spring break trip in us

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

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

The 15 Best Spring Break Destinations in the USA

Winter vacation for students typically coincides with the holiday season. As such, students tend to spend their time off at home or traveling around to meet family. But spring break is a very different story.

Spring break is one of the few times during the school year that students get to go out and explore the world beyond the walls of their school. Whether you’re a college student planning a getaway with friends or a parent planning a trip with your younger children, there’s a spring break destination that’s perfect for you. 

Looking for where to go for spring break? We’ve compiled a list of the best spring break trips in the US for you, from the most popular destinations to towns that are true hidden gems. Pick your favorite place to go this spring break, and you’re bound to have an amazing trip!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Spring Break Destinations in the USA

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Take a Spring Trip to Seattle

Seattle has recently become one of the most popular spring break destinations, for good reason. Although the weather can sometimes be rainy , spring in Seattle means beautifully blooming gardens, parks lush with cherry blossom trees, and the return of events like the Seattle International Film Festival and Taste Washington . 

2. Experience the Vibrant Scene in Miami

Unlike Seattle, Miami is certainly not new to the list of the most popular and best American spring break destinations. While some northern destinations need to wait until summer for swimming, you can enjoy the waters around Miami even in early spring. 

Add in Miami’s famous nightlife and festivals that celebrate the city’s diverse cultures, delicious food scene, and happening music scene, and you’ve got the making for one of the best spring break trips in the US! 

3. Enjoy Some Sun in Fort Lauderdale

Florida is home to some of the most popular spring break destinations in the US, and Fort Lauderdale is another city that belongs on that list. 

In addition to enjoying the sunshine and warm waters around the city’s beaches, you can also spend your spring break enjoying the vibrant nightlife, including many rooftop bars that let you take in the sunset each evening. 

Fort Lauderdale is also a great option if you want to balance some lazy beach days with more active adventures, such as kayaking at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park!

4. Say Hooray for Hollywood in LA

Los Angeles is one of the best places to go this spring break if you want to immerse yourself in Hollywood history. Enjoy sunny days as you take backlot tours of Warner Bros and Universal Studios . 

Or get out in nature while still taking in the sights of Los Angeles with a hike around Griffith Park . For even more family fun, there are all sorts of museums around LA, including the reopening of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County ’s beloved Butterfly Pavilion each spring. 

5. See the Shows and Sights of Las Vegas

Visiting Las Vegas in the summer is not for the faint of heart. Summertime can reach temperatures well into the triple digits. No wonder why many people would rather their Las Vegas trip be a spring break trip.

With the temperatures being milder in spring, you can enjoy many nearby destinations, such as Red Rock Canyon State Park and the Hoover Dam , without the high heat keeping you indoors. But even just walking along the famous Las Vegas Strip is much better in spring!

6. Revel in New York, New York in Spring

Each season brings about something new in New York City , which is why it’s one of the best places to visit for spring in the US. Even if you just visited NYC in winter , you’ll find it’s a whole new place come spring, with showcases of blooming flowers throughout the city, such as at Macy’s Flower Show and the New York Botanical Garden’s Orchid Show . 

Or you can simply head over to parks like Central Park to check out the cherry blossoms, as well as enjoy the outdoor activities you can do in the park now that the snow is melting away. 

7. Enjoy Phoenix Before the Summer Heat

Like Las Vegas, Phoenix can get incredibly hot in the summer, also reaching into the triple digits. But the weather is just right in spring to get the best of both worlds. While it’s still hot enough for lazy days poolside, it’s also temperate enough that you can get out and see the blooming cacti and wildflowers that arrive with the spring season in the Sonoran Desert.

8. Experience the Festival Season in New Orleans

New Orleans is one of the most fun places to go on spring break because you can guarantee that there’s always something happening to keep you busy during your trip. With the arrival of spring comes a season chock-full of festivals for everyone.

There are events for book lovers, film buffs, music fans, craft beer drinkers, and foodies, as well as celebrations that honor the diverse cultures throughout New Orleans, such as the beloved Super Sunday event.

9. Venture Through the Great Outdoors in Bend

Bend , Oregon , is where to go for spring break if you want to immerse yourself in nature. Bend in spring is a strange and wonderful time when you get to enjoy the end of winter activities and the arrival of warm weather events during the same trip, perhaps even on the same day.

Mount Bachelor boasts one of the longest ski seasons of anywhere in the US, with lifts going up all the way until late May. But there are also plenty of spots sans snow this time of year, which makes for great spring hiking and biking conditions.

10. Ski in Breckenridge

Speaking of places to ski in spring, you can also enjoy a long ski season in Breckenridge , Colorado , making it another one of the top places for spring break for winter sports lovers. Breckenridge aims to stay open for skiers and snowboarders until well into May, although only intermediate and advanced terrain is open after mid-April. The shift to spring skiing means far fewer people on the slopes.

11. See the Bats in Austin

Despite being a major city, Austin isn’t actually one of the most popular spring break destinations in the US. But it’s being seriously overlooked!

Spring in Austin means gardens filled with blooming flowers and fields of wildflowers both in the city and throughout the quaint towns of nearby Hill Country. It’s also filled with festivals, like South by Southwest and Hot Luck Festival . 

Spring also brings about the return of the largest urban bat colony in the US under the Congress Avenue Bridge, which you can see via tours like a sunset kayaking trip .

12. Take a Hike in Morro Bay

For another off-the-beaten-path option that’s one of the best places to visit for spring break in the US, try Morro Bay . 

This charming California city doesn’t exactly experience beach weather in the spring, but there’s still plenty to do, from kayaking around Morro Rock to taste-testing your way through various wineries. Staying in Morro Bay also makes it easy to take day trips to other interesting locations, like Hearst Castle in San Simeon.

13. Get Outside in the Outer Banks

Spring in the Outer Banks is a great time to take part in all the outdoor activities the area has to offer. This spring break trip is for those of us who don’t want to simply sit on a beach but instead get up and get active on it. From hang-gliding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park to trying your hand at kitesurfing, there’s no end to the fun you can have all day here.

Plus, while many of Outer Banks’ shops, restaurants, and hotels close with the winter off-season, they’ll be back up and running by your spring break. You can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need during your stay. 

14. Step Back in Time in Savannah

There’s so much to love about Savannah in spring, which is why it’s one of the best American spring break destinations! The streets of Savannah come to life with warm weather and music playing from various festivals and concerts. The weather is also just right for a cruise aboard a riverboat that’ll give you stunning views of this historic city. 

15. Experience Spring Skiing in Park City

Park City ’s ski season usually lasts until around mid-April, making it another one of the top places for spring break if you’re looking to experience the end of winter sports during your trip. 

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Park City also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with over 100 restaurants and bars, outdoor concerts popping up throughout March and April, and food tours that will show you why so many people love the area’s food scene.

There you have it! The 15 best spring break trips in the US. What’s your favorite American spring break destination? Let us know in the comments!

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

About the Author:

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

View all posts

Related Posts

The 15 Best Things to do in Ojai, California

12 Incredible Airbnbs in Aspen, Colorado

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels In Tucson, Arizona

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best spring break destinations in the U.S. for every type of traveler

Whether you're a student, the parent of one or just an adult in need of a vacation, here's where to head for spring break

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but it’s not too late to plan your spring break getaway—and you don’t even have to leave the country to enjoy an epic escape. Nor do you need to be a student to take advantage of a spring trip. But with so many places to choose from across America, planning the perfect vacation to suit your—or your family’s, friends’ or SO’s needs—can feel overwhelming. Whether you prefer an oceanfront retreat, a wellness-centric hideaway or a family-friendly oasis, we’ve got you covered: Read on for the best spring break destinations in the U.S. for every type of traveler.

RECOMMENDED: Cheap family vacations in the U.S. for 2024

An email you’ll actually love

Best spring break destinations in the U.S.

1.  Best for beach lovers: Huntington Beach, CA

With over eight miles of pristine, palm-fringed shoreline, Huntington Beach is the quintessential SoCal beach town—and I’m already dreaming of my next trip back since visiting in December. Oh, and did I mention it’s just an hour’s drive from Los Angeles?

Also known as Surf City, USA, Huntington Beach is a haven for surfers thanks to its year-round swell. Get your Zen on with Yoga on the Beach , which offers donation-based classes, or embark on a boat tour of the harbor before noshing on fresh seafood at Bearflag Fish Co. or grabbing a latte at Philz. At the end of your action-packed day by the beach, watch the sun slip into the ocean while sipping craft cocktails at Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge or the Treehouse Lounge .

2.  Best for wellness: Sedona, AZ

For a wellness-centric spring break getaway, look no further than Sedona. The majestic city is famous for its energy vortexes—the most famous being Airport Mesa , Cathedral Rock , Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon—which are said to be conducive to healing and meditation. As such, it’s not uncommon to find folks meditating along these vortexes, which also offer stunning hiking opps. Sedona is also home to a handful of top-rated wellness resorts, including Mii amo and The Wilde Resort & Spa . Of course, no trip here is complete without a Pink Jeep Tour .

3.  Best for families: Myrtle Beach, SC

With its 60 miles of coastline and vibrant entertainment offerings, Myrtle Beach is one of the country's best family-friendly spring break destinations. Beyond the pristine stretches of sand, travelers can ride the SkyWheel (which towers 200 feet above the buzzy 1.2-mile-long boardwalk ) or go mini-golfing (the destination is home to over 50 courses). Broadway At the Beach is dotted with shopping, dining and entertainment venues, including Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach and WonderWorks , which offers over 100 interactive exhibits for children of all ages. It’s also worth noting that Myrtle Beach is a certified autism-friendly destination through the Champion Autism Network (CAN), which means there are sensory-friendly experiences, specially trained staff and more .

4.  Best for outdoor adventure: Asheville, NC

Flanked by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this hip mountain town and its surrounding area offer thousands of hiking trails, including the fan-favorite Craggy Pinnacle , which offers stunning mountain scenery while winding through a lush rhododendron thicket. Alternate adventures—think: mountain biking, rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, tubing, off-roading and ziplining—also abound within easy driving distance of downtown. Spring is also a great time to visit Asheville since it marks the start of wildflower season —best experienced and enjoyed, of course, on foot. We recommend renting a car to visit nearby outdoor attractions like Pisgah National Forest , DuPont State Forest and Mt. Mitchell State Park .

5.  Best for foodies: San Antonio, Texas

Often overlooked in favor of Austin or Dallas, San Antonio is a surprising haven for foodies. The destination—also known as the Culinary Capital of Texas—was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017, making it one of only two U.S. cities to receive this designation (the other is Tuscon). Local favorite favorites include Rudy’s Seafood , Clementine , and 2M Smokehouse . Burn off your meal by strolling the San Antonio River Walk , which spans over 15 miles and is lined with shops, theme parks, hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, nightlife and more. The Alamo , a historic Spanish mission and fortress dating back to the 18th century, is also a must-visit.

6.  Best for partying: Miami

No spring break list would be complete without Miami . This sultry city by the sea is teeming with bars, lounges and nightclubs to appease partygoers of all ages. For pre-dinner drinks, hit spots like Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery , Cafe La Trova (which was named as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2023), or the uber-swanky Champagne Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club. Then, keep the good vibes going at party-centric eateries like Kiki on the River or Bâoli Miami . The night is still young, though: From there, go club-hopping at LIV , E11EVEN or Basement . Alternatively, those who prefer to party during the day can check out Nikki Beach , Strawberry Moon , Oasis or Hyde Beach .

7.  Best for skiers: Reno Tahoe, NE

It’s not too late to enjoy a spring ski vacation, so as long as you know where to go. That said, look no further than Nevada’s Reno Tahoe region, which is near several ski hotspots —most notably Lake Tahoe , comprised of six ski resorts complete with fun for all experience levels plus some seriously stunning lake views—and makes the perfect home base. Beyond the slopes, travelers can hike to nearby Monkey Rock (flanked by postcard-worthy vistas and towing trees), grab a bite at the Reno Public Market (where you’ll find everything from BBQ to ramen) or enjoy some indoor fun at the interactive Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum . Animal lovers of all ages also need not miss the Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary . Open seasonally from March through November, the sanctuary is home to majestic creatures like wolves and bears.

8.  Best for romance: Savannah, GA

Georgia’s oldest city is nothing short of charming with its leafy public squares and parks, many of which are full of lush magnolias, palmettos, crepe myrtles and sycamore trees. This, combined with the city’s historic architecture—styles range from Federal and Georgian to Greek Revival and Gothic Revival—only adds to the romantic atmosphere. Upon visiting with my husband last February, we practically fell in love with Savannah the moment we arrived. One of my favorite memories was strolling along the river hand in hand with frozen daiquiris from nearby Wet Willie’s . For a truly memorable date night, reserve a table at The Olde Pink House to enjoy classic southern fare in a historic Colonial-style mansion.

9.  Best for art lovers: Santa Fe, NM

Located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this dynamic destination dates back to the 1600s. It’s also home to one of the country's most eclectic art, architecture and design scenes. In addition to its adobe landmarks, including the historic Plaza, Santa Fe has over 250 galleries and studios to explore. Start by making your way down Canyon Road, lined with over 100 galleries, shops and boutiques. The Railyard District is another hotspot for art lovers, as is the Shidoni Gallery and Sculpture Gardens. If museums are more your thing, don’t sleep on the New Mexico Museum of Art on the Plaza or The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture .

10.  Best for a city escape: New York, NY

Maybe I’m a bit biased, but in my opinion, there’s no place like New York. What’s more, the concrete jungle offers something for everyone. World-class entertainment and music theater? Check. Fascinating history and culture? You bet. Cuisine from dozens, if not hundreds, of countries? Of course. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an NYC veteran, don’t sleep on iconic—albeit tourist-heavy—sites like Central Park, The Met, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the Brooklyn Bridge. Also, the Big Apple comprises four additional boroughs outside of Manhattan, each of which is well worth exploring. Finally, for the best city views, head to one of these rooftop bars .

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

15 Best Places for Spring Break in the USA

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 8, 2023

What are the best spring break destinations in the US? Find the perfect place for a spring vacation in the USA whether you’re looking for some beach time in Florida or want to shred the slopes in Colorado or Utah.

In this article you’ll find beautiful beach vacations for March and April and awesome places for spring skiing in the Rocky Mountains.

Spring is an ideal time of year to visit Florida beaches and theme parks, as well as hot spots like Las Vegas and Palm Springs – when the weather is best!

No matter where you decide to go for spring break in the US , you’re sure to have a good time.

Keep reading to find some of the best spring vacation destinations in the USA !

1.   South Beach (Miami) Florida

For sure, South Beach is the place to be if you’re looking to kick back and enjoy yourself.

The beautiful sandy beach has tons of sun, and the water is just right for a swim. Rent a jet ski or try your skills at flyboarding – there’s always something fun to do at South Beach Miami.

Check out the boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants on Lincoln Road.

At night, temps are perfect to put on your best outfit and hit the town. Enjoy the party vibes, dancing, clubs, or live music venues.

With an awesome restaurant scene and bumpin’ nightlife, you’re definitely gonna have a night (or five) of fun in Miami!

2.   Palm Springs California

If you’re looking to really relax by day and party all night, definitely check out the scene in Palm Springs.

Let healing waters of the hot springs restore and revitalize you after a day of thrift shopping and art museum hopping or hiking in the canyons.

You’ll understand why this desert oasis has long been a favorite spring vacation spot for celebrities and snowbirds.

From Palm Springs it’s easy to explore wondrous hiking trails and scenic drives at Joshua Tree National Park .

And for something truly unique in Palm Springs, ride the rotating aerial tramway from desert to alpine forest at Mount San Jacinto State Park to enjoy lunch with a view and hike the trails.

The Palm Springs restaurant scene offers everything from fine dining to cheap eats and everything in between while the best clubs keeps the party going all night long.

Get all the info on where to stay, eat, drink, shop and more with this Palm Springs Guide .

LEARN MORE: 12 Best Day Trips from Palm Springs

3.   South Padre Island Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas , including the spring break parties!

Gorgeous water, perfect beaches, and southern charm – What more could you want? Y’all can’t get much better than spring break on South Padre Island. This Texas beach town knows how to party.

Either soaking up the sun on the beach during the day, dancing at an outdoor concert, or bar hopping in the warm evening, this really is the best way to get away from it all.

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Places to Visit in Texas

4.   Las Vegas Nevada

Vegas is the place to live it up, especially during spring break. The spring temps mean it’s perfect weather to do anything from swimming in a hotel pool to exploring the Strip.

March and April are excellent for a Vegas vacation. Vegas is also on our list of best places to visit in March in the USA .

