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

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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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Best spring break destinations for families.

Though spring break is commonly associated with beach-bound college coeds, there are plenty of getaways that provide a kid-oriented atmosphere, from theme parks to jaw-dropping natural wonders. To determine which are ideal for travelers with children in tow, U.S. News considered entertainment options and family-friendly dining and lodging choices – along with user votes – to create this ranking of the best spring break destinations for families. Vote below for your favorite spots to influence next year's list.

Yosemite National Park

Honolulu - oahu, anaheim-disneyland, grand canyon national park, washington, d.c., hilton head, myrtle beach.

With its millennia-old sequoia trees, formidable waterfalls and unique rock formations, California's Yosemite National Park wows visitors of all ages, especially during the less-crowded spring months. For hikes with your little ones, consider trekking the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail to see one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Or, catch sight of the Half Dome on your way to Mirror Lake, which is fullest in spring. When your legs need a rest, head to the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center (which opens in April) for Yosemite-themed crafts and activities.

Where else can you and the kiddos ride the Hogwarts Express, hug Mickey Mouse and spot alligators within one vacation? This Florida locale is a solid spring break choice for families thanks to its warm and dry weather; renowned amusement parks like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort; and its multitude of seasonal events. Plus, Orlando's hotels boast tons of suite-style accommodations, including rooms with fun "Jurassic World" and "Despicable Me" themes. Keep in mind, though, that the spring break rush means parks tend to be crowded and lodging options are often on the pricier side.

Honolulu's natural beauty, cultural attractions and historical sights regularly woo families. Water lovers can learn to surf Waikiki Beach's calm waves or explore the reefs in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. If you need a break from the sand, head to the Honolulu Zoo, learn about Hawaiian heritage at the Bishop Museum or check out can't-miss memorials like Pearl Harbor and the Battleship Missouri. Since a spring visit means some of the sun-seeking winter crowds have dispersed, you'll likely find more affordable rates at many of Honolulu's hotels.

Beaches , museums and a SeaWorld theme park are just some of the kid-friendly offerings found in San Diego. March and April fall within the city's gray whale watching season. Plus, both months feature superb weather (think: mostly sunny skies and daytime temperatures in the 60s) made for family picnics in Balboa Park or spotting sea lions in La Jolla Cove. But no visit to America's Finest City would be complete without checking out the world-famous San Diego Zoo and its affiliated safari park in nearby Escondido.

Although Disneyland Resort doesn't boast as many family-friendly accommodations as its central Florida counterpart, there are still many convenient lodging options that make it easy for families to access the park, including a refreshed Pixar-themed property. Plus, the surrounding Anaheim, California, area offers plenty of other pursuits geared toward young ones, including Knott's Berry Farm and Adventure City. Not to mention, a spring visit features daytime highs in the 60s and 70s, temperatures that are ideal for exploring the parks.

A plethora of adventure activities, affordable admission and breathtaking landscapes make this Arizona national park an easy sell to families. For an extra memorable vacation, take in one-of-a-kind views during a mule ride along the South Rim, rent e-bikes to cruise along the Hermit Road Greenway Trail or get a taste of the Wild West on a Grand Canyon Railway train ride.   Be sure to visit the South Rim Village to pick up a Junior Rangers activity book and attend a ranger-led hike or astronomy program. But plan ahead: Since the North Rim remains closed through mid-May, this limits accommodations and can cause congestion in the South Rim.

Free family-friendly activities abound in our nation's capital. Older children can enjoy educational exhibits at must-visit sights like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. And if little ones are in tow, families will want to check out the 2,000-plus animals that live at the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute. Another bonus: A late March or early April visit will likely coincide with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which features stunning blooms and plenty of fun outdoor events for the whole family.

Though you probably won't be able to swim at this relaxing South Carolina destination's renowned beaches this time of year, Hilton Head Island offers an array of other kid-friendly activities and opportunities to explore nature. Spend your time horseback riding, biking and kayaking, or enjoy a family golf lesson on one of Hilton Head Island's world-renowned courses. Regardless of how you choose to pass the time, you'll have access to several large resorts with family-friendly amenities, most of which offer cheaper rates in spring than those available come summer.

A stay in the Bahamas is all about relaxing and reconnecting with your family. Kids will love spotting rays at the marine habitat at Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas, snorkeling with sting rays at Blue Lagoon Island or swimming with pigs in the Exumas, while adults will enjoy lounging on pristine white sand beaches or sampling rum at John Watling's Distillery. Spring is a popular time for travelers of all ages to visit these sunny islands, but those with kids in tow who want to keep away from college spring breakers will find plenty of family-friendly resorts available.

While this South Carolina hot spot is popular among college spring breakers, it's a great family destination as well. Kids of all ages will enjoy a day at Broadway at the Beach, which is home to attractions like Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, Broadway Grand Prix go-kart track and the 100-plus exhibits at WonderWorks. Plus, active kiddos will revel in the chance to kayak Murrells Inlet or hike through the woodlands in Myrtle Beach State Park when they're not building sandcastles on Myrtle Beach's 60 miles of sand.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Sanibel Island

Puerto Rico

Anna Maria Island

Mammoth Lakes

Texas Hill Country

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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.

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"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

22 Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget – Kid Friendly!

Spring break is a time for many families to go on out-of-town trips because you have more time to spend with the kids.

But this doesn’t mean you must spend lots of money to enjoy yourselves.

There are many spring break ideas for families on a budget that are pleasant and memorable.

As a travel writer and parent, I’ve taken my kids around the country to experience what different cities have to offer.

This article compiles some of our favorite places with the recommended activities of other vacationers. 

With some experience and research, I aim to help you choose which budget-friendly activities best fit your family.

To make things easier for you, I also rated each vacation destination based on its affordability, kid-friendly activities, safety, accommodation options, and ease of access. 

So start planning by checking out my recommendations below for money-saving things to do during spring break.

Spring Break Ideas For Families On A Budget Compared

It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money to have a fun and memorable spring break. 

For your reference, here’s a quick summary of our top picks for a budget-friendly vacation.

Editor’s Choice

Cocoa Beach, FL

If you are looking for some relaxed, cheap family getaway in April, the relaxed coastal surf town Cocoa Beach would be ideal.

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

#2nd Best Choice

Mont Tremblant, Canada

If you are in the mood for skiing, you will find that Mont Tremblant in Quebec offers an affordable spring break package.

• Affordability:  4/5
• Kid-friendly Activities: 3.5/5
• Accommodation Options: 4/5
• Ease of Access: 3.5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Blowing Rock, NC

Tucked away in western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is a mountain town with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in outdoor activities.short_description

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Accommodation Options: 3/5
• Ease of Access: 3/5

Here are the top 22 budget-friendly spring break ideas for families.

1. Cocoa Beach, FL (Editor’s Choice)

Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 (321) 459-2200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Many hotels and inns line the beach
• Varied activities on and near the beach
• Seaweed can be floating in the waters

An iconic community to the east of Orlando on Florida’s Atlantic coast, it is lined with several budget hotels and family-run inns where you can find a room to suit your pocket.

You can go boogie boarding on the beach or ride to Port Canaveral on the Cocoa Beach Trolley, which doesn’t cost much and it is free for children under 5.

There is life beyond the sea too.

Don’t miss the wildlife drive at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Explore the pier, the Museum of Dinosaurs, Ancient Cultures, and other spots in the town.

Recommended Hotel: Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort

Related: Things to Do in Cocoa Beach with Kids

Related: Best Hotels in Cocoa Beach

2. Mont Tremblant, Canada

Mont Tremblant, Canada (819) 425-2434 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Lots of accommodations near the slopes
• Different slopes to choose from 
• Line to the lifts can take long

At just a fraction of the price of the uber-expensive ski resort towns of Utah and Colorado, this family-friendly hill town offers a wide range of slopes for all levels.

There is even a half-pipe for snowboarders in case you have any in your family.

You can make time for other activities such as ice skating, ice fishing, dog sledding, fat biking, and snowshoeing, or take off on a day trip to Montreal .

For nature lovers, don’t miss the Bison Reserve for wildlife observation.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Quintessence

3. Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock, NC (828) 295-4636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Beautiful, scenic views
• Well-kept trails 
• Not many other activities to do

Tucked away in western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is a mountain town with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in outdoor activities.

Sugar Mountain, just 15 miles west, is a small ski town with easy slopes.

It also has an ice skating rink open till March.

During warmer seasons, the Blue Ridge Parkway along which the town is located offers hiking trails.

Downtown Blowing Rock is a postcard town for a leisurely evening browsing for wares in independent shops and relishing the local food in the restaurants.

The little tykes will enjoy a trip down the Tweetsie Railroad or a visit to a petting zoo and other rides.

Recommended Hotel: Meadowbrook Inn

Also See: Things to Do in North Carolina with Kids North Carolina Family Vacations

4. Jamestown-Yorktown, VA

Jamestown, VA (757) 856-1250 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With museums, 17th-century reenactments, and other incredible attractions, Jamestown is an excellent alternative to Mont Tremblant and Blowing Rock. 

A great budget-friendly vacation idea is a visit to the historic town of Jamestown in Virginia which offers you the opportunity to have fun as you learn.

Explore the ruins of the first English settlement in all of North America, the Powhatan Indian village nearby, and go back in time by watching impressive re-enactments of the life of the people back then in a 17th-century fort.

For the keen history buffs, films and galleries give a deeper insight into early settlement and another one is dedicated to the American Revolution.

If you are visiting during March or April, you can also go on a kayaking excursion along the James River.

Recommended Hotel: The Colonies at Williamsburg

Related: Best Vacations in March in the USA

5. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (973) 317-8181 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the most budget-friendly vacation ideas is a trip to the Caribbean , where you will find all-inclusive hotels and stay options fitting your pocket in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

Karibo Punta Cana is another affordable option that gives you a free shuttle ride to the beach which is very close by.

The amazing beaches with white sands and clear blue water, plenty of water sports options, and tour operators providing catamaran excursions and snorkeling tours at reasonable prices will make this a dream holiday that is inexpensive.

Recommended Hotel: Karibo Punta Cana

Also See: Things to Do in Punta Cana with Kids Top All Inclusive Family Resorts in Punta Cana Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the Dominican Republic

6. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun, Mexico Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for great spring break deals, look no further.

Cancun in Mexico is a great place to visit any time of the year.

During the spring break, you may find the younger population crowding the hot spots, but families too find this a great cheap getaway in April.

You can choose from the several all-inclusive resorts offering decent deals.

From stunning beaches to ancient Mayan ruins and refreshing cenotes, as freshwater springs are called, you have something for every member of the family to look forward to.

You can go snorkeling or enjoy a round of mini-golf with the kids.

Recommended Hotel: Seadust Cancun Family Resort – All Inclusive

Also See: Things to do In Cancun with Kids

7. Kissimmee, FL

Kissimmee, FL (407) 569-4800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Just a stone’s throw away from Orlando, a trip to Kissimmee will ensure that you’ll be near many of the world-famous amusement parks in Florida.

But you won’t need to go out of town to have fun, as the city also has its own incredible attractions.

We explored off-the-beaten paths, enjoyed world-class dining, experienced local history and culture, and so much more.

During your visit, you can even go ziplining across treetops or floating on a hot air balloon.

You’ll surely have something to do even after finishing your trips to Disney World Resort and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort .

Recommended Hotel: LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

8. Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs, CA (760) 778-8418 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

While beaches are fun spring break ideas for families on a budget, desert landscapes, in contrast, are no less.

Palm Springs, a desert destination, offers several options for affordable fun where you can enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures while dipping into cool pools.

The western landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park are iconic and close by.

One of the budget-friendly vacation ideas, you can spend quality family time playing mini-golf.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives great views of the desert landscape gradually transforming into the green vistas of the San Jacinto Mountains.

The one and two-bedroom villas at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge or the Palm Canyon Resort & Spa with affordable rooms, a kids’ game room, and a pool with waterslides are great for family getaways in spring.

Recommended Hotel: Palm Canyon Resort by Diamond Resorts

Related: Restaurants in Palm Springs, California

Also See: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families Things to Do in Palm Springs with Kids Best Hotels in Palm Springs

9. McCall, ID

McCall, ID (208) 634-7631 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McCall is set in an idyllic location on the edge of Payette Lake and surrounded by the mountains of the Payette National Forest, 108 miles north of Boise.

A small ski-centric town, this is a fantastic and inexpensive family getaway in April.

In the nearby ski resort Brundage Mountain, children under 6 can ski for free and children under 18 can ride the lift at half the ticket costs.

To make up for the costs saved, make a booking in one of the finest hotels in the town: the Lakefront Shore Lodge.

Don’t miss out on other fun activities such as fat biking and snow biking.

Recommended Hotel: Brundage Bungalows

Related: Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

Related: Places to Eat in McCall, ID

10. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay, Jamaica Visit Website Open in Google Maps

For budget-friendly vacation ideas, nothing can beat Montego Bay , Jamaica, with its sunny beaches and several all-inclusive hotels that fit neatly into your budget plans.

One place that you can check out is the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay which is ideally situated on a beautiful stretch of sand.

If you are traveling with children aged 19 and less, you can save further as the hotels let them stay free with you in your room!

Apart from the usual beach activities, a major attraction is a nighttime swim at Glistening Waters Luminous Lagoon.

An affordable boat ride near the town of Falmouth will take you to the bay that glows with bioluminescence.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay All Inclusive

Related: Places to Eat: Jamaica

Related: Best Hotels in Montego Bay

11. St. Pete Beach, FL

St. Pete Beach, FL (877) 352-3224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another fantastic spring break deal is a visit to this barrier island filled with old school motels and inexpensive accommodations near sugar sand beaches.

St. Pete Beach in West of Tampa is a long stretch filled with small beach communities, where you can get unadulterated fun enjoying the pleasant springtime weather.

Inland is no less interesting!

Your little ones can have a day watching the alligators at Sawgrass Lake Park, browsing in the quaint shops, with intermittent stops for a quick bite or a leisurely meal at restaurants facing the bay along the pedestrian-friendly downtown of St. Petersburg.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Zamora

Also See: Things to Do in Tampa With Kids Things to Do in St. Petersburg With Kids

12. Glenwood Springs, CO

Glenwood Springs, CO (970) 945-6580 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Unlike Aspen or Snowmass, which needs deep pockets for a week’s vacation, Glenwood Springs in Colorado offers just as much fun in the snow but at much lower costs.

You can enjoy a naturally-heated outdoor pool, a splash pad, and a new tube run at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, all at a reasonable price.

There is a freeskiing slope for children under 12 at Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort nearby.

What’s more, you will not have to waste time standing in long, snaking lift lines so common in the big resorts!

Check out nature’s wonder, the Hanging Lake, in Glenwood Canyon that’s worth a visit.

Recommended Hotel: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

13. Lake Placid, NY

Lake Placid, NY (800) 447-5224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Placid in New York’s Adirondacks has much to offer if you are wondering where to go with the kids, and all at affordable rates!

There is the cute downtown that is an explorer’s haven, with many sights on offer.

For those who enjoy snowy activities, head out to Mirror Lake.

Go ice skating or discover the town’s Olympic history at the Lake Placid Olympic Center.

Your family can go skiing or bobsledding at Whiteface Mountain.

The lift tickets cost much less than in big resorts in the west, and by booking online in advance, you can save more!

Enjoy a quiet walk through the woods or paddle on the lake to create beautiful memories.

Recommended Hotel: The Whiteface Lodge

14. Greenville, SC

Greenville, SC (800) 717-0023 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Greenville in South Carolina is within driving distance from Atlanta or Charlotte offering several affordable activities for families.

Though there is an airport to Grenville, if your goal is an inexpensive vacation, you can find great deals in Atlanta or Charlotte.

Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown is surrounded by natural beauty and is the ideal location for a picnic.

The little ones will be enthralled at the Greenville Zoo where they can not only gaze at the animals but also take free learning safaris if you plan to be there on a Thursday.

