How to Make Your Home Staycation Worthy with These Staycation Ideas

Last Updated on April 13, 2025 by Nell Marie

When summer rolls around, I’ll be honest—I definitely daydream about hopping on a plane, exploring somewhere new, and soaking up the sun on some far-off beach. But you know what? Some of the best vacations I’ve ever had didn’t involve a suitcase or a boarding pass. Sometimes, the most relaxing and soul-refreshing getaway is the one where I never leave the driveway.

Whether I’m trying to save money, avoid the crowds, or just slow things down a little, there’s something really special about turning my home into a cozy little retreat. A staycation lets me enjoy the comforts of home and all the good vacation vibes—without the stress of travel or the hefty price tag.

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to help my home feel more like a getaway spot—and it doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. It’s all about creating an atmosphere that feels special and relaxing, both inside and out. So if you’re ready to skip the suitcase and stay local this summer, I’ve got you covered.

Here’s how I make my home feel staycation-worthy—think spa vibes, backyard lounging, and all the little things that make a stay-at-home summer feel just as magical as a trip away.

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Beautiful Staycation Home Ideas

So if you’re dreaming of a slower summer, one filled with simple joys and cozy comforts, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing my favorite ways to turn your home into a relaxing, staycation-worthy escape—no plane ticket required. From little upgrades indoors to creating a backyard space you’ll never want to leave, these ideas will help you bring that vacation feeling home all summer long.

But, before we get into the home ideas, let’s look at several staycation ideas for home or in town!

• Backyard Campout – Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, tell stories, and sleep under the stars (or just hang out until bedtime).
• DIY Water Park – Set up sprinklers, a kiddie pool, water balloons, and even a slip ‘n slide in the backyard for an epic splash day.
• Family Movie Night Under the Stars – Use a projector or laptop, lay out blankets and pillows, and enjoy a movie outdoors with popcorn and treats.
• Host a Backyard Picnic – Pack a cooler, lay out a picnic blanket, and enjoy a simple lunch or dinner together outside.
• Go on a Local Food Tour – Pick a few new-to-you restaurants, food trucks, or cafes in town and turn it into your own mini culinary adventure.
• Create a DIY Spa Day – Make face masks, soak your feet, paint nails, and just relax together for an at-home pampering session.
• Visit a Nearby Nature Trail – Go for a family walk or hike, bring a nature scavenger hunt list, and enjoy the fresh air.
• Play Tourist in Your Own Town – Visit a local museum, botanical garden, or historical site you’ve never explored before.
• Build a Family Fort Indoors – Grab the pillows and blankets, build the coziest fort you can, and hang out inside with books or games.
• Do a Themed Dinner Night – Choose a country and make food, music, and even decorations to match—Italian, Mexican, Hawaiian, you name it!
• Create an Ice Cream Bar – Grab your favorite ice cream flavors and all the toppings for a sweet afternoon treat.
• Set Up a Backyard Obstacle Course – Use pool noodles, cones, ropes, and more to make a fun course for kids (and adults too!).
• Have a Game Night Tournament – Break out the board games or card games and make it a friendly competition with fun prizes.
• Take a Bike Ride Around Town – Explore a local trail or just cruise through your neighborhood together.
• Go on a Local Photo Scavenger Hunt – Make a list of things to find around town and take photos as you check them off together.
• Have a DIY Pizza Night – Everyone gets to make their own personal pizza with their favorite toppings—fun and delicious.
• Read Aloud as a Family – Pick a chapter book and read a little each day, snuggled up with snacks and cozy blankets.
• Host a Backyard Carnival – Set up a few games (ring toss, bean bag throw), grab some prizes, and make popcorn or cotton candy.
• Spend a Day Unplugged – No screens, just board games, crafts, books, and being present with each other—it’s refreshing!
• Plan a Sunrise or Sunset Picnic – Wake up early for a cozy breakfast outside or pack dinner and enjoy a golden hour meal together.

The Ultimate Staycation Home

Now that we have a list of fun ideas for the summer, let’s get to some little changes to your home that will bring the ultimate in vacationing at home!

1. Set the Mood with Lighting

The right lighting can completely change the vibe of your home. String lights on your patio or balcony, add lanterns or flameless candles inside, and swap out harsh overhead lights for softer lamps. Want a little drama? Try a dimmer switch or some twinkle lights draped around a cozy reading nook or bedroom canopy.

2. Create a Cozy “Resort” Bedroom

Upgrade your bedroom to feel like a fancy hotel suite. Think crisp white sheets, fluffy pillows, a few decorative accents like a breakfast tray or fresh flowers on the nightstand. If you’re feeling extra, add a mini coffee or tea station nearby so you can enjoy a slow morning with your favorite drink in bed.

3. Stock a Summer Snack & Drink Station

Make your kitchen or dining area feel like a poolside bar. Set up a small cart or counter area with snacks, fun glassware, fresh citrus fruits, and refreshing drink options like iced tea, lemonade, or mocktails. Bonus points for fancy straws and garnishes!

Check out these super fun drinking straws!

4. Transform Your Bathroom into a Spa

Give your bathroom a spa-day makeover. Add plush towels, a eucalyptus shower bundle, calming music, and a tray with bath salts, candles, and face masks. Hang a soft robe on the door and cue the relaxation.

5. Designate a Screen-Free Zone

Part of the staycation magic is unplugging. Choose a corner of your home—maybe a reading nook, a puzzle table, or a spot for journaling—and make it screen-free. Fill it with comfy cushions, a throw blanket, and a stack of books or games.

6. Bring the Outdoors In

Use fresh flowers, potted plants, or even faux greenery to liven up your home’s interior. The scent and color of nature help bring that light, breezy summer feeling indoors—even if it’s hot and humid outside.

7. Make Your Backyard or Balcony a Retreat

Turn whatever outdoor space you have into a mini getaway. Set up a hammock or lounge chair, add some outdoor cushions, light some citronella candles, and string up fairy lights. Even a small balcony can feel like a Mediterranean escape with a café table, a potted olive tree, and a chilled glass of rosé.

Balcony Retreat Tips

• Hammock
• Cozy chairs
• Fairy lights
• Tall plant

8. Have a “Vacation” Playlist on Hand

Music is a game-changer. Whether you’re imagining yourself at a beach bar, a cozy mountain cabin, or a fancy restaurant, the right playlist sets the tone. Create a few themed playlists for different moods—tropical chill, summer road trip, jazz café, or spa vibes.

Check out this summer playlist!

9. Add an Outdoor Movie Setup

Nothing says summer fun like a movie night under the stars. Use a projector and a white sheet (or just a blank wall), spread out blankets and lawn chairs, and pop some popcorn. You can keep it simple or go all out with themed snacks and string lights.

10. Indulge in a Theme Night

Pick a destination and bring it home. Have an Italian night with homemade pizza, candles, and opera music. Or a beach night with tropical drinks, grilled fish tacos, and beach towels spread out on the deck. It’s all about creating an experience that feels fun and new.

11. Set Up a Morning or Evening Ritual

One of the best parts of a vacation is the routine—or lack of it. Create a slow morning ritual like sipping coffee outside, or an evening ritual like lighting candles and doing a short yoga flow. These little moments help you savor the staycation feeling all summer long.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy a relaxing, rejuvenating summer. With a few thoughtful touches, your home can become the ultimate staycation destination. Whether you’re treating yourself to a spa day, lounging under the stars, or sipping something cold on the porch, it’s all about creating those “ahhh” moments right where you are.