Family reunions can be a lot of fun. You get to see family members you may not have seen for a couple of years. Perhaps, there are ‘new’ family members you haven’t met. The good news is there are plenty of family reunion locations throughout the U.S. The possibilities are endless!

It’s important to make arrangements early and find a place that works for everyone. This is a good way to prevent family feuds! If you wait too long to plan your family reunion, your favorite hotel or resort could be booked solid. Also, family members may not be able to attend due to previous travel plans.

How to Plan a Family Reunion, Cut Costs, and Have a Good Time

Book Your Family Reunion Locations Early! Photo credit: Stock exchange-Sign-Helen Bobis

Book early

Beach family reunion locations are popular. The most popular beach vacation destination is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. If you have your heart set on having your family reunion in SC then you better book your location early. Otherwise, the entire family will be left out in the cold.

Tie your family reunion to an important date

If grandma and grandpa are celebrating 65 years of marriage, celebrate their special day at the family reunion. Building your family reunion around a holiday could be tricky. Big holiday’s like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July are during the travel ‘high season.’ You may not be able to find accommodations or someone may not be able to attend.

Hold your family reunion in the off-season

It may be cost effective to hold your family reunion in the off-season. Family reunion locations such as Florida, North and South Carolina, Georgia, and other popular destinations can be expensive during the ‘high season’ which is usually during the summer. Some family members may not be able to afford to attend. Take this into consideration when planning your family reunion. Holding in the off-season could work for everyone.

Meet at a family member’s home

Holding your family reunion at a family member’s home is another way to cut costs. Perhaps, a family member with five or more acres of land will be willing to host the family reunion. Everyone can bring something, a hot meal, desert, or soft drinks. Of course, cash would probably be accepted too!

Decide on the size of your family reunion

Your family reunion doesn’t have to be large. A small and intimate family reunion could be more inviting. First-time family reunion planners may want to plan a smaller affair. You’ll get a sense of what it’s like to plan reunion.

Raise money for your family reunion 

Send out an email blast and ask family members to have garage sales, silent auctions, raffles, car washes, rummage sales, etc. to raise money for your family reunion.

Plan cost-effective family activities

Ask family members what they like to do. Ask family members what their kids like to do. You can’t please everyone. But you can plan activities ahead of time to keep people entertained. Ideas are:

• Renting a karaoke machine.
• Set up a sound system outside (if you’re holding at your home).
• Booking golf outing.
• Swimming
• Hiking
• Going to the park.
• Renting a ‘bouncy castle’ or other inflatable rentals.

Now you know how to plan a family reunion, cut costs, and have a good time! Keep the lines of communication open. Correspond via email or Facebook. Keep in mind that everyone may not have a computer or Facebook page. Contact family members when you have the date, time, and location settled. Keep family up-to-date with the latest information. Happy planning!

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Delight in Days Gone By
Nebraskans are distinctly proud of their history, and it truly shows. Throughout the state you’ll find countless opportunities to learn about our heritage, from the American Indians who roamed the plains to the settlers who tamed the land. So come share in our experience; plan a Nebraska vacation today. You won’t be disappointed.

Pioneering Spirit
Lewis and Clark’s exploratory journey through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 led the way to western expansion that brought thousands of pioneers to these lands in search of a better way of life. The Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails all wound their way through Nebraska, where their existence can yet be seen in the historic way stations and wagon ruts that remain.

One of the most recognizable landmarks along the westward route is Chimney Rock near Bayard. Jutting into the skyline, it was a welcome trail marker for weary pioneers making their way across the prairie. Today it serves as a reminder of the pioneers’ hardships and triumphs.
Find other tributes to frontier history at museums in Omaha, Beatrice, Fairbury, Grand Island, Kearney, and North Platte—to name a few. Each is a must-stop for those wanting to trace our country’s rich pioneering past.

Unforgettable Journey
Start planning your Nebraska adventure today. Order a free travel packet at VisitNebraska.gov or 888-444-1867.

Visit Niobrara River, a top 10 canoeing hot spot in Nebraska.

The Niobrara River winding along the northern edge of Nebraska’s Sandhills Region is not just any river… it’s a national scenic river and one of the top 10 canoeing hot spots in the nation. Plenty of outfitters in the area offer canoe and kayak rentals so you can navigate the waters. If you’re looking for a more leisurely trip downstream, rent tubes and let the current move you.

No matter how you choose to traverse the river, though, one thing is for certain. You’re in for a spectacle. Along the river’s path is Smith Falls. Cascading down 70 feet of rocky cliff, this is Nebraska’s tallest waterfall and newest state park.

In addition, you will also discover a wonderfully diverse mix of flora and fauna thriving on the banks. In fact, six different ecosystems converge in the Niobrara River Valley, making the river a rare ecological wonder.

Sound like your kind of fun? Then grab the sunscreen, pack up the car, and embark on the kind of vacation you enjoyed when you were younger—a getaway filled with interesting stops, fun-filled days, and unforgettable moments.

Start planning your Nebraska adventure today. Order a free travel packet at VisitNebraska.gov or 888-444-1867.

Nebraska is home to several one-of-a-kind attractions that offer fun for everyone. One such place is Lincoln’s International Quilt Study Center & Museum, which has a new place to call home—and the building itself is as much a work of art as the quilts within. This is definitely a stop for the entire family.

Speaking of family fun, be sure to grab the kids and head to Kearney for an adventure-filled getaway that features art, history, wildlife viewing, and hands-on activities. The Great Platte River Road Archway is a great place to start.

To the west in North Platte, discover a long list of things to do, including visits to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, the Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center at Bailey Railroad Yard, and Cody Park. And that’s just the beginning.

Ready for more? Go to http://www.visitnebraska.govand request a free Nebraska Travel Guide.

With so many choices, it’s nice to know you have a friend in GuestQuest.