By Meridith Orr, Program Executive

Whether you’re part of a new or long-established Girl Scout troop, at some point you may want to take a trip together.  Juliette Gordon Low was a fearless traveler, having attended boarding school as a young girl and sailed to Europe before she married. Biographer Stacey Cordery wrote that our Founder “encountered other cultures appreciatively and made lifelong friendships” through her many adventures.

Girl Scouts of all ages love to travel, and opportunities range from short field trips or an overnight for Daisies and Brownies to longer trips for older girls. While we can’t possibly cover all travel options in this article, we can highlight a few fun and educational destinations that are convenient to our council.

1. Savannah, GA – What would any Girl Scout travel bucket list be without this city rich in history, culture and great food?  Must-see stops include the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the first Girl Scout National Headquarters and the Andrew Low House, where our Daisy spent her final days.  A lovely way to end your visit is to stop by Laurel Grove Cemetery on your way out of town and pay your respects to our Founder at her resting place.
2. Washington, DC – Our nation’s capital boasts a number of amazing attractions that are free or require only a small donation, including the Smithsonian Castle, the National Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of Natural History – all conveniently located on the National Mall.  The National Archives is just a short walk away, so go visit our Constitution!  From there it’s a short walk to the National Portrait Gallery, where you’ll find a beautiful portrait of Juliette Gordon Low! Taking the train helps keep the trip affordable and gives you more leg-room!
3. New York City – “Big Apple”-bound troops have plenty of opportunities to make lots of memories in just a couple of days.   Take a tour of the GSUSA National Headquarters, see a Broadway play, visit the Statue of Liberty and roam the vast exhibits of the Metropolitan Museum and Museum of Natural History.
4. Williamsburg, VA – History buffs can step back in time by visiting this living museum, a 300-acre historical district consisting of restored colonial homes and buildings dating back to the beginning of the 18th century! Re-creators dress in colonial costume, use colonial speech, and work in professions that were popular during the era.
5. Disney World (Orlando, FL) – Disney’s Youth Education Series programs give girls a hands-on, educational adventure in topics such as: Applied Sciences, Environmental Studies, Liberal Arts and Leadership Development.  Your troop will practice teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving skills while participating in one-of-a-kind moments steeped in the magic of Disney.

Need help getting started on your troop’s adventure?  Email the council at council@nccoastalpines.org for assistance.  If you’re a seasoned traveler, why not join our new Travel Committee and help other troops with the task of planning their trips?  All you need is your travel savvy and a love of all things Girl Scouts!  Contact Neph Bailey, Program Director, at nbailey@nccoastalpines.org.