Fun Spring Activities with FREE Printable Bucket List

Here’s a list of spring activities for toddlers, preschoolers, and kids of all ages, including the young at heart. Scroll down for a fantastic collection of spring activities, crafts, and art projects that children will LOVE!

If you are looking for a list of fun spring activities for kids and adults, you will LOVE our FREE printable spring bucket list, filled with the best arts, crafts, and activities. The activity ideas listed below and on the free printable are perfect for spring break, spring afternoons, and weekends. These spring activities are also ideal for homeschoolers seeking fun or educational activities to do during spring break. You may also enjoy learning about the spring equinox and fun ways to celebrate the beginning of spring.

The New FREE Printable Spring Bucket List is Ready!

The original bucket list of spring activities in the photograph below has been updated several times since its original publication. The free printable spring bucket list that goes with the activity instructions below has been updated once again to include even more fun ideas for young and old alike.

Now the new spring bucket list has a similar, spring-focused look to the most recent fall and winter bucket list updates. You can now access the most recent version in the Rhythms of Play Learning Center: Free Printable Spring Bucket List. The 2026 version of the free printable spring activity checklist now includes more than 115 activities on it!

However, I am still updating the list with step-by-step instructions and tutorials for each spring activity or project idea below to align with it. I’m working on it right now, but it’s a major overhaul. I plan to have it done ASAP. Check back soon to see all the new updates for an entertaining and informative read. Alternatively, you can subscribe to the Rhythms of Play newsletter if you want to be notified.

Spring bucket list of fun spring activities for kids with how-to's — This post has been updated to include several more fun springtime activities than shown on the spring bucket list above.

Ultimate List of Spring Activities For All Ages:

Here’s a fantastic list of spring activities and spring arts and crafts for children and adults of all ages. As mentioned above, the new FREE printable spring activity checklist is now available in the Rhythms of Play Learning Center Library. Access the printable bucket list here: Spring Bucket List. Or, scroll down for spring activity instructions, project tutorials, and tips.

Use the corresponding free spring bucket list printable to check off each spring activity you do. But please don’t look at this spring activity guide as a must-do list. Instead, make it a fun-do list. In other words, don’t do it if it isn’t fun. First published on January 23, 2017, these spring activity ideas have been updated and republished to improve the content.

Springtime is a great season to create outdoor play areas for the kids. After the list of spring activities, I have included some DIY play spaces and other do-it-yourself projects you can create for children to play in the backyard, on the patio, or in the garden throughout spring and summer. There are even projects that adults will enjoy. You might also enjoy DIY projects for do-it-yourself families!

Spring activities art projects and craft ideas for kids (and adults!)

50 Fun Spring Activities for Kids (and adults, too!) (This list Is Being Updated to Include More Than 115 Activities:

Look through the list of spring activities for kids and adults of all ages. I have included project tutorials, tips, and suggestions to accompany the fun spring activities below, making this spring bucket list even more helpful. Access the printable bucket list that goes with it in the Rhythms of Play Learning Center: Free Spring Bucket List.

Update 2026: I am currently updating this list of spring activities to reflect the most recent corresponding printable spring checklist. Please check back soon to see all the latest updates!

1. Get Outside:

Springtime is an excellent time of year to get outside and explore nature. The warmer spring temperatures and longer sunny days make it the perfect time to learn and play in the great outdoors. While you’re out there, enjoy these fun outdoor learning activities for kids of all ages! Or, try the other fun outdoor spring activities on the list below:

2. Take a Hike:

Going for a hike in the spring is a fun (and educational) activity for kids and adults of all ages. My family’s favorite activity is going for walks in nature year-round, but spring’s warmer, sunny days are the perfect time to enjoy a walk in the woods and other wild spaces. Get out into nature as often as possible to learn, explore, and get your exercise!

