Staycation

I love to get away. Using my PTO for travel gets me giddy on the inside. But there are sometimes you just can’t get away. Which is why I imagine the word staycation was invented. It describes the moment when a vacation isn’t possible so you just stay where you are. There’s plenty to do in Anywhere, USA. You might not think your town is a travel destination but I’m sure there are lots of fun and inexpensive things to do on your next staycation. Here are a few of my favorite things to do during my staycation.

Try out that restaurant or bakery
I just moved to a new city. I’ve been exploring the stores and restaurants. But there is one bakery I’ve been longing to visit. It’s a Gluten-Free Bakery called Morgana’s Bakery. (Yes, part of the reason is that it’s so close to my name.) Visiting a new restaurant can show you a different side of your city. Try restaurants outside of your comfort zone. It’s a vacation, you can be adventurous. For instance, if you only eat hamburgers at the restaurant, (first of all, are you my old boyfriend?) give Mexican food a try. Another thing to think about when selecting a new restaurant or bakery is the location. Is this spot within your neighborhood? Is there a part of town you’ve always wanted to travel to? Start there. Lastly when selecting a restaurant, and this is really just a personal preference, I always aim to visit local restaurants. No chains! Especially if you are a chain restaurant person, venture out of the normal.

After a Tori Kelly concert

Look for events
Eventbrite, local magazines and Facebook events are your friends. I personally believe Facebook is the best. All you have to do to find great events on Facebook is select events, next discover and enter your location. Of course on Facebook, you can let your friends know if you are interested or going to an event. Eventbrite is a bit easier to use. Simply type in your location and events populate. And if you’re feeling a bit more classic, newspapers and local magazines offer calendars loaded with events. You can even read articles about the event. As my mother would say, “I got this article for you baby.” Reading is FUN-damental!

Don’t judge my artwork. I tried!

Take a class
Learn a new skill on a staycation. From cooking classes to painting classes to a pottery class, learn something new. These classes can be fairly inexpensive if you visit Living Social or Groupon. I had an excellent time with my sister, mom, and cousin at a sip and paint class. Even though my painting wasn’t amazing, I enjoyed my time trying to be artistic.


Nights Out
I feel as I get older, the night time is the right time to be at home. But sometimes you should go out after 9 pm. Maybe you’re into cigars, search Google for local cigar spots. Try out a jazz club. Usually, the drinks are strong and the vibe is super chill. Are you ready to hit the dance floor? Search Google for lounges. You’re sure to have an amazing night out.

Repping for women’s heart health at KC Wineworks

Wineries and Breweries
You can always find me with a wine glass in my hand. I think that’s my dad's side coming out of me. Venture to local breweries and wineries. You may have to drive a little way to find both, but it’s worth it. In Missouri, we have a few spots that are a decent driving distance. Far enough that you should stay overnight. But close enough to not catch a flight. One of my favorite wineries in my city is KC Wineworks.

Ultimately a staycation shouldn’t just be staying in your house. Get out and explore the city with your loved one or just hang solo dolo. What are your favorite staycation activities?