Planning a family spring break trip can feel overwhelming, especially if you want warm weather, memorable experiences, and fewer crowds. After living full-time on Florida’s Emerald Coast — an unofficial spring break hotspot — we’ve gotten good at finding family-friendly destinations that feel a little different. Below are eight places we’ve visited in the past five years with our kids (ages roughly 8–15 at the time). These spots kept kids and teens engaged and gave parents a relaxed, enjoyable trip. While we can’t guarantee toddler-specific activities, most of these destinations are family-friendly and offer plenty to see and do for younger children as well.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is surprisingly kid-friendly: walkable, colorful, and packed with history and quirky charm. Spring break is an especially nice time to visit because you’re often between Mardi Gras and the summer heat. We enjoyed wandering the Garden District, riding the streetcar to the French Quarter, and shopping Magazine Street. Family favorites include the downtown aquarium and Audubon Zoo, and next time we’re planning to explore City Park — a vast green space with a botanical garden, sculptures, and a small amusement area. Expect March and April temperatures typically ranging from the 50s to the 70s.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is another charming, walkable Southern city that comes alive in spring before the humidity rolls in. Staying close to downtown helps you avoid the beach crowds while still giving easy access to nearby shores like Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, or Folly Beach. The city’s historic streets, colorful homes, and family-friendly attractions make it a great spring break option. Typical March and April temperatures fall in the 50s to 70s.
3. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs shines in spring when desert temperatures are comfortable — summers routinely reach triple digits. Beyond golf and mid-century architecture, Palm Springs offers family-friendly attractions like the Cabazon Dinosaurs, nearby Joshua Tree National Park, waterfall hikes, and the rotating aerial tram up the mountainside. Early spring tends to be less crowded than peak winter season, and average March and April temps usually sit between the 50s and 80s.
4. Dallas, Texas
Dallas surprised us with its variety of family activities — from leafy neighborhoods and parks to large museums and unique entertainment venues. We spent hours at the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the kids loved unlimited pinball at Cidercade. There’s plenty more to explore, so it’s a place worth revisiting. Keep an eye on school calendars, as local breaks can bring crowds. Average March and April temperatures range from the 50s to the 70s.
5. Serenbe, Georgia
About 45 minutes south of Atlanta, Serenbe is a small, nature-focused community centered on wellness and slow living. It was one of our most peaceful spring breaks: kids spent hours exploring woods and creeks, we enjoyed local shops and restaurants, and the adults appreciated spa time while the family went on a guided horseback ride to a waterfall. Expect March and April temperatures to range from the 40s to the 70s.
6. St. Petersburg, Florida
Florida is a natural spring break draw thanks to its warmer climate, and staying downtown in St. Petersburg offers a more relaxed, colorful experience than some busier nearby beaches. St. Pete’s highlights include the Pier, the Grand Central District, and The Salvador Dalí Museum. The city blends arts, parks, and waterfront fun, with March and April temperatures typically in the 60s to 80s.
7. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Ocean Springs charmed us with its nostalgic small-town feel, walkable streets, and friendly local shops. You’ll find great coffee, ice cream, and donut spots, and a calm sandy beach on Biloxi Bay that’s ideal for families. It’s a laid-back destination with pleasant spring weather, typically in the 50s to 70s during March and April.
8. Cape Charles, Virginia
Cape Charles is a historic Chesapeake Bay town with a small, walkable downtown and a peaceful bayfront beach that’s busiest on major holidays. While March and April may be too cool for swimming for some, the area offers museums, state parks, and nearby wildlife viewing — including wild horses on Chincoteague — that make for a relaxed, charming spring getaway. Average temperatures in early spring usually range from the 40s to the 60s.
BONUS: Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg, Tennessee
We chose Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for this year’s spring break and had a blast. The area blends outdoor adventure in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with family attractions like Dollywood, plus rental homes often packed with entertainment features — game rooms, indoor mini golf, movie rooms, and more. We returned with great memories and recommend it for families seeking both nature and lively entertainment. Expect temperatures that can vary widely in March and April, from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
More Vacation Ideas
If you’re looking for additional inspiration, we’ve written many trip recaps covering a wide range of destinations. A few other family favorites we’ve visited include Mexico, Costa Rica, Sedona (AZ), South Dakota (Mount Rushmore and Badlands), Hawaii with a toddler, and Richmond, VA. Below is a snapshot image from one of our road trips and a short list of other destinations to consider.
- Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Sedona, AZ (two hours from the Grand Canyon)
- South Dakota (Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park)
- Hawaii (great options for families with young kids)
- Richmond, VA