It's never too early to start thinking of fun activities to embrace the crisp air of spring! However, it's easy to overspend if you don't plan ahead. So we've gathered up budget-friendly spring bucket list ideas you can do for spring break, a staycation, or any spring weekend. These activities are perfect for adults, kids, and everyone in between.
Why you should have a spring bucket list of activities
A list is an excellent way to keep track and remember the fun activities you’d like to do. It’s also a great practice to get your kids or household involved in making a spring bucket list for the family to try this year. This way, you can be intentional about how you spend your time and money.
Making a list also saves you money! Keeping kids entertained can be expensive without proper planning. And there’s no surefire way of blowing your monthly budget than giving in to an impulse run to the mall or Target because you have nothing to do on a Saturday afternoon.
25 Fun and budget-friendly spring bucket list ideas
Here are some excellent spring bucket list ideas to help you plan and spend some quality time with your family and friends.
1. Dine outdoors
One of the best ways to enjoy the warmer weather is to dine outside. Set up your backyard early this spring so you can take lunches or dinners out there. You can also enjoy the crisp spring air at your favorite restaurants.
Bonus tip: Patio dining is not as crowded in the spring months, so you get more room and privacy.
2. Feed the ducks
If you have small children, then you should definitely include this in your spring bucket list. When I used to nanny, feeding the ducks was such a fun activity that brought lots of squeals and smiles from the kids.
Now that I have my own kids visiting the ducks is also one of their favorite things to do. We’re lucky to live in a neighborhood with lots of walking trails and little ponds. It’s always exciting for them and for me to see the flocks of ducks and mallards.
Also, be mindful of the dos and don’ts of feeding wild ducks. Avoid bread and crackers as they have no nutritional value to ducks and can cause malnutrition and painful deformities. Bring cracked corn, oats, rice, birdseed, frozen peas, chopped lettuce, or sliced grapes for the ducks instead. Happy feeding!
3. Fly a kite
Springtime brings warm breezes and sunny days. In other words, perfect weather for flying a kite. Kiting is a budget-friendly outdoor activity that you should include in your spring bucket list, especially if you have kids.
All that time outside chasing kites means the kids are getting some sun and exercise. Kite flying is also great for strengthening their hand-eye coordination. So grab those kites and head outdoors for a day of fun in the sun.
4. Go pick some berries
There’s no shortage of berries to be picked starting as soon as the warmer weather starts. So make sure to add it to your spring bucket list ideas. Strawberry picking typically runs from early March to late June.
Springtime is also a good time to start checking out picking spots for wild blackberries and raspberries. However, berries don’t ripen until around May or June.
If you’re picking from a farm, check their hours and the availability of fruit before heading out. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water because it can get hot.
5. Try bird watching
Bird watching is an activity that can be done all year round since the birds you see change each season. However, spring and fall migration are the hottest birding times when hundreds of species pass through.
If you’re new to bird watching, pick up a field guide or download a birding app. The Merlin Bird ID and Audubon Birds are free apps to get you started.
So, why not add bird watching to your spring bucket list? Reconnect with nature through these wondrous creatures, also known as the last of the dinosaurs!
6. Hike a new trail
There’s a reason why doctors recommend walking as exercise. It’s because it improves circulation, strengthens muscles, and lightens moods. So, why not include hiking in your spring bucket list ideas and enjoy the benefits of walking with nature?
Imagine it – the warm sunshine on your face, the cool breeze, and the sounds of nature all around you. So here’s your invitation to get out there this spring. Just make sure to consult a trail map before heading out so you know what to expect.
7. Take a road trip
Is there a place you’ve always wanted to see and experience? Or do you want to visit family and friends? If so, why not make the visit into a road trip this spring? Traveling is half the fun! So, make sure to involve the kids in the planning if you are traveling with them.
To reduce the stress over the cost of the trip, list your anticipated expenses, make a budget and start saving now. Next, get a map and plan your route and stops. Then, make a list of games, entertainment options, and what to pack for the trip.
8. Visit a farmer’s market
If you’ve never or rarely shopped at a farmer’s market before, make sure to add it to this year’s spring bucket list ideas. Farmer’s markets are an excellent place to shop for fresh produce.You get tasty fruits and vegetables grown locally, and you’ll be supporting local farmers and businesses.
