The Terrier Times asked West Side’s students and staff where they would most like to vacation this summer, and here are their three top choices.

FLORIDA

Coming in first place was Florida, known for its beaches, amusement parks and warm weather. A popular tourist attraction, Florida sees an astounding 142.9 million visitors each year.  So, why is it such a popular tourist destination?

Well, that is because it has one of the greatest– and happiest– amusement parks of all time, Disney World!  Interested in visiting?  Located in Orlando, expect to enjoy rides with the entire family, eat sweet snacks, and interact with your favorite Disney characters.

If Disney’s not for you, then South Beach just might be.   Located at the southern point of Florida in Miami, you can expect to find upscale accomodations, a quiet place to relax, and beautiful calm waters.  While South Beach can be somewhat pricey, you will find a lot to do with its variety of stripmalls, clubs, and restaurants, all with those beautiful ocean views. 

There is also Clearwater Beach, known for its sugar-white sand.  Clearwater Beach is a popular destination spot. Enjoy its warm waters from the newly renamed Gulf of America — perhaps, on one of its beach resorts!

And lastly, there are the Evereglades,  located in the wetlands of Florida.  Visit its National Park.  It is the site of the “largest subtropical wilderness in the country. You can camp, bird-watch, or go on a wildlife tour!

2. PUERTO RICO

Coming in second place was Puerto Rico, known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and festive culture.  Places you might want to visit while you are there include the following:

Mar Chiquaita Beach, also known as Horseshoe Beach, is located in Manyi, Puerto Rico. Not only can you enjoy the mild sun and the soothing crystal clear water, they also offer family fun activities such as, scuba diving, snorkeling, volleyball, and it is dog friendly! 

Old San Juan, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, offers sunset boat rides, museum tours, and scenic walks.

Gilligan’s Island, reachable by kayak or ferry, has many fun activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and  exploring the island. 

3.  MAINE

Third place goes to Maine.  Maine is known for its historical sites, stunning forests, moose population, scenic beaches, and, of course, its fresh lobster. Maine is the perfect place to get away with family and friends.  Tourist attractions include the following:

Sebago Lake, Maine’s second largest lake, is located in Standish.  Its house rentals and campgrounds on the lake make it a lovely place to take the family. And feel free to bring your boat and enjoy the waters. 

Portland is known for its fresh seafood, stunning scenery, and restaurants. What more could you want? Portland is an easy place to navigate around town, offers historical sites, and even a children’s museum for the younger kids.

Acadia National Park is located on a mountain desert island, has around 47,000 acres of land, and contains about two dozen lakes and ponds.  It is also home to over 1,000 species of plants, making it a popular vacation spot for those who love nature. Activities offered include biking, fishing, camping, and much more. 

Moosehead Lake is largest lake in Maine and is located in Piscataquis country. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, boating, and camping. There are around 80 islands located in the lake, its largest being Sugar Island, where you can even camp!