Hiking trail with J. Muir quote, "Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt. — Take a Hike

3. Enjoy a Nature Scavenger Hunt:

Several nature scavenger hunts in the springtime are fun and educational for children of all ages. Use the spring nature scavenger hunt idea in the following section to search for seasonal signs signaling spring’s arrival, or use this spring scavenger hunt for toddlers and preschoolers.

4. Search for Signs of Spring:

Searching for signs of spring is a delightful way to celebrate the changing season. As the days get longer and the air grows warmer, you can explore your surroundings and look for little clues that nature is waking up. Buds bloom on trees, crocuses and daffodils push through the soil, and bird sounds returning from migration ring through the air. You might smell fresh flowers or see bees and butterflies busy pollinating them. Whether walking through a park, strolling down your street, or hiking in the woods, hunting for these subtle signs of spring adds a sense of wonder and excitement to the season.

Preschool girl spotting a field of wildflowers on spring scavenger hunt. — My daughter points out a field of wildflowers while searching for the signs of spring.

5. Go Birding:

The spring is an excellent time of year to Go Birding. Birdwatching is another fun and educational spring activity for all ages. Many birds migrate from their winter to summer homes in the spring, and local species become more active. The air is filled with the cheerful songs of songbirds welcoming spring.

Observe various bird species as they build nests, forage for food, and engage in courtship rituals in the springtime. Whether in a quiet park, a lush forest, or along a winding river, birdwatching in the spring invites nature lovers to connect with the season’s vibrant rhythms, offering moments of peace and wonder. Discover fun birding activities and simple bird scavenger hunt ideas–>HERE.

6. Hunt for Natural Treasures:

Invite children to go on a nature hunt to collect natural materials for nature crafts and activities. But please do not take things that damage habitats or the local ecology, such as wildflowers or nautilus shells that hermit crabs need for their homes. Instead, take natural materials that help clean the environment, and clear debris from unwanted areas.

For example, take sticks and branches from areas that need clearing to make an Easter Tree. Foraging activities like these help sustain natural resources and help prevent wildfires. Another example is removing driftwood from clogged waterways to make wind chimes and clear areas that restrict water flow, such as under bridges and at storm drains.

If you want to collect acorn caps to make acorn marble necklaces, please remove the caps and leave the acorns behind for animals to eat for sustenance or grow into full-sized oak trees. When hunting for nature’s many varied treasures, it’s also best not to collect more natural treasures than you need. Taking photos of the natural treasures you find is an excellent alternative to removing them from wild spaces.

7. Make Mud Pies:

Making mud pies was one of my absolute favorite outdoor spring activities. It is a spring sensory activity, spring art activity, and spring STEAM activity rolled into one fun activity. Learn how to build your DIY mud kitchen for even more fun!

Invite children to make mud pies! Figuring out how much water they need to add to the dirt to make a good mud pie is an excellent spring STEAM activity for kids of all ages. It won’t take them long to learn that too much water doesn’t work any better than not enough water. Invite your children to give it a try!

Kid making mud pies in a mud kitchen — Mud Pie Kitchen

8. Plant Sunflowers and Other Spring Flowers:

Planting and growing sunflowers is a beautiful first lesson in gardening for young children. This step-by-step sunflower house tutorial teaches how to plant sunflowers and grow a sunflower house. You can also spend time in the yard or garden planting spring flowers with the kids.

Both gardening activities encourage children to get their hands in the dirt to learn. Gardening is a great spring activity for all ages; it’s educational, helps children and adults improve self-regulation, supports psycho-emotional well-being, and beautifies your yard and garden for everyone to enjoy.

Girl with sunflower quote overlay, "I want to be like a sunflower so that even on the darkest days I will stand tall and look towards the light." — How to Plant Sunflowers

Related: Real Flower Nature Crafts

9. Dance Barefoot in the Rain:

Rainy-day activities don’t have to be inside. Send children outside to play in the rain with the proper gear, such as rain boots and jackets, to play in puddles and try these fantastic rainy-day activities for kids! The list of spring ideas includes fun indoor and outdoor activities for kids on a rainy day.

