skin with a drink at hand and the sun setting on the horizon? Of course, there are plenty more fun things to do at the beach than just that.

To make the most out of your experience, I have put together a bucket list of fun beach activities, from building sandcastles to kite surfing to skinny dipping and more! So put on your beachwear and sunscreen, and let’s dive into the beach fun adventures!

Beach Bucket List: Fun Activities, Adventures & Things to Do at the Beach

1. build a sandcastle.

Although making an epic sandcastle can be quite hard for beginners, but building a simple one is a great activity for all ages (especially kids).

For the more creative bucket lister you can learn How to Build the Perfect Sandcastle .

2. Bury Someone in the Sand

I don’t know where this tradition for beach-goers started, but getting buried in the sand from the neck down is popular. You can even make a small sandcastle on top of their stomach—double bucket list points for that!

* Of course, make sure to be cautious, try avoiding digging a deep hole or doing it where the water can reach you to avoid any accidents.

3. Camp on the Beach

There’s nothing quite like enjoying the beach at night (and eating s’mores!). From setting up the camp to telling stories around the fire, it all will be a great bonding experience. It can even become a yearly tradition!

TIP: For Best Camping Tent: Best Tent For Beach Camping

4. Celebrate a Special Occasion

From spring breaks to birthday celebrations to weddings and romantic honeymoons, you name it, the beach is one of those places where the vibe just perfectly fits any special occasion.

5. Collect Seashells or Rocks

As far as affordable activities on a trip go, you can’t get a much cheaper one than collecting seashells and rocks—it’s free on most beaches. Just make sure it’s acceptable before removing them from the beach!

6. Collect Driftwood

If you want to collect something other than seashells, why not try getting some driftwood by the beach instead? If you are good with your hands, you can even turn the driftwood into lovely home furniture like a chair, a table, and so much more!

But wait! Before you collect driftwood, be sure to check out the state regulations first regarding the collection of driftwood on the beach you are in, as it varies in each state.

7. Daydream

It’s almost too easy to daydream while at the beach, especially on a quiet day. Add to that the sound of the waves and the birds, and the clouds lazily floating by, and you’ll find your mind drifting with them as well.

8. Indulge in Fruity Drinks

A day at the beach is never complete without sipping on some fruity tropical goodness at a beach bar, whether it be fruit punches, coconuts, piña coladas, and more!

You can even prepare your fruity mix at home if you have a small cooler! This article will help: 30 Non-Alcoholic Summer Drinks That’ll Get Any Party Started

9. Eat Seafood

What better place to indulge in some fresh seafood than on the beach? Just imagine munching on some crabs or grilled shrimp, and depending on where you are, even exotic seafood like Mahi-mahi!

Add to that the beautiful ocean view and some drinks to go with your meal, it will absolutely be *chef’s kiss*

10. Enjoy a Big Scoop of Ice Cream

Nothing beats the heat on the beach, especially on a hot summer day, than a big scoop of some good old ice cream! It is certainly a favorite among beachgoers young and old, I mean, who couldn’t resist snacking on this cool delectable treat?

With different flavors to choose from, such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and so much more, you will surely scream for ice cream!

11. Fly A Kite

Another fun thing to do at the beach  is to fly a kite. Typically the local shops are filled with different kinds of kites for you to choose the one that’s most to your liking – or you can even make your own!

But, you can also buy one online. Check out these cool ones: 

• HENGDA Classical Dragon Kite
• aGreatLife Huge Rainbow Kite  
• Octopus Flyer Kite with Long Colorful Tail

12. Collect Glass

Mind you, this is not your usual type of glass! Bottles or broken glass (and the like) left by the shore and battered by the waves and sand for years turn into smooth, colorful ‘stones’ called beach or sea glass.

Below are some of the best places for finding sea glasses:

• Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California
• Kauai Sea Glass Beach In Eleele, Hawaii
• La Jolla Cove In San Diego, California

Since most sea glass beaches prohibit or highly discourage people from taking home sea glass, you can take a photo of them instead. If you are up for the challenge, look for rare colors like gray, pink, or black, to name a few!

13. Go Ocean Fishing

Unlike fishing on a lake or river, ocean fishing (also called deep-sea fishing) will require nerves of steel and some level of strength due to the size of fishes in the deep parts of the ocean.

Even though it is challenging, it can be a thrilling (and even scary) experience!

14. Take a Hike

Spending a day at the beach does not have to be in and around the water only. Depending on where you are, there is also the opportunity to go on a hike and see more of what nature has to offer. Don’t forget to take photos of your adventure!

15. Go Kite Surfing/Windsurfing

Kite surfing is a surfing-like water sport that will get your adrenaline pumping! You may not need just as badass skills to stay standing on your board as you would with surfing, but controlling that kite while flying through water and air is a game of its own to master.

To get the best of both surfing and sailing in one fell swoop, why not add windsurfing to your adventure bucket list? It’s fun and thrilling, but also easy and safe enough for even a beginner to try out. Since even kids can start learning windsurfing, this can be a fun activity for the whole family to do together! 

16. Stand Up Surfing

If you are a seasoned surfer, standing up on a surfboard is an easy beach activity to tackle. If not, then it may take lots of practice!

17. Have a Beach Barbecue

Good food, good company, cold beers and warm outdoor weather, what more could you ask for in this world? Having a beach BBQ is one of the best ways to while away an afternoon on the beach. 

Don’t have a BBQ? Here are the 8 Best Portable Grills of 2022 .

18. Have a Bonfire Party

A bonfire can add incredible ambiance to any party, especially on a warm Summer night on the beach. So, invite your friends, load up your cooler with beverages, bring lots of wood and a radio to play your favorite tunes.

19. Have a Beach Picnic

Pack a traditional wicker basket with your favorite picnic foods and enjoy the feast as well as the weather. Real Simple magazine can help you out with their Picnic Packing Checklist . If you want to set up an Instagrammable picnic, here’s a cute red checkered picnic basket .

20. Rent Beach Cabana

A cabana gives you the luxury of having your own private space near the beach for you to lie down and relax, have a drink, read a book, and so much more.

Most beach resorts have cabanas you can rent out for a day or two. So if you want to level up your beach experience, be sure to rent out a cabana!

21. Hit Up the Beach Bars

Having fun at the beach does not stop when the sun goes down. For some, the fun is just getting started! From drinking a glass of your favorite cocktail to socializing with family and friends to eating delicious snacks and food, a beach bar is a great place to hang out after a long day at the beach.

If you are looking for the best beach bars in America, you can check out Thrillist’s Best Beach Bars . 

22. Try Hula Hooping

Not only is hula hooping something that was incredibly fun to try out as a child, but it’s a great form of exercising for adults as well. By hula hooping, you can strengthen and tone your body, especially around the core, but also hips and thighs, in addition to which it can also lead to improved flexibility. As a fun tidbit: hula hooping has actually existed as a form of exercise since the times of ancient Greeks! 

23. Rent a Jet Ski

For those who love high-speed thrills and adventure, you will definitely love jet skiing! Whether you are coasting the waters of one of the best jet ski destinations in the US alone or with family or friends, riding one of these will make you feel like a star in your own movie.

It usually costs around $80 to $100+ per hour on average, along with other requirements before renting one, so be sure to check it out in advance.

24. Host a Limbo Dance Competition

How low can you go? If that doesn’t ring a bell, then you are definitely missing out! Limbo is one of the most popular dances/games in any party setting, including the beach.

Hosting your own limbo dance competition will surely bring out the friendly competitive spirit among players young and old, whether it be family, friends, co-workers, anyone! And while you are at it, why not join in on the fun as well? 

25. Look for Dolphins

Getting to see dolphins in their natural habitat is one experience you should not miss when at the beach. With over 16 dolphin species swimming around in North America, you might be able to spot one during a cruise (some of which are already included in a tour).

Here is a great list that you can check out for some of the best spots for dolphin watching . Be sure to bring some binoculars!

26. Find Tide Pool Creatures

Given the rich diversity of life found in our world’s waters, it’s no wonder you’ll find fascinating creatures at tide pools along the shoreline, especially during the low tide.

If you have kids with you, they will surely love looking at these tide pool creatures with you, from crabs to starfishes to sea anemones and so much more! Of course, we also need to respect their space so as not to disturb them or their habitat.

27. Meditate

Meditation is much more than sitting in a lotus position chanting “om” over and over again—it is a way of life. Clearing your mind through meditation has many benefits, like lowering blood pressure and anxiety levels. Plus, it can give you a brighter outlook on life! Having an “empty mind” for even a few seconds can seem like a challenge, but this 10-minute guided meditation will help you along the way.

28. Do Some Beach Yoga

Yoga may not be the most vigorous form of exercise you’ll commit while on the beach, but it’ll do wonders for your body and mind. It cares for and strengthens your body but also your mind and can even feel like meditative practice after a long day. Here are 5 beach yoga poses to try in the sand !

29. Meet New People

The beach is a place where people gather together to have fun and relax, making it a great place to meet new people.

One way to break the ice is by hosting or joining team games like beach volleyball or limbo dance. Of course, a beach bar is also a great place to hang out and meet someone new. 

30. Send a Message in a Bottle

There is always something mysterious and fascinating (even romantic) about messages in a bottle. And since we are here to make lasting memories, why not send one of your own?

Just imagine letting fate take its course until someone (hopefully) finds the bottle days, months, years, even centuries later. Who knows what they’ll find inside? 

You can check out this tutorial on how to make one (which is also environmentally-friendly). Or buy one online ( this one is cute !) Be sure to check out the state laws in your area as well.

31. Paint Rock and Shells

While combing the beach, you might come across empty seashells and small stones along the way. With some acrylic paint and a little bit of creativity, you can turn them into colorful pieces of art!

Not only are they pleasant to look at, but they can also serve as a remembrance of your trip to the beach.

To help preserve the beaches, some states prohibit or limit the number of shells and stones you can take with you, so you have to check it out first.

32. Play Beach Volleyball

With scenic ocean views, the sun sprinkling down some vitamin D in your skin, plus friendly company, it’s no wonder people love a game or two of beach volleyball.

Yes, it can be a bit hard (and tiring) to move on the sand if you are a beginner. But most of the time, you won’t even notice it, especially if you are having fun!

33. Play a Board Game

Some people may think board games are boring (I’m not one of them!), but they can actually be a lot of fun especially if you have the perfect game and partner/s to play with.

