spring break trip destinations

These are the 15 best places to visit for spring break this year

Ah, spring — the season of rejuvenation and adventure. It's that time of year when the winter chill thaws and possibilities bloom like spring flowers.

Are you ready to ditch the textbooks, escape the office, or take a break from the daily grind? Spring break is not just a time off; it's a state of mind! It's your chance to explore new horizons, make unforgettable memories and maybe even find a new favorite cocktail.

We've scoured the globe to bring you the top 15 spring break destinations that cater to every traveler's taste, whether you're a college student ready to party, a couple in search of romance or a family eager for fun.

Here are the best places for spring break travel.

Grenada: A hidden gem beach

Have you heard about Grenada? As it marks its 50th year of independence, this island isn't just another dot in the Caribbean; it's a world of its own.

Picture this: secluded beaches like the famous Grand Anse, where the sand is soft, and the crowds are few. But there's more to the island than just beaches.

If you're into exploring different cultures, you'll love it here. The island has its own music, tasty food and markets full of spices. And if you're adventurous, the rainforests and hidden waterfalls are ideal for some nature immersion.

So, if you're looking for a special place that's under the radar and not too busy, you've come to the right place.

Where to stay : Mount Cinnamon is a boutique hotel with 36 hillside suites and villas above Grand Anse Beach. Plus, it has a complimentary kids club for 3- to 12-year-olds. Rates start at $720 per room, per night, including breakfast, in March and April.

Related: The 22 best Caribbean resorts, from boutique literary haunts to exclusive private-island escapes

Cancun, Mexico: A classic spring break destination

Cancun, Mexico , resonates with many as the classic beach getaway, and for good reason.

With its spectacular stretches of Caribbean beaches , vibrant street life and rich cultural heritage, Cancun offers a complete package.

Here, you can soak up the sun on powdery white sands, dive into the crystal-clear waters, or explore the bustling markets and lively nightlife. The city is a hub of activity where every turn promises a new adventure, whether it's a boat trip across stunning Nichupté Bay, known for its fascinating wildlife, or a day exploring ancient Mayan ruins nearby.

Where to stay : The Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla offers a luxurious stay with stunning sea views. Plus, the hotel's Wander Rooftop pool provides an unbeatable spot to watch the sunrise. Rates start at $183 or 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun

Colorado: For those who still want winter

If you're not quite ready to say goodbye to winter, Colorado is the perfect spring break destination, especially this year, with many people having spring break in March due to Easter.

Did you know March is often the best time for skiing in Colorado? This is when winter sports destinations like Colorado see some of their prime ski conditions.

Related: Best ski resorts in Colorado for everyone from beginners to experts

As the darker days of winter fade, the snow in Colorado is typically at its best. Ski resorts often boast their deepest snow bases in March, thanks to continuous snowfall and spring storms that bring heavy, moisture-rich snow. This makes for excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, combining the thrill of winter sports with the more comfortable early spring temperatures.

Moreover, most Colorado ski resorts stay open until April, giving you plenty of time to hit the slopes during spring break. Whether you're a seasoned skier or looking to try something new, Colorado's snowy peaks offer an exhilarating escape for those who aren't quite ready to let go of winter.

Where to stay : The Limelight Hotels , located in adventure-driven locations, make the experience even more special. Imagine your kids scaling a five-story climbing wall or learning ski tricks from a pro. For the days you prefer relaxation, the hotel's luxe amenities provide the perfect backdrop. Rates start at $259 per person, per night for a Limelight Denver or $1,089 per night at Limelight Aspen.

Orlando, Florida: The classic spring break option for families

Disney and Orlando are classic picks for a family-friendly spring break.

The magic of Disney World , with its iconic attractions and beloved characters, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for kids and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for adults.

The excitement doesn't stop at Disney; Universal Studios brings your favorite movies to life with thrilling rides and shows. Orlando 's warm spring weather is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors, and the city's variety of dining and shopping options cater to families of all tastes and budgets. With a range of accommodations, from posh resorts to cozy hotels, every family can find their ideal stay.

Where to stay : The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes' new multi-million-dollar renovation includes inspired family suites, a poolside restaurant and yes, even a water park. Just a short drive to Disney World makes this luxurious, sparkling new property a win for the entire family. Rates start at $470 per night or 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

Hawaii: For those who want adventure and relaxation

Hawaii is not just another beach destination; it's a whole vibe. You get the best of both worlds here — thrilling adventures and chill-out spots. Snorkeling in Hawaii is like jumping into a postcard, with water so clear and full of life. And if hiking is your thing, the trails here take you through lush forests and up to some pretty epic volcanoes.

But hey, it's not all go-go-go. Hawaiian beaches are perfect for just kicking back and soaking in the sun. Each island has its own personality. Oahu's got the buzz with places like Waikiki Beach, while Kauai is more about taking it easy and enjoying the quiet.

You won't struggle to find a cool place to stay. Whether you're looking for luxury or something more low-key, like a cozy cottage, Hawaii's got it. And the food? Get ready for some amazing seafood and local treats.

So, whether you're flying solo, hanging with your partner, bringing the family, or on a trip with friends, Hawaii hits the spot. It's a mix of adventure, relaxation, and just plain beauty. For a spring break that's a bit of everything, Hawaii is where it's at.

Where to stay : Waikiki Malia is the perfect mix of opulence that's easy on the wallet. The 18-story hotel is just one block from the famed Waikiki Beach in the center of some of the best shopping and dining in Honolulu (sales tax in Honolulu is just 4.5%). Spring break months of March and April are seeing prices from $164 per night for a Waikiki view, two-double room.

Related: The best hotels and resorts in Hawaii

Los Angeles: For a city and nature escape

Los Angeles , affectionately known as La-La Land, is a fantastic choice for spring break. It's a city where there's always something happening. If you're into the glitz and glamor, Hollywood's iconic sights are a must-see.

But that's just the start. LA's beaches are perfect for those sunny spring days, whether you're up for surfing or just lounging on the sand. For the adventurers, hiking the Santa Monica Mountains offers some breathtaking views and a bit of a workout. And let's not forget about the food — LA's culinary scene is incredible, with everything from trendy food trucks to high-end restaurants.

Where to stay : Hotel Amarano Burbank, a secret gem, offers a luxury boutique close to Hollywood and Universal Studios. Rates start at $224 per night during March and April.

Related: The 27 best hotels in Los Angeles for your next visit

Charleston, South Carolina: For foodies

For a spring break centered around amazing food, Charleston is the place to be. This South Carolina city is renowned for its culinary scene, with streets lined with top-notch eateries. From the upscale delights at FIG to the comfort of Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, your taste buds are in for a treat. While the charming cobblestone streets and pastel beach houses add to the city's allure, the flavors of Charleston truly shine. After indulging in the local cuisine, you can walk it off in the historic district or along the sparkling beaches. Don't forget to explore the downtown area, which is rich in both history and culinary gems.

Where to stay : In the heart of historic Charleston stands the Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton . The property is within walking distance of some of the best dining options in the city. However, the Mills House holds its own with elevated Southern Coastal fare at the Iron Rose Restaurant, and its all-day cafe, The Black Door Cafe. Rates start at $339 per night or 80,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Related: The 17 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia: For history buffs

Are you a history buff looking for a spring break that's a bit out of the ordinary? Try Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia . It's a living history museum where you can wander through blooming gardens, explore art museums and dive into interactive historical adventures.

Learn about the Revolutionary War at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, then see the past come alive at the Jamestown Settlement. Dining is a throwback to places like Chowning's Tavern, serving up dishes from yesteryear. Don't miss Merchants Square, where shopping meets 18th-century charm.

Where to stay : The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection offers visitors true 18th-century styling with Chippendale fretwork and unique furnishings within modern amenities. It's in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, so history buffs will feel as if they're living in the past. Rates start at $169 per night or 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

National Parks, USA: Perfect for roadtrippers

Thinking about a road trip for spring break? You've got to check out the U.S. National Parks .

Start with Zion National Park — those arches are like driving through a giant, natural art gallery. Yosemite ? Wow, it's like rolling right into your computer's wallpaper with its lush meadows and huge mountains. And the Grand Canyon is a must-see. It's massive, and the views will blow your mind.

Each park is a whole new world, filled with cool sights and fun things to do. And for those who love a good road trip, try the Golden Circle route. It ties all these amazing spots together, making the journey as awesome as the destinations.

Where to stay : With five camps located along the Grand Circle (near Grand Canyon, Moab, Zion and Lake Powell) and open for the season by spring break, Under Canvas and ULUM Moab deliver upscale, outdoor accommodations that allow guests to retreat in nature's best without the hassle of camping. Rates for a late March or April stay start at $649 per night.

Related: These are the best new hotels that opened in 2023

Paris, France: For a city escape

Paris during spring break is an experience like no other.

Known as the City of Light, it's perfect for all kinds of travelers. For history buffs, Paris is a treasure trove with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Art lovers will be in heaven, wandering through galleries like the Musée d'Orsay.

Foodies, get ready for some of the best pastries and cafe experiences in the world. Strolling along the Seine or exploring the charming streets of Montmartre, you'll feel like you're in a movie.

And for those seeking romance, Paris in spring, with its blooming gardens and picturesque cafes, is as romantic as it gets. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple or a family, Paris offers a blend of culture, history and beauty, making it an unforgettable spring break destination.

Where to Stay : Hotel des Grand Voyageurs is an elegant and intimate treasure. Escape into the nobility of old-world Europe without sacrificing the welcoming warmth of today. Grandeur and class ooze from every room, while the hotel's own restaurant and bar offers fantastic dining. Rates start at $270 for a March or April one-night stay.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Costa Rica: For the adventure seeker

Costa Rica , a gem for adventure seekers, is a spring break paradise with rainforests, volcanoes and beaches — all in one place.

You can zip line in Monteverde, feeling the rush as you soar above the cloud forest. Then, hit the waves at Jaco or Tamarindo; they're a surfer's dream. And let's not forget the thrill of white water rafting on the Pacuare River. It's not just about the adrenaline, though.

Wildlife is everywhere. Sloths, monkeys, a burst of tropical birds — all living freely in national parks like Manuel Antonio. And the commitment to eco-friendliness is real here. It makes your adventure not just exciting but also responsible. Oh, and the warm, welcoming vibe of the locals? It's the cherry on top.

Where to stay : The Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton is a great jumping-off point for adventures in Costa Rica. Rates start at $220 or 66,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: A fun-filled alternative to Disney

Consider swapping the Disney crowds for the charm of Dolly Parton's world in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee .

It's an ideal spot for families looking for a fun-filled vacation without the Disney hustle. Pigeon Forge boasts an impressive array of amusement parks and attractions. Take Dollywood , for example: With more than 40 rides, including thrilling roller coasters and water adventures, it's a hit for all ages.

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

But there's more to this Smoky Mountain town . The Island at Pigeon Forge is an entertainment hub with a giant Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, a challenging ropes course for adventurous families, plus a variety of unique shops and local eateries.

And for a mix of fun and learning, WonderWorks is an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits that kids absolutely love. For a family getaway that's both entertaining and relaxed, Pigeon Forge is a fantastic choice.

Where to stay : Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a family-friendly hotel with mountain views and real rustic Southern charm. Families will adore sitting by the fire pit on their patio, while kids will appreciate the pool's epic waterslide. Best of all, Dollywood is just a 3-mile drive. Rates start at $145 per night or 37,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Seychelles: An exotic (and luxurious) escape

The Seychelles? It's like a little piece of heaven on Earth, perfect for anyone who loves a bit of extravagance with their adventure.

With 41 ancient granite islands and 74 dreamy reef islands, it's seriously like stepping into a postcard of paradise. This place is all about upscale, unique experiences. If you love stunning views, exclusive beaches and feeling like you're in a world of your own, you'll fit right in.

The Seychelles is tailor-made for those who enjoy the finer things in life but still want that touch of wild, natural beauty. So, if sipping a fancy drink on a private beach or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters sounds like your idea of a good time, this is your spot.

Where to stay : The Mango House , an LXR property by Hilton , is a magnificent gem of a property tucked along the oceanfront of the Anse Aux Poules Bleues. You'll rest in one of their 41 sea-facing villas listening to the hushed tones of the waves after eating at one of their five marvelous fine dining options. Rates start at $551 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Scotland: A unique family adventure

Scotland is an exceptional choice for a unique family spring break, especially if you're not set on a beach-centric holiday.

Spring in Scotland is a time of rejuvenation, where the landscapes burst into vibrant colors and the days grow longer, offering more time to explore. It's a playground for families who love adventure and history.

Imagine wandering through ancient castles, uncovering stories of knights and legends, or hiking through the lush, green Highlands, with scenery straight out of a fairy tale. The cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow, are brimming with culture, from interactive museums to street performances, all kid-friendly and educational.

Related: How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh

Plus, the chance to spot some of Scotland's iconic wildlife, like red deer or golden eagles, adds an exciting twist to the trip. Scotland offers a blend of outdoor activities, historical exploration and cultural experiences that create unforgettable memories for the whole family, away from the usual beach crowd.

Where to stay : Gleneagles is an adventure playground for the entire family. With its new "Children's Welcome Experience," kids can become explorers, while adults indulge in elegance. It's an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. Rates at Gleneagles start from $730 based on two adults and two children under 14 sharing a room, including breakfast. Interconnecting rooms are available at an additional fee.

Related: Edinburgh's Gleneagles Townhouse: A city hotel that's costly but close to perfection

Roatan, Honduras Bay Islands: For nature and water sports lovers

Roatan, nestled in the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a spring break destination you've probably never considered. Yet, it's an absolute gem for those seeking adventure and close encounters with nature.

