How to Plan a Staycation Full of Fun and Games

Backyard Adventures

Turn your backyard into the ultimate outdoor retreat:

• Backyard Camping: Pitch a tent, roll out sleeping bags, and create a campsite vibe. Roast marshmallows over a fire pit (or a stovetop), tell ghost stories, and stargaze. Take it up a notch by setting up a DIY scavenger hunt for your family or friends.
• DIY Water Park: Beat the heat with inflatable pools, slip-and-slides, water balloons, and sprinklers. Create water games or host a mini “Olympics” with fun challenges.
• Outdoor Movie Night: Set up a projector and screen (or a white sheet), grab popcorn, and enjoy a cozy movie night under the stars.

Explore Your City

Play tourist in your own town:

• City Scavenger Hunt: Download a scavenger hunt app or design your own to uncover hidden gems, historical landmarks, or quirky local spots. Add challenges like taking selfies with specific landmarks or finding unique local foods.
• Local Attractions: Visit museums, art galleries, parks, or nature trails you’ve never explored. Many cities have lesser-known attractions waiting to be discovered.
• Neighborhood Photo Safari: Grab your camera or phone and challenge yourself to take creative photos of your surroundings. Themes could include “nature in the city” or “hidden colors.”

Creative Indoor Activities

Transform your home into an entertainment hub by dedicating each day of your staycation to an exciting theme, bringing unique activities and creativity to every moment of your at-home adventure.

• Italian Day: Cook homemade pasta, watch Italian films, and play bocce.
• Hawaiian Luau: Set up tropical decorations, make mocktails, and learn the hula.
• Retro Game Day: Play classics like charades, Twister, or Monopoly, and dress up in retro attire for added fun.

Host a friendly cook-off challenge using random pantry ingredients, assign a “secret ingredient,” and vote on the most creative dish, with the winner selecting the next activity.

Get Artsy

Unleash your inner artist with DIY projects:

• Craft Days: Try tie-dyeing, pottery, painting, or making jewelry
• Family Talent Show: Let everyone showcase their hidden skills, from singing and dancing to comedy and magic tricks.
• DIY Escape Room: Create puzzles and riddles for a thrilling indoor adventure.

Relax and Recharge

Staycations are also perfect for unwinding:

Spa Day: Create a spa-like atmosphere with scented candles, DIY face masks, and relaxing music. Offer at-home manicures and massages.

Book and Blanket Forts: Build a cozy fort, grab your favorite book or audiobook, and lose yourself in a good story.

Mindfulness Activities: Practice yoga, meditation, or journaling to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.