The Top spring break destinations in the USA for 2023
Are you looking for the top spring break destinations in the USA? You’re in the right place! I have teamed with some travel experts to bring you a list of incredible spring break destinations in the USA.
It is that time of year where the snow is melting, the sun is starting to shine and you are in much need of some vitamin D.
Keep reading to find out where you need to head this year to have a memorable spring break.
These spring break destinations will give you some serious wanderlust that you will want to add them to your classic USA road trip list.
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The Top spring break destinations in the USA
Are you trying to find the best places to visit for Spring Break this year? You’ve come to the right place. In this blog post you will find the best recommendations for where to go for Spring break, what to do, where to stay, how to get the best photos and everything in between.
If you think I’m missing a destination that MUST be included on this list, let me know in the comments below.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Alaska
Fairbanks
Paula, Paula Pins the Planet
If you are looking for an unforgettable destination for a spring break, Fairbanks in Alaska should be on the top of your list. Fairbanks is a popular destination and it is a must-visit destination in any Alaska Itinerary.
With plenty of things to do and explore, Fairbanks makes a great destination for families, couples, or any outdoor and adventure lover. Here you can find a combination of vast forests with amazing hiking trails and wilderness. Even better? Fairbanks is the best place in the world to catch the Aurora Borealis.
Make sure you visit the Museum of North, where you can learn more about the incredible story of Alaska with a mix of places, wildlife, people, and culture. From the Alaska Native days and customs to the most recent days.
A great place to stay while visiting Fairbanks is the Chena Springs Resort, which besides the hot springs, it offers a large variety of activities to enjoy during spring times such as ATV, hiking trails, and even an amazing ice museum with an ice bar serving martinis in an ice glass.
Also, this area is considered the best point in Fairbanks to watch the Northern Lights and to capture that dream picture. But even if you are not staying at the resort, you still can visit the Chena Springs for the day, and enjoy all the activities in this area.
Fairbanks is only It is only a short 1-hour flight from Anchorage or driving from Anchorage will take approx.. 6 hours on a scenic drive. Another option is to take the Alaska Railroad, which runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, taking an average of 12-hours due to the winding paths and rail lines, but with stunning views.
Since the North Pole is only 20 minutes away, make sure you plan to visit Santa Claus, where the magic spirit of Christmas happens all year long, even during the springtime.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Arizona
Page
Michelle, The Wandering Queen
One of the best places to visit in the Spring is Page, Arizona. This town is a spectacular spot for the adventurous spirit. There is so much to see and do, and Spring is the best time to visit because the weather is pretty mild and comfortable.
One of the best places to stay in Page is Lake Powell Resort because it has tremendous views of Lake Powell and an outstanding restaurant. The best way to get to Arizona is to fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and drive 4 hours and 17 minutes Northwest.
The number one activity in the area is to visit the Antelope Canyons. You need a tour guide to take you to the breathtaking canyons, but it should not be missed. The canyons are smooth, with wavy orange and brown swirls. But make sure you book a tour right away because they sell out quickly.
The other popular thing to do is to hike Horseshoe Bend. It is only 1.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 137 ft, and it is rated as easy. Many people come here during the sunrise to avoid the crowds, but you will enjoy the horseshoe-shaped canyon no matter what time you go.
Sedona
Debbie, World Adventurists
Sedona in located in Northern Arizona, with the Flagstaff Airport just a 40-minute scenic drive away through Oak Creek Canyon.
Sedona, known as Mother Nature’s red rock country, boasts majestic sandstone scenery and towering cliffs. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, its red rock formations are an incredible backdrop to the myriad of outdoor activities.
We would even argue that Sedona is one of the most scenic areas of Arizona; the expansive panoramas will amaze you.
Hiking trails vary from family-friendly hikes to challenging paths that take you to stunning vistas. If you’re looking for some easier hikes, we would suggest: Devil’s Bridge (4 miles) is one of the most famous hikes, and is one of the most impressive geologic formations in Sedona.
