state to visit in april

20 Best Places To Visit in April USA (2024)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Published On: March 17, 2024

April is a beautiful time to visit the USA. It is a shoulder season, meaning the entire country is in its transition phase — be that squeezing in its last month of ski slopes or bursting with freshly bloomed wildflowers. Early April typically falls under Spring Break dates, but mid-April through to the end of the month has fewer people. This is definitely one of the reasons that we tend to visit the US during the spring months it means you can really choose your atmosphere when picking places to visit during this time of the year. One thing we noticed after visiting these places in April is that, depending on the specific dates you choose, you either join the crowds or enjoy a quiet period before busy summer dates.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in April in the USA. Whether you want to chase wildflowers in the Texas Hill Country or live it up at Coachella, we’ll find the sweet spot for you. Here are our hottest takes on where to visit this April.

1. Oahu, HI

Oahu is the capital of Hawaii, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that it runs most of its events and festivities. This is one of the main reasons we suggest Oahu for your April trip. You have the Hawaiian Scottish Festival & Highland Games (pretty incongruous, right?), arts and craft fairs, live music performances, culinary and beer events, and Hapalua – Hawaii’s half marathon. Oahu is really in its prime in spring, especially in April.

Aside from these seasonal events, you’ve got the beautiful Diamond Head State Monument, Lana’i Lookout, and all the sightseeing in the capital, Honolulu. You can  hike,  go sightseeing at places like the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, and celebrate;  Oahu just has so much to do.  Oahu is easily one of the  best islands in Hawaii , and that’s before factoring in its April festivities. Once Spring Break is over, you also enter a quick shoulder season before the summer season starts from May until October. Who doesn’t love fewer crowds?

In April, Oahu’s weather ranges from the mid-60s to just touching the 80s, and winter rainfall is a thing of the past. It’s an ideal time to visit for good weather and even better vibes.

2. Zion National Park, UT

We love Zion National Park. It is one of the national parks we most frequently recommend, just because of its  iconic hiking trails  like Angels Landing and how beautiful it is to drive. We loved visiting in April for many reasons, including driving the surrounding roads, passing through tunnels cut into red sandstone cliffs, and pausing at gorgeous overlooks.

April is also an optimal time to tackle some of those challenging trails in milder temperatures, which hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the month. You can hike to the Emerald Pools and walk to the Temple of Sinewava. If you’re feeling brave, you can even tackle Angels Landing; it’s much less complicated without the ice but equally better before the dizzying heat of the summer months.

The only trail you’ll have to keep an eye on is the Narrows. This trail can be closed at any time due to rising levels from snow melt, so in spring, you may still see some closures. In our opinion, it’s a small price to pay. Thanks to its Angels Landing lottery system, Zion is a “see what you can hike” type of destination. For extra tips on accommodation logistics, we’ll link our guide on where to stay in Zion here . Zion is a great place to visit in spring. Mid to late April has fewer people so you can enjoy trails in easier conditions.

3. Sedona, AZ

Sedona is another one of our firm favorites. We’ve actually listed it as one of our  top romantic destinations in the whole of the USA.  The Arizona desert town is film set worthy, with dramatic red-rock buttes and fragrant pine forests. And in April, you can visit in that perfect shoulder season between winter, with its heavy snowfall and busy skiing, and summer, with heavy crowds and heat. Instead, you get easily accessible hiking trails with the option to ski at nearby Flagstaff , where the ski season typically ends at the end of April.

You will dodge not one but two peak seasons while actually seeing the town in a better light. You’ll be in the perfect season for  hiking trails  like the Devil’s Bridge and UNESCO World Heritage Site  attractions like Montezuma Castle.  However, you’ll also still be able to enjoy snow activities just an hour’s drive north. Sedona is perfect for an April trip.

4. Anchorage, AK

April is the perfect excuse to visit Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. The city sits on the Cook Inlet and is best accessed by air or water. In April, you’ll be able to catch events like the Anchorage Folk Festival and see the city in its ultimate shoulder season.

And why should you care about Alaska’s best shoulder season? Well, April’s shoulder activities include the final month of the Anchorage ski season, the return of the grey whales, the last month of the auroras, and cheaper activity deals – like sightseeing flights. It is the perfect time to get the last bucket list experiences of the Alaskan winter while bagging seasonal transition experiences like whale spotting.

Anchorage is one of the best places to visit in April for nature lovers who also want an accessible city break. It offers some of Alaska’s best activities, such as skiing and dining.

5. Washington DC

This city is the nation’s capital, and needless to say, it has a lot of  things to do and see . You could walk the National Mall and explore all of  Washington DC’s museums . You can visit the White House and embrace all the political and social history born and instigated in this poignant city. However, most importantly, for those visiting in April, you should attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

From late March to April, the city celebrates the blooming of its cherry blossoms. The 3,000-plus cherry blossom trees are spread all around the Tidal Basin and were gifted to the USA in 1912 by the then Prime Minister of Japan. Each year, Washington DC now celebrates their blooming and this historic gift between countries. Plenty of activities and events are lined up, including parades, art events and workshops, and food stands.

We’d definitely recommend visiting Washington, DC, to anyone, but in April, it is undoubtedly even more special. You have the awe factor of seeing thousands of pink trees, with scenic parks covered in millions of soft petals.

6. Ennis, TX

If you want spring flowers, Ennis is our top suggestion. This beautiful city is actually dubbed the ‘Official Bluebonnet City and Trail of Texas’ as it is surrounded by such a high volume of vibrant fields of electric blue-purple flowers. It is the absolute crown of Texas Hill Country, and if you visit in April, you’ll catch it in full bloom; it’s the perfect time to schedule a trip to Texas.

The bluebonnets start to bloom in late March and last until early May, so April is a lovely time to experience the flowers in full bloom. It is also when the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival runs. The Festival features over 40 miles of mapped driving trails and showcases a natural wildflower show. It is a brilliant way to have the convenience of an organized experience and a nice time to join a sense of community celebration and excitement.

Needless to say, Ennis is also blessed by warm weather in April. You’ve got to love Texas for a bit of early sunshine. The city definitely gets our vote; besides, the flowers will be gone by the summer months. Ennis is a destination where you’ve got to book now or forever hold your peace.

7. Door County, WI

Door County is a beautiful addition to the USA’s tourism scene, and we love it. The region sits between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. It has one of the highest concentrations of lighthouses along its miles of rugged shoreline. Door County is also covered in parks like Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park; it actually has five state parks in total, which is impressive for such a small area. In April, it has mild weather, and its layout makes it the perfect place for hikes along the waterfront – spotting lighthouses as you go.

April is a definite shoulder season, with Door County at its busiest from May until October. Because of this, it’s a fantastic time to jump in and enjoy its trails with fewer crowds. We’d particularly recommend seeing Eagle Bluff Lighthouse at Peninsula State Park. But if you get a blustery day, check out the waves at Cave Point Country Park, which overlooks Lake Michigan.

If you need more ideas for exploring Door County, check out its wineries. It has a surprising talent for wine production. In summary, Door County is ideal for walks along the lakes, with lighthouses to spot and wineries to drink at—all with fewer crowds in April.

8. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, CA

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a trip to start planning if you love seeing gorgeous flora. Get ready to see poppies galore at this Californian state reserve. April marks the peak bloom of waves of bright orange-red poppy fields. The nature reserve is one of the prettiest places for tourists to see wildflowers in the entire USA, and April is the best month to see them full of life.

The reserve is just outside of Los Angeles , making it a super accessible place to visit in April  if  you organize a car rental . It is situated just outside the small city of Lancaster, known as the gateway to the Mojave Desert.

We’d suggest hiring a car and driving the 1.5 hours to the reserve, which isn’t otherwise reachable by public transport. The short drive takes you inland and through the Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, so it’s worth the short road trip just for your views. As you get close, you’ll see the flower fields on the horizon and poppies building up along the roadside.

9. Seattle, WA

Seattle absolutely strolled its way onto this guide, as it is easily one of the best cities to visit in April. The city sits tucked away in northern Washington, right under the Canada border and on the Puget Sound. It’s surrounded by water, mountains, and forests and is an easy  day trip  from  Olympic National Park.  It is basically the best city if you want a base for outdoor adventures. And while March is still a bit drizzly and cold, April brings the ideal warm weather to take advantage of all the nearby natural beauty before the crowds of the summer months.

You can go on a day trip to the Olympic National Park and hike the Hall of Mosses or Hurricane Hill. You could head south and visit Mount Rainier National Park or west for Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. You could even head further northwest and see North Cascades National Park. Or you could cruise the Puget Sound and spot wildlife like whales.

Of course, there’s also the Space Needle, Museum of Flight, and Freemont Troll to visit. The city has many sightseeing opportunities that are much quieter when you visit from mid to late April. It’s a great time to dodge the tourists.

10. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest linear park in the USA and stretches 469 miles from North Carolina to Virginia. It is one of the most famous road trips to take in the country and is famed for its stops along the way, with plenty of towns with farm-to-table restaurants and hiking trails for outdoor adventure. Blue Ridge Parkway gets busy from May onwards throughout summer and again in fall because of its fall foliage, so visit in April to get the park in a quiet spell. Crisp and quiet, April is a really serene time to experience Blue Ridge.

Wrap up a little warmer to cope with the dropping temperatures with elevation, and keep an eye on the weather forecast, as at the beginning of April, you can still see snow in some parts. But otherwise, just embrace quieter roads and famously beautiful scenery. You can stop at attractions like the Blue Ridge Music Center, Crabtree Falls, and Linn Cove Viaduct. You’ll want a minimum of two to three days to drive the route, and if you enjoy camping and hiking trails, then you could spend as long as a week completing the drive. Blue Ridge Parkway is a great spring road trip for April.

11. Miami, FL

Miami is one of the best places to visit in April, and we didn’t want to penalize it just because of its popularity. The city is a bit of a victim of its own success. But it is definitely worth the hype, and the sunny weather speaks for itself. The pristine beaches in nearby state parks like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park scream “beach holiday” – just check out these  best beaches in and around Miami  if you don’t believe us. You can strut down art deco South Beach or check out downtown art galleries. And that’s before you get a taste of Miami’s party culture and all the day trips to places like the Everglades.

In April, you have two choices: join the crowds or beat them. You can avoid the March crowds and Spring Breaker’s fever by visiting after the tail end of Spring Break for fewer people. You can also embrace the sociable atmosphere of Spring Break in Miami, meeting new people and partying. Just decide which end of April best suits you based on what you want from Miami. We like how clear-cut it is.

Miami has nearly year-round sunshine, but April offers a great experience before the super-hot and busy summer. To summarize, early April is best for partygoers wanting a busy Miami experience for Spring Break, while mid to late April is best for those wanting shoulder season Miami with plenty of beaches and nice weather.

12. Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs is a fascinating city in the Sonoran Desert, inland of Los Angeles, known for stylish shopping opportunities, high-end golf courses, and luxury spas . If you want a luxury getaway this April, we’d recommend trying Palm Springs. The glitzy desert getaway is an elegant choice and definitely one for shopping lovers wanting a slight variation on the standard city break.

Of course, mentioning Palm Springs and not Coachella would be remiss. For those living under a rock, Coachella is one of the biggest live music festivals in the world. It is held in the town of Indio, which is essentially adjoined to Palm Springs – like a smaller city suburb. Coachella runs sometime from mid to the end of April, with exact dates switching each year. It runs over two separate weekends, with two lots of three days of performances and celebrations. It has everything from indie music to the latest pop artists. In 2023, the Coachella stages saw everyone from Bad Bunny to Post Malone and Blink 182.

If Coachella or Palm Springs sounds up your alley, we’d definitely suggest combining the two. It is a dreamy way to spend a week or two. And if you want a festival experience this April, you should start ticket shopping.

13. Santa Catalina Island, CA

Santa Catalina Island is gorgeous and located just 22 miles off the coastline of California. As far as islands go, this little beauty is about as accessible as they come, easily reached by air or sea. Unsurprisingly, the island does get busy with heaps of excited tourists; word travels fast about incredible holiday destinations in the USA. Luckily, that’s where April comes in.

April is the first proper month you can enjoy outdoor activities on Santa Catalina Island since winter, with mild temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has way less rain than February or March, which again is excellent for hiking. Finally, April is a prime time to visit Santa Catalina because most people descend on the island in summer. You don’t want to feel overrun by tourists when visiting islands, and Santa Catalina Island is no different.

Spring Break undoubtedly brings the tourist numbers up a little (although nowhere near as high as in summer still), so we’d suggest aiming to visit in the second half of the month. You can enjoy sightseeing attractions like the Catalina Chimes Tower, the Catalina Museum For Art & History, and the Wrigley Memorial. The Garden to Sky Summit is also a beautiful hike you should try, leading you up to a hill summit for gorgeous island views. April is the perfect month to enjoy Santa Catalina’s trails again.

14. Sun Valley, ID

Sun Valley is where to go for ski slopes and wildflower meadows, and if that isn’t the perfect combination, we don’t know what is. The resort town is situated in central Idaho, on the outskirts of the Boise National Forest. It is flanked by Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain, two major ski areas that remain open until April. You can head there during Spring Break for a buzzier atmosphere or make the most of the quiet in the last couple of weeks before ski slope closures.

When you aren’t enjoying the last of the skiing, you can enjoy the meadows at lower elevations, which have shaken off their snow and are starting to showcase beautiful wildflowers. Croy Canyon is always a good choice and is one of the earliest areas to bloom. Sawtooth Botanical Garden is a good non-natural place to embrace flora, too. You can always go on a day trip to the Boise National Forest for scenic trails or to the Craters of the Moon National Park to see the incredible dormant lava fields.

Sun Valley is a fantastic place to visit in April to see the back end of the ski season. It also has other fun offerings, like wildflowers starting to emerge and the lava fields in nearby Craters of the Moon.

15. Jackson County, NC

Jackson County is beautiful, bordering 45 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it also offers its own beauty. The county has a selection of really serene mountain towns, including Cashiers, Cherokee, and Slyva. It has its own Forest Therapy Trail, which spans 1,500 acres in Sylva. It also has cultural attractions like the Appalachian Women’s Museum and the Museum of the Cherokee People. Jackson County is full of greenery and natural beauty, from Indian Creek Falls to Soco Falls and hiking trails galore.

Jackson County in North Carolina is relatively sleepy and an underdog in the tourism scene. While most people rush to the nearby Great Smoky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains, we’d suggest slowing it down and staying in this pastoral region. You can really unplug and experience a new side of North Carolina. In April, it’s a great choice if you want to travel earlier in the month while still avoiding Spring Break crowds.

We recommend Jackson County as an off-the-beaten-track experience in North Carolina, and we think you’ll love this under-sung region. It has quiet attractions, plenty of culture, and natural beauty galore.

16. North Cascades National Park, WA

North Cascades is a beautiful park near the Canadian border in northern Washington. In April, some of the areas may still have snow lingering, and the temperatures jump up to above freezing, which makes it better and more enjoyable to hike. Given that it’s a glacial region too, that bit of lingering snow makes for even prettier scenery. You’ll have hikes to lakes with mountains still dusted with snow at their peaks. It’s the first month you can conveniently visit North Cascades again  and  enjoy clear trails with snow views. Could you ask for a better combination?

As if all that wasn’t enough, North Cascades is claimed to have one of the leading flora diversities of the USA and all its national parks. In spring, you’ll notice these flora coming into full bloom. It’s a stunning time to be in the area.

You can hike to Diablo Lake, Desolation Peak, or Baker Lake. North Cascades is just a ridiculously scenic place to enjoy in April. It’s ideal for those who love outdoor adventures and hiking, and it’s perfect if you still want to experience glacial terrain with decorative snow.

17. Big Sky, MT

Big Sky is a big name in the US ski industry. It is pretty much where to head for great slopes, has a gorgeous backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, and is close to Yellowstone National Park . On the days you choose to rest from the slopes, you can take a day trip to see bison and geysers erupting at Yellowstone. Amazing, right?

Big Sky understandably gets busy during Spring Break. However, if you visit after mid-April, you can catch the region at its quietest before it closes for summer. The community’s most well-known ski spot is Big Sky Resort. You can either stay there for your entire stay or just book slope passes, which is a flexible touch. It is known for its variety of runs, and you’ll have a ton of options to test out when you hit the slopes.

Apart from just tactical skiing, you’ll be able to enjoy nearby Yellowstone in April, too. April is a magical time to stay near Yellowstone, where you can witness bison births and bears emerging from hibernation. It’s a special time to visit Big Sky, from which you can easily rent a car or book a Yellowstone tour .

18. Napa Valley, CA

Napa Valley shouldn’t take much persuading if you like your Californian wines. The famed region is known for its delicious wines and is located just a short drive from San Francisco . It is accessible and peaceful, with rolling vineyards and plenty of sunshine. And in April, you have the bonus of fewer crowds and pretty spring wildflowers.

Visiting in April, you also tend to grab cheaper tours and experiences , as the region is still sleepy and trying to entice tourism before the summer rush. It is a great time to get the most value for money. It goes without saying that visiting one of the most famous wine regions in the USA can come with a heavy price tag.

If you stay in Napa itself, you’ll have dozens of wineries just within easy walking distance. You also have attractions like Oxbow Public Market and numerous scenic parks along the Napa River. It is a peaceful getaway in April. And you’ll have tons of chances to indulge.

19. Skagit Valley, WA

Skagit Valley is a beautiful region of fields on the bank of the Skagit River in northern Washington, just below the Canada border. It is easily one of the best places to visit in the USA in April, and there’s one reason why: the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. This festival lasts throughout April, when millions of tulips burst into life. If you love flowers in springtime, the valley is a mesmerizing spot for a visit. You’ll see colors of white, yellow, red, pink, and more. The valley transforms into waves of bright, bobbing flower heads.

During the festival, you can visit different farms and private lands that open up, especially for the occasion. A few favorites are Tulip Town and Tulip Valley Farms. And when you aren’t visiting the tulips, you can enjoy hiking and bird watching – migratory birds love the agricultural lands and peaceful, protected areas. Make sure to sample plenty of organic farm produce as well.

Skagit Valley is where you spot flowers in their peak season and enjoy a slower pace of life. What’s not to love? It’s an ideal choice this April and just over an hour’s drive from Seattle.

20. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is perfect for an April trip. Honestly, it’s like the park was made for this month; it has mild temperatures and barely any rain. And for a national park that mostly offers gorgeous hiking trails, that’s a huge win. You can visit during Spring Break for safety in numbers on trails, or you can dodge the crowds after mid-April.

The Guadalupe Mountains are most famed for its Permian fossil reef, which is the most extensive in the entire world. You can also hike up Guadalupe Peak and Devil’s Hall, which is much more enjoyable in spring than summer. McKittrick Canyon is also a beautiful spot to hike through, with plenty of flora erupting in April. We’d suggest allowing at least two to three days to experience the park or a week to take it slow and get under its skin. The park covers nearly 90,000 acres, so there’s a lot to see and do.

It is located on the border with New Mexico, so allow yourself some time to reach the park, too. You’ll appreciate those lower temperatures when driving through southern scenery, and if you get a chance, detour to Carlsbad Caverns nearby.

Best Places to Visit in April: FAQs

Now that you are knowledgeable about all the best places to visit in April, let’s get practical. In this section, we’ll briefly walk you through the most commonly asked FAQs. Hopefully, this will clear up any doubts or follow-up queries you’ve got brewing.

Where is the best place to vacation in April in the US?

We have a soft spot for California, Texas, and Utah. However, you should also consider destinations like Door County in Wisconsin and Anchorage in Alaska. There are still some beautiful, cooler destinations to visit in April.

Which state is best to visit in April?

Utah and California are two great states to visit in April. Utah has its national parks starting to wake up, with roads more accessible, and California has road trips galore and events like Coachella.

Which destination is best for April?

We’d say that Ennis is the best destination for April, along with Texas Hill Country as a whole. The sheer number of bluebonnets is just stunning, and the scenic drives in warm weather are dreamy.

Where in the US is it warm in April?

Florida, Texas, and Southern California are all good choices if you want hot weather in April.

Why We Recommend These Places To Visit in April

It’s easy to see why traveling to the USA in April is such a good idea. You’ve got lingering skiing opportunities, blooming flowers, and the chance to opt in or out of Spring Break celebrations and crowds. Visiting the USA in April comes with a different level of flexibility; we love it, and so will you.

Are you looking for more inspiration on visiting the USA? Or are you interested in the best things to do in April? Check out our guide on the  best Spring Break destinations for 2024.  You should also check out our guides on the best  2024 national parks  and  road trips  – because who doesn’t love outdoor adventure? Have an amazing time adventuring, partying, and sightseeing in the USA in April.

Plan Your Next Trip to The USA with These Resources

• 28 Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• 26 Best Places To Visit In January USA
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 50 Best Places to Visit in the USA
• 27 Best Places to Visit in March USA
• 16 Best National Parks To Visit in March

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Travel guides for global adventures

27 Best Places to Visit in the USA in April (2024)

Updated on December 7, 2023

As spring blooms this month across the country, the U.S. comes alive with wildflowers and national park adventures. You’ll find one-of-a-kind festivals, urban escapes, and balmy temperatures to tempt every traveler. Here are the very best places to visit in the USA in April.

Whether you’re looking for off season destinations to explore with fewer crowds or places that just shine in spring, read on for what to do and see from coast to coast.

Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

1. oahu, hawaii for humpback whales.

April is absolutely ideal for visiting Oahu, known as “the gathering place.” First of all, the weather is perfect…with average highs of 79 degrees Farehneit and lows of 66. Winter rains are abating and the strong summer sun has not yet arrived. (Lots of snowbirds flock here in January !) Your itinerary for Oahu should also include a humpback whale watching cruise as whale watching season in Hawaii runs from December to May. April is also when the Hapalua Half Marathon takes place.

Plus, you’ll find lei making workshops, beers galore at the Hawaii on Tap exhibition, and the First Friday Art Walk in Chinatown Honolulu. All this, plus the opportunity to pay your respects at Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head—one of the most popular trails on Oahu —and snorkel gorgeous Hanauma Bay. While you’re here, be sure to sample a “malasada”—a custard-filled donut of sorts—and feast on shrimp at the many food trucks on the north shore . Shave ice (which can be ordered with an ice cream base) is always a good idea to cool down after beach time.

2. Seattle, WA for Tulips

After the long, dark winter, Seattle finally starts to thaw in April, with cherry blossoms and other springtime flowers blooming. 

And while you’re likely to run into a bit of rain while you’re here (it’s the springtime in the Pacific Northwest, after all), the surrounding mountains and rainforests will look that much lusher. ( Go in June if you’re looking for better weather.)

In fact, snow will begin to melt on the lower elevation hiking trails in and around the nearby mountains, like Rattlesnake Ledge and Franklin Falls.

Get out and enjoy Seattle’s incredible natural beauty before the crowds of summer descend.

If you’re a garden lover, April is one of the best times to visit Seattle.

Cherry blossoms explode on trees all around the city; for the best blooms, head to Seward Park (where you’ll also enjoy an impressive view of Mount Rainier looming in the distance on clear days) or the University of Washington campus.

The tulips in Washington also spring to life in April, with the nearby Skagit Valley Tulip Festival taking place throughout the entire month.

Held an hour and 15 minutes north of the city in the town of Mount Vernon, the festival features fields upon fields showcasing millions of vibrant tulips, all against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains.

It’s no wonder that Oprah named this one of the top ten flower festivals in the United States!

Jessica | Uprooted Traveler

3. Antelope Canyon, AZ for Slot Canyon Light Beams

Antelope Canyon is one of the coolest slot canyons in the entire world and definitely worth a visit.

