SUMMER CAMPS

Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Ch i l d h o o d i s a l l a b o u t exploration and imagination. With a little bit of both, you can take your family for an adventure to discover new things in familiar places. Although your travel plans may have been suspended this year, you can create great new travel memories by being a tourist in your own town during this time. Here are a few ways to begin your local summer vacation.

Try a New Dish

This may mean ordering from a restaurant you’ve never been to before or getting takeout from your favorite place but picking something new from the menu. Together, your family can decide what culinary destination they want to visit with each meal you choose. Play some music to match the dishes (i.e. zydeco for cajun night). It’s not just fun to use your imagination in this way, it is also helpful as you’ll be supporting your local businesses.

Take a Selfie

Everyone has the scrapbook (or desktop folder) or vacation photos. 2020 can still be a year of making memories with your family. Find some local art or historical sites nearby that are safe to visit and bring the camera. Science says that smiling actually makes you happier so go ahead and say cheese.

Wear Your Travel Attire

Maybe you always pack a certain beach hat or adventure shoes or your “responsible dad”

in Your Own Town

by Melanie Griffin

Bayne Gardner Mural on Oak Alley.

PHOTO: MELANIE GRIFFIN / EUGENE, CASCADES & COAST

fanny pack. Don’t let it sit unused this year. Imagination works better when you dress the part - just ask any kid in a spiderman outfit.

Take a Drive

Grab a map of your area and plot a route near home you’ve never driven before. Some of your nearby communities may not be open so be prepared by packing snacks and filling the tank before you leave. Bring the camera so you can be prepared to take more selfies if you happen upon interesting roadside attractions.

Camp in the Backyard

If your favorite part of travel involves spending more time outdoors, then set up a tent on the lawn. If you don’t have access to outdoor space, build a fort or set up a tent indoors. With a little imagination, some string lights and nature sounds, you’ll enjoy the fun of camping without the bugs.

Book a Night at a Local Hotel

You’ve probably never stayed in a hotel in your hometown before, so it’ll be easy to pretend you’re a tourist stopping in for the night. Make sure to follow current safety mandates in place to keep you safe. Your hotel will be able to give you an idea of what to expect before your arrival.

Plan a Future Trip

Get inspiration for your future trip from a visitor bureau like Eugene, Cascades & Coast by ordering a visitor guide and dreaming about all the things you’ll do when you’re ready to pack your bags.