As you’re scrolling through Instagram, liking posts from Hawaii, Florida and Mexico, you might be wishing you were anywhere other than your own house. I see you, spring break stay-cationers! If you are staying at home for spring break this year and can’t fathom another minute of half-jealous, half-bored social media scrolling, here is a list of activities that are relatively cheap, accessible and local.

• Visit museums in Chicago: The city is home to over 60 museums, including favorites such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum. Select museums even offer free admission days for Illinois residents. If you’re looking for an enriching experience that’s less than an hour away, grab a friend or family member and hop on the train to visit a museum! 

• Try a new restaurant: Naperville and its surrounding towns are home to tons of highly rated eateries. If you’re looking for a chic breakfast and brunch spot, check out Buttermilk or Honey Jam Cafe. Everdine’s and Empire are great options for lunch and dinner. To top it all off with a sweet treat, visit Le Chocolat or the new JoJo’s Shake Bar location in Downtown Naperville.

• Visit a college: There are tons of universities within a couple hours of Naperville and spring break is a great opportunity to explore the colleges that you’re interested in without missing school days. Many college spring breaks take place at different times than District 203’s, allowing you to see the campus while classes are in session.

• Read a new book: Demanding schedules and hours of homework can leave little to no time for relaxation. If you’re anything like me, reading falls close to last on your to-do list when homework piles up. This spring break, try to get back into reading for fun instead of for an English class! Here is a great list of the ‘100 best books of all time’ for versatile options. You can also check out this list for more choices.

• Go geocaching: Geocaching is an outdoor activity where participants use a GPS device to locate and discover cleverly hidden containers called geocaches. Once you find the geocache, open it up and sign the logbook. You also may find some small trinkets inside; the general rule of thumb is if you take something from a geocache, you must leave something of equal or greater value. If you’re interested, use this website or download the Geocaching app to get started.

• Get crafty in the kitchen: Spring break is the perfect time to try out those foodie recipes that constantly appear on your Instagram explore page while you’re waiting for your lunch period. Don’t know where to start? This list of recipes has versatile options. If you’re more in the mood for a dessert, this website features treats that are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

• Have a sunset picnic: What better way to get outside and spend time with friends or family than by watching the sunset and eating good food? Grab a group of friends and drive to a nearby forest preserve. You could stop by a restaurant for takeout on the way, or even show off your culinary skills by bringing along one of the recipes above.

• Give yourself a spa day: After some stressful months of school, pamper yourself with all of your favorite ways to relax. First, turn on some music and light your favorite candle to set the mood. Then, do all of your go-to spa day activities. Need ideas? Try out a homemade facial, take a bubble bath, or give yourself a mani-pedi.

• Have a movie night: The Oscars are on March 27, the Sunday after spring break begins. Whether you keep up with the latest cinematic masterpieces or not, the movies on this year’s list of nominees are sure to entertain even the toughest crowd. Make some popcorn and invite some friends over for a movie marathon!

• Catch up on sleep: The CDC recommends that kids aged 13-18 years should get 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Despite this, a national sample found that 72.7% of high school students do not get enough sleep on school nights. If none of the above options sound exciting, it’s always a good idea to catch a few extra Zs if you have the time!

Spring break is perfect for unwinding and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle that the normal school schedule brings. Whether you’re tanning on a beach, skiing down a mountain or desperately searching for a way to curb your boredom, make sure to enjoy this time!