Gas prices and other budget busters have many families plotting new ways to get away from it all--by staying at home for a "staycation." You can find lots of local resources, many free or at low cost, to make this kind of event memorable.
* Visit your library. You can get free or very cheap DVD rentals. Some libraries have museum passes that give you no-cost admission to many area museums and attractions.
* Go straight to the source--almost all museums have free days or partial days. Find out when they are and arrange your visit around those days. Check out the zoo and children's museum for more information on what days you can go for the least amount of money.
* With several local colleges nearby, find out about free performances by music department faculty or students.
* Treat your hometown like a vacation destination; check its Web site and the local visitors' center to find neighborhood festivals and art fairs. Check out local factories and ask if they offer tours; a plant tour can be fascinating.
* Ask yourself, what would I show a visiting friend? You'll discover things you never knew about your community when you approach it this way.
* Make it a game to see how much fun you can have without spending a nickel. Have your kids compete to come up with ideas.
Your staycation may turn out to be so much fun that you'll repeat it even when finances take an upturn.
