senior field trip

18 Unforgettable Senior Trip Ideas for 2024

Looking for the best senior trip ideas for your soon-to-be-graduated teenager?

As high school teachers, the parents of a high schooler, and world travelers, we have a lot of experience traveling and talking about travel with young people.

Here are our 18 senior trip ideas for places to travel to celebrate with your graduate.

High School graduation marks an important coming-of-age moment for students and families. And a senior trip offers an opportunity to mark this important moment. 

Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we will receive a commission at no extra charge to you.  We only recommend activities or places we have experienced, and all opinions are our own.

What Is A Senior Trip?

Traditionally, a senior trip is an opportunity for seniors to have one last experience together as a class before they graduate. In this traditional notion, senior trips are something your senior organizes with their friends. 

However, with travel being more accessible to more people, the idea of a senior trip as a special trip taken by a family to celebrate their child’s graduation is fast growing in popularity. Therefore, we have chosen to list our ideas by location not by type. 

When To Take a Senior Trip?

Senior Trips are traditionally taken in late May or June soon after the graduation ceremony. Some school districts still allow for senior weeks prior to graduation where students have a few days before graduation to travel or stay together. However, these are far less common.

What Are the Criteria for a Good Senior Trip Destination?

All of the places listed here we have traveled to with our own teens. We have also used our “access” to hundreds of teens over the years to talk not only about our travel but places they would love to see and experience. So each of these locations is full of teen-friendly activities.

However, for each location, we have noted if this trip would be possible for a senior-only trip without parents. We are basing our “senior-only”  recommendations on the following criteria: good public transit and hostels. 

Good public transit is an extra important criteria in part because teens aren’t old enough to rent a car. While rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft may also be possible, these platforms also have age restrictions potentially making them unusable by independent travelers who aren’t 18 or older.  

Age Consideration for a Senior Trip: Restriction on Accommodations, Cruises and Rideshares

Neither Uber nor Lyft allow passengers under 18 to have an account. Now, let’s be honest, we all know teens under 18 that use rideshares. But if a driver suspects a rider to be under 18, they have the right to require age verification before completing the trip. 

Similarly, most overnight accommodations require guests to be 18 or older. In essence, when you are checking into a hotel or a hostel you are signing a contract. And you must have legal status to make that contract valid.

Therefore, if your child is 17 when they graduate and wants to go on a friend-only senior trip, there will need to be a minimum of one person over 18 who is doing all the accommodation booking, Lyft calling, and hotel or hostel registration. Which means that that person assumes responsibility. Yikes. Definitely, something to consider if your kid is the sole 18-year-old. 

Additionally, some places that are perceived as more party places — think Spring Break hotspots – will actually require that guests be at least 21. So, if your graduate is thinking of heading to Cabo, they probably won’t be able to find a hotel to let them stay there.

Cruises are also out for friend-only graduation trips as cruise lines require passengers traveling alone to be over 21.

Finally, and most importantly, according to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), minors may be able to travel without their parents internationally.  Although  “They may, however, require a notarized written consent letter from both parents.”

Moreover, CBP recommends that “Minors interested in traveling without their parents should contact the embassy [of the country they wish to visit] to address admissibility questions.”

What Type of Travel is Typical for Senior Trips?

While senior trips were traditionally beach vacations (think Spring Break), seniors and their families today are branching out and traveling in different ways to celebrate this important milestone. So for the most part, we have left the beaches off this list. 

Unforgettable Senior Trip Ideas

Grad nights: the ultimate graduation trip idea.

Both Disneyland and Six Flags have Grad Nights. These nights are absolutely tailored to your graduate. I mean they are called “Grad Night.” 

However, with both programs, your child’s school must register for the event. Tickets are purchased from the school so that the parks can verify that the event is only for high school grads. Graduates who are interested in this option should get their schools on board early as school spots, especially for Disneyland, sell out in the early fall. 

But if your school was one of those lucky enough to book either a Disneyland or Six Flags Grad Night, let’s get into it.

Disneyland Grad Nights

Although Walt Disney World ditched its Grad Nights way back in 2012, Disneyland still offers these popular nights where grads take over the park. While mostly frequented by local graduates, schools from all over the US can organize Disneyland Grad Night trips. 

Offered on 15 nights throughout May and June, Disneyland Grad Nigh ts have 3 different ticket types. The least expensive ticket, which is around $100 per person per night, gets grads into an after-hours party at California Adventure.

If your grads want full-day access to California Adventure, plus the after-hours party, ticket prices go up to around $130. Add a hopper ticket to Disneyland and the tickets shoot up to over $200.

But can the magic of Disney really have a price? Oh wait, it does. But, while the tickets for this night are locked in, there are still ways to plan a trip to Disneyland on a budget , including taking the c heapest way to get from LAX to Disneyland .

Six Flags Grad Night

Not to be outdone, Six Flags locations also offer an after-hours Grad Night. At the Six Flags party, the park is only open to those students and chaperones with a grad night ticket. 

Grads can enjoy thrilling rides, DJs and dance floors throughout the park, and yummy food. However, unlike Disneyland with its dozens of nights, Six Flag locations have 1 or 2 nights in either May or June dedicated to this event. 

Tickets vary based on the Six Flags location. And grads with a Six Flags pass still need to buy a special event ticket.

So What If My School Didn’t Book a Grad Night Experience?

Of course, senior trips to both of these parks and to others can certainly happen outside of these special nights. Although these nights are tailored to graduates, any night in Disneyland is….well, magical.

Graduation Trip Ideas in the United States 

Even if the United States is home, there is still so much to see and do to make a special graduate trip in the country. From the beaches of Los Angeles to the stages of Broadway, a US trip is a great way to start your graduate on their next American dream.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is perfect if your graduate is a fan of beaches, movie stars, and of course….Disney. If Disneyland is your destination, these are the best parks for teens.

Otherwise, with beaches, sunshine, and great eats, there is truly so much more to Los Angeles than the Magical Kingdom.

If your graduate is thinking of a friend-only trip to L.A., a few words to the wise.

While we use public transit whenever we are in Los Angeles, families are justified to be a bit leery of sending their new graduate to L.A. on a friend-only trip. L.A. is after all a very car-heavy city. 

So, for the graduate who is dreaming of some friend-only time in the California sun, we definitely recommend Venice Beach. A short ride share from LAX, graduates can enjoy bike riding on the beach or people-watching at the skatepark. Venice Beach also has some great hostels . And once you get there, a bike is all your graduate needs to get around. 

Long Beach is also a great California beach town with lots to see and do with teenagers .

While senior trips are traditionally taken in May or June, we can’t help but put an early senior trip recommendation on the list.

While Denver is one of our favorite US cities year-round, a ski trip to really lean into that senioritis during your graduate’s last Spring Break is also a great idea.

With its proximity to the mountains, Denver has numerous ski resorts within 60 miles of the city. Never skied before, check out our list of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners . 

While we definitely recommend a family trip to the mountains to celebrate the impending milestone, a ski trip to Colorado is also possible for a friend-only trip.

Breckenridge is the best resort for a friend-only ski trip as it has the Bivvi hostel . And graduates can book a shuttle directly from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge. 

If skiing is not your think don’t worry. The city of Denver has so many things to do with teens .

In the heart of downtown Denver is Elitch Gardens, a popular amusement park. You can also see a baseball game, take in a concert at Red Rocks, or a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Denver, Colorado truly has something for everyone.

What graduate wouldn’t want to celebrate their achievements in the Big Apple? With great entertainment, great food, and a beautiful skyline, New York is an exciting place to celebrate the achievements of your graduates.

And of all the U.S. cities, New York is one of the easiest to navigate using public transit. And for that reason, New York is also a great location for a friend-only senior trip.

Of course, hotels in Manhattan are known for their high prices. But if your graduate is open to dorm-style accommodations, the city can be theirs for around $60 a night. 

If island time is your graduate’s idea of a dream trip, we definitely recommend Kauai. With its rugged landscape and opportunities for adventures, Kauai is a perfect place to unwind after the busy weeks leading up to graduation. 

Even a short 3 days in Kauai is an excellent graduation trip.

A trip to Kauai should involve two things, bike riding and kayaking the Wailua River to Secret Falls. And we can help you with both.

But we definitely do not recommend Kauai for a friend-only trip. While there is public transit on the island, a car is really necessary to get around the island. 

One of our best tips for traveling with teens is to include adventure and Alaska has that covered.

The wild open spaces of Alaska are a monumental place to welcome this new phase in a graduate’s life. From the bears of Denali National Park to the whales of Seward, Alaska is definitely a must-see for any nature-loving graduate. 

Our 10-day itinerary takes you from Fairbanks to Denali down to Seward and then to Anchorage. Our trip was all done by public transit so the trip could be replicated on a friend-only trip. 

Alaska is also an excellent trip with family with so many things to do that everyone will enjoy.

And while HostelWorld, which is the platform we use to book hostels, only has listings in Fairbanks and Anchorage . There are several independent hostels in Seward and Denali, the two other stops on our itinerary.

Graduation Trip Ideas in Central and South America

With the exception of Mexico City and Peru, several of these locations are perfect for your beach-loving graduates.

We love traveling in Central and South America not only because it is much more budget-friendly than Europe. But also because it allows us to expand our knowledge of diverse cultures. 

Be aware that the ideal time to travel to Central and South America is really December-April. By May and June, many of these locations may be getting pretty hot as you are going during the dry season. 

Mexico City

We love Mexico City. It is truly one of our favorite cities in Central and South America and has so many things for teens to experience.

With amazing street food, charming neighborhoods, and the most museums per capita of any city in the world, Mexico City is a truly remarkable place to spend 3-4 days .  

While Mexico City is a megalopolis, as long as you and your graduate are smart travelers, Mexico City is safe. If you have concerns, pay special attention to the Mexico City neighborhood where you and/or your graduate stays. 

We love the Historic Center, but others prefer La Condesa or Roma. And with numerous hostels and a great public transit system, Mexico City is also a good option for a friend-only trip. 

Easily accessible from the United States and English speaking, Belize is an easy first international trip for US travelers. And for those who are looking for a warm vacation will be rewarded with coral reefs, delicious pupusas, and days and days of sun. 

If you are making your way to the islands and are on a budget or want to travel more sustainably, we definitely recommend taking the water taxi over a flight .  

Not only does the water taxi offer significant savings, you have an opportunity to travel with the locals. And who knows, a dolphin might decide to befriend your boat as one did with ours.

For your animal-loving graduate who doesn’t necessarily love the cold of Alaska, Costa Rica is an excellent choice.

One of the most biodiverse countries in the world, Costa Rica is the perfect place to shake off the stress of the past few months and live life “Pura Vida” with your newly graduated teenager.

We lived in Costa Rica and travel back often with our own son so we know there are so many things to do with teenagers.

The two coastlines of Costa Rica are so different, we recommend traveling to both. But if you don’t have as much time as we do in our 10-day Costa Rican itinerary, then we definitely recommend the Caribbean side. 

Be aware that the drinking age in Costa Rica , and most of Central and South America, is 18 years old. You will definitely want to negotiate with your senior if you have concerns about most seniors ability to legally drink in the country.

One of our most unforgettable trips in all of our years of traveling together as a family has been our time in Peru. While we definitely don’t recommend this trip as a friend-only experience given the more complex travel moves, we can not say enough about how important this trip has been to us.

Whether you go as long as we did on our 3-week Pervian itinerary or just focus on Cusco and Machu Picchu, we promise that your time in Peru will be an amazing send-off to your graduate. 

Graduation Trip Ideas in Europe

We have taken our own teen to Europe numerous times, and certainly recommend so much of the continent to you.

With its excellent public transit system, amazing food, and noteworthy sites, any graduate would be thrilled to mark their achievement in Europe. 

Europe’s extensive public transit makes Europe a very viable friend-only trip.

But please note that June starts the high season in Europe so if you are planning a traditional senior trip in May or June, earlier is definitely better. 

We love Italy for a trip with teenagers. With its iconic architecture, renowned sites, and delicious gelato, there is so much here to experience. We have a 7-day Italy itinerary with teens that is perfect for a senior trip.  The entire trip is taken on high-speed trains, so our itinerary could also work for a friend-only trip. 

Regardless of where in Italy you travel, we definitely think Rome should be at the center of your time in Italy. Rome has s o many experiences for teenagers .

Like the other European cities on this list, Rome has great hostels and public transit making it especially great for a friend-only trip. 

It is also hard to imagine going to Italy without seeing Venice with your graduate . Venice gets busy in the summer. If your child’s graduation is at the end of May, we recommend leaving ASAP and starting your trip in Venice to skirt the crowds as much as possible.

Paris is a wonderful senior trip either as a family experience or a friend-only trip.

With numerous high-quality hostels in Paris and extremely comprehensive public transit throughout the city and countryside, the City of Lights is a smart choice for graduates to explore on their own.

While June starts the high season in Paris, there are still ways for families on a budget to experience the city.

And since your goal for a trip to Paris will be to immerse your graduate in all the art, architecture, and culture, we definitely recommend the Paris Pass as a way to save money while taking in all the sites.

Scandinavia

Some of the best European cities are found in the Scandinavian countries, including our favorite of Copenhagen, Denmark. Scandinavia’s family-friendly culture (and its love of our favorite mode of transit, the bike) make it an uplifting place to have one more family holiday before your graduate leaves home. 

In addition to Denmark and Sweden, our Scandinavian itinerary includes a stopover in Iceland through Icelandic Airlines’ free stopover program.  Iceland has grown in great popularity over the last few years. 

While we have loved our time in Iceland, most tourists need a car to see this island nation. While one can also see the country through bus tours, this dependence of cars to see the ring of the island makes it a less good friend-only trip. 

Spain is truly one of our favorite countries. There are so many great things to do in Spain with teenagers , making the country perfect for a senior trip.

From its vibrant city of Madrid to the architectural wonder that is Barcelona, your senior will love the food, culture, and overall vibe that is Spain.

Madrid is definitely the easiest city to base out of in Spain. The city itself has so much to see and do for teenagers .

We have loved and explored so many European cities with our teen, from Antwerp to Lucerne , but Madrid is still top of our list because of its location, culture and relative affordability.

In Madrid there are cultured experiences at the world-famous art museum, The Prado, and more teenager-focused experiences like the amusement park, Parque de Atracciones.

Our 4-day Madrid itinerary will help you plan your time.

However, one of the great advantages of Madrid is its high-speed trains. Whether it is the medieval city of Toledo or the seaside city of Barcelona, all of Spain can be easily accessed by train from Madrid.

