spring break trips for adults

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10 Spring Break Spots for Grown-Ups

Retreat to an enticing, crowd-free locale without hordes of college spring breakers at your side.

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Skip more heavily populated beach spots in favor of alluring alternative spring vacation destinations, from Arizona to Argentina.

Who said college kids get to have all the fun over spring break? Adults can enjoy some rest and relaxation on a laid-back escape, too. And now is the time to plan a seasonal getaway, whether you're seeking low-key retreat with sugary sands and tranquil waters or a desert landscape with awe-inspiring trails and natural wonders. If you're ready to map out your spring trip, here are 10 ideas to get you started.

[See: 9 Ways to Save Money on a Spring Break Trip .]

Sedona, Arizona

If you have the urge to hit the trails and take in striking desert scenery, head to Sedona. For active types, the Arabella Hotel Sedona is ideal thanks to its proximity to scenic routes and the striking Red Rock formations. In addition, there's the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, wine tasting along the Verde Valley Wine Trail and backpacking tours, along with canyons to explore by bike. What's more, you'll find a variety of top-notch restaurants, including Elote Café, a James Beard Award recipient. And if its a health-conscious getaway you're after, the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock has a wellness package that includes dining credits, a private training session and unlimited fitness classes, including aqua yoga and tai chi classes.

Belle Mont Farm on Kittitian Hill is a luxury sustainable resort on St. Kitts surrounded by 400 acres of lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Groups of eight can book the four-bedroom farmhouse, which includes a large central pavilion with a private 100-foot infinity pool, a kitchen, a curated wine selection and a personal chef who can create an in-home farm-to-table dinner or lead a cooking class. Other on-site amenities and perks include Irie Fields, a Par 71, 18-hole golf course that embraces its natural landscape with fresh fruit and the Mango Walk Wellness Centre, which offers private wellness experiences like custom body scrubs produced from locally sourced herbs.

Los Cabos, Mexico

While 20-somethings will flock to Cancun this spring, Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas will provide a cosmopolitan beachside alternative. Located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, the area offers plenty of sandy spots and opportunities to hit the greens on a host of challenging championship courses. Plus, you can enjoy whale-watching season through mid-April. After embracing the great outdoors, enjoy top-notch cuisine and unwind at one of the area's many luxurious resorts.

Key West, Florida

Each year, riotous college students retreat to Key West during spring break's annual rite of passage, but there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path areas where you can enjoy seclusion and serenity. Explore the area's eclectic art galleries, shops, renowned museums and Dry Tortuga Park. Another must-see, particularly for literary fanatics, is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , where the legendary writer spent more than a decade during the most prolific period in his career. For unique accommodations, try NYAH (Not Your Average Hotel) a few blocks from the bustle of Duval Street, where you'll find adult-only accommodations that cater to large groups, along with three pools, two Jacuzzis and a daily happy hour.

[Read: 7 Family-Friendly Spring Trips You Can Afford .]

Amalfi Coast, Italy

For a once-in-a-lifetime Italian retreat, escape to Monastero Santa Rosa , a 17th-century monastery-turned luxury boutique hotel and spa located in the charming fishing town of Concei dei Marini. Here, you can enjoy VIP perks (think: a chilled bottle of Prosecco and fresh fruit). Plus, breakfast is complimentary, as is the use of the Thermal Suite, which boasts mosaic heated benches with pomegranate whirlpool baths, a domed herbal steam room, a stone and wood sauna, a hydrotherapy pool and a heated infinity pool, among other amenities.

Lake Murray Country, Columbia, South Carolina

The beautiful Midlands region is a central epicenter in the Palmetto State. From paddleboard excursions to zip lining, there's plenty to see and do. As for accommodations, there are a host of cost-effective vacation rentals and cabins at Dreher Island State Park. And no matter what your ideal itinerary involves, you can't skip checking out the area's 50,000 acres of water. Afterward, refuel at Liberty on the Lake in Irmo, South Carolina, which has 48 beers on tap, baby back ribs and other staples. And it if a laid-back setting with live music is what you're after, head to the Frayed Knot in nearby Chapin, South Carolina, which offers an inviting setting and cozy fire pits.

Chicago A short, but sweet break between Chicago's frosty winter temperatures and sweltering summer heat, spring is an excellent time to venture to the Windy City and explore its can't-miss attractions. Chi-town's newest upscale hostel, The Hollander, is an ideal place to stay. It's modern and edgy building located in the Wicker Park neighborhood offers easy access to galleries, cafes, restaurants, boutiques and live music venues. Or, if you're craving a high-end, boutique experience, the Dana Hotel and Spa offers an enticing place to hang your hat with in-room iPads, Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin sound systems, rainforest showers, in-room wine chillers and even a rooftop cocktail lounge.

Uco Valley, Argentina Some say the best-kept secret in Argentina's Uco Valley is Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort, which is situated across a 790-acre estate and vineyard. The property's "Adventure & Wine" program caters to those craving a relaxing spring getaway. The program includes parcel tasting through the vineyards with a sommelier and chef, a cocktail class, tapas-style dinners paired with signature wines, a winery visit, horseback riding and free time to explore the beauty of Mendoza, Argentina. Whether you want to relax in the outdoor infinity pool in the middle of the resort's lagoon or partake in a sunrise yoga class, there are plenty of ways to soak in your surroundings, with the dramatic Andes Mountains as your backdrop.

Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington

If you're itching for the chance to unwind and recharge on a relaxing trip, slip away to Friday Harbor, a storied seaport surrounded by the Dream and Fish Hook Lakes. Here, you can fish, bike, canoe, kayak and hike, among other recreational pastimes. At the end of the day, retreat to the Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes, and take your pick of cozy log cabins, the entire Lake House, a campsite or a refurbished retro airstream trailer with its own lakeside deck.

[See: 8 Great Alternative Spring Break Ideas for Every Budget .]

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

No passport ? No problem. You won't need a passport to unwind and recharge along St. Thomas's beautiful beaches. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is popular for its weekly snorkel hunt on Thursdays, where participants have the chance to win a coveted treasure: bottles of local rum. Even if you don't win a prize, you can still sip on a bucket of Bolongo's signature VooDoo juice, and dance your cares away at Iggie's Beach Bar & Grill. What's more, Iggie's hosts a weekly Carnival Night with plenty of live music, Caribbean cuisine and entertainment.

Tags: Travel , Vacations , spring

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• Spring Vacations

10 Best Spring Break Destinations in the U.S.

From the South Carolina coast to a Utah mountain town, here are the best places to go for a spring vacation.

When you think of spring break, what comes to mind? Maybe it's a family road trip, a college beach vacation, or late-season skiing out West. Whether your imminent break is from work or school, time away from the daily grind is always a good idea. Spring break is not only an opportunity for a getaway, it's a reminder that you've made it through the dreary post-holiday winter months.

Here are a few of the best spring break destinations in the United States to help you start planning. We've got vacation ideas for everyone — from families traveling with younger kids to couples looking for a romantic spring getaway — in almost every region of the country.

Destin, Florida

Heather Durham/Travel + Leisure

On Florida's Emerald Coast, Destin (along with Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island) is a popular spring break destination for families. Daily high temperatures in the 70s make it a prime spot for boating, fishing, and relaxing on the fine white-sand beaches. The warm Gulf waters are ideal for aquatic activities like snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and parasailing. There's also a kid-friendly boardwalk featuring a zip line and rock-climbing wall. In addition to Destin's luxury resorts , you can choose from campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Early spring weather is in the chilly mid-50s at Cannon Beach, but it's still a fun time to explore tide pools and watch seabirds. Every April, the resident puffins return to their roost on Haystack Rock after about eight months away.

The beach is dog-friendly, and leashes are not required, so your pet can enjoy playing on the sand or joining you for a hike. There's a great selection of hotels, including luxurious oceanfront properties, plus vacation home rentals and campsites. When you want a break from the shore, you'll find shops, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, spas, and theaters in town.

Park City, Utah

Not everyone is looking for a beach vacation, so for the powder seeker or mountain lover, Park City charms with its artsy downtown and historic silver-mining town vibe. Late-season snow sports typically last through spring at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley , but it should also be warm enough for hiking, mountain biking, and strolling along Main Street. Families with kids will be happy to know there's bowling, ice skating, zip lining, tubing, and more to keep little ones entertained.

South Padre Island, Texas

This barrier island resort town off the southern coast of Texas is popular among college students and families alike because of its warm weather, water sports, and nature. Paddleboards, kayaks, Jet Skis, and kite boards are available for rent. Kids can learn about some of South Padre Island's most-loved residents at Sea Turtle, Inc. or work on their sandcastle-building skills. The college-student party crowd will be found dancing and drinking to DJ sets at bars like Louie's Backyard .

Palm Springs, California

Warm weather arrives early in the Southern California desert, making Palm Springs and nearby desert cities attractive destinations for spring breakers. Kids can be kept busy at the hotel pool or with a visit to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens . A ride to the top of Mt. San Jacinto on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is fun for nature lovers of all ages. Boasting both fast food and upscale dining, budget motels and luxury resorts, hiking and high-end shopping and galleries, this desert oasis has something for any kind of traveler.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island attracts beach bums from all over the Midwest and East Coast with its 12 miles of Atlantic shoreline and waters ideal for fishing, parasailing, kayaking, Jet Skiing, and sailing. On land, you can bike, play golf, and go horseback riding. The weather is warm, with highs in the 70s, but not too hot to spend entire days outside.

Families who take their dogs along will be glad to know that until Memorial Day weekend, leashed pets are welcome on the beach. If there's time, a side trip to nearby Savannah or Beaufort provides even more Southern charm.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Pleasant spring weather would be enough to attract visitors to this Southern city, and there's so much to do that no one will even notice there's no beach nearby. The Georgia Aquarium is the largest in the United States and features sharks, dolphins, sea lions, seabirds, and more. The World of Coca Cola offers tastings and other experiences in the city where the soda is headquartered. The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame will delight university students, and there's a Lego Discovery Center for kids.

New Orleans

The Big Easy is known as a party destination, but families with kids should keep New Orleans on their spring break radar, too. The historic city has an aquarium, zoo, and several standout museums. The National World War II Museum , Old U.S. Mint , and Louisiana Children's Museum mix entertainment and education. For the college students looking for a party scene, there's no shortage of bars in the French Quarter.

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

One of America's best beach towns, Wrightsville Beach offers water sports, restaurants, shopping, and history. Stay oceanfront or near the harbor in a family-friendly hotel or a beach house rented with friends. Surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular, and scuba divers seek out the area's sunken ships and reefs teeming with marine life. Even if it's not swimming weather just yet, you can still enjoy being on the water with a sightseeing cruise or fishing excursion. Visitors can learn more about the area at a number of historical sites and museums.

"The Valley of the Sun" is a well-deserved nickname for the Greater Phoenix area, which also includes Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Chandler. Even in the spring, this part of the Sonoran Desert sees temperatures in the high 70s and even 80s. Lounge in the sun by a pool, take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard on the Salt River, or join a jeep tour through the rugged terrain. With everything from five-star resorts to motels, campgrounds, and dude ranches, there's an accommodation option for every travel style and budget.

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The 14 Best Getaways In America To Enjoy A Grown-Up Spring Break

Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

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Are you ready for an adult spring break? The days are longer, the temperatures are warming, and it’s the time of year where most of us are suffering from an acute case of spring wanderlust. After all, there’s a reason why “spring break” is a popular variety of vacation! But we’re (thankfully) well past the days of college spring breaks, with their overcrowded beaches and red Solo cups. Nor are we looking for a family-friendly vacation full of black mouse ears and amusement park rides.

What we’re pining for, after months of winter and years of a pandemic, are some bucket-list-level getaways for a grown-up spring break . We’re talking about fun-yet-refined spring getaways in Wine Country or a charming coastal town, all-inclusive adventures in some of the most incredible destinations in America. If that’s the kind of getaway you’re seeking, let the following spring break destinations for adults inspire your next adventure.

Warm Spring Break Destinations

Cheap spring break destinations, unique spring break destinations, west coast spring break destinations, east coast spring break destinations.

Do you have visions of sandy beaches and umbrella-topped drinks for your adult spring break vacay? Same! Here are some warm spring break destinations to thaw your winter-frozen bones:

• Closest Airport: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport and Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
• Known For: The basis for "The Truman Show" and its epic "Airstream Row," a marvelous collection of vintage Airstream food trucks with off the town square.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Vacation options abound in and near Seaside, like this stunning beachfront cottage .
• Don't Miss: Wander over to Airstream Row and enjoy a culinary trip around the world!

• Closest Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
• Known For: Mardi Gras, The French Quarter, and amazing food.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Check out this Waterfront VRBO that's just a quick drive from the heart of the French Quarter!
• Don't Miss: The food. Definitely make it a priority to explore the culinary attractions of NOLA !

• Closest Airport: Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Flagstaff Pulliam Airport
• Known For: Red rocks and epic outdoor recreation.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Check out this gorgeous dog-friendly rental in Sedona - it's the perfect home base for your adventures with Fido!
• Don't Miss: Sedona has an amazing culinary scene with some of the best restaurants in Arizona including Tii Gavo!

Looking to do spring break on a budget? You don’t have to sacrifice an amazing experience… these cheap spring break destinations are all bucket-list worthy! Each destination was selected for a variety of budget-friendly criteria, from ease of access (proximity to nearby airports or major highways for road trippers), free and/or inexpensive attractions, and affordable accommodations.

• Closest Airport: Santa Fe Regional Airport
• Known For: History - Santa Fe is among the oldest towns in the U.S.
• Where To Stay Nearby: While options like La Fonda on the Plaza offer loads of history, those looking for quieter accommodations can check out VRBO rentals like this beautiful casita near The Plaza of Santa Fe .
• Don't Miss: The Santa Fe Plaza is a paradise for both shoppers and history buffs, full of historic monuments, art galleries of all mediums, businesses, and some of the best restaurants in the state.

• Closest Airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
• Known For: Laid-back vibes, thriving culinary scene, the world's largest urban bat colony.
• Where To Stay Nearby: There are lots of hotels in downtown ATX, but if you're looking for something unique, check out this Fairy Tale VRBO in Austin!
• Don't Miss: See the infamous Congress Avenue bats via a nighttime Segway tour!

• Closest Airport: O'Hare International Airport
• Known For: The Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, beer... Chicago is an acclaimed food city!
• Where To Stay Nearby: Hotels abound in the Windy City, but there are lots of affordable VRBO rentals, too, like this adorable mid-century modern penthouse apartment .
• Don't Miss: The Chicago Riverwalk is a must-visit attraction that's full of the city's most acclaimed restaurants, bars, and museums!

• Closest Airport: Asheville Regional Airport
• Known For: Amazing wine scene, the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Biltmore.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Check out this cozy cabin for a luxurious and affordable place to stay just minutes from the heart of downtown Asheville!
• Don't Miss: You can't visit Asheville, North Carolina, without stopping by The Biltmore , which is absolutely ravishing when its gardens bloom in spring!

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If you’re looking to mix things up from the standard coastal spring break, the following unique spring break destinations each offer something special. Whether you’re a history buff or bourbon enthusiast, enjoy an adult spring break at one of these unique destinations:

• Closest Airport: Salt Lake City International Airport
• Known For: Epic wintertime recreation and an impossibly charming apres ski setup.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Options abound in Downtown Park City, including this luxury VRBO .
• Don't Miss: Explore Main Street via trolley and be prepared to be swept off your feet by this beautiful town!

• Closest Airport: Louisville International Airport
• Known For: One word: bourbon.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Options abound all around the heart of Historic Bardstown, including the luxurious Huston House .
• Don't Miss: Definitely have dinner and a drink at The Old Talbott Tavern , the oldest bourbon bar in the country!

California dreaming? Or is the moody PNW more your style? Whatever you fancy, these West Coast spring break destinations fit the bill.

• Closest Airport: San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport
• Known For: Cayucos is known as the "Last of the California Beach Towns," and is a laid-back place that warmly welcomes all.
• Where To Stay Nearby: In terms of accommodations, given its location right on the shores of the Pacific, pretty much every hotel in town is going to have amazing views... Cayucos Sunset Inn Bed & Breakfast certainly does! And for those into charming coastal cottages, this stunning beachfront cottage is easily one of the rentals in the area!
• Don't Miss: Grab your car (or rent one, if you flew into town) and explore the stunning California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway !

• Closest Airport: Seattle-Tacoma
• Known For: Whale watching.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Check out this beautiful waterfront suite via VRBO!
• Don't Miss: You can't visit Friday Harbor without stopping by Lime Kiln Point State Park !

• Closest Airport: Redmond Municipal Airport
• Known For: Epic outdoor recreation.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Check out this luxury VRBO in Bend !
• Don't Miss: Yes, people come to Bend for outdoor recreation, but pop culture fans know this charming PNW locale as the home to the last Blockbuster in there world !

While the East Coast is best-known for fall foliage and snowy winters, spring in this region of the U.S. is nothing short of sublime. Here are some of the best spring break destinations on the East Coast that offer fantastic opportunities for an adults-only getaway!

• Closest Airport: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
• Known For: Charlottesville is home of University of Virginia and Thomas Jefferson's famed estate, Monticello, as well as thriving wine and craft brewery scenes.
• Where To Stay Nearby: You'll find loads of amazing *and* affordable rentals in CVille, including this luxury home near town .
• Don't Miss: Charlottesville's popular shops, restaurants and ambiance converge in one main area, known as the historic Downtown Mall !

• Closest Airport: Portland International Jetport
• Known For: Lobster, craft breweries, and lighthouses.
• Where To Stay Nearby: Hotels abound in Portland, Maine, be we're partial to homey little rentals like this cozy VRBO .
• Don't Miss: Don't pass up the opportunity to visit the most-photographed lighthouse in the country: Portland Light !

When was the last time you planned a grown-up spring break? It’s something we highly recommend! Leave the stress and work behind for a week (or two) — it will all be waiting for you when you return a calmer, more relaxed, and happier version of yourself.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Spring break destinations for adults.

Where are the best spring break destinations in the U.S.?

All of the above places are among the best spring break destinations in the U.S., but if you're looking for more potential getaways, consider these places:

• Hilton Head, South Carolina
• The Outer Banks, North Carolina
• Gatlinburg, Tennessee
• Eureka Springs, Arkansas
• Hudson, New York
• Lexington, Virginia
• Taos, New Mexico
• Galveston, Texas

What are the most affordable spring break destinations?

If you're looking to  spring break  without  breaking the bank , consider one of these affordable spring break destinations in the U.S.:

• Louisville, Kentucky . Louisville was one of only 12 U.S. destinations on The New York Times list of "52 Places To Go in 2023," This Southern town is one of those underrated places sure to sweep you off your feet. Waterfront Park is the Bluegrass State's very own Central Park, hosting community events in its lovely green space at the water's edge, while the Kentucky Bourbon Trail runs right through the heart of this region. World-class attractions abound in Louisville, adding yet another reason to play tourist in this KY town. From the Kentucky Derby Museum and Muhammad Ali Center to the Louisville Mega Cavern and Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, you certainly won't run out of things to do in this city.
• Pella, Iowa. Known for its Dutch culture and postcard-perfect downtown, Pella is one of the most delightful small towns in the country . Located less than an hour from Des Moines, Pella is a small town that feels like entering another time and place -- and country . Founded by immigrants from Holland in 1847, Pella is a place that celebrates its Netherlands culture and heritage. Evidence of this is easy to see in Downtown Pella, which features Dutch-inspired architecture and several iconic windmills, such as the Vermeer Windmill, along with numerous Dutch bakeries and shops. Each spring, this small town comes alive in color, with its annual Tulip Festival attracting visitors from all across the Midwest, who come to experience the simple joy of beautiful blooms and exuberant Dutch culture.

What are the best spring break destinations for couples?

For those looking for the best spring break destinations for couples, keep these romantic destinations in mind:

• Colorado Hot Springs. The Centennial State is teeming with sublime hot springs that offer an undeniably romantic adults-only getaway. Whether you opt for a bare-bones hot spring or a luxurious resort, things are bound to get steamy at these Colorado hot springs!
• Carmel-by-the-Sea .  Carmel-by-the-Sea is quite possibly the most romantic  coastal town in the country. This California gem is located on the Monterey Peninsula and is about as postcard-perfect as it gets. This quaint little village has lots of local restaurants, wine bars, and fairy tale accommodations that all add to its allure. Of course, the town's sublime surroundings contribute to that feeling, too. After a day of shopping and wine tasting, head down to the eponymous Carmel Beach to take in the sweeping coastal scenery and bask in a beautiful California sunset.
• Cannon Beach . This town on the Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful charming US towns , and it captures the wonder of the Pacific Northwest. Cannon Beach is defined by its shoreline, which features the iconic and commanding Haystack Rock. This unique formation is made up of basalt created by lava that flowed through Oregon 16 million years ago. Its beaches are spectacular, too, and when you've tired of a day on the water, head into town to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful seafood of your life.

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Where to go for spring break this year

Nonstop parties, outdoor adventure, beach getaways—there’s something for every spring breaker..

We have two pieces of good news. The first? Spring break is just around the corner. And second: it’s not too late to shake up your plans and book something special this year. But where you go for spring break depends a lot on who you’re traveling with. Whether you’re planning a family vacation , a getaway with your low-key friend group, a wild time with all-out partiers, or a couples getaway, it’s clear that certain destinations excel at certain types of spring breaks. There are the tried-and-true classics (think Walt Disney World thrills), the outdoor adventure hubs (ziplining in Costa Rica, anyone?), and so much more. To help get the gears moving, here are a few of our favorite spots to brighten up your spring.

Spring break destination for families

The classic: orlando, fl.

While much of the springtime can be calm in Orlando , spring break can be bonkers, when families flock to the amusement parks like SeaWorld , Universal Studios , Legoland , and, of course, Walt Disney World . Disney tends to be the most crowded, so if you're dead set on seeing Mickey and friends, plan to stay on-property to cash in on valuable perks like early entry and extended evening hours. Time your visits to various parks by their opening and closing hours (Animal Kingdom opens at 7:30 a.m., while Hollywood Studios stays open after midnight)—and if you’re an early riser, arrive about an hour before official opening times to get through security. During peak times at the park, I also schedule my family’s meals at odd times so we can hit the ride queues when everyone else is eating.

When you want to escape the park crowds, head out on the water of Orlando’s 100-plus lakes for airboat and glass-bottom kayak tours to see gators, manatees, and more—and soak up a little peace and quiet.

More to explore

The adventure: Costa Rica

The spring’s dry, warm weather means it’s an ideal time for the outdoor adventures Costa Rica is known for—in the water, on land, and in the air. Ziplining above jungle treetop canopies put this destination on adrenaline seekers’ maps, but there are many more activities to choose from. Embark on nightly tours to see sea turtles nest at Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean side, snorkel at Playa Conchal , surf beginner-friendly waves on the Pacific coast, and hike the Arenal volcano in the middle, just to name a few. Animal-loving kiddos can also hang out with sloths and poisonous frogs—from a safe distance, of course.

