Planning a family spring break trip can be tricky—especially when you want warmth, unique experiences, and fewer crowds. After living full-time on Florida’s Emerald Coast, we’ve learned how to find memorable, family-friendly destinations. Below are eight places we’ve enjoyed over the last five years with our kids (ages 8–15 at the time). Each spot kept our children and teens entertained, and most felt welcoming for younger kids as well.
All of these destinations offered a mix of outdoor activities, museums, and local flavor—great for family bonding, easy days, and a few adventures. Read on for highlights, typical spring temperatures, and what made each place feel special to our family.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a surprisingly kid-friendly city: colorful, walkable, and full of history and quirky charm. Spring is an ideal time to visit, often falling after Mardi Gras and before the summer heat and humidity. We loved wandering the Garden District, riding the historic streetcars to the French Quarter, and browsing boutiques along Magazine Street. Family favorites include the downtown aquarium and Audubon Park’s zoo. City Park—larger than Central Park and home to a botanical garden and small amusement area—is on our list for next time.
Average March and April temperatures in New Orleans are usually in the 50s (low) to 70s (high).
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston blends Southern charm, walkable streets, and warming spring weather—perfect for families who want city life without the summer crowds. Staying near downtown keeps you close to historic sites, great restaurants, and kid-friendly attractions, while nearby beaches like Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and Folly Beach are an easy drive if you want sand and surf.
Average March and April temperatures in Charleston typically range from the 50s (low) to the 70s (high).
3. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs shines in the spring when desert temperatures are mild—before the triple-digit summer heat sets in. Beyond the famous mid-century architecture and golf courses, there are plenty of kid-pleasing stops like the Cabazon Dinosaurs, nearby Joshua Tree National Park, waterfall hikes, and the rotating Palm Springs Aerial Tram. Early spring felt pleasantly quiet compared with peak winter tourism.
Average March and April temperatures in Palm Springs usually fall between the 50s (low) and 80s (high).
4. Dallas, Texas
Dallas surprised us with a wide variety of family activities—from large museums and outdoor green spaces to lively neighborhood spots and unexpected entertainment venues. We spent hours at the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and had a blast at a local arcade and pinball venue. The city has more to offer than we could fit into one visit, so it’s a great pick for families who enjoy mixing museums, food, and hands-on fun. Note: check school calendars, as local breaks can bring crowds.
Average March and April temperatures in Dallas are generally in the 50s (low) to 70s (high).
5. Serenbe, Georgia
About 45 minutes south of Atlanta, Serenbe is a small, intentional community focused on nature, wellness, and local living. It was one of the most relaxing spring trips we’ve taken: our kids spent hours exploring woods and creeks, while we enjoyed local food, boutique shops, a spa day, and a memorable horseback ride to a waterfall. Serenbe is ideal for families seeking a calm, outdoorsy break.
Average March and April temperatures in Serenbe usually range from the 40s (low) to the 70s (high).
6. St. Petersburg, Florida
Florida is a natural spring break choice thanks to its mild weather, but staying in downtown St. Petersburg rather than the busier barrier islands gives you a more local, creative experience. St. Pete is colorful and walkable, with attractions like the pier, lively neighborhoods, and notable museums. It’s a good option for families who want beach-adjacent weather plus city culture.
Average March and April temperatures in St. Petersburg are typically in the 60s (low) to 80s (high).
7. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Ocean Springs is a charming, walkable Gulf Coast town with an old-fashioned feel, cute shops, and relaxed beaches on Biloxi Bay. We enjoyed local ice cream and donut shops, trendy coffee spots, and a shoreline that’s calm and family-friendly. It’s a great choice for a low-key spring break with easy strolls and simple pleasures.
Average March and April temperatures in Ocean Springs are typically in the 50s (low) to 70s (high).
8. Cape Charles, Virginia
Cape Charles is a small Chesapeake Bay town with a historic, walkable downtown and a peaceful bayfront beach that only fills up on major holidays. March and April can be cool for swimming, but the area offers museums, state parks, and nearby natural areas—perfect for families who prefer a serene, coastal escape with opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing.
Average March and April temperatures in Cape Charles usually fall from the 40s (low) to the 60s (high).
BONUS: Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, Tennessee
We picked Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for this year’s spring break and found plenty to keep everyone busy: Great Smoky Mountains National Park hikes, Dollywood, and rental homes loaded with family-focused amenities like game rooms, indoor mini golf, and movie spaces. Many vacation rentals in the area offer extra features—perfect for group stays and kids who want activities on-site.
Average March and April temperatures in Gatlinburg range widely—from the 30s (low) to the 70s (high), depending on elevation and day-to-day weather.
After returning from our trip, we had a great time and noted lots of kid-approved highlights and practical tips for families planning a Smoky Mountains getaway.
More Vacation Ideas
If you want more inspiration, consider these other family-friendly destinations we’ve visited and written about: Mexico, Costa Rica, Sedona (AZ), South Dakota (Mount Rushmore and Badlands), Hawaii with a toddler, and Richmond, VA. Each offers a different pace—adventure, beach time, national parks, or cultural city escapes—depending on what your family prefers.
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Sedona, AZ (near the Grand Canyon)
- South Dakota (Mount Rushmore and Badlands)
- Hawaii (ideas for traveling with a toddler)
- Richmond, VA