9. Plant a garden
Add plant a garden to your spring bucket list and try your hand at planting herbs, vegetables, or flowers. If you wish to plant and grow herbs, you can start planting them as soon as March rolls around. Peas, lettuce, beets, and broccoli are also great options for a spring garden.
If you’re more into flowers, you can’t go wrong with pansies, daffodils, and tulips for a spring garden. You may also want to visit your local garden center or nursery if you need more guidance on plants that are suited and easy to grow in your area.
10. Go fishing
Do you know that fishing is one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities in the US? It’s true! In fact, more women and kids are taking it up as a hobby.
So, why not join them and include fishing on your spring bucket list ideas this year? It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with your family and friends. Whether you’re revisiting something you haven’t done in years or trying it for the first time, make sure you read up on what you need to prepare.
11. Go to the zoo
The zoo is a perfect day trip destination for any season. But most especially in the spring when humans and animals are waking up from being cooped up inside all winter.
It is definitely a favorite activity for my household. I love seeing my kid’s excitement and amazement as he sees the animals up close and personal.So, why not include a trip to the zoo on your spring bucket list? Go say hi to the animals as they come out of hibernation. It will be fun!
12. Go stargazing
There’s a whole universe out there, literally! And you don’t need much to enjoy it. You can go to a nice clearing for a better view or stargaze in your own backyard.
Check out the weather forecast for a clear night. Bring some blankets, hot cocoa, and you’re set. So, for a quiet and budget-friendly activity, make sure to add stargazing to your spring bucket list ideas.
13. Take new family pictures
Spring is also a great time to take new family pictures. Unfortunately, my husband and two boys never want to take pictures. That’s why I learned to be intentional and plan family picture days.
Planning picture days also gives me a reason to get my hair done and get dressed and a way to get my kids in cute outfits. Win-win! Add it to your spring bucket list, and have fun!
14. Have a water balloon fight
A water balloon fight could be what you’re looking for if you’re open to getting wet, running around, and a lot of squeals. Check out these 1500 water balloons from Amazon! Fill them up and invite some friends and family for a water balloon battle.
15. Have a family camp out in the backyard
Camping out in the backyard is easily one of my favorite spring bucket list ideas! It's also a great staycation idea.
I can tell the kids we’re going camping without packing the car and driving anywhere. And no one has to go pee in the bushes? I’m in!
So, this spring, pitch a tent, make a fire and enjoy your backyard camping style. Make s’mores, hotdogs, and tell scary stories for an unforgettable experience.
16. Have a family game night
Spend some quality time with your family and friends while playing fun, silly games. This is one spring bucket list idea that doesn’t take a lot of effort. Choose a game and pick teams to compete against each other.
Just make sure to pick a game that lets every member of the family participate. Keep a scoreboard or change the rules to make it more fun and less about winning. Either way, get ready for an exciting family game night!
17. Attend a local outdoor festival
Another great addition to your spring bucket list ideas is to rediscover what your place has to offer. Be a tourist in your own city and attend a local outdoor festival. Check out your local library or Google “events in your city” for festivals near you.
18. Catch the opening game of a sport you love
Opening games are exciting whether you’re an avid fan or a first-time attendee. Most organizations also set up activities and raffles during opening games. So, it’s always a festive event to go to.
19. Invite family and friends for a picnic
Spring is also a great time of the year to take your family and friends on a picnic at the park. Make great memories while having some delicious food. You can also bring a Frisbee or plan some games and make a day of it.
20. Go on an Easter egg hunt
A spring bucket list can not be complete without an Easter egg hunt, especially if you have little kids. You may choose to go to an event near you, or you can set up your own easter egg hunt.
Get ready with some pastel balloons and Easter decorations. Prepare plastic eggs in advance and fill them with small toys, candy, or numbers that correspond to bigger prizes, if you like.
Prizes could be stuffed animals, chocolate bunnies, or gift certificates. You can also decorate the snack table with pastel-colored tablecloths and streamers to go with the Easter theme.
21. Make spring crafts
Get your kids excited about spring by bringing the theme to your crafts table. Check out this list of easy spring crafts for kids for ideas on what to make. (We also have some great ideas on our money-making craft list!) Or you can ask them to help you dye some easter eggs and make Easter cards for family and friends.
