How do I actually visit Russia as an American?

Hello, I'm an American citizen and always wanted to visit Russia, but I want to travel all over the European side of the country, at the very least Moscow city/oblast countryside, St Petersburg, Izhesvk, and Petrozavodsk.

I'm turning 18 soon and want to visit. I'm fluent in Russian (Soviet parents, and I live in a pretty Russian area in the US), and have family in Russia.

If I get a family member as a sponsor, do I have to stay with them?

What if I get a hotel as a sponsor instead? Can I move around the country and just report my location every week or however often I must? Can I stay for 60 days?

Thanks to anyone who might know an answer to any of my questions.