Summer always seems to fly by faster than anybody ever expects it to. No one ever feels fully settled into summer until all of a sudden, it’s fall again! At that point, then, people are always somewhat disappointed that they had not taken the opportunity to do more with their days of fresh, warm freedom. If you are struggling to find things to do in order to make the most out of your final days of summer, this list will surely help you feel more satisfied once fall rolls around in just a few short weeks.

1. Read a book.

Before you roll your eyes at the thought of sitting down and actually reading “for fun,” give it a chance. Find a subject you are interested in or try a book that’s been recommended for you. It doesn’t need to be too long or too complex, there are plenty of easy reads out there that are worth the time you put into them.

2. Go on a picnic.

People are way too fixated on all things work or technology-related. Once in a while, take some time to enjoy the things that you usually take for granted. A picnic is the perfect example of something small and cheap to do that can bring a smile to your face.

3. Have lunch with an old friend.

A lot of times during the summer, we tend to stray away from the routine we are used to, and therefore, the people that we are used to spending time with. Take some time to stay in touch with those who mean the most to you. Even something as simple as a phone call can help reconnect a friendship.

4. Outside workout.

No one wants to run in the freezing cold winter. You might as well enjoy the amazing summer weather while you can! Also gives you an excuse to work on that tan.

5. Make a home-cooked meal for friends and/or family.

Not only does it make you feel proud to finish making a great meal, you also have the pleasure of making other people happy and appreciative of you.

6. Roast s’mores by a bonfire

Honestly, it’s a must. Something about sitting by the fire on a breezy summer’s night makes you feel on top of the world. Plus, you can never get enough s’mores.

7. Watch the sun rise/set.

Not only will you witness colors in the sky you never thought existed, you will also learn how to connect to the earth more. There is an appreciation and a peace about the sunrise that sticks with you throughout the entire day. If you’re not a morning person, there’s a sunset waiting for you at the end of the day.

8. Stargaze.

There’s something about stargazing that makes all the other things going on in your life disappear. It’s an amazing way for you step back and take a look at life as a whole.

9. Take a beach trip.

What’s summer without a little beach? More and more, it has become an obligation to visit the beach during the summer. The sand, the sea, the breeze. There’s nothing better than a relaxing day at the beach.

10. Go one whole day without your phone.

You will be grateful you did. It helps you disconnect from all the distractions that keep you from enjoying real, human interaction.

11. Visit somewhere famous.

A city, monument, building— wherever it may be. Take a trip somewhere awesome or even just explore around your own town!

12. Do an activity you have never done before.

Some ideas may include camping, hiking, water skiing, or even skydiving!

13. Go to an outdoor movie or concert.

Take advantage of the warm nights and late sunset while you can.

14. Drive with all the windows down.

Feel the breeze through your hair and fingertips as you belt out your favorite summer song with your friends. It’s a freeing and relaxing feeling that makes you appreciate summer even more.

15. Learn something new.

Take up a hobby you may never have thought of doing before! Golfing, knitting, playing the piano, or even just learning how to cook. You’ll be surprised at how fulfilling it may feel once you feel comfortable doing something completely new and unexpected.

16. Spend time with your family.

We all know once school starts back up again, there won’t be as much time to just sit back and relax with the ones you love the most. Utilize the time you have to really connect and develop stronger relationships with each person in your family.

17. Eat as much ice cream as you want.

Obviously. Think of all the calories you burn sweating through the heat every day. You deserve a nice cool, soothing ice cream at the end of the day!