As a college student home for summer, it is finally time to relax. Most of my days consist of watching Netflix or lounging in the pool, but I still try to get out and about enough. My younger siblings are around most of the time too, so why not include them when I decide to go out or on a day trip? Here are a few ideas for you and yours to make a day of, especially if you're spending the summer in Charlotte.
Sliding Rock
Located in Asheville's Pisgah National Forest, this freezing, natural rock slide is always worth the trip. The slide is about 60 feet long and is fairly smooth, making for a fun ride down -- and is always a good place for some sibling-rivalry infused slide races. The entry is only $2 per person which makes it a very reasonable trip. Be sure to bring plenty of towels and some shorts to slide down in, because even though it is fairly smooth, you are still sliding down a massive rock.
Kersey Valley Zip Line
If you're really wanting an adventure, this may be your best choice. Starting at $32 per person, Kersey Valley allows you to zip line over fields, woods, and even some water. You go out with a personal instructor, learn the tricks of zip lining, then glide through the air. It is safe and fun, even for someone who is petrified of heights, such as myself.
Pelican's SnoBalls
When it's just way too hot outside or you're looking for a quick treat, head over to Pelican's and pick up a snoball. They have over 100 flavors and various sizes, which are small enough for young kids or large enough for recent grads (I got an Avalanche when I graduated
high school). With their specialties ranging from sour apple to toothpaste and gummy worms to gummy dinosaurs, you are sure to find something there that will fit everyone. Plus, you can get a snoball for your pup for only $1, and it's adorable to watch them eat it.
Whitewater Rafting
Talk about some
family bonding moments. You can either bond by none of you falling out of the raft, or can make it a challenge of who falls out last. It is entirely your choice, and it is entirely too much fun. If you're looking for multiple activities such as zip lining, rope courses or canoeing, go to the
U.S. National Whitewater Center, where they have all of that and more for $59, plus it is conveniently located about a half hour from Charlotte. This is best if you have little or no experience rafting, as it is completely man-made and continuously operated, as well as being monitored closely by workers and guides. You could also try one of the many tours on the
Nantahala river, which is natural and although you do have guides, you have a much more "real life" experience as you are literally making your way eight miles downhill in a raft.
