50 Things Everyone Should Do Before They Die
Life is a precious gift and should be lived to the fullest. That's why it's important to make the most of your time and experience the best the world has to offer. Making a list of 50 things to do before you die is a great way to make sure you make the most of your life.
From the adventurous activities to the meaningful and thought-provoking moments, these 50 things are sure to create lifelong memories and provide some of the most amazing experiences you'll ever have. From trekking through the wilds of Africa, to exploring the depths of the ocean, to simply taking the time to appreciate the beauty of nature, these 50 activities will challenge, thrill and inspire you in ways you could never imagine.
So, if you want to make sure you experience the best of what life has to offer, these 50 things are definitely a must!
1. Scuba Dive
Not only is scuba diving thrilling, it is also eye-opening. It gives you the chance to swim and interact with creatures and environments you can’t any other way. Personally, I am not the biggest fan of deep water (by that I mean I am deathly terrified) but I still believe it is something everyone should do before they die.
Not only that, scuba diving is known to have positive effects on your physical and mental health, connecting you in a unique way to countless beautiful locations around the globe.
2. Skydive
When I asked a few friends, “What is something you think everyone should do before they die?” they all came back with the same answer, “Skydive.” Skydiving is definitely not for the faint of heart or mind, but it is an exhilarating experience unlike no other that will leave you feeling like you can conquer anything in this world.
3. Pottery
I believe that anytime you have the ability to be creative and express yourself you should take it. Unlike painting, drawing, or colouring, pottery is not an art form most people have had the privilege to try. It can be challenging, but the opportunity to create something truly unique and one of a kind is something everyone should do.
4. Snowboard/Ski
I’ve only been snowboarding a handful of times in my life (as you can tell by this old photo I am sure), and it is one of the sports that even though I am terrible, I am still so happy that I tried! Being someone who loathes the winter months and thrives in the fresh air, snowboarding gave me the chance to explore and enjoy the Canadian winters in a way I haven’t since I was a kid.
Skiing and snowboarding can both be challenging, but that’s even more reason why you should try! There is nothing like completing your first full run down the hill.
5. Bungee Jump
Another one for the thrill seekers! The reason extreme sports like this exist on bucket lists is because it is something that terrifies you. Jumping from a bridge with only a cord tied around your feet? No thank you. But our fear is exactly why we should try something.
6. Learn a New Language
Did you know there are over 7,000 languages spoken in the world? Imagine the connections you could form by learning one of them. There are many reasons why learning a new language is something everyone should do: higher chances of landing a job or advancing in your career, gain insight to other cultures, engage your brian, and travel.
7. Fly on a Plane
I personally believe this is one of the most important items on this list. Flying can connect you with loved ones, get you to your destination faster, connect you to places not accessible by land only, and enables direct contact between people from different cultures.
Thanks to budget airlines, flying on a plane is now becoming more accessible to everyone.
8. Fly in a Helicopter
This one is just for fun and something I got the chance to do while I was visiting Las Vegas! Getting a bird's eye view of your destination by soaring above the skyline is truly spectacular
9. Volunteer
Volunteering your time is something everyone should do before they die. There are an abundance of opportunities available within your community and across the globe. Whether you want to assist animals, help people in need, or work to protect the environment there are millions of great charities that are always looking for good-hearted people to donate their time and resources to help their cause.
10. Travel Solo
I travelled solo for my first time in 2020. It was nothing crazy, I drove a few hours away to explore the Rockies for the weekend, but it was liberating. Not having to wait for others, doing exactly what I wanted to do on my own schedule, and taking my time with the things I really enjoyed, helped me feel more grounded and connected than I ever have.
Canmore, Alberta
11. Ride a Horse
Horseback riding is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of connecting with a majestic animal and the beauty of exploring nature. Whether galloping along a beach or trekking through scenic trails, it offers a sense of freedom and serenity while enhancing balance and mindfulness. It’s a unique way to access stunning landscapes and create lifelong memories—making it a must-have experience for any bucket list.
Bonus points if you can do it the Canadian Rockies with you BFFs <3
12. See a Live Sports Game
Living in a major city in Canada with a huge hockey culture, I have had the privilege of attending several NHL games; and I sincerely believe it is something everyone should do in their life! Whether you are a sports fan or not, the energy in the arena will have you sucked up in the excitement of the game and cheering right along with everyone else!
Let’s go Oilers!
13. See a Live Concert
There is nothing like live music. After seeing 26 live shows for all different artists in all different genres, it is an excitement like no other. Just like sporting events, whether you are a mega fan of the artist or have literally never heard of them, the energy in the room is always electric and will have you dancing and cheering along.
We are in Harry’s House!!
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14. Travel Abroad
Travelling abroad is the number one thing you MUST do in your lifetime. There is nothing like it. Going abroad is an exciting challenge and a great opportunity to escape your comfort zone. You will get the chance to meet new people, explore new things, indulge in new cultures, and witness new sights.
Photo at: Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
15. See a Broadway Show
The sheer talent and coordination that goes into a Broadway play is more than enough reason why you should see one at least once in your lifetime. I was extremely blown away by the stage production, acting, singing, costumes, and overall atmosphere. It really helps you appreciate just why Broadway is so popular.
Photo: New York City
16. Ride/drive a Motorcycle
There are so many reasons why riding a motorcycle is something you should do before you die. First of all it's a great way to get an adrenaline rush! It makes you feel free and empowered. Driving a motorcycle has been proven to improve your driving skills.
17. Ziplining
Ziplining is a thrilling adventure that combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with breathtaking views. Gliding high above lush forests, dramatic canyons, or sparkling waterways offers a unique perspective of nature that few other activities can match. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and scenery, suitable for all skill levels, and often found in some of the world’s most stunning destinations. Adding ziplining to your bucket list guarantees an unforgettable experience that challenges your limits while creating lasting memories.
18. Ride a Bicycle
Riding a bicycle is a simple yet transformative activity that combines fitness, freedom, and exploration. Whether cruising along coastal trails, pedaling through vibrant city streets, or exploring rugged mountain paths, cycling lets you connect with your surroundings in a dynamic way. It’s an eco-friendly and cost-effective adventure that promotes physical health, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Adding cycling to your bucket list opens the door to countless scenic journeys and unforgettable experiences.
19. Go on an African Safari
A safari in Africa is a once in a lifetime experience. Safari’s can be quite expensive, but it is the best way to see the Big 5 in their natural habitat in a safe and humane way. Safaris typically support conservation efforts and local communities, and provide you with the opportunity to explore unique landscapes and learn about the animals and culture of the country you are visiting.
20. Rollerblade
This is something I just recently tried! I went to an indoor roller rink where you could rent skates and protective equipment. They had loud music playing and plenty of open space to practice. Roller skating is a great workout that helps you with your core strength and balance, and bonus, it is a blast!
21. Ride a Roller Coaster
Riding a roller coaster is the ultimate adrenaline rush, combining speed, height, and unexpected twists for an unforgettable thrill. From heart-pounding drops to exhilarating loops, it’s a sensory overload that pushes your limits and leaves you with a sense of accomplishment. Whether you're conquering your fears or chasing pure fun, roller coasters provide a unique and electrifying way to create lasting memories. Adding this to your bucket list guarantees a high-energy experience that will leave you wanting more.
22. Learn to Play and Instrument
Learning to play an instrument stimulates the brain cells, improving functions like memory and abstract reasoning skills. Learning to play an instrument will teach you patience, perseverance, and spatial reasoning. Music, in general, helps bring balance and harmony in one's life.
23. Ride in a Limo
This is just for fun! I have been fortunate enough to have experienced this a few times and it has always been fun! It is a driving experience unlike any other!
24. Eat at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant
Amazing food is something everyone should experience before they die. I know it can be pricey, but if you are a true foodie, it will be worth it. I had the opportunity to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant during my trip to NYC and I can confidently say it was the best food and service I have ever had in my life!
Caviar Russe, NYC
25. Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is an adrenaline-filled adventure that takes you through the heart of nature's most thrilling waterways. Navigating rushing rapids requires teamwork, courage, and quick thinking, making it an exhilarating and rewarding challenge. Beyond the rush of the rapids, you’ll experience breathtaking landscapes and the refreshing spray of wild rivers. Adding whitewater rafting to your bucket list is a must for those seeking unforgettable moments and a deeper connection with the power of nature.
26. Pay it Forward
Paying it forward is a simple but impactful act of kindness that creates ripples of positivity. Whether buying a coffee for a stranger, volunteering your time, or helping someone in need, these small gestures can brighten someone’s day and inspire them to do the same. It’s a fulfilling way to make the world a better place and reminds us that generosity has the power to connect us all. Adding this to your bucket list ensures you leave a legacy of goodwill and inspiration.
27. Surfing
Surfing is the ultimate blend of adventure, athleticism, and a deep connection to the ocean. Catching a wave and riding its power is a feeling like no other, offering a mix of excitement and serenity. It’s also a great way to stay fit, build resilience, and immerse yourself in stunning coastal environments. Adding surfing to your bucket list promises unforgettable experiences, whether you’re riding your first wave or mastering the art of the sport.
28. Ride an ATV
Riding an ATV is right up there with riding a motorcycle. Although in most countries you cannot legally ride ATVs on the road, they still give you the same feeling of freedom and provide that adrenaline rush! Of course, the biggest benefit of an ATV is they are meant to be ridden in rough conditions and can bring you to places you may not be able to reach in a car.
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29. Ride in a Hot Air Ballloon
Now, this is something that has been on my bucket list for a long time! Slowly floating in the skyline admiring the sunset over the city sounds truly magical to me.
30. Run a Marathon
Now, I have never run a marathon, but I did walk a half marathon and it was the most challenging event of my life! 22 kms is no joke! I was so proud of myself when I crossed the finish line and I couldn’t even imagine the feeling of fufilliment and pride you would feel after crossing the finish line of your first marathon when you prepared and trained for months. For that reason alone, I think this is something everyone should do once in their life!
Edmonton Marathon
31. Swim in the Ocean
Swimming in the ocean is a magical experience that connects you to the vastness and beauty of the natural world. The salty waves provide a refreshing escape, while the rhythm of the tides soothes the mind and body. Whether you’re floating in calm turquoise waters, diving beneath rolling waves, or marveling at marine life, the ocean offers a unique sense of freedom and wonder. Adding this to your bucket list promises unforgettable moments of serenity, adventure, and awe in one of nature’s most captivating settings.
32. Boating
Boating should be on your bucket list because it offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. Whether you're gliding across serene lakes, cruising along stunning coastlines, or exploring hidden coves, boating immerses you in nature like nothing else. It’s an opportunity to unwind, connect with loved ones, and create unforgettable memories, from sunsets on the water to spotting marine life in its natural habitat. With the chance to visit secluded destinations only accessible by boat, it’s a unique and enriching experience that every traveler should try at least once.
Napanee River
33. Conquer Your Biggest Fear
What is your biggest fear? Heights? The dark? Ghosts? Spiders? There are so many things in this crazy world that frighten us for so many different reasons, but it is how we overcome those fears that makes us who we are! To quote my favourite YouTube channel, Yes Theory, “life’s greatest moments and deepest connections are outside of your comfort zone.”
34. Sensory Deprivation Tank
I went into a sensory deprivation tank on my 28th birthday. It was something I have always wanted to try and I am so glad I did! It truly is an experience unlike any other. A sensory deprivation tank is a pitch-black, light-proof, sound-proof, salt water-filled tank heated to the same temperature as the skin. Sensory deprivation tanks have been found to reduce stress and anxiety, increase creativity, improve sleep, and improve cardiovascular health.
35. Snorkeling
Snorkeling should be on your bucket list for the sheer wonder of exploring underwater worlds teeming with vibrant marine life. It's a chance to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters, witness colorful coral reefs, and feel a deep connection to nature’s beauty—all without the need for scuba gear. Snorkeling is a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to experience the ocean, making it a must-try adventure.
36. Go to an Amusement Park
Amusement parks bring out the inner child in everyone, offering a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides, whimsical attractions, and delicious treats. It’s a place to let go of stress, scream your heart out on roller coasters, and revel in pure joy. Whether you're riding a Ferris wheel or enjoying live shows, an amusement park visit guarantees unforgettable memories.
Edmonton K-days
37. Backpacking
Backpacking is an adventurous way to explore the world, connecting you with breathtaking landscapes and cultures. Whether trekking through rugged trails or navigating bustling cities, it offers a unique blend of spontaneity and self-discovery. Carrying all your essentials in a single pack reminds you of the joy of simplicity and the thrill of seeing life from a new perspective.
38. Gardening
Something I tried my hand at during the pandemic . . . did not go as planned! But, gardening is a fulfilling activity that allows you to nurture life and create something beautiful. From planting vibrant flowers to growing your own food, it connects you with the earth and provides a calming escape from daily stress. The sense of accomplishment as you watch your garden flourish is incredibly rewarding.
39. Get Your Fortune Read
Getting your fortune read is a fun and intriguing experience that sparks curiosity about your future. Whether through tarot cards, palm readings, or crystal gazing, it’s an opportunity for self-reflection and a bit of mystical excitement. It’s a memorable way to explore life’s possibilities and perhaps gain a fresh perspective.
40. Yoga
Yoga is a transformative practice that improves flexibility, strengthens the body, and calms the mind. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned practitioner, yoga offers a chance to reconnect with yourself, find balance, and boost overall well-being. It's a must-try for anyone seeking harmony in their busy lives.
41. Ice Skating
Being Canadian, skating is pretty much part of my culture! Ice skating combines fun, fitness, and a touch of elegance as you glide across the rink. Whether you're twirling in an outdoor winter wonderland or enjoying an indoor arena, it’s an exhilarating activity for all skill levels. It’s also a delightful way to embrace the season and create cherished memories.
A few years ago, I went skating among the mountain peaks in Jasper Alberta and it was truly a magical experience.
42. Record a Home Video
If your a 90’s kids, odds are you have already done this! Recording a home video captures life’s moments in a way that no photo can. From candid family moments to creative projects, it’s a chance to preserve memories and stories for years to come. Revisiting these videos later becomes a heartwarming journey through time.
43. Meditate
Meditation is a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving focus, and fostering inner peace. Taking just a few minutes each day to sit in stillness can transform your mindset and enhance your well-being. It’s an essential practice to reconnect with yourself in today’s fast-paced world.
44. Dress Up for Halloween as an Adult
Don’t leave the dressing up to the children! Dressing up as an adult during Halloween can be so much fun! It gives you a chance to be creative and express yourself.
Killer Frost
45. See One of the Seven Wonders of the World
The 7 Wonders of the World, we have all seen photos of some of them: the Pyramids of Giza, Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal. The photos alone should be enough explanation as to why you should visit one of them!
46. Take a Road Trip
A road trip should be on your bucket list because it’s the ultimate adventure in freedom and exploration. With the open road ahead, you can discover hidden gems, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and create a flexible itinerary that suits your pace. Whether it's singing along to your favorite playlist, stopping at quirky roadside attractions, or savoring local flavors, every moment becomes a story to cherish. A road trip is about the journey as much as the destination, offering a unique way to connect with the world and the people you’re traveling with.
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47. Visit a Botanical Garden
Botanical gardens are truly amazing works of art and something everyone should experience once in their life. The care, time, detail, and skill that goes into crafting one of these beautiful gardens is incomprehensible and can guarantee you will be blown away when you see them in person.
The Butchart Gardens Brentwood Bay, British Columbia
48. Get that Tattoo
People are going to judge you in life no matter what you do, so you might as well do what makes you happy! Before I had any tattoos I always thought they needed a deep, connected meaning behind them. They needed to have a profound purpose. And although that is a great reason to get a tattoo, that is not the only reason. My first three tattoos have a meaning behind them, then I got a rocket tattooed on my arm only because “I think it’s cute.” I still do! Get that tattoo, you won’t regret it.
Once Piercing & Beauty - West Edmonton Mall
49. Ride a Ferris Wheel
Riding a Ferris wheel should be on your bucket list for its simple yet magical charm. As you ascend, you’re treated to stunning panoramic views that transform ordinary moments into something extraordinary. Whether it’s during a golden sunset or beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, a Ferris wheel ride offers a peaceful escape and a sense of wonder. It’s a timeless experience that captures the joy of being present and appreciating life from new heights.
Niagara Falls
50. Stay in a Hostel
Hostels have such a bad reputation for some reason! Of course, some can seem a little sketchy or scary, but that’s the same with hotels and Airbnbs as well. In fact, some hostels offer amazing accommodations, food, services, tours, and so much more for the fraction of the price it would cost to stay in a hotel! When looking for a hostel, I would suggest a trusted platform like Hostelworld that shows you verified ratings from past visitors.
Looking for More Ideas?
Here are a few!
Stay up all night
Visit every continent
Dye your hair
Get lost in a corn maze
Have a photoshoot
Stay in bed all day
Ride a train
Swim in a lake
Eat street food in a different country
Fall in love
Play at a board game cafe
Learn to knit, sew, crochet, or quilt
Go to an arcade
Conclusion
Incorporating unique and exciting experiences into your bucket list is a fantastic way to enrich your life and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the thrill of snorkeling in vibrant waters, the peaceful joy of gardening, or the simple magic of riding a Ferris wheel, each activity offers its own unique reward. Life is a journey meant to be explored and celebrated, so why not start checking off these incredible adventures? Embrace the opportunities, savor the moments, and make your bucket list a reflection of your dreams and aspirations. The world is waiting—go make it unforgettable!
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