There’s so much to do in Vegas that your trip will definitely be action packed. So, you can take in a show like Cirque du Soleil, visit the Hoover Dam, or even try your luck at gambling.

Not into gambling? No worries, there’s tons of fun stuff to do in Vegas besides casinos .

The clubs, bars, and restaurants have earned Vegas a nightlife reputation that can’t be beat.

You make also like: 18 Epic Weekend Getaways from Las Vegas

5.   New Orleans Louisiana

Definitely a bucket list destination, New Orleans Louisiana is a place that’s known for its fabulous nightlife, food, drink, and culture.

But spring break is legit the best time to go to NOLA. Why? Mardi Gras! Yeah, if things line up perfectly, you could be partying in the streets and catching beads from the floats on parade.

No worries if the timing doesn’t work out, the party is always raging in The Big Easy any time of the year.

LEARN MORE: 12 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

6.   Daytona Beach Florida

You’ll never be at a loss for things to do and see in Daytona.

Packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs, you’ll be having the time of your life by day and by night. Walk the white sandy beaches, explore the boardwalk, and amble about the Main Street Pier.

When looking to eat and drink, there are so many options the only issue will be which one to pick. Checking out the International Speedway is a great way to spend a beach-free day in Daytona.

Learn More : 15 Fun Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach Florida

Take a spring break vacation to Daytona Beach Florida

7.   Galveston Texas

Galveston is a favorite spring break destination for college kids, families, and just about anyone looking to break free of the winter blues and it’s no wonder why.

Sandy beaches offer a glimpse of summer, while tons of restaurants and bars help to relax and recharge.

The party scene is pretty sick for anyone looking to live it up. Cultural sites like the Bryan Museum, Moody Mansion, and Gardens offer tons to do on a beach-free day too.

8.   Cannon Beach Oregon

Looking for a laid back vacation on the west coast? Spring break in Cannon Beach is when you can catch many of the magical moments nature has to offer.

Now, Cannon Beach is a delightful getaway any time of the year with its small town charm and gorgeous ocean views. But during the spring months it’s likely you’ll catch a glimpse of migrating gray whales along the coast or possibly the return of the tufted puffins to Haystack Rock.

Nature lovers will want to take a walk on Cannon Beach at low tide to check out the tide pools with colorful starfish and other interesting sea creatures.

Springtime on the Oregon Coast is a mesmerizing vacation destination. Find your new favorite Oregon beach town .

9.   Orlando Florida

Florida in the spring? Yes, please!

Think about it: beautiful skies, low(er) humidity, and temps in the 70s. Seriously, you can’t go wrong!

The spring time is just about the best time to do anything in Orlando. From relaxing poolside to hitting up the rides at every theme park in town (think Disney World, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Legoland), you’ll be happy you decided to come during spring. Plus you can explore nearby attractions with awesome day trips from Orlando .

Not into theme parks? No problem there’s lots of other stuff to do in Orlando besides theme parks .

What’s more, if nightlife is what you’re after, Orlando’s got your back.

10.   Key West Florida

Island life without needing your passport? That’s Key West, Florida!

This island paradise is the best place to melt away the winter on a fabulous spring break vacation. Come for the sun, fun, and drinks and stellar sunsets on the beach.

From sailing, kayaking, diving, and snorkeling to ghost tours and food tours, you’re sure to have the best time any day of the week in fabulous Key West .

Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park or Islamorada and enjoy the Florida Keys to the max.

After spring break in Key West you’ll know why Hemingway called this home. Island life will look good on you.

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Small Beach Towns in Florida

11.   San Diego California

San Diego is a good choice for a laid back spring break destination and some fun in the sun, SoCal style.

Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are two of the most popular things to do in San Diego . History buffs will love the USS Midway Museum.

You’ll want to spend some time at beaches in San Diego and dip your toes in the water at Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove, or Mission Beach. Check out all the best day trip options from San Diego .

Also check out the urban hiking trails in San Diego at Torrey Pines Natural Preserve, Bay Park Tecolote Canyon, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park at Point Loma.

The Gaslamp District is where everyone goes to party it up at night. Check out the nightclubs and rooftop bars in Gaslamp Quarter. And to top it off, foodies will LOVE the restaurant scene in San Diego.

Spring Break Skiing Destinations

Have you ever thought about doing a ski vacation for spring break? Why not check out the slopes and make your farewell to winter a memorable one with these spring skiing destinations in the US.

12.   Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky Montana is the place to be if you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to winter.

The beautiful terrain and powder will make you want to hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding. If snowmobiling with awesome scenery is your jam you’ll enjoy exploring Gallatin National Forest.

During a rest day head on out to explore the nearby city of Bozeman (1 hour drive), or even Yellowstone National Park . Big Sky to Yellowstone (north entrance) takes about 2 hours to drive. If you’re visiting Big Sky towards the end of April then the Yellowstone west entrance should be open, and it’s only about a 1-hour drive.

The Big Sky region has some seriously good places to eat and replenish after a glorious day of spring skiing. Check out Olive B’s Big Sky Bistro, Ousel & Spur Pizza, Horn and Cantle, and Riverside BBQ.

13.   Park City Utah

What do you get when you combine world-class skiing with a top-notch social scene? Park City, Utah.

This adult playground is ready for you to hit the slopes during the day and enjoy apres ski before you refresh and head out for a night on the town.

Foodies will find their fill whether it’s sushi, Italian food, steaks, or comfort food. For evening entertainment check out the bars, clubs, and live music venues, there’s always a fun time waiting for you in Park City.

If you’d like to relax and chill out, enjoy a spa day for pampering and rejuvenation.

A spring vacation in Park City Utah may be just what you’re looking for!

14.   Sun Valley Idaho

Sun Valley is a perfect snowy spring break destination nestled in the Rocky Mountains.

Go at your own pace down black diamonds or easy going green – Between Bald and Dollar Mountains, you’re sure to find the slope that’s right for your level.

Give your skis or board a rest as you venture out for other winter sports like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, rent a fat bike and explore the trails, or try cross-country skiing.

Sun Valley and Ketchum have plenty of great restaurants and bars where you can eat, drink, and be merry.

Have yourself some March Madness fun in Sun Valley!

15.   Breckenridge, Colorado

It’s a winter wonderland in Breckenridge during spring break.

The perfect place for anyone looking to shred the POW. Ski, board, fat bike, snowshoe, snowmobile, tube – pick the sport that’s right for you. Mix ‘em up or try them all, Breck has it all waiting for you.

After a day on the slopes, enjoy an apres ski, dinner out, or hit the town, there are tons of places to do it all right on cozy Main Street Breckenridge.

You can’t go wrong with a Colorado ski vacation.

There you have it, 15 awesome spring travel destinations in the US! Where will your spring vacation adventure take you?

More Travel Ideas by the Seasons

18 Places That Are Hot in February (USA Edition)

12 Places That Are Hot in February (World Edition)

15 Best Vacation Spots in February in USA

12 Best Warm Places to Travel in January in USA

Best Places to Spend Christmas in USA

25 Places That Are Warm in December in USA

15 Best Places to Travel in December in USA

21 Best National Parks to Visit in Winter

15 Best Places to Travel in November in USA

11 Best National Parks to Visit in Fall (USA)

Save this to Pinterest!

17 Uncrowded Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US.

To support this website, at no extra cost to you, we may earn revenue on links within this post. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Are you struggling to come up with the best spring break destinations for your family? I do every year! We try to avoid the crowds at popular spring break destinations such as Orlando (also, we live there.)

When you have only a week to get away, and everyone else is getting away that same week, you want to get out of town, avoid crowds, but also not have it take forever to get there. These best places for family spring break 2024 are fun, low-key spring break destinations.

These quiet spring break destinations for families are all in the United States, making it easy for you to fly or drive . These spring break ideas are all family-friendly, mostly avoid the crowds, and are a mix of warmth, adventure, outdoor activities, or skiing.

Table of Contents

Ocala, Florida

If you’re not yet familiar with Ocala, Florida, make it a part of your vacation next time you’re on your way to Walt Disney World . Even if you opt for a Disney vacation with the family for spring break, take a few days and get away from the crowds in the small town of Ocala. We had the fortune to visit here last summer, and I do wish it was cooler when we visited. Ocala is one of the least crowded spring break destinations. Plus, it’s only a short drive away from the Orlando area.

Read about our Ocala Vacation here .

One of the best things I love about Ocala is the horse trails. It is the horse capital of the world after all. We were able to take a horseback ride through Ocala at the Canyon Zip Line Adventure Park . This landscape is so different than the rest of Florida. You will be surprised by the steep cliffs, salty ravines, and tall trees. I felt as if we were horseback riding through Tennessee only with palm trees. Other great highlights in Ocala include Rainbow Springs where you’ll find crystal clear waters, waterfalls, and authentic Florida nature. Also, make time to take a glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah Georgia is one of my favorite places to visit. It has that all Southern Charm, amazing food, interesting history, and museums, and it’s easy to get around. This is one of those vacations I would recommend for families with teenagers . You can easily let the teens loose wandering the downtown area. Plus in Savannah, the weather is warm, making it a perfect spring break destination. And you’re not too far away from the beaches if you want to visit Tybee Island.

I do think Savannah has something for everyone, but may not be as enjoyable for families with young children. Save this destination when your children are older. They will enjoy the food, they will enjoy the history, and they will enjoy the kooky things such as a ghost tour.

Favorites in Savannah include The Pirates House, the Riverwalk along the Savannah River, Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , and the Prohibition Museum .

Pensacola Beach, Florida

I like the Pensacola Beach area as one of the best spring break destinations for families because it’s relatively accessible without having to drive so far into Florida.

Located on the Gulf in the panhandle, Pensacola has incredibly beautiful beaches and emerald green waters. You may find this is a more popular destination, but you can make it an uncrowded one by renting a vacation home on the beach, rather than stay with the rest of the spring breakers.

Pensacola is a little less crowded than it’s nearby neighbor Panama City Beach.

In addition to the white sand beaches, Pensacola has some incredible aviation history. In fact, you may even catch a Blue Angels practice while in Pensacola. Favorite places include the Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse, which you can climb, and exploring the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

If you want a low key spring break vacation, heading to the beach at Pensacola might be the perfect way to go.

Park City, Utah

If you’re looking to still get in some last bits of skiing for spring break, Park City has you covered.

Utah is high on my bucket list and definitely an exciting vacation for the whole family for spring break. There is still plenty of time to go skiing during spring break.

However, even if you are not a skier, you can still enjoy winter activities in Park City . Because this was an Olympic Destination there are family activities such as the bobsled experience (age 16 and up) at Olympic Park. If your kids are too young to take a bobsled then perhaps a family sleigh ride, dog sledding, or even snowboarding in Park City should be on your agenda. Of course, there’s ice skating and winter tubing as well. Don’t just think of winter for skiing only. Plus, who doesn’t love some hot chocolate at the ski resorts after a long day in the great outdoors?

Washington, DC

Washington DC is one of my favorite places for the entire family. So why not take the kids there for spring break? The collection of Smithsonian museums along the National Mall truly has something for everyone.

Young kids will love the National Air and Space Museum and older kids will enjoy the National Museum of Natural History as well as the National Museum of American History. Pick up this book before you go to give kids things to look for in those three museums.

In addition to walking the National Mall, which is quite large by the way, other things to do in Washington DC include the International Spy Museum , the National Harbor , as well as visits to Presidential homes .

For example, have you ever wondered where is Mount Vernon? It’s not far from DC and this would be a perfect opportunity to visit.

On the Mall, visit the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King, Jr. monument, and many more.

The spring months are a great time to catch the cherry blossoms. They can bloom anywhere from late March to early April, so you may get lucky during your visit to the Nation’s capital.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a popular place to visit in the summer, however, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it is the perfect place to visit over spring break.

The National Parks are always a winner in my book when it comes to spring break family vacations . And visiting the iconic Yosemite National Park is a bucket list destination.

I would recommend staying at one of the many lodges in the national park over camping this time of year. However, camping is amazing if you want to bring your own RV Rental or Campervan . Tent camping may be too cold for younger ones.

The lodges are conveniently located in the Yosemite Valley area. Imagine returning to the lodge after a brisk day of hiking Yosemite Falls or Mist Falls and getting cozy in front of the fireplace.

While you’re visiting Yosemite, you can easily drive to visit Sequoia National Park . Both parks are an easy drive from San Francisco airport.

South Dakota

If South Dakota is not on your bucket list now is the time to add it. This incredible state is full of history and natural wonder, in addition to Mount Rushmore National Memorial .

And while most people only think of Mount Rushmore in South Dakota here you can visit what they call the Great Eight. That includes Custer State Park where you will find bison wandering along with elk, mountain goats, and more.

Also, head over to historic Deadwood and walk the Wild, Wild West and learn about the 1870s gold rush town. That’s just some of the things you can experience in South Dakota .

For a family spring break in South Dakota, I’d recommend driving or renting a car to cover as much ground as you can. Better yet rent an RV and stay near the Missouri River or Badlands National Park.

Gatlinburg is a popular year-round destination thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . And while it’s popular, spring break is not as crowded as summer or even fall when the leaves turn colors.

I love this park because it’s free. There are plenty of great hiking trails. But even if hiking isn’t your thing, the Smoky Mountain National park guides will tell you all about scenic drives. Spring Break should just start seeing the leaves peep. You’ll also find lots of wildflowers and animals this time of year.

The surrounding area in Gatlinburg can be a bit touristy, but that just means you’ll find some great prices on hotels and vacation rentals.

Ripley’s Aquarium is an excellent attraction. We also love eating at one of the various pancake houses in Gatlinburg.

Have you thought of San Diego as a spring break destination? Perfect – it’s spring break right now and you can take advantage of low spring break prices and (relatively) uncrowded spring break destinations.

Sightseeing: There is a wide variety of things to do in San Diego, from the world-famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Balboa Park, to Seaworld , to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, to the Whaley House (listed in several top ten ghost stories).

But why go spring break when you could go year-round? San Diego is beautiful year-round with its beaches, climate, and attractions. If you prefer warm weather during spring break or another time of year, San Diego has that too.

Accommodations: spring break hotels in San Diego start as low as $50 per person. San Diego has spring break deals year-round–the weather is nearly always spring break perfect and the prices are spring break cheap.

Now you may think, “Yeah but it’s spring break right now so everything will be crowded.”

South Carolina

Myrtle Beach may be a popular choice for spring break in South Carolina, but I encourage you to visit there, plus, Congaree National Park, Charleston, or Beaufort.

Highlights of spring biking at Congaree National Park include spring wildflowers and wetland forests. The spring is an excellent time for canoeing as the weather starts to heat up and the rivers’ water levels tend to be higher.

The spring is also a great time to visit Charleston, where you can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the spring season. Spring is also a great time for bike tours in Charleston, as the spring flowers start to bloom and roads are relatively clear.

Beaufort, South Carolina is a hidden gem. It’s a coastal town nestled in the Sea Islands between Charleston and Savannah, Georgia. Despite it being a small town, you can find plenty of things to do in Beaufort, SC that are perfect for your spring break.

San Antonio

I recommend visiting San Antonio in the springtime because there is no spring break crowd and it’s awesome year-round! The spring weather is perfect for exploring outdoor activities at local attractions such as SeaWorld , Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The Alamo and Natural Bridge Caverns.

Puerto Rico

I highly recommend spring break travel to Puerto Rico because the spring weather is beautiful! Take advantage of spring temperatures by doing some scuba diving or snorkeling at the coral reefs surrounding the Caribbean island. Or, visit Old San Juan for shopping, dining, and historic sightseeing.

Lake Tahoe in spring offers a great spring break getaway with fun ski and snowboard conditions in the morning and excellent spring biking weather in the afternoon. Besides winter activities, spring is an awesome time of year to hike around Lake Tahoe , take scenic drives along Highway 88 or ski at Heavenly Mountain Resort.

Florida Keys

I recommend spring break travel to the Florida Key s because spring is a great time to explore Florida’s Everglades National Park. The spring weather provides the perfect opportunity for wildlife viewing and dolphin watching, which are both major attractions in springtime at Everglades National Park. I

n addition, spring marks the start of snapper season in the spring, so spring breakers who do a little deep-sea fishing can enjoy fresh snapper for dinner.

South Padre Island

If you are looking for an enjoyable spring getaway, I strongly suggest visiting South Padre Island. During March and April, the climate is perfect and ideal for a beach vacation; additionally, there is less of a tourist influx compared to the high season in the springtime.

South Padre Island is accessible from San Antonio or Houston and is about as south as you can get to Mexico without leaving the United States.

