The spring break trip to the beach is iconic. It’s one of the top destinations for college students during this vacation time. But they tend to be crowded, and the scene isn’t for everyone. What are some other spring break trip ideas that are off the beaten path? Well, you may want to hit a city, a national park, or see something you’ve never seen before!
National and State Parks
National and State Parks are wonderful places to spend your spring break! And every state has at least one. You could visit the
Crater of Diamonds State Park
The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arizona offers a one of a kind experience – search for diamonds. It’s the only place in the world where the public can do such a thing! And any diamonds, gemstones, or minerals you find, are yours to keep!
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone stretches over 2.2 million acres and even if you’ve been there, you haven’t seen everything. You can check out geysers (including Old Faithful), wildlife, hot springs, history, and, of course, the Grand Canyon.
Everglades National Park
Located at the southern tip of Florida, the Everglades National Park is the perfect destination if you want to visit the state, but not the beaches. Or if you want to mix it up and do both! Visitors can see Florida panthers, crocodiles, manatees, birds, and more. While you’re in the area or state, you can also visit Disney World, the Keys, or Miami.
White Mountain National Forest
The White Mountain National Forest can be found in New Hampshire and Maine. You can see stunning views of mountains, go on exciting hikes, visit the rivers to go kayaking or canoeing, and see amazing wildlife like moose and bear. Part of the Appalachian Trail also lies here!
If these National Parks are too far to travel, check out ones that are a little closer to you.
Cities
If you aren’t the “outdoorsy” type plan a spring break trip to one of our amazing U.S. cities! For foodies, museum lovers and shoppers alike, cities are the perfect place to experience new things. Consider these top cities.
New York City
Of course, first on the list is New York City. The city no doubt offers something for everyone, from museums to the theater. You could spend a day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and then head over to Broadway for a show after dinner (a pizza, of course).
Chicago
If you’re in the mood for a different type of pizza and atmosphere, Chicago has you covered. You can explore the Windy City, visit the Skydeck, and grab a slice of deep dish pizza. It’s also recommended that you head to the Chicago Alder Planetarium and Chicago Theatre Marquis.
Fairbanks
Fairbanks in Alaska definitely fits the bill of “off the beaten path.” You can check out snowmobile tours, dog sledding, and even the northern lights. There are also museums including the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum.
Austin
“Keep Austin Weird.” Austin is home to amazing Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex, so it you’re tired of cafeteria food, this is the place for you. Along with a mild climate, the city offers a rich theater and music scene. In fact, Austin is known as The Live Music Capital of the World. If that’s not enough, you can enjoy tons of outdoor fun at Lady Bird Lake, Barton Creek Greenbelt and more!
There’s no place like home.
Maybe it’s overly obvious, but sometimes home sweet home is the best place to spend your spring break. Bring your besties and show them all of your favorite old stomping grounds. It’s the best of both worlds – you relieve some of that homesickness, and your friends get to experience your world in a vacation of their own.
Whether you plan on driving for flying to your spring break destination, make sure you have the right travel accessories to accompany you.
