Spring break is a great opportunity for family vacations. Parents don’t have to worry about kids missing school, much of the country is starting to enjoy comfortable weather and summer’s high rates haven’t hit yet. Below, we break down a few options for affordable spring break vacations for families — all with insights from Fora travel advisors.
San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo — affectionately “SLO,” among locals — is often lost in the shuffle of larger-than-life California cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. But even in a state known for its variety, few places offer as much as SLO does in such a tight package. A 20- to 40-minute drive from downtown SLO — filled with boutiques, trendy eateries and bars — will place you amid the seal-laden beaches of Big Sur, rolling vineyards of Paso Robles and historic streets of artful towns like Cambria. In between, you’ll find hidden beaches with tide pools, the iconic Morro Bay Rock formation, old Spanish missions and gems like the Pismo Beach boardwalk (see more family beach vacations).
Spring is one of the best times to visit as normally golden hills are verdant green from winter’s rains. The temperatures are largely comfortable, day and night. The local universities are in session, adding a lively buzz. Fora Advisor Nadia Schwartz highlighted the area’s approachable hotel rates, many bike paths, beaches and farmers’ markets — the family-friendly Thursday market in downtown SLO has live music, tons of great food and fresh, local produce — and recommended a drive up to Hearst Castle. The former estate of William Randolf Hearst, the newspaper tycoon, looks like it was ripped right out of the Spanish countryside (you might catch a glimpse of wild zebras along the way — really).
Washington, DC
Blooming cherry blossoms, comfortable weather and plenty of things to do make Washington, DC a great choice for families looking for a spring break getaway. Fora Advisor Kristel Finns recommended visiting the free museums — which includes nearly all the best museums in Washington DC — and access to historical landmarks like George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Among the top museums for families: The Smithsonian Society’s Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of American History. But there are dozens more, covering topics from spy craft to different eras of famous art.
Washington, DC also hosts an excellent variety of casual eateries, with everything from Southern BBQ to international options like Japanese ramen and French pastries. Wander among pleasant parks, shop at local boutiques and stay at one of best hotels in Washington, DC for families, which include approachable and luxurious options.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona
Scottsdale is one of Arizona’s best places to visit, with family-friendly resorts and warm weather to complement the surrounding mountain-desert scenery. The top hotels in Scottsdale lean toward luxury, but there are more approachably priced options — many with waterparks or large pool complexes — as well as a full range of options in neighboring Phoenix. In fact, Phoenix is an excellent base for families interested in exploring both areas. The two cities are only around 20–30 minutes apart.
“Come for the sun, stay for the baseball and water activities!” Fora Advisor and Scottsdale local Shalegh Silkey said.
MLB fans will be happy to know that Spring Training is typically held between late February and March every year; around half the league participates.
Big Bend, Texas
Big Bend National Park is an under-the-radar choice for active families that want to avoid the crowds in Zion, Yosemite or other major national parks. It’s geographically diverse, with mountains, deserts and features like its namesake “Big Bend” in the Rio Grande or Boquillas Canyon. Spring is an opportune time to visit because you don’t have to worry about the extreme, even dangerous, temperatures that winter and summer bring.
“The best things in Big Bend are free: hiking, exploring and family time,” Fora Advisor Catherine Kinsey said. “Enjoy majestic hikes by day and s'mores by the fire at night.”
Catherine recommended Lajitas Golf Resort as an option for lodging outside the park. It’s around an hour drive, but the route is scenic — and there aren’t many other options, as Big Bend is one of the most remote places in the United States. But this also means it’s one of the best places in Texas (or the US in general) for stargazing.
Cancún, Mexico
Image courtesy of Finest Playa Mujeres
If you’re not opposed to leaving the country for your family spring break vacation, Cancún, on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, is a relatively affordable international destination. Spring offers slightly smaller crowds than in winter and the temperatures are hot but rejuvenating when paired with the sea breeze. Expect beautiful beaches, great food — Mexican and otherwise — and a plethora of ocean-bound activities from snorkeling in coral reefs to jet-ski excursions.
“There are so many options in all budgets!” Fora Advisor Erica Gould said. “Finest Playa Mujeres is my favorite affordable luxury option for families. The new SLS Playa Mujeres is also a great option.”
Both resorts are among Fora’s picks for all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico. Accommodations, meals, some or all activities and even flights can all be included in one package.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras alone makes spring one of the best times to visit New Orleans. Outside of Bourbon Street, which can get a little risqué at night, the city is an exciting place to explore for families. There are local boutiques, shops and famous eateries all throughout the French Quarter, downtown and the Garden District. There’s a reputable zoo and aquarium, and you can enjoy ferry trips, swamp tours and airboat rides on the Mississippi River or Lake Pontchartrain. Outside of peak Mardi Gras season, New Orleans’ best family hotels offer approachable rates, too.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is packed with free or low-cost activities, such as strolling along its iconic boardwalk and enjoying public beach access. Unless you’re visiting later in spring, the water may be too cold to enter. But there’s also mini-golf, amusement parks and a variety of family-friendly live entertainment. By visiting in spring, you’ll avoid summer’s heavy crowds and prices.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas may have an adult-oriented reputation, but it’s filled with family-friendly hotels and activities. Shows, amusement park rides, arcades, quirky museums — like those dedicated to the mafia or Area 51 — and water parks top lists of things to do in Vegas besides gambling. There’s something for everyone here. Las Vegas is also a great base for road trips to national parks like Death Valley and Great Basin.
Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach is an accessible destination for families. Families can spend their days swimming, surfing or playing in the sand. The nearby Cocoa Beach Pier provides inexpensive entertainment with scenic views, casual dining and fishing opportunities. The Kennedy Space Center is a short drive away and often has family discounts. Plus, Orlando resorts like Disney World and Universal Studios are only around an hour away.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
North Carolina’s Outer Banks — or OBX — is as laid-back a destination as you can imagine. Miles of well-kempt, uncrowded beaches provide free entertainment, from building sandcastles to flying kites — the water tends to be too cold to enjoy in spring. But nature enthusiasts can explore attractions like Jockey’s Ridge State Park or Cape Hatteras National Seashore without breaking the bank. Local markets and eateries serve fresh seafood. And, like Myrtle Beach, family-friendly activities like mini golf and go-karting abound.
More travel inspiration
Read about more approachable destinations across North America: