Looking for fun spring break staycation ideas that don’t involve packing, plane tickets, or spending a fortune? You’re in the right place. Some of the best family memories are made right at home—when things slow down, the pressure’s off, and you can just focus on having fun together.
Whether you’re trying to save money or just want to skip the stress of travel, a staycation can be just as exciting (and way more relaxing). These spring break staycation ideas are easy to pull off, kid-approved, and perfect for making the most of your time off—without ever leaving your front door.
Spring Break Staycation Ideas for Families
1. Backyard Camping Adventure
Set up a tent in your backyard, roast marshmallows over a firepit (or microwave if needed!), and tell stories under the stars. This simple setup brings the joy of camping to your doorstep, eliminating the stress of packing and traveling. Remember to follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities, such as keeping a safe distance from the fire and ensuring the tent is securely set up.
2. DIY Craft Day
Gather supplies like paper, paint, glue, googly eyes, and pipe cleaners, and have a day dedicated to crafting! You can make spring-themed decorations, homemade cards for grandparents, or even try fun science experiments like DIY slime. Turn on some upbeat music and let those creative juices flow!
3. Movie Night at Home
Transform your living room into the ultimate movie theater experience. Pile up cozy pillows and blankets, hang string lights for ambiance, and don’t forget the snack board! Create a colorful spread with popcorn, pretzels, candy, fruit slices, cheese cubes, and mini sandwiches. Let each family member pick a movie throughout the day—bonus points for themed snacks that match the film!
Related: 10 Fun and Adventurous Staycation Ideas
4. Build a Fort
Blanket forts are a timeless favorite. Use couch cushions, sheets, and fairy lights to create a cozy hideout. If you have limited space, consider building a smaller fort or using a different area of your home. For families with limited resources, consider using household items like chairs and blankets to create a ‘fort’ in a living room or bedroom. Read stories inside, play card games, or enjoy quiet time with snacks and stuffed animals.
5. Indoor “Spa Day”
Break out the fluffy robes and cucumbers for the eyes! Set up a mini spa day at home with homemade face masks, a relaxing foot soak, and calming music. Even little ones love pretending to be pampered—add some fun nail painting or a gentle massage train for extra giggles. Remember to use child-friendly products and supervise all activities to ensure your kids have a safe and enjoyable spa day.
6. Treasure Hunt Indoors or Outside
Create a simple treasure map or clues leading to a “hidden” prize—think a small toy, treat, or printable coupon for a movie night. To add excitement, make it themed for pirates or adventurers!
Related: Christmas Staycation Ideas Your Family Will Love
7. Plan a Theme Day
Pick a theme like ‘Beach Day,’ ‘Superhero Day,’ or ‘Pajama Day,’ and plan activities, foods, and outfits. Personalizing the theme to your family’s interests and preferences makes the day more engaging and memorable.
8. Baking Day
Let the kids take over the kitchen (with your help!) and bake something sweet. Cookies, cupcakes, or even homemade pizza are all fun options. Let them decorate and taste-test everything—sprinkles encouraged!
9. Game Marathon
Dust off the board games, card games, and puzzles for a family challenge. Set up a score sheet and play for silly prizes like “Extra Scoop of Ice Cream Winner” or “No Dishes Tonight Champ.”
Related: 7 Easy Ideas for a Casual Backyard Barbecue
10. Backyard Obstacle Course
Use pool noodles, hula hoops, cones, and jump ropes to create a DIY obstacle course. Time each other or see who can complete it the silliest way. It’s a great way to get those wiggles out!
11. Visit Local Attractions
You don’t have to leave town to explore something new. Check out local museums, parks, or kid-friendly exhibits. Many places offer spring break discounts or special events.
12. Scavenger Hunt Walk
Head outside for a walk with a list of items to find—like a red flower, a butterfly, or a dog wearing a bandana. It makes a simple stroll feel like an adventure.
Related: 9 Smart Ways to Stay Active in the Winter
13. Family Talent Show
Have each family member prepare a short “act” to showcase a talent—singing, dancing, magic tricks, jokes, you name it! Record it for laughs later or share it with relatives on a family Zoom call.
