Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations in The U.S. For Families

Kids play in Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. It's one of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families!

There are several best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families that promise memorable experiences without breaking the bank! While it may offer some crowds depending on when your kids are off from school, spring break is a great time to travel and experience something new, especially if you live somewhere cold. Outdoor lovers can check out the variety of national parks across the country, from Everglades National Park in Florida to Utah’s selection of 5 parks, all of which have unique features. Or, if you’d prefer a city experience, places like Washington DC or Denver offer museums and other affordable attractions. We’ve also included tips and affordable places to stay in each destination to help you plan your next family vacation. Keep reading to discover your next affordable adventure! 

Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations On The West Coast For Families

When it comes to planning a memorable spring break vacation that won’t break the bank, families can find an abundance of options along the West Coast. With its sun-kissed beaches and breathtaking national parks, Southern California also offers some of the best affordable destinations for a fun-filled getaway. Keep reading to find out the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families!

Southern California

Southern California is a great option if you crave warm weather during your spring break vacation with kids but don’t want to deal with extreme heat. It reaches around 70 degrees during spring break, which makes it a perfect time to check out the many beaches in the area! 

A young girl leans over a railing while looking at the lit up Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica Pier.
Photo Courtesy: Emily Kapic

Families can explore famous destinations like Santa Monica or Venice Beach, where they can stroll along the iconic boardwalks while enjoying street performers and local vendors. For those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere, Laguna Beach also offers picturesque cliffs and tide pools perfect for exploring with children. (Combine it with a stop at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center!) Huntington Beach, aka Surf City USA, allows families to witness thrilling surf competitions while also providing ample space for building sand castles or flying kites. And let’s not forget about Coronado Beach in San Diego County, which has gentle waves and also a pristine shoreline. In San Diego, you could also visit the famous San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, or take an Old Town Trolley Tour

Where To Stay In Southern California With Kids

If you’re looking for kid-friendly hotels near LA, check out Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort, Omni Los Angeles Hotel, or other options on our list of the Best Hotels In Los Angeles For Families. In San Diego, choose between the Omni San Diego, or the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, among other options on our list of the Best Beachfront Hotels in San Diego For Families.  Or, check out affordable options on Vrbo.

Best National Parks In California For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

Two young boys sit laughing in Joshua Tree National Park. It's one of the most affordable spring break destinations for families!
Photo Courtesy: Amanda Short

National parks offer affordable options for families on a budget, both in terms of activities and affordable lodging like campsites. If you want to visit a national park for your next affordable spring break vacation in the U.S. for families, check out these options! 

  • Joshua Tree National Park offers gorgeous desert landscapes sprinkled with iconic Joshua trees, where families can embark on nature walks and discover unique rock formations. Hike the 1.7-mile Skull Rock Trail, the 1.1-mile Barker Dam, which showcases the park’s namesake Joshua Trees, or drive to Keys View for amazing views of Coachella Valley.
  • Sequoia National Park introduces families to the majestic giants of nature, with towering sequoias creating a magical atmosphere for little explorers. Drive through the tunnel log for an iconic photo, visit the Giant Forest Museum, and don’t forget to see the General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree! 
  • Death Valley National Park, although known for its extreme temperatures in the summer, offers a fascinating landscape featuring salt flats and sand dunes that you can explore during spring. Easy hikes include the Salt Creek Interpretive Trail (0.5 miles), the Harmony Borax Works (0.4 miles), and the Badwater Salt Flat (1 mile). 
  • In Redwood National Park, majestic redwoods reach sky-high heights and create an enchanted forest perfect for family adventures. The Cathedral Trees Trail, which is around 3 miles, is an easy route for kids and has some of the largest trees in the park! 
  • Yosemite National Park showcases massive granite cliffs and magnificent waterfalls flowing into Emerald Pools below. See Bridal Veil Falls or climb to the top of Yosemite Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in North America. Advanced hikers can try to conquer one of the park’s hardest trails, El Capitan! 

Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations In The Southwest For Families

The Southwest region of the United States offers a treasure trove of the best affordable spring break destinations for families. From New Mexico to Texas, it has everything from bustling cities to stunning natural landscapes. Stay tuned to learn more! 

Santa Fe, New Mexico 

The main street in Santa Fe, leading to a Spanish-style church, and mountains in the distance. It's one of the most affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families!

Santa Fe is the perfect destination for families seeking an affordable spring break getaway! Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of rich history, captivating art scenes, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Plus, March and April weather is around 50-60 degrees, which isn’t too cold to explore! 

On Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza, kids can see how many chilie peppers they spot hanging around the main area of the town. It’s also a fantastic place to go shopping or try one of Santa Fe’s many restaurants. Of course, don’t forget to stroll through the family-owned galleries, craft jewelry shops, and more local artisans as you make your way down Canyon Road, the city’s main artistic district. Art-loving teens can’t miss the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, Museum of International Folk Art, or the New Mexico Museum of Art.  Or, if you have younger kids, take them to Meow Wolf – an interactive experience the whole family will love! The Railyard is also an up-and-coming part of town with many galleries and experimental art centers. 

Book your hotel in Santa Fe through the Families Love Travel booking site and save! Sign-up is complimentary!

Best National Parks In New Mexico For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

A family posing at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

When it comes to planning the perfect spring break vacation with kids, New Mexico offers some of the best affordable destinations for families. Here are some national parks your family will love! 

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park will captivate families with its impressive underground landscape filled with stunning limestone formations. Hike the 1.25-mile Natural Entrance Trail, which leads through a steep natural cave opening into a world of breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. From mid-to-late April when the bats return from migration, families can also catch the early parts of the park’s Bat Flight program at the Bat Flight Amphitheater. 
  • At White Sands National Park, families can indulge in endless fun on its vast stretch of crystal-white sand dunes. Kids will have a blast sliding down these silky slopes using sleds or simply rolling around making snow angel-like impressions on this unique desert playground. Hike the short Playa Trail or take the longer, 8-mile-long Dune Drive to enjoy the park from your car. 
  • Bandelier National Monument offers families a chance to explore ancient dwellings carved into the cliffs by ancestral Pueblo people over 800 years ago. In the Tsankawi section, you can hike a 1.5-mile trail through the ancient dwellings and even see some petroglyphs up close to learn more about the history of native people in New Mexico.
  • Another affordable option for families who want to dive into the history of New Mexico is to explore its various cliff dwellings. Taos Pueblo presents families with an authentic living community where descendants of ancient tribes still reside today, offering an immersive encounter with traditional adobe structures and local crafts. The Puye Cliff Dwellings, located northwest of Santa Fe in Los Alamos County, offer families a chance to see dwellings carved into sheer canyon walls.

Phoenix, Arizona

A dad and his three kids hike along a desert trail in Phoenix, one of the best affordable spring break destinations for families.
Photo Courtesy: Kasia Michalik

One of the most exciting and affordable spring break destinations for families is Phoenix! Known for its year-round warm weather (around 75-80 degrees) and outdoor activities, it offers a wide range of affordable attractions that the whole family will love. 

In downtown Phoenix, see landmarks like the Chase Tower or go shopping at local boutiques along Roosevelt Row. With the beautiful desert landscapes surrounding Phoenix, families can also embark on breathtaking hikes in Camelback Mountain or explore the spectacular trails of South Mountain Park. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Phoenix boasts numerous family-friendly parks and botanical gardens where children can marvel at colorful flowers and interact with indigenous desert wildlife, like the Desert Botanical Garden. Plus, at the Phoenix Zoo, kids can get up close with over 3,000 animals from around the world! Adrenaline seekers can check out aquatic attractions such as Hurricane Harbor Phoenix or visit Enchanted Island Amusement Park, located in Encanto Park.

Where To Stay In Phoenix With Kids

Families looking for affordable accommodations in Phoenix can check out Vrbo or Airbnb for options. If you need an affordable Phoenix hotel to stay at with kids, check out the Radisson Hotel Phoenix Airport or The Westin Phoenix Downtown! We have more options on our list of the best hotels in Phoenix for families! Or, you can check Vrbo for more options.

