[ajrsmom]

The next time you're itching to bust out of the city limits, grab a few friends and venture beyond your tried-and-true local haunts; there's nothing like exploring a place anew to reinvigorate you and your enthusiasm for your very own neck of the woods. Here are a few ways to tackle your town like a tourist.


* Eat your way around town. Choose a near-to-your-heart culinary genre (such as soul food or kosher deli fare), and look up in the phone book or on the Web some local restaurants that specialize in that particular cuisine.

* Get sporty. Is your town known as a great place to fish, ski, run, or boat, or does it have great batting cages, indoor rock-climbing walls, or yoga studios? Select one that's new to you in a place you've never been.

* Hit rummage and yard sales. There are few better ways to explore new neighborhoods, and there are even fewer better excuses to meet new people. Look for fliers, or check your local newspaper for locations.

* Travel in time. Track down local properties on the National Register of Historic Places and learn a little about your town's living history.

* Check with the parks and recreation department for their guide to monthly events and the seasonal book of community-education seminars. Canoe trips, architectural tours, story swaps-you'll be amazed at the many activities that are going on and by the variety of folks who attend.

* Head to your local visitors center for pamphlets and free city guides that highlight attractions and events that are sure to include some uncharted territory (museums and ethnic festivals, for instance). Look for coupons here, too.



Ideas from Get Togethers and Celebrations