You’ve done the shopping-at-3 a.m. thing and been in a doorbuster mob one too many times. If you’re so over it that this Thanksgiving weekend you don’t even want to be near a store flier, let alone a store, hang out in one of these spots on Black Friday instead.
MUSEUMS
Unwind at a museum when crowds will be at a minimum. It’ll feel like you have the building to yourself and can zone out on a Monet or learn all about natural history without groups of school kids running around. If you’ve also ever wanted an excuse to visit a small, local museum, this is a great time.
SCIENCE CENTERS
Like other museums, science centers and aquariums will be practically deserted. Most have exhibits geared toward kids, so this is a good family activity that doesn’t involve shopping.
MOVIE THEATERS
Lots of families enjoy going to the movies on Black Friday, but it won’t be as chaotic as Target. Just avoid theaters attached to malls or other shopping areas, where parking will be a pain.
LOCAL BOUTIQUES
There’s no reason to wait until Small Business Saturday to support local shops and boutiques. Give them a boost all weekend by starting on Black Friday — a good option for shopping without the crowds and commercialism.
FANCY RESTAURANTS
Have you been meaning to try that restaurant everyone’s buzzing about? Plan ahead and make a reservation for Black Friday. When it’ll be quieter and still a treat after a busy Thanksgiving.
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THE ZOO
Animals don’t get vacations, so most zoos are open year-round, including Black Friday. Many will have holiday lights and decorations up, for a holiday spirit without the shopping.
HOME
Use the day to get a start on projects, such as writing Christmas cards and making gift lists or deep cleaning the carpet and organizing a closet. Check things off a to-do list or decorate for Christmas.
THE SPA
After cooking a Thanksgiving meal for 18 relatives and friends, take a break. Schedule a massage, pedicure, or facial at a favorite spa, or try a new one.
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ART GALLERIES
Support local artists by visiting small art galleries. Many cities have a neighborhood with several, making for a day of gallery hopping.
THE GYM
Holidays can be stressful. To blow off some steam, head to the gym. After some cardio, hit the steam room or the pool and relax longer than usual.
BARS
Get a group of friends together and go bar hopping, whether for a girls’ night out at a wine bar, couples event, or co-worker get-together. Plan ahead and take cabs so no one has to worry about getting home.
BOWLING ALLEY
When was the last time you bowled? The kids will love it, and there’s even a bit of exercise and challenge. Spend a few extra bucks in the arcade instead of at the mall.
LIBRARY
People often need reminding what great resources libraries can be. In addition to books and magazines to browse, there’s usually community events happening.
CONCERTS
If a touring act happens to be playing in the area, great. But a holiday weekend is likely to have all kinds of small venues with shows. Check out local jazz clubs, piano bars, and indie concert venues.
NONPROFITS
After giving thanks for what you have, give back to the community by volunteering at a nonprofit. The time and effort can go a long way toward making someone feel safe, secure, and happy.
BOTANICAL GARDEN
Commune with nature. In areas with a harsh winter, a giant indoor garden full of blooming plants and warm air will give a little boost when the weather is dreary.
INDOOR WATERPARK
Many cities and tourist areas have hotels with attached indoor waterparks. Heading down a waterslide and floating down a lazy river in a tube might be just the thing to help recuperate from Thanksgiving.
HOUSES OF WORSHIP
Most houses of worship are open all the time, whether services are going on or not. Appreciate the architecture of a church you’ve never been to, or maybe visit a synagogue for the first time. Even for the irreligious, these are peaceful spots.
YOUR CAR
Take a mini road trip. Visit a state park, brewery, or small town you’ve been meaning to see. Eat a new dish, see sights you’ve never seen, and stop at every roadside attraction and historical marker, just because.
YOUR BED
Who says you can’t just spend Black Friday in bed? Put on the coziest pajamas, stream a few movies, and enjoy some ice cream and relax after a crazy holiday.