Because there is so much to see from coast to coast, plan to change hotels every few days to make the most of your time off. And since it’s such an active vacation, families should consider Costa Rica when the kids are at least four years old, if not older.

The hidden gem: Edinburgh, Scotland

Families with young bookworms and aspiring history buffs will find plenty to explore in this Scottish capital. Steep, but easy-to-wander cobblestoned streets lead from the iconic Edinburgh Castle —which, fun fact, is perched atop a dormant volcano—down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, and now open to the public). Don’t miss a hike up to King Arthur’s Seat where the legendary ruler supposedly plopped down for a think—but be sure to pack your wellies and other rain gear, as spring temperatures average 48 degrees Fahrenheit and storms are plentiful. Throughout the city, imaginative kids can visit underground neighborhoods, dungeons, and spots where J.K. Rowling scribed the adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. It’s about as close to experiencing a fairytale as you can get.

Spring break destinations for couples

The classic: paris.

With the Eiffel Tower looming over the arrondissements, there’s no escaping the wispy mist of “l’amour” that permeates the air—it feels like love songs are being piped from every café and patisserie you walk past. During the day, head to the top of the Tower and toast at the Champagne bar, overlooking the boulevards where cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom, or stroll hand-in-hand in the sunny crisp air along the Left Bank near the Notre Dame (set to reopen in late 2024). And don’t miss a chance to picnic in the Jardin des Tuilleries among the flowering magnolia trees. If date night is on your mind, drop into the Louvre Museum for an enchanted after-hours tour when the statues and the glass pyramid are illuminated and crowds are non-existent. The opportunities for movie-level moments are practically endless.

The adventure: Sri Lanka

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” Sri Lanka is a haven for couples on the hunt for new shared experiences. Treks through balmy rainforests, tea plantation tours, and ayurvedic couple massages are just a few of the adventures on offer in this small island nation. Spend a day or two in Colombo, the capital, but be sure to venture into Hill Country to board the breathtaking 94-mile train ride between Kandy and Ella where you’ll pass through jungles and tea estates, spotting incredibly photogenic waterfalls and mountain vistas along the way. Then, head to the south coast to hit the water for scuba diving and deep-sea fishing (make sure to check out the stilt fishermen who work from the shallow waters). Give yourself at least a week to soak in the best of Sri Lanka—it’s well worth the PTO.

The hidden gem: Finger Lakes

For couples in New England, a road trip to the picturesque Finger Lakes region, made up of 11 bodies of water, in spring is a must. As the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, waterfall hikes and forest walks are a few of the leisurely ways to pass the time, but bring the right gear since the paths are a tad muddy. Wineries and craft brewers that dot the shores of the largest lakes, like Cayuga and Seneca , are less crowded than in the summertime, offering a cozy place to relax. Plus, come spring’s shoulder season, rates for romantic bed and breakfast hotels and destination spa hotels, like The Lake House on Canandaigua , are much lower, so you can spend more days with your beau for less.

Spring break destinations for friends

The classic: napa.

Northern California’s premier wine region is a tried-and-true trip for friend groups looking to learn the ins and outs of wine-making (and enjoy the spoils). Sure, you can try flights in traditional tasting rooms in town—but with a big group, it’s best to book a private car, trolley, or train ride to make the most of your time exploring the vineyards. And there’s more to do than just wine tastings—there are also cooking classes, art museums, bike paths, and spas to be seen and experienced. (Don’t worry beer drinkers, you won’t be left out, thanks to spots like Tannery Bend Beerworks or Fieldwork Brewing Company .) And we can’t forget about the dynamic weather: even in the spring, daytime temperatures rise to 83 degrees but dip 30 degrees at night—so pack for all seasons.

The adventure: Jackson, WY

Say “howdy” to spring in Jackson, WY , where 10-gallon cowboy hats are the norm for locals and tourists alike. This rugged Western town is surrounded by mountains like the Grand Teton , which are still covered in snow for skiing and snowboard adventures up until closing weekend in mid-April. It’s an easy gateway to Yellowstone National Park , too, where more adventures await. You and your most daring friends can go rafting, horseback riding, or take wagon tours of the nearby elk refuge . At the end of the day, gather around a fire to trade stories from the day over drinks.

The hidden gem: Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

Rolling mountains over dusty roads lend a rustic beauty to Valle de Guadalupe , located in the northwesternmost region of Mexico. Less than two hour’s drive from San Diego , the region has evolved into an underrated haven for friends to enjoy wine-tastings and homemade meals at some of the best restaurants in Mexico. Exploring the wineries here is an adventure: As you drive along the paved La Ruta del Vino, modern tasting rooms appear out of nowhere, high above the hills. When it comes to accommodations, the area is primed for big groups, from the chic, safari-style glamping tents at Cuatro Cuatros to the eight-suite villa at Bruma . (Note: if you’re driving to/from San Diego, you’ll want to cross the border at an off-peak time since wait times on weekend afternoons can reach nearly three hours.)

Spring break destinations for partiers

The classic: cabo san lucas, mexico.

At the southernmost tip of Baja California , where the temperatures linger in the low 80s even in the spring, travelers come to Cabo to relax and let loose. Nightclubs are home to bouncing dance floors with multiple levels, blasting every genre of music, and bartenders vie to make the best margaritas—that is, the ones with the most generous tequila pour. Recover from a late bedtime on a pristine beach, like Chileno Beach or Medano Beach , both of which are usually less crowded at this time of year. Or, opt to stretch out in a pre-booked poolside cabana at spots like Esperanza and Villa L’Estancia Beach Resort .

The adventure: Majorca, Spain

Spring breakers from North America and party-seekers from Europe flock to this Spanish island for its vibrant nightlife—but there’s lots more to explore before the sun sets, like hidden coves, limestone mountains, and golden beaches. Travelers looking to do more than experience the cocktail scene can try kayaking, sea caving, and coasteering, an extreme sport that combines climbing, swimming, and cliff jumping into the sea. Stay in Palma to be close to the parties while still being in range to set off for exhilarating escapades to the island’s opposite coast during the day.

The hidden gem: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

In southeast Asia, Bangkok and Bali might hold titles for their long-standing party scenes but Ho Chi Minh City , otherwise known as Saigon, has some unparalleled dancing and drinking spots worth traveling for. During the day, you can stroll past charming, French-inspired architecture and duck in bustling cafes for shelter from the short afternoon downpours that come each spring. But when the sun sets, the mood shifts, and rooftop bars such as Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar and AiR Saigon , secret speakeasies, and nightclubs with international DJs shake up the booming city. Hunting out the party places is half the fun, especially as you saunter down Bui Vien , lined with bustling bars. If you want a local perspective, ask the concierge or book a nighttime scooter tour with a guide who’ll take you to pubs and local hot spots.

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15 Spring Break Destinations Just For Grown Ups—Because Adults Deserve A Break Too

While we’re well past the days of pop quizzes and all-night cram sessions (and good riddance!), there are a few school-year traditions we wouldn’t mind keeping around. Kindergarten naps could make a comeback for one. Something else at the top of that list? Spring break . When the weather warms and flowers begin to bloom, a week of uninterrupted fun is in order. We’ve survived the drab post-holiday months of January and February, and just like restless school kids and burnt-out college students, we deserve some time off to frolic in the sun.

This March or April, make dedicated time for an adults-only spring break . If you’ve got kids, give them a week of adventure at one of the South’s many camps, or better yet, send them to Camp Grandma . Then, pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. These destinations offer something for every type of traveler. From the tried-and-true beach bums to the culinary enthusiasts and mountain mamas, here are the best places for an all-grown-up spring break .

St. Petersburg, Florida

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

You get the best of many worlds—gorgeous white-sand beaches, a charming historic district, vibrant art, and delicious food—in this classic old Florida city. Book a room in the iconic Pink Palace, also known as the Don CeSar. From there, you’ll have easy access to downtown St. Pete, as well as popular beaches like St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille, and Treasure Island. Outside of many long hours spent sunbathing by the Gulf, fill your week with visits to national treasures like living botanical museum Sunken Gardens, the Dali Museum, and Egmont Key State Park and National Wildlife Refuge to see gopher tortoises, gulls, osprey, a historic lighthouse, and the Fort Dade ruins. 

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Charleston may dominate the national conversation when it comes to Southern vacation destinations, but Lowcountry locals know that Folly Beach is the true gem. Skip the crowds congregating around Rainbow Row and set up your own personal oasis on Folly Beach’s sandy shores. Watch the surfers battle the waves, paddle the serene tidal creeks, or break out your fishing pole for an afternoon of fishing at the famous Folly Beach Pier. It stretches 1,000 feet into the ocean and gives Folly Beach its nickname as the Edge of America.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Getty Images / Atlantide Phototravel

The Crescent City brings the party no matter what time of year you visit, but spring is ideal for an adult spring break. Choose your level or revelry, then offset your meanderings with a more-than-comfortable stay at a plush hotel like the Ritz-Carlton, Maison de la Luz, Roosevelt, or Four Seasons. Spend your days exploring the French Quarter, beginning with a stroll around the always scenic Jackson Square and an order of beignets at Café du Monde. Then, make your way down Frenchmen Street for a stellar Cajun lunch at divey Coop’s Place. If there’s a line, grab a frozen Irish coffee next door at Molly’s at the Market and settle in for some excellent people watching to the tune of jazz buskers.  

Crystal Coast, North Carolina

Courtesy The Crystal Coast

North Carolina might not be the first—or second, or third—place you think of when you consider beach destinations, but it absolutely should be. This 85-mile stretch of serene coastline includes the charming towns of Beaufort and Emerald Isle , both of which are strong contenders for an adult spring break. If you go, make time for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing wild horses gallop along the shores and marshy grasses of barrier island Shackleford Banks. Daily ferries take off from Beaufort, Harkers Island, and Morehead City.

Texas Hill Country

Grape Creek Vineyards

Explore the endless joys of grown-up grape juice in Texas Hill Country. Hit up the Texas Wine Trail, where you can pick and choose your own adventure from 50 unique wineries, each offering stunning vistas of the rolling countryside and their own spin on Southern wine. Set up home base in two of the Lone Star State’s most charming small towns, Fredericksburg and the oh-so-appropriately-named Grapevine .

Little Torch Key, Florida

If you want to feel like you’ve escaped to an exotic locale in the middle of the Caribbean but aren’t in the mood to dust off your passport, this island in the Keys is your spot. Treat yourself to a stay at Little Palm Island Resort and Spa , America’s only private island resort. The adults-only, luxury resort is a sanctuary of swaying palm trees, thatched-roof bungalows, oceanside cabanas, and crystal-clear water. Grab a Mai Tai, crack open a good book, and enjoy watching the gentle waves lap ashore.  

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Brad McGinley Photography/Getty Images

Head to the Golden Isles for a nature-filled getaway in Jekyll Island. Take a long walk along the picture-ready Driftwood Beach, visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and board a sunset cruise to see dolphins flip over the pink-and-purple horizon. Part state park and part resort town, you’ll find laidback luxury at the Jekyll Island Club Resort and all the wild adventure you want just outside your well-appointed room.   

Louisville, Kentucky

Each year, Louisville captures the country’s attention for a precious few days in May, but we’re making the case to visit this Southern city before the pomp and circumstance of the Derby arrives. Rolling green hills, the country’s best bourbon distilleries, and the hustle and bustle of historic Whiskey Row are just a few of the reasons to go. If you do, don’t ignore the city’s burgeoning craft breweries, panache for art, or diverse dining scene. 

Amelia Island, Florida

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With 13 miles of pristine beaches on the Atlantic Coast, this barrier island just 30 miles from Jacksonville is a warm-weather dream. While college students flock to Daytona, Miami, and West Palm Beach for their yearly springtime break, Amelia will be left a little slice of untouched heaven. Book a stay in a charming bed and breakfast, then spend your days exploring the island. From the historic downtown at Fernandina Beach to Marlin & Barrel Distillery, your days will only be as dull as you wish them to be. 

Asheville, North Carolina

Courtesy of The Inn on Biltmore Estate

If the thought of sandy toes gives you the heebie-jeebies, a mountain escape might be in order for your springtime trip . Asheville is everything a great mountain town should be—beautiful and bucolic with just the right amounts of quirk and artsy funk. Of course, you’ll want to sample craft brews a half-dozen or so of the city’s top breweries and make reservations at classic restaurants like Curate and Rhubarb. And while the Biltmore is a major holiday attraction, it’s just as stunning in spring when the 8,000-acre property is bursting with new blooms and color.

Austin, Texas

Gabriela Herman

Austin isn’t a slow-burn kind of place. It hits the senses immediately with its musicians and cosmic cowboys, flashing neon and brightly colored murals, tacos and barbecue, and quite the rebellious streak. Find out what the fastest growing city in the U.S. is all about on an adults-only spring break trip where you can do everything from kayak on Lady Bird Lake to take a self-guided margarita tour. The city's army of incredible, one-of-a-kind accommodations only add to your experience.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Bardstown may be a small town but that doesn't mean you'll have a small time there. The long-lived and long-loved distilleries in and around Bardstown (all 11 of them!) helped earn the place its spirited reputation–as well as its nickname as the Bourbon Capital of the World. Spend a long weekend touring the distilleries, dining at great restaurants, and making your way around the charming downtown.

The Florida Keys

Nothing says spring break like a tropical beach destination, and nowhere is it easier to get those island vibes than in the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway connects 44 islands via a 113-mile road from Key Largo to  Key West —the most famous among the bunch. Spend a week island hopping to discover the quirky, cool, and easy-to-love beach towns that each have a personality all their own. From beachside tiki bars to incredible snorkeling, the pull of the ocean is strong everywhere you turn. And since South Florida can get pretty sweltering in the summer, spring is the perfect time to visit to beat some of the area's most intense heat.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

You might be surprised at what you find in this artsy little Coastal Mississippi beach town. In addition to a quiet stretch of sand and a walkable downtown packed with boutiques, galleries, and great restaurants, you'll also find an outstanding art scene in the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Arts Center. Foodies will love the authentic French cuisine and quaint courtyard at Maison de Lu and absolutely delight in the five-course tasting menu at Vestige. When you're ready to turn in for the night, a stay in a floating cabin at The Beatnik is an experience you won't soon forget.

Beaufort, South Carolina

The Lowcountry is never a bad idea, but this part of the South is especially lovely in the spring. Get lost in the wild beauty of Hunting Island State Park, or take a leisurely walk along an oak-lined street to pick out you favorite historic home. The weather will be just right to do either. Dine on fresh seafood, feel the sand between your toes, and watch a stunning sunset over the marsh. You'll be planning your return trip before you've even made it halfway through your stay.

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• Hotels and Resorts

20 Great Ways To Have The Best Adult Spring Break Of Your Life

Soaking up the sun on a tropical beach in march or april doesn’t have to mean a rowdy party scene—there are plenty of resorts offering a more grown-up vibe..

"Spring Break" may be code for you-only-live-once college students partying on the beach, but that doesn't mean an adults-only getaway to somewhere warm and sunny should be off the books this time of year. There are plenty of great islands and coastal resort areas that are ideal for a grown-up Spring Break escape focused on dining, relaxation, or favorite activities such as golf, tennis, surfing, and sailing. 

Need some inspiration? Here are 20 deals and ideas for an adult-centric Spring Break.

Take Sailing Lessons from an Olympian 

The Place: BodyHoliday in St. Lucia

Is learning to sail on your must-do list? You can kick off sailing season this spring at St Lucia's wellness-focused all-inclusive resort BodyHoliday . Set on two miles of golden-sand beach, the resort is introducing its new Spring Sail program from March  27 – April 7, offering guests a chance to take sailing lessons with British Olympic gold medalist Stuart Bithnell.  

Programming is complimentary and available for beginners to seasoned sailors and Spring Sail includes: ASA Sailing Certificates (book in advance to secure, as space is limited); beginner's sailing classes (Hobie Cat & Xtreme 26); time trials and yacht-racing classes; a Spring Sail competition with leaderboards and prizes for the fastest racers; Wellness Center Specials geared toward Sailors (such as sun damage prevention and deep tissue massages); and a sailing excursion to Malabar Beach (including lunch at the beach club). 

Rates for the Spring Sail start at $561 per night, all-inclusive.

Enjoy a Personalized Surfing Experience

The Place: Kaimana Beach Hotel, Honolulu

Looking to make waves? A Spring Break escape to Honolulu's locally owned  Kaimana Beach Hotel  puts Hawaii's favorite sport at the forefront as the hotel teams up with surf legends  Kai Sallas  and  Tommy Pierucki  to offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences for surfers of all levels. 

Two experiences are available: Take home editorial-worthy photos of your ocean adventure during a surf session with legendary surf photographer Tommy Pierucki, who has worked for top surf magazines and brands like Roxy, Quicksilver, and RVCA. The experience includes a private lesson with ISA World longboard champion and Waikiki native Kai Sallas captured in high-res photos. Post-surfing, you'll dine beachside at Hau Tree, a local favorite for hearty brunches and fresh juices. Starting at $1,699. 

Is a new surfboard on your wish-list? You can customize your own longboard with Sallas, who recently debuted his own line of surfboards inspired by the waves on which he learned to surf. You'll work personally with him to design and shape your board, picking everything from model to color. Kai will even inscribe a personal message on the board, which will be shipped to your home following a private surf lesson with Kai. Package includes five-night accommodations in a suite, starting at $6,999. 

Email  [email protected]  to book either experience.

Reconnect with Nature

The Place: NIZUC Resort and Spa in Cancun

Have fond Spring Break memories of the beach in Cancun—but now you're ready for something way more serene and couple-centric? Set within a 29-acre exclusive beachfront estate situated on the end of Punta Nizuc in Cancun, NIZUC Resort and Spa is surrounded by protected mangroves and lush local foliage facing the white sands of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. 

The resort has 274 suites and villas, and for ultimate seclusion couples can book a Private Garden Pool Villa, featuring a bedroom suite set amid a private tropical garden with an infinity pool and waterfall, a freestanding soaking tub, a rainfall shower, and an outdoor nature-inspired shower. For more relaxation, head to the 30,000-sq. ft. ESPA spa, enjoy private dining on the beach or ocean pier, or book a Dom Perignon Wine Cellar Experience for two. 

Rates start at $689/night and $1,343/night for a Private Garden Pool Villa.

Unwind on One of the Best Beaches in the World

The Place: Grace Bay Club in Turks and Caicos

Seeking a sophisticated vibe? Grace Bay Club , the first luxury all-suite resort on Grace Bay Beach on the island of Providenciales, offers 82 ocean-view suites spread across three sections, including an adults-only oasis at  Th e Hotel and residential-style accommodations ideal for groups in the newly renovated  Villas . 

Those looking to indulge in an ultra-exclusive escape can experience a resort-within-a-resort at  The Estates . The property is also home to seven dining concepts, including Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar , the longest bar in the Caribbean at 90 feet and the first infinity-edge bar in the world, stretching across Grace Bay Club Beach toward the island's famous aquamarine water. 

For an extra-special treat, you can book the Island Discovery Drop-Off and be whisked away to a secluded beach or uninhabited island—secret spots that can only be located by those in the know—on a private boat. You'll be provided with everything you need: luxe chairs, towels, umbrellas, a cooler with a tailored selection of cold beverages, and a chef-prepared picnic lunch. Rates from $700 per night.

Pamper Yourself Hawaiian-Style

The Place: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina 

Want to experience Oahu beyond Waikiki? The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina , a spacious and private oceanfront resort property on Oahu's sunny western coast, gets you away from the bustle of Honolulu. Nestled along four swimmable lagoons teeming with marine life, it's the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. 

The resort's numerous wellness offerings are rooted in Hawaiian tradition, including a sound healing session, smudge stick workshop, or couples guided meditation with Pi'iali'i Lawson, an Oahu-based ancestral healer and intuitive. The Naupaka Spa offers facials and massages featuring the just debuted 111SKIN skincare line (a favorite of Hollywood A-listers). Savor sunset at the adults-only pool while sipping a cocktail from Dr. Mai Tai's swim-up pool bar or from the new Manalo Lounge along the water's edge. 

Rates from $1,083/night with the Stay Longer – 4th Night Free Package.

A Quick Tropical Escape

The Place: Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba

Seeking an affordable getaway to the Caribbean with friends or your significant other? Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba  has officially opened its new 330-all-suite property, nestled between the dazzling waters of top-rated Eagle Beach and the scenic lagoon of the Bubali Bird Sanctuary. 

The hotel is located across the street from the powdery white sands of Eagle Beach (accessed via private underground walkway tunnel) and a short ride from Palm Beach, the central area for experiencing Aruba's flavors and nightlife. Guests will also enjoy onsite dining options (including free breakfast), free parking, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool. 

To celebrate its debut, the property is offering a Grand Opening Package, which includes 20 percent off on a minimum stay of 5 nights and a 30 percent discount on all leisure activities on the property. Rates start at $380/night.

Enjoy Affordable Waterfront Sophistication

The Place: Harbor Club in St. Lucia

Is St. Lucia a favorite place to escape? The Harbor Club – Curio Collection by Hilton is a new 115-room property offering magnificent views overlooking Rodney Bay along with a fun-filled list of local activities. Amenities that are perfect for couples include swim-up rooms, six dining options, four pools, private dining experiences, and a sunset cruise offering views of the iconic Pitons. 

Other off-site excursions include a trip to La Soufriere drive-in volcano, the world's only drive in volcano, with a dip in the naturally heated mud bath, and snorkeling in Pigeon Island, a national park with breathtaking views. Rates start at $219/night.

Get Away B&B-Style

The Place: The Plantation Inn on Maui

Love a charming B&B? One of Maui's most beloved bed-and-breakfasts, The Plantation Inn , is an affordable, adults-only sanctuary in Lahaina featuring plantation-style architecture complemented by modern conveniences. Just steps away from Front Street, the property is close to shops, sights, and restaurants and just 10 minutes from the beach, although guests often find themselves lingering at the tranquil outdoor pool. 

The new Spring Getaway package, available for stays from April 1– June 31, includes 10 percent savings on a 2-night minimum stay and complimentary daily breakfast for two. Rates start at $306/night.

Hit the Beach and the Tennis Courts

The Place: Las Brisas Huatulco

Seeking a south-of-the-border escape that mixes morning court time and afternoon margaritas? At Las Brisas Huatulco , you can enjoy all-inclusive ease while relaxing on four exclusive white-sand beaches offering access to its own coral reef off the coast of Oaxaca. The lush and expansive resort grounds create a private ambience, even when the 484-room property is full. Las Brisas is Earth Check Certified and features four restaurants as well as recreational facilities that include 11 tennis courts, 3 squash courts, basketball, soccer, a bungee pyramid, a state-of-the-art gym, and numerous on-site watersports. Rates start at $260/night, all-inclusive.

