Things to Do Outside with Kids for Families Who Love Adventure
There’s something truly special about spending time outside with your kids, away from screens and the rush of everyday life.
For me, it’s a way to connect, create memories, and show my kids how big and beautiful the world really is. Whether it’s snowboarding in Idaho or exploring the streets of Rome, some of our best moments have happened far from home and out in the open air. Finding exciting things to do outside with kids doesn’t have to be complicated.
Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of planning and a willingness to try new things.
Let’s dive into some of my favorite outdoor adventures that are perfect for families who love to explore.
Things to Do Outside with Kids: Exploring New Places
Travel has a way of opening your eyes to everything the world has to offer. When I took my kids to Rome, Italy, and other parts of Europe, it was about more than just checking destinations off a list. I wanted them to see why hard work and dreaming big are worth it. There’s a kind of magic in showing your kids ancient ruins, vibrant city streets, and cultures different from their own.
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You don’t have to fly across the world to explore new places, though. Even a road trip to a nearby town, visiting a historical site, or finding a hidden gem in your own state can be just as thrilling. Make it a goal to visit one new spot every few months.
Pack snacks, create a fun playlist, and let your kids help plan the itinerary. The excitement of discovering somewhere new, even if it’s close to home, is a memory that sticks.
Things to Do Outside with Kids: Adventure Sports and Activities
If you follow me, you’ve probably seen how much my family loves hitting the slopes. Snowboarding at Schweitzer or sneaking in a ski trip at Silver Mountain are some of our favorite family outings. There’s just something about bundling up, racing down a mountain, and ending the day by a warm fire with hot cocoa. Winter sports teach kids resilience and give them confidence with every run they master.
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Adventure sports aren’t just for winter. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and zip-lining can add a thrill to your family outings. If you’re new to these activities, start small and work your way up. Choose places that offer beginner options and make safety a priority. Seeing your kids’ faces light up after trying something new is worth every bit of planning.
Embracing Nature: Things to Do Outside with Kids
We’re blessed to live in such a beautiful place, and I try not to take that for granted. From swimming in Coeur d’Alene Lake to cutting down our own Christmas tree, some of the best things to do outside with kids are about embracing nature right in your own backyard. There’s something incredibly grounding about taking a deep breath of fresh air, feeling the sun on your face, and just being outside together.
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Simple nature activities can be just as memorable. Go for a hike, fish at a local pond, or have a picnic at the park. Even backyard camping can turn an ordinary weekend into an adventure. The key is to be present, leave the phones behind, and let the kids get a little messy. Some of my favorite memories with my kids are of days spent outdoors with no set plan, just exploring and laughing together.
How to Make Every Outdoor Adventure Count
I’ve found that the best family outings happen when you stop trying to make everything perfect. It’s not about packing the most into every trip but making sure each adventure has meaning. One way to do this is by creating little traditions. It could be something as simple as taking a photo in the same spot every year or making a ritual out of stopping for ice cream on the way home. These small things add up to memories your kids will hold onto.
Another tip is to involve your kids in the planning. Ask them what they’d like to do or where they’d like to go. When they have a say, they’re more excited about the adventure and less likely to complain about the walk to get there!
A Legacy of Adventure Starts Now
There’s no better way to build a legacy for your family than by spending time together outside, trying new things, and showing your kids the value of adventure. Years from now, it won’t be the perfectly clean house or the number of chores you got done that your kids remember. It’ll be the trips, the laughter, and the feeling of freedom they got from exploring the world with you.
So grab a backpack, make a playlist, and hit the road—even if it’s just to a new park across town. Life’s too short not to fill it with family adventures that remind you what really matters.
