The Ultimate Staycation – How to Be a Tourist in Your Own City

My staycation might be to Fort Lauderdale

Don’t have the funds to travel this summer? Then plan the ultimate staycation instead. While you may not realize it as a resident, chances are there is plenty to do in your city, or a larger city near you, that will make you feel like a tourist in your own city. Use this time to discover new things and check off items you have had on your list for a while. Below are a few tips to help you plan your staycation.

Hit Up TripAdvisor

And you should look at other tourist-targeted sites as well. These are great resources for figuring out what are the must-see places in your city from an outsider’s perspective. And while you might think you already know about everything there is to see, you will likely be surprised by some of the recommendations. Consider this the brainstorming stage.

Google Events in Your City

You can be specific and Google art events or music events, or you can broaden your horizons by searching for events in general. There are so many concerts, exhibitions, and other get togethers that get very little publicity, so without searching, you would never know they were there.

Go on a Restaurant Tour

Skip your favorite places and come up with a tour of local restaurants that takes you to new places. You can come up with them on your own, pull together a list with friends, or even just hit all the top-rated spots on Yelp. Everyone loves a great meal, and this alone can feel like a real vacation.

Find a Sightseeing Company

Even smaller cities tend to have at least one company that offers sightseeing tours. What better way to embrace the tourist experience? Stepping back from the city can help you discover what makes it so special, and you will likely learn some of its history while you are at it.

Explore Local Zoos and Museums

These are attractions you know are there and have likely been to before, but if you are on a staycation, you actually have time to enjoy them. Go ahead and head back, take your time, and really relish what your city has to offer.

With the right approach, a staycation can be as rewarding as a vacation. Now, what are your plans this summer?