With limited travel opportunities and the commitment to stay home as much as we can, planning a staycation for spring break might just be the ticket to embracing the fun of a vacation while staying local. Plus, just think of the money you’ll save—it might just be the opportunity to tuck away some funds for a grand adventure in a year or two.
So whether your family consists of parents and a wee one or a whole gaggle of kids at various ages, you are sure to find some inspiration in our list of staycation ideas. You might not be hoppin’ a plane this spring, but you will surely snag some fabulous photo ops and maybe even a souvenir or two to represent your staycation year. Get ready for some prime memory making!
Camp Out
While we wait for warmer weather to bring back actual camping trips, there’s no need to forgo the fun of camping. Pop up a tent—or pillow fort—in your front room, basement, or bedroom, whip up hot dogs and s’mores, and introduce your kids some of those favorite Girl Scout campfire songs. “Black Socks,” anyone?
Host a Movie Marathon
Won’t your crew jump for joy when you announce that you’ll be watching a movie every single night of the week? Whether you incorporate the kids or plan something just with your partner, you’ll fondly remember the staycation where you powered through all the Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, or Toy Story films.
Spring for a Spa Day
An actual spa might not be realistic, but at home you can absolutely draw a bubble bath, paint fingers and toes, offer scalp massages and foot rubs, and relax to meditation music with cucumbers on your eyes. The whole family will enjoy a dose of relaxation and rejuvenation—and that’s what staycations are all about, right?
Play Hometown Tourist
I for one know I haven’t seen all of my hometown and I can’t think of a better way to explore the best of my little corner of the world than playing tourist. Google your city, ask for hidden restaurant gems, and don’t forget to take your camera along to chronicle the hidden alleys, trails, and sights of the place you call home.
Plan a Surprise Day Trip
Pull out a map of your state or region and close your eyes, point a finger and BOOM! there is your staycation day trip! It might be a hike, a new restaurant, a historical site, or a just a beautiful drive. Wherever you go and whatever you do, make the most of your day trip (that means you’ll need a playlist especially compiled for your route!) and then snuggle up at home- sweet-home by the time the sun sets. After all, the best part about trips is usually coming home, so that’s one aspect of a staycation that you can appreciate.
Rearrange a Room
Who wants to play HGTV star? Pick a room that deserves a makeover, rearrange furniture, add a few new touches, and just like that you’ll be livin’ the life of a TV celebrity…well, kind of.
Visit Disneyland
If you can’t go to Disneyland, bring Disneyland to you. Last spring, my kids and I did just that—we ate Mickey pancakes in the morning, watched POV ride videos and parades thanks to YouTube, drew our rendition of the castle, created a Disney song playlist, and took photos with our favorite Disney stuffed animals. It turned out to be such a fun day that we ended up extending it into three full days with more crafts, movies, and Disney-inspired foods.
Book an Overnight
If you are comfortable with a hotel stay, try out some local lodging and enjoy the fun of a mini getaway without going far. You’ll land yourself a change of scenery, a pool, and maybe even a free breakfast. Plus, you can let your kids jump on the bed. #funmom
Try a New Craft
During my “regular” life, I don’t feel like there is much margin for trying out a new hobby so as soon as I block out some vacation time I like to try my hand at something new in the craft department. Sometimes it’s geared towards my littles—like making sensory bins or doing a handprint craft—but other times it’s all about me. This year I really want to commit some time to one of those pretty embroidery kits.
Get Takeout All Day
One of my favorite parts of vacationing is the break from meal prep and dishes, so, since a staycation means you’re saving big on lodging and transportation, go ahead and splurge on eating out …all day long. Yup, we said it—pick up a scrumptious breakfast, grab lunch when hunger strikes, and enjoy a dinner made by someone else from one of your favorite restaurants.
Just be sure you don’t forget dessert. Because obviously, no staycation is complete without it.
