Spring always brings breath of fresh air, a desire to be outside, and for many – a desire to explore. While many of us (including me) would travel pretty much anywhere at any given time, there are some places that are just really cool in spring. So I partnered with other travel bloggers to bring you some amazing spring destinations. Here are some of the best spring destinations in the United States!
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Boston, Massachusetts
Spring brings a thaw to snowy Boston, and is an ideal time to visit, beating the crowds that always come in the summertime. While it may still be a bit chilly, spring is a fantastic time to visit Boston, especially as the tulips bloom and the trees explode in beautiful pink and white colors and the Red Sox start their season at the iconic Fenway Stadium. While you’re here, definitely prioritize a half-day or so to explore each of the 16 stops along the Freedom Trail, one of Boston’s best attractions, which guides you through all of Boston’s best historical sites, specifically regarding the American Revolution. The Freedom Trail leads you through a variety of neighborhoods where you can stop for a snack or meal, as well as to admire the architecture. You’ll walk through the quaint cobblestoned streets in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, the luxe row houses in the South End and Back Bay, and the oldest neighborhood in the city, the North End, where you can sample some of the best Italian cuisine outside of Italy. Be sure to try the cannoli at Mike’s Pastry and a big plate of pasta at Giacomo’s, Monica’s, or Antico Forno. Boston’s Public Library in Copley Square has one of the most beautiful interiors in the city, and is an excellent locals’ secret, and the Copley Square area is also a great place to stay to be able to easily access all of the city’s top sights. While this is something you can do on your own, a guided tour will fill in a lot of color.
Newport, Rhode Island
There are plenty of things to do in Newport for any visitor. Newport is one of the most underrated beach towns – that can be visited any time of the year! Travelers can enjoy the water from the beach or even head out on a sailboat. You can also take a stroll along the Cliff Walk to take in the nature of the area. The Cliff Walk is 3.5 miles long and has beautiful views of beaches and the famous Newport mansions. There are a few parking areas so you do not have to do the whole thing if you’re short on time. Park near The Breakers, one of the most famous mansions so you can do that when nearby. The mansions of Newport are famous for their history and architecture. Some of the mansions were date back to the 1850s! In the evening, walk around Bannister’s and Bowen’s Wharves for a variety of food and shopping.
Any visit to Newport wouldn’t be complete without delicious food! If you arrive in Newport for breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – the blueberry stuffed french toast is a great way to start the day! It wouldn’t be New England without a seafood meal. Tennis fans would enjoy a tour of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Be sure to get some fresh seafood at the Lobster Shack. If you want to stay in the heart of Newport, stay at the Marriott Newport – it’s within walking distance to Bannister’s Wharf.
New York City, New York
Visiting New York City is a great idea all year round, however, if you’re looking for the absolute best time to visit the Big Apple, you need to schedule your trip to spring! Although spring can be a bit unstable when it comes to the weather, chances are high that you will encounter many sunny days with warm temperatures, which is perfect for sightseeing.
And what makes spring in NYC even more magical is the blooming flowers and green parks everywhere you look! If you love flowers, you can enjoy two of the most popular events: the Macy’s Flower Show in late March or early April and the Cherry Blossom Festival in late April.
Spending 4 days in New York City is a great start to see the highlights of the city. For the best panoramic views, you need to visit the Top of the Rock from where you can enjoy a 360 degree view over the city that never sleeps. Having a picnic in Central Park is also a lovely idea, such as strolling around in Downtown Manhattan. When in New York, you simply can’t miss seeing a Broadway show or visiting some of the best museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History.
Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis, Maryland is a hidden gem on the east coast which is often overlooked for a busier city like Baltimore or Washington, D.C. However, it’s one of the best spring destinations in the US because of it’s charming personality. The warmer weather of spring means that you can fully enjoy walking the cobblestone streets of Annapolis.
There is a lot of American history throughout the entire city. Relish in the history of the military at the United States Naval Academy. You can visit and tour the homes of a few people who signed the Declaration of Independence and other famous Marylanders, like William Paca and James Brice. Head to the stunning Maryland State House, which is the oldest U.S. state capitol in continuous legislative use dating back to 1772. Annapolis was the first peacetime capital of the United States. When the Continental Congress ratified the Treaty of Paris on January 14, 1784, the USA became an independent nation.
Be sure to indulge in a delicious crepe from Sofi’s creperie for breakfast. Wander along Main Street for some cool souvenirs (such as items made from boating sails at Resails), delicious lobster from Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, and a cocktail at the Red Red Wine Bar (which serves more than just wine!).
Baltimore, Maryland
A weekend getaway to Baltimore is a great idea for a spring destination due to its location and variety of things to do. This histoic city is nestled right in the heart of the East Coast, making it very easy to get to.
The Inner Harbor is a great home base for exploring the city. The Harbor has a variety of restaurants – from the soul food of Miss Shirley’s Cafe for homemade donuts in the morning to fresh seafood at the Rusty Scupper, Baltimore won’t let you leave hungry! The Baltimore Civil War Museum is perfect for any American history travelers, while the American Visionary Art Museum is ideal for art lovers. There are a number of large and small museums right in the Inner Harbor, so you’ll be sure to find one of interest to you. You can also get a view of Baltimore from the water on a paddle boat or a sailboat!
Once you’ve finished in the Inner Harbor, head to Fells Point for some boutique shops. The neighborhood was populated before America was even a country – so you’re literally walking through history! Street art lovers can embrace the local scene at Graffiti Alley in the heart of Baltimore, while architect fans can visit the breathtaking Peabody Library!, writing fans can visit the home and grave of Edgar Allen Poe.
Since spring brings warmer weather, Baltimore is a perfect spring destination in the United States – rent an electric scooter around the city and get exploring!
Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague and its neighbor Assateague are a great mixture of nature and relaxing beaches, perfect for a spring getaway. One of the best things to do in Chincoteague is to attend the annual Pony Swim Festival. The Assateague Island Ponies are wild ponies that became famous due to the children’s book “Misty of Chincoteague.” The Annual Pony Swim is a huge festival where these beautiful and peaceful animals are celebrated. The funds of the event are used to take care of the herd throughout the year. There is plenty of nature to explore if you get tired from the beach. The Wildlife Loop Trail is a paved path for bikers or walkers where you can spot a variety of birds, plants, and even ponies. You can also see a breathtaking sunrise above the water. Even if you don’t go swimming because of the cooler weather, there are still plenty of things to do in Chincoteague.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
If you enjoy nature can visit the wild horses of the Outer Banks or go bird spotting along Kitty Hawk Bay. Fans of history can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial or Historic Corolla Park. Many of the attractions on the island are available year-round. If you want to get your heart racing, try jet-skiing, paragliding, or even hang-gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites! Of course, just relaxing on the miles of beach is the perfect way to take a break from the car. Sunrise on the east coast will take your breath away.
Indulge your sweet tooth with a fresh, homemade donut from Duck Donuts. There are a few locations across the islands. For a great place to stay, check out First Colony Inn in Nags Head. The home-like atmosphere is within walking distance of the beach.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a fantastic spring break getaway, especially if you are traveling as a family. This is because there are many different activities for all ages to enjoy – there are even fun things to do in Myrtle Beach for teenagers!
Some of the best activities to do range from mini-golfing (there are so many fun courses in Myrtle Beach), visiting Alligator Adventure, which has over 200 different types of animals to see, and parasailing is also a fun activity to try in Myrtle Beach. If you’re a fan of trying local wineries, be sure to head to Coastal Winery, Duplin Winery or La Belle Amie Vineyard to sample the local wines. Myrtle Beach also has nearly 100 different golf courses to choose from!
For accommodation, there are plenty of hotels and resorts right on the Atlantic Ocean – so, you can maximize your time by the beach. I, personally, stayed at The Westgate (they run specials from time to time). This resort has direct access to the beach and has several swimming pools. It is also located across the road from the Family Kingdom Amusement Park.
While the weather might be a little chilly at times, visiting Myrtle Beach during spring break will mean fewer crowds than the busy summer months. Plus, there are plenty of fun activities, if you aren’t able to hang out at the beach each day!
Key West, Florida
There are so many amazing destinations to visit during Spring in the United States and Key West, Florida is one of them. Spring is the best time to visit because the winter crowds will start tapering out by then and the weather is perfect.
One of the most iconic things to do here is to take a photo with the infamous Southernmost Point buoy. Next, explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. You’ll get a history lesson and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the water. After that, wander down Duval Street and pop in and out of the funky shops. Other great attractions include Dry Tortugas National Park, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, boat tours, and more.
One of the most incredible aspects of visiting Key West is the food scene. This city is brimming with world-class restaurants and you can spend an entire day just sampling fresh seafood. Be sure to enjoy a sunset dinner at the Southernmost House Hotel. Also, don’t leave Key West without trying the infamous Key Lime Pie. There are several places that serve it, but Kermit’s has some of the best.