If you prefer a more chill day on the beach, having a board game marathon with your favorite games could be fun. You can make it even more fun by adding prizes for the winner.

Unsure of which games to play? Check out this list: Board Games Bucket List: 50 of the All Time Best Ones to Play

34. Throw a Frisbee

Playing frisbee is another sporty activity to commit to on the beach; whether that means putting together a group of people for a round or two of ultimate frisbee or just tossing it back and forth with a close friend while enjoying the sound of the waves.

35. Play I-Spy

A game of I Spy is a fun, tried-and-tested game usually played while on the road, especially during long trips. And with plenty of things to “spy with your little eye” on the beach, it can be a great addition to the games you can play with family and friends!

36. Walk the Boardwalk

Going on a walk on boardwalks is a great way to take a break from the beach while still getting to enjoy what the surrounding area has to offer.

There are over 60 boardwalks across the United States’ beaches and piers, with the most popular one (and the oldest) in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Most of them have establishments lined up along the path, such as restaurants, shops, amusement parks, and more, so you’ll have plenty of things to do, like grabbing a bite of their local cuisine or getting yourself a souvenir.

37. Compete in a Game of Tug of War

If you have a big group with you and a long rope, a friendly game of tug of war will surely fire up everyone’s competitive spirit on the beach. Not only is it a fantastic team-building game, but anyone can join in on the fun as well!

38. Play Tic-Tac-Toe in the Sand

A game of tic-tac-toe is easy enough for everyone (including kids) to enjoy and play while taking a break for the more challenging activities ahead.

Sounds a bit too simple? Since we are talking about the beach, we can spice it up more by doing different variations, such as a relay version of tic-tac-toe!

39. Play Truth or Dare

Whether you’re playing the game one-on-one or in a group, truth or dare will surely liven up a dull and slow day at the beach. Not only will everyone get to know each other more, but it also makes for some memorable memories.

You can also do other variations of the game, like Would You Rather or Never Have I Ever. 

40. Read a Book

If you are an avid reader, then those warm summer evenings on the beach make for some of the best times to just sit by your porch and read a New York Times Best Seller . This list is considered one of the most reliable when it comes to suggesting excellent books in the United States. Whether you are looking for fiction, non-fiction, auto-biographies or even a children’s book for those bedtime stories, you will find it here.

If you love the classics then check of the Classic Books Bucket List: 25 of the Best Must-Read Novels

41. Just Relax

This is one of the best things to do at the beach! Everybody deserves a break every now and then, and the beach is one of the perfect go-to places for having fun and just relaxing.

You can lie down on the sand or beach chair, close your eyes, and be present at the moment. Let your worries and distractions slowly melt away under the sun or go with the ebb and flow of the waves.

42. Try Rock Stacking

Rock stacking can be traced back to prehistoric times in the form of cairns, which often serve as landmarks for trails, burial sites, or even as part of one’s tradition.

Today, rock stacking can mean different things to people, with some doing it as a meditative practice or even something on a spiritual level. Still, it is an art form that you should definitely try at least once, especially while on the beach.

Here is a fantastic guide on how to get started in the art form, which also has ‘leave-no-trace’ tips. Don’t forget to take a picture of your stacked rocks to commemorate the moment!

43. Make Sand Art

The beach is not only a place where you can have fun in the water and under the sun, but it is also a place to get your creativity flowing.

With the sand serving as your canvas, you can draw portraits or intricate shapes, build elaborate sandcastles or sculptures, anything! Sure, your artwork may not last forever, but the memories and experiences do.

44. Go Skinny Dipping

Skinny dipping is not only an exhilarating activity to do on the beach, but it’s also one for your sexy bucket list . It’s also an awesome way to enjoy some intimacy with your partner. But, be sure no one else is around!

45. See Fish While Snorkeling

Snorkeling lets us have a glimpse of the waters’ different marine life, something which we don’t get to do very often, especially if you live far away from the coastal areas.

The cascade of colors from the fishes, coral reefs, and the sunlight beaming from above is just marvelous to look at and will make you feel that it is indeed a different world down there.

46. Explore a Cave

Could this beach bucket list item be next on your hobby bucket list too? Lots of beaches have hidden caves to be explored—find one!

47. Start a Race in the Sand

Running across the sands of the beach might sound simple enough, but it is an activity that is more challenging than it looks, given how soft sand is compared to a hard surface like concrete.

Whether it’s a game of Bring Me or tag, a part of a relay, or just a good, old race, getting to race against someone on the beach while the crowd cheers in the background is one of the most exciting things you will experience.

48. Have a Water Gun Fight

Nothing beats cooling down while having fun splashing water at your family and friends while in the water. For added fun, be sure to bring along some water guns with you and start a water gunfight!

You can even use the water guns to do variations of games like water gun tag and more.

Need a water gun? Check out the Stream Machine Soaker !

49. Sunbathe

With most of our time spent indoors, the most popular thing to do at the beach is getting some vitamin D lovin’ from the sun!

Not only does it work wonders for your mind and body, but the tan that comes with sunbathing is always a welcome bonus that you can show off once you return from the beach.

50. Take a Stroll

There are times when we have to slow down and breathe, and a quiet stroll alone or with someone along the beach is perfect for this. No rush. Just let your senses take in the ambiance and take in the moment.

51. Take Photographs

As bucket listers, we all want to make lasting memories by doing things we once dreamed of doing. And who wouldn’t want to capture the moment in the form of a photograph?

Not only will it serve as a gentle reminder of your fun beach activities, but it can also help you get back on track if you feel like you are getting lost in life.

52. Watch the Sunset or Sunrise

Are you Team Sunrise or Team Sunset? Or are you both? Whichever you are, getting to watch the sun rising or setting on the horizon in a place like a beach is simply breathtaking.

53. Write Messages in the Sand

If you want to do something a little bit easier than making sand art, you can write down messages in the sand instead.

It can be a single word that resonates with you, a simple phrase, a favorite quote, anything that comes to mind. You can even leave it there for anyone to see, and who knows, you might even make someone’s day!

54. Go Body Surfing

If this is your first time hearing it, bodysurfing involves riding a wave without using any surfboard or bodyboard. Though it is slightly ‘easier’ to learn compared to traditional surfing, it still requires a certain fitness level since you’ll be the one acting as the ‘board’ that rides with the wave.

Here is also a step-by-step guide on how to do this sport: How to Body Surf

55. Make Sand Angels

Making a snow angel on fresh snow is one of the most popular things to do in winter season . But at the beach, especially during the summer months, they also have their own version of this Christmas tradition: making sand angels!

Much like how you would make a snow angel, you just have to find a spot on the beach where you can smoothly move the sand around, lie down face up, and start swiping with your arms and legs!

56. Climb Sand Dunes

Sand dunes are a familiar spectacle on most beaches as they are naturally formed by the elements and mainly act as barriers against strong winds and waves.

If it is allowed in your state, check if there is a trail around the sand dunes that can take you to the top!

57. Look for Shapes in the Clouds

Let your imagination run wild and see what shapes you can make out of the clouds, especially during a bright sunny day with fair weather.

You can even play a game of I Spy with family or friends with this while relaxing on the sand!

58. Dig a Hole!

There’s just something about digging in the sand that makes it fun and satisfying, especially for kids. It can be building some sand art, looking for some buried ‘treasure,’ or even just building a trench for your sandcastle.

A good rule of thumb for digging holes in the sand is for it to be no more than knee-deep to avoid any accidents. And be sure to fill them up again afterward.

59. Toss a Beach Ball Around

Passing around a beach ball while in the water is a great way to break the ice in a group or as a warm-up for the more challenging activities you will be doing. Plus, it just screams fun and is quite irresistible not to bring it back up in the air.

It is also versatile enough that you can use it in one of your games, like say, a beach version of Hot Potato, or something even more creative!

60. Ride a Boogie Board

A boogie board (also known as a bodyboard) is a small rectangular piece of hydrodynamic foam that you can use to ride waves without standing up like in surfing.

Since it is smaller in size, it is easy to bring with you along the beach, plus it will also help you get surfing fundamentals down if you are just starting out, which can also carry into surfing with a surfboard.

61. Spot a Whale

Whales are one of the most fascinating and spectacular marine mammals you’ll come across in the water. With the largest species of whales (the blue whale) reaching up to 98 feet, you will be at a loss for words when you see one.

Ready to spot these giants of the deep? Be sure to check out this site: The Best Spots for Whale Watching in the U.S.

62. Go Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding is simple enough for beginners to pick up while still opening you up for more challenging water sports in the future, like surfing or kayaking.

If you are still learning, try finding a spot where there are not many waves. Once you get the hang of it, you can slowly paddle yourself around the beach or even catch some small waves!

63. Jump Waves

It’s amazing how even the simplest activities can make us feel the fun and excitement of being on the beach, such as jumping waves!

It can also be a great bonding moment with the kids, letting them jump or even carrying them up just before the waves touch them. The laughter and the giggles that come with it? Priceless!

A day or two filled with beach activities  is one of the most memorable things that we get to experience in our lives. With a fun, relaxing atmosphere, picturesque views on land and under the sea, and plenty of things to do at the beach, it’s no wonder people will keep coming back for more.

So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself that much-needed dose of vitamin sea and start checking off items from your bucket list!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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21 thoughts on “Beach Bucket List: 60 Fun Things to Do at the Beach”

Well, I don’t know that there are a lot of interesting things to do in the beach until I read this post. In the next trip to the beach I’ll try some things new like climb sand dunes, camping, dig a hole and an activity can’t skip – send a message in a bottle…

Hi Annette,

It was a great share! The summer is here, and I am really looking forward to going to the beach. Going to the beach has always been my favorite activity, and I love to go there with my family and friends. Although my family is not here now. I am looking forward to going with my friends. All of these activities look super fun, and I will definitely be trying them out. Camping sounds super fun. I think I can convince a few friends to go with me. Thanks a lot for sharing these amazing ideas.

I think everyone’s looking forward for an exciting at the beach, hope you’ll have a fun filled summer.

Could you send me more fun activities you can do at the beach.

Thank you 😎

Your , Post is very useful. Thank you this useful information.

I am So Lucky OI Found Your Blog This Is The Best Content I Guess Looking Forward To Read Your More Content Like This Thanks For Sharing This

Wow great list! Saving this for when I go to the islands in Thailand next week. My partner is a bit hyperactive so I will be listing these off for him to do while a read my book in peace! Thanks for sharing!

