Our summer bucket list tradition continues, and now we have a fun list centered on activities for the adults!

Make some room in your summer calendar to do a couple of these activities that would be a great date night or grab some friends and go!

Thank you to our sponsors mentioned in the article and R-n-R Flooring & Design.

1 – GO ON A HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

Even if you have seen our hometown from an airplane, I imagine the experience is quite different in a basket of a hot air balloon. Imagine the coolness of the morning air as you silently float 4,000 feet above Ogden Valley. The memory is sure to last a lifetime! Skywalker Balloon Company can take you up; you can call (801) 824-3934 to get their rates. You can also mark your calendars for the third weekend in August to attend the Eden Balloon Festival. There, they offer tethered balloon flights where you can still get in the air for, what I imagine, a cheaper price.

2 – EAT AN EXOTIC MEAT

The first place I think of when I think of exotic meat is Roy, Utah’s Burger Bar. I make the drive past the joint regularly, and it’s always interesting to see their exotic meat of the week on the standup sign on the sidewalk: yak, alligator, and some animals I’ve never heard of before. When I go to a restaurant, I tend to order what I know I like, but every now and again, it’s fun to have what I call a “form an opinion” meal. Oceanmart is also a cool place to visit, and they have recipes posted around if you want to make something you’ve never prepared before, like crab or even octopus! One time, my husband brought home an octopus, and I’m proud to say I tried it, but eating it was freaky-deaky.

3 – ATTEND THE OGDEN ARTS FESTIVAL

Ogden is really developing into quite the art hub, and Ogden’s history seems to be the foundation of the feel in the downtown scene. Step into a world of creative inspiration by visiting the Union Station on June 12 and 13 to attend the Ogden Arts Festival. Check out the artist booths, music, theater, kid’s activities, urban arts area, and artisan food vendors. You can enjoy a variety of local and regional artists, creatives, and entertainers. If you’re feeling inspired to create on your own and want to swap some supplies, visit the unique and fun art experience. We will host live music, theater, and dance performances throughout both festival days, giving you yet another great reason to attend and stay a while.

4 – MAKE A SUCCULENT GARDEN

Succulents are resilient little plants and a good way to cut your teeth on keeping plants alive. Succulents propagate as they grow, and most of them grow a new plant if you break off a leaf or a stem from the main plant. Chances are, some of your friends and neighbors have some they’re willing to share. Talk with them and have a succulent swap! I know my mom is trying to thin out the hens and chicks in her flowerbed that are encroaching on her daffodils. If you’re looking for more guidance, Utah State University is hosting an All About Succulents class at the Ogden Botanical Gardens on July 15, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Bring your own container, and they will provide the plants, soil, and expertise! The class is $45, and you can register at eventbrite.com. Call USU Extension with questions (801) 399-8200.

5 – HAVE A PICNIC AT A SCENIC SPOT

You can go to the park closest to you, a pond in the area, or plop down in a patch of dirt on a hike, like we did a month ago. Having a picnic means trading your frequent mealtime table and chair for an out-of-the ordinary spot. With roughly 21 meals in a week, enjoy one of them by breathing in some fresh air and soaking in some nature while you eat. Your picnic doesn’t have to be perfect. You can pick something up on your way or feast on a perfectly planned epic picnic smorgasbord. This month, we put together some awesome picnic ideas for the recipe in case you need some picnic planning inspiration. Picnic at Centennial Park in Syracuse, Beus Pond, Layton Commons Park, or any trail in the mountains.

6 – HAVE A DATE STOP AT POP STOP

Whether you’re on a date with your partner or a date with your friends, grabbing a drink and a sugar cookie at The Pop Stop is a good way to prolong the fun and conversation. Reviews on Google rave about the delicious chocolate chip cookies and sugar cookies. To add some adventure to your experience, step away from your go-to soda and try something totally different or pick your drink by choosing one with a name that speaks to you. What about Draggin the Vard, Holla Back Girl, Eye of the Tiger, or Don’t Stop Me Now? Some of the drink names divulge what’s in them, but others are a bit more mysterious.

7 – GO ON A BACKPACKING TRIP

Backpacking is a great experience and a wonderful accomplishment. You will be able to explore beautiful places that those who stay on the pavement never get to see. It’s priceless.

There are many local areas that are great for backpacking. In addition to the Wasatch Range, there are beautiful wilderness areas around Logan Canyon, and the stunning Uintah Mountains are not too far away. If you’ve never gone before, it can be helpful to start with a one-night trip. It’s good to have some experience with your gear before you head out for a week!

You’ll need a backpack that fits you (trust me when I tell you, if it doesn’t, you’ll regret it), a light and sturdy tent, a sleeping pad, a lightweight sleeping bag, sturdy footwear, and a water filter. If you need advice on finding gear, go to Gear 30 on Washington Blvd. They can help you find the best gear for your expedition and remind you of anything you’re missing. Quality equipment can make all the difference on your trip.
• Quality gear performs better, keeping you safe and comfortable
• Weighs less (you’ll thank me later)
• Lasts longer (you KNOW you’ll want to go again!)

8 – SWIM AND RELAX AT LAVA HOT SPRINGS

At Lava Hot springs, you get all the thrills of a fun water-park at a reasonable price. Jumping from any of the Olympic diving platforms are sure to leave a lasting memory for those brave enough to free-fall from its five-, seven-, and 10-meter heights. I haven’t been to Lava Hot Springs yet, but I remember my friends in Junior High and High school talking about how thrilling those platforms were. Another adrenaline-pumping option is the speed slides that can get you flying up to 35 mph! When you come to the complex, guests are welcome to pack canopies and coolers to hang out all day. The indoor facility also has a kiddie cove if you want to bring your little ones along for the fun. There’s something for everyone! A good way to wind down from a fun-filled day in the cool of the evening is to relax in Idaho’s world-famous Geothermal Hot Springs that range from 102 ̊ to 112 ̊.

9 – TRY A NEW OUTDOOR SPORT AT WSU OUTDOOR

Through the Weber State Outdoor Program, you can have an overnight adventure with your family, in near perfect conditions. You can get a guide, all the equipment, and even the food prep for a good price. All that is needed for the adventure to begin is you! They have the sizes in gear to fit every member of your family. If you’re already an outdoor professional, you always have access to quality rafts, kayaks, tubes, bikes, sport sets, tents, and so much more. The prices are very affordable, and you can trust that all the gear is meticulously maintained. You can even rent some gear for an entire season. The experience of these fun activities is yours, without needing to invest in what can be really expensive gear that you or your kids may grow out of.