As you probably already know, I’m currently in Branson, Missouri! Today I get to check out Springfield, Missouri as well!  I’ve scheduled some great guests posts for you this week and I’ll be posting updates on my trip throughout the week! Lots of goodness to come! 

Five Activities To Do With Your Family This Summer

The summer season is a great time to reconnect and spend quality time with the family. The weather is warm, the kids are out of school and they are expecting to have a great time during the summer break. Finding ways to keep them occupied can be tricky. Planning vacations and searching for exciting outings that will be fun for everyone can be challenging. If you are looking for great family friendly vacation ideas, there are things you can plan that the entire family will enjoy.

1         Open a Lemonade Stand

Teach the kids how to start a business with a lemonade stand. They will have fun setting up and decorating their stand, making signs to attract customers and squeezing lemons to make delicious lemonade. It will also teach them about how to earn and count money. Take them to get a toy or treat with their money when it’s over.

2         Visit a Zoo

Spend the day learning about the habitat of a variety of animals, birds and reptiles. It will be a very educational outing and will be fun and exciting for the entire family. Check with the local zoo to see if they have any special events, activities, or shows scheduled.

3         Take a Hike

Enjoy the wilderness with the kids and learn about nature with a hike. Turn it into a scavenger hunt and let the kids have a list of items they need to find to take home as a souvenir.  You could research online and find a hiking spot near your home such as Gunflint Trail.  This is a fun, free, and exciting way to get your children out of the house and in to nature.

4         Indoor Rock Climbing

A fun way to get plenty of exercise is to try indoor rock climbing. Professionals will teach the family how to be safe with this activity in a controlled setting. It will be a fun challenge for the entire family. Rock walls have beginner courses and the equipment there. Plus, it’s in air conditioning!

5         Swimming

Nothing beats the summer heat like a swim in the pool. You can take your children to the local community pool, by a small one for your backyard, or even just turn on the sprinklers. Local stores have plenty of toys and games for the pool that can entertain children for hours.

With a little research, planning and creativity, you will find all types of fun activities for your loved ones to share together. Your family will have a fantastic summer vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.