Great Non-Beach Spring Break Spots

Think Spring Break and undoubtedly images of beaches crowded with crazy party-goers come to mind. While beaches in places like Florida, Mexico and the Bahamas are overrun with sun-seekers looking to let loose for a week, there are a number of other destinations that are more family friendly worth considering this Spring Break.

To get you started, here’s a look at some great non-beach Spring Break spots. 

Amsterdam

Spring in Amsterdam is one of the most ideal times to visit and if you are planning an international trip, why not consider spending Spring Break in Holland. Depending on how harsh winter is, the Netherlands famed tulip season may be in full swing during your holiday. If Easter falls late in the season like it does in 2014, and you can take extra time off, consider staying through to April 26 for the King’s Day (formally Queen’s Day) celebration, the Netherlands’ biggest annual party.

San Ignacio, Belize

While Belize’s beaches and cayes are typically packed during Spring Break, head inland to San Ignacio where you can spend a quiet week in the jungle. Climb Mayan temples, hike to rainforest waterfalls, take to the skies on a zipline, explore the famed ATM cave, or go horseback riding. San Ignacio is a great non-beach destination that will give you access to plenty of adventure without the mass of partygoers. And if the resort’s pool doesn’t satiate your urge to be in water, there are plenty of options for cave tubing and canoeing nearby as well.

Napa Valley and Sonoma

Springtime in Northern California’s wine regions is ideal. Prices are often lower and the vibe is a bit more laid back versus visiting in the fall when wineries are frantically preparing for harvest. It’s also one of the prettiest times as mustard flowers are in full bloom and the hills are still lush from winter rainfall.

Disneyland and Walt Disney World

If you are headed somewhere with kids in tow, consider heading to Disneyland or Walt Disney World. Be warned though, Spring Break is definitely one of Walt Disney World’s busiest times. If crowds frustrate you, you might want to rethink that option, although it’s a bit of a trade off as springtime sees some of the most tolerable temperatures in Orlando. Since Disneyland caters to more locals visiting the parks for only one or two days, you can take your time and experience the Disneyland Resort at a slower pace.

Las Vegas

Sin City is an ideal spot any time of year, but a number of people head to Las Vegas for Spring Break. It’s warm enough to hang out by the pool, but not hot enough to see the scorching 100°F temperatures that Las Vegas summers are famous for.  Despite being Spring Break, there are often deals to be had as hotels and resorts are running under capacity.

New York

Much like Las Vegas is for some west coast Spring Breakers, New York is the east coast equivalent. Many New Yorkers flee the city during the Easter holiday week and head south to the beaches of Florida. This means fewer crowds and select deals on hotels. The temperatures are still on the chilly side so packing a winter coat is a necessity, but most people don’t mind because, well, it’s New York City after all. 

Japan

If Asia is on your radar for a possible Spring Break destination, consider Tokyo. Depending on the season and where Easter falls, you might catch a glimpse of the famed cherry blossoms. If the season does coincide with Spring Break, expect higher prices on hotels and fully-booked flights; however, the chance to experience Japan’s cherry blossoms is worth the added expense. Aside from the cherry blossoms, Spring is a great time to visit Japan as temperatures are on the rise and it’s less crowded than other times of the year. If you are including Tokyo in your itinerary, consider checking out Tokyo Disneyland’s annual Spring event that typically runs well after Easter is over.

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.