By Riley Wright on March 15, 2022 Image A heart filled with imagination and curiosity can take us where our bodies can’t. With MCAD’s 2022 Spring Break quickly approaching, students are revving up to travel home to see friends and family, planning new activities and experiences in a new destination, but who says you can’t have an adventure in your own backyard, apartment, dorm, etc.? Everybody deserves a break this semester, and a staycation is a perfect alternative to traveling and a great way to save money. So, without further ado, here are some ideas for an at-home enthusiasm to spark in you! Dinner party: Awaken the chef in you, and maybe invite a few friends (a few, be COVID cautious) to enjoy an extravagant meal or host a dinner party potluck style! Listen to good jams over nourishing food and delightful conversation. You could even include a theme like breakfast for dinner, an indoor picnic, or whatever spectacle you and your friends can envision and reminisce on for years to come. At-home escape room: Put on your detective hat, and prepare for an hour of testing your cleverness. Online escape rooms, as well as escape room apps with printables, can sharpen your wits and puzzle skills and there are lots of ways to set the mood within your own environment. I’m thinking moody lighting, mysterious music, everyday props, and maybe even a detective alias, complete with costume. Virtual museum tours: Travel the world from underneath the comfort of your favorite blanket! The internet boasts hundreds of unique free tour experiences to suit a variety of interests. Eventbrite and Airbnb are great places to start your search for online experiences or you can even self-lead a Google Maps expedition. Give in to your curiosity. Become a Whittier tourist: Our little neighborhood is bustling with lovely settings to enjoy. Take a trip to Mia or the Walker (both offer MCAD students free admission) or do a little window shopping at thrift stores, record stores, and small businesses! Challenge idea: Invite a friend to the thrift store with you and pick out an outfit for the other! B.Resale is one of my favorites in the neighborhood, but Old School by Steeple People, the Buffalo Exchange, and Smileback Vintage are all viable options. Not to mention the dining Eat Street has to offer. If you’re feeling extra brave against the weather, maybe even take your food to go and set up a picnic at Washburn Fair Oaks Park or Target Park (a.k.a the Mia courtyard.) Other staycation Ideas: Spa day/night Movie marathon Ice cream sundae party Sleep, sleep, sleep Dancing, dance anytime you can, anytime you want - I advocate strongly for dance parties, but remember to be courteous of downstairs neighbors. All in all, no matter how you decide to spend your spring break this year, make sure to treat yourself with kindness, sweetness, and much needed rest. Enjoy!