For hiking, bass fishing, or just a swim in a warm spring, take a day trip to the stunning Lake Jocassee to the west of town.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard Greenville Downtown

Also See: Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids Things to Do in Charlotte with Kids

15. Lake Powell, AZ

Lake Powell, AZ (888) 896-3829 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are in the mood for an iconic western destination with grand American landscapes that offers budget-friendly vacation options, head out to Lake Powell.

It is within six hours of driving distance from the airports in Phoenix , Las Vegas , and Salt Lake City , so you can check out great deals.

You can rent a boat for the day to cruise down the manmade reservoir on the Colorado River, picnic by the shoreline, and spend time fishing with the kids.

Experience houseboats, available at prices suiting all budgets or spend a quiet day fishing.

Your little bundles of energy may also want to spend time hiking or rafting.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powell

16. Blairsville, GA

Blairsville, GA (800) 847-4842 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Blairsville, tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia, two hours north of Atlanta, is a friendly mountain town offering fantastic, low-cost spring break trips for families.

The Appalachian Trail is great for a good hiking trip, or you can relish the beauty of Wolf Creek Falls.

If you are there in April or May, don’t miss the horseback riding adventures when the rhododendrons and mountain laurel are in bloom, giving picturesque views.

From hikes to whitewater rafting and a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, there is much you can do here.

Just a day spent with the family exploring the local wonders will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Recommended Hotel: Paradise Hills, Winery Resort & Spa

Related: Best Places to Visit in May (USA)

17. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You can fly cheap to Mexico City from most U.S. cities, making it a great start to your vacation.

The adventurous ride in the historic center of this city in the hop-on-hop-off Turibus is fun in itself.

You can visit Chapultepec Park, which is not only a green haven but also filled with playgrounds that the children will enjoy spending time in.

There is a newly renovated children’s museum called Papalote Museo del NIÑO, which will keep them engaged and happy.

And to complete this memorable and inexpensive vacation, take a canal boat tour in Xochimilco in the city’s southern reaches.

Recommended Hotel: Le Meridien Mexico City

Related: Best Hotels in Mexico

18. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City, Canada (877) 783-1608 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Head out to Canada’s Quebec province in Quebec City to experience French culture without having to cross the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the best budget-friendly vacation ideas, your family can have a great time just strolling around Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage center.

It is historic and can whet your appetite for more as you take a bite of crepe or sip a hot drink while reveling in the atmosphere.

A horse-drawn carriage ride is a great hit with the children.

If there is snow when you visit, you can also do cross-country skiing in the city’s lovely parks.

You can also make a trip to Montmorency Falls, which is 30 m higher than Niagara.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

Related: Best Restaurants in Quebec City

19. Beech Mountain, NC

Beech Mountain, NC (800) 468-5506 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

At 5,500 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Beech Mountain Resort is an inexpensive spring vacation destination as it receives about 84 inches of annual snowfall.

Lying two hours north of Asheville, the mountain offers several affordable hotel accommodations and slopes where your family and you can ski even in early March.

Tubing, biking, and sledding are some of the other fun ways your family can spend a great time together.

The 7-mile trail park in Emerald Outback is open to the public year-round.

For nature lovers, there is ample scope for birding.

Check out the events conducted here when you check-in.

Recommended Hotel: 4 Seasons at Beech Mountain

20. Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 385-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for some peace and calm, or keen on partying or just surfing waves, the 30 miles of Virginia Beach offers something for everyone, and all at a low cost.

It offers one of the best affordable spring break packages as you can have lots of fun without spending much.

Three miles of boardwalk offer families a beautiful view of the beach as they take a stroll.

Or they can have fun as they learn at Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, where they will get to know more about marine life such as sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

The many restaurants provide delicious stopovers, or you can indulge in bars and nightclubs.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

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

21. Hilton Head, SC

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

Springtime in Hilton Head is pleasant and ideal for time out on the beaches.

The city becomes colorful with blooming azaleas dotting the landscape.

Activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, parasailing, horseback rides, and golfing are some of the fun-filled activities you can indulge in during this cheap spring break trip with your family.

If you are a pro or a regular golfer, you might want to take advantage of the dozen championship golf courses.

You can also hike and bike through 50 miles of scenic trails.

There is something for the history buffs, art aficionado, or theatergoers.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

Related: Restaurants: Hilton Head

Also See: Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Best Hotels in Hilton Head

22. Puerto Rico

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

Enjoy the Caribbean beauty in Puerto Rico which is full of an exotic vibe with pristine sandy beaches and lush tropical rainforests, housing a large variety of wildlife.

Your little tykes can go looking for coqui­ frogs and lizards or colorful birds like the Puerto Rican parrot, which is one of the ten rarest birds on the planet, when here.

You can enjoy a swim in the bioluminescent bay or some cozy family time on secluded beaches.

It is also rich in history, culture, and delicious food .

So don’t miss exploring those.

Being in the U.S. commonwealth, you don’t need passports.

You can also get inexpensive flights from the mainland.

Recommended Hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Also See: Things to Do in Puerto Rico with Kids Best Hotels in Puerto Rico

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing where to go for spring break can be daunting with the many choices available to you.

But no worries. The best way to pick which place to go is to determine your family’s preferences.

Do you like swimming or skiing, somewhere hot or cold, etc.

From there, you’d be able to narrow down which ones you’d all like visit the most.

Cocoa Beach, FL is perfect for families who love the tropical vibes, as it features sunny weather and beautiful waterfronts.

Picture this: you’re sitting on the sand, warm sunshine kissing your skin, and kids splashing joyfully in the water.

But it can get crowded during peak seasons, so be ready to mingle.

Mont Tremblant, Canada is the place to be if your brood loves the cold, with its many snowy ski slopes and trails.

Just make sure to bundle up for the weather and be ready to slide down the mountains on your gear.

Blowing Rock, NC is for families who love exploring the great outdoors, with its well-maintained trails and stunning natural views.

But hiking and nature viewing are some of the limited activities here, and you may want to pack on-the-go activities for younger kids.

As an alternative to these three, you can check out Jamestown-Yorktown, VA, and immerse yourself in its rich history. 

Travel down memory lane and experience how the first English colony in America lived their lives. 

If you’re visiting during tourist season, get ready to deal with huge crowds, especially during weekends.  

How I Picked The Destinations

As a travel writer, I’ve visited many places and checked out what they can offer in terms of family-friendly activities.

I was able to list down what I loved and disliked about my experiences and ask my kids how it went for them as well.

With this, I was able to make a list of our own favorites.

Then, researching other spring break ideas on the internet led me to reviews that other vacationers have for places I haven’t visited yet.

Combining their recommendations with my own, I was able to curate a list of tried-and-tested spring break activities to help you choose which one you’d like the best.

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 

How can i make my family vacation cheap.

To make your family vacation more affordable, start by planning and booking in advance to secure the best deals on flights and accommodations, and consider traveling during off-peak times when prices are often lower. Also, plan to prepare some meals yourselves and prioritize free or low-cost activities, such as enjoying natural parks, walking city tours, or visiting museums on free admission days.

How Do I Plan A Spring Break Trip?

To plan a spring break trip, start by determining your budget and preferred destination, taking into consideration the interests of everyone in your group and the type of experience you want (relaxation, adventure, cultural exploration, etc). Then, book your accommodations, transportation, and any special activities or attractions in advance to ensure availability and often to secure better prices.

Spring break is a time for enjoyment, and different places could give you that with their unique and fun attractions.

You’ll just need to consider each destination’s pros and cons and which ones your family would like the best.

Once you’ve got that in the bag, you will surely enjoy a memorable vacation. 

My family and I liked going to Mont Tremblant, Blowing Rock, and Jamestown for all the one-of-a-kind activities they could give us; be it skiing, hiking, or sightseeing.

But out of all our spring break ideas for families on a budget, the best one remains to be Cocoa Beach. 

After all, who wouldn’t enjoy lounging your day away on a sunny beach?

As we strolled along the shore, tiny grains of sand tickled our feet, and the kids couldn’t resist the inviting waves. 

We spent a whole day building epic sandcastles and enjoying beachside picnics. 

The warmth of the Floridian sun, the serenity of the ocean, and the joy on my children’s faces are memories I’ll treasure forever. 

• Massachusetts
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• Washington State
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• Antigua and Barbuda
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12 Warm U.S. Spring Break Destinations Families Will Love

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Once you start a family, your spring break vacations will take on new meaning. Instead of trying to find the best party destinations, you’ll be looking for spring break ideas for families to keep everyone entertained. This year, it’s likely many families will be staying local to the United States in search of nearby adventures. That doesn’t mean you can’t escape the cold for a beautiful beach, however! From Orlando to SoCal, Sedona, and St. Thomas, there are plenty of warm spring break family destinations in the U.S.! Which one you choose will depend on your family’s interests, like whether you plan on hiking, exploring cultural sights, or simply laying in the sun. To help you choose your family-friendly spring break destination , we’ve compiled the best options for school vacation weeks in April throughout the United States. Keep reading to find the perfect warm-weather spring break family vacation !

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is an obvious choice for Spring Break with kids . Mostly because visiting Disney World is never a bad idea! If you have kids at home who are wishing for a Disney vacation, this is a great opportunity to go. Yes, there will be crowds, but the benefit is that you’ll have great weather. Plus, kids won’t have to miss any days of school to meet Mickey (a fair trade-off, in our opinion)! One way to avoid long spring break lines is to plan which parks you’ll visit, and arrive before they open. This will help with parking, lines, and your overall experience at Disney. Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot are three popular parks that fill up quickly, so plan accordingly. Kids will love returning to school and sharing their favorite Disney stories with their classmates! Finally, you can find more research for your Disney family vacation here .

RELATED ARTICLE : Best Places To Cele brate The Magic Of The Holiday Season In Disney As A Family

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Orlando

There’s no shortage of family-friendly hotels in Orlando. Kids who are wildlife enthusiasts will love themed hotels such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge , located inside the park. Expect safari-inspired decor, two outdoor pools, and a view of exotic animals right from your balcony! Little ones will especially love the kid-friendly amenities here, like the playroom and on-site playground. Families who prefer a tropical vacation are also big fans of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort , which transports guests to an island paradise. Set along Barefoot Bay in Disney World, this family-friendly hotel gives families access to sandy beaches, nightly campfires, and other pirate-themed amenities. Kids will love the 100-foot waterslide adjacent to one of the hotel’s six outdoor pools! If you’d prefer a non-themed accommodation, we suggest staying somewhere like JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes , or the luxury Four Seasons Resort Orlando at WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort , among other options.

RELATED ARTICLE : The Best Disney Deluxe Resorts For Famili es

Maui, Hawaii

Maui offers families the best of all worlds. It’s a tropical paradise where visitors can relax and enjoy the pace of island life. However, as one of the most popular Hawaiian islands , there are also lots of fun things to do in Maui with kids. You can book once-in-lifetime experiences such as whale watching, flying over waterfalls in a helicopter, riding in a submarine, biking down a volcano, or parasailing. Or, you can fill your days snorkeling, surfing, hiking, or driving the famous Road to Hana. Make a dinner reservation in advance for  Mama’s Fish House and you’ll be rewarded with stunning sunset views and the freshest fish. Without a doubt, your family vacation to Maui will be unforgettable. We’ve put together a guide of the  15 Best Family Adventures on Maui to help you plan an epic Spring Break vacation to Maui.

RELATED ARTICLE : 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAUI, HAWAII WITH KIDS HERE.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Maui

Maui offers families a variety of accommodations.  Ka’anapali Beach is the most popular area and visitors love the boardwalk that provides easy access to restaurants and resorts. Hyatt Residence Club Maui, Ka’anapali Beach , and  The Westin Maui Resor t & Spa all feature waterslides, swim-through grottos, and kid-friendly play areas. These ocean-front hotels in Maui make easy it to jump into the water and swim with a turtle. 

Wailea, on South Maui, is home to resorts so large you don’t even need to leave the property!  Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort , on 40 acres, boasts nine pools, a luxurious spa, an art collection, and a large kids’ camp. Similar Wailea hotels include the  Fairmont Kea La ni Maui and  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wail ea , which are equally spectacular.  Kihei, between Ka’anapali and Wailea, is where most rental condos are located for those who would rather have space over amenities.

Scope Out a National Park

December is a great time to explore one of the many national parks in the United States, especially since they make adventurous Spring Break family vacations ! What an excellent excuse to detach from our tech-heavy lifestyles and spend time together in nature. The spring weather will be great too, as many can get too hot during summertime. From the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone National Park , families can also customize their vacation based on their children’s ages. Arches National Park is a great option for younger children. There are short and easy hikes to stunning panoramas like Balanced Rock or Delicate Arch . Plus, it’s also easy to see the scenery from your car when little legs get tired. Families with more experienced trekkers may favor Zion National Park . The Gateway To The Narrows is a steep, one-of-a-kind hike on many bucket lists (there are some easy trails for small children too).

Pro Tip: If you have a 4th grader in the family (or a 5th grader – this academic year only!), everyone in your family gets into the national parks for free !

RELATED ARTICLE : Find our list of the Top 10 National Parks for Fami lies!

Washington DC

Travel to Washington D.C. with your family during April! If your ideal family spring break destinations don’t involve laying on the beach, then take your family to see the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. Though the weather won’t be as warm as some other destinations on this list, it sometimes reaches the high 60s. Every year, the city also hosts its long-awaited National Cherry Blossom Festival , now held from March 20th until April 11th in 2021. During these three weeks, you’ll find countless areas to run around and explore gorgeous views. Not to mention a postcard-worthy backdrop for a one-of-a-kind photo of the kids! Of course, one of the most famous places to see the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. is the Tidal Basin , located within West Potomac Park. Historic sights nearby like the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument add an extra dimension to the wonderful scenery.

Book Capitol Hill and DC Monuments Tour by Electric Cart now using Vi ator.

Book Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour using V ia tor .

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Washington D.C.

Families will find a range of kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC . Where you stay will ultimately depend on your budget or itinerary. One great luxury option is the Willard Intercontinental Washingt on, located right in downtown D.C. With its grand, impressive architecture, this family-friendly hotel is within a short walk of the city’s most famous sights. This includes the National Mall , Lincoln Memorial, and the White House. For families who want to stay in a less-trafficked area, the luxury Omni Shoreham Hotel exudes more of a historic, 1930s-vibe. Its sprawling property features a seasonal outdoor pool, plus it’s a 10-minute walk from the National Zoo. If you’re searching for a more affordable option, consider the budget-friendly Capitol Hill Hot el. Spacious rooms have a kitchenette, the metro is within walking distance, and it’s close to the Capitol.

See our full list of Parent-recommended Hotels in Washington D.C. for Families he re!

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a wonderful destination to visit with kids. Families can spend warm days at the beach, like Pinones (great for street food), Rincon (a surfer’s paradise), and Isla Verde , a popular tourist area. For snorkeling, we also recommend a trip to Cayo Icacos , a small island accessible by boat. Companies such as East Island Excurs ions and Kayaking Puerto Ri co offer this adventure. Certainly, families love experiencing the Bioluminescent Bays, like La Pargu era on the main island or another on Vieq ues , located a ferry ride from Fajardo. Hiking through El Yunque Rainfo rest is another popular activity for families visiting Puerto Rico. You’re free to explore the waterfalls on your own, but hiking with a guide will give you access to hidden spots. Don’t forget about exploring Old San Juan to learn more about Puerto Rican history, with its cobblestone streets and fun souvenir shops!

Kids may also love a visit to the Castillo San Felipe del M orro, a famous fort where they can climb giant canons and roam through underground dungeons. Adults may prefer visiting La Barrachina , a restaurant said to be the spot where the Pina Colada originated. Though it’s currently closed due to COIVD-19, visiting Puerto Rico’s underground caves, Cueva Ven tana , is a beautiful activity for all ages. Some other fun activities include ziplining, tubing, and fishing. There’s also the Carolina Children’s Museum.  