In Madrid city center, there is also a unique Art Seven Hostel Capsules , where your senior can rent their own capsule to sleep. Yep, you heard it right…a capsule. Making Madrid specifically a great place in Spain for a first-timer trip with friends.

If you do choose Spain or most other European countries, be aware that the legal drinking age is 18 . In Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, and Belgium the drinking age is lower.

Budget Senior Trip Ideas

Out here in the West, a weekend camping trip is the way our own senior students celebrate their graduation as a class. 

Camping is the perfect senior trip in that it allows students to use their own transportation and no accommodations are needed beyond that old, trusty, nylon tent.

And is there a better place to say your goodbyes, then out under the stars with a fire roaring and that one talented friend playing away on her acoustic guitar?

While everyone loves to spend a night away, day trips are another great budget choice for seniors to celebrate with friends. 

In our town of Boise, Idaho, graduating classes can drive a few hours to 470 foot sand dunes at Bruneau State Park or head to Lucky Peak Reservoir to spend the day at the lake. 

A great day trip is less than a 2 hour drive, but has a different feel than the everyday. For coastal places, a day trip could be an all-class trip to the ocean. For those in the West, it could be a day in a National Park. 

Staycations

It really isn’t about the distance, but the memories. And staycations are a great chance to organize a trip to make some final memories. Some of our graduating classes senior staycations have included: 

• Indoor Laser Tag
• The Area Zoo
• Miniature Golf

This list is also great for “senior skip day,” but don’t tell anyone that this teacher promoted that tradition. 

A senior trip is a great way to celebrate this important milestone in your child’s life. Whether it is a friends-only trip or a family affair, making memories through travel is always, always a good idea.

Need other ideas for best travel gifts for teenagers . We have 60+ ideas for every type of teen.

Should I take a senior trip with friends if I am 17?

There are many travel restrictions for minors, including booking a hotel and using a rideshare. Traveling without your parents once you turn 18 eases many of those restrictions.

Minors who want to plan a senior trip might consider traveling locally.

Are senior trips only with friends?

While senior trips are traditionally thought to be trips or events for graduates and their peers, more and more families are taking senior trips with their graduates to commemorate the event.

Faith, along with her husband and her son make up 3TicketsPlease. We have adventured to over 25 countries together. Budget travel allows us to live our philosophy of "why wait to travel," and we'd love to help you and your family see the world now.

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6 Best Senior Travel Groups

Senior travel groups, designed exclusively for curious older globetrotters, offer an unparalleled opportunity to venture on unforgettable travels, forge new friendships, and unlock the magic of exploration.

• Road Scholar  – Road Scholar is a non-profit organization that offers educational travel adventures for seniors. They provide a wide range of trips, including cultural explorations, outdoor adventures, and learning experiences worldwide.
• ElderTreks – ElderTreks specializes in adventure travel exclusively for people over 50. They offer small group tours to exotic and off-the-beaten-path destinations with a focus on cultural immersion and wildlife experiences.
• Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) – OAT is a travel company that caters to older travelers seeking immersive and active adventures. They offer small group tours to destinations globally.
• Saga Holidays – Saga is a British travel company that focuses on holidays for people over 50. They offer a variety of trips, including cruises, cultural tours, and beach vacations.
• Walking the World – Walking the World is a senior travel group that specializes in guided walking tours, offering enriching adventures for mature travelers seeking to explore the world’s natural wonders on foot.
• G Adventures – G Adventures is a globally recognized adventure travel company offering small group tours with a strong emphasis on sustainability and authentic experiences.

All these travel groups are tailored to cater to the diverse interests and desires of mature travelers.

What to Look for in a Senior Travel Group

When searching for a senior travel group, consider the following key factors to ensure an enjoyable and fulfilling travel experience.

Itinerary and Destinations

Look for a travel group that offers diverse and well-planned itineraries to destinations that align with your interests and preferences, whether it’s cultural exploration, nature-focused trips, or a mix of both.

Check the group size to ensure it is comfortable for you. Smaller groups often allow for more personalized experiences and flexibility during the trip.

Travel Pace and Physical Requirements

Assess the travel pace and physical demands of the trips offered to ensure they match your fitness level and mobility needs.

Tour Guides and Expertise

Review the credentials and experience of the tour guides leading the trips, as knowledgeable guides can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Accommodations

Check the quality and suitability of accommodations provided during the trip to ensure they meet your comfort standards.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Check the package details to understand what’s included (e.g., meals, activities, entrance fees) and what additional expenses you might need to budget for.

Group Dynamics and Social Activities

Consider the social aspect of the travel group, as meeting like-minded individuals can greatly enhance your journey, so look for groups that offer ample opportunities for group interactions and social activities.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Read reviews and testimonials from previous travelers to gauge their satisfaction and overall experience with the travel group.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a senior travel group that aligns with your interests, preferences, and requirements, making your journey a memorable and enjoyable one.

Best Senior Travel Groups

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast yearning to dive into the past, a nature lover seeking the embrace of untouched landscapes, or a curious soul eager to discover the world’s hidden gems, these groups promise interesting and purposeful travel experiences.

Road Scholar

Road Scholar is a non-profit educational travel organization catering to seniors and their families (grandchildren). They offer educative and immersive adventures in diverse destinations worldwide with programs in nearly 80 countries and 50 states, on land and by ship. Participants engage in small-group learning experiences, exploring cultures, history, nature, and more. Expert-led programs provide unique access to renowned sites, while fostering camaraderie among like-minded travelers.

Tailored for mature adults, Road Scholar journeys accommodate various activity levels and interests, allowing participants to discover new horizons, build lasting friendships, and embrace a lifelong love of learning through curated educational travel experiences.

Read WHAT IS SKIP-GEN TRAVEL AND WHY IS IT TRENDING?

ElderTreks is an adventure travel company dedicated to offering extraordinary and specialized trips for people over 50. As a pioneer in senior adventure travel, ElderTreks focuses on providing small group tours to off-the-beaten-path and exotic destinations worldwide.

Their itineraries are designed to offer unique cultural encounters, wildlife experiences, and active adventures tailored to the interests and physical abilities of older adults. With a strong emphasis on cultural immersion and sustainable travel, ElderTreks provides an enriching and safe environment for mature travelers to explore the world, form lasting connections, and create treasured memories.

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT)

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) is a travel company specializing in small-group adventures for seasoned travelers seeking immersive and active experiences.

With a focus on exploring lesser-known destinations worldwide, OAT offers journeys designed to connect participants with local cultures, traditions, and people. Their itineraries often include off-the-beaten-path destinations and unique activities, allowing travelers to engage deeply with the places they visit.

OAT emphasizes sustainable and responsible travel, striving to benefit local communities and the environment. Their experienced trip leaders and small group settings foster camaraderie among travelers, creating a sense of community and a shared passion for discovery and cultural understanding.

Saga Holidays

Saga Holidays is a British travel company that specializes in providing vacations and tours exclusively for people aged 50 and over. With over 65 years of experience, Saga Holidays offers a wide range of holiday options, including escorted tours, ocean and river cruises, stays at handpicked hotels, and more.

Their itineraries cover various destinations, catering to different interests and preferences, from cultural explorations to leisurely beach vacations.

Saga Holidays aims to provide exceptional service and unforgettable experiences tailored to the needs and desires of mature travelers, ensuring they can explore the world with like-minded peers in a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

Walking the World

Walking the World, a close-knit team of avid explorers traverses the globe in search of life-enriching adventures, and their delight lies in crafting remarkable walking journeys.

Their tailored experiences intertwine active travel, cultural immersion, and savoring delectable global cuisines. Throughout these expeditions, trekkers encounter untold beauty, foster newfound friendships, rekindle the primal joy and wonder within, and rejuvenate muscles eager for the challenge.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a renowned adventure travel company that offers small group tours to various destinations worldwide. With a commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, G Adventures focuses on providing authentic and immersive travel experiences.

Their tours cater to a wide range of interests and ages, including adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. Led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides, G Adventures tours allow travelers to connect with local communities and support local economies.

Whether it’s trekking through remote landscapes, experiencing unique cultures, or engaging in meaningful wildlife encounters, G Adventures is dedicated to creating unforgettable and socially responsible travel experiences for all.

Read 10 SAFEST CITIES TO TRAVEL AS A WOMAN OVER 50 .

Also read 5 SURPRISING PLACES TO TRAVEL IN 2023 FOR SOLO WOMEN OVER 60 .

Remember to research each travel group carefully, read reviews, and consider your specific travel preferences and needs before choosing the best one for you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you used senior travel groups in the past? Will you be booking your next travel adventure with a travel group? Tell us about it in the comments below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

OAT will not work with your travel agent. You have to make all your own bookings and if there is a problem, you most likely will call and get a different person every time.

I would NOT recommend G Adventures. They cater to a younger crowd, often times the accommodations are like hostels and may be uncomfortable for older people. Also, if one has limited mobility, lots of walking and vehicles driving long distances are not adequate for older people.

Tags Travel Tips and Plans

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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20 Outdoor Activities for Seniors: Fun & Safe Outings

Last Updated: March 6, 2023

Megan Marrs

We all know that spending time outdoors is beneficial for our physical and mental health . For seniors, there are even more benefits. 

Yet, it’s vital to consider an elderly individual’s physical capabilities for organizing a fun and safe trip. We’ll be looking at 20 of the best outdoor activities for seniors.

Why Should Seniors Engage in Outings?

Many seniors tend to stay indoors due to their physical limitations or lifestyle changes. Getting out and about with a wheelchair can seem like a tremendous burden, and a lack of a regular job erases any essential need to get outside regularily.

However, remaining at home – often alone – can contribute to ailing health, depression, and memory loss. 

According to the Elder Care Alliance , regular time outdoors increases seniors’ level of vitamin D , which helps eliminate joint pain, inflammation, and diabetes. Plus, being around other people can significantly improve their mental well-being . Some other benefits include:

• Improved immune system
• Quicker recovery time from an illness
• Reduced stress
• Safe exercise
• Companionship

Elderly Outing Tips & Tricks

As you consider enjoying the great outdoors yourself or with a senior friend, assess the level of difficulty the outing poses. Take the time to plan a stress-free trip that you can both handle physically . You want to give them a joyous and fun time, not a new cause of frustration.

Research Ahead

The last thing you want is to plan an exciting outing and then find that the destination is undesirable and be forced to turn around! Avoid areas that are not handicap accessible or have dangerous, uneven ground. Make sure you do some online research beforehand. You can do this by:

• Reading site location reviews on Google Maps
• Reading reviews on Yelp
• Calling the business and asking for more information
• Visiting the location yourself beforehand

If you’re not sure, you can call the business or visit yourself to scope out the area.

Pack a “Go Bag”

Old age, unfortunately, comes with physical decline. Many seniors have important medications, an oxygen tank, or hearing aids that they need to carry. Before you leave, pack a “go bag” for yourself or the senior you’re taking .

Include any medicine or aids that you may need while spending time outdoors. Also pack any other essentials an elderly individual might need, such as:

• Seating pad / pillow
• A comfy lap blanket
• Tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer

Dress Appropriately

The weather can be fickle, so make sure you check the forecast before you leave. If there is a chance the weather might cool down or even rain, pack a sweater and umbrella in the senior’s “go bag.” Also, make sure they have the right shoes and support stockings if they plan to go walking. 

Avoid Memory Tests

When you see friends or acquaintances, don’t pressure a senior for names or stories . When you ask a senior if they remember someone, it can be incredibly embarrassing if they can’t recall that person’s name or how they previously met. 

Instead, introduce them again. If the senior remembers the person, they may say so, but there is no pressure for them to remember. 

Outdoor Activities for Seniors

Now that you know how to prepare for an outdoor activity with seniors, let’s look at some of the best places to go. As you review the following list, remember the senior’s physical and mental capabilities. Be sure to choose a fun, non-strenuous activity for your elderly friend or relative.

1. Shopping Trip at the Mall

Malls are a fantastic place to spend a quiet afternoon. The broad, flat surfaces allow for easy walking and wheelchair access . Plus, there are plenty of shopping and eating options for you to choose from if you wish.

Even so, there is no need to buy anything. Taking a walk around the mall and window shopping can be quite enjoyable. Malls typically have plenty of benches where you or an older adult can rest if they need to. 

While indoor malls are likely the most common, there are also plenty of outdoor malls that seniors who prefer to stay outdoors can navigate with ease.

2. Rec Center Fitness Class

For some healthy exercise, take a senior to an outdoor fitness class. There are usually several options for older people looking to get out and moving.

A great, simple choice is water aerobics, as it makes it easier to move and stretch. But there are other options too — many yoga classes are organized outdoors, as are tai chi classes (one of the best martial arts for seniors ).

Don’t forget to do your research beforehand! Ask about the available classes’ difficulty level . Choose an exercise class that will be the safest and most appropriate option for the senior. 

Not into fitness? There are plenty of other recreational activities for seniors to try out, so try experimenting!

3. Visit a Community Garden

While being outside is always lovely, there is something special about spending time in nature. The smell of the flowers and the sound of birds helps calm a person’s mind. 

Taking a senior to the local community garden can help brighten their mood and they may be able to help with planting or even get their own community plot to tend to regularly. Just be aware of any uneven ground or cracked sidewalks that could cause an elderly individual to trip and fall.

4. Walk Through a Local Park

Parks and botanical gardens can be a breath of fresh air – literally! The wide-open fields and picturesque paths are good for the soul.

If you would like to go walking and enjoy the nice weather, check out the trails before going. Look for the flattest trail options that will be easy to navigate. Any bumps or hills could be a point of frustration or a potential hazard for an older individual. 

If long walks aren’t an option, other park activities can include sitting by the pond, feeding the ducks, and reveling in nature’s beauty on a nearby park bench. 

5. Have a Picnic

Activities for seniors don’t need to include lots of walking. If you would like to take them to the park and rest, plan a picnic! Instead of sitting on the ground, bring comfortable folding chairs, a folding table, and/or cushions for the park benches. 

Make sure you ask your company about any dietary restrictions so that you can provide safe, delicious food. Extra blankets and pillows are also a good idea for a more comfortable setting.

6. Bird Watching

If you want to avoid uneven ground and walkways, try bird watching. Take an elder adult to a park, garden, or just the side of the road and observe nature with them. If the senior uses a wheelchair and struggles with transportation, you can even stay in the car and enjoy the birds from that vantage point.