This island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering diverse activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing and Jet Skiing in its warm, crystal-clear waters.

For a unique perspective of marine life, try the glass-bottom boating. Families will find Roatán especially enchanting, with attractions like the Gumbalimba Animal Sanctuary and Manawakie Eco Nature Park, where you can interact with sloths and monkeys.

Where to stay : Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa is nestled on the picturesque West Bay Beach and has premiere access to the dropoff point of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef. Rates start at $554 per night or 100,000 IHG One Rewards points in March and April.

Related: The top Kimpton Hotels across the world, according to IHG Diamond members

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11 fresh ideas for spring break in 2024

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Asheville, North Carolina, USA

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

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

2. Phoenix, Arizona, USA

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

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

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA

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

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

4. Los Angeles, California, USA

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

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

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

6. Culebra and Vieques, Puerto Rico

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

7. Whistler, Canada

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

8. Southern Baja California, Mexico

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

9. El Tunco, El Salvador

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

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

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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

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

11. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

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

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

This article was first published March 2017 and updated February 2024

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Where to go for spring break this year

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

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

Spring break destination for families

The classic: orlando, fl.

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

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

More to explore

The adventure: Costa Rica

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

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

The hidden gem: Edinburgh, Scotland

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

Spring break destinations for couples

The classic: paris.

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

The adventure: Sri Lanka

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

The hidden gem: Finger Lakes

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

Spring break destinations for friends

The classic: napa.

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

The adventure: Jackson, WY

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

The hidden gem: Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

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

Spring break destinations for partiers

The classic: cabo san lucas, mexico.

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

The adventure: Majorca, Spain

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

The hidden gem: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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

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10 Affordable Spring Break Destinations in the U.S. and Mexico

These are the most affordable places to visit for spring break this year, according to Priceline.

Jeff Yount/Getty Images

Craving a spring break escape? Join the club: According to a recent study , more than one in 10 Americans are planning a spring break trip this year. That said, your vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, travelers can score some incredible deals in locales across North America. To help take the stress out of planning, we teamed up with Priceline to round up the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. and Mexico based on average nightly hotel rates.

And even though spring break is around the corner, it’s not too late to snag savings. According to Maria Beehner , a travel agent at Marvelous Mouse Travels, booking a last-minute deal may just be the way to go this spring break — as long as you can “be flexible with the destination.” What’s more, she says, “while you might not get the hotel or resort you had your heart set on,” you might be able to score a last-minute bargain with a deep discount. It’s also a good idea to research free or low-cost activities and look into multi-attraction passes in each destination to save money during your trip.  

From beautiful beach retreats to eclectic urban escapes, here are the 10 most affordable places to go for spring break in the U.S. and Mexico this year, according to the average nightly hotel rates pulled by Priceline.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Ron Buskirk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $117 

For a family-friendly escape that won’t break the bank, look no further than Pigeon Forge, which is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The small city is best known for being the home of Dollywood , Dolly Parton’s resort complex, with a theme park, water park, two hotels, and a seemingly endless amount of live music and entertainment offerings. Other family-friendly attractions in the area include the WonderWorks indoor amusement park, The Island in Pigeon Forge (a sprawling entertainment, dining, and shopping complex complete with a 200-foot-high observation wheel), and the thrilling Rocky Top Mountain Coaster .

Guadalajara, Mexico

Sergio Mendoza Hochmann/Getty Images

Guadalajara is the only Mexican destination on this list. And while many folks equate spring break in Mexico with Cancun or Cabo, this underrated city — Mexico’s second-largest by population, which is also considered the country’s cultural center — can certainly hold its own. What’s more, Guadalajara is famous for its rich history, tequila, mariachi music (which is said to have originated here), and its vibrant design and food scenes. Speaking of the latter, must-visit spots include Birriería las 9 Esquinas for birria and La Postrería for exquisite desserts.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Tanveer Badal

Average nightly hotel rate: $130 

Don’t sleep on Oklahoma City, where cowboy culture reigns supreme thanks to a bevy of attractions like the National Cowboy Museum , horse shows , cattle auctions , and indoor rodeos and bull riding . Downtown, the opulent First National Center offers a selection of buzzy bars and restaurants like the swanky Stock & Bond steakhouse and The Library of Distilled Spirits (a cocktail bar housed inside the building’s old bank vault), and a luxury hotel , aptly named The National . So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a pair of cowboy boots at Little Joe's Boots , snag a custom hat at Shorty's Caboy Hattery , and hit the ground running. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Travelview/Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $142

While Vegas may seem like a vacation destination exclusively reserved for high-rollers, it can be enjoyed on a budget thanks to an abundance of free things to do , including catching the show at the Fountains of Bellagio , admiring gallery-worthy art at the Aria , or taking a self-guided tour of a chocolate factory . Plus, extravagant Vegas buffets , such as Wicked Spoon at The Cosmopolitan , offer great bang for your buck with all-day brunch from $47 per adult. Pro tip: Pick a hotel with a pool so you can spend days soaking up the sun without having to spend any money. According to Priceline, Las Vegas is also one of the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. and Mexico based on airfare, with round-trip flights clocking in at $303, on average.

Kissimmee, Florida

Dianette Garcia/Getty Images

Budget-conscious travelers looking to visit the theme parks without breaking the bank may opt to make their base here, just south of Orlando. Beyond the theme parks, the city offers its fair share of noteworthy attractions, including the nostalgia-inducing Old Town entertainment district and the lush Kissimmee Lakefront Park, where biking, hiking, and fishing opportunities abound. To get here, you’ll fly into Orlando, which also made Priceline’s list of the most affordable spring break destinations based on airfare, with round-trip flights coming in at $298, on average.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Average nightly hotel rate: $150

This beloved family vacation destination gets more than 200 days of sunshine per year . Beautiful weather combined with 60 miles of shoreline make Myrtle Beach one of America’s best beach getaways. Beyond the sand, travelers can ride the 200-foot-tall SkyWheel, stroll the boardwalk, go golfing or mini-golfing (there are dozens of courses to choose from), and check out shopping and entertainment complexes like Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing.

Portland, Oregon

Tim Newman/Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $151

This eclectic Oregon city is known for biking (there are hundreds of miles of greenways, bike lanes, and dedicated paths) and brews (travelers can choose from roughly 70 breweries). Spring is among the best times to visit since the weather is mild (think: highs in the low 60s and lows in the mid-40s, depending on the month), and there are fewer crowds — not to mention cheaper hotel rates — compared to the summer high season. Beautiful blooms, which can be found at spots like the International Rose Test Garden and the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden , are just the icing on the cake. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take advantage of ample scenic hiking areas such as Forest Park , Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge , and the Instagram-worthy Multnomah Falls , about a half-hour drive from downtown.

Houston, Texas

Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images

Average nightly hotel rate: $152

Houston offers so much to see and do for every type of traveler, making it an excellent pick for an affordable long weekend escape. Of course, no trip to Space City is complete without a visit to the Space Center, which offers access to astronaut training facilities, the Starship Gallery (home to multiple spacecraft), an epic collection of spacesuits, and Independence Plaza (where you can go inside a shuttle replica). Then, continue on to the massive Museum of Natural Science before shopping at The Galleria or retreating to the outdoors at the tranquil Hermann Park, Discovery Green, or McGovern Centennial Gardens. Finally, when hunger calls, options abound: As America’s most diverse city, Houston is home to an abundance of different cuisines — from West African staples at ChópnBlok to Korean-Mexican fusion at Coreanos — making it one of the top food cities in America .

Dallas, Texas

Paul Torres/Courtesy of Meow Wolf

Average nightly hotel rate: $161

Dallas truly shines in the spring, with sunny, warm (read: not humid or sweltering) weather. During this time, travelers can attend outdoor events such as Dallas Blooms , which neighbors the expansive and beloved White Rock Lake, or enjoy an afternoon at Klyde Warren Park downtown. Other must-visit attractions include the fun-for-all-ages and highly interactive Perot Museum of Nature and Science as well as The Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy some tacos from Revolver Taco Lounge and Taco y Vino or Texas barbecue at Terry Black's and Lockhart Smokehouse . We also recommend exploring beyond downtown: In fact, the city and surrounding areas are home to some truly dynamic spots like the ever-evolving Bishop Arts District in the Oak Cliff neighborhood and the newest location for the intriguingly popular art exhibition-meets-amusement park, Meow Wolf's The Real Unreal , in Grapevine (a short drive from Dallas near the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport). 

Denver, Colorado

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Average nightly hotel rate: $164

From state-of-the-art breweries and world-class museums to top-notch sporting events and outdoor adventure, it’s pretty much impossible to be bored in Colorado’s capital city. Art enthusiasts need not miss the Denver Art Museum, which boasts over 70,000 works, while beer lovers can check out the Denver Beer Trail . Work up a sweat hiking Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre — or at the very least, catch a show here — or wander the Denver Botanic Gardens. Larimer Square is the beating heart of downtown Denver, with many shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings.

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Spring break vacation packages and deals.

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

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

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

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10 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Travel experts share the best spots to book during your kid's spring break.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

"Is there even still time to book anything?" asked my friend who has been trying to plan a trip during her family's spring break next month. "I think so," assuring her that we just booked our spring break trip two weeks ago. As parents of older kids, we both know the deal: Spring break really is the only time to squeeze in a family vacation between January and May or June unless you want to take the kids out of school, and, well, that's a story for another time.

Take your pick from this expert guide to the 10 best destinations for a last-minute spring break travel. Whenever possible, the Good Housekeeping Institute added suggestions for hotels based on our research for our annual Family Travel Awards . No matter which locale sounds most appealing to you, lock it in ASAP. As Fish notes, "We're past the time when you're going to see a better deal."

San Diego, California

Best for: Families with a variety of interests

The closest you'll come to a one-size-fits-all getaway, San Diego supplies something fun to do for every member of your family. Fortunately, this SoCal gem is one of the few warmer-weather locales with average airfare under $350 roundtrip in March and April, says Fish. Baseball fans in the family will be in their element at a San Diego Padres game at the city's downtown stadium; opening day is March 30. For the animal lovers in your group, the San Diego Zoo is packed with rare (and super cute) creatures plus hands-on activities. Superhero buffs will lose their minds at the new Comic-Con Museum . Theme-park goers can hit up Sesame Place right in town, or drive 40 minutes or so to Legoland California Resort . Of course, that's if your crew ever wants to leave the beach.

Where to Stay: The Hotel del Coronado , Loews Coronado Bay Resort , and Bahia Resort Hotel all performed well in first-hand evaluations by the Good Housekeeping Institute. If you're bringing three generations on the trip — something that 40 percent of families are doing this year, according to AAA Travel — look into Shore House at the Del . The Hotel del Coronado's new seaside residences sleep up to 11 and have outdoor fireplaces.

RELATED: 40 Best Things to Do in San Diego with the Whole Family

Washington, DC

Best for: Families who live within driving distance and like to explore museums and historical attractions

So much is free in Washington, DC. "There's no admission fee to the monuments, memorials, National Zoo or any of the Smithsonian museums," says Diaz. In fact, the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum re-opened last fall with eight new galleries. Spring break coincides with peak cherry blossom season. DC's official festival runs from March 20 to April 16, and peak bloom in 2023 is predicted to be from March 22 to March 25.

Where to Stay: Walkable to many top spots to visit, Yours Truly DC offers traditional rooms plus two- and three-bedroom suites, according to our tester.

Greenville, South Carolina

Best for: Families on the east coast or in the midwest who want a low-key getaway with a variety of things to do for all ages

While the crowds are in Charleston and Hilton Head, your family can explore Greenville's charming downtown, extensive park system and world-class attractions, like the seventh-largest children's museum and a truly one-of-a-kind science center . Winner of a Good Housekeeping 2023 Family Travel Award , Greenville takes the stress out of family travel with stroller-friendly walking paths plus a modern, easy-to-navigate airport with more than 100 nonstop flights daily. Free family-friendly concerts start in March while the town's minor-league baseball team begins its season in April.

Where to Stay: Our tester was "seriously impressed" by the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Greenville Downtown , which is just a few blocks from fun shops and restaurants. "While you're checking in, the kids can swing on the egg chairs in the lobby," our tester said. "There's also a heated outdoor pool!"

Phoenix, Arizona

Best for: Families who want to swim and hike in the southwest or see lots of baseball games

Spring is prime time to visit the southwest, so we were pleasantly surprised to find flights from the east coast to Phoenix in March for less than $400 roundtrip. A Good Housekeeping staffer recently took her 1-year-old to Phoenix and raved about the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park and Children's Museum of Phoenix . Another team member highly recommends the Desert Botanical Garden (pictured), the Musical Instrument Museum and nearby hiking trails. If your family is baseball-obsessed, they'll love that the Greater Phoenix area is home to 10 spring-training stadiums.

Where to Stay: The Wigwam , winner of a Good Housekeeping 2023 Family Travel Award, is a stand-out pick for families, especially those traveling with three or more generations. Waterslides, golf courses and sporty activities like volleyball and tennis give everyone something to do. "The food is especially fantastic!" said our staffer.

New York City

Best for: Families with tweens or teens who want to go to Broadway shows or see their favorite TikTok-famous spots IRL

If your family is eying New York City for summer vacation, Fish suggests you move up the trip to spring break. "Manhattan will be considerably less crowded in springtime, and average flight prices in March and April are under $350 roundtrip," she says. Fewer tourists means you're more likely to snag a discounted ticket to a Broadway show (everyone will love Wicked ), reservations at the restaurants of your choice and a bench in Central Park (pictured). Buy a Go City discounted attraction pass to hit all the iconic sites and sprinkle in a few stops tailored to the interests of your tweens and teens. For instance, if you have a Swiftie, walking down Cornelia Street will be a must — and it's totally free.

