Top Things to Do Before You Die

Top Things to Do Before You Die

08/07/2022 0 By admin

Looking for unique bucket list ideas to help you live your best life? This ultimate bucket list of things to do before you die has got you covered!

I’ve always been a fan of bucket lists because they motivate me to push my limits and broaden my horizons. It’s one thing to dream about everything I’d like to achieve, but writing things down holds me accountable and makes these goals real and tangible. I’ve visited 45 countries so far, yet my bucket list continues to grow every day (much faster than I’m able to cross things off!).

Compiling a unique bucket list is all about dreaming and yearning, and it’s perfectly fine if you don’t hit the mark by your 20th, 30th, or 50th birthday! I’d prefer to shoot for the stars and try to land on the moon!

The best bucket lists you often see on the internet are filled with clichés, so I’ve done my best to create a list of specific and ultimate bucket list-worthy experiences. These incredible things to do before you die will make you feel on top of the world. Here are 50 unique bucket list ideas about travel, life, and personal advancement. Hopefully, they will provide inspiration for your own unique or unusual bucket list!

For more bucket list examples, be sure to follow me on Instagram 🙂

Coolest bucket list ideas for all types of people - pinterest photo pin
Looking to discover the ultimate bucket list ideas? Read on!

Unique Bucket List Ideas about Travel

1. Live, study, or work abroad

This bucket list idea is truly life-changing.

Back when I was in college, I studied abroad in Barcelona. It was my first time living in a foreign country and going anywhere outside of the country without my parents. This was the single most important experience in my life (after getting married, of course). Later, I taught English over a summer in Valencia, Spain, and that was also a tremendous growth opportunity. Each of these experiences pushed me outside of my comfort zone and further sparked my passion for traveling and learning about other cultures.

It’s important to recognize that when moving abroad—even on a temporary basis— you will encounter obstacles. Whether it’s learning the local language, understanding the customs/traditions, or even being uncomfortable with the unfamiliar, you will face challenges while living abroad. But it’s 100% worth it, and it will change your life for the better.

In the words of J.D. Andrews, “It’s a big world out there. It would be a shame not to experience it.” As such, this is one of the best bucket list ideas, hands down!

Read next: Top Inspirational Travel Quotes

You may also like: Coolest Travel Jobs around the Globe

Living abroad in Valencia, Spain was a lifechanging experience!
Living abroad in Valencia, Spain was a lifechanging experience!

2. See the Egyptian Pyramids

Built in 2,500 B.C., the Pyramids of Giza are among the most spectacular wonders of the ancient world. Today, these Egyptian pyramids are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see if you enjoy ancient history. This is one of the ultimate bucket list ideas for those who love to travel!

Read next: Top UNESCO Sites in the World

Seeing the Egyptian pyramids is a top bucket list experience.
Seeing the Egyptian pyramids is a top bucket list experience.

3. Swim in every ocean

Are you an avid swimmer? Consider adding this to your bucket list.

To accomplish this, there are 5 major oceans in the world where you’ll have to make the plunge:

– Pacific Ocean

– Atlantic Ocean

– Indian Ocean

– Arctic Ocean

– Southern Ocean

The first four oceans are relatively easy and straightforward to cross off your bucket list. However, you will have to make it to Antarctica to go swimming in the Southern Ocean. The best way to do this is on an Antarctic cruise, where many ships will allow passengers to briefly go for a dip. Is this one of the coolest bucket list activities? 100%!

Looking for what to put on your bucket list? Go swimming in all major oceans and seas.
Looking for what to put on your bucket list? Go swimming in all major oceans and seas.

4. Visit the vineyards of Tuscany

Even if you don’t like drinking wine, this is one of the bucket list examples that everyone ought to experience.

Located in the heart of Italy, Tuscany is one of the world’s top wine regions. It’s home to beautiful cities like Florence and Siena, as well as rural towns and gently rolling hills filled with grape vines.

Be sure to spend time visiting the many lush vineyards and wineries that Tuscany is known for. Learn about Tuscany’s wine heritage amid a beautiful backdrop of vineyards as far as the eye can see. There’s no place quite like it!

After exploring Tuscany, I recommend making your way north to Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, which boasts the best food in the entire country!

Read next: Top Wine Regions in the World

Stay in a medieval Tuscan town with views of vineyards.
Stay in a medieval Tuscan town with views of vineyards.

5. Go on a road trip around the US

With cheap gas, wide open roads, and lots of epic landscapes, the US is arguable the best country for road trips. There are so many to choose from, but here’s what I recommend:

US road trips to add to your bucket list

New England Fall Foliage Road Trip: I’m a New Englander, so I may be a bit biased here. But if you genuinely want to see some of the most vibrant fall colors and maple trees imaginable, come up to New England and do a trip through Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire. You won’t regret it!

Pacific Coast Highway: a coastal drive through California, Oregon, and Washington.

US Route 66: A cross country road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles

Southwest Road Trip: Hit national parks like the Grand Canyon, Bryce, Arches, and Zion. Along the way, don’t miss Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Sedona. Each of these geological wonders in the Southwest deserve a spot on your bucket list.

The Overseas Highway: a scenic highway that takes you through the Florida Keys all the way to Key West.

Though not on the mainland, I also recommend doing a road trip on the Road to Hana in Maui. It will take you past bamboo forests, dramatic coastlines lined with black, white, and red sand beaches, and lots of winding, narrow roads. I’ve done road trips on three continents, and this was unlike anything I’ve done before.

Read next: The Ultimate New England Road Trip

Valley of Fire in Nevada is a must-see on a Southwest road trip.
Valley of Fire in Nevada is a must-see on a Southwest road trip.

6. Fly in a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey

I think the act of flying in a hot air balloon is already worthy of a spot on your bucket list. But if there’s one place to do it, I think it should be Cappadocia. Look at the fairy chimney formations below, and I think you will agree!

Hot air balloons flying over Cappadocia, Turkey
Hot air balloons flying over Cappadocia, Turkey

7. See the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)

Seeing the Northern Lights is about as otherworldly as it gets.

I witnessed this spectacle in Iceland twice, and thinking about it still sends shivers down my spine. I can’t quite describe it, but it felt like these colorful formations were dancing in the midnight sky, swaying in a deliberate yet unforeseen way that really makes you believe in a higher power. Perhaps the Vikings—who unfortunately did not write any books—would have agreed!

In the US, some of the best states to see the Northern Lights include Alaska, Michigan, Minnesota, Maine, and Montana. Outside of the U.S., you’re very likely able to see them in the northern parts of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia.

If you’re looking to discover the best bucket list ideas, be sure to add the Northern Lights to your list!

Read next: Coolest Accommodations in Iceland

Seeing the northern lights in Iceland is one of the most unique bucket list ideas.
Seeing the northern lights in Iceland is one of the most unique bucket list ideas.

8. Go on a safari in Africa – A top bucket list idea for animal lovers

If you are captivated by wildlife, this should be at the top of your bucket list.

See the Big Five (Leopards, lions, buffalos, elephants, and rhinos) while on a safari in Africa. Some of the best safari destinations include Serengeti in Tanzania, Kruger in South Africa, and Masai Mara in Kenya. You also may come across crocodiles, hippos, cheetahs, hyenas, and a variety of other wildlife.

Depending on where you live, it can be pricey to get to some of these African countries, but it’s well worth it!

Elephants are one of the most beautiful animals you'll encounter on an African safari.
Elephants are one of the most beautiful animals you’ll encounter on an African safari.

9. Learn how to surf in Hawaii

There are lots of great places around the world where you can go surfing, but I can’t imagine a better place than Hawaii!

In particular, Oahu is known for its perfect waves and friendly people. They would be happy to show you how it’s done!

Waikiki Beach is a great spot for beginners, and those who are a bit more confident in their abilities should head over to Oahu’s North Shore. You’ll find many of the world’s best surfers here, so if you’re intimidated by the massive waves, at least you can enjoy surfing as a spectator sport!