Best National Parks In Arizona For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

A family of four stands with an expansive view of the Grand Canyon behind them, the man uses a selfie stick to snap the photo.
Photo Courtesy: Lisa Jubb

Arizona also has some of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families. If you want to visit a national park for your vacation, keep reading! 

  • Grand Canyon National Park is iconic for a reason, and spring is a good time to beat the summer heat and crowds. Check out the South Rim, home to the South Kaibab Trail. It’s accessible via a shuttle from the Visitors’ Center, and one of the closest viewpoints, Ooh Ah Point, is around 1.8 miles away. Or, take the scenic drive down Desert View Drive, go on a mule ride through the canyon, or even ride a whitewater raft down the Colorado River!
  • Saguaro National Park is home to some of the biggest cacti in the country, offering endless ways to explore with your little ones. The park has two districts separated by the city of Tuscon – Rincon Mountain District and Tucson Mountain District. In the Rincon Mountain District, families can hike the 1-mile Freeman Homestead Trail or the 1.8-mile Wild Dog Trail in the Tuscon Mountain District. 

Use Expedia to book your stay in Phoenix here!

San Antonio, Texas

A boat moves through the canal in Alamo Plaza in San Antonio at night.
Photo Courtesy: Weston M.

With its charming blend of history, culture, and entertainment options, San Antonio offers a wealth of activities suitable for kids of all ages looking for a fun spring break! Plus, you can avoid the summer Texas heat by visiting in March or April, when the weather is around 75 degrees. 

The city’s most famous attraction is The Alamo, where families can immerse themselves in the rich Texan heritage and explore this iconic symbol of independence. At nearby River Walk, parents and children can also stroll along the picturesque waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and lively street performers. For an educational adventure that combines fun with learning, a visit to the DoSeum—San Antonio’s beloved children’s museum—is also a must. You could also visit the San Antonio Zoo or SeaWorld to see some fascinating wildlife. Or, learn more about San Antonio with a ranger-led tour at San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. There are also plenty of amusement parks for kids, including Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Morgan’s Wonderland. 

Best National Parks In Texas For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

Texas is home to some of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families, especially those looking to explore the outdoors with their kids. These two standout national parks in the Lone Star State offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Keep reading to learn more! 

  • Big Bend National Park offers stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a range of activities suitable for kids of all ages. Located in southwest Texas, it also has over 800 miles of trails. Try the 3.5-mile Upper Burro Mesa Pouroff trail and don’t forget to take a scenic drive through the park and stop at some of the viewpoints along the way! 
  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park provides a unique opportunity for adventure-seeking families. One family-friendly hike is the 2.5-mile Smith Spring and Manzanita Spring Loop, which is also renowned for its picturesque flowers in spring. 

Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations In The Mountain States For Families

When it comes to finding the best affordable spring break destinations for families in the Mountain States, there are several amazing options that offer stunning natural beauty and family-friendly activities without breaking the bank. Between Colorado and Utah, here are some of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families! 

National Parks In Utah

A young boy wearing a yellow shirt and a blue sun hat looks at the iconic Utah arches at Arches National Park, one of the best things to do in Moab with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Emily Kapic

Active families who want an affordable spring break vacation in Utah can visit its array of national parks: Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Parks. All are known for their natural beauty and outstanding outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, camping, and more. Plus, since Utah can be hot in the summer, spring break is a great way to enjoy the heat before it becomes unpleasant. 

A family of five stands along a cliff with a sweeping view of Zion National Park behind them.
Photo Courtesy: Sarah Casper

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning red rock cliffs, hiking trails, and river rafting, there’s something for everyone in this park. Then, Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its beautiful hoodoos (rock formations that look like pillars or columns). It’s a great place to hike, take scenic drives, and stargaze. Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches, making it a must-see for any teen or tween (and adults too!). In addition to the arches, there are also hiking trails, canyoneering routes, and petroglyphs. Perhaps one of the most underrated parks, Capitol Reef National Park is certainly worth a visit for its stunning canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold. Finally, Canyonlands National Park showcases a primitive desert vibe with out-of-this-world views. 

