Create unforgettable family memories with this bucket list of 30 must-do activities before your kids grow up.
As parents, life can often feel like a whirlwind of school runs, laundry, meal prep and bedtime routines. In the hustle and bustle of raising children, it’s easy to put personal dreams on the backburner. But what if you could carve out time for a few unforgettable experiences, ticking off some bucket list items with the kids before they grow up?
The good news is, it’s not too late. Whether you’re dreaming of a road trip through stunning landscapes or a trip to a vibrant city, there’s a world of adventure waiting to be explored. Here are 30 bucket list items to inspire your own family journey.
1. Fly a kite on a windy day
There’s something magical about standing in an open field with your family, feeling the tug of the kite as the wind lifts it higher and higher. The kids cheer as it dances in the sky and for a moment, time slows down—just you, the breeze and the pure joy of being together. It’s one of those simple, beautiful memories that will stay with you long after the kite comes back down.
2. Surf the waves together
There’s nothing like the first time you all paddle out, waiting for the perfect wave, hearts racing with excitement. The kids giggle as they wobble and fall, and you cheer each other on, whether you stand up for a split second or wipe out spectacularly. By the end of the day, salty-haired and sun-kissed, you’re all exhausted but grinning, already planning for the next time.
3. Create a family recipe
Some of the best family moments happen in the kitchen—flour on little hands, laughter filling the air and the smell of something amazing coming together. Maybe it’s a twist on an old favourite or something completely new, but it’s yours, a dish that will always remind you of home. Years from now, when your kids make it for their own families, they’ll remember this moment—the mess, the fun and the love poured into every bite.
4. Learn how to dance
Take the whole family to a fun dance class where everyone can let loose and learn some exciting moves together. Whether it’s hip-hop, salsa or even ballroom, a family dance class is a great way to bond, laugh and get active. It’s a lively, energetic experience that creates lasting memories and is perfect for all ages and skill levels.
5. The ultimate camping trip
A family camping trip is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with each other and nature. Set up tents under the stars, gather around a crackling campfire and enjoy cooking food over an open fire, toasting bread on sticks and telling stories. During the day, explore hiking trails, swimming or making up songs on the guitar.
6. Go fruit picking on a local farm
Spend the day at a local farm picking fresh, seasonal fruit like strawberries, apples or blueberries. It’s a fun and hands-on way for kids to learn where their food comes from while enjoying the outdoors. Afterwards, use your harvest to make homemade treats like jam, pies or smoothies.
7. Road trip across Australia
Australia is a dream bucket list destination for many. The vast landscapes, from the stunning beaches of Byron Bay to the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback, offer unforgettable experiences. A road trip through all the states will find you hidden gems everywhere. Whether it’s stunning beaches on the Sunshine Coast, breathtaking views in the Blue Mountains, a quaint steamboat ride down the Murray River or climbing a sand dune in the Simpson Desert, there’s something to fascinate everyone.
8. Explore the Great Barrier Reef
Scuba diving or snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef is an absolute must for any adventurer. This UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast of Queensland is home to vibrant coral reefs, clear blue waters and abundant marine life.
9. Visit the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland
Explore the Daintree Rainforest, the largest rainforest in Australia, offering lush biodiversity and the chance to experience one of the oldest rainforests in the world.
10. Visit theme parks or Disneyland
The Gold Coast is home to world-class theme parks such as Dreamworld, Sea World and Warner Bros Movie World. These parks offer fun-filled days of rides, shows and animal encounters, making them perfect for kids. If you want to go abroad, why not check out one of the Disneylands in California, Florida, Paris, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
11. Drive the Great Ocean Road in Victoria
Embark on a scenic drive along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, renowned for its breathtaking coastal views and landmarks such as the 12 Apostles.
12. Admire the views at the Opera House in Sydney
The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-see for anyone visiting New South Wales. Whether you’re catching a performance or simply admiring the architecture and panoramic views of the harbour, it’s a landmark worth experiencing.
13. Swim with sharks at Jervis Bay
Swimming with sharks in Jervis Bay (NSW) offers an exciting and safe adventure, where participants can encounter shark species in crystal-clear waters, either as a free dive or in the safety of a glass bottom boat.