With its wavy walls glowing red and orange hues, it’s truly a place like no other.

There are two different sections to this slot canyon,  Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon ; you’ll need to sign up for a tour to visit either or both sections.

When choosing between visiting Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, keep in mind that Upper Antelope Canyon can get really crowded, especially in April, as this is when the light beams shine down from the ceiling for a mesmerizing view.

Lower Antelope Canyon doesn’t really have the light beams, but it is still a gorgeous section of the canyon to visit.

In April, Antelope Canyon offers extremely pleasant weather. Highs are around 70 degrees F and days are sunny and bright.

Insider tip: You can only see the light beams at certain times of the day when the sun is highest in the sky. If you want to see the light beams in April, book your tour between 11 and 1:30pm. 

Jessica | Unearth the Voyage

Read more on USA travel: • Best US travel destinations in February • Where to go in the USA in March and in May • Best places to explore in the USA (any time of year!)

4. Chicago, IL for Conservatory Flowers

Visiting the Windy City in April is ideal. As Chicago warms up and spring flowers unfold, get ready to explore striking botanical displays around the city. 

Chicago’s free conservatories—Lincoln Park and Garfield Park—are excellent spots for spring flowers. Be sure to check their website for up to date hours in advance.

Both conservatories are free of charge but require an advance reservation that can be made through their web page . 

April’s also a fabulous time to stroll past Chicago’s monuments. Tulips are abundant here!

Cherry blossoms can also be spotted in Lincoln Park. Even a rainy, balmy day bodes dramatic scenery for the bloom. 

Spring also marks the opening of many well-loved outdoor markets and festivals in Chicago. Head to Maxwell Street Market for an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, live music, and delicious Chicago street foods. 

Chicago is great to visit year-round. Summer features outdoor markets and concerts every weekend; fall brings beautiful foliage; and winter hosts Chicago’s famous Christkindle Markets.

But the beautiful blooms in spring are magical.

Alyssa | An Apple A Plane

5. Tucson, AZ for Desert Wildlife

Heading to Tucson? Don’t miss  Saguaro National Park !

Divided into two units, the park protects swaths of Saguaro cacti, the largest cacti in the world as well as important habitat for regional wildlife.

On a spring visit, travelers have the opportunity to see mountain lions, snakes, javelinas, birds of prey, and more.

In Tucson itself, explore the Pima Air & Space Museum and the Arizona History Museum.

Interested in climate change? Be sure to visit the famous Biodome 2 located just north of the city.

Once an infamous “live-in terrarium”, Biodome remains an important ongoing experiment in human ecology as part of the University of Arizona. Visitors are invited for a self-guided tour through the facility.

While you’re here, explore Tucson Mountain Park, visit Airplane Boneyard, and check out nearby historic Tombstone town.

Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit the Southwest. Days are getting longer and the weather is not yet searing hot as in the summer.

April also brings art exhibits, outdoor movies, and Spring Fling, a popular Tucson event featuring rides, games, and food booths at the University of Arizona campus.

Anwar | Beyond My Door

6. Portland, OR for the Columbia Gorge

Portland and its Columbia River Gorge—bordering Oregon and Washington—are fantastic places to visit during the spring months.

There are so many wonderful things to do in Portland .

Plus, cherry blossoms begin to bloom in early April and can be spotted on streets all over the city. But the best place to see them is Tom McCall Waterfront Park, just off of the Willamette River.

Also, just 30 minutes south of Portland, you’ll find the popular Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, which takes place every April.

Wander through thousands of tulips and enjoy views of Mount Hood in the distance.

Another fantastic place to see those beautiful floral blooms is Tryon Creek State Park, with an abundance of Trilliums, Oregon’s earliest blooming native flowers.

If you’re a hiker, head into the Columbia River Gorge and embark on some of the best wildflower hikes in Washington and Oregon.

The flowers begin to bloom in early April and are best found on the Dog Mountain and Coyote Wall trails.

While Portland is beautiful year-round, the spring and summer months are the best times to visit, making April ideal for an Oregon vacation.

Kassidy | The Hiking Helper

7. Estes Park, Colorado for Rocky Mountain Adventures

Located in Larimer County, about four hours from Aspen , Estes Park is one of the  best places in Colorado  and most famous national parks in the west .

It’s the gateway to stunning Rocky Mountain National Park for epic hikes, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and camping.

In Estes Park itself, fisherman head directly to Lakes Estes Marina, another popular tourist attraction.

The best reason to visit in April? Come for the Bigfoot Days Festival which typically opens on April 1st. From axe throwing and climbing walls to enjoying a Bigfoot-themed dinner, it’s all things Bigfoot here!

Estes Park is less crowded in spring, and as a result, it’s a great time to save on hotels. Wildflowers are more abundant when you visit in August , however.

This area is replete with natural beauty. Visit Bear Lake, Black Canyon National Park, Grand Mesa National Forest, and Colorado National Monuments nearby.

Trijit | Budget Travel Buff

8. Washington, D.C. for Cherry Blossoms

One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is Washington, DC.

After all, April is Cherry Blossom season in the capitol!

You can enjoy seeing these beautiful pastel pink blooms from the end of March through early April. 

And some of the best places to see them include the Tidal Basin, which is home to upwards of 3,700 different trees.

Just arrive early and expect crowds since this is a very popular time of year in the city. 

After that, spend the weekend in Washington, DC exploring the National Mall and the city’s most iconic monuments; the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial can’t be missed.

Then embark on a sobering visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum before checking out the Smithsonian Castle and exploring the impressive grounds of the United States Botanical Gardens. 

The city comes alive with festivals this month. Check out the DC Pizza Festival, Petalpalooza, and Anacostia River Festival. 

Victoria | Southern Trippers

9. Lake Tahoe, CA for Spring Snow

This mesmerizing alpine lake sits high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

The best part? April is still off-season in Lake Tahoe for fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. It’s a beautiful place to visit in California in April ! It’s also wildflower season. If it’s warm, hike to Emerald Bay. (But always check weather conditions and trail closures before setting out since snow can linger at this time of year.) If there is still snow on the ground, hit the slopes at Heavenly Mountain Resort and then enjoy the annual Easter Egg Hunt here.  Late April brings Earth Day related clean-up events and the Forever Dance Lake Tahoe Spring Break Event.  

April is really the best time to visit the  best beaches in Lake Tahoe  since you’ll enjoy the picturesque stretches of shoreline crowd-free. Just be aware the water is quite cold!

Meg | Fox in the Forest

10. Key West, FL for a Spring Break Party

In search of a Florida destination for spring? Check out Key West, a fun tropical island in southern Florida.

April is probably the best time to visit the Florida Keys since the weather is a bit warmer and there are a ton of fun festivals to enjoy (although November is nice too!).

Just be aware that this is high season in Key West with plenty of Spring Breakers so you may need to navigate larger crowds and higher prices.

Popular attractions here include the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, and a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park. 

But don’t miss the unique Key West festivals that happen this month!

These include the Florida Keys Seafood Festival, the Afro Roots Fest Key West, and the 7-mile Bridge Run from Knights Key to Pigeon Key. 

Love to fish? April is the perfect time to catch Mahi Mahi, Yellowtail, and Blue Marlin before joining the area’s one-of-a-kind Conch Republic Independence Celebration. 

Victoria | Florida Trippers

11. Monterey + Big Sur, CA for the Sea Otter Classic

California’s central coast is full of natural beauty and small town vibes, making it ideal to visit in April! Monterey and Big Sur both make great day trips from San Francisco .

Walk Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey; it’s the perfect spot for a whale watching excursion.

Then head to nearby Cannery Row to explore local shops and delicious eateries or visit the world-renowned Monterey Aquarium with a variety of marine exhibits.

Because they are so close to each other, getting from  Monterey to Big Sur  is fairly easy and quick.

The Big Sur coastline offers stunning views from the Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, or parks like the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Be sure to pack sturdy shoes, as some of the best of Big Sur’s Point Lobos State Natural Reserve hikes involve moderate trails and rocky beaches. 

Also in April: The Big Sur International Marathon, which has been voted the Best Marathon in North America.

Non-runners can still enjoy Monterey in April at the Sea Otter Classic, a world-premiere cycling festival.

Watch as thousands of top-form cyclists fly through the courses in the competition!

For an adventurous getaway with plenty of activities to choose from, California’s central coast in April is the place to be!

Pafoua | Her Wanderful World

12. Louisville, KY for Bourbon

Temperatures in Louisville reach an average high of 70°F this month so you’re almost guaranteed a warm, sunny vacation when you visit Louisville in April.

Though it may not be your first thought for a spring destination, Louisville offers plenty to enjoy for people of all ages and interests.

Visit the Slugger Museum and Factory followed by a visit to bourbon distilleries, like Maker’s Mark and Old Forester Distilleries, on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

The dining scene is also on point here. Try Louisville restaurants like Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse and Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar.

April is also known as “Mint Julep Month” because the city hosts a series of events called The Kentucky Derby Festival to build anticipation for the Kentucky Derby in May.

Celebrations include Thunder Over Louisville, a spectacular fireworks display, and $5 Harbor History Cruises on the Ohio River. 

Brittany | Travel by Brit

13. Monument Valley, AZ for Navajo History

Monument Valley  is one of the most iconic landscapes in the US and includes stunning rock formations on the border of Arizona and Utah.

The set of many movies in modern times, Monument Valley is also, more importantly, sacred to the Navajo people who have been living in the region for centuries.

Visit the Navajo Tribal Park visitor center and museum while you’re here to full appreciate this unique history.

Hike around the Mittens. Drive the 17-mile loop road passing through the park. Enjoy the views from John Ford’s Point.

Spend the night in a Hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling. Or tour by horseback for a unique experience in the American Southwest.

With scorching temperatures in the summer, Monument Valley is far better to visit in April when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner.

Here in early April? Admire the Mitten Shadow, where the shadow of the West Mitten Butte casts over the East Mitten Butte at sunset.

This peak event happens around March 30th but continues for a few days after as well.

Patricia | Ze Wandering Frogs

14. Mackinac Island, MI for Off Season Quiet

Mackinac Island is one of the best islands in the Great Lakes . And towards the end of April, many local businesses begin to open as they prepare to get a jump on the busy summer season.

In April, you’ll likely have the island all to yourself with low season hotel prices to match.

The weather also starts to warm this month, so you can enjoy some of the island’s amazing parks without bundling up. 

Be sure to visit the immortal Arch Rock during your visit to Mackinac Island. It’s a stunning, limestone rock formation that is located at the terminus of a 2.3-mile loop hike through Mackinac Island State Park. 

Then explore the historic buildings of Fort Mackinac. Complete your island tour by admiring local art at The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.

Linda | Midwest Explored

15. Moab for Sandstone Drama

Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are distinctive, awe-inspiring parks that people visit from all over the world.

Each park is unique and offers a different view of the surrounding area. Moab makes a great base to see both!

When should you visit? Spring is lovely! ( Winter in Arches off season is also wonderful.)

Both places—considered part of Utahs “Mighty Five”—work well on a road trip itinerary for Utah’s national parks .

Canyonlands follows the Colorado River. This river has created large canyons and goosenecks that can be seen from Canyonlands National Park.

While in Canyonlands, you can take an off-road vehicle and drive into these canyons for a unique adventure.

Arches is an area that has been sculpted by wind and sand for many years, creating impressive arch structures. The park offers many easy day hikes to see a vast array of arches.

The most famous arch here is Delicate Arch, but there are many more unique and beautiful arches to visit, including Double Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and Turret Arch.

Temperate weather makes April an ideal time to visit. In the summer, the area can be blistering hot, limiting hikes to early mornings.

There are also lots of fun things to do in nearby Moab !

Candice | CS Ginger

16. Charleston, SC for the Lowcountry Festivals

With its histroic feel, cobblestone streets, old churches, and rainbow buildings, Charleston is one of the most gorgeous cities in the United States.

April is a fantastic month to visit because the weather is just beautiful, warm but not too hot or humid yet, and flowers are blooming everywhere.

There are many festivals in Charleston in April, including the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation, the Lowcountry Cajun Festival, and the Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival. 

During your days in Charleston , you must visit the Slave Mart Museum, where you can learn about how enslaved Africans were bought and sold in Charleston.

Stop by St Michael’s Church, the oldest church in the city. Stroll picturesque King Street and Broad Street to window shop local boutiques. 

Of course, no visit to Charleston would be complete without admiring the iconic pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park, or the exceptionally bright colored houses on Rainbow Row.

Finally, take the ferry out to Fort Sumter; this is where the Civil War began.

Stephanie | The Unknown Enthusiast

17. Las Vegas, NV for the Country Music Awards

One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is internationally renowned Las Vegas. (It also makes the perfect Southern California getaway .)

Known for its blazing temps at other times of year, Las Vegas is still cool in spring with more manageable crowds. Expect temps between 70 to 80 degrees Farenheit; pools are open!

Whether it’s the trapeze artists at the bubbly Circus Circus or the ‘miniature’ Eiffel Tower at the quaint Paris hotel, each casino and hotel offers unique attractions.

There are also plenty of  non-gambling things to do in Las Vegas . Take an indoor gondola ride at the Venetian or ride a roller coaster at New York New York.

Adrenaline junkies can get their fill at the top of the Stratosphere; check out the SkyJump for ziplining off the building!

Whether it’s a concert by your favorite musician or a world-class performance Cirque du Soleil, shows in Las Vegas are a special kind of magic/

The American Country Music Awards are also frequently held in Las Vegas this month. Be sure to check  their website  for complete details.

Other April events: Attend the Bluegrass Festival if you’re arriving early this month. Or check out The Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender for great music in late April.

Pamela | Directionally Challenged Traveler

18. Colorado Springs, C0 to Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway

With its location at the foot of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is home to the  Pikes Peak Cog Railway .

April is an excellent time to take this historic train to the top of America’s Mountain as the views are crystal clear now, unlike in summer.

Another unique attraction is the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

A weekday visit is perfect because the kids are still in school, for a crowd-free experience. 

While you’re here, drive through the zoo to reach the Shrine of the Sun. The tower is a memorial to Will Rogers.

Climb to the top for a fantastic view of the city below and the plains stretching into the horizon.

If you want to walk the “Grandest One Mile in Colorado,” visit The Broadmoor Seven Falls.

This series of waterfalls has been a tourist destination since 1885. The attraction is only open between March and November; in April you can visit from Friday through Sunday.

Another must-see is Garden of the Gods. This city park features stunning red rock formations.

Be sure to visit the historic trading post for a bison burger before hiking through the unique landscape.

Theresa | The Local Tourist

19. Orlando, FL for Fewer Amusement Park Crowds

It’s all about Orlando’s amusement parks in April.

Head directly to Universal Orlando Resort, famous for its two theme parks which now include  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. 

Orlando is, of course, also home to Walt Disney World. This sprawling theme park area is one of the most-visited vacation spots in the entire world.

It welcomes more than 58 million visitors each year to the four Disney Parks: Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.

Disney World is an especially worthwhile place to visit for  families with young children , as the excitement and joy of Disney princesses, heroes, characters, and villains come alive at the “Most Magical Place on Earth!”

While Florida is known for its hot summer weather, a vacation in April offers lovely temps instead.

In fact, it’s also ideal for enjoying the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot Park at Disney World.

Epcot comes alive with displays of horticulture and delectable booths serving up unique takes on cultural foods. Best of all? Crowd calendars project lower numbers of visitors for the majority of this month.

Taylor | Traverse with Taylor

20. Grand Canyon, AZ for Spring Sunsets

One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is definitely the Grand Canyon.

There are many beautiful national parks in the US but a visit to the Grand Canyon should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it’s easy to see why.

Its south and north rims span 277 miles cutting through colorful sandstone rocks and dramatic plateaus.

Some of the most spectacular views can be found on the South Rim Side. For beautiful sunsets and panoramic views, head to Hopi Point and Mathers Point.

April activities are abundant here, from horseback riding and hiking to helicoptering over the canyon and riding a boat down the Colorado River for a completely different perspective.

For nature lovers, April is ideal for avoiding the summer heat and maximizing blooming wild flowers on walking trails.

Nature and wildlife all come alive this month.

Asha | HomeTravelGuide

21. New York, NY for a Walking Tour

In April, New York City comes to life with budding trees, flowers and blossoms; the mild spring weather makes the city comfortably walkable.

It’s the perfect month to enjoy a free  self-guided walking tour of Manhattan .( It’s too cold to walk far in winter and in summer it can get far too hot.)

April’s mild temps are perfect for exploring the city (the next best month is October ), so put on some comfortable shoes and get to know the historic city neighborhoods and landmarks by foot.

It’s worth checking out the city parks, too. Central Park feels vibrant and green, lovely for boating on the lake.

Daffodils and crocuses are flowering across the city this month. Head to Riverside Park and Theodore Roosevelt Park for cherry tree blossoms.

Finally, many of the rooftop bars open in April, creating spaces to relax with stunning views across the metropolis.

Top tip: For unforgettable city views, head to Westlight, the rooftop bar at the top of the William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn.

Martha | May Cause Wanderlust

22. Catalina Island, CA for Snorkeling

Sparkling Catalina Island, located about 22 miles off the coast of southern California near LA perfect for a spring visit.

As temperatures begin to warm, the magnificent underwater kelp forests here begin to revive, lending themselves to one of the most thrilling activities: snorkeling!

With some of the best kelp forests in the world and many unique marine animals,  snorkeling in Catalina Island  will be one of your favorite experiences here.

Catalina Island is also known for its outdoor adventure activities: zip-lining, parasailing, boating, and hiking.

Spend an afternoon with a drink in hand at the Descanso Beach Club. Explore the historic Catalina Casino. Or tour around the island by golf cart.

And make sure to keep your eyes open on your boat ride over, as you may catch a glimpse of some remarkable sea creatures. Humpback and grey whales migrate here in spring!

April through September is ideal at Catalina due to warmer weather but you’ll find fewer crowds in spring for a more relaxed experience to enjoy the pristine beauty of this island. 

Janelle | Make the Trip Matter

23. San Antonio, TX for Fiesta

While Texas is often unbearably hot in summer, the temperature in San Antonio in April is just right, with very little rain and fewer crowds than at other times of the year.

Even if you just have  24 hours in San Antonio , be sure to stroll the picturesque and atmospheric San Antonio Riverwalk.

It’s Texas’s most visited tourist attraction. Then visit the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico and the world-famous Spanish mission and fortress known as The Alamo .

April is also when the annual Fiesta celebrations happen!

These festivities have taken place in San Antonio every April since 1891 and last for 10 days, usually at the end of April.

Fiesta is all about celebrating San Antonio’s diverse and vibrant culture and heritage, as well as honoring the memory of the fallen heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.

Experience delicious food, parades and exhibits. With over 3.5 million people coming to celebrate, this is one of the biggest festivals in America! 

Catrina | 24 Hours Layover

24. San Francisco, CA for the Cherry Blossom Festival

San Francisco is celebrated worldwide for its impressive parks, beaches, museums, hiking, history, and more.

If you’re looking for iconic American experiences, be sure to visit to the Golden Gate bridge and ride the historic cable car.

Explore San Francisco’s many unique neighborhoods, including Haight-Ashbury , Chinatown, and Japantown. Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry building are also musts on any San Francisco itinerary.

With an extra day, head to nearby Muir woods to hike among the giant redwoods.  

In San Francisco, April signals a return to sunny outdoor activities. Hike the Lands End Trail. Cycle the Golden Gate Bridge. Picnic at Alamo Square.

April also brings lovely blooms with abundant flowering trees.

One of the best places to see them? At the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown, an incredible free event celebrating Japanese food and culture.

Flower lovers should head directly to the Tulip garden in Golden Gate Park for technicolor blooms.

Agarwal | Destination Checkoff

25. Zion National Park, UT for Epic Waterfalls

Full of spectacular canyon views and gorgeous hiking trails, Zion National Park is wonderful in April.

It’s the perfect time for bucket list hikes like  Angels Landing  and Observation Point Trail that are more challenging in soaring summer temps.

April travelers in Zion are rewarded with substantial wildflower bloom, as giant splashes of color light up Zion’s red rocks. It’s truly spectacular!

Keep a look out for mammals this month like baby bighorn sheep, wild turkey chicks, and deer fawns but always keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.

Waterfalls are mesmerizing this time of year, too, thanks to winter rains.

The best places to ogle them? Lower Emerald Pools and the 300-foot fall at Upper Emerald Pools.

Snow has melted by this month so trails are accessible without needing winter crampons.

Plus, the Virgin River turns a gorgeous aqua blue water at this time of year. Sunsets and sunrises are dramatic.

The weather in April is ideal, with warm sunny days and an average high of 74°F and average low of 44°F. 

26. Sedona, AZ for Red Rock Hikes

Sedona is a true outdoor lovers paradise and the perfect place to visit in April.

The temperatures are ideal—lower 70s—and the wildflowers carpet the scenic red rock trails. 

During this spring getaway, you’ll enjoy countless opportunities for excellent trails. I recommend adding the insta-worthy Devils Bridge to the top of your list.

Even though it’s popular, it’s 100 percent worth it. Make sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

For more hikes, head to Soldiers Pass (to search for the hidden caves), Boyton Canyon (home to the famous Subway Cave), and Cathedral Rock (for epic sunsets). 

All hiked out? Explore Sedona on a Pink Jeep tour, take a sunset horseback ride or get on a mountain bike. Consider a winery tour along the Verde Valley.

April also brings several fun annual events in Sedona, the Celebration of Spring and a Spring Yoga festival. There are so many adventurous things to do in Sedona !

It’s no secret that Sedona is a very popular location—especially in the spring—so be sure to book your accommodation early.

Budget tip : If you’re hoping to save a bit of money, try hotels outside the city in nearby Cornville, Cottonwood, or Camp Verde.

Jordan | The Homebody Tourist

26. New Mexico for American Indian Week

In April, travelers will enjoy exploring the abundant nature, culture, and history across the great state of New Mexico. Two excellent areas to enjoy this month are Alamogordo and Albuquerque.

Alamogordo is the gateway into the otherworldly  White Sands National Park . Spring is the ideal time to hike in this unique desert park.

On the night of the full moon in April, take the ranger-led Full Moon Hike offered by the National Park Service.  

History buffs will enjoy a rare opportunity to visit the White Sands Missile Range’s Trinity Site Open House here, now a registered site of historical significance.

The tour is only offered twice per year, in April and October.

A sobering but fascinating experience, you’ll learn all about the first atomic tests in 1945.

Highlights for April in Albuquerque include two festivals celebrating Native American heritage.

The first is American Indian Week at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a celebration of Native American traditions and culture. Learn about Pueblo traditions like food, pottery, and jewelry-making . 

The other festival is in late April; visit the Gathering of Nations Powwow for a colorful night at University Arena.

You’ll enjoy traditional arts-and-crafts exhibitions, lively dance competitions, and the Miss Indian World contest. 

Whether you are interested in culture, nature, or history, New Mexico makes a great April destination.

Monica | This Rare Earth

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Best places to visit in april 2024.

The age-old April showers mantra gives this month a bad reputation for dreary weather and soggy streets, but don't let that fool you. U.S. News scoured the globe to find the top vacation spots that boast sublime scenery and top-notch sightseeing best enjoyed during the month of April. Whether you're interested in lying on the beach, enjoying the great outdoors at a national park or exploring a cosmopolitan city, there's a getaway for you on this ranking. Vote for the destinations you think belong on this list of the best places to visit in April to help us determine next year's ranking.

Kaua'i

Arches national park, machu picchu, washington, d.c., victoria falls, new orleans, joshua tree national park, cayman islands.

