For many people, one of the most difficult things about travelling is figuring out what to do when you arrive at your destination. Many people just don’t have time to do extensive research on every place they visit, so they end up with boring days of sitting around their hotel rooms waiting for the weather to clear or local attractions to open up again after bad weather has kept them closed. One may search “things to do near me” to get some ideas without much planning:
1. Ask locals
Locals are great sources of information about fun things to do near you! Simply asking local people, you meet where they like to go will get you a wealth of information. If they don’t know of anything off-hand, they’ll probably be able to give you the name of a good tour company or event planner that can fill your days with fun.
2. Find out what events are happening in your area
If you’re visiting at a popular time, chances are there are going to be special events happening nearby that only happen once in a while. Events like music concerts, festivals, or sporting competitions will often have websites set up where you can find out more information about the event and how to buy tickets.
3. Use online resources to find out what to do in your area
There are several nationwide websites that list events happening near you that you can find with a quick online search. These sites include information on events happening all over the country, so don’t forget to check them before visiting other states or countries.
4. Look in local newspapers
A lot of cities still have weekly newspapers that will be able to list fun things to do near you during your visit. These papers often have information on tours, festivals, and other activities that are happening in the area. You can search online or call your local paper to see if they provide an online version of the newspaper.
5. Ask at your hotel
If all else fails, don’t be afraid to ask the staff at your hotel where they like to go! Many of them will be locals and can tell you their favourite places in town that aren’t already listed in other resources you’ve used.
6. Go to your hotel’s website
If you have a smartphone, don’t forget to look for the “Hotel Info” page on your hotel’s website. Many of these websites have a section that lists things to do in the area. This is also a good time to use your phone or tablet as an internet hotspot so you can use the hotel’s free internet access (if they offer it) while you are out and about.
7. Call a tour company
Most of the large tour companies and event planners can be reached by phone or online. If you know what you’re looking for, they can help you find something fun to do in your area that usually doesn’t have an inherent cost one way or another.
8. Look on a website like TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor is a popular site that lists things to do nearby, though it doesn’t always have the most up-to-date information. This site also has a community forum where visitors can post reviews and questions about things they did while visiting their destination of choice.
As long as you’re not planning on being totally remote from civilization, there are plenty of resources available to help you find fun things to do near you. Whether it’s looking on a website, asking locals, or using your own research skills, you shouldn’t have trouble scoping out the best things to do in your area (or nearby if you don’t want to drive).