You may also choose to get a wooden birdhouse. You can find them at most craft stores or online. Then, get your kids to paint them with acrylic paints and display them in your front or back yard.
22. Bake something spring-themed
With so many fruits in season for spring, you have the most options for whatever you want to make. Think of recipes for apricots, cherries, rhubarb, and berries! Look through this list of 55 spring desserts if you’re in need of new ideas.
23. Go on a nature scavenger hunt
Nature scavenger hunts are a great way to keep kids busy and outdoors. So, whether you have toddlers or teenagers, make sure to add this activity to your spring bucket list ideas. Simply make a list of items you want them to find, and you’re set to go.
24. Spring clean your home
Spring cleaning is a must for every spring bucket list! It’s also the perfect season for it. Try to find ways to motivate yourself and your household to get rid of things you no longer use.
For instance, you can make a game out of it by seeing who can clean their room the fastest. So, set a date, put some music on, and think of creative ways to get your kids to help.
25. Volunteer for a cause you care about
This is also a must-add to your spring bucket list ideas. There is always a need in every community for volunteers. And you don’t necessarily need a charitable organization to help out or make a difference.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer yourself or get your own kids involved in volunteering, you can find opportunities to do so in your community. Here are some ways you can help out:
- Go to a homeless shelter to cook or serve meals.
- Have your kids offer popsicles to garbage truck workers.
- Participate in a park clean-up event.
- Volunteer at a local nursing home or assisted living facility.
- Connect with a local organization to cook and deliver meals to people who are sick.
- Drive a neighbor to run errands or shop for groceries.
- Plant flowers at a local school or library.
- Put together a neighborhood garage sale and donate the profits to charity.
Make your own budget-friendly spring bucket list
There you have it – our favorite budget-friendly spring bucket list ideas! We hope we’ve given you some inspiration for your own list. So go out this spring and have fun, new experiences!
Start saving for your spring bucket list with our completely free "Savings challenge bundle!" These challenges will make saving fun and easy, and you will bulk up your savings in no time. Check out the Clever Girls Know podcast and YouTube channel for more great money tips!
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in fun activities and budget-friendly ideas for spring, I can provide you with information related to all the concepts used in this article. Let's dive into each concept:
Spring Bucket List: A spring bucket list is a collection of activities or experiences that one wants to accomplish or enjoy during the spring season. It can include a variety of outdoor and indoor activities, events, or goals that are specific to springtime.
Budget-friendly: Budget-friendly refers to activities or ideas that are affordable and don't require a significant amount of money. These ideas focus on maximizing enjoyment without overspending or breaking the bank.
Dine outdoors: Dining outdoors refers to the activity of having meals or snacks in an open-air setting, such as a backyard, patio, or a restaurant with outdoor seating. It allows individuals to enjoy the pleasant weather and the ambiance of the surrounding environment.
Feed the ducks: Feeding the ducks is a popular activity, especially for families with small children. It involves providing food, such as cracked corn, oats, rice, birdseed, frozen peas, chopped lettuce, or sliced grapes, to ducks in ponds or other suitable locations. It can be a fun and educational experience for children to observe and interact with wildlife.
Fly a kite: Flying a kite is a classic outdoor activity, especially during spring when the weather is favorable. It involves launching a kite into the air using a string or a line and letting it soar with the help of the wind. It can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience for people of all ages.
Pick berries: Picking berries, such as strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or other seasonal fruits, is a popular activity during the spring and summer months. It involves visiting farms or designated picking spots and gathering fresh berries directly from the plants. It can be a fun and rewarding experience, and the harvested berries can be used for various culinary purposes.
Bird watching: Bird watching is the activity of observing and identifying wild birds in their natural habitats. It can be done year-round, but spring and fall migrations are particularly exciting times for bird enthusiasts. Bird watching can be a peaceful and educational experience, allowing individuals to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of avian species.
Hiking: Hiking is a recreational activity that involves walking or trekking on trails, often in natural environments such as forests, mountains, or parks. It offers individuals the opportunity to enjoy physical exercise, appreciate scenic views, and immerse themselves in nature. Spring is a popular time for hiking due to the pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.
