Summer is upon us, people, and it’s time to fill your free time with all those summerish activities that we all love. But what is there to do besides the total ordinary? Well here are a couple cool ideas of some semi-unique things to do out in the summer air.

Rent a paddle boat

Yeah, your legs might be killing you. Yeah, most places require you to wear a life vest during the entire time. Yeah, you often pay for two hours when your legs can only handle one. But, hey, it’s summer. Might as well try it.

Renew the Slip ‘n’ Slide

The little plastic stuff doesn’t do the trick for adults, but you can be inventive and make up your own. Use a tarp and a hose on a slight incline. Ba-da-bing. Add some plastic bowling pins or whatever else you could use for a game and you’ve got yourself some homemade activities.

Find the DSM BCycle

Here’s how it goes: buy a membership online or at a B-Station, choose a bike from any B-Station, ride the bike wherever then park the bike at any B-Station. It’s a great way to tour downtown Des Moines, and the BCycle station has recently expanded, including B-Stations at the Capitol, East Village LifeServe, 10^th & Walnut and the new Wellmark YMCA.

Plan a water gun/ water balloon fight

Get organized and prepare for a brawl. Plan and organize a full-out water-related war with your friends and family. It’s a great, inexpensive way to stay cool.

Go on a canoe ride

Seven Oaks Recreation offers a variety of summertime activities, including canoes, river tubing and camping. If you don’t have your own summer supplies, hit up Seven Oaks in Boone for some fun.

Get in touch with your inner child

The possibilities are endless: have a picnic, organize a scavenger hunt, play a game of hide-and-seek, jump on a trampoline or make your own popsicles. Getting back to your roots and participating in a childhood favorite can boost your mood while entertaining your for the afternoon.