Hope you’ll have a great visit!

Wow! I am not a natural “beach person,” but since I live in Michigan near Lake Michigan I find myself on the beach pretty regularly. You have some amazing suggestions here for great beach activities. I can’t wait to put some of these to good use! Thank you for the great post!

Glad to have added ideas for your beach activities.

hey, this is a nice article, thanks for sharing this.

you have given a good list to keep in mind, thanks for your work.

If only we were allowed to camp on the beach in the UK! I’d love to do that and listen to the sea all night as I slept. Great list, thank you.

Oh I didn’t know it’s not allowed in the UK but I hope other activities listed here will you enjoy your next visit in the beach.

I have always wanted to rent jet skis and take my family out but I’m nervous someone would get hurt! It looks like so much fun, I’ll just have to buck up and do it one of these days!

Love this list, especially the whale and dolphin ones! You’re missing my favourite activity which is scuba diving, you can do shore dives so I reckon it still counts as a beach activity!

Yes, it is really fun to do scuba diving. Will take note of this and add it on future edits. Thank You

Looks cool! Some of these I might just try!

Thank you for sharing a great idea!! I now have my own bucket list for the “must do” things on the beach!De

Your information is so good and fun to do!

I was amazed

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39 Fun Road Trip Games to Play

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Fill long drives with joy by playing these fun road trip games , helping you say goodbye to boredom on the journey, no matter who you’re traveling with.

I’ve been on plenty of road trips across Europe and the U.S. in my time, and these games have helped me, friends, and fellow travelers pass the time with lots of laughs and intrigue.

Road Trip Games (Fun Games to Play in the Car)

1. Truth or Dare

This is a classic game, but it can be adapted to a road trip as well. Take turns picking whether you want to reveal a truth or take a dare.

In this case, you will need to pick a dare that can be done safely in the car or by stopping the car when you get the chance. Time to be creative!

Read more: 100+ Best Truth or Dare Questions

2. Never Have I Ever

Each player holds up five fingers, and in turn, they name something they have never done, for instance, “Never have I ever been to Italy.”

For each thing they have done, players need to fold a finger. The person who folds all five fingers first loses. This is a fun game, and if you pick the right questions, you may even learn some interesting or funny things about your friends.

Read more: 200+ ‘Never Have I Ever’ Questions

3. The Compliment Game

In this game, you go through the alphabet, and for every letter, you say a compliment about someone else in the car. For instance, “A is for how awesome Monica is,” “B is for Jack’s beautiful hair,” and so on, taking turns.

4. Most Likely to

Take turns and come up with “most likely to” scenarios about your friends. Everyone in the car must point to the person they believe reflects the title.

You could say things like “Most likely to become a celebrity” or “Most likely to win a Nobel prize.” If you’re out of ideas, you can find many examples online, or just try to be creative and invent fun scenarios.

Read more: 300+ “Who is Most Likely to” Questions

5. The Forbidden Word

Pick a forbidden word at the beginning of your trip. Try to aim for a word that you would normally use a lot. Keep count of how many times each person says the forbidden word.

At the end of the trip, whoever has said the word the most will have to take a pre-agreed forfeit, such as paying for a round of drinks.

6. Truth or Lie?

This is a storytelling game in which one person in the car tells a true or invented story from their past, ideally something elaborate and hard to believe.

The other people in the car take turns and get to ask one question about the story before deciding if it’s true or not. Reveal the right answer after everyone took their guess. Take turns telling stories and see who has the greatest number of correct guesses.

7. Smurfing

Pick one person in the car who will be the subject of the game. While the subject covers their ears, the other persons need to pick a verb. Then, the subject must ask questions replacing the verb with the word “smurf.”

For instance, “Do you smurf in the morning or evening” or “When did you last smurf?” They need to guess the right verb as quickly as possible. You may even decide how many questions they get to ask or set a time limit, like 2 minutes, to guess the right verb.

For Families and Kids

8. what color is it.

In this game, start naming a list of items of the same color until your kid, or one of your kids, guesses the right color. For instance, you could start by saying “Sky, sea, smurfs…” and keep going until someone guesses blue.

A classic road trip game for families and kids, “I spy” consists in choosing an object, preferably something in the car, and having other players guess by asking yes or no questions.

You can use colors or the first letter of the object. For instance, you could say “I spy with my little eye… something blue/something that starts with the letter B.” The first person to guess the object gains a point.

10. Spelling Bee

A fun and educational game, the spelling bee is easy to play in a car. You can pick random words or make it more fun by choosing a theme, possibly something kids would enjoy.

For instance, you could do a Harry Potter spelling bee with words from the book/movie. Make sure to have someone keep track of the points on a piece of paper or a note app.

11. Scavenger Hunt

This game may require a bit of preparation but it’s a great way to keep kids entertained on a long road trip.

Before the trip, prepare a list of things you would usually see on the road, like road signs, cars, animals, and so on. The person who checks the most items off the list before the end of the trip wins.

12. Car Color Search

This game also needs some preparation, but it can be very entertaining for small kids. You can draw several cars of different colors or find a ready-made sheet online and print it.

Every time they spot a car of a certain color, they cross it off the list. Whoever crosses the most cars off the list wins the game.

13. Going on a Picnic

This challenging memory game is great for adults, but you can also play it with older kids. The first person starts by saying “I’m going on a picnic, and I’ll bring…” and picks an item.

The next person repeats the sentence and adds another item, then the third adds a third item, and so on. The list will get longer and longer. The first person who can’t remember the correct list is out of the game and it resets until there is one winner.

14. Storytime

If you’re feeling creative, why not invent a fairy tale with the kids? Start with the classic fairy tale beginning “Once upon a time…” and come up with the start of a magical journey in a singular sentence.

Each player will add a sentence to the story until you either reach the end or until a set time limit elapses. You can also record the story so you can listen to it later.

15. The Quiet Game

If you’re traveling with kids and want some downtime, you can always try the quiet game. See how long your kids can go without saying a word. The first one to break the silence loses.

For Couples or Two People

16. 20 questions.

In this guessing game, one person will have to think about an object, animal, or person, and the other must ask yes or no questions to figure out what the other person is thinking.

They have a limit of 20 questions to guess the item or person. Ideally, you would start with more generic questions, like “Is it an animal” or “Is it an object?” and get more specific with questions about the size, color, and other features.

If the person guesses in less than 20 questions, they take the place of the answerer. Otherwise, the same person gets to think of a new thing.

17. The Human Jukebox

This can be a really fun song if you know song lyrics. One person starts singing a song, and the next has to connect it to another song using the last word of the lyrics, then another has to connect a new song, and so on.

For instance, “Take me down to the paradise city where the girls…. Just wanna have fun, oh girls… Who run the world? Girls. Who run…. Boy run. This world is not made for you…” And see how long you can keep going before someone is stumped.

18. 6 Degrees of Separation

A person has to name two people, objects, movies, or any other thing. You can mix them, for instance, a celebrity and a movie, that are apparently not connected. Another player has to connect the two in six statements, or less.

You could, for example, pick Uma Turman and the movie Mamma Mia. And then say “Uma Turman starred in “Kill Bill” with Lucy Liu. Lucy Liu starred in Charlie’s Angels with Cameron Diaz. Cameron Diaz had a relationship with Justin Timberlake. Justin Timberlake starred in “In Time” alongside Amanda Seyfried. Amanda Seyfried starred in Mamma Mia!”

19. Two Truths and a Lie 

This is a great game to learn more about your travel companion. Take turns and tell two truths and one line. The other person has to guess which is the lie.

You can just keep playing to discover curious facts about yourselves or make it a points game. Whoever gets to 10 correct answers first wins. Remember to choose a reward for the winner.

Read more: 2 Truths and a Lie: 200+ Lie Ideas

20. Holiday Memory Game

In this memory game, you pretend you are packing your suitcase for the holidays and need to take turns listing all the items you will pack. The first person will start by saying “I am going on a holiday and I’m taking…” and adds an item.

The next player has to repeat the sentence and add a new item then the next player will do the same. Keep adding items to the bag, repeating the entire list every time. The first person who messes up the order or forgets an item loses the game or is out. Ready to test your memory?

21. Kiss Mary Avoid

Pick three people, either someone you know or celebrities, both from past and present. You may even pick a fictional character.

The other person will need to choose which person they would kiss, marry, and avoid. Depending on your choice of people, this game can be really fun. Take turns and get creative!

22. Would You Rather

Time to get creative for this game where a person has to ask the other(s) what they would choose between two options.

The idea is to come up with impossible or weird choices, like “Would you rather never see again or never taste food?” If you’re out of ideas, this “would you rather” questions list can help you out. Tine to make some difficult choices.

Generally Fun Road Trip Games

23. categories.

While this is not necessarily a road trip game, it’s a really fun one to pass the time. Pick a category, anything from ice cream flavors to R&B songs. Every player takes turns naming an item in that category. See who runs out of ideas first.

24. The Humming Song Game

The game is pretty easy yet fun to play. One player must hum a famous song while the others need to guess the song. The person who guesses correctly gets to hum a new song. It may sound really easy, but it can get quite tricky.

25. Music Battle

To play this game you must be at least three passengers. One person is the judge while the others need to play songs on their phones.

Select different categories, and for each one, every player picks a song and plays it. The judge has to decide the winning song for every category.

26. Alphabet

This game consists in spotting items that start with each letter of the alphabet, in order. You can use objects in the car or on the road, like road signs, billboards, animals, or anything else you may spot.

Call out each letter and the item/word as you see it. The first person the get to Z wins. In a different version, you may pick a category, like animals, and take turns naming items in that category in alphabetic order.

One player starts by saying a word, then each passenger takes turns saying words that rhyme. Set a 15-second time limit per turn. If the person can’t come up with a word within the time limit, they are out.

The remaining person wins a point. See who gains the most point before you get to the destination or who gets to 10 points first.

28. Storyteller

The game is pretty simple but depending on how creative you get it can be very fun. One person starts a story with the first sentence. Then, everyone takes turns adding to the story.

Come up with interesting and fun plot twists to make the story more entertaining. Record it to have a memory of your road trip story.

29. Fortunately/Unfortunately

This game consists of telling a story where each sentence starts with the word “fortunately” or “unfortunately,” alternating between them.

For example: “Anna had to go to work. Unfortunately, her car broke down. Fortunately, she could take the train. Unfortunately, all trains were delayed.” Keep the story going, alternating between the two.