A beginner bird watcher just need a proper field guide (we suggest National Geographic’s Birds of North America ) and a set of binoculars (the Celestron is a budget-friendly option for beginners). There are also great smartphone apps (such as Audobon and Merlin ) where fellow birders can share information on the best bird-watching spots locally near you. There are many avid older birders, so birding can prove to be a good socializing activity as well once you’ve discovered the regular, most popular birding spots and continue to bump into fellow neighborhood birders!

7. Trip to the Zoo

While the zoo may seem like an attraction mainly for children, it can be incredibly enjoyable for adults and seniors as well. As you walk around and observe the animals, engage the senior in conversation – there’s plenty to talk about when observing such unique wildlife! You could even ask them about when they went to the zoo as a child and any other precious memories they have. Plus, zoos tend to be composed of flat surfaces that are easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller. Petting zoos also offer an option for interactive engagement, and the tactile experience of petting soft, furry animals can be fun and relaxing for older seniors.

8. Apple or Berry Picking

If you are looking for unique activities for seniors, try visiting your local orchard! Picking apples and berries requires some physical activity, but it’s usually fairly limited. There are also usually hayrides to give your feet a break. During the fall, pumpkin patches are also a fantastic u-pick choice. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the terrain to see if your senior friend (or you) could easily walk around.  Some orchards are more hilly than others.

U-Pick orchards also tend to be frequented by young families, and may elderly individuals may enjoy watching kids play and run about.

9. Visit an Animal Shelter

Like the positive effect of the sun, spending time with furry animals can reduce stress and depression . If a senior loves cats and dogs, ask the local shelter if there are gentle animals that they could interact with for a while. The animals will love being out of their crates, and the seniors will enjoy cuddles and a possible walk. 

10. Farmer’s Market

A farmer’s market offers many colors, tastes, and smells for a senior to enjoy. Even if you don’t need to buy anything, experiencing the market’s vividness can be exhilarating. 

11. Craft Show

Like the farmer’s market, a craft show is a fun activity that will provide light exercise and plenty to observe for any senior. Plus, looking at all the beautiful handmade objects may inspire older adults to go home and try their hand at some of their own crafts! 

12. Eat Out at an Outdoor Restaurant

Great outings for seniors can be as simple as inviting them to their favorite outdoor restaurant. Still, make sure that the business is accommodating for seniors. 

Research the restaurant’s wheelchair accessibility and the style of seating . If all outdoor tables have wooden or iron chairs, you may need to look for a restaurant with more padded seating. You could also pack cushions in the “go bag” if necessary. Also, be ready to help the senior review the menu and find an option that works with their diet. 

13. Mini-Golf

For a more physical senior outing, take the whole family to play mini-golf with grandma or grandpa. This trip is a great way to get in a little exercise and spend time with the entire family. 

Plus, if your senior friend or relative used to love golf, this is the perfect way for them to practice their skills without so much rigorous activity. Mini golf doesn’t require too much energy or stamina, making it a great alternative to a full round of traditional gold. 

14. Fishing

Another slightly physical activity for seniors is fishing. While they’ll likely spend most of the time sitting, fishing still requires dexterity and casting a line. This peaceful activity is not too strenuous and can be an excellent way for a senior to clear their mind while being in nature. 

15. Boat Ride

If a senior loves water but isn’t up to fishing, a short boat ride could be an excellent compromise. Take them out on a calm lake or pond and talk about their life while enjoying the beautiful scenery. 

Boats can vary in how handicap-friendly they are. Opt for larger, flat-style boats, and be sure to call ahead to ask about the boat’s handicap access options and how rough the waters get on a normal trip.

16. Outdoor Sculpture Park

Sculpture gardens offer quiet, tranquil spaces where a senior can walk around, experience nature, and enjoy the art. Sculpture gardens are especially intriguing for elderly individuals who have a love of the arts.

Be sure to do some light research regarding the terrain (although many sculpture gardens tend to be in fairly flat locations) and try to get some information on the various sculptures’ meaning or artist statements to make the trip even more interesting!

17. Drive-in Movie

One outdoor activity for seniors that requires no strenuous movement is a drive-in movie. Plus, the environment may be reminiscent of their younger days . Don’t forget to pack a sweater, blanket, and plenty of snacks that coincide with the senior’s dietary restrictions. 

Who doesn’t love an exciting game of Bingo? Pack up some seat cushions and join your senior friend at your local Bingo night. The interaction with friends will help counteract any feelings of loneliness. 

19. Church Activities

Many seniors take part in their church’s activities and enjoy friendly fellowship. If they have trouble getting there on their own, accompany them with the handy “go bag.” Getting out and seeing their friends can significantly improve a senior’s health . 

Many churches offer a variety of outdoor and indoor activities, such as knitting, painting, outdoor potlucks, etc.

20. Outdoor Music Performances

Music is a significant part of many people’s lives, so why not take a senior to an outdoor concert? Look for music that they would enjoy, like big band groups, and pack comfy chairs and blankets for the big night. 

Fall Outdoor Activities for Senior During COVID

Which one of these outdoor activities for seniors is your favorite? If you have gone on an outing with a senior, please tell us about it in the comments below !

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4 thoughts on “20 Outdoor Activities for Seniors: Fun & Safe Outings”

I found this very helpful, and there is a lot more than i thought.

Should include shuffleboard as an outdoor activity that requires minimal exercise, socializing, competition and just plain FUN!!

Hi My name is gabriel Raukura Im a New Zealand Maori im 67years old im looking for group outings and trips I like Horse riding trout fishing and deepsea fishing and historical trips seeings sites like ned kelly at glenowns shopping driving along the waterfront and museums melbourne art centre dandynong market victoria market im living in agecare village in coburg and not on NDIS thats why im looking for group trips and outings

Hello My name is Rosemarie Choate & my Husband Sean We are both 63 and originally from California We are looking for a place to join so we can be able to get out about instead of staying home all of the time We do have various interest mine Is Church & crafts and Sean is grading and would love to go fishing can you please tell us more about your program We are both disabled Thank yp8

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Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this tour. Fly into Lukla and...

Egypt Adventure

8 days from 987.

Visit Egypt and adventure along the River Nile through the land of the pharaohs, from...

Explore Jordan

8 days from 1223.

Travel to Jordan and tour Amman, Madaba and the inspiring desert landscape of Wadi Rum....

Classic Rajasthan

15 days from 1249.

Travel to India and visit the Rajasthan region. Tour from Delhi to Pushkar through...

Guatemala to Belize

10 days from 1275.

Wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, float along the waters of the Rio Dulce, and...

India's Golden Triangle

8 days from 792.

Take an action-packed eight-day tour through the essential sights and bites of India’s...

South Korea Highlights

9 days from 2684.

Take a dive into all that South Korea has to offer, from Seoul to Sokcho, Andong and...

Best of Italy

14 days from 3438.

Immerse yourself in classic culture, history and incredible sights on this Best of...

Cambodian Traveller

9 days from 874.

Travel from Vietnam to Thailand on a South East Asian adventure that explores Cambodia...

North Morocco Adventure

8 days from 732.

This tour of North Morocco from Casablanca to Marrakech will capture your heart....

Inca Trail Express from Lima

8 days from 1328.

Travel to Peru and retrace the steps of the Inca. Follow traditions from Lima to Cusco,...

Classic Hikes of Patagonia

15 days from 8455.

Embark on all the classic hikes of Patagonia – including the Torres del Paine base hike...

Thailand & Laos Adventure

13 days from 1568.

Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane on a tour through Thailand and Laos. Visit Thailand's...

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

13 days from 4637.

Discover Japanese culture on this 13-day tour. Travel with a local from Tokyo to Kyoto...

Croatia Sailing Adventure: Dubrovnik to Split

8 days from 1713.

Explore Croatia's beautiful Adriatic coast on this aquatic adventure from Dubrovnik to...

Cycle Vietnam

15 days from 2003.

Jump in the saddle for a two-wheeled adventure tour of Vietnam. Take in cultural...

Morocco Encompassed

17 days from 1632.

Explore Morocco on this in-depth tour with Intrepid. Spend 17 days exploring Marrakech,...

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

12 days from 2232.

Travel from the heights of the Andes to the exotic Amazon rainforest on this best of...

South Korea Real Food Adventure

8 days from 3092.

Slurp, crunch and spoon your way into the heart of South Korean cuisine, snacking at...

Turkey Highlights

8 days from 1480.

See the highlights of Turkey on this eight-day adventure. Start in Istanbul and visit...

Costa Rica Experience

9 days from 1476.

Encounter the natural beauty of Costa Rica, from La Fortuna’s volcano and Monteverde’s...

South Morocco Discovery

10 days from 743.

Discover Morocco's southern highlights on this well paced adventure including Marrakech...

Best of Galapagos

10 days from 3239.

Discover amazing wildlife and natural beauty in the Galapagos Islands. Snorkel on Isla...

China Highlights

8 days from 1571.

Take a trip through epic China and see the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall,...

Central Asia: Five Stans Express

24 days from 6675.

Join a 24-day adventure through Central Asia from Ashgabat, to Tashkent, to Bishkek and...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 3542.

Explore East Africa, like Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park...

Discover Egypt & Jordan

15 days from 2696.

Take an adventure holiday through Egypt and Jordan. Visit Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza,...

Croatia & Slovenia

8 days from 1705.

Travel from scenic Split to beautiful Bled. Explore the lush green forests of Plitvice,...

Explore Colombia

10 days from 2145.

Travel to Colombia on a ten-day Intrepid. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Cartagena...

The Maritimes: Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick

6 days from 2336.

Experience the seaside charm of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick on this 6-day...

Sabah Adventure

11 days from 2402.

Journey to Borneo’s Sabah through the rich wilderness of Maylasia. Climb Mt Kinabalu,...

Balkan Adventure

15 days from 2567.

Travel across historic Eastern Europe from Hungary to Croatia. Visit cultural sights...

Western USA National Parks Loop

5 days from 1967.

Set off on a five-day adventure through some of the USA’s most epic scenery, including...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2518.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on an adventure that visits...

Scenic Vietnam

15 days from 1496.

Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on this Vietnam adventure. Trek in the quiet...

Best of Turkey

15 days from 1984.

From Istanbul to Ephesus, Pamukkale to the coast, and Cappadocia to the Anatolian...

Best of Central Europe

15 days from 2643.

Get the low-down on Central Europe, travelling through the best of Austria, Slovakia,...

Madagascar Adventure

14 days from 3629.

Embark on a wildlife-filled adventure through Madagascar’s jungles and reserves,...

Central Asia Explorer

17 days from 3770.

Soak up Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on this 17-day tour that begins in Bishkek and visits...

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

10 days from 1942.

See the best of the Cyclades on this 10-day Greece sailing adventure. From Athens to...

Explore Spain & Portugal

15 days from 3902.

Travel to Spain and Portugal, experiencing their stories and beauty, on a locally...

Land of Belize

8 days from 1636.

Dive into Belize’s natural and cultural wonders on this slow-paced adventure through...

Classic Peru

9 days from 2399.

Visit South America and travel to Peru. Visit Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca, tour the...

Annapurna Circuit Trek

15 days from 1600.

Go trekking in Nepal on an adventure that takes you around the Annapurna Circuit. From...

Montenegro Sailing Adventure from Dubrovnik

8 days from 1476.

Sail into the sublime waters of Montenegro, departing from Dubrovnik and exploring...

Our Basix tours 

Hiking in the canadian rockies, 8 days from 2376.

Hike the Canadian Rockies, exploring Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Emerald Glacier...

Maya Encounter

17 days from 1701.

Find authentic adventure on this experience through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala....

Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

4 days from 885.

Discover the history, culture and incredible landscapes of Australia’s Red Centre on a...

Okavango Experience

10 days from 1778.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3315.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Canadian Rockies

15 days from 2655.

Discover the Canadian Rockies on this 15-day adventure tour with Intrepid that hits...

Uluru & Kings Canyon Express

4 days from 732, mexico unplugged, 15 days from 1448.

The incredible cultures and colours of Mexico await on this 15-day adventure through...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4208.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this overland adventure including a...

Explore Egypt

15 days from 1317.

Explore Egypt with a trip to Cairo, the Nile, Aswan, Luxor and Alexandria. Pyramids,...

Highlights of Italy

8 days from 1376.

See the best of Italy – Venice, La Spezia, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome – in eight...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2903.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1492.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an adventure from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha. Visit the...

Central American Journey

17 days from 1543.

Travel from Guatemala to Costa Rica, through gorgeous Monteverde, La Fortuna, Leon,...

Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

22 days from 3300.

Explore Jordan and Egypt with a trip to Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Cairo, the Nile, Aswan,...

Indian Getaway

11 days from 700.

Get the most out of 11 days in India on this trip exploring the best of Delhi, Varanasi...

Iceland Express

5 days from 1155.

Tour green Iceland on a five-day trip visiting Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, Vik,...

Japan Express

9 days from 1714.

See Japan in nine days on a trip visiting Tokyo, Nikko and Kyoto. Say konnichiwa to...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Explorer

4 days from 816.

Tour the best bits of Australia’s Top End, exploring Kakadu National Park, Litchfield...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2695.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

Patagonia: Torres del Paine Classic W Trek

6 days from 3050.

Hike the W Trek in Chilean Patagonia and discover the wild beauty of Torres del Paine...

Costa Rica & Panama Discovery

12 days from 1283.

Hit San Jose, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo, Bocas del Toro, Boquete and Panama City on this...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3900.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 2176.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1422.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

North China Getaway

12 days from 1101.

Discover China’s northern hotspots with Intrepid on a 12-day trip to Beijing, the Great...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 6980.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Essential South Korea

9 days from 1440.

Take a journey through South Korea, starting in Seoul and heading to Jeonju, Wanju,...

Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil

10 days from 2510.

Travel from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro on a ten-day trip, including Iguazu Falls...

North India Revealed

22 days from 1013.

See the essentials of India’s north on a 22-day trip through Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur,...

Discover Central Europe

8 days from 1249.

See iconic European sites in gorgeous cities like Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Bled and...

Berlin to Budapest

8 days from 1336.

Journey through eastern Europe, visiting lively cities including Berlin, Prague,...

One Week In Costa Rica

8 days from 646.

Head to the Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica with a fun-filled adventure to San Jose,...

Turkey Explored

18 days from 1784.

Go deeper than Derinkuyu on an 18-day Turkey trip beginning and ending in Istanbul,...

Jordan & Egypt Express

9 days from 1645.