Make a Splash in Seven Pools

The Place: Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort, Spa, and Casino in Punta Cana 

While Punta Cana is known for its lively spring break scene, the area is also home to a collection of elevated all-inclusive resorts, including the  Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa, and Casino . This five-star property featuring 1,042 rooms opened right before the pandemic and has yet to be discovered by many U.S. travelers. Better still, on top of its luxury amenities, Lopesan features three distinct areas of stay: resort, adults-only and UNIQUE by Lopesan. 

The adults-only section features spacious junior and swim-up suites with private access to its own pool area (in addition to five freshwater pools and one infinity pool), complete with Balinese beds and a pool bar. There are also 10 internationally inspired dining concepts, 16 bars, two beach clubs, a tranquil Om Spa, a resort casino, and The Boulevard, which is home to a large theater, disco, Titan Gym Bávaro, and even more food and beverage options. Rates start at $440/night, all-inclusive and $484/night for adults-only.

Take a Quick Trip to the Bahamas

The Place: Resorts World Bimini 

Looking for a close-by locale for a two or three-night escape? Check out Resorts World Bimini , an oceanfront property offering a full-service spa, casino, on-site dining, and a private beach club. From March 1 – April 16, you can take advantage of two special deals at the resort, which include roundtrip transportation from Ft. Lauderdale and two- or three-nights' accommodation, plus entry to Bimini Beach, a private, 4.5-acre beach club that blends laidback luxury with a Tulum-like atmosphere where world-class DJs take the stage every weekend. 

Book by visiting rwbimini.com/specials . Packages start at $499 per person.

A Stateside Spring Break

The Place: Playa Largo Resort and Spa's Ocean Residences

Eager for a Spring Break vacation with friends that doesn't require a passport—but feels removed from the everyday? Situated on 14.5 secluded waterfront acres just 68 miles from Miami, Playa Largo Resort & Spa is an award-winning Autograph Collection Hotel nestled amongst oversized gumbo limbo trees and miles of turquoise blue waters. 

In addition to standard hotel suites and two-story bungalows, it also offers new private Ocean Residences , exclusive three- and four- bedroom vacation homes perfect for large groups and offering the perks and privacy of a home with the service and amenities of a world-class resort partner. Guests have access to an oceanfront clubhouse with a private pool and curated services such as a pre-stocked refrigerator, meals cooked by a private chef, fishing/boating excursions, eco tours, and more. 

The residences can be booked on most major online travel agencies (such as Booking.com), as well as on Airbnb, VRBO, and PMG Vacation Rentals. Rates start at $1,000/night for a four-bedroom residence.

Enjoy the Energy of Waikiki

The Place: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 

Located on the former site of Queen Lili'uokalani's summer home, the oceanfront Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa completed a multi-million-dollar reimagination in 2021 and is just steps away from legendary Waikiki Beach. Plus, its one-acre  Queensbreak pool and amenity deck features two luxurious pools with panoramic ocean views, where you can sip ube-infused cocktails as the sun sets followed by a starlit dinner from executive chef  Nuno Alves  featuring dishes like local papaya salad, seared island fish, and Kauai shrimp pad thai. 

The Marriott features 1,310 guest rooms and the full-service Royal Kaila Spa offering treatments that incorporate pure flower and plant essences. Couples can book the Romance Package  (three-night minimum stay required), which includes an oceanfront room, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, a private dinner for two at Queensbreak, and a local Hawaiian fire pit charcuterie board at sunset. Package rates start at $1,335 for three nights.

Plan a Surf’s Up Spring Break

The Place: W Punta de Mita

Are awesome surf breaks a must for your spring break? A unique yet exclusive getaway is just a quick flight away in Mexico's Riviera Nayarit. W Punta de Mita , located on one of the region's best surf breaks, is the ideal escape if you're looking to enjoy serenity while learning to surf or polishing your board skills. 

The resort's beachside WAVE Surf Shop offers private and group surf lessons taught by locals, most of whom have been surfing since childhood. You can also enjoy locally inspired treatments at the AWAY spa, soak up the sun at two beachfront pools, dine at restaurants ranging from Jean Georges' renowned Spice Market to a vintage 1950's Chevy truck that's been converted into a beachside ceviche bar, or embark on a tequila tasting journey at the specially curated Jose Cuervo Tequila installation. 

Off-site, enjoy whale watching tours, private catamaran parties or catch local surfers in action while sipping a cold one beachside in the nearby surfing and fishing village of Sayulita. Rates start at $342/night.

Chill Out Boutique Hotel-Style

The Place: Thompson Zihuatanejo 

Dreamed of making your way to Zihuatanejo ever since you watched The Shawshank Redemption ? Located on the fringe of this charming fishing village on Mexico's Pacific Coast near Ixtapa, the sophisticated beachfront boutique hotel Thompson Zihuatanejo offers a laidback Spring Break destination that's a true escape. 

Designed with a balance of old world and new, the hotel's 56 rooms (no two of them the same) include suites with private plunge pools framed by rustling palms as well as swim-up suites. Enjoy bike rides on a path with bay and mountain views, a chef-led seafood lesson, or an intimate mezcal tasting on your own terrace. And there are several infinity pools, including an adults-only one, where you can claim your own personal piece of paradise along the Pacific. Rates start at $359/night.

Indulge in a Spring Break for Sweethearts 

The Place: Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

Is romance in the air this spring? If so, Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa , nestled on a sandy strip between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay on Mexico's Pacific Coast, offers activities for every type of couple. Indulge in a tequila tasting led by Audrey Formisano, the hotel's resident tequila sommelier, get cozy in a tandem kayak, or relax overlooking Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta's largest infinity pool. 

The Couples Getaway package includes deluxe room accommodations and daily breakfast, chocolate-covered seasonal fruits and a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival, a private four-course candlelight dinner for two and an intimate couples Swedish massage. Package rates start at $441/night.

Enjoy a Best Friends Getaway

The Place: Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa

Pack your swimsuit and head to   Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa , the newest luxury property in Cabo San Lucas. Nestled near the resort area's famous marina along the best swimmable beach, the property offers an opulent feet-in-the-sand getaway in the heart of Cabo. You'll enjoy modern rooms with balconies and hot tubs, Cabo's highest and most lavish rooftop bar with 360-degree views, a private beach club, unique water sports like eFoil, an on-site spa, and two infinity pools overlooking the famous Cabo Arch. 

Book the "Cabo With Your Crew" package, which includes a curated local in-room amenity, roundtrip airport transportation for up to five people, daily breakfast buffet, souvenir and tequila tasting at Rooftop 360. Package room rates start at $515/night.

Make It an Upscale Affair

The Place: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa  

Yes, convenient flights from most major U.S. cities make Cancun a popular Spring Break destination, but check in to one of the five-star JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa 's 447 luxurious guestrooms and you'll feel miles away from the collegiate craziness as you enjoy views of the sprawling beach and turquoise water. 

Book a private beachfront cabana or Bali-style day bed and spend the day basking in the sun to soothing ocean sounds. The resort also provides easy access to the Yucatan's top sights, from the ruins of Chichen Itza to the cenotes of Tulum. And dining-wise, you can indulge at the property's newly opened Bravió, a Spanish-style tapas restaurant with a hidden speakeasy. Rates start at $380/night.

Sip Your Way Through the Break

The Place: Quintessence Hotel in Anguilla

Are you a wine lover with a luxury budget? Treat yourself to a must-see, must-sip experience at Quintessence Hotel , which is set above the powder-soft sand of Long Bay on Anguilla and feels like a private mansion—but with all the luxe amenities of a world-class resort. 

Featuring the largest collection of Haitian artwork outside of Haiti, avant-garde architecture, and sweeping ocean views, the property is also home to a 2,000-bottle Tuscan wine cellar, designed and curated by Hotel Owner Geoffrey Fieger. Hand built out of red cedar, stone, and brick, the cellar provides a cozy, yet lavish setting for guests to dine and taste some of the world's finest wines, with the resort's resident sommelier on hand to offer expertise and advice. 

Quintessence's Sip & Savor in Anguilla package includes luxury suite accommodations (three-night minimum), daily breakfast for two, a degustation with wine pairing in the cellar for two, and a $250 credit at Julian's Tropical French Bistro per stay. Call 1-800-234-7468 to inquire about rates. 

Enjoy Piña Coladas and Paradise 

The Place: Caribe Hilton San Juan

Want an easy Caribbean getaway that doesn't require a passport? Just a short plane ride away from most major US cities, Puerto Rico offers lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife and dining. 

Centrally located just minutes from the heart of historic Old San Juan, Caribe Hilton is a beachfront oasis where you can enjoy a tropical escape as you cool off with a piña colada in the oceanfront swimming pool (the cocktail was invented here), enjoy on-site snorkeling and Snuba, practice your backhand at the Monica Puig tennis center or get pampered in the full-service spa. 

There are also 10 on-site dining options as well as easy access to the area's hottest restaurants and bars, local food and rum tours, and other activities that showcase Puerto Rico's rich culture. Rates start at $416/night.

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11 fresh ideas for spring break in 2024

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Need a fresh idea for spring break this year? Try somewhere unexpected, like Big Bend National Park in West Texas © Kanokwalee Pusitanun / Getty Images

February is here. The weather is getting warmer (we swear!). Summer isn’t too far off. But first? Spring break.

After long nights and gray days, the wonderful tradition of escaping the grind to somewhere usually warm and always fun lets you shake off those winter blues and look forward to the idylls to come. And spring break means much more than just flights to Florida – a place we adore, but whose population swells a bit too much for our taste each spring.

Read on for a range of destinations that you might not have thought of for the annual March/April getaway. They’re all long on fun – without the raucous college partiers. Here’s our list of the best spring break destinations for 2024.

1. Asheville, North Carolina, USA

Southern charm, a live-and-let-live creative community and plenty of outdoor possibilities make Asheville one of the USA ’s most appealing places to visit – for spring break and beyond. This small city in the Appalachian foothills has the highest concentration of breweries of any place in the country, while its award-winning food scene ranges from Southern classics at Tupelo Honey to mouthwatering Spanish tapas at local favorite Cúrate .

While in Asheville, it’s hard to resist a visit to the largest mansion in the US, the Biltmore . And active spring breakers will have plenty to seek out, too: you’re at the threshold of Great Smoky Mountains National Park – the most visited one in the entire country – with miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking or spotting wildlife like black bears, elk and red-bellied woodpeckers. Outdoorsy types can also take to the peaceful French Broad River for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

2. Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Unless you really like the desert sun, we’d recommend skipping Phoenix , Arizona in the summer months. But late winter and early spring in the Arizona desert ? Now we’re talking. Besides the sunny but not too hot weather, Phoenix offers plenty of options to unwind , whether your idea of spring break means getting your vitamin D while playing outdoors or soaking it up along with a few cocktails at your nearest bar patio.

While in town, admire the array of succulents, cacti and other native plants at the Desert Botanical Garden . In downtown Phoenix, stroll the Roosevelt Row Arts District, with stops at galleries and record stores. After you’ve caught one of Phoenix’s technicolored desert sunsets, hole up at late-night haunts with great rooftop patios like the Grapevine for karaoke, or Valley Bar and Crescent Ballroom for cocktails, live music, DJ sets or arty community parties.

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA

Deep in the heart of Texas , the skies don’t get wider and the nights starrier than in Big Bend National Park , the…star attraction of the wide-open western part of the state. And in early spring, a blue layer sets in, as thousands of wildflowers (depending on the year’s rainfall) make the desert bloom.

Lovers of the outdoors will find endless opportunities among the park’s 1250 sq miles (3237 sq km) of scrubland and low mountains – think hiking and camping, or even just (very) scenic drives. To best experience the park’s grandeur, arrange a day (or more) of paddling on the Rio Grande, through Santa Elena Canyon, where rugged limestone cliffs plunge to the narrow water below – a thrilling cathedral of nature.

4. Los Angeles, California, USA

While you can find sun, sand and surf at countless spring break destinations, you’ll enjoy people-watching like nowhere else at the urban beaches of Los Angeles . Sun-kissed California girls and boys frolic in the waves of wholesome  Santa Monica , while colorful characters keep it real on the boardwalk of  Venice Beach . Insiders – and especially surfers – know to head further south to Hermosa and Manhattan Beaches for a more low-key scene. And the sprawling dunes of  Malibu provide a taste a nature just a few miles from the clamor of the city.

5. Hawai‘i (the Big Island), Hawaii, USA

Hawaii ’s largest island offers huge pleasures all year long. Yet March marks the end of the high season in this tropical state, and budget travelers can usually find (relative) discounts for getaways to the Big Island . Trek up toward snow-capped peaks , wander through a verdant Kona coffee farm and watch the island get just a little bit bigger at one of the longest-running volcanic eruptions anywhere in the world. Expect much more than a mere beach getaway.

6. Culebra and Vieques, Puerto Rico

Off the east coast of pearl-like Puerto Rico , look forward to white sands, sparkling blue sea, slow living – and not an all-inclusive resort in sight. Tiny Culebra is home to the extraordinary expanse of Playa Flamenco , one of the best beaches in the entire Caribbean ; at Playa Carlos Rosario , snorkeling with sea turtles is an experience you’ll never forget. Larger and skinnier yet just as languid, nearby Vieques has myriad beaches to traverse. Its crown jewel is Bahía Mosquito , an astonishing bioluminescent bay. Venture out on an after-dark kayak trip to witness one of nature’s best magic shows, as microscopic organisms glow in the dark below the surface, making the water glitter.

7. Whistler, Canada

If skis appeal more than surfboards for a spring escape, head to the world-famous resort town of Whistler , British Columbia . Come March, the peak season wanes, and the mountains begin to offer up discounts to keep the momentum going. At this point in the season, the days are longer and the skies clearer – but months of winter weather have ensured a solid snowpack for run after run. For 360-degree views of the glorious scenery, take a ride in the Peak 2 Peak Gondola , a 2.75-mile (4.4km) feat of engineering that connects the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. At lower elevations, hikes through conifer forests might have you spotting the area’s black bears as they emerge from hibernation.

8. Southern Baja California, Mexico

Catch a plane to Los Cabos – then immediately head north, away from the cluster of tourist resorts. A short distance up the sparsely populated Pacific Coast of Baja California Sur , nature beckons. The weather is ideal in the spring, and the beautiful coastline offers the chance to see sea lions, kayak through turquoise waters, go whale watching (the season ends in March) and even help with turtle conservation, all of which will allow you to return home with ecological bragging rights rather than drinking stories.

9. El Tunco, El Salvador

One of Central America ’s least visited but most intriguing countries, El Salvador has lately been attracting new attention from visitors from all over. This small but mighty place tempts with mountain hikes, sunny beach days and surfing galore – and with frequent nonstop flights between many cities in the USA and San Salvador , it’s easy to pack it all into an itinerary lasting just a few days.

The waves hit El Salvador’s rocky coast especially intensely at El Tunco, a small village that’s become a major stop on the world’s surfing circuit. At any given moment, dozens of surfers are catching gnarly breaks just beyond the shoreline. On land, sun-kissed visitors toast to an active day on the waves at the town’s lively collection of beachfront restaurants and bars.

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Grab your passport, your sunscreen and the skimpiest bathing suit you own and head to one of South America ’s premier destinations. In addition to its famous beaches, Rio de Janeiro has something to offer every type of spring breaker: stunning panoramas, fantastic food and a variety of outdoor adventures that will make for a getaway to remember.

Set up camp on Ipanema Beach to see and be seen, or join the ranks of other tourists on Copacabana ’s hotel-lined oceanfront. Take the cable car up to Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) or bask in the colossal shadow of Cristo Redentor atop Corcovado by day. Then hit the bar scene in Botafogo or party to the sounds of samba in the clubs of Lapa by night. You might not want to come back home.

11. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

How about an island getaway for spring break with crowds of tortoises instead of college kids? Remote yet worth every effort to get to, the Galápagos Islands , home to some of the earth’s rarest and most unique flora and fauna, are the answer for nature-loving, adventure-seeking travelers.

With a minimal human footprint, Galápagos (part of Ecuador ) has unmatched biodiversity – endemic species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies roam the islands at ranges close enough to interact with. Go surfing, kayaking, biking or scuba diving near the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on Isla San Cristóbal , or snorkel alongside stingrays, turtles and the occasional shark at Devil’s Crown, one of the archipelago’s most outstanding marine sites. Most arrive at this most remote part of the world through a package tour – though adventurous travelers can put together their own itineraries , too.

This article was first published Mar 1, 2017 and updated Feb 1, 2024.

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The Best Spring Break Destinations for Adults

By Caitlin Morton

March and April are two of the best months to take a vacation—and not just because public schools tell us to. The right spring break destinations during these transitional months shine with mild weather and (if you know where to look) smaller crowds. And while Cancun and Amsterdam were great in our partying college days, we’re more likely to seek fun-yet-refined trips at this stage in life.

To help you get a jump start on spring break 2023 planning, we’ve rounded up 12 spring break destinations for adults, ranging from whale watching in the Caribbean to sipping wine on the West Coast. And if you want to save room for a couple of tequila shots, go ahead—you’re a grown-up too, after all. 

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Healdsburg, California

We named Healdsburg as one of the 21 best places to visit in 2021 , because it’s one of the most alluring slices of California wine country—and it’s still worth planning a trip around in 2023. The charming hamlet is known for its world-class food and wine, and the influx of new openings is pretty consistent year over year. Can you think of a better place to unplug from work than a gorgeous vineyard?

Stay here: The place to stay is Montage Healdsburg , a recently opened retreat on 250 acres of vineyards and oak tree groves. Most of the bungalows feature outdoor living spaces (including fire pits), with forest, vineyard, or Mayacama mountain views.

Vancouver Island, Canada

Located just off Canada's Pacific Coast, Vancouver Island is a scenic chunk of land with Victoria on its south and UNESCO-designated biosphere reserves stretching further north. It’s the perfect destination to reset and recharge before diving back into Q2 work assignments, where even the most action-packed activities (backcountry hiking, whale watching, etc.) offer a rejuvenating new view of the world.

Stay here: True to the theme of this list,  Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is like a sleepaway camp for grown-ups, complete with canvas tents to sleep in (albeit ones with private decks and heated bathroom floors). The resort keeps guests busy with outdoor excursions, then piles on the pampering with spa treatments and farm-to-table meals.

Samaná Bay, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is by no means an under-the-radar spring break destination, but the country still manages to have a few hidden gems here and there. Case in point: Samaná Bay, located along the northeast coast. The clear waters on the Samaná peninsula are ideal for snorkeling and diving, but from January through March, the ocean belongs to the 1,500 to 2,000 humpback whales that birth and nurse their calves in the bay. Head there before the season ends to participate in some next-level whale watching expeditions led by conservationist Kim Beddall (she’s been leading the informative tours since 1983). If you aren’t able to catch a boat excursion, you can observe the whales from land at the Punta Balandra observatory, located about nine miles northeast of Santa Bárbara de Samaná.

Stay here: A three-time Readers’ Choice Award winner, The Peninsula House sits on 15 verdant hillside acres on the Samaná Peninsula. Beautiful rooms in earth tones have Brazilian hardwood floors, antiques such as Chinese bamboo storage trunks, and mahogany soaking tubs. Enjoy drinks on the terrace or head to the Beach Restaurant for a seafood lunch. It’s only a few miles—and a free shuttle ride—from the main hotel.

Bolivia is one of the most beautiful countries in South America, famous for its colorful lakes and striking desert landscapes. The country’s star attraction is Salar de Uyuni, the surreal salt flats that you’ve definitely seen pop up on your Instagram feed at some point. The infinite white plains are best experienced during Bolivia’s rainy season (December to April), when the shallow accumulation creates that famous, Dali-esque  mirror effect .

Stay here: Located right on the shores of Salar de Uyuni, Palacio de Sal was actually constructed using blocks of salt pulled from the flats—the definition of blending in with your surroundings. The hotel is perfect for resting up between boat tours and photo sessions, with spacious suites, an on-site restaurant, and a heated swimming pool.

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Madison Flager

Ramsey Qubein

Elissaveta M. Brandon

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years—and it’s only a five-hour flight from New York. There are tons of buzzy new resorts all over the country, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find rugged outdoor adventures if you know where to look : We’re talking rappelling into cenotes, climbing ancient Mayan ruins, and taking a nighttime crocodile-watching tour through Ambergris Caye. And don’t forget that Belize sits on the world’s second-largest living coral reef, so snorkeling with sharks and scuba diving the famous Great Blue Hole are both viable options.

Stay here: Up north in Ambergris Caye, Mahogany Bay from Hilton’s Curio Collection is a family-friendly jumping off spot for many of the outdoor activities listed above. For some more relaxed moments, the resort’s private Beach Club (accessible by water taxi every 30 minutes) is a joy to spend time at—especially in one of the hammocks or private cabanas suspended over shallow water.

Bend, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful parts of the United States. To soak up all that nature but still get the perks of city living, head straight to Bend, Oregon (about three hours south of Portland). The town receives an annual average of 300 days of sunshine, giving visitors ample opportunities to go hiking through the Cascades or kayaking and fly fishing on the Deschutes River. Make sure you set aside some time to visit a brewery (or five) along the Bend Ale Trail.

Stay here: Opened in 2019, Juniper Preserve is a 104-room retreat on 640 acres in the world’s second-largest juniper forest. Rooms have the perks of a rental home—fireplaces, kitchens, and terraces with mountain views—but you also get access to the resort’s restaurants and yoga classes.

Oaxaca, Mexico

Far from the coastal spring break hotspots of Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, Oaxaca , in south-central Mexico, is one of the most important cultural hubs in the Americas. The winter-dodging crowds start to thin out in March and April, giving you some space to fully explore the region’s budding design scene, craft revolution led by female entrepreneurs, and incredible cuisine. Secure a table at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca for traditional dishes and cocktails, then head to the streets for delicious tacos and moles served from food trucks. Outside the city, the gorgeous Hierve el Agua calcified waterfall remains one of the most popular day trips.

Stay here: Oaxaca’s accommodations have traditionally been split between hacienda-style hotels and dated B&Bs, but a few openings are providing new options. Condé Nast Traveler editor Megan Spurrell recommends Escondido Oaxaca , the latest from beloved Mexican brand Grupo Habita. The design-led hotel has a distinctly Oaxacan look and feel (think thatched-roof palapas and aquamarine hammocks), and just 12 rooms right in the city center.

While hordes of coeds often flock to the Caribbean during spring break, Anguilla manages to stay consistently uncrowded and laid-back. The eastern island (located about six miles from St. Martin) was hit hard during the 2017 hurricanes, but has managed to rebuild much of its infrastructure—in fact, the recovery efforts have created a sense of palpable pride and togetherness across the 12-mile-long territory. Visit in the spring to enjoy some of the best beaches in the Caribbean ( Shoal Bay is a notable standout) and delicious local dishes like crayfish and johnny cakes. Make sure to pay a visit to Sandy Island Restaurant —a sand bar you can only reach by boat—to fill up on seafood and pork ribs before lounging with a cocktail on the table-side beach chairs.

