Discover What Is a Staycation: Fun Close to Home
As the sun sets on another year, you might feel a little restless. You dream of a tropical getaway or a new city to explore. But what if the best vacation is right next door? Welcome to the staycation world, where fun and rest are just a step away.
Key Takeaways
- A staycation is a vacation spent at home or in your local area, exploring nearby attractions and activities.
- Staycations offer a budget-friendly way to take a break and recharge without the hassle of long-distance travel.
- Staycations allow you to discover hidden gems and appreciate the wonders right in your own backyard.
- Staycation ideas include visiting local parks, trying new restaurants, setting up an outdoor movie theater, and more.
- Staycations provide a safer alternative to traditional vacations, especially during the pandemic.
What Is a Staycation?
Definition and Key Points
A staycation is when you take a break at home or nearby, instead of traveling far. It’s a budget-friendly and fun way to break up your daily life. You can do anything from visiting a local resort to exploring a nearby national park.
The term “staycation” comes from combining “stay” and “vacation.” It became popular in the US during the Great Recession and again in 2020 due to COVID-19. It’s a way to enjoy a vacation without leaving home, saving money and avoiding travel stress.
Benefits of a Staycation
Staycations are great because they save money, save time, and reduce travel stress. You can avoid crowded places, stay near home, and even camp to see the stars. They also help you relax, feel better emotionally, and learn new things or pick up old hobbies.
| Staycation Benefits | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | Staycations cut down on expenses like flights and rental cars, making them cheaper than regular vacations. |
| Time-saving | Staycations don’t need long travel, so you avoid delays and save time on the road. |
| Stress reduction | Staycations reduce travel stress like jet lag, packing, and airport waits. |
| Flexibility | Staycations let you plan your own schedule, giving you more freedom. |
| Exploration of local attractions | Staycations let you discover local spots you might not know about. |
If you want to save money, reduce stress, or try something new, a staycation is a good choice. By staying local, you can enjoy a break without the trouble of long trips.
Best Staycation Ideas
Staycations let you explore your local area without the long travel. You can dive into your city’s culture or enjoy the outdoors. There are many fun staycation ideas to try.
Explore Local Attractions
Visiting local spots is a great way to enjoy your staycation. Use your travel rewards card to earn miles. Then, check out museums, aquariums, and zoos.
Try being a tourist in your town. Use a guidebook to find new places to eat and see historic sites. You might discover hidden gems you never knew existed.
For a different view, take an audio walking tour. These tours share interesting history and make your city feel like an adventure.
Host a Backyard Camping Adventure
Bring camping into your backyard for a magical experience. Set up a tent with comfy pillows and blankets. Enjoy the night sky and make s’mores, all with the ease of being at home.
Backyard camping is a great way to relax and connect with nature. It helps you forget daily worries and enjoy the simple things.
| Staycation Idea | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Explore Local Attractions | Use travel rewards card to visit museums, aquariums, and zoos | Varies based on attraction |
| Backyard Camping | Pitch a tent and enjoy the outdoors with cozy comforts | $50 – $200 for camping gear |
| Audio Walking Tour | Discover your city’s history and hidden gems | Free to $20 per tour |
Fun Activities for a Staycation
Planning a staycation can be super fun. You can try new local restaurants or dive into cultural events. There are endless ways to enjoy your time off at home.
Try New Local Restaurants
Exploring your city’s dining scene is a highlight of a staycation. Use your travel rewards card to earn miles on dining. This way, you can try out new places.
Get creative in the kitchen by finding unique recipes online. Then, go on a fun shopping trip to get the ingredients. This will make your staycation meal experience unforgettable.
Experience Cultural Events
Discover the cultural gems in your area by attending local events. Use your travel rewards to buy tickets to shows or festivals. It’s a great way to enjoy your city’s offerings.
Host a “dinner around the world” with friends. Each person can bring a dish from a different culture. For a cozy night, check out free online shows like Shakespeare productions or Broadway streams.
| Activity | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dining at local restaurants | Try new cuisines in your city using travel rewards | Varies |
| Dinner around the world potluck | Host a cultural culinary experience with friends | Minimal |
| Attending cultural events | Enjoy local performances, festivals, and more | Varies |
| Streaming online shows | Access free virtual cultural experiences | Free |
Exploring new local restaurants and cultural events makes for a memorable staycation. It’s a chance to see your city in a new light.
Creative Staycation Ideas on a Budget
Staycations are a great way to have a vacation without spending a lot. You can save money and explore your local area. There are many creative ideas for a staycation that won’t break the bank.
One idea is to camp out (or in!) by building a pillow fort in your living room. It’s a fun way to feel like a kid again. You can also host a “cook-off” using only ingredients you already have at home. It’s a fun way to test your cooking skills.