Since Kaua'i is the wettest place in Hawaii, dry weather in April isn't a given, but this time of year marks the end of the rainiest season on the island. If you're willing to put up with a few potential showers, a trip in the low season will allow you to embrace the Garden Island's lush natural beauty without the crowds (and at a lower price point). If you're seeking sunshine, visit Poipu Beach or Waimea Town on the southern part of the island. And you can't leave Kaua'i without taking in the northern Napali Coast via boat or on a helicopter tour .

April in Arches National Park marks the sweet spot of comfortable weather (think: highs in the low 70s) and relatively smaller crowds before the summer season kicks off. Visitors can stay cool while trekking through this Utah park to see the Instagram-worthy Delicate Arch or the Windows Viewpoint. Though Arches won't be as busy as the peak months of May or June, be sure to plan ahead. Guests visiting during prime hours between April 1 and Oct. 31 must have a timed entry ticket, which can be purchased up to three months in advance.

You might come to Sedona, Arizona, to hike the otherworldly red rock formations, but the town's wellness culture and art scene will round out your spring vacation. April temperatures average in the 70s, ideal for active hikers looking to climb Cathedral Rock and other popular attractions. Those looking to disconnect can visit one of the area's many renowned wellness retreats or yoga studios. Meanwhile, the free Spring Open Studios event, held every April, invites art lovers to meet more than 50 local artists in their studios.

This ancient sandstone city in southwest Jordan consists of temples and tombs that date back to 312 B.C. Petra's elaborate carved facades like the Treasury and the Monastery, combined with natural wonders like the Siq gorge, captivate tourists with their beauty and historical interest. Since April's average temperatures in the 70s make it an opportune time to visit this desert locale, be prepared for crowds and head to popular sites early in the day. Better yet, plan to tour the sites at night, when the city is less chaotic and lit by candlelight.

Dreamy Bora Bora draws travelers year-round with its white sand beaches, warm waters and romantic atmosphere. This tiny French Polynesian island invites visitors to slow down and relax at its luxurious overwater bungalows or get out and explore its beauty. Boat tours and four-wheel-drive excursions are fun ways to see much of Bora Bora's scenery, including the breathtaking Mount Otemanu. Vacationers should also go snorkeling in the turquoise lagoon. Come in April to enjoy the warm weather before the island becomes packed with tourists.

One of the most stunning natural wonders in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu comprises about 80,000 acres of temples, aqueducts and gardens that were once a sacred Incan city. April is on the tail end of Peru's wet season, so it's possible to encounter light rain. However, the area sees fewer tourists during this month than in summer, so the trails will be less crowded and there'll be fewer people interrupting your perfect photo op. But remember, timed entry tickets to this archaeological marvel are required; you can purchase these up to one year in advance.

With the city's gilded temples, bustling markets, dizzying nightlife options and a world-renowned street food scene, a vacation in Bangkok is guaranteed to be the best kind of whirlwind. Thailand's one-of-a-kind capital offers a range of accommodations and activities, from luxury hotels to hostels and leisurely river cruises to frenetic tuk-tuk rides. For extra festivities, plan your visit during Songkran, a water festival held every April 13 to 15 to celebrate the Thai new year. Squeezing in an April trip before the monsoon season begins in May will save you some dough, but pack light clothing – you'll encounter temperatures in the 90s.

One of the most enchanting times of the year in the nation's capital, early April allows Washington, D.C., visitors to enjoy the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which commemorates the cherry blossom trees gifted to the city by the mayor of Tokyo in 1912. The event runs from mid-March through mid-April (peak bloom typically occurs within that time frame) and includes celebrations such as a parade, a kite festival and the Pink Tie Party. What's more, this is the perfect time of year to check out the city's top memorials, relax at the rooftop bars or take a walking tour before the notorious summer humidity rolls in.

The world's largest waterfall is a bucket list destination for many travelers. Considering this natural wonder on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border is about twice as high as Niagara Falls, it's easy to see why. But to experience the full splendor of Victoria Falls, timing is crucial. Since April is just after the region's rainy season, visitors will be able to see the falls at their most powerful. For the best views this time of year, opt for the footpaths on the Zambian side in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park or take an aerial tour to get clear views above the strong mist.

Known for its canals, 17th century architecture and "coffee shops," Amsterdam is absolutely beautiful in April. This month is when the Dutch city's surrounding tulip fields are in full bloom and when the popular Tulp Festival takes place. Though the weather can still be unpredictable, April is typically a great time to picnic and watch passersby in Vondelpark or walk or bike around the city thanks to Amsterdam's rising temperatures and longer days. You can explore neighborhoods like the upscale Jordaan district (home to the historical Anne Frank House) and Leidseplein (known for its lively nightlife).

In April, this Mediterranean archipelago is just starting to open up for the summer season. This means you can sneak in a visit before tourists flock to Malta, and you'll likely score hotel deals in this already affordable European destination . Temperatures in the mid-60s may be just shy of beach or snorkeling weather, but these balmy conditions are ideal for meandering through Valletta's stone streets, taking a "Game of Thrones" tour or cruising to the Blue Grotto. April visitors can also attend local celebrations like Festa Frawli, a strawberry festival in Mgarr, and the Malta International Fireworks Festival.

While Mardi Gras crowds descend on the Big Easy every February or March, New Orleans' festival season continues well into April with events like French Quarter Festival and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. If you need more incentive, temperatures average in the 70s this time of year. And while New Orleans is a year-round foodie city , April is a peak month for crawfish. Host your own crawfish boil in a park or visit a local seafood establishment to experience this quintessential Cajun and Creole tradition.

April is an excellent time to travel to Madrid thanks to balmy temps, with average highs often sitting in the 60s. This is perfect weather for walking to and from must-visit sights in Spain's largest city, including Retiro Park, the Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace of Madrid (the largest palace in Western Europe). Plus, you'll avoid this bustling city's scorching summer season – and its hordes of tourists – and will increase your chances of scoring a more affordable hotel rate.

Travelers flock to Joshua Tree National Park in April for two reasons: tolerable temperatures and the spring wildflowers. With average daily temperatures in the 70s, April is a great time for adventurers to bike, hike and rock climb without the stifling summer heat. Plus, the vibrant wildflowers that bloom for only a few weeks each year fill the otherwise stark landscape with color, creating excellent photo opportunities. While you're likely to encounter crowds this time of year, visiting after spring break can cut down on the congestion.

Composed of three islands, the Cayman Islands feature some of the best beaches in the Caribbean , including the world-famous Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman. However, some of this premier diving destination's best attractions are located in the sea. Must-see underwater attractions include Stingray City, Eden Rock, Devil's Grotto and the USS Kittiwake shipwreck. April – particularly the latter half of the month – is one of the best times to visit because of its great accommodation deals and its consistently warm, sunny weather.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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Top 20 Amazing Places to Visit in April in the USA

I honestly think April is one of the best months to explore the country to find a bit of early sun and shake off those winter blues. Springtime is also one of the most beautiful times to travel, as this is when the weather gets warmer and flowers are coming into bloom.

Whether you fancy a balmy city break or a hot beach vacation, here are my favorite spots to explore during this month…

1. Naples, Florida

This place is just so dreamy! Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is ideally situated to laze on the beach, escape to the wilderness of the Everglades or Ten Thousand Islands, or watch the Chubb Classic, one of the PGA events happening during this month, which I highly recommend doing all of! 

The weather this month is warming up (around 20 degrees), but has not hit the extremes of summer, with low rainfall, and accommodation rates are off-peak, so in my opinion, it’s a great time to visit! 

In addition to the attractions of tranquil white beaches and adventures in the adjoining nature preserves, there is great shopping and dining to be had. Naples is easily accessible from Miami , along the famous Tamiami Trail. I also love that it’s also a quieter and more laid-back place to stay after the craziness of Miami!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1010 Sixth Ave. S. Naples, FL 34102, Phone: (239) 262-7300
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees

My favorite highlights…

• Going on a kayaking eco-tour to explore the beautiful coastal mangrove forests.
• Relaxing on the stunning white sand at Vanderbilt Beach before catching a breathtaking sunset.
• Visiting the Naples Botanical Gardens home to over 170 acres of preservation land and cultivated gardens.

2. Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country, just west of Austin, with its dramatic limestone and granite hills, in my opinion, is a scenic destination at any time of year. Still, late March and this month are the must-go times, for this is when the area comes alive with carpets of wildflowers, especially Texas’ State flower, the bluebonnet, as well as primroses and Indian paintbrush.

I would also recommend exploring the unique food of the region, which has a strong German heritage, as well as Spanish influences, which can also be seen in the architecture and heard in the local music. It’s also a key wine region, with over 80 wineries.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 160 Ingram Hills Rd, Ingram, TX 78025, Phone: +1 830-367-2151
• Average temperatures – 15 to 26 degrees

My highlights

• Hiking to the Hamilton Pool and enjoying a picnic by the natural spring pool before taking a dip.
• Cycling along the Willow City Loop whilst admiring the picturesque countryside and bluebonnet fields.
• Walking the Texas Wine and Wildflower Trail and enjoying a complimentary tasting! 

3. Santa Catalina Island, California

Part of the Channel Islands of California (22 miles off Southern California), I honestly believe this gorgeous spot is one of the best islands to visit in spring.

There’s the stunning island scenery before the summer crowds arrive, and this time of year has a much more relaxed atmosphere. The weather averages around 17 degrees in the day and once there I would highly recommend just kicking back and waiting for island life to take hold! 

The scenery on the rocky but very scenic island comprises white sand beaches, palm trees, a cute harbor filled with gently bobbing boats, and jaw-dropping sunsets. There are plenty of accommodation options on the island, too.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1 Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon, CA 90704, Phone: +1 310-510-1520
• Average temperatures – 17 degrees
• Experiencing the exhilarating Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour which reaches speed of nearly 40 mph whilst being 600 feet above sea level!
• Exploring the outback uniquely on an open-air four-wheel tour to discover remote areas others don’t normally see.
• Taking part in a Happy Hour Tour where I tasted award-winning appetizers and speciality drinks.

4. Sedona, Arizona

As you would expect of a city in Arizona, the climate can be extreme, so this month is a good time to visit as temperatures hover around 25 degrees.

Desert flowers bloom, and the hills resound with spring birdsong, making it a special time for hikers and bikers. The red sandstone rocks of nearby Red Rock State Park pick up the rays of the rising and setting sun and glow as if they were on fire; my Instagram followers loved it! 

The legendary Oak Tree Canyon meanders between Sedona and Flagstaff , and I would suggest adding this popular touring and hiking destination to your itinerary!

I personally have a huge fondness for the town as its favorite artist’s location, some of whom conduct workshops. I would suggest visiting some of the many spas and retreats, where you can restore and revive yourself, surrounded by the area’s beauty! Pure bliss! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Sedona Visitor Information Center, 331 Forest Road, Sedona, AZ, 86336, Phone: 928.282.7722
• Average temperatures – 21 degrees
• Hiring an ATV and driving across the scenic West Sedona Canyon outback.
• Catching a stunning sunrise whilst enjoying a hot air balloon ride overlooking the Red Rocks.
• Strolling Uptown Sedona to explore the shops and boutiques and the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village.

5. Antelope Valley, California

I’d recommend visiting here for the beautiful California poppies that bloom in spring! Like all wildflowers, it depends on rainfall and temperature, so it is difficult to guarantee when they will be displayed.

However, this month is a pretty good bet if you want to see the poppies in Antelope Valley, as they bloom somewhere between March and May.

The state flower is celebrated in a Spring Festival, and in my opinion, the best time to view the miles of brilliant color is mid-morning when the flowers have warmed up and unfolded their petals. I promise you’ll love seeing the colors going on for as long as your eye can see!

I’d also suggest visiting nearby Lancaster City, an interesting place with a rich aviation and space travel history.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 37765 53rd St E, Palmdale, Phone: (661) 361-8254
• Average temperatures – 23 degrees

My highlights…

• Walking through the trails of the Poppy Reserve to admire the Instagrammable views of the vibrant wildflowers.
• Checking out the fun events and rides at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds.
• I learned about history and appreciated local artists’ works at the Lancaster Museum of Art and History .

6. Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii

Hawaii has only two seasons: summer (or Kau, from May to October) and winter (or Hooilo, from November to this month). There is much to see and do at this time of year, from watching surfing competitions to exploring the dramatic scenery.

I would recommend the awe-inspiring coastline of Nā Pali in northwest Kauai with views of dramatic razor-sharp mountains and rocky terrain, except drivers, for the shore is too rugged to contemplate building a road along it.

For the adventurous, I would highly recommend trying the incredible hiking trails and kayaking tours, while there are catamaran and helicopter trips for those who are not so daring. There are also stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and even archaeological sites! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Kikiaʻola Small Boat Harbor, Kekaha, HI 96752, Phone:  +1 808-635-1131
• Experiencing the 17 miles of the coast from a different perspective by taking a sailing tour.
• Enjoying the adventure of a lifetime with a helicopter ride overlooking the dramatic cliff.
• Hiking along the Kalalau Trail to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and greenery. 

7. Tidal Basin, Washington DC

This is a famously beautiful spring break. Head to the Tidal Basin in Washington DC and you’ll see the pretty blossom trees which were a gift from Japan in 1912!

The historic trees signal the beginning of spring and have an average peak bloom date which falls in this month I highly recommend taking a trip to see them.

The trees explode into a wonderful sea of light pink and white blossoms and around 70% of the flowers of the cherry blossom trees are open around the 4th but sometimes the bloom peak occurs as late as the 18th of the month. The bloom lasts around 14 days but is well worth seeing! I would suggest taking your camera! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1501 Maine Ave SW, Washington, Phone (202) 479-2426
• Average temperatures – 19 degrees
• Enjoying a bike ride along the stunning loop and array of national monuments.
• Renting a paddleboat and enjoying some time spent relaxing on the calm water.
• Spending the day at the National Cherry Blossom Festival and seeing live entertainment amongst the flowers.

8. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

A few miles south Of Yellowstone and part of the Rockies, the Teton Range is a majestic range of mountains separated from the plains of Jackson Hole by a dramatic fault. The Snake River meanders through the range and is fed by several of the lakes in the area.

The skiing season closes towards the end of March/beginning of this month and is too early for the summer crowds, so in my opinion, it’s a good time to visit this beautiful place (I would suggest just wrapping up warmly as it’s still very chilly this month!).

There is no way a single visit will do the Park justice; there are over 300 km of hiking trails to be explored and conquered.

The mountains are huge and awe-inspiring and you can even spot wildlife including large herds of bison and other animals living in a pristine, almost untouched environment!

• Visitor’s Centre Address (for post only): Grand Teton National Park, P.O. Box 170, Moose, WY 83012-0170, Phone: 307-739-3300
• Average temperatures – 8 degrees
• Taking a scenic drive to Signal Mountain and seeing picturesque panoramic views overlooking the park.
• Discovering the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point located on the western side of Jenny Lake. 
• Hiking along the trail from String Lake to Leigh Lake (it’s fine for all ages and ability levels).

9. Bisti Badlands, New Mexico

I think these rather forbidding plains, with their bizarre rocky outcrops, are worth visiting! 

The fossils here are impressive, and new dinosaur species are still being unearthed. The “Bisti Beast” for example was discovered in 1998, a new tyrannosaurus species, and as recently as 2017, the skull of a Parasaurolophus cyrtocristatus, a strange-looking duck-billed dinosaur was found, only the second of this species.

I personally think that this month is a good crossover time to visit; between the rigors of winter and the heat of summer, making it comfortable to hike or wander among the rocks – temperatures hover around 19 degrees here it’s so perfect for long hikes. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 3041 E. Main Street, Farmington, Phone: 800-448-1240
• Average temperatures – 18 degrees
• Hiking along the Bisti Badlands Trail and discovering the cool Cracked Eggs rock formations.
• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot of the unique Alien Throne along the Valley of Dreams Loop.
• Exploring the short Ah-shi-sle-pah Trail and seeing the dramatic hoodoo views.

10. Palm Springs, California

I love this place for sun and hot weather this month, as temperatures reach 31 degrees. It has always been famous as a retreat for showbiz stars, retirees, and snowbirds escaping cold winters.

There is entertainment, spas, and shopping aplenty, as well as many retro-styled hotels and about 100 golf courses. There are lots of other opportunities, especially for outdoor experiences.

The area is well-provided with hiking trails, but I highly recommend going on a fun Jeep adventure and cultural experiences like the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum .

I would also suggest going on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which rotates on its short journey to the Monte San Jacinto State Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Palm Springs Visitor Information Center, 2901 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 800-347-7746 | 760-778-8418 
• Average temperatures – 31 degrees
• Strolling down the city sidewalks to discover the famous Palm Springs Walk of Stars, created in 1992.
• Checking out the Palm Springs Art Museum, which displays contemporary and modern art and I loved the stunning sculpture garden.
• Wandering through the Sunnylands and explore 12 acres of beautiful botanic gardens.

11. Port Townsend, Washington

Located in Jefferson County around two hours from Seattle, Port Townsend in my opinion is a good choice if you’re looking for a relaxed spring break without any crowds.

Temperatures average around 14 degrees this month so I recommend packing warm clothes before you leave but it will be worth it! The city has long trails and beaches, fine restaurants, fantastic art and cultural experiences, and a fascinating maritime history.

I loved the Point Wilson Lighthouse , The Jefferson Museum of Art and History , and The Fort Worden State Historical Park .

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2409 Jefferson St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, +1 360-385-2722
• Average temperatures – 14 degrees
• Buying fresh, local produce and artisan products from a Farmer’s Market.
• Indulging in a beer and wine tasting at Port Townsend Vineyards and Port Townsend Brewing.
• Walking the beautiful čičməhán Trail, where you can find 3-, 6- or 12-mile loops.

12. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

A major attraction in Colorado Springs is the Garden of the Gods , with its scenic sandstone rocks. This month, the snow may not have melted on Pikes Peak, which overlooks the Park, adding more impact to the dramatic scenery.

I would recommend stopping at the Visitor and Nature Centre, which includes an interactive museum.

There are several trails of about 20 km, including the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which is accessible for wheelchairs and prams. You can walk, cycle (or Segway), or even take a Jeep ride (my favorite!), and afterward, you can refresh yourself in the cafeteria. Dogs are also welcome on leads, and there are even some areas where they can walk off-leash.

This is a very popular and challenging spot for rock climbing, but permits are required.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, +1 719-634-6666
• Going on a frum segway tour to explore the Garden.
• Climbing across the surrounding large carved rocks is a great family or group activity.
• Stopping by the hip and healthy Bean Sprouts Cafe for a bite to eat after my adventures.

13. Miami, Florida

Miami is the world’s playground, with something for everyone, from nature lovers and golfers to compulsive shoppers and nightclubgoers.

It is always hot and humid, but I think this is a great time to visit because it is somewhat cooler and there is less rainfall – temperatures can reach around 26 degrees.

Its proximity to Cuba and the rest of the Caribbean gives it a tropical and exotic flavor quite different from much of the United States. Checking out one of the area’s many cool and interesting hotels can enhance your experience. 

I recommend celebrity spotting around South Beach (or in their hideouts in Coral Gables) and exploring the Everglades or the other preserves, like Big Cypress. South Beach is also a must-visit for Art Deco aficionados, after which you can visit the trendy beach or head off for the relative quiet of other beaches, such as Bal Harbour or North Beach.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131, Phone: (305) 539-3000
• Average temperatures – 26 degrees
• Taking a once in a lifetime helicopter ride overlooking the breathtaking Miami skyline.
• Spending the day at Sunny Isles Beach and enjoy some swimming, diving, and water sports in the cooling waters.
• Going on a tour of Miami’s most well-known film set locations.

14. Flint Hills, Kansas

This is a special place to visit as grasslands are shrinking worldwide, mainly because they provide excellent land for cultivation.

We are waking up to the importance of the grasslands and the biodiversity they protect. The prairies of North America and the life they support are steadily being restored and protected but have mainly been converted to farmland.

Spring brings warmer weather, rain, and sunshine, so in my opinion, it’s a vibrant and verdant time to visit. Elks are now extinct in the area, but the bison herds are starting to make a comeback, although nothing like the millions that originally grazed the prairies. 

I highly recommend standing on the slopes and realizing that these grasslands have looked exactly like this for thousands of years and are still home to birds and animals that thrive in the prairie! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 315 S 3rd St, Manhattan 66502, Phone: +1 785-587-2726
• Taking a free bus tour of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and learning about the culture whilst admiring the gorgeous scenery.
• Appreciating paintings from famous artists Judith and Ken Mackey Flint Hills Gallery.
• Enjoying a road trip through the National Scenic Byway, which is 48 miles long and holds many historical sites and quaint towns.

15. San Diego, California

I personally think this month is a great time to visit San Diego as it’s much less crowded, there is still plenty of sun, and temperatures hover around 20 degrees.

Most people flock to “Beach City” for family fun on the beaches. Mission Beach is a good swimming beach, with a boardwalk and rollercoaster, but I recommend checking out the tidal pools at La Jolla, when the tide is low, and snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, part of the Underwater Park.

If you’ve had too much sun, I would suggest heading for Balboa Park, where you would need at least a week to explore, taking in the 18 diverse museums or some cultural events. The Air and Space Museum is affiliated with the Smithsonian and has something for kids of all ages.

I would suggest tasting some Baja cuisine, dancing the night away in one of the nightclubs, or viewing one of the many shows on offer.

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, Phone: (619) 236-1242
• Average temperatures – 20 degrees
• Having fun at Belmont Park is filled with exciting rides and adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters.
• Catching one of San Diego’s best sunsets at La Jolla Cove, a perfect spot for Instagrammable shots.
• Exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaslamp Quarter, filled with bars, lounges, and music venues.

16. Nantucket Island, Massachusetts

Nantucket was once a thriving whaling center. Although the total population is only 11,000, it can swell into 50,000 during peak tourist season, so in my opinion, the shoulder months are a good time to visit.

Nantucket is reached by ferry from Cape Cod, a 30-mile trip. I would suggest visiting this month because it is off-peak, accommodation prices are more affordable, and it is a daffodil season.

The flowers are growing everywhere, and the locals go daffodil-crazy for the whole month, which includes car parades, picnics, and daffodil dress-up competitions.

There are plenty of other diversions too; visit the Whaling Museum (although thankfully most people are against the cruelty of catching whales now!) and I would also suggest walking, cycling or even catching a bus to view the historic buildings dotted around the island, although there are also guided tours.

If you have children with you, there are plenty of family-friendly activities for them, from beaches to boat rides. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: Nantucket Department of Culture & Tourism. 25 Federal Street, Nantucket, MA 02554, Phone: 508-228-0925 Fax: 508-325-5443
• Average temperatures – 13 degrees
• Renting a bike and exploring the island’s 35 miles of multi-use paths. 
• Visiting the three historic lighthouses – Sankaty Head Light, Brant Point Light, and Great Point Light.
• Spending the afternoon shopping downtown is home to many boutiques and stores.

17. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a small but fast-growing city on the South Carolina coast that attracts around 20 million tourists a year, seeking the warm climate and welcoming beaches.

In my opinion, this month is a great time to visit, as it is a bit quieter than March when Ontarians flock to Myrtle Beach to escape their weather. 

It is also when the “Coastal Uncorked” festival of food and drink is held, and I would highly recommend timing your visit for then (it’s towards the end of the month).

The resort has 80 golf courses on offer, as well as nightclubs, theatres, and concerts. However, the warmth and the beaches bring most tourists to Myrtle Beach again and again! 

