Summer 2021 is looking up. With many cities opening, and there being a normal buzz in the air, it is time to start thinking about summer vacation. Although travel is not 100% everywhere, the thought of having another staycation is not an option for many of us. So here are some options that many of us will be trying out this summer.

Camping

Perhaps it is time to start planning a trek across the country, or perhaps a long stay at a National or State Park. Many are renting RV’s, renting a rustic cabin, or just pitching a tent and camping the old fashion way. You can move at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you. Depending on the park you visit you can hike, swim, kayak, canoe, horseback riding, and so much more. You can check out the National Park Service website for more information.

You can also check out some of your state parks for camping ideas or outings. There are a couple in New Jersey and Pennsylvania that I enjoy going to. One even works alongside L.L. Bean and offers courses in archery, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and much more! It is a fun way to experience nature and try something out of your comfort zone.

Visit a National Shrine

While on your road trip, why not visit one of the countries National Shrines? There are 72 located in the country, so most likely there is one en route during your vacation. Learning the history of the shrine and why it is a sacred space is an educational experience for the whole family. Walking through one and seeing the stained-glass windows and statues is an educational experience for everyone.

Visit a Catholic Holy Site

In the travel book “Monuments, Marvels and Miracles: A Traveler’s Guide to Catholic America” by Marion Amberg you can explore over 500 Catholic holy sites in the United States. The book was released earlier this year, so all information is up to date. From a stone chapel built by a Von Trapp in Vermont, to learning about a tradition of offering baby shoes at a chapel in New Mexico, there is something to interest everyone in the family.

As you can see there are plenty of options that many of us would not have necessarily thought about without the pandemic. Also, keep in mind that some of these sites are closer than you may thinking and therefore you can still have your staycation if you wish. I know I enjoy a relaxing dip in the pool and an afternoon adventure. Let us know what you decide to do on your summer vacation this year!