So you don’t have vacation plans for the summer. Is the season ruined? Not at all! Here’s a big list of things to do on a summer staycation – similar to what you’d do on a true vacation, but kept local!
This is your opportunity to really explore your local area. Chances are there are plenty of places near home that you’ve never been to – museums, restaurants, cultural exhibits and events.
Make this the year you fall in love with your home and town all over again!
25 reasons summer is the best season
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25 Perfect Things to do on a summer staycation
- Have a movie marathon with a theme or series.
- Create a DIY spa day at home with face masks and relaxation activities.
- Explore local hiking trails or nature reserves.
- Have a picnic in your backyard or a nearby park.
- Try a new recipe and have a themed dinner night.
- Host a game night with friends or family.
- Visit local museums or art galleries.
- Travel virtually by exploring different cultures through food, music, and films.
- Organize a photo scavenger hunt in your neighborhood.
- Set up a tent in your backyard and camp out overnight.
- Have a day of water fun with water balloons, slip ‘n slide, or sprinklers.
- Learn a new skill or hobby through online tutorials or courses.
- Complete a DIY home improvement or redecorating project.
- Explore your city or town as a tourist, visiting local landmarks and attractions.
- Host a themed costume party or dress-up day.
- Volunteer for a local charity or community service project.
- Have a day of arts and crafts, creating handmade gifts or decorations.
- Plan a virtual game or trivia night with friends and family.
- Explore local farmers’ markets and try new, seasonal produce.
- Organize a neighborhood potluck or block party.
- Try a new fitness activity like yoga, dance, or outdoor workouts.
- Have a day of relaxation with meditation, journaling, and self-care activities.
- Complete a 30-day challenge (exercise, diet, journaling, reading, etc.)
- Create a DIY outdoor movie theater with a projector and snacks.
- Plan a day trip to a nearby town or attraction for a change of scenery.
Read More About Summer Self-Care:
- Your Summer Bucket List: 30+ Hot-Season Activities For Adults
- Summer Happy Hour: Old School Tunes and Drinks
- How to Embrace The Joy of Going Barefoot in Summer: Why It’s So Good for You!
- Summertime Sadness: How to Cope with Summer Seasonal Depression
- 25 Quick and Easy Tips for A Better Summer Diet
- 25 Summer Happiness Quotes To Make You Love The Warm Weather
You can see there are plenty of things to do right near home! Approach your staycation with a sense of adventure, just as you would a real vacation, and you’ll probably find yourself so busy, that you won’t even notice that you didn’t go away!
What activities would you add to this list?


Lori is an energetic woman in her early 60s, dedicated to living life fully through self-awareness and self-care. Inspired by her own transformative journey toward confidence, self-love, and positivity, she writes with genuine passion and authenticity.
With degrees in Psychology, Education, and Nonprofit Management, Lori’s diverse career has spanned education administration, counseling, teaching, conference planning, and the rewarding chaos of full-time motherhood. What ties these experiences together is her steadfast commitment to uplifting others.
Today, Lori focuses her energy on empowering mature women, advocating for the vital role of self-care in building confidence and joy. She firmly believes that every woman in midlife deserves to feel capable, radiant, and fulfilled. Join Lori as she shares insights and inspiration to help you live your best life!
