Our friends and family are the most important things in the world to each and every one of us. Social distancing has created a sense of isolation that we'll all want to overcome as soon as we can.

We’re encouraging people to reconnect with friends and family here in Springfield by providing them with inspiration and planning ideas.

Instead of taking extravagant vacations to the Bahamas or traveling out-of-state, we encourage families to stay in Springfield. Spending money in Springfield will keep the businesses we know and love alive for years to come. 

So what can you do? 

• Visit Family In Springfield As Soon As It’s Safe: It’s possible many families and friends haven’t seen each other for several months due to COVID-19. As soon as you feel it’s safe again, reconnect with friends and family you haven’t seen in a while. If you can’t visit family, our local libraries have seen a huge spike in usage of Ancestry.com which you can access at various branches. Consider investigating your roots during this time and find out what ties your family together.
• Take A Staycation: The idea of travelling to faraway places this year probably doesn’t sound too appealing. Consider staying home or taking a staycation in your. Complete the trip by booking a hotel room to treat yourself. 
• Visit Your Favorite Local Restaurants: Restaurants that haven’t had customers in a a month are probably eager to get some business. Visit those restaurants you haven’t eaten at in a while and order your favorite dish.
• Redo Your Family Photos: Many photographers lost out on a lot of business whether it be wedding photography or family photos. Meet with a photographer and see if you can schedule some family photos or portraits. If your favorite photographer is booked, reach out to a local artist for some custom artwork. 

Thank you for reading our posts about the local leisure and hospitality industry during National Travel & Tourism Week May 3-9. We hope you have learned about the importance of travel to the local economy and that you have been inspired to help support the leisure and hospitality industry by visiting attractions, supporting restaurants, shopping local and doing your part to keep the industry strong. 

We’re giving away a bundle of two 37 North tickets, a company that gives expert-guided hikes and custom adventures in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas to go on an expert-guided hike or adventure in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. How do you enter? Follow our Instagram at @lovespringfield and tag a friend in the comments section of this post. Winner will be selected randomly and announced May 11th. 

Things won’t be back to normal right away, but we’ll get there. Until then.

Love,

Springfield