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico showcases plenty of family-friendly hotels. For parents with infants or toddlers, the Caribe Hilton is a fantastic place to stay. It’s set on a beach with very calm waters, plus there’s no casino on-site, which makes it quieter than other hotels nearby. It’s not within a popular tourist area, but it’s still a short drive away from Condado and Old San Juan. Active families who want to stay close to El Yunque could stay at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort instead. The hotel offers a meal plan, which makes it very appealing to on-the-go families. Boasting a lovely pool, Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico is another nice family option. Other luxury accommodations include the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve and the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort , among other options.  El Conquistador , located on Farjado, is family-friendly, but it’s closed until May 2021.

RELATED ARTICLE : The Best Family Resorts in Puerto Rico (Including All-Inclusive Options)

St. Thomas, USVI

Traveling to St. Thomas  doesn’t require a passport for U.S. citizens – making it an ideal spring break with kids ! Famous for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and rolling green hills, it’s one of three destinations in the United States Virgin Islands. Not to mention, they are some of the best family-friendly spring break beaches !  Active tweens or teens will love St. Thomas since it showcases an array of water sports, delicious dining, and historical sites. Spring Break is a great time to experience St. Thomas , with April sandwiched between its high-tourist and hurricane seasons. Spend your family vacation lounging on the shores of  Magens Bay Beach , featuring kayaking, paddleboarding ,  and more! Then, enjoy amazing views from the nearby trailhead at  Magens Bay . Or, say hi to the massive cruise ships in the marina while wandering  Main Street  in  Charlotte Amalie. 

Pro Tip: Take a day-trip to St. Johns , another U.S. Virgin Island, to snorkel at Trunk Bay , or hike in Virgin Islands National Park ! Plus, you can also explore other family-friendly spring break beaches !

Book St Thomas Sea Turtle Snorkel Kayak Adventure Tour with Viator.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in St. Thomas

Searching for a family-friendly hotel in St. Thomas? Look no further! There are plenty of options on the island appealing to all types of families. If you want an upscale stay, consider booking a reservation at The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas. Set on a beautiful beach in Turquoise Bay, this high-end hotel features two on-site restaurants, a tennis court, and access to other hotel or beach amenities. It’s especially great for parents with little ones due to its fantastic Kids’ Club, plus an on-site family pool with a waterslide! You can also find Ritz Carlton Residences on VBRO . Another family-favorite hotel in St. Thomas is Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove . This luxury, kid-friendly hotel is nestled on a hillside overlooking the calm waters of Pacquereau Bay . It offers a choice of one or two-bedroom villas, as well as an infinity pool, and a kids’ pool with a waterslide.

Looking to book your stay in St. Thomas? Compare quotes from Travelocity , Expedia , and Hotel.com now!

RELATED ARTICLE : The Best US Virgin Islands Resorts For Families

Savannah, Georgia

Discover Savannah during your family spring break trip ! This quaint Georgia town is extremely easy to navigate on foot, making it perfect for an April adventure. Plus, there are so many things to do with kids in Savannah ! An Old Town Trolley Tour is an ideal way to get the lay of the land, as it takes you through some of Savannah’s best stops. Explore the Bull Street Corridor first, where you’ll find cute boutiques and souvenir shops lining its Main Street. There are also cultural attractions like the Davenport House , where kids can learn more about Savannah’s history. Since the trolley tour is hop-on, hop-off, you can explore everything at your own pace! Don’t forget about Savannah’s wonderful museums too. Savannah’s History Museum and Children’s Museum are both conveniently located in Tricentennial Park. End your day with a sweet treat from Leopold’s Ice Cream or River Sweet Treats!

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Savannah

Visiting Savannah with kids? We’re sure you’ll find accommodations for your family! If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury hotel in the area, we suggest Montage Palmetto Bluff . Located a short drive outside of the city, this upscale resort offers rooms ranging from spacious one-bedroom suites to Southern-style cottages. Some are even equipped with kitchens, making it easier to save money and cook your own meals if need be. You can also select from other family favorites like the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District or The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa . No wonder it’s one of the best spring break family destinations! Many people who travel in larger groups also choose to rent homes in Savannah’s surrounding areas for more space.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is another fantastic Spring Break family vacation idea ! April temperatures will be in the mid to high 80s, ideal for exploring Sedona before the heat becomes unbearable. Take advantage of this beautiful weather by hiking with older kids at Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock. For younger kids, try the Soldier Pass Trail and Sugarloaf Loop Trail. Sedona also offers animal encounters, including Bearizona Wildlife Park , Out Of Africa Wildlife Park , plus horseback riding with Trail Horse Adventures . For the best views, visit the  Airport Overlook or ride the Verde Canyon Railroad , a 20-mile journey through 100 years of history. Get a glimpse of the petroglyphs at the Montezuma Castle Monument and learn about Native American history. You can also take a Small-Group Vortex Jeep Tour (ages 2+, bring your own car seat required), ride a hot air balloon, or go stargazing! Families looking for Spring Break day trips can also travel to Scottsdale, Phoenix, or the Grand Canyon!

To find more family-friendly activities in Sedona during your spring break trip with kids , check out our parent-approved list.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Sedona

Families will find a variety of family-friendly hotels in Sedona . Many enjoy staying at Enchantment Resort , a luxury hotel located in the heart of Boynton Canyon. In addition to an outside pool, a kids camp, and organized weekly activities for families, it provides an incredible view of Sedona’s stunning red rocks. Parents can spend time at the spa or the golf course to unwind, and the whole family can embark on a guided mountain biking or hiking adventure together. Another popular option for families is L’Auberge de Sedona . Tucked in the red rock canyons, this luxury hotel offers a choice of rooms at its lodge or even more spacious cottages. Kids will love the outdoor pool, plus the chance to feed ducks at the hotel’s Duck Beach ! We also recommend Adobe Grand Villas , Amara Resort and Spa , and Junipine Resort , among other options.

RELATED ARTICLE : 7 Best Sedona Hotels for Families!

Plum Guide – Book Arizona’s Finest Homes – PlumGuide.com

Southern California

Expect surf, sun, and fun during your spring break with kids in Southern California ! If you crave warm weather, but don’t want to deal with extreme heat, SoCal is a great option. Disney fanatics will adore a visit to Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood . Long Beach also boasts the Aquarium Of The Pacific, with exhibits for all ages. Or, visit J oshua Tree National Park for exciting hiking and outdoor adventures. Remember to stop at Palm Springs along the way! Let’s not forget a peaceful stroll on Newport Beach in Orange County. Or, visit Laguna Beach , combined with a stop at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. Animal lovers are in for a treat in San Diego, which houses the famous San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld ! Save time for an Old Town Trolley Tour around San Diego too.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Southern California

It won’t be hard to find a family-friendly hotel in Southern California. If you’re visiting Joshua Tree National Park , book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa outside Palm Springs. With seven pools, three restaurants, and a ton of other kid-friendly amenities, we’re sure your family will find entertainment here. Nearby, there’s also the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa , set on a palm-tree shaded property right off I-10. Kids can spend all day playing on a sandy beach or enjoy even more fun at the on-site waterpark, which features its own lazy river. Families visiting Newport should consider Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas . In San Diego, choose between the Omni San Diego , or the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego , among other options.

Don’t lug the baby gear with you on your next trip! Rent everything you need using BabyQuip.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Families searching for active Spring Break family destinations will love Hilton Head ! This South Carolina town is known for its mid-70s April weather, plus dozens of outdoor options for kids. Hit up family-friendly spring break beaches like Islanders Beach Park, Driessen Beach , or Coligny Beach. While parents relax, kids can swim, build sandcastles, or spend time in the playground. Hilton Head also offers outdoor adventures for families, like horseback riding at Lawton Stables or spotting animals at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge . Commander Zodiac also provides kid-friendly adventures, so families can take a sailing tour or go bird watching. Dolphin watching is another popular activity, accessible through Hilton Head Dolphin Tours . Don’t forget mini-golfing at Adventure Cove or visiting The Sea Pines Resort , where you can climb up a legendary lighthouse.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Hilton Head

Families visiting Hilton Head can choose from numerous hotels. For a luxury stay, book a reservation at Montage Palmetto Bluff. Rooms range from one-bedroom suites to Southern-style cottages, plus an outdoor pool and a huge property to explore. Families also love the Omni Hilton Head , which has three outdoor pools, a kayaking lagoon, and three golf courses. Upscale studios and one-bedroom suites feature kitchenettes. Disney fans may prefer Disney’s Hilton Head Resort , a laid-back island resort located less than a mile from Shelter Cove Harbour. Amenities include a kids’ pool, complimentary parking, a shuttle to Disney’s Beach House . If you’re searching for apartment-style accommodations, Marriott’s SurfWatch is the hotel for you. Families also like The Inn & Club at Harbour Town , among other options. You could also explore one of the many homes or condos available in Palmetto Dunes or Sea Pines Resort.

Ready to book your accommodations? Compare prices from Expedia , Hotels.com , or Travelocity !

Key West, Florida

Head to Key West for your family spring break vacation ! Located in the Florida Keys, this kid-friendly destination is famous for its laidback ambiance. Enjoy the warm spring weather during your visit at one of many Key West sights, such as Dry Tortugas National Park or Fort Zachary Taylor State Beach Park . Key West is also famous for its water sports: jet skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, and more! Animal lovers are in for a real treat too, selecting from the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory or the Key West Aquarium. Kids should also take a chance to learn about Key West’s history. Visit the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum , take a Conch Tour Train , or hop on the Old Town Trolley. Don’t forget the Key West Lighthouse !

RELATED ARTICLE : Best Things to Do in Key West with Kids

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Key West

A stay at one of these Key West hotels promises endless fun in one of the best spring break family destinations . Firstly, we recommend The Key West Marriott Beachside . Set on seven gorgeous acres, this luxury Florida hotel offers families an outdoor pool, weekly activities, and access to a variety of water sports. It’s also easy to reach downtown Key West via shuttle or water taxi. The Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is another great option for families. Here, you can enjoy four hotel pools, calm waters at Smathers Beach, and discounted tours directly through the concierge. Be sure to admire the hotel’s surrounding sculpture garden created by a local artist! Among other option, families also like the Hyatt Centric Resort & Spa . See our full list of Key West hotels for families here.

RELATED ARTICLE : Best Family-Friendly Hotes in Key West!

Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island has a little bit of everything to keep everyone entertained! Choose one of the best Florida spring break family destinations for charming kid-friendly fun, without any complicated itineraries. Bordering the island’s downtown area, you’ll find Fernandina Beach, which features shallow water for little ones. Plus, a pirate-themed playground nearby! Teens will especially love making new friends at the Skate Park at Main Beach . If it gets too crowded here, feel free to migrate over to Peter’s Point Beachfront Park , which is more lowkey. Then, appreciate Amelia Island’s scenery from Egan Creek’s Greenway , a kid-friendly loop around Egan’s Creek. Watch out for bobcats, alligators, and more wildlife along the way! Animal lovers may also fancy a visit to the Amelia Island Nature Center. Or, learn more about Amelia Island’s history at the A.L. Lewis Museum at American Beach Parents will enjoy a blast from the past at Pippi Longstocking’s House !

Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Amelia Island

Planning to visit Amelia Island during your next spring break trip with kids ? Remember to book your stay at a family-friendly hotel! Our contributors recommend The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island . It showcases direct access to the beach, elegant suites with separate living room areas, and both an indoor and outdoor pool. Kids will definitely have a blast here! Plus, it’s only six miles from the Amelia Island Museum of History and Amelia Island State Park. Finally, families can also stay at Omni Amelia Island. Set on the scenic Fernandina Beach, it boasts elegant, ocean-inspired rooms or a choice of larger suites with kitchenettes. There’s also an indoor and outdoor pool, a day spa, and a golf course for parents. In search of more spring break family destinations ? Rent your perfect home from VBRO now.

RELATED ARTICLE : 10 Best Resorts in Florida with Kids’ Clubs

Where to Eat During Spring Break with Kids

Families can improve their spring break getaway with kids by eating at some delicious restaurants! If you’re looking to save on your family meal, book your reservations through Restaurant.com for the best deals. They offer various coupons of either $5, $10, $15, $25, or $50 value which you can redeem for a lower cost at select restaurants (for example, a $25 voucher will only cost you $10). Families visiting Savannah for their spring break getaway can redeem their coupons at delicious spots like The Studio , serving contemporary, European fare. Meanwhile, in Sedona try Agee’s Barbecue Market for traditional barbecue or pizza. Those headed to Washington DC will adore grabbing a bite to eat at Mangia DC . No matter where your next family spring break vacation is, you’ll be able to keep it budget-friendly. Create an account to keep track of all your discounts and start redeeming! 

Note : Please keep in mind there’s a varying minimum purchase and some restaurants also require other conditions, like dine-in only or for more than four people.

Thank You To Our Community!

A special thank you to the Families Who Love To Travel Facebook community who generously shared their travel advice and top picks for this list of 10 Warm U.S. Spring Break Family Destinations. We could not have compiled such a thoughtful and helpful list of spring break family destinations without their dedication to our community. Families Who Love To Travel is a group of amazing families who also love adventure and exploring through travel. For more family vacation recommendations and inspiration, be sure to join us on Facebook at Families Who Love To Travel . We’re a community of experienced traveling families who love adventure and exploring the world. Plus, follow us on Instagram to connect with other families who love the unique experiences travel has to offer.

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the spring break family destinations on this list may be temporarily closed or may have reduced services. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post featuring the best spring break family destinations may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community , or are that of the attributed writer.

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The Family Vacation Guide

22 of the Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

posted by James Brockbank on December 7, 2021 // last updated on March 14, 2022

Spring break is an excellent time for families to get out and travel. This time represents a fantastic opportunity to look outside, mentally decompress, and leave the dark days of winter behind. All you need to do is pack your bags, prepare the kids, hit the road, and head to the best spring break destinations for your family.

Use your spring break to create new memories and travel to new places with your family. If you’re looking for the best spring break destinations for families, there are many family-friendly and affordable spots you can try.

Orlando, Florida

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Here are some of the best spring break destinations for families you and your kids will love:

If your kids love Disney, then Orlando in Florida is the perfect destination. Let your kids experience what the hype is all about and get excited with what Disney has to offer, such as a meet and greet with the Incredibles, a street party with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and a nighttime display of lights with music.

You can also visit SeaWorld, LEGOLAND Florida, and Universal Studios. Additionally, you can try the less expensive ways to enjoy spring break, such as visiting the Chocolate Museum, trying the Crayola Experience, hosting a pool party, or enjoying the beautiful beaches nearby .

Best Hotels in Orlando, Florida

• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando
• The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Why not check out our full guide to the best hotels on International Drive for families ?

Best Things To Do in Orlando, Florida

• Disney World
• Universal Studios
• LEGOLAND Florida

Yosemite National Park is another perfect spring break destination on the West Coast if your family enjoys spending time outdoors. Spring break is a great time to visit because Yosemite comes to life during the spring months. After the dark winter months, you will see wildlife, people, and spring flowers sprung into life inside Yosemite National Park in the spring.

Families from all over the world visit Yosemite National Park to see the tall granite walls and experience the hiking trails. If you want a week-long vacation, you can spend it in Yosemite National Park and realize that you only scratch the surface of all it has to offer.

The place surely leaves you craving for more. When you come to Yosemite, don’t forget to try the fun activities and day hikes.

Best Hotels in Yosemite National Park

• The Ahwahnee
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
• White Wolf Lodge
• Yosemite Valley Waterfalls
• Famous Viewpoints
• Walk Among Giant Sequoias

If you want a “grand” destination with a lot to offer, head to the natural wonder in northern Arizona – the Grand Canyon. This one-mile deep canyon measures around 277 miles long and 18 miles wide. It has expanded for six million years with the help of the Colorado River. People worldwide travel to this place to see and be amazed by its red-orange grandeur.

Currently, the Grand Canyon is managed by the National Park Service . It is also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over six million annual visitors.

