Austin lands high on list of America's best cities for staycations

Posted: Wed, 27 May 2015 02:21 PM - 33,859 Readers

By: Arden Ward

Austin Photo Set: News_Jessica Dupuy_lake Austin spa_August 2011_exterior

Austin is the 16th best city for a staycation. Photo courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort

Looking for a getaway without the fuss? Rest easy, and just stay home: Austin is one of America's best cities for a staycation.

With summer right around the corner, WalletHub looked at the 100 most populated cities in the U.S. to determine which ones are fit for staycations. "From recreation opportunities to the cost of relaxation, there are a number of factors to consider when evaluating whether or not you can bring the benefits of a vacation to your front door," notes WalletHub.

Austin comes in at No. 16 in the country — and No. 1 in Texas. We jumped 10 spots from last year's list, where we ranked No. 26 in the U.S.

The 2015 rankings are based on factors in three categories: recreation activities, food and entertainment, and rest and relaxation. We rank No. 10 in the country for R&R and a well-deserved No. 13 for food and entertainment. Our recreation activities, however, need some improvement. Austin's No. 43 ranking is based on such factors as number of public golf courses, tennis courts, parks and shopping centers.

The rest of Texas didn't fare so well. At No. 40, Lubbock is the only other Lone Star city to crack the top 50.

Corpus Christi (No. 52), El Paso (No. 63), Plano (No. 66), San Antonio (No. 69), Dallas (No. 72), Garland (No. 73), Houston (No. 77), Fort Worth (No. 78), Arlington (No. 79), Irving (No. 84) and Laredo (No. 91) are among the worst staycation spots in the U.S.

Check out the rest of the best and worst cities here.

* Story Contributed by: Arden Ward

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