With the downturn in the overall national economy continuing to be a disruption, many families are opting to forgo their summer travel plans or at least not stray too far from home. Even though the term “staycation” is not a new one, it’s taking on new significance as families worry about job security and energy prices this summer.

A staycation is a unique kind of vacation in which vacationers stay at home or nearby instead of going away. Staycationers also are sometimes short on time off, so opting to stay at home or close to home is an attractive option.

However, just because families choose not to travel for summer vacation does not mean they can’t enjoy some relaxation and even a little adventure close to home.

Staycation advocates say people often don’t take the time to visit museums or attractions close to home. It’s often easy to overlook the local museum or water park in favor of traveling to more well-known destinations, such as Dallas or Kansas City.

And, travel experts point out, to get the most out of their time off from work, staycationers should organize their staycation just like they would a normal vacation.

Gadling.com, a travel Web site, offers the following advice on getting the most out of your staycation:

1. The trick to a good staycation is planning. Just because you're staying in town doesn't mean you shouldn't plan your staycation: Pick up your local newspaper and see what’s happening in your town (particularly during weekdays, when no one else is likely to be there).

2. Treat yourself to a meal at a nice restaurant. No matter how large or small your town is, chances are there’s a restaurant nearby you’ve been meaning to go visit, but you haven’t had the time or didn’t think you could afford it.

3. Do something fun outdoors. Find a public park or hike-and-bike trail (or maybe even your normal route when you walk or run), and in addition to using it for exercise, keep your camera on you. Take the time to explore the area.

4. Take a day trip to the iconic spot your town is known for. No matter where you live, there’s likely a place that’s the pride of the town.

5. Stay at a hotel or bed and breakfast in your town and enjoy the amenities there.

6. Go shopping. Look for and purchase items that are unique to your town, kind of like you would buy souvenirs on a travel vacation.