Where to Stay: For more space than the typical NYC hotel room, try the Mint House at 70 Pine . Its apartment-style accommodations plus a downstairs bowling alley more than make it worth the subway ride from downtown to Midtown.

Pensacola Beach, Florida

Best for: Families who want a spring break trip in Florida away from the college crowd

"The college kids are going to be in Miami, so head north," suggests Gabe Saglie, communications manager at Travelzoo , a deal site. In particular, he recommends Pensacola Beach — on the Western stretch of the Florida panhandle — for its spectacular, uncrowded beaches and more affordable lodging. "There are 40 miles of coastline and it has the longest stretch of federally protected seashore in the U.S.," he says. Getting there is pretty straightforward too: Pensacola boasts non-stop flights from over 20 U.S. cities, including Denver, Chicago and Dallas.

Where to Stay: With March rates under $200 per night, the beachfront Surf & Sand Hotel is a deal.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for: Families who like live music, shopping and trying new foods

My family spent last year's spring break in New Orleans thanks to an airfare deal that got us there from the New York City area for around $250. We noticed some flights this spring for about the same price. Jazz, vintage shops and vinyl record stores are my teen daughter's jam, and NOLA is packed with all of them. We listened to music on the street and at Preservation Hall , which welcomes the under-21 crowd. We stuffed ourselves with beignets and our suitcases with the thrifting finds. It was bliss, and I realized that we shouldn't have waited so long to visit. City Park, home to the Louisiana Children's Museum , beignet-purveyor Cafe du Monde and the outdoor sculpture garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art, has the makings of a dream day for families with younger kids.

Where to Stay: We stayed at ONE11, a newish hotel in the French Quarter that passed my teen's "vibe check." Once a sugar mill, the hotel has maintained some of the original features plus it has a pool.

Houston, Texas

Best for: Families with younger kids who live within driving distance

Fish's solid advice: Let the other families go to the Texas Hill Country while you go to Houston. Your crew could spend multiple days at the Children's Museum of Houston, a winner of the 2023 Family Travel Awards. The city also has an amazing recreation system with 366 parks, 200 green spaces and 125 miles of trails. And for any wanna-be astronaut, the Space Center Houston will wow.

Where to Stay: If you'd rather have a kitchen than a pool, try Sonder's The Hogg Palace , near the city's aquarium and just a 10-minute drive to the children's museum. Otherwise, book the Marriott Marquis Houston , which has — Ready for this? — a Texas-shaped lazy river (pictured).

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

Best for: Families who enjoy the features and food at an all-inclusive resort

On a large stretch of white sand beach, the newest Club Med in the Caribbean makes sure everyone in your party gets a true vacation. While kids and teens are off at fun-filled clubs broken up into a wide variety of age groups, you can score some much-needed R&R at the adult-only Zen Oasis. Restaurants surprise and delight — one even has a secret chocolate room. What's more, flight availability to Punta Cana is still relatively good, says Fish. Roundtrip airfare on certain dates in March and April cost less than $400. RELATED: 25 Best All-Inclusives to Visit in 2023

Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, California

Best for: Families who love Disney

If you're hoping to book a last-minute Disney trip over spring break, Diaz suggests you price a Disneyland vacation, even if you live closer to Orlando. Depending on the week you want to go, she notes that Disneyland might be less crowded and less expensive than Walt Disney World. The reason? Local families in Florida and California make up a good chunk of the visitors, and they have spring break on different weeks. While extra time on the airplane isn't ideal, especially with kids, you can take comfort in the fact that it's easier to get around Disneyland than Walt Disney World. Another plus: Mickey's Toontown at Disneyland Park, which features Minnie's house, a Donald Duck-themed splash pad and much more, opens on March 19.

Where to Stay: The Hampton Inn & Suites , which was recognized as a budget-friendly hotel chain in Good Housekeeping's 2023 Family Travel Awards, has Anaheim locations with rooms for less than $150 per night on some dates in March.

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• 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.

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The 15 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in 2024

Senior Content Contributor

48 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 58 U.S. States Visited: 40

Michael Y. Park

15 Published Articles 158 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3142 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

2. florida keys, florida, 3. riviera maya and cancún, mexico, 4. oahu, hawaii, 1. yosemite national park, california, 3. sedona, arizona, 4. costa rica, 1. washington, d.c., 2. rome, italy, 3. cartagena, colombia, 1. las vegas, nevada, 2. san diego, california, 3. new york city, new york, 4. new orleans, louisiana, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

It’s time to say goodbye to winter and ring in the arrival of spring with a family vacation. There are so many destinations within the U.S. perfect for spring break family adventures , from U.S. national parks to cultural haunts, theme parks, and more.

March and April are excellent times to travel abroad , with fewer crowds frequenting top cities, beaches, and attractions worldwide. You may find amazing deals on award redemptions for flights and hotels , especially if you travel on off-peak spring dates (not Easter).

These are some of the best family-friendly spring break destinations to check out this season, whether traveling with the kids, teens, or grandparents or just wanting a more sedate spring break.

The 4 Best Family Spring Break Beach Destinations

Much of the continental U.S. still faces cold weather or even snow when spring break rolls around, so it’s normal to want to escape the freezing temps for some family fun in the sun. Here’s where you should go if you’re hoping for a sunny spring break .

One of the best all-inclusive spring break destinations for families , it’s easy to enjoy a relaxing, fun-filled vacation in Punta Cana without having to constantly organize. With numerous all-inclusive properties in Punta Cana , you can book your hotel and have access to meals and activities without spending hours planning what to do, where to eat, and other logistics.

Some of our favorites include the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana , where you can burn those hard-earned Hyatt points to enjoy amenities like an on-site water park, swim-up pool bars (parents, we’re looking at you here), a kids’ club and teen lounge, and plenty of games, activities, and entertainment. The Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is another family-friendly, all-inclusive hotel for families wanting to spend spring break with SpongeBob or even get slimed.

If you want to get off the resort for something a little different, consider a day trip to Saona Island , a tiny tropical spot with magical white sands and transparent waters.

The Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is a stunning property, but this Hyatt hotel has recently gone up a category. The Category E property now requires a minimum of 35,000 points per night. To bulk up your Hyatt points stash , apply for a card like the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , with which you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards to Hyatt.

Or, if you’re paying cash, consider paying for your Hyatt stay with The World of Hyatt Credit Card . Not only can you get up to 9x points on Hyatt charges, but you also get World of Hyatt Discoverist status , among other benefits.

Florida is one of the most obvious choices as a spring break destination for young families or families with toddlers. More specifically, the Florida Keys offers beautiful sunshine and plenty of activities for those who want to enjoy nature and wildlife . Although many families may prefer Orlando for its proximity to Walt Disney World Resort or Cocoa Beach (ideal for slightly older children who want to explore the Kennedy Space Center ), Key West and the other Florida Keys win when it comes to marine life, water sports, and historical sites.

While you really can’t go wrong with any Florida destination over spring break, the Florida Keys are home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. , turtle rescue and dolphin research centers, and 10 state parks in a 125-square-mile radius. Families love snorkeling in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, spotting American crocodiles in Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, and kayaking from Islamorada to explore the Indian Key Historic State Park, a hidden gem with blissful beaches that are often crowd-free .

While Cancún may be best known for hosting a party-centric spring break, the Mexican tourist hub has many family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts with on-site water parks . The Riviera Maya stretches south from just outside the city along the coast , starting in the town of Puerto Morelos (a less touristy area) through Playa del Carmen, Tulum , and Sian Ka’an Biosphere. While travelers who want a more traditional, all-inclusive vibe might opt for Cancún , families ready to discover wildlife, culture, and nature (all while getting sun) should head south of the city.

Snorkelers can enjoy spotting fish and other marine life in the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos . The town also has a main square that comes alive each evening with cultural activities and stalls selling wares and snacks. Further south, the mangroves and marshes of Sian Ka’an are ideal for boating or kayaking . You can also take guided tours of nearby cenotes and Mayan ruins.

Have an exotic and sunshine-filled family-friendly spring break vacation without ever leaving the country by heading to Hawaii. Honolulu, on the island of Oʻahu, is a top spring break destination for families. It’s still part of the U.S. (and one of Hawaii’s most developed islands), especially ideal for families that want a vacation that feels far-flung but also has the currency, language, and facilities the mainland U.S. has.

O’ahu is for curious families eager to learn more about Polynesian history and traditions . It’s home to a Polynesian Cultural Center and the Bishop Museum , both dedicated to preserving Pacific culture. Waikīkī Beach has some of the most popular hotels for families (and you can spot the Diamond Head volcano in the distance from Waikīkī — older kids will enjoy the hike up). The island is also home to Pearl Harbor National Memorial . A trip there can encourage children to learn about the nation’s important historic moments.

The 4 Best Family Spring Break Destinations for Exploring the Outdoors

Some of the most fun spring break destinations for families embrace the great outdoors. Kids can run free, parents can soak in the beauty of nature, and you might even get your teens and tweens to look up from their devices.

Outdoorsy families love Yosemite National Park . The spring months of March and April are ideal for exploring the park sans crowds . Families should take advantage of the shuttle bus that connects key destinations within the Yosemite Valley. Certain shuttles, like the Mariposa Welcome Center shuttle to Mariposa Grove, are seasonal (this one opens on April 1, 2024). You can also drive through the park. Because Yosemite isn’t super close to a main airport (the nearest is in Fresno), this might be an ideal destination for road-trippers .

Hiking is also an optimal way for families to explore the park. Just know it may be chilly, especially as you ascend. Or you can bike around the park ( adult and child-size bikes are available to rent ). Families visiting in March can also ski at Badger Pass if weather conditions permit.

Montana is one of the best U.S. spring break destinations for families that want to avoid crowds . Some people prefer snow to sand, and ski season runs through April in Big Sky , Montana . Kids can enjoy an event that marks the closing ski season for Whitefish : the annual Pond Skim, where participants hilariously attempt to cross a pond full of booby traps.

April is a gorgeous month to visit Montana to admire and appreciate the changing seasons. The snow begins to melt, and you can see floral buds and the beginning of greenery. It’s also high season for fly fishing. If you’re comfortable braving the cold, you won’t have to fight the crowds when visiting Glacier National Park . However, most of the park’s concessions and services won’t fully open until May , so keep that in mind when visiting.

Sedona is another U.S. spring break destination for families that want to avoid crowds, as most folks prefer to visit in the summer. Outdoorsy types can take advantage of warmish daytime temperatures but still cuddle by a fireplace at night. Save the waters of Slide Rock for summer, and instead take some child-appropriate guided nature walks, bird walks, and hikes through Red Rocks State Park , which also has an annual Earth Day celebration that features wildlife presentations, contests, food, games, and more. Families with teens ready to tackle the colder temps can take guided moonlight walks through the park.

If your kids are too young for long hikes, consider a ride with the Verde Canyon Railroad in nearby Clarkdale, where you can ride a restored vintage train 40 miles through Verde Canyon. The ride is 4 hours long, but the train cars feature comfortable seating, restrooms, snacks, and iconic views of red rock buttes, canopies of blooming foliage, and even wildlife spotting if you’re lucky.

Sustainable family travelers should visit Costa Rica in the dry spring season. Although it’s a popular time to go, you avoid storms, mosquitos, and other bugs that tend to thrive in the wetter weather. While many associate Costa Rica with jungle adventures and surfing, families can also show younger kids where food comes from with visits to banana, mango, and chocolate farms .

Kids can visit sloth sanctuaries or spot them in the wild at Manuel Antonio Park . And if you do want to experience the traditional zip lining and surfing in the country, there are plenty of kid-friendly options. Families that love the thrill of camping should also check out the Nayara Tented Camp (one of our top glamping recommendations ), which sits at the base of the Arenal Volcano.

Depending on where you go in Costa Rica, you might want to rent a car . Consider renting a 4×4 vehicle, which will allow you to get off the beaten path and explore many beautiful waterfalls, mountains, and beaches that are only accessible via dirt roads.

The 3 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families Into Culture and Cuisine

If you’re on the hunt for a more educational adventure, cultural escapes can be some of the best not-the-beach spring break destinations for families. Destinations with activities, events, and attractions like spring festivals, free museums, and foodie tours are places the whole family can enjoy .

Teens and tweens may best benefit from a trip to the U.S. capital since they might also be learning about civics and the destination’s history at school. With the National Cherry Blossom Festival covering nearly half of March and April (March 20 to April 14 in 2024), families that want to take in the nation’s capital lined with colorful buds should visit in spring. Kite-flying parties, parades, and music make the event ideal for the whole family.

Families on a budget can also enjoy Washington D.C.’s many free museums , such as the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Castle, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and others. Just make sure to check online to see if you need to reserve a timed entry .

One of the best international spring break destinations for families, Rome is ideal for parents who want to expand their kids’ palates or enjoy cooking. Food markets, cooking classes, culinary demonstrations, food tours, and traditional farm stays can introduce the whole family to different flavors and textures and explain where and how food is sourced . Your children will be talking about that amazing pizza-making class for years to come. And if not? Well, there’s plenty of never-ending pasta for even the pickiest eaters .

Although Rome isn’t necessarily known as the foodie capital of Italy , the urban hub has all sorts of things to do when you get tired (or full) of foodie tourism, with family-friendly attractions such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It’s easy to get to from many U.S. hubs , and visitors can expect mild weather in the spring, not too cold or hot for sightseeing.

For a colorful, vibrant spring break, introduce your children to Cartagena, Colombia. The bright hues of the UNESCO-listed walled historic center and street art of the lively Getsemani neighborhood appeal to the whole family. Stories of pirates, street food carts, animated music, and traditional dancing keep town squares abuzz from day to nigh t. Artsy parents will be drawn to the Fernando Botero status and art galleries scattered around the city, while kids will be wowed by the palenqueras — women in traditional dress who balance fruit on their heads as they roam the streets. All members of the family will likely enjoy exploring the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas , a 16th-century Spanish fort that overlooks the bright, blue sea.

