Groups Today Announces the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards: Emerging Destinations 

Groups Today recently revealed the results of their 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards with an abundance of inspiration for your next student trip! Emerging destinations can be a breath of fresh air- offering a chance to mix up routine trips for something new that may attract more interest in your program. Check out the list below of these fantastic cities and why you should consider them for your 2024-25 travels and beyond! 

Lancaster, PA – Boasting “the nation’s original and largest Amish settlement,” Lancaster offers a plethora of historical and hands-on experiences surrounding Amish culture. The Amish Farm and House offers engaging tours and insights into Amish history, an amazing Farm Animal Fun Tour, and a delicious meal stop at the Amish BBQ Barn. To boot, Lancaster is located just an hour away from the historic Gettysburg National Military Park and Visitor’s Center. Lancaster is a perfect destination for groups looking to be immersed in history and hands-on learning! 

Charlotte, NC – Charlotte is a gold mine of museums and attractions for student groups. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of the most popular with interactive experiences, exhibits, and seasonal events (like the Coca-Cola 600). The Levine Museum of the New South is another must-see with innovative and impactful exhibits that chronicle Southern history after the Civil War. For a day of fun, Carowinds theme park and Carolina Harbor offer over 50 thrilling rides and experiences for groups of all ages to enjoy. This wide-spanning variety of offerings makes Charlotte a great destination for any group.  

Montgomery, AL – Montgomery is an essential destination for understanding American History and the Civil Rights Movement. The Rosa Parks Museum is a must-see, and the The Legacy Sites offer a full days-worth of learning with the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and The Legacy Museum. In addition to its pivotal role in The Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery boasts incredible culture and cuisine with award-winning southern comfort food, barbeque, and more! Montgomery is the perfect place to engage with history, culture, and the arts for your student group. 

Savannah, GA – Savannah is a wealth of educational opportunities presented with southern charm. For STEM groups, Tybee Island offers incredible Ecology Trips and theTybee Island Marine Science Center to inspire your future marine biologists! Old Fort Jackson, the Savannah History Museum, and George State Railroad Museum are a wealth of knowledge and history. More adventurous groups may opt to learn about Savannah’s haunted history through a walking ghost tour or unwind at the unique shops and restaurants on River Street. How ever your group decides to explore Savannah, you’ll be blown away by this destination’s beauty and plethora of experiences!  

Wherever you decide to explore, Forum Travel is here and happy to help with our expert staff. Request a quote today for one (or all) of these amazing destinations and we’ll build the perfect, custom itinerary for your group!