Can you imagine relaxing by the beach, white water rafting, taking a tour or trying new food in a new town? Wait, now here’s the best part. Doing these kinds of activities with your best friends. Exciting, right?  Of course, deciding what to do as a group can be very difficult.

Listed below are a few ideas to help the gang enjoy a fun-filled vacay:

Attend a festival:

Festivals are definitely something a group of really good friends can enjoy. Some good music and some tasty food will bring a group closer than ever. There are plenty of other things to do during that time period, including taking lots and lots of selfies. Incredible music goes hand in hand with an unforgettable time, no matter which event you choose.

• Bonnaroo: Annual American 4-day music festival at the start of summer. It is located in Green Stage Park, Tennessee. They also have yoga, water festivities, and of course, food! If you get a chance to sign the “Before I Die I Want to…” do it!
• Hangout Festival: live music and white sandy beaches, nothing better for sure. This 3-day festival in May is full of excitement, good food, and some amazing music artists and takes place in Gulf Shores, Alabama. I would love to have a chance to go there!  

Ms. Twigg, one of our English teachers, shared that her oldest daughter Hayley and a group of her friends attended Hangout last week.

“Hayley kept sending me pictures and videos of the concerts on the beach.  While they listened to the music, there was a myriad of activities going on, such as a skating rink, a Ferris wheel, and swings in the ocean.  She said it was the best music festival she has ever attended.”

Take a ski trip:

Pack up those snow boots and sweaters; it’s ski time. Haven’t skied before? No biggie! There are numerous teachers out there to help you. Skiing doesn’t have to be the only thing. You can snowboard, sled ride or just enjoy some hot chocolate in the snowy weather.

• Park City: Park City Mountain lies east of Salt Lake City, Utah. This area is known for their ski slopes, plenty of fun things to do, and many resorts to enjoy and stay a while.
• Jackson Hole: Head out to Jackson, Wyoming to check out three ski areas. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort, and Grand Targhee Resort.

Off to the mountains:

Maybe camping isn’t your thing or never will be, but there are countless many other options for lodging. Log cabins are cozy little houses filled with nice amenities. Wake up with the mountains and spend the day maybe taking a hike, rafting, canoeing, fishing, and many others.

• Pigeon Forge: Pigeon Forge, Tennesee is a great place to spend time with friends. Either hiking a mountain or just enjoy some vacation time. From Dollywood to The Tail of The Dragon, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and in shape!
• Take me home, country roads: West Virginia fulfills all hiking and skiing needs. Take time to enjoy the scenery all over and take part in scenic and lively commodities.

Motion to the ocean:

There are numerous activities to take part in with the beach. No, I’m not saying go tan. Try scuba diving! This will show you the amazing wonders of the sea above and under the water. After a long day of catching rays and waves, try a nice dinner on the water. It’s a great way to cool and calm down after a fantastic day.

• Crystal River: located in western Florida. Also known as “Nature Coast”, Crystal River is one of a few places where people can swim with manatees. Take a kayak trip or just enjoy the sunset in the Gulf of Mexico.
• Hampton Beach: Hampton Beach, New Hampshire is a family friendly community. Their boardwalk is filled with restaurants, stores, and places to enjoy time relaxing.

This is just a list of ideas to do with your friends (or family!) for a relaxing and pleasant trip. This is just the beginning, and  there are many many out there. Now get out there a book your vacay TODAY!