Stays in Cartagena range from budget to luxe , though even the fanciest, big-brand, high-rise hotels in the Miami-like neighborhood of Boca Grande are relatively affordable. Get the kids pumped for a Cartagena trip by watching Disney’s “Encanto,” set in Colombia.

The 4 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families Who Want Lots of Activities

Whether it’s food, culture, tours, attractions, rides, parks, history, beaches, or something a little extra, these top family spring break destinations have endless activities for active families obsessed with filling their spring break with plenty of learning, adventure, and fun appropriate for all ages .

Las Vegas isn’t just for adults, partyers, and gamblers — there are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas with kids . Many of the most famous Las Vegas hotels have endless activities for kids, from Treasure Island’s pirate ship to the Big Apple Coaster, part of the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Children, teens, and tweens can go to shows like Blue Man Group or Cirque du Soleil . Most Vegas hotels also have massive pools , so enjoying the spring sunshine is an enjoyable way for the family to kick back and splash around after a day out on the town.

Las Vegas also has the Discovery Children’s Museum and the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. The whole family can view the sparkling lights of the Las Vegas Strip from vantage points like the Tower Observation Deck at the Stratosphere or the High Roller Las Vegas Strip Observation Wheel. This Nevadan hub is also an excellent base for outdoorsy day trips such as rafting by the Hoover Dam or boating around Lake Mead .

San Diego is a kid-friendly destination that boasts welcoming spring weather and has numerous kid-centric activities. The San Diego Zoo is one of the world’s largest , and there’s also the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and SeaWorld. Balboa Park (where the zoo is located) is also home to museums, hiking trails, and other fun, family-friendly activities like a miniature train, carousel, butterfly garden, and more.

LEGOLAND California is nearby, and so are Sesame Place San Diego (a Sesame Street-themed water park) and the beachfront theme park Belmont Park. And if you’re looking for something more affordable? San Diego is home to 31 beaches that feature more than 70 miles of coastline .

Manhattan is excellent for families at all times of the year, but in spring, when the trees in Central Park sprout buds and spring-inspired events like the Welcome Spring Festival at Wave Hill go down, it gets even better. Family sports enthusiasts can catch baseball games when the Major League season starts up again . Theater fans can see child-friendly shows like “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” “Wicked,” and “The Lion King.” And all members of the family will enjoy those quintessential New York City attractions like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and the Staten Island Ferry . Plus, let’s not forget about relative newcomers like Hudson Yards or the High Line.

Family-friendly museums in New York City include the American Museum of Natural History, the 5-floor Children’s Museum of Manhattan, the Jewish Children’s Museum , and the Staten Island Children’s Museum . And if you’re in the market for the best luxury spring break destinations for families, New York City is the answer, complete with fancy hotels, restaurants, and shops — some of which cater directly to kids, such as the famed toy store FAO Schwarz . The Peninsula offers Peter Rabbit storytime and afternoon tea , and The Plaza has a dedicated Eloise Suite .

Remember, subway fares, taxis, and ride-shares such as Uber or Lyft code as travel on certain credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , so make sure to consider this to earn bonus Chase Ultimate Reward points.

NOLA’s warm temps and lively culture are perfect for families looking for history, music, culture, and lots to do. Families flock to the haunted city tours that delve into the city’s spooky, voodoo-inspired past . Toddlers can delight in the bands that march around the French Quarter , playing buoyant jazz music. Kids of any age enjoy riding the city’s iconic streetcars into the Garden District, while parents can admire the historic mansions that line the boulevards. Not far outside the city, swamp tours and riverboat and airboat cruises along the Mississippi River allow visitors to experience the area’s unique flora and fauna, from crocodiles to otters and more.

Older folks often enjoy New Orleans ‘ exuberant culture, too — so bring grandma and grandpa along. After dark, adults of any age can enjoy jazz clubs and bars from sophisticated to rowdy. Foodies can sample low-brow, indulgent delights like po’boys, muffuletta sandwiches, and crawfish platters , take Cajun cooking workshops, and discover fine dining at French restaurants.

Whether you prefer to take your teens to hike Yosemite, your siblings to New Orleans, or your toddler to Rome, there are plenty of great spring break destinations for families to fit a range of interests and budgets. If you plan to book spring break travel, book soon for the best prices and availability, especially for larger families. Vrbo suggests booking spring break travel by February 8 for the best selection of available properties.

The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do most americans go on spring break.

Popular destinations for Americans to visit on spring break include spots like Cancún, Mexico; San Diego, California; Florida; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. For more information on where Americans travel during spring break , we gathered the data, state-by-state.

Where is it warm in the U.S. in March for a spring break vacation?

If you’re looking for sunshine and warm temperatures, U.S. destinations like Florida, New Orleans, southern Arizona, Southern California, and Hawaii are all ideal spots.

Where is the cheapest place to go on spring break with a family?

International destinations like Mexico or the Dominican Republic are some of the most affordable destinations to go on spring break with families. In the U.S., many national parks are usually affordable places to visit, although some charge fees.

What is the best destination for a family spring break in 2024?

San Diego is one of the top places to travel this spring for families. With endless activities for families from budget (lazy beach days) to expensive (theme parks like SeaWorld and LEGOLAND), this Southern California destination also has sunshine and warm temperatures in months like March and April.

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About Lori Zaino

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

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35 Cheap Spring Break Trips for Families (Fun Spots that are Actually Affordable)

Posted on Published: January 2, 2023  - Last updated: February 28, 2024

Woo-hoo! Spring break! Ready to go somewhere awesome? But are you also watching your spending? #storyofmylife Well here are 35 amazing cheap spring break trips for families that are actually fun!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

So whether you’re looking to kick back and relax on a beach, take in some history and go for high adventure, this list has a bit of everything.

As someone who’s actively crossing off travel bucket list destinations, I’ve been a lot of places. But obviously not everywhere so I called in back-up! To create the most comprehensive list possible, some travel blogger friends of mine helped out in creating this list of best family destinations for spring break.

And we’re covering the globe with this list! We’ll start in the USA, then head on over to Asia, Europe, the Caribbean and more!

Map of the best spring break destinations for families

If you’re a visual person, here’s a map to help you plan a vacation your family will not soon forget! Pinch an zoom on this world map since there’s destinations in nearly every region that are attainable on a budget.

Spring break family vacations

Since this list is so vast, we’re going to start in the USA and then follow other regions like Europe, Caribbean and more. Be sure to follow the tips and tricks for how to do each spot on a budget!

Here are the best cheap spring break trips for families. Let’s do this!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Best spring break destinations in the US for families

The USA is a big place with lots of phenomenal options. So we’re going to focus on affordable vacation spots in the west first, then make our way across the country.

1. Phoenix, Arizona

Warm weather and budget-friendly activities make Phoenix the perfect spot for a family spring break trip! 

Avoid expensive resorts, and stay at a vacation rental property. The nightly rate won’t break the bank, and you can save money by cooking your own meals. Rent a home with a pool and splash around without worrying about crowds or resort fees. 

Explore incredible hiking locations around the greater Phoenix area. Admire cacti and sunset views at Papago Park as you trek through the red butte formations. It’s perfect for hikers of all ages. Older kids and adults can enjoy a more challenging hike up Camelback Mountain while taking in phenomenal 360-degree views. 

Attend Major League Baseball Spring Training any day of the week from late February to the end of March. It’s free to watch batting practice and get autographs from up-and-coming stars. And most stadiums offer single-digit ticket prices for your family to relax picnic-style on their outfield lawn and take in the ball game. 

Don’t forget…Phoenix is only a day trip away from the world-famous Grand Canyon and magical Sedona. Make memories with under the Arizona sun, as Phoenix is the spring break destination for families !

Recommended by Abby of Worth Every Trip

READ MORE: Perfect Phoenix Itinerary

2. Utah National Parks road trip (a favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best ideas for cheap spring break trips is to see the Mighty 5 in Utah – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. By taking a  Utah national parks road trip , you’ll be able to spend time outdoors, which is one of the cheapest ways to vacation.

If you live in Western USA, you may be able to drive to Utah to start your road trip. If you’re not very close, your family can fly into Salt Lake City and enjoy the sights for a day or two, including these wildflower hikes in Salt Lake City – perfect for springtime. From there, you can visit the 5 national parks, then depart from Las Vegas.

Visiting 5 national parks, you’ll want to save money by purchasing an America the Beautiful pass . It gets you unlimited national park and federally preserved lands for one fee, instead of paying for each, saving you lots of money.

See massive views at Canyonlands National Park near Moab. Witness unreal landscapes with over 2,000 stone arches at Arches National Park. This park has many short hikes, perfect for young kids!

Then, head west within Utah to Capitol Reef National Park. All ages will love the  Hickman Bridge Trial ! From there, visit the impressive Bryce Canyon and the crazy hoodoos as far as the eye can see. Be sure to hike the Queens Garden Trail to experience the hoodoos up close.

The last of the Mighty 5 in Utah is Zion. One of the most popular national parks in the country, spring break is a great time to visit. There will be less crowds than in the summer and fall, yet the weather is better than wintertime. 

Your family will have fun with so many things to do in  Zion with kids ! Don’t miss hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail , Riverside Walk and the Mt. Carmel Highway scenic drive.

There are so many ways to save money on this trip, including camping or finding budget hotels along the way. The Utah national parks is by far one of the best cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Estes Park, Colorado

If you are looking for affordable spring break trips for families, then you should definitely consider visiting Estes Park, Colorado.  Located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, this small town is big on personality.

There are so many affordable  things to do in Estes Park, CO  that you and your family will be entertained for days! 

The most popular attraction in this area is Rocky Mountain National Park. You can spend days hiking the many trails and discovering all of the fabulous wildlife that calls Rocky Mountain National Park home. 

In order to save some money on entry, be sure to buy an annual National Park Pass. This pass will allow you entry to all U.S. National Parks for an entire year!

You can also take the kids to do some stargazing at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory , which is free to enter! Or grab a fishing pole and do some fishing at Lake Estes. After all of this, be sure to take some time to explore the downtown area with all of the great shops and restaurants.

Estes Park, Colorado truly is a great destination for families!

Recommended by Michelle of That Texas Couple

Related read: Colorado Road Trip Itinerary – 22 Stops You’ll Love

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Thanks to the outdoor activities and affordable options for camping and hotels, Joshua Tree makes for a great spring break destination for families!

Spring is the perfect time for a day trip to Joshua Tree as part of a California road trip or a longer stay to really explore the park. The weather makes it an ideal time to visit with cooler mornings and evenings and perfect temperatures for hiking in the day time.

To keep Joshua Tree affordable, your best option is to camp for your accommodations. Campsites start at $15 a night and go up to $25 a night. Make sure to make a reservation in advance if you are visiting in the spring.

For those who don’t enjoy camping, there are plenty of affordable hotels near the park as well if you are willing to drive about 20 – 30 minutes to get to the park.

As far as visiting Joshua Tree, entry to the park is $30 for a 7-day pass. If you already have an America the Beautiful pass, entry is free. If not, it might be worth the $80 if you plan to visit other National Parks during the next 12 months.

Once you are in the park, the activities are free. Many of the hiking trails are perfect for kids as they are mostly flat, well-marked, and not too difficult. Joshua Tree is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors for an unforgettable time with your family.

Start in LA and head to Joshua Tree, just about 130 miles away, which is one of the best US road trips for your family!

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Related: 28 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in Summer

5. Sedona, Arizona

Consider Sedona at the top of the list of spring break ideas for families on a budget! The weather is warm but not too hot and there are endless possibilities of free things to do .

Sedona is perfect for outdoor activities and taking in the beautiful red rocks the area is known for. The best hikes in Sedona are great for families, including kids young and old!

One of the best places to visit is Oak Creek Canyon and then into Slide Rock State Park. For the adventurous family, head to Oak Creek for rafting, kayaking or tubing and then over to Slide Rock to check out the pools and sandstone rocks.

Hiking in Sedona is a great way to see the scenery and for a $5 Red Rock Pass, you will have access to several different hikes in the area.  

One of the most popular hikes is Devil’s Bridge. This is a 4 mile easy hike that takes you to a natural red rock bridge in the area. If you have a 4×4 this hike is only a two mile hike, making it even easier for kids. Make sure you bring plenty of water and go early!

Sedona also has affordable places to stay.  You can check out these incredible  Airbnbs in Sedona  for some family friendly accommodations.

Sedona is one of the best spring break destinations for families , with it’s outdoor adventure, great weather and affordable accommodations.

Recommended by Nicole of American SW Obsessed

6. Yosemite National Park, California

The vast Yosemite National Park is an outdoor destination situated in the green heartland of Central California. It’s truly one of the top spring break destinations in the US!

Famous for its plethora of natural attractions, a  guide to Yosemite National Park  is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your time in the park.

There’s the iconic Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and El Capitan which soars over the valley. Make a quick pit stop at the numerous lookout points such as Tunnel View or Glacier Point, to marvel at the geological wonders of the park.

Stay dry and warm as you explore Yosemite during the spring. Snow is melting, flowers are in full bloom and waterfalls are cascading from the mountainside snow. Enjoy Bridalveil Falls, (0.5 miles out and back), or witness Yosemite Falls (1 mile loop), the tallest waterfall in North America.

Take the family on an easy level hike through Mirror Lake, or venture toward the backcountry to explore Cathedral Peak and Lakes for a more moderate to strenuous hike. Pack a picnic, snacks and extra water for a more budget friendly trip while visiting Yosemite.

