The Boston skyline.

With Boston drawing massive tourist crowds every summer, it’s easy to see how the city has a lot to offer as a travel destination or a staycation. Indulge in Boston’s sights, flavors and sensations as a budget-friendly alternative to traveling outside the state or country.

Take a spa day

Going to the spa is the perfect way to unwind, retreat from the daily routine and come out feeling refreshed and brand new. Choose from either Boston’s crème de la crème of spas, Mandarin Oriental Spa or high-tech places like G2o Spa and Salon to escape for several hours for a massage, facial or body treatment.

Eat at a new restaurant

Boston is home to visionary chefs and restaurateurs and the dining scene encompasses cuisine from all parts of the globe.

Forgo your usual spot at your neighborhood diner to try a new highly-rated restaurant. Eater Boston is a useful resource for reviews and guides on popular or up-and-coming restaurants.

Check out a local show

Whether you enjoy alternative rock shows, gritty stand up comedy acts or classical concerts, Boston’s entertainment scene has something for everyone. The Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Ballet put on world-class shows. You’re bound to discover a new local band at Wally’s Cafe or enjoy an indie film at Coolidge Corner Theatre.

Go to a Red Sox game

There’s nothing more authentically Bostonian than watching the Sox play at Fenway Park with a hot dog in your hand. Even if you’re not a sports fanatic, the atmosphere at a ball game is infectious; crowd chants, ducking or trying to catch stray balls and singing along to Neil Diamond are all part of the experience.

ON THE WEB

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental: mandarinoriental.com

G20 Spa and Salon: www.g2ospasalon.com

Eater Boston: https://boston.eater.com

Boston Symphony Orchestra: www.bso.org

Boston Ballet: www.bostonballet.org

Wally’s Cafe: www.wallyscafe.com

Coolidge Corner Theatre: www.coolidge.org

Red Sox tickets: www.mlb.com/redsox/tickets