How to be a Tourist Right Where you Live

This blog may be primarily about travel, but it’s no secret that we haven’t been going far these days. COVID has us staying put, at least until Arielle can get vaccinated which we cannot wait for. But we are still getting a taste of adventure, even though we haven’t left the New England area in more than 2 years. And I have to say we’ve gotten very good at enjoying the place we call home. Here is how to be a tourist right where you live.

Take Day Trips

I love taking quick trips around New England, visiting pretty towns and seeing beautiful homes. While I’ve lived here for most of my life, I am always discovering new places to explore. If you look at where people are tagging pictures on social media in your area, you’ll definitely find a great location or two for your next day off. 

Search out Local Events

While we do live near a major city, even the rural areas around us have events every weekend, especially during the summer and fall months. But there are also plenty of winter festivals that can be a lot of fun. All you have to do is search, “events near me” or take a gander at the events page on Facebook, and you’ll be sure to find something that strikes your fancy.

Enjoy the Food your area is Famous For

Whether you’re a New Englander, like me, and you love lobster rolls, or if you are from Maryland and enjoy crab cakes, going out to enjoy the local cuisine can make you feel like you’re on vacation. It is always such a treat to go to Woodman’s in Essex for fried clams, or head to Newburyport for a lobster dinner. Figure out what your area is famous for and then make a date!

Hit the Beach or the Water

Whether you live near the beach or a lake or a small pond, an afternoon at the shore can be wonderful. Take a dip, soak up some sun, bring a book or some toys to play with the kids. If you prefer being on the water, many coastal areas offer day cruises. 

Take Advantage of Island Living

Especially along the coasts, you’ll find small islands that are relatively easy to get to and offer unique shopping and dining experiences. I love taking the ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard. And, believe it or not, these are not just warm weather experiences. These tiny islands can be full of charm in the winter as well, all decorated for the holidays. 

Get in a History Lesson

History is alive wherever you look, you just have to take the time to look for it. While I used to find my hometown and the surrounding area to be boring, it was actually host to one of the most notorious witch hunts of all time. The lesson here is to take a little time and research your state and you will absolutely find something interesting. 

Check out the Local Farm

This fall so far we’ve visited five different independent farms in our area and each one is unique, with plenty of delicious treats and fun products to offer. Arielle loves running around the grounds and meeting the farm animals. And they make for awesome photo opportunities!

Curate Cultural Outings

Visiting a museum is always a fantastic way to act like a tourist. I love checking out the Peabody Essex Museum every couple of months. But I am embarrassed to say my first visit to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum wasn’t until I was well out of college. This winter I’m hoping to make it back there for the Titian: Women, Myth & Power exhibition and I really want to get back to the MFA before Monet and Boston: Legacy Illuminated closes in mid-October!

What do you love to do in your area? Share your local travel tips below!