30. While You Were Sleeping

This is a funny game that you can play if any of the passengers falls asleep during the trip. With the other passengers, come up with an interesting and unbelievable story of something that happened while the other person was asleep.

When they wake up, tell them the story, starting with “While you were sleeping…”. Each passenger adds a little to the story to make it credible that you all witnessed it. Try not to break character and see if the other person believes your story.

31. Car Rule

To play this game, each person in the car gets to make up a random rule, and everyone has to follow it. Try to think of weird and fun rules, like “Whenever I change the radio station, everyone has to clap their hands”.

Assign points to everyone who enforces the rules except for the last person to do so. The person with the most points at the destination wins.

32. The License Plate Game

This classic road trip game can be played in different ways. You can try to spot a license plate from every US state or from different countries if you’re traveling in Europe.

Or you can try to spot a license plate starting with each letter of the alphabet, and the first one to get to Z wins. If you are playing with kids, you can even print a coloring map of the U.S. and have them color each state they spot on a license plate.

Trivia Road Trip Games

33. name that tune.

A great game for music lovers is “Name that tune”. You can simply turn on the radio or put on a Spotify playlist, making sure the song name is not visible on the display.

As soon as the song starts, the first person to shout the right song title wins a point. This is a great game to have fun, listen to music, and refresh your memory of song names.

34. Name the Artist

A different take on “Name that tune,” this game requires players to guess the artist. You can even prepare a playlist in advance and set different rules.

You can assign points based on who answers first, or you can take turns, play a song for 5 to 10 seconds, and let the player guess or pass. Whoever makes more points or reaches a set number of points first wins.

35. The Movie Game

If you know your movies and actors, you can play this potentially endless game during your road trip. To start, a person mentions an actor while another person must name a movie the actor has been in.

Another player must name a different actor in that movie, and the next player must then name another movie with that actor, and so on. See how long you can go!

36. Guess the Quote

One person in the car has to say a quote from a movie, TV show, or song, while the other passengers must guess where the quote is from.

The player who makes the right guess takes the next turn in saying a quote. Try to make it hard, and for extra fun, use the accent of the actor who said the quote.

37. “Sorry I am Late” Movie Guessing

This can be a really fun game for movie buffs. It essentially consists of saying a sentence that starts with “Sorry I am late” and continues with the main plot of a movie, told in a fun way.

For instance, “Sorry I am late, but I got a letter saying I am a wizard and I had to go to wizarding school only to find out this evil wizard has been trying to kill me since I was a newborn,” which would be Harry Potter. The person who guesses 10 movies first wins.

38. Bad Movie Plot

Another fun movie fame consists in picking a movie and explaining the plot in a really bad way, although factually correct. The other person has to guess the movie.

If they do, they win a point. Take turns and see who makes the most points or gets first to 10 correct guesses.

39. Celebrity

In this game, one person will play the character of a celebrity of their choice while the others take turns asking random questions.

The celebrity player answers the questions as if they were the famous person. The first person to guess the celebrity wins.

Long journeys in the car can often be difficult, for both you and the other passengers you are traveling with. Finding activities to pass the time can go a long way making the journey far more comfortable and enjoyable.

The beauty of these road trip games is that they require little, if any, equipment and preparation to play, yet can provide hours of fun.

Don’t let tiredness and boredom take control on a long car ride. Use these fun car games to create a fun and relaxing atmosphere, keeping your minds off the journey and giving you all an opportunity to interact and bond.

From word games to games involving famous people, there’s so much you can do in the car with minimal resources to entertain young kids, teenagers, and the whole family!

You Might Also Like to Read

• 40 Fun Things to Do on a Long Car Ride

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50 Fun & Best Camping Activities [Ideas for Kids and Adults]

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The best camping activities for every age group, every activity level, and every budget.

You can only sing campfire songs for so long, amiright? 

I would rather die than sing in front of anyone else, so campfire songs are not such a great idea for me. 

These days, I have no problem entertaining myself while camping. But as a child and then a young adult getting into camping for the first time, I struggled to stay entertained during my time camping.

If you’re looking for good camping activities, I’ve got you covered. Below I’ve rounded up 50 examples of camping activities for every age group based on my 10-plus years of camping experience.

From classics like scary campfire stories and s’mores to great ideas you haven’t heard of, like Exquisite Corpse and Camouflage– I guarantee you will find an activity for your group here.

Table of Contents

Fun Camping Activities for Kids & Families

Attend a Nature Program

One of my all-time favorite camping activities is attending ranger-led nature programs. These kid-friendly camping activities take place at many national and state parks . 

Sometimes a park will list its nature programs on its website. Other times, you’ll find the schedule on a whiteboard outside the visitor center. 

Nature programs are an excellent way to engage your kids in the great outdoors and are almost always free.

Complete Junior Ranger Activities

On your next trip, see if the place where you’re camping has a junior ranger program. 

Junior ranger camping activities for kids are available at many national, state, and regional parks, and they’re free. 

These programs usually have a booklet of activities for the child to complete to earn a badge or reward. 

I like this camping activity because it caters to younger kids. It can be hard to find camping activities for toddlers, but most junior ranger books have at least a coloring page for a young child to enjoy.

Don’t forget about “Telephone” if you’re looking for easy camping activities for kids on your next family camping trip!

Telephone is a classic game at summer camp. Everyone sits in a circle, and one person makes up a phrase. They whisper the phrase to the person next to them (just once! No repeats!), the person whispers the phrase they heard to the person next to them, and so on. 

The last person in the circle says the phrase they heard aloud. Inevitably, the sentence has evolved and become misconstrued, and hilarity ensues.

Play Camouflage 

Camouflage was one of the most popular camping activities for kids when I taught middle school ecology. Camouflage is like hide and seek with a twist (also–don’t forget Hide and Seek is another excellent camping game!). 

In this game, the “seeker” stands in one place and counts to 30 with their eyes closed. The kids hide, but the twist is they must hide where they can see the seeker. 

They must use their natural surroundings to camouflage themselves like animals do. 

When the seeker finishes counting, they open their eyes but stay in their counting spot, calling out to the kids they can see from their vantage point. The stealthiest hider gets to be the next seeker. 

Camping crafts make excellent camping activities for tweens and older kids, especially if it’s something they can do with their camping buddies. 

I somehow never got the hang of friendship bracelets, but I definitely remember wearing one my friend made and feeling *awesome*. 

Check out the Cridoz Bead Bracelet Making Kit for some easy beading. 

Bring some glue, colorful yarn, and feathers to turn pine cones into fairy houses or decorate some awesome walking sticks.

Skip Stones

Skipping stones is one of the best things to do while camping if your camping adventure takes you to the lake or river. Rocks are free, and you can compete for who can get the most skips. 

Look for flat, smooth rocks, and just avoid hitting wildlife or other campers. 

Make a Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts take planning, but they’re free to set up, and can be so much fun for kids. You only need a pen and a few pieces of paper to write the clues. 

Set up a camping scavenger hunt around the campground or along a short hike. Entice kids by calling it a treasure hunt. 

The end treasure can be something as simple as s’mores. 

Practice Survival Skills

Family camping trips can foster unforgettable, organic, teachable moments, especially regarding outdoor survival and safety skills. 

Turn life-saving lessons into fun family camping activities by bringing a guide to edible plants and then trying the plants (once you are one million percent sure you’ve correctly identified the plant). 

I also recommend teaching your kids to read a topographic map. I didn’t learn until college, and I feel much more confident outdoors because of it. 

You can make this a fun activity if you turn it into a treasure hunt!

Check out the Wilderness Survival Guide for Kids if your survival skills are rusty.

Fun Camping Activities for Adults & Couples

Watch the Sunset

Watching the sunset is one of my top outdoor activities for couples. 

Your weather app should tell you when the sun sets. Plan to arrive at your sunset-watching spot about 45 minutes before sunset. Bring a blanket or chairs and a fun drink. 

A few clouds make for the best sunsets, as they catch the setting sun and make the sunset interesting.

Identify Local Flora and Fauna

Ok, not to sound like an old person, but bird watching is totally fun, ya’ll. Birds are everywhere, so you don’t have to be super stealthy to find them, and there are great apps like Merlin that make identifying birds easy.

To identify plants, I recommend the Picture This app. You take a picture of the plant, and the app scans a database of hundreds of thousands of plants.

Enjoy a Picnic in the Shade

Plan a picnic on your next camping trip and enjoy a meal beneath the cool shade of a tree.

Forget the old-timey wicker picnic baskets! Check out the Sunflora Picnic Backpack , which has an insulated pocket for a wine bottle.

A barbeque is an excellent camping activity for a large group. 

Many campgrounds and RV sites have grills at each campsite, but even if your site only has a picnic table, you can bring a camping grill (like the Coleman Gas Grill ). 

Or you can dust off your cooking skills by hosting a barbeque competition, challenging your friends and fellow campers to bring the tastiest camping snack. 

Bring pens and pieces of paper so everyone can vote on their favorite item of campfire cooking .

Host a Cornhole Competition

Take cornhole to a whole new level on your next camping trip. One of the easiest and best camping drinking games is a cornhole competition. 

In cornhole, you play with two teams who compete to toss bean bags into a hole in a wooden board (check out this Wooden Cornhole Outdoor Lawn Game ). 

Every time an opponent makes a bean bag into your board, the losing team takes a drink.

Practice Nature Photography

I have a million sub-par, poorly lit photos from my camping trips, so I cherish it when I capture an excellent shot. 

You don’t have to have a fancy camera to take great photos, either. Check out this tutorial on taking great pictures with an iPhone:

If you have a DSLR camera, check out this tutorial for landscape photography:

Take a Hammock Nap

Resting on my vacations has become a priority in the last few years, and setting up a hammock can be an excellent way to relax while enjoying nature. 

Since many trees in campgrounds, RV sites, or parks are protected, use thick tree straps so you don’t cut the bark where your lines go.

This package from Wise Owl Outfitters has everything you need to get started. You can get a Wise Owl Outfitters Bug Net if you’re worried about bugs while you hammock. I used something similar when I backpacked in Panama, and it’s a lifesaver!

Best Active Camping Activities

Go for a hike

Your camping trip isn’t complete without a hike. Hiking is one of the best camping ideas for families, especially if you have older kids. 

There’s usually good trail and safety information at campground kiosks or visitor centers. You can also try the AllTrails app , which has excellent trail information for 200,000+ trail maps. 

