US Spring Break Trips Filled with Outdoor Adventures
Discover the Best Spring Break Trips in the US for Families
As Spring Break approaches, you may be looking for the best family destinations in the US to spend your well earned vacation time. Sometimes it can be tricky planning a trip the whole family will love, that’s why I’ve teamed up with my fellow travel bloggers to create an extensive list of the best Spring Break locations with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during the upcoming warmer days. From scenic hikes and sandy beaches, to hands-on educational museums and adrenaline pumping off road adventures, you’re bound to create unforgettable memories. With plenty of time to relax and explore the most scenic spots in the United States, it’s the perfect time to begin planning your spring getaway.
Spring weather in many parts of the country is unpredictable in March and April, which are the prime months for school breaks, so we’ve also included average temperatures expected in each destination. To help with your decision-making process, these US vacation spots are divided by region and highlight the best kid-friendly activities and accommodations. So pack your bags, swimsuits, hiking shoes and camera for some of the best US family Spring Break trips filled with outdoor adventures for kids of all ages.
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WEST
Sedona | Arizona
Our Recommendation
Warm weather, incredible scenery, and abundant outdoor recreational activities makes Sedona, Arizona an ideal family Spring Break destination. Nestled in the middle of acres of stunning red rock formations, adventurous families will love exploring thousands of miles of trails through the desert and Coconino National Forest. Sedona is both a tranquil oasis to relax and a top US destination filled with unique outdoor adventures for families.
Explore this beautiful area on a thrilling 4x4 jeep adventure, hot air balloon ride, or sliding down a natural water slide at Slide Rock State Park. With comfortable temperatures in the spring ranging from 65-85 ºF, this area allows you to enjoy water activities, while still providing comfortable hiking conditions.
Pack your hiking shoes because there are boundless iconic hiking trails and rock formations in the Southwest, like Bell Rock Trail or the Cathedral Rock Trail, that will offer stunning views. Animal lover’s have not one, but two zoos to choose from during their stay. Sedona is one location that definitely tops the list for those wanting to warm up this Spring Break. Here is our guide to Experiencing the Best of Phoenix and Sedona, Arizona.
Big Sur | California
Recommended by Rose from Rose Campau
Big Sur in the springtime seamlessly blends natural wonders with family-friendly activities, making it the quintessential spring break destination in Northern California. With temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, pack layers for the brisk mornings and relish the warmth of the afternoons as you immerse yourself in family-friendly adventures amidst the lush landscapes and vibrant wildflowers.
In the embrace of springtime, Big Sur transforms into a paradise for families of all ages, offering enchanting wonders and inviting trails at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The McWay Waterfall Overlook trail, a delightful experience for both kids and adults, unveils cascading waterfalls and panoramic ocean views.
Discover the magic of the ocean at the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where playful sea lions, harbor seals, and a variety of seabirds await your family's presence. You can also embark on a family-friendly kayak adventure along the coastline for an up-close encounter with the rich marine life. Even on rainy days, the spirit of family fun remains undeterred. Take a short drive to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, an engaging experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
For accommodations, opt for a cozy retreat at Deetjens Big Sur Inn, a historic gem constructed almost one hundred years ago of hand sawn redwood. There is a little stream running through the forested property, as well as a trove of board games in the office to keep everyone happily occupied without cell service.
White Sands National Park | New Mexico
Recommended by Sabrina from New Mexico Insider
The White Sands National Park is one of the best places to hit up for spring break in the US with the entire family. Located in beautiful New Mexico, the park has something to offer for young and old. Spring is the best time to visit White Sands, as it can get too hot later in the summer. The average temperatures in spring hover around 72 degrees, with lots of sunshine days per month. Rain is very unusual in this area in spring, but it does happen from time to time. If you happen to arrive on a rainy day, don't worry, the close by city of Alamogordo has a lot to do indoors. The Museum of Space History or the Tularosa Basin History Museum welcome visitors year round with interesting exhibitions.
