lifestyle fun with family

Getting the whole family to turn off their phones and come together for a little quality time is hard. Coming up with activities the whole family will love can be even harder. If you're looking for some new things to do as a family, here are a few ideas.

1. Yard games

There are few things better than spending time outside, getting some exercise and having fun in the process. That's why yard games can be a great way to spend quality time with family. You can purchase ready-to-use games like ladder ball, bags (cornhole), badminton or giant Jenga, or you can create your own. Consider building an obstacle course, organizing a relay race or having a hula hoop contest set to your favorite music. Most yard games can be easily adjusted for all ages and skill levels, so you can be sure the whole family will have a good time.

2. Try a new hobb

Trying something new can be a great way to connect with family because when you learn something together, you create a shared experience without expectations because it's new for everyone. For your next family activity, try testing out a new hobby like cooking, painting, baking or even karaoke. There are infinite possibilities out there, so even if one activity turns out to be a flop, the next hit may be right around the corner. Who knows? The experiences you have today could become your newest family tradition.

3. Cards and board games

While testing out new activities can be fun and exciting, there's certainly nothing wrong with going with the tried and true. Card games and board games have been a family staple for years because they're fun, approachable and don't lose their appeal after just one play. Old standbys like Monopoly, Chutes and Ladders, Go Fish, Crazy Eights and Battleship have all stood the test of time for a reason. Sharing games that you played as a kid can also help bring back fond memories of your childhood as you create new ones with your own children.

If you're looking for things to do as a family on a budget, try going to garage sales. Many people look to offload old games when their children move out of the house. You may have to create new replacements for missing pieces, but that's just part of the fun!

4. Explore your neighborhood

Human beings are creatures of habit. We tend to go to the same places, do the same activities, and even order the same thing every time we visit a certain restaurant. Breaking out of the old routine and exploring the community around you can be a great way to form lasting memories with your family while having fun in the process. Go check out your local art gallery, visit a new coffee shop or ask for a tour of the closest fire station (you might need to call ahead).

Almost every neighborhood has that one store that makes you think, “What do they even sell there? How are they still in business?” Go inside and take a look! You may find a hidden gem you never knew about. Not only can these experiences help you form stronger connections with your own family, but you may start to forge new relationships with your neighbors and the people in your community. There's always something new to discover, and you don't have to get on a plane to do it. Take a look at your neighborhood with fresh eyes and you may be surprised by what you find.

5. Soak in your own home hot tub

Not every family activity has to involve running around and doing something new. Sometimes it's best just to sit back, relax and enjoy the pleasure of each other's company. There may be no better way to do that than to soak in your very own hot tub. A home hot tub can be a great way to reconnect with your family because it provides a distraction-free environment where you can have real conversations. After even a few minutes of soothing relaxation, teens may be more willing to open up and share what's going on in their lives — a far cry from the one-word answers you usually get.

For families looking for a way to bond and spend quality time together in the comfort of your own home, a hot tub can be just the trick.

If you'd like to learn more about the amazing wellness benefits a hot tub can bring to your family, download a brochure today.