Wallet-Friendly Weekend: Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Looking for something fun and most importantly affordable to do this weekend? Why not be a tourist in your own town? This idea can work wherever you live (near a big city, out in the country or anywhere in between).
This weekend activity can be as fancy (read: expensive) as you want it to be, or it can be totally free. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Take selfies in front of tourist spots.
Maybe your town is famous for its skyline, or a historic bridge, or even the biggest ball of yarn this side of the Mississippi. Whatever it is, get to it and take some selfies! It’s cheesy, but that’s part of the fun.
Even though you’ve probably passed these landmarks many times while going to the grocery store, it’s fun to see why other people come to your town. You might be surprised at how charming these tourist spots can be!
2. Play tour guide.
If a friend is visiting, it’s a great opportunity to show off your town and your knowledge of the town. Or, if no one is visiting soon, it’s a way of giving your kids some history and information on their hometown. Maybe they’ll pass it on to their kids someday!
3. Check out the museums, art galleries or local stores.
Most museums have free days or discounted days that you should definitely take advantage of. If you don’t have any museums nearby, you can check out art galleries or some fun local stores that you wouldn’t usually make time to visit. An extra perk of this idea is supporting your local businesses.
4. Change up your mode of transportation.
If you normally drive around town, try taking the bus or subway instead. It’s a way to see your town through a different lens. If you usually get around by bus or subway, try a different route; you never know, you may stumble up something really fun!
I also find making myself walk and get lost throughout the day helps a lot in terms of finding new stores, parks and activities. Just be safe while doing so!
5. Treat yourself!
Since you’re able to save some money on staying close to home (rather than traveling for the weekend), go to a popular restaurant and enjoy a nice meal out. I would still stay away from the super touristy (usually overpriced) restaurants because – since you have the upper hand of being a local – you know where the really good grub is!
If you’re really looking to feel like you’re on vacation, you could even book yourself a room at a local hotel. The more local, the better! (This of course only comes out as a cheaper option when comparing it to a real vacation where you’d fly or take a road trip away.)
Have you played tourist in your own town? Did you have fun? Let us know in the comments below!
