32 Bucket List Ideas Guaranteed To Make Your Life A Whole Lot More Exciting
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.What is a “bucket list?” You’ve definitely seen people talking about their goals on social media or blogs. A “bucket list” is just a collection of experiences people wish to have before they die. Making a bucket list might help you focus on your true life goals. They inspire you to find out how to make those dreams come true.
The best way enjoy your life to the fullest is to make a list of all the wonderful places you wish to visit and things you want to experience. You will make new friends and spend more time with your family when you are travelling. It will definitely change the course of your life.
This blog post rounds up the best and most exciting things I would love doing for myself, with or without kids. Some activities won’t be suitable for kids. If you need some help getting started with your bucket list, check at some of the fantastic goals I’ve included below.
1. Visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Everyone’s Iceland bucket list includes a visit to the Blue Lagoon. It’s the equivalent of visiting Paris and failing to see the Eiffel Tower. So I won’t try to persuade you otherwise. I know you will not miss going to the Blue Lagoon anyways.
Stay in one of their hotels designed to provide complete relaxation and tranquility. This man-made wonder is worth visiting for its milky-blue water, beautiful bridges, and well-known spa experience.
Images of the Blue Lagoon Iceland are everywhere, and it’s difficult not to talk about it with other people you encounter in the nation. Soak in the breathtaking highlights of one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders!
2. Flying via Private Jet
Traveling on a private jet is an experience that many people hope to have at least once in a lifetime. If you are looking to spend your vacation in style, flying in a private jet may be the best option.
Flying via a private jet is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences. If you’re traveling and you need privacy, time savings, and unparalleled comfort, flying in a private jet is a fantastic option. Depending on the private aircraft you are traveling on, you may also be able to enjoy comfy sleeping areas, modern showers, beautifully decorated boardrooms, and plush seats with enough legroom
If you’re interested in learning more, read “Why Traveling on a Private Jet With Villiers Jets Is The Best Way To Go“
3. See the Tulips in Full Bloom in The Netherlands
When you see the tulips in full bloom in the Neverlands, you will be captivated. You’ll feel like you’re in heaven as you walk through a field of colorful, fresh flowers..
Be sure to visit this place during tulip season to see these majestic blooms. Late March until early May is the tulip season. The best time to visit is in mid-April, when flowers are in full bloom. It will be something to add to your bucket list!
4. Spend a Month in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a tropical paradise in the heart of the South Pacific. The French Polynesian island is known for its crystal clear seas in 50 vibrant shades of blue, as well as luxury accommodations in over-the-ocean bungalows with a private deck that leads directly into the sea. Hotels are limited and luxurious, with nightly rates ranging from $400 to $2,000 for the most basic accommodations.
The following are some activities you can do while visiting Bora Bora:
You will definitely fall in love with Bora Bora island at first sight. It’s something you would probably want to add to your bucket list!
Without a doubt, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most well-known roads in the world. It runs from Dana Point, California, all the way up the coast to Leggett, California, north of San Francisco. Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway will provide you with stunning landscapes as well as a feeling of limitless freedom. Along the road, there are only a few restaurants. Make sure to bring food since picnics with stunning panoramic views are the highlight of this road trip.
The Pacific Coast Road Trip is a popular bucket list item for many people. It’s an experience that everyone should have at least once in a lifetime.
6. Attend a Lantern Festival
The annual Rise Festival, lanterns are released into the night sky over the Mojave Desert. The two-day celebration south of Las Vegas begins in the afternoon with hourly music performances and concludes each night with a massive, synchronised lantern release just after sunset at a specific time—and we do mean massive, with thousands of people expected to attend. Thousands of lanterns are released at the same time, producing a breathtaking view and sending a message about individual hopes and dreams in one stunning show. You will feel like you’ve walked into a Disney movie standing beneath all the magic.
Lanterns are 100% biodegradable, and there are even “lantern chasers” during the celebration. After the event, they drive around and collect them.
7. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
Do you love taking an exciting adventure? Riding in a hot air balloon might just be perfect for you!
A hot air balloon ride is an essential part of any vacation for those who appreciate natural beauty. The beautiful landscape of Cappadocia charms the traveller from the moment of takeoff, around sunrise. You will feel as if you’re floating through a dream, passing by fairy chimneys, passing through valleys filled with pigeon houses, and passing through orchards and vineyards. The flight’s unique colors and sights will make incredible pictures and unforgettable memories.
If the winds are too strong, the flight won’t take place. Given the unpredictability of the weather, I recommend spending at least 2 days in Cappadocia. Schedule the activity in the first one so that it can postpone if necessary. April-June and September-October are the best months to visit if you want to be warm. It’s important to remember that it’s a bit cooler at high altitudes.
