Every traveler appreciates a staycation as an opportunity to explore their own city with fresh eyes. A recent WalletHub study found that roughly two-thirds of Americans plan to take a staycation this summer, often because they prefer to avoid the cost and time of long drives or flights despite the many budget-friendly travel options available this year. That study evaluated 150 U.S. destinations to identify the best cities for staycations, judging each on recreational activities, dining and entertainment, and opportunities for relaxation.
Top of the list was Orlando, followed closely by Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Salt Lake City, and Scottsdale — the four runners-up were separated by less than one point in the rankings. Completing the top ten were Atlanta, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, St. Petersburg, and Honolulu. At the other end of the spectrum, some major tourist hubs scored relatively low: Los Angeles ranked 143rd out of 150, and New York came in at 148th.
The study also highlighted useful, fun facts for locals planning staycation activities. Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Pittsburgh lead the nation in swimming pools per capita, making them strong choices for water-based relaxation. Norfolk, Virginia; Richmond, Virginia; and Columbus, Georgia have the most tennis courts per capita for racquet sports enthusiasts. When it comes to public golf courses per capita, Cincinnati, Orlando, and Scottsdale top the list.
Those seeking unique attractions will find several cities stand out: Las Vegas has the most zoos and aquariums per capita, while Orlando offers the most ice cream and frozen yogurt retailers. Beer lovers will enjoy Portland’s abundance of beer gardens, and coffee aficionados will find the highest concentration of coffee shops in San Francisco. New Orleans boasts the most museums per capita, and Las Vegas also leads in the number of spas per capita, ideal for those focused on relaxation and pampering.
Whether you’re looking for active pursuits, culinary adventures, cultural outings, or simple relaxation, there’s a staycation destination that fits your preferences close to home. Use local rankings like these to discover overlooked attractions, try new neighborhoods, and make the most of the time you already have without the stress of long-distance travel.