When visiting the park itself, you’ve got a lot of options for activities. The most beloved thing to do among children is surely the sledding. You can buy plastic sleds in the visitor's center and bring them on the hike. Slide down sand dunes and race each other, totally fun for young and old. There are a few family friendly hikes in the park, such as the Dune Life Nature Trail or the Interdune Boardwalk. Also the Visitor's Center and the museum have a lot to offer in terms of education. The best place to stay near White Sands is in Alamogordo. Check out the Home2Suites by Hilton, they’ve got a nice outdoor pool.
Grand Canyon National Park| Arizona
Suggested by Mayuri from Fernwehrahee
One of the most visited National Parks of the United States and a UNESCO World Heritage Site- Grand Canyon National Park is famous with tourists from around the world! The beautiful rock formations are created by erosion of the Colorado River over millions of years. It is one of the most wonderful places to visit in the USA.
Spring is the perfect time to visit the Grand Canyon National Park as the weather is pleasant and it is perfect for outdoor adventures as a family. Spring is usually shoulder season, so you will encounter fewer crowds. And you’ll get good discounts for the stay. The Grand Canyon stretches approximately 300 miles long with two Rims: North Rim and South Rim. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is most popular with tourists, as it offers so many viewpoints, hiking opportunities, and a rim-to-rim hike. Spring is the perfect time to jump on the outdoor activities at South Rim.
If you are traveling with family, enjoy the breathtaking views of the canyon from popular viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point. Each viewpoint provides a unique perspective of the vast and awe-inspiring landscape of the Grand Canyon! You can opt for hiking into the canyon and visit the popular hikes including the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and the easier Rim Trail (0.7 miles). But make sure to check trail conditions and plan your hike accordingly.
Do not forget to take the 22-mile-long desert view drive that offers scenic views of the Grand Canyon. The drive to Hermits Road offers beautiful canyon views from different perspectives. Explore the Grand Canyon Village and various visitor centers, including the Grand Canyon Visitor Centre, Yavapai Geology Museum, and Desert View Watchtower. Learn about the park's natural and cultural history, it is the perfect activity for the kids. Check the park schedule for ranger-led programs, cultural demonstrations, and events. These programs provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the Grand Canyon.
Recommended places to stay near the Grand Canyon:
El Tovar Hotel: A historic and upscale lodge located directly on the rim, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
Yavapai Lodge: Located about a mile from the rim, Yavapai Lodge offers modern rooms and is close to the Yavapai Geology Museum.
Seattle | Washington
Suggested by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad
For a family that loves the outdoors, Seattle is a brilliant city to visit. Its location, nestled between the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest and the stunning waters of Puget Sound, provides tons of ways to get out and explore! On average, expect mild temperatures that average in the 50s.
For families that enjoy the water, grab a kayak! Seattle is one of the best US cities for kayaking. A popular place to take off from is Alki Beach — on a clear day, you’ll get brilliant views of the Seattle skyline, and you might get lucky and spot a giant Pacific octopus and seals.
If you’d rather stay on land, head to Mount Si for an invigorating 8-mile hike, which includes terrific views of the central Cascades. For something a little easier and shorter, you don’t have to go very far. Seattle is home to plenty of gorgeous parks — Washington Park Arboretum, Volunteer Park, Discovery Park, and Gas Works Park. On a rainy day, head to the Seattle Center and check out the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum or the popular Space Needle.
After a full day of exploration, you’ll need a great place to stay and eat! A great centrally-located hotel is The Sound Hotel. It offers terrific city views and is within walking distance of many great sights and transit. Not far from the hotel is one of Seattle’s best vegan restaurants, Plum Bistro. Visitors love its globally-inspired menu and weekend brunch!
SOUTH
Atlanta | Georgia
Our Recommendation
From outdoor adventures that make the most of warm weather to indoor attractions like Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola, Atlanta is brimming with spring activities. Travel up to Look Out Mountain, visit the aquarium or have a picnic lunch in Piedmont Park while visiting the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Be surrounded by sea life as you travel through the underwater tunnel at the Georgia Aquarium in this immersive experience for young and old alike. The options are truly diverse and widespread.
Temperatures range from the mid 70’s to low 80’s in the spring, which make it an ideal time to make the most of sunny days outside with your children. Only minutes outside of Atlanta, escape the city to discover the natural beauty found at Sweetwater Creek State Park. Hike alongside the creek on trails whilst listening to tumbling waterfalls and bird’s song along the wooded paths. Add a little excitement to your trip when you spend a thrilling day at Six Flags Over Georgia. The amusement park is about a 20-minute drive from Downtown Atlanta, but is bound to be an activity the whole family will love. Before heading out first check to make sure your Spring Break occurs after the park reopens for the season in March. When staying in Atlanta there is a host of family- friendly hotels, condos and rental homes you can find on VRBO.
Charlotte | North Carolina
Recommended by Taylor from Culture Craving Couple
If you're planning a Spring Break getaway to Charlotte, North Carolina with the family, you'll find the city offers a mix of outdoor activities and indoor attractions that cater to all ages. Start your visit by exploring Uptown Charlotte, where the 7th Street Public Market offers a taste of local crafts and foods. If a public market isn’t for you, the “Rail Trail” stretches all across the city and is a beautiful walk with a pop-up market to explore on the weekends.
For families who love a little adventure, the National Whitewater Center provides a range of activities from whitewater rafting to zip-lining. Romare Bearden Park offers a more laid-back experience with its green spaces, perfect for a family picnic. On rainy days, the Discovery Place Science Museum is an excellent option for kids, offering interactive science exhibits. For lunch on a dreary day, the Optimist Hall offers a variety of international and local foods so it’s a fun spot where everyone can get whatever food they are craving that day. For accommodations, staying in Uptown Charlotte is a must for easy access to the city, with the Springhill Suites offering a budget-friendly option with the convenience of free breakfast and proximity to local attractions.
Charleston | South Carolina
Suggested by Natalie from Camping Kiddos
Head to Charleston, SC, for some outdoor spring break fun! The warmer temperatures this time of the year are perfect for exploring the Lowcountry with your family without the heat and humidity that comes with the summer. Rent a kayak on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant to explore the Charleston Harbor, or walk along the miles of beaches on Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach, and Isle of Palms. The weather probably won't be warm enough to go swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, but you won't be alone if you decide to take a dip anyway!
This is also the perfect time of the year to complete one of the best hikes in Charleston, where you can explore shell mounds, salt water marshes, local parks, and more. Visit both Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie, two National Parks Service sites that offer up military history in waterfront locations. Keep the nature-themed fun going even on a rainy day by heading to the South Carolina Aquarium in downtown Charleston. Here, your family can learn about the unique ecosystems of the Palmetto State and the animals that inhabit each.
For easy access to the beaches and hiking opportunities, stay at the Hotel Indigo in Mount Pleasant, which is within walking distance of the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park. Here, you can watch boats make their way along the Cooper River into the harbor. There's also an excellent playground and green space here.
The Great Smokey Mountains | Tennessee
Our Recommendation
The Great Smoky Mountains is an ideal vacation destination for spring break. Loaded with recreational activities for families, you’ll love exploring the area and being surrounded by nature an wildlife in the National Park. This area has tons of hiking trails and outdoor adventures, plus indoor attractions if the weather turns on you. Tucked between the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular place for visitors every year and for good reason, it offers cascading waterfalls, misty mountains views, and stunning overlooks. Enjoy some of the best scenic drives and overlooks in the South by driving up Clingmans Dome Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway, or Cade’s Cove Loop.
Even if the spring weather is uncooperative, there are abundant options for indoor attractions from aquariums and museums to entertaining dinner theater shows and shopping. From a treetop sky walk at Anakeesta, hiking to waterfalls, touching stingrays at the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, or riding thrilling rollercoasters at Dollywood amusement park; there is truly something for everyone!