Stay here: Altamer Resort is a private villa located on an enviable stretch of Shoal Bay West (you probably won’t see another single soul during your stay). Aside from its Myron Goldfinger–designed exterior, walls adorned with curated paintings, and five spacious bedrooms overlooking the sea, the property provides a secluded stay with curated concierge services—including the “beach concierge” option, complete with a personal butler to set up umbrellas, beach chairs, and a picnic lunch on any Anguilla beach of your choosing. For a more traditional resort stay, book an oceanfront villa at Zemi Beach House , located on Shoal Bay East. While every room on the resort has amenities like 24-hour room service, comfortable and breezy interiors, and Malin + Goetz bath products, the villas have private plunge pools and direct access to the gorgeous beach (if you’re on the ground floor, of course). Another perk? The property’s incredibly luxe and relaxing spa includes Anguilla’s only hammam.

Holland in the spring is kind of a no-brainer, with millions of blooming tulips saturating the countryside between March and May every year. The Keukenhof gardens in Lisse are perhaps the most popular spot to walk amongst the bulbs, though the farmlands in Hillegom and Burgervlotbrug are great (and far less-crowded) alternatives.

Stay here: Rather than trying to book a hotel room this time of year, hop onboard a river cruise for a unique view of the world’s most famous flowers. Uniworld’s “ Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time ” cruise snakes between Brussels and Amsterdam during peak bloom dates: The three 2023 sailings depart on March 26, April 2, and April 9.

You can take your pick of Hawaiian destinations, but keep in mind that Maui was voted America’s fifth-best island in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s known for its volcanic beaches, family-friendly oceanfront resorts, and the towering Mount Haleakala, a traveler favorite to scale at sunrise. A recently launched Newark to Maui route from United makes it easier to reach, too.  

Stay here: Ho’olei at Grand Wailea features great views of the Pacific, more space than you could ever need, and luxury resort amenities. Each two-story villa has two or three bedrooms, at least two bathrooms, a lanai, a patio, a full kitchen, an elevator, a washer and dryer, a garage, and an outdoor grill—talk about a dream home away from home.

Kyoto, Japan

Cherry blossom season in Japan is always a big deal, but we suspect this year’s hanami will be even more epic thanks to the country’s long-anticipated reopening. There’s virtually no way to avoid other tourists this time of year (typically the end of March/beginning of April), so you might as well head to the abundance of photo ops in Kyoto. The Kyoto Botanical Garden and Philosopher’s Path in the northern part of the Higashiyama district are two guaranteed wins.

Stay here: Though all the sakura-heavy locations will be packed, you can still find a moment of respite at  Hoshinoya Kyoto . This Gold List 2023 winner whisks guests away on a traditional wooden Hoshinoya boat, before dropping them at the peaceful property filled with gardens, sliding paper screens, and river views.

Big Sky, Montana

Ski season extends late into the year in Big Sky, meaning you can still schedule an on-piste vacation well into the month of April. (The slopes at Big Sky Resort don’t officially close until April 23.) Even if you’ve officially packed up your poles for the year, this corner of Montana offers easy access to Yellowstone National Park, which will be refreshingly free of the mad summer crowds.

Stay here: We’d book a trip to Montana just to stay at the recently opened  Montage Big Sky , the first five-star resort in the area. The staff will help you arrange every type of outdoor adventure imaginable, but the resort’s stellar restaurants and 10,000-square-foot spa make a great case for springtime hibernation. 

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15 Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations for Travelers on a Budget [2024]

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Table of Contents

How to make spring break more affordable, 1. best budget spring break destination for nature buffs: great smoky mountains national park (tennessee and north carolina), 2. best budget spring break destination that’s easily accessible: south padre island, texas, 3. best budget spring break destination for sun seekers: tampa, florida, 4. best budget spring break destination for all-inclusive resorts: punta cana, dominican republic, 5. best budget spring break destination for explorers: guatemala, 6. best budget spring break destination for college kids: lake havasu, arizona, 7. best budget spring destination for culture: lisbon, portugal, 8. best budget spring break destination for couples: savannah, georgia, 9. best budget spring break destination for adventurers: marrakech, morocco, 10. best budget spring break destination for off-season deals: greece, 11. best budget spring break destination for golfers and activities: myrtle beach, south carolina, 12. best budget spring break destination for beach buffs: gulf shores, alabama, 13. best budget spring break destination for foodies: mexico city, mexico, 14. best budget spring break destination for wildlife enthusiasts: florida keys, 15. best budget spring break destination for families: new orleans, final thoughts.

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Everybody wants to go on spring break. But travel is expensive, especially to peak spring break destinations like Miami or Cancún or during peak dates like Easter.

If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy a spring vacation, there are some destinations out there that are more affordable than others, from free U.S. national parks to emerging countries to destinations that have many options for spending your points and miles (in the case that you’re points rich but cash poor).

Here are the best affordable spring break destinations to consider in 2024.

Before we get into where to go, consider these spring break budgeting tips that run beyond just choosing an affordable destination.

• Dip into your points and miles stash. Using points and miles for airfare and hotels frees up cash for other travel activities such as tours and dining.
• Avoid a spring break vacation over Easter (March 31 ) . If you avoid the peak Easter dates, you may find cheaper airfare or hotels.
• Consider traveling at the beginning or end of the spring season. A trip at the end of February or early May can be more cost-effective, depending on the destination.
• Consider all-inclusives or home rentals. These may be more affordable than staying at a hotel and eating out.

Use the right credit card to earn the most points on travel. Even if you’re paying cash, you can maximize points earnings to save on your next trip. Cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® or American Express ®  Green Card allow you to earn either 3x Chase Ultimate Reward points or 3x Amex Membership Reward points per dollar spent on both travel and dining.

There are more than 60 U.S. national parks , but less than 20 of them are free . Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the parks that doesn’t charge an entrance fee , making access for large families or various carloads easy. Just know you have to pay a parking fee of $5 per day or $15 per week.

The Great Smoky Mountains are a spectacular place for a road trip, especially for those who live in neighboring states. With endless scenic drives and many vantage points perfect for snapping that iconic shot, those who want to enjoy nature but not necessarily get out in it will love a trip to this destination. Likewise, if you want to get out into the wilderness and camp, fees start at just $30, with cabin fees starting at $200 .

This affordable spring break destination is within the continental U.S. and is close to 2 different airports: Valley International Airport (HRL) and the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) . South Padre Island is also just a road trip away from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin and not too far from Corpus Christi Airport (CRP) and Padre Island National Seashore .

Although South Padre Island has a reputation for being a party area and cheap spring break destination for college students (who may or may not enjoy the laid-back scene at the newly opened Margaritaville Beach Resort ), there are quieter parts of the island that welcome families who are on the hunt for affordable activities and warm weather . Half of the area’s 24 beaches are even handicapped-accessible with Mobi-mats . Check out nature sites like the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, a marshland where you can spot pelicans and other avifauna, and Andy Bowie Park , a coastal recreational area.

If you’re jonesing for that Florida sunshine but Miami is out of your budget, Tampa is your destination. It’s recently been known as a hot spot for people moving there during the pandemic , but the same things that make it a great (and affordable) place to live also make it a great (and affordable) place to vacation. You’ll find plenty of free activities, like strolling the Tampa Riverwalk, viewing manatees at Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center , or lounging on the soft sands of Clearwater Beach . And if Disney is too expensive, you could always opt for Busch Gardens in Tampa instead .

And you can still have a cool hotel stay without overspending. For example, prices for a stay at The Tampa EDITION are nearly $300 less on random April dates than The Miami EDITION . If you do have a stash of points, Tampa’s larger hotel chains also have lower budget options — think Sheraton, La Quinta Inn, Aloft, DoubleTree, and Holiday Inn (as well as fancier options like Westin and Grand Hyatt) if you’re looking for a deal in either cash or points.

If you want everything — accommodation, meals, and activities — all in 1 easy package, Punta Cana is an excellent destination for spring break all-inclusive resorts for all budgets . From more affordable hotels to luxury resorts to several different all-inclusive hotels you can book using points, travelers looking for a deal on fun in the sun should head to this Caribbean hot spot. If you’re flexible on your spring travel dates, you may be able to find an all-inclusive resort option for less than $200 to 250 per night (double occupancy) .

A cheap spring break destination for families, many Punta Cana all-inclusive hotels, such as the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana and the Finest Punta Cana , offer features like on-site water parks or kids’ clubs, while others are adults-only — an ideal, inexpensive spring break for college students or couples.

Guatemala is filled with exciting adventures. Start by discovering the peaceful, mystical shores of Lake Atitlán , which rests in a volcanic crater surrounded by Maya villages and the Guatemalan highlands. Visit colorful, welcoming, historic towns like Chichicastenango and Antigua , where you can easily save money by staying in local guesthouses and eating street food like tamales, pupusas, and tasty stews.

Hikers should trek up the active Pacaya or Acatenango volcanos, while those in the market for a little soul-searching should head to hippie village San Marcos for cacao, temezcal, or other wellness ceremonies and rituals. Meanwhile, outdoorsy types can dip into Semuc Champey , a stunning set of turquoise pools that are part of a limestone bridge.

An easy drive for students out west, Lake Havasu is a cheap and warm spring break destination for college students, young adults, or, yes, even families (hear us out) . While college kids can hang out on boats, enjoying the lake’s party atmosphere (12-person party boat rentals start at about $100 per hour, meaning each young adult will pay less than $50 for a 5-hour booze cruise ), families can head to more tranquil beaches and roam off-road trails.

In the evening, college kids can enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere. Those looking for something quieter or more affordable should camp — beachfront camping is available year-round and starts at $40 per night, and cabin pricing starts at $119 per night.

One of Europe’s most affordable capitals, Lisbon is one of the best cheap international spring break destinations . You’ll likely have bright, sunny, and mild weather in Portugal in spring, especially if you head over in April. While Lisbon offers historic attractions and monuments like the Fado Museum and São Jorge Castle , visitors can have budget experiences like enjoying the city’s red-roofed vistas from different hilltop viewpoints (we like Santa Catarina), getting lost in the winding streets of the Alfama distinct , riding vintage trams around the city, or admiring the unique and colorful Portuguese tile that covers nearly every building.

Lisbon’s most famous pastry, pastéis de nata , consists of a flaky crust filled with egg custard and costs less than a couple of euros each. You wouldn’t be the first traveler on a budget to eat a couple of them for lunch instead of a more traditional meal.

TAP Portugal is the national air carrier of Portugal, and rewards like Capital One miles transfer to TAP’s Miles&Go program. While there are many ways to earn lots of TAP miles , we recommend getting the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , earning miles, and transferring them at a 1:1 ratio. Redeem TAP miles to fly between U.S. hubs and destinations like Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO).

Savannah is the perfect destination for an adult spring break . The city’s serene, leafy corners, Southern charm, and haunted history make it the ideal destination to wander around hand-in-hand with a loved one, all while staying within your budget. Many destinations, such as the romantic, 30-acre Forsyth Park and the flowering Savannah Botanical Gardens , are free to enter . If you tire of exploring as a couple, you can always join a free walking tour of the historic center.

Tybee Island is also free to visit (though you have to pay for transportation and parking) and is about a 20-minute drive from central Savannah. Here, you can frolic on sandy beaches and explore the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum ($12 to enter).

Be ready for an assault on the senses as you traverse the labyrinth that is Marrakech’s souk. It’s completely free to admire the snake charmers, steaming food, and market wares in the chaotic Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Visitors looking for more adrenaline-pumping action can ride camels, drive ATVs, or trek through desert sands and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains , all for a relatively affordable price (3-hour quad tours run as low as $25 per person).

Lodging in Morocco can be done on the cheap , too. Forgo the luxury digs and consider a boutique riad or guesthouse. As there are so many, you can find comfortable ones tucked away in the bazaars that are actually incredibly charming, often for less than $100 per night. Many have rooftops or pools from which you can enjoy the warm Moroccan sunshine. And whatever you do, don’t let scammers convince you to buy overpriced carpets, which will take all the budget fun out of your spring break.

Those looking for a spring Greek getaway find the numerous islands full of sunshine without the tourists . A romantic trip to Santorini, a party vacation to Mykonos, or a family getaway to Rhodes can easily be hot and frustrating in the summer months, thanks to tourist crowds and sweltering temps. But spring is when the islands’ concessions open up (ferries often pick back up in March or April), and you can enjoy the beaches, attractions, and local Greek cuisine in a crowd-free and more affordable way.

And don’t discount some of Greece’s lesser-known islands and wonders. Destinations like the charming Peloponnese region and the Athens Riviera are popular among locals but not often frequented by tourists. Islands like Amorgos, Antiparos, Folegandros, Kythira, Milos, Symi, Tinos, and many others can often be cost-effective and more authentic , as opposed to the more popular islands.

The most expensive part of visiting Greece is probably airfare and hotel. Cut costs by using points and miles to fly to Greece .

Although spring is slightly more expensive than winter in Myrtle Beach for golfers, it’s the perfect time to putt along the area’s 90 golf courses with ideal weather — and it’s still significantly cheaper to visit in spring than summer.

If golfing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to do there, starting with the Myrtle Beach Marathon (March 2) and Run to the Sun Car Show (March 14-16).

April brings events like the Myrtle Beach Food Truck Festival (April 5-7), the opening of Pelicans baseball (April 5), and the SOS Spring Safari Festival, where thousands of shag dancers descend on the city (April 18-28).

May offers a family-friendly concert series, special bike days, the Myrtle Beach Classic, a PGA Tour event (May 9-12), and the Blue Crab Festival (May 15-17) .

The budgeting secret to this Alabama spring break spot is visiting before Memorial Day when prices rise and the summer season begins. Although the water may be chilly for swimming in the spring months, beach bums can still affordably enjoy the sunshine and expansive sands.

The white sands and turquoise waters of Orange Beach are inviting to all types of travelers, whether you want to relax and sunbathe or enjoy water sports and beach activities.

Looking for cheap places to go in Florida for spring break? You can easily cross state lines and arrive at Perdido Key in a mere 15 minutes from Gulf Shores . The barrier island is rife with wildlife and home to a few state parks worth visiting to explore the wetlands and wildlife, such as Perdido Key State Park and Big Lagoon State Park.

Tacos, tacos, and tacos — need we say more? Street tacos may be enough to get you there, but visiting Mexico’s capital in spring offers so many more budget delights. The city is relatively affordable to visit year-round, but spring sees low humidity and rain, abundant sunshine, and you can expect the jacarandas to be in bloom, too .

A typical lunch at a restaurant or food stall in Mexico City shouldn’t cost you more than $10 , and there are lots of other free and affordable activities to do, too. Coveted cultural attractions like the Frida Kahlo Museum , the Palace of Fine Arts , and the Chapultepec Zoo don’t cost anything to enter, and you can always sign up for a free walking tour to understand more about the city’s culture and history while enjoying the sites.

The Florida Keys aren’t the cheapest spring break destinations on this list, but there are ways to save money when visiting. You’ll find many affordable home rentals (versus pricier hotels), and for those that want to enjoy the warm sunshine outdoors, there are lots of easy and enjoyable activities that go far beyond bumming around the beach, including 3 national parks: Biscayne , Dry Tortugas , and the Everglades .

Spring brings sightings of white herons, deer, and sea turtles (May is the start of nesting season). Visiting Key West National Wildlife Refuge is free , though you may want to pay to rent snorkel gear or kayaks to better explore the area. You can also wander through the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center free of charge — you may even catch a pelican feeding.

Flying into Miami (MIA) and driving to the Florida Keys may save you money. If you plan to spend some time in Miami, here are the top cheap Miami hotels and affordable activities to do when there.

New Orleans made the cut for our list of the best spring break destinations for families in the U.S., a destination that, at first glance, may appeal to partiers and foodies but also has lots to do for every type of traveler and every family member . You’ll never be shushed for the little ones making noise, as NOLA is lively and fun, with live musicians marching the streets and plenty of chatter.

Although we love the Louisiana Children’s Museum , if you don’t want to pay $18 per visitor, you can simply roam around the French Quarter and delight in all the action, or wander City Park in search of some greenery (and a more tranquil place to get beignets ). If there are any surprise rain showers (though spring is usually warm and sunny), pop into Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum for free.

From Guatemala to Alabama to Lisbon, there are many affordable spring break destinations to visit worldwide, especially if you think outside of the box from the more traditional Cancún and Orlando.

Just remember that you can make any spring break trip an affordable one by dipping into that stash of points and miles, which can help you score plane tickets and hotels for (almost) free.

The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the American Express ® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest place to go on spring break.

Any place can be cheap if you use your points and miles to save on hotels and flights. But generally speaking, destinations like U.S. national parks, New Orleans, the Florida Keys, Myrtle Beach, and even international hubs like Mexico City, Punta Cana, or Lisbon can make for affordable spring break getaways.

Where do most Americans go on spring break?

Many Americans in search of sunny, warm weather head to Florida or Mexico for spring break. According to our research, some of the most searched spring break destinations are Cancún, Montego Bay, the Outer Banks, Punta Cana, Puerto Vallarta, and Saint Thomas.

What is the cheapest day to fly on spring break?

In most cases, days like Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays are the cheapest days to fly. When it comes to taking a spring break vacation, avoid traveling on peak dates such as around the Easter holiday, when flight prices are often higher.

How can I save money on spring break travel?

Save money on spring break by comparing the cost of home rentals and hotels, choosing a place that’s affordable and a good fit for you and your travel companions. Be flexible when it comes to dates, avoiding Easter and other peak spring travel moments. Picking an affordable destination from this list means your money will go further. And always dig through your points and miles stash to see if or when it can help you save money.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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17 Best Spring Break Destinations in the USA: Where to Go & Tips

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 2024

Looking for ideas for spring break destinations in the USA? In this article, we cover some of the best places to visit for spring break in the US. Where to go, why it’s a perfect spring break destination, what to see and do, and experience-based tips for your visit. Find out!

March and April are good months to visit many places in the United States, but it’s not perfect everywhere. Needless to say, spring weather is very different in the Colorado Mountains than it is in Florida… So depending on what type of vacation you are looking for – beaches, city trips, or snow holidays – you have a choice of very different spring break destinations.

In this article, you can find ideas for some of the very best places to visit in the USA in the spring . In addition to our personal recommendations, we also feature favorite American spring break destinations of several other traveling families. For every destination, we included recommendations of the best things to do, what kind of weather to expect, and some useful tips for your vacation.

This list isn’t complete in any way – there are just so many great destinations to visit in spring, all across America! We aimed to create a list that has a good mix of spring destinations – from mountains and deserts to beaches, and from theme parks to city trips. So there’s something in here for everyone. Below, you’ll find plenty of ideas of where to go for spring break. Take a look!

These are some of the best spring break destinations in the U.S.:

1. Moab, Utah

Our personal recommendation

Moab in Utah must be one of the best American spring break destinations for nature and outdoor lovers! There is so much to see and do in the area and spring weather is perfect for exploring!

The highlights of the area are, of course, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and also the Dead Horse Point State Park. These parks have lots of easily accessible landmarks that everyone can visit and also a variety of hikes for all levels. In addition, there’s is also a big choice of fun activities including ATV rides, family-friendly rafting (available from around mid-March), mountain biking, and more!

In Arches NP , drive the Arches Scenic Drive stopping at all the main viewpoints. Take an easy hike to Landscape Arch, an iconic Delicate Arch hike , or one of the longer trails to many other natural arches of the park. For more information, please check our guide to the best things to do in Arches National Park .

In Canyonlands NP, visit the Island in the Sky district that offers easy access to many viewpoints with jaw-dropping views of the area. Also don’t miss a short Mesa Arch hike . For more information, please check our guide to the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park .

TIP: Don’t miss the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park! Also, take at least one ATV tour to explore the areas that you wouldn’t be able to easily access otherwise. See our selection of the best Moab tours for more info.

Spring weather: The weather in Moab in March and April is as good as it gets in this area! Daytime temperatures are around 65-75°F (18-24°C) and you can expect sunny skies with just a very small chance for rain.

What makes it great for spring break: With phenomenal landscapes, a big variety of activities, and excellent weather, Moab is a wonderful destination for an outdoorsy vacation in spring. Furthermore, because you spend the majority of your time outdoors, it’s also very budget-friendly!

Another big advantage is that you can just stay in Moab and explore so many beautiful places in the area without having to drive far every day. See Moab itinerary suggestions for more details on how to plan your trip.

2. San Francisco, California

Recommended by: Debbie Fettback of WorldAdventurists

San Francisco is one of California’s most vibrant cities and a wonderful destination for spring break! The city has a great mixture of urban and natural scenery and each neighborhood has its own distinct vibe. It feels like you will never run out of sights to see here!

Wander through the attractions and shops at Fisherman’s Wharf (including Pier 39), which is full of fun shops, good eats, but also barking sea lions. You can drive, bike, or walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, or enjoy the dreamy views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Baker Beach.

Check out the famous Victorian homes at Alamo Square Park, known as the Painted Ladies. Admire the local art scene and murals. And make sure to drive down Lombard Street, the most crooked street in the world. Also, no visit to San Francisco would be complete without taking a ride on its famous cable cars. It’s the last manually operated cable car system in the world, an iconic thing to do, and it’s fun for young and old!

TIP: One of our personal favorite activities is the history lesson from taking a boat ride across to the eerie Alcatraz Island. Just make sure to book your Alcatraz tour in advance as it can sell out fast!

San Francisco has been well illustrated in television and movies, but it still managed to surprise us, even with our lofty expectations from the big screen!

Spring weather: San Francisco has a very mild climate the whole year, but a sunny and mostly rain-free spring is considered one of the best seasons to visit. The temperatures in March and April are between 50 and 65 F – perfect for sightseeing. However, this is also the windiest time of the year in the Bay Area. So do not forget a jacket and some layers; it can still get chilly from the wind.

What makes it great for spring break: San Francisco is a great spring break destination! Not only is the weather pleasant and the crowds are low, but it’s also a very family-friendly city. There is a great variety of attractions and activities to entertain both kids and adults. Furthermore, San Francisco is also a great starting point if you want to include a road trip away from the hustle and bustle to somewhere like Carmel-By-The-Sea or Big Sur.

3. St. Pete Beach & St. Petersburg, Florida

Recommend By: Stephanie Taleghani, Consistently Curious

The charming, old Florida ambiance of St. Pete Beach entices guests with pristine sandy beaches, a delightful historic district, and an array of eccentric museums. Book a room at the iconic Don CeSar , known as the legendary Pink Palace Resort. This monument to glamour and leisure makes the ideal home base for a luxurious spring break in this area.

Escape into a tranquil forest surrounded by lush exotic plants, towering palms, and friendly flamingos during a visit to the Sunken Gardens . One of America’s last original roadside attractions, it still continues to wow guests today.