Follow in the footsteps of prophets on an adventure tour through Jordan and Egypt....

Simply Sri Lanka

8 days from 657.

Discover idyllic Sri Lanka from Negombo to Colombo on this eight-day Lonely Planet...

Barcelona to Paris

8 days from 2102.

Travel from Barcelona to Paris, stopping in at medieval towns, making your way through...

Best of Brazil

8 days from 990.

Experience Brazil’s coast on an eight-day adventure. From Rio to Ilha Grande, see jaw...

Galapagos Discovery

9 days from 2310.

See the Galapagos Islands on an eight-day adventure including Isla Isabela, Isla Santa...

Kruger, Coast & Cape

22 days from 2993.

Embark on a 22 day Southern African odyssey through wildlife-rich game parks, idyllic...

Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route

8 days from 2918.

Conquer Mt Kilimanjaro on the picturesque Marangu Route, hiking with porters on an...

Mount Toubkal Trek

7 days from 533.

Trek through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains exploring Aroumd and Imlil and then climb...

Tanzania Family Safari

8 days from 2160.

Experience the people, culture and wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania on a small group...

Mount Toubkal Winter Trek

7 days from 915.

Set off on a seven-day adventure through the Atlas Mountains, joining an expert guide...

Central American Adventure

33 days from 3515.

Tour jungle ruins and Caribbean coastline on a 33-day adventure to Mexico, Belize,...

Galapagos Experience

7 days from 1330.

As far as face-to-face wildlife encounters go, the Galapagos wildlife experience rivals...

Essential Italy

10 days from 1774.

Visit Venice, Verona, Parma, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence and Rome with like-minded 18...

Kilimanjaro: Machame Route

9 days from 3319.

Travel to Tanzania on a nine-day trip taking in Kilimanjaro along the Machame Route....

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2992.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Turkey Uncovered

14 days from 1403.

Discover the best of Turkey on a 14-day trip exploring Istanbul, Gallipoli, Fethiye,...

Amazing Central America

28 days from 2831.

Spend 28 days visiting Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and...

Paris to Berlin

8 days from 2202.

Explore Western Europe from Paris to Berlin, visiting fairytale towns and castles in...

Peru Essentials

21 days from 2943.

See Peru in-depth on a trip from Lima to La Paz. Trek the Inca Trail and marvel at...

Cambodia Adventure

12 days from 722.

Hit Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City then take a trip through Cambodia, visiting Angkor Wat...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

4 days from 960.

Set out on a camping safari through captivating Kakadu National Park. Experience the...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1819.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 4469.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Vietnam Discovery

15 days from 915.

Discover Vietnam’s east coast on this 15-day tour, uncovering the hidden delights of...

Vanuatu Expedition

8 days from 2955.

Embark on an expedition to the beautiful islands of Vanuatu where you can trek to the...

Delhi to Goa

15 days from 1105.

Discover India in all its glory on this 15-day spice-filled adventure from Delhi...

Recent tour reviews

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip as a senior.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 policy

Who are Intrepid travelers?

Intrepid adventures are for travelers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or are aged 18 or 70, there is an Intrepid adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Intrepid adventure has a physical and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you. No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Even on our camping adventures no previous experience is required; our tents are easy to set up, even for first-time campers. 

Are there age restrictions on your trips?

For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children can join us on our Family trips and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over. 

How many people will be on my trip?

Good things come in small packages, which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people, though our group sizes are on average 10 people. Our Overland trips are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travelers. Group sizes are displayed on each trip’s overview page on our website. 

I’m traveling alone – is that OK?

This is the beauty of the Intrepid style of travel: many of our travelers join because they are traveling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.

Learn more about solo travel

I have a disability – can I join an Intrepid trip?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognizing that on many trips you will be required to carry your own bags and use public transport. 

Where we can we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travelers – such as booking ground floor accommodation, or having our leaders communicate important directions in writing as well as verbally. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs. If joining a group trip is not practical we may be able to provide you with a private departure. Please contact our sales team for further information on any of our itineraries. 

Learn more about accessible travel with Intrepid

Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips if you’re traveling internationally. Minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number – it’s really important there are no barriers to getting emergency assistance for you. 

Will I have my own room?

It's your call. Rooming on our trips is organized on a twin-share basis, but most of our trips also have the option to pay an extra fee for your own room. Just let us know at the time of booking and we'll arrange it for you. 

For twin-share rooms, we pair up solo travelers with another traveler of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what's indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. 

On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis. In those instances it will clearly be stated in your Essential Trip Information. 

How does group time work?

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). Depending on how you're feeling, you may want to have some downtime, ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you. 

What makes a small group tour better than a coach tour?

The main difference between a small group tour and a coach tour is the size of the group; our tours have 10 travelers each (on average) while coaches can hold up to 60 people. This means that you'll never have to vie for your leader's attention on a small group tour because you'll automatically have it.

Learn more about the differences between a small group tour and a coach tour

Read more about traveling with Intrepid

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California Tours for Seniors

Explore California with other Seniors. These 74 tours include popular destinations like Yosemite National Park and San Francisco.

74 trips for 'over 50s' in California with 870 reviews

• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

San Francisco & Yosemite Express 3D/2N (From Los Angeles)

"The San Francisco/Yosemite tour was awesome. It exceeded my expectations." Ritika, traveled in March 2019

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

"Great itinerary and guide." Hitesh, traveled in May 2023

• In-depth Cultural

Northern California (8 Days)

"It was everything I hoped it would be and more. Very enjoyable and fun." Stacey, traveled in August 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Golden West Adventure

"Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Hell yeah! If I were to decide on the best trip I ever had, it would be this one." Adam, traveled in August 2017

Vegas to San Fran

4 Day Death Valley Yosemite San Francisco from Las Vegas Lodging

"Private Tour the way to go!!!!!!. Marie had everything planed out we did as much as we wanted to do." Gus, traveled in August 2020

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

La Paz - Active

4 Day Death Valley Yosemite San Francisco Camping

"Yosemite was a dream! The campgrounds were great and close to the parks." Kasey, traveled in April 2024

Las Vegas to San Fran: Parks, Canyons, Valleys

"It was a very fun trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas, I got to visit 4 National Parks and the opportunity to know people from different countries." Erika, traveled in October 2016

USA Road Trip- Highway 1 and San Fran Sun

"It was super nice, great people, good organization and nice views! Absolutely recommend it!" Magdalena, traveled in July 2022

USA - California Express

USA - Wild West

Northern California's Finest

"The experience was great. We had an unforgettable experience." Bozena, traveled in May 2022

California Classics

California High Country Adventure (9 Days)

What people love about california tours for seniors.

The San Francisco/Yosemite tour was awesome. It exceeded my expectations. Our guide Dorit was really good and the itinerary was balanced covering all major spots with decent breaks in between. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who is looking for a broad west coast trip within a short span of time.

Great way to travel and meet new people! Changes were made to the itinerary due to road/trail closures but it worked out in the best way. CEO adapted meals for vegetarian travelers in the group. I would book with them again!

It was great. Tough schedule but I liked it.

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Senior Trip to California

While California is a vast state with many desirable destinations, most senior class trips are bound for the Los Angeles metropolitan area. In addition to its many attractions, LA offer special grad nights at a number of theme parks. Multiple special events may even be combined into one spectacular senior trip.

Disney Grad Nite

There’s a reason it’s called “The Happiest Place on Earth,” and these days Disneyland is for much more than just little kids.

This theme park on the outskirts of LA organizes special events for high school seniors looking for a fun and safe place to celebrate graduation.

Disneyland offers:

• Numerous roller coasters, amusement park rides and attractions
• A diverse selection of restaurants and eateries to choose from
• Iconic characters and wondrous settings to enhance your experience

The theme park often stays open later for graduation celebrations and can limit entrance to high school students only.

Six Flags Magic Mountain Grad Nite

This event is billed as the “Most Extreme Grad Nite Party on the Planet!” The celebration takes place at Magic Mountain, a theme park just north of Los Angeles, CA. Senior high graduates get exclusive access to the property, which is highlighted by thrilling roller coasters, multiple dancing zones and interactive entertainment.

Magic Mountain offers:

• Some of the most exciting roller coasters in the world
• High energy dance zones with DJs spinning
• Safeguards in place to limit access to alcohol and prevent students from leaving the park and reentering.

Six Flags Magic Mountain will stay open extended hours for graduation celebrations and LA County sheriffs are present, which increases safety for graduating seniors.

Universal Studios Hollywood Grad Bash

Another amusement park with a fantastic grad night event is Universal Studios Hollywood. A senior trip to California would not be complete without participating in this all-out celebration.

Universal Studios offers:

• The world-famous Studio Tour of real film sets where Hollywood movies are filmed
• Incredible movie-themed roller coasters
• AMC’s The Walking Dead Attraction.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
• 2 DJ dance areas

The Grad Bash at Universal Studios Hollywood is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity the graduates will never forget. The theme park is only open to graduating seniors and chaperones, and great care is taken to ensure the safest and most fun event possible.

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• Client Testimonials

Our trip was filled with exciting discoveries, incredible adventures and unforgettable moments. One of the most memorable moments of our trip was our visit to the our visit to the Hilo Tsunami Museum. This museum presents the history of history of tsunamis in Hawaii and the efforts made to reduce the risk to the population. We were amazed by the interactive exhibits, the presentation by the of the tsunami geologist and the poignant testimonies of survivors. testimonies of survivors. We kayaked along the coast, swam in the pool, we paddled in the ocean. The students were incredibly exemplary, showing curiosity, … --Emmanuelle LFSF • Lycée Français de San Francisco, Big Island, March 2023

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Senior Trips

Senior trips, creating the final memory that lasts.

Moving on from high school is a major life milestone, and students are always hoping to cap it off with a bang. Leaving behind the last four years of your life can be tough, for students and teachers alike. With new paths, new futures, and new destinations in store for everyone involved, it only makes sense to send your students off with a proper farewell.

Try to remember your favorite memories from your high school and university days. What made those memories better than most? What made them special, unforgettable, and unique?

Give your students a memory that will last a lifetime with a  senior trip they’ll never forget . With proper planning and execution, you can turn any  senior trip  into one your students will be talking about forever.

Becoming More Than Just Students

Seniors will be looking to spend every last moment of their high school life taking it all in. Even the most cynical of the bunch will see that this chapter of their life is over, and use their remaining time as an opportunity to make the most of their friendships. But these friendships need to grow beyond their student lives.

We plan our senior trips   with that in mind—cementing the bonds between students and peers. We give your community the environment to truly let loose and see each other in a different light: not just as students, but as buddies, colleagues, and friends.

Something Different for Everyone

A senior trip has to be more than just a trip to the beach or a party before graduation. There needs to be the elements that transform it from just a regular day out of school to an event that your peers will never forget.

At Peak Performance, we make sure to find that right formula that gets the most out of your students and peers. We assess your needs and craft the perfect grad trip that will suit your community in the best way possible. We will add those extra little touches that will truly make this an experience worth having.

The Benefits of Senior Trips

Capping off high school the right way is vital towards making sure your students have the best possible leap to the next chapter of their lives. Remember: your students are young and impressionable, and sending them off the right way and making sure they remember high school with positive memories is your final responsibility. Students who struggle with leaving high school might deal with some of the following issues:

• Uncertainty of their future
• Unwillingness to move forward and make the next step
• Bitterness or resentment due to problems with peers
• Lack of desire to move into a new community
• Lack of strong adult role models in academic positions

How to Plan an Awesome Senior Trip

Need some help figuring out your next senior trip here’s a short guide for your convenience., pick your place (and have a back up).

First comes the location. You might already have a general idea of what you want to experience or where you want to go, but if not, no problem. Have a vote amongst your students—get their input on what trip destinations they want to see, where they want to go, and what they want to do. While the most popular choice might not always be the best one, it’s important that your seniors know that their input is important to you. After all, this is their trip!

Picking a place also means considering the size of your group, the budget, and how much time you actually have. And even if you think you’ve thought of the perfect  senior trips destination , always make sure to have a Plan B in your back pocket.

Set Your Details

You know your place, now you need to think about what you need to do to make this happen. This includes :

• Date of travel
• Transportation method
• Number of participants

Your dates and your transportation methods need to be decided, pronto. Will you be taking a plane? A bus? A train? Are your travel dates good for your location, or will you end up swamped in a series of tourist traps? Do you know how many people will be going on the trip, and what exactly you will be doing to make sure everyone has the best time of their lives? Plan, but don’t over-plan. You want to strike that perfect balance between well planned and organic.

You know your desired location and you have a preliminary set of details planned and ready. Great! Now it’s time to hand it over to the professionals at Peak Performance Tours. Call our tour coordinators and we will go over all your details with a magnifying glass. It’s our job to make sure that every piece fits perfectly—from your budget to the desired activities to the location itself.

If something is off, we can do everything from slight tweaks to entire overhauls of your planned trip. Either way, our goal will be the same as yours: to get the best possible student travel for your kids.

The Peak Performance Process: How We Plan Awesome Senior Trips That Work

Figuring out the client.

The most important part of all this is you. Our first step involves assessing your senior class’ needs and figuring out the best way to get the most out of this trip. Our tour coordinators will work directly with your school representatives and help you figure out all the major details: from your budget parameters to your desired activities and senior trip ideas. We make sure that all your plans are solid, back and front. The last thing you want is a little missed detail messing up the entire event.

Expanding Your Vision

We’re not just here to help you execute your plan—we’re here to help you expand your vision. We will take a look at your budget and desired activities and events and suggest to you the best possible options, getting the most experience out of your time and money. We will conduct all the research necessary to have a complete understanding and estimate of every possible option, considering the length of your graduation trip, your location, the size of your group, and your budget. Rest assured—when you leave it to professional planners, we will know how to give you a good time.

Research, Research, Research

After we’ve assessed your plan and tightened up the loose ends, we then put in the proper research to make sure everything on paper can work out the way we expect. We’ll engage with all necessary third parties, from suppliers to transportation. If anything won’t work, isn’t available, or needs to be tweaked, we will be ready to tackle it long before the big day.

Bringing it all to Life

With everything planned, we turn paper into reality. We will take care of everything, from transportation to hotel reservations to meals to any other tickets or permits you might need. This is your trip—just sit back and relax, and we’re ready to give you that 5-star experience you need to have the best trip with your friends. Why spend your  senior trips planning  and stressing out, when we can do all the heavy lifting for you?