Interested in visiting The Great Smoky Mountains, there are three main areas most people prefer to stay in; Townsend, Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. We’ve shared where to stay depending on your family’s preferences, plus here is a guide to the Best Waterfall Hike in the Smokies. If you’re in the process of planning your family vacation, here is a Full Trip Guide for Visiting The Great Smoky Mountains: Where to Stay, Eat and Play.
Fort Myers | Florida
Our Suggestion
Typically, Spring Break conjures up pictures of people lounging on sunny Florida beaches. If this image has you smiling, then planning a trip to Fort Myers, Florida might be the perfect place for your family’s vacation. With weather in the mid 70s- 80s, you can enjoy basking in the warm sun rays at Bonita Beach or taking in a sunset at Lover’s Key. During your stay, set aside a day or two to visit the famous beaches of Sanibel Island, known for their beauty and vast shelling opportunities, plus quaint shops and restaurants.
Want to make the most of your time outdoors, Fort Myers area has great hiking trails at Lover’s Key State Park or Koreshan State Park, that will give you a glimpse of the flora and fauna in the area. In addition, there is plentiful educational opportunities as you can learn and view manatees at Manatee Park or stop at the J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge to experience the ecosystem of the Florida Everglades. Not only is Florida ideal for those that want to unwind, but add some thrilling adventure while taking a jet boat ride through the Everglade to spot alligators, ibis, iguanas or manatees.
Get your fill of delicious food as you dine at waterfront restaurants or listen to lively music at Backyard Social while sampling cuisine from various food trucks. A wide range of recreational opportunities await- try golfing with alligators, kayaking among manatees or enjoying a sunset cruise, which will keep your family entertained.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve got the ultimate guide on where to stay and eat and play. A good rule of thumb is start looking at least 3 months in advance for cheap flight and hotel deals. With a wide range of options, choose from spacious condos and cottages right on the beach through VRBO. An ideal family-friendly resort with lovely views of Sanibel Island, is Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, which features several swimming pools, a private fishing pier and a kid’s club. Florida is an ideal family Spring Break trip for those wanting to make the most of their time outdoors and soak in sun-kissed days spent on the beautiful beaches of Fort Myers, Florida. This is the quintessential warm weather destination in the South that kids will love.
MIDWEST
Boyne City | Michigan
Our Recommendation
It’s no secret spring weather in Northern Michigan is quite unpredictable! Snow or sunshine- you never know what you’ll get. Luckily, there are endless options for outdoor activities to enjoy no matter the conditions outside.
When most people are headed South for warmer weather, change it up and head up north. In fact, spring is the perfect time to pick up amazing deals on lodgings, and lift tickets. Both Crystals Mountain and Boyne Mountain are top notch resorts that offer an immense range of activities for the whole family. Hit the slopes or tube down hill during your stay and then relax in a hot tub in the evenings. Other activities offered include scavenger hunts, and craft activities. Meet your need for all things wet and wild by staying at Boyne Mountain Resort, which has Avalanche Bay Indoor Water Park.
During your stay there are numerous towns to explore close by. Make sure you reserve several days to explore the surrounding towns and scenic areas. Charlevoix, Petoskey, Frankfort, Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City offer spectacular scenery, hikes, unique shops, and great food & drinks.
One of the newest ways to immerse yourself in this beautiful Northern area is venturing out on the longest wooden towered suspension bridge in Michigan. Sky Bridge Michigan, Hang on tight as you stare at the valley below, including the thrill of gazing straight the glass floor. Until the end of March enjoy the brilliant lights in the sky as you traverse the mesmerizing lite tunnel. In addition, warm up by the crackling fire and grab food from the SkyBridge Food Truck. Check out these deals at Boyne Mountain Resort.
