Michigan Backyard Staycation Ideas
We’re all hoping that summer 2021 is going to be much more activity and vacation-filled than last year, but we’re already making plans in case our most exotic destination is our own backyards again this summer. While you’re probably not going to set up a full backyard amusement park, there are a lot of low-cost, low-effort ways to make your backyard a staycation destination for your family.
Miss the Movie Theater? Hold an Outdoor Movie Night!
Watching a movie is a great way to have a family-friendly experience, but to make it even more special, take it outside! A small projector, laptop, and blank wall or large canvas tarp are all you need to create magical memories right in your backyard. Make it feel like an extra special event by adding string lighting, surround sound speakers, and themed-snacks for a real staycation feel. Before scheduling your movie night, make sure to test out your projector. Most inexpensive projectors require it to be fairly dark outside which may not work if you’re looking to show an afternoon Michigan vs Ohio State game but will work just fine for a showing of Frozen 2 after dark.
Craving Competition? Supersize Your Games!
Standard-sized board games may help you beat boredom for the winter, but summer is all about the outdoors. Take your favorite games outside by increasing the scale. Jumbo Jenga and Jumbo Yahtzee are some of the easiest DIY projects requiring some leftover lumber and a saw, but plans can be found online for everything from a life-size Connect 4 board to a jumbo version of Kerplunk. Enlist the help of your kids to decorate the blocks, boards, or other game pieces when creating the game boards and pieces for a backyard board game that is uniquely yours. It may not be just like Tokyo, but once you have a few outdoor games created, you’ll be ready for a friendly neighborhood Olympics!
Looking for Nostalgia? Add Fire!
Campfires are one of the most iconic parts of summer. Whether you’re sitting around a thrown-together crackling campsite fire or you’re lounging in front of your fire glass table, there’s something about having friends or family around a fire that makes it feel like summer. If you’re looking to make your fire feature a permanent fixture, an in-ground option with brick pavers is a classic choice, but make sure to check your local codes to ensure you place it in a proper location. Enclosed above ground or raised fire pits are a great way to be able to safely enjoy a fire with a smaller space or even from your driveway. No matter where you place it, grab a bag of marshmallows, some chocolate, and grill up some staycation s’mores!
Plant a New Garden
Spending more time than ever at home? Why not try your hand at gardening? From fruits and veggies to herbs and flowers, Michigan has a wonderful climate for gardens. Novice growers can enlist the help of local greenhouses to find hearty plants that work well for newbies while experienced gardeners can challenge their skills with interesting and exotic new varieties. Plants and seeds can be easily purchased online, but it’s important to make sure that any plants you choose are not invasive or prohibited in Michigan. Convinced you can’t grow anything? Consider creating an art garden where collected objects can have a new life as interesting yard ornaments.
Summers in Michigan never last long enough which is why it’s important to make the most of them and enjoying your Michigan yard starts with protecting it from mosquitoes and other pests. Schedule your 2021 yard treatment service with Mosquito One and don’t miss a moment of this summer.
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