Out of all the seasons, Spring is perhaps the most magical. With blooming flowers, warm sun, and a cool breeze. Going out during the spring can be an experience unlike any other in the year. This makes spring break a perfect time for the entire family to take a road trip or head out of town. Allowing you to explore some of the amazing sights that the US has to offer. But, what are the best spring break destinations for families?
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The US, however, has thousands of beautiful locations for families to visit. Hence, deciding on a single one can be quite a hard task. Fortunately, this article will help you do just that. The following includes a list of the most popular family-friendly locations to visit during this year’s spring break.
In this article, we will discuss why taking a spring break vacation with your family is important. As well as provide some spring break 2022 vacation ideas for parents and a guide to the Top 10 Spring Break Destinations for Families. Keep reading to learn more about the most family-friendly locations that the US has to offer.
You may also be interested to read more about our recommendations for Best Fall Break Destinations For Families, or our article about the Top Family Vacation Destinations in the US. For families traveling with grandparents check out this post about Multi-Generational Travel Ideas For Families.
Why take a Spring Break Vacation?
Taking an escape from the routine of daily life is something that almost all adults crave. After all, having a career or being a full-time homemaker is no easy job. This in itself would be enough reason to warrant a springtime break.
However, taking a vacation has huge benefits for your kids too. Not only do they get to see more of the country and experience traveling. But the trip can also serve as a good opportunity for the family to bond together and grow closer. Thus, taking a spring break vacation is a must and will be rewarding for every member of the family.
Spring Break Vacation Ideas
Perhaps the hardest question to answer when it comes to planning a vacation is where to go? What is the most popular spring break ideas for families? And where are the best spring break destinations for families with children?
The right answer will differ for every family but here are a few crucial things to keep in mind. What does everyone enjoy doing as a family? How far are you willing to go from home? Do you enjoy long hikes up rocky trails in the fresh mountain air? Or do you prefer calm days spent sunbathing at a golden beach?
Asking yourself, and your family, these questions can be important in deciding where to go for vacation.
Top 10 Spring Break Destinations for Families
The following are a series of locations all across the US that can serve as the background to a perfect family vacation. Check out these spring break ideas for families. This is our list of top 10 spring break destinations for families. We hope one of these locations will be perfect for your family!
1: Savannah, GA
Set against the backdrop of the southeastern USA, and sitting along the Savannah River. Savannah, Georgia is a warm, green, and lush small town. One that is absolutely filled to the brim with experiences, culture, and history.
Consider a visit to the ArtZeum, an interactive children’s museum at the Jepson Center. Spread over three buildings, the ArtZeum houses over 200 years’ worth of colorful and vibrant art history. Moreover, it also offers kids the chance to create their own art pieces in the interactive gallery at ArtZeum.
Another fun thing to do in Savannah with the kids is to take a trolley tour through the old town. These centuries-old buildings are a masterclass in aesthetics and beauty. Moreover, they can also serve as an educational opportunity for young kids about American history.
Together, these attractions make Savannah one of the most all-American places to visit with your family on this list.
2: Hilton Head, SC
Staying within the South, another gorgeous destination to visit for spring break, is Hilton Head, South Carolina. This beautiful island is located just off the coast and offers over 12 miles of amazingly pristine beaches.
At Shelter Cove Harbor & Marina, you and your family can engage in a series of fun activities. These include water sports, sailing, crabbing, and best of all, dolphin watching. The young ones will be enthralled seeing porpoises interact with tourists in their natural habitat.
Another attraction to hit up is Adventure Cove. This park is filled to the brim with interactive games as well as two 18-hole mini-golf courses. Moreover, if you collect enough tickets by winning different games, your kids could win cool prizes. These include gadgets like game consoles, headphones, and many others!e
Hilton Head is like a world of its own. Offering your family the escape they need from the humdrum of daily life and letting everyone forget their worries.
3: Panama City Beach, FL
If lively beaches catch your fancy then Panama City Beach, Florida, is the place to be. Hit up these gorgeous white-sand beaches stretching 27 miles alongside the warm turquoise-blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
In case it’s raining outside and you want to see something interesting, consider visiting the Ripley’s Believe-it-or-Not Museum. This attraction houses over 500 exhibits ranging from shrunken heads to sculptures made of car parts.
To enjoy a birds-eye view of the beach or a game of mini-golf with the kids, head to Pier Park. In addition to shopping and dining, this entertainment destination is packed full of fun, child-safe activities including the Grand IMAX movie theater, laser tag, live music, and more.
4: Sanibel Island, FL
Sanibel Island is another ocean-side attraction in Florida. This small island may not be that large, however, it holds an enormous treasure trove of natural attractions.
Other than untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters Sanibel Island also houses some of the world’s rarest aquatic life.
Children will love it as they spot dolphins and manatees playfully skirting around the island. Moreover, another fun activity will be collecting shells on the beach with your kids. Sanibel Island is one of the best places in the world for this purpose. You can find over 250 types of shells on this island’s beaches.
Another unique experience to try out with your family is to kayak through the mangroves. This will offer an unparalleled view of the natural wonders of Sanibel Island. Whilst also serving to educate children about natural ecosystems and wildlife.