Most hikes are free with your entry into the park or campground. However, some top-rated trails in certain national parks require permits.

Cool off by taking a dip in the river

Swimming is another one of my favorite family camping activities, especially in summer. One summer, one of the fun things I did with my friends was a “menagerie float.” 

Everyone had a different animal floaty, and we floated down the river in a grand procession of creatures; it was so much fun! Get your menagerie float started with this Unicorn Pool Float .

Water Balloon Fight

One of the best campsite activities for a hot summer day is a water balloon fight. You can set up this fun activity almost anywhere with a water spigot, and it will get kids and adults running for their lives to dodge a big splatter. 

If you want a more controlled water balloon activity, you can try to play catch with the balloons, getting farther apart every time you toss. Eventually, you get so far apart that it’s almost certain someone will drop the balloon.

Kayaking/Stand Up Paddleboarding

Kayaking is a fun way to explore a river or lake, plus it’s a playful way to move that’s not hiking. Bring or rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to cover some distance on the water. 

A stand-up paddleboard looks like a big surfboard that you can stand or kneel on and paddle using a modified canoe paddle. The benefit of a stand-up paddleboard is that many are inflatable, making them much easier to transport. 

I have the Isle Grom Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard , and I love it.

Want to learn more? Check out our article on the best kayaks for kids , or see our recommendations for the best lightweight kayaks !

Frisbee Golf

Frisbee golf (also known as disc golf) is a fun camping activity even if you don’t have a proper disc golf course. 

This game is just like regular golf, but rather than using a golf ball, you use a frisbee to aim at specific targets. 

On a frisbee golf course, you aim for baskets that catch the frisbee, but in a campground, you would need to aim for targets of your own making (maybe an open bear box?). 

Enjoy a bike ride

Some campgrounds and parks (or the towns adjacent to the parks) rent bicycles to tourists. So even if you don’t have a bike and a way to transport it, you can enjoy taking a bike ride. 

Some parks have designated off-road bike trails; others do not, so double-check the trail designation before you set out.

Best Nighttime Camping Activities & Campfire Activities

Look at the stars

One of the most rewarding camping activities is stargazing. Not only can you take advantage of the dark sky over the campground, but if you time it right, you can enjoy a show of shooting stars.

Check out the American Meteor Society calendar to see when the next meteor shower might happen in your area.

If the shooting stars aren’t out, pull out the Star Safari app to see the constellations and planets in the night sky above you.

Shadow Puppets

If you are tent camping, making shadow puppets can be a fun way to pass the time. You can do this in two ways. One, you can use your hands to make shadow figures:

Or, two, you can cut out doll shapes and glue them to kebab skewers to create a dancing shadows puppet theater:

Glow-in-the-dark frisbee

Gather your friends for a game of glow-in-the-dark frisbee with a light-up frisbee! The Tosy 36 & 360 LED Flying Disc looks like a flying saucer, making it easy to keep track of in the dark. 

You can toss the frisbee like usual or have a game of ultimate frisbee, where your teammates pass the disc to try and make it to the other team’s goal line.

Play Flashlight tag

A fun idea for nighttime around the fire is a flashlight tag. With flashlight tag, the person who is “it” waits at home base and counts to 30 while everyone else hides. 

When they are done counting, they begin to “seek” by shining the light on the person and calling their name to tag them. 

Once tagged, you wait at the home base until everyone has been caught.

Roast marshmallows

My all-time favorite camping activity is roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. You can find sticks lying around, or bring some special Marshmallow Roasting Sticks .

If you want to get fancy, bring different kinds of chocolate (like Nutella or Andes mints) to create a more gourmet experience for your s’mores.

Tell ghost stories

One of the most classic camping activities at night is telling ghost stories. Whether you grew up watching “Are You Afraid of the Dark” or not, getting a little freaked out can be part of camping fun.

KOA has compiled 17 Kid-Friendly Spooky Campfire Stories , and if you’re looking for something more adult, check out The Dyrt’s Freak Out Your Friends with These 13 Scary Campfire Stories .

Best Camping Activities Inside Your Tent for When It’s Raining

If you don’t have space for board games in your camping setup, a simple deck of cards can give you hours of entertainment.

Some classic card games include:

• Slap (aka Egyptian Rat Screw) 

I recently discovered the Kindle app for my iPhone using Kindle Unlimited ($10/month), and I love it. 

I’m tired of scrolling social media whenever I get bored, so now I open my Kindle app and read instead. 

The beauty of this app is that it will work offline, provided you get your book downloaded ahead of time.

I get so *toight* while camping because I don’t have the space or time to do my regular at-home stretches. 

So if you’re stuck in the tent, you might as well tend to your body. Check out this yoga for camping video for some inspiration:

Nature can be a great place to unwind and center yourself. I found it hard to just sit in silence until I found the Headspace and Insight Timer apps. 

Both have a massive variety of meditations themed for your mood, including meditations you can do while walking in nature.

Play Pass the Pigs

Pass the Pigs is a simple game with small pieces, a perfect tent camping activity in the rain. Pass the Pigs is like bunco, but you use pigs instead of dice. 

You roll two pig “dice” and gain points depending on how they land. The first person to score 100 points wins. 

Learn how to play Pass the Pigs here:

Sketch or Paint

Activate your creative juices and pull out some paper and ink! Or paper and pencil. The beauty of drawing in your tent is that you need few supplies. 

If you want to paint, use a watercolor pen with a refillable reservoir rather than a cup of water. Check out this portable watercolor set .

Best Unique Camping Activities

Geocaching or Letterboxing

Geocaching and letterboxing are types of public treasure hunts. 

In geocaching, you should take and leave something from the cache and write about it in the log book left at the treasure site. 

In letterboxing, the treasure is usually a register, stamp book, or sometimes a small trinket.

The main difference is that geocaching uses GPS coordinates posted online, and there are geocaches all over the world. 

Letterboxing uses clues and has been around much longer than geocaching.

California State Parks has a grea t FAQ page about Geocaching . You can go to geocaching.com to download the coordinates for caches near your site.

Try Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is one of the most exciting camping activities. 

But, take note: rock climbing is not something you should try by yourself for the first time. Instead, this is something you’d need to hire a guide for. 

That said, there are more guide services than you might guess, and they often have easy beginner walls for new climbers.

Another one of my favorite adventure camping activities is caving. I’m from an area in southern New Mexico with *lots* of limestone caves, and some of my favorite memories from high school were exploring the caves around my town.

I don’t recommend ever wandering into a cave without doing your research first, and ideally, stick to caves with guided tours like Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park.

Have a Multi-Color Fire

Once, on a birthday camping trip, my friends made me a multi-color campfire. It totally surprised me and made a regular ol’ campfire so much more fun.

You can also get Magical Flames Fire Color Changing Packets and make staring into the fire one of your top fun activities.

Have a Movie Night

I usually don’t advocate for *more* screen time while camping, but outdoor movies are fun! 

When singing campfire songs and playing board games won’t do, you can gather the whole family around a portable movie projector.

This Outdoor Projector has a 100″ portable screen, but some tents are large enough for the room divider to act as a movie screen.

Best Camping Games

Capture the Flag

One of my favorite summer camp games was Capture the Flag. To play Capture the Flag, each team takes a flag (a bandana works great) and hides it somewhere on their own “territory.”

The game’s object is to find the other team’s flag and bring it back to your territory without being tagged. 

If you’re tagged, you have to sit in “jail” (can be anywhere you establish) until someone from your team is daring enough to tag you out.

Two Truths and a Lie

Two Truths and a Lie is one of the best camping games for adults who don’t know each other very well. One of the fun things about it is you get to know your fellow campers better. 

In this game, everyone takes turns telling the group two personal truths and one lie. The group must guess which statement is the lie based on what they know about the person, their body language, or their gut feelings.

The Voting Game

The Voting Game and The Voting Game After Dark are two more fun activities for friends who don’t know each other well. 

The tagline for this game is, “Find out who your friends are.” The cards ask questions like, “Whose Google search history do you want to see most?” and “Who will be the last person alive?”

Assassin is another fun activity for friends or families who like to play games. Everyone in the group gets a playing card. The person with the Queen of Hearts is the assassin, and they murder people by winking at them. 

You can play this around the campfire or throughout the weekend. I like the extended version, personally. 

When someone gets assassinated, they should make a big, dramatic show of “dying.” 

If you think you know who the assassin is, you can make an accusation, but if you’re wrong, you die too! The assassin wins if they kill everyone before someone identifies them.

Truth or Dare

One of the most classic campfire games is Truth or Dare. 

If you don’t know the rules: someone asks, “Truth or Dare?” and you pick one or the other. If you choose ‘truth,’ you’ll have to answer a question with the truth, no matter how embarrassing. 

If you pick a dare, you’ll have to complete a challenge. “I dare you to walk around the campground with pine cones in your shirt like boobs.” Or, “I dare you to use your walking stick like an elephant’s trunk every time you see someone drink from a water bottle on the trail.”

Personally, I always have a hard time coming up with good dares, so I like the Truth & Dare Card Game . This travel-sized Truth or Dare starter kit has silly dares and is perfect for camping.

Spoons are one of the best camping games for families if you have a picnic table in your campsite. I loved this game as a teenager, and it can get cutthroat!

Everyone gets four playing cards, and there is one less spoon in the center of the table than there are players. 

The dealer draws one card from the top of the remaining deck, looks at it, decides if they want it, and passes it or a card from their hand, face down, to the player next to them. 

When someone gets four of a kind, they stealthily (or not) take a spoon from the center. This move signals to the rest of the group that they can grab a spoon too. The slowest person who doesn’t get a spoon is eliminated, and the game continues with one less person.

Mafia, also known as Assassin or Werewolf, is one of the few camping activities you need at least seven people for. 

In this big family activity, everyone gets a role in an imaginary town. Generally, there are mafia members and townspeople. 

Like the game Assassin I listed above, the mafia members kill townspeople during the “nighttime” gameplay period, and the detective has to try and figure out who the mafia members are. 

Accused mafia members get to make a defense for themselves, and then everyone in town votes. Unlike the other Assassin game, Mafia has a doctor role that can heal townspeople. Click the following link for complete details about Mafia .

20 Questions

20 Questions is a simple game where one person thinks of an object (or person), and the rest of the group gets 20 yes or no questions to figure it out. 

If they do, they win; if they don’t, the other person wins.