Bell Rock (1 mile) trail is relatively flat and has fantastic views of Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. Sedona View Trail (1.2 miles) will amaze you with stunning views of Chimney Rock, Coffee Pot Rock and Thunder Mountain.
If you want a break from hiking, take a thrilling ride on a rugged off-road adventure jeep tour, drive the Ref Rock Scenic Byway (179 & 89A) enjoy a scenic morning hot air balloon flight, relax with some spa time, or enjoy shopping the boutiques, art galleries and souvenir stores in Uptown Sedona.
There is also a natural rock formation that is called a “waterslide” in Slide Rock State Park, just a few miles (or ten minute drive) north of Sedona (check out these awesome waterfalls).
We found Sedona to have a strong, unique energy to it, or an energy vortex, as they call it. There are said to be four Sedona vortexes: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon; each with their own energy.
Spring is an excellent time to visit Sedona. From March to May, temperatures are more comfortable, rather than scorching. When we visited in March, the weather was perfect. We did not feel like we were going to melt and were able to enjoy the sunshine and warmth.
Do not make the mistake of only booking a night or two in Sedona. Leave yourself adequate time to discover all the fascinating scenery, surrounded by massive red rocks. The Sedona Summit is a great mid-range hotel, with gorgeous views from most units. The studios feel like a mini suite, very spacious and with a great kitchen.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in California
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Heather, That OC Girl
One of the best places to visit during spring is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in San Diego County. Anza-Borrego is California’s largest state park, so you’ll find plenty of things to do here.
Some of the most popular things to do in Anza-Borrego include hiking Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, hiking through The Slot canyon, and driving to Font’s Point for sunrise or sunset. Some locations in the park require a 4×4 vehicle, so plan ahead if you want to visit any of those locations (which includes Font’s Point).
Camping in Anza-Borrego is a great option for overnight stays if you are outdoorsy or just looking for a place to stay that’s more secluded. You are able to make camping reservations, but it can be hard to snag a reservation so you can also look into backcountry camping if you’re ok without having basic amenities.
If you’re not into camping, the best place to stay near Anza-Borrego is in Borrego Springs, a tiny town right outside of the park. You’ll find several hotels (and camping options), including vintage RV rentals.
Check out Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort which is right down the street from the Visitor Center and has decent prices and plenty of amenities including a restaurant, pools, and laundry facilities.
There’s plenty of things to do in Borrego Springs as well, including renting e-bikes to see the metal sculptures scattered throughout the desert, grabbing some fresh grapefruits at one of the corner fruit stands, and stargazing.
The best time to go to Anza-Borrego is in early spring when the wildflowers are blooming and the day time temps are still manageable. April and May temperatures can reach the 90’s and above, so hiking in these conditions won’t be comfortable.
Make sure you dress appropriately for your trip – including appropriate sun protection and hiking gear!
Malibu
Denise, Chef Denise
Looking for a spring break destination with lots of sunshine, beautiful scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and wine tasting? Then head to Malibu, California!
Malibu has 27 miles of stunning coastline, and spring is the perfect time to soak in the sun on its famous beaches without the crowds. The water is a little cool without a wetsuit, but kayaking, stand-up-paddling, and surfing can all be enjoyed in the spring. Malibu’s longest beach, Zuma, is a wide sandy beach with a sweeping view of the coast. A little more north, gorgeous little coves are accessible from nearby rocky cliffs.
Stay at the Surfrider Hotel and you’ll have convenient access to the Malibu Pier and some of the best restaurants in the area. From there you can walk to the Malibu Lagoon State Beach which houses the California Historical Landmark, the Adamson house. Tour the home famed for its colorful ceramic tiles, snap a photo of the peacock fountain with the pier in the background, and explore the lagoon rich with wildlife like, great blue herons and egrets.
Nature lovers should explore the trails of the Santa Monica Mountains that start just across the street from the beach. In spring, wild flowers like California poppies and lupine splash the hills with orange and purple. Take Malibu Canyon Rd for a scenic ride to Malibu Creek State Park and visit the filming site for the old sitcom MASH.
These hills are also the place to do some Malibu wine tasting. Start at Cornell Winery and Tasting Room where you can sip a variety of local wines on the patio listening to music. You will not want to leave!
San Diego
Katie, La Jolla Mom
San Diego is one of the most popular spring break destinations in the United States thanks to sunny weather and 70 miles of coastline.
Many families choose it for spring break vacations because of the long list of San Diego attractions for kids that not only includes famous theme parks like LEGOLAND California and San Diego Zoo, but plenty of outdoor activities.
Sunbathing and enjoying the quintessential Southern California beach day tops most spring itineraries. But you can also learn how to surf, go snorkeling, kayak sea caves, and enjoy hiking trails for all levels.
Those looking for a more urban experience should see Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park, which is home to outstanding architecture and gardens along with 17 museums of varying themes.
You can also explore Old Town San Diego, considered the birthplace of California with its historic buildings that showcase what life was like in the state’s early years, in the mid to late 1800s.
Plus, it’s also known for the Mexican food San Diego is famous for (and giant margaritas). Speaking of food, the one thing you must eat in San Diego is a fish taco. Pair it with a craft beer from one of the nearly 200 local breweries. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and breweries with outdoor patios from which you can enjoy the spring sunshine.
The airport is located in the center of downtown, so you can fly into San Diego and be in a cool downtown boutique hotel with a happening rooftop pool like Pendry San Diego in a matter of minutes.
The most popular spring break resort though is the historic and beachfront Hotel del Coronado, about 20 minutes from the airport. Coronado Island is famous for its pristine beaches and this resort has a neat set-up called Del Beach with food and drink service to the sand.
They’re also in the process of an enormous transformation and have opened up a brand new pool with cabanas in addition to new rooms covered outdoor terraces and fire pits.
San Francisco
Chelsey, Chelsey Explores
San Francisco is one of the prettiest cities in the US, and is also a perfect destination to visit in the spring!
San Francisco offers great weather during the spring time, the average temperature is 63 F and it’s pretty nice to explore the city and the area!
To enjoy spring in San Francisco, visit the city during April-May. Perfect weather, not too hot, and not cold either.
How to get to San Francisco? No matter where you live, you can get to San Francisco by flying to the San Francisco International Airport.
If you are coming from cities near San Francisco, you can go on a road trip to San Francisco from one of these destinations: LA to San Francisco – 6 hours drive, Las Vegas to San Francisco – 8.5 hours drive, Phoenix to San Francisco – 11 hours drive
If you are looking for some Instagrammable spots in San Francisco, the most Instagrammable place in San Francisco (beyond the famous golden gate photo you will take), is the Painted Ladies houses which are a few Victorian styled houses that make such an Instagrammable place to take some beautiful photos!
Looking for more things to do in San Francisco? Take a walk along Lombard street, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, watch the sunset at Twin Peaks, hike Alamere Falls or Castle Rock and of course, visit the famous Chinatown in San Francisco
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Colorado
Crested Butte
Meg, Fox in the Forest
One of the best spring destinations in the USA is Crested Butte, Colorado. It’s a stunning, mountain town that is around a 4-hour drive from Denver and that is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado.
So, while you’re here, enjoy a late season ski trip since snow regularly lingers at Crested Butte Mountain Resort until mid-April.
But if you visit later in the season – any time between late May and early July – enjoy a area’s wealth of hiking and mountain biking trails that come alive with vibrant flowers.
In particular, the hike through aspen groves from Caves to Lookout Point is particularly beautiful, as is the Lily Lake Trail and the Lupine Trail.
You can also grab some curry shrimp at the Last Steep before exploring the downtown area, with quaint shops like The Alpineer and Chopwood Mercantile.
Finally, book a room at the Purple Mountain bed and breakfast to enjoy some cozy comfy mountain charm.
