Complete Collection of Kids Travel Bucket Lists (2024)

Most people don’t believe the term bucket list didn’t exist until 2007. It was derived from the common saying, ‘kick the bucket’ referring to dying. It’s never too early to create a bucket list with kids because their dreams, wishes, and desires at every age are worth pursuing.

Think of a bucket list as your kid’s wish map to the world. It’s a collection of dreams that stretch from makinghomemade ice creamto having adance partyat ahot springs. Here, everyroad trip, everyday trip, and all the entiresummer seasoncan be filled from alist of experiencesthat your kid creates.

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• Elementary Adventure Bucket List
• A Year of Kids Travel Bucket List
• LocalTravel Bucket List
• National andState Parks Bucket List
• Worldwide Fun Adventure List

Building Memories One Trip at a Time

Travel isn’t just about destinations, it’s aperfect opportunityto craft lifelong memories. Whether it’s during thehot summer daysor the crisp fall evenings, these are the moments that will shape your child’sown childhoodtales.

Ready, Set, Explore!

So, grab yourlist of fun activitiesand start plotting! From the overspray ofNiagara Fallsto the thumping bass of alive musicfestival, we’re here to guide you through creating theultimate summer bucket listwith kids. And remember, this isn’t just anyto-do list, it’s a passport to memories for theentire family.

Break Free of the Status Quo

So many grown ups avoidgreat ideasbecause they are scared, broke, or nervous to trynew things. Having kids is theperfect timeto use them as motivation to make yourlist of ideasinto reality. All thosesimple thingsyou wished you could do as a kid can be done vicariously through your kids.

Why Kids Need Their OwnTravel Bucket List

The Magic of a Child-Centric Travel List

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with a bucket list with kids. You’re creating alist of thingsas boundless as their imagination, where every checkmark leads to agreat time. It’s atreasure hunton a global scale, where the ‘X’ marks spots from the sunny playgrounds ofCentral Parkto the historical streets of Rome.

Growth Through Exploration

Travel is theclassroom of life, and kids are eager students. A bucket list with kids isn’t just about fun, it’s acreative wayto fill thelong summer days. Every new andamazing placevisited and every unique experience is a lesson that stays forever. It’s about turningfun thingslike asplash padday into a lesson on water’s wonder or a simple visit to the local zoo into a deep dive into biodiversity.

The Joy of Anticipation

The best part about a bucket list with kids? The anticipation! Planning is half the fun. Watching your kids’ eyes light up as they point to a destination on the map is priceless. It’s not just a list, it’s a pledge ofquality timeand future adventures.

Tailored Journeys for Every Young Heart

Whether it’s ascavenger huntthrough the streets of New York City or a quiet afternoon at thefavorite orchard, these experiences are curated to fit every young wanderer. Youryounger childrenwill find joy in the simplest of things, while yourolder kidswill relish the challenge of something likeconquering the roller coastersof America’s greatest amusem*nt parks.

Let’s Make Memories!

So, let’s start yourown summer bucket list. Create a bucket list with kids that’s more than ato-do list—it’s a promise. From thecomfort of your own home, begin this grand adventure that your kids will talk about for years to come. Stay tuned as we help you craft an unforgettable bucket list for kids that guarantees fun, learning, and a suitcase full of cherished memories.

Bucket List Ideas for Toddlers and Preschoolers

1. Whimsical Theme Parks

Begin your bucket list with tiny kids in mind. You can plansummer breakto be filled with whimsical theme parks. The laughter and joy of a first carousel ride or the wide-eyed wonder at a parade make for the perfect start. Ourpersonal favoritesinclude Universal Studios in Osaka Japan or Legoland in Denmark.

2. Interactive Aquariums and Zoos

Next up, dive into the underwater realms at interactive aquariums or get up close with wildlife at kid-friendly zoos. It’s agreat wayto foster a love for animals. Try theRoar and Snoreat the San Diego Zoo or theFamily Sleepoverat Two Oceans Aquarium in Capetown South Africa.