Where To Stay In Utah With Kids

Parents who want to stay close to Arches National Park will appreciate the convenience of the Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton. For a more rugged experience in the wilderness, check out Base Camp Adventure Lodge, Under Canvas Glamping Tents Moab, and the Red Cliffs Lodge. Read our list of where to stay in Moab with kids to learn more! 

Denver, Colorado

Left Image: Three kids hang on a fence overlooking an animal display at the Denver Zoo. right Image: A young boy looks on at an elephant at the Denver Zoo, one of the best things to do in Colorado with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Michelle Hamilton

Denver is definitely one of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families! Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, it offers temperatures of around 55-60 degrees in March and April, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors with kids. 

The front of the Downtown Aquarium - Denver, featuring a huge wall of windows.
Photo Courtesy: Downtown Aquarium – Denver

Families can take advantage of Denver’s mild spring weather by enjoying outdoor adventures like bike riding along Cherry Creek Trail, visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens, or picnicking under sunny skies at Washington Park. Denver also has a selection of impressive museums, such as the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Children’s Museum, which offer interactive exhibits that delight both children and adults alike. Additionally, families can also immerse themselves in history with a visit to Four Mile Historic Park or enjoy hands-on learning at Wings Over The Rockies Air & Space Museum. Denver is also home to numerous family-friendly attractions such as the Denver Zoo or Downtown Aquarium Denver. Children can get up close and personal with fascinating animals from around the world! 

Where To Stay In Denver With Kids

There are so many affordable places to stay in Denver with kids. Kids will love the rooftop pool at the Westin Denver Downtown. Other great options include the Hotel Clio, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Denver Cherry Creek and the Crawford Hotel. For more suggestions, check out these best hotels in Denver for families! Or, check out Vrbo and Airbnb for more options. 

Colorado Springs, Colorado

A family of five sits together smiling, tucked into a rock ledge while exploring Garden of the Gods, one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Patience Byers

Mountain views and thrilling activities are sure to make Colorado Springs a great destination for an affordable spring break vacation with kids. Reaching around 60 degrees in March/April, this Colorado town is well known for its proximity to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, as well as its wide array of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and more.

A young boy stands in front of the sign for the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
Photo Courtesy: Patience Byers

First, explore the many trails or outdoor ​​rock climbing opportunities of Garden of the Gods. To explore on wheels, you could also book a tour with Adventures Out West, which offers an exciting segway tour within the park. Jeep tours and ATV tours are also available in the area. Want to explore Colorado Springs by air? Take a Royal Gorge Zip Line Tour. Families with young kids will love a visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – America’s only mountainside zoo! Then, just an hour away from the city, Pikes Peak is also a must for teens and tweens. When you require an indoor activity, there are also several museums in the city, such as the National Museum of World War II Aviation and the Money Museum.

Where To Stay In Colorado Springs With Kids

Need an affordable place to stay in Colorado Springs? Consider staying at one of the many affordable campgrounds in the area. Or, for a mid-range hotel, try the Cheyenne Mountain Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort, located on a private lake. Want to stay inside a private country club near the best sights in town? You’ll like the Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. Of course, kids will love the indoor water park at the Great Wolf Lodge Colorado Springs! For more suggestions on where to stay, read this list of 7 Hotels in Colorado Springs that Families Will Love

Best National Parks In Colorado For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

A young boy sits among large boulders while looking off into the distance while explore the Rocky Moutain National Park.
Photo Courtesy: Tanya Buran

Colorado is an outdoor lover’s paradise, so it’s no wonder there are lots of national parks to visit with kids here. Keep reading to find out the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families! 