After all, they have an outdoor hot tub on a private deck, offer daily craft beer tastings, and a even feature a self-serve hot chocolate bar. This way, you can really savor all Crested Butte has to offer and one of the best things to do in Colorado.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Florida
Key West
Lavina, Continent Hop
Florida is one of the most visited places in the US however the weather here is perfect in spring which makes it one of the best places to visit during this time.
The temperatures in Miami and Key West in spring tend to be around a maximum of 25 degrees and a minimum of 19, making it quite ideal. To get to Key West you can fly directly to Key West international airport or even to Miami international airport and then drive to Key West.
Depending on the stops you take it can take anywhere from a minimum of 3 to 4 hours to drive to Key West but the drive is recommended as it is quite beautiful!
There’s many things to do here. There’s Ernest Hemingway’s house that is now a museum if you love art and history, Audubon House and Gallery and Mel Fisher Maritime Museum are some other museums located here.
If you prefer the outdoors, you can try snorkelling, motor boat rides, diving to see shipwrecks swim with dolphins to name a few activities you can do while you’re here.
The Gates Hotel Key West is quite a nice hotel to book your stay while in Key West. The Conch shack restaurant is quite popular with visitors!
Vero Beach
Cortney, Tin Can Living
If you’re looking for a beautiful and relaxing spring destination, look no further than Vero Beach, Florida. This charming town is located on the Atlantic coast and is known for its white-sand beaches, lush vegetation, and friendly locals. Vero Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the springtime weather. So pack your bags and head to Vero Beach!
Visiting Vero is a must during the spring because of the variety of activities that are available. You can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and fishing on the beach, or take a walk through Vero’s lush parks and gardens. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in town, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
The weather during this time of year is also perfect for enjoying all of Vero’s outdoor activities. The temperatures are usually in the 70s and 80s, so you can enjoy a day at the beach without feeling too hot. And don’t forget to take advantage of Vero’s amazing sunsets!
If you are a photographer by profession or by hobby, Vero Beach is a great place to visit. There are plenty of photo opportunities here, from the lush gardens and palm-lined streets to the beautiful beaches. Check out the botanical gardens for the perfect snapshot.
The best way to get to Vero Beach is by car. It is a short drive from the Orlando International Airport. Just take I-95 to Vero Beach, and then follow the signs to Vero’s downtown area. You can also fly into Vero Beach via Fort Lauderdale International Airport or Miami International Airport.
The best hotel to rest your weary head after a great day of adventures in this area is Costa D’ Este Beach Resort and Spa. This resort is located on the beach and offers luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa, and amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.
No matter what you’re looking for, Vero Beach has something to offer everyone who visits during the springtime. So come on down to this charming town and enjoy all that it has to offer.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Georgia
Savannah
Sam, Find Love & Travel
Savannah, Georgia is easily one of the best places to visit during the Spring in the USA! Not only will you experience great weather, but you will also be able to enjoy the stunning azalea blooms covering this charming city!
Because Savannah is bursting in flowers, it makes spring one of the most popular times to visit. Some of the most Instagrammable Places in Savannah include Forsyth Park, Wormsloe Historic Site, and the Riverfront!
Even if you are not a cemetery fan, you will definitely want to visit the famous Bonaventure Cemetery since it is not only famous but also bursting in flowers. Another top attraction in Savannah to enjoy is strolling around the 22 original Savannah Squares covered in giant oak trees that have Spanish moss.
The Spring is also the start of beach season in Savannah. Depending on the weather during your visit, a day trip to Tybee island can be the perfect escape from the city to enjoy the pristine beaches.
Additionally, if you are visiting in March, Savannah holds one of the largest Saint Patrick’s Day Parades! They even color the Forsyth Fountain water green and thousands of people line down the Historic District. Furthermore, Spring is also a popular time for music festivals!