I love the Boardwalk and it’s one of the best in the country great for a stroll along the coastline, or, if you need a rest, hop on to the SkyWheel, and view the beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. There is also a water park and an amusement park for the kids, which is a bonus! 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 1200 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, Phone: +1 843-626-7444
• Average temperatures – 22 degrees
• Checking out the Hollywood Wax Museum and posing with some of my favorite A-listers.
• Enjoying a stroll along the boardwalk that is 1.2 miles long and filled with fun attractions, rides, shops, and restaurants.
• Going on a thrill-seeking adventure in the five-acre forest treetops at the Radical Ropes Adventure Park.

18. Caddo Lake, Texas and Louisiana

This beauty spot is located in Texas and Louisiana; in my opinion, it’s one of the best-kept secrets in the region.

Attracting families, couples, nature lovers, and wildlife watches there are plenty of vacation accommodation rentals to choose from including camping spots, cabins, bed and breakfasts, and some hotels located nearby.

In Caddo Lake State Park, you can swim hike, picnic, camp, or stay in a cabin, look for a geocache, but I highly recommend boating. Although alligators live in the park, read up on all the area’s alligator safety tips before your visit!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 245 Park Road 2, Karnack, Phone: (903) 679-3351
• Average temperatures – 24 degrees
• Renting a kayak and exploring the water trails to discover the unique landscape.
• Taking an early morning boat tour and watching a romantic sunrise or sunset over the lake.
• Camping overnight at a beautiful shore-side campsite.

19. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, North Carolina

If you are planning a road trip in springtime, I suggest that this spot all 755 kilometers of it, is on your list as it takes you through scenic areas of North Carolina and Virginia.

The parkway is closed during winter but opens in spring again, and, despite the closure, has been one of the country’s most-visited parks since 1946.

There are attractions en route and I would recommend stopping at the visitor center, but in my opinion, what makes the Parkway unique and special is its amazing biodiversity.

Whether it is the 4000 species of plants, over 250 bird species, or the chance of spotting black bears ambling along, this is a nature watcher’s hotspot!

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803, Phone:+1 828-298-5330
• Hiking the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls via a park trail.
• Taking a trip to one of the local vineyards and experiencing world-class wine tasting.
• Visiting the Blue Ridge Music Center, which hosts several music events at its outdoor concert venue.

20. Bar Harbor, Maine

Although temperatures aren’t the warmest (average temperatures hover around 12 degrees in the day) I personally think there are many reasons to visit Bar Harbour, a town on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s Frenchman Bay in Maine this time of year.

For starters, you’ll get good deals on accommodation as falls before the summer peak season and you’ll also arrive before the crowds arrive too.

I’m a huge fan of this place. I love that the scenery here is quaint and beautiful with gorgeous coastal beauty. I love the bobbing yachts and boats, awesome ocean and neighboring islands views, and atmospheric weather ranging from sparkling sunlight to thick fog and mist.

As a relaxing destination, Bar Harbor is also the gateway to the mountains and rugged scenery of the nearby Acadia National Park. 

• Visitor’s Centre Address: 2 Cottage St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, Phone: +1 207-288-5103
• Average temperatures – 12 degrees

My favourite highlights…

• Hopping on Oli’s Trolley to explore Bar Harbor with a narrated tour.
• Grabbing food at Geddy’s on the main street and admiring the view overlooking Frenchman Bay.
• Discovering the stunning landscape along the coastline via an e-bike rental at Bar Harbor Bicycle Shop.

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26 Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

Posted on Last updated: December 5, 2023

Home » USA Travel Inspiration » 26 Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

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If you’re on the hunt for the most incredible destination for spring break , you’re in luck! These are the best places to visit in April in the USA.

From the east to the west, this post of the best spots for April vacation in the USA will give you plenty of trip ideas. 

As you might imagine, by traveling in April, you’ll be reaping so many benefits; there’s the great weather, smaller crowds, and generally lower prices than what you’ll usually witness in the summer.

So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading to learn all about the best places to visit in April in the US!

Table of Contents

26 Best Destinations in the United States to Visit in April

Below are some of the best travel destinations in the US to visit in April.

1. Skagit Valley, Washington

Skagit Valley is the first on this list of the best places to visit in April in the USA. 

Located in Washington, this is the perfect getaway in the PNW if you’re looking to beat the heat. This beautiful valley is somewhat of a hidden gem, but locals know it for its tulip festival.

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival takes place during the entire month of April, so no matter when you visit during the month, you’ll be able to enjoy the brightly colored flowers. 

It’s an annual event that will truly take your breath away.

Read next: Best Places to Visit in the USA

The weather in Skagit Valley is a bit cooler than other places on this list in April because of its location. 

You can expect a high of 58°F and a low of 41°F. This month also sees quite a bit of rain in Skagit Valley, but nowhere near as much rain as the area gets in January.

Where to Stay near Skagit Valley

Click here to find accommodation near Skagit Valley.

2. Ennis, Texas

Another one of the best places to visit in April in the USA for flower lovers is Ennis, Texas. That’s because the town is host to the Bluebonnet Trails, which are officially celebrated every year during April.

This is of historical significance to Ennis, as the area was officially declared as the Bluebonnet City in the state of Texas in 1997. 

The trails cover about 40 miles and allow visitors to witness breathtaking wildflowers in vibrant colors.

Unlike Skagit Valley, Ennis, Texas, is pretty warm in April. Average high temperatures are around 76°F, while lows are around 53°F.

Where to Stay in Ennis

Click here to find accommodation in Ennis.

3. San Francisco, California

For some cool weather and excellent spring activities in the city, look no further than San Francisco! 

With average high temperatures of around 63°F and low average temperatures of around 50°F, San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in the USA in April. The afternoons tend to be the warmest time of day.

This is a time that locals enjoy most in San Francisco because it’s when the city finally starts to get a bit sunnier! 

Plus, there’s a local Cherry Blossom Festival that occurs in April in Japantown that’s a must-visit. Enjoy dancing, music, great tea, and more.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Click here to find accommodation in San Francisco.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway; North Carolina and Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway extends through North Carolina and Virginia and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States, especially in April. 

Most people explore it in the fall to see the leaves change color, so you can expect to miss the crowds by traveling in the spring.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles long, so it’s perfect for a spring road trip. Most people will start near Asheville and drive it up north towards Virginia, but you can opt to do it the opposite way as well if you prefer. 

Some great spots along the way include Crabtree Falls, Linn Cove Viaduct, and Doughton Park.

In April, temperatures tend to be around 68°F at the highest and 46°F at the lowest.

Where to Stay in Asheville

Click here to find accommodation in Asheville.

5. Moab, Utah

One of the best places to visit in April in the USA is Moab, Utah! This small town near the western border of Colorado is well known for being home to Arches National Park. 

Plus, it’s only a short drive to get to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park, and there are other outdoor places to visit like Corona Arch.

Read next: Utah National Parks Road Trip

April is the perfect time to visit Moab to beat the summer heat. Average highs are around 73°F, while lows are 42°F in the early morning and evening—these are low temperatures for the desert!

Must-dos in Moab include hiking to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park and watching the sunset from Mesa Arch in Canyonlands.

Where to Stay in Moab

Click here to find accommodation in Moab.

6. Santa Catalina Island, California

Another of the best places to visit in April in the US for cooler weather is Santa Catalina Island. High temperatures daily tend to be around 63°F (perfect temperature for a sweater), and lows are around 47°F.

Santa Catalina Island is located near Los Angeles and is the perfect escape if you’re looking for a spring getaway. 

This is another location that is popularly visited in the summer months, but you’ll mostly find California locals visiting in April.

Overall, prices tend to be lower for accommodation at Santa Catalina Island in the spring because there are fewer tourists.

Where to Stay in Santa Catalina Island

Click here to find accommodation in Santa Catalina Island.

7. Disney World, Florida

Ahh, Disney – who doesn’t want to visit there? Located in Orlando, Disney World is easily one of the top vacation spots in the USA, but most people make the mistake of visiting in the dead of summer. 

Even though April is relatively busy because of elementary school’s spring break, this is still a much better time to visit.

April temperatures for Orlando are around 84°F at the highest and 63°F at the lowest. Summer averages tend to be in the low to mid 90’s, so April is perfect to not swelter under the sun while waiting in line for your favorite ride.

There are many great things to do in Disney World with its theme and water parks. Be sure to get a parks pass to make your trip easier!

Where to Stay in Walk Disney World

Click here to find accommodation in Walt Disney World.

8. Kauai, Hawaii

Obviously, this list of the best places to visit in April in the USA wouldn’t be complete without mentioning at least one location in Hawaii! 

Kauai is the perfect April getaway, mainly because it’s right before summer break, so prices for flights tend to be lower.

Temperatures in Kauai are perfect in April. Daily highs are around 72°F, perfect for lounging near the beach, while lows are near 57°F. 

One thing to note is that this is one of the rainiest months of the year, with around 23 days seeing rain during the month. However, the rain showers only make Kauai prettier!

When visiting Kauai, consider stopping by Hanalei Bay to take in the views of the mountain, Waimea Canyon State Park to see the gorge and Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park for excellent hikes.

Where to Stay in Kauai

Click here to find accommodation in Kauai.

9. Washington DC

Washington DC is one of the most popular places for an April vacation in the USA, but it’s for a good reason! 

Known for being home to the US government, DC is usually the perfect place to visit for history buffs. However, it’s also host to an excellent cherry festival!

The National Cherry Blossom Festival never has a hard date because it’s whenever the flowers start to bloom but tend to be in late March through mid-April. 

You can also check out the bloom cam online if you want to travel virtually and can’t make it to Washington DC.

Spring in DC is beautiful. Daily highs are around 67°F, while lows are closer to 44°F, so you’ll want a coat.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Click here to find accommodation in Washington DC.

10. Rocky Mountains National Park; Colorado

If beating the crowds is something you’re looking to do, look no further than the Rocky Mountains National Park, one of the best places to visit in April in the USA! 

Most people will head to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, to explore the Rocky Mountains.

Estes Park is an adorable little town nestled in the Rocky Mountains with average highs of 51°F and lows of 28°F in April. 

This is a beautiful time to see the Rocky Mountains because the weather isn’t super hot yet, and there usually’s still snow on the mountains!

Where to Stay in Rocky Mountains National Park

Click here to find accommodation in Rocky Mountains National Park.

11. Antelope Valley, California

Are you a flower fan? In addition to Ennis and Skagit Valley, consider paying a trip to Antelope Valley! 

Located in California, this valley is a great day trip from Los Angeles. When visiting, you absolutely can’t miss out on the Poppy Reserve, which tends to be in full bloom right during the month of April!

Antelope Valley is a reasonably warm place to visit, but it’s not that humid. Average high temperatures will be around 73°F in April, while lows will be closer to 45°F in the evenings and early mornings.

In addition to the Poppy Reserve, other fun things to do in Antelope Valley include visiting the Museum of Art and History and relaxing at the Apollo Community Regional Park.

Where to Stay in Antelope Valley

Click here to find accommodation in Antelope Valley.

12. Edgartown, Massachusetts

Yes, you can escape to the northeast in April if you’re looking for a getaway! 

This is a popular tourist town located right on Martha’s Vineyard, an island off the coast of Massachusetts. It’s incredibly picturesque, and the weather is just right in April, with highs of 55°F and lows of 38°F.

In April, the best things to do in Edgartown include seeing Lighthouse Beach, exploring Joseph Sylvia State Beach, and wandering around the trails in Mytoi Japanese Garden. 

Be sure to stop by the local shops and shop small while there as well. The downtown area is beautiful and filled with tons of shops.

Where to Stay in Edgartown

Click here to find accommodation in Edgartown.

13. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Everyone and their mother wants to visit Grand Canyon National Park! Located in northern Arizona, this park can get blazing hot in the summer, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in April in the USA. There’s no better time to visit to beat the heat!

The average temperature in Grand Canyon in April tends to be around 83°F at the highest and 55°F at the lowest. 

You may be thinking that’s high, but averages in the summer are closer to 105°F! So, visit in April, especially if you’re not a fan of the blazing sun in the desert.

The best thing to do in Grand Canyon is to visit and explore the South Rim. Stop by the Yavapai Geology Museum, hike the South Kaibab Trail, explore Grand Canyon Village and more.

Where to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park

Click here to find accommodation in Grand Canyon National Park.

14. Miami, Florida

Another of the best places to visit in April in the USA in Florida is none other than Miami. 

Many locals argue that Miami is the best time of year to visit because the weather is warmer than it is in winter, but it still hasn’t reached the highs that summer in Florida is known for.

Miami April temperatures tend to be around 80°F at the highest and 70°F at the lowest. There’s little to no rain, with about four days on average every April.

Many events take place in Miami, such as the Miami Open. The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden also hosts some springtime festivities, like flower arrangement workshops and other flower-related ticketed activities. 

If events aren’t your thing, stop by the Wynwood Walls for some artsy pics or explore the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.

Where to Stay in Miami

Click here to find accommodation in Miami.

15. San Diego, California

San Diego is hands down a very popular spot to visit in the summer months. Consider getting lower prices, enjoying more pleasant weather, and waiting in shorter lines by visiting before then. 

Located in southern California, San Diego is one of the best places to visit in April in the USA.

During this month, activities in San Diego include supporting the San Diego Padres at a baseball game, going on a craft brewery tour, strolling around Balboa Park, and adventuring up north to the Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Expect daily high temperatures of 69°F and daily low temperatures of around 56°F, with little to no rain during the month.

Where to Stay in San Diego

Click here to find accommodation in San Diego.

16. Bar Harbor, Maine

The absolute most underrated time of year to visit Maine is in the springtime! So, head to Bar Harbor, which is often known as the northeast gateway to Acadia National Park . 

This charming town is absolutely breathtaking, and visiting in the spring allows you to witness what it’s like there as a local rather than a tourist due to the smaller crowds.

Bar Harbor is definitely one of the cooler locations on this list of best places to visit in the USA in April, with daily highs of 59°F and lows closer to 33°F. This is also a rather rainy month for the northeast.

In addition to visiting the national park, other springtime activities in Bar Harbor include going whale watching or riding Oli’s Trolley.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

Click here to find accommodation in Bar Harbor.

17. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Thanks to the hit Netflix TV show, Outer Banks has officially become of the best places to visit in April in the USA! 

The weather in April is perfect in the Outer banks. High temperatures tend to be around 69°F, while lows are closer to 52°F, with around five days or so of rain.

The Outer Banks is a section of islands located right off the coast of North Carolina. 

The area is absolutely incredible and filled with fun things to do, like visiting the Bodie Island Lighthouse, exploring the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, and stepping back in time at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.

Where to Stay in Outer Banks

Click here to find accommodation in Outer Banks.

18. Key West, Florida

If Miami and Disney World isn’t your style, but you want a Florida getaway, head to Key West, easily one of the best places to visit in April in the US. 

Springtime is the best time of year to visit Key West because most people visit in the winter. So, you can expect lower prices and smaller crowds.

There are many things to do in April in Key West. There are usually ocean-front festivals (like the Florida Keys Ocean Festival & Waterfront Craft Show), farmer’s markets, and more. Consider heading to the Annual Taste of Key West to try some excellent food for a super fun time.

On top of that, Duval Street has many attractions to keep you busy. It has bars, restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums.

Average highs are around 82°F, while lows are near 74°F, making Key West a great place to visit.

Where to Stay in Key West

Click here to find accommodation in Key West.

19. Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country is a great area to visit in April, with high temperatures around 80°F and low temperatures closer to 57°F. Texas is known for being hot, so the best way to avoid the summer heat is to visit during the spring.

The most beautiful spot to visit in the Texas Hill Country in spring is Fredericksburg . There’s a state park called Enchanted Rock that is incredibly picturesque, and there are quite a few different hikes in the area that are great in spring.

In spring, other places to visit in the Texas Hill Country include San Antonio , Austin , Canyon Lake , New Braunfels, and Wimberley .

Where to Stay in the Texas Hill Country

Click here to find Airbnbs in Fredericksburg or cabins with hot tubs in Texas .

20. Havasu Falls, Arizona

One of the most beautiful and best places to visit in April in the USA is Havasu Falls! 

Day temperatures in April are lovely, with little to no rain. Daily highs are around 80°F while the night lows dip to 48°F, perfect weather for stargazing.

While technically located in Grand Canyon, many people consider Havasu Falls to be its own destination. It’s relatively challenging to get to, but if you can make the hike, it’s well worth it. 

The trail is unshaded and fairly rocky, with a length of around 10 miles. Once you get to the waterfall, though, your breath will truly get taken away.

Where to Stay near Havasu Falls

Click here to find accommodation near Havasu Falls.

21. Disneyland, California

Skip out on Disney World and visit Disneyland instead! Even though it’s smaller, Disneyland is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re looking to travel in April with kids.

The average high temperature tends to be around 74°F, while the low tends to be closer to 54°F.

In April, Disneyland hosts various events for adults and children alike! The most popular event is the Easter Eggstravaganza, perfect if you’re looking for something to do on Easter Weekend. 

There is also usually a Food & Wine Festival hosted in Disneyland during this month.

The most crowded time to visit Disneyland is on the weekends, so be sure to try to plan your visit during the week so that wait times will be shorter for your favorite rides!

Where to Stay in Disneyland

Click here to find accommodation in Disneyland.

22. New Orleans, Louisiana

Because most people will visit New Orleans, Louisiana , in the earlier part of the year for all the festivities, you won’t want to miss out on this city in April. 

With high temperatures of 79°F and low temperatures of 61°F, the weather is perfect, and there are fewer tourists, meaning lower accommodation and flight prices!

Popular attractions in the city center include Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and Louis Cathedral.

This time of year is perfect if you’re a fan of live music. In April, the best thing to do in New Orleans is to visit the French Quarter Festival. There’s also the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which features tons of great food you can snack on while bopping to the beat!

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Click here to find the best hotels in New Orleans .

23. Zion National Park, Utah

Located on State Route 9 in southwest Utah, Zion National Park is one of the best places to visit in April, and proof of that is the park ranking top 3 among the most visited national parks in the US.

In Zion National Park, some of the best things to do include hiking, going on a scenic drive, stargazing, and catching the sunrise. Spring (and fall) are the best times to visit Zion thanks to mild weather, perfect for hiking. 

In addition, you can avoid high season crowds by visiting in April, however, there may be some spring break crowds, though.

In April, temperatures are cool in the morning and comfortable by midday, making it the best time to hike in Zion National Park and avoid the scorching heat of summer and the cold of winter.

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Click here to find accommodation in Zion National Park.

24. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If a coastal vacation is what you’re after, then head to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina! 

This is a popular spring break destination, but usually, it’s more famous among college kids, who will visit during the month of March. Average high temperatures are around 72°F, while lows are around 52°F.

In April, be sure to relax by the beach, golf, or even rent a boat to go kayaking. You can also take a quick trip to Brookgreen Gardens to see some flowers in full bloom during your time there, which is a perfect escape from the beach.

Because April can be busy, be sure to book your accommodations in Myrtle Beach ahead of time.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach

Click here to find accommodation in Myrtle Beach.

25. Palm Springs, California

Because it’s one of the most beautiful destinations, Palm Springs deserves a spot on this list of best places to visit in April in the US. This is the top time of year to visit Palm Springs because the weather is perfect!

Temperatures during this time of year in Palm Springs reach highs of 87°F (which is low for this area of the states) and lows of 57°F.

There are many great things to do in Palm Springs. You can ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, learn at the Palm Springs Art Museum, or go golfing, which is one of the things the city is known for! Many people will also visit Palm Springs in April to go to Coachella.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

Click here to find accommodation in Palm Springs.

26. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Last but not least is Nantucket, Massachusetts! This very well may be the coldest place on this list of places to visit in April, but it’s still worth visiting. High temperatures tend to be around 55°F, while lows are closer to 38°F. It’s chilly but beautiful.

In April, the best attraction in Nantucket is none other than the Nantucket Daffodil Festival! It tends to take place starting towards the end of the month of April, but this also depends on the year. Celebrate with a beautiful picnic and participate in the many contests!

Other fun places to visit in Nantucket if flowers aren’t something you’re interested in include the Whaling Museum, Brant Point Lighthouse, and Madaket Beach, which is known for being the perfect sunset spot.

Where to Stay in Nantucket

Click here to find accommodation in Nantucket.

Final Thoughts on the Best April Vacations in the US

From enjoying sandy beaches to horseback riding, you can experience many adventures on your USA travel in April.

If you’re planning your trip now, we hope this article gave you some excellent ideas of places to go in April.

After all, you can find here some of the prettiest sceneries in North America, let alone the world.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our blog posts below:

• Best Places to Visit in January
• Best Places to Visit in February
• Best Places to Visit in March
• Best Places to Visit in May
• Best Places to Visit in June
• Best Places to Visit in November
• Best Places to Visit in December
• Best Places to Visit During Christmas

Did you enjoy reading about the best places to visit in April in the USA? Then share it with your friends! They might enjoy it too!

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• June 16, 2023

35 Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

April is a beautiful time to travel in the USA. 

It’s when the weather gets warmer, the flowers bloom, and the crowds are still low.

That’s why it’s one of my favorite months to travel.

Here’s what I’ll tell you.

I’ve been to many places in this country, and I can’t count my favorite places in the fingers of one hand.

Whether you’re into hiking, culture, or wildlife, you’ll find something to suit your taste in the US of A.

So, in this article, I want to introduce you to the best places to visit in April in the USA.

Together, we’ll explore each destination, the things to do there, and how to plan your trip.

But don’t tell me I didn’t warn you: you might fall in love with them and never want to leave.

Read on below to discover the best places to visit in the country in the wonderful month of April.

Best Places To Visit In April In The USA Compared 

Have an extraordinary April getaway with this expertly curated list of top-notch destinations across America.

Immerse yourself in breathtaking national parks, vibrant cities, and fun adventures.

Editor’s Choice

Washington D.C.

Washington, DC is the capital city of the United States, and there are many historic and culturally significant places to see there.

• Family-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

New Orleans – Louisiana

Founded by the French in 1718, New Orleans is located in the southeastern region and filled with vibrant nightlife, music, and Creole cuisine.

• Safety: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Educational Value: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Austin – Texas

With its rich diversity of culture and history, Austin, the state capital of Texas, draws visitors from near and far.

Here are the top 35 places to visit in April in the USA.

1. Washington D.C. (Editor’s Choice)

Washington D.C. (202) 789-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Cherry Blossom Festival: April is the prime time to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom in Washington D.C. 
• Mild weather: In April, the weather in Washington D.C. is typically mild, making it comfortable for outdoor activities scattered throughout the city.
• Crowds: April marks the beginning of the tourist season in Washington D.C., and as a result, the city can get quite crowded. 
• Higher accommodation prices: With increased tourist activity, hotel prices in Washington D.C. tend to rise during April

One of the best things about Washington is the free museums that you can visit .

You can check out the National Gallery of Art or the Smithsonian American Art Museum any day during April.

If you’re looking for something different, there’s also an art museum called AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center.

Meanwhile, If you’re looking for a relaxing day out with a loved one, head to the National Arboretum.

You’ll find beautiful gardens and green spaces, which makes it an excellent spot for picnics or a stroll.

Recommended Hotel: Riggs Washington DC

Related: Where to Eat in Washington DC

2. New Orleans – Louisiana

New Orleans, LA (504) 566-5003 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Jazz Fest: New Orleans hosts the renowned New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival every April, showcasing the city’s rich musical heritage.
• Festive atmosphere: In April, you can experience the city’s unique culture, including its famous Mardi Gras traditions, parades, and lively street performances.
• Humidity and rain: April in New Orleans can be humid, with occasional rainfall. 
• Crowded tourist areas: New Orleans attracts a significant number of tourists in April, especially during the Jazz Fest.