Our Expertise, Your Fun

Your senior trip needs to be something you will never forget. Why spend weeks or months pulling your hair out over a trip that might not be as great as it could be? With Peak Performance, you can guarantee your class a trip you’ll still be talking about at class reunions for decades to come. Big, small, far, near: whatever you want, we can make it happen.

Where To Next?

Ready to start planning your senior trip? Get in touch with our team and let us know what you’ve got! Whether it’s barely a trip idea or a complete portfolio of details, we’re here to hash it out with you until it’s booked and ready to go. Peak Performance is ready to start your preparations today. Give your senior class the trip of the ages, and make sure your high school never forgets your batch.

It was great! One of the best Senior Class Trips that I have ever chaperoned!

Need help? Call our award-winning support team at +1 (800) 220 0165

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9 Best Vacation Destinations for Seniors

Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or an active getaway, these resorts offer something for everyone.

After retirement, it's time to treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation. Without time constraints, you can enjoy longer stays or slower travel as you visit multiple regions, a variety of landscapes, or national parks you've been meaning to visit. You might also appreciate the convenience of a destination resort where you can enjoy dining and most activities on site.

There are plenty of resorts designed with mature adults in mind, but if you're planning to meet up with family, choose one with facilities geared toward multigenerational groups. For many retirees, a good vacation provides a balance of outdoor pursuits, health and wellness, and pampering, so we've selected places based on these criteria. Here are nine of the best vacations for seniors in the U.S., whether you prefer a verdant mountain retreat, a nostalgic coastal escape, or a glamorous desert oasis.

Suncadia Resort, Cle Elum, Washington

Suncadia Resort

Nestled among the Cascade Mountains on the edge of Washington's Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest , this picturesque resort offers tranquil scenery, crisp mountain air, and a variety of outdoor activities. Choose The Lodge for panoramic river and mountain views or The Inn, a plush hotel with golf course views.

At Suncadia Resort , guests can choose from a plethora of activities. Play golf, go for a hike, or try archery or axe throwing. Bikes, canoes, and kayaks are available to rent as well. If you'd prefer something less strenuous, find your inner artist with an acrylic pouring class. Begin the day with guided meditation or a fitness class followed by a spa treatment. Should the grandkids arrive for a visit, there's a pool with two slides to keep them entertained. Even the family dog can tag along to this pet-friendly property.

Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Missouri

Big Cedar Lodge

This wilderness resort in Missouri's Ozark Mountains is set in 4,600 acres of natural beauty. Big Cedar Lodge consists of three styles of accommodation: rooms within the private log cabins, luxurious cottages, or glamping and cabins at Camp Long Creek.

Five golf courses and practice facilities include 19-hole Payne's Valley, nine-hole Top of the Rock, 13-hole Mountain Top, and two 18-hole courses, Buffalo Ridge and Ozarks National. Go bowling, visit the arcade, or try a high-ropes course at Fun Mountain. Fitness classes, exercise equipment, four pools, and a personal trainer are available. With a lazy river and discovery center on-site, the grandkids will love visiting too.

Lone Mountain Ranch, Big Sky, Montana

Lone Mountain Ranch

Located near Yellowstone National Park and about an hour from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Lone Mountain Ranch is set in the Montana Rockies. Stay in one of 25 historic log cabins, ranging from one to six bedrooms. The named cottages have stunning forest views and are outfitted with wood stoves, rustic furnishings, and full baths.

In true ranch style, there's horseback riding, with backcountry trails and experienced wranglers to ensure a memorable experience for riders of all ages. Hike with naturalist guides, go mountain biking, or enjoy fly fishing, no matter your skill level. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are provided if you want to explore nearby lakes. You can have an experienced guide curate an excursion to Yellowstone National Park or save on admission with a national park pass for seniors . Outdoor yoga, archery, and axe throwing are also options.

Mission Point, Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mission Point

At waterfront Mission Point , guests can stay in the Main Lodge or the Straits Lodge, which has dog-friendly options. Accommodations range from cozy rooms suitable for singles to the 1,500-square-foot Bois Blanc Suite, with ample living space, a full kitchen, and laundry facilities — ideal for longer stays.

A National Historic Landmark, Mackinac Island has a slow pace and an old-fashioned feel, partly thanks to its ban on motor vehicles. The small island can be covered on foot or in an electric wheelchair within a few hours. Relax on the resort's expansive lawn in an Adirondack chair, go on a bike ride, play tennis, or just soak in a hot tub. Guests can also book experiences like craft and culinary workshops or spa treatments at the Lakeside Spa and Salon. When you're ready to explore, stroll downtown to sample the famous local fudge, or book a horse-drawn carriage tour to be transported to another era.

Montage Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, South Carolina

Montage Palmetto Bluff

Montage Palmetto Bluff is a two-village, 20,000-acre community by the May River that encompasses a marina, a nature preserve, and much more. Accommodation options include rooms, suites, cottages, and residences with views of moss-draped oaks and picturesque marshlands. Some guests might even choose to buy a home here.

Explore the surrounding waterways by kayak or canoe, or take a boat tour and spot dolphins cruising along with you. Visit the 120-acre shooting range for practice both indoors and outdoors. Tennis, bocce, and pickleball courts are open for play, and you can book lessons to improve your skills. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along tree-lined paths. Planning a trip with family? There's special programming for young guests with games, crafts, movies, scavenger hunts, and nature walks.

Cavallo Point, Sausalito, California

Cavallo Point

A converted military post, Cavallo Point is across the Golden Gate from San Francisco in Marin County. The resort is set in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area , and offers stunning scenery, world-class dining, and a variety of activities. Guests can choose from rooms and suites in the early-20th-century officers' quarters or contemporary buildings overlooking the former fort — some with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. You can even rent an entire historic home with a private glassed-in porch.

During the day, take a guided hike, yoga class, or sunset cruise, and spend the evening around an outdoor fire pit. Splurge on a seaplane or helicopter tour to view the bay and San Francisco skyline from the sky. The resort's Healing Arts Center & Spa provides a variety of wellness treatments, while offerings at the on-site cooking school range from globe-spanning culinary classes to oyster and wine pairings.

Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

If classic luxury is the vacation style you're after, the Arizona Biltmore should be high on your list. Opened in 1929, the 39-acre estate at the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve evokes old Hollywood glamour with 705 rooms (including 100 suites, 41 cottages, 56 villas) and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced design.

The resort features restaurants, a day spa, and seven pools including one with a 65-foot waterslide. Play golf, tennis, or pickleball, or take advantage of concierge arrangements for hot-air balloon rides, stargazing, biking, hiking, and more. At Tierra Luna Spa, select from a range of curated therapies or join a yoga or aqua aerobics class. Be sure to order a Tequila Sunrise at the Wright Bar, where the cocktail was invented.

Bungalows Key Largo, Key Largo, Florida

Bungalows Key Largo

While Florida is one of the best states to retire in , that doesn't mean you can't take a vacation close to home. The Bungalows Key Largo is an all-inclusive, adults-only resort where you can take part in a variety of activities or just relax in a poolside cabana. Stay in a waterfront room or one set among the lush gardens with a soaking tub and outdoor shower. Regardless of which view you choose, enjoy this tropical oasis.

Kayak, paddleboard, and swim in the protected bay, where you might see manatees and dolphins glide by. Don your snorkel gear to float among colorful native fish. Join a beachfront yoga class or work out at the full-service Fitness Tiki Hut. If you simply want to unwind, head to the Zen Garden Spa's steam room, sauna, or outdoor treatment cabana for a soothing massage. For the perfect end to an active or relaxing day, watch the sun go down on a catamaran cruise with a frozen cocktail in hand.

Rancho Bernardo Inn, San Diego, California

Rancho Bernardo Inn

At Rancho Bernardo Inn , guest rooms, suites, and specially designed accessible rooms are set among lush gardens for a secluded feel. Private patios and balconies offer garden, spa, or golf course views. The resort's 265 acres and San Diego's perfect weather provide opportunities for alfresco dining and outdoor activities.

Play golf at the pristine 18-hole course, relax by the pool, or have fun with lawn games like cornhole, croquet, or oversized chess. Tour the Chef's Garden to see the source of the restaurants' fresh ingredients or get some ideas for your home garden. Spend some time at the spa, take a sunset yoga class, or arrange a private session. You can interact with a trained bird of prey with a private falconry encounter. If young ones visit, they'll love the “dive-in movies” at the family pool, the well-equipped game room, and San Diego's nearby attractions.

Related Articles

Engaging Activity Ideas for Senior Citizens – Fun & Healthy Lifestyle

Welcome to our guide on engaging activity ideas for senior citizens ! It’s important for seniors to stay active and enjoy a fun and healthy lifestyle. In this article, we will explore a variety of activities that promote physical, mental, and social well-being for senior citizens. Whether you’re a senior looking for new hobbies or a caregiver searching for engaging ideas, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• Engaging activities enhance the health and happiness of senior citizens.
• Senior living communities offer a wide range of options for staying active and connected.
• Hiking, group exercise classes , Wii sports, gardening, book clubs, and art classes are some popular activity ideas.
• Field trips, jewelry-making, and enjoying live music are also great choices for seniors.
• Engaging in activities promotes physical, mental, and social well-being for seniors.

Hiking and Walking Clubs

Hiking and walking clubs provide a great opportunity for seniors to stay active outdoors and connect with nature. Many senior living communities arrange transportation for club members to walk in nearby parks or on walking paths. Walking is a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health and overall well-being. It also offers the opportunity to socialize and make new friends.

Benefits of Hiking and Walking Clubs:

• Improves cardiovascular health
• Boosts overall well-being
• Provides an opportunity to connect with nature
• Offers a chance to socialize and make new friends

Joining a hiking or walking club not only provides physical exercise but also allows seniors to enjoy the beauty of nature and experience a sense of adventure. These clubs often organize group hikes or walks in scenic locations, providing an opportunity for seniors to explore new trails and take in breathtaking views. Additionally, participating in these clubs helps seniors stay motivated and accountable for their fitness goals, as they can rely on the support and camaraderie of fellow members.

“Walking is the best possible exercise. Habituate yourself to walk very far.” – Thomas Jefferson

By joining a hiking or walking club, seniors can enjoy the benefits of exercise while immersing themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. It is a social and engaging activity that promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and a sense of adventure.

Group Exercise Classes

Group exercise classes are an excellent way for seniors to stay active and maintain their fitness levels. These classes offer a wide range of fitness routines specifically designed for seniors, catering to their unique needs and abilities. Participating in group exercise classes not only promotes physical health but also provides a social and enjoyable experience.

One popular group exercise class for seniors is yoga. Yoga improves flexibility, balance, and strength, while also promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It is a gentle yet effective form of exercise that can be adapted to accommodate various fitness levels. Another popular option is tai chi, a centuries-old practice that combines gentle movements, deep breathing, and mindfulness. Tai chi improves balance, coordination, and mental well-being.

For seniors with limited mobility, chair exercise classes are often available. These classes focus on seated exercises that target the upper body, core, and lower body muscles. Chair exercises help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion while minimizing the risk of injury. Water aerobics programs, which take place in a pool, are also an excellent option for seniors with arthritis or joint pain.

Participating in group exercise classes not only provides physical benefits but also fosters a sense of community and social connection. Seniors can meet like-minded individuals, make new friends, and provide support and motivation to each other during the classes. The group setting encourages camaraderie and creates a positive and uplifting environment for seniors to exercise in.

Benefits of Group Exercise Classes for Seniors:

• Promote physical health and fitness
• Improve flexibility, balance, and strength
• Reduce stress and promote relaxation
• Offer social interaction and a sense of community
• Provide motivation, support, and accountability
• Adaptable to various fitness levels and abilities

Tips for Finding and Participating in Group Exercise Classes:

• Check with local community centers, senior centers, and fitness facilities for class offerings.
• Ask about any special senior discounts or introductory offers.
• Speak with the instructor to ensure the class is suitable for your fitness level and any specific needs or concerns.
• Wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes for optimal movement.
• Bring a water bottle and towel for hydration and to stay cool during the class.
• Listen to your body and modify exercises as needed to prevent injury.
• Have fun, enjoy the class, and celebrate your progress!

Table: Comparison of Group Exercise Classes

Wii sports: a fun and interactive activity for seniors.

When it comes to staying active and having fun, Wii Sports is a game changer for seniors. This interactive console game offers a wide range of sports activities that can be enjoyed from the comfort of home. Whether they’re swinging a virtual golf club, serving a tennis ball, or bowling a strike, seniors can engage in physical activity while having a great time.

Wii Sports is particularly beneficial for seniors as it provides a low-impact exercise option that is gentle on joints and muscles. It allows them to participate in sports they may have enjoyed earlier in life or even try new ones. The motion-sensing technology of the Wii console ensures that seniors can play the games by mimicking the movements of the sport, making it an enjoyable and immersive experience.

“Wii Sports is a game changer for seniors. It offers a fun and interactive way to stay active while enjoying sports activities. The motion-sensing technology allows seniors to participate in the games by mimicking the movements of the sport, making it a truly immersive experience.”

In senior living communities, Wii Sports has become a popular activity for residents. Many communities provide Wii gaming systems as part of their amenities, allowing seniors to gather and compete in friendly matches. This not only promotes physical activity but also fosters social interaction and a sense of camaraderie among the residents.

So, if you’re a senior looking for a fun and interactive way to stay active, grab a controller and give Wii Sports a try. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, this game is sure to keep you entertained and moving. Remember, it’s never too late to have fun and stay fit!

Gardening Clubs

Gardening clubs offer a wonderful opportunity for elderly individuals to engage in a fulfilling and rewarding activity that promotes physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Gardening provides numerous health benefits and allows seniors to connect with nature while enjoying the beauty of flowers and the satisfaction of growing their own vegetables.

Participating in a gardening club not only offers seniors a chance to share their knowledge and expertise with fellow gardening enthusiasts but also provides a platform for building new friendships and creating a sense of community. By working together and sharing tips and tricks, seniors can learn from one another and develop a deep sense of camaraderie.

Whether it’s planting seeds, tending to plants, or harvesting the fruits of their labor, gardening is a therapeutic activity that can help seniors relax, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It encourages physical movement, enhances fine motor skills, and promotes a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

“Gardening is the purest of human pleasures.” – Francis Bacon

Joining a gardening club is a fantastic way for seniors to stay active, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and find joy in the simple pleasures of nature. Whether it’s planting a seed, nurturing a plant to maturity, or sharing gardening stories and experiences, gardening clubs provide a supportive and nurturing environment for seniors to thrive.

Book clubs are a popular activity for seniors, providing an opportunity for them to indulge in their love for reading and engage in stimulating discussions with like-minded individuals. Joining a book club allows seniors to stay mentally sharp, explore different genres, and discover new authors. It also provides a social outlet, fostering connections and friendships with fellow book enthusiasts.

Participating in a book club offers seniors a chance to express their thoughts and perspectives on the books they read, deepening their understanding and appreciation of literature. The structured format of book club meetings encourages active listening and respectful dialogue, enhancing interpersonal communication skills.

Book clubs can be organized within senior centers or assisted living communities, providing a convenient and accessible venue for seniors to come together and share their love for reading. The camaraderie and sense of community that develop within book clubs contribute to the overall well-being of seniors, making book clubs a valuable and enriching activity for elderly individuals.

Benefits of Joining a Book Club for Seniors

• Opportunity to discuss and analyze literature
• Stimulation of cognitive abilities
• Enhancement of interpersonal communication skills
• Social connection and fostering of friendships
• Expanding knowledge and exposure to different genres and authors
• Promotion of emotional well-being

Joining a book club is a wonderful way for seniors to continue their lifelong passion for reading, engage in intellectual conversations, and forge meaningful connections with others who share their literary interests. Whether it’s a classic novel, a contemporary bestseller, or a thought-provoking non-fiction book, book clubs provide a platform for seniors to explore the world of literature and nurture their love for reading. So grab a book and join a book club today!

Life Story Exercises

Life story exercises are a wonderful activity for elderly individuals to engage in self-reflection and creative expression. By capturing their own life experiences through writing or creating a scrapbook, seniors can preserve a slice of their personal history and gain a sense of fulfillment. These exercises promote emotional well-being and provide a platform for seniors to express themselves.

Engaging in life story exercises allows seniors to reflect on their past, relive cherished memories, and gain a deeper understanding of their own journey. It offers an opportunity to pass down valuable lessons and wisdom to future generations. Whether it’s penning down their memoirs or compiling a visual narrative, the process of storytelling through life story exercises can be therapeutic and empowering for seniors.

Participating in senior center activities that involve life story exercises also fosters a sense of community and connection. Seniors can share their stories with others, listen to the experiences of their peers, and build meaningful relationships based on shared memories and experiences. This communal aspect of life story exercises provides a supportive environment where seniors can bond, learn from one another, and feel a sense of belonging.

Life story exercises allow seniors to reflect on their past, relive cherished memories, and gain a deeper understanding of their own journey.

Furthermore, life story exercises can enhance cognitive abilities by stimulating memory recall and mental agility. The process of organizing memories and structuring them into a narrative requires concentration, problem-solving, and creativity. These cognitive challenges can help seniors maintain mental sharpness and improve overall cognitive function.

Engaging in life story exercises is a meaningful way for seniors to leave a lasting legacy and make sense of their life experiences. It allows them to connect with their own past, share their stories with others, and find a sense of purpose in their later years. By participating in senior center activities centered around life story exercises, elderly individuals can enhance their emotional well-being, foster connections with their community, and continue their personal growth journey.

Example Table: Life Story Themes

Art classes for seniors: unlocking creativity and connection.

Art classes provide a wonderful opportunity for seniors to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and foster a sense of connection with others. Engaging in artistic activities has been shown to have numerous benefits for the elderly, including improved cognitive function, reduced stress levels, and enhanced emotional well-being. Whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpture, or ceramics, art classes offer a diverse range of mediums for seniors to express themselves and engage in a fulfilling hobby.

Participating in art classes within a group setting provides seniors with a supportive and encouraging environment to learn and grow. The camaraderie and social interaction among fellow artists can be an enriching experience, allowing seniors to share ideas, learn from each other, and build friendships. Art classes also offer a sense of accomplishment as seniors observe their skills improve and witness the transformation of their artistic creations.

Benefits of Art Classes for Seniors

• Enhanced cognitive function: Engaging in artistic activities stimulates the brain, helping seniors maintain mental sharpness and cognitive abilities.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Artistic expression provides a therapeutic outlet, allowing seniors to relax, unwind, and express their emotions.
• Improved fine motor skills: Art classes require precise movements, helping seniors maintain dexterity and coordination.
• Increased self-esteem: Creating art and receiving positive feedback from instructors and peers can boost self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
• Opportunity for self-expression: Art classes provide a means for seniors to express their thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences in a visual and tangible way.

Whether seniors have prior artistic experience or are trying their hand at art for the first time, art classes offer a welcoming and inclusive space for all skill levels. The focus is not on perfection, but on the joy of creating and exploring new artistic techniques. So, why not unleash your inner artist and join an art class? It’s never too late to discover the artist within and embark on a creative journey that can bring fulfillment and connection in your golden years.

Field Trips and Excursions

Field trips and excursions are a fantastic way for senior citizens to break away from their daily routines and experience new adventures. Whether it’s visiting a local museum, attending a symphony concert, or exploring a beautiful nature preserve, these outings offer seniors the opportunity to explore and enjoy new experiences. Senior living communities often organize field trips and excursions as part of their amenities, providing convenient transportation and organized activities for seniors to participate in.

These outings are not only enjoyable but also provide significant benefits for seniors’ overall well-being. They encourage physical activity and engagement with the surrounding environment, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, field trips and excursions foster a sense of community and social connection among seniors, as they have the opportunity to interact with others and build lasting friendships during these outings.

Participating in field trips and excursions can also have a positive impact on seniors’ mental health. The opportunity to learn and discover new things stimulates the mind and helps keep cognitive abilities sharp. It provides a break from daily routine, reduces stress, and improves overall mood and well-being. By engaging in these activities, seniors can create lasting memories and find immense joy in exploring the world around them.

Benefits of Field Trips and Excursions:

• Opportunity to break away from routine and experience new adventures
• Promote physical activity and engagement with the environment
• Foster a sense of community and social connection
• Stimulate the mind and keep cognitive abilities sharp
• Reduce stress and improve overall mood and well-being

Sample Table: Favorite Destinations for Field Trips

Field trips and excursions provide senior citizens with the opportunity to embark on exciting adventures, connect with others, and stimulate their minds. By exploring new destinations and engaging in new activities, seniors can enhance their overall well-being, create lasting memories, and enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle.

Jewelry-Making

Jewelry-making is a popular craft activity that provides a creative outlet for seniors. It allows them to express their artistic side while also improving fine motor skills. Seniors can create beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that they can wear or gift to others. Some seniors even sell their creations at craft fairs or online platforms, turning their hobby into a small business venture.

Participating in jewelry-making classes or joining a jewelry-making club is a great way for seniors to learn new techniques and connect with fellow craft enthusiasts. These classes and clubs offer a supportive and social environment where seniors can share ideas, showcase their creativity, and form lasting friendships. Engaging in jewelry-making activities also provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as seniors see their designs come to life.

Not only is jewelry-making an enjoyable and fulfilling activity, but it also offers therapeutic benefits for seniors. The process of working with beads, gemstones, and other materials can be calming and relaxing, reducing stress and promoting a positive mood. It can also serve as a mindfulness practice, allowing seniors to focus their attention on the present moment and cultivate a sense of mindfulness.

Jewelry-Making Supplies

Whether seniors are beginners or experienced jewelry-makers, this activity offers a world of creativity and self-expression. With a wide range of supplies available, seniors can experiment with different styles and techniques to create unique and meaningful pieces of jewelry. Jewelry-making is a fantastic way for seniors to tap into their artistic abilities, socialize with others, and enjoy a fulfilling and engaging hobby.

Engaging in a variety of activities is crucial for the overall well-being of senior citizens. From hiking and group exercise classes to gardening and book clubs, there are numerous fun activities that seniors can enjoy while staying active and socially connected. These activities promote physical health, mental sharpness, and social interaction, enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Participating in activities such as art classes, field trips, and jewelry-making also allow seniors to express their creativity and explore new interests. Whether it’s through painting, visiting museums, or crafting beautiful jewelry, seniors can find joy and fulfillment in pursuing their passions.

It is important for seniors to find activities that align with their individual interests and abilities. By engaging in activities they enjoy, seniors can make the most of their senior years, keeping their minds and bodies active and contributing to their overall happiness and well-being.

So, let the fun begin! Explore the wide range of activities available for senior citizens and discover the ones that bring you joy, foster new connections, and make every day a day filled with fun and fulfillment.

What activities are available for senior citizens in senior living communities?

Senior living communities offer a wide range of engaging activities for seniors , including hiking and walking clubs , group exercise classes, gardening clubs , book clubs, life story exercises, art classes, field trips, jewelry-making, and live music.

What are the benefits of joining a hiking or walking club?

Joining a hiking or walking club allows seniors to stay active outdoors, connect with nature, improve cardiovascular health, and socialize with others.

What types of group exercise classes are suitable for seniors?

Seniors can participate in group exercise classes such as yoga, tai chi, Feldenkrais, and chair exercises that improve flexibility, balance, and overall physical health. Water aerobics programs are also available for seniors with arthritis.

How can Wii sports benefit seniors?

Wii sports games offer a fun alternative for seniors to engage in physical activity by moving their bodies instead of traditional controllers. It allows them to stay active and have fun at the same time.

Why is gardening a great activity for seniors?

Gardening provides numerous physical and mental health benefits, allowing seniors to relax, unwind, and stay physically active. Being part of a gardening club also allows them to connect with fellow garden enthusiasts and share tips and tricks.

What are the advantages of participating in book clubs?

Participating in book clubs enables seniors to stay mentally sharp, engage in meaningful discussions, share thoughts and perspectives, and build friendships with like-minded individuals.

How can life story exercises benefit older adults?

Life story exercises allow seniors to reflect on their own life experiences, promote self-expression and self-reflection, and contribute to their emotional well-being.

What are the benefits of attending art classes for seniors?

Art classes offer seniors a way to express their creativity, improve fine motor skills, and stimulate the mind. Participating in art classes within a group setting also promotes socialization and learning from others.

How do field trips and excursions benefit seniors?

Field trips and excursions provide seniors with opportunities for adventure, learning, and creating lasting memories. They also foster a sense of community and social connection.

What can seniors gain from participating in jewelry-making?

Jewelry-making is a fun and creative craft that improves fine motor skills and allows seniors to express their artistic side. Participating in jewelry-making classes or clubs provides opportunities for socialization, learning new techniques, and showcasing creativity.

Source Links

• https://www.televeda.com/posts/fun-healthy-wellness-game-ideas-for-older-adults-and-seniors
• https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/14-activities-for-elderly-people-that-arent-boring
• https://www.greatseniorliving.com/articles/fun-activities-for-seniors

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Making Day Trips and Outings Safe for the Elderly

August 24, 2020

Planning day trips and outings is a great way to help your senior loved one enjoy a more full and enriched life — but it’s important to plan ahead and make sure that these adventures are truly safe and enjoyable. 

Reports have shown that travel can be an incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating experience for people of all ages, even if you just go for a simple day trip. Having the freedom and flexibility to go out into the community and experience traveling museum exhibitions, live theater performances, and great restaurants is also one of the biggest lifestyle benefits of aging in place. Seniors who are able to go out and connect with their community are able to remain independent, and often report having more happiness and a higher quality of life overall.  

The activities you choose to enjoy will come down to your senior loved one’s preferences, and what’s available in their area. Depending on the season, there are all sorts of senior-friendly outings to consider, such as: 

• Going out for ice cream at a local outdoor stand
• Enjoying a day in an arboretum, park, or botanical garden
• Going for a light nature walk 
• Having a picnic outdoors
• Visiting a local museum 
• Going for a scenic car ride along the beach or through a prairie 
• Seeing a local sports team play a home game
• Going shopping at a favorite local store 

Planning Safe Outings and Day Trips for the Elderly

Whatever outings and activities you choose, remember: safety first! While they may be enthusiastic about going out, your senior loved one may get overexerted easily. Older adults can also be highly susceptible to changes in the temperature , and many common destinations can pose a slip and fall risk to the elderly. 

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make sure your next day trip goes off without a hitch! Here are five important ways to make outings and adventures safer for seniors: 

1.) Research Your Destination Ahead of Time

As Benjamin Franklin once put it: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  

Before you go, take some time to learn as much about your destination as possible, so that you can start planning ahead — and make things easier and safer for your older loved one down the line. Do some research online by checking out the destination’s website for senior-friendly ideas, or read reviews on a site such as Yelp or Facebook. You can also call the location directly, to see if they can answer any questions that you may have. If you’re going outdoors, be sure to look into the types of terrain that you’ll be encountering; see if there are any spots to take a break; and research all of the senior-friendly things to see and do. If your loved one has trouble with people, it’s worth looking into how crowded it gets, and whether you can go on an off time. 

2.) Pack a Day Bag with Essentials

Before you go, load up a backpack or shoulder bag with all of the essentials you may need for a successful day out — based on your loved one’s needs, where you’re going, the time of year, and so on. Some ideas for a successful day bag might include:

• The seniors’ daily medications
• Snacks and water
• First aid supplies (bandages, aspirin, etc.)
• A change of clothes
• A fan or personal cooler
• Change of batteries for the senior’s hearing aids
• Cell phone charger
• Medical cards and information (e.g., prescriptions, insurance, etc.)
• A card with basic contact information (in case you get separated)

3.) Dress for the Weather and the Conditions

As we get older, our bodies have a harder time adjusting to changing weather conditions. Make sure you help your senior loved one dress for the weather, while also thinking about how they can stay comfortable all day long. On hot summer days , for instance, this might include wearing a sun hat, applying sunscreen, wearing sunglasses, and dressing in loose, light clothing. On colder winter days , encourage your loved one to wear insulating, waterproof layers. If you’re going to be moving between indoor and outdoor locations, plan for adapting to air conditioning and heating. Make sure your senior loved one is wearing comfortable and supportive shoes. Check the weather before you leave, and pack an umbrella and raincoat as needed. And make sure your loved one always has access to their assistive devices, such as a walker or cane. 

4.) Offer a Helping Hand

Mobility challenges are incredibly common among the elderly. Even older adults who are more comfortable walking and moving about may need an extra hand during a day trip or outing. Be ready to offer your loved one assistance with getting in and out of the car properly. Offer a supportive arm during walks, and be ready to carry water bottles, gear, and other bulky supplies so that your loved one doesn’t have to. 