3. Enchanted Fairy-Tale Forests

For a dash of magic, add an enchanted fairy-tale forest to your bucket list with kids. It’s where stories come to life and young imaginations run wild. Your little one will have loads ofsummer funatEnchanted Adventurein Australia orEnchanted Forestin British Columbia.

4. Hands-On Science Centers

Fuel their curiosity with visits to hands-on science centers. Each exhibit is afun wayto ignite young minds and explore the wonders of science. Two of our favorite science museums are in the Pacific Northwest. If yoursummer vacationhas arainy daythe Pacific Science Center or O.M.S.I. is thebest wayto spend the day.

5.Water Parksfor Splish-Splash Fun

Don’t forget to sprinkle in somewater parksfor thosehot summer days. Slides, wave pools, and splash pads are a must-do for energetic toddlers and preschoolers.

6. Educational Farm Visits

For a quieter day, consider educational farm visits. It’s a chance forlittle kidsto learn about farm life and maybe even pet a few animals. Both the Berlin Zoological Garden and the Bronx Zoo have petting zoos at noextra cost.

7. Local Playground Circuit

Create a simple idea for bucket list with kids by touring the local playground circuit. It’s aperfect opportunityfor kids to play and make new friends.

8. Storytime for Kids

Add a touch of learning to your bucket list with kids by attending storytime read alouds. It’s a delightful way to nurture a love for reading especially withyoung children. Bring the kids to hear stories in different languages at thePrinceton libraryor read books from thetime capsuleof banned books at theCharlotte Museum of History.

9. Train Rides Through Scenic Landscapes

Cap off your list with scenic train rides. Whether it’s a shortday tripor a journey through storybook towns, it’s a ride they’ll always remember. Of course the Glacier Express through the Swiss alps is beyond epic, but a lesser known ride is through Sri Lanka. Take the train from Kandy to Ella and seedifferent thingslike tea plantations, waterfalls, and remote villages.

Creating a Bucket List for Elementary Adventurers

1. Space Centers for Aspiring Astronauts

Start your bucket list with kids with a trip to a space center. It’s thebest placefor an out-of-this-world experience that combines education with sheer amazement, perfect for yourelementary kids. Both the The National Air and Space Museum in Washington D.C. and the Kennedy Space Center in Florida are the best in theUnited Statesfor space learning.

2. Living History Museums

Next, step back in time at living history museums. Kids can witness the past in action, from blacksmithing to butter churning, making it afun wayto learn history. You’ll have somuch funlearning and spending the day at Plimoth Patuxet in Massachusetts or Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia.

3. Eco-Friendly Safari Adventures

List an eco-friendly safari adventure on your bucket list with kids. Observing animals in their natural habitats teaches respect for nature and conservation in an engaging way. Check out the top5 Sustainable African Safari Parksto fill yoursummer months.

4. Dinosaur Parks and Fossil Hunts

Include a prehistoric journey to dinosaur parks or fossil hunts. It’s a roaring good time and agreat placefor kids to learn about ancient creatures. Head to Penn Dixie Fossil Park & Nature Reserve or Jurassic Coast in the UK.

5. Science and Technology Workshops

Add science and technology workshops. These hands-on sessions are a perfect summer bucket list addition to spark innovation and problem-solving skills. There is always newfun ideasto experiment with at California Science Center in Los Angeles or Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

6. Cultural Festivals Around the World

Experience the vibrant colors and sounds of cultural festivals. It’s one of afun summer activitiesthat opens young eyes to the world’s diversity. It’s so tempting to encourage you to attend a cherry blossom festival in Japan but honestly, the weather is miserable in March. We really enjoyed the large cherry blossom festival in Washington D.C. though. Our next bucket list with kids festival is the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival in China, it looks out of this world.

7. Adventure Parks for Thrill Seekers

For a dose of adrenaline, pencil inadventure parksfor your nextfamily vacation. Zip lines and obstacle courses are great for active kids to burn energy and build confidence. These are great part of theirchildhood memories. Day time can be filled with the great outdoors while at night youroast marshmallowsand enjoy afamily game nightunder the stars.

