Here are some of the best ways to make any place feel like your hometown, whether you’re a lifelong resident of your city or a relative newcomer looking to put down some roots.
Add Local Events to Your Calendar
Events and festivals offer a good opportunity to explore your city and its culture. Check event calendars in newspapers, social media groups or online AAA Travel Guides, where you can browse up-to-date listings for car shows, art festivals, parades and other . You can also browse the event calendars for botanical gardens, art museums or history centers for more inspiration.
Cheer On the Home Team
Nothing says hometown pride like attending a sporting event and cheering on the home team (preferably dressed head-to-toe in team swag). AAA members can save on tickets to college and professional sporting events with deals on . In addition to hosting regular sporting events, many stadiums also offer behind-the-scenes tours that can give you a new perspective on your home team.
Get Outdoors
Bike trails, nature parks and wildlife preserves can be a breath of fresh air—literally—in your weekly routine. They can also give you a new appreciation for where you live. Consider inviting family, friends or neighbors along on the adventure to help make the healthy habit stick. For ideas about fun things to do outdoors as well as off-the-beaten-path adventures, read .
Learn Your History
Do you know the history of your city? Consider taking an architecture tour, visiting a history museum or touring a famous birthplace or monument and learn what you might have in common with early residents. Use AAA's online search to find , or pick up a AAA TourBook® guide from your local club office.
Recharge with a Staycation
Consider spending a night or two at a local hotel to experience your city like a tourist. Pick a budget-friendly hotel in a district that you’d like to explore, or opt for a luxurious resort that offers on-site spa treatments and fancy dining options. AAA members have access to that will leave more spending money in your pocket.
Try a New Restaurant
Make a list of local restaurants you’ve been wanting to try—and then go try them! Independent restaurants and mom-and-pop establishments need your support to stay in business, so make an effort to sample new cuisines and spread the word about places you like. Browse a list of by cuisine type or dining style using the online restaurant search.
Start Your Next Vacation with AAA
AAA Travel provides peace of mind when you travel—before, during and after your vacation! Members enjoy the advantages of membership including exclusive benefits, savings, map routing and travel planning, plus additional travel needs such as AAA Travel Guides, TourBook® guides, passport photos, International Driving Permits and travel insurance. Your next vacation starts with AAA—your complete travel solution. Visit AAA.com/Travel.