Creative Staycation Ideas
How many of us have felt like we need a vacation after the holidays? (I’m raising my hand.) Are you feeling like you need to get away, but aren’t ready or able to take a full-on vacation? Enter the staycation, which offers a refreshing wellness break without straying too far from home. With a little creativity, it’s amazing how much you can break up your routine and experience the relaxation and contentment of taking a vacation without having to travel very far. To inspire you, we’ve compiled a list of 7 creative staycation ideas when you really need a mental break.
#1) Stay Local
In the same way that an out-of-town trip reenergizes you, booking a room at a local hotel, resort, or bed-and-breakfast is the perfect way to make a quick escape. You can totally be pampered in a luxurious, comfy bed with room service while playing tourist for the weekend. You’d be surprised how wandering around a new neighborhood with coffee from a different local shop is a welcome disruption from your normal routine.
#2) Take a Food Tour
For a new, mind-opening experience without having to stay overnight, take a food tour of your city or a neighboring city. Book a professionally organized trip with a guide if available, to get the full tourist-like experience. Or arrange your own tour with multiple stops for small plates and single courses at a variety of restaurants you’ve always wanted to try. You can also theme your tour by sampling various dishes in the same category, like appetizers, tacos or dessert.
#3) Be a Tourist
What do tourists do when they visit your city? Whether you’ve been living in the same city since birth or you’ve been there for a few years, there are always new places to explore. Make a list of all the different landmarks that you haven’t seen. In addition to the big tourist attractions, there are cultural and historical sites you may have never thought to check out. Learning something new about your area can be a refreshing change of pace from your usual routine.
#4) Go Camping
A staycation win is an activity that offers a complete change of scenery, allows you to unplug, and lets you immerse yourself in the healing power of the great outdoors. Bonus—you don’t have to embark on a backpacking journey to remote campgrounds to have a fun camping experience. You can set up a tent in your own backyard and enjoy an evening of roasting marshmallows, games and stargazing, either with your partner or the whole family.
#5) Rent an Airbnb
Is there a gorgeous neighborhood in your city that you want to explore? Do you live near Beverly Hills, the Upper East Side, Palm Beach? Make weekend plans to visit that part of town and stay in an Airbnb. Indulge your fantasy by staying in a luxury dream home or exploring a treasured neighborhood district that’s right under your nose.
#6) Book a Spa Day
Choose a staycation that centers on taking care of your wellness via pampering. This allows you to recharge and be more present for your loved ones. Dedicate a day to indulgent self-care by checking into a local spa. You can find one located in a nearby resort or a stand-alone location. Spring for a full day of back-to-back appointments. And don’t forget to pack some reading material—it’s a vacation for the mind and body.
#7) Visit Parks
If you’re lucky enough to have a national or state park in your town or nearby, take advantage and go exploring. Most parks have a variety of outdoor activities to offer, from hiking and biking to climbing, kayaking, and wildlife-watching. You can also pack a picnic for a leisurely activity in the sunshine.
Additional Inspiration
5 Things You Need to Bring on a Romantic Picnic for Two
How to Pack Everything You’ll Need for Your Getaway into a Personal Item
This is How to Create the Ultimate, Relaxing Spa Day at Home
10 Best Travel Destinations for Foodies in the US
What are some of your favorite staycation experiences? Please share in the comments below! Sign up for the newsletter to take advantage of some incredible resources here. Thanks for reading!