8. Artistic Retreats for Young Creatives

Artistsummer campcan inspire young minds. Workshops in pottery, painting, or theater performing theirfavorite songs. An performing and fine arts camp provides a creative outlet and a new set of skills and keeps them offvideo gamesfor the summer. Many alumni from Young Actors’ Theatre Camp have gone on to be Broadway stars and Long Lake Camp for the Arts even has a circus or magic element.

9. Culinary Classes for Mini Chefs

Culinary classes for budding chefs make for a tasty bucket list item. Cooking foreign cuisines introduces new cultures in a deliciouslyfun way. Tryninja cooking classin Osaka orLittle Kitchen Academyin British Columbia.

10.Treasure Huntin Historic Cities

Finish with an urbantreasure hunt. It’s agreat wayfor kids to learn navigation and observation while uncovering the mysteries of historic cities. I’ve never personally geocached but once in a while the events are so fun they end up on the news or go viral onsocial media. This seems like agreat thingto do once your kid is tech savvy enough to handle your cell phone.

A Year of Kid-Centric Travel Destinations

Winter Wonders

Northern Lights Viewing

Top the winter section of your bucket list with the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. It’s a celestial spectacle that’s a must-see for kids. On our family bucket list with kids list is Sanaland in Lapland Finland which is both a Northern Lights viewing spot and a way to stay in touch with the magic of Christmas.

Snowy Mountain Lodge Retreat

Include a cozy lodge retreat where kids can experience the joy of snowshoeing, skiing, or just sipping hot cocoa by the fire. Bucket list for us in this category would be Davos Switzerland to sip cocoa and celebrity watch.

Spring Explorations

Butterfly Migrations

Spring into the season with a trip to witness the breathtaking butterfly migrations—a perfect blend of natural beauty and science.

Cherry Blossom Festivals

Add a visit to cherry blossom festivals. The blooming trees offer a picturesque backdrop for awhole familyphotos and a sign of spring’s arrival. As I mentioned the weather in Japan is less than ideal, but if you can handle the humidity, then give it a shot. Otherwise we know that Washington D.C. puts on a great cherry blossom festival.

Summer Adventures

Great Barrier Reef Snorkeling

Make a splash with snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, where the underwater world comes alive for young marine biologists.

Firefly Viewing

I went my entire life without ever seeing a firefly or lighting bug depending on what you call them where you’re from. As I talked about earlier, having kids inspires you to do the things you’ve never done. Finally, as an adult I found an amazing firefly sanctuary in Tsukiyono Firefly Village Japan.

Autumn Escapades

New England Apple Picking

Fall into fun with an apple-pickingday tripin New England. It’s a hands-on way for kids to learn about harvest and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Pumpkin Patches

Conclude the fall season by eating elephant ears and caramel apples at the farm. Hop on a tractor, shuck some corn, and eat some roasted nuts while traipsing through hay and picking pumpkins.

Discovering Home LocalTravel Bucket List

1. City Park Scavenger Hunts

Kickstart your localtravel bucket listwith ascavenger huntin the city parks. It’s a simple,fun wayto discover hidden gems and learn about nature.

2. Historical Landmark Tours

Explore historical landmarks. Whether it’s a famous building or a historical plaque, every town has a story that can fascinate curious young minds.

3. Local Art Walks

Stroll through local art walks. It’s afree summer bucket listidea that supports local artists and encourages children to appreciate creativity.

4. Library Reading Challenges

Take part in library reading challenges. They are agreat wayto encourage reading and imagination, with the added bonus of cool rewards for young bookworms.

5. Neighborhood Nature Trails

Hit the neighborhood nature trails. It’s a perfect way for kids to get exercise and learn about the flora and fauna right in theirown backyard. Bonus points if youpaint rocksand leave them along the way for others to find.

6. Farmers Market Adventures

Visit the farmers market. Kids can learn about local produce, try new foods, and even meet the farmers who grow their meals.

7. Volunteer Day with Local Charities

Volunteer together. A day of service is a valuable addition to any bucket list, teaching kids about kindness and community.

8. ‘Be a Tourist’ Day

Finally, have a ‘be a tourist’ day in your own city. Visit the top attractions and see your home through the eyes of a visitor, discoveringnew placesandtons of fun activities.