  • Rocky Mountain National Park, around 2 hours from Denver in Estes Park, offers abundant wildlife and endless outdoor opportunities across protected mountains, forests, and alpine tundra. Families can see the park through two scenic drives, the Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. There are also different trails for various skill levels, like the 2-mile Dream Lake Trail or the 3.8-mile Emerald Lake Loop. Don’t forget to look out for elk, moose, and other wildlife!
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located near Mosca in Southern Colorado. It’s also known for its massive sand dunes – the tallest in North America! Kids will definitely enjoy navigating the park, which seems like the Sahara Desert teleported to Colorado. Walk to the top of the dunes and also rent a sandboard or sled to soar down the dunes! 
  • The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Western Colorado consists of two rim overlooks, with the Gunnison River flowing below through the “black canyon.” You’ll get one of the best views in the park from Exclamation Point, accessible via an easy, flat three-mile round-trip hike along the North Vista Trail. If you have time, stop at the North and South Rim to explore the beautiful overlooks! 

Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations In The Southeast For Families

Looking to make the most of your family’s spring break without breaking the bank? Look no further than these best affordable spring break destinations for families in the Southeast. From authentic culture to outdoor adventures, this region also has something for everyone. Keep reading to learn more! 

Gatlinburg, TN

A stunning view up river at Cades Cove, near Gatlinburg. It's one of the best affordable spring break destinations for families!
Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

Just a short drive from major cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga, Gatlinburg is surrounded on three sides by the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and offers an affordable spring break destination for families. Reaching around 60-65 degrees in March and April, this scenic town is brimming with kid-friendly activities. It has everything from hiking and biking trails to splash pads and picnicking in the park!

Gatlinburg is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, there are lots more to do beyond that! To experience new heights, check out SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyPark. The bridge is nearly 700 feet long and more than 500 feet in the air, with glass flooring at the very middle. Families will also love the mountaintop views from Ober Mountain Amusement and Activity Park, accessible by aerial tram. This year-round destination includes a wide variety of family-friendly fun, including a rock wall, chair swings, a mountain coaster, a carousel, mini-golf, wildlife encounters, and more. Animal lovers can’t miss the 11-mile, one-way loop around Cades Cove, home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, bears, turkeys, and even coyotes. Or, pack a picnic and walk the trails along the way

Looking for an indoor activity in Gatlinburg? Kids will also love seeing the various sea creatures up close at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not to get up close with some of the world’s greatest oddities. For more suggestions, read our article to plan an Exciting Family Itinerary For Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

A view of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, specifically Calderwood Lake. This is one of the best spring break destinations in the U.S. for families.

At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, families can enjoy the outdoors without straining their wallets! Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, this lesser-visited national park reaches around 50-55 degrees during March and April. Not to mention, families with a fourth grader can save on free national park passes for fourth graders!

There are many activities for families to enjoy in the spring, especially hiking. Take a short hike to scenic overlooks like Juney Whank Falls, for example. Or, ​​check out areas like Cataloochee and Cades Cove to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, raccoons, and Wild Turkeys. Some other kid-friendly trails include Grotto Falls and Laurel Falls. Both are about 2.5 miles roundtrip with a waterfall at the end. Clingman’s Dome is a brief, ½-mile hike for little kids. Meanwhile, Cove Mountain Trail to Cataract Falls is ¾ of a mile with flat ground. This is also an excellent spot for bird-watching. To explore the historic area, hop on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and travel back in time through charming rustic towns! 

Families looking for more national park experiences can also visit Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, home to the longest cave system in the world! 

Where To Stay Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park With Kids

Families visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park often choose to stay in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area. Renting a cabin on Vrbo is a popular choice, since some have outdoor pools, hot tubs, and more family-friendly amenities. Families who want a more affordable option can also consider camping. For the comforts of a hotel stay, choose the Country Cascades or Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, which both offer water parks to enjoy after a day of exploring the area. 

Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations On The East Coast Families

From charming coastal towns to vibrant cities, the East Coast offers an array of affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families. Whether you want to relax on a beach in South Carolina, visit the theme parks in Florida, or check out the cherry blossoms in DC, keep reading for our suggestions! 

Washington DC

A tween girl rides a bike in front of the US capitol building while exploring Washington DC.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

If your ideal family spring break destinations don’t involve laying on the beach, then take your family to see the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. Though the weather won’t be as warm as some other destinations on this list, it sometimes reaches the high 60s. And, hotel prices can be a bit expensive, though activities are generally free. 