Consider camping in the valley to save on time and to wake up amongst the giant oak trees. The cool morning breeze and fresh oak smell is truly an amazing feeling.

Yosemite is by far one of the best family destinations for spring break!

Recommended by Ciara from Wellness Travel Diaries

Cheap spring break trips for families in the US

Next let’s look at the center part of the United States. The middle states of the Midwest and South Central region are some of the most affordable spring break family vacations! Don’t be fooled by these ‘flyover states’ as they can make for excellent destinations.

Let’s dive back in!

7. Omaha, Nebraska (underrated and one of the best spring break destinations for families)

If you’re looking for great spot for spring break destination for families, look no further than the middle of the country! With family-oriented values, Omaha is a fantastic spot to vacation.

Nebraska’s #1 tourist attraction is the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . It regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the top zoo in the country!

With plenty of indoor exhibits like the jungle, desert dome, butterfly house and aquarium, you can enjoy a day – or more – at the zoo, regardless of the weather. Head on over to feed the giraffes, hear the lions roar or watch the elephants and zebras meandering among their large habitat. It’s truly a spectacular zoo!

Other kid-friendly Omaha attractions include the Lauritzen Gardens, Durham Museum, Joslyn Art Museum, Fontenelle Forest, just to name a few. Also make sure to walk the Bob Kerry Pedestrian bridge. It’s the first bridge to connect 2 states together. So you’ll get to see Iowa while in Omaha.

The downtown area is probably the most touristy spot in the city to stay, which makes it a little more pricey too. Finding a vacation rental property or staying in a hotel further from downtown will help to keep your price down.

But do make sure to visit the historic Old Market , as you’ll find some of the most Instagrammable spots in Omaha , not to mention some amazing restaurants.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is one of the most underrated destinations in the country when it comes to celebrating a spring break getaway.

Most people think of the city as pricey and a party city. However, you would be surprised to know that t he city is a top cultural destination and has many budget-friendly attractions for families . 

Spring Break is a relatively quiet time in the city. The festivities of Mardi Gras are just over and the city enjoys a lull between parades and summer tourists. That’s why during spring break, you can find really good hotel deals in New Orleans . 

Take a free walking tour of the French Quarter , enjoy free jazz music at the Preservation Hall, take a hike on the swamps at Barataria Preserve, and spot an alligator. Take a ghost tour of the city to keep teens happy or an airboat tour of the swamps.

Enjoy the many culinary delights in the city and enjoy a break with your family. 

Recommended by Ketki of Dotted Globe

Read next: 21 Best Beaches in Florida for Families

9. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

What is there to do in South Dakota for families? Well, a ton, actually! But for starters, there’s Badlands National Park in southwestern South Dakota, which is one of the best cheap spring break trips for families.

One of the most underrated national parks in the USA Badlands National Park can be explored without long lines of cars and overcrowded spaces.

There’s a ton of things to do in Badlands National Park , but my family’s favorite was hiking. From easy boardwalk trails to challenging terrain, there’s a variety of options for every family, age and skill level.

While there are plenty of designated trails, Badlands National Park is also an open hike park, meaning you can freely explore the park off-trail. Just use caution if doing this, as some of the scenery can be disorienting!

Close to Badlands National Park is Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills of South Dakota. Custer State Park is a phenomenal park to experience with families, too.

So if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget, the Badlands and Black Hills in South Dakota is a really good option!

More spring break destination for families in the US

Heading toward the eastern part of the country, here are the top picks for cheap spring break trips for families.

10. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson River Valley, north of New York City, is a great spring destination for families on a budget who want to experience the American northeast. 

The area has plenty of awesome hikes that the whole family can do. It costs just $10/ car to visit Minnewaska State Park for the day. Find adventure with easy hikes around a lake and to a waterfall. 

There are also  plenty of hikes  you can do for free, including:

• Poets’ Walk – great views of the Catskill Mountains and the Kingston-Rhinebeck Bridge
• Black Creek Preserve – stunning views of the Hudson River and a tiny beach
• Stony Kill Falls – a beautiful waterfall
• Shaupeneak Ridge Trails – a lake with lily ponds, fern groves and a small waterfall 

For a splurge, you can take a 2-hour sightseeing cruise down the river from Kingston. The river has a couple of lighthouses that kids will love and is lined with trees that are especially beautiful in spring.

There are also many farms open for spring fruit picking such as strawberries and apricots. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Many farms have petting zoos, but another great opportunity for kids to see farm animals is the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary (admission by donation), which is home to dozens of rescued farm animals. 

The area has fun for the whole family that costs very little! It’s one of the leading cheap spring break trips for families, and one to seriously consider.

Recommended by James Ian at Travel Collecting

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is the perfect spring break destination for a fun, relaxing getaway and an educational, historical adventure. There’s so much to do in Charleston that the whole family will enjoy – from exploring the city’s famous landmarks to enjoying delicious, authentic southern food.

Tips for traveling to Charleston on a budget

• Stay on James Island or Mount Pleasant, just outside of Downtown Charleston for more affordable lodging.
• Rent a car to save on rideshare costs and take advantage of the incredible day trips from Charleston .
• Dining in Charleston can be pricey, save on lunch costs by eating a heart brunch that will satisfy your family until dinner.

Charleston is full of family-friendly activities, and many of them are free!

Enjoy these fun family activities

• Dive under the sea at the South Carolina Aquarium .
• See where the Civil War began at Fort Sumter National Monument.
• Step onboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, USS Laffey Destroyer, and USS Clamagore Submarine at Patriot’s Point.
• Admire the pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park.
• Learn how tea is made at North America’s only tea plantation, the Charleston Tea Garden .
• Relax on the beach at Kiawah Island or Folly Beach.

Recommended by Brittany of Travel by Brit

12. Gulf Shores, Alabama (one of the best spring break destinations US)

Wow, it’s hard to believe this is the first beach spot on this list of best spring break destinations for families! But that’s because so many of them aren’t affordable, especially over spring break.

But Gulf Shores, Alabama is the perfect vacation spot for kids. Perhaps the biggest draw to the Gulf Shores and neighboring Orange Beach is the crisp, white sand beach and turquoise water of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s truly stunning!

Beach days are awesome, but there’s so much more to do in Gulf Shores with kids !

Family-freindly activities in Gulf Shores

• Hiking or biking through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trials
• Hunting sand crabs at night
• Free light show at The Wharf at Orange Beach
• Taking a sand castle building class
• Dolphin cruising

And don’t forget to check out all the fun places to eat in Gulf Shores . There are so many family-friendly options, this is definitely one of the best spring break destinations with kids!

For the most affordability, search for accommodations in Gulf Shores or the nearby Orange Beach that are away from the beach. You’ll find inexpensive vacation rentals and hotels that are perfect for your beachy getaway.

For best results, book your stay at minimum a few months in advance. Gulf Shores absolutely deserves a spot on this list of cheap spring break trips for families – it’s truly awesome!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A fantastic family-friendly destination is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visiting Philadelphia during spring break can be an important educational experience. The City of Brotherly Love is filled with history and culture, making it both fun and educational for children of all ages.

The city of Philadelphia is the birthplace of America and an important historical destination. The U.S. Constitution was conceived and signed here. General George Washington made his headquarters here. And this was the first capital of the United States of America.

For families on spring break, visiting the Old City is essential. Here visitors can explore the Constitution Center, Betsy Ross’ house, the first hospital in America, and many of Ben Franklin’s important sites. Just outside of the city, there’s Valley Forge National Park where the Continental Army spent several famous winters.

The Germantown neighborhood is one of the most important African American communities in the country and a critical stop on the Underground Railroad. Beyond the history, Philly is a great cultural destination. Younger children will love the Please Touch Museum.

Many of the historical attractions are free or very affordable. Hotels in the center of the city can be a little pricey, but accommodations in the suburbs can be very affordable.

Recommended by Lance and Laura of Guide to Philly

14. Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is a great family-friendly spring break destination that can definitely be done on a budget!  Families can explore all that D.C. has to offer in a budget-friendly way by taking advantage of all of the free activities within the city. 

The Smithsonian museums, most of which line the National Mall, are interactive, suit visitors of all ages, and are all free of charge. Popular Smithsonian museums include the Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of American History. 

The National Zoo is also free and is one of 4 zoos in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.  In addition to visiting the Smithsonian museums, there is much to explore on the National Mall including the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial. 

Free tours can also be arranged in advance for the White House and the Capitol Building. For more ideas on how to spend your time in D.C., check out this 3-day itinerary .  Washington D.C. is often overlooked but is one of the best spring break destinations in the US!

Recommended by Sarah of Roadmaps and Restaurants

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

15. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is a wonderful spring break family vacations on the East Coast with so many affordable options!  The jewel of Virginia Beach is its 28 miles of beautiful sandy public beaches.

All public beaches are free and are easily accessible from the downtown hotels at a variety of price points . At a lot of beach destinations, only the high-end hotels and resorts are on the beach, but at Virginia Beach, there are many hotels at all levels.

Budget tip:  check out hotels or rentals with a kitchenette to save money on making meals in the room.

There are tons of great kid-friendly attractions right on the 3-mile Boardwalk! Try the Bike and Surrey Rentals, the King Neptune Statue, fishing on the pier, 31 st  Street Park and a wonderful Grommet Island playground right on the beach!

Off the Boardwalk, check out the famous Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, Cape Henry Lighthouse and First Landing State Park. All affordable family fun for kids of all ages!

Spring break tip:  if you want to pair a trip to the beach with a trip to Capital City, it’s only a 3-hour drive north to Washington, DC. There is so much to explore in DC with kids, including the Smithsonian Museums for kids. 

Recommended by Jennifer of Family Trip Guides

Cheap spring break trips for families in Asia

Next, let’s head to Asia! A nice, long spring break is the perfect time to go overseas. Some of the best family destinations for spring break can be found in Asia. It’s culturally rich and full of adventure for the whole family.

Asia is a continent that’s widely affordable , once you get there! Check out these budget travel tips to find the best deals on flights.

16. Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao, an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a fantastic place to visit for an affordable spring break. This tropical paradise is an amazing place to visit this time of the year for the whole family and this does not have to cost a fortune.

A great option on this list of spring break ideas for families on a budget, Koh Tao is known for blue skies, hot and sunny weather and crystal clear warm water. This is the dry season and both air and water temperature hover at 30 degrees Celsius.

Scuba diving is good in the Gulf of Thailand all year round and March and April is fantastic with the biggest fish in the world, Whale Sharks, being present this time of the year. Swimming with these magnificent docile creatures is an unreal, safe activity.

The dive schools on Koh Tao are known as some of the best and most affordable in the world. If you are not a diver, snorkeling trips around Koh Tao is very popular for all ages , visiting several islands including the magnificent Koh Nang Yuan with some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.

You can go on a full day or half day snorkeling trip, going around Koh Tao visiting several coral reefs where you can see turtles, reef sharks and many fish.

With high temperatures and humidity, Sairee Beach is a great place to stay. There are many dive centers, restaurants, nice swimming beaches and accommodation to suit all budgets close to the sea with a nice ocean breeze to cool you down.

Recommended by Campbell and Alya of Stingy Nomads

17. Cebu, Philippines (amazing and cheap spring break trips for families)

Cebu is amongst the top 10 largest islands in the Philippines with 196 kilometers from north to south and 32 kilometers across its widest point. It’s also one of the most popular destinations in the country because getting to Cebu is easy. This makes Cebu an affordable spring break destination with kids.

The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located close to Cebu City, connects this island to different cities in Asia and major cities around the world. 

Generally, the Philippines is a cheap country where you can easily find affordable luxury hotels and budget accommodation. Eating out in Cebu is relatively cheap, you can go for fine dining by spending only $12 for your meal. 

While in Cebu City , make sure to check out Sirao Flower Garden and take a day trip to Bohol Island. 

The best time to visit the Philippines is in dry seasons, from December to May. Most tourists travel to Cebu in wintertime. That means the island is less busy during the springs while the weather is still pleasant and dry.

Recommended by Mansoureh of Travel With Mansoureh

18. Bali, Indonesia

A picturesque Indonesian island filled with white sand beaches, gorgeous rice terraces and forests, unique temples, and an exotic  Balinese culture , Bali is just the perfect spring break trip for families.

There’s a lot to do in Bali with your little ones. Apart from relaxing at one of Bali’s many beaches, you can check out the monkeys at Ubud’s Monkey Forest, interact with feathered friends at Bali Bird Park and learn all about protecting sea turtles at Bali Sea Turtle Society.

When in Ubud, do not forget to check out the Royal Palace and Hindu temples that are great examples of traditional Balinese architecture. You can also shop for souvenirs at the Ubud Art Market. End your day with a magical sunset at the temple of Tanah Lot, located on a cliff by the sea.

Bali is an ideal destination for budget travelers. Accommodation is cheap and you can even find private villas with stunning views at seriously low prices. Avoid hiring taxis if possible and rent motorbikes instead to get around.

Bali is certainly full of adventure, and one of the most fun cheap spring break trips for families!

Recommended by Soumya from Stories by Soumya

19. Penang, Malaysia

Penang, a UNESCO Word Heritage Site island off Malaysia’s northwestern coast, is one of the best family destinations for spring break.

There are plenty of  things to do in Penang , and most are perfect for families, too. First of all, with 1 USD being equivalent to 4 Malaysian Ringgit (the price of a meal in one of the islands famous hawker food centers), you’ll have everything on a budget. Accommodation, restaurants, transport and entry admissions are all affordable.

Start in George Town, taking in the UNESCO-listed old town and trying all the food you can fancy. Not far away are the Botanic Gardens, a perfect place for families to stroll and unwind appreciating the local nature.

