5 Fun Things to Do on a Staycation

Taking a holiday during the summer is nice, but it can be costly. When that isn’t in your budget, have some fun at home with a "staycation". The idea is to play local tourist and do some fun activities in your local area. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how much fun it can be and how much your area has to offer. Best of all, you get to come home and sleep in your own bed at the end of the day!


Head for Water

When it’s hot outside, there’s nothing better than dipping into a cool pool or lake, or going for a swim in the ocean. Take a look at what options you have in your area. Go out to explore local lakes and rivers that you can swim or wade in. If you’re living close enough to the beach, take a day trip to go swimming.

Finding local pools is another great option. Many places have public pools that are surprisingly fun and underused, even outdoor pools, saltwater baths and lidos.  And don’t forget about having fun with water at home. Get a paddling pool, water toys, or turn on the sprinklers and let the kids cool off.

Related post: The best Water Toys to Make Your Garden More Fun this Summer


Look into History

How much do you know about the local history in your area? Make it a point to read up on it this summer and explore local historic places and museums. It’s fun for adults, but also a great educational experience for the children. Encourage them to read up, explore, and maybe even create a project around your town's history.

Many cities and areas with a rich history offer various different tours that you may not be aware of. It’s worth contacting your local tourist office to find out what you’ve been missing. If you can’t find anything in your town, expand your search and go on a few day trips.


Check Local Events

Take a look at your local calendars of events. You’ll be surprised how much communities do during the summer months. There are often classes, concerts, movie showings, and even festivals you may not be aware of.  Between local fetes, fairs, libraries, museums and churches, there will be plenty of things to add to your calendar this summer.

Related post: 3 Good Reasons to Take Your Child to the Library this Summer


Fun in the Garden

We already talked about water fun in your garden.  Don’t stop there.  There’s all sorts of fun stuff you can do right at home from dining al fresco to roasting marshmallows over the fire pit and even sleeping under the stars.  Treat your home like a holidy spot and get everyone outside to have some fun.

Related posts:

Why Every Child Needs a Playhouse + the Best Ones to Buy
How to Encourage Imaginative Play Outdoors



Explore A New Culture

Just because you’re staying home this summer doesn't mean you can’t dive into a new culture. It’s one of the biggest benefits of traveling abroad, but with a little effort and imagination you can experience some of it right at home.

Pick a country or culture and dive in. Taste the food, listen to the music, watch the movies, and read the books. Maybe even learn a little of the language and do it all as a family so you can interact and explore together.

By simply putting as much planning and effort into a staycation as you would any regular family trip, you can have an amazing experience this summer that will cost a fraction of a regular holiday.

More ideas for summer fun:

How to Make the Most of the School Holidays this Summer
The Easy Way to Keep Kids Happy All Summer
Easy Science Experiments to Do at Home
How to Save Money During the School Holidays
Cheap Ideas for Activities and Days Out this Summer
101 Free Things to Do this Summer

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