The best way to get to Savannah is by flying into Savannah’s International Airport, SAV. If you’re located on the East Coast, you may even want to consider a road trip to the city. The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront is a great place to stay. They have rooms that offer balconies overlooking the Riverfront and a great rooftop bar.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Hawaii
Oahu
Are you looking for the best Spring Destinations in the USA? You should go to Oahu in Hawaii.
Spring is the best time to go because it’s not as hot as Summer, but the weather is still beautiful. It’s also not as busy as Summer.
Most tourists just go to Honolulu, but it’s busy, touristy, just looks like any USA city, and the beaches are very overrated.
Instead, head to the North Coast (between Kawela Bay and Haleiwa) which has much more beautiful beaches and looks just like the Hawaii postcards. It’s also worth it just for the beautiful drive there. Make sure you stop at the food trucks on the side of the road when you’re driving there.
You should also pop into Kailua on the East Coast, which is near Lanikai Beach which is voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Lanikai Beach is a bit overrated and full of tourists, but the other beaches around Kailua are empty and beautiful.
The best way to see Oahu is to rent a car and do a loop around the island. Spend a couple of days in Honolulu to do some shopping and walk up Diamond Head for beautiful views over Honolulu, but otherwise stay on the North Coast (the Turtle Bay Resort is popular) and base yourself up there for the majority of your trip.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in New York
Watkins Glen
Kelly, Travel New York Now
Looking for one of the best spring destinations in the USA? If so then head over to Watkins Glen, NY and visit Watkins Glen State Park.
It’s easily one of the best state parks in New York since it’s home to the easy, 3.0 mile round trip Gorge Trail.
See, this stunning trail routinely opens back up in the spring and takes visitors through Glen Gorge, over stone bridges, and past no less than 19 different waterfalls – waterfalls that are at their most impressive in the spring when snow in the area is starting to melt.
If you want, you can take stunning photos right as you enter the park since there is a picturesque waterfall and stone bridge here that looks like something out of Lord of the Rings.
Afterward, go on a scenic boat ride across Seneca Lake before enjoying a delicious meal at Jerlando’s Ristorante & Pizza Co. and discovering one of many popular wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, like Lakewood Vineyards.
In fact, this area is packed with amazing wineries that are known for their sweet and delicious Rieslings.
You can also take a day trip to Corning and visit the famous Corning Glass Museum there before spending the night at the cozy, Blackberry Inn Bed and Breakfast
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Texas
Big Bend
Megan, Red Around the World
Big Bend National Park is Texas’ gift to the nation. At least that’s what they say. While it may not be the best national park ever, it’s still pretty great, especially in spring.
It’s in the middle of nowhere west Texas making it a little more effort than usual to visit.
If you’re flying in, El Paso is going to be the best place to do that, though it’s still hours away (it’s literally the middle of nowhere on the Texas/Mexico border).
I would definitely recommend staying at the Chisos Mountain Lodge in the park or camping in the park if you can. The Gage Hotel in Marathon is another good option close to the park.
If you’re on more of a budget, Fort Stockton will get the job done but it is a couple of hours from the park, like most lodging.
There are tons of things to do in Big Bend but it’s vast and overwhelming to visit so make sure you plan out a few things you want to do while you’re there and know where those things are.
You could spend all day just driving the main roads of the park but you’ll want to get out and stretch your legs, too.
Some great things to do are the short hike to the hot springs (check out the rock art along the way), visit Boquillas, Mexico for a few hours, hike to the iconic Santa Elena Canyon or Balanced Rock, and hike the Chisos Mountains.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Big Bend because of the weather. It’s perfect for hiking, not too hot and not too cold.
Keep an eye out for javelinas in the park and on the way there and no matter if you stay in the park or are just there for one day, try to set aside some time at night to do some stargazing. It’s so remote which makes the night skies shockingly clear.
It can get chilly at night in spring, so make sure you have some layers to bundle up in.