5.) Build In Plenty of Time for Breaks

Overexertion can turn a pleasant trip into an uncomfortable experience in a flash. Be accommodating of the senior’s limits and respect their wishes. On hot days, be on the lookout for warning signs of overexertion and dehydration — particularly if you suspect your loved one would be reluctant to share when they need to stop. Build in plenty of time to rest and recharge. Plan breaks through the day , and be flexible and willing to pause for additional breaks as needed. Consider bringing a collapsible chair or shade umbrella, to help your loved one cool off. Remember, it’s about the journey , not just the destination . 

How a Professional Companion or Caregiver Can Help

Looking for someone who can help make sure your loved one is always able to go on outings and adventures, even when you can’t be there in person? Could you benefit from having an extra set of hands available when you and your senior loved one head out into their neighborhood? A professional senior companion may just be the help you’ve been looking for. 

Having an experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly senior companion available can help ensure that your elderly loved one gets the support they need — so you can focus on all of the other moving parts that go into planning the perfect trip. 

From offering assistance with walking and other activities of daily living , to offering reliable and convenient driving services , to simply providing a friend to share stories and chat with , a companion can make sure your senior loved one is able to really enjoy themselves as they explore their community, while staying safe at every step of the way. 

About Companions for Seniors

At Companions for Seniors, our mission is to help seniors live independently and with dignity in the comfort of their own home by empowering them to lead an active and enriched lifestyle, connecting them with their community, and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Our companions are trained and bonded, and can help provide a variety of services designed to help your loved one live independently and safely from the comfort of their own home — including providing driving services, companionship, and support during outings and day trips. 

Our companions see spending time with the elderly as a passion, not just a job. They are empathetic, kind, and always ready to go the extra mile on behalf of a client. We have experience scheduling and coordinating all kinds of trips and outings in the Chicagoland area, so that seniors never have to worry about giving up on their active lifestyle. 

Want to help your senior loved one truly enjoy themselves while they age in place? Looking for some help making your family’s most important goals come true — even during COVID-19? We’re here to offer guidance and provide support, in whatever way we can! Empowering the elderly is what we do, and we’d love to share our experiences and expertise with you.

Don’t hesitate to reach out online or give us a call at 866-910-9020 to get the conversation started today!

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Welcome to the MN Field Trip Library!

This is your best resource for activities & field trips.

The MN Field Trip & Activity Library is a free resource for schools & groups of all types, all sizes and all ages that helps PLANNERS like you find MN’s  BEST  field trips, activities, entertainers, camps and even livestream programs! Plus fundraising programs that can generate needed funding!

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Check out the many MN providers in the menus displayed above.   Best of all, we’re not a booking service, so you can work directly with each Provider!

We have 5 easy and free ways to find and engage with providers, destinations and entertainers. Click on any of the buttons below to learn more!

BASE CAMP • NORTHERN STAR SCOUTING

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Fundraising for every season. Click the pic for more info.

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Magician, Scientist, Teacher, Entertainer • Schools, Youth, Corporate • Click Pic for info

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Field Trip & Student Travel Destination • Educational Physics Program • Click the Pic for more info

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Performances for students, youth and adults! Click the Pic for more

INTERNATIONAL WOLF CENTER

Our WolfLink Virtual Learning Programs are now free to schools. Click here to learn more!

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Offering field trips & tours of music-making through the centuries! Click the pic for more info.

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Did you sign up at a recent conference? Click the pic to see the winners and how to claim your prize if you won!

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Hours of Interactive, Indoor, Physical Fun!

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15 Best National Parks for Seniors To Visit in 2024

Posted: March 21, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

From Yosemite to the Everglades, many retirees have national park visits on their bucket list.

The National Park Service even offers a senior pass for anyone 62 or over. Seniors can purchase an annual pass for $20 or a lifetime pass for $80 to get unlimited access to any park. This is a great deal, no matter where you stand financially.

Of course, some parks are more accessible than others. So, if you want to step up your travel game , here are the 15 best national parks for seniors to visit this year.

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Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Aging in Place — an organization that offers resources for older adults — has released a ranking of the most accessible national parks. Badlands National Park took the top spot.

The rugged and beautiful park has visitor centers, trails, and even campgrounds with ramps and that are accessible to all, including those in wheelchairs.

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Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

Many of Grand Canyon National Park facilities were built before modern accessibility standards were established. However, all the park's shuttle buses are accessible to those in wheelchairs, and plenty of areas around the park can be comfortably explored.

Grand Canyon also offers a "Scenic Drive Accessibility Permit" that allows visitors with mobility issues to access areas not otherwise open to the public.

Yellowstone (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

Yellowstone National Park — the country’s first national park — also made Aging in Place’s list of the most accessible parks.

Like the Grand Canyon, some of the park’s facilities are over a century old and may not meet today’s accessibility standards. However, the park is upgrading many of its facilities, programs, and services.

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Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

Mesa Verde National Park is another gem in the West that offers a lot of accessible options to seniors.

While certain trails and activities — such as the park’s cliff dwelling tours — involve hiking through steep and tough terrain, the visitor center has plenty of information about which trails and areas are accessible.

Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Bryce Canyon National Park — a stunning park offering incredible views of massive rock formations — also earns high accessibility ratings from Aging in Place.

The park’s visitor centers and several of its viewpoints and trails are relatively easy to access. Bryce Canyon also has campgrounds that are reserved for visitors with mobility impairments.

Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

From the ancient thermal springs to stunning hikes and mountain views, Hot Springs National Park has plenty to offer.

The park’s Fordyce Visitor Center and Gulpha Gorge Campground are accessible to all. The park boasts several short, simple, and beautiful trails as well.

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Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

While certain beach areas at Indiana Dunes National Park may be difficult to navigate, there are plenty of sites in the stunning park that are easy to navigate and great for older adult visitors.

Such sites include Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, and Dunewood Campground.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park is another gem that earned top rankings on the Aging In Place list.

All the park’s visitor centers and many of its most beautiful sites, such as the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, the Everett Covered Bridge, and Brandywine Falls, are accessible.

Death Valley National Park (California, Nevada)

The weather can be quite unpredictable in Death Valley National Park's desert environment, but that's part of what makes it such a fascinating place to visit.

While the terrain varies quite a bit, there are several accessible trails and viewpoints throughout the park's 3.4 million acres.

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Joshua Tree National Park (California)

Joshua Tree National Park is another bucket-list destination for many nature lovers. It has several accessible visitor centers, nature trails, and campgrounds.

The true wonder of the Mojave and Colorado deserts can be seen in the park. However, as in Death Valley, older visitors should be aware that the ecosystem can lead to some difficult weather.

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

It may take some careful planning to truly experience the wonder of the Teton Range, but Grand Teton National Park is another breathtaking place.

Here, seniors will find plenty of options if they seek more accessible trails and easy-to-access campgrounds, lodging, and visitor centers.

Yosemite National Park (California)

Nearly four million visitors pass through Yosemite National Park every year to marvel at stunning waterfalls, beautiful meadows, deep valleys, and more.

Among nearly 1,200 square miles of wilderness, there are plenty of accessible areas — and more on the way as the park goes through regular upgrades.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado)

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve has the tallest dunes in North America and an incredible mix of wetlands, forests, lakes, and more.

Due to loose sand, those with limited mobility may have issues navigating the dune field. However, the park does have balloon tire wheelchairs that guests can reserve.

Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

Gateway Arch National Park offers many ways to enjoy the stunning monument in St. Louis.

Visitors with limited mobility may have trouble accessing the tram ride to the top of the arch. Still, there are plenty of paved paths and riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River that all can enjoy.

Everglades National Park (Florida)

Everglades National Park — home to the largest subtropical wilderness in the country and a habitat for many rare species, such as manatees and crocodiles — offers visitors plenty to see and do.

Many of its trails and visitor centers are accessible — as are several frontcountry campsites and the Pearl Bay Chickee backcountry campsite.

Bottom line

A National Park Service Senior Pass offers access to hundreds of recreation sites, including those operated by other agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service.

If you frequent the parks, a senior pass is a great way to avoid wasting money  in retirement. 

Many of these sites regularly update their facilities to be more accessible, making a park visit a great vacation option for retirees and older adults. 

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Grijalva Enjoying Final Week Of High School Track With Trip To Cicero

Alexis Grijalva leads a strong contingent of Southwestern girls heading to the state meet this weekend in Cicero. P-J file photo by Tim Frank

Alexis Grijalva spent the early part of this week on Southwestern’s Senior Trip to Washington, D.C., and Ocean City, Maryland.

For Grijalva and a pair of senior boys, it’s possible they thought the trip would come at the end of their track and field season.

Instead, it came as a three-day break before embarking on the athletic trip of a lifetime.

Grijalva is one of five individual girls and a pair of relays who will be competing in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association track and field championships Friday and Saturday at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

“It’s really amazing. I hadn’t really had the vision of going in an individual event, so that’s really crazy,” Grijalva said Wednesday afternoon. “It’s very fulfilling going in the relays, because we’ve been working at that since last year. Going this year is really special, my senior year.”

Southwestern’s Emma Lewis is seeded third in the Division 2 2,000-meter steeplechase. P-J file photo by Tim Frank

Grijalva is seeded 10th in the Division 2 400 meters with a time of 58.34 seconds.

“With Alexis, she’s been a part of this team for five years. She’s been someone at practices and workouts that you look up to. She puts in the extra time. For her to make it individually and buy into what we’re doing is kind of nice,” Southwestern girls head coach Adam Frisbee said. “Midway through the season, she was maybe questioning a little bit about where she was. I told her to trust in what we were doing. … To see her drop the time she’s dropped in the past three weeks has just been incredible.”

Chautauqua Lake junior Jada Cole is tied for the second-best overall and Division 2 height at 5 feet, 6 inches in the high jump.

Southwestern freshman Emma Lewis is seeded seventh overall and third in Division 2 in the 2,000-meter steeplechase with a time of 6:59.71.

“Emma obviously has brought the performance, but she has also shown that you can be from Southwestern and go to that next level, and compete with those girls,” Frisbee said. “We know we have this piece with Emma and the other girls will work up to where she is. They’re going to try to run with her and she is going to push them.”

Southwestern sophomore Mikayla Johnson is seeded seventh in the Division 2 shot put with a distance of 37 feet, 3.25 inches.

“Emma is a superstar and I think that everybody knows that, but it’s been great getting some of those other names in there like Mikayla Johnson,” Frisbee said. “Her showing up with a big shot put was just an incredible surprise for us. For her to make it as a sophomore is great.

“He gets them to buy in. They are right on board right off the bat. He has them in the weight room in the wintertime. He shows them the progressions,” Frisbee added about Southwestern throwing coach Adam Brown. “He may not be a math teacher, but he’s a statistician when it comes to track. He can show them as a freshman you threw 37 feet, and by the time you get to your senior year, you should be here. To see them do exactly what he’s telling them to do shows who he is as a coach.”

Randolph senior Eve Adams is seeded 30th overall and 13th in Division 2 in the pole vault at 9 feet, 6 inches.

Southwestern’s 1,600-meter relay, Grijalva, sophomores Avery Johnson and Tryniti Card, and freshman Marlana Cresanti, is seeded fifth with a time of 4:02.05.

“We have the entire 4-by-4 and 4-by-8 coming back from last year. We could see it on paper. Coach (Pedro) Melendez and I broke that down,” Frisbee said. “We knew the future was bright. We had that idea and it’s great to see them step up right away and do it.”

Southwestern’s 3,200-meter relay, Lewis, junior Kate Miller, Card and Cresanti, is seeded 12th overall and fourth in Division 2 with a time of 9:31.44.

“This has just been awesome. Looking at where we finished last year, we were runners up in the 1,600-meter relay at sectionals. I think that was a little bit of a surprise for the girls, but I don’t think it was a surprise for the coaches,” Frisbee said.” We knew we’d have the core of that relay coming back and we knew the 3,200-meter relay could be really good.”

Gates open at 10 a.m. Friday with field events set to begin at 11 a.m. and track events slated for 12:30 p.m. On Saturday, gates open at 9 a.m. with competition beginning at 10 a.m.

“Two years ago, we took six boys, but no girls. This year we have three boys and seven girls. Our girls program has just been doing awesome, too. To be able to take a group of boys and girls together, really shows what our program is. It’s not just the boys program or the girls program, it’s Southwestern track and field,” said Southwestern boys head coach Jay Sirianni. “We coach everything together. … We focus on being a team first and succeeding as a team. This weekend is all about those individuals, who have earned the right to keep going.”

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School Field Trips at Cedar Point

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Field Trips

A Trip Nobody Wants to Miss

Take an amazing setting. Add terrific food choices, toss in coasters and other entertainment options. That’s one can’t-miss field trip. Located in Sandusky, Ohio, Cedar Point is home to 68 rides, a mile-long beach, along with attractions and entertainment for all groups.

Educational Field Trips

When you bring students to Cedar Point, you don’t just give them a day away from school. You give them an educational field trip––designed by leading educators and subject-matter experts–– that transforms the park into an interactive, state-of-the-art classroom.

General Field Trips

Cedar Point is a safe, clean, and incredibly fun place for students to explore. With mind-blowing rides, entertainment and food options, your students will have a day jam-packed with thrills.

End-of-Year Celebrations

Cedar Point provides the perfect place to celebrate the end of the year for your students! With hair-raising coasters and amazing attractions – this will be the trip your students will be talking about long after it’s over.

Meal & Drink Options

Catered Meal

Cedar Point offers delicious meals created with students in mind. This is a great way for your group to eat together in our beautiful Lakeside Pavilion. All of our all-you-can-eat student meal selections include potato chips, cookies and unlimited fountain beverages.

All Day Drinks

All day long, guests just show their wristbands where Coca‑Cola ® beverages are sold to get their fill of ice‑cold refreshment!

All Day Dining

With this meal plan your students can get an entrée and a side every 90 minutes, all day long at participating park locations. Upgrade to Premium All Day Dining and get All Day Drinks and a snack.

Single Meal Deal 

This is a meal voucher that includes an entrée, side and a drink and is valid at any of our participating in park locations.

If you’re looking to make your day extra special or to bring a group of over 100, our team can help plan a group outing that fits your needs.

Exciting Senior Class Trips for Your Graduating Class!

  At the end of the year when all of the hard work is behind you, it's time to celebrate a job well-done with a graduation trip. Senior class trips are an amazing way for your student group to memorialize their graduation! From beaches and amusement parks to shopping and Broadway, we can help your group plan a trip to remember. Start searching our top senior trip destination ideas . If you don't see what you are looking for, remember, we can customize a graduation trip to any destination!