8. Cruising on a Luxury Private Yacht
What’s better than a cruise? A private cruise. Set sail in luxury on your own luxury yacht. If you’ve ever wondered what a luxury yacht vacation is really like, now’s your chance. Sail somewhere you could breeze around the ocean, step off your luxury yacht into clear blue waters and get lost to the world as you explore a nearby island or simply relax and be pampered by your crew — all without the hassle of booking flights, hotels and tourist attractions for weeks on end.
Once you’ve experienced a luxury yacht vacation, you’ll never look at cruising in the same way. Yes, I’m talking about those awesome yachts that are luxuriously decorated and have plenty of cabins for all your guests to enjoy, but what really adds to the experience is the freedom and privacy that comes with it. You can run away with your friends or family (and even joined by other couples who just want a romantic sailing vacation). You pick the destination, there’s no need to worry about where you’re going next, when to sleep or wake up…You’re in charge!
Stop dreaming and start planning your yachting vacation!
If you’re interested in learning more, read ”What its Like to Cruise on your Own Luxury Private Yacht”
9. SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
Sleeping under the stars should be on everyone’s bucket list. Whether you spend money or not, you will be able to enjoy it.
If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that staring up into the expanse of a brilliant night sky. It is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Taking a walk outside and sleeping under the stars is good for improving physical, mental, and emotional health. Sleep is one of the 3 fundamental foundations of health. It’s only natural that we should all try sleeping in the great outdoors at least once.
It’s fun to sleep beneath the stars with friends, but if you want to be alone, it’s also a great option.
10. START A BLOG
Including the “starting of your blog” in your bucket list is another way of expressing your thoughts and ideas. The goal of a blog is to motivate and inspire others. Or it might help them seek ambitious goals and step outside of their comfort zones.
Some may find it challenging to start a blog, but you will do great as time goes by. It’s not just about sharing or influencing others when it comes to blogging. You may also use it to generate money in your most convenient way. You will never know what you might discover in yourself as a blogger.
11. SWIM IN A BIOLUMINESCENT BAY
Only 5 bioluminescent bays exist globally, 3 are located in Puerto Rico. Mosquito Bay lies on the island of Vieques. It’s the most famous Bay off the east coast of Puerto Rico’s main island. On the side of the island, in Fajardo, there is also Laguna Grande, and on the far southwestern side, there is La Parguera.
The truth is that photographing a bioluminescent bay is nearly impossible. The dinoflagellates in the water are causing the water to light up. When disturbed, these single-celled organisms flash up for a split second before going black. It makes the entire effect impossible to capture on video.
The bioluminescent Bay swimming experience is the most breathtaking thing you’ll ever have.
You may live out your California fantasies at one of my favorite in Los Angeles! Take an iconic bike ride from Santa Monica to Venice Beach. You may take in the sights and sounds of well-known Los Angeles attractions and some hidden gems.
Along the shore, there are several restaurants and shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent rollerblades and bikes. It’s a great idea to start your beach day at the pier. From Santa Monica, you may get to the centre of Venice Beach in about 15 minutes. It’s a short ride that’s easy to handle along the beachside bike trail.
13. SLEEP IN AN UNDERWATER HOTEL
Everyone enjoys a beautiful view. It doesn’t get much better than a hotel under the sea for nature lovers. You don’t have to be a certified diver to enjoy the wonder of staying at these amazing underwater hotels. Several hotels worldwide offer unique rooms that allow you to sleep with the fish.
Here are some underwater hotels I would love to visit :
These places are valuable since they offer such peaceful and relaxing scenery. It will help you de-stress or improve your mood after an exhausting week. I’m hoping to be able to cross that off my bucket list one day!
14. Go on RV ROAD TRIP
Dream of rolling down your car window, turning up the radio and singing along with the wind? Well, if you have dreamed this dream, then you should consider getting an RV. With RVs, you can travel from state to state and enjoy amazing scenery, the fun off-the -beaten path stops along the way and not to mention a cheaper alternative to fancy hotels. If you’re looking for fun and adventure this summer, then you should take a look at RVing road trip.
15. Discover Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru
Discovering Machu Picchu in Cuzco, Peru is worth including on your bucket list. I can’t wait to visit this place and discover all the wonders Machu Picchu has to offer. Machu Picchu is the most famous tourist site in Peru. This iconic Inca ruin, which is high in the mountains, has an interesting history.
