The science is clear—getting out in the sunshine is essential for human health and wellbeing. Outdoor time contributes to everything from Vitamin D production and lower blood pressure to stable moods and promoting better sleep. Getting back to nature is highly recommended by physicians for reducing “the silent killer,” stress.
When summer comes around, opportunities to spend time in nature are all around you. But despite their benefits, not every outdoor activity appeals to people in the same way. If you feel your options are limited to a handful of pastimes that don’t really interest you, it could prove easy to find yourself lacking adequate outdoor time, even during the sunniest season.
That’s why Meetup takes pride in hosting thousands of outdoor activities every single day. From the most broadly appealing to the super niche, Meetup outdoor activities groups all over the world are getting together in the great outdoors for fun and friendship, as well as both mental and physical fitness. Check out this inspo list for outdoor activities you may not have considered, and some Meetup groups who you can get back to nature with.
Pickleball
The new sports sensation that’s sweeping the nation, pickleball even has a pro league airing tournaments on major networks!
This is a fun and (usually) low-key sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Instead of a tennis ball and a racket, you use a plastic ball and a simple paddle. You can play on a tennis court, or find one of the new dedicated pickleball courts popping up across the United States.
Find a Meetup group like Denver Pickleball – 20s, 30s, and 40s, whose 1,500 members host matches open to people of all experience levels.
Gardening and environmental volunteering
In addition to motivating you toward more time in the sun, gardening and environmental volunteering are great ways to spend your free time with purpose.
For example, you could join a Meetup group like the Friends of Morningside Park Gardeners, whose 400 members do routine gardening and weeding to assist the NYC Department of Parks in keeping this public space beautiful and clean for all to enjoy.
Hiking
Not only does hiking expose you to beautiful landscapes while you exercise, but it also provides the perfect background for connecting with friends both new and old. It’s an engaging activity, but it’s not so absorbing that you can’t chat while you’re doing it.
Hiking is also one of the least restrictive outdoor activities—all you need to get started is a pair of comfortable shoes, a water bottle, a snack, some sun protection, and some basic first aid supplies just in case.
If you’re interested in more casual outings, join a community like Charleston’s Short Hiking Trails, a Meetup group of more than 650 members. You can even start hiking groups without leaving your city! Just connect with some urban hikers, like the 1,800 members of Walking Across Chicago.
Outdoor yoga
What’s not to love about centering yourself on a gorgeous day with some mindful stretching and meditative breathing? Nature-infused yoga combines all the restorative elements of this ancient practice with the soothing act of bringing your awareness to the world around you.
Find a community like SUNSET BEACH YOGA on Delray Beach, a Miami-area Meetup group of nearly 9,000 members who share beautiful vistas while developing mind-body connections.
Take your hobby into the outside world
Sometimes the best thing you can do is continue an interest you already have, but just give it a little shakeup. If you’re looking for more ways to spend time outdoors, you might not need to pursue an entirely new activity. Instead, keep doing what you love, and do it outside!
For example, you could join a group like The Book Buffet, whose 400 members host a bi-weekly book discussion in the enchanting Balboa Park.
If you don’t see a community doing this in your area, you can easily create your own Meetup group and invite others to join you in hobbying at your local park. Whether you’re into drawing, playing music, knitting, or something else, the summer weather is inviting you to take your passion outside.
James Quigley is a writer, editor, and educator whose work has received Pushcart Prize and Best New Poets nominations. James was born and raised in New York, where he lives and works as a freelance writer. See more of his writing here.
Last modified on October 17, 2023
