Merriam-Webster introduced the word “staycation” into its dictionary just as the recession officially ended in 2009 and more vacationers were opting to stay at or closer to home. With gas prices still high and the aftereffects of the recession still being felt by many, staycation is a buzzword that is here to stay.
According to The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, more than 35% of residents travel within the state each summer. ABC News just reported that a recent Marist Poll found that 55% of adults said they will not be booking a summer vacation this year, with the remaining saying they will take several shorter weekend trips (18%), take one or more long getaways (16%), or will do both or “other” (11%).
For those who are staying close to home or just looking for some new mid-summer ideas and adventures, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) — the nation’s oldest statewide land conservation organization with 105 beautiful reservations located around the state — offer countless fun ideas to add to your summer “to do” list, many of which are free. Most of these ideas can be done less than a tank-full of gas — or better yet, on your energy-independent bicycle – and are free or heavily discounted for Trustees members:
Hike a mountain trail and explore a hidden waterfall
·                     Camp in a pristine setting by a beautiful lake
·                     Take a guided kayak tour or self-guided sunset paddle
·                     Head outdoors on a “quest” or scavenger hunt with your kids
·                     Visit a historic house museum and take a “behind-the-scenes” tour
·                     Volunteer as a family at a local Trustees property or nearby farm to clear harmful invasives species; maintain hiking trails; or plant, weed and harvest fresh produce for local farmers markets and food pantries
·                     Escape to a charming B&B with a view in the Berkshires or on Boston’s North Shore
·                     Visit a beautiful beach and explore through the dunes of a national wildlife refuge
·                     Stroll through a the glorious gardens of a historic homestead or National Historic Landmark
·                     Picnic under the stars and enjoy an open air concert with family and friends
·                     Tour a renovated “green” building and learn about energy saving ideas you can implement in your own home
·                     Explore the islands on an a natural history, sunset lighthouse, or fishing tour
For more information visit our website at www.thetrustees.org