At 94 years old, Joy Ryan is proving that it’s never too late to explore the world. Alongside her grandson, Brad Ryan, 43, Joy has already visited four continents, with their latest stop being Antarctica. This dynamic duo’s journey began in 2015 when Brad took “Grandma Joy” on her first trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park after she expressed regret about never having seen a mountain.
Their travels grew into a mission to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks, which they accomplished in 2023, making Joy the oldest person to achieve the feat. But the adventure didn’t stop there—after obtaining her first passport at age 91, Joy and Brad set their sights on visiting every continent. Their Antarctic voyage included breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and penguins, creating memories that Joy described as “truly amazing.”
With a shared love for discovery, the pair has embraced every opportunity to marvel at the natural world. From nightly drinks in the ship’s lounge to dreaming of their next trips to Iceland and Borneo, Joy and Brad’s bond continues to inspire. Brad credits Joy with teaching him that life’s secret is to say yes to new possibilities, no matter your age. Joy’s fearless spirit and zest for life are a testament to the power of adventure and the strength of family.