The Best Places to Go For Spring Break in the USA

Ready to spring into action and get your seasonal travel plans underway? Spring is a season of renewal, and as the world blooms, we see ourselves urging to get back out and explore. If you're searching for top destinations where you won't feel overwhelmed by the crowds, we're full of spring break vacation ideas. Our diverse and robust list includes everything: some small towns to big cities, beaches to mountains, and some fun spots off the beaten path that await you. Read on to discover our top ten picks this year and why HomeExchange is the best way to add magic and savings to your spring break getaways...

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Annapolis, Maryland: Our Top Spring Break Destination in New England

For a truly New England style spring, add Annapolis to your list of places to go for spring break, and don't forget to pack an extra pair of socks! We'll tell you why. Anytime of year, you can come to see the city's colonial architecture, maritime heritage with beautiful boats on the bay's horizon, and delicious seafood. In Spring though, the kick-off here in this historic city on the Chesapeake Bay is the Annapolis Oyster Roast & Sock Burning. This beloved local tradition features freshly shucked oysters, live music, and finally the quirky ritual of burning winter socks in anticipation of warmer days ahead. Another spring highlight in Annapolis is the Annapolis Film Festival, where you can watch independent films and documentaries from around the world.

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Portland, Maine: Flower & Food Festival Make to Make Spring Break Special

If you're a fan of flowers, Portland, Maine is one of our spring break vacation ideas you'll love. Each spring, Portland hosts the Maine Flower Show, a blooming extravaganza featuring stunning floral displays, garden exhibits, and workshops for gardening enthusiasts. For foodies, there is also a great event this time of year called Taste of Nations, bringing together top chefs to make culinary creations for the greater good, as the proceeds of the event go to charity. With the arrival of spring weather, you'll also love strolling along the historic Old Port district, lined with cobblestone streets, lovely boutiques, and art galleries, plus plenty of fresh seafood being served up at its waterfront restaurants.

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Ithaca, New York: Spring's Bounty in Upsate New York

Upstate New York really comes to life each Spring. If you find yourself here in the Finger Lakes Region around Ithaca, New York, there is so much to see and enjoy each spring. The Ithaca area is an idea combination of nature and culture for a strong start to Spring, which is why it's one of the best destinations for Spring Break in our mind. You can hike through the stunning gorges of Buttermilk Falls State Park or explore the vibrant botanical gardens at Cornell University as they begin to bloom. Of course, fresh produce is also a perk of spring. Embrace it here at the local food scene with farm-to-table dining options and visit the Ithaca Farmers Market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods you can bring home to cook up at your HomeExchange.

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Fernandina Beach, Florida: Where to Go For Spring Break in Florida

Nothing says spring break quite like Florida, and with good reason. Spring weather in Florida is ideal for anyone looking to get an early start on summer. However, some of the hottest spots can really get crowded. If you want to enjoy the Sunshine State for Spring Break but would rather skip the crowds, then check out the Fernandina Beach area. The Northeast coast of Florida here features pristine beaches, historic charm, and a laid-back vibe. You'll love the nearby Amelia Island, which is a great place to go and explore the island's natural beauty, try some water sports, and visit the quaint downtown area for nice shopping and dining options. Additionally, spring break coincides with the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival in Fernandina Beach, a popular event featuring shrimp dishes, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a festive parade. Fernandina Beach is one of our top spring break destinations for fun in the sun.

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Jekyll Island, Georgia: A Sophisticated Spring Break Beach Retreat

Jekyll Island, Georgia was once a retreat for the America's wealthiest families and will give you a glimpse into the gilded age on your spring break adventure here. Picture yourself basking under the warm sun on the island's pristine beaches, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. In the Jekyll Island Historic District you can enjoy the island's rich history along with great shopping, good eats, and even some art galleries. Get out and explore the natural beauty of Georgia in spring with long walks along the water, kayaking through the marshlands, or bird watching. If golf is your spring break goal, you'll love the course here too. Worried about crowds? Fear not, as Jekyll Island's relaxed atmosphere and expansive beaches provide ample space for solitude and relaxation, even during the bustling Spring Break season, which is why it's one of our favorite places to go for Spring Break.

