Discovering the Joy of Your Own Backyard
Celebrating a family member's birthday doesn’t always mean grand getaways or elaborate parties. This year, we decided to embrace simplicity with a walking tour of downtown Salem. It turned out to be a refreshing reminder of the beauty and charm that can be found in everyday places. Nearly the entire family joined in at various points, making it a multigenerational adventure. We spent hours meandering through the downtown area, exploring shops, and uncovering the stories behind historic buildings. By the end of the day, I had several takeaways that I couldn’t wait to share.
1. Not All Vacations Require an Overnight Stay
When most people think of a vacation, they imagine extended trips involving flights, hotels, and detailed itineraries. But sometimes, the most fulfilling experiences can happen in a single day. For us, this walking tour was the perfect example of a “micro-vacation.” Three generations of our family spent the day together, sharing meals, discovering new places, and creating memories.
Sure, it wasn’t a week-long escape to a far-flung destination, but it was still time well spent. And guess what? It didn’t stretch anyone’s budget. A simple, budget-friendly outing can hold just as much value as a more extravagant trip. It’s not about the length of the journey but the quality of the moments shared.
2. Travel Isn't Always About Distance
Contrary to popular belief, a trip doesn’t need to take you far from home to feel like an adventure. While we didn’t venture outside of Salem, we experienced it with fresh eyes. Exploring familiar surroundings through the lens of curiosity made it feel like we had traveled to an entirely new place.
One highlight was trying a new restaurant, Bo & Vine. Their locally crafted burgers were a hit, and the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. To top it off, we ended our day with gelato from a charming street-side café. It was the kind of treat that made us feel like we were on vacation, even though we were only minutes from home. Sometimes, it’s not about where you go but how you approach the experience.
3. The Magic of Slowing Down
Years ago, my family ran a horse-drawn carriage company. One thing we noticed during those rides was how often locals would marvel at sights they had never noticed before. Moving at a walking pace—or even a trotting one—allows you to truly observe and appreciate your surroundings.
During our walking tour, this sentiment rang true. We discovered architectural details on historic buildings, whimsical murals tucked away in alleys, and little storefronts we’d always driven past but never stopped to visit. Slowing down gave us the chance to soak in the details and see our city in a way we hadn’t before. It was a reminder that life isn’t meant to be rushed.
When you take the time to walk, look around, and absorb your surroundings, the world feels richer, fuller, and more engaging. If you think your schedule is too packed for this kind of slow-paced exploration, trust me—you can make time, and it’s worth it.
4. Become a Tourist in Your Own Backyard
One of the biggest revelations of the day was how much there is to explore in our own community. We’ve all passed those quaint shops and thought, I should check that out someday. Well, this was the perfect opportunity to finally step inside.
One stop that stood out was Salem Summit Company, a local outdoor gear store. We spent over an hour browsing their inventory, dreaming about future camping trips, and getting expert advice from the friendly staff. My mom even found a fantastic camping chair she’d been searching for. These moments of discovery brought a sense of adventure to an otherwise familiar setting.
Being a tourist in your own backyard isn’t just about visiting shops, though. It’s about noticing the small things: the art installations you’ve never stopped to appreciate, the local flavors you’ve never tried, or the history that’s right under your nose. It’s about exploring the places you’ve overlooked and finding joy in the process.
5. Practical Tips for Your Own Local Adventure
If our experience has inspired you to plan a similar outing, here are a few tips to make the most of it:
Start with a Plan but Stay Flexible: A simple walking tour map or list of places you’d like to visit is a great starting point. But be open to spontaneous detours—they’re often where the best discoveries happen.
Support Local Businesses: Whether it’s a family-owned café, a boutique shop, or an art gallery, make a point to explore and support the gems in your community. It not only enriches your experience but also supports your local economy.
Invite Family or Friends: Experiences are always more meaningful when shared. Gather your loved ones and make it a group adventure.
Document the Day: Take photos, jot down notes, or share your experience on social media. Not only will it help you remember the day, but it might also inspire others to explore their own communities.
A Day Well Spent
By the end of our walking tour, we were pleasantly tired, full of good food, and brimming with stories to tell. It was a simple yet profoundly enjoyable way to celebrate a birthday and reconnect as a family. The best part? It reminded us that adventure isn’t about how far you go—it’s about how present you are in the moment.
So, next time you’re looking for something special to do, consider staying close to home. You might be surprised at the treasures waiting to be discovered right in your own backyard.
Originally posted in 2019. Updated in 2024.