Warm (or hot!) weather is here, and I don’t know about you, but I need to think of some fun things to do outside this summer! Before this season hurries by, make sure you are making a mindful effort to take advantage of getting outdoors. Why?

• Outdoor activities are proven to help with depression and anxiety.
• So many summer memories are made outdoors.
• You will be exercising without even knowing it!
• It’s just fun stuff!

This is all the more important as we age. We need to be taking advantage of all the amazing things this life has to offer us. No more putting off getting outside when the work is done, or the dinner is made, or the kids are taking a nap. As women 50+, we now have the opportunity to prioritize ourselves. And doing fun stuff outdoors is important!

 

 

Fun Things to Do Outside This Summer for Women 50+

Here’s a guide to making the most of this vibrant season with a mix of fun and healthy outdoor activities:

Stay Fit with Outdoor Exercise:

Biking
Cycling is excellent for cardiovascular health and can be a fun way to explore your surroundings. It’s easy on the joints and can be adapted to different fitness levels.

 

 

Gardening
Transform your garden into a colorful oasis by planting a variety of flowers. It’s a therapeutic and rewarding hobby.

Pickleball or Tennis
These racquet sports are great for cardiovascular health, hand-eye coordination, and agility. They can be played at a pace that suits your fitness level.

Water Activities:

Swimming
Cool off with a swim in a local pool, lake, or ocean. Swimming is excellent for cardiovascular health and muscle tone.

Kayaking or Canoeing
Explore nearby lakes and rivers by kayak or canoe. It’s a serene way to enjoy the water and get a good workout. We live in the Pac NW and this is something everyone does, whether 9 or 90. Which leads me to another popular water activity for summer…

 

 

Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Try paddleboarding for a fun, full-body workout that challenges your balance and core strength. BTW, you don’t have to stand up if your core strength won’t allow it. You can sit too!

 

Nature Walks and Hiking:

Local Trails
Discover local hiking trails for exercise and breathtaking views. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature. Just Google “hiking trails near me”. Remember, don’t hike alone.

 

 

Nature Reserves
Visit nature reserves and take guided walks to learn about local flora and fauna. I used to volunteer at Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island in Washington state, and places like that are magic. Also a great place to take out-of-town visitors.

Beach Walks
Stroll along the beach and enjoy the soothing sound of waves. Walking on sand provides a gentle workout for your legs. Don’t have a beach near you? Look for rivers, lakes, and even streams you an stroll beside!

 

Picnics and Outdoor Dining:

Picnic in the Park
Pack a healthy picnic and spend the day at a local park with friends or family. It’s a lovely way to enjoy good food and company. I love to do this by myself too. Remember a comfy blanket and maybe a pillow!

 

 

Al Fresco Dining
Dine at restaurants with outdoor seating to savor meals in the fresh air. This is one of my and my husband’s favorite things to do. Look for string lights, cute decor, and a fun menu.

Barbecues
Host a summer barbecue in your backyard or at a local park. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather and enjoy delicious food. Make one dish you’ve never made before.

 

Creative Activities:

Photography
Capture the beauty of summer with your camera. Nature photography is a wonderful way to appreciate your surroundings. I went to college for photography, and trust me, it will not steer you wrong if you are looking for fun things to do outside this summer. There are free online photo courses to get you started as well. And BTW, these days most cell phone cameras take amazing photos!

 

 

Painting Outdoors
Set up an easel and paint landscapes or flowers. Let the natural world inspire your creativity.

Craft Workshops
Attend outdoor craft workshops or visit markets. It’s a fun way to learn new skills and create something beautiful. I always get inspired by craft shows in my town.

 

Travel and Exploration:

Day Trips
Plan day trips to nearby attractions, gardens, or historical sites. These short getaways can be incredibly refreshing.

Weekend Getaways
Book a weekend trip to a scenic destination. A change of scenery can do wonders for your spirit.