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Bentonville, Arkansas: Spring Break off the Beaten Path

Want to know where to go for spring break to get off the beaten path, per say? We've squeezed in a few quaint ideas in our list of top destinations for Spring Break. Handpicked just for you is Bentonville, Arkansas, a charming and historic town in the north-west of Arkansas. The state flower is the apple blossom, which you can enjoy blooming all around here this time of year. The area is home to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and Bentonville offers the Atmosphere Festival in May, a celebration of music, visual arts, and nature. You can explore the museum's collections, outdoor sculptures, and cultural events in this cute and vibrant town. Biking enthusiasts are also passionate about this region as it features amazing mountain biking trails and the Slaughter Pen Mountain Bike Park.

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Taos, New Mexico: Spring Break Blooms in the High Desert

In spring time, the high desert here in Taos, New Mexico is anything but deserted. As the snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains begin to thaw, a burst of vibrant wildflowers blankets the valleys, painting a stunning contrast against the blue skies. Part of this full bloom are local lilacs coming to life. The floral blooms beautifully contrast the local adobe architecture as well. In the month of May there is even the Lilac Festival in Taos, where you can enjoy local garden tours, live music, and other events that make the city lively. The mild spring weather makes it the perfect time to explore the high desert here, is a stylish small city that is a far cry from Spring Break cliché of beaches in Miami.

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Hood River, Oregon: Pacific Northwest Wonder

Wondering where to go for spring break in the Pacific North West? Hood River, Oregon is our personal pick. Known for its outdoor adventures, Hood River hosts the Blossom Time Festival in April, celebrating the arrival of spring with blooming orchards of pears, apples, and cherries. Wine tastings and farm tours are also part of the festival. While this annual event is a big draw, you'll can appreciate the local animations with plenty of space for all that won't feel overcrowded. During your stay in this beautiful area, sporty families will enjoy exploring the Columbia River Gorge local hiking trails, and even activities like windsurfing on the river, although we can't promise the water will be warm!

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Lake Tahoe, California: Something for Everyone for Spring Break

Spring in Lake Tahoe is a wonderful time of transition, filled with opportunities for all. There's still snow on the stunning slopes, for anyone looking to get some ski in before the season's close. Down below on the banks of the Lake, things are milder, making it perfect for a boat ride or beach bonfire to roast some smores. Enjoy the breathtaking views and nature during the day, and each evening cozy up in the local cabins. If you're not the sporty type, you can still enjoy the local towns with great shopping, dining, and spas. When it comes to the West Coast, Lake Tahoe is a great Spring Break vacation idea for everyone.

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Chicago, Illinois: Prime Time for the Windy City

We couldn't close out this list without slipping in a big city for you city slickers, and for that, Chicago is our pick for spring break vacations. While Chicago has a lot going for it, weather might not be one of them. The summers are quite hot and humid, with the winters are blisteringly cold. If you're not one to brave extreme weather but want to explore this incredible world-class city, now is the time! Pack your bags for Spring Break in Chicago, when the weather is mild and the city is alive with blooming gardens. Peak tourist season is summer, so Spring here is calm and collected. It's prime time to enjoy world-class art museums, stroll around the lake front, take in the historic architecture, and dine in tasty establishments when you work up on appetite.

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Spring Break Vacation Savings with HomeExchange

Spring break marks the start of the travel season, and as travel surges prices do too. With accommodations in high demand, the prices hit the highs. With HomeExchange however, there's no need to worry about that when searching for accommodations for your Spring Break vacation. That's because one small annual fee of just $220 unlocks unlimited exchanges for the year. Our members love exchanging homes around spring break, allowing them to travel to top spring break destinations without paying high prices. Avoiding surge pricing is one of the best reasons to sign up for HomeExchange, but not the only one. You can get all the comforts of a real home, great local insights, caretakers for your pets, and even make lifelong friends with members of our network! Sign up for free today to start getting spring vacation ideas and so much more.