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Top Fun Things to Do with Families

March 21st 2024 • 16 min read
family on the beach at sunset

In today's fast-paced world, finding moments to pause and cherish time with our loved ones is more important than ever. Family time is not just a luxury; it's a precious opportunity to strengthen bonds, share laughter, and create memories that last a lifetime. Engaging in fun family activities offers a delightful way to reconnect, whether it’s through an impromptu living room campout, a competitive board game night, or a creative scavenger hunt in the backyard. These shared experiences not only bring joy but also reinforce the fabric of our relationships, making every moment count.

Giftory stands as a treasure trove of family fun, offering everything from cozy at-home experiences to thrilling outdoor adventures, ensuring no two family days are ever the same. Whether you’re looking to bond over virtual baking classes from the comfort of your living room or embark on a zipline adventure, Giftory has meticulously curated a range of activities to suit every family's interests and energy levels. It's a platform where imagination meets reality, providing endless opportunities for families to explore, learn, and laugh together. With Giftory, the challenge of finding new and exciting ways to spend time together is effortlessly solved, allowing families to focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories and strengthening their bonds through shared experiences.

Indoor Family Fun Acitivities

When the weather outside is less than inviting or when you're simply looking for a way to spend quality time together without leaving the comfort of your home, indoor family fun activities become the heroes of your day. The beauty of these activities lies in their simplicity and the minimal preparation required, making it easy for families to dive into a world of enjoyment and bonding at a moment's notice.

1. DIY Movie Theater

Create a home cinema experience with a selection of family-friendly movies, complete with popcorn and homemade tickets.

2. Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Set up clues around the house leading to a treasure, making for an adventurous and exciting activity.

3. Bake-Off Challenge

Pick a recipe for each family member to bake, then enjoy the delicious results together.

family having a baking session

 

4. Crafting Session

Gather supplies for painting, drawing, or making DIY arts and crafts, allowing everyone to express their creativity.

5. Living Room Campout

Set up a tent or make a fort with blankets, tell stories, and enjoy indoor 'camping' snacks.

cosy indoor blanket tent

 

6. Puzzle Time

Work together on a large jigsaw puzzle, a serene way to spend quality time while challenging the mind.

7. Karaoke Night

Sing your hearts out with a home karaoke setup, showcasing everyone's singing talents (or lack thereof).

8. Magic Show

Learn and perform magic tricks for each other, adding a touch of mystery and fun to your evening.

children taking part in a card trick

 

9. Family Book Club

Choose a book to read aloud together, discussing the story and characters as you go along.

10. Online Yoga Session

Follow a family-friendly online yoga class to relax and stretch together.

11. Dance Party

Crank up your favorite tunes and have a dance-off in the living room.

12. DIY Science Experiments

Conduct simple, safe science experiments using household items, sparking curiosity and learning.

child doing an experiment

 

13. Theme Night

Pick a theme (e.g., 'Under the Sea', 'Space Adventure') and plan activities, crafts, and snacks around it for a fully immersive experience.

14. Storytelling Circle

Each family member creates and tells their own story, using prompts for inspiration, fostering creativity and listening skills.

15. Home Theater Play

Write a short play together, then act it out with costumes and props found around the house, showcasing everyone's acting skills.

Outdoor Adventures With the Family

Embracing both the comfort of home and the call of the great outdoors, families have an endless array of activities to choose from for fun, bonding, and adventure. Whether scaling the heights of an indoor climbing wall, navigating the thrilling obstacles of an urban adventure park, or enjoying the simplicity of a backyard picnic, these activities cater to every interest and energy level.

16. Family Climbing Package

Experience the thrill of indoor climbing together. It's a great way to challenge yourselves physically and mentally while bonding.

17. Urban Adventure Park Outing

Explore an urban adventure park for a day filled with zip-lining and obstacle courses, perfect for active families.

kids at urban adventure arcade

 

18. Backyard Scavenger Hunt

Set up clues and hidden treasures around your backyard for an exciting family scavenger hunt.

19. Water Balloon Fight

Cool off on a hot day with a fun water balloon fight in your backyard or at a local park.

family having a water balloon fight

 

20. Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental

Paddle together on a local waterway with kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals.

21. Ninja Warrior Open Gym

Unleash your inner ninja with a family visit to a ninja warrior gym, where you can climb, jump, and swing.

22. Treasure Hunt Adventure

Organize a treasure hunt with maps and clues, either in your home or at a nearby park.

23. Miami Speedboat Adventure

Feel the thrill of speeding through the water on a speedboat adventure in Miami.

speedboat in Miami

 

24. Go Ape Treetop Adventure

Swing through the trees and enjoy high-flying fun at a Go Ape location.

25. Family Bike Ride

Hit the trails or a scenic path in your area for a leisurely family bike ride.

 

26. Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal outdoors in your local park, combining good food with outdoor relaxation.

27. Backyard Camping

Set up tents in the backyard for a night under the stars, complete with campfire stories and marshmallow roasting.

camping tent under the stars

 

28. Nature Walks

Explore a local nature trail or park, encouraging kids to observe plants and wildlife.

29. Outdoor Movie Night

Set up a projector in your backyard and enjoy a movie under the stars.

30. DIY Bird Feeders

Craft bird feeders from recyclable materials and hang them in your yard to attract and observe birds.

31. Frisbee Golf

Set up a homemade Frisbee golf course in your yard or a nearby park for a fun and active game.

32. Gardening Together

Start a small family garden, teaching kids about plants and responsibility.

man and child gardening together

 

33. Beach Day

Spend a day at the beach, building sandcastles, swimming, and playing beach games.

34. Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival

Transform your driveway or sidewalk into a canvas with colorful chalk art.

35. Outdoor Yoga Session

Enjoy a family-friendly yoga session in your backyard or a local park to relax and connect with nature.

36. Kite Flying

Fly kites together at a local open space, enjoying the simple joy of kite flying.

dad and daughter flying a kite together

 

37. Rock Skipping Contest

Visit a nearby lake or river for a rock skipping contest, combining skill and fun.

38. Stargazing Night

Lay out blankets in the backyard and use apps or guides to identify constellations and planets.

starry night

 

39. Outdoor Photography Challenge

Give family members a camera or smartphone and challenge them to capture nature's beauty during a hike or walk.

Creative and Educational Activities

Diving into the world of creativity and education offers families a treasure trove of opportunities to bond, learn, and grow together. From the tactile joy of pottery painting to the culinary delights of a cooking class, and the immersive experiences of museums and theaters, these activities are designed not just to entertain but to enrich. They foster a sense of curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for the arts and sciences in engaging and interactive ways. With experiences ranging from virtual masterclasses to hands-on art projects and explorations of the natural world, families can discover new passions and talents while making lasting memories.

40. Family Pottery Painting Open Studio

Spend a day at the pottery studio, painting and decorating your own ceramics. A fun way to get creative and bring home a keepsake.

41. Parents and Kids Cooking Class in NYC

Learn to cook three dishes together in this engaging family cooking class, perfect for budding chefs and food lovers.

family cooking class

 

42. Private Tour of Museum of Natural History for Families

Explore the wonders of the natural world with a private tour, making learning fun and interactive.

43. Kids Graffiti Drawing Class with Admission to the Museum of Graffiti

Unleash your child's artistic side with a graffiti drawing class, followed by a museum visit.

44. Private Graffiti Drawing Class

Dive deeper into the art of graffiti with a private class perfect for the whole family, fostering creativity and self-expression.

45. VIP Broadway Ticket - The Lion King

Experience the magic of Broadway and time together with VIP tickets to "The Lion King," a cultural and educational treat for the whole family.

lion king in theater

 

46. Art & Craft Workshops

Attend local workshops to learn new crafting techniques like knitting, pottery, or woodworking.

47. Visit a Science Museum

Stimulate curiosity by exploring interactive exhibits and experiments.

48. Join a Community Theater Group

Participate in or attend local theater productions to appreciate the performing arts.

49. Library Storytime and Activities

Join local library events for story readings and educational activities.

