Swimming pool with a stainless-steel ladder beside a light stone deck and dry grass.

How to Plan: A Family-Friendly Summer Staycation

Not going away this summer? No problem. A staycation can be just as fun with a little planning and the right attitude. Whether the kids are home from school or you just want to enjoy the warm weather without packing a suitcase, here’s how to turn your house into a summer getaway everyone will love.

At Home Activities

Just like you’d plan a trip itinerary, map out some fun events to do at home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Backyard Water Day

Turn your yard into a mini water park. Set up a sprinkler, fill a kiddie pool, lay out towels and popsicles and let everyone splash the day away. If you’ve got older kids, add in some water balloons or a slip and slide.

PRO TIP: A large tarp and soap create a perfect slip and slide!

Outdoor Movie Night

Grab a projector if you have one or just bring the TV outside under the stars. Throw down some blankets, pop some popcorn and watch a movie together as the sun goes down. Bonus points for string lights and comfy pillows.

A child watches an animated movie projected outdoors, surrounded by string lights and picnic blankets.

Camp at Home

Set up a tent in the backyard or even in the living room. Do all the classic camping things—make s’mores, tell stories, and play flashlight tag. You don’t have to be far from home to get the cozy campfire feeling.

Backyard BBQ Party

Pick a day to grill and chill. Let the kids help with prep, put on a fun playlist and eat outside. Add lawn games like ring toss or cornhole for that party feel. Invite your friends and family!

Wooden cornhole board and beanbags set out for an outdoor game.

Craft Day

Bring out the paints, sidewalk chalk or even old cardboard boxes and go wild. Make it feel special by turning the backyard or driveway into an art zone for the day.

PRO TIP: Search Pinterest or TikTok for craft ideas!

Backyard Picnic

Take a break from the kitchen table and eat outside for a change. Lay out a blanket in the grass or pull a few chairs into a shady spot. Keep it simple with sandwiches, fruit and easy snacks. The kids can help pack it up and pick the spot.

Picnic blanket with a wicker basket, tea cups, sunhat, and fresh fruit on the grass.

Make It Special

The trick to a great staycation is changing up your routine. Eat meals outside. Use the fancy cups. Put on sunscreen even if you're not leaving the yard. Create little touches that make your day feel different than usual.

Let Everyone Be Involved

Get the whole family and friends involved to help plan a few of the days. Ask the kids what they’d love to do at home and try to work those ideas in. When everyone has a say, there’s more excitement!

Keep It Simple and Fun

A summer staycation doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive to be special. The goal is to relax and enjoy time together without actually leaving home. A little planning goes a long way.

So if you’re spending the summer at home, go ahead and make the most of it. Your backyard, kitchen or living room can be all you need to create fun, laughter and memories that stick around long after the season’s over.

Find Local Fun Close to Home

While most of your staycation might happen right at home, it’s worth seeing what’s going on nearby too. Check out your city or region’s Facebook group, local Google event listings, or community pages to find out about summer festivals, outdoor concerts, farmers markets, or neighborhood fairs. These mini outings give you that vacation vibe without having to travel too far. It’s also a fun way to support local vendors and explore hidden gems in your own city.

Flip flops optional.