New Orleans

You may not think of New Orleans as an uncrowded spring break destination, but it can be depending on the time of year. If you’re not visiting during Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s day , spring is a lovely time to visit the Big Easy. New Orleans offers ample spring vacation activities, from sightseeing and history tours to visits to the zoo or parks, as well as spring break nightlife, if you’re interested. Venture off the main street

in the French Quarter area. The best times of year for spring break in New Orleans are March and April. In springtime, the weather is mild and there is less of a spring break crowd.

Outer Banks

If you’re looking to get away from spring breakers, head to the Outer Banks of North Carolina in springtime. It’s between spring breaks in the northern and southern US schools, so it’s not too crowded. The spring season begins with the flowers in bloom, and it’s a lovely time to visit the OBX.

You’ll find spring break nightlife in springtime – but not too much spring break nightlife, and the same goes for spring break crowds. It’s still winter in spring on the Outer Banks, but it is not cold and there are plenty of activities to enjoy during spring break.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse near Manteo is a spring break destination in North Carolina if you’re looking for places to go for spring break.

Just looking for some cool places to stay during Spring Break? Check out. these epic Spring Break Vacation Rentals here.

Do you have favorite spring break destinations for your family? I’d love to hear about them. Leave me a comment to be included in a future article.

Tonya Denmark of Detail Oriented Traveler's Favorite Resources

✈️ my favorite way to check flights.

Skyscanner is a great way to check all flights and create watch lists for a change in flight prices.

🏩 My choice to check hotel prices

Booking.com has the most extensive list of hotels.

🏠 My go to for the Best Home Rental site

VRBO has better support for home rentals. I recommend using them.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 My absolute Best Tour Booking Site

Viator allows you to book now and pay later, plus has free cancellation.

🎠 My Go to for the the Best Attractions Pass

Go City all inclusive passes provide extraordinary value

Read my review of Go City Here.

Best Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Master gives you quotes from a variety of insurance policies so you can pick the best one for you.

Best way to store your luggage

Luggage Hero is the perfect way to find storage options when you are touring a place for the day.

What's the best way to check rental car prices?

Discover Cars is my choice for trusted ratings and no hidden costs.

Best Travel Planning Guide

I have a comprehensive travel planning guide that you can buy here. Use code: WELCOME for 25% off.

About The Author

Tonya Denmark

• Work With Us

CURRENTLY IN:    Argentina

13 Best US Destinations for Spring Break

Warmer weather means one thing this time of year–spring break is coming closer. Americans must be gearing up for their spring break trips right about now. Between mid-March and mid-April, schools typically have a week-long break for everyone to enjoy the perfect spring weather. Naturally, places with sunny weather often rank as the best spring break destinations. 

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

Florida is the most popular spring break destination right now, especially for college students, with Hawaii following closely behind. But apparently, more American travellers are now considering metropolitan areas as spring break destinations, too.

So, what are the best US destinations for spring break? We put together a list inspired by our own US travels to give you some ideas for your upcoming spring break trip. Whether it’s the beach, the city, the great outdoors, or even the snowy slopes, there’s something in here for all types of spring breakers. 

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Beach Destinations

Miami, florida.

Gorgeous beaches, lots of sunshine, and a bold atmosphere have established  Miami  as a go-to vacation spot. The city’s world-famous nightlife draws in celebrities and models, and in the spring, younger crowds take over, bringing up the energy right in time for spring break. Tons of events and festivals are scheduled at that time, too, keeping the momentum going.

There’s Miami Beach, which includes the popular South Beach, Mid Beach, and North Beach, dotted with bars, clubs, first-class hotels, impressive restaurants, and more. But there are also other neighbourhoods in Miami worth exploring, boasting unique architectural styles and lush beauty. Some of these are the beautiful Coconut Grove, colourful Little Havana, and the iconic Deco Historic District along Ocean Drive with 800+ vintage architectural buildings and structures.

If the high-energy party scene isn’t for you, and you’re after a beach that’s a bit more family-friendly, consider spring break at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina instead.

Florida Keys

For a more relaxed spring break vibe that’s focused more on outdoor activities than partying, head over to the  Florida Keys . We had fun there during our trip to the US. Key West is known as the main destination, and you can start off your spring break by getting acquainted with Key West Town. There’s lots to see and do, and the best bars and restaurants are lined up here.

The beautiful beaches at Key West shine in the perfect spring weather. March is a particularly exciting time for deep sea fishing, as the reef line 6 miles south of Key West can hold many different species of fish. Boating, snorkelling, and diving are also top things to do here. You can expect encounters with lots of marine life during spring break, making a  snorkel tour or dolphin-watching tour  particularly enticing.

Maui, Hawaii

After a difficult and unfortunate 2023, where wildfires caused great damage in Maui, the island is slowly opening up to tourists. They ask those who are considering visiting to observe “respectful travel,” and observe certain practices to honour their communities that are still recovering. Travelling to any of the Hawaiian Islands, except Lahaina, is welcomed and encouraged.

Maui has over 30 miles of gorgeous beaches—from white sand to black sand, from beaches with world-class waves to calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and even whale watching. Try your hand at several watersports, dip your toes into local Hawaiian culture, or simply lay back under the palm trees.

If you spend your entire spring break on the island, make sure to support local businesses and take some time to learn what you can about the cultural significance of Lahaina. There are many heritage sites and “voluntourism” opportunities available that would greatly benefit the locals.

Panama City Beach, Florida 

Did you know that there’s a beach known as the Spring Break Capital of the World? If you want to see what all the hype is about, head to Panama City Beach along Florida’s Emerald Coast. It’s a 27-mile long white-sand beach known for calm turquoise waters, ready for throngs of college students and partygoers ready to destress.

The nightlife is known to be wild, and other attractions include theme parks and arcades. It’s definitely set up to be one of the best spring break destinations, best enjoyed with groups of friends. Of course, there are water activities here, too, like swimming, diving, snorkelling, and boating. The Pier Park is also a great stop for shopping and exciting events.

City Escapes

New york city, new york.

New York is one of the popular city destinations for spring break travellers. As one of the biggest cities in the United States, you know there’s always something to see, try, or do here no matter the hour. Stay for at least a week to get to know New York’s different and distinct boroughs.

We always recommend that first-timers stay in Midtown, where they can be within walking distance from all the must-sees. That includes New York icons such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, the High Line, and more. If you want a list of the best places to stay in New York,  check out our guide here .

READ NEXT: Where to Stay in New York

San Francisco

San Francisco is an iconic destination in its own right. Lots of famous landmarks, sweeping (not to mention steep) views, and hidden gems within the city make it one of the most exciting spring break destinations. The large crowds usually come to the city in the summer, so spring breaks are just the right time.

Head to Baker Beach to get a snap of the Golden Gate Bridge, spend a sunny day on a picnic at Dolores Park, or try out one of the many world-class restaurants. San Francisco has its own Chinatown and North Beach (their version of Little Italy), and you can book a  guided tour  around town.

San Francisco is a great starting point for day trips. There’s a ferry that takes you to Alcatraz and Angel Island, and it’s a convenient home base if you’re headed to Muir Woods, Wine Country, or Yosemite National Park.

Phoenix, Arizona

How about a spring break trip that takes you to the Sonoran Desert? Phoenix, Arizona draws in visitors for its year-round sun and warm temperatures, best appreciated at high-end spas, expansive golf courses, and neon nightclubs.

Papago Park is a highlight in the desert. It’s where the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden is, so you get to see lots of native cacti, plants, and other native flora and fauna.

Phoenix also has lots of fine art facilities and museums, such as the Phoenix Art Museum, the Arizona Science Center, and the Pueblo Grande archeological museum. After a long day of checking out these cultural sites, you can stop and try their delicious food. The Sonoran-style hotdog is a must: grilled bacon-wrapped hotdog in a warm and soft bolillo bun.

National Parks and Outdoor Adventures

Yosemite national park, california.

A national park like  Yosemite  makes for a beautiful spring break destination. The park covers nearly 1,200 square miles (over 3,100 square kilometres) of mountainous terrain in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is one of the most impressive and abundant areas of natural beauty in the whole country.

There’s a lot of ground to cover, which is good news for nature lovers. There are biking trails, hiking trails, scenic drives, and lookouts all around, with different levels of difficulty to accommodate all visitors. A day trip is seriously not enough. At the very least, we recommend a 2-day itinerary , though staying longer means more explorations. Spend spring break here and go on longer day hikes, enjoy the Merced River, and add a trip to see the giant sequoias in Wawona.

Spring is the perfect time to visit as the famous Yosemite Falls are at their most impressive during this time, gushing after all the rain and snowmelt. Apart from that, the wildflowers will also be in bloom.

READ NEXT: 5 Easy Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If stargazing in the desert sounds like something that would be on your spring break bucket list, it’s time to plan a trip to Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. There, you’ll find rugged rock formations, giant boulders, an arid desert, and of course, its namesake, the Joshua Tree. Joshua Trees are spiny, twisted tree-like plants (but they’re actually succulents!) native to the Mojave Desert. There’s a rich history behind these trees. Legends say Mormon immigrants in the mid-19th century named it after the biblical figure, Joshua, as the limbs of the tree looked outstretched in prayer, leading them to the right way.

It’s worth noting that there are no restaurants, lodging, gas, or grocery stores within the park, but there are 3 campsites. Come prepared with all your essentials if you’re considering staying overnight. Given how easy it is to navigate the park, you can manage a quick day trip here—but we recommend staying until the

end of the day to catch the stars at Cholla Cactus Garden. The view is sparkling and magical as this area has the darkest skies, and is far away from the light pollution from nearby towns.

Apart from hiking, you can also try fun activities in Joshua Tree like archery, rappelling, desert scavenger hunts, and horseback riding.

Death Valley National Park, California

About a 4-hour drive from Joshua Tree is another national park offering vibrant colours, sweeping views, and natural beauty. Death Valley National Park makes for a good road trip and is the largest US national park outside of Alaska, with over 3.4 million acres. It’s best known for Titus Canyon, a ghost town with limestone rock formations, and Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

Spring is the most popular time to visit Death Valley, and campgrounds and lodging are usually packed with spring breakers looking for an outdoor adventure. In recent years, a rare phenomenon called “super bloom” has been happening in California’s deserts, and Death Valley had one of the most spectacular displays of rare flowers. If the winter brought rain, then the desert puts on an impressive floral display peaking right in time for spring break.

Super bloom or not, there are tons of other activities to do here. Sightseeing, stargazing, and taking guided tours are the most common ones. If you’re feeling adventurous, try camping, hiking, biking, or even cross-country driving. A fun fact about this national park: a few scenes from Star Wars were filmed here, and there’s a self-guided driving tour that points out all those spots.

Ski Resorts and Mountain Getaways

Aspen, colorado.

While the spring season is associated with more sunshine and warmth, Aspen has also become a popular spring break destination. March is historically one of the snowiest months of the year in Aspen, with snowfall arriving just in time for spring break. 

The longer spring days and an extra hour of sun from daylight savings means more time to ride or ski. That, coupled with what they call spring powder, gives riders plenty of time to enjoy winter recreational sports on the mountain.

March in Aspen marks the start of après season. As the spring sun soaks outdoor patios, many establishments set up DJs, food, and drinks so guests can head there after a full day out on the slopes. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with fellow skiers and spring breakers. The Aspen crowd is usually made up of couples, so the vibe is more of a romantic getaway than a family vacation.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

For a ski spring break adventure that can double as a family vacation, Lake Tahoe is your best bet. The lake has activities for the whole family on and off the slopes, even catering to smaller kids. The weather throughout March and April is great, albeit unpredictable. On some days, it’s mild, sunny, and even warm, and on the next, it can be white out. They say the inconsistency is part of the fun, but you’re almost always guaranteed good skiing conditions during spring.

Lake Tahoe is also quite busy even beyond the slopes. North Tahoe is known for a great line-up of spring events, festivals, and culinary affairs. There are also spas and resorts that can help you relax. Witnessing the transition from winter to spring at Lake Tahoe is a fun, exciting experience–making it one of our choices for spring break destinations up in the mountains.

Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Spring break destinations aren’t always about partying and getting drunk. There are wholesome and pleasant spring break destinations, like Park City Mountain Resort. It’s the largest ski resort in the US, and they constantly invest in family-friendly attractions.

They’re the top Ski and Snowboard school in the state, which can put a lot of parents at ease. They also have an impressive selection of dining experiences and lots of fun activities for guests of all ages. Outside of spring skiing, there’s a ski beach at Canyons Village, and an annual pond-skimming event in April that everyone looks forward to.

Apart from that, there’s spring fly fishing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and flat-tire biking, tubing at Woodward Park City, and there are a few Park City thrill rides, too! As for dining and nightlife, the Historic Main Street has a lot to offer spring breakers.

READ NEXT: 12 Best Places to Visit for Spring Break

Where do you think the best spring break destinations are in the US? Leave a Comment Below!

About the author.

Oksana & Max St John

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travel With Us

Join us on a 9-day Safari in Tanzania through the country's top National Parks! Search for the Big Five, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences and meaningful connections.

or join our Pre-Sale List to be the first to learn about other Drink Tea & Travel Group Trips!

15 Best 2024 Spring Break Road Trips in the USA

It's that time of year again; the snow is melting, birds and other critters are peeking out of their burrows, and in some places, it's already t-shirt weather. Spring Break is a hallowed American tradition, to celebrate the time of flowers and have some well-deserved diversions.

On our list of the 15 best Spring Break road trips in the USA, you'll find cities filled with family getaways, zesty celebrations, national parks bursting with life, breezy coastal hamlets, and party-perfect beach towns for that classic Spring Break vibe.

Whether you're rearing to get out of town or just want to spend a few days under the sun with new scenery, we've scoped out exciting trips perfect for a break from college with friends or even a child-friendly getaway this year. Read on below to spark your spring imagination.

Best Spring Break road trips in the USA

Day trips (about 3 hours each way)

1. Miami to Key West, FL

3 hours 15 minutes (160 miles)

Why you should visit Key West from Miami: The warm beaches and rumba beats make Miami a popular Spring Break destination. But if you already live here or just want to venture all the way south, Florida has even more seaside goodness in store, so why not set off on a road trip from Miami to Key West ?

The pristine shores of Key West are strewn with conch shells and other tropical insignia. It's a great place for relaxing during the day and you can live it up at night on Duval Street downtown.

How to get to Key West from Miami: Take the Ronald Regan Turnpike to US Route 1 and head south. Once you get to Key Largo, continue along the Overseas Highway and 42 bridges all the way to Key West.

Our highlights: We were really stuck by just how tropical the Key West environment is, like a Hawaii on the East Coast. To see some of the beautiful critters living beneath the aquamarine, head out on a glass-bottomed boat or rent some snorkeling gear and explore a reef.

Surrounded by beaches, you don't have to look far for a place to bask in the sun. At Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, you'll not only find one of Key West's best swimming beaches, but also a chance to learn about the colorful history of the Florida Keys.

Few daily celebrations can top sunset in Mallory Square. As the sun tinges the sky orange, framed by the darkening blue of sea and sky, the streets come alive with performers, music, merriment, and great food. Be sure to come here at least once on your trip.

Duval Street is like the spine of Key West and is mostly filled with people who don't mind risking a back injury to throw down and have a wild time. This is not the most family friendly place in Key West, so if you're coming with kids avoid this area at night.

Bonus: Everyone needs some beach time, including the most brilliant writers in America. Many have chosen Key West as their sun spot of choice, including Tennessee Williams, Shel Silverstein, Robert Frost, and most famously, Ernest Hemingway.

You can still visit the house where the latter stayed, which is now the Hemingway Home & Museum.

Our travel tips: Be prepared for tolls on the Ronald Regan Turnpike as you leave Miami.

READ MORE - Road trip from Miami to Key West

2. Dallas to Austin, TX

2 hour 50 minutes (200 miles)

Why you should visit Austin from Dallas: Dallas is a proudly Texan city; home of the Cowboys, a go-big-or—go-home attitude, and some inevitably delicious BBQ, one thing it has in common with off-beat Austin.

If your Spring Break is early enough in March, you might even catch the massive SXSW festival that draws droves of music lovers to Austin each year. Even if you miss it, there are over 200 live music venues in Austin, so you'll hear something fresh and groovy whenever you come.

How to get to Austin from Dallas: The route from Dallas to Austin is fairly direct . Take Interstate 35 E and S for the entire 195-mile stretch of the trip, passing Hillsboro and Temple on the way.

Our highlights: Everything's bigger in Texas, including the State Capitol Building, located in a beautiful green area right next to downtown Austin. There are free guided tours of the interior of this massive Renaissance Revival building and even if you don't have time to go inside, it's worth a stop as you explore Austin.

One of the best places to enjoy the Colorado River, which snakes through the city, is Lady Bird Lake. There's a ten-mile Hike-and-Bike Trail and boardwalk around the lake and along the river, both with great views of the water and the city.

