Tips for Planning Your Summer Staycation

Your travel plans for this summer are likely not living up to expectations due to travel restrictions and the closure of many businesses and activities due to COVID-19. However, that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy a vacation from your own backyard, whether you are literally on your back deck or exploring your own city! Luckily, we do not always need to travel somewhere to enjoy ourselves and relax. Even if you simply need a break from the routines of daily life but don’t have the availability or room in the budget to take time off for a full vacation, a "staycation" could be the right idea! A “staycation” is an opportunity to take that break without having to take a bus, plane, or train! Take an afternoon or two to enjoy things you love or haven't gotten the chance to try in your city. These 6 activities are safe, fun, and easy to do in anyone's home or hometown:

Visit local museums- We always want to explore when we are in a new area, but many of us don’t take the time to explore our own towns. Take an afternoon to visit a local museum in your area; you just might learn something new! Be sure to follow local guidelines about wearing masks, especially when indoors. Additionally, many museums have even begun to offer "virtual tours" to let guests explore without even leaving the couch.... sounds like a relaxing vacay to us!
Go swimming- You don’t need to travel to the beach to enjoy a day swimming in the sun. Most communities or athletic facilities have swimming pools for public use. If none are open in your area, research local rivers, lakes, and mini "beaches" - most areas have public places outdoors where people can take a dip safely! Just be sure to practice good sun safety, swimming safety, and any rules in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Go hiking or biking- Get outdoors and get active by taking a hike up to your favorite look-out spot, or on that trail you've been meaning to try for years. Not a hiker? Check out local bike trails in your area. These are both great ways to exercise safely outdoors; plus, the whole family can participate!
Visit a local farm - Even if you live in a big city or in the suburbs, most areas have plenty of local farms surrounding them that are accessible by only a 30- to 60-minute drive! Spend the day picking local fruits, veggies, or flowers and enjoying the natural beauty of your own hometown. Plus, summertime is a great season to pick fresh fruit! Look for farms with local peaches, corn, or strawberries, for example, then use your loot to make a delicious summertime recipe!
Play ball - This year, you may be missing afternoons at the ball park eating hot dogs, catching fly balls, and cheering on your team. Luckily, you can still enjoy a day filled with sports. Head to your closest public park or sporting field and kick a soccer ball around, shoot some hoops, or play some baseball with your family. All of these are safe, fun, and healthy activities you can do on a day off!
Pack a picnic- Take some time to appreciate the terrain of your city. Pack a picnic lunch (Need picnic food ideas? Get some healthy recipes here!) and head to the neighborhood park or lake, or even your own backyard. Spread out your blanket and enjoy the afternoon with some snacks and a good book. Spending some time outdoors getting fresh air will help you feel rejuvenated! Just be sure to wear sunscreen while you're enjoying your time outside.