25 Exciting Spring Break Destinations for Families in 2024

Sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance

Spring break is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time for families to embark on unforgettable adventures together.

If you’re seeking destinations that offer a mix of outdoor excitement, off-the-beaten-path exploration, pleasant weather, and rich cultural experiences, look no further!

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite family-friendly Spring Break destinations in the USA, and a couple of easy international destinations as well.

There is only one destination on this list we haven’t personally been to, but I know it’s a popular choice for families, and it’s very high on my travel bucket list.

We’ve selected some lesser known destinations, but since my daughters insist on visiting New York City (for their fourth time) during spring break, I thought I should let the kids’ voices be heard and include some of these popular destinations as well.

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

To make it easier for you to find the perfect place to spend your Spring Break, we’ve split our family spring break recommendations into categories.

There is something here to suit all family’s interests and travel styles. Click on the links for more in-depth guides on each destination (including more photos and videos).

Outdoor Beauty & Adventure Spring Break Destinations

No better way to finish hibernation and welcome in spring than with outdoor adventures in stunning locations.

1. Moab, Utah

We spent two weeks as a family in the Moab region and loved it for its breathtaking red rock landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

During Spring Break, Moab comes alive with a vibrant energy that pulsates through its red rock landscapes and desert vistas. And on Moab’s doorstep, are the stunning national parks of Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef.

While it’s a popular time to visit, there are lesser-known beauties like Dead Horse Point State Park, Goblin State Park, Corona Arch, and the Colorado River.

Families can revel in the enchanting mix of memorable adventures like hiking, kayaking, bike riding and climbing over the red rocks in a jeep.

The weather during this time is often perfect, offering a balance of warmth and only the occasional rain showers, but they won’t dampen your trip!

2. Sedona, Arizona

During Spring Break, Sedona is the place to go for seekers of spiritual renewal and outdoor enchantment.

With its stunning red sandstone formations and spiritual energy, Sedona is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike. It’s probably my favorite destination in the USA and our girls really loved it too.

With 300+ miles of trails for hiking and biking, stunning mesas and canyons, a small-town atmosphere, and numerous other outdoor family-friendly activities, there are plenty of things to do in Sedona with kids. 

Beyond the well-trodden paths, hidden gems like Secret Canyon and Boynton Canyon offer tranquil respites amidst the seasonal influx of visitors.

We loved the pink jeep tour driving over the red rock country (one of our USA bucket list favorites) , the unique Verde Canyon Railroad, and the Sedona vortex hikes. 

Spring brings ideal weather for outdoor adventure, and bursts of colors with wildflowers blooming in the red rock country.

3. Bend, Oregon

Bend is in Central Oregon, tucked between snow-covered peaks of the Cascade mountain range and the high desert plateau.

Once a sleepy lumber town, it has now become the playground of the west and an international mecca for those who love outdoor adventure.

Bend is one of the few USA towns with a dormant volcano on its city limits. We spent five days in Bend as a family and loved its hipster vibe with a plethora of family friendly breweries, cideries, yummy farm to table restaurants, and community events.

Spring in Bend is unique as there is often still snow for those who want to hit the slopes, but those who enjoy warmer weather activities can go hiking or mountain biking in lower elevations.

Enjoy the vibrantly colored landscapes filled with blooming wildflowers while you explore the area’s waterfalls, lava caves, volcanoes, and the Deschutes River, which is popular for paddling and tubing.

Wait a minute. Did someone say surf on the river? Yep, you can do that too. And, an unmissable destination for hiking is the Smith Rock State Park – all kinds of WOW!

4. The Florida Keys

No chance of snow dusting in the Florida Keys! For a tropical spring break experience, this string of tropical islands stretches about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida.

Skip Orlando and the theme parks, there is more to see and do with your kids in Florida than visit Walt Disney World!

The islands are made up of five unique destinations: Key West, the Lower Keys, Marathon, Islamorada and Key Largo. So, choose which ones suit your family more.