On a warm day nothing is more fun than renting a kayak or paddle boat and splashing about on the gentle waves.

If you want that high-energy, classic Spring Break scene head to Sixth Street on any given evening. Full of bars and college kids, it's where antics are bound to happen. For a mellower, but still upbeat option, head to Rainey Street.

For a more casual drink and some architectural immersion, head to the Driskill, a hotel built in the late 19th century. Their impressive marble lobby and bar is open to the public and a must see for vintage hotel enthusiasts.

You can smell the goodness at Franklin Barbecue from blocks away. Arguably some of the best barbecue in the country, it's worth the wait, but you might want to bring a snack for the four-hour line on weekends. Be mindful that Franklin Barbecue is closed on Mondays.

Bonus: There are more bats in Austin than in any other city in the US. Beginning in March, you can catch some of the half a million bats take flight every evening from the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Our travel tips: If you want to catch SXSW on your Spring Break Trip to Austin, be sure to book tickets way in advance.

READ MORE - Road trip from Dallas to Austin

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips (4-6 hours each way)

3. Boston to Portland, ME and Bar Harbor

4 hours 45 minutes (290 miles)

Why you should visit Portland and Bar Harbor from Boston: After a harsh Northeastern winter, you can feel the pulse of excitement as life returns to the curmudgeonly city of Boston. Shake off the cobwebs by setting on a road trip to Portland and Bar Harbor !

A little way north, Maine's vast forests and rugged granite coast make for a scenic Spring Break trip. There's nothing quite like breathing in the crisp, coastal air as lobster boats return to shimmering Bar Harbor with the day's catch.

How to get to Portland and Bar Harbor from Boston: From Boston, take Interstate 95 North for 112 miles to Portland, ME. Here, hop on Interstate 295 North and continue driving as it becomes I-95 N until Bangor.

Then navigate to US Route 1A south and east towards Trenton. There you'll find Bar Harbor Road, which crosses a bridge onto Mount Desert Island. Take Maine Route 3 to Bar Harbor on the other side of the island.

Our highlights: Some parts of the Old Port neighborhood, might resemble similar old fishing communities in the historic areas of Boston. Full of red bricks and narrow alleys, this is a quaint part of Portland to walk around and grab a bite to eat.

The iconic Portland Head Light, with its red roof and whitewashed walls is postcard-perfect. Maine's oldest lighthouse, it was built in 1791 and overlooks Casco Bay. Even if you're not totally enamored with the Northeastern lighthouse theme, it is impressive by any standards.

To whet your whistle, look no further than the famous Allagash Brewery. You can also have a tasty lobster roll at their on-site food truck to pair with a mellow white ale.

For an incredibly rustic and peaceful stroll by the ocean, head to the Shore Path. Not far from downtown Bar Harbor, this path covers rocky beaches and forests once part of a private estate that offers gorgeous views of the harbor.

Acadia National Park is a major attraction on Mount Desert Island and surrounds the town of Bar Harbor. Inch for inch, it is one of the prettiest national parks, full of every kind of greenery, still ponds, and wild coastal treks. You can plan on camping here during your trip or venture into the park for day hikes from Bar Harbor.

Take in at least one sunset from Frenchman Bay. Here the sky takes on every vibrant hue imaginable and reflects on the water filled with the silhouettes of yachts and fishing boats. You can also see some minor islands from here.

Bonus: There's a gap along the rocky coastal cliff near Sand Beach on Desert Island called “Thunder Hole”. Under the right conditions, when a powerful Atlantic swell crashes into this inlet, you'd swear there was a storm overhead.

Our travel tips: For a scenic drive, take Schooner Head Road south of Bar Harbor and cruise along Ocean Drive until Otter Cliff Road. Also, if you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, keep in mind that vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

Spring is still a bit chilly in Bar Harbor, but it is a great time to visit to avoid the summer and fall peak seasons.

READ MORE - Road trip from Boston to Portland, Maine

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

5 hours 10 minutes (270 miles)

Why you should visit the Blue Ridge Parkway: Nestled in the Appalachians of West Virginia, Roanoke has a proud industrial past that blends seamlessly with its emerging arts scene. It offers an interesting contrast to the similarly artsy, but much more rustic, Asheville, NC.

In between these them you'll follow the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway that is simply bursting with life during the spring. Since the speed limit on the parkway is 45 MPH, this is a trip that invites you to slow down and savor the honeyed atmosphere of spring.

How to get to Blue Ridge Parkway: Start out on Interstate 81 S from Roanoke until Atkins, VA where you'll hop on Nicks Creek Road, which turn into Sugar Grove Highway/Virginia Route 16 South. Head towards the Mouth of Wilson near the border, where you'll change onto North Carolina Route 16 in Grassy Creek.

Navigate via US Highway 221 to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take this via Blowing Rock all the way to Interstate 40 W to Asheville.

Our highlights: As the name implies, Blowing Rock is a small town named after a solitary rock in a gusty area with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and Johns River Gorge.

Consider Blowing Rock for an overnight stop as there are some gorgeous trails around here and an arguably even more stunning overlook nearby at Thunder Hill.

If you wanted to get out and be active in these gorgeous mountains on this trip, you'll have plenty of chances. Along this route you'll pass Grandfather Mountain State Park and Lake James State Park, both with extensive trails through forests bursting with new buds and wildflowers.

As you approach Asheville, consider a stop at the Mountain Gateway Museum if you'd like to see a recreation of country living from the turn of the century. It's also situated on a pleasant property with a stream.

Ashville is a refreshing, bohemian mountain town with a lot to offer. Its charming downtown is easily walkable with exceptionally fresh culinary offerings and creative bars. A quirky spot that was even more fun than we expected was the Pinball Museum.

On the outskirts of Ashville lies the Biltmore, a sprawling estate with an opulent American take on a Châteauesque estate. Built just before the turn of the century, it is still the largest privately-owned home in the US, though it is open for tours and is one of Asheville's major attractions.

Bonus: If you feel a bit of déjà vu as you explore Asheville, it might be because it has served as the filming location of some major U.S. films, including “Last of the Mohicans”, “Forest Gump,” and “Patch Adams.”

5. Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA

5 hours 10 minutes (350 miles)

Why you should visit New Orleans from Houston: Houston is a city that sets its sights high, being home to NASA's Johnson Space Center. While a Spring Break trip to the moon is decades away, Houston is still a great launching pad for earth-bound Spring Break shenanigans.

The home of Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras is a popular and affordable Spring Break choice. NOLA, as New Orleans is sometimes called, is full of great music, food, historic quarters, and of course, there's no shortage of revelers, making this an exciting place to spend a week after a weary winter.

How to get to New Orleans from Houston: Take Interstate 10 East all the way on this road trip from Houston , through rustic Baton Rouge, and down into sultry New Orleans.

Our highlights: Both the old and new Louisiana state capitol buildings in Baton Rouge are interesting buildings that you can stop and see on a lunch break. The new capitol building is the tallest in the county with beautiful art deco motifs.

Being one of America's oldest cities, New Orleans is particularly known for its distinctive neighborhoods and Creole culture. In addition to the French Quarter and the ever-lively Jackson Square, we suggest walking the Garden District and marveling at its colorful mansions and expertly cultivated yards.

Who doesn't love a vintage trolley? The RTA system in downtown New Orleans has a few dozen vintage cable cars from the 1920's and 30's that traverse the town from the Lower Nine to Lakeview. For a few bucks you can make your own tour of the city's most famous attractions.

Music speaks to everyone, so no matter who you're making this trip with, some time on Frenchmen Street is a must. Jam packed with music venues there are also brass bands doing their thing on the street corners, giving the whole scene an extra touch of magic.

Even though it's Spring Break, there's no rule against learning. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans is one of the best museums in the country, with immersive exhibits and original boats and aircrafts. The breadth of exhibits around this brief, yet intense, period in world history is staggering.

Bonus: Spring is the beginning of crawfish season in Louisiana! Whether you can locate a backyard boil or not, there are plenty of restaurants serving up the state crustacean by the pound.

Our travel tips: Especially places like Bourbon Street are known for being hectic and more geared towards adult activities, so keep this in mind if you're on a family trip.

Mardi Gras is just the beginning of spring festivities in New Orleans. In April you can catch the French Quarter Festival and the Jazz & Heritage Festival.

READ MORE - Road trip from Houston to New Orleans

Long weekend trips (6-8 hours each way)

6. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

6 hours 30 mins (360 miles)

Why you should visit Yellowstone from Salt Lake City: Salt Lake City is pleasant and dry in more ways than one, being situated in the Great Salk Lake Desert and surrounded by mountains perfect for winter sports.

As the snow melts, a more volatile environment awaits exploration to the north. Filled with hot spots atop one of the largest super-volcanoes in the world, Yellowstone National Park is exquisitely attuned to that joyful transition into spring , when life emerges from the thawing surroundings with a revitalizing force.

How to get to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City: From Salt Lake City, start driving north on Interstate 15 until you reach McCammon, ID. From there take US Highway 30 to Soda Springs then Idaho route 34 to Freedom WY. Head towards US Highway 89 North, which will take you to Highway 191 North all the way into Yellowstone National Park.

Our highlights: An obvious highlight during a spring visit to Yellowstone is baby animals! This is your chance to see brand spankin' new bison, elk, and from a very safe distance, bear cubs. Lamar Valley always has a lot of animal activity in the early mornings.

No matter when you visit, a trip to Old Faithful will leave you speechless. This punctual geyser is one of the most popular spots in Yellowstone, so a spring visit also means more parking will be available in the nearby lot.

Especially as chilly weather prevails through April, the hot, moist, air around Grand Prismatic Springs will be especially inviting. These multicolored geothermal pools are among the park's most dazzling features. Mammoth Hot springs is another great place to see steaming pools as the snow melts.

This is also the season when the parks many waterfalls begin to thaw. Of course the bigger falls, like the Lower Falls on the Yellowstone River, are too massive to freeze over. A gorgeous viewpoint over the Lower Falls is the appropriately named Artists Point.

Bonus: There are 500 geysers in Yellowstone, over half of all the geysers in the world. Aside from Old Faithful, the Beehive Geyser usually erupts twice a day and each eruption can last up to 5 minutes.

Our travel tips: There's a brief window of time in the early spring where the roads open for non-motorized traffic. This is known as the “spring bicycling” period and any cycling enthusiast should keep it on their radar.

In the spring it's good to be “bear aware” in Yellowstone as the large mammals emerge from winter hibernation, often with cubs in tow. Make noise while you hike remote areas and try to stay in a group of three or more.

Due to the elevation, Yellowstone can still experience freezing temperatures in the early spring and expect highs around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring plenty of layers.

Also be sure to check the website for road closures due to snow and snow plowing.

READ MORE - Road trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park

7. Los Angeles, CA to Grand Canyon, AZ

8 hours (500 miles)

Why you should visit the Grand Canyon from Los Angeles: Home to a lively art and music scene together with warm beaches, Los Angeles has a lot going on. Sometimes a break from the city helps you appreciate it all the more.

Spring is the perfect time of year to traverse the desert to the east of Los Angeles . On this trip to the Grand Canyon, you'll be able to stop the car and explore without the risk of melting into the asphalt.

How to get to the Grand Canyon from Los Angeles: From Los Angeles, get on Interstate 10 East, which will take you past Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Around Eagle Mountain, start driving north towards Vidal Junction and US Route 95 North. Drive to Lake Havasu then look for Interstate 40 East. Take this all the way to Williams, AZ, then change on to Arizona Route 64 North. This goes all the way to the Grand Canyon.

Our highlights: Formerly a resort and hideaway for Hollywood stars, Palm Springs has long been established as a place for leisure and rejuvenation. In addition to the spas, there's also a fun community which is on full display every Thursday night at the Palm Springs Village Fest.

Just past Palm Springs you'll have a chance to explore Joshua Tree National Park, which has exploded in popularity recently. In addition to the signature Joshua Trees, there are cacti canyons and other hauntingly beautiful desert scenes to explore.

If you'd like to make a TikTok or Reel imitating your favorite desert film or moment than the Dead Mountains Wilderness Area is the place to do it. A slight detour north of Lake Havasu on Interstate 40, you'll be blown away by the steep, rust colored ridges that form the perfect backdrop to an Old Western remake.

In addition to being a refreshing sight in an arid landscape, the waters of the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge are the occasional home of over 300 different bird species. Even if you're not an avid birder, this is a gorgeous area to spend a night and explore the next day as the sun rises to a chorus of birdsong.

The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that no description can fully prepare you for. This route leads to Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim which is open year-round. Here you can see some of the most iconic overlooks like Hopi Point and Mather Point, as well as hike sections of the South Rim and Bright Angel trails.

Bonus: It took 6 million years for the Colorado River to carve the walls of the Grand Canyon. A wonderful resource at the park is the Yavapai Museum of Geology which details the significance of the area's natural history. The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.

Our travel tips: The desert temperatures can really drop at night, so bring plenty of layers.

Despite the milder spring weather, be prepared with a sturdy vehicle and extra water at some isolated places like Joshua Tree and Dead Mountains Wilderness.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Grand Canyon

Longer trips (Over 8 hours each way)

8. San Francisco to Los Angeles on Pacific Coast Highway, CA

9 hours (470 miles)

Why you should visit Los Angeles from San Francisco: San Francisco is a quirky tech hub with multicultural neighborhoods nestles between and atop its signature hills. There's no shortage of things to do or fun to be had in this city, but it's also a great launching pad for a Californian road trip.

Spring is a beautiful time to see the Pacific Coast on your way to LA with mild weather. There are tons of beaches to enjoy and the chance to catch the end of the whale migration if you go in March.

How to get to Los Angeles from San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway: From San Francisco, navigate to Highway 1 South, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This spectacular coastal route takes you past Monterrey, Big Sur, Pismo Beach , and Santa Barbara all the way to Santa Monica and Los Angeles.

Our highlights: Big Sur has a mythical presence in the Californian imagination and once you see it, you'll know why. Towering mountains plunge into the ocean as this heroic road navigates their seemingly endless curves. McWay Cove and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are just two of the must-see places on this stretch of the trip.

About two hours north of Los Angeles, you'll pass through picturesque Santa Barbara. Sometimes called “the American Riviera”, this coastal college town is full of Spanish colonial architecture, including an 18th-century mission, and a happening downtown stretch that leads directly to the beach.

Los Angeles has been the city of hopes, dreams, glamour, and imagination for nearly a century. Here you can walk along Hollywood Blvd to see the imprints of some of your favorite stars or window shop at luxury stores on Rodeo Drive where you might spot a starlet as well.

For sheer amusement and to peek behind the scenes of real-life moving-making, Universal Studios should be on your must-do list while you're down here.

The arts are also alive in Los Angeles and there are two exceptional museums offering vastly different collections: The Getty and the Broad. The former is part of a sprawling hilltop estate full of classical sculptures and the latter is bursting with the freshest contemporary art and located right downtown.

Bonus: Did you know that the world-famous “Hollywood” sign used to say “Hollywoodland”? You can hike to the sign via the 3.5 mile long Hollyridge Trail through the Santa Monica Mountains and be rewarded with a stunning view of Los Angeles below.

Our travel tips: Both San Francisco and Los Angeles have horrific traffic throughout the day, so try to avoid driving during the morning commute and in the evening between 3 and 7 p.m. if you can.

While there's usually sunny weather in the spring, the coastal area south of San Francisco to Pismo Beach can experience some heavy morning fog.

READ MORE - Road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles

9. Las Vegas, NV to Yosemite, CA

9 hours (540 miles)

Why you should visit Yosemite from Las Vegas: This neon adult playground in the desert offers up every kind of experience, from live shows to world-class dining. It is also a great starting point for a spring trip through the desert.

In addition to milder temperatures, if you time this trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite right you'll pass through kaleidoscopic expanses of seasonal wildflowers on your way to California's most famous national park, Yosemite.

How to get to Yosemite from Las Vegas: Take US Route 95 North from Las Vegas and head west across the California border at Amargosa Valley, NV. In Death Valley Junction, Take CA Route 190 W through Death Valley National Park.

Once you've explored the desert, head south through Searles Valley taking CA Route 14 to CA Route 58 West to Bakersfield. From there, take CA Routes 99 and 41 north towards Yosemite National Park.

Our highlights: Though the fabled “super bloom” only happens every ten years or so, if there's enough winter rain wildflowers will grace the usually arid Death Valley in the early spring. Some of the best places for viewing are near Furnace Creek along CA Route 190 and Jubilee Pass. Keep your eyes out for white desert stars, golden poppies, yellow encelias, and purple verbena blossoms.