For something different, become a tourist in your own neighborhood. Explore a new part of your city or town. You might find hidden gems and attractions you never knew about.
| Staycation Idea | Cost |
|---|---|
| Backyard camping | $0 – $50 (for supplies) |
| Neighborhood exploration | $0 – $20 (for transportation) |
| Home spa day | $0 – $30 (for DIY spa treatments) |
| Virtual museum tours | $0 |
For a relaxing staycation, try a home spa day. Make your own face masks and foot soaks. You can also borrow e-books or audiobooks from your public library. It’s a great way to enjoy a book without leaving home.
The secret to a budget-friendly staycation is to be creative. Use what your local area offers. By doing so, you can have a fun and affordable vacation right at home.
Rediscover Your City: Staycation Tips
Staycations are a great way to explore your local area. You can find hidden gems you never knew existed. With a good plan and the right items, your home can feel like a vacation spot.
Plan an Itinerary
Make your staycation special by planning it like a vacation. Look up local spots, restaurants, and activities you want to try. Make sure to include must-see places and leave room for surprises. Staycations are about enjoying what’s around you and finding new treasures.
- Explore famous local landmarks, museums, and historical sites.
- Try new restaurants with local food or unique dining experiences.
- Join in cultural events, festivals, or outdoor fun.
Pack a Staycation Bag
To feel like you’re really on vacation, pack a “staycation bag.” Include things that make your home cozy and relaxing. Think scented candles, soft pillows, and spa products. These little things can make your staycation feel special.
- Bring cozy blankets, fluffy towels, and nice bath products.
- Pack a portable speaker for calming music.
- Include books, magazines, or a tablet for fun.
With a fun plan and the right items, you can discover your city in a new way. Enjoy a refreshing staycation experience.
Staycation Packages and Deals
Exploring staycation packages and deals is a great way to enjoy local tourism without spending too much. Many hotels offer special rates or packages with extras like free breakfast or spa credits. These offers let you dive into local experiences while saving money.
Local Hotel Offers
When planning your staycation, look for hotels with deals for locals. Some hotels give discounted rates or add perks like late checkout. Checking out these offers can help you find the best staycation spot that fits your budget.
Discounted Attraction Passes
Many places offer passes that let you visit several attractions for less. These passes, like CityPASS, are a smart way to see your hometown’s highlights without breaking the bank. Buying a pass can save you a lot compared to buying tickets one by one.
| Staycation Savings | Without Discounts | With Discounts |
|---|---|---|
| Flights (2 passengers) | $2,592.91 | $22.40 |
| Hotel (7 nights) | $2,113.11 | 121,000 points |
| Theme Park Tickets | $2,463.94 | 122,510 points |
| Total Cost | $7,170.96 | $22.40 + 267,510 points |
By using staycation packages and discounted attraction passes, you can have a rich local tourism experience without overspending. Whether you want a fancy hotel stay or to discover your city’s secrets, these deals make your staycation unforgettable.
Unique Staycation Destinations Near You
Looking for new staycation spots close to home? There’s a lot to explore. You might not be able to go to the beach, but there are exciting local adventures waiting for you.
Check out your city’s hidden spots. Maybe there’s a cool historic area, a lively arts scene, or a unique museum you’ve never seen. WalletHub found cities like Orlando, Florida, and Cincinnati, Ohio, are great for fun activities, food, and relaxation.
| Best Staycation Cities | Key Attractions |
|---|---|
| Orlando, Florida | Amusement parks, water parks, nightlife, festivals, zoos, arcades |
| Cincinnati, Ohio | Parks, swimming pools, baseball fields |
| St. Louis, Missouri | Zoos, aquariums |
| New Orleans, Louisiana | Museums, historic districts |
For a nature-filled staycation, visit nearby national parks or hiking trails. Or, plan a trip filled with culture, like art galleries, shows, and local food and shops.
The secret to a great staycation is being open to new things. By exploring your area’s hidden spots, you’ll find amazing staycation destinations and local tourism spots that will make your stay unforgettable.
How to Make the Most of Your Staycation
Staycations are a great way to relax and recharge without the stress of traveling. To enjoy your staycation, it’s important to set some rules and focus on relaxation.
Set Staycation Ground Rules
When planning your staycation, make a few simple rules. This helps you disconnect from your daily life. You might want to:
- Turn off your phone and social media to avoid distractions
- Stay away from work and chores to fully relax
- Plan a mix of activities and free time to keep things balanced
Unplug and Relax
One of the best things about a staycation is getting away from daily duties. Use this time to do things that make you happy and relaxed, like:
- Trying new local foods or going back to your favorites
- Going to cultural events, concerts, or museums in your area
- Going for walks, hikes, or outdoor fun in your neighborhood
- Doing hobbies like reading, crafting, or just relaxing at home
By taking a break and enjoying your staycation, you can come back to your life feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Planning a Romantic Staycation
More couples are choosing staycations over big trips to save money and bond. They want to make special memories together. Romantic getaways are a big hit, with many planning to spend quality time at home.