Founded by the French in 1718, New Orleans is located in the southeastern region and filled with vibrant nightlife , music, and Creole cuisine.

If you need to know where to travel in April for a spring outdoor experience, head over to the French Quarter.

This place is also known as the Vieux Carré, with a historic neighborhood filled with vibrant nightlife, music, and food.

Explore the historic mansions and landmarks, such as the St. Louis Cathedral, to learn about the area’s history and culture.

Outside the French Quarter is Audubon Park, which features beautiful gardens and trails through ancient oak trees.

It’s a great place to get some fresh air while enjoying the city’s natural beauty.

Or, take a swamp tour with your family from Lake Pontchartrain into Bayou St John, where you’ll learn about alligators and wood ducks.

Recommended Hotel: Virgin Hotels New Orleans

Related: Dining in New Orleans

Related: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

3. Austin – Texas

Austin, TX (512) 478-0098 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Outdoor activities: April offers fantastic weather in Austin, with mild temperatures perfect for enjoying the city’s outdoor attractions. 
• Live music scene: In April, the city hosts various music festivals and events, such as Austin Reggae Fest and Old Settler’s Music Festival. 
• Higher prices and crowds: April is a popular time to visit Austin due to the favorable weather and numerous events, resulting in increased attraction prices.
• Allergy season: April marks the peak of allergy season in Austin. The city’s abundant flora and fauna can trigger allergies in some individuals.

With its rich diversity of culture and history, Austin , the state capital of Texas, draws visitors from near and far.

Zilker Park is one of the best spots in Austin because of its entertainment.

This park has everything from concerts to festivals all year round, and you can even go paddle boarding at Barton Springs Pool.

Lady Bird Lake is another excellent place to visit during April, offering many different activities, such as kayaking or canoeing.

Another must-try visit is the Texas State Capitol.

This is one of the best-preserved 19th-century capitol buildings in the US, and it’s a must-see for anyone who loves architecture.

The interior is full of beautiful mosaics and stained glass windows, making it visually stunning.

Recommended Hotel: The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Related: Top Austin Restaurants

4. Seattle – Washington

Seattle, WA (206) 461-5800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With the ocean on one side and beautiful mountains on the other, Seattle is full of the best places to go in April.

Volunteer Park is a beautiful place with walking paths, fountains, and even a small zoo.

You can walk around the park’s grounds or explore its many attractions.

If you love markets, Pike Place Market is great to find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted artisan goods.

Another favorite hotspot is the Olympic Sculpture Garden, featuring sculptures by world-famous artists like Mark di Suvero and Richard Serra.

There’s also an outdoor amphitheater where you can catch live performances throughout April.

Recommended Hotel: Lotte Hotel Seattle

Related: Must Try Restaurants in Seattle

5. Palm Springs – California

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

Palm Springs , known as a resort city, offers guests the chance to unwind in the low desert.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a great place to visit with kids or on your own.

Your young ones will love this zoo’s animals, including zebras, lions, antelope, giraffes, and more.

It also has an aviary where you can see birds of prey up close.

Visit a spa at the Agua Caliente Casino & Resort with a children’s center where kids can play while you get pampered.

Lastly, If you’re into nature but still want some city amenities nearby, look no further than Cathedral City.

This town has everything from hiking trails to shopping malls, so there’s something for everyone.

Recommended Hotel: Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa-Rancho Mirage

Related: Top Restaurants: Palm Springs

Related: Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget

6. Denver – Colorado

Denver, CO (800) 233-6837 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Denver is called “Mile High City” because its elevation is over 5,000 feet above sea level.

Denver Art Museum is an excellent option if you love art or history exhibitions.

It’s located downtown, so it’s easy to get to by public transportation or car.

It features over 60 galleries full of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and pieces from local artists.

And if nature is more your speed, head out to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre for some hiking or picnicking.

There are plenty of places where you can enjoy views from above while getting some fresh air on your hike up one of the trails.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver

Related: Food Places in Denver

7. Santa Fe – New Mexico

Santa Fe, NM (800) 777-2489 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Santa Fe is a beautiful city with ancient adobe architecture and lovely Spanish colonial churches with a mountain desert backdrop.

If you’re interested in art, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is the place for you.

It has around 200 art collections of O’Keeffe and is an excellent place to learn about Native American culture.

Another place worth visiting is Ghost Ranch, with various natural wonders, including slot canyons, arroyos, sandstone cliffs, and rock formations.

If you’re looking for something a little more offbeat than traditional museums or galleries, check out Meow Wolf.

You can take your kids in this interactive art installation featuring immersive rooms that take you on wild adventures through space and time.

Recommended Hotel: Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi

Related: Places to Dine in Santa Fe

8. Philadelphia – Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Philadelphia , founded in 1682, is known as the city of Brotherly Love and home to the Liberty Bell.

The Franklin Institute is among the best US destinations in April thanks to its science museums and interactive exhibits for kids and adults.

If you’re looking for something relaxing and scenic, hike through Valley Forge National Historical Park.

You’ll get an up-close look at wildlife and nature while learning about our country’s history.

Take time to visit Spruce Street Harbor Park, an urban beach in Penn’s Landing.

It has a boardwalk along the Delaware River and a picturesque coastal setting perfect for a summer day.

Recommended Hotel: The Rittenhouse Hotel

Related: Best Food Places in Philadelphia

9. Anchorage – Alaska

Anchorage, AK (907) 276-4118 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Anchorage , a major metropolis and economic hub in Alaska, is framed by the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains.

Many beautiful trails around Anchorage, like the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, give you a great workout and incredible views.

Another fun trail to discover is the Ship Creek Trail, one of the most popular parks with an expansive space for exploration.

You can trail through wooded areas, open fields, and even along the shoreline at Ship Creek.

Picnic tables are scattered around if you want to stop and eat lunch while enjoying the breathtaking view.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Captain Cook

Related: Restaurants to Try in Anchorage

10. Las Vegas – Nevada

Las Vegas, NV (877) 847-4858 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Las Vegas is a dazzling party town on the border of the Mojave Desert, with glamorous casinos, restaurants , and performances.

The Venetian Hotel is the best place to vacation in April in the USA.

It offers fantastic views of the Las Vegas Strip, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment shows, making it an ideal place for your family.

Meanwhile, Fremont Street Experience has excellent food options, like the Eiffel Tower restaurant serving French cuisine.

You’ll also find a Ferris wheel here, with street performers to make you laugh or gasp in awe at their talent.

Remember to take your kids to Discovery Children’s Museum.

It’s an interactive jungle gym where kids can burn off some of their endless energy while learning about the natural world.

Recommended Hotel: The Venetian® Resort Las Vegas

Related: Best US Destinations in March

11. Outer Banks – North Carolina

Outer Banks, NC (252) 473-2138 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Outer Banks, also known as OBX, are a group of barrier islands stretching 200 miles from Virginia to North Carolina.

Built in 1870, The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must-see attraction in April.

You can climb the tower for 360-degree views of the surrounding beach or sit on the observation deck.

Next, head to Kill Devil Hills, one of the oldest towns on the Outer Banks, which features plenty of history and wildlife.

Several local museums are located here, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Currituck Heritage Park Museum.

Finally, don’t miss Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on North Carolina’s coast.

You’ll find a range of wildlife and incredible hiking trails leading you through beautiful natural areas.

Recommended Hotel: Adel’s Place

12. Texas Panhandle – Texas

Panhandle, TX Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Texas Panhandle, located in the state’s northern region, is named for its unusual shape that resembles a panhandle.

Take your family to Amarillo Zoo, home to more than 1,000 animals, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants.

It’s also a petting zoo where you can feed animals such as goats and lambs.

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can go fishing or swim in the lake.

Another great place to visit in April is Llano Estacado.

This area has over 100 miles of trails leading to beautiful lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, making it ideal for hiking and camping trips.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Santa Fe Inn

13. Nashville – Tennessee

Nashville, TN Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nashville , known as the “Athens of the South,” is the capital of Tennessee and is located along the Cumberland River.

If you’re unsure where to go in April, head to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

The museum features exhibits covering country music genres and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.

There’s also an interactive exhibit where you can play instruments like drums and guitars.

Besides, if you’re interested in learning more about Tennessee’s history and culture, check out The Parthenon.

You’ll see a replica of the Greek Parthenon standing atop a hill overlooking Centennial Park, so don’t forget to take pictures.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville

Related: Popular Restaurants in Nashville

14. Park City – Utah

Park City, UT (800) 453-1360 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Park City is a significant ski destination and home to the Sundance Film Festival.

One of the top places to visit in Park City in April is Olympic Park.

This world-class facility was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics and now offers numerous exciting activities for visitors.

Zipline through the trees, ride on the bobsled track or try your hand at the Nordic jumping complex.

If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are plenty of great hiking and mountain biking trails.

The Round Valley trail system offers more than 20 miles of trails that wind through the stunning Wasatch Mountains.

The trails range from easy to complex, giving you plenty of choices depending on your comfort.

Recommended Hotel: Park City Peaks

Related: Must Eat Restaurants in Park City

15. Nantucket – Massachusetts

Nantucket, MA (508) 228-7255 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nantucket is a beautiful island off the coast of Cape Cod known for its historic charm and beautiful scenery.

The Brant Point Lighthouse is one of the best places to go.

Since 1746, this famous landmark has been guiding ships into Nantucket Harbor.

It also has beautiful views where people can climb to the top of the lighthouse to see the island from above.

In addition, Surfside Beach is an excellent place to go if you want to relax.

It is known for having soft waves and a sandy shore, making it a great place to swim and lay out in the sun.

Recommended Hotel: White Elephant Hotel

Related: Top Places to Eat in Nantucket

16. Atlanta – Georgia

Atlanta, GA (404) 521-6600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Atlanta , founded in 1837, is the capital and largest city in Georgia, located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the best April vacations where you can escape the city’s chaos and enjoy nature.

The garden has many exotic plants, impressive sculptures, and art installations to explore.

Furthermore, Georgia Aquarium is an excellent option for family entertainment.

Thousands of marine species, such as sharks, dolphins, beluga whales, and more, call this enormous aquarium home.

Lastly, Piedmont Park is perfect for picnics and outdoor activities thanks to its enormous lake, playgrounds, and open grassy areas.

Every April, numerous events take place in the park, including the Atlanta Dogwood Festival.

Recommended Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

Related: Must Eat Places in Atlanta

17. Boston – Massachusetts

Boston, MA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Boston is well known for its top-notch sports facilities, elite educational campuses, and renowned art institutions.

Start your day by visiting the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country.

In April, the park is full of pretty flowers and lush greenery, which makes it an excellent place for a stroll or a picnic.

The New England Aquarium is another fantastic destination to visit with your family.

This aquarium consists of fascinating marine animals like penguins, seals, and sharks.

With its many exhibits and hands-on displays, the aquarium is a fun and educational place for people of all ages.

Recommended Hotel: The Newbury Boston

Related: Best Eats in Boston

18. San Francisco – California

San Francisco, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Francisco rose to prominence in 1849 as the site of the California Gold Rush.

The Golden Gate Bridge, which connects the city to Marin County, is one of the most famous places to see.

Tourists like to take pictures on the bridge, and it’s a great place to visit San Francisco Bay and the city skyline.

The San Francisco Bay Area is also a must-see destination.

Besides being a popular place for boating and other water activities, this expansive bay is home to various marine life.

Several boat cruises and charters are available in April to explore the area while enjoying the pleasant weather.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Related: Great Restaurants in San Francisco

19. Sawtooth Mountains – Idaho

Sawtooth Mountains, ID Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Sawtooth Mountains are full of hiking trails, rocky summits, pristine alpine lakes, and rushing snowmelt creeks.

The Sawtooth Wilderness Area is one of the best places to travel in April.

Over 730,000 acres are a nature sanctuary for animals like bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles.

If you’re up for hiking, more than 300 hiking paths are available, including the well-known Alpine Way Trail and Iron Creek Trail.

All the exhaustion will be worth it when you see beautiful panoramas of the mountains and woods.

Recommended Hotel: Sun Valley Resort

Related: Best Places to Visit in the USA in May

20. Hot Springs – Arkansas

Hot Springs, AR (501) 321-2277 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hot Springs is located in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, known for its natural hot springs and stunning mountain views.

Known as one of the best cities to visit in April, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation.

Check out the Hot Springs National Park to chill out.

This park is home to a series of thermal hot springs used for therapeutic and medicinal purposes.

You can dip in the thermal waters or enjoy a soothing soak in one of the bathhouses.

Additionally, explore the Ouachita National Forest with a stunning natural area that covers over 1.8 million acres.

Aside from the magnificent landmarks, you can enjoy forest-based activities, including hiking, camping, and boating.

Recommended Hotel: The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Related: Best Food Spots in Hot Springs

21. Florida Keys – South Florida

Florida Keys, FL (800) 352-5397 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands located in the southernmost part of the state.

Noted for its crystal clear waters, stunning sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere, visiting the Keys is considered one of the best trips in April.

Your getaway isn’t complete without a visit to its stunning beaches , including Sombrero Beach.

If you want more adventure, try scuba diving to explore the vibrant underwater world.

Moreover, take the Key West Conch Tour Train to learn about the city’s culture by stopping by famous landmarks.

Recommended Hotel: Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

Related: Top Florida Keys Restaurants

22. Skagit Valley – Washington

Skagit Valley, WA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Skagit Valley is well-known for its abundant natural attractions, agricultural roots, and vibrant cultural life.

This city is considered one of the most popular places to travel in April with its celebration of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

You can enjoy the beauty of the tulip fields, attend live music and entertainment events, and shop for local products.

Also, visit the Skagit Valley Wildlife Area if you want a taste of nature.

You have plenty of activities to do with the family, like hiking trails, fishing in the Skagit River, and watching for wildlife in the wetlands.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites Burlington

23. Ennis – Texas

Ennis, TX (972) 878-4748 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ennis is a small town located just outside Dallas with a population of about 21,000.

If you’re searching for cheap places to visit in April, this town is the one you’re looking for.

One of its main attractions is celebrating the annual Bluebonnet Festival, which takes place every April.

Join in the festivities as you enjoy the carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment.

If you want to learn about the city’s rich history, visit the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum.

This museum chronicles the city’s development from a little railroad junction to an important center for the cotton industry.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Ennis

24. Blue Ridge Parkway

Asheville, NC (828) 670-1924 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful and iconic road stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains.

If you’re searching for places near you featuring majestic views while driving, this should be on top of your list.

Not only is it famous for being a scenic driveway, but you can also perform other activities in the area.

Go for a hiking activity with over 100 trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

You can also try birdwatching at The Peaks of Otter, where you can see various species of birds.

Recommended Hotel: Stonebrook Lodge

25. Moab – Utah

Moab, UT (435) 259-5121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Moab is a small town in the Red Rock Desert east of the state.

It is a stunning beauty, with sandstone cliffs, ancient ruins, and a history that stretches back thousands of years.

If you want to witness picturesque sandstone arches, head to Arches National Park.

The park also offers hiking trails and camping, immersing visitors in the area’s beauty.

Visit Canyonlands National Park if you seek even more outdoor adventure.

The park offers unique hiking, camping, and sightseeing opportunities while exploring the park’s many majestic canyons.

Moreover, check out the Moab Museum if you want to learn about Moab’s rich history.

Recommended Hotel: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton

Related: Where to Eat in Moab

26. Santa Catalina Island – California

Santa Catalina Island, CA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Just off the coast of Los Angeles is Santa Catalina Island , one of the must visit places in the USA in April, with its spectacular nature.

One of the island’s main attractions is its picturesque beach towns, like the Avalon.

These towns will have various lodging options filled with restaurants, shops, and activities to keep you entertained.

If you’re looking for outdoor fun, take a snorkeling trip to discover the island’s crystal-clear waters and marine life.

Additionally, if you want a more guided tour around the island, head to the Catalina Island Conservancy.

They offer exciting tours, including hikes to the island’s highest peak Mount Orizaba, and visits to the botanical garden.

Recommended Hotel: Aurora Hotel

Related: Dining in Catalina Island

27. Disney World – Florida

1375 E Buena Vista Dr Orlando, FL 32830 (407) 939-5277 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Walt and Roy Disney founded Disney World, famously known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” in 1971.

Experience one of the family’s best birthday trips in April, from thrilling theme park rides, immersive live shows, and nighttime entertainment.

Among Disney World’s theme parks, Magic Kingdom is the most iconic.

Enjoy its breathtaking attractions and rides like Cinderella Castle, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Splash Mountain.

If you want to see some of your favorite movies in person, head to Hollywood Studios theme park.

You can immerse yourself in popular attractions like the Tower of Terror and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Recommended Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

28. Kauai – Hawaii

Kauai, HI (808) 822-2846 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kauai , also known as the “Garden Isle,” is the fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands.

One of the best warm places to visit in April, Kauai is known for its tropical landscape with beautiful beaches , towering mountains, and waterfalls.

Go for a hiking trip to the Kalalau Trail, an 11-mile hike that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and remote beaches.

If you prefer a more aquatic adventure, Kauai offers the best snorkeling and diving activities.

Tunnels Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling with its shallow reef, underwater caverns, and abundant marine life.

What’s more, if you’re interested in learning about the island’s rich history, check out the Kauai Museum.

The museum showcases the island’s history from ancient times to the present with artifacts, displays, and interactive exhibits.

Recommended Hotel: Hanalei Colony Resort

Related: Must Try Restaurants in Kauai

29. Naples – Florida

Naples, FL (239) 213-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in the 1800s by Walter N. Haldeman, Naples is a vibrant city known for its white beaches and world-class dining .

Located in one of the best states to visit in April, it is the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.

One of the city’s best attractions is its 10-mile white sandy beaches and pristine waters, including Vanderbilt Beach.

Next, head to their historic downtown area to stroll and experience the city’s splendor.

It’s filled with art galleries, fine dining restaurants, and world-renowned shops, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.

Recommended Hotel: The Capri Inn

30. Texas Hill Country – Texas

Texas Hill Country, TX (512) 763-0051 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Texas Hill Country, located in the central part of the state, is known for its rolling hills, scenic rivers, and abundant wildlife.

This fantastic spot has everything if you’re looking for the best April vacation spots.

This region is famous for various habitats, including oak-juniper woodlands, savannas, and grasslands.

Go on a hiking trip at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, traversing 11 miles of hiking trails.

Alternatively, you can go fishing at the Guadalupe River if you prefer a more relaxing trip.

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Hunt – Stablewood Springs Resort

31. Sedona – Arizona

Sedona, AZ (928) 282-7722 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in 1902, Sedona is a small town in the heart of the Red Rock Country.

With its stunning views and serene atmosphere, it’s no surprise that it is the best place to visit in April in the USA.

It is surrounded by towering red sandstone cliffs and breathtaking natural beauty, especially during spring.

If you’re into outdoor activities, go hiking at the Bell Rock Trail and witness the stunning views of the red rock formations.

For an adrenaline-pumping experience, take a jeep tour to explore the area’s rugged terrain and beautiful scenery.

Additionally, take a hot air balloon ride over the cascading landscapes to see Sedona from a different perspective.

Recommended Hotel: L’Auberge De Sedona

Related: Top Restaurants: Sedona

32. Antelope Valley – California

Lancaster, CA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Antelope Valley, located in northern Los Angeles County, is named after the Pronghorn Antelopes that once roamed the area.

This place is known for its dry climate during April, making it a popular destination for travelers.

One of the more notable activities is visiting the valley’s largest city, Lancaster.

Take a trip to The BLVD, the city’s entertainment district, where you can enjoy many shops, restaurants, and events.

You can also join in the festivities, like the annual Poppy Festival every April.

In addition to its vibrant cities, Antelope Valley is also home to many scenic natural areas.

Among them is the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, a stunning expanse of rolling hills covered in a blanket of orange poppies every spring.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Desert Poppy Inn

33. Nā Pali Coast – Hawaii

Kapaʻa, HI (808) 274-3444 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Nā Pali Coast is a truly unique and breathtakingly beautiful stretch of coastline located on the island of Kauai.

With its towering sea cliffs, verdant valleys, and pristine beaches, it is a natural wonder that draws visitors worldwide.

This place is a common destination during April for its wide range of activities and scenic views.

Among the more popular things to do is kayaking the calm waters.

A kayak tour is a great way to explore and see hidden coves and beaches.

And, if you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can spend the day at the pristine Kee Beach along the coast.

Recommended Hotel: Club Wyndham Ka Eo Kai

34. Grand Teton National Park – Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park, WY 83414 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located deep within the Rocky Mountains, Grand Teton National Park is a haven of unparalleled scenic splendor.

You don’t have to look further for one of the best April weekend getaways at Grand Teton National Park.

As you travel through the park, you will be struck by the beauty of the Teton Range.

When the sun shines down on the snow-covered mountains, the sight is so stunning that it will make you lose your breath.

Wildlife viewing is common every April, where various animals, including bison and elks, can be seen.

Recommended Hotel: The Alpenhof

35. Bisti Badlands – New Mexico

County Road 7297 Bloomfield, NM 87413 (505) 564-7600 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Bisti Badlands covers almost 45,000 of land south of Farmington.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in April in the USA, this should be on your top list.

The badlands are made up of large areas of sand and rocks, hoodoos, and other picturesque formations.

It features a unique and captivating landscape offering a wide range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

Go on a hiking trip that goes through the landscape and gives close-up views of the colorful rock formations.

Moreover, April is also the ideal month to take photos of dramatic landscapes from the badlands, so get that camera ready.

Recommended Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Bloomfield

Traveler’s Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

April is a great time to visit some of the USA’s most vibrant and diverse cities. 

You bet, I’ve been there and done that.

Let me tell you about that one time in Washington D.C. which was like stepping into a fairy tale.

The cherry blossoms were at their peak, and the air was filled with a sweet, delicate fragrance. 

I remember strolling through the National Mall, petals falling around me like soft, pink snow.

Strolling under the canopies of these blossoms is an enchanting experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

And New Orleans, what an adventure it was.

I can still feel the rhythm of the jazz music, taste the spicy jambalaya, and see the vibrant colors of the Mardi Gras beads.

In Austin, it’s all about chilling out with some fantastic live music and a good old Texas BBQ.

During my visit, I experienced the creative and eclectic vibe of the Texas capital to the fullest.

And did I mention the wildflower carpets that spring brings to the Hill Country?

Each city was its own journey and unique story; you simply can’t compare them.

Washington D.C. is a walk through history’s pages, New Orleans is a city all about music, food, and celebration, and Austin is the place to be for live music and a laid-back vibe. 

Whether you seek culture, nature, or entertainment, these cities offer a fun travel experience in April.

How I Picked The Destinations 

Every year, in April, I take the time off to explore incredible destinations in the USA.

And I’m thrilled to share my findings with you. 

I’ve done my homework by exploring each city, researching its top attractions and activities, and immersing myself in the local scene.

So, prepare to create cherished family memories this April by discovering these captivating destinations.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family-friendly Activities: This criterion evaluates the family-friendly activities of every location. Does it offer kid-friendly events and activities? What entertainment options are available? Are there attractions for the whole family? Does it have public parks or zoos? I ask myself these questions when rating family-friendly activities. 
• Safety: I use this to assess safety. Are the public spaces well-maintained? Does it have low crime rates? Is it safe for families? I consider these factors when evaluating safety. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate affordability. Are there budget-friendly activities and entertainment options in the area? Does it have free attractions? Are there discounts and deals for tourists? I consider these questions when rating affordability. 
• Accessibility: This criterion assesses accessibility. Does it have an efficient public transport system? Are the roads well-maintained and easy to navigate? Are there free parking spaces in popular areas? Are the popular attractions wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing accessibility. 
• Educational Value: I use this to evaluate a destination’s educational value. Does it have kid-friendly museums? Does it have public libraries or visitor centers? Are there historical buildings and landmarks? Are there opportunities to experience and learn more about the area’s culture and traditions? I consider these factors when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What us state is best to visit in april.

