There’s only one month of summer left, believe it or not, and you can’t help but wonder how it’s gone by so fast. But if you live in Minnesota, sometimes you feel constantly bored, claiming that there’s nothing to do. Well, if you need some reminders on what you can do before August is over, here are a few things:
1. Spend an entire day on the lake.
Minnesota has over 10,000 lakes for you to use. There are a million things you can do on a lake: jump off the dock, kayak, go fishing, or take the boat out. Whether it’s with your family or friends, it’s a good way to cool down!
2. Eat at that one local summer restaurant.
Every small town has that one place that’s only open in the summer. If you haven’t grabbed something to eat there, go now! You’re going to be craving their food once winter comes around.
3. Host a bonfire.
It seems like there’s a bonfire going on every night; you’ve seen it on Snapchat stories and Instagram boomerangs. But if you haven’t had one at your house yet, it’s your turn. Gather up some of your closest friends and sit around the fire all night (or until the mosquitos get too bad). Bonus points if it’s down by a lake.
4. Go stargazing.
Drive out to a field with little to no lights and take in the night sky. Make sure you bring a bunch of snacks and blankets.
5. Take a day trip to the Twin Cities.
When you live in the middle of nowhere, Minneapolis/St. Paul is like the Emerald City. There are tons of things to do in the metro area. Go to a Twins game, shop at the Mall of America, ride every ride at Valleyfair, or even just walk around Minneapolis and explore.
Head’s up: The Minnesota State Fair this year is August 24 - September 4.
6. Walk around downtown.
Literally. Grab some ice cream with your best friend or SO and walk around your town’s main street. It can be relaxing.
7. Go on a road trip to nowhere.
Fill up your car with a full tank of gas, find enough friends until you can’t fit anymore in the backseat, take turns with the aux cord, and drive around while blasting music. Stop at random places along the way. Just as long as you can find your way back.
8. Have a movie marathon.
My friends and I once had a "The Fast and the Furious" series marathon leading up to the eighth movie a few months ago. It can be a lot of fun if it’s with the right people and the right movies. Huddle up in your basement on a rainy day, pick some of your favorite movies, and watch all of them back to back. You’ll need lots of popcorn and drinks.
OR
If you live near a drive-in movie theater, spend an evening there!
Even if you’ve already done everything on this list, you might want to go through it again if you get the chance, because you’ll have to wait until next year otherwise. Summer is the best time of year in Minnesota (because it’s not winter), so take advantage of it.