Brenham
Yocheved, Texas Wanderers
Brenham in the spring is a sight to behold. The fields are awash in bursts of blue, as the iconic Texas flower, the bluebonnet, begins to bloom. Take a drive out here to see the beautiful scenery, take some pictures, and maybe even pick a few to take home.
Brenham, Texas is a small city of about 15,000 people, centrally located about mid-way between Houston and Austin. It’s most famous for its bluebonnets, and for being home to Blue Bell Creameries.
After you’ve seen the bluebonnets, head over to the creamery for some delicious ice cream made on premises, plus some exhibits and information about the history of Blue Bell!
Brenham is located in Washington County, which is also known as the birthplace of Texas. It was right nearby, at Washington-on-the-Brazos, that the Texas declaration of independence was signed.
You can visit the Star of the Republic Museum, where you’ll learn all about the early history of Texas, plus an entire exhibit focused on the mid 1800’s when Texas was known as the Republic of Texas.
The museum is located on the grounds of Washington-on-the-Brazos Historic Site, with expansive grounds along the Brazos river, perfect for picnicking, sightseeing, and birdwatching.
The site also houses the Barrington Living History Farm, where you can tour the 1850’s home of Dr. Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas. You’ll be transported back in time by costumed guides who show you what life was like back then.
If you’re looking to stay the night, you won’t want to miss a stay at Rocking Star Ranch, where you can sleep in one of their beautifully decorated rustic cabins at night, and enjoy the ranch by day, including a walk among the cattle, feeding the chickens, goats, pigs, and even baby deer, petting the horses, and even a sunset hayride.
There’s also a beautiful pool with a waterfall, completing the property’s luxurious feel.
Galveston Island
Trijit, Dog Travel Buff
If you want to soak up the warm sunshine on the white sand beaches escaping from the winter cold, Galveston Island could be the best option for you. Located just 50 miles southeast of Houston, this coastal city is one of the top spring break destinations in the USA.
It offers a range of water activities, adventure parks, sandy beaches, restored historic sites, museums, and numerous shopping and dining options. East Beach and Stewart Beach are the two incredible beaches on Galveston Island. You can enjoy shore-side perks like volleyball courts, beach chair rentals, snack bars, restrooms, and other activities including horseback riding and helicopter tours. If you are with your kids, don’t forget to check out Schlitterbahn’s waterpark, a popular waterpark among kids and adventure enthusiasts.
It features thrilling water slides, roller coasters, and a small beach area for the kids. Visitors can also explore the Moody Gardens. There are plenty of things to see and do in this garden but the main crowd pullers are iconic pyramids, five-tier Ropes Course & Zip Line, and 18 holes Golf Course.
Another highlight of this place is Aquarium Pyramid. This huge aquarium offers an amazing display of the marine life of the Pacific, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Coral Sea. The historic Pleasure Pier offers plenty of fun rides including the Iron Shark Roller Coaster, the Galaxy Wheel, Cyclone, Rock N Roll and many more activities and a restaurant.
If you are hungry, stop at Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy some delicious seafood. Gaido’s Seaside Inn is a nice motel which is located near the Galveston Sea Wall. It has an outdoor swimming pool and offers a complimentary breakfast.
Texas Hill Country
Lydia, Lost With Lydia
Texas Hill Country refers to the general area between San Antonio and Austin and is known for its wineries, beautiful natural spots and charming small towns. It’s the perfect springtime destination because the famous Texas bluebonnets are on full display!
Bluebonnets are the Texas state flower and they bloom all over Hill Country during the month of April.
April also brings mild weather in Texas and is a great time to visit before the heat of the summer.
If it’s your first time visiting Hill Country, the best place to visit is the town of Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg is a town full of German heritage and is the perfect base to explore the surrounding countryside, wineries and trails. To reach this small town, fly into San Antonio or Austin and rent a car to make the 1-2 hour drive.
One of the best places to take a photo in Fredericksburg is Wildseed Farms. It is the largest working wildflower farm in the country. You can explore the fields of flowers on your own and even pick your own bouquet. You can also enjoy a wine tasting, purchase seeds for your garden and admire the beautiful landscaping.
