20 Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities for May
These Outdoor Ideas Work Just as Well for Couples Who Want to Slow Down and Soak Up Spring
As a family, we always look for enjoyable activities to share—even if our 17-year-old often opts out! Fortunately, our 5-year-old granddaughter (who I will call P) cherishes the time spent with us and eagerly participates in many of our adventures. With spring officially here, May presents the perfect opportunity when the weather warms up just enough to make outdoor outings delightful before it becomes too hot to enjoy being outside fully. This month is ideal for reconnecting as a family and shaking off the winter slump.
I’ve gathered 20 family-friendly outdoor activities to help you slow down, be present, and create lasting memories with your loved ones—without breaking the bank. You’ll find that many of these activities are also excellent for couples looking to strengthen their bond.
So, let’s dive into May and make the most of it!
1. Backyard Picnic with a Twist
Lay out blankets, pack a cooler with your family’s favorite finger foods, and add something fun like a “build-your-own sandwich” station or smoothie bar.
2. DIY Nature Scavenger Hunt
Customize it for different ages—think pinecones, ladybugs, wildflowers, or even “something yellow.” It is excellent for kids and keeps adults off their phones.
3. Sidewalk Chalk Art Gallery
Turn your driveway or sidewalk into a rotating art exhibit. Bonus idea: leave kind messages for neighbors to brighten their day.
4. Visit a Farmer’s Market
Support local, teach your kids about fresh produce, and grab something seasonal for dinner that night. It’s a learning experience and an adventure all in one.
5. Fly Kites at the Park
Windy spring days are made for this. Make it a challenge: who can keep their kite up the longest?
6. Plant Something Together
Whether it’s a whole garden or just a few herbs in pots, something is grounding (literally) about getting your hands in the soil as a family. My granddaughter loves to “garden” with me. She usually wanders all over the backyard but likes to dig and plant flowers.
7. Mini Golf Night
Find a local course and go early in the evening when it’s less crowded. The loser buys snow cones!
8. Go Birdwatching
Grab binoculars and a simple bird guide. Even young kids love pointing out birds, and it’s a calm, mindful way to explore nature. My husband and I started bird watching last year and enjoyed it. P comes with us occasionally with her binoculars and has a great time.
9. Host a Backyard Game Night
Cornhole, ladder toss, frisbee, or an old-school potato sack race—make it a tournament if you're feeling competitive.
Birding in spring 2024 with our granddaughter.
10. Sunset Walk + Ice Cream Stop
It's an easy ritual that never gets old. Walk the block or hit a trail—end with a sweet treat.
11. Make Nature Crowns
Gather dandelions, leaves, and twigs to craft your wearable nature art. Kids love this one, and it sparks so much creativity.
12. Visit a Local Botanical Garden or Arboretum
Perfect for photos, peaceful walks, and teaching your kids (or grandkids!) the names of plants and flowers.
13. Stargazing on a Blanket
Check a stargazing app and head outside for a little after-dark quiet time. Let kids spot constellations or make up their own. I can get our son to join me if there is a solar or lunar event. In the last year, we have enjoyed viewing the solar eclipse, the aurora borealis, and the lunar eclipse.
14. Lemonade Stand or Bake Sale
Teaching entrepreneurship early gives them a reason to be proud of their efforts (and savings!). I enjoy seeing the kids in the neighborhood do this.
15. Outdoor Movie Night
All you need is a sheet, a projector (or tablet propped up creatively), popcorn, and cozy blankets. P and I had fun doing this last year. I anticipate we will do this again in the spring.
16. Go Geocaching
It’s like real-life treasure hunting. Use a free app to find hidden caches in your area—surprisingly addictive.
17. Hike a New Trail
Choose something new but manageable. Even a 20-minute nature walk becomes an adventure with the right attitude. My husband and I do this in the warmer months. Cleveland and other lakefront communities across Ohio have wonderful metro parks.
18. DIY Obstacle Course
Set it up in the yard using jump ropes, cones, cardboard boxes, hula hoops—whatever you’ve got. Time each other for extra laughs.
19. Wash the Car Together
Let kids be part of the process—it’s fun, messy, and oddly satisfying. Foam bubbles, squeals, and teamwork? Yes, please. I enjoy washing the car and have been doing this since I was a kid. I don’t do it often now, but it is a great way to enjoy the weather and feel productive.
20. Visit a Local Fair or Festival
Check your town’s event calendar. May often brings free or low-cost family events that help you explore your community.
Your May Memory-Making Starts Now
You don’t have to spend big or plan elaborate outings to make May memorable. Sometimes, the best days are the simplest ones—phones are down, the sun is shining, and everyone feels a little more connected. So pick a few ideas from this list, pencil them into your calendar, and permit yourself to enjoy the slower, sunnier days ahead.
Because family time shouldn’t be just another thing on the to-do list—it should be the good stuff that fills your cup.
What’s your favorite way to spend time outdoors in May? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to add more ideas to the list!
Stargazing in 2024. Aurora Borealis and the Solar Eclipse.
