Since the mysterious disappearance of Natalee Holloway in May of 2005, parents have been slightly more vigilant about making sure their Spring Breaking teenagers are not in harm’s way while traveling. It is common knowledge that the enticing freedom of being away from home (even if just for a week) is absolutely intoxicating for teenagers (pun intended). Underaged drinking coupled with the naivete of being in a strange place are the two main factors involved in most teen fatalities.
Parents would be good to take particular notice of what kinds of plans are being made by teenagers for Spring Break this year. Tradition dictates that many young people will flock to the ever popular destinations in Florida such as Miami (South Beach), Ft. Lauderdale, Panama City, and Orlando. In addition to being somewhat risky, these trips can sometimes be quite costly. For Atlanta parents who refuse to allow their children out into the turgid waters of “freedom”, there are quite a few local options to keep kids entertained without them feeling “stuck” at home.
SOME TRADITIONAL THRILLS
Through April 30th, parents may purchase season passes at Six Flags over Georgia, one of the country’s largest amusement parks, for around $70.00. Or, for $100, a combination season pass to both Six Flags and its sister water park, White Water—can be obtained.
Six Flags is known for its newest and greatest death-defying rides and attractions. Each year, the park opens in the Springtime, and operates throughout the summer, up until the infamous Fright Fest in October. Getting a season pass (or even just a One-Day Admission) to Six Flags is a great way to keep your teenager entertained during the spring break holiday. Six Flags’ newer attraction called the “Goliath” boasts a 200ft drop, spans 8.5 acres, and is the highest coaster in the park. And if your teen has a predilection for water activities, shoot over to Six Flags’ water park, “White Water.” Though the park does not officially open until May 13th, season passes are on sale and pay for themselves in just two visits.
A “VACATION” AT HOME
Both Atlanta natives and tourists alike have heard about the magnificent activities at the Lake Lanier islands. Those not heading to the sunny beaches of Florida can still have a “vacation” right here at home in metro Atlanta. Lake Lanier, which houses its own beach and water park is known for being a superb getaway spot right outside of the city. The long and scenic drive up Highway 400 will afford young ones the opportunity to feel as if they’re really getting away. And with resort packages beginning somewhere in the neighborhood of $200 or so, it’s a vacation that simply cannot be beat.
The beach and water park do not begin operating until May 22nd. But Lake Lanier Islands and resort offers many different packages, including a “Girls Getaway Package” which includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for two at the resort’s Windows restaurant, and even 2 one-hour massages. For older teens, this is a mature, yet “teenager” friendly treat-a great way for female teens to bond with friends (or maybe just with Mom)-over the spring break holiday. But if overnight stays are out of your pocketbook, try planning a day trip with some horseback riding. Trail rides are chaperoned, and last a little under an hour. These 50-minute rides only cost $35 per person, which is an excellent price for such a refreshing day trip.
SPEND SPRING WITH THE ANIMALS
There has been nothing but “hoopla” surrounding the recent opening of Georgia’s first aquarium. For just under $25, spring breakers can spend an entire day underwater. The Georgia aquarium prides itself with underwater acrylic tunnels and windows which showcase literally thousands of fish and other aquatic life. The 4-D theatre consisting of some nifty special effects employs not just sight and sound—but SENSATION, as part of its attraction to both little audiences and grown-ups alike.
The Georgia Aquarium sells daily tickets. But the facility itself houses many different types of attractions which may or may not need to be reserved in advance. It’s best when buying advanced tickets, to find out which attractions require additional entrance fees.