If it’s beach that you want, mind well that Penang doesn’t have amazing clear waters, but the resort-strewn coast near Batu Ferringhi, with its night market and plenty of shops and beach-facing restaurants, is great for tucking toes in the sand.

If your kids are young, a visit to KOMTAR, the island’s highest building, is great as it’s filled with theme-park-alike attractions and at about 15$ per head to enter, makes for very good value.

Recommended by Marco Ferrarese of Penang Insider

20. Sri Lanka

The cultural triangle in Sri Lanka is a great budget destination for families in during spring break. When you think of Sri Lanka you probably think of its beautiful palm-fringed beaches, but Sri Lanka is much more!

Once you go inland there’s a different world of jungles teeming with wildlife and ancient Buddhist temples. With such a variety of things to do there is something for everyone and for every age.

The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka lies in the center of the island and it’s a place where history, culture and nature meet. It’s name refers to the 3 former royal cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla.

All of them left behind well preserved ruins of temples, palaces and Buddhist statues. Most impressive are the colorful Dambulla cave temples and the mysterious Sigiriya Rock.  The Sigiriya Rock is a tough climb with young children, but the views are very rewarding.

In the other places you can rent a bicycle or tuk tuk for more comfort. One thing you will notice is that for the local population these places are still very holy and active places of worship. Another thing you will notice is that the cities are surrounded by thick jungle.

Children will love the opportunity to go on a safari to meet monkeys and elephants up close. Spring is considered to be one of the best times to visit the island’s cultural triangle with dry and sunny weather.

Recommended by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Europe – spring break destination for families

Let’s check out the best that Europe has to offer for spring break! These spots are the best for families who are looking to travel on a budget. From historically significant cities to beautiful, wide open spaces, Europe has so much to offer families!

21. Athens, Greece (another favorite on this list of spring break destinations with kids)

Athens is a great option if you’re looking for cheap family spring break trips. The city is the capital of Greece and there is plenty to do and see for families here.

Athens is much cheaper than many other European cities, so that’s very convenient. Moreover, Athens has a good metro system so you could also stay a bit further from the city center and save money while still being able to fully experience Athens.

One of the things to do for families includes going to the Acropolis Museum. This is one of the best museums of Greece and is all about the Acropolis. The Acropolis is an old citadel from Ancient Greece located on a hill that you can see from all parts of the city. Here you find the famous Parthenon.

Another thing to do is seeing the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament. Guards dressed up in traditional clothing perform a ceremony where they change shifts.

Besides that, walking through Plaka is a must when you go to Athens . Plaka is the oldest part of Athens with many shops and restaurants. What’s great is that most streets are completely car-free, so kids can run around safely.

Recommended by Dymphe of Dymabroad

22. Rome, Italy

The historic capital of Italy, Rome is an incredible budget spring break destination for families. During this time of the year, the crowds are lighter versus the peak season of summer, and the weather is also quite perfect (50-80°F).

If you have a week in Italy, I’d recommend at least a 3-day Rome itinerary so that you and your family can cover all the main highlights of the city. The historic center of Rome is super family-friendly and an amazing place to take a stroll. Make sure to stop by the Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Spanish Steps.

Kids will also love Piazza Navona, which is home to lots of artists, street performers, and clowns. Be sure to also stop by Villa Borghese for a fun afternoon at the park. Lots of local families go there to relax, and you can also rent a 4-people quadricycle and ride around this charming park.

One great way to budget in Rome is to eat the amazing local specialty of pizza al taglio , which can cost as low as €3 ($3.50) per person per meal. You can find tons of pizzerias around town to try it in. You can also find plenty of great budget accommodations for €7-22 ($8-26 USD) a night !

Recommended by Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

23. Gdansk, Poland

For the best cheap spring break trips for families in Europe, Gdansk is a wonderful place for vacation! There is no shortage of fun but also educational activities for  what to do in Gdansk , with one of Europe’s biggest old towns jam-packed with attractions.

Most of the city was destroyed during World War II, but the Poles have done an amazing job in rebuilding it. Go to Westerplatte which was ground zero for World War II, discover the Museum of the Second World War, which also has a children’s section, or go on a tall ship adventure in the Motlawa River.

For the best city views, climb the Clock Tower of the Main Town Hall. The unique houses of Gdansk Old Town almost look like doll houses from above. From there you also get a good bird’s eye view of St. Mary’s Church, which is the city’s most prominent building and one of the largest brick churches in the world.

Gdansk, like the rest of Poland, is extremely cheap and you can find deals on luxury hotels for hardly nothing . To save money on transportation, take the bus or train, or download the app FreeNow which is a cheaper version of Uber.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

24. Montenegro

Montenegro is still relatively hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea coast. The country is perfect for families looking for a relaxing or even adventurous spring break vacation on a budget.

Montenegro has a wide ray of different attractions from spectacular mountains, crystal clear lakes to all-inclusive beach resorts, waterparks and stunning beaches. You can explore 2,500-year-old Budva old town or get lost in Kotor’s Old Town which was built like a maze. You can even take your kids on a fun miniature train ride to Lipa Cave.

Montenegro has the coastal beauty of neighboring Croatia but remains more affordable for family vacations. It’s surprisingly easy to stay under budget when accommodation and attractions cost half of the price of what you’d expect to pay.

For the even more budget-friendly trip, choose self-catering accommodations. If you want to visit Kotor Bay, staying further away from the town center will save you money, as well as choosing nearby villages rather than the most popular spots in the country.

Recommended by Leta of Blogger & Owner of The Nerdy Me

25. Alsace, France (an underrated region for spring break destination for families)

Alsace, in Eastern France, is a good destination for spring break family vacation. This region, at the border with Germany has picturesque villages, beautiful forests, intriguing medieval fortresses, and 2 exciting cities great for sightseeing.

Alsace is cheaper than Paris and other French regions, so you are set for a fun and affordable vacation in France.

Strasburg is a beautiful city, great for a couple of days sightseeing. From Strasbourg, we recommend hiring a car to explore the rest of the region on an  Alsace road trip . The distances are short, and you can explore many different places in a short time.

While in Alsace, don’t miss the local cuisine with typical dishes like choucroute or tarte flambée (a kind of local pizza). The best places to eat are the winstubs, a popular and affordable restaurant typical of Alsace serving delicious local food in a very traditional atmosphere.

Alsace’s capital is Strasbourg, a city well connected to Paris and other European cities by train. Enjoy the ride around European destinations by packing the right train travel essentials for your family. What an adventure over spring break!

Recommended by Elisa of France Bucket List

26. Himara, Albania

Just a ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and in between Montenegro and Greece, Albania is an extremely affordable spring destination for families. Being in such proximity, Albania has strong Greek and Italian influences, but without the high costs.

In Albania, there is one of the best  hidden gems in Europe ; a small, quaint village along the Ionian Sea with the beautiful Ceraunian Mountain range behind it. The charming beachside town of Himara is 2 hours north of Saranda when driving along the Albanian Riviera.

Himara is perfect for a spring break trip since it has mild Mediterranean weather and even boasts of 300 days of sunshine a year. Even though accommodation is already considered affordable, going for spring break will be during the off-season making prices even more affordable.

Families can have a peaceful and relaxing getaway in Himara. They can enjoy authentic Italian pizza or fresh, locally caught fish at affordable prices in Albanian LEK and there are plenty of family activities available. Try doing a boat tour or kayaking to secret sea caves, hiking to nearby castles and forts, and visiting secluded beaches.

Recommended by Maria of Maptrekking

27. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is the perfect spring break destination with kids. It’s much cheaper than its immediate neighbors, and some of the prices there are the cheapest in Europe.

It’s perfect for spring when the cafes along the river open for hot chocolate and you can sit with a blanket over your knees and watch the world go by. It’s close enough to Venice to get some of the cheap flights in to Italy and drive over or get the coach between the cities.

Once there, kids will love the House of Illusions, or take a trip up to the castle for spectacular views. If you’re planning a  Slovenia family holiday   the hotels in Ljubljana are really well priced and it’s easy to find one with a pool or other child friendly amenities.

Take a boat trip through the center to really appreciate the beautiful architecture and then head to a nearby thermal pool for an afternoon of fun in the warm waters. Ljubljana is relatively undiscovered and it’s a European city that has so much charm.

Recommended by Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Caribbean: spring break ideas for families on a budget

Gah! The gorgeous Caribbean is up next on this list of best family destinations for spring break. Known for it’s affordability, there are lots of options within the Caribbean for a family vacation.

Here are a few favorites…

28. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

When looking for affordable spring break trips for the family, Mexico offers some unique destinations that you simply can’t ignore. Avoid all the spring break party crowd by heading over to Playa del Carmen and staying at one of the family-friendly resorts.

The beaches are beautiful and you can cut costs by staying in one of the many budget hotels . Or find a self-service apartment that will allow you to cook and eat out at much cheaper prices than you would find in places like Cancun’s hotel zone.

From Playa del Carmen, you can easily access the plethora of  things to do in the Rivieria Maya  region, which in many cases, are perfectly suited to family trips. One place to visit is the Xaman-Ha Bird Sanctuary which is a great place to learn about local wildlife and is free for children.

Playa del Carmen has something for any family who is looking for an entertaining beach getaway.  

Recommended by Daniel of Layer Culture

29. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is the perfect spot for spring break family vacations, as it’s one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean! If your family is up for unforgettable adventures, pristine beaches and lots of fun in the unspoiled nature, consider renting a car and plan a road-trip in the Dominican Republic .

Book an affordable apartment within walking distance to the beach (for as low as $60 per night for a family of 4) on the Samaná peninsula. It’s one of the most beautiful regions in the Dominican Republic and guarantees you’ll be away from all the spring break crowd.

Furthermore, you can count on stunning and authentic kid-friendly experiences, such as exploring waterfalls, horseback riding along the beach or ziplining over the tropical vegetation.

If you shop at local markets and buy regional produce, you can lower your travel costs significantly, as most food prices are at least half or less compared to the United States. If you feel that you just want to relax and get pampered, you can consider an all-inclusive resort instead. While Punta Cana has the biggest selection of resorts, it might be worth considering Puerto Plata on the north coast.

Those resorts are a bit cheaper than Punta Cana, starting from $130 per night for a family of 4 including an all-inclusive meal plan. Additionally, you will avoid the spring break crowds of Punta Cana, which tend to be predominant in some of the resorts during this time.

If you don’t find flights to Puerto Plata, consider flying into Santiago, which is just an hour away from Puerto Plata.

Recommended by Christian of Punta Cana Travel Blog

30. Belize (another favorite on this list of cheap spring break trips for families)

One of the best spring break destinations for families has absolutely got to be Belize! It’s easy to keep it low cost while spending a week in this tropical paradise. Here’s an exact cost breakdown on how to do Belize on a budget .

If staying on the beach is a must, consider staying in Placencia, San Pedro or Caye Caulker. However if your family is up for adventure, staying further inland in San Ignacio might be right for you.

From visiting ancient ruins to learning how to make chocolate like the Mayans to taking a snorkeling trip to a private island, there’s plenty of things to do in Belize for your family.

Your family will love visiting this culturally-rich country!

More of the best spring break destinations for families

There’s still a few left on this list! Here are a few more spots around the globe that are worth considering for your family!

31. Guatemala

Popular with backpackers and – surprisingly – cruise ships, Guatemala remains relatively undiscovered by families. Which is shame, because this Central American country is the perfect place for a family spring break vacation on a budget.

This is a country filled with mysterious ruins, colourful Colonial cities, lots of volcanoes and even more adventures. Start your holiday in Antigua, pretty town filled with cobblestones streets and painted homes. Affordable hotels are plentiful but you can also rent a house here and many people do, choosing to stay for weeks, or even months, to learn Spanish.

Other places you must visit include Chichicastenango. Located in the Guatemalan highlands, this towns is famous for its weekly market, one of the largest and busiest in Central America.

Lake Antigua, once described as “the most beautiful lake in the world” is another one of the country’s highlights. There are lots of towns dotted around the lake, many of them offering budget accommodation and food options.

Guatemala’s star attraction, however, is Tikal. You can drive from Guatemala City to Flores, the gateway to Tikal, by car. This route takes around 8 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Guatemala City to Flores, although this will be more expensive. However, you choose to travel, however, don’t miss these most magical of Mayan ruins when visiting  Guatemala with kids .

Recommended by Katja of Globe Totting

Related read: Visiting Tikal: Everything You Need to Know About the Tikal Ruins

32. Costa Rica

A super fun, not to mention inexpensive spring break trip for families is Costa Rica! This Central American country is a few hours flight from Southern US locations (like Miami, Houston or Los Angeles).

Pro tip: set up a flight alert from your home airport to San Jose, Costa Rica on Google Flights to find the best deals. If you can be a little flexible with your dates (like a Wednesday – Wednesday trip), you’ll find better pricing.

Despite being a small footprint, Costa Rica has many regions to visit. If you want resorts, beaches and shopping, head to Tamarindo. For outdoor adventures and nature, you’ll want to explore all the best things to do in Monteverde .

My family love the beach, so we’re all about the best beaches in Manuel Antonio . This region also offers abundant wildlife and cheap activities like visiting the Manuel Antonio National Park, bringing your own snorkeling gear and snorkeling off the beach, and visiting waterfalls.

To further reduce your cost and make this an amazing cheap spring break trip, rent a vacation property that includes a kitchen and make some or most of your meals. For families, it’s cheaper to rent a car than to get transfers from the airport to different areas.

Costa Rica is one of the best family destinations for spring break, and one you’ll want to check flights prices ASAP!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

33. Ecuador (unexpected and cheap family spring break trip)

While many travelers are initially drawn to visit Ecuador because of the Galapagos, a notoriously expensive destination, mainland Ecuador is extremely budget friendly, with plenty of natural beauty and adventure activities perfect for a family getaway.

