Catherine - Savvy Family TravelWith so many destinations to choose from, finding the perfect spot to create new family memories can be both exciting and overwhelming.
Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, natural wonders, or beachside relaxation, there’s something out there for everyone. In this guide, we’ve rounded up some top spring break destinations families should discover together.
Fun Spring Break Destinations Families Will Love
Sarasota, FL
Sarasota, Florida is known for its stunning beaches, arts scene, and rich history, making it an attractive spot for families seeking a beach with plenty more options to build a well rounded trip.
Siesta Key Beach, with its powdery white sand and gentle waves, is perfect for families with young children. It is frequently voted in the top 10 beaches in the USA.
For a unique taste of Sarasota history, families should check out the Ringling Museum of Art, which offers a glimpse into the world of circus history. Performances by the local circus school are a real treat. Check out their schedule to find out if it coincides with your family’s spring break week.
Sarasota is also home to the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, where families can learn about marine life and conservation efforts. Our favorite is its upstairs, open air level where we were able to enjoy our picnic.
That’s just the start, check out our full guide to exploring Sarasota with kids.
Puerto Rico
For families looking to feel like they’ve left the country without needed a passport Puerto Rico is a top contender. This Caribbean island offers adventure and tropical vibes great for all ages.
Families can explore the vibrant, walkable streets of Old San Juan, known for its colorful buildings and historic forts. For nature lovers, El Yunque National Forest is a must. The kids will love swimming at the base of a waterfall.
Check the moon phase calendar to see if it’ll be dark enough to partake in a bucket list experience in one of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays!
Beach lovers will find plenty of pristine spots to sunbathe, whether you want to stay near San Juan, adventure to the quiet west side of the main island, or spend a night on one of the islands of Culebra or Vieques.
Here’s our itinerary for 4 days in Puerto Rico with kids.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis, Missouri, may not be the first destination that comes to mind for spring break, but it offers a surprising array of family-friendly activities. It’s one of the most affordable (and epic) spring family trips we’ve taken.
The St. Louis Zoo, consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, provides free admission and is a hit with children of all ages. The city also boasts the St. Louis Science Center (free) and the quirky City Museum, both offering interactive exhibits and engaging activities.
Of course, no trip to St. Louis is complete without checking out the iconic Gateway Arch. Many miss the free museum that is hiding below, so be sure to check that out and have your kids earn their junior ranger badges.
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the kid friendly Clydesdale VIP tour offered at Budweiser Brewery.
Check out all our ideas for family fun in St. Louis.
Tucson, Arizona
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is an absolute highlight of the area. It deserves an entire day of exploration. Located outside Tucson, it combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum. It’s a great place for families to learn about desert ecosystems and wildlife. Learn more in our Tucson guide for families including info about the raptor shows.
Nearby, Saguaro National Park offers scenic hikes amidst iconic saguaro cacti, each with their own fun personality. My kids loved naming the wackiest ones.
Depending on rainfall, you may even get a chance at some water play in washes at Catalina state park. Try Sutherland wash which is the easiest to access from the parking lot. Bring some sand toys, beach toys, and plenty of bottled water.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona, is known for its luxurious resorts, golf courses, and vibrant arts scene. But, don’t let that deter you from making it a family spring break destination!
Head to Papago Park to find an ultra easy family hike to the Hole in the Rock. Nearby, the Desert Botanical Garden is another must-visit with engaging activities for kids.
If I had to choose between Tucson and Scottsdale for a week long stay, I’d opt for Tucson personally (less traffic, lower temps, access to nature), but I also recognize its much easier to fly direct to PHX airport and get more time out of your trip.
We found plenty to do in Scottsdale and Phoenix with kids and we know you’ll love it too!
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a picturesque mountain town that’s the perfect gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Families can easily explore the Park’s many trails, waterfalls, and wildlife and return to town for evening dining and entertainment. In town attractions like Anakeesta, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies are exciting for the whole family on your spring break vacation.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal was once the epicenter of world trade and its gravitas is still on display in many ways.
The city’s historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, are filled with charming streets and picturesque viewpoints as the city is built upon a hill. Families will enjoy visiting famous Lisbon landmarks like the Santa Justa Lift and the Castelo de São Jorge. Here are our 16 top things to do while you’re in Lisbon with children.
Lisbon is also home to several more family-friendly attractions, including the Lisbon Oceanarium and the Interactive Museum of Science.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica, with its lush rainforests, animal encounters, and stunning beaches, is the best spring break destination for families seeking adventure and wildlife.
Check out our 7 day Costa Rica itinerary for families to explore national parks like Manuel Antonio and Arenal Volcano, visit hot springs, dining with locals at ‘sodas’ and more.