Colorado is one of the best US states to visit in April, as it offers a combination of beautiful spring weather, vibrant wildflowers, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring national parks like Rocky Mountain National Park. Other states that are also popular destinations in April include California, Alaska, Maine, Hawaii, New Mexico, Vermont, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Tennessee, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Utah.

Where In The USA Is Warm In April?

In April, Florida is a warm destination in the USA, with cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa experiencing pleasant temperatures in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The state’s numerous beaches, theme parks, and outdoor attractions make it ideal for a warm getaway. Other states with warm weather in April include Arizona, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.

How Do You Choose The Best Places To Visit In The USA For A Trip In April?

When choosing the best places to visit in the USA for a trip in April, consider destinations that offer pleasant weather, diverse attractions, and unique events. It’s crucial to consider your interests and preferences when selecting the best places to visit. Some factors that may influence your decision are the type of vacation you want, your budget, the distance you’re willing to travel, activities you enjoy, and events you want to attend.

Conclusion 

As you can see, there are many best places to visit in April in the USA. 

Whether you want to enjoy nature, culture, or history, you can find a destination that suits your preferences and budget. 

Washington D.C. is your best bet if you’re into history and culture.

But if you’re a music lover and foodie at heart, you’d fall in love with New Orleans and Austin. 

The former will charm you with its unique blend of Cajun cuisine and jazz music, while the latter will amaze you with its eclectic music scene and food trucks.

But if I had to choose one place that stands out from the rest, it would be Washington D.C.

It’s the country’s capital for a reason. 

Not only is it home to many iconic landmarks, but it also offers a variety of attractions and activities for families. 

I have visited many places in the area, but Washington D.C. remains my top choice for an unforgettable April vacation.

23 Best Places To Visit In The USA In April (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

April is one of the best times to travel in the United States. Winter has left most of northern USA which means the snow has melted, the grass is green again, and beautiful spring flowers are in full bloom. In the southern United States, it is some of the last days before stifling heat returns. In addition, most of the month is low season so you should be able to find inexpensive flights and hotels, and explore with fewer crowds. So where should you go for an April holiday in the USA? Here are 23 best places to visit in the USA that include exciting cities, beautiful beaches, breathtaking mountains and nature escapes, and charming small towns.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

For those looking for quieter less visited places in the USA in April, please see 24 Beautiful Hidden Gems To Visit In USA In Spring .

If you only have a few days to getaway, check out 27 Best Spring Weekend Getaways in the USA .

Alternatively, if you are seeking romance or the best sunsets, please see 24 Best Honeymoon Destinations In USA In May and 24 Best Places In USA For Most Beautiful Sunsets .

You may be wondering what amazing destinations await you in Europe in April. There are lots! Take a look at 25 Best Places To Visit In Europe In April to see if you can resist temptation.

Not sure when you might travel? For other fantastic destinations in the USA around April, including cities, towns, national and state parks, please see:

• 20 Best Cities To Visit In The USA ;
• 26 Best Places To Visit In The USA In March ; and
• 25 Best Places To Visit In The USA In May .

Best April Vacations In The United States

Here are 23 best April getaways in America. They include a wonderful list of cities, towns, beaches, state parks, and national parks from all over the country, including Hawaii.

In the following article, I list and describe the best things to do, expected weather, easiest way to reach the spot, and what makes April such a good time to visit. In addition, I highlight any special annual events or festivals that take place during April and a fantastic place to stay.

Big Sur, California

By Dhara from Roadtripping California

Big Sur  in California is beautiful any time of the year, but it is especially stunning in late March and April. For so many reasons, it is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of the USA in April.

California gets most of its rainfall in winter and early spring, so come April, the hills and cliffs turn a beautiful emerald green, and wildflowers are in full bloom and put on a colorful display. Combine this with the intrinsic beauty of the region and you have a truly spectacular natural setting for your vacation.

Hiking in Big Sur is extremely scenic in April. Pick from a large number of trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. Many of the coastal bluff trails feature a variety of spring wildflowers, from bush lupine to wild mustard, wild irises, and California poppies. 

Many visitors just enjoy driving Big Sur as part of a larger California vacation, and April is a good time for this scenic drive. With a high likelihood of bright clear days, the ocean vistas along this road trip are drop-dead beautiful. 

If you enjoy landscape photography, the waterfalls in Big Sur look their best in April. You will also likely get fog-free days for your photo shoots at this time. Photographers will also want to stop at Bixby Creek Bridge, which is one of the more beautiful places in spring with the backdrop of the green hills. 

You will likely have bright sunny days for your April Big Sur visit. Daytime temperatures tend to be in the 60s (Fahrenheit) with average lows around 49°F. There is only 1.2 inches of rain over 4 days.

Best Way To Reach Destination

Monterey Regional Airport is the closest airport to the north end of Big Sur, but many people fly into San Francisco, San Jose, or Oakland, and then drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea to begin the drive south as part of a California Coast road trip. The drive is about 90 minutes from San Jose and about 2 hours from San Francisco or Oakland.

Hotel Recommendation

Dhara says, “Hotels in Big Sur tend to be pricey, but Big Sur Lodge is relatively affordable and centrally located. If you are looking to splurge, Ventana Big Sur has a spectacular scenic location.”

Williamsburg, Virginia

By Cortney Edwards from Tin Can Living

Williamsburg, Virginia is one of the best April vacations on the east coast of the United States. The weather is just right and there are plenty of events happening this month. It’s a great time to get out and explore what this wonderful city has to offer – from outdoor activities like golfing or biking, to indoor entertainment at the Williamsburg Winery.

The best things to do during your visit include exploring one of the most popular attractions in Virginia – Colonial Williamsburg – considered the largest outdoor educational living museum in the United States. This is a historic district where actors in period costumes depict daily Colonial life everywhere you go – in the streets, stores and workshops. This attraction is sure to please any history buff.

For those of you who love to find a bargain, check out the Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings at Merchant Square, just off Duke of Gloucester St. This flea market has everything from fresh produce to furniture and is a fun place for the whole family .

If you’re looking for some exercise, you can grab some kayaks at the William & Mary Outdoor Center and paddle around on one of Virginia’s beautiful rivers.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a lovely day sampling wine from award-winning wineries, consider Williamsburg Winery. It is open daily and offer free wine tastings every day except Sunday.

In April, there are lots of fun events for the whole family, like Water Country USA or Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Enjoy a thrilling coaster ride, water slides, or sample some yummy German food from at Busch Gardens’ Biergarten.

Williamsburg, with so many things to do, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be planning your trip right now!

The average high temperature in April is 76 o F and average evening lows are 51°F. You can expect around 3.2 inches of rain over 9 days.

The closest international airport is in Richmond, Virginia. From there you can rent a car and drive to the city of Williamsburg in about an hour.

Another airport option is in Norfolk. It is also approximately an hour’s drive by car.

Cortney says, “If you are looking for a great place to rest your head at night, check out the Embassy Suites Hotel in Williamsburg. This hotel is just a short drive from all of the attractions and offers free breakfast every morning and an indoor pool!”

Oahu, Hawaii

By Michelle from Intentional Travellers

Hawaii is one of the best tropical beach destinations to visit in April in the United States, especially if you’re trying to escape rainy spring climates. By visiting in April, you can often avoid the crowds that come for Spring Break and summer. 

Each Hawaiian island has its own unique features and culture. Oahu is the third largest island in the Hawaiian chain and nicknamed “the gathering place”. Just under a million people call Oahu home with the largest population  in Honolulu , the state capital.

With the big city comes more local activities, restaurants, and cultural events than you might find on smaller islands. April on Oahu typically includes the Waikiki Spring Festival, Children’s Film and Music Festival, Honolulu Fun Fest, and several other cultural festivals as well as markets and craft fairs.

Popular activities around Honolulu include hiking Diamond Head, an iconic crater with beautiful views over the Pacific Ocean and the city center.

Visitors can also enjoy the sandy city beaches of Waikiki near Honolulu. Then, after a long day lounging in the sand, sample food at the restaurants and markets in Chinatown.

If interested in history, consider visiting Pearl Harbor and its very poignant memorials.

For those feeling adventurous, rent a car and take a day trip around the island, discovering untouched beaches and beautiful nature.

There’s something for everyone – from hiking and surfing, lounging at the beach, visiting museums and historic sites, to browsing farmer’s markets. It is the perfect destination for a milestone birthday .

Honolulu daytime temperatures aren’t yet too hot in April. Average high temps are in the 81°F while evenings rarely drop below 71°F. You can expect around 1.5 inches of rain over 4 days.

Honolulu is also conveniently next to the Honolulu international airport (HNL). You can easily rent car and drive 20 minutes to downtown, take public transit or hop into a ride share. You do not need a car if you only plan to spend your time in Honolulu.

Michelle says, “To enjoy a central beach location in the main hub of tourist activity and walking distance to numerous restaurants, stay at Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort.

New Orleans, Louisiana

By Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

New Orleans is one of the best cities on the east coast in America to visit in April. Temperatures are beautiful and warm with lots of sunny days. Moreover, it is one of the last months before the extreme summer heat arrives so it is still perfect for exploring. It is also a great time to visit as it is low season with great hotel deals.

A visit to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without spending at least one day and night in the French Quarter. There are fantastic restaurants, great shopping, and a lot of history in this beautiful part of New Orleans.

At night, it is one of the most popular places in New Orleans and the streets come alive with party goers. At all times of the day, there are tons of street performers everywhere you go.

Another “must do” activity is visiting the National WWII Museum. Even if you have no interest in American or World War II, this is an incredible museum. It is completely interactive as you learn about America’s role in Asia and Europe during WWII. You are completely immersed in sounds, videos, lights, and displays.

Did you know that you can hold your own parade with police escort in New Orleans or that the legal drinking age is 18 if you are with your parents? For other valuable tips for first time visitors including safety, where to stay and eat, transportation, and things to do, please see  40 Best Travel Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are traveling to New Orleans with kids or teens, check out this  5 Day Itinerary . I guarantee you that they will love it!

Average temperatures in April is 79 o F with evening lows of 64 o F. It is mostly sunny although you can expect around 4.5 inches of rainfall over 7 days.

Louis Armstrong International Airport is only a 20 minutes drive from the French Quarter. There is fantastic public transportation in New Orleans so unless you plan to take day trips, you won’t need a car in New Orleans.

Nicole says, “We stayed at the  Omni Royal Orleans  in the center of the French Quarter. It was a beautiful hotel in an amazing location. We were a couple of blocks from Bourbon Street and all the action, but we never heard a sound from our hotel room.”

Skagit Valley, Washington

By Karee from Woven Journey

April is a fantastic time to visit Washington state, specifically because of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival . Voted one of the top ten flower festivals in the US by Oprah Magazine, the tulip festival brings in over a million visitors each year. With gorgeous vistas, Skagit Valley is one of the best April holiday destinations on the west coast of the USA.

Many people come to visit either Tulip Town or Roozengaarde Display Gardens and walk the tulip farms . For those that don’t want to walk, you can see the tulips by simply taking a scenic drive by the flower fields.  

There is also a street fair held on the third weekend in April with over 140 local vendors, food trucks, live music and entertainment for the whole family. In addition, the Kiwanis Club hosts a salmon barbeque throughout the month that is quite popular.

There are a lot of cool small towns in the area, including La Conner. One of the best things that you can do from La Conner is to take the Chaukanut Drive . This curvy drive is approximately 24 miles and hugs the sheer sandstone cliffs of the Chuckanut Mountains.

Chuckanut Drive overlooks Samish Bay and offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands. There are a few excellent seafood restaurants along the way, so make sure you stop for lunch or dinner.

As you might expect, weekends, especially those with good weather, can be extremely busy at the tulip fields. Try to plan your visit for a weekday, even if the weather isn’t perfect, for a much less crowded experience.

Average high temperature is 58 o F and average lows are 41 o F so dress in layers. You can expect 2.8 inches of rain over 11 days so bring a packable rain jacket.

Located in La Conner, Washington, the main international airport is Seattle-Tacoma, although there are smaller airports in Everett and Bellingham that can also be used. The tulip fields are about an hour’s drive north of Seattle. It is also possible to do a day trip from Vancouver, British Columbia .

Karee says, “One of the most popular bed and breakfasts in the area is The Heron in La Conner . Make reservations early though since it books up for April.”

San Diego, California

By Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

San Diego in Southern California is a fantastic US April getaway as it is still shoulder season and the weather is very pleasant. In addition, the wild flowers are starting to bloom along the coastline and around the city. This makes for some amazing hikes, picnics and outdoors activities for which the region is known.

There are many popular attractions in San Diego in spring time. Consider visiting Balboa Park for the lovely botanical gardens, Japanese gardens and seasonal exhibits at the 17 museums and cultural institutions found in the Balboa Park District.

Exploring the outdoors in April is a must. Some fantastic coastal hikes include the Bayside trail at Cabrillo National Monument, or visit Torrey Pines Forest Preserve. Alternatively, if you want more thrills, consider mountain biking, climbing, or horseback riding.

For a large selection of different water sports’ activities like surfing, kayaking or snorkeling, spend the day at the beautiful beaches of La Jolla. In fact, San Diego is known for some of the best beaches in America, especially for those looking for a  warm winter beach destination in the USA .

The craft brewery scene is thriving all around the city. There are over 150 different craft breweries and cider houses in the region, many of which are in local neighborhoods. Popular choices are Mission Brewery, Coronado Brewing Company or Original 40 Brewing company.

April brings mild temperatures in the low 70s with lots of sun although evenings drop to high 50s F. There is practically no rain.

Flying into San Diego International Airport puts you right into the center of the city with easy access to the downtown and historic district of the city. San Diego is relatively spread out so it is best to rent a car to explore.

There are many areas where you can stay in the downtown core and the old town district or on the ocean. An iconic hotel is the  Coronado Hotel  located in Coronado. You are right on the beach and worth the splurge.

Zion National Park, Utah

By Matt And Alysha from Wheatless Wonderlust

Zion National Park is a spectacular April destination in America. You’ll be in the spring shoulder season, which is the perfect time to visit one of the best national parks in America. Weather will be warm, but not blazing hot like the summer. It will be relatively dry and the crowds will be thinner than the summer months.

There are a couple of things that you absolutely cannot miss over the course of your trip to Zion National Park . 

First is hiking. There are a number of great hikes in Zion for a range of experience and fitness levels. Tackle Angel’s Landing for commanding views of the valley, or wade into the Virgin River Narrows to experience one of the most unique hikes in the country (make sure to check with the rangers about flash flood warnings, especially in April).

The second thing not to miss is driving Zion, such as Mount Carmel Highway through the tunnel and the less-visited eastern side of the park. Checkerboard Mesa, in particular, is an impressive geological wonder where erosion has created an interesting checkerboard pattern over thousands and thousands of years.

On your way back, for a quick and easy hike that gives you one of the best views of the canyon in the park, hike the Canyon Overlook trail just outside the tunnel on the east side. 

The average high temperatures is 75 degrees, and the average low is 44 degrees, with practically no rain.

The easiest international airport near Zion is Las Vegas , which is 160 miles southwest of the Park. It is about a two and a half hours drive from the airport to the National Park entrance. 

Matt and Alysha say, “The best places to stay in Zion are going to be inside the Park – either at the Zion Lodge, or one of the two campgrounds near the park entrance.

Another option is in the town of Springdale, which is just outside the Park entrance.

The Cable Mountain Lodge is a stylish hotel right outside the park entrance that is walkable to the park and main shuttle stop, which means you won’t have to wait in long lines to enter the park, or deal with the parking at the visitor center.”

Chicago, Illnois

Chicago is an amazing place to visit any time of year, but it is one of the best city escapes in the USA in April. The harsh winter is gone and the hot humid summer is still a couple months away. In addition, it is low season. With less demand, you should be able to find good hotel deals, have easier access to great restaurants, and more freedom to enjoy amazing museums and other experiences.

Chicago is a fantastic walking city. It is flat and the most iconic tourist attractions are all easy to reach from the downtown core.

Spend an afternoon shopping along the Magnificent Mile. There is something for everyone. Within a few blocks of shopping, you can rent a bike or walk on a paved trail for miles along Lake Michigan. In addition, the Lincoln Zoo and Millennium Park (both free) are also close and well worth a visit.

If you are in the mood for museums or art, you have access to some of the best in the world. The extraordinary Museum of Science and Industry is a massive interactive museum where you can lose yourself exploring fun and interesting exhibits including a captured German submarine from WWII.

The Field Museum of Natural History allows you to climb into an Egyptian Pyramid whereas the Chicago Art Institute has an exceptional Impressionist collection. It is also one of the oldest and largest art museums in the USA. 

For a description of some of the best things to do in downtown Chicago with kids and teens, please see 22 Best Things To Do In Downtown Chicago With Teens .

The average high temperature in Chicago in April is 57 o F. You should expect around 3.0 inches of rain over 8 days.

You can fly into Chicago O’hare International Airport or Chicago Midway International Airport. O’hare is 25 miles from downtown whereas Midway is only 10 miles. Traffic can be terrible so be prepared.

Avoid renting a car as parking is expensive anywhere downtown. Chicago has a fantastic public transit system and lots of shared riding services.

Nicole says, “Consider staying at the Fairfield Inn And Suites in Downtown River North . They offer large comfortable rooms in a fantastic location for a good price. For something a little more upscale with a separate a living room, try the Omni Chicago Hotel .”

Key West, Florida

By Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the best tropical beach holidays on the east coast of the United States in April is  Key West, Florida . The weather is fantastic and hurricane season hasn’t yet started, so you don’t have to worry about a storm ruining your trip.

Once in Key West, there are plenty of things to do. The first thing is head to Duval Street. It’s the main street that everyone walks along and has bars, restaurants, shops, art galleries, and museums.

Another popular thing is to visit Ernest Hemingway’s home and learn about his life, his many wives, and of course, his six-toed cats.

You can also hire boats and gear for sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding and jet skis. Treasure hunting is very popular- don’t miss the treasure hunting museum in the middle of Key West.

Another thing popular in the Florida Keys is motorcycle touring. It’s possible to hire bikes at several locations and tour the islands.

If motorcycles aren’t for you, there are plenty of bicycle hire companies too so you can still explore Key West on two wheels. Don’t miss the Mile 0 marker of Route 1. Of course, you must get a photo of the marker of the most southernmost point on continental USA!

Also, no day in Key West is complete without seeing the sunset from Mallory Square.

Average high temperatures in the Florida Keys is 82°F and average low is 74°F. There is around 1.7 inches of rain over 5 days.

You can fly directly into Key West as they do have an international airport. However, it is small and flights are usually pretty pricey.

An alternative would be to fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) and then drive the four hours south to Key West. The drive itself is pretty iconic and fun, with great views of the ocean.

Hotels in Key West can get pretty expensive, especially near Duval Street. If you don’t mind being a little further away, the Hilton Garden Inn Key West is a good value.

Yosemite National Park, California

By Team Alpine from She Dreams Of Alpine

Enjoy awesome outdoor adventures on the west coast of the United States by spending time in April in Yosemite National Park, one of the best national parks in America, and Mammoth Lakes, one of the prettiest small towns in California.

If you love waterfalls , then Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to visit in the USA in April. With the spring melting of the snowcaps, many of the waterfalls in the Park will be at their peak flow.

You should definitely do some hiking to explore the beauty of Yosemite. Put the trails to Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls as well as Bridalveil Falls on the top of your “to do” list. You can also hike a section of the John Muir Trail , which begins in Yosemite.

The nearby mountain town of Mammoth Lakes also offers plenty to do in April, especially if you like to downhill ski. You can hit the slopes for some spectacular spring skiing at Mammoth Mountain Resort, when it’s less crowded and the lift tickets are cheaper.

The weather in April in Yosemite is generally pleasant with highs averaging in the low 70s and evening lows in the upper 40s F. However, you should expect unsettled weather depending on what you plan to do.

Winter has just ended so you may see melting snow if you head up into the mountains. As it is spring, you can expect a little bit of rain as well. Accordingly, bring layers and a rain shell, or a winter jacket if you plan to ski or explore the alpine.

Fly into the small Mammoth Yosemite Airport (about a 2.5 hour drive to Yosemite Valley) or one of the larger Oakland (3.5 hour drive), San Francisco (4 hour drive), or Reno/Tahoe (3 hour drive) airports.

You can spend your nights in Yosemite, although some campgrounds aren’t open yet and others are first-come/first-serve. Curry Village, the Yosemite Valley Lodge, and The Ahwahnee are all available in April.

You could also stay in Mammoth Lakes, with lots of lodging options in the Village at Mammoth or on Main Street.

New York City, New York

New York City is one of the best east coast American cities to visit in April in North America. You can shed your winter coat and enjoy spring with its mild warm days. Apart from Easter, it is less busy than the summer months which means better flight and hotel deals.

There are fantastic April events like Macy’s Flower Show held at Macy’s Herald Square. It features over 30,000 varieties of flowers and flowering trees and it is free.

Fifth Avenue celebrates with its Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival. The parade begins at 49th street and finishes at 57th Street.

And of course, the Cherry Blossom Festival at Brooklyn Botanical Garden is a very popular event that requires advanced tickets.

Beyond the seasonal celebrations, you have everything that New York City offers. Head to some of the more popular tourist attractions like the Statute of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park and Times Square. In April, you should be able to enjoy them with less crowds than late spring and summer.

If you are trying to figure out how to save money, stay safe, how best to get around, where to stay and eat, check out  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

The average temperature in New York City in April is around 60 o F. The majority of the days will see sun. However, around 8 days will see some light rain at some point in the day.

There are three international airports serving New York City – John F Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. They each offer shuttle services, ride shares, and bus access to NYC. Newark offers a train to Penn station in downtown New York.

Nicole says, “Nothing is quite as overwhelming as choosing a hotel in New York City. However, I have stayed at two that I have loved for the location, the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms – Hotel Kimpton Eventi and Knickerbocker Hotel . They are both a little upscale but good value for what they offer.

The Wave, Arizona

By Jenifer of The Evolista

In the middle of the desert, in the Coyote Buttes area at the state line between Utah and Arizona, is a sandstone formation called The Wave that draws visitors from all over the world. 

The Wave is one of the most interesting and beautiful places you’ll ever see. The red sandstone has been carved by water erosion since the Jurrasic age into troughs that have a stunning, wavelike appearance. 

The 5 mile round trip hike to get to the Wave is moderately challenging. Much of the hike is in soft sand along mountains. The heat in the summer and bitter cold in the winter make weather an important factor for a safe trek. Consequently, the mild climate in April makes this one of the best destinations to visit in April in the USA for those looking for outdoor adventures.

It can take a few days to score one of the 20 daily permits to visit the Wave but there are plenty of hotel options and things to do in Kanab, Utah while you wait. 

The sandstone Moqui caves, frequently featured on Instagram, are right in town. Another highlight closer to the Wave hike is Buckskin Gulch. This gorgeous 15 mile slot canyon requires no permit for day visitors and it starts from the same trailhead as The Wave. 

Average high in April is 67°F and average low is 37°F. There is virtually no rain.

To get a permit in The Wave Lottery , most people stay overnight in Kanab, Utah. It’s a 1.5 hour drive from St. George Airport, 3 hours from Las Vegas or 5 hours from Salt Lake City. The Wave Trailhead is an hour drive from Kanab.  