So skip the Galapagos and visit the mainland Ecuador if you’re looking for spring break ideas for families on a budget!

Ecuador’s major cities perched in the Andes like Quito offer breathtaking views and plenty to see and do for all ages. A favorite of the top things to do in Quito includes the Teleferico cable car that whisks visitors to the top of a dormant volcano for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding valleys.

A visit to Ecuador’s beautiful jungle, just a few hours north of Quito, is the perfect affordable and memorable getaway for parents and adults alike.   Visit Mindo, Ecuador  in the cloud forest for plenty of inexpensive adventure travel experiences perfect for children.

There are countless ways for children to meet wildlife in the jungle, including visiting a butterfly sanctuary and watching hummingbirds. A popular tubing excursion along a gentle bubbling river is both exhilarating enough for children to enjoy and relaxing and safe enough for parents as well.

Easy waterfall hikes to swimming holes are another way for families to enjoy Ecuador’s natural beauty together.  

To the south of Quito is one of the most gorgeous landscapes, and a hike to get there! The Quilotoa Lake hike and Quilotoa Loop is one of the most incredible adventures you can have as a family. Adventurous souls only!

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila of Home to Havana

34. New Zealand

New Zealand is the perfect place to visit with a family. It’s safe, exciting, and contrary to popular belief, super affordable! Plus, during spring break it’s the end of summer in New Zealand which makes for the perfect weather for exploring the great outdoors. 

The best way to travel New Zealand on a budget is to go on a family road trip in a motorhome. This way, you can camp for free (or very cheap) each night as well as cook your own meals. Simply rent a motorhome and start your journey from where you fly in (Auckland is the cheapest destination to fly to in NZ.) Avoiding domestic flights will be a big budget saver as well! 

On top of that, the best activities in New Zealand are free too. National Parks are free to visit and all of the most amazing places are natural attractions.

Even in tourist hot-spots like  Queenstown, there are tons of things to do  and many of them are family-friendly and budget-friendly. Stick to hikes, waterfalls, lakes, natural hot pools, beaches, and you’ll be sure to have one of the best spring break vacations possible! 

Recommended by Bailey of My Queenstown Diary

35. Cape Town, South Africa

If this is your  first time travelling in South Africa , you’ll be surprised by how friendly and accessible Cape Town is, especially if you’re from an English-speaking country. Spring break is a particularly good time to visit for families , as the weather is wonderful, but the summer rush (Dec-Feb in the southern hemisphere) has largely died down.

Visit the touristy V&A Waterfront for great views of the harbour and Table Mountain, then make your way to Sea Point or Camps Bay for more affordable meals and beautiful views.

Going up Table Mountain is a must. Take the cable car or, if you have older children, hike up the mountain instead. The views at the top are spectacular.

Hire a car to get the most out of Cape Town. The drive over Chapman’s Peak is stunning!

Go to Cape Point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, stopping for a picnic on the way. Keep out for baboons – they have a nasty habit of trying to steal your food. Also visit Boulders Beach, a sheltered cove with huge rocks and a large colony of penguins.

Other activities of note are the beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens , the Two Oceans Aquarium, and visiting the fishing villages and beaches near False Bay.

Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Cheap spring break trips for families

Alright so which one will it be? Which is the perfect and affordable spring break vacation spot for your family? From national parks to beaches, hiking adventures and historic cities, this list has something for every vacation style.

Let’s recap those options again, in a quick list!

Best family destinations for spring break

• Phoenix, Arizona
• Utah National Parks road trip
• Estes Park, Colorado
• Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Sedona, Arizona
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Omaha, Nebraska
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Badlands National Park, South Dakota
• Hudson Valley, New York
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Gulf Shores, Alabama
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Koh Tao, Thailand
• Cebu, Philippines
• Bali, Indonesia
• Penang, Malaysia
• Athens, Greece
• Rome, Italy
• Gdansk, Poland
• Alsace, France
• Himara, Albania
• Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Cape Town, South Africa

I hope this list has been helpful for you as you plan your spring break getaway. And maybe you’ve even found inspiration for your travel bucket list, too! 🙂

Related content you won’t want to miss: 21 Best Beaches for Families in Florida You’ll Love 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 21 Absolute Best National Parks to Visit in May You Can’t Miss 21 Stunning and Affordable Island Vacations 26 Gulf Coast Beaches You Can’t Miss 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the US 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Spots You’ll Love

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Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones

Sunday 8th of January 2023

So many bucket list travel destinations! It's great to se budget-friendly options and tips for visiting these great locations!

Monday 9th of January 2023

Thanks Lisa, it was a fun list to put together. Gotta love a budget-friendly getaway :)

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Love this guide to affordable spring break destinations for families. We especially loved our family vacation to Arizona.

Oh nice! Arizona is so awesome over spring break. :)

My husband and I got married in March and spent our honeymoon in Playa del Carmen, it was wonderful! It wasn't too much of a crazy party area like Cancun but it was lively enough, and we spent hours swimming in the beach! And I loved how affordable everything was!

Yayyyy! That's AWESOME Hannah! Sounds like a fabulous honeymoon! Glad you found it budget-friendly, too. :)

Thursday 5th of January 2023

Fabulous list - and so great to see Europe on there too! You've certainly given me some ideas - would love to visit Alsace one day!!

So happy you found inspiration here. Europe is a fabulous destination for spring break, that's for sure!

Wednesday 4th of January 2023

I live in AZ and can say that yes, Spring Break is a great time to visit Phoenix and Sedona. Utah would also be lovely then too. Loved this very thorough and informative list! Thanks for sharing. Saving for future travel planning!

Oh that's awesome Yvonne! Glad you found it helpful and agree that Arizona is a great spot for a spring getaway :)

15 Spring Break Destinations For Outdoor Adventure

By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2024

For those seeking a spring break destination that goes beyond the typical beach retreat, we’ve curated a list of 15 Spring Break destinations that cater to the thrill-seekers, outdoor lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

As winter fades away and the promise of warmer days emerges, spring break becomes the perfect opportunity to trade in the winter blues for the vibrant hues of outdoor adventure. From soaring mountain peaks to pristine coastal landscapes, these destinations offer a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and the rejuvenating embrace of nature.

Embark on an unforgettable spring break where the great outdoors take center stage, providing the ideal backdrop for an adventure-packed escape. Get ready to explore, discover, and make lasting memories in some of the most breathtaking and action-packed destinations that spring has to offer.

While there once was a time where spring break used to be all about relaxing poolside with a drink in hand, over the past 9 years of fulltime travel we look for spring break destinations where we can camp, hike, rock climb, surf, or mountain bike. We hope these 15 outdoor adventure destinations inspire you to get outside and play this spring break.

Table of Contents

Spring Break Destination: Hawaii

1 | camp on the big island.

Camping in Hawaii is one of our favorite adventures because the campgrounds are affordable and right on the beach. All the islands have campgrounds but we especially like camping at Spencer Beach and Pine Trees near Kona on the Big Island. Both feel very safe and are close to great hikes and surfing.

Related Blog: 12 Best Campgrounds in Hawaii

2 | Hike Kalalau Trail on the NaPali Coast, Kauai

This is a hike everyone needs to do at least once. The hike starts at Ke’e Beach on the northwest corner of Kauai and ends at one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The only drawback is that you need a permit to hike this and they can be hard to get.

Related Blog: Guide To Backpacking The Kalalau Trail

3 | Surf Haleiwa

We love surfing a lot of great spots in Hawaii but Haleiwa and Chun’s Reef on the north shore of Oahu are our favorites. If you make it to Oahu, be sure to hike Olomana Ridge on the east side too.

Related Blog: 10 Epic Adventures in Oahu

4 | Watch the Sunrise at Haleakala NP

Another once-in-a-lifetime experience is driving up to the top of Haleakala Crater in the dark, freezing your booty off, and watching the sun rise over the clouds. It’s a memory you will never forget. Spring break is a great time to visit Maui because it is warm but not unbearable like it can be in peak summer.

Related Blog: 18 Memorable Things To Do in Maui

Spring Break Destination: Arizona

5 | hike grand canyon.

While everyone has to see the Grand Canyon at least once in their life, we think hiking from the rim to the river and back to the rim in one day was one of our favorite hikes ever. It is a long day and not recommended for summer. But doing it around spring break is typically ideal weather.

Related Blog: How to Hike Rim to River to Rim of the Grand Canyon in One Day

6 | Explore Sedona

Increase your vibrational frequency and heal your chakras by spending time hiking the magical vortexes near Sedona. Don’t miss our favorite hike, Devil’s Bridge.

Sedona also has some incredible (and difficult) mountain biking trails. There are also great MTB trails, as well as hiking and rock climbing nearby in Prescott. Or head north and explore Flagstaff. If the snow is melted, you have to hike the Lava Tube in Flagstaff!

Related Blog: Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more inspiration,  subscribe to our YouTube channel , or  follow us on Instagram .

Spring Break Destination: Utah

7 | road trip to the big 5 utah.

If you love to hike, this is the perfect spring break destination! Utah’s Big 5 National Parks include Zion , Bryce , Arches , Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef all have incredible hikes for all levels. While I love all 5 of these national parks, Zion NP is one you just can’t miss! This is a great road trip to take during spring break as the weather is typically in the mid 50’s to 70’s.

Related Blog: Utah Road Trip

8 | Hike + Climb in St George, Utah

St George is one of our favorite winter destinations and Spring Break is the perfect time to visit if you want warm weather and lots of great hiking, climbing, and mountain biking.

Related Blogs: Best Hikes St George and Best Rock Climbing St George

Spring Break Destination: Idaho

9 | soak in hot springs in idaho.

Are you looking for a different type of adventure? While most of Idaho will still be covered in snow, you can pack up your snowshoes and hike to one of the dozens of hot springs scattered throughout this great state of Idaho. Some, like Kirkham Hot Spring, are roadside and won’t even require hiking! While it can be crowded, we love hiking to Goldbug Hot Spring near Salmon, Idaho.

Related Blog: 21 Things To Do Idaho

10 | Climb in City of Rocks

This is one of our favorite rock climbing destinations and a place you very well might find us this spring break. City of Rocks has tons of great climbing but even if climbing isn’t your thing, there are nice hikes and some of the coolest campsites in the US.

Related Blog: Beginner Climbers Guide to City of Rocks

Spring Break Destination: Wyoming

11 | bike grand teton road.

This has been on our bucket list forever. And with spring break being in April for many this year, biking Grand Teton Road would be a super fun adventure to do.

The 17 miles of Grand Teton Road from Taggart Lake Trailhead to Signal Mountain is closed to cars from Nov 1 to May 1 so as long as there hasn’t been a ton of snow, the road is usually plowed by the beginning of April. The best part is this road is pretty flat so you don’t have to be a hardcore cyclist to enjoy this adventure.

Related Blog: Road Trip From Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier NP and Best Hikes in the Grand Tetons

Spring Break Destination: California

12 | explore big sur.

Big Sur is a beautiful year-round destination. Driving Highway 1 from Cambria to Carmel-by-the-Sea provides you with some of the most epic ocean views you will ever see. There are a ton of great hikes and surf breaks along the California Coastline . Many even road bike this (although I’d be too scared of cars hitting me). If you are thinking of camping, you need to reserve a campsite way in advance.

If you have time, extend the road trip further north and explore Mendocino .

Related Blog: Big Sur Road Trip

13 | Hike and Camp Death Valley

Southern California has so many great beach and desert destinations and Spring Break is the perfect time to squeeze in both. We loved camping in Death Valley because of the incredible stargazing. There are a ton of great hikes here and you’re only a few hours away from the coast so you can really squeeze in a lot of adventures into your Spring Break getaway.

Related Blog: Visit Mountains, Desert, and Sea on a Weekend California Getaway

14 | Surf Cardiff

This is our favorite California surf break and if you happen to be one of the lucky few who gets a campsite at San Elijo this will be a vacation for the books. With great waves, beautiful views, so many delicious food options within walking distance, and nearby boutique shopping, you will love Cardiff. We know because it was our home base for many years!

Related Blog: Best Campgrounds California

Spring Break Destination: Oregon

15 | mtb phil’s in bend.

Depending on the year’s weather, Spring Break can be a perfect time to ride what I think is one of the best trail networks in America, Phil’s Trailhead . These flowy rides are a perfect way to start the day before heading into the foodie town of Bend. Plus, the forest road right next to the trail network has free camping !

Spring Break is also a really good time to visit Smith Rock which has great hikes and world-class rock climbing. Check out our Bend 4 Day Itinerary for all the deets.

Related Blog: Guide to Mountain Biking Bend, Oregon

Spring Break Road Trip

Road-tripping is our favorite way to travel. You don’t have to worry about delayed flights and you get to experience the thrill and excitement of the open road! (or is that just me?)

Check out Escape Campervans and Outdoorsy for great deals. You’ll love the freedom and convenience of being able to cook your own meals and connect more with the outdoors. Plus, you can save a ton of money by just free camping .

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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

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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 .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Spring Break Ideas for Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Spring Break Road Trip Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. The Pacific Coast Highway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. South Padre Island, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

5. Panama City Beach, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. New York City, New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. East Coast Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring Break Ideas for Families at US National Parks

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

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

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

1. Zion National Park, Utah

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

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

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

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

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

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Yosemite National Park, California

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

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

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

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

5. Death Valley National Park, California

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

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

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

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

6. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & North Carolina

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Joshua Tree National Park, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florida Spring Break Ideas for Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Siesta Key

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Clearwater/St. Petersburg

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

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

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

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

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

5. Fort Lauderdale

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

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

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

Recommended place to stay: Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club

6. Key West

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Anna Maria Island

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

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

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

8. Miami, Florida

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

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

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

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

Spring Break Ideas at An All-Inclusive Resort

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruising Ideas for Spring Break Vacations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Staycation Vacation Ideas For Spring Break

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Great ideas Jen! Thanks for all your knowledge!