Remember that the Grand Canyon can get pretty crowded. So, if you want a secluded place and experience nature during your visit, you can go to the South Rim. It’s home to the Grand Canyon Village and the Bright Angel Trail, a popular destination for hikers and trail seekers.

You can also go to the North Rim if you want backwood camping or hardcore hiking. If you’re not afraid of heights, you can sign up for a helicopter tour and get an unforgettable 360-degree view of the Grand Canyon.

Best Hotels in Grand Canyon

• Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
• Bright Angel Lodge

Best Things to Do

• Explore Grand Canyon Village
• Check ourt the South Rim
• Visit Mather Point

One of the best features of San Diego is its consistently warm sunny weather throughout the year, where you can enjoy its magnificent 70-mile long California coastline. San Diego also offers thriving nightlife, delicious Mexican cuisine, and beautiful beaches, including Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Coronado Beach.

After a long day of swimming, you can find pockets of vibrant nightlife near the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

Best Hotels in San Diego

• Fairmont Grand Del Mar
• The US GRANT, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego
• Pendry San Diego

Best Things to Do in San Diego

• Balboa Park
• Mission Beach and Pacific Beach
• Coronado Beach

Looking to book a sunny trip near San Diego? Our guide to the best family beach vacations in Southern California will help you find the perfect location for your next family trip.

Honolulu – Oahu is a perfect combination of breathtaking scenery and cosmo luxury compared to other Hawaiian islands. You can find many historical and cultural sites, such as the Iolani Palace and the USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Nearby, you can find the Waikiki neighborhood with resorts and high-rise buildings, contrasting with its nearby white sand beaches. If you want to experience rural Hawaii, you can go to the North Shore with the most brilliant waters and winding hikes. 

Aside from these must-see locales, you can also find high-end restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and magnificent cultural events that showcase the island’s beauty and Hawaiian culture.

Best Hotels in Honolulu

• The Kahala Hotel & Resort
• Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

Best Things to Do in Honolulu – Oahu

• Waikiki Beach
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial
• Lanikai Beach

It’s best to visit Washington D.C. during April. If your family wants to take a break from the beach, you can bring them to Washington D.C. to see the beautiful cherry blossoms. Although the weather isn’t consistent throughout, it can get as warm as 60 degrees.

Don’t miss the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival , which people worldwide visit. It’s usually held from the 20th of March until the 11th of April. During this time, you can find many gorgeous views to explore and numerous areas to visit with a beautiful postcard-worthy backdrop for your family photos.

Aside from the cherry blossoms, you can also visit the Tidal Basin at West Potomac Park and the historical sights, such as the Washington Monument and the Jefferson Memorial.

Best Hotels in Washington D. C.

• Hyatt Regency Washington On Capitol Hill
• Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill
• Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC

Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

• National Gallery of Art
• National Parks
• National Museum of African American History and Culture

Another ideal destination for the whole family is an oceanside resort in the Bahamas – the Atlantis. 

This beautiful destination in Paradise Island is home to one of the most extensive open-air marine mammal habitats worldwide – the Dolphin Cay. Your family will surely enjoy swimming or kayaking with the dolphins and playing with the sea lions rescued from Hurricane Katrina.

You can also find another popular adventure in Atlantis, the Aquaventure water park, which covers 141-acres. One day isn’t enough to explore the whole water park and its massive playground with 20 swimming areas, 11 pools, thrilling river rides, water slides, and a water-play fort.

Atlantis also features its five-mile stretch of white sand beaches where you can snorkel, kayak, or do water sports. Your family will never run out of adventure opportunities in Atlantis.

Best Hotels in Atlantis

• The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
• The Royal at Atlantis
• The Cove at Atlantis

Best Things to Do in Atlantis

• Aquaventure Waterslides
• Dolphin Cay
• Stingray Lagoon

If you want to explore more of Florida, you can head northeast and discover the beauty of Amelia Island . It’s conveniently located and is only a 30-minute drive from the Jacksonville Airport.

Amelia Island features many beautiful, flat beaches and dunes with grasses. You also find many oak trees with Spanish moss over bike trails. Let your family also experience kayaking in the blackwater river or see the wild horses at Cumberland Island. If you want to relax, you can take a historic downtown tour, dine in plenty of restaurants, or go shopping.

Amelia Island is home to The Ritz-Carlton, which is a great choice for your family to stay. It’s perfect for those with kids because The Ritz Kids club teaches young children about local pirate lore. It also has special programming that includes stargazing, which kids surely love.

Best Hotels in Amelia Island

• The Ritz-Carlton Spa
• Omni Amelia Island Resort
• Courtyard by Marriott Amelia Island

Best Things to Do in Amelia Island

• Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve
• Fort Clinch State Park
• Amelia Island State Park

Wisconsin Dells is hailed as the waterpark capital of the world. While the Midwest has chilly weather during March and April, Wisconsin Dells can offer your family some of the best indoor waterparks worldwide.

It has everything your family needs, from water slides, wave simulators, lazy rivers, raft rides, swim-up bars, and cabanas. The resort also features a massive indoor adventure park with a mini-golf course, arcade, rides, and laser tag.

One of the favorite activities for families is its four indoor waterparks. Klondike Cavern has many fun attractions, such as a lazy river, body slides, and slideboarding. Wild West Waterpark features thrilling rides and bumper boats, and the Wild Waterdome Waterpark is America’s largest indoor wave pool.

After satisfying your thirst for swimming and playing, you can spend a day watching an illusion show at the Rick Wilcox Magic Theather . You can also find Dells’ trampoline park and cosmic bowling lanes here.

Best Hotels in WIsconsin Dells

• Kalahari Resorts Dells
• Wilderness Resort
• Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Best Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells

• Noah’s Ark Water Park
• Wisconsin Dells Boat Tour
• Country Bumpkin Farm Market

If you’re looking for a destination with a milder temperature, bring your family to Fort Worth during spring. Even if the weather is still a little bit chilly for you, there are still plenty of indoor activities for your family. Additionally, Dallas is just 30 miles away.

Fort Worth is home to its famous BBQ, Rodeo, and Stockyards. It also features some fantastic cultural places and world-class museums, such as Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum . You can also bring your family to experience its culture at Casa Manana and the Fort Worth Opera.

 If you love to dine and shop, just head to the Sundance Square area or bring your kids to the Cowboys stadium in Arlington. If they love sports, you can go to the Globe Life Park and watch a Rangers baseball game.

Don’t leave Fort Worth without visiting the Stock Yards. Here, you can have an authentic Western experience. They also have a Rodeo show at the Cowtown Coliseum on Fridays and Saturdays.

Fort Worth is also home to a truly beautiful destination – the Japanese Gardens at the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. If you want a picture-perfect backdrop, bring your family to this hidden gem during March and experience the blooming cherry blossoms.

Best Hotels in Fort Worth

• AC Hotel Fort Worth Downtown
• Omni Fort Worth Hotel
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Worth Downtown

Best Things to Fort Worth

• Log Cabin Village
• Cowtown Cattle Pen Maze
• Burger’s Lake

Hershey in Pennsylvania is another perfect destination for the whole family. It has many beautiful hotels and other attractions, such as the Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum .

If you want a relaxing staycation, bring your family to the Hershey Lodge, which features an indoor water park, Reese’s water walk, and Twizzlers Twists waterslides. Your kids will surely have a great time. If you want to stay dry, there are chocolate bingos, s’mores roasts, meet and greets, and other activities that engage kids of all ages.

The Hershey Gardens feature a wide selection of beautiful themed flowers. They also have the Butterfly Atrium that allows you to witness hundreds of butterflies. There are also packages offering visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica.

You can also bring your kids to Hershey’s Springtime In the Park, where they can have thrilling roller coaster rides. 

After a fun-filled adventure, end your day by going to the Chocolate World and experiencing delicious chocolate tasting, creating chocolate bars, and a 4D movie. It also features a free Chocolate Tour that allows the whole family to witness the chocolate-making process with a great surprise at the end.

Best Hotels in Hershey, Pennsylvania

• The Hotel Hershey
• Best Western Plus Hershey
• Hershey Lodge

Best Things to Hershey, Pennsylvania

• City Island Water Golf
• Chocolate & More Sweet Treat Trail
• Lake Tobias Wildlife Park

If you are on more of a tight budget but still looking for a relaxing staycation for spring break, you can bring your family to Cocoa Beach . It’s a great community to the east of Orlando. It has many budget inns and family-run hotels that are reasonably priced.

You can also have a boogie boarding adventure on the beach or go to Port Canaveral, which doesn’t hurt your pocket much. It also offers free admission for kids under five.

Don’t forget to visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to experience a wildlife drive. There are also other things to see and visit, such as the Ancient Cultures, the Museum of Dinosaurs and other beautiful spots in the town.

Best Hotels in Cocoa Beach, Florida

• Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront
• Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites
• Cape Crossing Resort & Marina
• Lori Wilson Park
• Cocoa Beach Pier
• Indian River Queen

A visit to the beautiful historic town of Jamestown is another budget-friendly destination idea. This allows you to gain more knowledge while having fun traveling. Here at Jamestown, you can visit the ruins of North America’s 1st settlement – the Powhatan Indian village.

You can also travel through time and watch the fantastic re-enactments of their lives during the 17th century. If your family loves history, galleries, and films, you can learn a lot about the early settlement and the American Revolution. Additionally, you can have some water adventure and kayaking along the James River if you visit in March or April.

Best Hotels in Jamestown-Yorktown, Virginia

• Griffin Hotel
• Comfort Suites Williamsburg Historic Area
• Kingsmill Resort

Best Things to Jamestown-Yorktown, Virginia

• Concerts at Riverwalk Landing in Yorktown
• York River State Park
• Williamsburg Botanical Garden

The Florida Keys may not be the top choice when you plan for a family vacation, but this place has a lot to offer with its abundance of kid-friendly adventures. It’s ideal for families with kids who can’t seem to get enough wildlife adventures.

It features the Eco-Discovery Center to educate kids about the local marine ecosystem, the Key West Aquarium that allows kids to hold sea cucumbers and starfish, and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory that allows everyone to watch around 60 butterfly species, 20 bird species, turtles, and flamingoes.

End the day with a truly exceptional experience at the Dolphin Plus and Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with many dolphins.

Aside from the marine animals, you can also visit Fort Zachary Taylor State Park to learn about the Civil War history. Here it gives information on the 153-year old fort.

It also features the Key West Shipwreck Museum that allows kids to touch salvaged treasures from the sunken ship. If you wish for a more exciting water adventure, you can go kayaking at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, parasailing at Key Largo, or snorkeling at Sombrero Reef.

Indeed, there’s an adventure for everyone at the Florida Keys.

Best Hotels in Florida Keys, Florida

• Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Marathon Florida
• The Caribbean Resort
• Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel & Resort

Best Things to Florida Keys, Florida

• Dry Tortugas National Park
• Higgs Beach
• Key West Shipwreck Museum

San Luis Obispo County , also known as SLO CAL, is an ideal destination for whatever your preferred adventure is – either a relaxing time at the beach or high adrenaline adventures. It lies between San Francisco and Los Angeles and boasts its 80-mile long pristine coastline and 315-day sunshine.

If you love adventures, you can go hiking on Pismo Preserve or paragliding along the coast.

You can also go to Oceano Dunes and try riding a dune buggy. It’s the only state park in California that allows motor vehicles on the beach. Your family can also kayak the Dinosaur Caves at the Shell Beach area or have a relaxing time playing games at the brand-new Kinney SLO. You can play shuffleboard, Skee-ball, Lite-Brite, or Scrabble.

Best Hotels in San Luis Obispo County, California

• San Luis Creek Lodge
• Apple Farm Inn
• The Kinney San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Best Things to San Luis Obispo County, California

• Farmers Market
• Avila Valley Barn
• San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum

Snowmass Village is another 100 percent family-friendly destination in Colorado. It features many winter sports, such as snowboarding or skiing. Snowmass has varying slope levels that are perfect for beginners and future Olympians.

It also has many activities to keep the kids engaged off the mountain, such as the Collective, which offers plenty of restaurants and a game lounge for relaxation.

Snowmass also has a series of events for all age groups, including parties on the ice at the ice rink, throughout March and April.

You can also end your trip by staying at one of the best hotels in Snowmass – the Limelight Hotel. It serves complimentary breakfast, has a kids’ room, outdoor hot tubs, and climbing walls. The hotel also has an ice skating rink and a year-round shuttle service.

Best Hotels in Snowmass Village, Colorado

• Viceroy Snowmass
• Limelight Hotel
• Snowmass Mountain

Best Things to Do in Snowmass Village, Colorado

• Mountain Orientation Tour
• Ice Skating
• Hot Air Ballooning

If you want your family to have an authentic Caribbean experience, you don’t need to travel to a foreign country. Just go to the U.S. Virgin Islands , which is only a 2-hour drive from Miami.

The U.S. Virgin Islands has three unique islands – the bustling St. Thomas, the eco-treat St. John, and the sleepy St. Croix. The U.S. Virgin Islands have beautiful white-sand beaches where you can go snorkeling or visit historic towns and forts, a National Park, restaurants, and duty-free shops.

You can also visit Buck Island, an underwater national monument, to scuba dive and snorkel if you want water adventures. It also allows you to swim with a giant sea turtle, which is a thrilling experience for the whole family.

Best Hotels in U.S. Virgin Islands

• The Palms at Pelican Cove
• The Buccaneer
• Sugar Beach Resort

Best Things to Do in U.S. Virgin Islands

• Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
• Estate Whim Plantation Museum
• Mermaid Swim VI

If your family loves music, Nashville in Tennessee is an ideal destination. Visit the Music City and enjoy any genre of music, or attend concerts at the Ryman Auditorium. You can also book a tour at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and dine at the Bluebird Café afterward.

If you want to try Tennessee dishes, go to any classic barbeque joints, such as Arnold’s Country Kitchen or The Stillery, and have a taste of delicious grilled meats with mac and cheese that satisfy everyone’s appetite.

If you’re not a fan of concerts, you can bring the kids to the Nashville Zoo or the Adventure Science Center, where they can experience hands-on exploration of science. It’s great to spend your spring vacation in Nashville if you like fewer crowds. The weather may be rainy, but it’s not that cold like winter.  

Best Hotels in Nashville, Tennessee

• Omni Nashville Hotel
• Hilton Nashville Downtown
• The Hermitage Hotel

Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Grand Ole Opry
• Broadway. Broadway.

Puerto Rico is an ideal destination for families with kids. It features beautiful beaches where you can spend your warm days. Go to Pinones beach if you love street food, Rincon beach if you love to surf, and Isla Verde if you love parasailing, jet ski, and banana boat rides. You can also go to a small island named Cayo Icacos by boat if you want to go snorkeling.

Puerto Rico also features its famous Bioluminescent Bays, such as Vieques and La Parguera. These are two of the most-visited place in the area.

You can also go hiking through another popular destination, El Yunque Rainforest. It allows families to explore the waterfalls or get a guide to access its beautiful hidden spots. Additionally, don’t leave Puerto Rico without visiting Old San Juan to learn about the history of Puerto Rico. Old San Juan has beautiful cobblestone streets and several souvenir shops.

Your kids will also love to explore the famous fort, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, where they can see underground dungeons and climb giant cannons. For grown-ups, you can visit a restaurant named La Barrachina, where the Pina Colada originated.

Puerto Rico also has beautiful underground caves like the Cueva Ventana, which is excellent for all ages to explore. It includes fun adventures such as tubing, fishing, and ziplining.

If you want a more relaxing tour, you can visit the Carolina Children’s Museum with your kids.

Best Hotels in Puerto Rico

• Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino
• The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico

Why not check out our guide to the best all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Rico for families with kids ?

Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

• Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve
• Flamenco Beach
• Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay

Hualalai in Hawaii gives your family the ultimate springtime vacation. One of the favorite hotels in the area is the Four Seasons Resort , which offers the whole family relaxing and adventurous retreats. It’s where you can create long-lasting memories for the family.

