Spring break has finally arrived, and UNA students and faculty are ready to take a trip. 

However, for those wishing to go on vacation without travelling long distances, which can be both tiring and expensive, there are several destinations to check out that are not far from campus.

Located around three hours from Florence is the city of Nashville.

It has cheap entertainment and plenty of activities, said senior Talyn Walton.

“There’s always live music downtown and great shopping everywhere, and it’s a big city but nothing that’s too crazy or costs too much money,” she said.

Some know Nashville as the country music capital of the world, with the city having no shortage of attractions for fans of the genre, such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium.

On the way to Nashville, drivers can explore the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic drive with many of its own natural wonders to stop for.

Once the main trade route for Native Americans, it has become the connecting line from Southwest Mississippi to Nashville.

“For me, the Natchez Trace has been a place of peace, in which I can get away from all of the worries of the world and simply take a breath of fresh air,” said junior Peyton Morgan.

He said some notable places to check out along the Trace are Birdsong Hollow, Gordon House, Cave Spring or Jackson Falls.

Staying inside Alabama offers unique locations as well.

Near Huntsville is a creamery for Belle Chevre, cheese company operating on an international scale. The company specializes in goat cheese and offers tours of the facility for anyone curious about how it is made.

About an hour south of Florence is Dismals Canyon, a collection of caves, boulders and the surrounding forest to explore.

Patrick Shremshock, department of health, physical education and recreation instructor, said for those looking to hike elsewhere, the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains offer another worthy location.

“Physical fitness is key to hiking in Franklin County with the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains,” he said. “This area will test even the most fit hiker, yet still allow for novices to set attainable hiking goals.”

So, for anyone wanting to journey outside of Florence for spring break, remember that there may be a fun, inexpensive vacation spot perfect that is not too far away.