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Where to experience spring break in the US


3 min read
13 January 2023
Type of trip
Outdoor & nature

If you’re lucky enough to have some time off this spring and are searching for the perfect getaway, look no further. From the frosty mountains of Colorado to the white sand beaches of Florida, we’ve rounded up the top five states in the US for an unforgettable spring break.

Florida

Enjoy a stroll in the sunshine through Downtown Miami's Biscayne Bay

The Sunshine State is a popular place to head to for spring break, promising plenty of entertainment, nature and weather that’s warm enough to appreciate the beautiful beaches. Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale and the island of Key West are some of the best spring break party hotspots. But Miami Beach should really be the first port of call for college students seeking out nightlife. This city boasts a lively events calendar from Miami Beach Pride to the Ultra Music Festival, both held in March or April), big nightclubs and wild pool parties. For a mellower spring break escape, relax on the beach and stroll the palm tree-lined promenades. Then eat at diverse restaurants and visit the rooftop bars lining Ocean Drive, where you can sip mojitos with an ocean backdrop. For families, Orlando is a great choice, home to more white sand beaches, plus nature-based expeditions and activities. Not to mention both the Universal Studios and Disney World theme parks, where you can stay at the Walt Disney World Four Seasons Resort Orlando.

California

Get back to nature in the stunning Yosemite National Park

The Golden State is peppered with places perfect for spring break. From Disneyland and the luxe resorts and relaxation of Palm Springs, to the adventure and natural wonders of Big Sur and Yosemite. The latter is at its busiest during the summer season, so spring is an opportunity to beat the rush and witness epic vistas with more peace and quiet. What’s more, the park’s waterfalls often appear most dramatic at this time of year when the snowmelt begins. For a laid-back beach atmosphere, head to Monterey and Santa Cruz, where the historic, family-operated Boardwalk offers ample family-friendly fun. It’s the oldest amusement park in California, with charming wooden roller coasters, arcades and corn dogs galore – and Boardwalk rides are open daily during spring break. Stay a few steps from the sand and the Boardwalk at Santa Cruz’s highly rated Beach Street Inn and Suites.

New York

Cycle through New York City, passing sights like the Brooklyn Bridge

Whether your idea of an ideal spring break is a city or country escape, adventure or relaxation, culture or food-based – New York has you covered. The state has a multitude of rural retreats, notably the town of Hunter about three hours northwest of NYC; here, you can whizz through the forest on the highest, fastest, and longest zipline canopy tour in North America, go mountain biking or hike past stunning cascades. Other rural boltholes include a stay in a treehouse near Saratoga Springs, or a visit to Niagara Falls to witness the beauty of the world-famous waterfall. Alternatively, head to NYC to lap up all the cultural excitement of the Big Apple, whether you’d prefer to visit galleries like the Met and Guggenheim and dine at exceptional restaurants. Or catch a film with an incredible Manhattan backdrop at the Skyline Drive-In cinema at Greenpoint waterfront. Stay right in the heart of the NYC action at LUMA Hotel - Times Square.

Colorado

Paddle a whitewater raft through rapids on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon National Park

Colorado’s landscapes offer a breathtaking setting and a welcome change of scenery for a spring break to remember. Active travellers will relish the state’s many national parks, including the Rocky Mountain National Park. And the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, home to a massive 750-feet-high sand dune – the tallest in the US. After a hike or two, rest your weary feet with a drive up Pikes Peak, known as ‘America’s Mountain’ and one of the most-visited mountains in the world thanks to the splendid panorama from the summit. Next, soak in one of Colorado’s abundant natural and mineral-rich hot springs – two popular resorts include Glenwood Springs and Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort.

Texas

Stroll through the historic district admiring the architecture in Galveston, Texas

Texas is a fantastic spring break destination choice, offering something for everyone. There’s live music and partying on the beach at popular nightlife hotspots like South Padre Island. Or fishing, kayaking, picnicking, hiking and other wholesome outdoor activities at Lake Texoma, an oasis an hour and a half’s drive north of Dallas. There’s also a blend of nature and entertainment at Galveston Island, where you’ll find 27 miles of beaches facing the Gulf of Mexico and plenty to see and do – from rooftop bars and the rides of the Historic Pleasure Pier, to beach volleyball and free, weekly sandcastle-making lessons from professional artists. Stay close to the beach at highly rated Galveston B&B, The George Manor.