Bring the vacation mindset to YOUR city

While on vacation we unapologetically explore cities and towns.

Oddly enough, that same bravery and initiative doesn’t happen in your hometown.

Am I right?!

When people ask, what’s there to do in the city you live in, you just shrug, I don’t know? Why are we so hesitant to explore the often cheesy, tourist attractions in our own neighborhoods.

Well, I was about to change that. I was a mission to do some Pittsburgh exploring before starting intern year. I wanted to create memories before forfeiting my time to training. Luckily, my kids and au pair are always down for local exploration. Don’t forget my Pittsburgh buddies who are easily convinced to join in on my over scheduled antics.

Our local PGH Children’s Museum, worth the membership!

We went to local brunch, stopped at our favorite cash only coffee and smoothie shop, walked around our nieghborhood, and got the kids all prepped to begin at a new school!

I just up and took the kids to all the different museums in the city. We spent some intentional time together, creating memories! Of course it wasn’t all suns and roses, these risks come with their occasional tantrums. But I’ll take a day out in the city over one on the couch ANY day.

We went to a local German pub and worked on getting through our Pittsburgh Groupons! Sophia and I even took a toddler to the Melting Pot! Lucky for us, he only ate one marshmallow.

In the midst of it all, we had my cousins out and visiting and took them all through the city. Nothing like good company to nudge you to explore the activities in the city! We did the zoo, and went on the local city river cruise, which was excellent (despite loosing a Croc overboard - hahah!!) Oh children.

How do you get four kids under four to smile for the camera?? Ahhhh…. you don’t. Silly.

Lastly we had our Au Pair’s family visiting. Of course I love all the childcare to keep up this working mom gig, but one of my favorite parts of the au pair program is getting to know our wonderful new family members, and welcoming their family into our house for a visit. Have you ever come home from work to sit down to a fresh German meal, or a table full of authentic Austrian Schnitzel?? It’s so fun to share dinner and time together.

Enjoying an Austria homemade meal (with second rate and creative US substitutions for ingredients) - it was phenomenal! Please come back!

The au pair experience is so intimate, they are caring for your kids, while you are caring for theirs. It is such a wonderful opportunity to connect with their parents. instant, lasting bonds!

Our au pair and her family visiting! Family time!

So back to the punch line.

I encourage you to be a tourist in your own town. GET out there! Explore your city. Pay some entrance fees to keep the wonderful city attractions running and serving your city! Donate to the local museums.

Pittsburgh, you hidden gem. Beautiful view from the Gateway Clipper, our local river tour boat!

Do not wait until your next "big vacation" to create memories with your family. Why don't we take advantage of all the fun that our cities have to offer? Get out there, support the beauty in your backyard and explore, while support local families and local businesses.

What is your favorite attraction in the city YOU live in?! Comment below!

My Simple Life