To make a romantic staycation, start with a budget for fun activities and cozy places to stay. Turn your home into a vacation spot with simple touches. Declutter, light candles, and enjoy breakfast in bed.
Looking for romantic spots near you is common. Couples consider budget and time when choosing. Pick a place that feels cozy and intimate, like a hotel or vacation rental.
| Staycation Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Backyard Glamping | Enjoy the outdoors with all the comforts of home by setting up a luxurious camping experience in your own backyard. |
| Couples Spa Day | Indulge in a relaxing day of pampering with a couple’s massage, followed by a soak in the tub and a gourmet meal. |
| Themed Movie Night | Transform your living room into a cozy cinema, complete with popcorn, candlelight, and a movie that captures the romantic mood. |
Reviews are key when choosing where to stay. Recent feedback helps you know what to expect. Planning your trip, including flights and car rentals, adds to the excitement.
Make your staycation unique by choosing activities you both love. Avoid generic plans. Focus on the details to make your home a special place for bonding.
Family Staycation Ideas and Activities
Staycations let families make special memories without the cost of traveling. They offer a chance to find fun and adventure close to home. Whether you want to relax, try new things, or do hands-on activities, there are plenty of ideas for a great staycation.
Embrace the Great Outdoors
Connecting with nature is a big part of a family staycation. You can set up a backyard camp with a tent, make s’mores, and look at the stars. Or, go to nearby parks, trails, or have a picnic in a beautiful place.
Doing outdoor activities like scavenger hunts, gardening, or nature crafts can be exciting. It helps you appreciate the outdoors more.
Culinary Delights
Staycations are a great time to try local foods. You can have a “cook-off” with what you have at home, or try new recipes. Let everyone help with planning and making a meal.
Try a themed dinner like a pizza party or fondue night. It makes your staycation more fun.
Educational Explorations
Staycations are a chance to find local treasures. Visit the children’s museum, check out the library, or go on virtual field trips. These activities are fun and educational for everyone.
They help you learn and spark curiosity about the world.
Creativity and Crafts
Let your family’s creativity shine with DIY projects. You can make kites, jewelry, or tie-dye. Or, try face painting, temporary tattoos, or a talent show.
These activities encourage imagination and bring you closer together.
Family staycations are a great way to make memories, connect, and explore local adventures. Customize your staycation to fit your family’s interests. Let the fun of a staycation at home begin.
Conclusion
This article has covered the basics of a staycation, showing its many benefits. It also shared creative and affordable ideas for a great vacation at home. By checking out local spots, trying new things, and relaxing nearby, you can enjoy a staycation and make lasting memories without traveling far.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic staycation or a fun family trip, this article has you covered. It suggests setting up a spa at home, cooking gourmet meals, and doing DIY projects. These ideas can turn your usual surroundings into a refreshing and rewarding vacation at home.
A staycation lets you step away from daily life, recharge, and see your local area in a new light. So, why not explore and find the hidden treasures in your own backyard? A staycation is a great way to enjoy home comforts while taking a break from the usual routine.
FAQ
What is a staycation?
A staycation is a fun, affordable way to break from daily life. It can be as simple as a day trip or a weekend at home. It’s all about enjoying local spots without the stress of traveling far.
What are the benefits of a staycation?
Staycations save money and avoid crowds. They let you relax at home while feeling like you’re on vacation. They also help reduce stress and improve your mood. Plus, you can try new things or revisit old hobbies.
What are some staycation ideas and activities?
Try exploring local attractions or setting up a backyard camp. Enjoy new restaurants and cultural events. You can also plan a cozy getaway with your family or a romantic escape.
How can I save money on a staycation?
To save, use travel rewards cards and look for local deals. Find free or cheap activities in your area. These tips can help stretch your staycation budget.
How can I make the most of my staycation?
Plan your staycation with an itinerary. Try to stay off your devices. Enjoy the freedom of a vacation without the travel hassle.
What are some unique staycation destinations near me?
Discover hidden gems in your area. Look for national parks, nearby cities, or unique cultural spots. These can offer a fresh experience close to home.
How can I plan a romantic or family-friendly staycation?
For romance, book a local hotel or rental. Enjoy cozy activities like backyard glamping. For families, try building a pillow fort or setting up an outdoor movie theater.
