Let’s face it, this summer break definitely looks a lot different than most due to the Covid-19 travel restrictions, closures, and social distancing guidelines. One thing I know for certain; we could all use a break. A staycation is the perfect alternative for a little getaway from your daily life without venturing too far from home.
Staying close to home gives you a chance to get out of your everyday routine, save some cash, and make memories with your family – no flights or passports required.
Whether you plan to stay local or explore new places nearby, here are 5 tips to help you plan the perfect family staycation this summer.
1. Create a Staycation Budget
Just like a traditional vacation, it’s important to have a staycation budget in place. You’ll be saving quite a bit by not purchasing airline tickets, swiping your card for gas, or on those hidden resort fees, so don’t be afraid to splurge a little on new restaurants, experiences, or even camping gear.
2. Ask Friends for Recommendations
We’re always looking for recommendations on places to go and things to see when we’re traveling, so why not seek out suggestions for your staycation too? Ask your family, friends, or a local Facebook group what everyone’s favorite restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, parks, and trails are.
3. Stay Home
While staying at home may not seem like the ideal vacay, there are plenty of ways you can make it fun and memorable:
- Order take-out from a new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try.
- Camp out in your backyard.
- Have family game night or a movie marathon.
- Be a hometown tourist checking out local hotspots you don’t usually have time for.
- Go wild at the grocery store and plan a 4-course meal at home.
- Turn your backyard into an oasis by adding a water feature, string lights, and hammock.
- Take a day trip to a nearby town or state park.
4. Book a Hotel Room or Airbnb
While you can most definitely staycation at home, if you’re looking for new scenery check out a nearby hotel or find a rental on Airbnb. The perfect staycation is all about seeing your city in a new light. Do you want to experience the city life in a cozy suite or opt for an adventure in a rural cabin?
5. Go Off the Grid
This kind of staycation will allow you to unplug and recharge. Most state and national parks provide a wonderful opportunity to go off the grid. They usually offer campsites or even cabins at prices much lower than hotels, and let’s not forget that the entertainment is basically free! You can go on a hike, have a picnic, go fishing or swimming on the lake, watch wildlife, star gaze, or simply unwind with a good book while the birds are chirping.
Planning a Staycation in Fishers?
Here are a few super fun ideas if you plan to stay local:
Hit the Trails
Picnic in the Park
Visit the Fishers Farmers’ Market
Explore The Yard at Fishers District
Get a Room
Explore the City
Amanda Merriweather has lived in Fishers for eight years with her family of six on the northwest side of the city. She is a stay-at-home mom and freelance writer who enjoys reading, blogging, crafting (her new favorite hobby is woodworking), as well as spending time with her family finding new trails, exploring new places, watching movies, and playing board games. You can find her at The Yard at Fishers District, local coffee shops and boutiques, and the Fishers library and parks with her kids. Her favorite aspect of Fishers is how family-oriented the city is, and how many family-friendly activities there are to enjoy throughout the year. Follow her on Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and on her blog.