Start your adventure by snorkeling at King’s Pond, a spectacular aquarium pool. This pool is beautifully carved out of many lava rocks. You can swim freely and see around 4,000 tropical fish, including the eagle ray.

It also features several pools, from a dedicated kids’ pool to an adults’ pool with cocktails and music. This way, there’s undoubtedly a spot for everyone. For grown-ups who want some “me” time, they can send their kids to a daily camp. Then, adults can visit some luxurious spas or hit the Jack Nicklaus golf course.

Visiting the historic center is another great thing to do with the family. It’s an ideal time to learn about Hawaiian culture and history by learning how to create a lei or music. There are also plenty of restaurants to experience, so you won’t need to leave the property. 

You can end the day at the Beach tree that offers lively entertainment at night while witnessing the most beautiful sunset. You can sip on your favorite drink while digging your toes in the beach sand.

Best Hotels in Hualalai, Hawaii

• Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
• Hilton Waikoloa Village
• Hualalai Villas & Homes

Best Things to Do in Hualalai, Hawaii

• Kikaua Point Park
• Kukio Beach
• Manini’owali Beach

The transition from the dark days of winter to the first days of spring is the perfect time to visit Vermont . It features the maple sugaring season between March and April and showcases sugar shacks transforming maple sap into delicious maple syrup.

Smuggler’s Notch Resort is a top destination for families with kids because it features a ski resort and hosts a Maple Fest Celebration annually during springtime. Additionally, you can receive complimentary transportation, maple welcome gifts, product samplings, and activity books for kids. If you opt to pay more, you can experience a snowshoe trek with a maple theme or enroll in an artist’s class.

Best Hotels in Vermont

• Okemo Mountain Resort
• Woodstock Inn & Resort
• Tyler Place Family Resort

Best Things to Do in Vermont

• Montshire Museum of Science
• Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
• Billing’s Farm & Museum

If you’ve been contemplating a grand vacation outside the US, you should consider a trip to Europe. Europe is a perfect land of lush mountains, green fields, beautiful seas, and more. Transportation is easy, making it an ideal destination for families with kids.

There are plenty of best cities to travel to in Europe , and it’s not difficult to find some budget hotels for your family. You can explore many destinations and find the best flight deals to travel to the best cities, such as Paris, Switzerland, London, or Barcelona. From there, you have endless options of places to explore and things to do.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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• Spring Vacations

The Best Spring Break Ideas for Family Vacations

Plan a memorable trip that both parents and kids will enjoy.

The kids are getting restless and so are you. Maybe the idea of braving the wind and cold just one more day makes it difficult to climb out of bed in the morning. Or maybe your 10-year-old is at the point where it seems like the homework will never end.

With schools across the country ramping up for a well-deserved week off, there's a reason why the spring break holiday is one of the best and most convenient times to plan a family vacation to a dreamy destination — whatever that means to you and your crew. Here are 13 of our favorite spring break ideas for families, from the classic theme parks and tropical islands to out-of-the-box adventures.

Orlando, Florida

Walt Disney World might be the most obvious choice, but if you’ve yet to see what the hype is all about, you’re in for a real treat. And even if you've been to Orlando dozens of times, the parks are always opening tons of new attractions to get excited about.

Families can explore enchanting floral displays and sculptures of Disney characters at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival , which runs from February 28 to May 27, 2024, learn about different species at Disney’s Animal Kingdom , and splash around in two water parks. There are also plenty of things to do at Disney World without park tickets , so you don't necessarily need passes for every day of your vacation.

Washington, D.C.

Every spring, the nation's capital bursts with color, attracting an average of 1.5 million tourists to see over 3,000 pink trees decorate the Tidal Basin. This year, the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival starts March 20 and ends April 14, and includes fun events, such as kite-flying workshops, art exhibits, and performances. To plan your trip during peak bloom, follow the cherry blossom forecast for the latest updates.

In addition to the springtime blossoms, Washington, D.C. is chock-full of free museums and gardens, so you can bring the whole family without overspending on things to do. From the National Museum of Natural History to the U.S. Botanic Garden , and National Zoo , kids and adults alike will find a never-ending supply of attractions.

Families visiting the city can also visit the International Spy Museum , which offers a whole range of activities. Kids can learn about real-life spies and put their skills to the test through interactive exhibitions and installations.

Los Cabos, Mexico

If you’re looking for sun, sand, and a side of whale-watching, consider a family vacation in Los Cabos . While the destination on Mexico’s Baja California peninsula has long been associated with partying college students, it’s evolved to include luxury hotels with kids’ clubs, upscale dining, and ocean and desert adventures.

Zadún, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve engages youngsters with its Ambassadors of the Environment program featuring experiences such as bird-watching, desert hikes, and snorkeling. At Montage Los Cabos , children ages five to 12 can get creative at the resort’s Paintbox Center, which offers arts and crafts, games, and themed days.

Nature lovers of all ages will appreciate the area's array of snorkeling spots, from the calm coves of Chileno Bay to the 17,571-acre Cabo Pulmo reef system. As you cruise around, keep an eye out for humpback whales, which can be spotted between December and April.

Wisconsin Dells

Although it’s chilly on this side of the Midwest in March and April, Wisconsin Dells (known as the "water park capital of the world") offers year-round fun at its indoor aquatic playgrounds.

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions has everything you could ever dream of: water coasters, waterslides, raft rides, wave simulators, a lazy river, and, for the grown-ups, a swim-up bar and cabana. If you need to regain your land legs, the resort also has an indoor adventure park, complete with an arcade, mini golf course, laser tag, and rides.

With four indoor water parks, the Wilderness Resort is another fan favorite among families. Klondike Kavern serves up a whole range of attractions, including raft rides, body slides, a lazy river, and Slideboarding. Wild Waterdome Waterpark , on the other hand, proclaims the largest indoor wave pool in the U.S., and Wild West Waterpark has bumper boats and even more thrill rides.

When you’ve had your fill of swim and play, consider checking out an illusion show at the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater or spending a day at Knuckleheads Trampoline and Indoor Amusement Park , where you’ll find cosmic bowling lanes and the Dells’ only trampoline park.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

With its turquoise waters and powdery white-sand beaches, Turks and Caicos is perfect for families seeking a laid-back beach vacation. It’s less than a four-hour flight from many major East Coast cities, making it a great option for a quick getaway. While the archipelago has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, Providenciales is home to some of the best beaches and family-friendly resorts.

Set along the calm shores of Long Bay Beach, The Shore Club Turks & Caicos has spacious villas with up to six bedrooms, making it an ideal choice for families. Guests can access four pools, a 12,000-square-foot spa, and multiple dining venues. While you might be tempted to spend your entire vacation on the property, don’t miss out on the archipelago’s other highlights, including snorkeling near Iguana Island or paddling through the mangroves in a see-through kayak with Clear Bottom Adventures .

Zion National Park, Utah

While the Grand Canyon is a go-to destination for families on spring break, you're likely to find smaller crowds at Zion National Park in Utah. With its soaring sandstone cliffs and hanging gardens, the park offers plenty of kid-friendly hikes that are short and easy to navigate, including the Pa’rus Trail and the Canyon Overlook Trail . Outside the park, southern Utah's sandstone valleys have plenty more to offer families on the hunt for beautiful views. Adrenaline-seekers can try out the Above Zion Via Ferrata , a guided climb in which you'll explore the rock face while clipped onto a pre-installed metal route — appropriate for ages eight to 80!

This Utah spring break idea can also be an opportunity to book unforgettable accommodations like Open Sky , a glamping resort with luxury tents that feature all the comforts of home and plenty of windows for stargazing. Under Canvas Zion , another luxury camping resort, even offers kids' tents that can be set up alongside the main tent.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Crowned Travel + Leisure’s destination of the year for 2024 , Costa Rica is a nature lover’s playground. The Central American nation has something for everyone: spectacular sandy beaches; pristine waterfalls and hot springs; volcanos; and some of the most biodiverse rain forests in the world. 

The province of Guanacaste offers an array of resorts that cater to different travel styles. Looking for a wellness-focused getaway in an idyllic surf town? Plan a family vacation to Nosara , where you’ll find boutique hotels that capture the nation’s pura vida (pure life) spirit. Steps away from the town’s world-famous surf break, Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences offers sleek apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens. The property has a rooftop pool, wellness classes, and surfboards for family members looking to catch some waves.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo is another standout option for families thanks to its spacious multi-bedroom villas with breathtaking bay views. Traverse the treetops while spotting monkeys at the nearby Palmares Aerial Adventure , or find waterfalls and hot springs around the volcanos in Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Named one of the best islands in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers, Hilton Head just so happens to be a haven for outdoorsy children. Start your trip by renting bikes and exploring the island through Hilton Head’s many bike trails. Continue the adventure with a zipline ride through South Carolina’s Lowcountry, followed by a pirate-themed cruise . While you’re there, carve out time to explore the Coastal Discovery Museum , which is set in 68 acres featuring historic buildings, gardens, beautiful live oak trees, and boardwalk trails through a salt marsh. If you’re particularly fond of animals, you can also go horseback riding at the Sea Pines Resort , and spot deer, birds, and alligators at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge .

To take advantage of the island's 12 miles of beaches, leave some time to play in the waves. Whether you visit Coligny Beach Park or Folly Field Beach Park, you’ll find pristine sands and stunning sunsets.

Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii’s rich culture, dramatic coastlines, and endless adventures — from surfing to waterfall hikes — make it an excellent destination for multi-generational groups. Since you’ll likely land in Honolulu, Hawaii's main travel hub, it’s worth starting your trip (or spending the entirety of it) exploring the island of Oahu.

Families looking for an alternative to the state capital’s big resorts will appreciate the design-forward Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club , which offers two- and three-bedroom suites. The midcentury modern-inspired property is steps away from Waikiki Beach, so you won’t be far from great restaurants, but don’t miss the hotel’s on-site dining venue, Mahina and Sun’s, which offers superb farm-to-table fare (including some kid-friendly options). 

Beyond relaxing on the beach, there are plenty of things to do on Oahu , from surf lessons to learning about traditional Hawaiian aquaculture practices at the ancient Paepae o Heʻeia fishpond .

Keystone, Colorado

If your family prefers snow to sand, Keystone Resort is one of the best kid-friendly ski destinations in the country. With over 3,000 acres of terrain across three peaks and five bowls in the Rocky Mountains, skiers of all skill levels can find a trail to meet their fancy. And if your child is a first-time skier, you can sign them up for lessons at the resort’s Ski and Ride School .

When you’re ready to take off the skis, you can twirl your way around two ice skating venues : Lakeside Village and Dercum Square in River Run Village. Kids will also love climbing through the impressive snow forts that bring winter fantasies to life. Finish your trek to the top of Dercum Mountain by zooming down eight snow tubing lanes open to thrill-seekers over the age of four.

Florida Keys

If your kids can’t get enough of wildlife, the Florida Keys will likely impress them. Go to the Eco-Discovery Center for an introduction to the local marine ecosystem, and then head to the Key West Aquarium , where kids can hold starfish, sea cucumbers, and conches. Later, stop at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory to see more than 50 butterfly species, plus turtles and birds like flamingos.

But there is more to the Keys than marine animals. At Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , you can dive into Civil War history at the circa-1866 fort. Continue your explorations at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum , where kids can touch treasures salvaged from a sunken ship. If you’re craving adventure, consider taking a glass-bottom boat or kayak through John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , snorkeling at Sombrero Reef, and parasailing in Key Largo.

San Diego, California

"America’s Finest City" is a wonderland of kid-friendly parks, beaches, museums, and hiking trails. After a trip to the San Diego Zoo , be sure to see some of Balboa Park’s other attractions, like the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Fleet Science Center . And if you have a car, you and the kids may want to take a day trip to nearby Legoland California , which has over 60 rides, shows, activities, and a water park.

The city’s stunning beaches are not to be missed, either. Grab some bikes and ride the Bayshore Bikeway, making a pit stop at the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge on your way to Imperial Beach. As one of the top family-friendly beaches in the U.S., Coronado Beach — with its paddleboarding, boogie boarding, and tidepools — should also be on your radar. La Jolla Shores is a prime place to ride bikes and see sunbathing seals and sea lions. While you’re oceanside, book a whale-watching cruise to see if you can catch the aquatic mammals during peak migration season.

A Family Cruise

For moms and dads who are too busy to plan the logistics of a family vacation, cruises are the golden solution. There’s no need to worry about where you're going to eat or how you’re going to get from one attraction to the next: everything is taken care of for you. Most cruise ships have kid and teen programs that offer plenty of activities and excursions to keep your children busy.

Consider that there are many different types of cruises beyond the classic Caribbean romps. Some of the best cruise lines for families offer European river routes and expeditions to hard-to-reach corners of the globe, from the charming French villages of the River Seine to the biodiversity of Ecuador's Galapagos Islands.

42 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Take your pick from laid-back sugary white sand beaches, bustling cities, and adrenaline-pumping excursions.

Adventurous families can visit one of the natural wonders of the world right in the States, swim with whale sharks, explore underwater caves, or zip line in the jungle. Foodies should indulge in New Orleans's famous beignets, fill up with food trucks and Tex-Mex cuisine in Austin and San Antonio, or enjoy some of the best seafood. If you'd rather sit back and relax, opt for family-friendly resorts, like Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in Honolulu or The Royal at Atlantis in the Bahamas (which boasts 11 pools). If you're the wander-around-and-explore type of group, there's no shortage of museums and sites in walkable cities, like New York City, Washington, D.C., Charleston, and Savannah.

Trust us, that's just the tip of the iceberg—read on for more spring break ideas you and the kids won't soon forget.

Key West, Florida

Known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe, Key West is a top destination for a relaxing spring break. Venture to the colorful historic district, take a sunset sail, or relax on the beach. The town is also known for divine seafood (try Conch Republic !) and fun local culture, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities that appeal to all ages.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

It's never too early to introduce the kids to one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world. Experience the breathtaking views and explore the canyon's depths on hiking trails, river rafting tours, and helicopter rides. And after taking in the natural beauty, visit the historic lodges within the park, like the quaint El Tovar , which dates back to 1905.

Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Missouri

Big Cedar Lodge is an ideal spot for a family vacation any time of year, but it makes for a fun-filled spring break destination with its pools, arcade, outdoor activities, and special events. Located near the Arkansas/Missouri border, it's within a day's drive from one-third of the U.S. population. We highly recommend Camp Long Creek for its less-busy private lodging. Book a "mom and me" spa treatment, or send the kids to adventure camp while you experience one of the on-site fine dining restaurants (although you'll be comfortable dining with the kids in tow too).

Coastal Mississippi

Biloxi and the other towns along the Mississippi coast are absolutely packed with family fun. You'll find fishing, white sand beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. The brand-new Paradise Pier Fun Park at Margaritaville Resort offers 15 new rides and three restaurants with stunning Gulf views. Thrill seekers will want to plan a visit to Finish Line Performance Karting with the area's only zip line course, and Big Play Entertainment Center offers a go-kart race track and virtual reality area. And keep an eye on the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum in Gulfport—it's undergoing a massive renovation but will soon have the largest model railroad layout in the country.

San Diego, California

A whole day can be spent at the famous San Diego Zoo , but if you're looking for more to do, hike in Torrey Pines State Reserve or simply relax on one of the city's many beaches. Plus, waterfront Belmont Park has classic rides and mini golf for the youngsters—and there's no way they're letting you leave without going to Legoland (a short 30-minute drive away from San Diego ).

Miami, Florida

A popular destination for spring breakers, Miami offers a mix of beach activities, art, and entertainment. Sunbathe on South Beach, appreciate the city's art deco architecture, and dine at some of the best restaurants in the country. Unique museums also set the Magic City apart—like the Frost Science Museum , which hosts several exciting high-tech exhibitions for kids.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a favorite among college students and families because of its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. From swimming with whale sharks to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there are plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages busy. After a long day of exploring, the Hard Rock Cancun is a family favorite.

Panama City Beach, Florida

With 27 miles of sandy beaches and a range of family-friendly activities, Panama City Beach (where you'll find Pier Park) is a fun-filled pick. Water sports and beach volleyball abound here, but amusement parks, like Race City , and live music venues, like Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant , mean there's never a shortage of things to do.

Savannah, Georgia

A charming city, Savannah offers visitors a chance to soak in its historic architecture and Southern food. Trolley tours are always popular among families—and meals at restaurants like Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room are unmatched.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu's crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes make it the ultimate place to unwind and recharge. Hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic city views, surf at Waikiki Beach, or indulge in some of the freshest seafood in the world at no-frills Ono Seafood. It goes without saying that Aulani , a Disney Resort & Spa—complete with character experiences and magical kid-friendly excursions—will be a hit with the little ones (and probably the adults too).

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley isn't only a wine lover's paradise. Kids will love taking a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards , while adults indulge in some of the world's best food and wine pairings. There are even kid-friendly wineries , with some offering grape juice tastings and crowd-pleasing bites—like wood-fired pizza—for youngsters.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Known for its endless entertainment options, Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for a lively spring break. You can grab tickets to world-famous, family-friendly shows, like Cirque du Soleil's Mystère , hit the casinos (while the kids are busy at the pool, of course), or take a day trip to the nearby Hoover Dam.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

With over 60 miles of beaches and a range of attractions, Myrtle Beach is ideal for families. You can ride on the famous SkyWheel , stroll along the boardwalk, or go on a dolphin-watching tour . If you've been before, there's lots of new adventures to check out. Don't miss the Ripley's Aquarium with its Sloth Valley habitat and the all-new Stars and Strikes Getaway-n-Play with its arcade, bowling, axe throwing, and more. Plan a return trip in 2024 when the man-made surf park, Surfworks , is scheduled to open. Be sure to take the family to eat at Bubba's Fish Camp .

Charleston, South Carolina

With its cobblestone streets, Charleston is a picturesque city teeming with food and culture. Take a walking tour of the city ( led by a pirate , if you want to delight the kiddos!), tour historic country homes, like the Joseph Manigault House , or dine at some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. And don't miss Charleston Waterfront Park, where you'll find the famously charming Pineapple Fountain .

New Orleans, Louisiana

The birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is a cultural melting pot with an exciting nightlife and tasty food. Spend time exploring the historic French Quarter, take a riverboat tour with the New Orleans Steamboat Company , or indulge in some of the city's famous beignets at Cafe du Monde .

Costa Rica is a paradise for eco-conscious families, with diverse wildlife, pristine beaches, and rainforests. The whole crew can hike to a volcano, zip line through the jungle, or relax on a secluded beach—all in the same day.

Austin, Texas

For a fun and funky trip, look no further than Austin—famous for its live music, celebrated food scene, and beautiful parks. Spend a day at the Barton Springs Pool , check out the city's many food trucks, or listen to live music at the famous Continental Club .

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore the rich history of the island of Puerto Rico in San Juan, a historic city with colonial architecture. Walk the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, visit the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or appreciate some of the island's mouthwatering cuisine—no passport required!

Sedona, Arizona

A beautiful desert town with stunning red rock formations and a vibrant art scene, Sedona is relaxing and rejuvenating. Travelers can hike in the nearby state parks, splurge on a spa day while the kids hit the pool, or stop by galleries and shops.

Orlando, Florida

Home to Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is a bucket list destination for families, drawing more than 70 million visitors annually. Once you've gotten your fill of roller coasters and character meet-ups, try some authentic Asian street food at local favorite Hawkers .

Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest , Bloomberg News , and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy . Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.

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The 15 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in 2024

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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.

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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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27 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US – 2024

LOOKING FOR THE BEST SPRING BREAK DESTINATIONS FOR FAMILIES IN THE US?

Spring Break is one of my favorite times of the year to travel with our family. We have been just about everywhere for spring break! The weather is beginning to warm up and after a long, cold winter, I’m ready to get out of the house and travel! I know I can’t be the only one that feels this way!

Whether you’re looking for somewhere hot, somewhere snowy, a big city, a beach, or a national park, I have you covered without even having to leave the United States.

Here is a list of the 27 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US.

Planning Your Family’s Spring Break Vacation? Use Our Favorite Resources Below!

🏨  Hotels –  Booking.com 🏠  Condo or Home   Rentals –  Vrbo ✅  Tours –  Viator 🚘  Rental Car –  Discover Cars 🙋🏻‍♀️  Travel Agent –  Kim Swanson, Magical Moments Vacations

Spring Break Destinations for Families in the South

1. orlando, florida.

If you have never taken your kids to Orlando, Florida go ahead and book that trip NOW. Orlando has just about anything and everything to keep you and your kids entertained. It is the entertainment capital for kids in the US, making it one of the best spring break destinations for families.

Orlando also has many great restaurants, including character dining and lots of great shopping. The weather is perfect here during the spring. Not too hot and not cold! Perfect for night swimming after a long day at the theme parks.

Orlando has many theme parks including Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando , SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove , and LEGOLAND Florida . Disney World is a must-trip to take your kids at least once while they are young. Disney World’s massive park includes Magic Kingdom , Animal Kingdom , Hollywood Studios , Epcot , and two waterparks Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach .

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Universal Studios Orlando is especially fun for those Harry Potter Fans and Marvel Superhero Fans. Universal Studios includes Universal Studios , Islands of Adventure , and a waterpark Volcano Bay .

SeaWorld , another fun theme park has kid-friendly rides, close animal encounters, and the famous killer whale show. SeaWorld also includes a waterpark Aquatica .

For something a little different head to Discovery Cove . Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort where you can swim with dolphins and snorkel with tropical fish and rays. You can relax on their beaches and view exotic birds.

LEGOLAND is located about 45 minutes from Orlando and is the perfect theme park for your kids who love LEGOs. Lots of kid-friendly rides and LEGO creations to admire!

Recommended Hotels: Disney World – Walt Disney World Swan Universal Studios – Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando SeaWorld – Springhill Suites Orlando At SeaWorld

2. The Florida Keys, Florida

Looking for a tropical destination without leaving the country for your family’s spring break, head to the Florida Keys . The Keys begin just south of Miami. The scenic drive on the Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West takes about three hours if you do not stop.

There are many great things to see and do in the Keys before you arrive at Key West. Key Largo is the first Florida Key and is the home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park .

A fun thing to do in Islamorada is to take a boat to the Islamorada Sandbar . Enjoy a day of snorkeling , paddleboarding , kayaking, or just relaxing in the crystal clear waters of the sandbar. The Theater of the Sea , a marine mammal park is also located in Islamorada. It’s a great place to see California sea lions, stingrays, and dolphins. Robbie’s Marina of Islamorada is a great job place to stop and feed massive tarpon. They also offer kayak, paddleboard, and boat rentals.

The Turtle Hospital , a sea turtle rescue, and rehabilitation center is a great place to stop in Marathon .

The Flordia Keys are not known for their beaches, but Bahia Honda State Park’s beaches definitely do not disappoint.

Once you make it to Key West , the southernmost point in the US, you have to get your picture taken at Southernmost Point . There are many fun family activities in Key West such as the Key West Aquarium and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory . Take a walk around Mallory Square, buy some souvenirs and ride the Conch Train Tour . You could also head out to Dry Tortugas National Park , about 70 miles west of Key West by boat or seaplane.

Recommend hotel(in the middle of the Keys) : Hawks Cay Resort Recommend hotel in Key West: Key West Marriott Beachside

3. Miami, Florida

If you are looking for a tropical and cultural experience, but want to stay in the U.S., head to Miami, Florida . You may think of a party vibe when you think of Miami, but I assure you there is plenty here for a family-friendly spring break destination.

Spring is the perfect time to go to Miami because the weather is amazing! It’s hot, but not as crazy hot as it can get here during the summer. There is so much more to Miami than relaxing on the beautiful beaches and swimming in your hotel’s swimming pool.

Miami has culture and a lot of it. There is just no other place like it in the U.S. Get out and enjoy the culture of the city by viewing the art deco buildings, walking through Little Havana and eating some Cuban food, and viewing the art at Wynwood Walls .

South Beach is a beautiful place to explore, eat and shop. Take a cruise down Biscayne Bay and enjoy seeing Miami Millionaire’s Row . Zoo Miami , Jungle Island , and the Miami Seaquarium are a few places to go to see zoo animals and sea animals. Take an airboat ride in the Everglades and see alligators.

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science and Miami Children’s Museum are hands-on fun places for the kids to learn and play.

Check out my post 21 Best Things to Do in Miami With Kids for the complete guide to traveling to Miami with kids!

Recommend Hotel: Loews Miami Beach Hotel

4. Destin, Florida

If you looking for white sandy beaches and some of the most beautiful emerald-green water you’ve ever seen Destin, Flordia might be one of the best family spring break destinations for you.

I am lucky enough to live only 2 hours from this beautiful place. The water in Destin is unbelievable! It’s like you are in the Caribbean, but you are in the United States. Not only does Destin have the best beaches and water, but there is also a lot to keep families entertained.

HarborWalk Village is a great place for shopping, dining, and entertainment for your kids such as bungee trampolines and train rides. You could also hop on a pirate boat tour, a fast jet ski boat tour , or a dolphin cruise here. Baytowne Wharf is another great village area that has great dining, shopping, and entertainment for the kids including a playground, rock climbing wall, rope course, and a carousel.

Other fun ways to spend time in Destin are to play a game of mini-golf and visit the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park .

Recommend Hotel : Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect mountain spring break escape for your family in the south. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular national park in the U.S. You and your family will spend your time enjoying the beautiful outdoors by taking in scenic views, hiking , viewing waterfalls , and whitewater rafting if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

You have a great chance of seeing some black bears here in the Smoky Mountains, so always be on the lookout!

The nearby gateway towns, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Pigeon Forge, Tennesee are tourist towns offering lots of entertainment and dining options for your family.

Walking down the Gatlinburg strip you will find no shortage of things to do with your family. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Skylift, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, and Anakeesta to name just a few.

Pigeon Forge, located right next to Gatlinburg offers more touristy fun for the whole family. Dollywood ( theme park), Dolly Parton’s Stampede (dinner show), Titanic Museum , Alcatraz East Crime Museum, WonderWorks, and Hollywood Wax Museum are a few fun places here. The Island in Pigeon Forge is a great place to walk around, go shopping, and ride the observation wheel.

There are lots of great family-friendly hotels in the Smoky Mountain area. Also, another option would be to stay in a cabin. Cabins are very affordable in the Smoky Moutain area and many offer game rooms!

Check out my post 26 Best Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains with Kids for the complete guide on traveling to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with your family!

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriot Pigeon Forge

6. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is another destination in Tennessee that is a great place for a family spring break. Chattanooga is located in the southeast corner of Tennesee amongst the mountains and along the Tennessee River near the border of Georgia.

Chattanooga offers many exciting things for families to do. The Tennessee Aquarium is a great place to see river and sea animals, birds, and butterflies. They also offer interactive shows your kids will love. The Creative Discovery Museum is a wonderful children’s museum for younger kids.

Go to Rock City Gardens atop Lookout Mountain and see 7 states: Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. Here you will walk through incredible rock formations, Fairyland Caverns( a magical cave showcasing popular children’s fairytales), see stunning views, and a beautiful waterfall.

You could also take the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway straight up the mountain!

Another popular attraction in Chattanooga is Ruby Falls . It’s the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States.

Recommend Hotel : Hampton Inn & Suites Chattanooga/Downtown

7. Nashville, Tennesse

Nashville, Tennessee , also known as Music City is a great destination to visit during your family’s spring break! There are so many great restaurants, museums, and things to do.

Head to Opry Mills to shop, eat at the Aquarium, and visit Madame Tussands Wax Museum . After you leave Opry Mills, get your family’s picture at the big guitar in front of the Grand Ole Opry . If you can take in a show at this famous country music venue.

Visit the Gaylord Opryland Resort even if you are not staying here. This resort is a destination in itself. You will be amazed at the massiveness and beauty of this resort. You could stay here your whole time in Nashville and never leave. They have many family-friendly activities such as boat rides, an indoor waterpark, rock climbing, and nightly light shows.

For the kids who love animals, go explore the Nashville Zoo .

When in Nashville, you have to explore Downtown. Visit the County Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Walk around Music Row , try on some cowboy boots, and let the kids make their own custom candy at Goo Goo Chocolate . Walk the Pedestrian Bridge and explore Cumberland Park . Cumberland Park is a nice place for the kids to run around and play with slides and a rock-climbing wall.

Check out my post 19 Best Things to Do on a Nashville Family Vacation , for the complete guide on traveling to Nashville with your family!

Recommended Hotel: Gaylord Opryland Resort

8. Helen, Georgia

Helen, Georgia is a cute town in the North Georgia mountains. It’s known for its Bavarian-style buildings. Helen is a great place to spend time outdoors, hiking to waterfalls , ziplining , horseback riding , kayaking , and paddleboarding . Other family fun activities include playing a game of mini-golf , riding a mountain coaster , and riding some go-carts .

If you have little girls, the Babyland General Hospital-Cabbage Patch Kids is a must-place to go.

Helen is a great place for camping and springtime is a perfect time here to go camping. The days are warm and the nights are cool making for a perfect camping experience.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott Helen

9. Atlanta, Georgia

For a big city family spring family destination in the South, head to Atlanta, Georgia ! Atlanta has plenty of things to keep you and your kids entertained.

Visit the Downtown Area and explore The Georgia Aquarium , the largest aquarium in the United States. Drink the different “cokes” from all around the world and learn everything you could ever want to know about Coca-Cola at The World Of Coca-Cola .

Lego lovers need to head to The LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta to enjoy all things LEGOS and even ride some LEGO-themed rides! Six Flags Over Georgia is your place to go in Atlanta if you looking to ride rollercoasters. Stone Mountain Park is a destination in itself offering many attractions such as the Summit Skyride, a train trip around the mountain, a mini-golf, and a nightly Lasershow!

Baseball lovers can watch an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park . Also, there is no shortage of dining and shopping options in Atlanta. Atlanta has just about anything you are looking for.

Recommended hotel near Downtown Attractions : Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center Recommend hotel near Stone Mountain : Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

10. San Antonio, Texas

Looking for a family spring break destination rich in history and culture? San Antonio, Texas may be the perfect spring break escape for you and your family. Stroll the scenic Riverwalk and enjoy the many shops and restaurants connected by it. San Antonio has a wide variety of shopping and great places to dine! You can also take a relaxing Riverwalk boat tour and admire the city’s culture and architecture as you cruise along the beautiful riverwalk.

Take in a big part of Texas’s history and visit The Alamo . Get a taste of San Antonio’s rich culture by browsing the Historic Market Square , an authentic Mexican market. Eat some authentic Mexican food and browse and shop for authentic Mexican goods. During the weekend, Market Square is filled with family-friendly live entertainment and dancing.

Take a break from exploring the city and ride some rollercoasters at Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Visit SeaWorld San Antonio for more family-friendly rides and close animal encounters and shows. Or visit the San Antonio Zoo to see some animals!

Check out my post, Your Guide to an Incredible 2 or 3-Day Weekend in San Antonio!

Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk Downtown

11. Galveston, Texas

Galveston, Texas is an island city on the Gulf Coast of Texas. It’s a great destination to take your family to for spring break.

Besides spending time on the beach and swimming in the Gulf, Galveston offers lots of family entertainment. Moody Gardens is a great place to explore and view animals of the sea and the rainforest. They also have 3D and 4D theatres here.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a waterfront amusement area with rides and games. For train lovers visit the Galveston Railroad Museum .

Located about 35 minutes from Galveston are 2 popular attractions Kemah Boardwalk and NASA Johnson Space Center. Kemah Boardwalk is a huge entertainment destination with waterfront dining, rides, amusements, shopping, and shows. NASA Johnson Space Center is home to NASA’s mission control and astronaut training!