Read next: 10 Things Locals do on Oahu

Surfing in Hawaii is definitely worthy of a spot on your bucket list.
Surfing in Hawaii is definitely worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

10. Go to the Carnival Celebration in Rio de Janeiro

Each year, many cities across the world host Carnival celebrations, but none is more famous than the festivities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! It makes Mardi Gras in New Orleans look like a small and quiet gathering (slight exaggeration, but you get the point!).

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a top bucket list attraction across the world.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a top bucket list attraction across the world.

11. Hug a giant sequoia tree

Any tree huggers here? Add the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range to your bucket list. In this region of California, you’ll find the world’s most massive tree, the Giant Sequoia. Growing between 160-280 ft. tall with a trunk diameter of 20-26 ft., these tall trees definitely deserve a hug.

Giant sequoia trees grow in the mountains between 5,000 and 7,000 feet elevation. This includes parts of Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Each of these parks are a must-see on a Northern California itinerary.

With just 80,000 trees remaining, giant sequoias are considered an endangered species. I encourage you to give one a hug sometime. Not only will you feel dwarfed by this enormous living species, you will also be filled with love and wonder. Consider posting it on social media to raise awareness of this incredible species, too!

Me hugging a giant sequoia at Yosemite National Park
Me hugging a giant sequoia at Yosemite National Park

12. See a glacier up close (make this bucket list idea a priority!)

Glaciers are beautiful, unique, and fleeting. With these large ice formations receding at a rapid rate, there’s no guarantee that we’ll be able to see them in the coming decades. As such, this is one of the unique bucket list ideas that you’ll want to prioritize and see sooner rather than later.

I’ve visited glaciers in Europe and the US, and my favorites are Jökulsárlón in Iceland and Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park (Montana). Of course, there are many other amazing glaciers out there, so take your pick and make this a priority!

Read next: Most Beautiful Places in the USA

Glaciers are disappearing at alarming rates, so make it a point to see one in the not-so-distant future.
Glaciers are disappearing at alarming rates, so make it a point to see one in the not-so-distant future.

13. Go scuba diving or snorkeling

This is one of the best bucket list ideas out there.

It’s always fascinated me that over two-thirds of our planet is made up of oceans, and there are so many aquatic species that we’ve yet to discover! Go snorkeling in the Caribbean or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, and you’ll get a taste of the beauty that lies beneath us.

While many people may fear the ocean and all the strange and exotic fish in its depths, this is a fear that must be conquered. The ocean is filled with beautiful fish and coral reefs that deserve to be seen up close rather than just on TV and social media.

By scuba diving or snorkeling, not only will this help you conquer their fears, but you’ll also learn about our beautiful marine world!

The Great Barrier Reef is a unique bucket list idea
As the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef is home to 1,500 species of fish and hundreds of types of hard and soft coral.

14. Walk along the Great Wall of China – a bucket list attraction for culture and history lovers

China is home to so many natural, cultural, and historic wonders, but the Great Wall of China tops the list. I’ve been to China twice, visiting a range of modern sights and cultural attractions, but this bucket list idea has eluded me so far. I will definitely report back when I do get a chance to walk along the Great Wall.

As you can imagine, parts of the wall can get quite busy. So be sure to hire a local guide and hike to a spot with fewer tourists!

Read next: Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary

Take a walk along the Great Wall of China, the longest wall in the world
Take a walk along the Great Wall of China, the longest wall in the world!

15. Check the Amazon Rainforest off your bucket list

Visiting the Amazon Rainforest and River is a once in a lifetime experience. It spans eight countries in South America, including Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.

The Amazon is nicknamed the “lungs of the world,” as it provides a large share of the world’s oxygen. Here, you can enjoy a variety of fun bucket list activities throughout this lush jungle, including kayaking, canopy climbing, mountain biking, and more.

