Spring break is just around the corner. Don’t have anything booked yet? Fear not, we’ve looked into the best last-minute trip ideas to make it a vacation to remember. Whether with your friends, family, or on your own, make the most of spring break in one of these top seven destinations.
The ultimate city break in the Big Apple
New York City has so much to offer all year round and for (almost!) any type of traveler. Whether you want to hit the stores or get lost in a fantastic museum, do a foodie tour or spend a long weekend seeing amazing plays on and off Broadway, the options are endless.
But you don’t have to just do “the obvious” stuff. How about experiencing Manhattan’s top escape room at The Escape Game for one night? And, just because you’re in a city, it doesn’t mean you can’t see some great nature, too. Check out the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Cherrywatch to see when the cherry trees are in bloom and pay them a visit. You won’t be disappointed.
Spend a few nights in the middle of the action at The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel and tick off all the tourist hotspots within walking distance. Or, if you want to live like a local, head over to Brooklyn to stay in a charming brownstone like Lefferts Garden Residence.
Spring break in LA
Head west for some sun and Hollywood glamour for your last-minute spring break trip. Los Angeles is ideal for movie lovers, but it also offers fantastic options if you’re an outdoors fan or a literary buff. We recommend renting a car once you get there, so you can make the most of sunny California.
Head north on the Pacific Coast Highway to Los Olivos for some wine tasting at Carhartt Vineyard‘s “world’s smallest tasting room,” the Carhartt Cabin, where you can make new friends and try some lovely drinks. Then, harness your inspiration while visiting the annual LA Times Festival of Books, taking place on the USC campus from April 22-23, 2023. It’s a unique place for book lovers to get together and celebrate their literary loves.
If you still have the energy, don’t miss a hike in the Hollywood Hills, or head to Universal Studios for a behind-the-scenes tour (especially if you’re with the whole family!). Keep the old Hollywood glamour going by staying at The Prospect Hollywood, where the 1939 Regency-style building will charm you while the excellent staff cater to your every need.
Hit the beach in Florida
Florida is one of the top spots for spring break getaways, and for good reason. Depending on where you head to in the Sunshine State, there are endless beachfronts, parties, and fun activities to fill your days with. Daytona Beach in particular ticks all these boxes.
Best known for the Daytona International Speedway, race car enthusiasts flock here to enjoy a tour of the infield, pose for photos, and check out speedy vehicles. But that’s not all you can do in this coastal city. Families can enjoy the 23-mile beachfront and the famous Daytona Beach Boardwalk, full of carnival games and arcades to delight all ages.
For outdoor lovers, Daytona Beach has lots of opportunities for bird watching and many trails to hike and bike on. One of the most accessible routes is the 2.4 miles around the Lyonia Preserve, where you can meet the famous blue and gray Florida scrub jays.
Daytona Beach is a great budget-friendly destination for spring break, too. Stay at a low-key lodging option like the Studio 1 Motel and spend your savings on fun activities instead.
London on a budget
You don’t need to restrict your last-minute spring break plans to domestic destinations. In fact, you can get a really good deal on an April flight to the UK and visit London instead. It’s not a beach vacation, though. Prepare for drizzle and a slight chill in the air — but it’s all made up for by the fantastic sights.
There are lots of ways to enjoy London anew if you’ve been before. If you only have a few days in the city, explore Little Venice, the canals north of Paddington Station. You’ll find charming canal boats, lots of cute cafés, and some amazing restaurants. Carry on along Regent’s Canal to go to Camden Town, where there’s a huge array of unique shops and markets.
If you’re looking for a food-orientated experience, check out the pie and mash shops and restaurants of London. Mayfair’s The Guinea Pub is famous for its meat pies, while at Rules near Covent Garden, you’ll be dining at the oldest restaurant in the city. Enjoy their steak and kidney pie for a true taste of history. Then, head to Soho and spend the night at the small Z Hotel Soho. You’ll be in the heart of the theater district, ready to hit the town running the next day.
Chill out in Cancún
Mexico feels like an ideal spring break destination. Enjoy the sea, the beach, and the amazing food, all while relaxing at all-inclusive resorts or quirky local hotels. But there’s more than just poolside lazing in Cancún. The unique Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) is a mesmerizing modern art collection residing under the waters of Cancún near the island of Isla Mujeres. It’s certainly a different kind of snorkeling! If you don’t want to dive in yourself, glass bottom boat tours are available.
You can also visit the Chichen Itza ruins, a must-see for first-time visitors to Cancún. But, for nature lovers, there’s an even more exciting destination. Head toward Playa del Carmen to the Xplor adventure park, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters past stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a one-of-a-kind underwater expedition you won’t want to miss.
What about hotels? Book a room at quaint family-friendly Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel for a calm, peaceful stay. Or splash out on an all-inclusive at the U by Grand Fiesta Americana and indulge in beach-side paradise living.
A laid-back spring break in Puerto Rico
Relax on beautiful white-sand beaches and enjoy quiet Puerto Rico for a family spring break. In San Juan, you can mix old-town culture and food exploration with lounging by the sea. Not to mention the nearby El Yunque National Forest, where you can explore unique wildlife along hiking trails that snake deep into the tropical rainforest. Guided tours of the park are also available, and most will pick you up from your hotel.
Stay at the Trópica Beach Hotel to be close to both the ocean and nearby amenities. After a few days relaxing in the sun, hop in a taxi and check out the Old Town. Take a foodie walking tour with tastings, visit the fortresses, and wander down the cobblestone streets in search of souvenirs.
Brave the Chicago winds
It may feel a little early in the year to visit the Windy City, but there’s never a bad time to dive into Chicago’s numerous sights and experiences. In April, the city is adorned with some unique blooms, like the Michigan Avenue tulips. These are planted every year between Oak Street and Roosevelt Road, and you can enjoy them free of charge (unlike shopping in the upscale stores on The Magnificent Mile).
For extra warmth, enjoy the Garfield Park Conservatory. One of the largest botanical conservatories in the US, it is known as “landscape art under glass.” If you’re into gardening, it’s the place to be. Make sure you book your visit in advance (free of charge).
Stay at the cozy Kasa Magnificent Mile and feel right at home during your spring break. You’ll be in the heart of the city, close to loads of great dining options, and a stone’s throw away from those tulips!
Book your last-minute spring break vacation
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