Consider a slight detour on your way to Yosemite via Sierra National Forest and Bass Lake. Here you'll find gorgeous, and far less crowded, campgrounds as well as trails to the wide and gentle Angel Falls.

As you approach Yosemite from the south, keep an eye out for Mariposa Grove. This small patch of towering sequoias is a wonderful introduction to the sheer diversity of Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite is world famous for its breathtaking trails and unique rock formations. Regardless of the weather conditions, the loop around Yosemite Valley floor is accessible year round and offers stunning views of El Capitan, sentinel Rock, Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Falls.

For a more challenging hike, trails to Mirror Lake and vernal Falls, including the mist trail, are open by March.

In case you are finding it cooler than you anticipated, there are also scenic drives you can do within Yosemite. Take a sunrise or sunset drive to Tunnel View for a stunning vista over the Valley.

Bonus: Yosemite contains nearly 20% of all plant species found in California. If you come later in the spring, there is a dizzying array of blossoms to behold.

Our travel tips: The spring is one of the best times to visit Death Valley due to the milder temperatures and chance of seeing wildflowers. This also makes it one of the busiest times of the year, so make any reservations far in advance if you want to spend a night here.

While Yosemite is accessible by March, some higher altitude roads within the park like Tioga Road are closed until mid-April due to snow.

READ MORE - Road trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

10. Miami, FL to Atlanta, GA

10 hours 45 minutes (720 miles)

Why you should visit Atlanta from Miami: While many people flock to Miami to enjoy great beaches and a bit of Cuban flair over Spring Break. If you're already here or would like to simply experience even more of what the South has to offer, then this road trip along the Florida Coast to Georgia is just right for you.

A city that is undeniably hip, Atlanta is the South's biggest and most influential city. Here after a night of great food, drinks, and of course music downtown, you can sip on some sweet tea and recuperate in one of Atlanta's famously relaxing parks.

How to get to Atlanta from Miami: From Florida, start driving north on Interstate 95, driving all the way past Jacksonville, across the Georgia border, to Savannah, GA. There, change on to Interstate 16 West, which merges into Interstate 75 North around Bolingbroke, and continues all the way to Atlanta.

Our highlights: On your way to Atlanta, try to stop for a day in Savannah. This historic city is full of Gothic-Revival architecture and moss hanging gracefully from trees.

If you only have an hour to stop here on a lunch break, then head to Forsyth Park for a pleasant walk after your meal.

Atlanta has some truly enchanting green spaces. Grant Park is located in one of Atlanta's oldest neighborhoods, filled with Victorian mansions, the historic Oakland Cemetery, and some great neighborhood cafes and restaurants.

Downtown, Piedmont Park is massive and also houses the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

A vacation can be the perfect time to find new inspiration and appreciation for universal human struggles. In Atlanta, two outstanding places to visit, learn, and reflect upon are the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

If you like long walks, jogs, or a bike ride as a way to unwind, then head to the BeltLine, a 22-mile long system of interconnected parks and trails throughout Atlanta. This is a great way to see more of the city while getting your steps in or crafting your own culinary tour.

Bonus: Atlanta is also home to the state's Capitol. The impressive dome atop the stately building in the south downtown neighborhood sparkles with 43 ounces of gold.

Our travel tips: This Route goes via Jacksonville, FL and Savannah, GA along the coast, adding a few miles but also the potential for some beach therapy along the way.

In mid to late March, you can catch the Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest in Atlanta and taste more than 350 craft brews from all around the country.

READ MORE - Road trip from Miami to Atlanta

11. Chicago, IL to New York, NY

12 hours 20 minutes (800 miles)

Why you should visit New York from Chicago: Chicago has long been a center of power and influence; why else would Oprah have hosted her show here for 25 years? The Magnificent Mile with its towering skyscrapers and beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline are just two reasons people stay impressed with the Windy City.

Spring Break isn't just about beach parties, it is simply a time to step away from the grind and enrich yourself. No place is more nurturing for the curious and creative soul than New York City.

How to get to New York from Chicago: On this road trip , start driving east from Chicago on Interstate 90 towards South Bend, IL. Continue past Toledo, OH to Cleveland, OH where you'll change onto Interstate 80 East.

This will take you all the way across Pennsylvania to Interstate 280 in New Jersey, which connects with Interstate 78 and the Holland Tunnel into New York.

Our highlights: One often overlooked sight on the way to New York is the Cuyahoga Valley National Park between Akron and Cleveland in Ohio. Even though it is small for a national park, it is filled with stunning trails by streams and through canyons as well as several wide and graceful waterfalls.

With so many sights to see in the Big Apple, a trip here can easily become overwhelming. With the frozen winter fading into distant memory, Spring is a great time to explore the city on foot.

In addition to walking around Times Square and across the Brooklyn Bridge, make sure to go for a walk along Manhattan's High Line, a park and trail made from a repurposed railway platform.

There are several landmarks in the city where you can get a fabulous view of this bustling city. If you don't feel like climbing the 162 stairs to the crown of the Statue of Liberty, you can reserve an elevator ride to the Empire State Building's observation deck on its 102nd floor.

Catch some Shakespeare in Central Park. In addition to the burgeoning bloom of spring, New York's most famous green space hosts a performance schedule of one the Bard of Avon's masterpieces. Head to the Delacorte Theater early in the morning to snag a free ticket for an evening performance.

Nearby Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is another must see place in New York City. Filled with art and artifacts spanning 2,000 years of human creativity, you will spend more time here than you initially anticipated. Lovers of the avant-garde and people traveling with kids might want to check out the Museum of Modern Art as well for their contemporary collection and interactive exhibits.

If you'd like to learn more about other places you can visit in New York City, including places to stay, you can find our area-by-area guide to the city here .

Bonus: Cancel your diet while here. This is the city that birthed the modern American hot dog, eggs benedict, and the game-changing chicken and waffles. With over 20,000 restaurants there's no shortage of places to satiate your most elaborate cravings.

Our travel tips: If you're visiting in April, the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival needs to be on your itinerary. Held over two days at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and wrapped in pale pink blossoms, this Japanese cultural celebration is utterly whimsical.

You need to buy a ticket to attend, but kids under 12 are free.

READ MORE - Road trip from Chicago to New York

12. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe, CA and Zion National Park, UT

13 hours 15 minutes (820 miles)

Why you should visit Lake Tahoe and Zion National Park from San Francisco: San Francisco is the cultural hot spot of northern California and full of surprises, from pop-up events to hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and stunning architecture. Despite amazing green spaces like Golden Gate Park, it's still a city and sometimes wider pastures call.

On this spring trip through the Sierras to Zion National Park, UT , you'll pass through some of the country's most breathtaking wilderness to this ever-inspirational canyon in southern Utah.

How to get to Lake Tahoe and Zion National Park from San Francisco: From San Francisco, navigate to the Bay Bridge and Interstate 80 (I-80) East. Take this past Sacramento, all the way to Truckee, where you can take CA Highway 89 South to Lake Tahoe.

After some time by the lake, navigate back to I-80 East which will take you across the Nevada border to Reno. Once you get to Wadsworth, NV take US Route 50 East for roughly 300 miles to US Route 93 South. In Panaca, NV, hop across the Utah border towards Hamilton's Fort via Modena, then follow Interstate 15 South to Touquerville and the entrance to Zion National Park.

Our highlights: Spend at least a night or two at beautiful, blue Tahoe. There will still be snow in the early spring in case you feel like skiing the world class slopes at Northstar and Diamond Peak. Countless beaches and trails over granite mountains surround this pristine alpine lake, in addition to some great microbreweries.

Near Zion National Park this trip also takes you close to the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. Situated at the end of the Mojave desert, this has a surprisingly different feel from Zion with it signature rust-colored cliffs and more arid environment.

Since you're already on an epic road trip, be sure to take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive once you get here. Running along the canyon floor, this road has breathtaking scenery on all sides and will give you a great overview of the park.

No trip to Zion is complete without setting foot on one of its most iconic trails: Angels Landing. This climbing hike culminates on a narrow and hair-raising ridge that offers unparalleled views of the canyon below.

For a mellower, and particularly beautiful, spring hike head to the Emerald Pools, less than a mile from Zion Lodge. This paved trail navigates around the serene ponds and under an imposing red cliff, through a landscape dotted with budding trees.

Bonus: Another scenic drive within the park, Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and Tunnel, is also an engineering marvel. Built in 1930, this 25-mile long road connects the south of Zion to the equally stunning Bryce Canyon.

Our travel tips: Unfortunately, Zion Canyon's other most popular trail, the Narrows, is closed from March to May due to lots of snow melt creating hazardous conditions.

Weather-wise, spring is the best time to visit the park. Still the skies can be unpredictable and temperatures can dip into the 30's degrees Fahrenheit, so bring some heavier jackets just in case.

READ MORE - Road trip from San Francisco to Zion National Park

13. Denver, CO to Phoenix, AZ

13 hour 20 mins (820 miles)

Why you should visit Phoenix from Denver: The Mile High City has a wonderful mix of cowboy and contemporary. Surrounded by mountains, you can go hiking, skiing, or horseback riding then head back to the RiNo district for an evening art walk between microbreweries.

Still, the early spring can be chilly in Colorado, so many people head south for a sunnier Spring Break. This trip follows the incline of the Colorado Plateau down into the arid expanse of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona where the Valley of the Sun awaits your exploration.

How to get to Phoenix from Denver: From Denver, drive west on Interstate 70 to Thompson Springs, UT where you'll hop on US Route 191 South through Moab and Arches National Park. Take US-191 all the way to Bluff, UT where you'll change onto US Route 163 South across the Arizona border.

Take US Route 160 and Route 89 to Flagstaff, where you will meet with Interstate 17. Take that the rest of the way south to Phoenix.

Our highlights: Arches National Park, a truly unforgettable natural monument, is just south of Moab, UT along this route. Wander around over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and have fun with endless frame-in-frame photo opportunities.

As you pass Flagstaff, look out for Coconino National Forest. Over 1 million acres, this park contains a staggering amount of diverse species and landscapes. You'll find Iron Springs Trail and West Fork Oak Creek Trail within a few miles of Interstate 17.

Even if you're not typically a museum person, check out Phoenix's Musical Instrument Museum. This highly interactive space has instruments from around the world and a superb auditorium in case you're lucky enough to catch a performance here.

Being a prominent college town, Phoenix is a popular Spring Break destination for students. With a huge variety of bars and lounges like boulders on Broadway and Lost Leaf, there's no shortage of places to have a wild night on the town in a classical Spring Break way.

Take advantage of the mild spring weather and go for an excursion through South Mountain Park or up to the glorious views from Camelback Mountain. Both are filled with red rocks and cacti, giving them that typical desert feel you would expect from a trip to Arizona.

If you'd like to learn more about the hardy plants that make this unforgiving environment their home, or if you just appreciate imaginative landscaping, head to the Desert Botanical Garden while in Phoenix. A spring visit also means an increased chance of viewing some unique succulents and cacti in bloom.

Bonus: Phoenix is one of the sunniest cities on the whole planet, so there is little chance of rain spoiling this spring trip.

Our travel tips: When traveling and attending any events, keep in mind that Arizona doesn't keep up with daylight savings time. Finger's crossed the rest of the country will follow their sensible lead soon.

READ MORE - Road trip from Denver to Phoenix

14. Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA

14 hours 20 minutes (850 miles)

Why you should visit San Francisco from Seattle: With its endless opportunities for coffee and fresh seafood, set amidst every kind of green and the glistening waters of Puget Sound, Seattle reaps the rewards of all its rain.

Down the Pacific coast, San Francisco has long been a beacon for free spirits and square pegs, though now they tend to earn a lot more thanks to the tech boom. Full of vibrant neighborhoods and world-famous monuments like the Golden Gate Bridge, a Spring Break trip to this foggy city won't disappoint .

How to get to San Francisco from Seattle: Take Interstate 5 South for most of the journey through Oregon and northern California until you get to Williams. From here, head to Clear Lake, then south along CA Route 29 to Calistoga in the Napa Valley.

From there, drive west to Santa Rosa where you'll take US Highway 101 South across the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco.

Our highlights: On your way, consider a stop in Portland or one of our favorite West Coast towns, Eugene, OR. In addition to an adorable downtown area, Eugene has one of the liveliest Saturday farmer's markets we've ever seen.

Just north of San Francisco, you'll pass through one of California's most prestigious wine regions, Napa. The early spring is one of the few times of the year the surrounding hills are a vibrant green and there are plenty of seasonal foods to pair with a fresh spring flight.

If you want to stretch your legs once you get to San Francisco, head to Golden Gate Park. Visit the award-winning DeYoung Museum, California Academy of Sciences, and Japanese Tea Gardens then continue along the beautifully landscaped paths that lead all the way to Ocean Beach.

On the other end of the path, you can admire the colorful Victorian homes of the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.

One of San Francisco's most famous, or infamous, locations is Alcatraz. You can see the island from the busting Embarcadero area, touristy Pier 39, or the spacious and laid-back Marina on the north side of the city. There are daily ferries from the piers to the former home of Al Capone.

San Francisco's wonderful diversity of residents has given birth to a plethora of excellent ethnic cuisine. Pizza in North beach, tacos and empanadas in the Mission, Korean barbeque in the Outer Richmond, and of course dim sum in China Town are just a few of the delectable dishes to try while you're here.

Bonus: Pier 39 is famous for the large pack of Sea Lions who like to sunbathe here, but apparently they have only done so since after the 1989 earthquake. One of San Francisco's many unexplained mysteries.

Our travel tips: We've given a scenic route above that blends highway driving on Interstate 5 (I-5) with a detour through the wine country and Santa Rosa north of the city.

This adds just over an hour of driving time versus staying on I-5 until you reach Interstate 505 which connects to Interstate 80 into San Francisco.

READ MORE - Road trip from Seattle to San Francisco

15. Orlando, FL to New York, NY

15 hours 45 minutes (1,070 miles)

Why you should visit New York from Orlando: With its warm climate and dozens of lakes, Orlando feels like a tropical metropolis along its vibrant International Drive.

While many people head to nearby Daytona Beach to get their Spring Break boogie on, the more ambitious tripper puts their sight further afield. On this massive trip all the way up to the city that never sleeps, you'll pass through seven states and some of America's most influential cities.

How to get to New York from Orlando: Amazingly for a thousand-mile drive, this mostly follows one road. Hop on Interstate 95 North all the way through Richmond, VA, Washington DC, Baltimore, MD, and Philadelphia, PA to Newark, NJ where you'll meet Interstate 78 which takes you across the Holland Bridge and into NYC.

Our highlights: Even though history and civics might be the last things on your mind as you enjoy your Spring Break, this trip is a great chance to at least see the major monuments along the National Mall in Washington DC.

If you have a bit more time and interest, the network of buildings and museums that make up the Smithsonian Institution.

This route also passes through Philadelphia, another historic and lively East Coast city. Tour some of the 67 National Historic Landmarks here, like the Liberty Bell, or make it a very different kind of trip and check out the notable bar scene in Philly.

Once you get to the Big Apple, you won't want to waste a minute. Head up to Midtown Manhattan to see world-famous attractions like Times Square, the Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building.

One of NYC's greatest assets is Central Park. In addition to winding trails and fresh foliage in the spring, the New York Zoo and the fantastic Metropolitan Museum of Art are also located along the park.

For those who want to see what's going to be trending back home soon, head to Williamsburg in Brooklyn. From fashion to food this is a neighborhood ahead of the curve and has some simply adorable streets lined with brownstones.

Bonus: Being a global financial capital, New York is understandably home to some staggering wealth. A vault deep underneath the Federal Reserve Bank of NYC houses the largest store of gold on the globe, valued at $90 billion dollars. Better to work on your screenplay about a heist than actually attempt one here.

Our travel tips: Especially if you're acclimated to Orlando, you're going to want to bring some extra layers with you. The New York highs in March rarely creep above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

11 Scenic American Road Trips to Take This Spring

From coastal drives to national parks, these U.S. road trip ideas are perfect for a spring vacation.

When the weather warms up and the late winter rains turn trees green and fields into wildflower wonderlands, it’s the perfect time to take a drive.

Whether your preferred landscape is mountains, deserts, forests, plains, or coastal views, there’s a spring road trip in the U.S. for you. Explore historic sites, regional food, wineries, or nature, all from the front seat.

We’ve put together a few suggestions, starting in exciting locales and ending in beautiful destinations, with hundreds of scenic miles in between. We cover national parks, where spring presents the ideal time between summer crowds and winter cold, as well as jaunts through marshes, mountains, and springtime blooms.  

There’s flexibility built into these suggested itineraries, with possible extensions if your schedule allows. It’s always a good idea to download your route from Google Maps to use offline or pack a paper map just in case you find yourself out of range.

