A Guide to Epic Staycations

Lifestyle Looking ahead to some well-deserved time off? Ditch the expensive flights and high-priced hotels in favor of organizing a staycation that’s unique to your interests and location.

Whether you take a long weekend or a full week, there are numerous ways to enjoy your time off—immerse yourself in the local culture, engage in various recreational activities, or simply prioritize getting some much-needed R & R. Here are a few of the best experiences to put on your itinerary for your next at-home retreat.

Go on a culinary adventure

If you consider yourself a foodie, break free from the mundane by savoring the unique tasty delights of your region. Explore neighborhood eateries you’ve been meaning to try, or seek out hidden gems for something completely unfamiliar. Many cities and towns also offer food tours, providing an opportunity to discover an area’s rich gastronomic history along with some delicious dishes. Prefer to stay in? You could take an online cooking class with your partner or friends to master a new technique or cuisine, allowing you to indulge without having to leave the house. Or if baking is your passion, make a day of it—allocate a few hours to whipping up your favorite goodies, then bundle them up and share them with neighbors and loved ones.

Enjoy nature’s playground

Whether you’re planning a family staycation or a romantic one with your partner, there are numerous options for outdoor activities everyone can enjoy. If the weather is favorable, consider venturing to a nearby campsite and setting up a tent, where you can delight in roasting marshmallows over a fire and lay out a blanket for a night of stargazing. Alternatively, you could hit the trails for a lengthy bike ride or hike that will get your blood pumping while providing beautiful views of nature.

Check out the local arts and culture scene

No matter the location, most areas generallyhave plenty of art and entertainment to explore, including street festivals featuring community artists and crafters, art exhibits at local museums and galleries, and various music and theater performances. If you’re a history buff, one unique way to immerse yourself in the past is by joining a guided walking tour to hear stories and obscure facts about your area. You can also wander at your own pace using an app like Geotouristwhich leads you to various sites through interactive maps and detailed narration.

Learn a new hobby or skill

A break from your busy schedule and list of commitments, a staycation is the perfect time to try your hand at something you’ve been wanting to experience. Perhaps your interest lies in accessing your artistic side, such as by learning how to paint or work on a pottery wheel. You could even delve into the world of floral arranging or woodworking, either through online tutorials or a local class. Whatever your vibe, use your time off as an opportunity to engage the different sides of you—you never know what talents you might discover.

Complete fun DIY home projects

Have you been feeling like certain areas of your home could use an upgrade? Whether it’s framing and hanging pictures, giving an old piece of furniture a fresh coat of paint, or wallpapering a room, you can tackle any number of simple yet impactful tasks in just a few days. Even larger projects may be feasible. For instance, if you enjoy spending time in your backyard, you could transform it into a relaxing oasis for you and your family just by installing a hammock, hanging some soft cafélights across the yard, and placing potted plants around the area. For an extra touch of style, try painting a canvas rug to add vibrant splashes of color to your outdoor space.

Rest, relax, and socialize

While you have many options available to you for a staycation, don’t feel obligated to engage in activities you don’t want to do. After all, this is your time off. If lounging in your favorite chair with a good book, some delicious snacks, and your favorite beverage is your desire, go for it! Maybe make this an opportunity to pamper yourself by enjoying a day at the spa, where you can leave the world behind for a few hours. Or if it’s a gloomy afternoon, catch up on a TV series you’ve been meaning to watch. To cap off the day, consider organizing a game or movie night with family or friends, complete with candy and popcorn.