10 Nostalgic Activities to Reconnect to Simpler Times (2025)

Picture a time of no problems or limitations.  

A time when you felt free, imaginative and completely immersed in your present activity.  

For many of us, this is an activity from childhood, something that warms our hearts the instant we think of it. 

It’s easy to lose touch with this feeling in today’s day in age. In our world of screens and constant distractions, it can feel like that version of you is distant. 

At Springfree Trampoline, we believe it’s time to reconnect to the simpler things in life. 

As a backyard trampoline brand in New Zealand, we understand the power that joyous outdoor play can have on families in rekindling that childlike spirit. 

Today, we will share 10 nostalgic activities that can all be done in the comfort of your backyard.  

10 Nostalgic Activities for Kids and Adults to Try in 2025  

These nostalgic childhood activities are great for children, but adults should absolutely join in on the fun too!

1. Trampoline Jumping 

We’re a trampoline company, so naturally, we had to start with what we know best. 

Trampolines are one of the few backyard toys that have transcended generations.  

Since they became popular toward the end of the 20th Century, they have become staples of joy in backyards across the world. 

The great thing about trampolines is they can be used for many activities, and they have no age limit.  

So, while the kids jump for leisure, mom and dad can jump for a good trampoline workout – all while being outdoors, away from screens and free to use imaginative thinking.  

Hosting a campout with friends and family is a timeless backyard nostalgic activity. 

The best way to trigger that nostalgic feeling with camping is through classic campfire food. 

Sausages, sweet treats, popcorn -- you know the basics.  

If you’re near a lake or river, you can go truly primitive and catch your dinner by fishing.  

There are many ways to cook your fish on an outdoor grill or campfire, and the effort of earning your feast will truly be rewarding.  

You can also throw a twist on the classic campfire servings and make Campfire Cones (we tell you how in our roundup of How to Have an Epic Backyard Camping Adventure.) 

Nothing screams nostalgia more (especially during those hot summer months) than a backyard water balloon battle.  

Fill up a giant tub with balloons in every colour, split into teams, and let the games begin. 

To level up the competition even more, you can set up forts using patio furniture or cardboard boxes for cover.  

You can also have a "golden balloon" worth double points if it lands.  

Afterward, enjoy one of these classic summer treats – they never get old! 

Photo courtesy of u/ay-aye-ron / Via reddit.com.  

We have all likely played traditional hide-and-seek before – it’s one of the ultimate nostalgic kid activities.   

But have you tried spicing it up with some classic twists?   

Here are just a few ideas you can try to enliven the experience for participants:  

It’s time to break out the boombox (or Bluetooth speaker since it’s 2025) for this next nostalgic activity.   

Create a playlist spanning your favourite hits from the '70s, '80s, or '90s, and let everyone show off their best vintage moves.  

Encourage kids and adults alike to dress in themed outfits—think disco, neon, or grunge—for extra fun and photo-worthy moments.   

Hacky Sack became popular in the 1970s, and you can still find people to this day playing the simple but enticing game.   

If you’re looking to unearth this nostalgic game for your family, all you need is a hacky sack (you can find them on NZ Shred) and your own two feet.  

Going for record time or kicks with your group adds a competitive element to the game.  

It’s also a sneaky good way to train balance and coordination for the little ones.   

What better way to revive those nostalgic vibes as a family than an old-school picnic? 

Spread out a classic checkered blanket and pack a wicker basket filled with old-school favourites like peanut butter and jam sandwiches, fizzy drink, savories, and homemade biscuits.   

Use enamelware or vintage-style picnic sets to add a retro touch, and bring along simple games like jacks, marbles, or a deck of cards. 

Encourage everyone to leave all devices inside and get in touch with your surroundings – the birds chirping, the sun on your skin, the wind blowing through your hair. 

Tell stories or look through old family photo albums together for an extra sentimental touch. 

Since summer is a time when kids have way too much time on their hands, we had to add another water-based nostalgic summer activity that will certainly bring back memories from childhood.  

Slip ‘N’ Slides are a go-to for children looking to find a fun way to pass the time while staying cool during the summer.  

You can purchase one from The Warehouse for a nostalgic twist.  

Remember swinging on a swing set with your friends as a kid, and seeing who could go the highest?  

Or chatting with your best friend while rocking back and forth?   

It’s another backyard play product that has aged well into the 2020s, and it’s a great way for kids to connect with each other while having some flying fun along the way.  

This swing set is from our sister brand, gobaplay.   

Your backyard is the perfect place to host a movie night – and it’s not as difficult as you think.   

All you need is a white sheet, a projector, and a cozy pile of blankets and pillows for the ultimate backyard theatre experience.   

Turn on a nostalgic movie like The Lion King or The Parent Trap, serve popcorn in old-timey popcorn boxes and use classic fizzy drinks as the refreshments. It’ll be like going to the drive-in theatre.