Lastly, the best place to stay in Key West is The Gardens Hotel. Each room has a unique theme and has the best tropical vibes.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a great choice for a spring destination. There is less traffic at major attractions, and temperatures are nice and warm without feeling like you could melt. The ocean is also warm enough to be able to enjoy a swim. Lounging on the beach is one of the best things to do in the spring. During spring you’re able to witness sea turtles nesting. Ensure you watch from a distance though; give them their space. On average, 350 nests have been protected annually in Miami, with most found in Miami Beach.
Take an Art Deco Tour to see some of the most impressive Art Deco architecture of Miami. It is a great wander up and down Ocean Drive while enjoying the gorgeous buildings and antique cars. If you want to see more of the vibrancy, explore the colorful neighborhood of murals adorned over the walls of Wynwood. When you get hungry from all of the mural viewings, stop in at The Taco Stand, which features a variety of classic tacos, quesadillas, and carne asada fries.
Spread out in spacious one and two-bedroom suites at the Alexander Hotel at Miami Beach. An oceanfront property, you’re only steps away from the beach or relax on the property in one of the pools. Spring also has enjoyable weather for a day trip for an airboat tour through the Everglades. Keep your eyes peeled for some gators; you’ll probably see several!
Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg is an ideal spring break destination in Texas for wine lovers, couples, and families. Nestled in the heart of the Texas Wine Country, this lovely German enclave has excellent wineries in and around town.
Although it is a small place, Fredericksburg has lots of history because it was founded by German immigrants in 1846. Start off your itinerary by wandering through the town center and appreciating the European architecture. You will want to visit a few museums to learn more about this charming place. Then, savor some German food in one of the town’s restaurants—Otto’s German Bistro is a classic!
After indulging in downtown, prepare to experience the real Texan wine. As said, Fredericksburg is located in the heart of the Texas Wine Country and boasts some world-class wineries in town, which are fantastic and absolutely worth the trip. Beyond food and culture, what’s the draw during March and April? Bluebonnets, of course! Fredericksburg is also in the Texas Hill Country, which is known for being an excellent place to check out Texas state flower. So take one of the scenic drives around town and appreciate the flowery landscapes! If you need a place to stay, consider the Rarumpelpunzeldornaschenwittchen. This German-themed cottage has a darn long name, but it is a quaint cottage that will make your trip even better!
Big Bend National Park, Texas
When it comes to National Parks in Texas, Big Bend National Park takes the cake. From hiking its high-elevation peaks, exploring the arid desert and lush-green valleys, taking a dip in its natural hot springs, beautiful stargazing, camping, and even a potential stop in Mexico for lunch, Big Bend National Park offers something for everyone. It is also considered one of the best places to go stargazing. Some of the must-see things to do in Big Bend:
Go hiking at some of its amazing trails – There are a lot of hiking trails within the park. Some of these are stroller accessible as well. Cross the border into Boquillas, Mexico: Big Bend is along the US-Mexico border, so you can take a boat ride into Boquillas Mexico which is a great day trip. Don’t forget your passport. Go on a drive on the scenic along Ross Maxwell Drive: You can enjoy Big Bend from the confines of your car by taking the beautiful Ross Maxwell drive. Visit the Mc. Donald’s observatory: The star parties here are very popular with kids and adults alike. Visit the Ghost town of Terlingua: The nearby town of Terlingua has some awesome food, lodging, and ruins in its ghost town to explore.
What to Eat:
The Starlight Theatre in Terlingua is fantastic. Try their award-winning Texas Chili or Texas BBQ. If you visit Boquillas, Mexico, be sure to try the goat tacos there. They are delicious. You can’t go wrong with tacos, BBQ, or brisket at any of the other popular restaurants. Be sure to order a Prickly Pear Margarita or Mexican Martini to go with the sumptuous food.
Where to Stay:
Camping: There are three campgrounds within Big Bend National Park. You can book additional camping using HipCamp in the nearby town of Terlingua. Glamping: There are lots of glamping options in the nearby town of Terlingua. Base Came Teriligua is my favorite. Hotels: The Lajitias resort or Willow House offer great lodging options that you will love.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Grand Canyon is a great spring destination. Winters are cold, summers are hot and fall can have thunderstorms, but spring is just perfect.