14. Week-long snow trip
Head to the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales for a family-friendly snow trip. Resorts like Thredbo and Perisher offer gentle slopes, ski schools for kids and snow play areas like tobogganing hills and snowman-building spots. It’s perfect for young beginners and families looking for a fun winter adventure. After a day in the snow, relax in cosy lodges and enjoy some hot chocolate together.
15. See the wildflowers in Western Australia
Western Australia is home to some of the country’s most spectacular wildflower displays, with over 12,000 species of native flowers that bloom from July to November. The region’s wildflowers paint the landscape in vibrant colours, creating a breathtaking tapestry of reds, yellows, purples and pinks.
16. Swim with whale sharks in Western Australia
Take a swim with the gentle giants of the ocean at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia, offering an unforgettable marine experience.
17. Explore the Australian Outback
The Australian Outback offers stunning vistas, wide open spaces and a sense of adventure that’s hard to beat. From Alice Springs to Uluru, the Outback is a place where families can experience the rugged beauty of Australia.
18. Go opal hunting at Coober Pedy
Spend a night underground in Coober Pedy, South Australia, a unique town where residents live in subterranean homes to escape the extreme heat of the Outback, surrounded by hidden opals.
19. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride
For an unforgettable adventurous family bucket list item, take a hot air balloon ride over stunning locations. Whether it’s locally or abroad in Europe, Turkey or India, a hot air balloon ride will create family memories to cherish forever.
20. Go white water rafting
For an adrenaline rush, white water rafting in Australia or New Zealand is a thrilling way to experience nature. The rapids, surrounded by dramatic landscapes, will make for lasting memories with your family.
21. Visit New Zealand’s stunning beaches
New Zealand is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the pristine sands of Maitai Bay and the dramatic coastlines of the South Island. It’s a perfect place for family hikes, photos or simply relaxing by the water.
22. See the Great Wall of China
A visit to the Great Wall of China is a thrilling experience that takes you back in time. Walking along this historic wonder offering amazing views. It’s a great way to teach your children about the world’s history.
23. Experience the Taj Mahal
Visiting the Taj Mahal in India is a journey into history and beauty. This stunning mausoleum is an architectural wonder and an emotional symbol of love. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting India and a perfect family adventure.
24. Watch a baseball game in New York
For sports lovers, there’s no better place than New York City to catch a baseball game. The energetic vibe of the crowd, the iconic Yankee Stadium and the joy of watching the game live will create an experience that the whole family will remember.
25. Visit the Grand Canyon
One of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon in the United States offers breathtaking views and beautiful trails. Whether you’re hiking, taking a helicopter tour or just marvelling at the scale of the canyon, it’s a perfect place for family photos and bonding.
26. Explore South Africa
South Africa is home to diverse landscapes, from dramatic mountains to the wild savanna. Embark on a safari in Kruger National Park or hike the stunning Table Mountain for breathtaking views of the city of Cape Town.
27. Visit the Eiffel Tower
While this is a bit more on the higher end of the budget because of flights, if you make a family money-saving goal, with parents and kids included, you will definitely make it there before they turn 18. The Eiffel Tower is an incredible structure, a fun day out and also a great way to burn off some energy by climbing all the steps.
28. See the Northern Lights
One of the most magical things to witness in life is the Northern Lights. Whether you travel to Norway, Iceland or Sweden, the vivid colours dancing in the sky will create an awe-inspiring moment for the whole family. No wonder it’s a bucket list item for so many people. For a more cost-effective option, you can catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights in Tasmania or New Zealand with some careful research and planning.
29. Summer in Switzerland
Take the kids to the Swiss Alps in spring or summer, where you can ride cable cars to stunning mountain peaks, hike scenic trails and explore alpine villages. Enjoy family-friendly activities like a boat ride on Lake Lucerne or a thrilling alpine coaster. The Alps in warmer months offer the perfect blend of adventure and outdoor fun for the whole family.
30. Santa’s House in Lapland
If you love the cold and everything Christmassy, then this one is for you. Lapland is the ultimate paradise for all things cosy and white. There, you’ll find Santa’s house, be able to spend the night in an igloo, ride on a reindeer or dog sled, and chase the Northern Lights.
Start checking them off
Life is short and time flies by quickly, especially when you have children. Before they grow up, make sure you check off some of the items on your bucket list. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure or a special intentional moment, these 30 ideas will inspire you to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
30 bucket list items to do before the kids grow up
