The Staycation: 10 Ways to Get Away in Your Own City

Travel Lists

If you desperately require a break from your everyday routine, a staycation may be exactly what you need. The concept isn’t new. Still proper execution is the key to see your everyday environment from a new perspective.

You don’t need a lot of money or vacation time to get away. You just need to reacquaint yourself with all your hood has to offer. Does your town have the world’s biggest ball of yarn? Go check it out with your buddies. Then ham it up in your selfie; knowing you’ll sleep in your own bed—for free.

1. Start at the Visitor’s Center

Filled with brochures, schedules and a seemingly endless source of information, you’ll usually leave with a clear picture of where to go next.

2. Visit a State Park

Most state parks are free, so this is great for those trying to reign in the spending. Have a picnic, go for a hike or simply bird watch. It’s always calming to get in touch with nature.

3. Go Museum Hopping

If you’re lucky enough to live in a city like DC or New York with world-class museums, take advantage of your good fortune. Go to see new exhibits whenever possible. If you don’t live in these cities, check out your town’s local history museum or city hall. You might be surprised at what you find.

4. Take a Tour

There’s no better way to feel like a tourist than playing the part. Sign up for a tour group, follow your guide and soak up their stories. You can pretend to be from out of town if you want to add a little excitement.

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5. Go to an Amusement park, Aquarium or Zoo

These are great venues that are family-friendly, affordable and usually have events going on daily. Not to mention, there’s a decent chance they will have added something new for you to discover since your last visit.

6. Attend a Sporting Event

Nothing fosters city pride like sporting events. Whether it’s a college game or professional team, it can be fun to get dressed up in your city’s colors and support the home team.

7. Rent a Bike

Not only is it great exercise, but bike riding allows you to take in scenery you wouldn’t otherwise. Also, many cities offer biking tours that will have you making new friends while taking in the sights.

8. Try a Local Delicacy

You don’t have to go to a fancy dinner to experience fine cuisine. Try your region’s specialty, be it pulled pork or fried catfish. Splurge on the best of what your city does best.

9. Attend a Free Festival

These may be more common during certain seasons, but most cities host free festivals throughout the year for the public to attend. Try going to a tree-lighting festival or a day-long crafts fair.

10. Turn Your House into a Resort

Get a special house cleaning deal online so you don’t have to worry about chores that weekend. Have lush bathrobes ready and place mints on your pillows to make your home feel like a resort.

Jen Ruiz is a Fort Lauderdale-based lawyer and blogger.

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