There is plenty to do in Grand Canyon. Take a scenic flight over the canyon or walk on the glass-floored Skywalk that hangs out beyond the rim for a thrill. There are plenty of amazing hikes you can do, including the Bright Angel Trail, which goes all the way from the south rim down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon. For a day hike, you can make it halfway to Indian Garden and back. The hike is down (and up) a series of steep switchbacks, and is much more pleasant in spring than summer. Don’t miss the beautiful turquoise-colored Havasu Falls, which are at their fullest and brightest color in spring. You can also take a multi-day white water rafting trip on the Colorado River through the canyon.
For something a little calmer, there are multiple viewpoints of the canyon. Hike the rim trail, take the shuttle along Hermit Road to the west, or drive Desert View Drive to the east. Stop off at the interesting Yavapai Geology Museum for information about the canyon’s formation and layers.
There are several lodges and restaurants inside the national park on the south rim and one on the north rim. The most famous south rim lodge is El Tovar, one of the classic national park lodges. It is perched with on the rim of the canyon and has an amazing dining room with wooden beams and rustic chandeliers. Another great option is The Grand Hotel in nearby Tusayan, just 15 minutes from the park entrance.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Located just outside of Moab, Utah, you’ll find spring brings the perfect weather for exploring Canyonlands National Park. Canyonlands is unique in that it is divided into four distinct districts, each offering different opportunities to explore: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the Colorado River and its tributaries.
As the four different districts are divided by the Colorado River, determining how to visit Canyonlands National Park is much more challenging than your average National Park. They can be hours apart by road requiring you to target the district you want to visit prior to heading out.
Visit Island in the Sky for roadside overlooks into breathtaking canyons and short hikes, like to the ever-popular Mesa Arch. Head to the Needles if you’re looking for longer day hikes or backcountry hiking. Druid Arch and Chesler Park remain two of the best hiking options there. If you’re an avid backpacker, the Maze offers the opportunity to get off the beaten path into the backcountry, but most people spend at least three days in the Maze due to the distance it is from civilization. Meanwhile, if water activities, like white water rafting, are more your speed, check out the rivers!
Whatever your comfort with the outdoors, Canyonlands has something to offer you. Explore one district or discover them all!
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is one of the best USA national parks to visit in Spring. There’s so many perks to visiting this time of year, from avoiding crowds to great hiking weather.
In Spring, Zion National Park is filled with wildflowers along the many hiking trails. As the snow melts, the water levels rise in the Virgin River that flows through the park. This is the best time of year to spot waterfalls like on the Emerald Pools trail. The weather in Spring stays around 60 to 80 degrees during the day, perfect for hiking! The best trails to hike in the Spring are Angels Landing, Observation Point, or Emerald Pools. Don’t miss driving the scenic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.
If you’re looking to stay in the park, book a spot at Zion Lodge about 1 year in advance or book a campsite at Watchman Campground 6 months in advance. The nearby town of Springdale offers plenty of places to stay and eat too. Some of the best spots to stay in Springdale are Cliffrose Lodge or Driftwood Lodge. And don’t miss grabbing a post hike drink at Zion Canyon Brew Pub nestled along the Virgin River.
Yosemite , California
As the weather warms up, nature wakes up, which makes spring a perfect time to visit Yosemite National Park. Although Yosemite is just beginning to thaw out in the spring and everything isn’t open yet, you’ll still find plenty to explore in this outdoor playground – and you’ll beat the massive summer crowds.
You can stay right in the Valley at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, Ahwahnee, or Curry Village. Some campgrounds don’t open until later in the season, but the Pines campgrounds are open in spring. They fill up fast, so try to make a reservation far in advance. Camp 4 is also open, and sites are available in a daily lottery.
The Yosemite Valley section of the park is open year-round, and spring is prime waterfall season. Everything is melting out so the waterfalls are flowing strong with spring runoff. If you’re up for a challenge, you can hike to Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. This is one of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park, but it is a very strenuous and steep trail, so be prepared for a full-day hike.
So don’t go chasing waterfalls, just go to Yosemite in the spring to find them!
Death Valley, California
Despite its name, Death Valley National Park in California is far more than just a barren swath of the desert. It’s one of the most unique national parks in the United States famous for its one-of-a-kind geologic features, otherworldly landscapes, and scorching heat.
Ironically, summer is a very busy time in Death Valley National Park, as many visitors come here to experience the famous triple digits. While there’s something fascinating about experiencing this kind of temperature in a place that seems to be cut off from civilization, it’s not the best time to visit Death Valley if you want to enjoy this place and spend time outside.
If you can, plan your visit for spring or mid-to-late fall, when temperatures are mild enough for hiking and spending time outdoors. For example, March and April are great for exploring Death Valley before it gets too hot.
Among the most popular places in Death Valley is Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Artist’s Drive, Ubehebe Crater, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Another popular spot is Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
While Death Valley is a true outdoor playground, there aren’t many options when it comes to places to eat. This national park only offers a couple of simple restaurants in Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells, as well as gas stations, where you can buy water and some snacks.
There are several campgrounds throughout Death Valley, however, many of them are closed from May through September when it gets too hot. Some of the most popular places to stay in Death Valley are Death Valley Inn, Ranch at Death Valley, and Oasis at Death Valley.
San Diego, California
San Diego is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but you’ll find the greenest San Diego in spring. As the snow in the mountains melts, the streams in the area fill and provide water for the ecosystem. Because of this, there are several San Diego hikes that are particularly great in the spring. This is the best time of the year to see the waterfalls of the Three Sisters, take in the view from Torrey Pines, and climb your way to Potato Chip Rock, all three local hikes best done this time of year.
When visiting San Diego, some of the best places and things to experience are the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, the food of Little Italy, the tidepools and lighthouse of Point Loma, Coronado, and Pacific Beach. You could also explore the rides and games at Belmont Park or catch a baseball game at one of the most beautiful MLB stadiums, Petco Park. San Diego is the “Craft Beer Capital of America” and is world renowned for its West Coast IPA. Some of the best breweries to try are Ballast Point, Amplified Ale Works, and Pizza Port. Another fun thing to do is to rent bikes and ride along beach boardwalks at Mission Bay. This is best done in the morning or on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
When looking for a place to stay, you’ll need to consider what kind of trip you’d like to have. Pacific Beach is great for bars. Gaslamp is great for nightlife. Mission Beach and Ocean Beach are best for the laid-back, stereotypical San Diego surfer atmosphere. Downtown La Jolla is best for families.
San Francisco, California
When you think of California, you often think of sandy beaches, hipster restaurants, carefree vibes and music festivals. However, San Francisco is quite often a completely different story. The city sits under a cloud of near-constant fog with frequent rain and chilly coastal winds making it one of California’s chilliest cities. Plus, the hilly nature and rickety trams give San Francisco the feeling of a more modern version of Lisbon in Portugal!
However, spring in San Francisco is sunny and mostly free from the drizzle, making it one of the best times of year to visit before the summer fog sets in. The Golden Gate city has plenty of cool attractions besides the Golden Gate itself – although that should definitely be a must-see on your San Fran itinerary.
A few of the other best places to visit in San Francisco include the famous Fisherman’s Wharf where you’ll find some incredibly funky restaurants including a few delightful seafood places, head over to Pier 39 to see the seals (they are super cute but they stink!), take a trip out to Alcatraz or drive down the infamous Lombard Street. If you can’t resist a good pint, then don’t forget about San Francisco’s International Beer Festival which takes place in May most years. With craft beers shipped in from both local and international breweries and delicious foodie treats, you’ll be spoiled for choice
Hawaii
One of the best places to visit in the spring are the gorgeous Hawaiian islands! Between late March and June, the weather in Hawaii is pretty mild and perfect for exploring. Planning a trip to Hawaii is pretty easy and you can book it all on your own. The four main islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. On Oahu, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a fun place to stay and you can’t beat the location, as it’s right in Waikiki. Some cool things to do on Oahu include checking out Pearl Harbor, eating Dole Whip at Dole Plantation, and ziplining at Kualoa Ranch. On Maui, the Honua Kai Resort has some amazing swimming pools and they have a Duke’s restaurant on site. While on Maui, be sure to check out the sunrise at Haleakala, drive the Road to Hana, and go snorkeling at Molokini Crater. Kauai is one of the prettiest Hawaiian islands and an awesome place to stay is the Grand Hyatt Kauai. Some fun things to do on Kauai include checking out Waimea Canyon, eating at the Shrimp Station, and tubing down a sugar cane canal. And the Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and tons of beautiful Hawaii waterfalls. You can even go snorkeling or scuba diving with Manta Rays! It’s hard to beat the Hilton Waikoloa Village for a relaxing Big Island vacation spot.
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Great list. I have only been to NY and Boston, but San Francisco is the next US destination on my list. I have wanted to go for years. Hopefully, soon enough, I will be able to travel there.
Fingers crossed! It’s an incredible city to visit!