Woodleigh Chase Residents Discover that Trips are More Fun with Friends

Ann Levy has always enjoyed traveling--whether she was exploring Alaska, skiing out west, sailing in Maine, or cruising the Mediterranean.

However, since moving to Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., she has discovered that traveling with friends makes experiences like these even more enjoyable.

Now, Ann is part of the Woodleigh Chasers, a group of residents who travel together to local landmarks, museums, plays, sporting events, wineries, and more.

"It's always more fun to go with friends! And traveling with a group is great because I don't need to worry about transportation or making arrangements--unless I'm leading the trip," says Ann, with a laugh.

Getting started

Shortly after the Woodleigh Chasers formed in 2024, club leader Mike Mason reached out to trip coordinators at sister Erickson Senior Living communities in Virginia, including Ashby Ponds in Ashburn and Greenspring in Springfield.

"At first, I had no idea how to proceed, so I worked with trip coordinators at Ashby Ponds and Greenspring to get ideas and discuss the logistics. As I became more proficient and able to mentor others in our group, members began stepping up to organize trips on their own," explains Mike, who moved in 2024 from Centerville, Va.

Group meetings are held monthly to discuss possible travel destinations and events. Once an itinerary is set, the trip is advertised within the community. On average, anywhere from 25 to 50 people travel together.

"I try to keep the pipeline full of ideas, but I also rely on suggestions from members of the group. This allows folks to participate as well," says Mike, noting that the group has also managed to provide accessibility to those who otherwise may not travel.

Resident Life staff members support the group by organizing bus rentals and handling payments for bookings.

Adventure is out there

Since the group's inception, the Woodleigh Chasers have taken day trips to Old Town Alexandria in Virginia; the Signature Theatre in Arlington, Va.; Arena Stage, Shakespeare Theatre Company, the National Mall, and Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.; Breaux Winery in Purcellville, Va.; Annapolis, Md.; and an overnight trip to the Contemporary American Theater Festival in Shepherdstown, W. Va.

"People are thrilled with what we have accomplished and are so happy they have this as an outlet for them to participate," says Mike.

Since moving to the community, Frank and Julie Philpot have joined several day trips, including the Shepherdstown festival.

"We saw five plays in two days and enjoyed it a lot," says Frank. "Within 50 miles of Washington, D.C., there are an enormous number of day trip possibilities. I expect the menu of offerings to gradually increase, and we look forward to that."

Looking ahead

Over the last two years, the Woodleigh Chasers' trips have continued to gain in popularity. As the group grows, so do the advantages of group travel--such as reduced ticket costs, door-to-door service, and the companionship of fellow travelers.

Even those who prefer to travel solo benefit from living at a gated community like Woodleigh Chase. With 24-hour security, residents never have to worry about what's happening at home while they're away. They simply notify staff that they're headed out the door.

Plus, the community's convenient location makes it easy to reach the Metrorail and Washington Dulles International Airport.

This year started strong with myriad day trips to see popular shows like Fiddler on the Roof, Guys and Dolls, Stereophonic, and Suffs the Musical.

Mike is already planning trips for the rest of the year, with possible destinations including some Maryland locations like a Choptank River lunch cruise on the Eastern Shore, a Baltimore art exhibit, the National Aquarium at the Inner Harbor--and an encore trip to Shepherdstown.

Whether a day trip to a local museum or an overnight stay in a new city, the Woodleigh Chasers prove that the journey is always richer when shared with friends.

"Woodleigh Chase has always been great at creating community," says Mike. "Our group is no exception!"

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Danielle Rexrode