By: Molly Thomas

It’s the middle of the summer for most of us and you may be needing some inspiration on new ways to get outside. Especially in college, most of us have a three month long summer. Hopefully you’ve got the chance to go outside a decent amount this summer, but if you need some new ideas on what to do, I’m here to help!

The classic hiking

Especially in Wisconsin, there are many options for hiking destinations. Research where the closest walking/hiking trails are to you! Some of my favorites are in Door County, Lapham Peak in Delafield, Kohler-Andrae State Park in Sheboygan, and the Riverfront in Milwaukee. Take advantage of the Wisconsin scenery this summer. Our Top Wisconsin State Parks blog is a great read for this topic, and provides a list of the top 10 Wisconsin State Parks to visit while it’s still summer!

Picnicking

You can picnic almost anywhere you want as long as you have the materials. Grab a friend, some food, a blanket, and there you go. You can picnic at the beach, a park, school, the library, even at your house. Since you bring your own food, it is also a cheaper option than going out to eat.

Outdoor restaurants/ice cream

Going to an outdoor restaurant or ice cream place is a great way to spend some time outside. Plus, you get some desert out of the deal too. Don’t be afraid to make a trip and try some new places, you never know when you’ll discover your new favorite place. If you need some help thinking of ice cream shops to visit, check out our Wisconsin Food Trails blog! This blog references some of the best ice cream shops in southern Wisconsin, making it a great read if you’re in need of some inspiration!

Crafting outside

Gather up some friends, choose a craft you’ve been wanting to do for a while, and get going. You can even check out Robert’s Art Gallery Craft Corner Blog at: https://blogs.uww.edu/ucinfo/category/craft-corner/  for some crafting ideas. Tie dye is a great summer craft, making friendship bracelets, painting, using chalk; the opportunities are endless. You’re never too old to grab some chalk and doodle on your driveway. 

Plant some plants

Whether you think of yourself as having a green thumb or not, planting some flowers or plants is a great way to spruce up your space outside. If you haven’t had the best history with plants, you can even pot some succulents outside to keep and take care of inside! Succulents are great if you need a lower-maintenance plant option. There is a right plant option for anyone, and our Easy Houseplants That Anyone Can Keep Alive blog is a great read to find that perfect fit for you!

Watch the sunrise/sunset

At least once in their lifetime, everyone should wake up before the sun to watch the sunrise. It is a peaceful experience, and you’d get some cool pictures from it, not to mention the memories. You could even turn this into a breakfast date and grab some food or coffee after. But, if going back to sleep sounds more appealing, have at it.

Some of these summer activities may be pretty obvious, and others not so much. Hopefully this helped you if you’ve been wanting to take advantage of the outdoors more, or if you and your friends needed some new activities to do together. Have a great rest of your summer, and go get outside!