Imagine visiting an ancient Inca city on top of a mountain. You can look out at the ruins and imagine what life might have been like for those who once lived there. This is the experience you will gain from Machu Picchu, which is as prominent as any place in Peru’s Sacred Valley.
16. WALK ACROSS the skywalk BRIDGE
I would love to experience walking across the skywalk bridge. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is located at Grand Canyon West, on Hualapai Indian Tribe reservation land.
The Grand Canyon’s West Rim is just one part of The Grand Canyon West. You’ll find 2 distinct locations here, each with its own set of exploration chances. The West Rim offers spectacular vistas, ziplining, helicopter tours, and of course the Skywalk.
If you prefer whitewater rafting, they offer 1 or 2 day adventure. It departs from the lodge in Peach Springs, Arizona, 2 hours from the Rim. Even if you don’t expect to splash down the river, Hualapai Lodge on Route 66 is worth visiting. There are luxurious accommodations, a great restaurant, and a trade center with presents and souvenirs to look forward to. You will positively enjoy the experience you will have here!
17. Experience the Northern Lights
You will have a view of the Northern Lights from a variety of locations. Canada, Iceland, and Norway are 3 of the most popular locations. You’ll also want to plan your trip to these locations during the winter months. Winter is often an excellent time to see the lights in the north. There are numerous possibilities to experience auroral displays.
The cause of aurora’s dazzling dancing lights is electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with the earth’s atmosphere. In the north, they are known as the ‘Aurora Borealis. They are well-known as the “Aurora australis” down south.
Although there are many other hues in auroral displays, light green and pink are the most common. The lights come in various shapes and sizes. It ranges from patches or scattered clouds of light to streamers, arcs, rippling curtains, or shooting beams. It cast an eerie glow across the sky. Experiencing these beautiful and captivating moments must be wonderful!
18. Visit the Hawaiian Islands
For mainland visitors, Hawaii is one of the most popular places. With low-cost Hawaii flights, you’ll have to make the most challenging decision to decide which Hawaiian islands to visit. However, there is no right or wrong: deciding which best island in Hawaii to visit is even more difficult.
You can’t go wrong in Hawaii: each island has beautiful beaches and enough to do. Every Hawaiian island, however, has its own identity and mood. You can see it from the sceneries to the attractions and the overall feel. While some islands are better for history and sights, others are better for hiking and beaches.
19. Attend Burning Man
Burning Man is not an event in the traditional sense. Burning Man is a community and a global cultural movement based on 10 principles. They co-create Regional Events in more than 35 countries worldwide. Together they built a Black Rock City, where Burning Man is held every year for one week, is the fourth-largest city in the state of Nevada.
Hundreds of thousands of people visit the Nevada desert each year. They take part in a week of fun activities including social connection, art, counterculture, and free expression. A number of celebrities will also be present during the 7-day Burning man festival. To end the festival, a massive wooden effigy is burned in a symbolic way. Attending this will definitely be exciting!
20. Go zip-lining in Costa Rica
Doing adventure and exciting activities will never be out of my bucket list. I’ve done it, and it’s so amazing. There’s nothing that can compare to the feelings and experiences you will have.
Costa Rica zip line aerial tours are unquestionably one of the country’s most well-known outdoor activities. Given that it established the thrilling sport here in the 1970s by wildlife researchers seeking to access the most isolated sections of Costa Rica’s wilderness.
It also stands to reason that the country that invented it is still the ideal one to supply it. Since the early 1990s, zip lining has been at the heart of Costa Rica’s ecotourism movement. The best zip line trails in Costa Rica nestle in unspoiled wilderness. The place is home to several of the world’s most unusual and rare wildlife.
Here are some of the amazing zip lines in Costa Rica:
21. Cruise through Ha Long Bay
Halong Bay is one of the must-see destinations in Vietnam. Even for travelers on a tight schedule. You will definitely have a wonderful experience as you sail along Ha Long Bay!
A cruise in Halong Bay, located in the Quang Nihm Province, is one of northern Vietnam’s most famous tourist attractions. A breathtaking sight is created by the thousands of karsts, islets, and other features that surround the emerald sea.
The majority of the area is made-up of beautiful limestone islands, but only a small portion of them is populated. Halong Bay is also home to several endangered animal species, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has been featured in many films, notably the 2015 film “Pan.”
Many tourists spend one or more nights sailing across Halong Bay on a Vietnamese boat. There are many activities you can do like swimming, kayaking (one of my favorite) and hiking to the Ti Top Island vista point. We spent 1 night and were able to do all these activities. However, I recommend to plan at least 2 nights if you want to relax and take memorable pictures. The experience will make you want to come back again!
To learn more about Vietnam, read the article “Top 15 Places in Vietnam You Definitely Need to Include On Your Bucket List“
22. Go on Helicopter Tour Flying Over the Grand Canyon
Do you know that you can see its true beauty if you are above The Grand Canyon? Going on a Helicopter Tour Flying Over The Grand Canyon is on my bucket list. It’s a must-do activity that provides incredible vistas much beyond what you can see from the ground.
The Grand Canyon is breathtaking, especially from above. To get a different view of the canyon, think about planning a helicopter tour. You could see other sights, such as The Hoover Dam. Many excursions departing from Las Vegas include round-trip hotel transportation. They provide a relaxing and enjoyable excursion away from the Strip.
In recent years, helicopter tours have become very affordable. A helicopter will provide you with unique and amazing views from anywhere. Even the most ordinary city can be breathtaking when viewed from above.
23. Rafting to Havasu Canyon
Havasu is a wonderful canyon with blue-green water running. There are large stones turned white by the minerals in the Havasu water. It’s hardly something you’d expect to find in the desert.
On a dusty desert walk, many tourists to Havasu Falls carry backpacks. Others prefer to float down the river. They organize rafting trips from Lee’s Ferry, Arizona, and floats the Colorado River toward Havasu Canyon. The 10 miles of Havasu Creek are the most breathtakingly beautiful sites.
Havasu Creek’s lower falls and pools are less well-known. And they’re just as beautiful in the desert. Rafting in Havasu Canyon has always been on my bucket list. It would be great to explore and experience the enchanting place.
24. Go on a cruise
Cruises are a once-in-a-lifetime experience which take you to amazing destinations and exposes you to cultures that are different to your own. While everyone’s bucket lists are unique, when it comes to cruises, the location is absolutely important.
Taking a cruise is a fantastic way to cross items off your bucket list. Many UNESCO World Heritage sites and other historically significant destinations may be reached from both traditional cruise ports and through longer land-based itineraries.
Traveling on a cruise ship with my daughter is one of my favourite memories. It was a 7-night Princess Cruises trip to the Caribbean that featured 4 islands. Find out more about our ”Tips for Caribbean Cruising with a Baby on Princess Cruises“
Yosemite National Park attracts more than 5 million tourists because of its towering redwoods, breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and massive waterfalls. The most amazing adventure I’ve ever had was being there.
With its vast landscape of meadows, forests, waterfalls and mountains, Yosemite National Park is without a doubt one of the greatest places in the world. It might be challenging to decide which activities or attractions to start with when there are so many to do in Yosemite and so little time. Whether you travel in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, this bucket list will make sure you get the most out of it!
26. See the Eiffel Tower Glitter at Night. France
Who wouldn’t want to see the glittering night at the Eiffel Tower? The magical and romantic feeling it brings will always be worth it.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to climb the Eiffel Tower at night if you have the chance. Whether it’s your first time or not, it’s always enchanting. You view the City of Lights with new eyes. Seeing the lit-up tower from the base is impressive enough, but nothing compares to the thrill of standing atop the Eiffel Tower and looking out over the entire city.
The Eiffel Tower, shining above the popular landmarks in Paris, makes for a romantic date night and stunning pictures. Every year, it attracts about 7 million visitors, which makes it the most popular tourist attraction.
A small mountain village called Lake Louise is located in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. It has all the necessary elements to be the destination on everyone’s bucket list because it is surrounded by pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery. Everyone must see Lake Louise, one of the most stunning locations in The Rocky Mountains.
Seeing everything in one trip would be impossible in such a big area unless you had weeks to spare. Spending a week in this beautiful area is on my bucket list. Lake Louise is one of my favorite destinations in all of Canada.
28. Visit the Palace and Gardens of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is the top attraction in Paris that you must see. The Imperial Palace of Versailles, which is only 30 minutes from Paris, features 700 rooms, 50 fountains, over 2,000 acres of gorgeous gardens and parkland, the Petite Trianon, a small palace retreat built for Marie Antoinette, as well as the king and queen’s private apartments.
The palace and gardens may be visited in a few hours or a whole day, depending on how much time you have. The charming city of Versailles, which has so much to see and do that you could spend another day and still not see it all, is a hidden beauty that the majority of tourists don’t visit.
29. Visit the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China, stands in the early 7th century B.C, is a military structure composed of stone, tamped earth, brick, and wood. It runs along China’s traditional northern border. It is known to protect Chinese states against nomadic raids and invasions along the Eurasian borders.