If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss Enchanted Rock. This state park is located right outside of Fredericksburg and is known for a giant pink granite dome that you can summit for amazing Hill Country views. Enchanted Rock is also a great place to see the bluebonnets in April. Just be sure to make a reservation to visit!
In addition to hiking and flower farms, there are many wineries surrounding Fredericksburg. Take a guided winery tour so that you can safely visit a few of them for tastings. A couple of the award winning wineries include Becker Vineyards and Messina Hof.
One of the most unique places to stay near Fredericksburg is Blue Skies Retro Resort. This property has trailers in different pastel colors, a dreamy pool and is the perfect place for photography! If glamping isn’t your thing, you can also stay at a bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg. There are multiple options within walking distance of the many shops and restaurants in town, one being Southern Charm Bed and Breakfast.
Texas Hill Country has something to offer for every type of traveler and spring is the perfect time to visit. Be sure to add Texas to your spring break bucket list!
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Utah
Moab
Meg, Fox in the Forest
Often referred to as the gateway to the desert, Moab, Utah is a must-see US destination for spring. Located along Highway 191, just a few hours past the Utah/Colorado border, you’ll find yourself surrounded by red rock scenery.
With two nearby national parks, a state park, and plenty of opportunity for outdoor exploration there is plenty to do in Moab. Start by checking out some of the best Moab hikes. From Arches National Park to Canyonlands and beyond, you’ll be spoiled for desert scenery.
Don’t like to hike? Moab is also world-famous for scenic driving – take a ride down Gemini Bridges Road or along Upper Potash Road for sunset. Avid outdoor enthusiasts will love the other opportunities for OHV driving, mountain biking, or rock climbing.
In the spring, the canyons flow heavily with water from nearby snowmelt. White water rafting trips are popular this time of year as well. You can opt to go guided or avid water experts can try their luck rafting the Colorado River on their own.
Springtime is a popular time to visit, so be sure to make your reservations for lodging early. AirBnB’s are likely your best bet for flexibility and freedom, although there are plenty of hotel options in Moab. Nearby Spanish Valley, just 7 minutes from Moab, offers affordable AirBnB lodging with beautiful scenery.
Pack plenty of water, salty snacks, and sun protection for your desert adventure. Be sure to always follow signage and stay on marked trails. Keep in mind that flash floods are common in the desert during spring, so avoid hiking in any canyons or driving dirt roads during or after a rainstorm. Always check the weather and be sure to leave the places you visit better than you found them.
Spring Skiing
Lisa, Planning Away
One of the best spring destinations in the US is Utah. Yes, yes there are amazing national parks throughout the state and Spring is definitely the best time to visit those but I am referring to a Spring skiing trip in Utah.
Utah has the best snow on earth. There are 8 ski resorts near Salt Lake City and most are within an hour’s drive from the SLC Airport. Park City is a world-renown area to ski but for spring skiing the best resorts in Utah are Alta and Snowbird.
Alta averages 700 inches of snowfall each season which is about 200 inches more than any other resort in Utah. Snowbird is located directly below Alta so it gets a good amount of snowfall as well. Why is this important? Well, The snow will start to melt in the spring. Park City and other resorts may have to close some of the trails/runs. Alta and Snowbird can keep the majority of the runs open the entire spring season.
There is enough snow at both Alta and Snowbird to stay open longer during the spring season. At Snowbird you can ski until the end of May! One of the best things about spring skiing is the fabulous weather! You don’t have to worry about temperatures being too cold. The sun typically shines and provides perfect skiing conditions.
Spring skiing in Utah is the perfect destination!
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Virginia
Roanoke
Erin, Go Hike Virginia
Situated in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke sparkles as a springtime destination, particularly for outdoor lovers.
Tackle single-track mountain bike trails at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve or take on the Roanoke Star hike to the world’s largest man-made star that stands proud at 100 feet tall. The overlook boasts far-reaching views across the Roanoke Valley.