A lively tourist scene awaits in historic downtown St. Petersburg, just nearby. The city has a great atmosphere with trendy boutiques, top museums, and upscale restaurants. Make time to venture into the intriguing Dali Museum to look at the life and art of the influential and innovative artist Salvador Dalí.

Other popular museums to visit include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Great Explorations Children’s Museum, and the Florida Holocaust Museum. Hop aboard the St. Petersburg Trolley, which will take you throughout downtown with stops near all major museums and attractions. And furthermore, riding the trolley is FREE!

Plan an afternoon exploring historic Fort De Soto Park. This county park is home to award-winning beaches, canoe trails, fishing piers, campgrounds, and Battery Laidley’s remains. You can walk through and explore Battery Laidley; however, ensure to visit the Quartermaster Museum to get a full history of the fort.

Spring weather: The weather in St. Pete Beach, FL is ideal during spring break. It’s warm and sunny, but not overly humid or too hot. Perfect weather for sightseeing and beaches.

What makes it great for spring break: St. Pete Beach is a beautiful spring break destination. Not only it is one of the USA’s best beaches with the perfect spring weather, but there is so much to see and do nearby! With a plethora of activities, attractions, and restaurants you can pick and choose your own perfect itinerary for a family-friendly spring vacation that has it all.

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in St Petersburg, Florida

4. Oahu, Hawaii

Recommended by Marcie Cheung, Hawaii Travel with Kids

To us, one of the best places to travel for spring break in the USA is Oahu, Hawaii. It’s a tropical paradise with gorgeous beaches and incredible resorts. Furthermore, Hawaii has a rich history and culture so it feels like you’re traveling abroad even though you’re still in the United States.

There are tons of fun things to do on Oahu with kids . Out of all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu has the most activities, tours, and attractions. It’s where you’ll find Pearl Harbor , Waikiki Beach , and the Polynesian Cultural Center . Also worth a visit is Kualoa Ranch where they filmed Lost. And if you like to do some shopping, head to Ala Moana, the largest outdoor mall in the world.

In addition, you can try all the typical Hawaiian things like learning how to surf, watching a Hawaiian luau , eating shaved ice, going snorkeling, hiking up mountains, relaxing at the beach, and so much more. Parents will love sipping tropical drinks while their kids play at their resort pool.

Spring weather: The weather in Oahu during spring is pretty nice. It’s not as rainy as winter and it’s not as hot as summer. Expect mostly sunny skies in the mid-70s to low 80s (24-28°C).

What makes it great for spring break: Oahu is the ultimate spring break destination because you can do/see just about everything on the island in 7-10 days. There are options for educational experiences, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying a resort vacation.

Because it’s the most populated Hawaiian island, you’ll also find the best deals on airfare, car rentals, and hotel rooms.

5. Disneyland, California

Recommended by: Kim Tate, Stuffed Suitcase

Disneyland with its two parks – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park – is a happy place no matter the season. But visiting in March or April means that you have the chance to experience the Food and Wine Festival . This is an excellent time to enjoy the parks and enjoy some delicious California food!

Each year the festival chefs work with local farms and businesses to create a California-inspired menu. And let’s not forget the drinks: local breweries, wineries, and distilleries are also featured.

You can enter Disney California Adventure Park with regular admission and then taste your way around the various themed booths. You can even pick up a tasting passport to keep track of all the bites and sips you try.

The park also has some amazing live performances during the festival, so grab something tasty and walk over to the stage to watch a musical performance while you eat. And of course, don’t forget to make time for all the fabulous attractions and entertainment at both Disneyland theme parks. It’s a great destination for kids and adults!

Spring weather: Spring in Anaheim, CA is beautiful, as you’d expect from Southern California. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s (20-25°C), but do be mindful of the cool evenings and pack a jacket or sweater.

What makes it great for spring break: Disneyland is a fabulous destination to visit in spring! The weather is pleasant and because it’s a peak travel time for the parks, the opening hours are long, there are lots of shows and performances, and there should be minimal closures for attractions. The above-mentioned Food and Wine Festival is a real treat as well and makes a theme park visit more special for the whole family!

Here you can find more info about visiting Disneyland.

READ ALSO: Los Angeles 3 Days Itinerary & Tips for Visiting Universal Studios in LA

6. Las Vegas, Nevada

Recommended by Anjali from Travel Melodies

Las Vegas needs no introduction! The vibrant and colorful city is one of the most unique places on earth, one that you should visit once in your lifetime. It’s a classic for a reason! From family activities to adult fun and from world-class shows to the great outdoors nearby – Las Vegas offers a complete sensory experience!

Simply stroll down the Strip (4.2 miles of magic) and take in the charm of Vegas. There are also a lot of free and kid-friendly activities offered by the resorts on the Strip.

We highly recommend indulging in the dancing fountains of Bellagio, the botanical conservatory at Bellagio, the wildlife habitat at Flamingo, a circus show at Circus Circus, flower displays at Wynn, and the erupting volcano at Mirage.

Our kids absolutely loved the chocolate tour and Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart as well. You must also check out the thrilling STRAT Tower attractions and Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay .

And, you haven’t really visited Las Vegas if you haven’t seen Cirque du Soleil , some of the best shows ever.

In addition, there are so many amazing places to see near Las Vegas that you can easily spend an entire spring break here and never get bored!

Spring weather: Spring weather is very pleasant in Las Vegas, making it one of the very best times to visit. Temperatures hover between 50-70°F (10-20°C) in March, 55-77°F (13-25°C) in April, and 65-90°F (19-32°C) in May.

What makes it great for spring break: Las Vegas is a wonderful spring break destination because of the great mix of activities and perfect weather! Comfortable temperatures make sightseeing and excursions very pleasant. Plus, it’s a good time to take advantage of special spring break deals on accommodations and activities.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Vegas Las Vegas Tips for Your First Visit One Day in Las Vegas (Itinerary)

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Recommended by Julie from More than Main Street

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the best spring break destinations in the southeast USA! Whether you’re into history, shopping, beaches, or outdoor activities, Charleston has it all.

Start your visit downtown with a historic carriage tour , followed by a stop at the famous Rainbow Row, City Market, and Waterfront Park. Next up, get your history fix by visiting one of the area’s many plantations, Fort Sumpter or Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

When visiting Charleston with kids , check out the SC Aquarium, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, or the North Charleston Fire Museum.

Charleston is also well known as a foodie’s paradise. Make sure to try Slightly North of Broad (SNOB), Magnolia’s, and Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit while you are in town. Finally, if you’re an outdoor lover, then be sure to check out Shem Creek, one of the five area beaches, or visit the majestic 400-year-old Angel Oak Tree.

Spring weather: Charleston weather during springtime can vary. Most often you can expect warm daytime temperatures averaging around 70°F (21°C) during late March and early April. Bring layers for cooler evenings, but also don’t forget to pack your bathing suit and sunscreen. If you’re lucky, it may just be warm enough for a dip into the Atlantic Ocean during an afternoon at the beach.

What makes it great for spring break: Whether you’re traveling with your family, your spouse, friends, or even solo, there is literally something for everyone in Charleston, SC. It’s one of those destinations our family returns to year after year.

8. San Diego, California

Recommended by: Astrid Vinje, The Wandering Daughter

For families who love sunshine, San Diego is the perfect destination to visit, any time of the year. Located in Southern California, San Diego offers a unique combination of sunny beaches, family-friendly attractions, and interesting culture.

Popular attractions in San Diego include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld . However, for more affordable San Diego kids activities , head to Balboa Park, a sprawling historic park located in the heart of the city. This must-see park is home to several museums, theaters, and a funky artist village.

Beach-loving families can have their pick of beaches to visit throughout the city, including Coronado Beach, LaJolla, and Mission Beach. To get a taste of San Diego’s historic and cultural charm, you can take a stroll through the historic Old Town, or spend an afternoon at the laid-back Seaport Village.

If you enjoy hiking, explore Cabrillo National Monument, Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, or Tecolote Canyon Natural Park, all located within the city.

For a quick day trip from San Diego, visit Legoland, which is only 30-40 minutes away from the city. Other day trip options include the coastal city of Carlsbad and the historic mission of San Juan Capistrano. For more information, please check our San Diego itinerary suggestions .

TIP: Carlsbad flower fields are amazing and the best time to see the flowers is from mid-March to mid-April/ May. So don’t miss if visiting San Diego in spring!

Spring weather: During the months of March through May, the temperature in San Diego usually ranges from 54 to 69°F (12-21°C). While some rain may occur during the early part of the spring season, the weather usually becomes consistently sunny and warm later on.

What makes it great for spring break: With plenty of sun, beaches, and family-friendly attractions, San Diego is an easy destination choice for families looking to get away during the spring months. The city has a fun mix of activities, nature, history, and culture, all rolled into a relaxed Southern California vibe.

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Recommended by Tanya Raedeke of Rad Family Travel

Colorado mountains is a fantastic place to be for spring break with your family. Sunny blue skies and warmer days make March and the beginning of April one of the best times for snow holidays in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. If it’s not sunny, then it’s probably snowing, which means fresh powder for great skiing and snowboarding conditions.

By March and April, all ski lifts and runs are likely open at each ski resort since the snow base layer has been well established by this time of year.

With big ski resorts like Aspen , Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain, plus smaller ones like Arapahoe Basin and Loveland in popular Summit County, there are several great choices for families to head to just 50-80 miles outside of Denver. The ski towns of Breckenridge, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco are all great for staying in the area. They all offer great restaurants, accommodations, and more fun things to do when you’re not skiing.

As a family of six, with three skiers and three snowboarders, we have skied the larger Copper Mountain resort and nearby smaller Arapahoe Basin over different spring breaks. Both are wonderful. If you are on a tight spring break budget, there are many fabulous, smaller ski resorts sprinkled around the state of Colorado. Smaller resorts are ideal for families because it’s easier to find each other if you get separated.

TIP: If you want to ski in the heart of the Rockies, check out Monarch Mountain for an affordable day of skiing (base yourself in the historic wild west town of Salida ). This smaller ski and snowboard area offers 54 trails and two terrain parks. Ride the Panorama Lift up to the Continental Divide at 11,960ft for some great family pictures and then zoom all the way down the mountain. We’ve skied Monarch several times over spring break and loved it every time.

Spring weather: Daytime temperatures in the ski resorts in March and April are usually just above freezing point (at around 38-43°F) – perfect for skiing in the mountains, where it’s usually a few degrees colder. There is also lots of sun, although you may get some snow days as well. Don’t forget your sunscreen and ski goggles or sunglasses!

What makes it great for spring break: If you are looking for a spring break vacation in the snow, then Colorado mountains is a great place to be. Many ski resorts are just a short drive from Denver where the main airport of the area is located, there’s plenty of affordable accommodation for families, and you’ll find plenty of winter activities in addition to skiing.

TIP: If you are in the area, why not visit Rocky Mountain National Park as well. Here you can find our suggested 1-day Rocky Mountain NP itinerary that can also be adapted for winter/ spring trip.

10. Florida Keys

Recommended by Amanda Emmerling, Toddling Traveler

To us, Florida Keys is one of the best Spring Break destinations in the US! From Key Largo to Key West, the Keys offer a variety of things to do for every family and various interests. You can find anything from deep sea fishing and marine life, to state parks and beaches, as well as great restaurants and unique places to stay.

When planning a Florida Keys family vacation , we recommend staying in Islamorada. Not only does it have a great, central location for exploring the Florida Keys, but it’s also a very nice laid-back fishing town. There are several family-friendly resorts, restaurants with outdoor seating, and fun things to do with kids.

Theater of the Sea is a family-friendly attraction that can’t be missed. Among other things, you can swim with dolphins there. Robbie’s Marina is another great stop for family fun and most notably, feeding the Tarpons. You can also find so many outdoor activities and water sports throughout the Florida Keys, from snorkeling and kayaking with manatees to jet skis and boating.

If you want to experience a unique town with great restaurants and nightlife, Key West is worth the visit as well. Notable attractions in Key West include the Butterfly Conservatory, Southernmost Point, and the Ernest Hemingway House.

TIP: The nearby Dry Tortugas National Park is a popular day trip from Key West (be sure to book this day tour well in advance!).

Spring weather: The weather is perfect in Florida in March and April – it’s warm enough for the beach, but also not too hot or too humid for sightseeing. You can expect temperatures between 70-80°F (20-27°C) and beautiful sunny days.

What makes it great for spring break: In addition to warm, sunny weather and stunning beaches, Florida Keys also offers a lot of unique things to do for the whole family. It’s a great warm-weather getaway for spring break!

11. New Orleans, Louisiana

Recommended by Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia

New Orleans offers a fun atmosphere, incredible history, and delicious food. The temperatures are mild year-round and there is plenty to see and do!

The French Quarter is the most popular area and you can easily wander around while taking in the unique architecture and the incredible and historic sights. Jackson Square is the French Quarter’s main plaza. A good way to explore the rest of the city is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus .

New Orleans is also a great city for foodies! Start the morning with coffee and sugar-dusted beignets at Cafe Du Monde and then some po’Boys for lunch. Make reservations for a nice dinner at one of New Orleans’ best restaurants. And don’t forget to have a mint julep or two. Finish the night by watching a live Jazz performance at Bourbon Street. It is lined with bars and filled with tourists looking to experience some New Orleans nightlife.

The Mardi Gras festival in February is the most popular time to visit New Orleans. If you come on the weekend before Mardi Gras, you can catch the many parades and festivities celebrated throughout the city. But even if you’re not in town for the actual festival, you can go behind the scenes of one of America’s most renowned celebrations at Mardi Gras World. There, you can get a peek at some of the flamboyant floats and costumes that are used during New Orleans’ famous party.

TIP: Just outside of New Orleans lies the beautiful Oak Alley Plantation . Originally built in 1839, it is best known for the double row of live oaks planted nearly 300 years ago. You can follow the guides in period costumes to learn about history and life on the plantation.

Spring weather: The weather in New Orleans in the spring is in the 70s. Perfect for sightseeing, but also warm enough for beach and pool fun.

What makes it great for spring break: In addition to nice weather, a plethora of sights, and lots of great dining options, New Orleans also hosts various festivals and celebrations in spring. If you are visiting New Orleans during Spring break in March, you can join the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. New Orleans Wine & Food Experience where you can enjoy grand tastings and try some scrumptious food also happens during spring (usually mid-March).

12. St. George, Utah

Recommended by Amy Martin, a family travel blogger at Two Little Pandas .

We love St. George, Utah because it has so many unique family-friendly things to do . The area has almost unlimited hiking and outdoor opportunities with landscapes so interesting that the whole family will appreciate it – from young kids to teens and adults.

Pioneer Park, located right on the north side of town, has arches, gullies, and big sandstone rocks to climb, plus some pretty amazing views to take in. We also love the Upper Galoot area, and the Lava Tube Loop hike in Snow Canyon State Park.

The area around St George is also packed with lakes, reservoirs, waterfalls and swimming holes. This is perfect for boaters, kayakers, jet skiers, standup paddle boarders, and beach lovers, and families who just love the water. You can also take a rocky drive to Toquerville Falls where you can swim in and under a beautiful waterfall.

Perhaps our favorite St. George activity is a UTV ride at Sand Hollow . The Sand Mountain area of Sand Hollow has 15,000 acres of dunes and sandstone rocks for all levels of off-roading (and you can even strap your car seats in and take the kids).

TIP: While in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Zion National Park, just 45 minutes away. There, you can take on bucket list Zion hikes , like The Narrows or Angels Landing.

Spring weather: While St. George, and really all of southern Utah can be unbearably hot in the summer, in spring the weather is heavenly! By March, temperatures are typically in the 70°Fs (20-25°C), and because it’s a desert, you can count on sunshine nearly every day.

What makes it great for spring break: With beautiful weather and tons of outdoor activities to get out of the winter rut, St. George is a fantastic spring break destination. And even better, with many free outdoor activities, and tons of low-cost lodging options , it’s very budget-friendly as well!

READ ALSO: Utah Bucket List (Top Places & Experiences)

13. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Recommended by: Neha Kulshrestha, Travelmelodies

Outer Banks , an archipelago of islands off the coast of North Carolina is a destination to charm you with its sandy beaches and lots of outdoor activities. OBX, as called in short, boasts of being the “First in flight” state where the Wright Brothers built and flew the aircraft for the first time. So visiting the Wright Brothers Memorial is one of the best things to do in Outer Banks NC.

With a coastline spanning 200 miles, there are many beautiful beaches, sand dunes to climb, and lighthouses worth visiting. Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are some prominent ones. You can even climb atop these lighthouses from Spring to summer for scintillating views.

For adventure seekers, Outer Banks has one of the best beaches to drive on, and the thrill to ride on the beach is unmatched. Corolla and Cape Hatteras do allow driving, but a permit is required for Cape Hatteras.

TIP: Drive along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway to breathe in the beautiful vistas and make memories of a lifetime.

Spring weather: The weather begins to get warm with the air being crisp in the Outer Banks in the spring. With temperatures ranging from mid 60’s to 70’s (18-21°C), it is perfect to enjoy the many outdoor activities.

What makes it great for spring break: Springtime is the off-season when the temperatures are warm and the hotels are affordable. There are many great Airbnbs in Outer Banks by the beach best suited for families traveling with kids. It makes it the perfect and budget-friendly destination for spring break sans crowds.

14. Texas Hill Country

By Kay of Enchanting Texas

The Texas Hill Country , located in Central Texas, is a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, gently flowing rivers, and lots of swimming holes. Outdoor recreation is one of the best things to do in Hill Country. You can hike, mountain bike, camp, visit waterfalls, and go horseback riding in the region. River tubing is also big here.

Spring is the bluebonnet season in Texas, meaning you will find the countryside carpeted with blue flowers. Ennis and Burnet are among the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas .

The small towns of Texas Hill Country are incredibly romantic. They are perfect to stay for the night and rest while you search the countryside for wildflowers. Explore charming Fredericksburg and its authentic German heritage or take a stroll in Historic Downtown Brenham. Enjoy the bluebonnets in Marble Falls and listen to a concert in Luckenbach.

The area is also famous for its wineries. You can take a tour of several beautiful vineyards and enjoy wine tasting. Apart from wineries, you will find peach orchards, wildflower farms, distilleries, and breweries in the Texas Hill Country.

Spring weather: Spring temperatures are between 70-80°F (21-27°C) in Central Texas in March and April. Not too hot for sightseeing, but warm enough for all the outdoor activities.

What makes it great for spring break: Spring is the perfect time to visit the Hill Country for multiple reasons: the weather is perfect for spending time outdoors, it’s the flower- and blossoms season, and there are many events and things to do for the whole family.

15. Maui, Hawaii

Maui Island in Hawaii is another wonderful place to go to for spring break in the U.S.! Just as Oahu Island mentioned above, Maui offers a great mix of relaxing beach time, stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, and also a chance to get to know local culture and traditions. Don’t miss a luau , a traditional Hawaii feast!

There’s so much to see and do in Maui that you can easily fill a week or even two here. Don’t miss the Road to Hana, a scenic drive with gorgeous coastal scenery and waterfalls. Another must-see is Haleakala National Park, where you can see the sunrise from the top of a volcano . For more adventurous, there’s also an opportunity to zip-line or bike down the volcano.

Maui also has beautiful beaches and a wonderful underwater world. You can swim with turtles, go snorkeling, or diving. There’s also sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and so much more. Plenty to keep the whole family happy!

TIP: Spring months are also good for whale watching in Maui, with whale season running from November to May. So make sure to take a whale watching tour to see these impressive giants!

Spring weather: Average temperatures on Maui in March and April are in the low 70s (21-25°C), but there are big differences depending on where you are on the island. It will be significantly cooler on the volcano than at the beach.

What makes it great for spring break: Maui is a great spring break destination for those who want to get the absolute most out of their vacation. With nice weather, beaches, and natural and cultural attractions, there is plenty to do in Maui for the whole family. For tips on how to plan your trip, please check our Maui itinerary suggestions .

16. Disney World, Florida

Recommended by: Adriane from Put on Your Party Pants (and Keep Them on Until 8pm)

Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is a destination in itself! It consists of four theme parks, two water parks, over two dozen resorts, countless restaurants, and Disney Springs, a center with shopping and dining. Whether you are a Disney fan or are just looking for a kid-friendly spring break, you can’t go wrong with planning your family vacation here!

You’ll enjoy every place you visit in Disney World. But the majority of the highlights of Disney World are found at the theme parks, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom has tons of rides with no height requirement whatsoever. There are a few larger rides, like Space Mountain, an indoor roller coaster through space, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, a roller coaster with some slow-moving sections featuring animatronics from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This is also a perfect park for families with very young kids.

Epcot features a World Showcase with sections devoted to eleven different countries. There is also a large aquarium and pavilions featuring interactive, educational exhibits. Best rides include Test Track, a ride that ends in a 65mph lap around a track, and Soarin’ Around the World, a ride that gives you the sensation you are flying.

Hollywood Studios has Toy Story and Star Wars sections that are very popular. Whereas Animal Kingdom is essentially a zoo with rides. It also has intricate theming inspired by Africa and Asia.

TIP: Spring break is a busy time at Disney World, so try to make a touring plan before you arrive.

Spring weather: Spring weather is beautiful in Orlando. The average high is in the high 70s to low 80s (25-30°C). You will also get much less rain than summer visitors, making the long days at the park very comfortable.

What makes it great for spring break: Disney World is a perfect spring break destination because it has something for everyone. The majority of the rides can be enjoyed by the whole family, there are tons of characters, and the dining is better than you will find at most theme parks. There is so much to do that no one will be bored.

17. Grand Canyon, Arizona

No list of best American spring destinations would be complete without mentioning one of the most-visited national parks – the Grand Canyon ! There is no bad time to visit this natural wonder, but spring is pretty much as good as it gets!

The best places to visit in spring are the South Rim where all the main viewpoints are located, and Grand Canyon West , where you’ll find Grand Canyon Skywalk.

Some of the best-known postcard views of the Grand Canyon are easily accessible at the South Rim . Don’t miss Mather Point, Mohave Point, Hopi Point, and Powell Point. A helicopter flight above the canyon is a real bucket list experience!

You can see the main highlights of the Grand Canyon in one day , but if you plan to go hiking, you can easily spend a few days here.

Grand Canyon Skywalk is relatively close to Las Vegas and can easily be visited with a day tour . Just like the South Rim, it’s open the whole year round.

TIP: You can easily combine your visit to the Grand Canyon with that of Las Vegas, St. George, Zion National Park , Bryce Canyon, Sedona , or Phoenix and Scottsdale . If you go in another direction, you can visit Page, AZ, area with the famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, but also Monument Valley . There’s enough to see and do in the area to fill a couple of vacations!

Here you can find a suggested Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend Itinerary , and you can easily expand it to make a longer road trip visiting some of the best places in Arizona .