Recommend Hotel: The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center

12. New Orleans, Lousiana

New Orleans, Lousiana as a spring break family destination? If you’ve never been to New Orleans you might be thinking, why?! I live only 2 hours from New Orleans, so we have frequented New Orleans many times with our kids and I can tell you there are lots of fun things here to keep kids entertained!

New Orleans offers many kid-friendly attractions such as the Audobon Aquarium and IMAX , the Audobon Zoo , The Insectarium , and the Louisiana Children’s Museum .

Walk around the French Quarter and enjoy Cafe du Monde’s famous beignets. Take a ride on the Streetcar . Visit City Park which includes Carousel Gardens Amusement Park , the Botanical Gardens , and Storyland Park . Storyland Park is such a cute playground area for kids to run around and explore designed after fairytale characters.

Visit Mardi Gras World and see the floats that go parading down the streets of New Orleans. Take a family-friendly jazz cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez and sit back, relax, and enjoy your cruise down the Mississippi River.

Check out my post 25 Fun Things to Do in New Orleans with Kids for the complete guide to traveling to New Orleans with kids!

Recommended Hotel : New Orleans Marriott

13. Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Alabama

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Alabama located on the Gulf Coast of Alabama have beautiful white, sandy beaches and lots of family-friendly restaurants and things to do. I live about 45 minutes from these beautiful beach towns, so I frequent them often. This makes a great family beach spring break destination.

Not only do Gulf Shores & Orange Beach offer beautiful beaches, but there are also many places to play mini-golf , go cart-riding, and play arcade games.

You could also rent a bike and take a beautiful ride through the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails . Take a dolphin cruise and enjoy watching the dolphins jumping and dancing in the water!

Nearby amusement park, OWA is a great, clean family-friendly amusement park with rides for even your youngest ones.

Recommended Hotel : The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel

14. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina is a beautiful family-friendly beach town perfect for your family’s spring break destination. Aside from the beautiful beaches, Hilton Head offers lots of family-friendly entertainment.

Hilton Head is a great place to ride bikes. They have one of the most extensive bike path networks in the US. You can even ride bikes on the beach here!

Head to Harbour Town for shopping and dining. Hop on a dolphin cruise or pirate ship adventure here. View the Harbour Town Lighthouse . Take your children to The Sandbox , a children’s museum, or play a game of mini-golf .

Recommend Hotel : Sonesta Resort-Hilton Head Island

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a city on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast with 60 miles of coastline. It’s a great family spring break destination for those looking for the beach , golfing , and a lot of entertainment .

Head to Broadway at the Beach , a large entertainment venue with great shops, a variety of dining options, and lots of shows. Here, you will find Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach , Wonderworks , Hollywood Wax Museum, and The Simpsons in 4D . You could also ride a jet boa t here and explore Dino Park (20 animatronic life-sized dinosaurs).

Head to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade for more family fun! This area offers more shopping and dining options. Take in a great view of Myrtle Beach and the boardwalk on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.

Recommend Hotel: Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes

16. Washington DC

Washington DC as a family spring break destination is the perfect time to see the city’s famous Cherry Blossoms! If you are lucky enough to be here during the Annual Cherry Blossom Festival take advantage of this event!

There are many museums to take your kids to and they are all free! The Smithsonian Institution has many museums and galleries including the National Museum of Natural History , the National Museum of American History , and the Smithsonian National Zoo .

Famous must-see landmarks here include the Thomas Jefferson Memorial , The Washington Monument , and of course the U.S. Capitol and the White House . Baseball fans can catch a Washington Nationals baseball game here during the spring.

Recommend Hotel: Embassy Suites Washington D.C.-Convention Center

Spring Break Destinations for Families in the West

17. san diego, california.

San Diego, California offers so much fun for families making it a great destination for spring break. San Diego has great weather year-round, but springtime is the perfect time to go.

Popular family activities in San Diego are the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park , Sea World San Diego , and LEGOLAND California . Balboa Park is a great place to walk around after your trip to San Diego’s world-famous zoo.

Take a walk around Little Italy and grab a yummy Italian dinner and some gelato.

The whale-watching season in San Diego is during the spring, so take a whale watching tour !

A must-stop in San Diego with your family is La Jolla Cove . La Jolla is absolutely beautiful, but the main attraction here is the seals and sea lions ! It is so cool to see these animals up close in their natural habitat!

Recommended Hotel : Springhill Suites San Diego Downtown/Bayfront

18. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California is such a fun place to take the family for a spring break destination. Los Angeles is packed full of things to do. Explore Hollywood by viewing the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame , go see the TCL Chinese Theatre, and watch a Disney movie at the El Capitan Theatre. El Capitan Theatre is the venue for most of Walt Disney Studios’ film premiers.

Griffith Observatory is an incredible place to go to take in some incredible Hollywood views. The planetarium in the observatory is such a fun thing for kids. Take a beautiful hike through the Hollywood Hills to the Hollywood sign .

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for lots of fun rides and to view an actual working movie studio! Visit Disneyland in Anaheim!

Also, when in Los Angeles, you have to explore the Pacific Ocean. Head to Malibu and see the beautiful rocky coast and beaches. Take a walk down the famous Santa Monica Pier .

Check out my post 19 Most Amazing Things to Do In Southern California with Kids , for your complete guide to traveling to Southern California with kids!

Recommended Hotel : Springhill Suites by Marriott Los Angeles Burbank/Downtown

19. San Francisco, California

Spring is a great time to visit San Francisco. The weather is mild averaging highs in the mid-60s. San Francisco is one of my favorite cities. Its stunning scenery along the bay with countless things to see and do is a perfect place for a family spring break destination.

Viewing the Golden Gate Bridge is a must. Don’t just view it though, if your kids are great on bikes, bike the Golden Gate Bridge! This is such an amazing experience. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 . Take the kids to the San Francisco Zoo . Ride a cable car . Take a walk through Chinatown and watch people making fortune cookies! See Lombard Street known for being the “most crooked” street. Visit the famous Alcatraz Island . If your kids are into science, check out the California Academy of Sciences .

Take a short drive from the city to Muir Woods and enjoy the giant redwood forest and the cool fresh air. For baseball fans, head to Oracle Park and watch a San Francisco Giants game.

Recommend Hotel: Argonaut Hotel, A Noble House Hotel

20. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is a beautiful, stunning National Park located in eastern central California. It is best known for its waterfalls , giant sequoias , and awe-inspiring rock formations including El Capitan .

This would be a great family spring break destination because the weather is warming up here, the trails are reopening and the crowds will be smaller than in the crazy crowded season of summer.

Hiking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting are popular activities to do in Yosemite. The waterfalls in Yosemite are at their best during the Spring because of the snow melt. So head to Yosemite this spring and go chase some beautiful waterfalls!

R ecommend Hotel : Yosemite Valley Lodge

21. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. Spring Break is the perfect time to travel to Sedona, Arizona with your family. The weather in the springtime is amazing and perfect for enjoying all Sedona has to offer before summer brings in the crazy desert heat.

Sedona is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There are so many great hiking trails to do with your kids, off-road jeep tours , great shopping, art galleries, and dining. For those animal lovers, Out of Africa Wildpark Park is a great place to view wildlife. Exploring the nearby town of Jerome is also a fun thing to do while in Sedona.

Check out my post 25 Amazing Things To Do In Sedona with Kids for your complete guide to traveling to Sedona with kids!

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Sedona Resort At Bell Rock

22. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Spring is a great time to visit the Grand Canyon before it gets too hot and crowded during the summer. March weather can be a little unpredictable and you might get hit with some snow. April weather would be perfect though!

The Grand Canyon is that bucket list destination for most families. The views from the Grand Canyon are just breathtaking. It is something you just have to see to experience its awe!

While in the Grand Canyon; explore Grand Canyon Village , hike the Rim trail, let the kids become a Junior Ranger, or take a helicopter tour. Take a walk across the Grand Canyon Skywalk , a glass bridge 4,000 feet over the Canyon.

Recommended Hotel: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

23. Breckenridge, Colorado

If you are looking for a family spring break destination involving snow and skiing head to Breckenridge, Colorado. Breckenridge has one of the longest ski seasons in the US! Spring is a great time for skiing in Breckenridge because the days are longer and the weather is sunny. The snow is also soft this time of year, making it great for beginners.

Not only is there skiing in Breckenridge, but you could also try snowshoeing, dogsledding, and snowmobiling!

After a day on the slopes, you can explore Downtown Breckenridge. Downtown Breckenridge offers many great shopping and dining options.

Recommend Hotel: One Ski Hill Place

24. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Steamboat Springs, Colorado , also known as Ski City USA is another great family spring break destination for skiing in the US. If skiing is not your thing, you could try snow tubing ! Steamboat Springs is located about 3 hours northwest of Denver. Your best bet for skiing is to arrive by the first week in April.

Taking a walk downtown will give you that Old West feel! There are many great dining and shopping options here.

What makes Steamboat Springs unique from other ski towns is its hot springs. Swimming outside with snow! Such an amazing, unique thing to do! There are 2 hot springs in Steamboat Springs; Strawberry Park and Old Town .

Old Town Hot Springs is a fun destination for the whole family. The main hot pool at Old Town Hot Springs has multiple fountains and bridges you can swim under. Old Town Hot Springs also has a climbing wall.

Another great family fun activity here in Steamboat Springs is the Outlaw Mountain Coaster . It is said to be the longest coaster in North America! Other fun activities are ice skating and bumper cars on ice at Howelsen Ice Complex.

Recommended Hotel : Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas

Spring Break Destinations for Families in the Northeast

25. new york, new york.

New York, New York is a great spring break destination for families. The weather might not be the best because it’s still pretty cool during this time of year, but you are escaping the crowds from the most popular times such as Christmas break and summer break.

We traveled to New York during spring break and had an amazing time! SO much to do and see for the whole family! Your family will never be bored in the Big Apple!

Must-see sites with the kids include the Statue of Liberty , the Empire State Building , One World Trade Center, and Times Square . Great museums for the whole family are the National History Museum (especially if your kids have seen the movie Night at the Museum ) and The Metropolitan Museum of Art . Must do shopping with the family at Macy’s on 34th Street , Dylans Candy Bar , Disney Store , M&M’s World New York , Hershey’s Chocolate World, American Girl Place New York, and Nintendo NY .

Take your kids to see kid-friendly Broadway shows such as Lion King or Aladdin! Ride the beautiful, unique Seaglass Carousel . Take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge ! Oh, and if your kids are Winnie-the-Pooh- fans, stop by the New York Public Library to see the REAL Winnie-the-Pooh and friends!

New York City is known for its pizza! All kids love pizza! Try a few pizza restaurants in NYC and see which one you think is the best!

Check out my post 35 Amazing Things to Do in NYC with Kids for an Epic Family Vacation for your complete guide to traveling to New York City with kids!

Recommend Hotel: Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East

Spring Break Destinations for Families in Hawaii

➡️ Oahu vs Maui: Which Hawaiian Island is Best for You?

26. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii is a tropical paradise and perfect for a spring break destination for families. There are so many fun and adventurous things to do here with your family.

Explore the beautiful beaches of Maui by swimming in the beautiful water and playing on the beach. If you are adventurous enough maybe try some snorkeling or surfing .

Take the breathtaking scenic drive on the Road to Hana . Enjoy hiking on Maui’s trails. Chase some waterfalls . Check out the black sandy beach at Wai-anapanapa State Park . Visit Maui’s highest point, Haleakala Crater , a dormant volcano.

The kids will enjoy up-close experiences with sea life at Maui Ocean Center . You could even take a whale-watching tour and go whale watching.

Recommended Hotel : Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

27. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii, known as the “Gathering Place” is another Hawaiian island with no shortage of fun for your family’s spring break destination. Oahu is the most populous Hawaiian island. It houses the capital Honolulu , Pearl Harbor , and the famous Waikiki Beach . Besides spending time on Oahu’s beautiful beaches swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, Oahu offers lots of fun adventures. Walk to Diamond Head , a dormant volcano crater, and drive along the North Shore and check out all the beaches and stunning scenery.

Honolulu offers the best shopping on any Hawaiian island. You can find just about anything here including luxury brands. Don’t leave Hawaii without eating some shaved ice and taking in a luau.

Recommended Hotel : Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach

The Wrap-Up: Spring Break Destinations for Families

Spring Break is the perfect time to escape home and go somewhere new with your family. You will go back to work refreshed and your kids will go back to school excited and ready to learn with a whole new knowledge of the world.

I hope my guide of the 27 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US has helped you find that spring break destination and inspired you to travel more!

Kim Swanson, founder of Traveling Swansons, is a wife, mother of three and travel lover. Her love for exploration spans from the bustling streets of cities to the serene beauty of National Parks and her favorite destination, Italy. But that's not all – Kim's heart also belongs to all things Disney. Her special love for the magic of Disney has led her to become an expert in the field. Whether you seek advice on iconic destinations or a Disney adventure, Kim Swanson's expertise turns your travel dreams into reality.

17 Uncrowded Spring Break Destinations for Families in the US.

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Ocala, Florida

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

Read about our Ocala Vacation here .

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

Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

Pensacola Beach, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

Park City, Utah

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

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

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

Washington, DC

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yosemite National Park

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

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

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

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

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

South Dakota

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Carolina

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

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

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

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

San Antonio

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

Puerto Rico

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

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

Florida Keys

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

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

South Padre Island

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

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

New Orleans

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

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

Outer Banks

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

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

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

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

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

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32 spring break ideas for families that want to get away

Wondering if it's too late to take a vacation with the whole family during spring break? You aren't alone. Spring break travel is one of the most popular times for families to get away, according to travel agents.

Of course, the ideal way to guarantee options is to plan in advance. "The best time to plan a spring break trip is to do it right after spring break," says Carli Fernandez, founder of The Concierge Travel Group . "Rates should be available for at least 11 months ahead, and planning in advance will give you the best price and availability."

But don't stress! Fernandez tells TODAY.com that she has plenty of clients still booking trips for spring break 2024, and many of those clients are finding the most success booking travel that's "outside the box."

"Spring break is trending toward shorter European flights," Fernandez tells TODAY.com, mentioning Ireland, Scotland, England, Portugal and Italy as popular destinations.

Before planning a spring break trip, decide what is important for your family.

"I think it is important (for families) to decide if they want to stay domestic or go international," says Nicole Gerber, a SmartFlyer  travel advisor.

She also recommended parents ask themselves:

• How much do we want to spend?
• Are our passports up to date?
• What type of trip are we looking for — sightseeing, history and culture? Adventure? Or relaxing beach and pool time?

“The best defense for a seamless trip is a well-organized itinerary,” says Amy Annis, a Ciao Bambino family travel advisor.

More family travel ideas!

• Best Hawaii family vacations for every type of traveler
• 22 best hotels with water parks that guarantee a fun time for all
• 9 best family beach vacations that are also affordable
• Best family vacation destinations for when you want to get away

32 Spring Break Ideas For Families

Spring break ideas for families in the u.s..

National Parks

While some families may seek a seaside destination for spring break, others are opting for national parks like the Grand Tetons or Yellowstone in Wyoming, Glacier National Park in Montana or Zion in Utah.

Disney World is an obvious Florida destination for families, but parents seeking a vacation to the Sunshine State without Mickey Mouse might consider Hawks Cay Resort, which features an on-site dolphin facility, or a home rental along Rosemary Beach on Florida's panhandle.

Home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, the Hawaiian Islands has plenty to offer families from the southernmost point in the U.S. on Hawaii Island to Disney's Aulani Resort on Oahu.

Whether you're road-tripping along the Pacific Coast Highway, hiking through Yosemite or set on staying at one of many resorts along California's coast, there is something for everyone in the Golden State.

Destination Resorts

Annis recommends destination resorts, like Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in Tennessee or Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri.

"Somewhere where the family has a multitude of activities to choose from onsite," she says.

Big City Trips

Ciao Bambino family travel advisor Kiki Humes recommends New York City, Boston, New Orleans, Washington D.C. or Charleston for spring vacations for families.

