KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Spring break is almost upon us and by now you likely have your plans in place. So, if you aren't traveling, let's optimize that staycation to make it feel like an actual vacation!
Leave the chores alone
Don't check off the to-do list. The laundry is piling up and you need to clean out a few closets—don't do it. If you need to reserve a day for that, do it on that one day and spend the rest of your vacation time seizing the day and spending quality time with those you love.
Leave work at work
Use the time away to truly log off and unplug. It's easy to get drawn into work tasks when you're in town, but don't do it. You'll be even more productive when you return to the office after a much-needed break.
Make a plan and stick to it
Maybe Monday is a hike and a picnic and Tuesday is a day trip to Sevier County. This brings on the excitement and creates a buzz around the day's activities.
Try new things
A new hiking trail, a new restaurant or a new activity like rock climbing or golf. This keeps things interesting and helps you get to know yourself and your community differently.
Get outside
Nothing saves money quite like free and we have some of the most beautiful parks and outdoor spaces in the country. Take a picnic to Lakeshore Park, bring a ball and play a game with your kids, or let them play on the playground. House Mountain, Knoxville's Urban Wilderness, Ijams, the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, UT Gardens are all great outdoor options and not far from Knoxville.
Go inside
If you are looking for something with a little more culture—there are great museums. The Beck Cultural Exchange Center and the Knoxville Museum of Art are both great choices and both are free to attend. The East Tennessee History Center is $5 for adults, but kids are free and you can throw in a fun Market Square visit or a walking history tour and have a whole day of activities.
Don't forget to leave Knoxville
Sweetwater, downtown Clinton, Dandridge, Maryville, and Townsend are all great places to visit. Be a tourist in your town. Go fishing, hiking, hit the golf course, go bowling and most importantly—have fun!