Kid dancing in rain puddle barefoot with quote, "Anyone who says only sunshine can bring happiness has never danced barefoot in the rain." by Nell Regan Kartychok with photograph of her daughter Charlize Kartychok. — Rainy Day Activities for Kids

10. Celebrate the Vernal Equinox:

Teach your children about the vernal equinox, and celebrate the arrival of spring with any of these fun spring equinox celebration ideas.

Spring equinox graphic of the sun and the earth at each equinox and solstice. — Spring Equinox Traditions

11. Create a Spring Nature Table:

A spring nature table is a space in the home used for placing natural items that reflect the spring season. Nature tables are typical in Montessori and Waldorf education. Nature tables are a great aid for nature study, a sensory development space, and an imaginative play area at home or in the classroom.

12. Be on the Lookout for Four-Leaf Clovers:

If you can’t find a four-leaf clover–Make one! For even more fun, try these easy toilet paper roll shamrock and lucky clover crafts, make lucky necklaces, or make this four-leaf clover handprint craft! And if you have ever wondered about the difference between a four-leaf clover and a shamrock, find the answer in this fantastic list of fun Saint Patrick’s Day Arts and Crafts to try at home or in the classroom.

Related: Rainbow Shamrock Salt Painting

13. Read Books About the Spring:

Help children learn about seasonal changes, including spring, with this magical collection of children’s spring books for toddlers, preschoolers, and young children.

14. Make Easter Ornaments:

Here’s a fun spring activity the whole family can enjoy. Make Easter ornaments to decorate your Easter tree or spring nature table this year. Both children and adults enjoy making Easter ornament crafts at home or in the classroom.

Easter ornament crafts for kids and adults — Easter Ornament Crafts

Related: Paper Roll Birdhouse Ornaments

15. Decorate an Easter Tree:

Our family loves decorating seasonal trees for our nature table, and Easter is no exception. An Easter Egg Tree is an easy spring craft idea that makes a beautiful decoration and DIY centerpiece for your Easter table.

Spring easter egg tree on table with easter ornaments — How to Make an Easter Egg Tree

16. Make Upcycled Easter Baskets:

DIY upcycled Easter baskets made of recycled materials make it easy to turn trash into a treasure that the kids will love! Use paper, fabric, sweaters, T-shirts, milk jugs, juice cartons, cans, bottles, plastic bags, and stuffed animals to make your gorgeous, eco-friendly Easter baskets.

DIY upcycled Easter baskets made with recycled materials — Recycled Easter Basket Ideas

Related: Eco-Friendly Easter Toys

17. Decorate Eggs:

Decorate eggs for Easter! Try any of our Easter Egg Decorating Ideas or color natural brown Easter eggs with this fun Easter egg decorating hack! Decorating wooden eggs is an excellent alternative to hard-boiled eggs and is much better for the environment than plastic eggs. Learn how to decorate wooden eggs with a woodburning pen and watercolor paint, make adorable Easter chicks, or try these fantastic wooden egg decorating ideas.

18. Go on an Easter Egg Hunt:

Have an Easter egg hunt or attend one for a classic spring activity not to be missed. First, hide decorated real Easter eggs or wooden Easter eggs in the backyard (or anywhere in nature). Next, send the kids outside with their Easter Baskets to search for and collect as many eggs as they can find.

Related: Easter Chicks Wooden Egg Craft

19. Enjoy Fun Family Easter Traditions:

The meaningful things we do with our children and families create memories to last a lifetime. Create new memories in your home (or classroom) with this list of Easter traditions for kids and adults.

20. Celebrate Earth Day:

Earth Day is a holiday that raises awareness about the health and preservation of our planet. Learn more about this holiday and discover ways to celebrate Earth Day. Ideas include Earth Day arts and crafts and other spring activities.

21. Make a Pledge to the Earth

Teach children how to care for the earth, live more sustainably, and pledge to planet Earth for a brighter future and a better tomorrow.