Destinations like Sedona and the Grand Canyon may be ideal for travelers looking for adventure, while resorts like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer family travelers multiple swimming pools and a dedicated kid's club for those seeking respite in the sun.

Late-Season Ski Trip

"Depending on when the break falls, it could be right at the tail end of ski season as well," Gerber says.

Family-friendly ski resorts include Smuggler's Notch Resort in Vermont and Steamboat Grand in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Fernandez fields many requests for Deer Valley in Utah, too.

Other areas to explore:

• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• New Jersey Shore
• An indoor water park resort, like the Great Wolf Lodge

Spring Break Ideas For Families Outside The U.S.

"Somewhere with a nice, swimmable beach like Turks & Caicos or The Bahamas," Annis suggests.

Costa Rica or Belize

"(Both) would be a trip combining activity in the jungle with time on the coast at leisure," Humes says.

"In Italy, Rome, Florence and Venice or in Spain — Madrid, Andalusia and Barcelona," Annis says.

All agents agreed that big city combination trips are a popular choice. Top cities include London, Paris and Lisbon. Combinations include: London and Paris, Amsterdam and Copenhagen, Prague and Vienna

Mexico is a top destinations for families looking for fun in the sun at resort destinations like Bahia Principe Grand Coba, which features more than 1,000 guest rooms and a water park for children.

• The Swiss Alps
• The Greek Islands

Spring Break Ideas For Families Looking for a Big Adventure

From visiting the world's highest building to riding a camel in the desert, Dubai has a ton of different (and spectacular!) activities for families to enjoy together.

Animal-loving families will adore the opportunity to go on a safari and see wild creatures in their natural habitat. You might want to double check the age requirements on this one to make sure the whole family can participate.

The Maldives

If you want gorgeous scenery and a relaxing beach vacation, the Maldives might be perfect for your family. Many islands have activity schedules for kids with outdoor adventures.

The dramatic landscapes of Iceland make for an adventurous family trip for those seeking outdoor fun. Make sure to visit iconic destinations like Diamond Bech and Skógafoss waterfall.

• New Zealand
• Cook Islands
• Banff National Park, Canada

Cheapest Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget

Nashville, Tennessee

Free or low-cost museums and music halls make Nashville a popular domestic destination for families. Kids (and parents) will love the availability of fried chicken and mac and cheese.

Boston, Massachusetts

If you stay outside the city center, Boston can be very affordable, especially since the Freedom Trail provides 2.5 miles of free adventure. And if you happen to have a late April break, tickets for the iconic Swan Boats in Boston Public Garden are only $4.50.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Especially if you are within driving distance, the Outer Banks is a terrific low-cost trip filled with beaches, fishing and mini-golf. Large parties can often find well-priced vacation rentals.

• South Padre Island, Texas
• Key West, Florida
• Baltimore, Maryland

Kait Hanson is a lifestyle reporter for TODAY. A graduate of Penn State University, she began her career in collegiate sports communications.

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 :)

8 cheap spring break trips that don’t skimp on fun

C heap spring break trips are often top of mind for families looking to get away during the school year without overspending. While there may be some costly obstacles to visiting the most popular family vacation spots in the U.S. over the busy spring vacation period, there are also plenty of fun spring break ideas for families on a budget too. 

From Nashville, Tennessee, to Nevada, the best spring break destinations for families are also some of the most affordable. Here’s where to go with the kids for cheap family vacations that don't skimp on the fun.

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1. Kissimmee, Florida

The Orlando theme parks help make Florida one of the best family vacation ideas any time of year, but spending spring break in Orlando won’t come cheap. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative in Central Florida, consider using neighboring Kissimmee as your base camp. It's convenient to all of the best things to do in Orlando and perfect for a cheap spring break trip with kids because hotel rates tend to be lower than in Orlando. 

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There are a lot of fun spring break ideas for families on a budget in the greater Orlando area. One of my favorites is Old Town Kissimmee, a throwback re-creation of a Florida town with tree-lined streets and live entertainment, plus a parade of classic cars on weekends. Disney’s Wilderness Preserve offers acres of native habitat, including restored wetlands where bald eagles soar and the elusive Florida Scrub Jay sings a sweet song. Hike or bird-watch as you soak in the beauty of the ecosystem free of charge. 

With a few days of free or low-cost activities under your belt, you can probably squeeze a visit to Disney’s Star Wars land at Hollywood Studios or the Harry Potter theme park areas at Universal into your spring break budget even if you're trying to keep costs down. 

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The two-bedroom villas at Fantasy World Resort are a low-priced alternative to cramped motel rooms. A lazy river, game room, and tennis courts are kid-friendly perks. If you do want to stay in Orlando at a Disney property or Universal Orlando hotel , a few of the value-priced Disney World hotels in Orlando can actually accommodate large families quite comfortably. And for families looking for an all-in-one price, Kissimmee is also home to Encore Resort at Reunion , one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Florida .

2. San Luis Obispo, California

Midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, gorgeous San Luis Obispo County is an affordable spring break destination with a little bit of everything for families. In Pismo Beach , there's a long pier where surfers and sun lovers paint a quintessential California picture. Allow time for the kids to romp at Whale Surfing Playground at Pismo Pier Plaza, with a fun slide that leads straight down to the sandy beach. The free Montaña de Oro State Park is nearby. Scenic trails, tide pools, and secluded coves are accompanied by the scent of eucalyptus trees. 

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In the small city of San Luis Obispo, the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa offers free daily tours. Wandering among the pretty garden's grape arbor, fragrant roses, and citrus trees is a great way to keep little ones entertained and burn up some energy on spring break.

Every room at the adorable Apple Farm Inn comes with complimentary Wi-Fi and a cozy gas fireplace. The inn is centrally located for visiting the beaches and wineries of California's central coast. 

3. Pittsburgh

You’ll find plenty of cheap spring break ideas for families in Pittsburgh . Once upon a time, Gilded Age millionaires built their industrial fortunes here, but today their legacy of wealth is what sustains numerous museums and cultural institutions. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History charges half-price admission on weekdays after 3:00 p.m., for example, and kids love browsing its sparkling gem collection and gawking at the enormous dinosaur skeletons.

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A visit to one of Pittsburgh’s verdant parks, including Highland Park’s landscaped gardens and Riverview Park’s wooded hiking trails, is always a good spring break idea for families on a budget too. You could spend a whole afternoon at either park and the price tag can’t be beat – the parks are always free. When hunger strikes, head to one of the city's many diners that serve homestyle meals for a low price. In the Strip District, the tall stack of fluffy pancakes at Pamela's Diner is reportedly a favorite of former President Barack Obama.

Hampton Inn and Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown is located in the Strip District, and a stay includes breakfast and parking – both big savers for families on a spring break budget. The hotel is a short stroll to Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop, a fantasy for anyone with a sweet tooth.  

4. Nashville, Tennessee

Spirited Nashville welcomes visiting families with a range of free and low-cost experiences that can make spring break affordable. At the Frist Art Museum, guests under 18 are always free, and its Martin ArtQuest Gallery is a hands-on wonderland designed for multigenerational engagement. Visitors of all ages can try their hand at painting, drawing, printmaking, and animation at numerous art-making stations, with materials and guidance provided. 

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Kids ages 6 to 17 pay only $3 to visit the Lane Motor Museum (and kids 5 and under are free). It's home to the largest collection of European cars and motorcycles in the United States – a great activity for all ages, but especially good for family vacations with teenagers because oddities such as the museum’s amphibious vehicles really boost the wow factor. And if the younger kids in your crew need a break from engines and hubcaps, there’s a large indoor play area with imaginative toys. 

Another reason Music City is one of the best spring break ideas for families on a budget? Kids are welcome to listen to live music along the city’s famed Honky Tonk Highway before 6:00 p.m. most nights free of charge. Nashville’s culinary scene is a hit with kids, too, and hot chicken is one of its stars. This delectable fried favorite is both filling and inexpensive. At family-owned Hattie B’s, chicken can be served with no spice for those who enjoy their food mild. And scratch-made sides like creamy mac-and-cheese should tempt even finicky appetites. 

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The centrally located Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown is a budget-friendly spring break choice with a complimentary hot breakfast plus snacks and beverages at 5:30 p.m. daily. Or go big (and more expensive) at the Gaylord Opryland Resort , an impressively self-contained resort and convention center in Nashville with kid-friendly dining, entertainment, and one of the best indoor water parks in the country. 

5. Virginia City, Nevada

When gold and silver were discovered here in the mid-19th century, Virginia City blossomed into a frontier boomtown. It has been perfectly preserved ever since, making it a fine spring break destination for budget-conscious 21st-century families who want an immersive living history experience only 35 miles from Reno. 

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A stroll down the historic main drag, C Street, is free, and Victorian-era saloons, shops, and attractions line the pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare. People dressed in cowboy attire and frilly frocks with bonnets strut as casually as if they were wearing jeans. Virginia City’s Bucket of Blood Saloon is a family-friendly establishment (despite the name) with free live daytime music on weekends. Wood floors and period chandeliers add authenticity. Adults may enjoy a potent potable while kids cool off with a soft drink and free popcorn. 

For a comprehensive narrated tour of this once-prosperous mining town, hop on the Virginia City Trolley for just $6. 

At Silverland Inn and Suites , you’ll find modern kid-friendly amenities like a pool and free Wi-Fi at yesteryear prices. 

6. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Flush with state parks and nature preserves, Hocking Hills makes an ideal spring break destination for families who appreciate fresh air and wide-open spaces. Miles of spectacular hiking trails are punctuated with caves and waterfalls, with ziplining, rock climbing, and kayaking adding active options. 

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For low-key fun, play a round of miniature golf, ride the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, or watch a movie at the Skyview Drive-In. Warmer weather brings a host of parades, festivals, and old-fashioned fairs.

Hocking Hills Tiny Houses are compact cabins with kitchenettes that sleep four, starting at only $115 per night. 

7. New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Soak in the Florida sunshine minus the hefty price tag when you visit the charming Florida beach town of New Smyrna Beach, home to 17 miles of soft sandy beaches perfect for families on spring break. You can also enjoy sand dunes and Atlantic waves at pet-friendly Smyrna Dunes Park, where you’ll pay just a $10 per car admission fee for the whole family. 

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Beyond the beach, the Marine Discovery Center aims to impart a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining the rich plant and marine life of the Indian River Lagoon. Naturalists present a robust program of learning opportunities with free admission. There’s a butterfly garden, a wildflower garden, and a nature playscape where kids can romp surrounded by native plants. 

With an oceanfront pool, spacious suites, and complimentary breakfast, SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach is just what you’re looking for on a cheap spring break trip with the kids.

After a long cold winter, the spring months are a fine time to explore free outdoor attractions, and kid-friendly Boston is a perfect spring break destination for outdoor family activities that won’t cost you a dime. 

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Follow the footsteps of our nation’s founders with a stroll on the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile red brick path that traverses 16 historically significant sites and sheds light on Boston’s pivotal position during the American Revolution. Then head to Boston Public Garden, America’s oldest botanical garden, with acres of plantings providing a shady respite from city life. The Make Way for the Ducklings statue is a must-see for fans of this children’s literary classic by Robert McCloskey.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a ribbon of urban park winding through Boston's cityscape, with art installations, fountains, and food trucks aplenty during spring break season. Take a spin on the carousel that features animals native to the region, including lobster, cod, and harbor seals. Free programming includes movies and concerts.

Convenient to public transportation, Doubletree by Hilton Boston Bayside wins the award for best check-in amenity with warm chocolate chip cookies for every guest. 

8 cheap spring break trips that don’t skimp on fun originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 12 best summer vacations for families in the U.S.
• 12 best winter vacations for families in the U.S.
• 19 best national parks for families to visit in the spring

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 8 cheap spring break trips that don’t skimp on fun

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Spring Break Essentials For 2024

Spring break is almost here and we are sharing some of our favorite spring break must-haves to make shopping and prep for the family as easy as a vacation breeze. Bring on all the vacay vibes with these spring break essentials:

• Kids will love to be the talk of the boardwalk with the ‘Beach’ Clear Glazed Tote Bag . Decorated with bright, bubble-letter patches that sparkle and shine in the sun, this tote is the perfect place to stash your towels, sunnies and next great spring break beach read. Parents will love to keep seaside essentials secure in the ‘Beach’ Clear Glam Bag that is adorned with a pink straw top, glittery mermaid bubble-letter appliqués and a striped rhinestone heart patch to feel all the beachy love this spring break.

Jana Beauchamp is an editorial contributor at New York Family. She dreamed of landing Tom Hank’s job in the movie Big but learned it was a fictitious role so she pursued a career in foreign policy. Now she writes about great adventures and family fun in and around NYC.

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Jessica Simpson Shares Tropical Photo Dump From ‘Epic’ Spring Break Vacation

The singer spent time in Mexico with her husband and their three children.

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It’s looking to be an exciting upcoming 2024 for Simpson, who is in the process of preparing both an album and tour. Speaking with  Footwear News , Simpson shared that she’s been working on new material in Nashville after temporarily relocating her family there from Los Angeles last summer. “It’s like a retreat for me,” she told the outlet. “I get to just crawl up inside my head and embrace my heart. I feel so enlightened there. Writing music has become a beautiful therapeutic thing for me that I didn’t know was so natural, but it’s because I haven’t done it in so long. It’s just nice to know that I’m meeting myself back in this place, as a woman, and after going through everything that I’ve been through in my life. There’s a sense of freedom and empowerment.”

The  Dukes of Hazzard  star’s next album would mark her first in more than 13 years. Her last release,  Happy Christmas , was released on Nov. 22, 2010. 

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Elizabeth smart beams in bikini on family trip to california after recently celebrating 21st anniversary of kidnapping rescue.

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Kidnapping survivor and activist Elizabeth Smart enjoyed some fun in the sun on a family trip this week in Palm Springs, California.

Smart, 36, shared snippets of the getaway on social media, showing her poolside and sporting an array of swimsuits in between dips with her kids, board game sessions and family dinners.

The married mom of three last month celebrated the 21st anniversary of her rescue after being kidnapped at knifepoint at 14 years old from her Salt Lake City home in 2002.

She spent a grueling nine months at the hands of religious fanatic Brian David Mitchell and his wife, Wanda Barzee, who drugged, starved and raped her.

“Pool time equals best time,” she wrote in one post to her Instagram Story with her goggle-glad daughters on her lap.

In other photos, Smart posed at a Mexican restaurant with her crew, smiled next to a completed “Star Wars” puzzle and snuggled up to her husband, musician Matthew Gilmour, the Daily Mail reported .

She posed in beachwear including a fashionable black cover-up, oversized sunglasses and a sexy black bikini and linked the spring break necessities for her 245,000 followers.

In another, she threw her head back and floated in a turquoise suit that matched the serene water.

The trip, which her father and his husband also took part in, was a well-deserved break for the activist, film producer, author and television commentator.

Smart has become an outspoken advocate for kidnapped children and sexual assault victims and founded the  Elizabeth Smart Foundation  in 2011. She also launched Smart Defense, a program for teaching women the skills to defend themselves.

Last month, she celebrated the passage of a bill on child sexual abuse prevention in Utah that she helped advocate for.

Smart is now producing a Lifetime film on Tanya Kach, who was kidnapped in 1995 and held captive for a decade by her middle school security guard, People Magazine reported.

“My life is far from perfect but I’m so happy and grateful for the life I have today,” Smart wrote in a Facebook post on the anniversary of her rescue.

“When I was kidnapped, I thought I’d never finish school, go to college, fall in love, get married, or have a family,” Smart continued. “I thought every dream I had for myself was stolen. For me, today is a celebration of all the happy moments of my life, and a reminder to never give up.”

Smart was found about 14 miles from her home on March 12, 2003.

Mitchell was sentenced in 2011 and is serving two life terms. Barzee was released from prison in 2018 despite pleas to keep her locked up.

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