42 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families
Take your pick from laid-back sugary white sand beaches, bustling cities, and adrenaline-pumping excursions.
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Spring break is just around the corner, so if you haven't started planning your family's great escape from the daily grind, now's the time. When it comes to picking the perfect location for the whole crew, you first have to decide what you're after. Is it adventure? Relaxation? Culture and history? Endless delicious food? Or maybe a little bit of everything. Lucky for you, we cover it all with this list of the best spring break destinations for families in the U.S. and beyond—but not too far! (P.S. You can road trip to some of our picks.)
Adventurous families can visit one of the natural wonders of the world right in the States, swim with whale sharks, explore underwater caves, or zip line in the jungle. Foodies should indulge in New Orleans's famous beignets, fill up with food trucks and Tex-Mex cuisine in Austin and San Antonio, or enjoy some of the best seafood. If you'd rather sit back and relax, opt for family-friendly resorts, like Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in Honolulu or The Royal at Atlantis in the Bahamas (which boasts 11 pools). If you're the wander-around-and-explore type of group, there's no shortage of museums and sites in walkable cities, like New York City, Washington, D.C., Charleston, and Savannah.
Trust us, that's just the tip of the iceberg—read on for more spring break ideas you and the kids won't soon forget.
Key West, Florida
Known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe, Key West is a top destination for a relaxing spring break. Venture to the colorful historic district, take a sunset sail, or relax on the beach. The town is also known for divine seafood (try Conch Republic!) and fun local culture, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and activities that appeal to all ages.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It's never too early to introduce the kids to one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world. Experience the breathtaking views and explore the canyon's depths on hiking trails, river rafting tours, and helicopter rides. And after taking in the natural beauty, visit the historic lodges within the park, like the quaint El Tovar, which dates back to 1905.
Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Missouri
Big Cedar Lodge is an ideal spot for a family vacation any time of year, but it makes for a fun-filled spring break destination with its pools, arcade, outdoor activities, and special events. Located near the Arkansas/Missouri border, it's within a day's drive from one-third of the U.S. population. We highly recommend Camp Long Creek for its less-busy private lodging. Book a "mom and me" spa treatment, or send the kids to adventure camp while you experience one of the on-site fine dining restaurants (although you'll be comfortable dining with the kids in tow too).
Coastal Mississippi
Biloxi and the other towns along the Mississippi coast are absolutely packed with family fun. You'll find fishing, white sand beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. The brand-new Paradise Pier Fun Park at Margaritaville Resort offers 15 new rides and three restaurants with stunning Gulf views. Thrill seekers will want to plan a visit to Finish Line Performance Karting with the area's only zip line course, and Big Play Entertainment Center offers a go-kart race track and virtual reality area. And keep an eye on the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum in Gulfport—it's undergoing a massive renovation but will soon have the largest model railroad layout in the country.
San Diego, California
A whole day can be spent at the famous San Diego Zoo, but if you're looking for more to do, hike in Torrey Pines State Reserve or simply relax on one of the city's many beaches. Plus, waterfront Belmont Park has classic rides and mini golf for the youngsters—and there's no way they're letting you leave without going to Legoland (a short 30-minute drive away from San Diego).
Miami, Florida
A popular destination for spring breakers, Miami offers a mix of beach activities, art, and entertainment. Sunbathe on South Beach, appreciate the city's art deco architecture, and dine at some of the best restaurants in the country. Unique museums also set the Magic City apart—like the Frost Science Museum, which hosts several exciting high-tech exhibitions for kids.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a favorite among college students and families because of its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. From swimming with whale sharks to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there are plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages busy. After a long day of exploring, the Hard Rock Cancun is a family favorite.
Panama City Beach, Florida
With 27 miles of sandy beaches and a range of family-friendly activities, Panama City Beach (where you'll find Pier Park) is a fun-filled pick. Water sports and beach volleyball abound here, but amusement parks, like Race City, and live music venues, like Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant, mean there's never a shortage of things to do.
Savannah, Georgia
A charming city, Savannah offers visitors a chance to soak in its historic architecture and Southern food. Trolley tours are always popular among families—and meals at restaurants like Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room are unmatched.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu's crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes make it the ultimate place to unwind and recharge. Hike to the top of Diamond Head for panoramic city views, surf at Waikiki Beach, or indulge in some of the freshest seafood in the world at no-frills Ono Seafood. It goes without saying that Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa—complete with character experiences and magical kid-friendly excursions—will be a hit with the little ones (and probably the adults too).
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley isn't only a wine lover's paradise. Kids will love taking a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, while adults indulge in some of the world's best food and wine pairings. There are even kid-friendly wineries, with some offering grape juice tastings and crowd-pleasing bites—like wood-fired pizza—for youngsters.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Known for its endless entertainment options, Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for a lively spring break. You can grab tickets to world-famous, family-friendly shows, like Cirque du Soleil's Mystère, hit the casinos (while the kids are busy at the pool, of course), or take a day trip to the nearby Hoover Dam.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
With over 60 miles of beaches and a range of attractions, Myrtle Beach is ideal for families. You can ride on the famous SkyWheel, stroll along the boardwalk, or go on a dolphin-watching tour. If you've been before, there's lots of new adventures to check out. Don't miss the Ripley's Aquarium with its Sloth Valley habitat and the all-new Stars and Strikes Getaway-n-Play with its arcade, bowling, axe throwing, and more. Plan a return trip in 2024 when the man-made surf park, Surfworks, is scheduled to open. Be sure to take the family to eat at Bubba's Fish Camp.
Charleston, South Carolina
With its cobblestone streets, Charleston is a picturesque city teeming with food and culture. Take a walking tour of the city (led by a pirate, if you want to delight the kiddos!), tour historic country homes, like the Joseph Manigault House, or dine at some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. And don't miss Charleston Waterfront Park, where you'll find the famously charming Pineapple Fountain.
New Orleans, Louisiana
The birthplace of jazz, New Orleans is a cultural melting pot with an exciting nightlife and tasty food. Spend time exploring the historic French Quarter, take a riverboat tour with the New Orleans Steamboat Company, or indulge in some of the city's famous beignets at Cafe du Monde.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for eco-conscious families, with diverse wildlife, pristine beaches, and rainforests. The whole crew can hike to a volcano, zip line through the jungle, or relax on a secluded beach—all in the same day.
Austin, Texas
For a fun and funky trip, look no further than Austin—famous for its live music, celebrated food scene, and beautiful parks. Spend a day at the Barton Springs Pool, check out the city's many food trucks, or listen to live music at the famous Continental Club.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Explore the rich history of the island of Puerto Rico in San Juan, a historic city with colonial architecture. Walk the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, visit the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or appreciate some of the island's mouthwatering cuisine—no passport required!
Sedona, Arizona
A beautiful desert town with stunning red rock formations and a vibrant art scene, Sedona is relaxing and rejuvenating. Travelers can hike in the nearby state parks, splurge on a spa day while the kids hit the pool, or stop by galleries and shops.
Orlando, Florida
Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest, Bloomberg News, and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy. Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.
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