Spring weather: Spring weather is usually dry at the Grand Canyon and mild temperatures are perfect for sightseeing and hiking. Average temperatures at the South Rim are 53-61°F ( 12-16°C), but it is much warmer inside the canyon.

What makes it great for spring break: If you want to explore the Grand Canyon to the fullest and go hiking, spring is truly one of the best times to be here. If you come in summer, it’s so hot that hiking inside the canyon can get dangerous. Furthermore, even though busy, the crowds are still much lower in the spring than in the summer.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Grand Canyon & Tips for Grand Canyon South Entrance

So, here are our suggestions of some of the best places to visit in spring all across the United States.

TIP: If you are looking for even more inspiration for where to go in spring, please check our guides to the best National Parks to visit in March , the best National Parks to visit in April , and some great National Parks to visit in May .

READ ALSO: Where to Go for Spring Break in Europe & Best Family Travel Destinations Worldwide

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Monday 7th of March 2022

Here I am scrolling the internet for a Spring vacation idea and stumble upon this article. I live in downtown St. Petersburg!! Feeling grateful :)

Local tip- Buy a hammock (those nylon camping ones) on amazon for 25 bucks and bring it to Vinoy Park on a weekday (for a less crowded park, and easier parking) or a weekend - just be sure to check there isn't an event going on if you're looking for a more intimate experience. February-May or Oct-Nov would be my favorite time of year for this type of date! Pack a speaker, bring a cooler of whatever you fancy, a book, a pillow, and anything else you might need for a relaxing afternoon in a beautiful park on the water. String up your hammock any of the palm trees; there are tons to choose from and it's super easy to do. Chances are good you'll see a dolphin or manatee at dusk! I love starting my Sunday afternoon at Vinoy Park before making my way to the pier to watch the sun set over the city! The St. Pete Pier is just a short walk south of Vinoy Park. It's a beautiful stroll past the marina with picturesque views of the sailboats. The Pier offers so many different experiences! It is a family friendly environment that has a splash pad, a playground, a beach and other family friendly areas. There are a a few restaurant options directly on the pier. I enjoy having a drink at "Doc Ford's" before taking a stroll down the pier as the sun sets. Beach Drive is directly across the street from the Pier and offers the ultimate date night experience! There are endless restaurants and bars with beautiful views and a nightlife that is. unbeatable. Age ranges from young to old and every one is there to have a good time! Check out "The Canopy" for a rooftop bar experience with beautiful views of water.

Hope this helps someone :)

Thanks for sharing your local tips, Rachel! I'm sure it will help some of our readers. Happy travels!

Thursday 15th of July 2021

We're thinking of doing a road trip in Arizona and Utah for spring break next year. Do you have a suggested itinerary?

Wednesday 21st of July 2021

Hi Lin, this area is usually great in spring and you'll find plenty to see and do. However, it's hard to suggest an itinerary without knowing where you start/end and how much time you have. You could potentially start in Las Vegas and make a circle visiting places like Sedona, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Zion National Park, and then end in Las Vegas itself, with potentially a few day trips in the Las Vegas area as well (Death Valley, for example). There are really countless ways to visit this area. I linked to some of our guides about these places, so you can find more inspiration on what to see/ do at each place. Hope this helps. Good luck with the planning!

Saturday 6th of March 2021

How idiotic and irresponsible! This post was updated on Feb 14, 2021 and there is zero mention of COVID. Disneyland isn’t even open right now.

Maira Gimenes

Saturday 8th of January 2022

@Jurga, Not even worth to reply to this bitter MB who does not even is brave enough to write down its name. Thanks for all the tips they were great!!!

I am sure that our readers are aware of the current situation and the fact that it's - literally - changing every day. I can't imagine there's one person on the planet who doesn't know that there are travel restrictions all over the place and that it's essential to check official sources before planning any travel. For a travel blog run by one person, it's impossible to update every single article for the up-to-date information on every destination mentioned on our website. What's closed today might be open in a week from now or vice versa. There's just no way for us to update our website to reflect these constant changes. I'm sure that any responsible person will do their own research if traveling this spring. Happy travels!

Tanya Raedeke

Monday 11th of January 2021

What a fantastic list! Many places to add to our Spring Break Bucket List! Thanks for including the Colorado Rocky Mountains - just love them.

Thursday 14th of January 2021

Thanks for your suggestion, Tanya! We also love the Colorado Rockies, I once spent the whole summer in Estes Park exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park and we recently visited with kids as well. But we have never been there for skiing. I'm sure it's amazing!

15 best spring break getaways in the US

When the sky's been gray for weeks, the furnace can't keep up with the chill and you're tired of de-icing the driveway, getting away to somewhere warm for even a week can be the secret to maintaining your mental health .

Or, if like me, you're lucky enough to live where it doesn't snow, you've likely been rained in for weeks and are desperate to travel to a destination where you can bask in the warmth of sunshine or appreciate the drama of snow draping the tree branches with lace. And if it's a dog-friendly getaway you're after, all you want is someplace where you won't have to do a major wipe-down after every damp and gloomy walk.

Here are 15 spring getaways that meet all these criteria and more, whether your ideal vacation involves sinking your toes in the sand, seeking out spring wildflowers , tipping back a beer on a lakeside dock or testing your mettle with a boundary-pushing adventure.

Monterey, California

Sheltered within the horseshoe curve of Monterey Bay, this former center of the fishing industry has grown into a marine science destination of international stature.

Numerous exhibits and events celebrate the 40th anniversary of the groundbreaking Monterey Bay Aquarium , where you can witness the antics of playful sea otters, circling sharks and chirping penguins diving into their pool. Highlights include the jellyfish tank, where the mysterious, transparent creatures seem to dance through the water, the Rocky Shores touch pool and timed events such as sea otter feedings, which you won't want to miss.

Monterey is also celebrating the 65th anniversary of the weekend-long Artichoke Festival held in nearby Castroville, the "Artichoke Center of the World," from June 8 to 9. Another must-see attraction is Cannery Row, made famous in the novel by John Steinbeck, which in addition to shops and cafes features a stretch of shorefront where you're likely to see sea lions, otters and possibly a whale spouting in the distance.

If hunting for lost treasure, fighting skeleton pirates and ducking a mighty kraken, all of this in the dark, sounds like your dream, you'll love Monterey's new Treasure Hunt: The Ride , an immersive, interactive attraction on Cannery Row that opened in 2023 and reenacts the escapades of captain Hippolyte Bouchard, who attacked Monterey in 1818.

Related: 8 best theme parks in California for thrill-seekers and families

Speaking of whales, possible sightings at various times during the spring include humpbacks, grays, blues and even orcas. The best way to see them is on a boat tour such as those offered by Discovery Whale Watch , which puts a marine biologist or naturalist on board to locate marine life and explain what you're seeing.

If certain locations in Monterey look familiar, it's because the town and surrounds provided the setting for the hit TV miniseries "Big Little Lies," which featured the iconic Bixby Bridge in the opening sequence. It's only half an hour from Monterey to the bridge, the first stop on the classic cliff-hugging Big Sur road trip .

While U.S. Highway 1 remains closed beyond Gamboa Point due to landslides and rockfalls, you can still visit many of Big Sur's most famous sites, including McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Nepenthe and Partington Cove.

Where to stay

You'll find the full resort experience at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course , which spans 22 private acres just outside the town center on the edge of the Del Monte Golf Course. Take advantage of two outdoor pools, three on-site restaurants and the cushy Spa Adeline. Rates start from $266 or 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

For a posher and more intimate experience, choose one of the three local boutique hotels in the Four Sisters collection: Green Gables Inn and Gosby House Inn in Pacific Grove, adjacent to Monterey, and Coachman's Inn in neighboring Carmel. Rooms at all three start in the range of $200 to $250 per night and include a full breakfast.

Related: TPG's 16 favorite hotels in California for every type of traveler

Lake City, Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Florida

Once you know that Lake City, Florida's Springlands , an hour east of Jacksonville, features more than 900 freshwater springs and 350 miles of rivers, you'll wonder why this watery fantasia isn't better known.

In stark contrast to the spring break throngs overwhelming many of Florida 's more famous destinations, you'll be thrilled at the peace to be found as you hike in the area's thick pine forests, delve into its aquatic caves, trek to waterfalls and explore its nine state parks.

Related: The best state park in every US state

Lake City calls itself the "Springs Capital of the World,'' and you won't disagree when you see Ichetucknee Springs State Park , where people tube and kayak through waterways populated by otters, soft-shell turtles, wild turkeys, wood ducks and the striking long-billed limpkins.

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park , named after a well-known cave diver and underwater photographer, protects one of the most extensive underwater cave systems in the continental U.S., where more than 33,000 feet of caves have been documented since the mid-1950s.

It's worth the two-hour drive to St. Augustine to tour a real-life fort, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , built by Spanish colonists in the 17th century, and you'll want to add a tour of Villa Zorayda , built to resemble a mini-Alhambra complete with Moorish-influenced tilework.

If you're thinking of visiting later in the spring, time your visit to experience Jacksonville's celebration of Juneteenth on June 17, a high-spirited celebration that kicks off with a Freedom Walk and continues with the Melanin Market, which brings together more than 150 Black-owned businesses and features music, food trucks, craft booths and pop-up boutiques. The Jazz Discovery Series at James Weldon Johnson Park draws big-name musicians.

Convenient to Ichetucknee Springs, the Home2Suites by Hilton Lake City has a large pool enclosed in a sunny patio area, offers pet-friendly rooms and includes breakfast, making it a great home base from which to explore the area. And Hilton's Home2Suites are pet-friendly , welcoming dogs of any size. Rates start from $203 per night with a Hilton Honors discount or 83,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve and San Luis Valley, Colorado

Who knew that the largest sand dunes in the world are not along the coast but rather deep in the interior of the U.S.? Left behind when massive Lake Alamosa receded some 440,000 years ago, the sand was sculpted by high desert winds into peaks as high as 750 feet, all of which are open for climbing.

But not just climbing — the big fun in Colorado's Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve is sandboarding, an extreme sport similar to snowboarding that turns adults into kids the instant they stand at the top of a slope, board in hands.

Sandboarding is not for the faint of heart, given the speeds at which boarders whizz down the steep inclines — and the frequency with which they wipe out. But it's just as much fun to climb the dunes and gaze out across the enormous expanse of sand as it gradates from gold to pink in the changing light.

And yes, there's actually a beach here, too, created by Medano Creek, which emerges mysteriously from the base of the dunes when fed by spring runoff. In warm weather, Medano Beach, as locals call it, resembles any other beach scene, with colorful umbrellas dotting the sand and hardy swimmers splashing and tubing in the rippling waves created by the current.

Related: 5 national parks to visit before your kids leave the house

There's no question the weather in the San Luis Valley is iffy in the spring — snow can fall as late as April given the park's elevation, which ranges from 7,520 to 13,604 feet, but the warm sun typically melts the snow off the dunes within a day. Medano Creek reaches peak flow in April, but the sun isn't strong enough for most swimmers until May.

You'll find plenty more to explore among the dramatic landscapes of southern Colorado , including four public hot springs surrounding the town of Alamosa, which range in vibe from family-friendly Splashland to romantic Joyful Journey .

You'll also want to make the trek to Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge to witness the sandhill crane migration that takes place from March through early April and, if possible, attend the annual Monte Vista Crane Festival held from March 8 to 10.

The tiny historic town of Del Norte, recently discovered by mountain bikers, now has several Denver-style cafes and eateries.

Retro-cool Mellow Moon Lodge in Del Norte has free bikes on-site for guests, welcomes dogs and wows with its midcentury modern decor. Rooms start at $130 per night. Families like the Holiday Inn Express in Alamosa for the pool, hot tub and included breakfast. Rooms start at $104 or 22,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

The Finger Lakes, New York

What can't you do in the Finger Lakes region of New York, where eleven different lakes offer seemingly endless possibilities for hiking, biking, boating, swimming and kicking back in the ubiquitous Adirondack chairs that adorn every porch and dock?

Base your stay in Seneca Lake, the largest and best known of the group, and take advantage of the year-round rides available at Painted Bar Stables. Seabreeze Amusement Park thrills kids and relaxes parents with its old-fashioned carnival atmosphere.

Visit the Women's Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls to learn about the history of the suffrage movement and women's roles in abolition and other social movements.

Related: The 10 best road trips to take with your family this summer

For some big-city fun in nearby Rochester, wander the Neighborhood of the Arts with its many museums and galleries before relaxing in 150-acre Highland Park , designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame.

At the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House , you'll continue your suffrage journey by sitting in the rooms where the pioneering women's rights leader strategized with other heroines of the movement and lived until her death in 1906.

The Rochester Lilac Festival , held annually in May, celebrates a collection of more than 12,000 lilacs in full bloom (America's largest collection). The largest living history museum in New York, Genesee Country Village & Museum , immerses visitors in 19th-century life with costumed guides demonstrating barrel-making, ceramics, blacksmithing and more. Going further than most such attractions, the museum includes play, giving kids the chance to try stilt-walking, hoop-rolling and other old-fashioned games.

Fronting directly on the lake with a high-touch spa, an elegant cocktail lounge and a heated lakefront pool and hot tub, Lake House at Canandaigua surprises with a host of luxurious amenities at an affordable price. A member of the I Prefer Hotel Rewards loyalty program, rooms start from $225 per night.

Tucson, Arizona

An hour's drive from the Mexico border, Tucson is the perfect place to savor the Southwest's colorful cultural mashup, and this extends to Tucson's extraordinary cuisine, which earned the city a place on the world food map with its designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy . And, indeed, the Arizona Star newspaper has mapped out a taco tour listing 25 different taco restaurants and food trucks clustered in five sections of the city.

Many people visit Tucson to explore Saguaro National Park , which spreads out in two segments on the east and west sides of Tucson. It's certainly one of the Southwest's top spots for bloom scouting.

But there's much to see in the city itself, including Mission San Xavier del Bac, a Spanish Catholic mission dating to 1699, as well as the Pima Air & Space Museum and the Titan Missile Museum . Tucson is famous for hosting the biggest gem and geology event in the world, so it's no wonder that the city just inaugurated the Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum .

In 2023, Saguaro National Park was certified as an official Urban Night Sky Place , only the second national park to receive this designation, which recognizes sites that use planning and design to support an authentic nighttime experience despite being in settings with high levels of ambient light.

Related: Dreaming of outer space? Here are 8 tips for enjoying the night sky from Earth

Adult spring breakers will appreciate Tucson's new four-day Agave Heritage Festival , the first festival in honor of the desert native, which has grown in this region for more than 1,000 years. The festival, which takes place April 18 to 21, honors community, culture and conservation through tastings, culinary events, educational seminars and more.

Getting to Tucson is also quite easy — currently there are nonstop flights to and from Atlanta; Chicago; Denver; Dallas; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Orange County, California; Minneapolis; Portland, Oregon; Salt Lake City; San Diego; Phoenix; San Francisco; and Seattle.

You can have the full luxury resort vacation just half an hour from downtown at the Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa , which is well worth the drive for its three pools, acres of hiking trails and the Life in Balance Spa. Rooms start at $859 or 32,500 World of Hyatt points per night.

Maui, Hawaii

Spring is whale watching season in Maui, and what amazing whale watching it is. While the devastating fires on Aug. 8 destroyed much of the historic whaling town of Lahaina and its busy harbor, rebuilding is well underway , and you can support the region by visiting nearby Kaanapali, one of the best spots to catch the migrating humpbacks that give birth in Hawaii's warmer waters before departing for their summer home in Alaska.

Closer marine life encounters require joining a boat trip, and, luckily, there are plenty to choose from. Ask whether there's a naturalist on board, and some boats even feature hydrophones that amplify the eerie sound of whale song.

Of course, you've come to Maui to go to the beach , and Maui's varied topography means you'll find every kind, from swathes of white sand to secluded rocky coves; Wailea, Kaanapali and Napili Bay are all perennial crowd-pleasers.

You'll find some of Maui's best food outside the resorts at the Kahului food trucks favored by locals and in the chef-centered establishments that line Main Street in the surf town of Paia.

Take a day to drive the Road to Hana, which snakes along the sheer cliffs on the island's west side and will have you stopping at every turn to photograph waterfalls and dramatic ocean views.

On the way, stop at the Kahanu Garden , a National Tropical Botanical Garden, where you'll find one of the island's largest forests of native Hala. Many visit the park to see the National Historic Landmark Pi'ilanihale Heiau , a massive lava rock shrine thought to be the largest ancient human-made structure in Polynesia.

Put your vacation funds to work supporting Maui's recovery by staying at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa , situated at Pu'u Keka'a (Black Rock) with 23 acres of spectacular oceanfront. The property is supporting local recovery with the Return to Maui package, available through April 30, which includes daily breakfast for two, a $100 resort credit and a $100 donation to Maui Imua — Aloha for Sheraton Maui Relief Fund, which goes directly to Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa associates and their families who were affected by the wildfires. Rooms start at $607 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: The 18 best hotels in Maui, from luxury stays to family-friendly resorts

Corpus Christi, Texas

With 150 miles of Gulf Coast shoreline and nine beaches, there's far more to Corpus Christi than Padre Island National Seashore , though the wild dune-studded coastline of this barrier island is a must, especially in May when sea turtles begin to hatch.

Mustang Island State Park is almost as popular. One thing that sets Corpus Christi's coast apart from other coastal destinations is that camping is allowed right on the beach, including primitive campsites on both Padre and Mustang islands.

You can saddle up right on the sand at Horses on the Beach and you can also drive right onto the sand at many beaches (as well as build bonfires), so things can get a bit rowdy at the height of spring break, to the delight of some visitors and the irritation of others. Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas on Mustang Island is a favored base for fishing and water sports.

When you can drag yourself away from the beach, head to the Texas State Aquarium , the fourth largest in the U.S. It pushes boundaries with in-the-water experiences like Snorkel with the Sharks. There's also the USS Lexington Museum , which has the unusual feature of escape rooms on board.

Step straight onto the sand from the DoubleTree by Hilton Corpus Christi Beachfront , where rooms start at $131 or 33,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Fort Myers, Florida

There's water everywhere in Fort Myers, with more than 100 barrier and coastal islands and all the exciting wildlife you'd expect given its location on the Gulf of Mexico and rich topography of mangroves, lagoons and sheltered Gulf Shore beaches .

And, of course, there's sun, too, and plenty of it thanks to the Gulf Coast's tropical climate, which makes it easy to spend entire days swimming, hunting for shells and just plain lounging at popular beaches like Lighthouse and Tarpon Bay on Sanibel Island, Bonita Beach on Little Hickory Island and Boca Grande Beach on Gasparilla Island. Many visitors also set sail on guided tours or private boat charters to North Captiva, Caya Costa and Cabbage Key.

To see eagles and gopher tortoises, venture into one of the area's 47 nature preserves, among them Six Mile Cypress Slough , with its wetlands boardwalk, and J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge , where 51 types of reptiles and amphibians, 32 mammal species and more than 245 species of birds, including the rare roseate spoonbill, roam 7,600 acres of mangroves.

Or, visit the Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs, which shelters rescued, rehabilitated and non-releasable animals from alligators and pythons to vivid flamingos, macaws and Chinese golden pheasants. Manatee fans can view the friendly and absurdly photogenic mammals from the boardwalk or even kayak and paddleboard among them in Manatee Park , where they take shelter in the warmer waters during February, March and sometimes into April.

Car and history lovers will gawk at the antique cars and futuristic inventions of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford housed in their former winter estates , which also feature a 20-acre botanical garden designed by Edison himself that's a riot of color in the spring.

Known as the City of Palms, Fort Myers is located inland on the Caloosahatchee River, and the downtown River District celebrates its historic charm with boutiques, restaurants and cafes housed in 19th-century colonial-style buildings.

Fort Myers is easy to get to, with Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) served by United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and more.

Fort Myers is also reachable from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), both within a two-hour drive. You can also feel good that your travel dollars are helping a region that was hard hit by Hurricane Ian in September 2022 but has made a remarkable recovery thanks to hard work and a tourism industry eager to welcome back visitors.

Just say waterslides, lazy river and boat rides to the kids and you'll have the family on board for a stay at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa , which also appeals to adults with two additional pools, one adults-only, and access to a semi-private island accessed by a 15-minute ferry trip with departures every hour. It's also dog-friendly, allowing up to two dogs. The resort is now a Category 5 property, with rooms starting at $911 or 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Related: 12 best all-inclusive resorts in Florida

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park turns technicolor in spring when wildflowers like trillium blanket the forest floors while valleys burst out in a fiery bouquet of orange, yellow and purple.

Try Porters Creek for trillium and the Cove Hardwoods Nature Trail to see expanses of flowers spread across the valley. The park celebrates its bounty of bloom May 1 to 5 with the five-day Wildflower Pilgrimage .

If you're a country music fan or visiting this area with kids in tow, you'll want to hit up Dollywood , located on the Tennessee side of the park in Pigeon Forge. The country music-themed attraction features a theater with regular concerts and rides like the Lighting Rod roller coaster, the Dollywood Express locomotive and the newest addition, the Big Bear Mountain roller coaster.

In true Dolly spirit, daypasses are ridiculously reasonable, and if you stay in one of the park's hotels, you receive discounts and perks like TimeSaver skip-the-line passes.

Related: My '9 to 5' sent me to sleep in Dolly Parton's $10,000 tour bus suite — here's what it was like

If you base your stay in Asheville, North Carolina, or tack on a few days in this up-and-coming hub of art, beer and nature-related activities, you might want to hike part of the nearly 1,200-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail, which runs directly through town. A popular stretch climbs all or part of Mount Mitchell, while serious adventurers notch their belts with the 18-mile Shut-in Trail that follows a historic bridle trail from the Biltmore House to George Vanderbilt's hunting lodge near the summit of Mount Pisgah.

Dollywood's Heartsong Lodge & Resort manages to combine classy with rustic, a hard blend to carry off. And it does a great job catering to families with suites and double rooms. Rooms start from $144 a night; use your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card to earn miles during your stay.

Greater Palm Springs, California

The spring bloom in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts and Coachella Valley is deservedly world-famous, with carpets of poppies, lupine and desert sunflowers contrasting photogenically with cholla cactus, fan palms and other desert favorites.

See them in the Mission Creek Preserve, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the Randall Henderson Trail in the San Bernardino National Forest, or get farther out into rugged canyon country with a guided Jeep tour. And, of course, you'll want to visit Joshua Tree National Park , entering via the west entrance closer to Desert Hot Springs and Palm Springs or the less crowded South Entrance near Coachella.

Related: The best US national parks you should visit at least once (or twice)

And you don't even have to give up the beach by choosing the desert; The Palm Springs Surf Club , opened on Jan. 1, 2024, features the ultimate modern wave pool designed by professional surfers to provide an authentic wave riding experience for those at all levels. Beginners will appreciate that it features two distinct breaks: The first of two breaks, the outer reef is designed for intermediate to advanced surfers, while beginners can hone their skills at the reform section as well as take advantage of surf lessons on offer.