Natural Bridge State Park & Red River Gorge | Kentucky
Our Recommendation
Kentucky offers plenty of activities to make your Spring Break memorable. You’ll find Kentucky is an wonderful destination for adventurous families with incredible scenery and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. On the Eastern side of Kentucky lies the Daniel Boone National Forest. Explore Natural Bridge State Park, with its diverse hiking trails filled with impressive sandstone arches, cliffs and steep gorges you’ll love it. Within an hour drive of Lexington, it’s a beautiful destination for experiencing the beauty and appeal of Kentucky’s wild areas. Don’t skip exploring the Natural Bridge, Rock Garden Trail, and Fat Man Squeeze during your stay. There are a number of ways to experience the natural beauty of this area besides just hiking.
An alternative way to reach the top is by chair lift. Sit back and relax as you’re hoisted up the mountainside via chair lift for a sky high view of the surrounding area. Before leaving, pick up a souvenir at the the Natural Bridge Giftshop. Skylift hours change with the seasons, but are generally open daily from 9:30- 5:30pm.
In addition, you can also view the from atop of a horse by taking a trail ride at Cable’s Riding Stables. Need more ideas of fun activities, here are the Top 12 Things to Do in Red River Gorge, Kentucky. As you begin planning your spring vacation, check out our trip review of Slade, Kentucky.
Turkey Run State Park | Indiana
Our Recommendation
Full of outdoor adventures, Turkey Run State Park will soon become a favorite location for a Midwest spring getaway. If your family enjoys diverse hiking trails, you’ll love trekking along riverbanks and through steep ravines. With the exciting feature of a long wooden suspension bridge and Sugar Creek running through the center of the park, this creates dozens of picture perfect spots to enjoy. Get your heart pumping as you scramble up double ladder climbs, across suspensions bridges and over boulders at Turkey Run State Park.
Located in Northern Indiana, it’s only 3 hours from Chicago area and is the perfect Spring Break getaway in the Midwest. Here is a detailed guide to help you start to plan your trip to Turkey Run State Park. A large forested campground and a rustic lodge are located at the state park for inexpensive accommodations. Turkey Run is one of the best Spring Break trips that is affordable for families since it’s cheap to hike at the state park.
Other adventurous opportunities offered at this Indiana State Park is trail rides on horseback led by trained guides and scenic drives to find the 31 covered bridges located throughout Parke County.
Hocking Hills | Ohio
Our Recommendation
Spectacular hiking awaits, especially in the spring at Hocking Hills, Ohio. This Midwest area is unparalleled for beautiful hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic overlooks and exciting outdoor adventures. It attracts thousands of visitors each year and for good reason, it’s lovely. This Spring Break trip can be a relatively inexpensive vacation for families, since hiking at the park is free.
Let your inner explorer out, as you trek through stone staircases, rocky caves, and alongside waterfalls and mossy covered ledges,. If you enjoy cascading waterfalls, this will definitely become a new favorite hiking destination for your family in Ohio. Some of our favorite kid-friendly hikes include Old Man’s Cave, Conkle’s Hollow and Ash Cave. Here is a descriptive hiking guide for Hocking Hills, Ohio to help plan your itinerary.
Besides the hiking, there is no shortage of attractions for kids and adults in the area. Zipline, horseback ride or explore the AHA Children’s Museum are just a few of the Top Things to to Do in Hocking Hills, Ohio. Thankfully, this area in Southeastern, Ohio isn’t lacking in accommodations, check out great deals on cozy cabins, vacation rental homes and lodges on VRBO.
Anchorage | Alaska
Suggested by Lina from Bucket List Places
Alaska is perfect for a spring break destination for families looking for an adventure, a chance to see the northern lights and enjoy the ultimate winter activities. In March and April, the days keep getting longer and longer allowing those traveling to Alaska up to 14 hours of daylight to explore. Average temperatures go up significantly from the winter allowing you to enjoy temperatures in the 40s during the day.
The best activities in the spring are those that involve snow. Take a dog sledding tour for a thrilling ride through the wilderness or take a helicopter ride to a glacier. For those who love to Ski, Alyeska has some of the best terrain in the country and for those looking for something more extreme there are plenty of opportunities to go heli-skiing.