A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which skirts to the east of downtown, is a must-do while in Roanoke. In spring, colorful wildflowers and flowering shrubs, like mountain laurel and rhododendrons, wow motorists on the scenic byway.
At milepost 115, stop in the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center to explore topographical area maps and browse regional crafts and souvenirs in the gift shop.
In downtown Roanoke, spend a few hours at Center in the Square, which is home to popular attractions like the Roanoke Pinball Museum, the Science Museum of Western Virginia and the Harrison Museum of African American Culture.
Take the elevator to the sixth-floor rooftop to see a koi pond and to revel in all the views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.
Starved? Take a seat at Texas Tavern, a classic 10-stool diner in Roanoke. This longtime cash-only establishment serves up burgers and chili bowls for less than $2 each. Order the Cheesy Western, a burger topped with a fried egg, cheese, pickles and sweet relish.
Stay the weekend in-town at the centrally-located Hampton Inn & Suites Roanoke Downtown. Before you return home, fill up at Scratch Biscuit Company.
The buttery, made-from-scratch biscuits are heavenly, but they also serve up eggs, pancakes and hash browns.
No car? No problem. Take the Amtrak train to the Roanoke Valley. The train stops in downtown Roanoke daily, making it a snap to get to Roanoke from points north, including Washington, DC and Philadelphia by way of Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Route.
The Best Spring Break Destinations in Missouri
St. Louis
Jamie, Fly by the Seat of our Pants
St Louis is the perfect spring break destination for families. For one thing, it is so nice on the wallet. Most of the major attractions in St. Louis are completely free! You can enjoy the Zoo, the Science Museum and Art Museum for only the cost of parking.
The City Zoo is large and expansive with interesting animals and a beautiful walkthrough. The Science Museum is full of interactive and educational activities for all ages.
The walkway over the freeway is a great place to watch the traffic speed by. Try the Art Museum for free as well!
The best museum in the city of St. Louis is called City Museum. It was created by an artist and architect. You will love the mazes to explore, the creativity, the beauty, and all the wonky designs.
Kids of all ages will climb, slide, and explore their way through this giant warehouse at City Museum.
Gateway Arch is a National Monument right on the bank of the Mississippi river which welcomes the original USA to the “Wild West” Just walking around the arch is an experience to remember.
But, you can also go down under the arch into the visitors center for a fascinating informational video and gift shop. For a fee, you can ride the elevator to the top of the arch to see incredible views of the city.
The Hyatt Regency downtown has incredible views of the Arch and Park and is close to great eating places. Don’t miss out on St. Louis Style pizza.
St. Louis is exactly what your family needs this spring break. Read everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to St. Louis.
Washington DC
Adrienne, The Haphazard Traveler
Travelers looking for the perfect spring getaway should plan a long weekend in Washington DC to see cherry blossoms. In late March and early April, Washington DC hosts its annual Cherry Blossom Festival when thousands of cherry trees throughout the city bloom.
The festival activities include Opening Ceremonies, Kite Festival, Parade, and closing fireworks.
For the best spring views of DC’s iconic monuments, visit the Tidal Basin and follow its 2-mile loop trail. From here it’s possible to get photos of the Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial framed by flowers.
Washington DC visitors should also make time to see the Smithsonian Museums located nearby on the National Mall, as well as the U.S. Capitol and the National Gallery of Art. History buffs will want to visit the National Archives to see the original Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution.
To plan a trip, the closest airport is Reagan National Airport (DCA) just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia. From there, it’s a quick taxi, Uber, or Metro ride to Washington DC. The Mandarin Oriental is the most convenient hotel to the Tidal Basin cherry blossoms, about a 10-minute walk.
The Willard, just a few blocks from the White House, is another classic DC stay, while the Hotel Hive is a close mid-range boutique option.
Where would you go for the perfect spring break in America? Let me know in the comments below
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