Summer. The season of sunshine, slowing down, and being spontaneous. Whether you plan to soak up the sun, go exploring, or just make memories, this summer bucket list is the perfect resource to bring your ideas to life. From driving in your car, to hiking in national parks, this bucket list has something for everyone. Summer starts now!

Go Camping at a State Park

Virginia has 43 state parks, and over 30 of them have either drive-in, paddle-in, or hike-in campgrounds. There are classic tent campgrounds, RV campgrounds, cabin campgrounds, rental campgrounds, and “glamping” campgrounds一there is something for everyone. Most parks don’t charge more than $50 per night to stay on their grounds. 

Water Park or Amusement Park 

There is nothing more summer than spending a day at an amusement park or water park. With Virginia summer temperatures always being in the high 80s, cooling off in the water or catching a breeze on a roller coaster is just what you might need. Some water parks in Virginia are Massanutten Indoor WaterPark (general admission ranges from $48-$70 if you book 1-30 days before) and Water Country USA (single-day passes are $90, but they are usually on sale), and some amusement parks are Busch Gardens Williamsburg (single-day passes for $118, but they are usually on sale) and Kings Dominion (single-day admission starting at $42). 

Fruit or Flower Picking

Not only does flower picking result in a beautiful, custom bouquet of flowers, but it also gives you memories to cherish. Fruit picking in Virginia offers some of the most fresh, delectable fruits like peaches, cherries, blueberries, and blackberries. Fruit picking offers fresh air, exercise, and yummy, healthy treats. Some options for fruit picking in Virginia are Carter Mountain Orchard (kids get in for free, adults pay less than $20) and Great Country Farms ($10-$16 per person). You can go flower picking at Homestead Farm ($4 entry fee), White Oak Lavender Farm, or Wegmeyer Farms ($30 on weekdays, $35 on weekends). 

Attend a Fourth of July Celebration

Whether you want to spend the fourth running the Potomac River Running Firecracker 5k (starting at $30), or you want to relax and watch the Leesburg Independence Day Parade, there is something for everyone. You can see fireworks from the Potomac River, the Wintergreen Resort, or even historical sites like Williamsburg. There are so many ways to show your red, white, and blue. 

Concerts or Music Festivals

If there’s one thing that screams summer, it’s concerts and festivals. There are so many concert venues in Virginia like Jiffy Lube Live, Wolf Trap, Dr Pepper Park, and more. All you have to do is a quick Google search to see who is coming near you. Grab a blanket, grab a drink, and let the band do their thing. 

Beach

Hit the beach. The beach is an absolute must during the summer, and there are lots of nice beach options in Virginia like Virginia Beach, Cape Charles, and Colonial Beach. There are family-friendly beaches, beaches for surfing, and beaches for just relaxing. Take a day, or even a few, and drive to a local beach to lay out and soak up the sun. 

Day in DC

Lots of people forget that students attending PFHS are only an hour away from our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. It is a must to drive out to the city for a day and enjoy the historical monuments, scenery, and activities. DC is so diverse, that everytime you go, it will be a different experience. 

Tubing on the River

There are so many locations along the rivers in Virginia where you can spend the day bobbing around on a tube. Companies like the James River Runners ($28 per person) or the Twin River Outfitters (starting at $36) offer all day tubing adventures at your own pace. Especially in the Virginia summer heat, cooling off in the river is just what you will need. 

Hiking

If you get sick of laying at the pool, you should consider going for a hike on one of Virginia’s many hiking trails. The Appalachian Trail is over 500 miles long, offering endless views and trails. Shenandoah National Park also has miles and miles of trails with beautiful views of falls and mountains. 

Driving Around With Music

One last thing you can do at no cost is just go for some drives. Sometimes, the best memories are made late at night with the windows rolled down and music blasting. You can pick up your friends, grab some ice cream, and watch the sunset on the river. 

Summer is the perfect opportunity to bring your imagination to life, and these are just a few things you can do.