5: St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
If you are willing to travel outside of the continental US, there is a whole world of attractions to visit. If you’re looking for spring break family ideas then one of these is America’s Paradise, aka St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. These Caribbean Islands live up to the name with their white-sand beaches, warm weather, and palm trees
It’s not all just about natural wonders though. You can visit the Coral World Ocean Park which houses colorful tropical fish to snorkel amongst. If your kids are too young to snorkel, you can also opt for the submerged viewing area. It offers an unparalleled view of the marine world.
The Park also houses a wide selection of colorful, and rather lively birds. These will brighten up everyone’s day with their funny antics and playful behavior.
Another family-friendly attraction is The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum. This museum houses a range of interactive exhibits as well as activities involving STEAM concepts. Helping your children form a better appreciation for the sciences and technology as they play and explore.
6: Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is another spring break destination for families located outside the continental United States. It offers visitors a truly unique chance to experience Latin culture without having to leave the country.
Pay a visit to the Coqui Water Park for a chance to experience three of the largest and fastest water slides around. Moreover, while the children are playing, adults can relax in the 8500 square-foot pool and enjoy the resort’s amenities.
Parque De Bombas is one of Puerto Rico’s most stunning buildings with its dazzling red facade and festive lights. Moreover, the building’s gothic halls are now home to a museum dedicated to local firefighters. It will serve as an excellent educational experience for the kids!
7: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Carved over the course of millions of years by the Colorado River’s unceasing and unstoppable flow, the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder unlike any other on planet earth.
Start the day off by attending a session of the Junior Rangers program. Here your kids can engage in age-appropriate activities led by an actual park ranger. The kids will also learn more about the park’s landscape and history.
Moreover, successful completion of the session will bring rewards. An official certificate and badge commemorating the fact that your child is now a Junior Ranger!
Did you know? Every year, beginning September 1st, all children in the fourth grade have access to the Every Kid Outdoors pass. This pass provides free access for 4th graders and their families to national parks across the country.
If your kids love trains, then consider riding on the restored WW2-Era passenger train at Grand Canyon Village. The Grand Canyon Railway includes a visit from the friendly conductor. As well as a mock train robbery to give you the complete Wild West experience.
8: Scottsdale, AZ
With mammoth cacti dotting the land and dirt trails leading to undiscovered vistas, Scottsdale, Arizona is a hidden gem. It’ll make a wonderful vacation destination for your family.
Visit the Butterfly Wonderland to offer your kids the chance to see the biggest butterfly conservatory in America. You can also go to the park’s 3D theater to watch ‘flight of the butterflies.’ This is a documentary about the migration of monarch butterflies.
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is another destination that should be on your to-visit list. This park houses a huge playground and an Old West-themed play area. The main attraction, however, is the Paradise Pacific Railroad. The train runs through the 30-acre park and offers visitors a chance to hop on. If your child loves trains then they’ll definitely enjoy this!
9: Yosemite National Park, CA
Yosemite National Park in California is another awe-inspiring natural wonder that straddles the pacific coast. This park is an exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts as well as children alike.
Pay a visit to the giant sequoias, one of the largest tree species in the world. These trees dot the landscape with their imposing beauty. A trip here will provide kids with a good opportunity to learn about the stunning vistas of this planet. As well as the value of conservation.
To cool off in the spring sun, you can also head to the towering waterfalls dotting Yosemite Valley. There are more than 25 waterfalls at Yosemite National Park. Your kids will have a chance to enjoy the water while still remaining a safe distance away.
10: Oahu, Hawaii
Famous for its beaches, lush green forests, iconic music, and active volcanoes is Oahu in Hawaii. This destination has been a favorite of families and parents with children for decades.
Depending upon the age of your kids, one of the first places to visit may be the Pearl Harbor Memorial Museum. This attraction offers children and adults alike the chance to learn about America’s history. It also provides the opportunity to pay homage to fallen heroes.
For something unique, consider heading to Laniakea Beach, more famously known as Turtle Beach. As the name suggests, this beach offers your children the chance to see hundreds of sea turtles. Get up close and personal in their natural habitat!
Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in 2022
The United States is packed full of vacation destinations to visit with your family. From forests and mountains to beaches and deserts, you can plan your ideal trip. There is a place out there that will meet your requirements.
If you are looking for more family vacation ideas then check out these posts about The Best Fall Break Destinations for Families or see our Top Family Vacation Destinations in the USA.
Summary of Spring Break Family Ideas
Making use of your spring break is a really good idea. It offers you and your family the chance to escape the usual routine of school and work. Plus you can also grow closer as you travel to new places and experience new things.
When planning for your trip, the most important thing is to find a place that will keep everyone entertained. We hope this guide to the best spring break destinations for families will help you find the perfect location. We wish you the best of luck selecting your next holiday destination!
For more about family travel check out these posts:
What Is The Best Age To Travel With Kids?
Top Family Vacation Destinations in the US
How To Start Saving For A Vacation With Kids
Plan a Multi-Generational Vacation with Grandparents
