Need a vacation? Nothing says summer like a getaway with your toes in the sand and a cocktail in hand, however, an actual vacation may not be in the cards this season. Why not create a stay-cation in your very own home? Here are a few ideas that’ll have you relaxing in no time.

Create a Relaxing Outdoor Space

Living in Chicago, you may not have access to a large yard with beautiful gardens and a pool, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t create a relaxing outdoor space to enjoy your stay-cation. Whether it be a yard, a patio, or a rooftop deck, there are ways to create a space that can feel like a dream destination. With the summer heat, it’s a good idea to ensure that you have a seating area with some shade, or perhaps a kiddie pool to soak your feet. Hang a hammock for a relaxing afternoon nap or to catch up on your summer reading. Add some potted flowers for a pop of color and a tropical feel, and string some lights to improve the ambiance. If you’re a foodie, update your outdoor BBQ area, or if you’re a camper, add a fire pit and bust out the skewers and marshmallows. Create your space to achieve the vacation you want.

Dine Outside

When creating your outdoor space make sure to include an area to dine outside. Part of the fun of a vacation is going out to eat and enjoying the scenery, and you don’t have to limit that experience to restaurants and cafes – enjoy it in your own backyard. Whether you want an intimate setting or a table the whole family can enjoy, it’s entirely up to you. 

Upgrade Your Bathroom

While you may not have a masseuse on hand, you can still create a spa-like atmosphere in your home by updating your bathroom a bit. First you’ll want to clear away the clutter and create a storage system for daily use items that can be tucked away and remain out of sight until the time of use. You should choose calming colors like whites, beiges, greys, or blue, which allow you to relax. Add in some natural elements such as fresh flowers, potted plants, or natural baskets for towels for a more tranquil setting. Add some calming scents such as essential oils and scented candles, soaps, and lotions for a bit of aromatherapy, and all you need to do is draw the bubble bath and relax.

Redo the Bedroom

Are there times that you’ve just wanted to stay in bed and lounge all day? This can be accomplished in your bedroom with a few small upgrades. You can install a ceiling fan to create a gentle breeze, paint the walls a soothing color, add dimmers to your light fixtures to cast a warm glow, and add some reading lamps next to the bed. Lastly, the most important and easiest upgrade in a bedroom is the linens. Granted, sheets with a high thread count can also come with a higher price tag, but they’re worth it for comfort. Upgrade your sheets, add some feather pillows and a feather duvet, and you may just spend your entire stay-cation in bed. 

Splurge on Food and Drinks

A vacation wouldn’t be the same without splurging on some delicious meals and fancy drinks so be sure to incorporate these into your stay-cation as well. If you love to cook, splurge on some gourmet ingredients, some nice champagne, and decadent desserts. If you have no desire to dabble in the culinary arts, order in. Either way, spoil yourself and savor every sip and bite as you dine al fresco.

Taking a vacation is a much needed break at times. Outfitting your home for a stay-cation will be an upfront cost but will also allow you to enjoy it for years to follow. Enjoy your dream destination under your own roof.