Children’s multi-racial hands on the earth with quote, "One small change can make a world of difference" by Nell Regan Kartychok founder of Rhythms of Play — Earth Day Pledge Ideas

22. Start a Garden:

Start a garden with your children for a hands-on learning experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you start a fairy garden, a flower garden, an organic vegetable garden, a native pollinator habitat, or a wildlife-certified garden, children can learn many fun things in the garden! Plant the seeds of early learning with spring gardening activities to educate children, beautify your home and yard, and enjoy time outdoors together.

23. Plant a Tree for Arbor Day:

Planting a tree on Arbor Day is a meaningful way to contribute to environmental health. This annual event encourages individuals to enhance their communities by planting trees, which help improve air quality, provide shade, and support wildlife. By participating in this simple activity, we honor the importance of trees and leave a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy. Teach children about this environmentally friendly holiday and how to plant trees as a fun and educational spring activity.

24. Paint with Spring Colors:

Get out a paintbrush and some paints and get creative. For inspiration, please look at our favorite spring art ideas and projects below:

25. Take Pictures of Wildflowers:

Get outside and take pictures of wildflowers this spring. Did you know that picking wildflower blooms is illegal in many areas? Picking wildflowers can harm local ecosystems, disrupt natural habitats, and deplete native plant species. Removing wildflowers can also reduce biodiversity, affecting animals that rely on them for food and shelter. Additionally, some species are protected due to their rarity or ecological importance.

Such laws are common in national parks, nature reserves, wilderness areas, and other protected lands. For example, in the U.S., picking wildflowers is prohibited in places like Yellowstone National Park, the Great Smoky Mountains, and other federally protected areas. Many countries, including those in Europe, also have similar regulations to preserve their natural environments. This makes taking pictures of wildflowers an excellent alternative! Don’t forget to bring your wildflower field guide to identify them and test your knowledge.

26. Start a Nature Journal:

Help your children make and keep a nature journal or notebook. Nature journaling is a fun way for children (and adults) to study nature and record experiences with the natural world. It is also a great place to add the pictures you take of wildflowers, birds, the natural landscape, and more! You might also enjoy learning more about Nature Study for Kids.

Kid writing in nature journal with quote, "Nature always has secrets to share." ~Nell Regan Founder of Rhythms of Play — How to Make a Nature Journal

27. Build a Birdhouse, Make a Bird Feeder, or Make a Bird Nest:

Backyard birdwatching and making birdhouses, bird feeders, and bird nests are classic spring activities for kids (and adults). Make birdhouse ornaments with recycled toilet paper rolls for your spring or Easter Tree, and make real birdhouses and bird feeders with the fun spring activity ideas below:

28. Collect and Paint Rocks:

Collecting and painting rocks is a fun and easy spring activity for kids. Once again, please don’t take rocks from areas that damage the natural ecology or steal from its beauty. My daughter and I collect rocks from an area where our city deposits them after dredging a nearby natural pool. This way, we help clean the area of unnecessary debris.

For rock ideas, please visit these rock painting ideas for children. In the photo collage below, you can see a few of the painted rocks my daughter found on our daily walks and outdoor adventures, which is another fun spring activity. In other words, go on a scavenger hunt to look for painted rocks others have hidden or placed just so.

Painted rocks that "Rhythms of Play" found in nature — Painted Rocks

29. Explore a Wild Space:

Do your best to allow children to explore natural wild spaces as often as possible. Spending time in nature benefits children in many ways. Get outdoors to allow children the time and opportunity to learn through play. Bring a backpack with snacks, water, and nature journals so your children have ample time to explore whatever interests them. Look at these Outdoor Learning and Nature Activities for Kids to learn more.

30. Pick Berries or Go Wild Foraging:

One of my fondest childhood memories is wild foraging for berries with my brothers. I remember all the tasty treats we made with the berries and other wild foods we collected over the years. Spring is a great time to start looking around for wild berries that will ripen through the spring and summer months, or to plan a visit to a pick-your-own berry farm. Take your children berry-picking and make a gluten-free crisp with the fruits of your labors for an educational learning experience that children will LOVE!