Road trip: A road trip refers to a journey or travel adventure taken by car, typically covering a significant distance and involving multiple destinations or stops along the way. It can be an exciting way to explore new places, visit family and friends, or experience different landscapes and cultures. Planning and budgeting for a road trip in advance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Farmers market: A farmers market is a place where local farmers, growers, and producers gather to sell their fresh produce, artisanal products, and other goods directly to consumers. It offers a unique shopping experience, promotes sustainable agriculture, and supports local businesses and communities. Visiting a farmers market during spring allows individuals to access a wide variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other farm products.
Gardening: Gardening involves the cultivation and care of plants, such as flowers, herbs, or vegetables, in a garden or other designated areas. Spring is an ideal time for gardening, as it marks the beginning of the growing season. Planting a garden can provide individuals with a rewarding and relaxing hobby, as well as a source of fresh produce or beautiful blooms.
Fishing: Fishing is a recreational activity and a popular hobby that involves catching fish from rivers, lakes, or oceans using various techniques and equipment. It can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time outdoors, connect with nature, and potentially catch a delicious meal. Spring offers favorable conditions for fishing, as fish become more active after the winter months.
Zoo visit: Visiting a zoo allows individuals to observe and learn about a wide range of animal species in a controlled and educational environment. Spring is a great time to visit the zoo, as many animals may be more active and visible after the colder winter months. It can be a fun and educational experience for both children and adults.
Stargazing: Stargazing involves observing and studying celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and galaxies, in the night sky. It can be done with the naked eye or with the help of telescopes or binoculars. Spring can provide clear and comfortable nights for stargazing, allowing individuals to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the universe.
Family pictures: Taking family pictures is a way to capture and preserve special moments and memories with loved ones. Spring can provide a picturesque backdrop with blooming flowers and lush landscapes. Planning a family photoshoot can be a fun and creative activity, and the resulting photos can be cherished for years to come.
Water balloon fight: A water balloon fight is a playful and refreshing activity that involves throwing and dodging water-filled balloons. It can be a great way to cool down and have fun with friends and family, especially during warmer spring days.
Backyard campout: Having a campout in the backyard allows individuals to experience the joys of camping without leaving the comfort of home. It can be a family-friendly activity that includes setting up a tent, building a fire, and enjoying outdoor cooking and storytelling. Backyard camping is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional camping trips.
Family game night: Having a family game night involves gathering together to play board games, card games, or other interactive games as a family. It can be a fun and bonding activity that promotes friendly competition and quality time spent together.
Outdoor festival: Attending a local outdoor festival allows individuals to immerse themselves in the culture, music, food, and activities of their community. Spring often brings a variety of festivals, such as arts and crafts fairs, food festivals, or music concerts, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Opening game of a sport: Attending the opening game of a favorite sport or team can be an exciting and festive experience. It allows individuals to support their team, enjoy the atmosphere of the event, and engage in various activities or promotions organized around the game.
Picnic: Having a picnic involves packing a meal or snacks and enjoying them outdoors, typically in a park or natural setting. It can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time with family and friends, surrounded by nature and good food.
Easter egg hunt: An Easter egg hunt is a traditional activity, especially for children, where hidden eggs are searched for and collected. It often takes place outdoors, and the eggs can be filled with small toys, candy, or other surprises. Easter egg hunts are commonly organized during the spring season, particularly around the Easter holiday.
Spring crafts: Spring crafts refer to creative projects or activities that are inspired by the season. They can include various art and craft techniques, such as painting, paper crafts, or DIY projects, with themes related to flowers, animals, or other spring elements.
Baking: Baking spring-themed treats or desserts allows individuals to explore recipes that incorporate seasonal fruits and flavors. It can be a fun and delicious activity to try new recipes and indulge in sweet treats during the spring season.
Nature scavenger hunt: A nature scavenger hunt is a game or activity where participants search for and collect specific items or natural objects in an outdoor environment. It can be a great way to engage children with nature, encourage exploration, and learn about the environment.
Spring cleaning: Spring cleaning refers to the practice of thoroughly cleaning and organizing one's home or living space. It often involves decluttering, deep cleaning, and reorganizing various areas and belongings. Spring is a popular time for cleaning as it signifies a fresh start and a renewed sense of order.
Volunteering: Volunteering involves offering one's time, skills, or resources to assist others or support a cause. It can be a meaningful and fulfilling way to give back to the community and make a positive impact. There are numerous volunteering opportunities available in every community, ranging from helping at shelters, organizing events, or assisting vulnerable populations.
