1. Get A Job

I'm sure my parents are laughing as they are reading this... for years they told me to get a job over the summer to get me out of the house and doing something. Now that I actually have a summer job, I can tell you that they are right. This was the easiest way to get rid of my boredom because it gets me out of the house everyday AND gives me money to do cooler things!

2. A Bonfire

Even if you don't have the place to host a raging fire at your house, many public parks have a large pit in an area set aside for bonfires. It's easy to grab your friends and roast marshmallows together — not to mention, it's pretty cheap!

3. Pool Days

In my opinion, the second-best thing to the beach is the pool. I love to take food up to the pool (or buy it there) and spend the whole day tanning and swimming. Even better, grab some friends or bring a book to get your summer glow and relax for a few hours. If you don't have a pool or belong to a club, there are always public pools with guest rates.

4. Helicopter Rides

More of a once-per-summer thing, helicopter rides are so cool. The price can depend on where you are and the duration of your trip, but there is often time a wide variety of options. The trips can last from 15 minutes to over an hour, and let you see new parts of your state or area from a different angle.

5. Drive-In Movies

While these are usually older movies, they are still so much fun to go to. Don't forget to pack blankets and pillows to make the car more comfortable, and I suggest taking the biggest car possible. Most places charge by the car, and the best part is you can bring your own snacks!

6. Exercise Classes

Summer is the time to try that workout class you've had your eye on for so long. With more time on your hands and a newfound motivation to get that summer bod, it's now or never! There are so many options from circuit fitness to group classes and trainers, many places offer first time deals.

7. Gardening

I know that to many this may sound like the least thrilling thing on the planet (including myself). However, I planted a garden on Mother's Day with my family and it was actually fun. We picked out the plants we wanted, mostly peppers, and now I cannot wait to make my own salsa with peppers from my backyard. There are so many options and recipes to try!

8. Volunteering

There's no doubt that it always feels so good to help other people out. During the summer, there is so much time to spend with other people. You can always volunteer at an animal shelter and help the puppies, you can spend some time with younger kids, pack some meals for those in need, and spend time getting to know others! Volunteering is a great way to get connected to those in your city.

9. Picking up a new Skill

Like I said, summer is the time of year where you can essentially do whatever. If there's something you wish you knew about or wish you could do, there are classes you can take to do them. For example, I have always wanted to go skydiving, so hopefully I can find the time to do that this summer.

10. Friendly Bonding

Road tripping or even just rides down the street is necessary for summertime. The easiest cure to summertime blues can be to spend it with other people, especially those you miss or will miss when you leave in the fall. Having a buddy with you can even make sitting at home more entertaining.