Pack up the car, and away we go. These are the best American road trips to take this spring.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Nothing beats a U.S. national park in the springtime, and that's doubly true on the West Coast. A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park could span 50-plus miles if you drive straight through. Plan on spending at least four hours traversing the park, as you’ll want to take detours to enjoy panoramic views, climb massive rock formations, stroll through the cactus garden, marvel at an oasis, and find the perfect Joshua Tree landscape for your souvenir photos.

There are several ways to enter the park, but let’s say you’re starting in Palm Springs. Drive East on I-10 for about an hour to Cottonwood Springs Road (exit 168) and the park’s south entrance. Your first stop will be the visitor center for a map, and then on through the Colorado Desert environment, around sea level. You’ll see ocotillo, with their tall branches tipped by bright red blossoms. Stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden and walk along its paths, but don't get too close to the prickly plants.

Soon you’ll see the “tree” that gave the park its name. Legend has it that early Mormon settlers likened its branches to arms outstretched in prayer, so named it after the biblical figure, Joshua. Take a side trip to the Keys View overlook — with an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it provides a striking panorama of the Coachella Valley. As you wind through the park on its well-paved roads, you’ll notice campsites, picnic tables, wildlife, and an increase in elevation to the cooler Mojave Desert environment as you head toward the west entrance off Highway 62 in Joshua Tree Village. The highway meets I-10 — from here, head west toward Los Angeles or east toward the Coachella Valley.

Miami to Key West, Florida

With its abundance of wildlife and beaches, the Florida Keys is one of the best spring break destinations for families and can easily be explored by car. This drive covers about 150 miles, but the timing depends on your stops along the way. Take US-1 south, heading through historic Coconut Grove, past the University of Miami, and along either South Dixie Highway (US-1) or Ronald Reagan Turnpike (toll road). After passing the farms between Homestead and Florida City, continue on US-1 South, which turns into the Overseas Highway . Look for mile marker 126 to help you count down the distance to Key West.

Key Largo will be the northernmost town of the Keys and possibly your first stop. Spend some time at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the first undersea park in the country, which offers snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and more.

Islamorada is part of the Middle Keys, a favorite of fishing fans, and a great place to shop for souvenirs. Then, it's onto Marathon Key , a city set on 13 islands, known for loggerhead turtles and its Dolphin Research Center . South of Marathon, US-1 crosses the Seven Mile Bridge which links Marathon with the Lower Keys.

Enjoy the view of the surrounding waters as you drive across the bridge, and look over at the original railroad bridge, severely damaged in 1935’s hurricane season, commemorated in the Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada. On the other side of the bridge, you'll see the palm-fringed beaches of Bahia Honda State Park . You may want to stop and explore the wildlife at the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key before reaching your destination of Key West. Enjoy the laid-back ambience of this unique town, stroll along Duval Street, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum .

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The wildflowers in Shenandoah National Park are spectacular, making Virginia a worthy spring road trip destination. Skyline Drive takes you 105 miles through the park along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. About an hour and a half drive from Washington, D.C., this route through nature is the perfect contrast to the capital’s museums and monuments (though the D.C. cherry blossoms are worth a peek, too). Waterfalls, spring flora, hiking trails, wildlife, picnic areas, and 75 scenic overlooks will add hours of enjoyment to your park visit, so take your time on this popular road trip.

Starting at Front Royal on US-340, one of the park’s four entrances , the road climbs to Dickey Ridge (mile 4.6), where the visitor center provides exhibits, maps, and an orientation film. Mileposts on the west side of the road beginning with 0.0 at Front Royal help locate points of interest along the way. They continue to 105 at the southern end of the park at Rockfish Gap. Take your time and stop at the well-marked scenic overlooks, starting with the Shenandoah Valley Overlook at mile 2.8, where you can see the Shenandoah River as it winds through the valley. The Hogback Overlook at mile 20.8 is the longest viewpoint in the park and offers vistas of the Allegheny Mountains on a clear day.

Continue enjoying the panoramic views from the various overlooks, stop for a short hike, or learn more about the park at the Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center. It's located at milepost 51 across from Big Meadows, an open area with campgrounds and spring wildflowers. At the Bearfence Mountain parking lot at mile 56.4, hikers can take a trail to the summit for a 360-degree view. Where Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap, the Blue Ridge Parkway , a trip of nearly 500 scenic miles, begins.

Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana

Although parts of these two national parks are 100 miles apart, it’s possible to visit them both in one trip. You may want to stretch it over a few days, though, to really take your time sightseeing. Grand Teton National Park , at nearly 310,000 acres, is near the Wyoming town of Jackson, with Jackson Hole Airport located within the park at the base of the Teton Mountains. Just north, Yellowstone National Park covers over two million acres, with its famous geysers, mud pots, and hot springs.

Spring in Grand Teton sees the annual wildlife migration, with elk, bison, deer, and moose heading for their summer homes. The park’s mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers come alive after the winter thaw, and wildflowers usually begin to dot the landscape in May. Be sure to stop at one of the visitor centers in the park to learn about its history, wildlife, and environment. You may want to spend a night before setting out on the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway toward Yellowstone.

Heading north, you’ll be entering Yellowstone at the southernmost of its five entrances. You’ll pass Lewis Lake and waterfalls on your way to the Grant Visitor Center . Be sure to check the park’s website or convenient app regarding road conditions, especially in early spring. Head west to the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to learn about the famous geyser and see it erupt. Watch for the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. If time allows, you can continue your national parks road trip by heading farther north to Glacier National Park in Montana.

Seattle to Newport, Oregon

You may find Seattle a bit rainy in the spring, but you'll likely see fewer crowds and lower prices. After dining on seafood, strolling through Pike Place Market, and seeing the sights over Puget Sound, head southwest towards the Oregon coast and the lovely town of Astoria. The trip begins on I-5 and is about 180 miles, passing enormous pine trees, green forests, and charming towns. It takes about three and a half hours until you cross the four-mile Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River and enter Astoria. There, you should spend the night and take some time exploring in the morning.

Astoria is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, close to the Pacific Ocean, and the Maritime Museum’s displays show the challenges of ships navigating the area. Once a center of fur trading and canneries, Astoria’s historic homes still stand, and the town almost seems lost in time. Don’t miss the view from Coxcomb Hill and the Astoria Column , dedicated in 1926 to honor Astoria’s early settlers.

Set out from Astoria along US-101, heading south along Oregon’s coast, and plan for many stops along the way at observation points, towns, state parks, beaches, or simply to enjoy breathtaking views of rugged coastline and crashing waves. Ecola State Park , with its sandy beach, tide pools, picnic areas, and hiking trails would be an appealing place to stop. Other beaches, wildlife preserves, and fishing villages will beckon you along the way, turning the 133-mile trip from Astoria into a full day. Relax in Newport, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium , and dine on fresh seafood at sunset as you decide on your next stop. Willamette Valley wineries? Portland? More coastal towns? State Route 20 heads inland and US-101 continues south for your next adventure.

Rapid City to Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Rapid City is not only a great destination in itself, with art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s also the gateway to Mount Rushmore, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site , and Badlands National Park , where this road trip will take you. Fossil beds, rugged mountains, wildlife, and striking rock formations create a unique environment.

The park is about 60 miles east of Rapid City, and South Dakota Route 44 is a scenic road through open prairie, farms, small towns, and ranches along Rapid Creek, a tributary of the Cheyenne River. You’ll drive through the Buffalo Gap National Grassland before reaching the entrance to Badlands National Park, two miles north of the town of Interior on Highway 377. From there, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway (SD-240) takes you through the park along 31 miles of stunning scenery that includes buttes, cliffs, spires, and overlooks where you’ll be amazed by the stretch of landscape before you.

Plan to spend several hours among the varied terrain and scenic beauty. Hike one of the many trails, and stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and geology. Don’t leave without a stop at Pinnacles Overlook , especially striking at sunset. To return to Rapid City, take SD-240 west to the town of Wall and then head west on I-90 for a quicker route.

New York City to Cape May, New Jersey

There’s always something to do in New York City, and after you’ve seen the shows, walked through the museums, and had your fill of the best bagels, get behind the wheel and head south along the Jersey Shore. You’ll probably leave the city via the Holland Tunnel to cross under the Hudson River to New Jersey. Stay on Route 78, and then take I-95 after you cross Newark Bay. After Perth Amboy, take the Garden State Parkway for a more scenic drive closer to the coast. Whew! You're out of the city.

The entire route is around 160 miles, and you’ll pass through some well-known beach towns worth a jaunt off the Parkway, so allow plenty of time. Asbury Park is where Bruce Springsteen got his start, and other beach towns, long popular as summer getaways, include Belmar, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, and towns on Long Beach Island, a narrow barrier island that parallels the coast. Take Route 9 when it branches off around Toms River for a more scenic route closer to the ocean. Atlantic City, home to hotels, restaurants, casinos, beaches, and its historic boardwalk is next along your route. Stop at Steel Pier , a 1,000-foot amusement park offering rides, games, and food.

Nearing the southernmost end of New Jersey, you’ll reach Wildwood , a resort city with Adventure Amusement Pier , 1950s-style motels, diners, and retro entertainment. Just a bit further, but seemingly a world away, Cape May offers Victorian-style homes, quaint cottages, boutiques, galleries, and history dating back to the 1600s. Walk among its historic buildings and spend a night in one of its inns or bed and breakfasts before returning to New York or continuing south on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry , which can accommodate cars.

New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Once you’ve had your fill of beignets and oysters Rockefeller in New Orleans, consider a springtime getaway up the road to Louisiana’s capital. This southern road trip is only about 100 miles, but with so much history and beauty along the way, you should plan on making it a full-day trip. 

Take I-10 west out of town and I-310 south to LA-18, a scenic road that hugs the Mississippi. Stop at cemeteries, churches, and any picturesque places along the way that catch your eye. Then, merge onto LA-3213 N, cross the river, and make a slight left onto US-61 N to pass through Gonzales, also known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” The town has a festival dedicated to the dish every May and several Cajun restaurants like The Jambalaya Shoppe .

Get on I-10 W in Prairieville from US-61 N and follow it for about 25 minutes to Baton Rouge. Enjoy some time in the city, and perhaps spend the night after your long day of driving. You might consider touring the LSU Rural Life Museum , which documents the cultures of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans. For a faster return, take I-10 east, or continue west on I-10 to Lafayette, Lake Charles, and beyond.

San Antonio to Austin, Texas

If you happen to be in San Antonio in April, don’t miss Fiesta , a celebration dating back to 1891 that honors the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with parades, flowers, food, and entertainment. Enjoy the River Walk and restaurants while you plan your Texas-style road trip to the state capital of Austin. Wildflowers and the spring landscape make this meandering drive one of the most beautiful routes to Austin (just don't expect it to be the quickest). Head west on I-10 out of the city, and then west on I-410 to TX-16 north (Bandera Road) for a scenic drive through Hill Country.

The town of Bandera , home to dude ranches and farms, was once a center for cattle drives, hence its nickname, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” From there, head north on TX-173 and TX-16 to Fredericksburg , a Texas city with a German heritage dating back to its first settlers in the mid-1800s. Wineries and authentic German cuisine make this an attractive stopping point. If you have time, stop in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to see its pink granite dome and striking rock formations.

Austin is about 80 miles east on US-290, but if there’s time for one more detour, you might want to visit Pedernales Falls State Park , just six miles north of US-290 about halfway to Austin. Known for entertainment, food, and nightlife, Austin is called the “Live Music Capital of the World.” You may want to spend a night to see what it’s all about. When it’s time to leave, you can take a direct route back to San Antonio on I-35 south, making the trip in under an hour and a half.

Phoenix to Flagstaff, Arizona

Spring is lovely in Phoenix, with April temperatures around the mid-80s. Flagstaff, at 7,000 feet of elevation, sees cooler average temperatures in the 60s and 70s during spring. The drive begins on I-17 north through the Sonoran Preserve and continues through the desert landscape for an hour before reaching our first suggested stop, Arcosanti . The experimental community is considered one of the best small towns in Arizona due to its futuristic and eco-conscious architecture, so set aside an hour or two to explore.

Then, continue up I-17 to the Montezuma Castle National Monument . These well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings were the homes of the Sinagua people for more than 400 years.

Continue northeast on I-17, then take AZ-179 north to Sedona along the Red Rock Scenic Byway , with about eight miles of stunning scenery that includes rugged sandstone rock formations tinted red by the presence of iron. Spend some time in the small town, explore the shops and restaurants, or hike among the rocks to feel the energy some refer to as vortexes.

Take AZ-89A north toward Flagstaff, but don’t miss Slide Rock State Park , especially during wildflower season. In just over 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Flagstaff, home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Explore the historic downtown on a walking tour and rest there for the night before heading back to Phoenix or on to Grand Canyon National Park , Wupatki National Monument , Petrified Forest National Park , or one of the other national or state parks accessible from the gateway of Flagstaff.

Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake, California

Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images

No list of spring road trips would be complete without one of the most beloved — the Rim of the World Scenic Byway . The 110-mile trip takes drivers along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains from one breathtaking view to the next.

Begin at Cajon Pass off Interstate 15, about an hour east of Los Angeles on Interstate 10. This drive takes you through some of the most scenic spots in California’s Inland Empire area, with plenty of photo opportunities at lookouts like Lake Silverwood Scenic Overlook  off State Highway 138.  

If there’s time to spend in Lake Arrowhead, off State Route 173, we highly recommend a tour on the  Lake Arrowhead Queen paddle-wheel boat  to get a good look at the lake and its scenic shores. Stay overnight at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for a relaxing evening of waterfront dining and alpine views from its private beach.

Join State Route 18 for your drive east toward Big Bear. Embrace your mountainous surroundings and stay at one of the chic cabins at Noble + Proper . Go for a hike on the  Castle Rock Trail  to catch unparalleled views of Big Bear Lake. Before you head back to L.A., grab a poke bowl and orange-guava smoothie at Tropicali , Big Bear’s popular restaurant on the Rim of the World with Hawaiian-style trappings. 

• Work With Jen
• USA Bucket List
• Follow Us On Instagram

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.

Similar Posts

The Ultimate Napa Valley Girls’ Trip (3-Day Itinerary)

Dreams Playa Mujeres Review: A Complete Recap Of Our Stay

1-Day Islands of Adventure Touring Plan for 2024!

Best Beach Bags for Moms (Our Reviews + Links to Shop!)

9 Best Things to do In Old Town Scottsdale (You Won’t Want to Miss!)

Top 15 Exciting Things to do in the Black Hills With Kids

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Great ideas Jen! Thanks for all your knowledge!

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

Find Even More

Find your next vacation destination!

Connect on Instagram

Find out where we’re traveling now!

Make the memories now

You don’t have to wait until your kids are more grown up or you have a ton of money saved to start traveling.

With a little planning and a lot of love, lifelong family vacation memories can be made at all ages, stages – and places both near and far.

Destinations

• Attractions
• Girls’ Trips
• U.S. Cities
• All-Inclusive Resorts
• Universal Orlando

Free Printable

Free packing list printable when you subscribe for the latest travel updates!

Travel With A Plan is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Family Vacation Packing List!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Last Updated On
• June 10, 2023

17 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families – Kid Friendly Ideas!

Excited for the spring break season?

Do you already have a plan on where to take your kids for their much-deserved break from school?

If not, I’m here to help you plan your escape.

As we know, spring comes and goes on a whim.

It’s the perfect way to escape from the everyday routine and come out as a different person after.

But with so many things to consider and prepare for, choosing the right destination can understandably feel overwhelming.

As a parent who goes through this every year, I can relate to the struggle.

So, I want to help you discover the best spring break destinations for families by sharing my experience.

I will compare each destination’s pros and cons and use a set of criteria to ensure a fair review.

Pack your bags, and hit the road.

Discover the best spring break ideas for your family below.

Spring Break Ideas For Families Compared

Get ready for an unforgettable spring break experience with the whole family. 

Here are some destination ideas for the best spring break vacation:

Editor’s Choice

Delton Grand Resort and Spa

Delton Grand Resort and Spa is the perfect spring break destination for families.

• Affordability: 4/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 4.5/5
• Ease of Access: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach offers everything you need for a fun spring break holiday.

• Affordability: 5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Ease of Access: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Banyan Tree is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5

Here are the top 17 spring break destinations for families.

1.  Delton Grand Resort and Spa (Editor’s Choice)

670 E Lake Ave Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 (608) 253-6049 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Beautiful lakefront views
• Luxurious spa and wellness center
• Some malfunctioning amenities

You can’t go wrong with a luxury condominium resort for spring break.

Get front views of the spectacular Lake Delton right from your private villa.