Take in the diverse natural habitats and marvel at the giant trees that lie along the river. It’s easy to see why the Amazon should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

16. Float in the Dead Sea

Located in Israel and Jordan, the Dead Sea is one of the most unique places on Earth, and certainly worthy of a spot on your bucket list.

Contrary to popular belief, the Dead Sea is a lake rather than a sea. It’s made up of 30% salt, which makes it nearly 10 times saltier than typical sea water. As such, this salty water makes it easy to float. It’s truly a surreal feeling to take a dip and not have to tread water.

The Dead Sea also has healing properties, treating skin conditions like psoriasis. This makes it one of the best free spas on the planet!

For this bucket list idea, I was going to write “Swim in the Dead Sea,” but quickly realized you don’t have to swim to stay afloat here. This is definitely something that you’ll want to experience in your lifetime!

Floating on the Dead Sea is one of the most unique bucket list ideas
Floating on the Dead Sea

17. Spend a weekend at Oktoberfest in Munich

If you love beer, you must add this unique experience to your bucket list!

Oktoberfest is a Bavarian beer celebration that’s been held in Munich for over 200 years. It typically occurs between late-September and early-October, attracting over 6 million people from around the world.

I went to Oktoberfest back in 2014, and though I will drink that much beer again, it was a great experience!

So, go out and buy a lederhosen and dirndl and celebrate your love for beer at Oktoberfest! For beer lovers, it’s definitely something that you should do before you die.

Oktoberfest is like Christmas for beer lovers.
Oktoberfest is like Christmas for beer lovers.

18. See a Komodo Dragon in Indonesia

Ever dreamt of seeing a dinosaur? The Komodo dragon, which is only found on 5 islands in southeastern Indonesia, is the closest you’ll get of seeing one.

Komodo Dragons grow up to 10-ft. long and weigh over 300 lbs, making them the world’s largest lizard. You can see them in zoos around the world, but it’s more interesting and authentic to see them in the wild.

Watch Komodo dragons in their natural habitat on Komodo Island and you’ll feel like you’re looking at an ancient beast, or even a dragon! Is this worthy of being among the ultimate bucket list ideas? You betcha!

Add seeing Komodo dragons to your bucket list.
Add seeing Komodo dragons to your bucket list.

19. Add this unique experience to your bucket list: Stay at the Ice Hotel in Sweden

This is one of the most unique bucket list ideas imaginable!

The Icehotel in northern Sweden offers an experience like no other. Each of the rooms contain hand-carved ice furniture and furnishings that makes you feel like you’re in a mystical place near the North Pole. The rooms are kept at subfreezing temperatures, so you’ll fall asleep at night in a thermal sleeping bag. There’s a sauna, and lots of unique winter activities you can do outside, including dog sledding and reindeer sleigh rides.

Stay inside a hotel entirely sculpted of ice with views of the Northern Lights, and you’ll see why this is one of the top bucket list ideas for travelers.

Click here to check availability at the Icehotel in Sweden

Icehotel in northern Sweden
Icehotel in northern Sweden

This is the ultimate bucket list idea if you enjoy traveling.

Some people are put off by visiting Antarctica due to its extremely cold temperatures, so hitting 6 of the 7 continents is a great alternative as well.

One interesting caveat about continents as it relates to this bucket list: some countries, including the US and much of Europe, consider there to be seven continents: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America, and South America. But in other parts of the world, people consider Europe and Asia to be one continent (Eurasia). Additionally, Central and South Americans consider America to be one continent, rather than two. And finally, some parts of the world don’t consider Antarctica to be a continent at all. It’s all about perspective!

Add Antarctica to your bucket list.
Add Antarctica to your bucket list.

21. Hike the Himalayas – one of the most unique bucket list ideas imaginable

If you’re into hiking, the Himalayas ought to be near the top of your bucket list. This mountain range in Asia separates the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. It’s best known for Mount Everest in Nepal, the highest mountain on Earth above sea level. However, there are lots of other mountains in Bhutan, China, India, and even Pakistan that are worth the trek.