14. Spring Garden Start-Up
Starting a small spring garden can be rewarding, even if you’re not a gardener! Plant herbs in containers or scatter wildflower seeds in the yard. Kids love watching things grow.
15. Mini Home Makeover
Let the kids help “remake” their bedroom or play area by rearranging furniture, organizing toys, or adding new art. Give them some say and make it a team project!
16. Chalk Art and Water Play
If the weather is warm enough, take it outside! Sidewalk chalk, water balloons, or a kiddie car wash with sponges and a hose can keep the kids busy (and cool).
17. Family Book Club
Pick a short chapter book or fun picture book series to read aloud together during spring break. Set aside a little time each day to read, discuss, and act out favorite scenes.
FAQ:
What is a spring break staycation?
A spring break staycation is when families enjoy time off at home instead of traveling. It can include fun, relaxing activities like movie marathons, backyard camping, or DIY crafts.
How can I make spring break fun at home for my kids?
Plan engaging activities like theme days, baking, treasure hunts, and spa days. Keep it creative and lighthearted—kids love variety and surprises!
Are staycations budget-friendly?
Yes! Most staycation activities require little to no money and use things you already have at home. They’re a great way to save money while making lasting memories.
What are good indoor activities for spring break?
Try indoor spa days, craft projects, movie marathons, building forts, and family game nights. These can be fun for all ages and easy to organize.
Can older kids enjoy staycations, too?
Absolutely! Older kids enjoy activities like themed movie nights, talent shows, baking challenges, or even helping to plan backyard events. Involving them in the planning helps boost their interest.
Wrap-Up:
Who says you have to travel far to have an unforgettable spring break? With a bit of imagination and a playful mindset, your home can become the perfect destination. From movie marathons with snack boards to backyard campouts under the stars, these spring break staycation ideas are about slowing down and soaking up the moments that matter most. They’re about creating shared experiences that will strengthen the bond within your family.
Do you have a favorite spring break staycation tradition? Your experiences and ideas are valuable, and I’d love to hear how your family celebrates at home! Please share them in the comments below. I’m sure other families would appreciate your insights.
A former school teacher, Jocelyn Brown created Hip Mama’s Place in 2007. Her motto for this blog is: get inspired, create and share! Jocelyn loves sharing about food and recipes, crafts, DIY projects and her random travels with her family. She also loves all things social media, but her latest obsession is Instagram.
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These are amazing ideas, and for me the number that my family will do is the movie night!
My friend was JUST asking for ideas for their staycation. These are perfect. Everyone is trying to save right now!
These ideas all seem so great, and like a bunch of fun. I would love to do a theme day myself, seems like a day full of excitement!
Oh my gosh these are great ideas! My kids are 13, 9, 7 and 3 and they would love so many of these! Thank you for the great ideas!
An indoor spa day sounds like the perfect way to enjoy a staycation. Get everyone involved for some fun, relaxation, and a little pampering at home.
awesome ideas. i used to love as a kid to build a fort and to draw all over the sidewalk with chalk. those both sound like such fun.
I think these are great ideas for quality time at home. It is such a struggle to figure out fun things for the kids to do over the breaks!
These ideas are fantastic! Thank you so much for sharing.. Very timely as school is ending and there will be so much time for the families to bond.
I love the idea of visiting a nearby attraction. My family loves to go to a local farm to pick lavender in the spring, and then we can use it as air fresheners, in baking, etc! Always a hit with us.
A DIY craft day sounds like such a great idea for the whole family! I know the kids would surely love to do something creative like this, too.
We have limited funds for a vacation this year. I like your idea of taking a vacation where you live.
Backyard camping is always so much fun, especially if you combine it with a fort! We did a backyard camping “trip” with our son one year. The tent was in the yard, and the fort was on the covered deck.
I really love these ideas. I’ve always said you don’t have to spend a ton of money or go on a long trip to have a great time. There’s so much to do right where we live.