Jenifer says, “ The Canyons Lodge is a cute inn that’s well located near restaurants that you should check out.”

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

By Lance And Laura from Guide To Philly

One the best city breaks on the east coast of the United States in April is the “Birthplace of America” – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This city between the rivers is often overlooked in favor of Washington, DC or New York City, but it shouldn’t be.

The best reason to visit in April is that the city comes alive in the spring. Philly is the Garden Capital of America and is anchored by the massive Fairmount Park, the best and largest urban park in America. Within the park, there are thousands of cherry trees – a gift from the Japanese government. In April, these trees bloom, bathing one of America’s most beautiful cities in color.

April also brings tens of thousands of athletes to the city for important competitions. In track and field, thousands of college and university students come to participate in the Penn Relays. This meet is an important qualifier for the Olympics and World Championship events. It’s also one of the oldest athletic competitions in the world. 

Meanwhile, over on the Schuylkill River, rowers and crew teams come from the one of the largest regattas in the world. The famous Dad Vail regatta draws thousands of student athletes from across the country.

Visitors come to Philadelphia during April for the great weather. Most days are in the 60s, although the city does see around 3.6 inches of rain over 9 days. You should expect fewer crowds at the important historical sites, known as the most historic mile in America.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is close to downtown and can be reached by either the commuter train (called SEPTA) or taxi.

Lance and Laura say, “Visitors should consider staying in the historic center of the city. The Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District is close to all the sites and very convenient.”

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California, is a resort town in the middle of a desert oasis. Its’ warm weather and accessibility from Los Angeles make it a popular spot in the fall, winter and spring months. It is one of the best April trip destinations on the west coast of the United States.

Besides spending a  relaxing day at the pool or in natural hot springs , you can find many outdoor adventures. For example, take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world. You climb to the top of San Jacinto Peak for stunning views of Coachella Valley and numerous hiking trails.

Alternatively, spend the day exploring Joshua Tree National Park, one of several national parks in California. The National Park is only an hour’s drive from Palm Springs. Joshua Tree offers miles and miles of hikes, rock climbing, and gorgeous views of the valley. You can also visit and experience the National Park at night and go stargazing. 

For more city attractions, take a walk down Palm Canyon Drive, the heart of downtown Palm Springs. It is bursting with restaurants, museums, cool shopping, bars, and coffee shops. 

Since Palm Springs is in the desert, a great time to visit is in April. Average temperatures is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, with average highs reaching 87 F. Mornings are perfect for hiking and afternoons for sitting by the pool. There is virtually no rain.

Palm Springs is easy to reach. There is a small international airport outside of downtown. Another option is to fly into Los Angeles, rent a car, and drive about two hours (without traffic). 

“During your stay in Palm Springs, there are numerous luxury hotels to choose from. Talavera Palm Springs is a boutique hotel located only steps away from downtown. The small hotel provides an intimate and relaxing stay. Each suite has a private patio with an outdoor jacuzzi.”

Orlando, Florida

By Cee from It Za Family Thing

If you are looking for sunshine, blue skies, and low humidity, Orlando is one of the best American getaways on the east coast in April. Better yet, there is a ton of things to do in  Orlando, especially with kids .

Universal Orlando has Mardi Gras days every day until mid-April. This fun event includes music often played in The Big Easy with food from around the world. For tips on how to save money and jump to the front of the line for all Universal Orlando rides, take a look at Universal Studios Orlando: Unlock Hundreds of Dollars of Savings .

In addition, you shouldn’t miss the Epcot flower and garden festival in early April. The park is filled with over 30 million flowers to admire, along with food and drink samples that will make you never want to leave.

If you want to avoid theme parks, there are several festivals throughout the entire month. Two of the best are Fiesta at the Park and the Caribbean Fusion Festival.

Orlando’s Fiesta at the Park is an arts and crafts lover’s dream. This festival has craft booths, live music, food, and a play area for kids, plus it’s free.

The Caribbean Fusion festival offers traditional Caribbean music, dancers, and unbelievably delicious food. You will tour the Caribbean with a mix of Latin/African-inspired dishes. 

April is also the perfect time to visit one of the five fun waterparks in Orlando. The sun shines bright, so the weather is perfect for waterslides and the lazy river. With fewer crowds, Aquatica and Volcano Bay are the best water parks to visit in April.

There isn’t much rain in April (2.4 inches over 7 days), which means you can enjoy the sunny skies and average temperature of 80℉ during the day. However, it cools to 60℉ in the evening.

Orlando International Airport is centrally located. It is only a 20 minute drive to Universal Orlando.

Cee says, “Hotel prices are higher around Easter holiday and spring break. It’s best to stay at an Airbnb if you plan on visiting around then. During other times, Marriott’s Harbour Lake is a great mid-range budget option.

By Nikki From She Saves She Travels

If you’re looking for a fantastic April holiday in the United States, then Moab in Utah must be on your list! Moab is a dream destination for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. April is one of the best times to visit because the crowds are manageable and the weather is enjoyable. 

This delightful town is nearby a couple of national parks, including the famous Arches National Park and Delicate Arch, which is one of the  top things to do in Moab . But with over 2,000 arches in the park, take some time to hike and explore more of what this incredible desert landscape has to offer.

If you’re feeling adventurous, then Hell’s Revenge is for you. Get your heart pumping by driving a 4×4 vehicle off-road through extreme twists and turns, all the while enjoying spectacular scenery.

For more unbelievable sights, head over to the nearby Canyonlands National Park. Make a sunrise trip to the Park and take a short walk to Mesa Arch where you’ll witness the sun peeking through. While you’re there, be sure to stop at the Grand View Point and Green River Overlooks, too.

April is a fantastic time to visit Moab because the climate is moderate (some would even say perfect!) with highs averaging 73 degrees Fahrenheit in April and very little rain. 

If you’re flying to Moab instead of taking an April road trip, then the closest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport in Moab. However, it sees limited flights, so the closest major international airport is in Salt Lake City, Utah. From there, it’s about a 4 hour drive to Moab.

Nikki says, “There are many hotels and vacation rentals available in Moab. One of the best places to stay that is near all the action is the Expedition Lodge . Designed with fun, vintage décor and fully equipped with a free arcade, this hotel is fun for just about everyone. And bonus – it includes an outdoor pool, just in case!

Chincoteague, Virginia

By Erin from Go Hike Virginia

There’s a lot to love about Chincoteague especially on an April vacation on the east coast of the USA. In particular, seeing its’ untamed ponies which put this unspoiled barrier island on the map in 1961 with the movie premiere of  Misty of Chincoteague . 

The carefree nature of this laid back beach destination makes Chincoteague popular with families who come back year after year to laze on the white sandy beaches and rent cruiser bikes at The Bike Depot to explore the island on two wheels.

While popular in summer, Chincoteague can see more than its fair share of black flies and mosquitos. Thus, it is one of the best places to visit in the USA in April, well before the onslaught of pesky bugs.

Start your visit at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to hiking and biking trails. A walk along the Woodland and Bivalve Trails allows for far-reaching views across Tom’s Cove.

The short  Chincoteague Lighthouse Trail  is a must so you can admire the red-and-white striped Assateague Lighthouse. 

Sign up for a guided kayak tour or nature cruise with Assateague Explorer. From April to October, paddle or cruise across the grassy marshes and coastal waterways. Keep your eyes open for wild ponies, as well as egrets, eagles and dolphins. 

Do not leave Chincoteague Island without making a stop at Island Creamery on Maddox Blvd. Indulge in a scoop or two (or three). Flavors rotate, but look for tummy-tempting ice cream choices like Cake Batter, Mint Chip, Pony Tracks and Snickers Cheesecake. 

Temperatures are typically in the mild 60s, dropping to high 40s F in the evenings. You should expect around 3.2 inches of rain over 9 days.

It’s an easy two-hour drive from Norfolk, Virginia, home to an international airport, making it a snap to reach Virginia’s Eastern Shore and Chincoteague Island. 

Book a stay at the Refuge Inn , a motor lodge that has been  the  place to stay for generations. It’s been a mainstay on the island since 1973. It’s also mere steps from the entrance to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. 

Alabama Hills, California

By Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

If you’re looking for a fantastic outdoor nature retreat in April on the west coast of the USA, consider Alabama Hills, located by the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains in Southern California. The landscape here is incredible – huge monzogranite boulders are scattered across a desert landscape, with the towering Sierra Nevadas looming in the background.

While the Alabama Hills are gorgeous year round, they’re spectacular to visit in April. The temperature is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the mountains are still snow-capped, making the scenery even more dramatic.

During the day, explore some of the incredible hikes in the Alabama Hills. For example, hike up to the Mobius Arch, a natural arch perfectly framing the towering mountains in the background. Alternatively, if you’re up for a real adventure (and have some serious mountaineering skills), climb the nearby Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.

For a change of pace, check out the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, which chronicles the myriad of movies, both old and new (from Django Unchained to Tremors ), that have used Alabama Hills as its shooting locations. Perhaps its popularity with filmmakers should be no surprise- the closest major city is Los Angeles, just a little over a three hour drive away (211 miles)!

Average temperatures range from 72° F as the high and 48°F as the low. There should only be around 2.2 inches of rain over 6 days.

Best Way To Reach The Destination

Its’ popularity with filmmakers should be no surprise. The closest major city is Los Angeles, just a little over a three hour drive away (211 miles).

Jessica says, “With its somewhat remote location and limited surrounding amenities, visiting the Alabama Hills is all about getting in touch with nature. Consider, for example, camping in the Alabama Hills – a significant swath of the land is owned by the Bureau of Land Management and open to free dispersed camping for up to 14 days at a time.

If camping isn’t your thing, not to worry as there’s plenty of nearby hotels, like the Best Western Plus Frontier Hotel in the neighboring town of Lone Pine.”

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a fantastic city on the east coast of the United States and one of the best places to visit in April. You have days that are mild, sunny, and often warm as you reach mid month. Apart from Easter, April is not a busy time in Boston and good flight and hotel deals should be available.

If you are a sports fan, April sees opening day at Fenway Park and the Boston Marathon. For history buffs, you have Patriots Day which includes a big parade plus dozens of major re-enactments of the first day of the American Revolution.

In addition, the city is alive with spring blossoms including amazing Cherry Blossoms all over downtown Boston. Head over to Boston Common and surrounding neighborhoods for some lovely flower viewing.

Boston is an easy walking city – all of the interesting historical sites, delicious restaurants, and great shopping areas are near one another. One of the best ways to enjoy them and see the city is to walk from place to place. However, if you prefer, Boston has an excellent transit system.

A couple of fun activities to do in Boston is a food tour, like the Boston Secret Food Tour. You explore Little Italy (the North End) and Faneuil Hall, eat some amazing food and learn some cool history. As for one of the best night time activities, look into the Improv Asylum. Afterwards, head over to Mike’s Pastry for one of the best cannolis in the city.

Average temperature is 58 o F in April but it rapidly warms up as April ends. You can see low 70s in some years. Almost half the days will be sunny with the other half having some drizzles of rain. So, dress in layers and bring a light rain shell.

Boston Logan International Airport is located right next to downtown Boston. You can take a taxi or do ride sharing, but there is also excellent public transit, including from the airport.

Nicole says, “There are lots of hotels in downtown Boston that are easy walking distance to shopping and historical sights. I would recommend the Omni Parker Hotel which is conveniently located near the start of the Freedom Trail or the Hyatt Regency near Boston Commons, just steps from great shopping.”

Olympic National Park , Washington

By Diana from Travel Mad Mum

Olympic National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the USA in April.

One of the reasons many people visit the Park is to see the luscious rainforests. There are four in total but Hoh Rain Forest is probably the most popular. The great thing about visiting in April is that the vegetation is exceptionally vibrant after a long winter with lots of rainfall. You will want to take a hike to see it with your own eyes. 

The weather still might not be perfect in April, but there is fewer people around. This means that you can walk through the rainforests and experience their magic without distraction. Listen to the noises and keep your eyes open for insects and other wildlife, like the banana slugs, that call it their home.

Even though it is April, a visit to one of the beaches should also be on your list. Rialto Beach is a favorite and many people hike out to see the Hole in the Wall. Before you set off, make sure to check the tides as the hike can be dangerous when the tide is in. 

On your way back, drive to First Beach to watch the sunset. You don’t have to leave your car in the parking lot to experience its beauty.

The temperature is around 60°F in the daytime and around 40°F in the evening. There will be around 4 inches of rain over 12 days so don’t leave without your rain jacket. As you go higher, it gets colder and there may even be some leftover snow on the ground so wear proper footwear. 

The closest major city is Seattle making it easy to reach either by yourself or as part of a tour. While Seattle has an airport, there is also the option to fly into Port Angeles which could save you a couple of hours in travel time.

Diana says, “While there are plenty of options to camp or even stay in a RV, it doesn’t always suit everyone. Lake Quinault Lodge is right beside the National Park and a perfect choice for many reasons. The units have their own kitchenettes and dining area and there are plenty of things to do nearby.”

San Fransisco, California

By Christine from Romantic Places Insider

San Francisco is the crown jewel of Northern California and one of the best west coast cities for an April getaway in the United States. The city is full of history, great neighborhoods, parks, beaches, museums, and fun things to do.

Some of the top things to see and do in San Francisco includes spending a day at Fisherman’s Wharf. You can learn about one of San Francisco’s most historic areas while seeing some important sites.

In addition to the famous former maximum penitentiary Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf features Ghirardelli Square (for some delicious chocolate and ice cream desserts), Musée Mécanique, Pier 39 & 45 to see the sea lions lounge, and The Cartoon Art Museum.

If you like museums, San Fransisco has several. Once you figure out which one suits your interests, check out when it offers free admission. Most museums in San Fransisco provide free admission on certain days each month.

And of course, you should cross the Golden Gate Bridge. This magnificent bridge is a work of engineering and a popular San Francisco landmark. Visit the Visitor’s Center to learn about its history, or just stare at it from different vantage points and snap pictures.

Watching the sunset is also one of the most romantic things to do in the city. 

After the rainy season (November through March), April is a terrific time to visit San Francisco. Enjoy April events like the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival, San Francisco Filmfest and Bay Area Dance Week in the milder (but not too mild) weather. 

Beyond these events, April is a month when crowds are at their lowest before the summer rush.

San Francisco’s climate is pleasant all year round. It is usually 65 F in April, with a low of 50 F.

One or two showers are possible in April, but it is generally dry.

If you’re traveling from another country, San Francisco International Airport is the best option. If you’re coming from another US state, Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose International Airport (SJC) are your best bets.

Another option is to fly to Los Angeles International Airport. The Interstate 5 Freeway connects Los Angeles with San Francisco. It is around 383 miles long, a 5-6 hours drive depending on traffic. However, this route is quite boring.

Meanwhile, the Pacific Coast Highway route from Los Angeles to San Francisco, despite its length (442 miles), is one of the world’s most gorgeous scenic drives in April. You should give yourself a day to drive this route so you can stop and savor the views along the way.

Hotel rates in San Francisco are among the lowest in April. It pays to plan ahead and look for bargains. If you can, try to find one near Fisherman’s Wharf to enjoy access to the docks, great restaurants, and lots of tourist attractions.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and one of the most astounding US national parks to see in April. With its amazing size, scale, and views, visiting the Grand Canyon is a must for any fan of US national parks.

The most popular thing to do inside the Grand Canyon is to self-drive around the South Rim. There are several places to pull over along Desert View Drive to admire the Canyon from different viewpoints. The route starts one mile east of Grand Canyon Village and ends at Desert View which is near the east entrance of the Park. You can relax and complete the drive in about 4 hours.

While you can see the Grand Canyon in a day, you should set aside 2-3 days to fully enjoy it. Several hikes take you into the Canyon where you can see its grandeur from different perspectives. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take a mule ride through the Grand Canyon or enjoy an aerial view from a helicopter. 

While summer is the peak season, the Grand Canyon is one of the best places to visit in the USA in April. Daytime weather is warm and sunny at 60F, and there are less crowds. However, it drops to high 20s F in the evening. There shouldn’t be any rain.

Two major cities with international airports near the Grand Canyon are Phoenix and  Las Vegas . Phoenix is 3 1/2 hours drive and Las Vegas is 4 hours drive. There are several smaller cities and airports closer to the Grand Canyon.

“Spend the night inside Grand Canyon National Park at Bright Angel Lodge . This hotel is well-located in the South Rim and home to quaint cabins with sweeping panoramas of the area.” 

Washington DC, District Of Columbia

Washington D.C. is located on the Potomac River bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia. It is the capital of the United States and one of the world’s most important capitals. Washington D.C. is also an amazing April destination.

It offers an impressive array of national monuments, landmarks, and museums. Most of them are found along the National Mall, interspersed with lots of green spaces, parks and cherry blossom trees. It is one of the most beautiful places in any US city center.

Must-sees include a guided tour of the Capitol and the White House (for American citizens only). Visit the Washington Monument, an obelisk celebrating the first president of the United States, George Washington. Then, explore the Lincoln Memorial commemorating President Lincoln, considered by many to be the greatest president ever.

Leave some extra time and venture farther afield to visit the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, one of the authors of the Declaration of Independence.

From late March to mid April, cherry blossoms are in full bloom all over the city. In addition, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is held during this time.

The Smithsonian Institution encompasses twenty museums, eleven of them on the National Mall, covering art, history, science, and technology. Favorites include the National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, National Zoological Park, and the National Air and Space Museum.   

At the end of the day, unwind in Georgetown in one of the cool cafés or shop in a local boutique store.

The average high temperatures in April is around 67°F, with average lows around 47°F. There is a 30% chance of rain or 3.3 inches of rainfall over 9 days.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is the main airport of Washington D.C and easy commute into downtown by public transit.

Choose from any boutique hotels located in the downtown area along L Street, M Street, and N Street. They are all close to the Mall with unique styles and characters.

In April, there are amazing destinations in America for every kind of traveler. Whether you are looking for great restaurants and museums, gorgeous hikes with breathtaking views, stunning beaches or night life, romance or adventure, you will be able to find it in the United States in April.

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23 best places to visit in april in the usa (+ spring tips).

Are you traveling to the US this spring? This is a guide to the best places to visit in April in the USA !

There are many fantastic destinations around the United States that are worthy of being visited in spring, including many national parks.

This guide will uncover the best destinations to visit in the US in April that are regions, cities, and towns.

We have recruited some amazing bloggers to help us curate this list. Click here if you’re curious about the best places to visit in Europe in April or the best national parks to visit in April instead!

Where to Travel in the USA in April

1. washington dc.

Location:  – Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 67F (19C) and lows of 44F (7C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Washington DC in April: cherry blossoms, mild temperatures, many children’s activities Recommended by: Editor’s choice

One of the best times of the year to visit Washington DC is most definitely in the spring when the city is in full bloom with its world-famous cherry blossom trees.

The cherry blossom trees were gifts from Japan in 1912 to the United States . The National Cherry Blossom Festival puts DC on the map from the end of March until mid-April as the city waits around for the blooming of the iconic trees. Many events take place during this time!

Kids will love Washington DC in April as the city also celebrates Easter and there are many events for children throughout the city.

Another top recommendation is to head to the theater to see some of the springtime favorites like Jesus Christ Superstar, Guys and Dolls, Bye Bye Birdie, and more!

2. New Orleans

Location:  Louisiana Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 79F (26C) and lows of 61F (16C); 4 days of precipitation Reasons to visit New Orleans in April: jazz festival, best time to see alligators, lots of food, great temperatures Recommended by: Derek and Mike at Robe Trotting

New Orleans is one of America’s most fun and unique places to visit. There is never a dull moment or bad time to visit the city but it’s a fantastic April destination and you can do so much with even only 2 days in New Orleans !

Spring ushers in the best weather of the year in New Orleans. The colder winter temperatures are gone, but the heat and humidity are still a few months away.

That’s part of the reason why so many festivals are held in April in New Orleans , like the neighborhood celebrations of the French Quarter Fest and Freret Street Festival in uptown.

These events are like lively neighborhood-wide block parties that feature food vendors, live music, and a street party atmosphere. Another major festival in April is the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

It draws visitors from all over the world and is a massive event at the city’s fairgrounds featuring 14 stages of live music.

It’s also the time of year where you’re likely to see alligators on a bayou boat tour. April is also a great time to be outside in the city of New Orleans so booking a walking tour of the Garden District is a fun way to explore the mansions in this charming neighborhood of the city.

Location:  Texas Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 80F (27C) and lows of 59F (15C); 4 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Austin in April: cheap accommodation, food trucks, Cap10k run, Fusebox Recommended by: Margherita at The Crowded Planet

If you love all things weird, I’m sure you’ll love Austin! The capital city of Texas prides itself on being edgy and unusual – after all, you’ll see the slogan ‘Keep Austin Weird’ everywhere in town.

Spring is definitely the best time to visit – the weather is sunny and warm without being boiling hot, with temperatures in the 70s. Also, the crowds descending over Austin in March for SXSW have normally left by April, meaning accommodation prices are also more affordable .

There are two fun events taking place in Austin in April – the Cap10k run , taking you past most Austin landmarks including the Texas Capitol, and Fusebox , a 5-day hybrid arts festival including comedy and dance performances, plus literature, food, cinema, and more, in locations all over town.

To enjoy the city to its fullest, we recommend spending a minimum of 3 days in Austin . It’s just enough time to enjoy the city’s wonderful parks and open spaces, like Zilker Park and Ladybird Lake , and April is also a great time to swim in Barton Springs Pool , with a constant temperature of 70F.

You should also check out Austin’s impressive food trucks, and if you like Texas barbecue, don’t miss Franklin’s – the line may be long, but yes, the brisket is THAT GOOD! Austin is one of the best Dallas day trips and a great place to visit from San Antonio and Houston as well!

Location:  Washington Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 57F (14C) and lows of 45F (7C); 10 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Seattle in April: cherry blossoms, cheaper than in summer, sailboat rides Recommended by: Ellie at Ellie’s Travel Tips

With warmer weather and melting snow bringing the seasonal blooms and uncovering the natural landscape, April is the perfect month to visit Seattle, Washington.

By strolling the streets of Pike Place Market , visitors will find the first hints of spring with fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers to admire. Located just outside of Seattle, the Browns Point Lighthouse offers awe-inspiring views ideal for a sunny April day adventure.

The end of April in Seattle is the best time to witness the pink Japanese cherry blossoms in bloom. The Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival , typically occurring during the last week of April, commemorates Japan’s 1976 gift of 1,000 cherry trees to Seattle.

Visitors to Seattle can enjoy this culture-rich event and other unique Seattle festivals in April that encompass the city’s seasonal charm.

To discover Seattle’s breathtaking shoreline, book a sailboat ride at the Center of Wooden Boats . As a great way to relax on the water, this sailboat attraction offers free rides every Sunday to its guests, showcasing Seattle’s magnificent skyline from the coast.

Visiting Seattle in April will be less crowded than other, more-popular destinations around the United States, providing the ideal spring escape from everyday life.

5. Palm Springs

Location:  California Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 87F (31C) and lows of 57F (14C); 0 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Palm Springs in April: Coachella Festival, day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, nice temperatures Recommended by: Editor’s choice

The most comfortable time to visit Palm Springs in California is mid-spring, preferably in April when the weather is just perfect to drive around, go hiking, lounge by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, and more!

One of the most famous reasons people congregate in Palm Springs in April is that they head to the renowned Coachella Festival.

Artists from different genres gather there for the annual festival that lasts for about ten days and starts at the beginning of April each year.