Is this one of the most unique bucket list ideas? Absolutely!

Aerial view of Mt. Everest
Aerial view of Mt. Everest

22. Visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

This has been on my bucket list for such a long time. Known for its wildlife-viewing, the Galapagos Islands are a must-see island destination off the coast of Ecuador. Nowhere else on Earth will you see the sheer diversity of flora and fauna than on the Galapagos.

These islands inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, and they will inspire you too. Check out the giant tortoises, iguanas, and finches, and you’ll see what I mean!

It would be a crime not to include the Galapagos Islands among the most unique bucket list ideas, especially if you’re a wildlife lover.

Read next: The Coolest Islands in the World

A giant tortoise is one of the many unique species you'll find on the Galapagos Islands.
A giant tortoise is one of the many unique species you’ll find on the Galapagos Islands.

23. Get lost in the concrete jungle – One of the coolest bucket list ideas for citygoers

Originally, I was going to make this bucket list idea about NYC, but there are many other concrete jungles out there worth visiting.

Cities like New York City, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Tokyo are considered “Concrete Jungles” due to the copious pavement and skyscrapers that are found at every turn.

Even if you don’t like big cities, it’s still worth tacking on these global cities to your bucket list. You’ll find lots of interesting culture and history in each, and the gastronomical experiences are second to none!

Read next: Unique things to do in Shanghai

Shanghai's futuristic skyline is one of a kind.
Shanghai’s futuristic skyline is one of a kind.

24. Attend the Olympic Games

Ever dreamed of going to the Olympics? Well, if you’re not a top performing athlete, the next best thing is attending as a spectator. These international games are held every two years, switching off between Summer and Olympic games.

Cheer on your country and enjoy the party atmosphere in the process, and you’ll be happy you added this unique experience to your bucket list!

There's nothing like seeing Olympic athletes compete up close.
There’s nothing like seeing Olympic athletes compete up close.

25. Sail on Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

Located in northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is certainly worthy of a spot on your bucket list. This natural wonder is made up of some 1,600 islands and islets. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to 200 species of fish and inspiring locals and visitors alike for centuries.

Take in the crystal clear waters and dramatic limestone landscapes. It’s no wonder this is considered one of the most incredible things to do before you die.

Ha Long Bay is the ultimate bucket list idea for travelers.
Ha Long Bay is the ultimate bucket list idea for travelers.

26. Go camping in the middle of nature

Nothing beats the feeling of serenity when you’re totally off the grid.

Putting your phone away (or not having service altogether) allows you to better connect with nature. Enjoy the fresh air, a good night’s sleep, and improved mood levels as you spend time with your loved ones. Camping off the grid is truly a lost art these days, and a great way to make all of life’s worries go away.

So, escape the hustle and bustle of city life and go camping…preferably in a hidden vacation spot somewhere in your country. For nature lovers, it’s easy to see why this is among the ultimate bucket list ideas!

Read next: Best Hidden Gems to visit in the USA

For further reading: Most Unique Stays in New England

Camping is among the best bucket list experiences imaginable.
Camping is among the best bucket list experiences imaginable.

27. Visit the “New” 7 Wonders of the World

Sometimes, the best bucket list ideas are the ones that are far away. I’ve already mentioned the Great Wall of China, but there are six other unique wonders worth visiting:

– Machu Picchu in Peru

– Taj Mahal in India

– Petra in Jordan

– Christ the Redeemer in Brazil

– Chichen Itza in Mexico

– The Colosseum in Italy

Each of these sights are among the most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These manmade structures will blow your mind!

The Egyptian Pyramids are technically an ancient wonder, but you should strive to see those too!

Visiting the Taj Mahal is one of the most unique bucket list ideas for travel lovers.
Visiting the Taj Mahal is one of the most unique bucket list ideas for travel lovers.

28. The ultimate bucket list adventure: Go backpacking for an extended period

Backpacking is easily one of the most fun and cost-effective ways to travel. I’ve done many backpacking trips, where I’ve covered a lot of ground for a fraction of the price of a typical vacation. Consider backpacking around Europe, or in a specific destination like Thailand or Colombia.

There are lots of amazing places for backpacking, so take your pick and cross this off your travel bucket list!

Read next: Best Hidden Gem Vacation Spots in Europe

You may also like: Top Travel Backpack by HP

Backpacking around the world
Backpacking around the world

29. Explore thousands of years of history at the Acropolis of Athens

Located in Athens, the Acropolis is one of the most impressive wonders still standing from Greek antiquity. It was a commanding military fortress and home for the kings and mythical gods of Ancient Greece. The best-known building still standing atop this rocky outcrop is the Parthenon, a marble temple built nearly 2,500 years ago.

The Acropolis is one of the most iconic ancient monuments of Europe. It’s also a surviving symbol of democracy and Greek civilization to this day. If history intrigues you, this is one of the bucket list items you won’t want to miss.

The Acropolis of Athens looks proudly over Greece's capital.
The Acropolis of Athens looks proudly over Greece’s capital.

30. Experience all four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall

If you live in a tropical place, you probably don’t see snow very often (or even at all!). Put your fears of the cold aside and try to see the winter! And while you’re at it, also make it a point to see the spring flowers and fall foliage. You won’t regret it!

Consider seeing the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. or Japan! And don’t miss the fall foliage season in New England!

Read next: Best Places to Visit in New England in the Fall

The winter is one of the bucket list items everyone should experience in their lifetime.
The winter is one of the bucket list items everyone should experience in their lifetime.

31. Go stargazing in the desert

Not many of these unique bucket list ideas are more magical than stargazing.

Some popular stargazing spots in the desert include Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California, the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, and Wadi Rum in Jordan.

Set out for a place where there’s little light pollution, such as a desert, so you can see the night sky. There’s nothing quite like it!

Stargazing in Monument Valley
Stargazing in Monument Valley is one of the ultimate bucket list ideas!

32. Take a train ride through the Swiss Alps – A bucket list-worthy experience like no other!

If you’re into dramatic mountains, crystal clear lakes, and verdant scenery, add this unique experience to your travel bucket list!

Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and the best way to experience it is by train!

Take a panoramic train ride through the Swiss Alps, and you’ll discover the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable. One of the most popular train rides is the Glacier Express, which gives you unbeatable views of the iconic Matterhorn and Mater Valley. There are numerous other train rides as well worth noting, including the Jungfrau Railway and Bernina Express.

This type of Switzerland getaway is going to cost you a pretty penny, so better start saving now!

Read next: Coolest Airbnb Rentals in Switzerland

A train ride through the Swiss Alps is the ultimate travel bucket list idea.
A train ride through the Swiss Alps is the ultimate travel bucket list idea.

Bucket List Ideas about Life and Personal Advancement

33. Wake up early to catch the sunrise – The only unique bucket list idea that’s free!

There’s nothing better than the feeling of seclusion and beauty that comes with a sunrise. This seemingly magical transition from Blue Hour to Golden Hour yields some spectacular colors, so be sure to have your camera ready and practice your travel photography.

In addition to caching the sunrise, waking up early on a regular basis has many other benefits. According to medical experts, this habit lends itself to a happier, healthier, and more productive lifestyle than that of late risers.

Unlike sunsets, which are more convenient to see, sunrises require some effort. It’s well worth it!

Unlike the other unique bucket list ideas on here, sunrises are totally free
Unlike the other unique bucket list ideas on here, sunrises are totally free!

34. Learn another language

Conversing with people in a foreign language just might be one of the most satisfying feelings in the world. As such, it’s one of the best bucket list ideas out there. Though it takes a lot of practice, it allows you to connect with locals in ways you otherwise couldn’t.

I know some Spanish and German, and there’s no better feeling than having a Cerveza or Bier and striking up a conversation with locals. Though contrary to popular belief, your language skills don’t get better with every beer you have!

Read next: Reasons to Learn Another Language

Learning other languages is among the best things to do before you die.
Learning other languages is among the best things to do before you die.

35. Run a marathon – one of the top bucket list ideas for athletes

If you enjoy running, then this idea was probably already on your bucket list. This isn’t just about physical toughness, but mental perseverance as well.

I look forward to one day mustering the physical strength, endurance, and determination to run those 26.2 miles!

Running a marathon is the ultimate bucket list idea.
Running a marathon is the ultimate bucket list idea.

36. Become a subject matter expert

This is one of the most desirable bucket list ideas for people who are career-oriented and education-driven.

Whether it’s your lifelong passion, career, or a combination of the two, dive into it with consistent focus and effort over a long period of time. Perhaps one day, you will know more in your field than anyone else!

As you're thinking about what to put on your bucket list, remember that knowledge is power.
As you’re thinking about what to put on your bucket list, remember that knowledge is power.

37. Go horseback riding

There are not many stronger bonds out there than the one between people and horses. Humans have been riding horses for thousands of years, and this emotional attachment is very real. As such, it’s no wonder so many people have this as one of their bucket list items.

Unlike other sports, horse riding is a team effort, where you get to work together with the animal.

Ride horses on the beach in a place like Half Moon Bay, California or amid the breathtaking landscapes of West Iceland. You’ll quickly realize why horseback riding is one of the most popular outdoor activities!

Horseback riding at sunset is one of the most unique bucket list ideas out there.
Horseback riding at sunset is one of the most unique bucket list ideas out there.

38. Play a new instrument – A unique bucket list idea for just about everyone

This unique bucket list idea isn’t just for musicians. Any child or adult is capable of learning an instrument. All it takes is practice and perseverance.

In today’s world, you’ll find all sorts of YouTube videos teaching you how to do just about everything. Of course, personal instruction is the most effective way to learn how to play an instrument, but online instruction works great, too!

In addition to the satisfaction of playing a new instrument, it’s scientifically proven that doing so is also great for the brain!

One of the best bucket list examples includes playing a new instrument, like the guitar.
One of the best bucket list examples includes playing a new instrument, like the guitar.

39. Create passive income

One of the ultimate life goals is to make the transition from a worker to an investor.

Creating passive income—whether it’s through a travel blog, affiliate marketing, rent income, or investment income—will give you more time to make your other bucket list ideas a reality.

Read next: Tips on How to Become a Travel Blogger

You may also like: The Coolest Travel Blogs to Follow

Travel blogging is a cool bucket list activity that allows you to create passive income.
Travel blogging is a cool bucket list activity that allows you to create passive income.

40. Add skydiving to your bucket list

For adrenaline junkies, skydiving is one of the most popular things to do before you die. Not only do you get to take in beautiful views, but you also get to build confidence and enjoy an activity that most people will never experience. Skydiving also builds confidence, allowing you to overcome yourself (and your fears).

Some amazing places for skydiving include the Bernese Alps in Switzerland, Moab in Utah, and the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai. Each destination is worthy of being on a bucket list, but soaring over them certainly adds to the appeal.

Nothing is more exhilarating than plummeting through Earth’s atmosphere at the speed of gravity. If you’re looking for bucket list activities that will both scare and inspire you, this is it!

Skydiving is the ultimate bucket list activity
Skydiving is the ultimate bucket list activity

Ultimate Bucket List Ideas that You Can Do from Home

41. Be a tourist in your own city or town

You don’t have to travel far and wide to see beauty. Sometimes, the most beautiful places in the world can be in our own backyard.

Okay, so more likely than not, your home town probably isn’t as epic as Bali, Barcelona, etc. But, it still pays to be a tourist in your own town to experience your surroundings in a new light. I (for one) love enjoying my home city of Boston, even though it’s not on most people’s bucket list.

Explore all the local attractions, restaurants, bakeries, museums, and nature spots, and you’ll hopefully find a newfound appreciation for your home!

I thoroughly enjoy being a local in Boston!
I thoroughly enjoy being a local in Boston!

