Guest Post by Ted James of Ted Knows Money.
Going on vacation doesn’t have to mean going far. There are opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation fairly close by no matter where you live. The next time you feel the urge to get away, consider staying at a bed and breakfast, home rental, or park within a few hours drive for an inspiring trip that won’t break the bank. Today, Ted (from Ted Knows Money), has some great suggestions for your next relaxing getaway!
In this article - top suggestions for a relaxing getaway:
Escape to Nature
Between forests and mountains, lakes and streams, North America is full of natural wonder. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just need a break from the hubbub of everyday life, you don’t have to look far to find a secluded retreat. This is great news for people with a high-stress lifestyle, because time in nature is known to restore mental energy. According to the American Psychological Association, natural settings reduce irritability, distractibility, anxiety, and even pain. So when you’re feeling in need of a mental boost, check out a local park, or one of the remarkable settings found within a few hours drive:
Sunrise at Garner State Park, Texas
State Parks: State parks feature hiking, biking, boating, fishing, swimming, and more. With pet-friendly trails and beaches, a state park may be the perfect place for an active vacation with your dog. You can find lists of parks and their amenities by searching for “(your state name) state parks.” Here is the list for Virginia, for example.
National Parks: National parks are scattered throughout the country, and include mountains, beaches, deserts, marshes, waterfalls, scenic views, and historic landmarks. I highly recommend you buy an annual pass if you plan to visit a national park more than once per year.
Caverns: For a less conventional outdoor adventure, tour some caverns and explore miles of cave passage, history, and rock formations.
Find Inspiration in the Arts
If the weather’s not right for an outdoor getaway, don’t worry. There’s still more than enough beauty and inspiration to be found indoors. Nurture your creative side by taking a tour of your state’s art scene, from high-brow contemporary art to handcrafted artisan works. While it’s well known that creating art can be therapeutic, a 2011 study found that viewing cultural works can be just as beneficial, as reported by Science Daily. When you take a trip to one of these nearby attractions, you’ll end up happier, more relaxed, and more satisfied with life:
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, California
Art in Theater: From small dinner theaters to large cultural centers, enjoying a play is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in a different reality for a while. Make it a group outing, or go alone for a refreshing experience.
Craft Fairs or Festivals: Browse the works of local artisans and get the jump on your holiday/birthday shopping. Beauty in art feeds your spirit, and you can support local artists.
Art Museums and Galleries: Art galleries range from very small to enormous, and most have regularly changing exhibits, so there’s always something new to see. Many museums offer reciprocal passes that can be used at other institutions, too.
Immerse Yourself in History
Most places are rich with history just awaiting your discovery. Visiting a historical site is a great way to distract your mind and gain perspective on your own daily challenges. Expand your knowledge, find a new connection to your community, and share a meaningful experience with your family when you visit one of these historical sites:
Cannons Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi
Living History Attractions: Be instantly transported to a simpler time at villages, forts, and battlefields, where actors stay in character and demonstrate earlier ways of life.
Natural History Museums: Learn about plants, animals, minerals, fossils, and the ways they interact. Every area has their own particular environment and exploring it can be quite fun.
Memorials and Military Parks: These can include battlefields, cemeteries, monuments, re-enactments, and museums. Find places near you with this comprehensive list.
One Final Tip
We’re all familiar with that feeling of dread that sinks in when we’re nearing the end of our vacation. But there’s an easy way to avoid that. Before leaving on your vacation in the first place, take some time to optimize your home for wellness and stress-free living. That way, you never have to dread returning to it!
With major cities and small towns, towering mountains and sandy waterfronts, forests and marshes, every state has a lot to offer. When you’re planning a vacation, consider skipping the expensive, big-name destinations and, instead, look to all that’s waiting to be discovered in your own neck of the woods.
About the Author: Ted James
Ted is a husband, father, dog owner, and rock climber living in the Pacific Northwest. He started his site, tedknowsmoney.com, to share money tips and help people take control of their finances. As a professional financial counsellor and coach with an MBA in Finance, Ted does more than just help his clients create a budget. He specializes in helping his clients afford the life they want to live, and feel truly empowered when it comes to their money.
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