Girl sitting on a tree during cherry blossom season in Washington DC
Photo Courtesy: Anonymous Contributor

Every year, the city also hosts its long-awaited National Cherry Blossom Festival. During these three weeks, you’ll find countless areas to run around and explore gorgeous views. Not to mention a postcard-worthy backdrop for a one-of-a-kind photo of the kids! Of course, one of the most famous places to see the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. is the Tidal Basin, located within West Potomac Park. Historic sights nearby like the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument add an extra dimension to the wonderful scenery. Families can even rent paddle boats to get a better view! Or, for more free activities, you can walk along the National Mall. Don’t forget DC’s many free museums, from the National Postal Museum to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History!

Where to Stay in DC with Kids

Families can stay near famous attractions like The White House or the U.S. Capitol Building by booking a stay at the Hyatt Place Washington DC. Or, venture to Dupont Circle and stay at The Darcy. For more hotel suggestions, check out our list of kid-friendly hotels in DC. Or, if you want a home and apartment rental, check out our Airbnb, Vrbo, and our recommendations for the best neighborhoods to stay in DC.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

A solo hiker wearing a blue coat walks along a path at the Shenandoah National Park.
Photo Courtesy: Patrick Mueller

Shenandoah National Park, nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, stands out as one of the best affordable spring break destinations for families. Spanning over 200,000 acres, this magnificent park offers a harmonious blend of natural wonders and family-friendly activities that guarantee an unforgettable vacation experience. Plus, the weather in March/April isn’t too cold, and usually reaches around 50-55 degrees. 

From Hawksbill Summit to Old Rag Mountain, your kids will delight in hiking and stopping at overlooks, where you can see for miles and miles. It’s no surprise that the best hiking options will be on the Appalachian Trail, which you can also access from the park’s entrances. If you want to take in the sights from the comfort of your car, you can also drive the Skyline Drive. This gorgeous drive runs through Shenandoah National Park and is the only road inside the park. You’ll find that it runs north/south and has four entrance stations. 

Tampa Bay, Florida

A dad and his young daughter lean over a railing to look at the river, while strolling along the Tampa Riverwalk.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Tampa Bay is a fantastic destination to consider when planning a spring break trip with kids. Temperatures at around 80 degrees, coupled with fun family-friendly activities, make it an ideal spot for endless fun and relaxation!

Boasting some of the best beaches in Florida, St. Pete/Clearwater offers pristine stretches of golden sand where little ones can build towering sandcastles or simply play in the calm waters. Clearwater Beach stands out due to its powdery sands and shallow shores that are perfect for young swimmers. Plus, when you want an adrenaline rush, kids can enjoy a variety of rides at Busch Gardens. Plus, the Lowry Park Zoo guarantees magical encounters with adorable creatures like koalas, manatees, and even feeding opportunities within lush habitats. Located in the heart of downtown Tampa, The Florida Aquarium will also transport you into an underwater world with creatures such as sharks, stingrays, and turtles. Families can also explore the historic Ybor City, stroll the Tampa Riverwalk, or visit the Glazer Children’s Museum! 

Where To Stay in Tampa Bay With Kids

Families seeking waterfront accommodations can consider Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay or Sailport Waterfront Suites. Each hotel offers a pool and other select amenities like on-site dining or fitness centers. Then, the downtown area has more fantastic Tampa Bay hotels for families, including Hilton Tampa Downtown and The Westin Tampa Waterside. For more suggestions, check out Vrbo read our article featuring the 14 Best Hotels In Tampa Bay For Families!

Best National Parks In Florida For An Affordable Spring Break Vacation With Kids

Known for its spectacular wildlife and stunning natural beauty, Florida also offers some of the best national park destinations that perfectly cater to families. Here are some suggestions! 

