Hey y’all!
Can you believe it’s 2025 already? It seems like time just keeps moving faster and faster, and with a house full of kids, I’m constantly reminded of how quickly these precious years pass us by. That’s why I’m all about making the most of our family time and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And I want to help you do the same!
I’ve put together a 2025 Family Bucket List full of fun, affordable activities that will get you and your crew out exploring, laughing, and connecting. Whether you’re a homebody or a travel enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. And the best part? Most of these ideas can be enjoyed right in your own local area!
Why a Bucket List?
Creating a bucket list is more than just jotting down a few fun things to do. It’s about:
- Intentional Family Time: With busy schedules, it’s easy to let family time slip away. A bucket list helps you prioritize those special moments.
- Creating Lasting Memories: These aren’t just activities; they’re opportunities to build memories that your kids will cherish forever. (Trust me, the years fly by!)
- Exploring Your Own Backyard: You might be surprised by the hidden gems and unique experiences waiting to be discovered right where you live!
Spreading the Fun Throughout the Year
You know, last year I actually started with a summer bucket list. It was a great way to keep the kids entertained during those school-free months. But this year, I decided to spread the fun throughout the entire year. Because let’s face it, life doesn’t slow down just because it’s not summer! We’ve got swim lessons, sports seasons… you name it. The beauty of a bucket list is that you can work these fun activities in whenever you can, no matter what season it is!
Need some inspiration? Check out these 25 ideas to get your own bucket list started!
- Catch a meteor shower. (The Lyrids in April are supposed to be amazing!)
- Go geocaching. (There are tons of hidden treasures all over Texas!)
- Attend a local festival. (Check out the Texas Renaissance Festival near Plantersville – it’s a blast!)
- Visit a state park you’ve never been to before. (Caprock Canyon State Park & Trailway has some incredible views!)
- Have a picnic at a botanical garden. (The Fort Worth Botanic Garden looks awesome.)
- Take a road trip and stop at a roadside oddity. (Have you ever been to the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo? It’s a classic!)
- Learn a new skill together. (Maybe try a pottery class or learn to play a new instrument.)
- Volunteer at a local charity. (The Houston Food Bank is always looking for volunteers.)
- Go stargazing at an observatory. (The McDonald Observatory in West Texas is incredible!)
- Attend a free outdoor concert. (Many cities have summer concert series in their parks.)
- Visit a historical marker in your town. (You might be surprised by the history in your own backyard!)
- Have a family game night.
- Go to a drive-in movie. (The Galaxy Drive-In in Ennis is a fun one!)
- Try a new restaurant or cafe.
- Bake something together.
- Build a fort in your living room.
- Write a letter to someone you love.
- Have a themed movie marathon. (Maybe a Shrek marathon or all the Marvel movies!)
- Go fruit picking at a local farm. (Check out the farms around Fredericksburg during peach season!)
- Leave a generous tip for your server.
- Pay for the person behind you in line.
- Compliment a stranger.
- Donate books to a local library or shelter.
- Plant a tree.
- Take a family photo in a unique location. (Maybe in a bluebonnet field in the spring!)
Want to make your own bucket list?
I’ve created a free printable template just for you! Download it here.
P.S. The featured image above is a picture of my actual handwriting on my Kindle Scribe! If you have one, you can send this PDF to your Kindle by visiting “Send to Kindle” at amazon.com/sendtokindle. Otherwise, feel free to print it out or just use a regular sheet of paper. Whatever is easiest!
And for more ideas on spreading kindness as a family, check out my post: 10 Heartwarming Acts of Kindness Kids Can Embrace
Happy memory-making, y’all! Let me know if you try any of these ideas – I’d love to hear how it goes!
