30 Staycation Ideas for Families

Many people never open their eyes to all the intriguing spots in their own hometowns. Plan a staycation that gives your family a chance to learn about your local area's attractions and spend quality time together — the true aim of any vacation.

1. Put the World on Hold - When your staycation starts, turn down the ringers on your phone and put an out-of-office message on your email. Doing these things will put your home and your family's mindset on vacation mode.
2. Have a Quiet Day - On the first day of your staycation, sleep in late or take a nap. Encourage quiet play, so everyone has a day to recharge before the real fun kicks off.
3. Try Geocaching - It's a real world outdoor treasure hunt. Using a GPS-enabled device, your family hunts to find hidden objects in your local area. There are 2 million geocaches in the world. You can get a free online account, plus there are plenty of guides on how to get started.
4. Go on a Stuffed Animal Adventure - Let your child take his favorite stuffed animal everywhere on your staycation. Snap photographs and encourage him to make a journal as a fun keepsake of your hometown adventures.
5. Build a Tree House - Has someone been dreaming of a backyard retreat? Purchase the needed materials and your family can bond while creating a lasting sanctuary. If you're not handy, hire someone to do this before your staycation, and then enjoy your new refuge during your down time.
6. Plan a Film Festival - Plan a movie marathon — maybe featuring a trilogy you want to introduce to the kids or a theme like princesses or martial arts. Consider taking the movie theater outdoors with a projector, lawn chairs and blankets. Show movies on the side of your house, and invite the neighbors.