Are You Getting The Most Out of a You Pick Trip?
When I think about traveling, I’ll admit I rarely think about exploring my own city.
I’m always dreaming of exciting new places to visit, forgetting that there’s so much to see and do in my own backyard. Whether I’ve lived somewhere for 5 months or 5 years, a You Pick Trip in my hometown is my favorite excuse to be a tourist for the day! The hardest part? Getting the most out of your You Pick Trip in your hometown.
Here is my foolproof method…
Written by Katie Gruezke
Kevin + Sierra explored near their hometown in Dallas, TX
Why a You Pick Trip?
There are tons of reasons to get out and take a You Pick Trip – you just finished an important project at work and need to relax with your partner, you want to celebrate an occasion with some friends, or just take the opportunity to explore the idea of solo travel and pamper yourself.
A You Pick Trip in your hometown is a perfect way to explore without driving hundreds of miles or hopping on a plane!
Getting the Most Out of a You Pick Trip
Have an Open Mind + Try Something New
The most important part of getting the most out of your You Pick Trip is to have an open mind + try something new! Don’t go to the restaurant you’ve been to 3 times because you love it so much. Instead, pick one from Pack Up + Go’s Recommendations or check out the hot new restaurant that opened last month. Use this opportunity to broaden your horizons and get out of that rut. You’ll also have fresh, new experiences to share with friends and family when they visit.
Hidden Gems + The Little Things
There’s nothing wrong with visiting some of the tourist attractions where you’re vacationing if you’ve never seen them before. But another way to make sure you’re getting the most out of your You Pick Trip is to visit the local museums, the mom + pop restaurants, and the hidden gems you may never have heard of. Pack Up + Go can provide you with 2-3 days’ worth of amazing recommendations to check both the tourist AND the “I’m a local” boxes!
Relax! Enjoy the ride!
A You Pick Trip doesn’t need to be jam-packed with activities. Maybe there’s a museum or new restaurant you’ve been dying to check out, but it’s important to remember the “-cation” part of vacation! Go get a massage, take a leisurely stroll through the park, lounge by the pool, or hit the beach.
You'll receive a Surprise Envelope with the specifics of your getaway!
Be Prepared - What to Bring on a You Pick Trip
It’s no secret that I am a chronic over-packer when I go away for even just a few days.
But here are my “must-haves'' for any vacation:
Comfortable walking shoes for a long day of exploring
An outfit for an evening out
A bathing suit if your hotel has a pool or if you’ll be heading to the beach
A camera for all the selfies you’ll take along the way
An open mind! You may think you know everything there is to know about your own city, but I guarantee you’re bound to discover something new
Rachel + Roosevelt had the ULTIMATE You Pick Trip in Chicago, IL!
How to You Pick Trip in 2 of my Favorite Cities in the U.S.
Whether you live in the suburbs or 3 hours away from the closest city, taking a You Pick Trip is a great way to escape for a few days without the hassle of a longer vacation. Here are two of Pack Up + Go’s favorite US cities to take a You Pick Trip.
Chicago:
There are tons of great hotels in Chicago to choose from, but for a You Pick Trip, I would recommend The Hoxton near Fulton Market! Since it’s not in the super popular River North area or The Loop, it’s a little bit off-the-beaten-path but still easy to get to all of Chicago’s popular attractions. There are also tons of amazing museums to visit in Chicago. If you’re looking for more of a hidden gem for an upscale evening, check out North Pond in Lincoln Park with gorgeous views of Chicago’s skyline!
Philadelphia:
If you live in the Tri-State Area, Philadelphia is a great place to visit for a You Pick Trip! I would recommend staying in Rittenhouse Square, which is centrally located + has great restaurants nearby. If you’re not a local and it’s your first time visiting, you have to visit some of the amazing American history museums + sites. You can also check out some of the quirky sites like Eastern State Penitentiary and The Mütter Museum!
You Pick Trip with Pack Up + Go
If you don’t know where to start, leave it to the experts. When you book a Pack Up + Go You Pick Trip, we’ll book your hotel, dinner reservations + book a fun activity that matches your interests! Plus, as with any Pack Up + Go Trip, we’ll provide you with plenty of curated recommendations to fill up the rest of your time, including the most popular attractions + off-the-beaten-path sites.
We all know life can get in the way sometimes, but it’s important to remember to #ExploreMore and enjoy the ride! If you’re looking to get the most out of your next You Pick Trip, then sign up for your Trip today + get ready to Pack Up + Go!
About the Author:
Katie Gruezke, Partner Relationships Manager
Although she’s based in Jersey City, NJ, Katie is a New England girl at heart. When she’s not working, you can usually find her in the garden, cooking a delicious meal, or dreaming up her next adventure!