Yahoo Lifestyle The Best Spring Break Destinations for Every Type of Family
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Key West, Florida
Known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe, Key West is a top destination for a relaxing spring break. Venture to the colorful historic district, take a sunset sail, or relax on the beach. The town is also known for divine seafood (try Conch Republic!) and fun local culture, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities that appeal to all ages.
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Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It's never too early to introduce the kids to one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world. Experience the breathtaking views and explore the canyon's depths on hiking trails, river rafting tours, and helicopter rides. And after taking in the natural beauty, visit the historic lodges within the park, like the quaint El Tovar, which dates back to 1905.
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Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Missouri
Big Cedar Lodge is an ideal spot for a family vacation any time of year, but it makes for a fun-filled spring break destination with its pools, arcade, outdoor activities, and special events. Located near the Arkansas/Missouri border, it's within a day's drive from one-third of the U.S. population. We highly recommend Camp Long Creek for it's less-busy private lodging. Book a "mom and me" spa treatment, or send the kids to adventure camp while you experience one of the on-site fine dining restaurants (although you'll be comfortable dining with the kids in tow too).
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San Diego, California
A whole day can be spent at the famous San Diego Zoo, but if you're looking for more to do, hike in Torrey Pines State Reserve or simply relax on one of the city's many beaches. Plus, waterfront Belmont Park has classic rides and mini golf for the youngsters—and there's no way they're letting you leave without going to Legoland (a short 30-minute drive away from San Diego).
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Miami, Florida
A popular destination for spring breakers, Miami offers a mix of beach activities, art, and entertainment. Sunbathe on South Beach, appreciate the city's art deco architecture, and dine at some of the best restaurants in the country. Unique museums also set the Magic City apart—like the Frost Museum of Science, which hosts several exciting high-tech exhibitions for kids.
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Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a favorite among college students and families because of its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. From swimming with whale sharks to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there are plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages busy. After a long day of exploring, the Hard Rock Cancun is a family favorite.
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Panama City Beach, Florida
With 27 miles of sandy beaches and a range of family-friendly activities, Panama City Beach (where you'll find Pier Park) is a fun-filled pick. Water sports and beach volleyball abound here, but amusement parks, like Race City, and live music venues, like Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant, mean there's never a shortage of things to do.
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Savannah, Georgia
A charming city, Savannah offers visitors a chance to soak in its historic architecture and Southern food. Trolley tours are always popular among families—and meals at restaurants like Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room are unmatched.
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Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu's crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes make it the ultimate place to unwind and recharge. Hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic city views, surf at Waikiki Beach, or indulge in some of the freshest seafood in the world at no-frills Ono Seafood. It goes without saying that Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa—complete with character experiences and magical kid-friendly excursions—will be a hit with the little ones (and probably the adults too).
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Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley isn't only a wine lover's paradise. Kids will love taking a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, while adults indulge in some of the world's best food and wine pairings. There are even kid-friendly wineries, with some offering grape juice tastings and crowd-pleasing bites—like wood-fired pizza—for youngsters.
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Las Vegas, Nevada
Known for its endless entertainment options, Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for a lively spring break. You can grab tickets to world-famous, family-friendly shows, like Cirque du Soleil's Mystère, hit the casinos (while the kids are busy at the pool, of course), or take a day trip to the nearby Hoover Dam.
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
With over 60 miles of beaches and a range of attractions, Myrtle Beach is ideal for families. You can ride on the famous SkyWheel, stroll along the boardwalk, or go on a dolphin-watching tour.
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Charleston, South Carolina
With its cobblestone streets, Charleston is a picturesque city teeming with food and culture. Take a walking tour of the city (led by a pirate, if you want to delight the kiddos!), tour historic country homes, like the Joseph Manigault House, or dine at some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. And don't miss Charleston Waterfront Park, where you'll find the famously charming Pineapple Fountain.