42. Try Yoga and Meditation

Bucket list items come in all different forms, and this is among the best.

Let’s be honest: we live in a pretty crazy world and sometimes it’s hard to disconnect from it all. One of the best ways I cope with all the stresses of life is through yoga and meditation.

You can do each of these things from just about anywhere! You don’t need anything…you don’t even need a yoga mat (though they are comfortable and I’d definitely recommend getting one). In addition to feeling good, meditation and yoga have many health benefits. Just a little bit of practice goes a long way, and you’ll quickly see why these bucket list ideas are super desirable to incorporate into your daily routine!

Wake up early and try doing yoga at sunrise. This is one of the ultimate bucket list ideas for nature lovers!
Wake up early and try doing yoga at sunrise. This is one of the ultimate bucket list ideas for nature lovers!

43. Bucket list idea: Find a healthy work-life balance in your life

In 2022, it seems that most people are chronically stressed. While traveling and other bucket list activities can be great diversions, you’ll want to address the root cause of this problem. One such way to cultivate a healthy lifestyle is by having a work-life balance.

At the end of the day, one of our main goals in life should be to seek happiness and fulfillment. As such, maintaining a work-life balance should be at the top of people’s bucket lists.

One of the most important things to do before you die is achieve work-life balance.
One of the most important things to do before you die is achieve work-life balance.

44. Read a new book or novel

Though not super unique or unusual, this is an original bucket list idea that everyone should do from time to time. Nowadays, people don’t seem to have time to read, but we should make the time!

Reading a new book or classic novel is one of the top original bucket list ideas.
Reading a new book or classic novel is one of the top original bucket list ideas.

Unique Bucket List Ideas for Helping Others

45. Be a mentor to someone else

This is definitely one of the best bucket list ideas for altruistic people. Whether it’s a coworker, a friend, or someone else who is less experienced than you, mentoring is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Not only will you feel good about being a mentor, but the mentee will also thank you for it!

Looking for bucket list suggestions? Mentor others.
Looking for bucket list suggestions? Mentor others.

There are lots of amazing organizations out there where you can volunteer. Brainstorm your passions and interests, and with a little bit of research, you’ll find hundreds of volunteer organizations that align with your goals.

Whether it’s volunteering at a museum or community center, an animal rescue shelter, or a local food pantry that supports the homeless, you’ll find that giving back to the community not only feels good, but also helps others in the process!

Consider volunteering at an elephant sanctuary
Consider volunteering at an elephant sanctuary!

47. Make a difference in someone else’s life

As far as unique bucket list ideas go, this is one of the deepest. Ask yourself: “how can I make a difference in someone else’s life?” Then, figure out a way to make it happen!

Helping kids should be on everyone's list of things to do before you die.
Helping kids should be on everyone’s list of things to do before you die.

48. Be an organ donor or give blood to help others realize their bucket list dreams

Looking to help others? Donating blood or an organ is a great way to do it. In doing so, donors feel a great sense of satisfaction. Every meaningful bucket list ought to include this.

Donate blood if you can. You just might save someone else's life.
Donate blood if you can. You just might save someone else’s life.

49. Buy a drink for a stranger

This best bucket list idea will give you a warm and fuzzy feeling in your heart. Perhaps buy the drink for the person behind you at Starbucks or a local coffee shop. This kind gesture can go a long way in making someone else’s day a little bit brighter. And who knows, maybe this good deed will be passed on to the next person in line?

Bucket list challenge: buy someone else a drink
Bucket list challenge: buy someone else a drink

50. Tell your friends about your bucket list and encourage them to create their own!

And while you’re at it, feel free to share this article with your family/friends! Hopefully, it will give them some inspiration, too!

For a printable version of this unique bucket list, feel free to send me a message on my Instagram page, and I’ll be happy to get that over to you asap!

Best wishes and hope you have a great year ahead!

-Jon

Most unique bucket list ideas for travel, life, and self advancement pinterest image
Enjoyed reading about these coolest and most unusual bucket list ideas? Pin it!