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Election latest: Sunak heckled by GP on doctor vacancies; New poll on PM leaving D-Day commemorations early

The latest updates from the general election campaign, as Rishi Sunak's decision to leave D-Day commemorations early dominates headlines.

Friday 7 June 2024 21:06, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• New poll reveals what public think about PM leaving D-Day events early
• 'The country is not stupid': Sunak laughs as GP heckles him
• Sunak apologises and admits it was a 'mistake'
• PM says 'it's important we don't politicise this'
• Farage claims this is Sunak's 'Gillian Duffy' moment
• Starmer says PM will 'have to answer for his own actions'
• Unite did not endorse Labour's election manifesto
• Electoral Dysfunction: What could be in the party manifestos?
• Live reporting by Brad Young

Expert analysis

• Jon Craig: Mordaunt set to go into battle for Sunak in TV debate
• Rob Powell: It beggars belief someone didn't sound the alarm about PM leaving D-Day events early
• Tamara Cohen: Labour can't believe their luck

Election essentials

• Battle For No 10: PM and Starmer taking part in Sky News special
• Have your say: Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

The final 30 second concluding statements are under way. Angela Rayner goes first. "If you want change, vote Labour," she says, though it's as though she's memorising a script rather than talking with passion.

Carla Denyer, of the Greens, says Labour are offering more of the same and Labour has changed into the Tories. She got better as the debate went on. Iorwerth is lively and will have done his party some good here.

Penny Mordaunt is polished. "For a more secure future, vote Conservative," she says. She's been class here and shows why for the Tories, she's an underused asset. Daisy Cooper mentions sewage in rivers for the first time this evening. Why so late?

The last word goes to Nigel Farage, who says that unlike the others he doesn't need an autocue. He's right about that. He's been impish throughout, clearly enjoying himself. We'll see a lot more of him in this campaign. That's why he became party leader, of course!

We're staying with the BBC's seven-way political debate between senior figures in the UK's political parties.

"What matters to you more: Economic growth or successful climate policy?" asks an audience member.

Mr Farage says climate policies like net zero are unrealistic and unaffordable. 

"Nigel is going to keep your fact-checkers busy for a little while. Farage has been misleading you... so much of what he said there is simply untrue," says the Greens' Carla Denyer.

She criticises Labour for dropping a £28bn green investment  pledge earlier this year.

Labour's Angela Rayner says there will be investment including insulating homes and creating green jobs, but oil and gas will be part of the future.

The SNP's Stephen Flynn says Westminster is betraying future generations and his party maintains its commitment to net zero.

"We are facing an ecological emergency," and economic growth can come with tackling it, says the Liberal Democrats, calling for a national insulation scheme.

"Nothing is more important than protecting the environment that you will be living in in future," says Plaid Cymru's Rhun ap Iorwerth.

The Conservative's Penny Mordaunt says moving to green policies too quickly will "destroy supply chains".

Let's not forget the two lesser known politicians in this line up, Carla Denyer, of the Green Party, and Rhun ap Iorwerth, of Plaid Cymru. At times they've struggled against the big hitters, but they've had their moments, Denyer on climate and ap Iorwerth on tax.

The Plaid leader, a member of the Welsh Senedd, is a good speaker and reveals he used to be a journalist. A proper job! Tall with a chiselled face, he has matinee idol looks and a healthy tan. Must be the Welsh climate! Denyer speaks with passion too.

But it's Mordaunt who is dominating this debate, now with a powerful attack on Labour's energy policy, dismissing the party's plan for a new company called Great British Energy, as "GB - giant bills".

Here we go again, another shouting match between Labour and the Conservatives. With Rayner, in a bright red dress, and Mordaunt, wearing Margaret Thatcher blue, standing next to each other, it makes it easier for them to clash with each other.

Moving from migration to "working people" now, with an audience member asking senior party figures at the BBC's seven-way debate who will allow them to work to live, not just work to survive.

Labour's Angela Rayner says the country has been "at the mercy of global energy prices" and Liz Truss's mini-budget.

She says a publicly-owned energy company will bring down bills and create jobs.

Penny Mordaunt, the Conservative leader of the House of Commons, says the economy is "doing much better" and "we have got to cut taxes".

Ms Rayner says the government has raised taxes to record levels for 70 years.

"Yeah, we have, and we hated putting taxes up," says Ms Mordaunt.

There is some back and forth, and interruptions, between Ms Mordaunt and Ms Rayner, with some finger pointing from the former.

Audience laughs at Green candidate's joke

"Well that was terribly dignified, wasn't it," says the Green Party's Carla Denyer when the dust settles, to some laughter from the audience.

She says there is an "inequality crisis", pointing out that some have become wealthier while many struggled in recent years.

Ms Denyer calls for a green economy to bring in jobs and bring down bills, such as a nationwide insulation programme.

A £15 minimum wage is required and the two-child benefit cap should be removed, she says.

Reform's Nigel Farage again calls for immigration to be brought down to net zero and taxes to be cut for middle-incomes.

"To hear Penny Mordaunt, whose government have put the tax burden up to the highest in this country since 1948, pretending they're a tax-cutting party, frankly, it is dishonestly on a breath-taking scale."

Stephen Flynn, from the SNP, draws attention to "cuts baked in" by austerity.

He says there is a "conspiracy of silence" over Brexit, saying it has put up food bills.

"That is why at this election you need to ignore the snake oil salesman who delivered Brexit," he says, pointing to Mr Farage.

It's getting personal now as Nigel Farage turns on his comedy routine with witty quips about his political opponents - and Angela Rayner retaliates by calling him a clown. Boom, boom!

Farage says Sir Keir Starner is "really dull" and "Blair without the flair". He says the real Labour leader is here at the debate: Angela Rayner. The prime minister, he chortles, is "slippery Sunak".

Labour's deputy leader says Farage is a "clown personality", like Boris Johnson and goes on to attack the former prime minister over "party-gate" and breaking lockdown rules during COVID.

Then the Lib Dems' Daisy Cooper is embarrassed when she's asked: "Do you remember going back on your tuition fees pledge?" Sheepishly, she replies: "That was a sore point for us." A bit of honesty! Hurrah!

Sure enough, Penny Mordaunt launches into the Tories' £2,000 Labour tax grab attack and sparks a bitter shouting match with Angela Rayner, who seems to come to life and fights back.

Presenter Mishal Husain struggles to keep order and claims the statistics watchdog has disputed Rishi Sunak's claim, first made in Tuesday's leaders' debate, but Mordaunt takes no notice and ploughs on.

It's the most heated clash of the debate so far and the whole showdown is really sparky now. Stephen Flynn then gets in his best attack so far, condemning Brexit and the silence of the Labour Party on the issue.

The other party representatives are doing better now. And when a member of the audience asks why nothing ever gets done despite politicians' promises, for a moment Penny Mordaunt is lost for words and laughs nervously.

Angela Rayner seems a bit subdued as the debate turns to a question on the NHS and she comes under attack from Stephen Flynn of the SNP.

Not surprisingly, given the battle between the SNP and Labour in Scotland, Flynn is targeting his attacks on Rayner. She sounds as thought she's been coached on Labour policy as is just parroting the official line.

But then Rayner gets spontaneous applause when she attacks Mordaunt for supporting Liz Truss. Mordaunt then comes back by returning to her attack on Rayner on Trident. Mordaunt is winning against Rayner so far.

But we haven't yet heard Mordaunt deploy Rishi Sunak's TV debate attack on Labour's £2,000 tax grab, which Sir Keir Starmer claims is a lie. We're bound to hear it soon, surely?

Explosive start by Penny Mordaunt! She's on fire! On the first question, on defence, after surprisingly bland opening statements from Angela Rayner and Daisy Cooper and Nigel Farage repeating his "unpatriotic" charge against Rishi Sunak over his D-Day snub, Penny says the PM was "completely wrong".

Ouch! No wonder Number 10 sees the Commons leader as a threat. But then she's back on message as she launches into a tirade against Angela Rayner and her previous voting against Trident renewal.

Mordaunt and Rayner are standing next to each other at one end of the podium and they start the debate by going at each other in a heated argument on the defence issue.

This is the Penny Mordaunt show so far. The other party representatives are on spiky form too, but only Nigel Farage has challenged Mordaunt so far.

Senior party leaders are asked about their plans for immigration at the BBC's seven-way debate.

"Migration is absolutely essential to our public services absolutely essential to our businesses," says the SNP's Stephen Flynn, as he is drowned out by applause.

Nigel Farage says the panel "need to deal with some logic".

"That would be novel for you," quips Stephen Flynn.

Mr Farage lists immigration statistics, claiming "most of those that come in are actually dependants" and increasing immigration numbers are "diminishing our quality of life".

Presenter Mishal Husain corrects Mr Farage that most of those coming to the UK are coming with work visas or to study.

Rhun ap Iorwerth, leader of Welsh party Plaid Cymru, accuses Mr Farage of wanting to make it an "immigration election for his own self-interest".

"Let's change the tone of the debate on immigration. Too much of it is framed around, frankly, the bigotry of people like Nigel Farage."

The Conservatives' Penny Mordaunt tries to turn the question to the economy, and is mocked by Mr Farage.

She goes on to call for an annual cap on immigration by law.

The Liberal Democrats' Daisy Cooper says the Tories have left the country with the "worst of both worlds".

"We have people who are desperate, who are fleeing war a persecution arriving on small boats and at the same time we have our NHS, our social care, hospitality and engineering - none of them can recruit the staff they need."

Stephen Flynn and Nigel Farage are clashing over the NHS, after a BBC debate audience member asked how to ensure the NHS is fully functioning.

Mr Flynn accuses Mr Farage of looking to privatise it as the Reform leader says the "model isn't working".

Mr Farage called for the NHS to be "managed like as if it was a private company".

The Liberal Democrats' Daisy Cooper says what makes a difference "most of all" is the amount of money put into the health service, rather than the model.

The Green's Carla Denyer agrees the NHS has been "chronically underfunded for decades" and this "cannot be allowed to continue".

Inviting multinational companies further into the NHS is not the answer to protect it, she says, adding investment in needed in social care to take pressure off the NHS.

To fund it, the super-rich need to pay "quite a modest amount" to fund the services that "benefit all of us", she says.

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Grijalva leads group of girls heading to Cicero

OBSERVER File Photo by Tim Frank Southwestern’s Alexis Grijalva will compete in the girls Division 2 400 meters in Cicero.

Alexis Grijalva spent the early part of this week on Southwestern’s Senior Trip to Washington, D.C., and Ocean City, Maryland.

For Grijalva and a pair of senior boys, it’s possible they thought the trip would come at the end of their track and field season.

Instead, it came as a three-day break before embarking on the athletic trip of a lifetime.

Grijalva is one of five individual girls and a pair of relays who will be competing in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association track and field championships Friday and Saturday at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

“It’s really amazing. I hadn’t really had the vision of going in an individual event, so that’s really crazy,” Grijalva said Wednesday afternoon. “It’s very fulfilling going in the relays, because we’ve been working at that since last year. Going this year is really special, my senior year.”

Grijalva is seeded 10th in the Division 2 400 meters with a time of 58.34 seconds.

“With Alexis, she’s been a part of this team for five years. She’s been someone at practices and workouts that you look up to. She puts in the extra time. For her to make it individually and buy into what we’re doing is kind of nice,” Southwestern girls head coach Adam Frisbee said. “Midway through the season, she was maybe questioning a little bit about where she was. I told her to trust in what we were doing. … To see her drop the time she’s dropped in the past three weeks has just been incredible.”

Chautauqua Lake junior Jada Cole is tied for the second-best overall and Division 2 height at 5 feet, 6 inches in the high jump.

Southwestern freshman Emma Lewis is seeded seventh overall and third in Division 2 in the 2,000-meter steeplechase with a time of 6:59.71.

“Emma obviously has brought the performance, but she has also shown that you can be from Southwestern and go to that next level, and compete with those girls,” Frisbee said. “We know we have this piece with Emma and the other girls will work up to where she is. They’re going to try to run with her and she is going to push them.”

Southwestern sophomore Mikayla Johnson is seeded seventh in the Division 2 shot put with a distance of 37 feet, 3.25 inches.

“Emma is a superstar and I think that everybody knows that, but it’s been great getting some of those other names in there like Mikayla Johnson,” Frisbee said. “Her showing up with a big shot put was just an incredible surprise for us. For her to make it as a sophomore is great.

“He gets them to buy in. They are right on board right off the bat. He has them in the weight room in the wintertime. He shows them the progressions,” Frisbee added about Southwestern throwing coach Adam Brown. “He may not be a math teacher, but he’s a statistician when it comes to track. He can show them as a freshman you threw 37 feet, and by the time you get to your senior year, you should be here. To see them do exactly what he’s telling them to do shows who he is as a coach.”

Randolph senior Eve Adams is seeded 30th overall and 13th in Division 2 in the pole vault at 9 feet, 6 inches.

Southwestern’s 1,600-meter relay, Grijalva, sophomores Avery Johnson and Tryniti Card, and freshman Marlana Cresanti, is seeded fifth with a time of 4:02.05.

“We have the entire 4-by-4 and 4-by-8 coming back from last year. We could see it on paper. Coach (Pedro) Melendez and I broke that down,” Frisbee said. “We knew the future was bright. We had that idea and it’s great to see them step up right away and do it.”

Southwestern’s 3,200-meter relay, Lewis, junior Kate Miller, Card and Cresanti, is seeded 12th overall and fourth in Division 2 with a time of 9:31.44.

“This has just been awesome. Looking at where we finished last year, we were runners up in the 1,600-meter relay at sectionals. I think that was a little bit of a surprise for the girls, but I don’t think it was a surprise for the coaches,” Frisbee said. ” We knew we’d have the core of that relay coming back and we knew the 3,200-meter relay could be really good.”

Gates open at 10 a.m. Friday with field events set to begin at 11 a.m. and track events slated for 12:30 p.m. On Saturday, gates open at 9 a.m. with competition beginning at 10 a.m.

“Two years ago, we took six boys, but no girls. This year we have three boys and seven girls. Our girls program has just been doing awesome, too. To be able to take a group of boys and girls together, really shows what our program is. It’s not just the boys program or the girls program, it’s Southwestern track and field,” said Southwestern boys head coach Jay Sirianni. “We coach everything together. … We focus on being a team first and succeeding as a team. This weekend is all about those individuals, who have earned the right to keep going.”

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