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New Orleans, Louisiana
The birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is a cultural melting pot with an exciting nightlife and tasty food. Spend time exploring the historic French Quarter, take a riverboat tour with the New Orleans Steamboat Company, or indulge in some of the city's famous beignets at Cafe du Monde.
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Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for eco-conscious families, with diverse wildlife, pristine beaches, and rainforests. The whole crew can hike to a volcano, zip line through the jungle, or relax on a secluded beach—all in the same day.
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Austin, Texas
For a fun and funky trip, look no further than Austin—famous for its live music, celebrated food scene, and beautiful parks. Spend a day at the Barton Springs Pool, check out the city's many food trucks, or listen to live music at the famous Continental Club.
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San Juan, Puerto Rico
Explore the rich history of the island of Puerto Rico in San Juan, a historic city with colonial architecture. Walk the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, visit the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or appreciate some of the island's mouthwatering cuisine—no passport required!
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Sedona, Arizona
A beautiful desert town with stunning red rock formations and a vibrant art scene, Sedona is relaxing and rejuvenating. Travelers can hike in the nearby state parks, splurge on a spa day while the kids hit the pool, or stop by galleries and shops.
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Orlando, Florida
Home to Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is a bucket list destination for families, drawing more than 70 million visitors annually. Once you've gotten your fill of roller coasters and character meet-ups, try some authentic Asian street food at local favorite Hawkers.
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Maui, Hawaii
From whale watching to hiking in Haleakala National Park, Maui has a range of outdoor activities for the adventurous family. Look out for sea turtles while snorkeling, and don't miss Puunoa Beach—commonly known as Baby Beach. It's protected by an offshore reef, so it boasts some of the calmest waters you'll find in Hawaii.
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San Francisco, California
With its iconic landmarks and cable cars, beautiful parks, and delicious food, San Francisco is culture-packed. While Golden Gate Park and Alcatraz Island are must-visits, San Francisco is also a top culinary destination—so don't miss the beloved sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery or dim sum in Chinatown.
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Montego Bay, Jamaica
Known for its incredible all-inclusive resorts—like the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall—and stunning beaches, Montego Bay is the perfect setting for a luxurious spring break. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or visit outdoor attractions, like the famous Dunn's River Falls, Montego Bay has something for everyone.
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Vancouver, Canada
For a refreshing getaway, head to Vancouver, where you'll find beautiful parks and stunning natural scenery. The city is also home to many world-renowned museums, such as the Vancouver Art Gallery—and the food scene is a highlight, with a wide range of multicultural cuisine in local markets and restaurants. If you're lucky enough to visit in April, you can catch the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival.
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The Bahamas
With over 700 islands, activities abound in the Bahamas, from swimming with pigs to relaxing on pink sand beaches and exploring underwater caves. There's also no shortage of kid-friendly hotels—but The Royal at Atlantis, which boasts 11 pools, is a perennial favorite.
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Gulf Shores, Alabama
With white beaches and various outdoor activities, Gulf Shores is a hidden gem. Families can swim, kayak, or even go on dolphin-watching tours—and the Gulf State Park has hiking trails and a fishing pier. The city also has a range of attractions fit for families, including the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and Waterville USA waterpark.
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Nashville, Tennessee
With live music on every corner, Nashville is a must-visit for country fans. Tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, go to a concert at the Grand Ole Opry, or stroll through the city's famous Music Row. Standout stops for kids include the Adventure Science Center, the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort (the waterpark boasts 1 million gallons of water!), outdoor fun at Cumberland Park, and The Grilled Cheeserie—for obvious reasons.
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South Padre Island, Texas
Located on the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island has several water activities, including dolphin watching and parasailing—and there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions. Don't miss the Sea Turtle, Inc. rescue center and the Beach Park Waterpark (which opens for the season in the spring).
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Aspen, Colorado
Thanks to its stunning natural beauty and range of year-round outdoor activities—including hiking, hot springs, and ice skating—Aspen is a spring break favorite. Its lively downtown includes a range of shops and restaurants, with plenty of family-friendly options to choose from, like the quaint Grateful Dead-inspired Grateful Deli.
