You don't have to go far to get away this summer.

Why it matters: We can't all swing a trip to Europe or a cabin invite. But a "staycation" can pack plenty of fun, rest and relaxation without the time or expense of a bigger adventure.

How it works: Take a day (or more) to put regular responsibilities aside so you can explore new places, revisit old favorites or simply rest and recharge.

Zoom in: Full-service hotels that offer spas, pools, on-site restaurants or other amenities that give #treatyoself vibes tend to draw in the staycation set, we learned from Courtney S. Reis, senior vice president of destination branding and strategy for Meet Minneapolis.

• The Four Seasons is a top draw in the Twin Cities, although The Hewing, Hotel Ivy and the Renaissance at The Depot are also popular, she said.

Reality check: You don't even have to shell out for an overnight stay to reap the benefits.

• Budget options include day trips to places like Stillwater or Lake Minnetonka, or playing tourist in the cities for a day or two while sleeping at home.

Between the lines: While business and convention travel — major drivers of the local hospitality industry — have yet to fully rebound, stays by locals do add up.

• Meet Minneapolis says that, depending on the time of year, up to 70% of rooms in some hotels will be booked by guests who live within 50 miles of the city.
• In St. Paul, about 44% of visitors come from within 250 miles, per Visit Saint Paul.

What we're hearing: Big concerts or shows often anchor staycations for locals who want to turn a night out into an overnight and let go of the worry about getting home, Reis says.

Plus: The Four Seasons sees a link between seasonal experiences, such as its rooftop Riva Terrace Restaurant and Bar, and the popularity of staycations, a hotel spokesperson said.

If you try it: Special packages, like the Third Night Free and Summer Break promotions at Four Seasons or the neighborhood rate at The Hewing, can lower the cost for locals staying just a few nights.

• Visit Saint Paul also has deal packages for local restaurants and attractions.

The bottom line: "The best thing about staycations is it gives you that excuse to do the things that have always been on your list," Reis says.

Share this with someone who needs a night away

🕶️ Interested in playing tourist and hitting up local classics? We've got you covered.

🎸 The summer calendar includes dozens of concerts and festivals in Minneapolis to build a weekend around.

🛝 Need a low-budget way to shake things up with the kids? Try a new playground or child-friendly activity.

👙 Want to make a splash while avoiding crowds? You can rent a private pool by the hour.

🏕️ Those looking for something between a luxe hotel and rustic camping could try "glamping" in a tiny cabin in Willow River.

🍽️ Our dining scene lacks Michelin stars, but our restaurants and bars get plenty of well-deserved accolades. Local mainstays are always worth a (repeat) visit.

• Plus: A two-starred chef is making a cameo at Demi in August for those looking to splurge.

🚴‍♂️ Work off that meal with some movement: We've got tons of trails for walking, biking and hiking.

• Or, create your own yoga (or pilates) retreat with a class at a studio you've been meaning to try.

Go deeper with our full coverage of things to do here in the Twin Cities.

The team here at Axios Twin Cities has lived in the metro area a combined 70 or so years.

Yes, but: We've still got plenty of hidden gems to explore and new-to-us activities to try during our own summer staycation days.

So, we have decided to spend the coming weeks trying new summer things (as well as old favorites) and reporting back on whether they're worth seeing or skipping.

Weigh in: We'd love for you to nominate destinations or activities for our summer group project.

• What have you always wanted to make time for? Or, what's your favorite summer thing to do?

📬 Reply to this email with ideas.

Fido shouldn't miss all the fun. Reader Cheryl S. shared her recent itinerary for a relaxing night away in the greater Twin Cities region with her pup.

What they did: Stopped for a picnic at Old Mill Park before heading to Prescott, Wisconsin for an overnight at Port Of Prescott, which she described as "a very nice dog friendly hotel."

What she's saying: "We spent hours strolling along the river walk watching barges and boats where the Mississippi and the St. Croix river merge. It was a lovely overnight trip!"