Should You Stay or Go This Summer? Exploring Local Adventures
As summer approaches, many Americans find themselves at a crossroads: should they embark on a grand vacation or stay close to home? According to the June travel report from ustravel.org, rising gas prices are influencing travel plans for 41% of the population. This shift has led many to seek adventure right in their own backyards, prompting a closer look at local attractions.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Vacay Village of Pensacola
One such local treasure is Vacay Village of Pensacola, a newly established RV park that invites visitors to explore the beauty of the area without the hassle of long-distance travel. Judy Brown, the visionary behind this venture, encourages people to consider not just Pensacola but also the surrounding communities like Pace. “You always hear about all of the things you can do in Pensacola, but there are also things you can do in Pace or surrounding areas,” she notes.
A Unique Outdoor Escape
Nestled on 15 acres at the end of a winding gravel trail at 5000 Guernsey Road in Pace, Vacay Village is a gated RV park designed for relaxation and community. The park features a secure entrance and is surrounded by a fence made of aluminum panels, ensuring privacy for guests. Inside, visitors are greeted by an outdoor oasis that includes a beautifully designed waterfall area by the pool, a cozy fire pit, and various gathering spots.
Brown has meticulously crafted the park to foster community interaction. “We wanted to create several places for gatherings,” she explains. The park also boasts sturdy concrete structures designed to withstand hurricane and tornado-force winds, ensuring safety and durability.
Amenities for All Ages
The amenities at Vacay Village are diverse and engaging. Guests can enjoy a bar area complete with a brick pizza oven, exercise spaces, and even slingshots for water balloon fights. An all-purpose room is available for indoor activities, making it a perfect destination for families and groups looking to bond over shared experiences.
A Journey of Transformation
Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Brown has a background in renovating and renting out glampers on Airbnb. After a particularly cold winter, she made the decision to move south to Pensacola. “In a way, COVID helped greatly. It allowed me to start looking for another project,” she shares. Brown fell in love with the property and the renovation process, quickly getting to work on transforming Vacay Village into a welcoming retreat.
Emphasizing Outdoor Fun
Brown has a clear philosophy when it comes to vacations: “No video games. No staring at your phone screen. You can do all of that at home. Get outside. Have fun with your family. Play with your dog. You’re on vacation.” This ethos is reflected in the park’s design, which encourages guests to engage with nature and each other.
For those who don’t have a furry friend, there’s no need to worry. Brown’s 11-month-old yellow Labrador, Vacay, roams the grounds, greeting guests with her friendly demeanor. After some training, she has become the park’s beloved mascot, embodying the spirit of joy and playfulness that Brown aims to cultivate.
Reservations and Future Plans
Vacay Village of Pensacola is now open for reservations, offering a range of rates for daily, weekly, and monthly stays. As the first phase of renovations wraps up, Brown has plans to expand the park further, enhancing the experience for future guests.
For more information about Vacay Village, visit vacayvillages.com or call 850-463-4456.
Conclusion
As summer beckons, the choice between staying home or traveling far doesn’t have to be a dilemma. Local gems like Vacay Village of Pensacola offer the perfect opportunity to explore, relax, and create lasting memories without the stress of long-distance travel. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this enchanting RV park is worth a visit.