You and your kids will enjoy a fun swim at the resort’s lakeside heated pools.

If you’re in the mood for a beach day, it also provides easy access to sandy beaches.

Or, explore the local scene with the resort’s location nearby major attractions, including theme parks and ski hills.

After a full day of fun, relax your muscles at the waterfront Rhapsody Spa.

Also See: Best Hotels in The Caribbean Best Beaches in The Caribbean What to Do in The Caribbean

2. Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach

11127 Front Beach Rd Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-4080 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning beachfront location
• Various activities for kids and families
• Rooms and facilities are in need of an update

Relax on a private beach with stunning sugar-white sands.

Watch your kids splash and paddle in the hotel’s lagoon-style pool with a beautiful waterfall.

The little ones will also love playing with other kids at the resort’s water playground, complete with slides, sprinklers, and splash buckets.

Want to have some adult-only fun?

Drop the kids off at the Under the Sea Activities Center for an arts and craft adventure.

You and your beau can relax in the oversized hot tub with a picture-perfect view of the Gulf Coast.

End the day by indulging in a delicious family dinner at SeaGlass Bar & Chips Seafood Grille.

Related: Restaurants: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Also See: Fun Family Vacations in Wisconsin Top Beaches in Wisconsin Best Water Park Hotels in Wisconsin

3. Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Carretera Federal Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 298 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo México, CP 77710 (984) 877-3699 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Luxurious villas with private pools
• Lush forest backdrop
• Costly accommodation

I remember stepping foot in Banyan Tree Mayakoba, feeling a sense of awe and serenity wash over me. 

Every corner was a snapshot of tropical paradise; lush greenery, serene waterways, and the refreshing vibe of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. 

We stayed in one of their elegant villas, my kids loved the private pool, and the outdoor living area became our hub for laughter and games. 

And oh, the spa. 

An unforgettable experience of traditional Asian therapies, it was an absolute treat for me after the fun-filled days. 

Not just a trip, it was an immersive experience that still brings a smile to my face.

So, you’re torn between Delton Grand Resort and Banyan Tree Mayakoba? 

Let me give you the lowdown. 

Delton Grand is a blissful retreat where you get to soak up lakefront views while savoring the luxuries of a wellness spa. 

Banyan Tree, on the other hand, is a tropical paradise where luxury meets nature. 

Think private villas and serene waterways. 

If you’re on a budget and crave a serene waterfront, Delton is your spot. 

But if you’re ready to splurge on a luxurious tropical getaway, Banyan Tree will make your heart sing. 

Remember, both will create unforgettable family memories.

Also See: Things to Do in Panama City Beach with Kids Best Hotels in Panama City Beach

4. Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

2221 Queens Hwy East End, KY (888) 232-0541 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With gorgeous white sands and crystal clear waters, Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman is an outstanding alternative to Delton Grand Resort and Spa and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

Enjoy water sports fun just steps outside your beach-nestled suite or villa right.

The resort’s secluded East End location is perfect for a quiet and peaceful spring break escape.

Explore the beauty of the area through the resort’s family-friendly excursions.

No trip is complete without swimming with the magnificent stingrays on the Stingray City Tour.

Parents will enjoy a full body massage and facial at the full-service spa overlooking the beach.

Watch out for the resort’s kids’ activities, including art, music, movie nights, and more.

Also See: Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids Best Hotels in Indianapolis Top Family Resorts Near Indianapolis Best Beaches Near Indianapolis

5. Mayakoba, Mexico

77730 Playa del Carmen, Q.R (984) 873-4900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for a small, secluded destination for your spring break vacation, you might want to consider the beautiful gated community of Mayakoba in Mexico.

It is along the Riviera Maya and is 45 minutes south of Cancun’s International Airport.

Mayakoba means the ‘village of water’ and is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Caribbean’.

It lives up to that name with its network of canals, freshwater lagoons and, of course, gorgeous beaches .

The jungles and lagoons are spread over 620 acres of land.

You will also find some excellent resort options for your stay and it is all done while preserving the natural habitat of the place.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local cuisine and some golf and beach clubs that only add to the landscape.

Recommended Hotel: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Also See: Best Restaurants in The Riviera Maya Best Hotels in Riviera Maya Riviera Maya All Inclusive Family Resorts

6. Grand Cayman, Caribbean

Grand Cayman, Caribbean (345) 949-0623 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The gorgeous beaches of Grand Cayman, Caribbean are always inviting you to plan trips with kids.

This place has a familiar touch of home which is only one of the reasons a lot of folks like to go here.

The roads are easy to navigate even though they drive on the left-hand side.

There are a ton of familiar hotel chains and restaurants around George Town.

The Seven Mile Beach is a pretty amazing place for those who love white sand and blue waters.

Head towards the north of the island and you will find Rum Point.

We’ll leave it to you to find out what to do there.

You can also go on a tour in a boat with a glass bottom.

Visit the famous Stingray City Sandbar to snorkel with the friendly southern creatures.

Recommended Hotel: Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman

Also See: Top All Inclusive Waterpark Resorts in The Caribbean Best Luxury Family Resorts in The Caribbean Best Caribbean Resorts for Families Top All Inclusive Family Resorts in The Caribbean

7. Ogden, UT

Ogden, UT (800) 255-8824 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If skiing is your thing then you have to go to Ogden, Utah.

It’s 30 minutes north of Salt Lake City and has resorts which offer skiing programs for children.

There are three resorts that have about 11,600 acres for skiing alone.

You can also go hiking or mountain biking here.

Ogden offers a lot of options for shopping, dining and has exciting nightlife, especially along 25th Street.

The Wasatch Mountain Range is a visual treat while other parts of the town are rugged and rustic.

There are many hotels and out-of-the-way campgrounds here if you’re not a family of ski bunnies.

While the kids are busy, maybe you could hit the spa or check out Ogden’s fascinating history and perhaps catch some art at the local community theatre.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Ogden

Also See: Best Family Beaches in Utah Best Family Vacations in Utah Best Waterpark Hotels in Utah Utah Family Resorts

8. Titusville, FL

Titusville, FL (321) 567-3775 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’ve never heard of Titusville, that’s probably because the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a few miles away, usually hogs the attention.

If you’re looking for ideas for places to go during the spring break, Florida’s Space Coast is highly recommended.

It has some of the most beautiful beaches along the Canaveral National Seashore.

It gives you a peek into Florida’s nature along the Indian River Lagoon.

The whole family could go into the lagoon.

While the toddlers spot manatees and dolphins, you will be paddling away.

Or strap on a lifejacket and go kayaking.

These tours are available at night too in the spring months and the water glows with comb jelly bioluminescence.

You can also try star gazing if you’re lucky enough to be around when a rocket blasts off in the night sky.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center

Related: Spring Break Ideas for Families on A Budget

Related: Places to Visit in May in the USA

Also See: Best Hotels for Kids in Florida Hotels with Water Parks in Florida

9. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico (787) 710-8280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you can’t decide where to go this spring, picture this.

A place where the Old World meets the new and the result is a small island filled with immense beauty and you don’t need a passport .

That’s beachy Puerto Rico for you.

It is back in the game after the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017.

Whether you want diving lessons in the west coast or walk on bike trails in the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats, Puerto Rico won’t disappoint you.

You can also head to the National Wildlife Refuge if you like bird watching.

And don’t skip exploring the rich history of old San Juan and the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, while you’re there.

Culture and cuisine here are exceptional.

The mountains pack both adventure and serenity making this a Caribbean paradise.

Recommended Hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Also See: Best Beaches in Puerto Rico Best Hotels in Puerto Rico Puerto Rico All Inclusive Family Resorts Puerto Rico with Kids

10. Florida Keys, FL

Florida Keys, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Florida Keys is a great place all year long. But in spring, the islands are a refreshing break from the mainland.

Set up your base in Key Largo or Key West and float around the islands in between.

At the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, children get to see sea turtles in a rehab.

In Bahia Honda State Park, you will find the best waterfront tent sites.

Try snorkeling at the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary which is home to some of the best-preserved reefs.

And top it off with a trolley tour in Key West.

You could also enjoy watching fishermen at work and maybe you’ll stumble upon a wedding.

Florida Keys is a great place to get a cocktail and relax while the little ones enjoy the sun and sand.

Recommended Hotel: Sunset Key Cottages

Related: Best Places to Travel in the US in March

Also See: Best Hotels in The Florida Keys Best Beaches in The Florida Keys

11. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head, SC (800) 523-3373 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to see what the tweens are up to on their spring break, head to Myrtle Beach but if you want quality family time, you want to go to Hilton Head .

It is just off the coast of South Carolina with 14 miles of beaches , 100 miles of biking paths and world-class golf courses.

It’s the perfect destination to find some peace and quiet.

But don’t worry, there’s plenty of activities to keep your babies engaged.

There are family-friendly hotels and beachside resorts that can take care of your needs.

Or you could rent a car and take a trip to Savannah or Charleston to experience the rich history of the Old South.

The family could go crabbing or spotting bottlenose dolphins.

Either way, it’s an excellent choice.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Places to Eat in Hilton Head, SC

Also See: Best Hotels in Hilton Head Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Myrtle Beach Activities for Kids

12. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX (210) 244-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With its world-famous River Walk, San Antonio is now a popular holiday hotspot for families .

The shops and restaurants here make for interesting pit stops while you explore one of the five San Antonio missions, all of which are UNESCO heritage sites.

It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about the cultures of Texas and Mexico.

And for fun, you can take them to SeaWorld or check out the many thrill rides and shows at Six Flags.

Don’t forget to stop by the Barney Smith Toilet Seat Art Museum just outside the city.

That’s right, a toilet museum.

San Antonio is also home to the world’s first amusement park for those with special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland.

It has a lot of parks and green spaces where you can rest while planning your itinerary for the many seasonal events. When looking for things to do with kids in San Antonio , you’ll never be at a loss of fun activities to choose from.

Recommended Hotel: Grand Hyatt San Antonio

Also See: Best Hotels in San Antonio Best Restaurants in San Antonio Family Restaurants in San Antonio San Antonio Water Parks

13. New York City, NY

New York City, NY (212) 639-9675 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Summer, spring or winter, there’s nothing quite like a vacation in the Big Apple .

But since we’re looking at spring break, the city that never sleeps is a pretty perfect choice.

Kids will love its iconic landmarks and entertainment options.

The Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty?

You don’t have to choose.

Central Park or Time Square?

It’s all there.

American Museum of Natural History or a Broadway musical?

You will get to see both.

By the way, you can get a “Night At the Museum” experience with a sleepover.

Whether you want to go shopping or explore the nightlife and whether the kids want to check out the local attractions or sporting events, you will run out of time but not things to do because this is New York City.

Recommended Hotel: Mandarin Oriental New York

Related: NYC: Best Restaurants

Also See: Things to Do in NYC with Kids Beaches in NYC Best Hotels in New York City for Families Family Resorts Near NYC

14. Carlsbad, CA

Carlsbad, CA (760) 434-6093 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Beaches, parks, zoos, museums and sunny California .

Carlsbad has all of that and more for its visitors.

Carlsbad is a highly recommended spot for a family vacation .

It’s just 30 minutes from San Diego and has the choicest places for snacks and shopping.

And for that, get started with Carlsbad Village.

If you want sun and sea, head to the Carlsbad State Beach.

Make sure you reserve a day for your kids to spend at LEGOLAND and the San Diego Zoo.

Take the Carlsbad Coaster and head to the zoo which is filled with pandas.

You can get up close and interact with them, among other animals, if you go early in the morning, before the park opens.

Carlsbad has seven miles of coastline, which is lined-up with nine rather amazing breweries and restaurants that offer some unforgettable dishes.

Recommended Hotel: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa

Also See: Best Hotels in Carlsbad Best Restaurants in Carlsbad Fun Things to Do in Carlsbad with Kids

15. San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA (619) 232-3101 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you have some time left after Carlsbad, you should head to San Diego .

The blue skies and a welcoming vibe are a great boost to the soul.

And for the tots, SeaWorld is just the tip of the fun iceberg.

Stop at the San Diego Zoo and peep into safari park in Escondido.

San Diego has 70 miles of coastline filled with activities throughout the year.

Get some sun at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach or La Jolla .

If you want to take a walk, head to Coronado Beach.

There’s also some pretty spectacular Mexican food that you shouldn’t miss.

Also, don’t forget to spare a day for the 1,200-acre Balboa Park.

It is famous for its natural vegetation zones, gardens, museums, theaters, apart from the San Diego Zoo.

Recommended Hotel: The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

Related: Nice Restaurants: San Diego

Also See: Best Hotels in San Diego Top San Diego Attractions Things to Do in San Diego with Kids All Inclusive Resorts in San Diego

16. Yosemite, CA

Yosemite, CA (866) 425-3366 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

No American is a stranger to the incredible beauty of Yosemite National Park.

With towering waterfalls, Sequoia trees, daunting cliffs and some unique rock formations, it is 1,200 square miles of awesomeness.

You could visit Half Dome and El Capitan, the more popular landmarks of the national park.

You will also find some amazing hiking trails here.

There are guided tours and if you’re feeling young and insane, you can take climbing lessons too.

The eight square miles of Yosemite Valley gets about 4 million visitors every year.

You should also check out the Tunnel View Outlook which is the gateway to the many attractions in Yosemite.

Check out Glacier Point while you’re here.

It’s on the south wall of Yosemite Valley at an elevation of over 7,000 feet.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel at Black Oak Casino Resort

17. Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI (800) 464-2924 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It’s the largest city in Hawaii and the scenery is more than reason enough to visit.

Go to Oahu if you want a blend of luxury and nature.

You will be thrilled to find many historical sites like the Iolani Palace and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Keep an eye out for the USS Arizona Memorial.

The Waikiki neighborhood is decorated with a skyline of resorts and sandy beaches at ground level.

Head to the North Shore and let the young ones see rural Hawaii.

The blue waters and hiking trails will leave them spellbound.

You can try the exquisite cuisine at any restaurant in town .

The city also has a very busy social calendar.

So don’t forget to check it, no matter what time of the year you plan your trip.

Recommended Hotel: The Modern Honolulu By Diamond Resorts

Related: Restaurants: Oahu, Hawaii

Also See: Resorts in Honolulu for Families Best Restaurants in Waikiki Hawaii with Kids Things to Do on The Big Island

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

There are endless destinations for a fun spring break getaway with the family.

A thorough evaluation of the pros and cons of your options is key to choosing the right one for you.

Let’s dive into some comparisons. 

Delton Grand Resort is like a serene lakeside retreat, perfect for peace, while Banyan Tree Mayakoba gives you a lush, tropical luxury getaway. 

And if you’re a beach bum, Holiday Inn Resort in Panama City and Wyndham Reef Resort in Grand Cayman are your go-to spots. 

Each spot shines in its unique way, so really think about what your family craves this spring break. 

Is it serene lakes, lush tropics, or the inviting ocean? 

Remember, the best choice is the one that will make your family’s hearts sing.

How I Picked The Destinations

Here’s the scoop, my friend: I want you to have the best family getaway ever. 

That’s why I’ve dug deep, consulting local experts, scouring travel blogs, and even chatting up friendly locals during my own visits. 

From the hidden gems in Wisconsin Dells to the best time to visit Mayakoba, I’ve got the insider info you won’t find in your usual travel guides. 

Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the memories you’ll create. 

So let’s make your next spring break not just good but extraordinary. 

You deserve it.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Affordability: This criterion evaluates how budget-friendly the location is. Does it offer free activities? What about the accommodations and meals? Are they expensive? I ask myself these questions when rating affordability.   
• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to assess the availability and quality of kid-friendly activities in every destination. Does it offer amusement parks and interactive museums? Are there parks and beaches? These questions are essential when evaluating this criterion. 
• Safety: This criterion assesses the overall security of the destination. Does it have a low crime rate? Is it a generally safe environment? Will families feel comfortable and secure throughout their trip? I consider these factors to rate safety. 
• Accommodation Options: This is used to rate the accommodation options available in the area. Are there budget-friendly hotels? Does it have vacation rentals and homey options? Does it offer family-friendly options? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess accommodation options. 
• Ease of Access: I use this to evaluate the accessibility of every location. Does it have good transportation options? Is it located near airports or major highways? Are there restaurants and local attractions within walking distance? I ask these questions to evaluate the accessibility of the destination. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where do most people go for spring break in the us.

The most popular destinations for spring break can vary each year, but some consistently popular choices include beach destinations like Cancun, Miami, and Panama City Beach.

What Are The Best Resorts To Visit During Spring Break For Families?

The best resorts to visit during spring break for families include Delton Grand Resort and Spa, Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the best spring break destinations for families in Wisconsin, Florida, Mexico, and Grand Cayman.

