Make the Most of Summer: Build Your Outdoor Bucket List

Summer is calling—and it’s bringing sunshine, long weekends, and a serious urge to be outside. Whether you’re a sun-chaser, a weekend warrior, or someone who just loves the vibe of a warm evening on the patio, it’s the perfect time to create a summer bucket list full of outdoor adventures…right outside your Highmark home.

1. Host a Patio Party (Even if It’s Just for You)

First stop on your list? Your own balcony or patio. String up some lights, grab your favorite playlist, and bring out a few snacks or mocktails. Whether you're hosting a couple of friends or just vibing solo with a good book, your outdoor space can feel like a mini getaway.

2. Try a Sunrise Coffee Walk

Beat the heat and the hustle with an early morning stroll around your community. Many Highmark communities are surrounded by beautiful walking trails or quiet sidewalks perfect for easing into your day—iced coffee in hand, of course.

3. Plan a Picnic at the Pool

If your community has a resort-style pool (and we’ve got quite a few!), pack up some lunch, grab a towel, and spend a Saturday poolside. Bonus points for bringing a (waterproof speaker)[https://www.amazon.com/HEYSONG-Waterproof-Bluetooth-Floating-Lightweight/dp/B0B3DN72R8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=3M7KDZ1AUCN5Q&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.nS2BT_YMVzozKhVXCcNX4V6W6XOOafNGscvxgAxQ24Nrzpo3Kwx3wVX744f6nYE0Mg_PVPmQlhpbZ016CwxbO2TU5_xFpWhmEFhJ5rs9DdkO9TrozL7MGgSd-rWPj_69KMzStzDk7CqjS0lankA7eXQoMcQjjxZlqPLGebx3tMoitsmj19AQjPP26mW8phUgvM8cCUuXtEQm3_t7BQtkiBmTg7v5Y-M4IMY1_EIo7AM.FjDbQNlih25ewU4Hr8BaQSY9IDaU9qp44aohZlvD2UQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=waterproof%2Bspeaker&qid=1745355032&sprefix=waterproof%2Bspeaker%2Caps%2C185&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=referral&utm_term=05-12-25&utm_campaign=gtma%20blog%20service] or some pool games.

4. Explore Local Nature

Check out local parks, rivers, or hiking trails nearby. Whether you’re in Colorado’s mountain shadow, Florida’s lush greens, or Texas’s open skies, there’s something incredible to see—and it’s probably not far from your front door.

5. Try a Community Challenge

Set a goal to walk or bike to a certain number of places nearby: coffee shops, farmers markets, or even your local library. Document it, make it fun, and invite your neighbors to join in. There’s something special about rediscovering your neighborhood.

6. Start a Garden (or Join One!)

Some of our communities offer garden areas or encourage container gardening on patios. Growing your own herbs or flowers isn’t just relaxing—it makes your space feel even more like home.

So what’s on your bucket list this summer? Whether you're soaking up rays or chasing sunsets, Highmark is all about making sure your home is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a launching pad for your lifestyle.