Would You Rather

Would You Rather is another fun game; the more creative you can be, the better. 

In Would You Rather, one person poses two scenarios to the group, who then has to answer which scenario they would rather have. 

For example, “Would you rather have peg legs or snakes for arms?” The clarifying questions usually lead to laughter.

If you want some easy ‘Would You Rather’ prompts, check out Would You Rather? Summer Edition .

Anyone can play Charades as long you’re not too embarrassed to act things out silently. 

Everyone writes down a phrase in Charades and throws the suggestions into a hat. The group divides into two teams, and one person from each team takes turns drawing from the hat and acting out the phrase. 

If your team can guess the phrase in an allotted time (you can decide how long), you score a point. The opposing team gets one guess if you don’t guess in time. If they get it right, they get the point.

Of course, if you need more great ideas, there are boxed sets of Charades suggestions, like Party Charades .

Mad Libs is one of the best camping ideas for kids who know the parts of speech (i.e., nouns, adjectives, etc.). 

Most people play Mad Libs with a Mad Libs book, where one person (the “reader”) asks the group for suggestions for nouns, colors, exclamations, adjectives, etc. 

The reader then fills in the blanks of the Mad Libs story with those suggestions and reads a hilarious, disjointed, and ridiculous story.

There are a million versions of the Mad Libs books. Check out Vacation Fun Mad Libs .

Exquisite Corpse

Last but not least, Exquisite Corpse is a collaborative drawing game where you fold a piece of paper into four sections, and everyone takes a turn drawing part of a body onto their section of paper without looking at the previous drawings.

This game is one of the best camping ideas for artistically inclined campers and requires few supplies. 

Check out this tutorial on Exquisite Corpse: 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meredith Dennis

Meredith is a biologist and writer based in California’s Sierra Nevada. She has lived in 6 states as a biologist, so her intel on hiking and camping is chef’s kiss next level. One of her earliest camping memories was being too scared to find a bathroom at night on a family camping trip. Thankfully, she’s come a long way since then and she can help you get there too!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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30 Best Road Trip Games That Will Make Your Drive Go By in No Time

Your crew won't ever want to get out of the car!

Every item on this page was chosen by a The Pioneer Woman editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Road trip games are one of the easiest ways to make the miles fly by in the blink of an eye, and if you used to take road trips when you were little, you likely have several car games that you still love today. Perhaps you’re heading out with your whole family in tow or going somewhere fun with a group of gals or your main squeeze (talk about a cute summer date idea !). No matter what type of trip you’re taking, road trip games are a must. The nice thing about road trip games is that they don’t require a ton of items to bring along—just your brains, a few rules to follow, and plenty of giggles. If you’d like to tuck away those smartphones and kick it old-school, turn to these 30 boredom-busting road trip games.

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Just one round of the map game is enough to keep the crew busy. Have the driver think of a a few specific locations on a map. Afterward, the driver gives the non-driving passengers hints to what the location is by describing other points on the map near it. The participating passengers then stick a pin into the location they think is right and the driver confirms the accuracy of the pins at the end of the drive.

Guess Who Said It

This one is simple, but oh-so fun! One person will look up quotes from famous speeches and/or lines from popular movies and songs. This person then recites the chosen quote, and the other participating members must guess who said it. For example, the one who chose the quote could say this notorious line from The Hunger Games : "I volunteer as tribute!" If the players guessed "Katniss Everdeen / Jennifer Lawrence from The Hunger Games, " they would get a point!

Who's Most Likely to...?

Each person in the car takes turns proposing different questions in the style of "who in this car is most likely to do XYZ?" The blank is filled in with a random scenario. Then, the group takes turns offering their opinion on who they think in the car would be the most likely to do the proposed action. This one is fun, and you'll really get to know what your family and friends think of you!

Guess the Time

This one works if your road trip is especially long. Take a look at your route, and jot down a list of cities and towns you're sure to pass through along the way. Then, have everyone guess the specific times they think they'll drive through each city. The player who is closest each time wins!

A game of Mad Libs is more than likely to solicit some laughter. You'll need a printable that has a wacky story written out with some blanks in between sentences that call for nouns and verbs of the crew's choice. Once those blanks are filled out, read it aloud for a hilarious personalized story!

SHOP MAD LIBS TEMPLATES

While You Were Sleeping

It’s not just a favorite movie from the ‘90s! For this game, one person will be asleep (which happens pretty frequently on road trips). Once they’re asleep for at least five minutes, the ones who are awake will start making up a story, and each person will take turns adding to that story. After the person wakes up, the group’s job is to make them believe that it’s a true story. If someone starts giggling, they’ll lose a point. But if each one tricks the sleeper into believing the story, every person gets three points.

The Singing Game

This is for the family and pals who love to bust out a tune! One person in the car will start singing a song. The next person will pick up a lyric from that song and will link it up with another song (i.e. “Should I stay or should I go…” can link to “…your own way, go your own way.”) The words can connect to one another going round and round until someone can’t think of a new lyric or sings the incorrect words.

This might be one of the most classic car games of all time. You know the rules: someone in the car will spot something by the road and say, “I spy with my little eye, something that is…” and then will give a hint, whether it’s a color or general direction. The other players will ask questions until someone discovers what it is.

20 Questions

One person will choose a noun (a person, place, or thing) and the other players will get 20 questions to find out what it is. Simple and fun!

License Plate Game

A game that’s always a favorite! The aim of this game is to spy all 50 states on license plates throughout your journey. You can keep track on a piece of paper, a phone, or you can use a board with markers for each state.

SHOP LICENSE PLATE GAMES

Scavenger Hunt

Similar to “I Spy,” a road trip scavenger hunt involves bringing along a list of items that are typically seen along the road. Your pals or little ones will spot the items, like stop signs or blue cars, and check them off the list. The first one to check them all off wins.

Two Truths and a Lie

For this, one player will make three statements, and one of them will be false. The other players will try to guess which one is the untrue one. It’s a great way to discover new things about a friend or family member!

This game is great for older kids and adults. Focusing on compound words, each person will link to the previous word and keep going around until someone can’t come up with anything. For example, notebook, bookstore, store-bought, etc.

Never Have I Ever

Each player will start a statement by saying, “Never have I ever…” Then they’ll finish the statement by saying something like, “Fallen asleep in class,” or “Flown on an airplane.” The rest of the crew has to decide if it’s a true statement or not.

Road Trip Bingo

It’s just like the bingo you play at home, except this game has a road-trip spin. Bring along some bingo cards (you can even purchase ones that are road trip-themed) and look for all the items on the board. The first one to get BINGO wins!

SHOP ROAD TRIP BINGO CARDS

The Name Game

This game is all about naming as many “names” as you can, but you’ll each only have three seconds to answer! There are lots of ways to play: focus on first letters, go with last names only, etc. Or change the category to dog breeds, books, types of flowers, or anything else you can come up with.

Story Starter

Here’s a classic game. One person will start a story but won’t finish the sentence. The next player will finish that sentence, but won’t finish it, and so on. By the end, you’ll probably have a pretty funny story going!

Alphabet Game

This is a game to play when you know there will be a lot of signs and billboards along the way. Starting with “A” and so on, players will find words on the route that start with each letter of the alphabet. You can play with the letters in order, or you can cross them off as you see them.

The Grocery Game

The first player will come up with an item they would buy at the grocery store. Without telling anyone, the rest of the car will take turns asking questions to discover what it is. Is it red? Can it be found in the produce department? It’s an apple!

Name That Tune

This one goes out to the music lovers out there! For this game, someone will start playing music on the radio or on a smartphone. In only five seconds, you have to guess what song it is. The first person to answer gets a point!

SHOP SMARTPHONE SPEAKERS

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The 25 top things to do in colorado, according to a local.

Expect plenty of epic adventures and spectacular scenery in Colorado.

Top Things to Do in Colorado

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Adventurous travelers will find a home in Colorado. Snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons create a rugged yet stunning landscape well worth exploring. Meanwhile, cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs provide a taste of culture – and plenty of relaxing activities for those not up for hiking or skiing. Read on for the top things to do in the Centennial State.

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park's flat lake trails – such as Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake trail and the Lake Irene trail – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 4.1-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 744 feet of elevation gain. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.

Don't miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, and it's known as the highest continuous paved road in the country. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, according to visitors, but that doesn't mean it's not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.

Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that backpacking requires a wilderness permit. If you're planning to visit multiple national parks in a year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass .

Insider tip: The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.

The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants, historical sites and top-notch views. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you're visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The many unique tour offerings , including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around.

When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find breweries and bars. Some top-rated breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado's capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives .

In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week's most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.

Insider tip: In terms of food and drink, you can't go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you're a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase – or Retrograde, where you enter the space-themed bar through a freezer in the Frozen Matter ice cream shop.

Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

While you won't find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn't mean you can't try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won't work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you'll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also a top Colorado camping location .

Insider tip: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.

Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel

An inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining," The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America . The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie.

Despite these sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It touts renovated premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There's plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding , attending the fall Elk Fest and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.

Insider tip: Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517

Garden of the Gods

There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods , located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs , one of which is hiking. Some highly recommended hiking routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.

Jeep tours are another way to explore Garden of the Gods. Visitors can take a 90-minute narrated Jeep tour to Balanced Rock and hear about the history of the park; embark on a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie's Queens Canyon and enjoy a scenic overlook; or ride to waterfalls, tunnels and other picturesque areas on a two-hour excursion. Or, step back in time with a trolley tour, offered hourly.

Insider tip: After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.

Summit Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, a 14er located approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including "America the Beautiful." You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).

Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery before boarding the train down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.

The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail, which is about a 25-mile round trip. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at 14.5 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Plus, you can reward yourself with a Pikes Peak doughnut or other treat at the Summit Visitor Center, which sits at 14,115 feet in elevation.

Insider tip: Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you're hiking, make sure you're descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning.

Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 25 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction , as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You'll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.

Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don't forget to grab a drink at one of the city's many breweries in between meals. If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado .

If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you're not in the mood to climb or hike.

Insider tip: A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, touring the Celestial Seasonings tea factory is a blast and includes free tea sampling.

Mesa Verde National Park

It's not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until finally abandoning them in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes.

During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – the largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which boasts sweeping views of the park. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.4-mile loop) is also popular, as you can admire the petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.

Ski in Aspen

Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country's largest ski resorts , one of Colorado's top ski destinations and one of Aspen's most popular attractions . The resort offers more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and nearly 50 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons.

Even if you're not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You'll find skiers flocking to the town's lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.

Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue's acoustics, saying it's one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when your favorite artists are performing.

Even if you can't make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide trails (3 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents drive-in movie events and morning yoga sessions.

Insider tip: You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465

Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs

The small town of Glenwood Springs is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town's fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn't require reservations.

Another option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 17 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance. The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is another thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it's one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.

Go whitewater rafting

The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.

Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip to Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. The Pine Creek route, which originates near the Granite Gorge, is another strenuous option for advanced rafters. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip.

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A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won't see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride . The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The free gondola is also a great activity, as it'll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.

While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

There are many theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it's certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that's known as the "Switzerland of America" thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.

The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you're scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.

Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This top Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. On the sandy shores of the lake, you'll find plenty of kids playing, adults sunbathing, and maybe even a moose or two testing the waters.

Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level. The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing and ice hockey.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn't have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you're driving, you can see it all in a day – though there's a good chance it'll take a long drive to get there, as it's located about 260 miles from Denver.

When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.

Insider tip: Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don't offer much in the way of shade. Also, make sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.

The train from Durango to Silverton takes less than four hours; passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the train ride back. You'll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling.

Breckenridge

If you're looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don't plan on hitting the slopes.

Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails – such as the highly rated McCullough Gulch Trail, the Hoosier Pass Loop and the Sawmill Reservoir trail.

Insider tip: A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can't be beat. Give the lamb a try; it's spectacular!

Visit Colorado's wine country

Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries . However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state's "wine country" is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.

You'll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. According to recent visitors, some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado's wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction , most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.

Insider tip: A stay at Palisade's Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado . Make sure to take advantage of the property's daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca.

While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.

Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you're looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you'd rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park , located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don't worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,100 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you're still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.

There's an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds.

Address: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212

Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs

This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and four terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features several designated pools as well as two waterslides open seasonally. If you're not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities , including cross-country skiing , horseback riding, snowmobiling , ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

If you're planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs , recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern appliances and gorgeous views.

Go leaf peeping

The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots ). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there's an early freeze.

Insider tip: If you're heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular "Crack Fries."

Drive the highest road in North America

The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You'll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.

Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you're an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it's one of the more popular 14ers to climb.

Experience small-town life in Salida

Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. As you walk down F Street, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. The downtown area is the state's largest historic district. At the end of the street, you'll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:

• Take the family dog-sledding
• Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
• Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
• Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
• Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
• Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
• Explore more than 70 installations at Meow Wolf

It's no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:

• Rock climb in Eldorado State Park (and receive a stamp in your Colorado Parks Passport )
• Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
• Visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
• Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
• See the stunning Maroon Bells
• Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
• Hike around Dinosaur National Monument

And plenty of other activities await if you're not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:

• Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
• Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
• Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
• Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
• Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence Ghost Town near Aspen

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson has lived in Colorado for most of her life, including four years in Boulder while she attended the University of Colorado Boulder . She spends her free time hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing and paddleboarding around the state, and has experienced much on this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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36 Fun Road Trip Games and Activities for Teens, Tweens and Kids

Summer road trips with teens, tweens & kids can be a lot of fun as long as you have some games & activities planned! Here are 36 great ideas to keep everyone entertained on the long drive.

No matter how old your kids are a road trip can be a fun and bonding experience for every family member! If you plan ahead and are prepared for some inevitable boredom along the way. Planning a road trip ahead of time is crucial! Teens, Tweens and kids can all enjoy these road trip activities and games below.

Without games and activities, a long road trip can be extremely boring. This is especially true for kids, who may not be able to read or watch movies for hours on end.

Making sure to bring along a variety of travel games and amazing road trip activities to keep the whole family occupied and happy will save you from any headaches on a long trip!

Whether your road trip is hours long or kinda short these games and activities will work for you. Each game can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour long. Using a point system or setting a number of rounds to be played will help lengthen the time.

To help make the most of your next family vacation, I have put together a list of fun road trip games and activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Planning a road trip just got easier!

Best Games for Younger Children

This classic game is perfect for little ones on a long family road trip. One person starts by saying “I spy with my little eye something that is (color, shape, etc.)” and then everyone takes turns trying to guess what it is.

The License Plate Game:

See how many different license plates from different states you can spot on your road trip. You can also make it a competition to see who can spot the most.

The ABC Game:

Start with A and take turns naming things in alphabetical order. This is a great way to help little ones learn their ABCs and see fun things while on the road.

Once Upon a Time:

One person starts by saying “Once upon a time there was a…” and then the next person has to continue the story. This is a great way to spark your child’s imagination and get them telling stories on the long drive. This will make your family road trip a lot more interesting!

Name that Tune:

Young kids have a great time playing this game! One person hums a tune and the others have to guess what song it is. If you children are much younger you could even hum nursery rhymes they might be familiar with. Plus, you now have music on your road trip!

I’m going on a picnic:

This game is great for kids of all ages. One person starts by saying “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing…” and then the next person has to name something that begins with the last letter of the previous item. For example, if someone says “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing an apple,” the next person could say “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing an egg.”

The Rhyming Game:

This game is perfect for kids who are just learning to read or are starting to learn about rhyming words. One person starts by saying a word and the next person has to say a word that rhymes with it.

The Animal Game:

This game is perfect for kids who love animals. One person starts by saying the name of an animal and the next person has to name an animal that begins with the last letter of the previous animal. For example, if someone says “lion,” the next person could say “narwhal.”

The Counting Game:

This game is great for kids who are just learning to count. One person starts by saying a number and the next person has to say the next number in sequence. This is a perfect way to get your kids learning on a road trip without them even knowing it!

Classic Telephone Game:

The first player starts by whispering a phrase or sentence into the next player’s ear. The next person then whispers what they heard to the next person and so on. The last person then says out loud what they heard, which is usually very different from the original phrase or sentence. This game always guarantees a great time!

Find that Place:

This road trip game is lots of fun! One person starts by saying “I’m looking for a place that is…” and then the next person has to name a place that meets the criteria. For example, if someone says “I’m looking for a place that is cold,” the next person could say “Antarctica.”

Fast Food Find:

Each person names a fast food restaurant chain before you begin. Once you say start you will look or the fast food place you chose and each person gets 1 point for every time they see it on the drive. Winner is the one that has the most points at the end of road trip. This is great for a long car trip.

Best Car Games for Older Children/Teens Road Trip Tips

20 Questions:

One person thinks of an object, person, place, or thing and the others take turns asking up to 20 questions to try and figure out what it is.

Two Truths and a Lie:

Each person takes a turn telling three stories about themselves, two of which are true and one of which is a lie. The others then have to guess which story is the lie.

See how many different license plates from different states you can spot on your road trip.

The Scavenger Hunt Game:

One person makes a list of things to look for along the way and everyone tries to spot them. The first person to find all the items on the list wins. Here are some pre made scavenger hunts for the road too!

The Countdown Game:

Choose a category (ie. animals, countries, brands, etc.) and then take turns naming something from that category in alphabetical order. For example, if the category is animals, the first person could say “ant,” the next person could say “bird,” and so on. The first person to get to the end of the alphabet wins.

The Orderly Alphabet Game:

Take turns naming something from a chosen category in alphabetical order. For example, if the category is animals, the first person could say “ant,” the next person could say “bird,” and so on. The first person to get to the end of the alphabet wins.

The Would You Rather Game:

This is a fun way to get everyone to bond by getting to know each other more on your road trip. choose two random things and then ask people which one they would rather do. For example, would you rather eat a bug or drink a glass of milk?

The Never Have I Ever Game:

Everyone starts with some set amount of money. Oftentimes using pennies is enough to make the game fun. Next, take turns making statements about things you have never done. For example, “never have I ever been to Europe.” If someone has done the thing you say, they have to give you one penny. once you lose your money you are out. Winner takes all the money

The Car Bingo Game:

Each person has a bingo card with different objects, people, or things that can be seen on a road trip. For example, a license plate from Texas, a truck, a cow, etc. The first person to get bingo wins.

The Word Association Game:

One person says a word and the next person has to say a word in response that is associated with the first word. For example, if the first word is “summer,” the next person could say “vacation.” Keep going until someone can not think of a word. Set a time limit for answering like 10 seconds.

Punch Bug (or Slap Bug):

Every time you see a VW Beetle, you punch the person next to you. Loser is the person who gets punched the most. Before playing this you need to be certain your teens are old enough to punch lightly as to not start a fight or any whining and complaining.

I Went to the Store:

One person starts by saying “I went to the store and bought a (item).” The next person then has to say “I went to the store and bought a (item)” and so on, adding on to the list of items. The first person to mess up or take too long loses.

Fun Things & Activities Your Kids Will Enjoy on a Road Trip

Telling jokes

Joke books are a great way to keep everyone entertained on a road trip. They are filled with hilarious jokes that are sure to get a laugh from the entire family, and they can be easily carried around so you can pull them out whenever you need a laugh.

Plus, they’re perfect for when you’re stuck in traffic and need a distraction.

Listening to audio books, podcasts or music

There are a ton of great audio books for kids available, and it can be tough to know which ones to choose. This is great for the long car trip where you are spending hours in the car waiting to get to point b.

Here are some of my favorite audio books for kids when on a road trip:

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne

The BFG by Roald Dahl

Matilda by Roald Dahl

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Podcasts for Teens on Road Trip

Podcasts are also great for those long car rides.

But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

Wow in the World

NPR: Tiny Desk Concerts

The Mortified Podcast

The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel

Thats the way I heard it with Mike Rowe

Who Would Win

Stuff You Missed in History Class

Stuff You Should Know

Whats Good Games

Watching movies or shows on the car trip

When it comes to good movies for kids, there are a ton of great options to choose from. Especially if you have a backseat entertainment system.

Here are some of my favorites:

The Lion King

The Incredibles

Kung Fu Panda

The Lego Movie

The Secret Life of Pets

Finding Nemo

How to Train Your Dragon

Despicable Me

Keep Your Teens Busy With These Fun Activities

Some of the best fun activities for teens include watching movies. They might enjoy watching some good entertainment while on the open road.