  • Everglades National Park offers families the opportunity to canoe through mangroves while looking for migrating birds, manatees, and, of course, Florida’s infamous alligators. One popular activity your family will love in the Everglades is to take an airboat tour. You could also take a hike or rent a canoe. Some kid-friendly trails include the 0.4-mile Bobcat Boardwalk Trail, the 0.5-mile Eco Pond Trail, or the 0.8-mile Anhinga Trail. 
  • Biscayne National Park is a short drive from Miami and boasts stunning turquoise waters that stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, you can also embark on unforgettable snorkeling adventures at places like Mandalay Shipwreck or simply relax on one of the beaches. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center also has great exhibits and a touch table to help kids learn. 

Savannah, GA

Two kids marvel at a fountain in Savannah on a sunny day.

From exploring the city’s historic squares to playing on the waterfront, there are so many fun things to do and see in Savannah with kids during spring break. Not to mention, it’s extremely easy to navigate on foot and features spring weather of around 70-75 degrees! 

A trolly for the Old Town Trolley Tours filled with people stops outside of a large historic home in Savannah.
Photo Courtesy: Old Town Trolley Tours (Savannah)

Start by exploring Savannah’s Historic District, which is full of charming 18th and 19th-century architecture. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, tour one of the old plantation houses, or just wander around and soak up all the Southern charm. Or, combine a visit to some of the best landmarks in the city, like the Davenport House, on an Old Town Trolley Tour. You can also save money by walking or biking to see the sights instead of taking tours. Another popular thing to do on a hot day is visiting one of the city’s many parks, like Forsyth Park. Or, check out some splash pads. The Ellis Square Splash Pads, located in the popular Ellis Square, offer kids the perfect respite from the sun. Then, enjoy calm waters and soft sands on one of the nearby beaches on Tybee Island.

A man and a boy are on a beach looking at a lighthouse off the coast of Tybee Island.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

Don’t forget about Savannah’s wonderful museums too, from Savannah’s History Museum to the Children’s Museum in Tricentennial Park. End your day with a sweet treat from Leopold’s Ice Cream or River Sweet Treats! Check out our list of the best things to do in Savannah with kids for more suggestions. 

Where To Stay In Savannah With Kids

Visiting Savannah with kids? We’re sure you’ll find accommodations for your family! Many people who travel in larger groups also choose to rent homes from Airbnb or Vrbo in Savannah’s surrounding areas for more space. For a hotel stay, you can also select from more affordable boutique options like the Olde Harbour Inn or the Kimpton Brice Hotel. Or, for more suggestions, check out our list of the best hotels in Savannah for families

Hilton Head

A young child plays in the water off the coast of Hilton Head while on a family vacation. It's one of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S. for families!

Hilton Head, located off the coast of South Carolina, is widely regarded as one of the best affordable spring break destinations for families! With the weather reaching the 70s and 80s, this vibrant island offers a plethora of activities and attractions suitable for all ages, making it an ideal vacation spot for those seeking a memorable family getaway without breaking the bank. 

Lounge on family-friendly spring break beaches like Islanders Beach Park, Driessen Beach, or Coligny Beach. While parents relax, kids can swim, build sandcastles, or spend time in the playground. Hilton Head also offers outdoor adventures for families, like horseback riding at Lawton Stables or spotting animals at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Commander Zodiac also provides kid-friendly adventures, so families can take a sailing tour or go bird-watching. Dolphin watching is another popular activity, accessible through Hilton Head Dolphin Tours. Don’t forget mini-golfing at Adventure Cove or visiting The Sea Pines Resort, where you can also climb up a legendary lighthouse.

Where To Stay In Hilton Head With Kids

Need somewhere affordable to stay in Hilton Head with kids? We recommend the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, the Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations, or also Marriott’s Grande Ocean. Also, check out our list of the best hotels in Hilton Head For Families to learn more! 

Happy Travels!

A dad holds his young son on his shoulders as they look out onto the Grand Canyon. It's one of the best affordable spring break destinations in the U.S.
Photo Courtesy: Diane Oliveira

We hope you liked this list of the Best Affordable Spring Break Destinations in The U.S. For Families! From beaches to museums and so much more, there are lots of ways to keep kids entertained without breaking the bank. Enjoy your affordable spring break vacation! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Families Love Travel Team

The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.