1. Take a Walk Around the Lake
Find a lake with a walking path and bring your partner or your canine companion. Enjoy the views, get some exercise and feed the ducks. Then, stop for some iced tea at the lakeside restaurant.
2. Go On a Hike
Many areas have hikes of varying lengths within city limits or a few miles outside of the city itself. You can choose shorter, more level hikes or head to the mountains and make it an all-day affair. Don’t forget good shoes, water, sunblock, and a hat.
3. Go On a Bike Ride
Rent a bike from the local bike shop or ride your own. Map out a route and calculate the distance using a bicycling app on your smartphone. Take extra water and don’t forget to wear a helmet. This can be a fun activity for kids, too.
4. Start a Fun, New Weekend Craft
You know that old dresser in your room that you’ve been wanting to spruce up? Get some sandpaper, wood stain and polyurethane and turn that dresser into a beautiful piece of furniture.
5. Go to a Wine Tasting
Head to a local wine bar and sample some of their finest offerings. Or, take it a step further and head to the local winery and sample their wines while walking in the vineyards.
6. Attend an Art Opening
Check out a local or national artist and head to your favorite gallery. Drink some wine, eat a little cheese and hors d’oeuvres while walking around admiring and discussing beautiful works of art.
7. Visit the Museum
Museums often have openings when they receive new collections. Attend a class, have your child go to camp, or browse the retail shop for gifts and clothing.
8. Go On a Picnic
Find a local park or recreation area and bring food and games for a day of fun. Play Frisbee, horseshoes, volleyball, soccer, or take a short hike. You might be able to swim or fish, rent a paddle boat, or find a comfortable spot to read a book.
9. Go to a Karaoke Bar
Sing to your favorite songs while enjoying the company of good friends. Order food, have a beverage and make a night of it.
10. Read a Book then See the Movie
When you read a good book, chances are it’s turned into a movie. Books like Harry Potter and The Help are recent popular favorites.
11. Go To a Tea House
Change it up a bit and instead of going for the coffeehouse, look for the tea house. You can sample different teas, try tea in loose leaf form or try out unusual herbal blends from all over the world.
12. Listen to Music at a Local Pub
Many bars and pubs feature local and regional artists throughout the week. Listen to a band you’ve never heard before. You never know. They just might become the next big thing, and you can say you saw them first.
13. Run a 5K
Running in a 5K is a great way to get in shape. Often, you can participate for charity or just for fun. Either way, recruit your friends or have them cheer you on. There are even 5K’s that are kid-friendly.
14. Go On an Art Walk
If there is an arts district in your area, you can visit lots of artist studios and see them in action. Arts districts often have once-monthly art walks where you can talk to artists, and purchase artwork right from their studios.
15. Visit the Animal Shelter and Walk a Dog
No need to adopt (unless you want to). Visit your local shelter and let a canine friend get a little exercise and fresh air by taking him on a walk. It’s not only good for the dog, it’s good for you, too.
16. Go Consignment Shopping
If you haven’t tried this, you’re missing out. You can find real treasures at consignment shops. Items are often new, if not gently used. You can also score nice clothes or shoes for a fraction of their original cost.
17. Shop Garage Sales
Check your local listings and set up a route to hit a lot of garage sales in one day. This is a great opportunity to find furniture, household items and stylish clothes at incredible prices.
18. Head to the Farmer’s Market
Meet local farmers and see where your food comes from. Many markets have music, local honey, baked goods, whimsical gifts, and a great opportunity to meet new people.
19. Attend a Poetry Reading at the Local Bookstore
Bookstores often have poetry readings; you can participate, too! Not only that, they might have local authors read an excerpt from their most recent novel. Grab some coffee, find a comfy chair, and prepare for a night of literary fun!
20. Go see a Play at the Local College
Students and professional actors alike put on theatrical performances throughout the year. Catch a matinee or bring a blanket and watch the sunset showing of Romeo and Juliet.
Have Fun!
With this list of ideas, you’re sure to have plenty to do for a weekend of spontaneity, fun, and relaxation. You might learn a few things, see a play you’ve never seen, but you definitely won’t be bored.
