7 Things to Do Before Summer Ends
As the school year approaches, families everywhere are looking to squeeze in just a little more summer fun. This summer bucket list for families is packed with ideas to help you end the season on a high note!
Here are 7 unforgettable back-to-school activities to check off before you zip back to school:
1. Plan a Backyard Campout
Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and tell stories under the stars. With small kiddos, they’ll love catching fireflies or naming different constellations. A backyard campout is a low-stress way to enjoy the great outdoors without any travel required (we’re all a little travel weary after our summer escapades!).
2. Visit a Local Water Park
Cool off with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. It’s a classic summer outing that never gets old – especially with this year’s summer temps. If you’re sick of being wet (it was a record-setting rainfall summer!), you can still escape the heat by spending time in the woods. The Treetop Temperature is up to 25 degrees cooler, and the canopy can provide a good natural umbrella.
3. Host a Family Game Night
Break out the board games or create your own backyard obstacle course. Bonus points for prizes and snacks! We recommend a forest fuel station: banana chips or fresh banana slices; treetop trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips; and S’mores kits or s’mores-flavored snacks.
4. Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Town
Explore a new place close to home. Visit a quirky museum, try a local diner, or find a hidden hiking trail. Many places offer special summer events and local farmer’s markets that are in peak season!
5. Try a New Outdoor Activity
Step outside your comfort zone with something adventurous, like axe throwing, paddleboarding, or a treetop adventure at Go Ape!
Connect with your favorites while you climb, swing, and zip through the forest on a thrilling course designed to meet or exceed all safety standards. Experience the ultimate adventure with ziplines ranging from 300 to 1000-feet long, or with smaller kids, try out a course designed for all ages. It’s the perfect mix of challenge and fun and will create memories and stronger bonds that your family won’t forget.
See what Special Events are happening at Go Ape now, or take advantage of a Family Fun Ticket Bundle
Explore Go Ape’s Treetop Adventures
6. Make a Summer Scrapbook
Print your favorite photos, collect ticket stubs, and write down your favorite moments. It’s a great way to reflect and get excited for the year ahead. This is a great place to stash those adventurous photos and reminisce on for years to come!
7. Have One Last Big Adventure
Before the backpacks come out, go big with one final summer hurrah. Don’t miss Go Ape’s Back-to-School Bash! Until August 31, 2025, book a group of 5 and only pay for 4!*
Applicable for Treetop experiences at participating Go Ape locations. Offer valid for reservations from now through August 31st. Redeem with promo code 5THFREE at check-in to receive your free ticket (only valid for groups of 5+). One free ticket per reservation of 5+. Promo code must be redeemed at time of booking to receive offer.
About Go Ape
Go Ape believes in creating spaces where people of all ages and abilities can escape the ordinary, rediscover their courage, and embrace the thrill of discovery. Here, in the treetops or along scenic paths, lifelong bonds are forged, confidence is renewed, and laughter echoes through the canopy. Go Ape isn’t just an activity; it’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose.
Go Ape isn’t just an activity. It’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose. Let’s rise above together. Visit goape.com.
Find Your Go Ape location:
- Arlington-Dallas, Texas
- Plano, Texas
- Houston-Sugarland, Texas
- Williamsburg, Virginia
- Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Bear, Delaware
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Ocean City, Maryland
- Rockville, Maryland
- Kansas City, Missouri
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Springfield, Virginia (Washington DC)