Exploring National andState Parks

1. Junior Ranger Programs

Start with the Junior Ranger programs offered by manynational parks. It’s afun wayto learn about the environment and get kids excited about nature conservation.

2. Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

Include family-friendly hiking trails in your bucket list for all yourfamily member. Trails of varying difficulties ensure that there’s a path for every age and ability.

3. Campfire Storytelling Nights

Plan to attend campfire storytelling nights. These events combine the thrill ofghost storieswith the cozy charm of s’mores and starry skies.

4. Wildlife Watching Excursions

Add wildlife watching excursions to your list. Safely observing animals in their habitat can be a thrilling andgreat experienceasoutdoor adventuresfor young animal lovers.

5. Guided Nature Walks

Guided nature walks by park rangers are educational and can be customized for young audiences, making them perfect for afamily vacationbucket list.

6. Fossil Digs and Geological Treks

Consider fossil digs and geological treks for kids interested in earth science. It’s a hands-on andbetter wayto learn about geology and paleontology.

7. Park-Sponsored Outdoor Skills Workshops

Outdoor skills workshops can teach kids valuable survival skills like orienteering, fishing, and basic first aid in a fun and controlled environment. You may also include your other .favorite outdoor activities

8. Night Sky Programs

Lastly, add night sky programs to your list. Many state andnational parksoffer stargazing events, perfect for inspiring young astronomers.

Global Amusem*nt Adventure List

1.Disney Worldand Disneyland Adventures

Set sail on a magical journey toDisney Worldor Disneyland. These iconic parks offer a mix of thrills and fairy-tale enchantment that every kid should experience.

2.Roller CoasterExpeditions

For thrill-seeking kids,roller coasterexpeditions are a must. Parks acrossNorth Americaboast some of the world’s most exhilarating rides.

3. Water Park Waves and Slides

Make a splash with water park adventures. Slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools are perfect for cooling down onhot summer days.

4. Interactive Theme Park Shows

Interactive theme park shows capture kids’ imaginations. They combine entertainment with the chance to participate in the spectacle.

5. Educational Theme Park Attractions

Incorporate educational theme park attractions into yoursimple bucket list ideas. These rides and exhibits make learning about history and science a blast.

6.Amusem*nt ParkSeasonal Events

Seasonal events at amusem*nt parks, like Halloween haunts or winter wonderlands, offer unique experiences and a chance to celebrate festivities in style.

7. Animal Encounter Experiences

Animal encounter experiences in theme parks can be both thrilling and educational, offering a safe way for kids to learn about wildlife.

8. Miniature Golf and Go-Kart Tracks

Add some competitive fun with miniature golf and go-kart tracks. These activities are great for a day of family-friendly rivalry and laughter.

9. Culinary Tours

For little foodies, culinary tours are a treat. Sampling foods from around the world can be a delicious adventure.

Journey’s End is Just the Beginning

Crafting Lifelong Memories

As our journey through the ultimate kids’ bucket list comes to a close, remember that each destination visited and every new experience is a precious memory etched into your child’s heart. These aren’t just trips, they’re the chapters of their childhood stories.

The World Awaits

Whether it’s the thrill of amusem*nt parks or the awe of natural wonders, the world is a playground waiting for your kids to explore. Every item on your bucket list with kids is a step towards a new discovery, a new adventure, a new lesson learned.

Embark on the Next Adventure

So, what will you include in your child’sfun summer bucket list ideas? Where will their curiosity take them next? The end of one adventure is simply the start of another. From the majesticGrand Canyonto the historic streets ofWashington DC, from summer camps to road trips — your bucket list with kids is a passport to endless possibilities.

Creating Your Family Bucket List With Kids

When we have sat our kids down to create our family bucket lists it has been helpful to ask them to focus on 3-5 biggest hopes for the summer. After eachfamily membersettles on their bucket list priorities we find images online to represent that dream activity or destination.

All the images get pasted on a big poster board for us to visually see our summer bucket list everyday. Those photos get planned, booked, and turned intofamily memoriesas the summer progresses.

FAQ: Bucket List With Kids

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