31. Make Spring Crafts:

Making spring crafts and beautiful DIY toys with children is a fantastic way to improve fine motor skills and celebrate spring. String beads to make necklaces or bracelets, or try any of the fun spring craft ideas listed below:

Spring Craft Ideas for Kids:

easy bunny pipe cleaner and wooden bead craft for kids and adults — Easy Bunny Craft – No Glue Required!

32. Skip Stones and Rocks:

Skipping stones is another classic outdoor activity that kids and adults of all ages can enjoy together. Learn how to skip a rock in this fun article about the art and science of skipping stones.

33. Make and Deliver May Day Baskets:

On the first of May (May Day), a traditional activity is making and delivering May Day Baskets. First, make small flower arrangements for your neighbors and friends. Then, hang May flowers on doorknobs or drop them off on doorsteps, patios, and front entrances on May Day. Learn more about May Day baskets and other fun traditions–HERE.

34. Dance Around the Maypole:

Celebrate the May Day tradition (around 600 years old) with a dance around the Maypole. A Maypole is a tall pole with brightly colored ribbons representing the lengthening days as summer approaches. The dance creates a multi-colored pattern that creeps steadily down the pole until the dancers reverse their steps and undo the ribbons. Learn more fun ways to celebrate May Day–>HERE.

35. Fly a Kite:

Light breezes make springtime a fantastic time of year to get outside to fly a kite. Learn how to make and fly a kite with these kite-flying tips for kids and adults of all ages!

36. Make Wishes (Wish for Bees):

Make wishes to make all your dreams come true. While you’re at it, wishes for bees, please. Did you know that bees LOVE dandelions and that many species are in danger of extinction if we don’t give them a helping hand? Join us in making wishes for the bees by blowing dandelion seeds to help them thrive this spring and summer! (But please refrain from blowing your wishes on other people’s lawns–thank you!) Another great way to help bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, thrive is to plant native flowers and plants, including Bee Balm, Milkweed, Aster Flowers, Lavender, and Rosemary, in your yard or garden.

37. Chase Butterflies:

Give your children a butterfly net and encourage them to get outside to burn off excess energy. Chasing butterflies is an excellent way for toddlers and preschoolers to learn more about them. Of course, we also recommend teaching children to be gentle with these wild creatures and how to release them back into the wild if they catch any.

38. Blow Bubbles:

The spring is an excellent time of year to get out the bubbles and blow to your heart’s content. Invite your children to get outside to blow some bubbles or try this fun bubble machine.

39. Make Friendship Bracelets:

Make friendship bracelets or matching necklaces with a friend. Learn how to start and finish a necklace or bracelet–>HERE.

40. Create Art and Games with Sidewalk Chalk:

Creating art and games with sidewalk chalk in the springtime is a creative way to enjoy the outdoors. Drawing with sidewalk chalk is a simple, low-cost activity that brings people together, encourages creativity, and makes the most of the warmer spring weather. To get everyone involved, draw a hopscotch and other interactive games for kids of all ages to enjoy. Warm, sunny days provide the perfect backdrop for spreading out on the driveway or sidewalk and letting your imagination run wild.

41. Make Chalk Paint:

Learn how to make chalk paint with the easy step-by-step instructions–>HERE. Whether drawing with sidewalk chalk or painting with DIY chalk paint, you can create colorful murals, pictures, patterns, and designs on the sidewalk, driveway, or playground.

42. Hug or Climb a Tree:

Hugging or climbing a tree in the spring is a fun way for children (and adults) of all ages to connect with nature while enjoying the warmer weather. Tree climbing offers a physical and mental-emotional challenge and will help kids feel accomplished as they reach new heights! Learn how to climb a tree and gather tree-climbing tips. If climbing a tree is not for you, hug a tree instead!

