Want a budget-friendly way to spice up your summer without traveling too far away? Learn to appreciate everything your city has to offer by being a tourist in your own backyard!
It’s a great way to keep kids occupied, plus it can be educational and a lot of fun. Not to mention, close-to-home adventures are easier on your budget, and they can help enrich your local economy too.
These ideas will help you get started in planning your staycation or even a spur-of-the-moment weekend afternoon.
Visit a Hotel Lobby or Welcome Center.
Browse the brochures located in the kiosks on display, and collect the ones of interest. Take it a step further and ask the desk staff for recommendations.
Get a Friend to Guide You
Do you know someone who often entertains out-of-town guests? Ask him or her to take you to their favorite places that they like to show off!
See the City Through Fresh Eyes
You may be used to driving through the city, but are there alternatives that can change your perspective? Whether it’s bikes or some other form of transportation, explore the options.
Don’t Pass Up the Photo Ops
Here’s a lesson in not passing up the city’s tourist spots. Whether it’s the city’s welcome sign, the pier, the fountain, the beach or something else, stop and say cheese!
Dine at the Most Touristy Restaurant in Town
Surely, there’s a reason it’s so popular among visitors, so why not go taste why for yourself? Order the best dish on the menu, and soak up the local history with a new appreciation.
Get Outside!
Consider soaking up those outdoor activities that only your city can offer. Whether it’s a viewpoint, biking trail or a local farm, explore the unique things that are close to home.
Explore Museums and Historical Markers
Museums and historical sites contain your city’s story, so slow down and take it in! Local libraries can also be a great resource for historical collections of photos, books and more.
Observe Your City Through a Lens
Take your camera and search for photo opportunities in your city. This may give you a new appreciation for local architecture, nature, street scenes and so much more!
Rise Early to See the Sun
We know that there are spectacular sunrises and sunsets in our area, but how often do you take them in? Visit that popular spot that tourists (or even locals) enjoy to see what it’s like.
Go for a Guided Tour
Check out a local guidebook from the library and dive right in, or if there are walking tours, experience those too! Start a local bucket list based on what you’ve learned.
Follow Someone Else’s Footsteps
Whether it’s a travel blogger’s itinerary or sites that inspired local artists or movie sets, try to see what someone else has seen in your city. You follow up with your own recommendations!
While you’re out enjoying your town, let us come in and take care of the chores. We pride ourselves in making homes on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, including Fairhope, Point Clear, Montrose, Daphne and Spanish Fort, as well as Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach sparkle! We’re also available to clean commercial and rental properties in the same service area. Contact us today to discuss your cleaning needs!
