15 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in 2023

Spring break is one of the best times of the year! It’s the best time to get away from school and responsibilities for a week. A spring break offers the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. It’s also a great time to take a break from the usual routine, visit theme parks and national parks, or check out some gorgeous beaches with your family.

Are you searching for family spring break vacation ideas? Our list of spring break destinations for families will help you find the best places to visit for any family spring break trips you plan!

Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

Check out our list of best spring break destinations for families below.

1. Florida Keys, Florida

The Florida Keys is one of the USA’s most popular spring break destinations since it offers plenty of activities, places to stay, and attractions to enjoy your family’s spring break vacation. If you’re looking for fun in the sun, head to one of the beautiful beaches. You can also explore the local ecosystem with a snorkeling, diving trip, or fishing to catch a big one!

Sombrero Beach is one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. There are more sandy beaches where you can have fun building sandcastles, beach camping, and relaxing at the beach. Kids always find water sports like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking fun. You can visit one of the venues and participate in water sports with your family.

Explore the depths of Key Largo’s Christ of Abyss for an unforgettable underwater adventure. Feel a rush as you plunge into Marathon Key’s Thunderbolt wreck site. Follow suit and dive to discover the USS Wilkes-Barre in beautiful Key West. Or try snorkeling around Hens & Chicken Reef off Islamorada; get ready to marvel at nature’s hidden paradise beneath your feet!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the United States. It offers colorful aquatic life sceneries with a glass-bottom excursion, diving, and snorkeling. Other coral venues include Dry Tortugas, Coral Reef Park Co, and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters.

There are different spots where kids can swim with the Dolphins. You can also visit these spots for some dolphin love, including Dolphin Plus Bayside, Theatre of the Sea, and Hawk’s Cays. With proper travel planning, you’ll find that Florida is home to some of the best spring break vacations for families!

There are some of the best Florida Keys hotels:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Ocean Key Resort & Spa
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel & Resort
• Best Budget Hotel: Ragged Edge Resort and Marina

See Related: Most Exotic Places in California to Visit

2. Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach is a great place to start when finding the best family vacation ideas. This vibrant city has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to incredible restaurants, making for the perfect Florida spring break. With Panama City Beach’s welcoming atmosphere, you will surely enjoy your time spent here and friends.

Aside from its incredible beaches, Panama City Beach has plenty of other attractions perfect for a fun family vacation. There’s Shipwreck Island Waterpark, where guests can splash in water slides and wave pools. This is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing, allowing guests to explore the stunning underwater world off the coast. Guests can also take in Panama City Beach’s vibrant nightlife, with plenty of options for live music and shows.

Where to stay in Panama City Beach:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Marriott’s Legends Edge at Bay Point
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Panama City Beach
• Best Budget Hotel: Flamingo Motel

See Related: Best Things To Do In Miami, Florida

3. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

If you’re looking for the best family vacation spots in the Midwest, look no further! Wisconsin Dells is a city in south-central Wisconsin, best known for its group of natural water parks. It’s a perfect spring break destination for the whole family. The Dells have several activities for the entire family, including rides, arcades, shopping, golfing, and more.

Wisconsin Dells is home to some of the best water parks in the country. With names like Noah’s Ark, Mt. Olympus, and Kalahari, you know you’re in for a good time. These parks are perfect for families looking for a fun and refreshing spring break getaway.

Riding the Ducks at Wisconsin Dells is a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty. These vintage World War II amphibious vehicles will take you on a tour of the river and through the downtown district, giving you a unique view of the City.

Deer Park is home to a large herd of deer; visitors can walk among them and even feed them. It’s a fantastic experience to be so close to these beautiful animals, and you can also go hiking or biking.

The Riverwalk is a beautiful paved pathway that follows the Wisconsin River. It’s perfect for a stroll or a bike ride, and it’s a great way to see the city’s natural beauty. There are also several restaurants and shops along the riverwalk, so your family can enjoy a meal or shopping trip without leaving the path.

Best hotels to consider in Wisconsin Dells:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Chula Vista Resort
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells
• Best Budget Hotel: Mt. Olympus Resorts

See Related: Best Small Towns in Wisconsin to Visit

4. Yosemite, California

The best things to do in Yosemite National Park vary depending on what you’re interested in. Enjoy the stunning scenery, hike, take a relaxed stroll through the park, or participate in other adventure opportunities. This includes rock climbing, rafting, and fishing.

No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time in Yosemite National Park. The Yosemite Valley Railroad operates daily passenger excursions between Yosemite Valley and El Portal, California. The El Portal route offers views of the Merced River Canyon and Half Dome. The Yosemite Valley route provides views of Bridalveil Falls, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point.

Glacier Point is worth a visit! Glacier Point is a viewpoint in Yosemite National Park, with a spectacular view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and other park features. 

Hiking the Alpine Meadows is a great way to experience natural beauty. The meadows are filled with wildflowers, and you can see fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. Be sure to take time to enjoy the beauty of nature while you’re here! 

The Half Dome Village is great for spending an afternoon with your family. There’s a great ice cream shop, and you can enjoy a delicious treat while you skate on the ice rink. The village is also home to various shops and restaurants, so you can find something to suit everyone’s taste. 

Here are the best hotels in Yosemite you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Yosemite View Lodge
• Best Budget Hotel: Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort

See Related: Best Family Hotels in San Francisco, California

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is one of the best destinations for a family spring break vacation. With its sunny beaches and many activities, there’s something fun for everyone. Here are some of the best kid-friendly things to do in Honolulu during your spring break:

Check out Waikiki Beach, a world-famous beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the waves. The wide variety of activities available on Waikiki Beach makes it the perfect spot for a family vacation. From swimming and surfing to shopping and sightseeing, there’s something for everyone in this fantastic city by the sea.

The USS Arizona Memorial honors the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941. The memorial comprises two white curved arches that sit atop white towers, and it’s a beautiful and solemn site. Visitors can walk through the monument and learn about the attack on Pearl Harbor and those who were lost.

Amoana Beach Park is an excellent spot for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone busy. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and kayaking on the beach.

The tour off the coast of Oahu is perfect for families, with plenty of stops and activities that everyone will enjoy. You can explore the Hawaiian islands‘ majestic beauty while enjoying family time together. Alternatively, you can take a whale-watching tour off the coast of Oahu.

Here are the best hotels in Honolulu you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
• Best Budget Hotel: The Modern Honolulu

See Related: What Does Domestic Travel Mean?

6. Savannah, Georgia

The weather is usually warm and sunny in Savannah during spring break. This makes an excellent destination for a family getaway. Kids can have plenty of fun in Savannah, such as visiting the historic squares and buildings, going to the beach, or exploring the many parks and gardens.

This charming district has beautiful old homes and churches, fascinating museums, and shops. Enjoy a carriage ride through Savannah’s Historic District to see the fantastic scenery.

The Savannah Zoo is an excellent place for a family day out. The zoo is home to various animals, including lions, tigers, and bears (OH MY!). There are also plenty of areas where kids can run around and explore, making it the perfect place to wear them out. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch so you can enjoy it in the park-like setting of the zoo.

The Tybee Island Lighthouse is located in a beautiful setting on the Georgia coast, and it offers lovely views of the ocean and coastline. The lighthouse is also open for tours, so visitors can learn more about its history and how it operates. The area also has several shops and restaurants, making it a great spot to enjoy a day or evening out with the entire family.

Here are the best hotels in Savannah you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Perry Lane Hotel
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa
• Best Budget Hotel: TRYP By Wyndham Savannah Downtown/Historic District

See Related: Best Things to Do in Malibu, California

7. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

This is one of the best spring break destinations on the East Coast. Myrtle Beach is a wide swath of land home to many family-friendly activities. Myrtle Beach is known for its wide, sandy beaches – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle-building.

Ripley’s Aquarium is a great place to take the family for fun and learning. With exhibits featuring everything from sharks to seahorses, you’ll find something everyone in the family will enjoy. There’s also a touch tank where kids can get up close and personal with some of the aquarium’s star creatures.

Wonderwork is a great place to take the family for a fun-filled day of indoor activities. This amusement park for the mind has more than 100 interactive exhibits that will keep everyone entertained, from the youngest child to the most adventurous teenager.

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is another excellent place to take the family. This Ferris wheel is the tallest in the Southeast and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Grand Strand. There’s also a carousel, a playground, and various restaurants nearby.

Myrtle Waves Waterpark is one of the best places to take the family for fun and excitement. With more than 20 acres of water slides, rides, and pools, there’s something for everyone at Myrtle Waves. There’s also a lazy river where you can float around on an inner tube and a heated pool.

Here are our accommodation suggestions for Myrtle Beach:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort
• Best Budget Hotel: Vancouver Motel

See Related: Best Travel Sandals for Beach Destinations

8. Titusville, Florida

Regarding family spring break ideas, Titusville is a great destination. Thanks to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions, everyone can have fun. Here are some of the kid-friendly activities you can do in Titusville with your family:

Visit the Kennedy Space Center to learn about America’s space program. You can tour the facility and see exhibits about the history of space exploration and learn about the current missions being conducted by NASA. There’s also a planetarium where you can watch multimedia shows about space. If your family is interested in science and astronomy, the Kenedy Space Center is a must-visit destination.

Check out Port Canaveral, just minutes from Kennedy Space Center. This Port Canaveral is home to a variety of family-friendly activities. From fishing and boating to shopping and dining, there’s something for everyone in this port town.

Visit Cape Canaveral National Seashore. This beautiful park offers miles of pristine beaches and plenty of opportunities for exploration and recreation.

There are plenty of activities to choose from, from swimming and sunbathing to fishing and bird watching. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a nature hike or picnic lunch with the whole family.

Go fishing in the Indian River, which is home to many types of fish. This makes it the perfect place to indulge in Titusville’s other popular attraction – fishing!

Here are our accommodation suggestions for Cape Canaveral:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Casa Coquina del Mar Bed & Breakfast
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: TownePlace Suites
• Best Budget Hotel: Extended Stay America Premier Suites

See Related: 9 Best California Road Trips: Your Ultimate Guide

9. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head is an excellent option if you’re looking for a family-friendly spring break destination. There are plenty of beaches and parks to explore, and you can also enjoy some great outdoor activities like fishing and golfing.

The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a great place to take your kids for a day of learning and fun, with exhibits on science, nature, history, and more. The museum offers special events and activities throughout the year, so there’s always something new to explore.

One of our favorite things in Hilton Head is visiting Adventure Cove. This water park is perfect for families, with something for everyone. There are thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad for the little ones. You can also cool off in the wave pool or relax on the beach. No matter what you’re looking for, Adventure Cove has it all!

Ziplining is a great way to see the area from a new perspective and has some fun at the same time. Hilton Head has several zipline companies, so you’ll find one right for you. Try ziplining at the Zipline & Aerial Adventure; it’s one of the best things to do in South Carolina.

Here are the best hotels in Hilton Head you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Marriott’s SurfWatch
• Best Budget Hotel: Simple Rewards Inn

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10. San Diego, California

San Diego is a fantastic city for a family spring break destination! There are plenty of fun things to do in the city, and it’s also close to some great beaches.

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. With over 4,000 animals on display, this world-renowned zoo has something for everyone. From lions and tigers to pandas and elephants, you’ll see creatures worldwide at the San Diego Zoo.

Visit SeaWorld, where younger kids will love the rides and show like Shamu Rocks and Pets Ahoy. Older kids and adults will enjoy thrilling rides like Journey to Atlantis and Manta. And don’t forget to check out the dolphins and whales – these marine mammals are always a crowd favorite.

Balboa Park is a must-visit destination for families visiting San Diego. With 17 museums, beautiful gardens, and plenty of places to eat and shop, there are options to suit several interests at this 1,200-acre park.

Have you been to LEGOLAND, California? This indoor amusement park is great for kids of all ages. Kids will love riding the rides, playing in the waterpark, seeing unique LEGO models, and building their creations at the Lego Playroom.

Here are the best hotels in San Diego you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Fairmont Grand Del Mar
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Manchester Grand Hyatt
• Best Budget Hotel: Good Nite Inn

See Related:  Best Things to Do in Billings, Montana

11. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis is a great place to consider for a family spring break vacation. There are plenty of fun things for the whole family in this city, from exploring its lively art scene to visiting its many national parks and zoos.

Visit the Indianapolis Zoo, which includes many activities and attractions for kids of all ages. The zoo has over 1,500 animals worldwide and can explore new cultures and habitats there. There’s also a 4-D theater, carousel, and playground to entertain the little ones.

Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, one of the country’s best museums for kids. The museum offers many activities and exhibits to entertain your family for hours.

A visit to White River State Park is a must-do for any family looking for an exciting and educational spring break destination. This 800-acre park is home to various museums, gardens, and interactive exhibits perfect for kids of all ages.

Watch a sports event at any of Indianapolis’s family-friendly sports venues. Visit venues like the NBA’s Pacers and the NHL’s Ice. Plus, you can also check out a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway!

Take the kids to the NCAA Hall of Champions, where you will find a variety of interactive exhibits for kids showcasing college athletics all over the US. These exhibits are filled with hands-on activities such as re-creating a basketball game or playing with blocks that represent the movements of football players.

You can grab an Indianapolis Pass to see each destination you want, skip the lines, and have an all-inclusive visit to Indy.

Here are the best hotels in Indianapolis you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Conrad Indianapolis
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Northwest
• Best Budget Hotel: Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing

See Related: Cheapest Shopping Destinations in the World

12. Washington D.C.

There are plenty of great family vacation ideas in Washington, D.C., and the best part is that many of them are accessible or affordable. Some of the best activities include exploring the city’s museums, visiting the National Zoo, and touring the White House.

Washington, D.C., is full of famous monuments and memorials; most are free to visit. Some of the best monuments and memorials to visit with your family during spring break are the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

Visiting the Smithsonian Museums is one of the best experiences in Washington, D.C. The 19 museums and galleries offer something for everyone. From the history of the United States at the American History Museum to the natural wonders of the world at the National Museum of Natural History.

