Top staycation ideas for summer
With the unofficial start to summer now behind us, many Americans are beginning to think about getting away. Spring break may have been cancelled and a traditional summer vacation might still be up in the air, but that doesn’t mean you can’t escape the daily grind. COVID-19 has forced businesses of all kinds to shift their offerings and many great staycation options have resulted. We’re sharing our top staycation suggestions to kick your summer off right.
Pamper yourself
With spas, salons, gyms and fitness studios across the country shut down as a result of COVID-19, self-care and pampering has become somewhat of an uphill battle. Take yourself on a wellness retreat without ever leaving your home. Many local gyms, personal trainers, and niche studios are offering classes online, often for free. It’s a great way to stay in shape and, with some sessions being livestreamed, it’s a great way to connect with others virtually. Even larger companies like Peloton have gotten into the game offering access to their full library of live and on-demand classes. Are you looking for Zen and relaxation? Bring the spa right to your front door with a subscription box from a new start-up or goodies from your favorite local establishment. Do you want to freshen up your look? Bring the salon to you with custom hair color kits, splurge on rejuvenating skincare products, or try your hand at an at-home manicure.
If there aren’t any local options, fitness and beauty experts recommend: Peloton App, IPSY Subscription Box, Madison Reed At-Home Hair Coloring Kits
Experience the arts
From world-renowned museums to community galleries and theaters, you can experience it all on your staycation. Have you ever wanted to visit the Louvre or walk the halls of the Guggenheim? Now you can. Visit these cultural hot spots and many others with virtual tours from the comfort of your home. Looking to keep it more local? The local arts often rely heavily on community support and they have been hit hard during the pandemic. Many have found ways to stay connected with the community by bringing the arts right to you. Sip wine while virtually admiring a local art exhibit, catch a livestream of classic movies and enjoy the vocal stylings of local musicians all while supporting your community.
In addition to arts experiences in your community, check out these expert recommendations: Travel & Leisure's Top Picks, Refinery 29's List of Incredible Virtual Tours
Expand your horizons
Have you always wanted to learn something new? Whether it’s learning to cook, picking up a new language, or trying your hand at photography, there’s no better time than the present. There are plenty of opportunities to pick up new skills including online classes and seminars, picking up how-to-books from your local bookstore curbside, or downloading foreign language tutorials from your library. New skills not only expand your horizons but also create an opportunity to support your local community. For example, honing your culinary skills may require some unique ingredients. Many local restaurants are becoming small markets and may carry items you wouldn’t otherwise find at a traditional grocery store.
If you’re looking for unique online classes, consumers recommend: MasterClass, Skillshare
Enjoy some family fun
After months of staying home a staycation may not top the list of family fun, but there are many out-of-the-box options to keep kids of all ages (and their parents) entertained without leaving the house.
- Visit your local aquarium: Virtually, of course. Take in the wonders of the ocean from the comfort of your couch. Many aquariums are offering a 24/7 glimpse into their facilities for free. From livestreaming tanks and exhibits to daily updates from the trainers and keepers, you’ll feel like you’re there. Consumers recommend: Monterey Bay Aquarium, National Aquarium
- Make music: Group music classes are a great way to connect with others, but social distancing makes it difficult. Many schools or private teachers that once offered live classes have pivoted to online sessions. Check out your local music school and connect with other families and friends in your community. Consumers recommend: Music Together, Kindermusik
- Ignite creativity: Get in touch with your creative side with your local art studio. Many are offering virtual art classes, and some are even delivering art boxes right to your front door. Most kits are available individually or on a subscription basis and include art materials, step-by-step instructions, and shipping. It’s fun for the whole family. Check out these expert recommendations: 2020 Best Kids Arts & Crafts Boxes
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