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Clearwater Beach, Florida
With its sugary white sand and clear waters (naturally), Clearwater Beach is made for building sandcastles, swimming, and dolphin-watching tours. Visit nearby attractions, like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the Florida Botanical Gardens, for a range of educational and entertaining activities for families.
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San Antonio, Texas
Known for its historic missions, riverwalk, and Tex-Mex fare, San Antonio perfectly blends culture and fun. The city has several world-famous attractions, such as the historic Alamo and the beautiful River Walk. And don't miss a meal at Mi Tierra.
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Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas is popular among spring breakers, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant nightlife. A range of water activities are on offer, such as snorkeling, parasailing, and fishing. Plus, the city also has a range of family-friendly attractions, including the Cabo Dolphins center and the El Arco rock formation (where you can embark on a kayak adventure).
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Turks and Caicos
You can't go wrong with Turks and Caicos's pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and range of outdoor activities. The islands offer opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing, with many boat tours for exploring the stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. Families can also kayak, paddle board, or simply lounge on the white sand beaches.
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Santa Fe, New Mexico
A beautiful desert city, Santa Fe is the art destination. Experience the many galleries and museums, visit the famous Taos Pueblo, or relish in some of the city's famous Southwestern food at fun, casual restaurants, like Tortilla Flats.
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Aruba
Known for its impeccable beaches and weather, the island is also home to several nature preserves, like Arikok National Park, giving families the chance to explore the unique desert terrain and its wildlife—including wild flamingos.
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New York, New York
There's no place like New York, thanks to its unmatched cultural offerings and iconic landmarks. Families can experience the excitement of Broadway shows, visit world-renowned museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History, and spend an entire day walking around Central Park. The Big Apple is also home to various dining options, from street vendors to upscale restaurants, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste.
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Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is especially lovely in the spring—particularly when the city's famous cherry blossoms are in bloom (usually at the end of March and early April). With a rich history and range of educational experiences, families can wander around the National Mall, visit world-renowned museums—such as the Smithsonian and National Gallery of Art—and tour iconic landmarks, including the White House and the Lincoln Memorial. Not to mention D.C. is home to many historic sites, including Ford's Theatre and the Library of Congress, offering visitors a chance to learn about the nation's history and culture.
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Telluride, Colorado
Telluride, a beautiful Colorado mountain town, is the place to be for winter sports enthusiasts, with world-class skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating options. With an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, families can also enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, and other winter activities late into spring. The town's many shops, restaurants, and bars provide a dynamic atmosphere in an otherwise quaint town.
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Palm Springs, California
A desert city known for its stunning scenery and upscale resorts, visit Palm Springs if you're looking for luxury. Relax by the pool, hike in the nearby mountains, or indulge in some of the city's famous spas and restaurants. Palm Springs is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Palm Springs Air Museum, which offer a chance to learn about the area's history and culture.
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Lake Tahoe, Nevada
A stunning lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Lake Tahoe, situated on the California-Nevada border, is another top destination for winter sports enthusiasts, but shines at all times of the year. Swim, boat, and fish in the crystal-clear waters of the lake—or hike, mountain bike, and ski amid the surrounding mountains.
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The Palm Beaches, Florida
With miles of glorious beaches, warm waters, and various outdoor activities, Florida's Palm Beaches give visitors the chance to experience the state's natural beauty, while the historic downtown boasts many upscale shops and restaurants. Nearby Worth Avenue is known for its high-end fashion boutiques, and Palm Beach is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Flagler Museum.
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Boulder, Colorado
Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder, Colorado, offers breathtaking natural beauty and an abundance of outdoor activities. The city is renowned for its world-class hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing options, with several trails available for families of all skill levels. Take in the city's unique history in its historic downtown, with several museums and landmarks, such as the Celestial Seasonings tea factory and the Chautauqua Park.
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