One of China’s most visited sights is this network of defence structures that were built across the country’s northern borders. With a history of almost 1,500 years and a length of 21,196 kilometers, it is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also one of the modern world’s seven wonders!
30. Ride a gondola in Venice
One of the finest experiences is definitely taking a gondola ride in Venice. Additionally to being distinctively Venetian, it’s the only way to see some of the most amazing vistas! It could be full of tourists, but seeing it is inevitable, much like seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
You can have a private trip for a more intimate experience with family or friends. Thanks to prior booking, you can have a convenient departure near Saint Mark’s Square on the Grand Canal Skip-the-line gondola ride. Your bucket list will be complete after a wonderful ride here!
31. Spend the summer in Santorini Greece
This volcanic island, located in the southern Aegean Sea, has some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. There is nothing else in the world like the dazzling white villages built into the caldera cliffs. Santorini has many interesting and exciting things to do. It’s one of Greece’s most stunning islands and a popular travel destination across the world. You really must go there at least once in your lifetime.
These are some of the top things to do in Santorini:
32. Have a walking tour inside Lower Antelope Canyon
One of the world’s most Instagrammable canyons is Antelope Canyon in Arizona. I completely understand why the landmark has become a must-see destination for tourists from all around the world.
Outside Page, Arizona, there is a series of slot canyons known as Antelope Canyon. The ideal time to visit is during the midday sun, when they shine orange with their famous light beams, and it’s also the busiest time for Lower Antelope Canyon tours.
I strongly recommend buying a ticket and visiting Antelope Canyon, whether you’re planning a trip there or are simply passing by.
Regardless of your age, it’s essential to have a good bucket list. It helps you decide what you want to do in life. It also motivates you to reach your goals. Making time for the things you enjoy in life is essential. You can feel both invigorated and relaxed after doing this, which can prevent burnout. Traditional trips provide several advantages for reducing stress and enhancing life happiness.
I hope you’ll be inspired by these bucket lists. You can find inspiration from this post or share with us some of yours in the comment section below.
OTHER TRAVEL TIPS
Bucket List Journal You'll Love
Travel Bucket List Journal
”Say Yes to New Adventure” ThIs Bucket List Journal is perfect to write down all the things you’ve always wanted to do. Take time to think what you are passionate about or places you want to visit and record your thoughts on this journal. Pick one up for yourself or give it as a gift to someone in your life who is ready to live their dreams and goals. Available in Paperback and Hardcover.
Angela
Fabulous list and pleased to say that I have actually done a few, although I have always fancied a trip to see the Great Wall of China.
Linhy Banh
Hello Angela!
That’s nice to know you did a few! Lucky you!
Linhy
Stephanie
Such a great list! I think a bucket list is a must do, it is so important to have something to inspire and excite you in life. Thanks for sharing!
Linhy Banh
Hello Stephanie,
Thank you for your comment. I’m happy you liked this post!
Linhy
Sandra Ans
This is a great bucket list! I have done only a few things yet, so still a lot to do and explore! 🙂
Linhy Banh
Thank you Sandra! Same for me, still have so much to do
Linhy
Lindsay P
This is a great list! I’ve done a few of these but I’ve never heard of the Lantern Festival! I would love to check that out (and feel like I’m in the Disney movie Tangled)!
Linhy Banh
Thank you! Yes your right it is like in the movie Tangled!!
Elaine
Love this bucket list, I have actually done a few but now you have given me some new ideas!
Linhy Banh
So Glad this post inspired you ?
Mina
I need to visit Netherlands, Japan and South Korea.
Linhy Banh
Yes these places are definitely beautiful
Nicolle
What a list!!! Thank you so much for putting all this together! Kauaii……..yes!!!! Super inspirational and lots of great ideas and things to plan and look forward to!!
Linhy Banh
Thank you so much! Glad you love this post! ?
simplyjolayne
Read through your ideas and kept thinking, “Yep, I want to do that, and that, done that, want to do that.” Great ideas.
Linhy Banh
Thank you! Im glad this post gave you some more ideas to add to your bucket list!
Adriane
This is an amazing list filled with things I would die to do. First stop, private jet!
Linhy Banh
Cant wait for you to go on private jet! Im sure it would be an incredible experience!
Helen Story
I love your list, what a fabulous mix of places and experiences. I truly believe making a list-written or virtual- is the first step to making a dream into reality. I hope you get to experience all of your bucket list goals.
Linhy Banh
Thank you! I wish I will be able to visit all these places. Do you have your bucket list too?
Josanne
This is an awesome bucket list!! Wow, those are all amazing experiences!
Linhy Banh
Definitely the most amazing experiences! Thank you so much for reading! ?