Need a little help getting your creative juices flowing regarding your next vacation? Have you considered a staycation instead? Who doesn’t love a good vacation? A nice trip to an all inclusive resort or a beach paradise sounds great, right? But life happens and maybe you can’t take that much time off, or you can’t afford the hotel, or there’s a worldwide pandemic and you aren’t comfortable with traveling. Regardless of your reasoning, there’s nothing wrong with having a staycation instead! Here are seven fun ideas:
Spa Day
When it comes to having a spa day, there is something for everyone. My go to for something more affordable is a manicure/pedicure. But sometimes, I like to splurge and take it up a notch. Not sure where to go? Try using Google reviews to find spas that offer massages, facials, hot stones, and wax services. Make sure you read the good and bad reviews or ask around to see who your friends suggest. If you’re spending a little more to treat yourself, you want it to be worth it! After all, feeling pampered and relaxed after a trip to the spa is a great way to enhance your staycation.
Find a new trail or park to explore
Do you have a favorite park or rec center? Walking, hiking and jogging are great pastimes. A quick call to your local tourism center can tell you what is in your area. You might be surprised to learn that there’s a new trail or nature center in your area that you haven’t tried yet! If the weather is nice, head over and get some fresh air. If there is a trail nearby, take a walk and get some steps in!
Axe throwing
Axe throwing has become very popular! There’s a good chance you could find an axe throwing center within a reasonable drive of where you live. Axe throwing is a blast! It is a great activity that gets your body moving, but it doesn’t feel like a workout! It’s typically affordable and you can take as many of your family members or friends as you’d like to. Some facilities even offer food and drinks or allow you to bring your own. Don’t know how to do it? No worries! They always have instructors there to help you learn the basics and find the best way for you to throw the axe. You may think you won’t be good at it, but you’ll be making bulls-eyes in no time!
Dinner and a movie
A budget friendly activity, perfect for any staycation, is dinner and a movie. Dinner and a movie can be the traditional route or glamorized at home. You may decide to cook a fancy dinner or order out, either way, you can’t go wrong. If you are feeling super fancy, try a theater that serves dinner during the movie. so enjoy a nice treat while you see the newest blockbuster! Regardless, just don’t forget the popcorn!
Gun range
Many areas have both indoor and outdoor gun ranges. So depending on the weather, this could make a great rainy day activity or something fun to do in the sun. You can either rent a gun and purchase ammo from the range or bring your own. Most places will have you watch a safety demonstration prior to starting and will have range masters available to answer questions, offer guidance, and make sure everyone is staying safe. Working on your aim and learning a new skill could be a great way to spend your time off!
Pottery or paint and sips
You can never outgrow arts and crafts. Grab your favorite glass of wine (or soda) and let yourself be creative! You’ll end up with a fun painting to hang in your office when you return to work, or you’ll have a nice piece of pottery to display. Being creative can be calming and make you feel refreshed and relaxed.
Check out a local festival
It might take some searching, but it could be a renaissance festival, a honeybee festival, a farmer’s market, and much more! Visit one you’ve been meaning to go to for years, or step out of your comfort zone and check out one you wouldn’t normally participate in. Enjoy the people, the art, and the tasty treats. This is your time off, enjoy it!
If you live in a big city, there may be activities on every corner. If you live out in a rural area, you may have to get a little bit more creative. But it’s important to remember that there’s no right or wrong way to have a staycation! The important part is that you feel relaxed, rested, and refreshed afterwards. Spend some quality time with your family and try something new… and hopefully save some money while you’re at it!
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