With Gov. DeWine lifting the stay-at-home orders last month of the spring COVID-19 pandemic, most Ohioans are trying to get back to some semblance of normal life. The coronavirus, however, has not gone away. With the number of daily cases rising, many families across in Ohio are opting for a summer staycation to avoid the crowds and practice social distancing. If you are among the folks who aren’t quite ready to be out among the masses just yet, you are not alone. As you plan to enjoy some quality time at home this summer, consider these ideas to get the most out of your summer staycation.
Be a hometown tourist. We often overlook the history in our own backyards.
Consider a drive through Amish Country. Small communities offer opportunities to stop and pick up everything from household goods, to locally made cheeses, candy, ice cream, produce, and much more. While Amish Country spans five counties, the best places to start is along the 160 miles of the Amish Country Byway, in Holmes County.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens located in Akron, Ohio, is a stunning country estate with beautiful grounds that surround it. One of the largest homes in the whole country, this is a wonderful place that is well worth a visit.
If you are new to the town you live in or simply haven’t seen the sights, do a little research on the local historical features, museums, architecture, and public spaces and take some time to enjoy your Ohio town.
Enjoy local parks. One of the best summer activities is a picnic in the park. Cities and towns of all sizes typically have at least one public park where families can enjoy an afternoon with a blanket and a basket full of snacks. Hocking Hills State Park near Logan is a rugged natural area. The area has hiking trails, caves, camping facilities, and cottages. It is also one of the best places for a weekend getaway, especially in the fall, when the leaves are changing to vibrant colors in the forested areas.
Create your own family cooking show. It can be an enjoyable family experience. Get everyone involved in preparing the family dinner and capture everyone’s antics on video. If you want to entertain your extended family and friends, share the video on social media for everyone to see.
Make one day a spa day. This can be a personal care day or an event for couples or families: facials, manicures, pedicures—the whole works. You can pamper yourself right in the comfort of your home or schedule an appointment at a professional salon in your area.
Hike the trails and enjoy the natural surroundings. Hiking is good for your body, your spirit, and your mind. Get out and enjoy the trails close to your home and make it a nature scavenger hunt for the kids. They love collecting leaves, interesting rocks, moss, and other treasures from the forest.
Have an outdoor seafood feast. Summer days spent by the sea are cooled by the ocean breeze and often include spectacular seafood meals with freshly caught delicacies. If you are vacationing at home this year, pick one evening to order a selection of crab, shrimp, lobster, clams, mussels, fish, and oysters to go from your favorite seafood restaurant. Set up a little buffet on your porch or patio and let your family mix and match their favorites.
Relax on your patio. If you haven’t updated your Ohio outdoor space in a while, consider having new patio screens and outdoor shades installed. These features help you create a relaxing outdoor living space shaded from the sun and protected from pests. Motorized outdoor shades allow you to raise or lower the screens at the touch of a button. You won’t be disappointed!
Louvered roof systems are a popular patio cover option for Cincinnati and other sunny Ohio cities. These pergola style roofs are equipped with adjustable blades that can be rotated by remote control.
Just because the pandemic has put a damper on traditional summer plans, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a memorable staycation right where you live. Take the week off work, plan an itinerary for the week, and enjoy. Don’t forget to take a day or two just to relax and enjoy the time off.
