You don’t have to travel far to make unforgettable memories. A staycation — whether it’s a weekend at home or a few days exploring your city — can offer all the fun of a vacation without the stress of airports, packing lists, or budgets.
For LGBTQ families and chosen families alike, a staycation is a great opportunity to connect, recharge, and celebrate togetherness. The key is planning activities that feel inclusive, intentional, and joyful for everyone. Here’s how to make your next staycation both meaningful and memorable.
1. Create a Theme for Your Staycation
Start by giving your time off a theme or purpose. It could be as simple as “Relax and Recharge” or as specific as “Around the World from Home.” A theme adds structure and excitement, especially for kids or groups of friends.
For an around-the-world idea, cook international meals together, learn a few phrases in different languages, and stream a film from another country each night. For a self-care retreat, focus on mindfulness, journaling, and at-home spa activities.
Themes make a staycation feel like an event instead of just another weekend at home.
2. Turn Your Home Into a Mini Resort
You don’t need a hotel to feel pampered. Start by setting up cozy “zones” around the house — a reading nook, a DIY breakfast bar, or a game corner. Light candles, play relaxing music, and unplug from work.
If you have outdoor space, set up a picnic blanket or string lights to create a little oasis. Even small touches like making mocktails or wearing matching robes can make home feel like a boutique getaway.
For chosen families or friend groups, rotate hosting duties so everyone contributes something: cooking, playlist curation, or even a mini meditation session.
3. Explore Your Own City Like a Tourist
It’s easy to overlook the gems in your own backyard. Research your city’s LGBTQ-owned businesses, local parks, and cultural events. Many cities have queer art exhibits, independent theaters, or family-friendly drag brunches that make for a perfect day out.
Visit a museum, bike along a new trail, or check out a community market. The goal isn’t to rush through an itinerary but to rediscover your surroundings with fresh eyes.
If you live near water, rent kayaks or paddleboards. If you’re landlocked, try a walking food tour through different neighborhoods. Sometimes the best adventures are right outside your front door.
4. Plan a Family Film or Game Marathon
For nights in, make movie or game marathons a central event. Choose a series or theme everyone enjoys — from animated classics to queer cinema favorites. Set up a projector if you have one and create a “home theater” vibe with blankets, snacks, and tickets printed for fun.
If games are more your family’s style, host a board game tournament or trivia night. Encourage everyone to bring their own favorite games to keep things inclusive for all ages and personalities.
For a creative twist, add small prizes like homemade coupons (“winner chooses tomorrow’s breakfast”) to keep it playful and lighthearted.
5. Cook or Bake Together
Food brings people together, and a staycation is the perfect excuse to get everyone in the kitchen. Plan a collaborative meal where each person chooses one dish or course.
For families with kids, pick recipes that are easy and hands-on — like personal pizzas, tacos, or decorate-your-own cupcakes. For couples or chosen families, experiment with a multi-course dinner, complete with candles and music.
Cooking together encourages teamwork and gives everyone a sense of ownership in the experience. Plus, the shared meal becomes one of the most memorable parts of the staycation.
6. Build in Time to Unplug
It’s tempting to check your phone or sneak in a few emails during a staycation, but real rest requires boundaries. Create “no screen” hours or full tech-free mornings.
Instead, use that time to talk, read, take a walk, or simply rest. Even an afternoon spent doing nothing — intentionally — can feel deeply restorative.
Remember: a staycation isn’t about filling every minute; it’s about being present with the people who matter most.
7. Capture the Memories
Just because you’re staying home doesn’t mean you can’t document your adventures. Take photos, record videos, or make a short recap reel at the end of your staycation.
If you’re crafty, turn those memories into a scrapbook or digital photo album. It’s a lovely reminder that joy doesn’t depend on distance — it’s something you can create anywhere.
You don’t need plane tickets or hotel reservations to enjoy time together. A staycation can be just as magical as a getaway when you focus on connection, creativity, and care.
In the end, it’s not about where you go — it’s about who you’re with and how fully you show up.