Another awesome reason for spending April in Palm Springs is that it is located close to one of the most beloved national parks in the United States , Joshua Tree National Park.

You can pop over to Joshua Tree for one day or spend a bit longer there, but be prepared to be blown away by the ethereal landscapes.

There are many hiking trails in Joshua Tree that offer daytime activities, or you can opt to do a little stargazing at night.  At only 37 miles away from Joshua Tree, the desert city is the perfect base to explore the California national park .

Location:  Colorado Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 65F (18C) and lows of 35F (2C); 5 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Denver in April: better temperatures than winter, hiking opportunities, less crowded than summer Recommended by: Daria at The Discovery Nut

The capital of Colorado, Denver is one of the best places to visit in April in the USA. While snowfalls are not uncommon in the Mile High City during mid-spring, visiting Denver in April means you can enjoy less-crowded venues and pleasant temperatures.

April is considered Colorado’s shoulder season, a time between the moment when ski resorts close for the season and summer activities ramp up.

It might be the low-season for Colorado’s mountain country, but not in Denver where you can still enjoy biking the city’s trails, visit museums and breweries that this state is so famous for. Booking a weekend in Denver is the perfect city break!

From visiting the historic Larimer Square to shopping at the outdoor 16th Street Mall and going on a day trip to the beautiful Garden of the Gods , there is plenty of adventure in Denver during spring.

Thanks to its location along Colorado’s front range, Denver also offers quick access to many beautiful hiking destinations in the Rocky Mountains and beyond.

While some trails are closed because of ice and mud, others offer a perfect opportunity to get back in shape after spending time in the city. It really is one of the best places to visit near Denver .

For example, nearby Boulder , home to the state’s largest university, offers many great easy-to-intermediate hikes that tend to be crowded in summer, but have fewer people in April. Always check conditions online before planning your Colorado trip.

Denver also makes a great starting point for some amazing US road trips.  One of my favorites is driving from Denver to Los Angeles !

7. Santa Fe

Location:  New Mexico Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 63F (17C) and lows of 32F (0C); 2 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Santa Fe in April: fewer crowds (cheaper prices), outdoor opportunities, botanical gardens in bloom Recommended by: Wendy at Adventurous Retirement

Santa Fe is a striking, diverse, and artistic city with ever-present history, boasting Adobe style architecture, breathtaking sunsets, fantastic food, and exhilarating outdoor activities. It should be on every New Mexico bucket list !

We visited Santa Fe and the surrounding area in April and found it a perfect time to explore this city’s rich history, cultures, and outdoor experiences. April’s weather makes it a good time to sightsee in town, and ski or snowshoe in the surrounding mountains before ski areas close just after Easter.

From the middle to the end of April in Santa Fe , temperatures range from the mid-40s in the mornings to mid-70s in some afternoons. Fewer crowds in April also means lower prices.

The pleasant weather in April enabled us to spend most of our time outdoors. The weather was perfect for hiking through Native American ruins and National Monuments and driving to Abiquiu to see the natural environment that inspired Georgia O’Keeffe’s painting .

In town, take a stroll through the various outdoor museum and gallery areas , like Canyon Road, Railyard Arts District (RAD), and Milner Plaza.  There are many places to visit in Sante Fe that you’ll never be bored!

A visit to the Santa Fe Botanical Gardens in April is a treat with early blooming fruit trees, bright yellow forsythia, blue flowers, and radiant red crab apple blossoms. It is also a perfect time to enjoy meals outdoors – we had several picnics and dined al fresco at local restaurants.

April is a good time for short road trips outside of Santa Fe since snow is less likely. Also, it is not too hot to visit various Native American Pueblos outside of town like Taos, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, Santo Domingo, and Santa Clara Pueblos to learn about their customs, how they lived, their history, and shop for exquisite Native American crafts.

For an interesting and diverse April trip in the USA , Santa Fe will not disappoint.

8. Philadelphia

Location:  Pennsylvania Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 66F (19C) and lows of 47F (8C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Philadelphia in April: cherry blossom trees, fewer tourists, Penn Relays, Dad Vail regatta Recommended by: Lance and Laura at Guide to Philly

April is one of the best times of year to visit the City of Brotherly Love . Often overlooked in favor of New York or Washington, DC, there is a surprising amount to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania .

Philadelphia’s massive Fairmount Park , the best urban park in America, is home to the Shofuso Japanese House and Gardens . Built in Japan and moved to this hillside in West Philly, the house is a pristine example of 17th-century Japanese architecture.

Surrounding the house and gardens is a dense tapestry of cherry blossom trees . Every spring (usually early April), the cherry blossom trees bloom and bathe the city in color. Outside of Fairmount Park, several of the historic streets in Old City Philadelphia are also lined with cherry blossom trees.

Every April in Philadelphia , tens of thousands of college and university students come to the city for athletic competitions. In track and field, the Penn Relays is a key lead-up to the annual World Championships and the Olympics. Since 1895, this is one of the oldest and most prestigious athletic competitions in the world.

On the city’s Schuylkill River , every weekend is filled with regatta competitions with college students from all over the country. The famous Dad Vail regatta brings in over 100 universities and the banks of the river are packed with visitors and locals alike.

9. Anchorage

Location:  Alaska Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 43F (6C) and lows of 32F (0C); 2 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Anchorage in April: gray whale migration, standard daylight hours, spring is on the horizon after the long winter Recommended by: Editor’s choice

After a long and cold winter, Alaska’s most populous city wakes up to a welcomed spring and many opportunities and America’s largest state.

One of the main reasons to travel to Anchorage in April is to head to the coast, particularly around Kenai Fjords National Park , to see the gray whale migration. It may be a lesser-visited national park , but it is truly one of the best!

Boat tours start back up and Airbnbs in Seward are far cheaper in spring than in summer. You can book a place close to the harbor and take an affordable boat cruise to see the whale migration.

Another plus of visiting Anchorage in spring is that the days are ‘normal’ during this time of year. There isn’t too much or too little daylight and it’s just perfect, allowing you to explore and take a road trip through the beautiful Alaskan scenery whether it be to Denali or down to Resurrection Bay.

10. Las Vegas

Location:  Nevada Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 81F (27C) and lows of 45F (7C); 1 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Las Vegas in April: comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, festivals, cheaper accommodation Recommended by: Mayuri at ToSomePlaceNew

Las Vegas is an amazing destination to visit in the US in the month of April. During this month, the temperatures range between 74 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 28 degrees Celsius).

Although for some tourists, it might be warm, and almost like summer, Las Vegas swings with outdoor festivals, pools, and street performances.

During April, the streets of Las Vegas are less crowded . Join in a walking tour of the Strip, and admire the architecture ranging from the Eiffel Tower, Bellagio fountains, Stratosphere to New York’s Brooklyn Bridge.

All of the prime attractions are open in Las Vegas in April , and it is a great time to plan a weekend Las Vegas itinerary with girlfriends or couples to beat the crowds.

When in town, be sure to go on the Gondola ride at the Venetian with your loved ones, or go outlet shopping with friends. A visit to the Neon Museum is a must – it is one of the quirkiest museums in the USA – filled with unique neon signs.

Another perk is that you will find many amazing day trips from Las Vegas , such as Valley of Fire State Park and Mt. Charleston!

April is the best time to visit Las Vegas as it is shoulder season. It is also amazing as you can score some great deals for accommodation and flights.  And, naturally, Vegas is the most popular city to visit in Nevada .

11. Outer Banks

Location:  North Carolina Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 69F (21C) and lows of 52F (11C); 6 days of precipitation Reasons to visit the Outer Banks in April: spring temperatures, no crowds, cheaper accommodation, lighthouses Recommended by: Neha at TravelMelodies

The Outer Banks , an archipelago of islands, is one of our favorite destinations to visit in April in the USA . This is the off-season when the temperatures are starting to get warm up while hotels are relatively affordable. The temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a fun time to enjoy the many outdoor activities.

There is so much more to this destination besides its famous sandy beaches. You just can’t miss the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset reflecting in the waters. Sitting on the beach, gazing at the vibrant sky takes you into another world.

The Outer Banks is a place where history was created by the Wright Brothers and to witness their dreams and hard work, visit the Wright Brothers Memorial .  It truly is one of the best day trips from Wilmington, NC and many other cities in North Carolina!

With a coastline spanning 200 miles , there are many beautiful lighthouses that are worth visiting. Brimming with history, most of them open in April for visitors to climb to the top of the lighthouse for scintillating views of the ocean.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are some that are must-visits. Alternatively, you can head up to Virginia’s Outer Banks and see some of the best lighthouses in Virginia , too.

Are you an adventure lover? Then OBX won’t disappoint you with its plethora of activities. We loved driving our AWD on Corolla Beach . Besides Corolla, you can drive to Cape Hatteras and Ocracoke Beach as well, but need permits. While driving on Corolla, look out for the wild horses or plan to take a Wild Horses Tour where guides will zip you around to locate the wild animals.

The Outer Banks will definitely charm you with its beauty, beaches, and history!

12. Texas Panhandle

Location:  Texas Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 71F (22C) and lows of 42F (5C); 3 days of precipitation Reasons to visit the Texas Panhandle in April: camping, hiking, and outdoor opportunities before it’s too warm Recommended by: Nicole at Grow Far, Grow Close

The Texas Panhandle is a rectangular area in the northern part of Texas bordered by New Mexico to the west and Oklahoma to the north and east.

It offers countless outdoor recreational experiences that are best enjoyed in moderate to warm springtime weather rather than the oppressive heat of summer.

There are a number of national and state parks nearby for camping, hiking, swimming, biking, and other outdoor pursuits. This includes Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument and Lake Meredith National Recreation Area which are only 12 miles apart from one another.

For something totally different, go visit the Cadillac Ranch located on the outskirts of Amarillo . This is an outdoor art installation of 10 colorfully painted Cadillacs planted nose-down into the ground.

Alternatively, visit the Devil’s Rope Museum outside Graham, Texas , to see and learn about the over 6000 kinds of barbed wire housed there.

Finally, head over to Amarillo, once the center of the US cattle industry, to visit this pretty iconic town and have a meal from one of its fantastic restaurants.

13. Nashville

Location:  Tennessee Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 71F (22C) and lows of 48F (9C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Nashville in April: fewer crowds, tolerable temperatures, museums without the lines Recommended by: Bryanna at Crazy Adventure Family

April is an ideal time to visit Nashville . The weather isn’t too hot, so walking (and dancing) around downtown Nashville is enjoyable, and you normally aren’t hitting the busy bachelor/bachelorette season yet.

Plus, many great outdoor music festivals kick off in April at places like the Musicians Corner located in Centennial Park . Here you will find live music, lots of open space, the Parthenon (a replica of the Parthenon in Greece), food trucks, and picnic tables.

As you walk down the street in Nashville in April , you hear music coming from everywhere. It makes you want to buy a cowboy hat and hit the dance floor. Which we highly recommend doing!

There is so much great history to explore at places like the Music City Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole’ Opry backstage tour. Or you can jump on the Hop on Hop off the bus to get a driving tour of the city.

Plus there is delicious food everywhere you turn, and you won’t want to miss the chicken and biscuits .

April is an amazing time to visit and take in the alive and energetic Music City and check out all the awesome things to do in Nashville !

14. Park City

Location:  Utah Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 53F (12C) and lows of 29F (-2C); 7 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Park City in April: possibility to ski or to hike, beautiful views, world-class resorts Recommended by: Editor’s choice

Located in Summit County and the ideal Salt Lake City day trip , Park City is a fantastic place to add to your USA bucket list!

The transition into spring is imminent and you may arrive to snow or you may arrive to fresh blooming flowers – April in Park City is unpredictable and it is kind of charming for that.

If spring arrives in April, you will have a chance to go mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. If the slopes are open, you will have a chance to ski or snowboard on some of the most famous runs in the United States.

There are two renowned ski resorts in Park City called Park City Mountain and Deer Valley . While taking to one of the resorts, you should also check into a luxury hotel and enjoy the spa, jacuzzi cabins, and more! Park City is a fantastic place to visit in April in the USA .

15. Nantucket

Location:  Cape Cod, Massachusetts Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 51F (11C) and lows of 37F (3C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Nantucket in April: fewer crowds, museum opportunities, Daffodil Flower Show Recommended by: Ally at Ally Travels

Nantucket is a tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod that’s a small slice of paradise. It can be reached either by air or by sea and is most popular between the months of April and September .

Every April, Nantucket starts off the season with its annual Daffodil Festival . Typically taking place the last weekend in April in Nantucket , the island celebrates the springtime with a festival that includes art shows, contests, an antique car parade, and their famous Daffodil Flower Show.

After the parade, head over to Siasconset to enjoy the annual holiday picnic. Both locals and tourists take part, just bring your own supplies. If you’re looking for a quick option, Claudette’s sandwich shop is delicious and quick for takeaway orders.

A must-see for any visitor is Nantucket’s famous Whaling Museum . You’ll learn all about Nantucket’s historic whaling days and see the reassembled skeleton of a 46-foot sperm whale.

Don’t forget to take in the epic view of the harbor from the museum’s observation deck. It’s especially stunning at sunset and is one of the best things to do in Nantucket!

If you get the chance to visit Nantucket in April , don’t miss it. You’ll have a memorable stay on the island, especially if it’s during Daffodil Weekend!

16. Atlanta

Location:  Georgia Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 73F (23C) and lows of 49F (9C); 6 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Atlanta in April: several outdoor opportunities, night market, Inman Park Festival Recommended by: Jo at Uncensored Escapes

Atlanta is one of the most underrated cities in the US ! Shrouded in lush trees, the aptly called “city in the forest” is also home to one of the best food scenes in the world!

If you want to dive right in, I recommend you head up to Buford Highway for the best foreign cuisine in town and try some of the innumerable amazing restaurants on offer there.

If you prefer American comfort food, then hit stunning Downtown Roswell for a myriad of restaurants that are sure to please, cute shops, and highly Instagrammable spots!

Visit Atlanta in April and you’ll avoid both the chilly winter and the summer heat that starts around May and can extend well into October.

Time your trip right and you’ll even be able to attend my two favorite events: Inman Park Festival and the Atlanta International Night Market ! Both promise a fun-filled time with lots of food to indulge in and art stalls to browse to the sound of live music.

If you’re looking to burn the calories from all your food explorations, go for a stroll in Piedmont Park , hike up Stone Mountain (just 20 miles east of Downtown), or drive up to the North Georgia mountains (1.5 hours north of Downtown) for a more rugged hike away from civilization. Youʻll also find many of the best small towns in Georgia there!

Finally, fellow street art lovers are bound to fall in love with the Beltline, Cabbagetown, and East Atlanta Village, where stunning, intricate murals abound.

Location:  Massachusetts Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 57F (14C) and lows of 41F (5C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Boston in April: baseball games, food festivals, whale watching tours, Boston Marathon Recommended by: Ryan at Passions and Places

Beantown is at its best in April when winter’s snow piles have melted away but before the unbearable humidity of summer settles in. The weather is perfect for whale-watching tours in the harbor, catching a pre-season baseball game at Fenway Park , or just taking a stroll along the Esplanade .

There’s also the Taste of South Boston food festival, where dozens of Southies finest restaurants and bars serve their signature dishes in a beautiful space overlooking the harbor. It is also almost lobster roll season!

One thing that should be on everyone’s Boston bucket list ? The Boston Marathon ! It’s the oldest and arguably most prestigious annual marathon in the world. Fortunately, it’s also free to watch!

While the start and finish lines can get very crowded, there are more than twenty-six miles of viewing space along the course.

Another free sporting event to check out is the Run of the Charles – New England’s largest canoe and kayak race.

Thousands of professional and amateur racers paddle their way down the Charles River , from the suburb of Waltham to just south of Harvard’s campus, with hordes of spectators cheering from the river’s shady banks.

18. San Francisco

Location:  California Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 63F (17C) and lows of 50F (10C); 4 days of precipitation Reasons to visit San Francisco in April: cherry blossoms, end of the wet season, Easter Parade Recommended by: Victoria at Guide Your Travel

April marks the end of the wet season in San Francisco which means sunny days and pleasant temperatures. San Francisco offers a lot of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, or watersports and it should definitely be on all California itineraries .

Have a picnic in one of the many parks and enjoy cultural events like the Bay Area Theater Week which usually takes place in early April. With over 40 theatre companies in town, there is something for everyone including Broadway productions or new and upcoming plays.

During Easter, San Francisco becomes a hotspot for festivities suitable for all ages. Catch the famous Easter Parade and enjoy a day full of activities in and around the city.

If you’re visiting San Francisco in April you should make sure you are in town in time for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival . Experience Japanese culture in the heart of San Francisco and admire the many performances that will take place during this time in Japantown .

Stay in time for the parade that takes place towards the end of the festival and don’t forget to try some of the delicious snacks and treats that will be available from small restaurants and vendors close by.

19. Sawtooth Mountains

Location:  Idaho Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 50F (10C) and lows of 20F (-7C); 5 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Sawtooth in April: nature opportunities, many things to do in Stanley, wildlife spotting Recommended by: Jessica at Uprooted Traveler

April is the perfect time to visit the jagged Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley, Idaho. The weather has started to warm up from Idaho’s frigid winters, so visitors may enjoy some snow-free outdoor activities, such as camping near Stanley Lake in the footsteps of the mountains, which may otherwise be inaccessible during the earlier months.

The mountains, however, remain snow-capped, which add to the incredibly epic scenery and may also allow visitors to still participate in wintertime activities, like conquering a 10-mile snowshoe to Sawtooth Lake .

After a brisk springtime hike or snowshoe, is there anything better than jumping into one of the dozens of hot springs in the area ?

Some popular spots worth a try include Boat Box Hot Springs , which offer a unique cauldron-like tub where bathers can regulate the spring’s steamy water, or Kirkham Hot Springs , which provides many different pools for you to choose from and even a natural hot shower!

Given that the area’s main draw is whitewater rafting , which generally starts in the early summer, you’re more likely to have the mountains and springs to yourself and even a better chance of spotting local wildlife- elk and mule deer are frequently spotted in the springtime.

While perfect for outdoor adventures any time of the year, April is a great time to partake in the diverse array of activities that Stanley, Idaho offers . This area also makes a great weekend trip from Boise!

20. Hot Springs

Location:  Arkansas Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 74F (24C) and lows of 49F (10C); 7 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Hot Springs in April: bathhouses, outdoor opportunities, national park Recommended by: Jessica at Unearth the Voyage

Hot Springs, Arkansas is one of the best places to visit in April in the US for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons why it’s so great to visit in April is because of the weather.

Arkansas in April is absolutely gorgeous and you can expect highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. Hot Springs is also known for Bathhouse Row , which was made into a National Park in 1921 to preserve the history of the town.

Bathhouse Row consists of 8 historical bathhouses that were built and became very popular in the late 1800s. To this day, you can still bathe in 2 of the historical bathhouses.

April is a great time to visit because part of visiting the bathhouses is walking up and down the bathhouse row and the downtown strip which is beautiful in the springtime.

There are also quite a few different events and festivals that take place in April, such as the Garvan Woodland Gardens Tulip Extravaganza , the Full Moon Mountain Bike Ride , and the Arts in the Park Festival .

Besides all the fun things to do in the downtown area of Hot Springs, there are 5,500 acres of National Park to explore with excellent hiking trails and a nice bike pathway. It really is one of America’s most underrated national parks !

21. Florida Keys

Location:  South Florida Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 82F (28C) and lows of 74F (23C); 3 days of precipitation Reasons to visit the Florida Keys in April: fewer tourists, festivals, trip to Dry Tortuga National Park Recommended by: Ed at Island Travel Guides

The Florida Keys come to life in spring when the weather is warm and dry and the hurricane season is yet to arrive. Typically, March through to May is the high season throughout the islands, with the crowds dipping slightly in April, making it a great time to visit.

After the spring break crowds have dropped off, the islands become slightly more peaceful in their own little way. While many of the tourists may have left, there is still plenty to do throughout the archipelago.

In the Upper Keys , April offers some of the best fishing and diving opportunities with the seas teeming with vibrant life. It is the first place to start off your Florida Keys road trip !

As you head further south in the keys the party still rages and April marks the annual Conch Republic Independence Festival . The 10-day festival is crammed full of quirky and weird traditions such as the annual bed race down Duval Street and shell blowing contest.

There are a number of other festivals in the Florida Keys in April and it is likely there will be something going on whenever you arrive. Take a break from the mayhem with a visit to one of the year-round state parks or national parks found within the Keys.

The boat ride to Dry Tortuga National Park is exceptionally beautiful during April when the seas are calm. April tends to be slightly cheaper than March or May, although hotel prices will be far higher than in the offseason.

Don’t miss the lighthouse in Key West – it is one of the most recognizable Florida lighthouses and a beautiful seaside attraction!

22. Door County

Location:  Wisconsin Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 50F (10C) and lows of 35F (2C); 8 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Door County in April: Easter festivities, parks, and a lot of flowers and outdoor opportunities Recommended by: Paulina at Paulina on the Road

April is the time when the blossom season kicks off in Door County. Door County is situated on a Wisconsin peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan , containing 10 waterfront towns and 300 miles of shoreline .

It is a beautiful destination that offers various wineries, boutiques, orchards, art galleries, hiking trails, and lighthouses. Visiting the place during holidays can offer a bunch of things to do; especially in April.

Spring in Door County is a time of liveliness. This is the season when citizens come out of hibernation, gardens and wildflowers start to blossom, and apple and cherry trees come to life.

The season welcomes many events like Ellison Bay Egg Hunt , Jacksonport Easter Egg Hunt, Blossom Run, and more. You can also enjoy other activities like visiting Door County Maritime Museum, hiking through Cave Point County Park , and witnessing the educational displays at Door County Historical Museum, to count a few.

The peninsula also celebrates spring with an eight-week-long celebration named Season of Blossoms . These festivals make Door County a perfect destination to visit in April.

Experience and celebrate this beauty with the locals and have a long stay at one of the best Airbnbs in Door County .

Location:  Hawaii Average temperatures and precipitation: highs of 83F (28C) and lows of 68F (20C); 5 days of precipitation Reasons to visit Oahu in April: festivals, beach relaxation, a lot of eating Recommended by: Editor’s choice

One of the best times to visit Oahu is definitely in the spring. By traveling to Oahu in April , you will have a chance to hang out on the beach, swim, waterboard, surf, and so much more! It is an awesome spring break destination in the USA !

There are many places to add to your Oahu itinerary and it’ll undoubtedly be the trip of a lifetime.

April is also a season for festivals on Oahu . You can head there for the Waikiki Spam Jam Festival which is the largest annual food festival on the island and it is a must for those into eating and music.

Click here if you’re looking for some amazing Airbnb rentals in Oahu .

We hope this guide gave you some ideas and inspiration for the best places to visit in April in the USA .

You Might Also Like:

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• Places to visit in Europe in April
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• Places to visit in USA in June
• Places to visit in USA in July
• Places to visit in USA in August
• Places to visit in USA in September
• Places to visit in USA in October
• Places to visit in USA in November
• Places to visit in USA in December

Pin this April in the USA Destinations Guide

Photo Credits:

Palm Springs © Stephanie Braconnier – Shutterstock.com Nashville © Erwin Widmer – Shutterstock.com Boston © Belikova Oksana – Shutterstock.com

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she now splits her time between Frankfurt, Germany and Arctic Finland after also living in Norway, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. She has a passion for winter travel, as well as the Nordic countries, but you can also find her eating her way through Italy, perusing perfume stores in Paris, or taking road trips through the USA. Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, the New York Times, and more. She co-authored Fodor’s Travel ‘Essential Norway’ and has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries.

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