Spring Break has long been a rite of passage for high school students and college kids across the county. With dozens of movies describing drunken debauchery and trips to the beach and media footage every year of students partying in destinations like Fort Lauderdale and Daytona Beach, it is clear that Spring Break is a holiday right alongside Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day for college students. Unfortunately, like this year and last year, the pandemic has made the traditional spring break impossible. While vaccine roll-out across the country will hopefully make social distancing a thing of the past in the near future, it is important that everyone continues to follow the guidelines set by the CDC. This means that Spring Break is more likely to be a ‘stay-cation’ than a trip to the beach.
US News & World Report discusses that a ‘stay-cation’ or stay at home vacation is a great alternative for those who do not have the money to travel but still need a break. If you are not working during your Spring Break, here are 5 safer alternatives to the traditional Spring Break.
- Get Out to Your Local Park
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The great part of spring is that the weather is getting warmer. This is a great opportunity to get out of your house and into nature. Local metro, state, and national parks are a fun way to get outside while staying safe. Akron has some great options like the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Summit Metro Parks to explore. In fact the Summit Metro Parks are hosting the Centennial Tour beginning March 1st to explore at 20 park locations. Remember, “face masks are required on NPS-administered lands where physical distancing cannot be maintained and in all NPS buildings and facilities.”
- Check Out Local Eats
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Giving back to your community can be another fun way to spend Spring Break. One way to do that is to participate in locally-owned businesses, especially restaurants. Pick up takeout at some of your favorite restaurants and consider restaurants with cuisine you have never tried before. Some of my favorite Akron restaurants are Cilantro, Luigi’s, and Lockview for dinner and the Peanut Shoppe or Chill Artisan Ice Cream for dessert.
- Shopping
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Shopping is one of my favorite pastimes, and Spring Break is a great opportunity to shop locally. Shopping locally is a great way to support small businesses and the community. Check out local thrift stores or vintage shops with your household and who knows what you will find. The Bomb Shelter is one of my favorite places to look for vintage finds in Akron.
- Self Care Night
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Even if you are working during Spring Break, taking an evening to yourself is a great way to relax before the end of semester rush. Watch a movie and do an at-home mani pedi or facial and get caught up on the pop culture references and Netflix Originals you have been missing out on. Finally, you can take a Buzzfeed quiz and know some of the answers. Check out my article for March releases on Netflix and Hulu for some ideas!
- Vist Local Museums or Tourist Sites
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US News & World Report suggests, “be a tourist in your own city.” While certainly easier said than done during COVID-19, Spring Break can be a good time to check out some cool places where you’re living, if they are still open and following precautions. Museums are always fascinating whether their focus is on art or history, and zoos can be a fun way to spend the day. The Akron Zoo is usually hosting fun events, and the Akron Art Museum is stunning. There are plenty of online virtual tours, as well, of famous museums, zoos, and parks if visiting the Smithsonian from bed is more your style.