I know firsthand how important it is to spend quality time with your grandkids, but let’s face it: With all the different activities and interests that teenagers have these days, it can be a challenge to find things that we can enjoy together!
That’s why I’ve put together this list of fun things to do with your teenage grandkids, to help you create lasting memories and bond over shared experiences. Let’s dive in and have some fun!
1. Take a Cooking Class
Taking a cooking class is a great way to spend quality time together while learning new recipes and cooking techniques. You can choose from a wide range of classes, from baking to Italian cuisine, and even try out exotic dishes from different parts of the world!
2. Go on a Photo Scavenger Hunt
Going on a photo scavenger hunt is a good way to explore your city or neighborhood with the grandkids. Make a list of things to find and take pictures of, such as a funny street sign, a statue, or a beautiful view. You can also challenge your grandkids to come up with their own items to add to the list!
3. Plan a DIY Project
Planning a DIY project with your grandchildren is a creative way to work together on a shared project, as you can choose from a wide range of projects (i.e., building a birdhouse, painting a piece of furniture, or making your own jewelry).
4. Try an Escape Room
Try an escape room with your grandkids to challenge your problem-solving skills and learn to work together as a team. You’ll have to solve puzzles and clues to escape the room before time runs out. (Never heard of an escape room? They are becoming quite popular in most cities, so you should be able to find one near you via a quick Google search!)
5. Visit a Trampoline Park
Visiting a trampoline park is a fun way to get some exercise and enjoy some indoor fun, as you can bounce around, play dodgeball, and challenge each other on the ninja course!
6. Have a Bonfire
Having a bonfire is a cozy and fun way to spend an evening together. From roasting marshmallows to drinking hot chocolate to telling stories around the fire, bonfires guarantee unforgettable memories that you and your grandchild will cherish for years to come!
7. Play Laser Tag
Now this is an easy way to get some exercise and enjoy some fun, friendly competition! You’ll work together as a team to win the game, and you can challenge each other to see who can get the highest score.
8. Have a DIY Movie Night
Create your own movie theater experience at home with a DIY movie night. Build a fort, project a movie onto a blank wall, and make your own popcorn and treats – what could be better?
9. Go on a Bike Ride
Go on a bike ride with your grandkids to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors! You can explore your neighborhood or a nearby trail, and stop for a picnic or a snack along the way.
10. Have a Karaoke Party
Having a karaoke party is a fun way to let loose and have some laughs! Sing your favorite songs and challenge each other to see who has the best voice! Heck, you can even dress up in fun costumes and make it a themed party.
11. Visit a Zoo or Aquarium
Learn about exotic animals and sea creatures by visiting a zoo or aquarium. Explore the exhibits together and learn about different species from around the world! While you’re there, you and your grand can even attend shows and demonstrations to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
12. Play Mini Golf
Playing mini golf with the grandchildren is a nice way to enjoy some friendly competition and get some exercise! You’ll work together to navigate the obstacles and challenges of the course, and, like laser tag, can even make it a tournament to see who comes out on top.
13. Go Roller Skating
Going roller skating with your grandkids is always fun, and you get some exercise as you skate to your favorite tunes and revel in the nostalgia of one of your favorite pastimes and see who can do the best tricks. (My money is on you, grandma!)
14. Visit a Science Museum
Visit a science museum to learn about science and technology and explore the exhibits together and learn about everything from outer space to the human body! You can even participate in hands-on activities and demonstrations to learn more about different scientific concepts.
15. Have a Video Game Night
Partake in a video game night with your grandkids to bond over a shared love of gaming! Have you never held a controller in your life? Even better, as your grandchild will get a kick out of teaching you.
16. Try a New Sport
Try out a new sport to create lasting memories and bond with the grandchildren. Rock climbing, anyone? (Or kickball, baseball, or pickleball? The possibilities here are positively endless!)
17. Go to a Farmers’ Market
Going to a farmers market with your grandkids is always a good way to learn about local agriculture and support local farmers. While you’re there, pick out fresh produce together and learn how to cook with new ingredients!
18. Play Board Games
Playing board games with the grands is a fun way to enjoy some friendly competition and spend quality time together. In this day and age, there are countless games to choose from, but I recommend Yahtzee, Skip-Bo, or Nertz.
19. Volunteer Together
Volunteering together can be a rewarding way to give back to your community. You can volunteer at a local charity or organization and make a positive impact on those around you!
20. Take a Road Trip
Taking a road trip with your grandkids is sure to create lasting memories by exploring new places. Choose a destination together, pack a picnic basket, and hit the road! Along the way, you can stop to take in the scenery, visit local landmarks, and try new foods.
I hope these ideas have sparked your imagination and given you some inspiration for fun activities to do with your teenage grandkids.
Whether you’re exploring new places, trying new things, or just hanging out and having a good time, the most important thing is to enjoy each other’s company and make the most of the time you have together. As a grandma, I know that these moments are precious, and I cherish every one of them.
What are you waiting for? Go out there and have some fun with your grandkids, and create memories that will last a lifetime!
