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Vacations don’t have to involve suitcases, passports, or hours of highway traffic to be unforgettable. Sometimes, the best memories happen right in your own neighborhood. A well-planned staycation can offer just as much fun, laughter, and bonding as a trip far away—and it’s far easier on the wallet. With a little creativity and some local spirit, you can turn a regular weekend or school break into a mini adventure. Here are 10 fun things to do with kids that require zero travel but deliver maximum smiles.
1. Host a Backyard Olympics
Turn your backyard into an epic arena of family-friendly games. Create events like water balloon tosses, sack races, hula hoop contests, or even obstacle courses using pool noodles and cones. Let the kids make medals out of cardboard and string for the closing ceremony. Rotate roles so everyone gets a chance to be a competitor and judge. It’s one of those fun things to do with kids that brings the whole family together in the sun.
2. Plan a Themed Movie Marathon
Pick a theme—superheroes, animals, animation classics—and plan a full movie day around it. Build a pillow fort, make themed snacks, and let everyone wear pajamas or costumes. Add homemade tickets for that extra touch of theater magic. Break up the viewing with short “intermissions” for popcorn refills or dance breaks. Kids love the novelty, and it’s a cozy way to staycation in style.
3. Explore a Local Trail or Nature Spot
You don’t have to leave town to find adventure in the great outdoors. Research local walking trails, nature preserves, or even nearby parks you haven’t visited yet. Bring along a simple scavenger hunt list—like spotting squirrels, purple flowers, or heart-shaped rocks. Encourage kids to take photos or draw what they see in a notebook. It’s a mix of fun, education, and fresh air all in one.
4. Try an At-Home Science or Art Camp
Dedicate a couple of days to diving into fun DIY science experiments or messy art projects. Think baking soda volcanoes, slime making, or galaxy painting with sponges. Structure it like a mini camp with a “lesson” in the morning and free creation time after lunch. Let kids wear “camp shirts” and collect badges or stickers for each activity completed. This is one of those fun things to do with kids that sneaks in learning without it feeling like school.
5. Visit Your Town Like a Tourist
How often do you visit the local museum, historic site, or quirky roadside attraction near your home? Probably not often. Pretend you’re tourists for a day and explore your town with fresh eyes. Let each family member choose one destination, take silly photos, and end the day with ice cream from somewhere new. You’ll likely discover something fun you never knew existed.
6. Set Up a DIY Water Park
When it’s hot out and you don’t want to brave a crowded pool, bring the water fun to your yard. Use sprinklers, water balloons, plastic tubs, and even a Slip ‘N Slide if you have one. Create stations and rotate through them like a mini splash zone. Don’t forget towels, sunscreen, and music to keep the vibe lively. It’s one of the easiest fun things to do with kids, especially when everyone needs to cool off.
7. Have a Build-a-Fort Challenge Indoors
Rainy day? No problem. Gather blankets, chairs, and couch cushions and see who can build the most creative indoor fort. Add fairy lights or glow sticks for nighttime coziness. Once built, forts can be used for snacks, games, or storytelling. It’s imaginative, engaging, and perfect for screen-free bonding. Even parents may find themselves crawling in and staying a while.
8. Create a Backyard Camping Night
No need to pack the car when the backyard is just steps away. Pitch a tent or lay out sleeping bags under the stars. Roast marshmallows over a fire pit or grill, tell stories, and do some simple stargazing. Even if you head inside before morning, the memory of camping “just outside” feels like a big deal to kids. It’s outdoor fun with all the comforts of home nearby.
9. Organize a Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt
Make a list of fun or silly things to find or do in your neighborhood—like spotting a red door, finding a feather, or waving at three dogs. You can do this solo as a family or invite a few nearby families to join in. Give small prizes or snacks at the end of the hunt. It’s interactive, free, and encourages kids to pay attention to their surroundings. The excitement of discovery keeps energy high.
10. Run a Family Bake-Off
Choose a dessert or simple recipe and challenge each family member to make their own version—with a little help if needed. Create fun categories like “Most Creative Topping” or “Best Presentation.” Taste test each creation and take photos to commemorate the moment. Clean-up is a team effort, of course. This delicious activity satisfies both creativity and snack cravings.
Making Magic Without Leaving the Map
You don’t need plane tickets or long road trips to make lasting memories with your kids. Some of the most joyful moments come from slowing down, trying something new, and making the most of where you already are. Whether it’s building forts, splashing in the yard, or watching clouds together, these simple joys often become the stories kids remember most. So here’s to a staycation packed with laughter, connection, and plenty of creativity.
What are your favorite fun things to do with kids during a staycation? Share your best local adventures in the comments!
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Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.
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