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

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16+ Best Spring Break Destinations For Families (2024)

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

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

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

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

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

This post has been updated for the 2024 spring break.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Grand cayman.

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

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

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

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

See reviews of hotels in Grand Cayman here .

Turks and Caicos

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

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

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

Read reviews of Turks and Caicos resorts here .

San Antonio – one of our favorite spring break ideas

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

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

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

See hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.

Orlando, Florida

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

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

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

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

Other Destinations for a Florida Spring Break for Families

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoenix, AZ

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

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

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

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

Washington DC

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

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

Family Cruise

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

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

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

Puerto Rico

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

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

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

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

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

New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wondering what to do in Delaware on spring break? How to have a fun staycation at home

Spring break is a great time to decompress from the woes of work, school and life, but sometimes shelling out cash for an elaborate vacation is a bit overrated.  

Whether you’re trying to save money or prefer to kick it like a homebody, there are plenty of ways to make your spring break staycation here in Delaware a blast, too.  

From local day trips to activities to do solo or with your pals, here’s all the fun you can get into at home this spring break. 

Visit Delaware beach towns  

Delaware beaches are a blast in the summer, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t fun to be had in local beach towns during the offseason, too.   

Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Dewey Beach, Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach are home to an ample amount of outlet stores and small businesses and plenty of restaurants serving local cuisine. And there are plenty of lesser-known beaches to finally explore, too. 

Spend a weekend trying a new brunch spot you didn’t get a chance to visit during the summer before perusing nearby shops and ending your day with a sunset walk along the beach or boardwalk. Another perk of visiting Delaware beach towns outside of summer? Fewer crowds and more parking available.   

The best part is that there’s so much to do in Delaware’s coastal towns that you’ll more than likely want to come back during another day of spring break. 

Buy a ticket for Longwood Gardens  

It’s not an island getaway flush with tropical plants, but  Longwood Gardens is a local option for seeing seasonal florals to get you into the spring spirit, and if you’re someone who has yet to see what the botanical garden is all about, spring break is the perfect time to visit. 

Open year-round, Longwood Gardens near Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, features more than 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands and meadows. Longwood is known to present the latest innovations in horticulture with marvelous, themed displays throughout the grounds, featuring mesmerizing lighting, holiday décor, seasonal nods and much more.   

Botanical installations you can enjoy this spring break include: 

• Winter Wonder , open from Jan. 20 to March 24, features nearly 200 acres of winter’s beauty in an outdoor arrangement, followed by a warm, colorful display in the grand conservatory.     
• Spring Blooms , open from March 30 to May 5, teases early spring blooms, flowering trees and vibrant tulips in the gardens this year, an ode to springtime warmth and splendor.

For more information, visit  longwoodgardens.org . 

Hike around Delaware  

Instead of becoming a couch potato this spring break, how about hiking through Delaware’s plush forests, sandy beaches and historical areas? 

The state boasts 17 state parks filled with plenty of opportunities to fit your hobbies and fitness level, from paved walking paths to rugged trails to fishing at local ponds to kayaking on the water.  

No matter where you call home in Delaware, the state’s parks system features locations in each county with various ways to get into some recreational and educational fun.  

Check out White Clay Creek State Park in Newark, Killens Pond State Park in Felton or Delaware Seashore State Park in Rehoboth Beach, among many others.

Channel your inner artist or historian  

Delaware has no shortage of museums throughout the state, and there’s guaranteed to be a local exhibit for you and your crowd if you’re chilling at home on spring break.   

Bring the kids to the  Delaware Children’s Museum  in Wilmington, have a family day at the  Air Mobility Command Museum  at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, visit the  Discoversea Shipwreck Museum  in Fenwick Island, walk around the  Delaware Art Museum  in Wilmington or spend the afternoon at the  Rehoboth Beach Historical Society & Museum  in Rehoboth.   

After your museum adventures, explore the area by shopping at local businesses and checking out nearby restaurants.  

Spend a few hours at the zoo  

For those needing family-friendly entertainment, especially for younger children already driving parents bonkers on day two of spring break, the zoo is the perfect adventure.  

The  Brandywine Zoo  in Wilmington features animals from the tropical and temperate areas of North America, South America, Asia and Africa, ranging from common species to those that are highly endangered. Animals you can find are the Florida bobcat, red pandas, toco toucans, a western burrowing owl, a radiated tortoise, a scarlet ibis, a prehensile-tailed skink a green tree python and more. 

Not only will visitors get to enjoy the animals on exhibit in natural settings, a trip to the zoo is also a great way to get some educational fun in through a normal visit or participation in one of the zoo's many special events. And who could pass up seeing the pudu fawn and crowned lemur born at the zoo in 2023? 

The Brandywine Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed on Christmas Day) and is free to enter from Dec. 1 to March 15 due to limited visibility of some animals on exhibit. From March 16 to March 31, prices will be as follows:  

• Members and children under 3 years old get in for free.  
• Children between ages 3 and 17 get in for $5.  
• Adults between ages 18 and 61 get in for $7.  
• Seniors aged 62 and above get in for $6.  

After April 1 the following pricing will last until Oct. 31: 

• Children between ages 3 and 17 get in for $7.  
• Adults between ages 18 and 61 get in for $9.  
• Seniors aged 62 and above get in for $8. 

The zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible. For more information, visit  brandywinezoo.org/.   

In Townsend, 3 Palms Zoo & Education Center is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays.  

Animals at the zoo are most active earlier in the day, when temperatures are cooler, so staff members advise planning a visit for as early as possible. This also will give you a chance to chat with animal keepers and ask questions about their zoo friends! 

MORE TO DO: Here are 14 New Jersey day trips to take over spring break

Admission during the day is $6 per person no matter the age and $1 per scoop of petting zoo food. Kids under 1 are free before 12 p.m. with two or more paid admissions.   

For more information about the zoo, visit  3palmszoo.org/.  

Ride the ferry to Cape May  

Just because you’re kicking it at home this spring break doesn’t mean you have to stay home the entire time, and luckily for Delaware, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry accommodates those seeking wallet-friendly and fast travel to a nearby beach town.   

The ferry sets sail from Lewes for a short trip across the Delaware Bay to Cape May. Passengers can travel by vehicle, bicycle or on foot to meet Cape May’s shores in about 85 minutes.   

Enjoy the open waters and breathtaking views along the 17-mile journey, along with visits from animal friends along the way like dolphins, seals, bald eagles and whales, before docking at Cape May and starting your adventure.  

While in  Cape May , you can visit Cape May Point State Park, the Cape May Lighthouse, Washington Street Mall, the Lobster House, Cape May Brewery, Beach Plum Farm and much more.   

Cape May (and Lewes) have electric bikes available for rental during your trip that can help expand your exploration of the area and give you a workout!   

More Cape May area attractions include the Cold Spring Village, Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation, Cape May County Park and Zoo, Willow Creek Winery and Farm, Emlen Physick Estate (a historic Victorian house and museum) and many annual events.  

The 2023–2024 fall/winter scheduling and fare began on Nov. 1 and remains in effect until March 31, 2024.   

According to the  winter fare , adults, ages 14 to 61 years old, pay $8 for a one-way ticket and $14 for a round trip. Seniors, ages 62 years old and up, pay $6 for a one-way ticket and $11 for a round trip. Children ages 13 years old and younger ride for free.    

Daily departure times  from both the Cape May and Lewes terminals vary based on day. Consult the winter schedule for more information about arrival and departure times. 

Go shopping  

Maybe you want to use spring break to get a head start on your summer wardrobe or need to stock up on workwear for your upcoming internship. 

Whatever you’re looking for, spending the day at the mall is a worthwhile activity fit for college students, families and adults alike.  

You can browse the books at Barnes & Noble, grab lunch in the food court or at one of the restaurants in the Christiana Fashion Center, buy new pantry organizers at the Container Store and revamp your vanity with new makeup from Sephora.   

Even if you don’t feel like buying anything, maybe you’ll find some apartment décor inspiration while getting your steps in at the same time. 

Take the train out of town  

Sometimes your city can get a bit boring, and after sitting at home for a few days during spring break, you might start feeling a bit stir-crazy. 

 If you’re hankering to get out of town for a quick trip or want to catch up with some pals in other college towns, take the train elsewhere for a quick trip.   

Not only does Amtrak eliminate the dreaded middle seat dilemma by offering two seats per row, but the company also allows you to travel in green style by producing 72% less carbon emissions than flying and 83% less carbon emissions than driving, according to Amtrak.    

Trains also are a much cheaper option than flying if your wallet is still on the rebound from holiday and back-to-school purchases for spring semester.  

Delaware has Amtrak stations in  Wilmington  and  Newark  with passenger trains traveling through major cities like Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; Providence, Rhode Island; Boston, Massachusetts and more.  Other passenger trains like the Carolinian can take you to one of 24 destinations located between New York City and Charlotte, North Carolina.    

Bowl, jump and play for your inner child  

Whether you’ve got bored kids to entertain or are looking for a throwback to childhood with your college friends, checking out local arcades and events or sports centers is an easy way to occupy a few hours of a day during spring break.  

Across Delaware, there’s a plethora of bowling lanes, family arcades, trampoline parks and escape rooms to check out depending on what vibe you’re feeling.  

Plus, there’s something about the neon lighting, funky music and wacky designs of arcades and events centers that always feels welcoming, along with the inevitable junk food you’re sure to indulge in.  

Here are some places you can bowl, jump and play your way through for your inner child (or actual child) in Delaware:  

Family Fun Galaxy  at Mid County Lanes in Middletown has a laser tag arena, indoor bumper cars, arcade games and more for everyone in your household to enjoy.   

Main Event  in Christiana has a gravity ropes indoor course, laser tag, pool, bowling, arcade games and tasty eats. 

Xbos  in Smyrna has an arcade, bowling, a trampoline park and an indoor playground. Bring the little ones to play while you relax at the café.   

In Bethany Beach,  Shore Fun Family Fun Center  offers pinball machines, Skee-Ball, air hockey, arcade games, crane games and more.   

And for those of you who are a part of the “pictures or it didn’t happen” crowd, you can snap some pictures at the photo booth before you leave.   

New Castle’s  Xtreme Zone  features indoor go-karting, ax throwing and virtual reality fun.   

New coffee shop in town: Coffee house opens in Odessa in former gas station on busy corner, vacant for years

Take a scenic train ride  

If a train ride out of town for spring break isn’t the type of fun you’re looking for, how about a train ride through Delaware? 

The  Wilmington & Western Railroad  in Prices Corner operates steam- and diesel-powered tourist trains on 10 miles of track in the Red Clay Valley between Greenbank and Hockessin. 

That means you get to cruise through beautiful state views without doing any work or dealing with crowds of travelers at regional train stations. Pack your lunch to enjoy on the ride or just sit back and relax.   

Coming up, Wilmington & Western Railroad has two events in March.  

Brews on Board is a 21+ event on Friday, March 15, at 7 p.m. celebrating St. Patrick’s Day that takes passengers on a 2-hour round-trip through the valley, powered by a historic first-generation diesel locomotive, and supplies libations and snacks on board.

A ticket for the event includes two 12-ounce pours of your choice and a complimentary beer mug. Additional pours will be available aboard the train for $5 cash each.  

Reservations are required and table seating is $80 for a two-person table or $160 for a four-person table. 

The Easter Bunny Express is a family-friendly, 1 ½-hour round-trip ride to Ashland aboard a historic first-generation diesel locomotive, with the Easter Bunny as a special guest. The Easter Bunny will visit everyone onboard and pose for pictures, and all kids in attendance will receive a special treat.  

The Easter Bunny Express will operate on Saturday, March 23; Sunday, March 24; Saturday, March 29; and Sunday, March 23, with each day offering a 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. timeslot.  

Tickets are free for children under 2 years of age, $25 for children between ages 2 and 12, $27 for adults and $26 for seniors aged 60 and above. Reservations are required and seating is assigned for this event. 

Dine out at new restaurants 

It’s easy to get stuck in the routine of making those same frozen meals at your apartment every week, and if you’ve spent the semester so far solely eating dining hall food, well, we know what you’ve been through.  

While you have a bit of free time to venture off campus during spring break, treat yourself by checking out new restaurants around the state. 

Not only are new eateries popping up on every corner, but Delaware also has restaurants that were recently ranked as some of the best restaurants in the nation .

More daylight soon: When will sunset be at 6 p.m.? Here is when we may see more daylight in Delaware

Where to see the total solar eclipse: Want to head out of town for a better view of the April solar eclipse? Here's where to go

Giving back to the game: How Smyrna and UD QB Nolan Henderson became a go-to mechanics coach in Delaware

If you’re a parent working with a tight budget or dealing with children who are picky eaters, don’t worry. There are plenty of other restaurants around Delaware that cater to diners of all tastes and ages, and you just might come across a few chefs who have competed in food competitions on Netflix and the Food Network .

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at  [email protected] .   

Monson Police search for car break-in suspect

MONSON, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - The Monson Police Department is looking to identify a minivan connected to a car break in.

On Saturday, Monson Police got a call about a car that was broken into while parked at the Lunden Pond Trail Loop on Butler Road between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Police are looking for information that can help identify this white minivan that was in the area at the time of the break in.

Police say the van appears to have an out of state license plate on the back and no front plate.

Anyone with any information should contact Monson Police.

Copyright 2024. Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.

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