Think a vacation means having to fly far, far away? Our staycation ideas prove you can have fun even if you can’t or simply don’t want to fly halfway across the world.
Most of these activities may be readily available in your neck of the woods. A short bike or car ride away from home. And at a time when the health of our families remains a top priority, they can be done while observing safe social distancing.
Here are just a few creative ideas to get you started:
Explore local parks

They’re budget-friendly getaways with lots of fresh air and green space. Ideal for catching up on your workout schedule, playing with your kids, or spending some quality time with your pets.
Tour local museums

You probably don’t have to go too far to discover great collections of paintings, sculptures, or photographs. Perhaps your hometown has a specialty museum–one dedicated to regional history, cultural heritage, or natural treasures.
Spend a day on local shopping

Visiting farmers markets is a great way to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as support the local economy.
Check out activities at local libraries

You may find art lessons there, as well as foreign language workshops or book clubs beckoning to new members.
Consider camping

In your own backyard or campgrounds nearby. You’ll safely enjoy the great outdoors and the great night sky. Added bonus: ghost stories and yummy bites cooked on a real fire!
Bike, hike, or walk

Most national and state parks have designated trails, with informative signs along the way. Find a trail suitable to your (and your family’s) fitness. Final item on your checklist: plenty of snacks!
Try paintballing, laster tag, or escape games

Most towns have facilities offering fun games and family-friendly activities. To ensure you play safely and avoid the crowds, contact your favorite venue ahead of time and schedule a private session.
Engage in some water sports

If there’s a lake or river nearby, there’s probably a rental facility where you can get some gear. So rent–or bring your own–boat, canoe, paddleboard, or kayak, and enjoy the water and test your skills!
Indulge at a local spa

Have the spas re-opened in your area? If so, they may be the perfect place for a relaxing day of self-indulgence.
Visit your area’s top tourist spot

Now is the time to become a tourist in your own hometown. With most international travel still on hold, you’re not likely to encounter crowds at usually popular spots. So make all the cheesy tourist visits you usually avoid and take plenty of pictures!
A great staycation means more than just pausing all your chores and staying cooped up at home. It’s the time you choose to take to enjoy fun and relaxation with your family or friends. With just a little planning, it can be just as satisfying as traveling far away.
Click below to see a plan we built for Colorado Springs. Make it your own if you’re going there soon, or create a plan on Inspirock for your favorite staycation destination.
- Things to Do on a Staycation - June 3, 2020
- Travel the World With Time-Lapse Videos - May 1, 2020
- No Crowds, No Queues: Armchair Travel With Slow TV - April 13, 2020