The National Zoo is a great place to visit for families with kids of all ages. There’s plenty to see and do, from visiting the animal exhibits to riding the zoo’s train or carousel.

You can also explore the zoo’s gardens, home to various plants and animals. And don’t forget to stop by the Amazonia exhibit to learn about rainforests and their animals.

The best way to explore Washington, D.C., is by riding the Metro. This convenient system will take your family to all the city’s best attractions.

Here are the best hotels in Washinton DC. You can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Rosewood Washington, D.C.
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Marriott Marquis Washington, DC
• Best Budget Hotel: Royal Sonesta Washington D.C.

See Related: Book A Last Minute Spring Break Trip With These Cheap Delta SkyMiles Deals

13. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is one of the best family spring break destinations in the springtime. With its beautiful beaches and warm weather, Maui is perfect for a relaxing spring break.

There are also plenty of fun activities on Maui, from zip-lining to snorkeling. Visit Haleakala National Park, best known for its majestic Mount Haleakala, which towers 10,023 feet above sea level. There are plenty of kid-friendly hiking trails and picnic areas to explore in the park. You can take a sunrise or sunset tour to see the best of the park.

Wailea Beach is one of the most popular on the island and for a valid reason. The powder-like sand will feel refreshing between your toes as you wade out to sea. There are even popular snorkeling spots nearby where you can view tropical fish without swimming too far from shore.

This Lahaina Town is one of the best places in Maui to enjoy live music, shopping, family-friendly restaurants, and surfing centers. At the Maui Waveriders, you can have surfing lessons for your entire family.

Check out Maui Ocean Center, an aquarium best known for its family-friendly exhibits. This includes shark tanks and tide pools brimming with sea life. Young kids will especially enjoy the Sea Jellies exhibit, where they can touch some of the ocean’s most unique creatures.

Here are the best hotels in Maui you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Royal Lāhainā Resort
• Best Budget Hotel: Maui Beach Hotel

See Related: Do You Need a Car in Maui? 5 Things to Know

14. St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands

How about less-than-typical family spring break trip ideas? Try the USVI! If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, you can find plenty of beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a more active holiday, you can explore the island and its jungles, go sailing or snorkeling, and more.

Regarding family-friendly spring break destinations, few places can beat Coral World Ocean Park in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. This park is home to various marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and turtles, and offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with these creatures.

St. Thomas has several trails that work with everyone’s fitness level. The Lind Point Trail is perfect for kids and those looking for shorter hikes with stunning views. For longer and more challenging trails, try Sibonné Mountain Trail.

Visit Magens Bay, a family-friendly beach perfect for cooling off in the shallow waters while looking out at spectacular views of St. Thomas’ best coastline.

One of our favorite family-friendly destinations is the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum in St. Thomas. This museum is full of interactive exhibits that will entertain kids of all ages for hours. There’s something for everyone, from a replica pirate ship to a life-size jungle gym.

Here are the best hotels in St. Thomas you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Secret Harbour Beach Resort
• Best Budget Hotel: Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant

15. Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati is a spring break destination that offers several fun destinations and activities from baby to daddy. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for families during spring break.

The zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals worldwide, making it a great place to learn about different species—plenty of gardens and botanical areas to explore make it a fun day for the entire family.

If you’re looking for something a little more educational to do during your spring break, the Cincinnati Museum Center is a great option. This museum is home to several museums, including the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science, and the Children’s Museum. There’s also a planetarium and IMAX theater on-site, making it a great place to spend the day.

EnterTAINment Junction is an excellent place for spring break! There are many things to do, and it’s perfect for families. You can ride the trains, play in the arcade, and go on rides. There’s also a food court where you can get something to eat. It’s a great place to spend a day or two, and you’ll never run out of things to do.

Here are the best hotels in Cincinnati you can pre-book today:

• Best Luxury Hotel: 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Cincinnati
• Best Budget Hotel: Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Cincinnati/Sharonville

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the United States

How to Determine the Right Spring Break Destination for Your Family

Here are a few easy steps on how to come up with spring break destination ideas for your family:

• Think of the locations you visited before and write them down. Revisit the best ones, or create new experiences with these destinations.
• List ideas of destinations within your state, city, or town.
• Sit as a family and come up with spring break ideas; this will make sure everyone enjoys the trip!
• Ask friends for ideas on their previous visits.

Tips for Preparing Your Family Vacation

Here are a few basic things to consider before going on your spring break family vacation:

• Plan early.
• Know your budget.
• Plan the activities to do with your kids.
• Prebook your family hotel.
• If you’re driving, leave early so you don’t rush.
• Pack any necessary medicine.
• Make sure you have fun!

Final Thoughts

While planning your family vacation, the most crucial part is to prepare yourself financially and mentally to get the best out of it. Make sure you enjoy every moment of your vacation and make plans as early as possible to have peace of mind when your vacation arrives.

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