The idea of a “Staycation” or vacationing in your home town, as an economical alternative to traveling has become popular in recent years. The idea caught on and today people are discovering what’s hot, what’s neat to see, where to go, where to dine, and how to have fun in their own back yards.
Here are some ideas for having a great Staycation, while going easy on the pocketbook at the same time.
Local Hotel Deals
You can have a great time whether you stay in your house or a local hotel. According to BCMI Mgmt Lloydminster motels, some hotels actually give discounts for guests that live in the same city.
Make Some Rules
Starting your Staycation at home will require some ground rules; no mobile phones, no television, no computer, no cooking, no chores. Once you’ve agreed on that, set out on your hometown adventure.
Dine In
If you’re going to stay at home the whole time, gather menus from restaurants nearby that deliver. Take their food, your candles, and your spouse or partner and have a romantic dinner at your own table or go for a romantic picnic out in the yard.
Take in Nature
If nature is your thing, spend some time in your city’s parks, and take part in activities offered there, like hiking or renting a bike or a kayak. Pick up a take-out picnic on the way, or if your park has built in bbq’s, food for grilling and making s’mores. If there is a National Park within an easy drive, head there. The National Park System is one of America’s treasures and will allow you to see a lot of sites and hikes.
Plays, Concerts, and Games
Local colleges and even high schools frequently stage concerts and plays, often for free, or a very low admission. Look at the listings ahead of time, and plan to take one in. Same goes for sporting activities, go watch the local college play baseball, football, or basketball and relive your college days. Hit the bar or malt shop after the game. Paintball or Laser Tag can get you out of the house for several hours of high energy activity as well.
Take a Tour
Is there a large manufacturing plant or brewery nearby? Take a tour! Big city newspapers often have tours as well. If you’re interested in history look out for museum deals locally.
Camping at Home
Camp out in your back yard! Sleep under the stars or in a tent, have a roaring campfire, tell stories and sing songs.
Like any vacation, the more you plan for fun, the more fun you’ll have. Start your planning today by checking local hotel rates in your own city and start your Staycation!
What will you do on your Staycation?
image via istock
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking, biking and gardening. For more information contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan
