Spring break is already underway for some school districts and coming up in 2-3 weeks for others. Whether you’re looking to go on a last-minute plan spring getaway or you want to start planning a summer vacation, these ideas embrace outdoor adventure, relaxing beach days, and cultural exploration. Here are nine destinations we love that offer a little bit of everything to inspire your planning!
DRIVABLE DESTINATIONS
Adirondacks, NY
Lake Placid, New York
lakeplacid.com
Lake Placid in April is a peaceful time to visit the Adirondacks, with fewer crowds and lots of outdoor fun. Spring is ideal for hikes with the kids if the weather warms as well as exploring Olympic legacy sites, including the Olympic Center, the Olympic Jumping Complex, and Mt. Van Hoevenberg.
Walk along Lake Placid’s beautiful and bustling Main Street for shopping, dining, and dog-watching. This is one of the most dog-friendly spots we have ever been to and many hotels welcome dogs as well. High Peaks Resort, overlooking Mirror Lake, is a cozy retreat for families with heated pools, a 24-hour fitness center, a fantastic on-site restaurant and dog-friendly rooms.
Stowe, VT
gostowe.com
April in Stowe offers late-season skiing and snowshoeing along with the arrival of spring hiking, biking, and kayaking. Explore the scenic Stowe Recreation Path, which winds five miles into town.
We love Topnotch Resort, where there are indoor and outdoor heated pools, pickleball and tennis courts, and firepits for roasting s’mores. Topnotch also has a spa that offers discounted services on select days in the spring. You can choose from guest rooms or spacious resort homes with multiple bedrooms for a true home-away-from home vacation feel for the family.
CARIBBEAN GETAWAYS
Saint Lucia
stlucia.org
Saint Lucia has lush rainforests, the famous Piton Mountains, and a drive-in volcano at Sulphur Springs Park. You and your crew can snorkel, zip line, or take a dip in the island’s mud baths. Saint Lucia’s all-inclusives have plenty to offer. Kid-friendly favorites include Coconut Bay Beach Resort, which features the island’s largest waterpark and CocoLand Kidz Klub along with offerings for teens, too, and The Landings Resort & Spa, where families can stay in private villas with outdoor hot tubs.
Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa is another family-friendly option with top-tier dining, a spa, and lots of kid-friendly amenities, including unlimited access to Splash Island Water Park and water sports (also included).
Aruba
Eagle Beach, Aruba
Aruba’s beautiful weather, stunning beaches, and famous trade winds make it a popular spring break destination for New Jersey families. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, located on Eagle Beach, blends Dutch Caribbean charm with a modern feel. Spacious two-bedroom suites are ideal for families and offer beachfront dining. The family-friendly Fun Package includes a four-night stay, beachside breakfasts, and cookies and milk for the kids. Sip complimentary mimosas while the whole fam has gelato under the sun. Read more about planning an Aruba vacation here.
Jamaica
Green Island, Jamaica
princesshotels.com
Princess Grand Jamaica is an all-inclusive standout. Nestled in a private cove, this resort has everything from a kids’ club to an aquatic water park, immersive VR entertainment, and a private island. You can take yoga classes or try water sports while the kids take part in children’s activities like cooking school and an outdoor movie. With spacious ocean-view suites and optional babysitting services, the resort is well-suited to families with kids of all ages.
Sailrock South Caicos, Turks & Caicos
sailrockresort.com
Beloved for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and natural beauty, South Caicos is a dream destination. It’s home to Sailrock South Caicos, ideal for those looking to explore beyond the shore. ATV riding is very popular here and an exciting way to navigate the island’s rugged terrain, scenic trails, and gorgeous beaches. The island’s proximity to the world’s third-largest barrier reef also makes this destination incredibly popular. Sailrock South Caicos has private beachfront villas or clifftop suites, plus the on-site Great House Restaurant, which serves fresh seafood.
FOR NATURE LOVERS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FANS
Bryce Canyon Country, UT
brycecanyoncountry.com
Home to Bryce Canyon National Park, this Utah gem is perfect for families who love hiking, horseback riding, and all things outdoors. Explore easy trails with spectacular rock formations, take a scenic drive through Grand Staircase-Escalante, or stargaze in a certified International Dark Sky Park. At Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon, families can sleep in a luxury dome under the stars.
West Virginia
wvtourism.com
Spring in West Virginia is all about wildflowers in bloom, hiking and river adventures. Some of the state’s best spring activities include paddle boarding on mountain lakes, whitewater rafting, or exploring historic small towns like Harpers Ferry and Shepherdstown. In the the Mountain Lakes region, there are boathouse rentals, cottages and lodges. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System offers off-roading adventures, while New River Gorge National Park is ideal for hiking and rock climbing. Accommodations range from lakeside cabins to hotels. Check out these itinerary ideas for more spring break inspiration.
Springfield, MO – Wonders of Wildlife
wondersofwildlife.org
Springfield, Missouri, is a hidden Midwestern gem, offering a mix of history, outdoor adventure, and Wonders of Wildlife, home to the world’s largest immersive wildlife museum and aquarium. With over 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds across 350,000 square feet of exhibits, visitors can get up close with everything from sea turtles to sharks to gentoo penguins while learning about conservation. Beyond WOW, Springfield offers a mix of urban and outdoor fun, from historic sites to scenic hiking trails at nearby Table Rock Lake. Families can stay at Angler’s Lodge, just steps from WOW and Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, or try the boutique Hotel Vandivort in downtown Springfield.
Read More:
Spectacular Beaches and Rainforests Await on a Family Vacay to Belize
Pendry Natirar is the Dreamy Staycation Spot You’ve Been Looking For
