Have you ever done a staycation?

Have you ever been on a staycation? I know I know, it seems super indulgent to take a vacation in your own city, but after experiencing a few this year, my mind has officially changed.

I’ll admit – I get to experience a lot of things as a blogger that I might not have ever explored if I didn’t start Lake Shore Lady. Especially when I was on a tight budget, I couldn’t afford tickets to every festival or dinner at trendy restaurants every weekend. So, as these opportunities have popped up, I’ve decided I should take advantage of them. 1) Because they’re usually super fun, and 2) because I want to be able to tell you guys what I think is worth YOUR hard earned money vs. what you can pass on.

For example, I debated posting on my insta-story this weekend about Wanderlust because I didn’t want to offend anyone. But ultimately I wanted all of you to know my honest thoughts so you can decide what’s best for you! And if you loved the dance break in the middle of yoga – Namaste! TONS of other people agree with you, so that’s cool, too!

Anyway, back to staycations! (Stay on track, Lauren) I never would have thought to stay at a hotel in my own city. It’s just not something that would have crossed my mind and I probably would have discounted it as a waste of money. But after teaching a Summer Yoga Series at the Loews Hotel last summer, they offered a night’s stay as a thank you. How could I say no?!

Well, it turns out that the staff was the friendliest, the views were stunning, the bed was super cozy, and the spa treatments were incredibly relaxing. I left that next day so content… and I didn’t have that sad “vacation’s over” feeling because it was only 24 hours and I was only a 15 minute drive away from home ?

But is a staycation worth it for you or someone you know? Keep reading…

A post shared by Lauren Nolan (@lakeshorelady) on Feb 17, 2017 at 4:35pm PST

Reasons to “staycation”

1. To “get away” without committing to taking days off work to travel. Plus, you save money on airfare by staying close to home.
2. Celebrate your anniversary or birthday!
3. If you recently moved to the suburbs, drive downtown and spend the night to relive your “city days.”
4. Get away from your kids for a night! Think about it – you don’t have to leave them for long, but for one whole night, you can sleep in a big comfy bed and no one will wake you up in the morning… ?
5. If you have trouble disconnecting from work and responsibilities at home, this can be a really great reset. No computers allowed!
6. Play tourist in your own city. It’s so easy to forget how awesome Chicago is – so hit up some classic spots and soak it all in!

To be honest, the only other Chicago hotel I’ve stayed at is the Marriott Mag Mile. I had never been inside before, but this hotel is massive! Honestly, I think I like the smaller size of the Loews better… but if you are workout junkie, don’t discount this Marriott. They just renovated their gym and it is absolutely INCREDIBLE. It has everything you could ever want, plus gorgeous city views as you work out. They also have a restaurant on site called Harvest that makes everything fresh in house. They even get their produce and herbs from a garden on the roof!! So cool. There’s also a sale for Memorial Day Weekend right now – if you spend all 3 nights in the city and you can get at least 15% off!

Want more ideas? I think these would be fun: The Robey (+ explore Wicker Park), Public Chicago (+ eat at Pump Room and RH), Hotel Lincoln (+ the zoo and drinks at J.Parker), W Lakeshore (+ Bliss Spa and views of Navy Pier), The Langham (so fancy), or London House (+ never leave the rooftop bar).

Have you ever indulged in a staycation?

Are you on board or totally against the idea? What about giving a night’s stay as a gift? (Definitely thinking about it for my sister’s birthday – sorry for the spoiler, Jen ?). If you went for it, where would you stay? What would you do? I’d love to know your thoughts!