At the Florida Keys you’ll find days filled with relaxation on the beaches and enjoying sunset catamaran tours at dusk. Or, if you’re up to it, there are many outdoor adventures like snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking in its pristine waters. And of course, eating loads of fresh seafood!

You can even take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the USA.

5. The Big Island of Hawaii

You can’t go wrong with any of the Hawaiian Islands for a spring break vacation with your kids. Our personal favorite is the Big Island of Hawaii for its rugged beauty and plethora of outdoor adventures.

Families will love exploring volcanic landscapes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, admiring turtles on black sand beaches, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay.

There are multiple bucket list activities you can do as well, from night swimming with manta rays, hiking to stunning waterfalls, zip-lining through lush rainforests, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and learning about Hawaiian culture at the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.

I told you it was all about outdoor adventure! Spring is also the time for humpback whale watching! Plus, you’ll find cute small towns and fun family-friendly resorts.

National Parks to Visit During Spring Break

Spring is one of the best times to visit a national park in the USA, but some of the more popular ones will typically be inundated with crowds during spring break.

So avoid the crowds, here are a few stunning national parks that may be quieter.

6. The Great Smoky Mountains NP, Tennessee & North Carolina

One of our favorite national parks in the USA is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border of Tennessee and North Carolina.

There is something about immersing yourself in an ancient forest – you can’t see the rest of the world, and they can’t see you.

You can, however, see bears, elk, wildflowers,150 species of trees, and 31 species of salamander (more than anywhere else in the world) and spectacular views.

In fact, did you know that the Smokies is the most biologically diverse in the entire National Park system?

In the spring, the Great Smoky Mountains come alive with vibrant colors and renewed energy. As the snow melts and temperatures rise, the mountains are blanketed in lush greenery, the cascading waterfalls flow freely, and wildflowers burst into bloom along the trails and meadows.

For a mountain town right on the Smoky Mountains doorstep, I’d choose Bryson City, NC over Gatlinburg, TN. Asheville is also a cool mountain town not too far away.

7. Joshua Tree National Park, California

We loved exploring this unique national park in California on our USA road trip. Joshua Tree National Park promises an unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of the Mojave Desert.

We were captivated by the iconic Joshua trees stand tall against the clear blue skies, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

In the spring, Joshua Tree National Park transforms into a mesmerizing desert oasis. As temperatures warm and winter rains bring life to the arid landscape, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, including desert marigolds, lupines, and cacti in bloom.

Springtime in Joshua Tree offers perfect weather for hiking, rock climbing (a top USA rock climbing place), and stargazing, with mild temperatures during the day and cool evenings.

Take time to explore the park’s unique rock formations, discover hidden oases, and marvel at the stunning vistas from atop rocky outcrops. Sunsets here are special!

8. The Olympic National Park, Washington State

The Olympic Peninsula in northwest Washington State is a lush and wild slice of heaven.

Taking up most of it is the million acres of the Olympic National Park, most unique for its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests.

I love how one day you can be playing with the driftwood on the beach, the next standing under a waterfall in an old growth forest, and the next hiking high up in the alpine tundra. 

Oh, and it’s also said to be home to Big Foot, so keep your eyes peeled!

The Olympic National Park is magical in the spring with its abundance of wildlife – including many Roosevelt elk offspring, migrating whales and birds – and the waterfalls are also cascading dramatically.

The only thing not teeming are the crowds! Enjoy the empty trails.

9. Death Valley National Park, California

Since Death Valley is known to be one of the hottest places on Earth, a visit to this national park makes sense when you have the cooler temperatures of Spring.

You may also think it’s just a boring desert with the same arid view for miles; I did too, and then I visited and was blown away by its beauty.

After the cooler winter months, wildflowers carpet the valley floor in vibrant hues, creating a stunning contrast against the rugged terrain.

Enjoy hiking trails through canyons adorned with blooming cacti, witness rare “super blooms” after particularly wet winters, and marvel at the surreal salt flats of Badwater Basin.

Spring also offers opportunities for birdwatching as migratory birds return to the area.

With its unique geological features and newfound vitality, spring in Death Valley promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking scenery for all who venture into this iconic desert landscape. What a way to educate your kids about desert beauty and its ecosystem that actually teems with life.