50. DIY Cards at Home

Make your own cards at home and get creative with colours and paints.

kids cards and crafts

 

51. Nature Sketching in the Park

Take sketchbooks to the park and draw the natural scenery, developing observation and drawing skills.

52. Historical Reenactment Events

Attend or participate in historical reenactments to learn about history in an immersive way.

53. Music Lessons Together

Learn a new instrument together, fostering both musical skills and family bonding.

young girl playing violin

 

54. Write and Illustrate Your Own Book

Collaborate on writing and illustrating a storybook, encouraging storytelling and artistic skills.

55. Origami and Paper Crafts

Learn the art of origami and paper crafting, developing fine motor skills and patience.

56. Cultural Festivals

Attend local cultural festivals to learn about different traditions and crafts.

57. Robotics Workshops for Kids

Enroll in workshops where kids can build and program their own robots, introducing them to basic engineering and coding.

58. Language Learning Games

Play games or use apps to learn new languages together, enhancing communication skills and global awareness.

 

59. Eco-Friendly Crafting

Use recycled materials for crafting projects, teaching the importance of sustainability.

60. Bake with a Legend Virtual Masterclass

Join a virtual baking class led by renowned bakers from the comfort of your kitchen. Perfect for families looking to improve their baking skills together and create delicious treats.

61. Virtual Museum Tours

Explore museums around the world through virtual tours, expanding knowledge of art, history, and science.

62. Create a Family Blog or Vlog

Document your family adventures and creative projects online, teaching digital literacy and storytelling.

63. Mindfulness and Meditation Sessions

Practice mindfulness or meditation together, promoting mental well-being and focus.

64. Chess Club

Join or form a family chess club to sharpen strategic thinking and planning skills.

playing chess

 

65. Puppet Making and Puppet Shows

Craft your own puppets and put on shows, encouraging creativity and narrative skills.

66. Gardening Projects

Start a small garden, learning about plants, ecology, and responsibility

Family Game Night Ideas

Transform your family evenings into unforgettable adventures with these engaging game night ideas, ensuring smiles, bonding, and a little friendly rivalry:

67. Select Age-Appropriate Board Games

Opt for games that cater to all ages, such as "Catan Jr." for strategy lovers or "Candy Land" for the younger ones. This ensures everyone can participate and enjoy.

68. Incorporate Card Games

Mix in classic card games like "Uno" or "Go Fish" for quick rounds that keep the energy high and are easy for all family members to grasp.

69. Explore Interactive Video Games

Choose family-friendly video games that encourage physical activity and teamwork, such as "Just Dance" or "Mario Kart," to bring a dynamic twist to game night.

family playing video games on the sofa

 

70. Establish a Regular Schedule

Make game night an anticipated event by setting a specific day and time each week or month, creating a tradition everyone looks forward to.

71. Theme Nights

Add variety by having theme nights where games are selected based on a particular theme, such as mystery, adventure, or sports, to keep the excitement alive.

72. Rotate Game Selection

Allow each family member to pick the game for the next session, giving everyone a chance to play their favorites and introduce new games to the group.

73. Create a Game Night Trophy

Introduce a fun, competitive element by having a trophy (or any fun item) that goes to the winner of the night, to be passed on each game night.

74. Snack Competition

Pair game night with a snack-making contest where each member prepares a simple treat. Vote on the best one for added fun.

plate of snacks

 

75. Educational Games

Include games that are not only fun but also educational, encouraging learning through play. Games like "Scrabble" or "Ticket to Ride" are great for this.

76. Puzzle Challenges

For a change of pace, work on a family puzzle together. Choose one with an appropriate difficulty level for a satisfying group accomplishment.

77. Outdoor Games, Indoors

Adapt outdoor games for the living room. Think mini indoor basketball hoops or soft indoor bowling sets for an active twist.

family playing jenga

 

78. DIY Game Creation

Encourage creativity by having a night where you play games created by family members. This could be a new card game, board game, or physical challenge.

79. Virtual Game Nights

For families with members far apart, organize virtual game nights using online game platforms or apps that allow group play.

80. Memory Lane Games

Spend a night playing games that parents or grandparents played in their childhood, sharing stories and creating a bridge between generations.

