As the warm days of summer begin to wind down, it’s easy to feel the pull of back-to-school shopping, busy work schedules, and upcoming fall plans. But before summer slips away, it’s important to make time to savor those final moments of sunshine, relaxation, and family fun.

Whether you’re looking to squeeze in a few more adventures or simply slow down to enjoy quality time with your loved ones, here are some ideas for Livonia families to make the most of the last month of summer.

1. Have a Family Picnic at Hines Park| Michigan family photographer

Hines Park is one of Livonia’s best-kept secrets when it comes to outdoor activities. The park offers expansive green spaces, scenic walking trails, and beautiful lakeside spots perfect for a family picnic. Grab your favorite snacks, pack a blanket, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.

Photographer’s Tip: Picnics are an excellent opportunity to capture candid moments of laughter and connection. Whether it's a game of catch, a peaceful moment by the lake, or the kids enjoying their lunch, those natural moments are beautiful memories in the making.

2. Spend a Day at Plymouth Township Park Splash Pad | Livonia families

The Plymouth Township Park offers a great way to cool off and have fun before the end of summer. The Sprayscape splash pad is free to use and open daily from 10 am to 7:30 pm until Labor Day. It’s the perfect spot for the kids to run around and cool off while you relax and enjoy the park’s other amenities, including playgrounds and walking trails.

Photographer’s Tip: The sprays, splashes, and smiles at the splash pad make for fantastic memories! Take action photos of your kids having fun in the water or capture playful moments as they explore the park’s other features.

3. Go on a Family Bike Ride

Livonia has many beautiful bike trails, and late summer is the perfect time to hop on your bikes and explore them. Consider taking a family bike ride through Hines Park, which has miles of paved paths that wind through the park’s scenic landscapes. Bring a picnic lunch along, or stop at one of the many playgrounds along the way.

Photographer’s Tip: Bike rides are great for capturing dynamic moments of family togetherness. Whether it’s a candid moment of your child riding their bike or a group pause for a break, bike rides provide an energetic backdrop for great memories.

4. Attend a Local Festival or Event

There are plenty of local events happening around Livonia in August that you won’t want to miss! From the Livonia Spree to Farmers Markets and free outdoor concerts, there’s something for every family to enjoy. These events offer the perfect opportunity to soak up the last bits of summer with food, fun, and live entertainment.

Photographer’s Tip: Festivals provide rich, colorful settings for memories. Take time to capture the energy of the event – whether it’s the vibrant food stalls, the joy of watching a live performance, or the fun your kids have at the carnival rides.

5. Plan an Evening of Stargazing

As summer winds down, take advantage of the warm evenings to stargaze. Head to a nearby park or your own backyard, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. You can make it even more fun by downloading a stargazing app and spotting constellations or watching for meteor showers.

Photographer’s Tip: The night sky provides a perfect, peaceful backdrop for family portraits. While stargazing may not offer traditional “sunshine” photos, it can capture quiet, intimate moments that reflect your family’s connection.

6. Capture Summer Memories with a Family Session

Before the kids head back to school and fall schedules get hectic, consider booking a family session. It’s the perfect way to capture your family in the last month of summer, enjoying the fun and relaxation of the season. Whether you want a casual session at a local park, a more formal session, or a fun outdoor adventure, your family photographer can help preserve these memories in a way that feels authentic and timeless.

Photographer’s Tip: The beauty of late summer light is perfect for family memories. The golden hour (right before sunset) provides warm, flattering light that will make your family’s memories glow.

7. Visit a Local Farm or Orchard

Late summer is a great time to visit one of the local farms or orchards near Livonia. Whether it’s picking fresh peaches, blueberries, or just enjoying a farm tour, these trips create wonderful bonding experiences. Plus, many of the orchards offer outdoor games, animals to pet, and plenty of space for kids to explore.

Photographer’s Tip: The rustic charm of a local farm or orchard makes for a perfect family backdrop. Capture your children picking fruit, playing in the fields, or simply enjoying time with you in the great outdoors.

8. Host a Backyard Movie Night

Create your own drive-in movie experience right in your own backyard! Set up a projector, bring out comfy blankets, and pick a family favorite movie to watch under the stars. Add some popcorn and fun snacks for the perfect end-of-summer evening.

Photographer’s Tip: The soft glow of the projector provides a cozy and intimate setting for memories. Capture your family enjoying the movie, snuggling under blankets, or simply spending time together in your own little outdoor theater.

Conclusion

The last month of summer is a special time to slow down, make lasting memories, and savor the final moments before the busy fall season starts. As a Livonia family photographer, I always encourage families to take full advantage of these last weeks of sunshine and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring local parks, attending festivals, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, these simple but meaningful moments are the ones your family will cherish forever.

Don’t forget to capture these memories – because as we all know, time flies, and those small moments will soon become cherished memories that last a lifetime.

About Kelseycharmayne Photography

Kelseycharmayne Photography is a Michigan-based photography business led by Kelsey, a skilled and passionate photographer born and raised in Michigan. Specializing in family, couple, and lifestyle photography, Kelsey aims to capture authentic moments in nature, emphasizing the natural beauty and emotions that make each story unique. Whether it’s a sunset session on the shores of Lake Michigan or a family gathering in your own backyard, Kelsey brings a personal touch to every session, ensuring that every moment is documented in the most beautiful way possible.

Kelsey’s love for Michigan and its landscapes is reflected in her work, especially when capturing the magic of the Michigan beaches during sunset. She prides herself on making every session a comfortable, fun, and memorable experience, leaving you with images that truly represent who you are.