 

 

Travel Tours
Join travel groups for women over 50 for organized trips. It’s a great way to explore new places and make new friends. We have retreats planned for TMG that might be just the ticket!

 

Festivals and Events:

Music Festivals
Attend local music festivals and outdoor concerts. Enjoying live music in a festive atmosphere is a summer highlight.

Farmers’ Markets
Visit farmers’ markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. It’s also a great way to support local farmers and artisans.

 

 

Art Fairs
Explore art fairs and craft shows for unique finds. You might discover new artists and beautiful pieces to take home.

 

Wellness Retreats:

Spa Days
Treat yourself to a spa day or wellness retreat. Pampering yourself is a fantastic way to relax and rejuvenate.

Meditation Retreats
Join a meditation retreat to find peace and clarity. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from daily stresses and focus on your well-being.

Yoga Retreats
Participate in yoga retreats for a holistic approach to health. Enjoy a combination of yoga, healthy eating, and relaxation in beautiful settings. Or, just join a great women’s retreat just for women over 50+ right here with TMG!

 

 

Volunteer Opportunities:

Community Gardens
Volunteer at community gardens or local parks. It’s a fulfilling way to give back and connect with nature.

Animal Shelters
Spend time helping at animal shelters or rescue organizations. Your care can make a big difference in the lives of animals. I mean, that face!!! 🐱♥️

 

 

Event Volunteering
Help organize or support local summer events and festivals. It’s a wonderful way to meet people and contribute to your community.

Social Activities:

Book Clubs
Join or start a book club that meets outdoors. Combining a love for reading with the beauty of nature is a delightful experience.

Wine Tasting
Attend outdoor wine tastings at local vineyards. Enjoy sampling different wines in a relaxed, scenic environment. One of the best fun things to do outside I know! 🍷

 

 

Potluck Dinners
Host or join potluck dinners with friends and family. Sharing home-cooked meals and good conversation makes for memorable evenings.

 

Learning and Workshops:

Cooking Classes
Take outdoor cooking classes to learn new recipes. Cooking in the open air adds a special touch to the culinary experience.

Gardening Workshops
Attend workshops to improve your gardening skills. Learn tips and tricks from experts and fellow enthusiasts. Many nurseries offer these classes for free, or for a small fee. Not a gardener? How about flower arranging? No dirt involved…

 

 

Photography Courses
Enroll in outdoor photography courses to enhance your skills. Capture the essence of summer through your lens. If you have an Iphone and want to get a few skills before jumping into a group class, my husband and I love this guy at Iphone Photography School. Yes, he has a paid course. But he also has tons of free content as well. Check out his YouTube channel for free how-to videos.

 

Relaxation and Leisure:

Hammock Time
Set up a hammock in your backyard for reading and napping. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

Stargazing
Spend evenings stargazing with a telescope or binoculars. The night sky is a beautiful, tranquil way to end your day.

 

 

Beach Days
Enjoy relaxing days at the beach with a good book and plenty of sunscreen. The sound of waves and the warmth of the sun are truly soothing.

 

Cultural Experiences:

Outdoor Theaters
Watch plays or movies at outdoor theaters. It’s a charming way to enjoy the arts under the stars.

 

 

Historical Tours
Take guided tours of historical sites in your area. Learn about local history and gain a deeper appreciation for your surroundings.

Museum Gardens
Visit museums with beautiful outdoor gardens. Combining art and nature makes for a delightful outing.

 

Fitness Challenges:

Cycling
Join a cycling group or go on solo rides through scenic routes. Cycling is an excellent way to stay fit and enjoy the landscape.

Walking Challenges
Set personal goals for walking distances and track your progress. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay active.

Outdoor Gyms
Use outdoor gym equipment in parks for varied workouts. Enjoy exercising in the fresh air and natural surroundings.

 

 

Hopefully, somewhere in this list, you can find something that gets you excited about outdoor activities this summer! Set a plan, invite family or some dear friends (or both!), and pick some of these fun things to do outside this summer!

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