Newly reopened in March after a top-to-bottom renovation, the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert features a wealth of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed especially for children under 8, including those with learning challenges.

Anyone who appreciates soaking in a natural mineral pool will be excited to hear that the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has now opened the long-awaited Spa at Séc-he , founded in the 19th century but closed for decades. Private mineral baths, mud wraps, quartz beds, float therapy and traditional herbal treatments are among the offerings, which are based on the Cahuillas' deep traditions of healing.

Location is a main draw of the Courtyard Palm Desert , which shortens the drive to Joshua Tree thanks to its setting on the north side of the valley. Families consider this hotel particularly kid-friendly, and dogs are welcome, too. Rates start at $227 or 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, and there are no resort fees.

Those with richer blood might choose The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage tucked into rose-colored hills 500 feet above the Coachella Valley. It has views from almost any room. Rooms start at $900 and up per night or can be booked with 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points during the offseason or up to 70,000 points on peak dates, though an extra $40 resort fee applies for all stays, including award nights.

Related: Best hotels in Palm Springs that are an oasis in the desert

The Catskills, New York

Soar over the peaks and valleys on the Scenic Skyride on the Kaatskill Flyer at Hunter Mountain , which glides 3,200 feet above sea level to the summit. Among the region's top family attractions is the Catskill Mountain Railroad in Kingston, run by a railroad heritage organization dedicated to preserving the rail corridor for recreational use. Hop on board The Bunny Express, which features an Easter egg hunt.

Related: Why the Catskills continues to be one of the hottest destinations for travelers

Explore the mountains and valleys on horseback at Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables , or indulge your appreciation for animals at Catskill Animal Sanctuary , home to more than 200 horses, sheep, pigs and chickens all rescued and well cared for. Public tours, which must be booked in advance, reopen April 1 and continue every weekend through November.

You'll find an authentic Catskills lodge experience at The Chatwal Lodge , which occupies 100 lakeside acres in the southern Catskills. Rooms start at $1,100 a night and are not part of a loyalty program, but you can benefit from the points accrued on your Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

Pismo Beach, California

Imagine a long fishing pier, a boardwalk, saltwater taffy and fish and chips stands steps from the sand and you've got Pismo Beach, a classic California beach town on the Central Coast. Surfing, dune riding, wine tasting, kayaking and golf, it's all here, and you won't be fighting off the crowds to partake.

Surrounded by the Pismo Preserve , there are more than 900 acres of coastal hills frequented by hawks, owls, peregrine falcons and other wildlife. Paddleboarding is popular on either side of the historic pier, and kayakers head for the craggy cove at Shell Beach.

Related: California dreaming? 10 cool towns to visit in the Golden State

Follow the Pacific Coast Wine Trail , which links seven local tasting rooms strung along U.S. Highway 1. Also on U.S. Highway 1 is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery , as well as that epitome of over-the-top old Hollywood grandeur, Hearst Castle .

With its long languid pool deck positioned directly above the beach, Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach , an Autograph Collection property, is exactly the hotel you'll want to stay at for a classic beach vacation, yet it's surprisingly affordable for a full-service California on-the-sand resort. Rooms start at $344 or 65,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

There's no American road trip more memorable than that through Utah's 'Mighty Five' red rock national parks: Arches, Canyonlands, Zion , Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. And Moab, located between Arches and Canyonlands, offers the chance to explore both, as well as Dead Horse Point State Park , which many consider on par with the state's sublime national parks.

One of the top mountain biking destinations in the country, Moab lures riders with hundreds of miles of slickrock trails, among them the beloved Moab Brand Trails . While riding on slickrock is a challenge prized by experienced riders, Moab has plenty of beginner-friendly bike trails as well, and bike rentals are plentiful. Moab is also where you'll embark on one of the river rafting adventures that ply the Green and Colorado rivers.

You'll find all the basics, including a spacious pool and extras like bike storage and electric vehicle charging, at the Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn in the heart of Moab. Rooms start at $109 or 27,000 Best Western Rewards points per night.

For the true Moab experience, stay at the luxurious Red Cliffs Lodge , which is home to the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage, offers horseback rides on-site and features live music four nights a week in the hotel bar. Rooms start from $187 per night, while cabins start from $417 a night. AAA and military discounts are available.

Related: The best places to stay near Zion National Park

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Spring break vacation packages and deals.

You’ve been counting down the days until spring break because you’ve been itching to get out of town. With winter behind you, the days are getting sunnier and warmer—the ideal time to embark on a grand adventure. When it comes to deciding where to go for spring break, the options are endless. The mountains are lovely at this time of year as the snow starts to melt and the wildflowers begin to blossom. Meanwhile, the seaside is another prime choice if you’ve been craving the feel of the salt air on your skin and the sand beneath your feet. Allow us here at Expedia.com to help you dream up the best spring break ideas for your upcoming getaway.

At Expedia, we have all the best deals on the top spring break destinations (think Daytona Beach , Miami , South Padre Island , Cabo San Lucas ). Whether you’re gathering your kids for a much-needed family vacation or you’re meeting your college buddies down at the shore, we’re here to make your getaway more affordable than ever. It’s easy to plan and book your spring break trip when you browse our selection of destinations, flights, hotels, and more. Once you score some of the hottest discounts around, you’ll have more money in your pocket to start planning your spring break activities and adventures.

If time is of the essence, consider browsing some last minute deals . Bookmark our daily deals page as well, and also see about deals on hotels near you .

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ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

Adventurous spring break destinations.

Looking to make spring break plans, but not so into the party vibe that usually comes with it? If you’re more keen on adventurous activities that get your heart racing and make for epic stories to share with friends and family upon your return home, keep reading. I’ve rounded up the 11 most adventurous spring break destinations so you can have the week of a lifetime!

This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.

1. Camp in the Grand Canyon

At 277 miles long, the Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking destinations you can visit for spring break. And with how big it is, there are plenty of things to do and ways to explore this vast canyon! For a spring break like no other, go camping for a week in this national park.

You can spend your days hiking the Rim to Rim trail , trekking out to the hidden gem that is Havasu Falls , or riding donkeys deep down to the bottom of the canyon. By night, enjoy incredible stargazing and cozy home cooked meals around the campfire. 

2. Sea Kayak in the Channel Islands

If water sports are more your thing, you might want to head to Channel Islands National Park in California for spring break this year. From Santa Cruz Island, you can explore over 100 different caves around the island’s craggly coast. Camping is available at Scorpion Ranch campground for budget travelers, or you can stay at a hotel in nearby Ventura, CA.

Channel Islands Adventure Company can hook you up with everything you need, from kayak expeditions to snorkel gear!

3. Hike the Appalachian Trail - Adventurous Spring Break Destinations

Okay, so one week isn’t quite enough time to hike this 2,200-mile-long trail from Georgia to Maine (that usually takes 5-7 months…) but it’s certainly enough time to complete a section of it! If carrying all your worldly possessions on your back as you hike 10-20 miles a day through the Smoky Mountains or Blue Ridge Mountains sounds like your ideal spring break, then the AT is the pick for you.

Since spring break is typically in March or April, choose one of these sections rounded up by The Trek for good weather and great views during your hike!

4. Climb in Yosemite

Yosemite is like the holy grail of rock climbing. Whether you’re just starting to explore this niche sport or are ready to try and beat Alex Honnold’s speed record for El Capitan, there are a variety of routes for climbers of all levels in this California national park.

You can take climbing classes through a few different outfitters in the Yosemite area, or bring all your own gear if you’re so inclined. Make sure to stake out a spot at Camp 4 , the campground where all the climbers hang out. 

5. Explore the desert of Moab

Moab is a ramshackle town in the desert of Utah that’s uniquely positioned between Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park . With both parks in comfortable driving distance, you can get up to all sorts of activities during a week-long stay in Moab.

You can mountain bike the White Rim Trail in Canyonlands,  go on an off-roading tour of both parks , or just enjoy a round of drinks at the popular Moab Brewery .

You May Also Like: The Ultimate Utah Road Trip Itinerary

6. SCUBA in Cozumel

Cozumel is a tiny island off the coast of Mexico—easily reachable by flying into Cancun and then taking a ferry from mainland Mexico for about 45 minutes. And the journey is worth it—Cozumel is home to some of the best drift diving the world has to offer.

If you’re a certified diver, you’ll have no problem choosing a few dive sites to check out. Cozumel is also a great destination for anyone looking to get certified as a PADI open water diver !

7. Adventure through the Everglades

Early spring is one of the best times to check out Everglades National Park —you’ll get to enjoy mild temperatures, fewer mosquitos, and fewer crowds, which gives you a greater chance of seeing wildlife! The Everglades are a massive 1.5-million acres of protected wetlands, filled with all sorts of outdoor activities for adventurous types.

Favorites include airboat tours to view alligators, slough slogging , and backcountry camping in the Everglades wilderness. 

8. Surf in Hawaii - Adventurous Spring Break Destinations

Let’s be real: is there anywhere more idyllic to spend spring break than the gorgeous beaches of Hawaii? Up the adventure ante by planning a surf trip to this island state for spring break!

There are waves out there for everybody. Beginner surfers will feel most comfortable on the more protected beaches on the west side of Maui— Royal Hawaiian Surf Company is a popular option for lessons in this area. If you’ve got more surfing experience, head to Oahu’s north shore for it’s infamous swells!

9. Cycle through Yellowstone

Spring is the perfect season to cycle and sightsee your way through the nation’s very first national park: Yellowstone ! Straddling Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, Yellowstone is home to a wide array of hot springs and geysers due to all the hydrothermal activity underground. Be forewarned: this adventure isn’t for the faint of heart.

Yellowstone is uniquely open to cyclists for a few weeks in March and April while snow is being plowed to enjoy the park views before it’s open to the rest of visitors—but weather can be unpredictable.

10. Ski in Alaska - Skiing Adventurous Spring Break Destinations

While I have a whole list of ski trip destinations for spring break , skiing in Alaska is an experience unlike any other, which is why I’m putting it on my adventurous spring break destinations roundup.

  Aleyska Resort is home to a jaw-dropping continuous double black diamond terrain of 2,350 feet, making it ideal for expert skiers in search of a new challenge. Or, you can opt for heli-skiing through Majestic Heli Ski —gain access to the freshest powder of your life straight from a helicopter!

11. White Water Raft the New River Gorge

March marks the start of the white water season in the New River Gorge in West Virginia, making it the perfect place to head for a spring break rafting trip! This is a great time to raft the New, as the water is highest this season, making for bigger rapids and waves.

You’ll also enjoy off-season rates, as things get more expensive as summer rolls around! You can road trip in with your own gear, or choose from outfitters like Ace Raft and Adventures on the Gorge .

There ya go, a list of the most adventurous spring break destinations! Where are you heading this spring break? Let me know by leaving a comment below or sending me a DM on Instagram ! 

Related Posts:

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• 12 Most Beautiful National Parks in the USA

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I have done diving trips to cozumel and they are the best!

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Home | Seasonal vacations | Spring | Spring Break for Adults: 10 Beautiful and Budget-Friendly B&B Escapes

New Orleans, Louisiana

Montreal, quebec, tulum, mexico, san diego, california, st. augustine, florida, spring break for adults: 10 beautiful and budget-friendly b&b escapes.

Escape the doldrums of winter and kick off spring with a much-needed B&B getaway. We found five spots perfect for the season—yet blissfully free of crowds, if you time it just right. In each destination, we’ve listed two B&B options: one that offers a splurge-worthy stay at great prices and the other undeniably budget-friendly at less than $100 per night.

Why Go Now: Visit after Mardi Gras to capture the best savings (and avoid the unruliest action). Spring brings the French Quarter Festival, a literary festival, and New Orleans’ renowned jazz and heritage festival, all of which arguably offer more cultural discovery than Mardi Gras may. Additionally, this is the best weather in which to enjoy walks around the city’s many parks, squares, and cemeteries. If you visit later in the year, temperatures scorch.

What to Do: Aside from a slate of festivals, the spring months feature outdoor concerts with live entertainment, plus plenty of parades on St. Patrick’s Day and Easter. Also consider a quick trip outdoors to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve to kayak amongst alligators. What better way to burn off a breakfast of beignets?

Under $200: La Belle Esplanade is an inn painted a brilliant, can’t-miss-it orange and blue. Rooms are similarly colorful and come with carefully curated antiques, including clawfoot tubs and fainting couches, while market-fresh breakfasts are chock full of local tastes like chicory and crawfish. Rates from $179.

Under $100: A true architectural gem, Fairchild House is nestled among the Lower Garden District’s towering oaks and manses, within walking distance of the streetcar but without the non-stop noise. Rates from $89.

See more New Orleans inns >

See more Montreal inns >

Why Go Now: While Cancun and Playa del Carmen get overrun by college students on cheap vacation packages, Tulum, a once-bohemian, now-buzzing beachside spot to the south, remains tranquil. It’s a true tropical oasis among the madness—where late-winter temperatures are perfect and seas are crystal clear. Visit Tulum toward the tail-end of March through Cinco de Mayo to avoid the masses.

What to Do: The Mayan ruins along the coastline are a popular day trip (get there early to beat the Cancun crowds). The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Preserve is a hot spot for birdwatching and hiking. Or simply take a towel and a good book to the impressive powdered-sugar beaches; nearby Akumal is known for its friendly resident sea turtles.

Under $200: Check out the elegant Casa Amor del Sol, where balconies have panoramic ocean views, rooftop terraces comes with Jacuzzis, and rooms feature authentic Oaxacan textiles and handcrafted furniture. Rates from $135.

Under $100: Posada del Agua y Fuego is an eco-friendly villa tucked into the tropical forests between Akumal and Tulum. The setting is downright spiritual, and the on-site pool is fed by a natural cenote. Rates from $80.

See more Tulum inns >

Why Go Now: It isn’t called America’s Finest City for nothing. San Diego is known for world-class attractions, dreamy SoCal weather, and famously sprawling resorts. Staying in a B&B is a great way to save in this at-times pricey city; better yet, spring (before the school year ends) means fewer kids and crowds.

What to Do: From the famous San Diego Zoo to sunny Balboa Park, from Coronado Island off the coast to Mission Beach alongside it, this city is known for outdoorsy fun. On top of all that, spring offers the start of the Padres’ season plus fields of flowers in Carlsbad and Anza-Borrego State Park.

Under $200: The Hillcrest House Bed and Breakfast is run by indomitable owner Ann Callahan, whom guests routinely name the highlight of their San Diego trips … although the B&B’s parlor, fireplace, and open-air porch can’t hurt. Rates from $159.

Under $100: Located in Chula Vista, mere minutes from San Diego by car, El Primero Boutique Bed & Breakfast Hotel is budget-friendly but never skimps on style, with modern rooms housed in an art deco home and flavorful breakfasts served in the sunny courtyard. Rates from $90.

See more San Diego inns >

Why Go Now: Think “spring in Florida” and your mind may go to Panama City, Miami, or Fort Lauderdale, all party-hard playgrounds for twentysomethings on break. But don’t believe for a minute that’s all the Sunshine State has to offer. St. Augustine is an endearingly old city full of historical significance and cultural sites. Here you’ll find cobbled lanes dotted with cafes and shops, and plenty of architecture brimming with Spanish colonial charm.

What to Do: Surrounding water temps may be a bit cool in spring, but visitors can still hit the outdoors in a trolley tour or horse-and-carriage ride around the old town, taking in the Colonial Quarter, Old Jail, Fort Menendez, and other historical sites. There’s plenty of golf nearby, too, including the PGA-approved TPC Sawgrass.

Under $200: Highly-rated At Journey’s End is known for its five contemporary suites tucked into a historical Victorian home. Owner Tim Millbern offers delicious breakfasts, beer, wine, cordials, snacks and soda each day. Rates from $166.

Under $100: The Ancient City Inn is a brightly painted pastel Victorian that the owner claims is pleasantly haunted. Ghostly spirits or not, the rooms are filled with canopy beds, private balconies, and the warmth of bygone days. Room rates from $89; the on-site Fig Cottage rents from $695 per week.

See more Saint Augustine inns >

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25 Best Spring Break Ideas for Families (for 2024!)

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a list of fun Spring Break ideas for families that you and the kids will love?

In this article, we’ll highlight 25 incredible spring break ideas, including road trip destinations, US national parks, beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and staycations.

Though it would be impossible to mention every possible family-friendly spring break destination, these are the places that generations of families return to year after year.

Get ready to renew your spirit and warm your heart after a long winter with these awesome family spring break ideas perfect for the year 2024!

Table of Contents

Spring Break Ideas for Families

There are many unexpected benefits of traveling with kids along with the fun and enjoyment that comes with the hype of going on a Spring Break family getaway!

This week-long break that typically falls sometime in March or April is the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and have fun while enjoying a much-needed vacation.

When brainstorming spring break ideas for families, consider your U.S. bucket list , as well as the following:

• Will the length of this trip fit into a week-long school break?
• Are there plenty of fun, kid-friendly activities?
• Do the anticipated activities match the projected weather forecast?
• Will this area be overtaken by college-aged kids gone wild?
• Is this a spring break trip that won’t break the bank?

Though there are many amazing spring break destinations, here are 25 spring break ideas for families that we’ve organized into the following categories:

• Spring Break road trips
• Spring Break at U.S. National Parks
• Family-friendly Spring Break destinations in Florida
• Family-friendly all-inclusive resorts
• Staycations

Popular Spring Break Road Trip Destinations

Spring break vacation is the perfect time to take a classic American road trip.

Road trips allow you to be flexible and more spontaneous about which destinations and attractions you’ll visit.

In addition, the trees and flowers will be emerging from winter lending to stunning roadside beauty.

Successful road trips take a bit of budgeting and planning, however.

They also require both an effective packing strategy and an understanding of ways to make a family road trip enjoyable .

Here are some of the best spring break destinations for families that will warm you up and provide you with days of entertainment via a family road trip!

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Spring Break is a great time to take a road trip to Nashville, Tennessee – home to a plethora of live music, affordable hotels, delicious food, and awesome musical history!

Both kids and adults will love Nashville’s many rockin’ music venues, museums, botanical gardens, parks, and a variety of fun restaurants that are all included in our awesome 3-day Nashville itinerary !

In addition, be sure to hit up Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway.

Located on Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville, Honky Tonk Highway is home to 4 city blocks filled with country music venues that blast live music into the streets from 10 am to 3 am.

The honky tonks are free to enter and are entirely family-friendly when visiting them before 10 pm ( making Nashville not only a family-friendly spring break destination but an affordable spring break option as well )!

Recommended place to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Downtown (Amazing central location, free breakfast, affordable.)

*Check out our Instagram highlight reel that features short videos of us doing our favorite things in Nashville!

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

Another cheap spring break option, New Orleans combines creole, cajun, and jazz, with Southern hospitality and the great outdoors!

Road-tripping through the area will introduce you to white sand beaches, alligator-strewn swamps, and the stately curve of the Mississippi River, as well as small towns on the bayou.

Spring break in New Orleans is also home to the world-famous Mardi Gras carnival, featuring live music, extravagant costumes, and epic floats.

Nicknamed the Big Easy, fun things to do in New Orleans for families include alligator swamp tours, ghost tours, horse carriage rides, Audubon Zoo, and the National WWII Museum.

In addition, the historic French Quarter is home to New Orleans culture like live jazz performances, art galleries, architecture, and unique shopping.

Recommended place to stay: Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans (Spacious rooms, great location, breakfast, heated rooftop pool.)

3. The Pacific Coast Highway

One of my favorite spring break ideas for families is to travel down the coast of California via an epic Pacific Coast Highway road trip .

A classic American road trip that is completely doable in one week to 10 days, there is something to see and love for family members of all ages.

Consider starting your spring break in San Francisco in order to visit Alcatraz, Lombard Street, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

After leaving San Francisco, stop at Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz, Monterey Bay, and Carmel-by-the-sea.

Next, travel across Bixby Bridge and spend at least 2-days in Big Sur somewhere within the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. 

Spend the rest of your spring break in either Los Angeles or San Diego, depending on the ages and interests of your kids.

We happen to absolutely love San Diego, California and have published an entire San Diego family vacation itinerary that features the best things to do there.

Highlights include dolphin, sea lion, and whale watching opportunities, stellar beaches, Sea World, the San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum.

Recommended place to stay: Hotel Del Coronado (Historic and iconic, oceanfront, beach, full service.)

4. South Padre Island, Texas

Known as the final stop on the Great Texas Road Trip, South Padre Island is one of the most popular spring break ideas for families in Texas.

The island is located on the coastal tip of Texas along the Gulf of Mexico – 531 miles from Dallas, 367 miles from Houston, and 297 miles from San Antonio. 

Along with its iconic white-sand beach, South Padre Island is a national seashore meaning that you can find exceptional access to wildlife like birds, dolphins, and sea turtles.

South Padre Island also offers fishing excursions, dolphin cruises, horseback riding on the beach, a zipline, and Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark.

Recommended place to stay: Isla Grand Beach Resort (Oceanfront, beach, pool, resort atmosphere.)

5. Panama City Beach, Florida

Another popular road trip destination along the Gulf Coast is Panama City Beach, Florida.

Panama City Beach is renowned for its sparkling light blue warm water and soft white sand, as well as a multitude of attractions.

If you are an adventure seeker, Panama City runs daily fishing charters into the Gulf, as well as jet skiing, diving and snorkeling, paddleboarding, and parasailing.

In addition, consider visiting Shipwreck Island water park, Race City Amusement Park, and Coconut Creek Family Adventure Park.

Finally, dozens of oceanside hotels offer pools, restaurants, spas, and other activities, making Panama City Beach Florida an ideal spring break idea for families.

Recommended place to stay: Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach (Oceanfront, 2 huge pools, game room, kid-eat free promotion, water playground.)

6. New York City, New York

As a key component of our United States bucket list , a visit to New York City is a fantastic spring break idea for families.

If you’re not quite interested in tropical weather or beaches, New York City blooms in the spring, and there’s no better place to watch the show than from Central Park. 

Home to Broadway, small theatres, and countless eateries, New York City is a perfect place to visit for a spring break getaway that the whole family will love!

New York City boasts dozens of museums offering snapshots of American, European, Asian, and African history, many of which provide free admission. 

Take in the New York Botanical Garden, Macy’s Flower Show, or the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Recommended hotel: Margaritaville Resort Times Square (Inviting atmosphere, rooftop pool, kids activities, desirable location.)

7. East Coast Road Trip

If you have up to 7 days and want to explore some of the USA’s best and most historic cities, consider an East Coast road trip from Boston to Washington D.C.

Starting in Boston, make your way to New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and then Shenandoah National Park.

See things like the Boston Commons, Trinity Church, and the Empire State Building, as well as walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

Visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia and then move on to the historic sights and cherry blossoms at the National Cherry Blossom Festival (mid-March to mid-April) in Washington D.C.