10. Yosemite National Park, California

The best time to visit Yosemite is in the Spring, hands down. It’s when the waterfalls are thundering with renewed intensity, and the rivers swell with snowmelt, and the meadows come alive with colorful wildflowers.

There is nothing more beautiful than the heavenly view of Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View, a lush valley bordered by these steep granite walls that have tears streaming down the length of its face. 

Springtime in Yosemite is perfect for outdoor adventures, with a network of trails winding through forests of giant sequoias, past crystal-clear streams, through rainbows leading you to waterfalls, up to alpine lakes, and to iconic views of El Capitan and Half Dome..

While it may be busy at Yosemite, there are areas like Hetch Hetchy that are lesser known.

Kids will also love the ranger-led programs, wildlife viewing, and camping under the stars.

Our girls loved Yosemite a lot, even when we got caught in a snowstorm while hiking! (In spring, anything is possible!)

Big City Destinations for a Family Spring Break

Sometimes big city vacations are the easiest to plan as they have large, accessible transportation hubs, lots of choices (so better savings), big name attractions to fill your days, something that everyone will enjoy doing, and diverse, delicious food!

11. New York City, New York

I’m trying to ignore my daughter’s repeated requests to visit New York for Spring Break, as we visit every year, and I want to experience something new!

There is a reason it is a perfect destination for families, especially for those with older kids.

New York is lively year-round, but in the Spring it’s a happier kind of life with restaurants opening al fresco, gardens blooming with flowers (including cherry blossoms) and cultural festivals and events restarting. Yes it’s busy, but it’s also iconic.

Families can enjoy Broadway shows, breathtaking skyline views, top-notch museums, fantastic shopping, delicious food tours, and the tranquil escape of Central Park.

12. Boston, Massachusetts

If you can’t make it to England on your spring break, then Boston will be the next best thing.

One of our favorite cities in the USA for its English feel, rich history, fun cultural events (hello Red Sox) and the stunning Boston Public Gardens.

Spring weather can be hit and miss in Boston, which is a notoriously cold city thanks to its Atlantic location. It’s possible you will still see snow in the Spring, which if you live somewhere warm, is quite a cool sight to see this time of year!

Families can walk the Freedom Trail to learn about the city’s revolutionary past, visit the USS Constitution Museum, or explore the historic neighborhoods of Beacon Hill and the North End (afternoon cannoli are a must!).

It’s the perfect family vacation for those who appreciate educational experiences.

13. Washington DC

One of the biggest reasons families want to visit DC in the Spring is for the blooming cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin.

This beautiful site, known as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, envelopes the city in soft pink hues, and creating a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls and scenic boat rides.

If you can handle the crowds that go with it, then book that pretty family Spring Break trip.

Springtime also brings a flurry of activity to the city’s iconic landmarks, including the The White House and National Mall, where visitors can explore world-class museums, monuments, and memorials.

From the awe-inspiring Lincoln Memorial to the solemn beauty of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, there’s no shortage of historic sites to discover.

Washington DC is a fascinating destination for families who want to learn more about their nation’s capital.

14. Seattle, Washington

Another great city in the USA for cultural experiences, great food and coffee is Seattle, a city we spent five days and fell in love with for its fun culture and stunning beauty. It reminded us a lot of Sydney, Australia.

In Springtime as the cherry blossoms and daffodils bloom, the city is transformed by bursts of color against the backdrop of the iconic Space Needle and Puget Sound.

Apart from exploring the many unique and family friendly museums in the Seattle Center, like the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum and Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop), Seattle’s diverse neighborhoods are fun to explore from the historic architecture of Pioneer Square to the eclectic shops and cafes of Capitol Hill. 

Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the mild weather to hike in nearby national parks (Mt Rainier & Olympic), go orca whale watching, or stroll along the waterfront at Alki Beach – we enjoyed roller blading here.

Foodies will not want to miss a food tour of Pike Place Market and eating all the seafood, like at The Crab Pot.

15. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We visited Philadelphia for the first-time in 2023 for the Taylor Swift concert! We discovered a dynamic city filled with historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and outdoor beauty.

As cherry blossoms adorn Fairmount Park and azaleas burst into bloom, the city’s streets and parks are transformed into colorful havens.

Families can explore iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, immersing themselves in the rich history of the nation.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in the city’s vibrant dining scene, savoring everything from iconic cheesesteaks to innovative cuisine at local eateries and food trucks. Philadelphia is included on our East Coast Revolutionary War road trip.

Culturally Rich destinations for Spring Vacation

These destinations are for those families looking for unique towns full of rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food!

16. New Orleans, Louisiana

Is there a more unique and culturally fun city in the USA? Definitely not one that equally matches for outstanding cuisine. New Orleans is one of our family’s favorite destinations (and yes, we’ve done Mardi Gras with kids).

In spring, New Orleans bursts with energy and excitement as the city prepares for its iconic festivals and celebrations.

As azaleas bloom and live oak trees sway with Spanish moss, the French Quarter comes alive with vibrant music, delicious cuisine, and lively street performances.

Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history by exploring historic sites like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, or by indulging in the flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine at local restaurants and eateries.

Our family also enjoyed exploring the Garden District and nearby bayou!

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Rich in history and culture, Santa Fe offers a unique blend of Southwestern charm and artistic flair. Families can visit historic adobe buildings, explore art galleries, or go on scenic hikes in the nearby mountains.

As wildflowers carpet the surrounding desert landscape of Santa Fe and its adobe buildings gleam in the sunlight, the city’s vibrant art scene comes alive with galleries, studios, and outdoor installations.

Families interested in rich history and culture with a unique blend of southwestern charm and artistic flair will enjoy strolling through the historic Plaza, browsing Native American crafts at the Palace of the Governors, admiring the art in its museums and small galleries, or hike amidst the dramatic landscapes. Here are more ideas on things to do in Santa Fe.

18. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a destination for families who like to celebrate and are musically inclined. As cherry blossoms bloom along the Cumberland River and the honky-tonks fill with live music, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Music City.

From exploring historic sites like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium to sampling delicious Southern cuisine at local eateries and food trucks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

I love how Nashville is an education into the evolutionary story of music.

Don’t think this is just a destination for adults, our kids loved our multiple visits to Nashville. You can take a day trip out to Franklin and Leiper’s Fork for more music, cool shopping, and historical attractions.

There’s also the nearby All American Road, the Natchez Trace Parkway for scenic drives and views. We took my parents to Nashville on a multi-generational family road trip and they loved it!

19. Charleston, South Carolina

One of America’s most charming towns, only gets better in springtime with the azaleas and wisteria draping over historic homes and gardens, and the city’s cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings beckoning you to explore.

As it’s only a short road trip from Raleigh, it’s where we take most family visiting from Australia for its history, southern charm, low country cuisine and Gullah culture.

Kids will love learning more about the city on an informative horse and carriage tour, exploring he market area, walking along the waterfront to the Battery and back through the tree-lined streets to explore the gorgeous historic homes with their famous Southern piazzas (porches) along the way.

The weather is also beautiful in the Spring, with temperatures sometimes reaching as high as 70°F ( 21.1°C). There are plenty of beaches in the Charleston area for families to enjoy! See more in this post on things to do in Charleston.

It’s on our short list for places to go this spring with kids!

20. Savannah Georgia

Sweet Savannah, for which we named our second born child (Well in part, also, African and Australian savannah!)

With its live oaks dripping with Spanish moss lining the city’s historic squares and cobblestone streets, its lush greenery, historic charm, Southern hospitality, and attitude pointed towards fun, Savannah is enchanting.

From historic trolley tours to children’s museums, hanging out in Forsyth Park, sweets galore, riverboat cruises, and if your game, ghost tours, Savannah has something for kids of all ages.

We also love the laid-back coastal vibe at nearby Tybee Island. Head out there for a salty spray of ocean rejuvenation. We have a podcast episode sharing our thoughts on a trip to Savannah.

