When was the last time you went to a museum in your town? Ate somewhere new rather than an old favorite? Tracked down a gift at a local business rather than a national chain? Visited a site that truly makes the town unique?
Often the only time one ventures into such local venues is when out-of-town guests are visiting. Think of this exercise as preparation for being a good host – first-hand knowledge of the best places to eat, what to order when, quaint stores filled with one-of-a-kind gifts, interesting collections at the local museum, quirky historic sites that make for good trivia knowledge.
Make a list of restaurants you have been meaning to try. Once a month forego an old haunt and visit one of the new places. Ask the server what the house specialties are and what drink pairs well with them. Earn bonus points for trying a new food.
Visit the museums and cultural destinations nearby. See the latest touring exhibition but remember that the permanent collections are worth viewing as well – they are in a museum for a reason! Locally owned galleries are usually open to the public for viewing, and, not only can one enjoy them for free, it is a great way to support the area artists and purchase “real” art at prices often comparable to prints and posters. Often, art districts will host a block party-style event once a month.
Shop locally as well. Support the city’s (and state’s) economy by buying from locally owned shops and stores. Need flowers? Area florists are a great place to look for flowers grown nearby. (Think freshness as well as minimized transportation emissions.) Farmers’ markets are great resources for produce, handmade goods and more. Community-owned specialty shops often showcase the work of talented, resident artists. Why give a candle or other equally generic gift when there are distinctive bracelets and handmade paper or aromatic spices and recycled handbags? These are the gifts that get remembered.
Where to search for these places? Museums and historic sites are easier to come by, obviously. Check their websites and look for advertisements of current and upcoming exhibitions. New restaurants? Look for new signs while driving through town, read newspaper reviews, subscribe to blogs dedicated to all things local, ask friends. New shops or locally owned shops? Enclave neighborhoods usually have many located at their hubs. When you see someone with an interesting accessory or a friend with a special décor item, just ask. Often these items were purchased nearby at a specialty shop.
The key to being a tourist in your hometown is being aware. Look around when you are going about your daily business. And, mostly importantly, taking action and daring to do something outside of the routine.