81. Charity Game Night

Dedicate one night to playing for a cause, where any winnings or points earned go towards a charity donation, teaching the value of giving back.

Special Occasions and Celebrations With the Family

Special occasions and celebrations are the perfect opportunities to create lasting memories and establish unique family traditions. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or simply looking for a reason to celebrate, here are some ideas to make these moments truly special:

82. Themed Birthday Parties

Choose a theme based on the interests of the birthday person and decorate the house accordingly. Add themed games and food for a cohesive celebration.

birthday party around the table

 

83. Holiday Bake-Offs

Organize a family bake-off for holidays, where each member bakes their favorite treat. Share stories about why those treats are meaningful to you.

84. DIY Decoration Day

Spend a day before a major celebration making decorations together. This could be for Christmas, Halloween, or any other special occasion.

85. Anniversary Time Capsules

Create a time capsule for family or wedding anniversaries with mementos from the year. Plan to open it on a future anniversary.

86. Cultural Celebration Nights

Dedicate evenings to celebrating different cultures' holidays or significant days, with authentic cuisine, music, and learning about the traditions.

87. Family Achievement Parties

Celebrate individual or collective achievements with a special party. Acknowledge accomplishments like graduations, promotions, or personal milestones.

graduation

 

88. Seasonal Craft Parties

Host a crafting session tailored to the current season. Make ornaments in winter, carve pumpkins in fall, or plant flowers in spring.

89. Surprise Day Trips

Plan surprise outings for family members on their special day, tailored to their interests and hobbies.

90. Customized Gift Making

For birthdays and holidays, spend time creating personalized gifts for each other, from homemade crafts to personalized playlists.

91. Memory Lane Evenings

For anniversaries or significant dates, go through old photos and videos, sharing stories and reminiscing about past joys.

looking through old photos

 

92. Volunteer Together

Mark a special occasion by giving back, choosing a cause or organization to volunteer with as a family.

93. Garden Planting

For spring celebrations or Earth Day, plant something in your garden as a living reminder of the day.

94. Karaoke Competition

Host a family karaoke night, where each member performs their favorite songs, adding a playful and musical twist to your celebration.

family karaoke

 

95. Special Occasion Breakfasts

Start the day of a special occasion with a lavish breakfast, featuring all the favorite dishes of the person or people being celebrated.

96. Family Talent Show

Showcase everyone's talents with a family talent show, making special occasions entertaining and unique.

97. Birthday BBQ

Get the family together and cook up a storm with a family fun BBQ, filled with food, laughter and good times.

FAQs on Planning Family Activities

How do I find activities suitable for different age groups?

Choose versatile activities that offer various engagement levels, such as board games with easy-to-modify rules or outdoor adventures that can be tailored to everyone's physical ability. Consider activities that naturally allow for different roles, ensuring that each family member can participate in a way that suits their age and interests.

What are some budget-friendly family activity ideas?

Look for fun that doesn't cost a dime, like nature hikes, DIY craft projects using materials around the house, or movie nights with homemade popcorn. Many communities offer free or low-cost events and workshops suitable for families, from art classes to outdoor concerts.

How can I keep teenagers engaged in family activities?

Engage teenagers by involving them in the planning process, giving them a say in what activities are chosen. Offer options that touch on their interests, whether it's tech-based activities, sports, or creative projects, and be open to exploring new trends together.

How can we ensure everyone feels included?

Start by discussing activity ideas as a family, ensuring each member can voice their preferences and concerns. Make inclusivity a priority by choosing activities that are accessible to all family members, considering any physical limitations or interests that might affect participation.

Spending quality time together as a family isn't just about filling the calendar with activities; it's about creating moments that strengthen bonds, foster growth, and fill our lives with joy. Whether it's through the thrill of adventure, the creativity of crafting, or the simple pleasure of a game night, these shared experiences are the threads that weave the fabric of our family stories. As you seek out new and exciting ways to spend time together, remember that Giftory is your ally in discovering activities that resonate with every member of your family. Let Giftory inspire your next family day, helping you to create lasting memories and traditions that celebrate the unique tapestry of your family life.

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