International Destinations for Spring Break Family Trips

If you’re a family like ours, you’re always yearning to cross international borders and oceans.

We’ve chosen destinations perfect for families, that are also easy to get to for those shorter term family vacations.

21. Costa Rica

With its lush rainforests, stunning white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife, Costa Rica is a perfect destination for families seeking adventure and natural beauty.

Families can go zip-lining through the jungle, visit wildlife reserves, or relax on pristine beaches. And who does not want to go hang out with sloths and explore volcanoes?

The fact that it alone contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity has me yearning to go. This is the only place on this spring break vacation ideas for families post that we have not yet been.

I am currently trying to find a good flight deal! In the meantime, we do have this post on exciting things to do in Costa Rica to help you plan.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love and Lights captured both our girls’ hearts on our recent 4-week European summer trip.

I can still hear the girls’ squealing at their first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower and a cute flower-covered Parisian café they begged to eat lunch at.

Savannah planned her Eiffel Tower photo outfit days in advance, and Kalyra soaked up all the Marie Antoinette experience we could find. And of course, chocolate croissants and macarons on the daily.

Spring is a great time to visit Paris as you won’t have the overwhelming summer crowds and, with their abundance of stunning gardens, you can expect to be surrounded by blooming flowers and intoxicating smells.

Don’t miss a day trip to the Palace of Versailles.

23. Rome, Italy

I would hop on a plane to Rome for spring break in a heartbeat. It battles with London for my favorite city in Europe.

You couldn’t ask for a better European destination for families: rich historical experiences, delicious food, walkable cobblestone streets.

As my 12-year-old said the other day, “You just turn the corner in Rome and there’s another ancient building.” This was while she was cooking ragu, learned from our cooking class at our Tuscan farm stay.

This is how a trip to Italy can transform your children’s lives. (She now wants to study abroad here.)

Since Rome surrounds the Vatican – the home of Catholicism and its most important feast, Easter – you can expect many events happening.

This means Easter Break can be busy in Rome. You may be able to travel either side of it, or just join in on the fun! According to our friend, Angel from The Roman Guy The week before and after Easter is the busiest.

24. Exuma Islands, Bahamas

Everybody needs a little Exuma breathed into their family life. We discovered this magical chain of islands on winter break last year.

We had not experienced crystal-clear water, and snowy white sand like that since the beaches of Western Australia.

Not only does the Exumas invite you to slow down, reconnect to each other, and explore its horizons, you can do one of the most sought-after activities here that our girls LOVED – swimming with pigs. It’s a family adventure you’ll never forget.

25. London, UK

London may be a huge, bustling metropolis with a medieval building on one corner and a modern skyscraper on the other, it also has an abundance of parks – many of them royal ones – which means, London in the spring is quite a pretty and colorful experience.

You cannot go wrong with a family trip to London. From Harry Potter to world class museums and art galleries, to skyscraper views, great shopping, and unique fun tours, there is something everyone in your family will enjoy.

I lived in London for over 2 years, have visited numerous times, and spent 10 days here with our girls who LOVED it. As England is small you can also easily take a day trip to fascinating places like Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, and Stonehenge.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

This post was sponsored by our long-term partner, Allianz Travel Insurance.

We believe travel insurance is such a necessary part of the travel experience, that we have an annual travel insurance policy. We travel frequently enough to justify it and it means I never have to think about purchasing my travel insurance before every trip.

But they offer many different travel insurance policies to suit your family’s needs, and they cover a wide range of mishaps including travel delays and cancellation, lost luggage, and rental car collision damage coverage.

Stay tuned because they are soon due to release their revamped (and very handy) TravelSmart App to Allyz with even more features. Get a no-obligation quote for travel insurance here.

In Summary

With this list of spring destinations for families, we hope we have helped you find the perfect place to suit your family.

Remember these choices are based upon our own personal experiences traveling to these destinations. Kid-friendly and approved!

Whichever destination you choose, spring break 2024 is sure to be filled with unforgettable adventures and quality family time. So pack your bags, hit the road, and make memories that will last a lifetime!