During our most recent spring break family trip, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach.

The kids had a blast at the colorful, action-packed water playground and showed off their craft skills at Under the Sea Activities Center.

My partner and I saved up for a luxurious stay at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

And I can assure you that the unforgettable paradise experience is worth every single dime.

We also had a lovely time snorkeling and diving at Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman.

But the grandest of them all was the Delton Grand Resort and Spa.

We had the perfect spring break at the resort with its stunning lake views and a cozy condo stay.

Here are 15 day trips to take over spring break in New Jersey

Before we know it, schools across New Jersey are going to be on spring break and parents are going to be looking for ways to keep them occupied.

While you might not be able to plan for any elaborate vacations or getaways, there are tons of activities across New Jersey that the whole family can enjoy. And, the best part is, these are places you can take a day trip to for some much-needed adventure.

Here are 15 things to do over spring break across the Garden State.

Adventure Aquarium , Camden

Located along the Camden waterfront, Adventure Aquarium has been serving New Jersey since 1993. The aquarium features more than 15,000 aquatic animals throughout two million gallons of water. It allows guests to experience up-close animal encounters, interactive touch exhibits and the ability to learn about some of the ocean's greatest species.

Go: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden; 844-474-3474, adventureaquarium.com .

American Dream Mall , East Rutherford

The American Dream Mall is a one-stop shop for all things entertainment during spring break. Besides having more than 450 retail stores — making it the second-largest shopping mall in the country — American Dream Mall also has several other attractions for memorable family experiences.

Among these attractions is the DreamWorks Water Park, which is the largest indoor water park in the country. There is also Nickelodeon Universe Amusement Park — the western hemisphere's largest indoor theme park with 35 indoor rides and multiple playgrounds. There's also American Dream's Big Snow, the country's first and only indoor, year-round ski experience, as well as the Tilt Museum and Angry Birds Mini Golf.

Go: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford; 833-263-7326, americandream.com .

Diggerland , West Berlin

With four locations in England and its only United States location right here in New Jersey, Diggerland is a unique construction-themed amusement and water park. The attraction offers more than 40 rides and attractions, where kids have the opportunity to operate construction vehicles — kid-sized versions, of course — like bulldozers and excavators. The park also has a full service arcade, zip line and rock wall.

Go: 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin; 856-768-1110, diggerlandusa.com .

FunTime Junction , Fairfield

FunTime Junction is an indoor children's entertainment center with activities that have been keeping families occupied since 1994. The center offers a 1,800-square-feet vest-less laser tag arena, a helicopter carousel ride, toddler playground, LiteZilla, Krazy Kars, a black light scavenger hunt and more. FunTime Junction's biggest attraction is a multi-level softplay climbspace with slide tubes, web ladders, bouncers and a jump pillow.

Go: 400 Fairfield Road, Fairfield; 973-882-9777, funtimejunction.com .

Insectropolis , Toms River

Also known as the Bugseum of New Jersey, Insectropolis takes guests through the insect world. Visitors are invited to view thousands of exotic insects from all over the world, and can even touch a live tarantula, millipede and a hissing cockroach. There are 12 different exhibits throughout, including an observation bee hive and a mud tube to crawl like a termite.

Go: 1761 Route 9, Toms River; 732-349-7090, insectropolis.com .

Liberty Science Center , Jersey City

Founded in 1993 and located within Liberty State Park, Liberty Science Center consists of 12 different museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, large aquariums, a 3D theater and the country's largest planetarium. The exhibits are constantly changing, with The Science Behind Pixar, Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure and Touch Tunnel are among those currently open.

Go: 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City; 201-200-1000, lsc.org .

Mountain Creek , Vernon

While we might not see warm enough temperatures over spring break to enjoy the more than 30 attractions at Mountain Creek's waterpark, there are still other activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Mountain Creek offers ziplining tours, which are open to those of all ages, as long as they're at least 60 pounds and 48 inches tall. In this attraction, visitors will travel along a series of zip lines — ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet in length — while getting panoramic views of the tri-state area. And, if you're looking for something a little less daring, but still adventurous, trying Mountain Creek's TreEscape ropes course. Here, visitors must navigate rope walks, obstacles, climbing elements and zip lines while suspending above the trees.

Go: 200 Route 94, Vernon Township; 973-827-2000, mountaincreek.com .

RPM Raceway , Jersey City

In Jersey City, you can find an all-electric indoor go-kart and entertainment destination. RPM Raceway's state-of-the-art racing facility features two quarter-mile long European-style racetracks with Italian-made go-karts that can reach speeds up to 45 mph. The attraction also has other activities, like virtual reality battles, racing simulators, arcade games and billiards, and a snack bar.

Go: 99 Caven Point Road, Jersey City; 201-333-7223, rpmraceway.com .

SeaQuest Woodbridge , Woodbridge

SeaQuest is an interactive zoo and aquarium with 20,000 square feet of exhibits and activities, and visitors are invited to touch, feed and interact with animal species from all over the world. Visitors can participate in interactions with Asian otters, flying squirrels and sloths. There is also snorkeling with stingray, sharks and tropical fish and a fishy kisses experience, where guests dip their feet into a tank of happy fish that gently remove dead skin cells.

Go: 101 Woodbridge Center Drive, Woodbridge Township; 732-283-2945, visitseaquest.com/woodbridge .

Six Flags Great Adventure , Jackson

For a day full of adrenaline, take a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. The amusement park is home to 14 world-class roller coasts like El Toro, Kingda Ka, The Joker and Batman, as well as a variety of thrilling family rides like the Roaring Rapids and Skyscreamer.

Six Flags Great Adventures also features a 350-acre drive-through safari. The Safari Off Road Adventure takes guests on round-trip excursions aboard open-air vehicles where they can see as many as 1,200 animals from across the globe, including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions.

Go: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township; 732-928-2000, sixflags.com/greatadventure .

Space Farms Zoo & Museum , Wantage

Space Farms Zoo & Museum is a complex that spans 100 acres in Sussex County. The zoo has more than 500 live wild animals, including lions, tigers, bears, leopards and more. There is also nine large museum buildings on the complex, with more than 50 antique cars, motorcycles, old horse-drawn carriages, old farm machinery and more. There is also a large picnic area, playground and restaurant available.

Go: 218 County Road 519, Sussex; 973-875-5800, spacefarms.com .

Sterling Hill Mining Museum , Ogdensburg

For those with inquisitive minds, the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg a perfect spring break attraction. Guests can participate in a walking tour that explores approximately 1,300 feet of tunnel inside the first level of the mine. During the tour, guests will learn about the equipment, history, working conditions and geology of the mine and will get a look inside areas like the lamp room, shaft station and mine galleries dating back to the 1830s. Sluice mining is another attraction, where visitors can purchase a bag of sand, which is then poured into a tray and dipped in water to reveal a variety of minerals and fossils.

Go: 20 Plant St., Ogdensburg; 973-209-7212, sterlinghillminingmuseum.org .

Turtle Back Zoo , West Orange

First opened in 1963 and currently part of the Essex County Parks Department, Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange consists of 1,400 animals across 20 acres in the South Mountain Reservation. The zoo has major exhibits like African Adventure, Big Cat Country, Essex Farm, Sea Lion Sound and a stingray touch tank. Turtle Back Zoo also has other activities like a safari mini golf, a prehistoric playground, pony rides, face painting and a butterfly tent.

Go: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange; 973-731-5800, turtlebackzoo.com .

Van Saun County Park , Paramus

Van Saun County Park spans more than 130 acres and offers attractions like ball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, splash pads and even a miniature train ride. The park is also home to the Bergen County Zoo, where guests are invited to explore animal exhibits, take carousel and pony rides, as well as watch free live animal shows in the zoo amphitheater.

Go: 216 Forest Ave., Paramus; 201-336-7275, cobergen.nj.us/parks-recreation/van-saun-county-park .

Wild West City , Byram Township

First opened in 1957, Wild West City is a family-owned, Western-themed park created by the American Foundation for the Preservation for the Old West. The attraction's sandy main street features replicas of buildings from notorious Western towns like Dodge City, Kansas, and Tombstone, Arizona. The park has live-action shows, a barnyard, museums, history demonstrations and train, pony and stagecoach rides.

Go: 50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope; 973-347-8900, wildwestcity.com .

Maddie McGay is the real estate reporter for  NorthJersey.com  and The Record, covering all things worth celebrating about living in North Jersey. Find her on  Instagram @maddiemcgay ,  on  X @maddiemcgayy , and sign up for her  North Jersey Living  newsletter.   Do you have a tip, trend or terrific house she should know about? Email her at  [email protected] .

Watch CBS News

Want to book a last-minute 2024 spring break trip? Experts share tips on saving money on travel

By Kris Van Cleave, Analisa Novak

Edited By Camille Knox

March 22, 2024 / 11:32 AM EDT / CBS News

As the countdown to spring break ticks closer, airlines are bracing for an unprecedented surge in travelers, with an estimated 167 million passengers expected to fly during March and April, marking a 6% increase from last year. But finding a deal may require some flexibility, experts say.

Among the millions looking to escape the daily grind is the Ayala family, who have chosen to spend their spring break soaking in the excitement of spring training in Arizona. 

"It's our spring break, and they gotta see some players, get some signatures," said Angela Ayala.

Airports are bracing for the influx, with the TSA reporting a 6% increase in checkpoint activity over last year's already record pace. United Airlines,  is expecting its busiest spring break ever and is planning for a 10% increase in passengers over 2023.

For the Lancaster family of Houston, this season marks their first international spring break. They chose Cancun as the destination.

"This is our first time traveling international on spring break with our daughter … so we're in for a treat," said Samantha Lancaster.

Finding a good deal, however, requires flexibility with travel dates and destinations, advises Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert with Hopper. Warm weather spots like Orlando, Las Vegas and Miami top the domestic charts, while Cancun, London and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic lead internationally. Even so, bargains are still within reach, including notable deals from New York to Cancun for $250 round trip, Chicago to Dublin for under $500 and Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for about $140.

"If you're eyeing Miami, maybe skip some of the more crowded beach destinations, consider a Fort Myers, a Tampa, a Fort Lauderdale, that's gonna help you save a little bit more and you'll avoid the crowds," said Schwimer.

Emily Kaufman, also known as The Travel Mom, said flexibility in travel plans is key when it comes to savings. 

"You've gotta be flexible. You may be taking a road trip. You may be taking a cruise. It depends where the deals are," said Kaufman.

She noted that "cruises are a terrific value because the closer we get to the departure time, the less the price becomes."

She also advises travelers to explore discounts available through memberships such as the AARP, AAA and teacher's unions, or deals associated with being in the military or geared toward first responders. 

"All of them get travel perks and benefits you might not realize you have," said Kaufman.

Kris Van Cleave is CBS News' senior transportation and national correspondent based in Phoenix.

More from CBS News

Husband of U.S. journalist detained in Russia: "I'm not going to give up"

Powerball jackpot grows to $800 million after no winner in Saturday night's drawing

Ravaged California community bands together to rescue stolen cat

10 important mortgage loan questions to ask this spring

Miami Beach doesn't want spring breakers, but they don't want Miami Beach either. Here are the new top 3 spring break destinations.

• Miami Beach announced it's "breaking up" with spring break tourism.
• But data shows that Miami Beach wasn't among the three trending destinations this March anyway.
• Las Vegas, New York City, and Orlando snagged the highest spots. 

Miami Beach is done with spring break tourists. But those tourists were already looking elsewhere.

The City of Miami Beach announced that it's "breaking up" with spring breakers after "unruly crowds, lawless behavior, and a string of violent acts in recent years," a press release in February said.

Hey Spring Break, we're over. 👋 #SpringBreakUp https://t.co/CjCyrLwkPD pic.twitter.com/vxmVtxd7MO — City of Miami Beach (@MiamiBeachNews) March 1, 2024

Young revelers typically flock to Miami Beach in March for weeklong vacations. Some residents have complained about the behavior of those tourists . As a result, this year, local officials implemented "tough" new measures, including bag checks, DUI checkpoints, restricted beach access, license plate readers, and a heightened police force to dissuade rowdy conduct.

But Miami Beach wasn't at the top of tourists' minds this year anyway, according to travel company Booking Holdings.

Data shared by Booking Holdings showed the top 10 trending travel destinations for Americans from March 2 to March 30. Here's the breakdown.

Las Vegas scored the No. 1 spot for most of March, followed by Orlando and New York City

The Nevada city — known for its lavish tourism sector — ranked No. 1 for three out of the four weeks, specifically between March 2 and 23.

Related stories

The only time Las Vegas slipped to the No. 2 spot was from March 23 to March 30.

Las Vegas might be attracting travelers' attention for several reasons, including the Sphere concert venue and the return of F1 racing to the city late last year . There are also celebrity residencies , casinos , lush resorts , and other attractions.

Orlando, located in central Florida, snagged the No. 2 spot from March 2 to March 23. It sailed into the top trending destination spot from March 23 to March 30.

Like Las Vegas, Orlando is a popular American tourist spot for several reasons. The city is near amusement parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, as well as other attractions like the John F. Kennedy Space Center . Although Orlando is not coastal, it's a skip away from beaches like Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach.

New York City consistently ranked No. 3 throughout March.

New York City is a beacon for American tourists and tourists across the globe. Local sites like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty are popular stops, while the collection of art museums and famed restaurants often draw attention. Depending on the season, there are also several sports teams to watch.

Miami Beach never ranked above No. 4

Based on Booking Holdings' data, Miami Beach peaked at No. 4 among trending destinations from March 2 to March 23. The city then dropped behind South Carolina's Myrtle Beach and Cancún, Mexico, to the sixth spot from March 23 to March 30.

The City of Miami didn't fare much better, ranking sixth for the first two weeks of March before peaking at No. 5 from the 16th to the 23rd.

Miami fell to the 11th most trending destination between March 23 and March 30.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

• Main content

This Florida airport had the most delays: The best, worst airports for spring break travel

Nothing can ruin a spring break getaway faster than encountering a travel disruption at the airport.

Half of all travelers with spring break plans are “concerned” about disruptions impacting their travel plans, according to travel platform Hopper’s 2024 Spring Break Travel Outlook . 

The report said last year saw a higher-than-average volume of disruptions. During spring break, 20.1% of flights were delayed, compared to 18.4% throughout 2023.

For smooth travels, aGamble analyzed flight departure data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics to see which airports had the most disruptions during March and April 2023 – the usual spring break period. Disruptions included delays, cancellations and diversions. 

Haven't booked a spring break trip yet? 4 things to know about pricing, destinations

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“With spring break officially kicking off, airports are expected to be crowded throughout the coming weeks, and travelers may face flight disruptions depending on their departure location,” Collin Czarnecki, a researcher for aGamble, told USA TODAY in an email.

“It might not be surprising that a majority of airports with the most flight disruptions are located in spring break destination hotspots such as Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Las Vegas, and Miami,” Czarnecki said. On the other hand, the airports with the best on-time departures during the spring break period last year were Pittsburgh International Airport in Pittsburgh and Portland International Airport in Oregon.

Czarnecki also added that the second and third week of March will be the busiest at security checkpoints, so be sure to arrive at the airport with ample time. 

The worst airports for spring break travel

• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International in Florida – 34.87% of flights delayed, 4.63% canceled 
• Harry Reid International in Las Vegas – 31.44% of flights delayed, 1.47% canceled 
• Orlando International in Orlando, Florida – 31.06% of flights delayed, 1.52% canceled 
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall in Baltimore – 31.26% of flights delayed, 1.22% canceled 
• Chicago Midway International – 29.04% of flights delayed, 1.32% canceled
• Miami International – 29.22% of flights delayed, 0.88% canceled 
• Newark Liberty International in Newark, New Jersey – 25.81% of flights delayed, 2.53% canceled
• Dallas-Forth Worth International – 25.11% of flights delayed, 2.49% canceled
• Denver International – 26.51% of flights delayed, 1.04% canceled
• John F. Kennedy International in New York – 25.06% of flights delayed, 2.23% canceled

The best airports for spring break travel

• Pittsburgh International – 83.8% on-time flight departures
• Portland International – 83.2% on-time flight departures
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International – 82.2% on-time flight departures
• Washington Dulles International in Virginia – 82% on-time flight departures
• Ronald Reagan Washington National in Arlington, Virginia – 81.9% on-time flight departures
• Minneapolis-St. Paul International – 81.8% on-time flight departures
• Indianapolis International – 81.7% on-time flight departures
• Seattle/Tacoma International – 81.6% on-time flight departures
• Cleveland-Hopkins International in Ohio – 81.3% on-time flight departures
• Philadelphia International – 80.9% on-time flight departures

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .