40 Best Things to Do in Summer with Friends

Summer is the season of the “group chat actually making it out of the chat.” While we love a solo reset day, there is a specific kind of magic that only happens when you’re out with your favorite people, romanticizing the summer days.

If you’ve been looking for things to do in summer with friends besides the usual “grabbing a drink,” you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up 40 summer activities to do with friends, ranging from adventures to low-key evenings to ensure this season is one for the books.

Want the master list? If you’re wondering what else to do in summer or you’re looking for solo ideas and things you’ll need for your summer plans, check out our Ultimate Summer Bucket List.

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Inside This Guide

Best Outdoor Things to Do in Summer with Friends

When the weather is this good, staying inside simply feels wrong. These ideas are the best activities to do in the summer with friends when you want to find something to do in summer that feels like an adventure.

Watch the Sunrise Together: Start an early morning (or end a late night) by watching the sun come up.
Go on a Road Trip: A long drive to a new place is a great way to be more spontaneous.
Have a Swimming Pool Party: Grab the aesthetic pool floats and a waterproof speaker and enjoy a day at the pool.
Plan a Theme-Park Day: Nothing bonds friends like screaming your lungs out on a roller coaster.
Try an Adventure Park: Ziplining and ropes courses are the ultimate way to test your group’s bravery.
Go Kayaking: Paddling together through calm waters is a beautiful way to see nature from a different angle and take a break from the real world.
Go for a Long Hike: Exploring a nature trail together is a great way to disconnect from tech and reconnect with each other.
Have a Beach Day: This is a classic summer staple that perfectly balances high-energy swimming with total relaxation.
Play Beach Volleyball: It brings a competitive energy to the group that usually ends in plenty of laughter.
Go on a Boat Ride: Being out on the water is a perfect escape from the summer heat.
Go to a Day Party: Find a local rooftop or outdoor bar for some high-energy daytime dancing.
Attend a Concert or Music Festival: Nothing says summer like live music in the open air.
Take a Day Trip: Visiting a nearby town for a few hours keeps your summer feeling fresh and adventurous.
Go on a Scenic Bike Ride: Cycling through new paths in your city is a great way to enjoy the summer days.
Rent a Pedal Boat: It’s a playful way to catch up while drifting around a local river or lake.
Try an Adventure Sport: Push your limits with rock climbing, ziplining, or cliff jumping.
Go to the Zoo or Aquarium: Visiting animals is a fun outing that gives you plenty to talk about.
Go Golfing: Whether you’re playing seriously or just for fun, golfing is a great way to spend a long afternoon catching up.
Go Fishing: It’s the perfect slow-paced activity for when you just want to sit back and enjoy the quiet company.
Exercise Outdoors: Organize a sunset yoga session or a group run.
See a Movie Outdoors: Many cities host “movies in the park” or summer outdoor cinemas.
Watch the Sunset from a Hilltop: Watching the sunset over your city is a simple way to romanticize your summer with your friends.
Go Stargazing: Head away from city lights to fully enjoy the night sky.
Have a Bonfire: Gathering around a fire and making s’mores is the coziest way to end a warm summer night.

Keep the inspiration going: If you need solo ideas or a list of summer essentials to pack, check out our Ultimate Summer Bucket List.

Things to do in Summer with Friends at Home

Looking for fun summer activities to do with friends that feel a bit more intentional? When you want to stay in but keep the vibes high, there is always something to do in summer right at home.

Host a BBQ or Potluck: Fire up the barbecue grill and have everyone bring their favorite side dish.
Food Board Night: Having everyone bring a different themed snack board is a creative way to share a meal. Think Charcuterie, Mediterranean, or even a Taco Board.
Make Pizza from Scratch: Getting everyone involved in the kitchen is a fun way to create a meal together.
Cocktail/Mocktail Board Night: A fun way to try everyone’s signature summer drink.
Host a Themed Dinner Party: Pick a theme (like Italian Summer or Tropical) and match the food and décor.
Organize a Game Night: Competing in board games or trivia is a great way to spend a rainy summer day.
Have a Group Bake-Off: Pick a seasonal ingredient and see who can bake the best dessert.

Relaxing Summer Activities With Friends

Sometimes the most memorable moments are the ones you create when you slow down the pace. If you are looking to create a meaningful summer with friends, these ideas are perfect for things to do in summer with friends.

Visit a Botanical Garden: Walk through the shaded garden and make some aesthetic group photos.
Movie Night Under the Stars: All you need is a portable projector, a white sheet, and a popcorn machine.
Create a Vision Board Together: Focus on your goals for the rest of the year while sipping a cold drink.
Go Shopping or Thrift Shopping: Spend a day hitting your favorite boutiques or hunting for vintage finds.
Start a Summer Book Club: Meet at a different park each month to discuss your latest read over snacks.
Make Pottery: Get your hands dirty and make some cute decor for your home.
Organize a Photo Shoot: Get dressed up and find a beautiful backdrop in one of your local parks or monuments.
Create a Travel Bucket List: Sit down and plan your dream trips for the next years.
Start a Writing or Journaling Club: A relaxing way to spend an afternoon writing together.

Plan a Perfect Summer

The secret to a great summer isn’t about having an expensive itinerary; it’s about intentionality. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or going on a weekend camping trip, these things to do in summer with friends are all about making the most of the summer while it lasts.

Don’t let the season pass by without checking off your favorite summer activities to do with friends. It’s easy to get caught up in the routine, but having a plan ensures you always have something to do in summer that makes the season feel special.