A family of five with limited resources still talks about one particular trip it shared about 10 years ago.

The family members went on a “staycation,” opting to visit local attractions and learn more about the city in which they lived. And there was plenty to learn. Staycations can be a great way to help local businesses.

Did you know there is a business in Beaufort County that sells nothing but items from QVC? They can open your eyes to the city’s culture and history. Have you ever grabbed a map from the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce and taken the historic walking tour? They can also get you involved in new activities. Do you know which high school football team plays at home this week?

This family allowed each member to choose a destination. The family went to a skate park, a gallery, a favorite pizza restaurant and even a new church. The family members acted as strangers in their hometown, and, in the process, got to know the city better than they ever had before the staycation.

Yes, summer is wrapping up. Temperatures are dropping, and children have returned to school. But that’s the good thing about staycations. There is no wrong time of the year to get to know your hometown.