Alternatively, the areas of Tamarindo and Playa Conchal offer opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, Alabama, is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Popular for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, families will enjoy a dolphin-watching cruise or exploring the nearby Gulf State Park, which offers hiking and biking trails, as well as a golf course and zip-lining adventure.
Aside from these activities, Gulf Shores and the surrounding area offers loads more family-friendly attractions. It’s the variety that made this one of our favorite spring break destinations as a family.
Disney Cruise
What attracted us most to cruising with Disney before taking our kids to the parks was the overall lower level of stimulation and more intimate setting. Our kids got to interact with characters throughout the ship, at formal and informal Character Meets. The live shows in the theater were like going to a Broadway performance every night.
The staff knows how to make every moment ultra special for kids and some of our favorite memories are interactions with our waitstaff who follow guests through rotational dining experiences.
As adults, we got breaks too, as our kids absolutely LOVED the kids club and begged for more time there (which was not the case on other cruise lines.)
Before you cruise, make sure to check out all our first time Disney Cruise tips and also our general hacks for cruising with kids. In our Disney Cruise guide, I explain everything you need to know about Fish Extenders and Pixie Dust which added so much more magic to our cruise with the kids.
Bermuda
The island of Bermuda wonderfully combines British charm and a laid back island culture.
The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore on public transportation (including a fun ferry ride), with charming towns like Hamilton and St. George. Bermuda’s people are welcoming and warm towards kids so the atmosphere here was one of our favorites for a family trip with little ones.
Here’s our suggested Bermuda Itinerary with a baby in tow.
An Arkansas Road Trip
The natural beauty, affordability, and one of a kind attractions make Arkansas a thrill to explore as a family. Plus, as a spring break destination, it’s warm but not too hot for remaining active throughout the day.
These are the 5 Arkansas highlights I recommend including on a road trip through Arkansas, but check our our full post for the entire road trip itinerary from the Midwest.
1. Hot Springs National Park
A unique twist on a National Park site, this one is a mostly urban. It’s Visitor Center is housed within a luxurious historic bath house. Visitors can drink spring water, touch the hot springs or simply breath in their steam, and tour the bath house museums. The national park also offers Junior Ranger programs (adults can earn badges too.) Ask about their Bat Explorer program in addition to the Hot Springs one.
This National Park is free.
2. Garvan Woodland Gardens
The highlight of this botanical garden for our kids was their Adventure Garden. Kids can hop across streams, climb boulders, and explore behind waterfalls.
The Gardens are absolutely stunning in March when tulips are blooming throughout the forest trails. We also enjoyed the treehouse, Japanese garden, and the fairy garden with our young kids.
Save money by leveraging reciprocity with your home botanical garden. My annual membership at home got us in free and cost less than a single visit to Garvan Woodland Gardens for my family of four.
3. Crater of Diamonds National Park
This fun spring break destination offers families the rare opportunity to search for real diamonds in their natural state. Every find is a thrilling treasure hunt, and you get to keep what you discover.
I’ll be honest, my kids spent most of the day aimlessly digging and playing in a stream of water. Meanwhile my husband and I sifted for diamonds, but everyone was happy in the mud nonetheless.
If you’re planning to camp on this road trip, this state park has a fantastic campground, walkable to the diamond field, with a playground and clean showers.
4. Dig for Crystals
After striking out on diamonds, we set out for an easier target. There are many public dig sites in the area, but we opted for a beautiful free dig trail called Crystal Vista. You can read more in our full road trip guide.
5. Petit Jean State Park
The caves and goliath rocks that defined the trails at Petit Jean State Park are what made it one giant playground for kids.
They are famous for their scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and kid friendly trails. The lodge restaurant is fantastic as well as the coffee shop within the park.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has long been a favorite spring break destination for families. This bustling beach town offers endless entertainment options for all ages and miles of sandy beaches.
Families can hit up amusement parks, mini-golf courses, the Boardwalk, or head south to Huntington Beach State Park for a day full of outdoor discoveries (and alligators).
Universal Studios
Find endless magic, thrill, and wonder at Universal Studios Orlando.
We visited for Harry Potter World, but thoroughly enjoyed the new Trolls and Shrek areas plus Minion Land. There were plenty of rides for kids under 48″ too!
There are so many ways to contain the budget on a trip to Universal Studios. Here are our top money saving tricks.
Closing thoughts on Fun Spring Break Destinations for Families
From the historic charm of Bermuda and the adventurous spirit of Crater of Diamonds State Park to the tropical allure of Puerto Rico and the cultural richness of Lisbon, there’s a destination to suit all. These spring break destinations families can discovery together promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
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