From Joining a Run Club to Booking a Resort Pass, Here’s Your Definitive Summer Bucket List

With the Fourth of July holiday behind us, it may seem a little late in the game to create the ultimate summer bucket list. But with heat waves forcing us indoors, it’s actually the perfect opportunity to craft your list. There’s still plenty of time to reclaim the season and make this one your best yet. Think of it as your vision board.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or someone who relishes urban adventures, this checklist is brimming with opportunities to set yourself up to end the season on a high note. And while there are super seasonal to-dos that need to be executed sooner rather than later, some are more about planning for an unforgettable fall. Make it a group activity with friends, then gamify it and give a prize to whomever checks the most items off their list by Labor Day on September 2. It’s time to grab a pen, jot down your aspirations, and get ready to rev up the rest of the summer.

Caroline Tran for The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

1. Use a Resort Day Pass

Kick back and indulge in a day of luxury by using ResortPass at a nearby hotel. Enjoy poolside lounging, refreshing cocktails, and perhaps even a spa treatment to rejuvenate, all without having to book a full-blown overnight stay. You can also check out apps like Swimply, Dayaxe, and Daycation for a more boutique backyard experience.

Thomas J. Story

2. Plan a Road Trip

Hit the open road with friends or family and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether it’s a coastal drive to Santa Barbara or Big Sur or a mountainous route out to Mammoth Lakes, road trips offer a sense of freedom and adventure that’s synonymous with summertime. Looking for something truly bucket-list-worthy? Book in for one of Peace Vans’ guided trips through Baja California Sur, where you’ll see the best of the state with vetted guides of this magical Mexican locale.

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3. Join a Run Club

Lace up your sneakers and join a local run club to stay active and meet new people. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, the camaraderie and motivation are sure to keep you moving. They say run clubs are the new dating apps, so who knows what summer love you might spark up while striding. My favorite here in L.A. is Venice Run Club, which does runs along the beach on the Westside on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings.

Kimberly Motos

4. Book a Staycation

Explore your own city from a new perspective by booking a staycation at a local hotel or vacation rental. Take advantage of amenities you wouldn’t normally enjoy without the pressure of having to do and see it all in a new place, and rediscover the beauty and charm of your hometown. Try booking in at a spot with plenty of dining and entertainment that allows you to park your suitcase and never leave the property like the new Lafayette in San Diego or the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel.

Thomas J. Story

5. Plot a Fall Camping Trip

Start planning ahead for the crisp days of fall by organizing a camping trip now. Research scenic campgrounds, brush up on your outdoor cooking skills, and prepare for evenings under the stars. Now is an excellent time to look into booking camp sites and researching entrance reservations to national parks, too.

Avital Tours

6. Do a Walking Tour

Become a tourist in your own city by embarking on a walking tour. Visit historical sites, try local cuisine, peep street art murals, and uncover stories that bring your surroundings to life. Many of our favorites in L.A. are done by the LA Conservancy.

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7. Research and Book an International Trip for Fall

Dream big and start planning an international adventure for the upcoming fall season. There are fewer tourists during shoulder season, and rates tend to be much more accessible. Research destinations, brush up on language skills, and create an itinerary filled with cultural experiences.

Glacier National Park

8. Go on a Big Bike Ride

Challenge yourself with a long-distance bike ride through scenic landscapes or urban trails. Pack a picnic, grab your helmet, and pedal your way to breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.

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9. Binge Watch a Show

When the temperatures soar, retreat indoors and indulge in a binge-watching session of your favorite TV show or a new series. Stock up on snacks, create a cozy nest of blankets, and immerse yourself in captivating stories. A few of my favorites currently, especially for food lovers: Drops of God and the new season of The Bear.

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10. Plan an Outdoor Movie Screening

Take advantage of the warm summer nights and pop up a projector, or opt into a local outdoor screening. Pack a picnic, popcorn, and some wine and enjoy the cinema under the stars. Many hotel rooftops in cities are putting these on these days, so check your local listings.

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