If wildlife is your thing, make sure to visit the conservation center in Girdwood or take a boat tour in Seward. And on poor weather days, check out the Bear Tooth Theatrepub for a really cool dinner and movie experience and some delicious pizza.
For a unique place to stay near Anchorage that gives you a high chance of seeing northern lights, stay at the Loft in the Clouds.
CARIBBEAN ISLANDS
Puerto Rico
Recommended by Samantha Oppenheimer of Find Love and Travel
Puerto Rico is one of the most family-friendly locations in the US, seriously! Organizing a spring break trip here will be filled with non-stop activities and unforgettable adventures. If you’re lucky with the weather, then you can experience many of the beaches in old San Juan. Condado Beach and Escambron Beach are the best! If you don’t mind leaving Old San Juan, Carolina Beach is nearby and very family-friendly too.
With at least 4 days in Puerto Rico, don’t miss out on taking a day trip to El Yunque National Forest. Here, you will discover the only tropical rainforest in the United States and some pretty incredible waterfalls. For families wanting adventure, ziplining and hiking are available in the park.
Not only that there are plenty of opportunities to snorkel where you can spot all kinds of different tropic sea life - turtles included! After you have worked up an appetite, you can go on an Old San Juan food tour where you can taste local and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. You also won’t want to miss out on El Morro Fort, which is another great option for families in Old San Juan. For somewhere to stay, you should consider the Caribe Hilton. This hotel has a private beachfront and 17 acres of gardens to explore. What more could you want?
St. Croix | US Virgin Islands
Our Recommendation
Combine Caribbean blue-green waters, fun-filled outdoor adventures, gorgeous beaches, eclectic Caribbean cuisines, and rich history for a relaxing trip to St. Croix. Saint Croix USVI is the ideal destination for a Spring Break getaway. This island looks like a postcard with perfect weather all year long! Saint Croix claims the title of the largest island in the US Virgin Islands so there is much to explore. In fact, it’s the most rugged with undeveloped areas, which means there are numerous outdoor adventures available.
In addition, St. Croix is known for their phenomenal white sandy beaches and snorkeling and scuba diving excursions. Enjoy sailing away to Buck Island to swim along an underwater trail surrounded by vibrant corals, sea turtles, and thousands of colorful fish.
The recreational activities are seemingly endless as you explore this beautiful island. Experience a glowing sea thru kayak trip in the Salt River Bay Preserve. This bioluminescent natural phenomenon is quite rare, only found in 7 other places in the world. Next, zipline across the island or hike to the Annaly Bay Tide Pools for a thrilling adventure. Instead of hiking, let horses do the work as you venture through the jungle and beaches on a guided horseback ride. Kid’s will love participating in Tito & Sue's Crab Races, a unique Crucian cultural experience, which is quite entertaining for everyone!
Leave stress behind as you relax and swim at dozens of public beaches on the island, with year-round temperatures from the low 70’s to high 80’s, you’ll never want to leave. Another stress free component is that it doesn’t require a passport to visit if you’re an American citizen. Want to experience the epitome of relaxation, stay at the Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort, an all-inclusive resort with top-notch amenities. Start planning your next family vacation today with the Ultimate Travel Guide to St. Croix, which details all the best places to stay, eat, and play on the island with your family.
Closing Thoughts
As you begin planning your well deserved break, hopefully this list of Spring Break vacation destinations will make your job easier and inspired you to plan a trip. These beautiful locations are full of adventures for every type of explorer, especially families with kids. Whether you’re spending a couple days or an entire week, you’ll easily fill your time with these unforgettable experiences. So why not make one of these destinations the spot for your next family trip?
We would love to know what is your favorite place to visit for Spring Break in the United States! Don’t forget to Pin and Save this post and follow Discovering Anew on Facebook for more family travel, vacation guides, and Michigan camping recommendations. If you found this content helpful, share it with a friend!