Ways to Have a Great Vacation Without Leaving Home

Everyone dreams of a fabulous vacation on a gorgeous beach, in the majestic mountains or an all-inclusive cruise. Unfortunately, those are dreams that not everyone can afford. What is a family to do when they want to have a great vacation, but have very little money? With the price of gas, it just makes more sense to spend your money on something fun. You don't have to go far from your local area to have a great time. Take a look around your hometown or the biggest city nearby and you are sure to find something that will make your vacation time special. Plus, you will only have to deal with local traffic, be able to sleep in your own bed (if you want) and won't have to pack or unpack.

First, think about your families interests. What types of things do they enjoy? You can plan activities that you know will interest your family, or you can stretch their boundaries a little. With children, it is nice to give them small doses of various things to which they would not normally be exposed. There are many different options. You can spend the day at the local swimming pool. Some communities are putting in small water parks without the cost of the larger ones. Most communities have play houses or operas. There are many musical options. If there is a college in the area. you can usually find several concerts of different types that generally are not very expensive. They also have ball games that you might enjoy. If you are fortunate enough to have a professional baseball team, you can see a pro baseball game. Minor leagues are also very good. I think that the games are usually better than the pros. Even if there is not a large ballpark in your community, you might find a smaller one with leagues that play. Just pick a team and root till someone loses. Several communities have theater groups that perform in parks. Admission is usually free or a small donation is requested and you can bring a picnic dinner to enjoy. We have a dinner theater that has special performances for children. Adults can enjoy more sophisticated entertainment if they are alone. An evening at the opera, play or fancy restaurant is sure to make things special. Do something different and expand your horizons. If you normally eat at fancy restaurants or go to the opera, try a burger joint and bowling or mini golf. Enjoy yourself and do things wholeheartedly. Don't be afraid to try something new.

Even though you may not want to leave town, that doesn't mean you have to stay at your house. For those who enjoy camping, many state parks have shelters or cabins very inexpensive. Personally, I am not much of a camper. My ideal vacation would be a fabulous bed and breakfast or fancy hotel. You can book a weekend, or a couple of weekdays, at the nicest hotel you can afford. Enjoy all the amenities they have to offer, whether it be pool, spa, room service, complimentary breakfast or in-room coffee.

Act like a tourist in your own town. Drive around and see the amazing things your city has to offer. Whether it be sculptures downtown, a river or your local museums, enjoy what is available to you everyday. We are not able to appreciate things right in our town because we are so busy. During our vacation, we should be able to slow down and enjoy these things. Your city might even have some brochures you can have. If you live in a large city, you can check out a travel guide from your local library for your own hometown. You will be amazed at some of the things of which you have no knowledge. These guides are a wealth of information.

Finally, remember to give yourself a break. You don't want to keep going every minute. One of the advantages to vacationing at home is not having to get it all in. You don't have to see everything, do everything or eat at every great restaurant. Since you live in the area, you will always be able to try that restaurant or go to that amazing museum. Take some time to relax and enjoy not having to go anywhere. Think of all the money you are saving just by staying in your local area.