It seemed like the last day of school would never come.
Now it seems like summer has passed in a flash ... there were thrills at the amusement park, unforgettable camp adventures, memory-making family vacations, endless days spent splashing at the pool ... the list goes on and on.
On one hand, it's sad that summer break is winding down. On the other hand, the kids could use some structure, and mama could use just one day where she doesn't have to pick up wet bathing suits from the floor, separate kids battling over tablet time, and remind them -- as they sigh heavily and roll their eyes -- that their summer chores will just take 10 minutes out of their day. Just. Ten. Minutes. And Please. Don't make me yell.
Anyway, let's not digress. Instead, let's soak up the time we have left before the kids disappear back into the daily routine that comes with school.
Here are 10 things to do with kids in and around Columbus before summer ends:
Spend a night outside.
Go camping as a family, even if it's just in your own backyard. That time together creates fun and simple memories of finding constellations, making a perfectly roasted marshmallow, and giggling over not-so-scary stories around the campfire.Play a full game of Monopoly.
OK, it doesn't have to be Monopoly, but finding time for game night will be much harder once school starts. Plan at least one evening of game night fun before summer ends so you can crown a family champion. Our family favorites are Sequence, LCR, Yahtzee, and our newest discovery is Rummikub. It was at the beach house we stayed at and we had a blast. I remember playing that with my grandma when I was a kid!Go visit that park you haven't found time for.
How lucky are we that Columbus has so many great Metro Parks? Go explore a new one. Or maybe it's not a park, but a hiking trail. Or a new restaurant. Or a new local attraction. Now is the time to find the time!Get to the water.
There's something about spending an afternoon at the water -- whether it's an ocean, a lake, a pool, or a stream -- that makes people unwind and relax. Skipping stones, digging holes, diving under over and over ... being on the water is what summer memories are made of.Take a long bike ride.
Spending time together leisurely exploring your town on two wheels is the perfect way to spend a late summer day. Stop at your favorite restaurant for lunch, or pack a picnic to make a day of it. Note: I need to get a bike. There are so many great bike trails out here and I need to get on them!Eat more ice cream.
I mean, do we really need to expound on this? We're going to keep adding to this list!Close down Kings Island.
Amusement parks are fun during the day, but after dark when the lights come on, they are magical. Give the kids the experience of staying until closing time at least one night before the season ends.Be a tourist in your own town.
Visit the local museums. Eat at the local restaurants. See the sights the tourists don't miss. You and your kids will gain a new appreciation for what makes where you live special. Head to the Dublin Irish Festival! The Dublin Irish Festival is this weekend at Coffman Park!Go to a drive-in.
Nothing says summer like an outdoor movie. Check out our Summer Movies Guide to find your pick of outdoor movies. Or make your own "theater" outside by showing a movie on your garage. Don't forget the popcorn and candy!Go back-to-school shopping.
Kids everywhere love back-to-school shopping. Well, maybe not all the boys. But, get them excited about the school year by taking them out to choose new shoes, outfits, and school supplies. Take advantage of Tax Free Shopping Days in Ohio. More details here.Use the Macaroni Kid calendar to find your family fun! Or one of our guides.
There are still lots of fun events and we're already working on fall! After all, it'll be here before we know it.
