5 Great Staycation Ideas

Although we all wish we could run off to that island in the sun, it’s not always in the cards. With gas prices on the rise and all the responsibilities we take on, sometimes we just can’t leave home. But have no fear, fair readers, Patch Picks is here with some great ideas for those of you sticking around this spring.

Horseback Riding at

Mead Farms, located on June Road in Stamford, has been around since 1928. This family-run business features 14 different horses (I’m hoping to ride Kenzi when I go – there’s just something about a white horse … er, pony) and offers over 170 miles of continuous horseback riding trails. Whether you’re an experienced rider, or just looking to get outside and enjoy the spring air, Mead Farms is a great staycation destination. Interested in becoming a regular rider? Mead also offers private and group lessons designed for those who want the full hands-on equestrian experience.

Rent a Kayak from or Camp Out in a Rented Tent

Eastern Mountain Sports on High Ridge Road doesn’t just sell great outdoor and sports equipment, they also rent great outdoor and sports equipment. That being said, what a perfect idea for a springtime staycation to spend a nice sunny day on the water in a kayak you rented from EMS? Or perhaps spending a night under the stars? You don’t need to go to Yosemite National Park to spend the night in a tent; that’s what your backyard is for! EMS offers rented kayaks, tents, sleeping bags and sleeping pads to offer you and your family a perfect outdoor staycation. It is important to always call ahead for availability and pricing at 203.461.9865.

New Exhibit at the Art Gallery

Free and open to the public on the UConn Stamford campus, at West Broad Street and Washington Blvd. in downtown Stamford, the UConn Stamford Art Gallery is proud to exhibit a solo-art exhibit by regional artist Jill Gordon. Transport yourself into Gordon’s world through her exhibit, entitled “Images and Inspirations,” which juxtaposes her paintings with literary imagery, often revealing shared inspirations. The show will be available for viewing beginning on Monday, April 4 through Friday, May 6. There will also be an artist’s reception held on Saturday April 9 from 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Enroll Your Child in a Budding Ecologist Program

What child doesn’t love nature and all it has to offer? From the cute and cuddly to the slippery and slimy, the in the offers a Budding Ecologist program for children in grades K-3 beginning on Monday, April 18 through Friday, April 22. Their amazing group of over 100 rescued and adopted Animal Ambassadors will help students understand the importance of all living creatures and the role many of them play in the successful function of nature. Pre-registration is required. Email info@animalembassy or call 203.655.5404 for an application.

Eat Like a Celebrity

The is featuring a new event called “Cooking in the Kitchen with Friends: Gourmet Chef Demonstrations and Luncheons.” On April 5 at 9:30 a.m. you can savor the experience as Chef to the stars Anthony Areostatico as he prepares signature dishes in a fabulous kitchen in a private home in Stamford. Chef Anthony, a graduate of the Culinary Arts at Johnson and Wales College in Providence, is a major player on the cooking scene having prepared dinner parties for former Presidents, movie stars and the elite of Manhattan and the Hamptons. Sample the food, have lunch with friends, get inspired by a designer kitchen and take home your own recipe book. There will be two demonstrations offered on this day, so choose between the 9:30 a.m. or 12 p.m. groups. Both groups will be served brunch at 11 a.m. The cost is $60 per person. All proceeds benefit the Senior Nutrition Program. For more information, please contact Nancy Schiffman at 203.487.0941 or by email at nschiffman@stamfordjcc.org.