The Top Summer Activities for Kids in 2025?

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re a parent looking for fun ways to keep your kids busy and happy, you’re not alone. According to Google Trends, families across the U.S. have been searching for fresh ideas, and some of the results might surprise you.

The Top Activity

This month, mini golf topped the list as the most searched summer activity for kids. It seems that classic, simple, and screen-free fun is making a major comeback. Whether you head to a glow-in-the-dark indoor course or an outdoor adventure-themed spot, mini golf offers a great way to enjoy some light competition and a lot of laughter.  

Coming in right behind golf fun was water parks, which have always been a warm-weather favorite. Just ask the Busby family from OutDaughtered. From towering slides to lazy rivers, water parks continue to be one of the best ways to beat the heat and let kids burn off some energy.

Bucket List Favorites

Another term that saw a huge spike, rising more than 600%, was “summer bucket list for kids.” Parents are clearly on the lookout for creative ways to make the most of the season. This includes easy, low-cost ideas that spark imagination and make memories.

“Summer bucket list craft” hit an all-time high. Parenting trends seem to show that more families are turning to hands-on, homemade planning to get some of the kids out there and enjoying a planned summer.   

If you’re planning your own summer activities bucket list, here are a few trends to consider:

• Kids, sand, and water tables doubled in search volume, showing that parents of toddlers are leaning into sensory play.
• Kids’ picnic table was the top-trending related search, suggesting that more families are taking the fun outside, even if it’s just in the backyard.
• Summer camps are always a popular search. Check with your church, community hall, or school. 
• Building a fort is a classic favorite for rainy days or just for fun. You can use cushions from the couch and lengths of sheeting. 
• Another trending activity is crochet. Again, teaching the kids a simple craft can fill a rainy day. 

Petting Zoos & Movies

Popular choices for summer activities for kids include movies, petting zoos, splash pads, and even gymnastics. Those options are especially helpful if you’re budgeting for summer but still want to keep things exciting.

If you’re searching for something close to home, you’re in good company. Among the top “near me” searches were splash pads, summer camps, movie theaters, carnivals, and swim lessons. 

Whether you’re planning big adventures or simple backyard afternoons, there are endless ways to make this summer one your kids will always remember. Just keep it playful, stay flexible, and don’t forget the sunscreen. Remember, always be especially vigilant around water, especially swimming pools.

Summer statistics for accidents and drownings in water are all too real due to a lack of adult supervision.

Can you add any suggestions about kids’ summer activities this summer? Shout out in the comments below, and come back here often for all your parenting tips and updates.