Finally, take a scenic drive in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park and camp in the woods.

*If you’re looking for two of the best east coast Spring Break destinations for families that are on the ocean, consider Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina!

Spring Break Ideas for Families at US National Parks

Spring is an ideal time to visit some of America’s most beautiful national parks.

Mild springtime weather makes it more pleasurable to experience the outdoors, and the parks are not yet overly crowded with summer traffic and tourism.

Here is a list of popular spring break family vacation ideas at beloved US National Parks.

1. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is an epic red rock adventure chock full of canyons, vistas, and ancient treasures.

Spring Break is a very popular time to visit Zion National Park due to ideal temperatures, the return of the full-time park shuttle, and the powerful nature of its waterfalls (related to newly melting snow).

In the spring, you’ll also see beautiful glimpses of green that offer a striking contrast against the red-orange rock.

Beware that as the snow begins to melt and raises the water level of the river, the Narrows may be closed for an extended period of time.

(If you have extra time, head 4 hours north to Salt Lake City, Utah – another fun spring break vacation for families!)

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

There is nothing else on Earth like Grand Canyon National Park.

A sacred place to America’s indigenous people, it is impossible to understand the majesty of the canyon until you visit it for the first time.

Spring break brings an influx of visitors, but overall, the Grand Canyon is significantly less crowded in February and March than in the summertime.

Though the weather can be somewhat unpredictable in the spring, it’s still a great time to visit Grand Canyon Village, attend ranger-led programs, and enjoy the multiple scenic viewpoints.

Additional planning tip: There are dozens of small towns and areas to explore in and around Grand Canyon National park. We’ve created an entire guide on places to stay when visiting Grand Canyon National Park to help plan your visit!

3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas and White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Southwest Texas is probably not the first place that comes to mind when you think of spring break destinations and/or US national parks.

For a fun and unique spring break idea, however, it’s worth considering a visit to both Guadalupe Mountain National Park and the equally spectacular White Sands National Park in New Mexico.

These two parks are within 3 hours of each other and are not as highly trafficked as the other US National Parks during Spring Break.

Here, you’ll find camping, hiking, and breathtaking scenery that you’ll remember for ages.

4. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is beautiful year-round, but if you visit during Spring Break, you’ll have the opportunity to see its many waterfalls at their peak.

The spring thaw melts winter’s snow, resulting in their most powerful flow.

Also, in late April and early May, Yosemite’s dogwood blossoms erupt creating epic, colorful panoramas.

This large national park has breathtaking lakes, rivers, waterfalls, trails, a giant Sequoia grove, hiking, biking, camping, and abundant wildlife.

5. Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park sits along the border of California and Nevada, where spring offers delightful surprises!

The absolute best time to visit Death Valley is from March to May when the weather is tolerable.

Also, thanks to the mountain snowmelt, the desert blooms to life in March and April and puts on a colorful show of wildflowers that you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’re looking for the perfect time to visit Death Valley’s dunes, blooms, natural bridges, and volcanic formations, consider going during your next spring break!

6. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

High in the Appalachian Mountain range is Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Once spring arrives here, along comes the return of green leaves on the trees and the blooming of beautiful spring wildflowers.

The Great Smoky Mountains are truly magnificent during the spring months, making it an ideal choice for your spring break destination.

Breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, dense woods, hiking, fishing, and bicycling are just a few of the things that visitors rave about.

While exploring, be sure to visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee, which has an abundance of hotels, eateries, and entertainment.

Also, stay and play in nearby Pigeon Forge in order to visit places such as Dollywood, go-kart tracks, alpine slides, Riverwalk Greenway, and The Island family fun center.

7. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Spring break is the best time to experience the natural splendors of Joshua Tree National Park.

Not only is the weather fantastic, with highs averaging 80 to 85 degrees, but this is also when the wildflowers create a blanket of color across the region.

Hiking, camping, photography, rock climbing, and enjoying the serene desert scenery are the most beloved activities here, along with the many other things to do in La Quinta, California .

Additional planning tip: Looking for an outdoor adventure to experience with your adult friends?

Consider adding a visit to Joshua Tree National park to your Palm Springs girls’ weekend itinerary !

**Hands-down our favorite US National Park to visit during the summer months is Glacier National Park in Montana. Get our perfect family-friendly 3-day Glacier National Park itinerary here!**

Florida Spring Break Ideas for Families

When considering spring break ideas for families, Florida is by far, one of the best spring break destinations for families.

The US state of Florida is consistently rated as one of the most popular spring destinations for its sun, sea, sand, and year-round pleasant temperatures.

The coastal areas in Florida are home to some of the best beaches in the country, whereas the nation’s most epic theme parks and water parks are located in inland Florida.

Adding to its popularity, Florida is incredibly easy to get to as all major US carriers service Florida’s major airports.

Likewise, its extensive interstate network makes it convenient to road trip there as well.

No matter when it is that you visit, be sure to plan ahead on how to stay cool in Florida while on vacation, as the humidity can be unbearable.

One of our favorite Spring Break trips was to Orlando, Florida!

Not only is Orlando the entertainment capital of Florida, but it is also the Theme Park Capital of the World.

Orlando is home to four Walt Disney World parks , three Universal Orlando Resort parks , as well as Gatorland, Legoland, and SeaWorld Orlando.

In addition, there are several Orlando attractions , water parks, and shopping centers with universal appeal that draw generations of visitors to them year after year.

There is literally something to do for everyone, and there’s enough entertainment in Orlando to keep you busy for days.

As one of our favorite spring break destinations, take a look at our ultimate 6-day Orlando itinerary for families that includes all of the best things to see and do in Orlando.

Recommended place to stay: Loews Royal Pacific (Onsite at Universal Orlando, price includes theme park Express Passes, has an amazing outdoor pool area.)

2. Siesta Key

Our most recommended spring break idea for families if you’re looking to be on the beach is Siesta, Key Florida.

In fact, Siesta Key Beach is commonly rated the # 1 beach in the entire United States!

With its soft, powdery white sand, huge 8-mile stretch of beach, and constant activity in and around Siesta Key itself, there are many reasons to fall in love with Siesta Key.

Along with its panoramic ocean views, fun-filled things to do in Siesta Key include Siesta Key parasailing , watersport rentals, snorkeling, and exploring Siesta Key Village.

We’ve compiled a complete Siesta Key itinerary if you have 1-6 days to spend there during spring break.

Our itinerary also includes the most popular things to do in Sarasota , which is a nearby oceanfront city that you won’t want to miss!

Recommended place to stay: Any oceanfront resort, condo, or vacation home rental !

Another great inland spring break idea for families is Tampa, Florida!

Spring Break in Tampa offers warm weather, dozens of attractions, fresh seafood, and plenty of opportunities to experience the great outdoors.

There is a high density of things to do for kids in Tampa Bay including Busch Gardens theme park, Adventure Island water park, The Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa.

Recommended places to stay:   Embassy Suites Tampa Downtown Convention Center (Convenient location, huge outdoor pool, free breakfast, all suites.)

4. Clearwater/St. Petersburg

On the Gulf side of Tampa are the beautiful beachside cities of Clearwater and St. Petersburg.

Both are excellent spring break destinations for families and are jam-packed with family-friendly activities.

Clearwater lives up to its name with its crystal-clear waters and picture-perfect tropical beach, Clearwater Beach.

St. Petersburg, on the other hand, is home to St. Pete’s beach as well as several specialty museums and gardens (most notably, The Dali Museum, Sunken Gardens, and Chihuly Collection).

Recommended places to stay: Clearwater’s Sandpearl Resort and St. Petersburg’s RumFish Beach Resort .

5. Fort Lauderdale

Another traditional spring break favorite Fort Lauderdale, offers pristine beaches, tropical bars, all-inclusive resorts, and multiple opportunities for fun on the water.

Though spring break in Fort Lauderdale can be quite crowded, it is mostly filled with other families enjoying Spring Break, versus that of college-aged party-goers.

Fort Lauderdale is also a popular cruise port and is a great place to relax before embarking on a cruise.

Recommended place to stay: Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club

6. Key West

At the end of the Florida Keys at mile marker zero is the tiny island of Key West.

Key West has an offbeat personality unlike anywhere else in Florida and is home to unique sites like Hemmingway’s house, the Butterfly Conservatory, and the southernmost point in the continental US.

It is also home to nearly 400 restaurants in just over four square miles, many of which will try to win you over with their take on an iconic key lime pie.

With so many places to pick from, it’s best to plan ahead on the best places to eat in Key West so that you don’t miss any visitor favorites.

Also, while you’re there, be sure to hop on the ferry and take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.

This island is home to abundant marine and avian life, protected coral reefs, and Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century Civil War fort.

7. Anna Maria Island

As one of the most underrated vacation spots in the US , consider spending spring break on Anna Maria Island.

Located a short distance from both Sarasota and Siesta Key, Anna Maria Island is bustling during Spring Break as it offers plenty of opportunities for both relaxation and fun.

As one of our favorite beach-filled destinations, things to do on Anna Maria Island include swimming, kayaking, dolphin watching, parasailing, and ‘living the laid-back island’ life.

8. Miami, Florida

Miami is the quintessential spring break spot on the Atlantic Coast, particularly due to its iconic art deco and eclectic South Beach. 

Experience the city from the water on a speedboat tour, get a taste of Cuban cuisine with a food tour, see local wildlife at the Zoo Miami, or take a day trip to the Everglades National Park. 

Depending on when you visit during the spring, Miami’s weather will be in the upper 80s or low 90s.

Miami is perhaps best suited for families traveling with older children and teens.

Spring Break Ideas at An All-Inclusive Resort

If you prefer to be pampered and not worry about the day-to-day cost of your vacation’s details, all-inclusive family resorts might be exactly what you need.

Typically, all-inclusive resorts charge one price for a complete package that includes your accommodations, dining, room service, snacks, alcohol, activities, and wifi access.

Though the upfront cost can cause some initial sticker shock, we’ve compiled a complete guide to planning a kid-friendly all-inclusive vacation to help you prepare.

Consider these US all-inclusive resorts for your next spring break trip:

• Bungalows Key Largo , Florida
• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress , Florida
• Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Florida
• Vista Verde Ranch, Colorado
• Rocking Horse Ranch, New York
• Travaasa Hana, Hawaii

If you’re willing to undertake traveling internationally with kids , we’ve spent spring break at the following all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

Our full reviews (+tips for what to pack for Mexico ) can be found here:

• Dreams Playa Mujeres , Playa Mjueres, Mexico
• Ocean Riviera Paradise , Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

For an adventurous spring break vacation, look into one of the many all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica! We have heard great things about visiting there!

Cruising Ideas for Spring Break Vacations

When planning your spring break vacations, don’t forget about cruises.

Cruising is an excellent choice for people who like to visit a new destination each day, as well as pay a flat fee for overnight accommodations, dining, and on-ship amenities.

When choosing a cruise line you’ll want to explore different prices, amenities, and kids’ activities, as well as how much time you have to spend out at sea.

You can find four and five-day spring break cruises from South Florida to the Caribbean and Mexico.

Longer cruises lasting seven to ten days visit islands like Aruba, St. Martin, and Puerto Rico.

On the west coast, you can find spring break cruises to the Mexican Riviera that depart from Los Angeles and San Diego.

Additional planning tip: Due to potential health and safety concerns, be sure to review current cruising travel requirements and consult with a travel agent prior to booking a cruise.

Staycation Vacation Ideas For Spring Break

A well-planned staycation can be just as refreshing as traveling in terms of spring break ideas for families.

Disconnecting from life’s responsibilities and simply living in the moment is the key to a relaxing staycation.

Here are a few ways you can practice self-care and give yourself and the kids some downtime via a staycation:

• Plan a day trip . Check out a local attraction, event, or state park and spend the day enjoying your local area. 
• Go on a culinary journey. Try a new restaurant or type of food outside of your comfort zone.
• Camp in the yard. Borrow a tent and set it up in the yard. Make s’mores and have a controlled campfire (if allowed), while watching the night sky.
• Work on a hobby. If you have wanted to cook or bake, try carpentry, or learn about something new. This is a great time to inspire your creativity.
• Read. In our busy digital world, reading seems to be a luxury now. So, set down your phone and grab a book that delights your soul.
• Have a spa day at home. Pamper yourself and the kids. Put on a fluffy robe, make some cucumber water, turn on the spa music, take a soak, or do a facial at home.
• Treat yourself to something luxurious . Buy or do something that makes you feel spoiled, whether it’s new bed sheets or getting your hair done. 

If you liked reading about our fun spring break ideas for families and the best family spring break destinations, click here to check out our related posts:

• Top 10 Tips for Planning a Family Road Trip (And Enjoying it Too!)
• How to Plan and Choose the Perfect Family All-Inclusive Vacation
• Top 16 Tips for Flying With Kids & Ways to Keep Them Calm
• The Ultimate Guide for International Travel with Kids
• Our United States Bucket List: 15 Places For Families to Visit

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Great ideas Jen! Thanks for all your knowledge!

You’re welcome, Brooke! Does your family have any Spring Break plans this year?

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16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024)

W ith winter coming to an end, families are ready to enjoy some warm weather on their spring break family vacation. Now is the best time to get started on researching destinations, finding prices, and booking your trip.

Wondering where to go on vacation with your kids during spring break? Here are some of the best spring break destinations for families.

Whether your spring break is in March or April, we’ve got you covered. This list offers European, Caribbean, and US destinations. If you are planning a last-minute trip, you’ll find some options that can be a great road trip so you can save money on flights and rental cars.

Did we miss any of your favorite spring break destinations for families? Leave us a comment and we’ll update this post.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own. Note that we experienced some of these top spring break destinations as part of media trips or comped stays.

This post has been updated for the 2024 spring break.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Grand cayman.

I’ve visited the Cayman Islands (on complimentary press trips twice) three times now, and I always love it. Our hotel picks are the Ritz-Carlton or the Westin Grand Cayman Resort – both located on Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman.

We’ve traveled there with JetBlue Vacations , which is a great option, and also on a cruise excursion. There’s so much to do – but you’ll also want to spend some time on the gorgeous beach. Spring would be a great time to visit.

Keep in mind that these two resorts aren’t all-inclusive vacations, so you’ll want to budget for food and drinks. They are beach resorts though, so you’ll be able to have a family-friendly spring break even if you don’t want to do any activities.

However, if you have the budget, you may want to visit a few local attractions while you are there. We recommend visiting Stingray City, the Cayman Turtle Farm, and Rum Point Beach.

See reviews of hotels in Grand Cayman here .

Turks and Caicos

Another one of my favorite spring break family destinations is Turks and Caicos. It was on my family travel bucket list for years, before I finally had the opportunity to visit. We loved our press trip stay at the West Bay Club, and found that there was so much to do in Turks and Caicos with kids. I have since returned four additional times and would go annually if possible.

It’s a relaxing place to visit, so you’ll want to spend plenty of time at the beach. If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort, one of our all-time favorite places to stay is Beaches Turks and Caicos , which offers 22 restaurants and over 700 rooms.

It’s one of the best places to stay with kids and would be a great family spring break trip.

Read reviews of Turks and Caicos resorts here .

San Antonio – one of our favorite spring break ideas

San Antonio, Texas is a great family travel destination, with lots of things to do with kids. We recently visited San Antonio for a spring break vacation and loved our stay. There’s so much to do with families, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to spring break.

The San Antonio River Walk is a must-visit, with things for everyone to enjoy. Of course, I also recommend a visit to the Alamo – here are 4 surprising things when visiting the Alamo.  

You can also visit SeaWorld San Antonio , which is open at select times in the early spring. If possible, I’d recommend staying on the River Walk – there’s so much to do there, and it’s easy to walk around for dinner and shopping.

See hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation spring break destinations, and right now, there is so much going on at Walt Disney World. You can stay on or off-property, and we have recommendations for the best hotels for your Walt Disney World vacation. Remember to book early, so that you can make your dining reservations well in advance.

There are lots of other great things to do in Orlando as well, including other theme parks, nature activities, the Orlando ICON Park, and so much more.

If you’d rather stick with a more relaxing beach vacation in Florida , the Fort Myers area may be the best destination for you.  If you fly into Fort Myers, there are lots of places you can stay just a short drive away. Consider visiting Marco Island , which is a relaxing and fun place to stay. 

While I just enjoy staying on the beach, the Dolphin Study Eco-Tour and Cruise is a must-do. If you are visiting during March, you may be able to catch a spring training baseball game in the area. Find hotels in the Fort Myers area on TripAdvisor .

Other Destinations for a Florida Spring Break for Families

Florida is one of the most popular 2024 family spring break destinations in the United States. It is filled with other great spring break destinations for families, including Amelia Island , Miami Beach, Sarasota, Clearwater Beach , Tampa , and Destin/Fort Walton.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, experience nature, or explore the local area, there are lots of options. We especially love the beaches on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The best Florida spring break destinations for families offer waterfront activities, museums, and other fun activities.

San Diego, California is a great option if you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation combined with some family activities. Attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Disneyland , and Legoland are just a short drive away. During our stay last year, we stayed at the Bahia Resort Hotel on Mission Bay and loved both the location and the hotel.

The weather in San Diego is fairly consistent throughout the year, so there’s never a bad time to visit. You could easily spend a whole week there. Check out other hotels in San Diego here .

Save on a Southern California trip from Get Away Today by using the code  FTM10. 

Spring break is also a fantastic time to enjoy a vacation in the Los Angeles/Anaheim area. In addition to Disneyland Resort (the very first Disney park), you’ll also find Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Hollywood (with the brand new Super Nintendo World).

Save money on your theme park tickets by booking through  Get Away Today . They offer vacation packages as well as individual ticket sales. Disney travel agents don’t charge guests an extra commission and can help you find deals.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is one of our favorite warm-weather destinations. There are so many fantastic, kid-friendly resorts. Although you may want to spend much of your time at the resort, there are so many other things to do in the area. This includes botanical gardens, zoos, aquariums, hiking trails, and so much more.

If you visit the greater Phoenix area in March, you have the opportunity to check out a variety of spring training baseball games. The Cactus League teams all play within a relatively small radius, making it easy to see multiple teams, regardless of where you are staying in the area. Find the best hotels in Phoenix at TripAdvisor.

The Azores, the closest and one of the most affordable European destinations is a temperate 65-70 degrees in April.  With family activities like whale watching, hiking, biking, gardens, forts, and museums, you’ll find plenty of things to do. 

Azores Airlines has traditionally offered great deals in the spring from many US destinations. You could also visit the Azores on the way to mainland Portugal, or just choose to visit the Azores.

Washington DC

We visited Washington DC on a family spring break getaway a few years ago. It’s perfect for kids who are old enough to appreciate the history and culture of our nation’s capital.

Of course, my kids’ favorite spot was the International Spy Museum, which moved to a new facility. You can stay right in the city or in one of the many nearby suburbs. We chose to stay in National Harbor, MD and enjoyed our stay. Read more about things to do in Washington DC here.

Family Cruise

Would you rather visit several Caribbean destinations?  Then choose a cruise – perhaps a Disney cruise leaving from Florida and stopping in the Bahamas? 

I love Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island in the Bahamas – and think it’s great for families. We’ve done both the Western Caribbean Itinerary and the Eastern Caribbean Itineraries on the Disney Fantasy – both are fabulous.

You could also choose to take a shorter cruise as well. We enjoy the 3 or 4 day trip on the Disney Dream, which leaves from Port Canaveral and goes to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

Puerto Rico

You won’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, yet it’ll feel like a world away. Spring is a great time to visit because it falls in between the winter busy season and the rainy season. We visited a few years ago in February, and the weather was absolutely beautiful. I’ve since returned in March and also found perfect weather.

It’s so easy to go from the airport to your resort since you don’t have to go through customs. Since it’s a domestic flight, you also won’t have to arrive at the airport too early or bring a US passport. It’s also a beautiful island with many fun activities beyond the pool and beach.

I recently visited Bermuda and was so impressed with this beautiful island. Located just a 2-hour flight from Boston, Bermuda is a small island with lots of great restaurants, shops, and resorts.

Kids will love touring Crystal and Fantasy caves , located near the airport. There’s also an aquarium, a fort, and so much more. Be sure to save some time to visit the beautiful beaches. We especially enjoyed Horseshoe Bay, a public beach located in the Southampton area of the island.

Just keep in mind that the weather in Bermuda is more similar to the Carolinas than to the Caribbean. So it won’t necessarily be hot in the spring.

New York City

I love visiting New York City every time of year, but April is a great time to visit. There’s so much to do in New York, regardless of the ages of your kids. My kids love the Central Park Zoo, and we always try to see a Broadway show during our trips.

There are also countless museums, the Empire State Building, Circle Line boat tours, and so much more. You’ll want to check out these kid-friendly restaurants in NYC as well.

Music City has become a popular family vacation destination in recent years. Want to learn more about music? There’s the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Museum Hall of Fame, and the Ryman Auditorium – all of which are fun to visit. I love staying at the Gaylord Opryland , a huge resort with atriums, restaurants, and so much more.

This beautiful, historic city offers so much for families. From museums (including the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace Museum) to the nearby beaches ( Tybee Island ), Savannah is a great destination.

In your opinion, what are the best places to go for spring break? Do you prefer to hang out at the beach, or stay active?

The post 16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024) appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Make Summer Exciting Again as an Adult With This Bucket List

Without summer vacation and a childhood imagination, summer can feel like any other season except a lot sweatier. The weather is hotter and there are more local events happening, but it seems like you only have your nine-to-five and one potentially short vacation to look forward to. This bucket list is a petition to make summers exciting again as an adult, as it's the best season to get outside and get busy.

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Is legal marijuana from other states valid in Florida for spring break 2024?

Nearly half of the country has legalized recreational marijuana and many more states have medical cannabis programs. As crowds from all over flock to Florida for spring break, it's important to know that marijuana purchased legally in another state won't be legal here.

Florida could be one of five states to legalize recreational marijuana this year even though the psychoactive plant is still illegal at the federal level. Here's what to know for marijuana users traveling to Florida for spring break 2024:

Can I travel to Florida with legal marijuana?

According to the Transportation Security Administration, "TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer."

Is my out of state medical marijuana card valid in Florida?

Medical marijuana cannot be obtained in Florida with a medical marijuana card from out of state, according to the medical cannabis network My Florida Green.

That means it's also illegal to use medical marijuana obtained legally in another state while visiting Florida and users can face criminal repercussions for possession.

Possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis is a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum sentence of 1 year imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000, according to Florida state statute.

Is marijuana legal in Florida?

Medical marijuana is legal in Florida for eligible adults with a valid prescription.

Recreational marijuana is not legal in Florida — at least not yet. Currently the Florida Supreme Court is considering the language of a referendum that could make it to the ballot in November when Floridians could vote to approve recreational marijuana. For now, it remains against the law in Florida without a medical card.