Do you have a college bound student in your family? College towns usually have lots of fun, interesting things to do and if you are driving up to college, there are likely cool spots along the way. If that’s the case, why not make it a fun family roadtrip you can do together to start the school year off right. It’s also a critical transition time for your child, so making it a positive, warm family experience can do a lot to ease their anxiety and if you have younger ones along as well, they’ll be able to get a sense of what to expect when it’s their turns.
Here are some ideas for where to find cool things to do along the way back to school. We’ve figured the trip to be a five day affair but feel free to adjust the itinerary to make it fit your budget, timeframe and location.
Destination: College Bound Road Trip
Day 1: Home City to National Park Adventure
- Start the adventure by driving to a nearby national park or scenic nature reserve. To find a national park you can go to the Ultimate US National Parks List and get the details on what’s available along your roadmap.
- Once you find a good spot, you can spend the day together as a family hiking, picnicking, and immersing yourselves in the beauty of nature.
Day 2: College Town Exploration
- Once you get to the actual town where your child is going to be attending college, it’s time to explore. You can explore the campus as well as downtown and check out the local cafes, restaurants, coffee shops, book stores and boutiques. Sometimes kids can be intimidated about their new location, and may not really want to admit it. So you suggesting a trip downtown so that you can check out the place may be a great way to get your child acclimated to their surroundings and also give you a comfort level that they will be in a vibrant community after you drop them off.
- There are lots of options for where to stay usually in college towns because they have adapted to family coming to visit for weekends, special events and graduations. If you like chains and they are available, by all means, otherwise you might want to consider a cozy bed and breakfast or a unique boutique hotel.
Day 3: Campus Tour and Orientation
- Begin the day with a campus tour, either guided or self-guided.
- Attend college orientation events with your child to learn about the campus, programs, and resources available.
Day 4: Adventure Activities
- Participate in adventure activities around the college town. Depending on the location, options might include zip-lining, paddleboarding, or exploring nearby caves.
- Enjoy an adventurous lunch or dinner at a local restaurant known for its unique cuisine. If there’s a special meal or local town favorite, try it out. Knowing the local favorites also helps you get to know the town that will be home to your child for several years. Good food is always a great comfort so bonding over that will help you both feel closer together while your child is away.
Day 5: Move-In Day and Farewell Adventure
- Help your child move into their dorm and meet their roommate and neighbors. If your child still needs some things it’s. agood time to go shopping locally or in the school store. together. Get some college T shirts for the whole family so that everyone feels a part of this new adventure in your child’s life and your child feels supported.
- Once everything is set up, embark on a farewell adventure activity together. Consider a hot air balloon ride, a scenic river cruise, take a ghost tour, or a thrilling escape room challenge. That’s always a great way to start the next phase of your child’s life off right.
Tips For Making the Most Of Your College Bound Trip
- Customize the adventure to suit your child’s interests and the location of their college campus.
- Make a college-themed playlist for the road trip filled with favorite songs and inspirational tunes.
- Prepare a surprise college care package for your child with essentials and meaningful items to start their new journey.
- Take plenty of photos and videos to capture the moments and emotions of the trip.
- Be open to spontaneity and enjoy the time spent together before saying goodbye.
- This adventure trip to drop your child off at college creates a memorable and bonding experience during this significant transition in their life. It allows you to create lasting memories while providing support and excitement for their new chapter ahead.
Photo by Rich Smith on Unsplash