90 fun Summer This or That questions for kids and families—perfect for road trips, dinner, and easy, screen-free conversations.
Summer always starts with the best intentions… more time outside, more family fun, more memories. But somewhere between the heat, the snacks, and hearing “what should we do now?” on repeat, it helps to have a few easy ideas ready.
That’s exactly why I love “This or That” questions. They’re simple, require nothing to prep, and instantly get everyone talking and laughing. Whether you’re at the dinner table, in the car, or just trying to fill a few minutes, it’s one of those activities that always works.
And the best part? You can use it anywhere, anytime.
Why You’ll Love These Summer This or That Questions
This is one of those activities that feels effortless but still meaningful.
You’ll love it because it’s:
- No prep at all
- Perfect for all ages
- Great for quick moments or long conversations
- Easy to use anywhere (home, car, vacation)
- Screen-free and connection-focused
It’s a simple way to get everyone talking without forcing it.
How to Play
This is one of those games you don’t even have to explain twice.
Here’s how it works:
- Read a “this or that” question
- Everyone picks their answer
- Share why (optional… but usually the best part!)
You can keep it super simple or mix it up:
- Go around the table
- Let kids take turns asking
- Turn it into a quick game
- Or let it turn into a longer conversation
There’s no right or wrong way to play — just go with what works for your family.
What These Questions Are Good For
These are perfect for those little in-between moments when you just need something easy.
Use them for:
- Family dinners
- Road trips
- Pool days
- Waiting in line
- Bedtime chats
- Summer get-togethers
They also naturally help kids with:
- Conversation skills
- Confidence sharing opinions
- Listening to others
- Connecting as a family
And honestly… some of the best conversations come from the simplest questions.
Some of Our Favorite “This or That?” Summer Questions
Here are a few examples to kick off the fun:
- Ice cream or popsicles?
- Beach vacation or mountain getaway?
- Swimming pool or ocean waves?
- Camping in a tent or staying in a cabin?
- Fireworks or sparklers?
- Tropical trip or camping trip?
- Ocean or pool?
- Bikini or one-piece?
- Strawberries or watermelons?
- Summer reading list or summer playlist?
- Straw bag or straw hat?
- Summer fling or long-term love?
- Sandals or barefoot?
- Outdoor movie or outdoor concert?
- Sun-bleached hair or freckles?
- Sundress or shorts?
- Summer in an RV or in a fancy hotel?
- Summer camp with friends or stay home with family?
- Fishing or Waterskiing?
- Live on a boat for the summer or live in a tree house?
- Be a lifeguard or a carnival ride operator?
- Summer on a farm or in the big city?
- Get really bad sunburn or get stung by a jellyfish?
- Float in the pool on a giant unicorn or a giant dragon?
- Watch the clouds during the day or see the stars at night?
- Wear a snorkel on your face or flippers on your feet?
- Crowded beach or a deserted island?
- Ride a rollercoaster or a waterslide?
- Walk barefoot on grass or walk barefoot in the sand?
- Surf the waves or read a book?
- Run through a field of sunflowers or paddle down a river?
- Seashells or starfish?
- Make friends with a dolphin or with a llama?
- Hamburgers or watermelon?
Easy Ways to Make It More Fun
Want to mix it up a little?
- Turn it into a game (vote or move to sides of the room)
- Make everyone explain their answer
- Keep score for “most popular answers”
- Let kids create their own questions
You can keep it quick or turn it into a full activity — both work.
More Summer Printables You’ll Love
If you need more easy summer ideas, these pair perfectly:
- Summer Charades
- Pool Scavenger Hunt
- Conversation Starter Cards
- Would You Rather Summer Questions
- Summer Minute to Win It Games
Mix and match for easy, screen-free summer fun.
Michele Tripple is a renowned author and expert in the fields of parenting, relationships, and personal development. She is a certified Life Coach with her degree in marriage and family studies, her experience as a Family Life Educator, and over a decade of experience as a professional writer; Michele has authored books that provide practical advice and insights into improving family dynamics and personal growth. Her work is celebrated for its blend of research-driven information and relatable, real-world applications. Michele has been a keynote speaker at conferences and has contributed to numerous publications and media outlets, solidifying her reputation as an authoritative voice in her field and helping families build relationships.