Some of our favorites are:

80’s Movies

Avatar: The Last Airbender

The Legend of Korra

Steven Universe

Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Star Wars Rebels

Phineas and Ferb

Gravity Falls

Adventure Time

Regular Show

Total Drama Island

Drawing or Coloring

One way to keep kids entertained is to have them do some drawing and coloring. This can help them learn how to focus and stay on task, and it also helps with their creativity and imagination. For younger children this will help develop their fine motor skills by using colored pencils. Also, their are some GREAT adult coloring books that are available!

Playing Card Games or Handheld Games

There are a ton of great card games for kids that can keep them entertained for hours on end.

Crazy Eights

Card Games Road Trip Tip to Keeping Teens and Tweens Entertained

They can be played with just a few cards, so they’re perfect for when you’re stuck in traffic and need a distraction. Plus, they’re perfect for when you’re stuck in a hotel room and want something to do.

Some of our favorite card games for teens are:

– Apples to Apples

– Phase 10

– Set

– 6 Nimmt!

– Blokus

– Boss Monster

– Carcassonne

– Dominion

– Munchkin

Handheld Games for Road Tripping

Some of our favorite handheld games for teens and Tweens are:

– Pokemon Go

– Super Mario Run

– Monument Valley

– Lara Croft GO

– Hitman GO

– The Room

– LIMBO

– Minecraft: Pocket Edition

– Terraria

Teens and Tweens keeping a journal of their road trip

Keeping a journal of all the memories and experiences from your trip can be a great way to keep kids entertained. It’s also a great way to document all the interesting stops you saw along the way. This can be a great thing to look back on later to remember your travel experience.

A journal entry could look like this,

“My road trip is going great! I’ve been playing a ton of card games with my brothers and sisters, and we’ve been listening to a lot of music and audiobooks. We’ve also seen some amazing sights along the way. Yesterday, we saw this huge waterfall, and today we’re in the middle of this huge desert.”

Teens and Tweens taking photos or making videos of their road trip

Since a road trip is all about seeing new sights and experiencing new things, older kids can capture all of that in a video. They could film themselves driving down the highway, or they could film themselves exploring a new city.

They could also film themselves playing games or just hanging out with friends and family. No matter what they choose to film, it’ll be a great way to document their trip.

Teens and Tweens listening to music on the road trip

Listening to their own music is a great way to keep kids entertained on a road trip. It’s also a great way to pass the time, and it can help kids relax and fall asleep.

So, whether you are on a road trip to the beach or on a long journey across the country, make sure to pack some of these fun games and activities. This is sure to make for a successful road trip! With a little advance planning these road trip essentials and road trip tips will keep your family entertained for hours on end and create memories that will last a lifetime.

And who knows? You may even find yourself enjoying one of these games as much as your kids do!

P.S Don’t forget road trip snacks for your family travel!

If you need more activities for your Teens, Tweens and kids this summer check out my other blog post’s for more fun ideas here!

Please leave me a comment and tell me about any family road trips you have planned?

Take these 3 short road trips for family nature fun and exploring a wildlife area

It's time to load up the wagon and visit cool, natural areas that offer something to do within an hour or two of driving from South Bend. Here are three options.

Watery wildlife tours

Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area in Morocco, Ind., a two-hour drive southwest of South Bend, will celebrate its 75th anniversary June 1-2 with free hikes, kayak paddles across the newly restored 1,200-acre J.C. Murphey Lake, which attracts thousands of waterfowl each year, and a campfire.

The paddles will be at 8 and 10:30 a.m. CDT June 1. The guided hikes will be at 1 p.m. CDT June 1 and 8 and 10:30 a.m. CDT June 2. The campfire will start at 6 p.m. CDT June 1. Learn more at  on.IN.gov/willowsloughfwa .  

Nature Play Days

Families will find a variety of guided and self-guided activities to put their hands on nature from 1 to 4 p.m. June 6 along the trails and preserved habitats at  Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center  of Goshen College, which is halfway between Goshen and Fort Wayne at 2388 S. County Road 500 West, Albion, Ind.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Dip for tadpoles, create a craft, go on a hike or do a scavenger hunt, among other things.  

Outdoor Bingo scavenger hunt

Play Weesaw Bucky Bingo anytime in June as you wander the trails in Weesaw Township Park and  New Troy Community Center ’s woods to search for creatures and features depicted on Bingo cards.

The community center is at 13372 California Road, New Troy, which is just east of Sawyer and northwest of Buchanan.

Bingo cards can be picked up anytime from the box by the center’s main entrance. Every completed card will earn a free ice cream treat at the center from 4 to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to noon Fridays and Saturdays. 

Find columnist Joseph Dits on Facebook at  SBTOutdoorAdventures  or 574-235-6158 or  [email protected] .

A perfect Seattle summer Summer day trips, events, races, outdoor movies and more

• Entertainment
• Food & Drink
• Visual Arts

Many Washingtonians will attest that the Seattle summer begins around Independence Day. But it’s not too soon to start dreaming, right?

With Memorial Day around the corner, our features team has compiled our annual summer guide, with recommendations for all sorts of fun under the sun: concerts, theater, movies and more outdoor arts, activities on the water or on the trailhead, places to eat and enjoy the views on a sunny day, and much more.

Read on for more tips on building your perfect Seattle summer.

8 unique PNW lodges, from historic hotels to restful resorts

Whether your ideal vacation includes hitting the beach, geeking out on Northwest history or simply getting some peace and quiet, these stays offer something for every traveler.

5 Seattle-area restaurants with nice patios and good food

With the days getting longer and warmer, the diners of Seattle all want the same thing: meals with a view. Here are 5 newish restaurants to try.

Seattle’s biggest summer 2024 events

With so many activities and events to squeeze in during the summer months, here are some of the grandest community happenings to get on your calendar now.

New backpackers can enjoy some of WA’s most beautiful places

Got your eyes set on your first backpacking trip? Consider these five routes, from the Olympic Peninsula to the Cascades, that are great for beginners.

10 WA races, walks and outdoor events for summer 2024

The start of summer is right around the corner and with it comes a slew of organized runs, cycling overnights and more outdoor events of every stripe.

8 essential things to do during summer in Seattle 

What makes a perfect Seattle summer? Our staffers named their summer bucket list items, with lots of fun outdoors (and some love for air conditioning, too).

Dinner at a Movie finds the best-ever summertime day trip from Seattle

A train ride, a lovely lunch, the cutest movie theater and cocktails at a classic saloon — Bethany Jean Clement and Moira Macdonald enjoy a perfect day.

5 best day trips from Seattle, chosen by our food and film critics

After much arduous research, critics Bethany Jean Clement and Moira Macdonald are happy to present these Dinner at a Movie road-trip picks.

Outdoor movies around Seattle this summer, from drive-ins to picnics

Picnic in a park in front of the big screen or drive into one of these outdoor movie screenings this summer. Perhaps best of all, many are free to attend.

Get a jump-start on 2024 Summer Book Bingo with these 4 books

Book Bingo is a summer reading program that celebrates reading and discovery and incentivizes participation with a drawing for prizes.

Seattle Shakespeare in the park and more outdoor performances this summer

This year’s summer slate includes beloved musicals, intriguing dance performances and plenty of Shakespeare.

Most Read Entertainment Stories

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• Seattle’s top summer events, races, outdoor movies and more in 2024
• Remlinger Farms, WA’s most exciting new concert venue, opened in down-home style
• The dreams of a 60-year-old beauty contestant come to an abrupt end in Argentina VIEW

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

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We work remotely from chuck e. cheese — our 9-to-5s should be fun, too.

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Working remotely really is all fun and games.

Young people in Toronto are logging onto their jobs from a local Chuck E. Cheese to offset days of meetings and memos with pizza and silly arcade games.

The unusual concept is the brainchild of 25-year-old tech and artificial intelligence worker Aryeh Bookbinder.

A few weeks ago, he went to a northern Toronto location to try it out as an office space for the first time — alone.

Bookbinder called ahead to let staff know there was no weirdness behind his weekday work visit to the restaurant “where a kid can be a kid.”

Still, “it was definitely a little bit awkward,” Bookbinder, who sought to rekindle 1990s nostalgia from Cheese’s heyday, told The Post.

“They were definitely not exactly sure what my intentions were, but they said, ‘Listen, as long as you’re not bothering anyone and as long as you’re a paying customer, you can try it out.'”

The solo trip paid off: Bookbinder found himself in an incredibly positive work environment with “great Wi-Fi.” Since kids were in school, the location was empty and distraction-free with no flashing, noisy arcade games or screaming children to fluster him.

After the successful trial, Bookbinder — who runs the guided-tour site Liminal Assembly — officially made the Sheppard Avenue birthday party hub his office space and promoted it online.

Soon after, Bookbinder said he was joined by a hodgepodge of 20 Gen Z and millennial professionals on the last Monday in April.

They paid $45 apiece to cover the costs of pizza and coffee, as well as the ironic rental of a school bus that would gather them at a mutual pick-up spot and take them to the restaurant.

The group then departs the eatery around 4 p.m. to avoid the afterschool rush.

“I was a little worried at first. I didn’t give my manager a heads up, like, ‘Hey, I’m working from a Chuck E. Cheese that day,” Katrina Lat, a 31-year-old account and strategy manager who loves arcade games, told The Post.

However, the odd combination of being around other plugged-in strangers trying to get tasks done in a kiddie space improved her performance.

“I did actually have a very, very productive day,” said Lat, who was so dialed in at one point that she didn’t notice the Chuck E. Cheese mascot standing right behind her.

She attributed the big day on the job to the fun — and somewhat nostalgic — environment.

“It was a nice change of scenery and then nice to be in a place that connected me with my childhood.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LIMINAL ASSEMBLY (@liminalassembly)

Bookbinder agreed, saying the gathering of employees from separate companies was “shocked at how productive they were.

“Everyone was sitting at their own table; some people took meetings in the corner,” he said. “When there were breaks, people went away from the group to the arcade area and came back.”

Chuck E. Cheese’s Instagram account even commented on a post of the event , writing, “Work hard, play harder!”

Now, more than 100 people tried signing up for Bookbinder’s next work-from-Cheese event slated for June 24 — this one cheekily titled, “Fever Dream Co-working.” The goal is to hold monthly gatherings; however, the location’s manager has requested them to limit meetups to groups of 20.

Still, the entrepreneurial Bookbinder was thrilled to see his arcade adventure leveling up and helping workers do their jobs better.

And all it took was a trip to a tyke-focused wonderland.

“What’s more powerful than a childlike imagination?” Bookbinder asked.

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