Usually, tourists are very easy to spot out. You see them with a camera, taking all kinds of pictures while visiting all the “touristy” locations in your city. When spotted, a native will usually just roll their eyes and chuckle to themselves a little bit and keep going with their day.

It can be a lot of fun, and even life-affirming, to travel to new places. But what about traversing your own city? Whether for money reasons or not having enough time, sometimes it just isn’t possible to take a trip to a new country or city. Playing tourist in your own city might be just the thing to tide you over until your next big adventure.

Grab a Brochure

It can be easy to take for granted some of the best things your city has to offer if you see them all the time. If you find yourself lacking inspiration, grabbing a brochure from a local hotel lobby or visitors center can be a great way to get ideas for your day exploring. Take a minute to speak to workers at your local tourism center for advice on where to start.

Go Outside

Grab some sunscreen and do something outdoors that your city offers. If there is a certain activity your city is known for, now is the time to test it out. Even a walk in the park can do the trick, and a little vitamin D never hurt anyone.

Is your city near the water? Consider renting a kayak or boat and paddling out for the day. This is a great way to experience your city from a whole new perspective. Often, we admire the water from afar but don’t take the time to actually enjoy it.

Embrace History

It is easy to feel like you know everything there is to know about your city but when was the last time you went to the local museum? Exhibits have probably changed since then. They also often run promotions, making them budget-friendly. Many cities have museums dedicated just to the history of the surrounding areas. It is a great way to discover forgotten facts about your town.

If museums aren’t your thing, you can investigate taking a bus tour. You get to drive around your city and pick up tidbits of information that you didn’t know before. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to see what visitors find interesting, allowing you to see your city through their eyes.

Make it a Date

We all have that one place, you know the one. Every time you go past it you think to yourself “I’m going to go in there some day.” Now is the time to carpe diem. Make a list of all the places that you just don’t seem to have time to stop into and take the time to go. Commit to making a date with your city. You might just find your new favorite place.

Bring Your Camera

Can you even call it a vacation if you don’t bring your camera? Now you might feel a little bit silly taking pictures in your own city, but have you ever actually taken your picture in front of all its beautiful sights? Probably not.

Make sure to charge your camera and bring it along to create some visual memories for the day.

It also helps to make it feel more like a vacation when you do vacation things.

Elevate Your Experience

You don’t realize it at the time but something that most tourists do when visiting a new city is find a vantage point of the city for the best views. Research some of the best spots for viewing your city and go there. Most cities have a tall building open to visitors where you can take in the city skyline. There are also usually restaurants or lounges that offer something similar, grab some friends and enjoy a meal out while seeing your city in a new light.

Becoming a tourist in your own city has many benefits. You’ll see your city through new eyes, learn about your city’s history, and feel refreshed. Just remember that you can find beautiful things right where you are.

Keep learning. Keep discovering.