43. Walk Across Fallen Logs:

Encourage children to walk across fallen logs as a balance challenge to help them develop their kinesthetic and vestibular sensory systems. If you choose this outdoor spring activity, please ensure the log is safe to walk on before inviting your children to try it. It’s also best to hold your child’s hand as you walk alongside them to help them build confidence, balance, and strength before inviting them to try it independently.

44. Try bouldering or Mountain Climbing:

Invite children to scramble over boulders for another fun way to build strength, dexterity, and balance. Before encouraging them to try more challenging climbs, ask them to scramble on low boulders and master simple climbs without ropes. If you try these spring activities, please use caution and guide children to keep everyone safe. It’s also a good idea to try these activities at a rock climbing gym to learn basic scrambling, bouldering, and climbing techniques in a safe space before venturing outdoors.

45. Visit the Zoo:

Visiting the zoo in the spring is a fantastic way to combine fun and education. This spring activity allows visitors to watch baby animals take their first steps, learn about different species, and gain insight into conservation efforts that help protect wildlife. Whether you marvel at the majesty of lions, learn about the habits of exotic birds, or observe playful monkeys for a good laugh, a trip to the zoo offers an exciting and informative learning experience.

46. Go on a Bike Ride:

Going for bike rides in the spring is a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Going for a bike ride is the perfect way to enjoy the spring weather. As you ride through parks or down tree-lined streets, you can soak in the vibrant colors of flowers and the scent of fresh grass. It’s a great way to exercise while feeling connected to nature. Whether exploring new trails, riding with family or friends, or just taking a leisurely spin through your neighborhood, biking in the springtime brings a sense of freedom and joy that’s hard to beat!

47. Enjoy a Patio, Balcony, or Backyard:

Warmer spring weather and longer sunny days make it the perfect time to enjoy time on a patio, balcony, or in the backyard. Get outside to soak up the sun, listen to wildlife sounds, and breathe the fresh spring air as often as possible! Please remember to apply chemical-free sunscreen if you plan to stay in the sun for more than a few minutes.

48. Get Everyone Involved with Spring Cleaning:

Cleaning the entire house, yard, and garden is a well-known spring activity worldwide. To make this chore more fun, get everyone involved in decluttering the house and spring-cleaning indoors and outdoors. Spring is an excellent time to eliminate unnecessary or unwanted things, clear space, and make room for new things, literally and figuratively. Learn how to make natural cleaning products to help with spring cleaning–> HERE, or have a look at the cleaning recipes below:

49. Have a Garage Sale:

Many people clean out their garages in the spring and have a garage sale to get rid of the things they no longer need or want. Just like lemonade stands, having a garage sale is a great way to educate children of all ages about money and finances. It is also an excellent way to teach kids the value of having fewer things and that less is sometimes more.

50. Spend Time with a Friend:

Here’s a fun thing to do in the spring. As the weather warms and daylight hours grow longer, spending time with friends outdoors is a great spring activity. Enjoy the fun ideas on the list above, or get outside to enjoy the day—happy spring!

Ultimate Spring Bucket List of Fun Family Activities:

We hope you enjoy this fantastic collection of spring activities, arts and crafts, and DIY projects that the whole family will LOVE! Get the printable spring bucket list below, or scroll down to see a list of fantastic DIY play areas you can build in the spring. You might also enjoy this list of Seasonal Ideas.

Learn more about Nell Regan Kartychok, author, photographer, and creator of this round-up of spring activities HERE, and Rhythms of Play HERE!

Free Spring Bucket List Printable:

The updated FREE printable spring bucket list will be available in the Rhythms of Play Learning Center Library soon, but prior versions are available. Here’s the direct link–> Spring Bucket List!

Alternatively, get access to each of the prior seasonal Free Printable Bucket Lists in the Rhythms of Play Learning Center.

photo of spring bucket list printable (list of spring activities for kids and adults) — Get the Printable HERE–> Spring Bucket List.

DIY Play Areas to Build in the Spring or Summer:

Here’s a list of DIY play spaces that help children enjoy the outdoors in their backyards. The final project idea list includes ideas for children and adults.