Escape the ordinary this year! Our guide to the top family-friendly spring break destinations for 2025 offers adventure, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Every year, more and more families are discovering that when they ditch the pre-packaged vacations and predictable itineraries on their spring break, they’re creating better memories, learning more about the world, and creating a family experience that inspires.
My family has been embarking on memory-making adventures each spring for the past 13 years, experiencing floating lodges in Thailand, walking in the footsteps of Greek mythology, and tearing down sand dunes in Peru.
This spring break I’m issuing a challenge. Ditch the tourist traps and embark on a family adventure that will leave you with more than just sunburns and souvenirs. I’m talking about the kind of adventurous family travel vacations that spark curiosity, expand palates, and forge unforgettable memories.
Rather than resort buffets, think exploring ancient ruins hidden in lush jungles, haggling for spices in bustling souks, or maybe even braving a plate of fried grasshoppers (trust me, they’re actually quite delicious with the right seasoning).
From coast to coast, and across the continents, this is your passport to family spring break travel that goes beyond the ordinary. I’ll share hidden gems, introduce you to local delicacies, and inspire you to embrace the unexpected.
So pack your bags, ditch the itinerary, and prepare for a journey that will feed your family’s soul and leave you craving more.
Unforgettable Spring Break Family Destinations
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Planning spring break vacations for families can be a struggle, but these incredible family-friendly travel destinations will make this year’s family trip unforgettable.. This year, ditch the mouse ears and crowded beaches. Set your aim higher than than Cancun resort.
We’ll cover ancient cities in Morocco, island hopping in Greece, and maybe even braving a Turkish bath (it’s an experience, trust me). From skipping through fields of alligators in Florida to hiking the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, this spring break family travel guide will inspire you to embark on a journey that’s as enriching as it is exciting.
Whether you’re a beach bum, an adventure-seeker, or a wildlife aficionado, these family-friendly spring break ideas have you covered.
Cruise The Greek Islands
Forget the mega-ships and pre-packaged tours. This spring break, channel your inner Odysseus and embark on a Greek island-hopping adventure that will leave you feeling like a modern-day explorer. In 2023, my family did just that on our 7-day cruise of the Greek Islands. Instead of just ticking off landmarks, we’re dove deep into the heart of Greek culture, where ancient myths collide with modern life.
This country’s claim to fame is the blue roofs of Santorini, but let me tell you, there’s far more to the islands than just that one-shot Instagram background.
Spend the morning exploring the whitewashed villages, haggling for souvenirs in bustling markets, and savoring the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted with an oceansideview that will take your breath away. In the afternoon, hike to ancient theaters, explore underground tombs, or pay a visit to the Palace of Knossos, a city that helped burst Greece into a cultural icon.
But don’t just stick to the tourist trail. Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden tavernas where the locals gather, the air thick with the aroma of grilled octopus and the sound of lively conversations. Learn a few Greek phrases, share a laugh with the fishermen mending their nets, and maybe even join in a traditional dance under the stars.
From the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, this is a journey that will awaken your senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and resilience of Greek culture. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s an odyssey for the soul.
You can read all about our journey through the Greek Islands here.
Get Your Adventure On In Hawaii
One of my favorite spring break destinations might be popular, but we’ll skip the beachside resorts for sunsets over volcanos and road trips. A trip to Hawaii can inspire a lifetime of adventure. In fact, it’s still one of the places that my family longs to return to year after year. Hawaii is more than just Luau’s and Lei’s kind of trip; we’re going deep into the heart of these volcanic islands, where the forces of nature still reign supreme.
For this trip, I challenge you to ditch your GPS and surrender to the rhythm of the Road to Hana. This family road trip isn’t about speed; it’s about savoring every hairpin turn, every cascading waterfall, every glimpse of the Pacific crashing against black lava cliffs.
During our drive, we pulled over at roadside fruit stands overflowing with mangoes and papayas, their sweetness a taste of the island’s soul. We spent time hiking through bamboo forests that whispered ancient secrets and cooled off in hidden, waterfall-fed pools.
But the real adventure begins before dawn. At the end of your road trip, bundle up and head for the summit of Haleakalā, the “House of the Sun.” As the first rays paint the crater in fiery hues, you’ll witness a spectacle that’s sure to make you a morning person.
Head To The Coast Of Cartagena, Colombia
¡Bienvenidos a Cartagena.
Step through the clock tower into one of the oldest walled cities in the Americas. This Colombian city is a place where you’ll be transported back in time to the time of Spanish explorers. Cartagena’s historic cobblestone streets echo with the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages while balconies overflowing with bougainvillea spill onto the plazas below. This is a city that seduces the senses, a place where the old world collides with the new in a vibrant tapestry of color and sound.
My family visited here back in 2015 and fell in love with the unique magic, colors, and food of South America’s only Caribbean coastline. But this city isn’t just about beauty. There’s history hidden behind the postcard-perfect facade. Cartagena has a soul forged in resilience, a history etched in its weathered walls. Wander through the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, its massive ramparts whispering tales of pirates and conquistadors. Explore the Palace of the Inquisition, a chilling reminder of a darker past.
But what about the food? Well, let’s dig into it. Cartagena is a melting pot of culinary traditions, a place where African, indigenous, and European flavors intertwine. Dive into a bowl of cazuela de mariscos, a seafood stew that’s as rich and complex as the city itself. Sample arepas con huevos, a street food staple that’s both comforting and delicious. For a truly local experience, venture into the Mercado de Bazurto, a chaotic, vibrant market where you can find everything from exotic fruits to hand-woven baskets.
Here, drawn behind a noisy wall of spice vendors, you’ll find the true heart of Cartagena. This is where the locals come to shop, to gossip, to haggle, to live. Grab a seat at a makeshift food stall, order a plate of fritanga (fried food heaven), and let the rhythm of the market wash over you.
As the sun sets, the city transforms. The plazas come alive with music and laughter, the air thick with the scent of rum and cigars. Find a rooftop bar with a view of the Caribbean, sip on a mojito, and let the sultry rhythms of salsa carry you away.
Cartagena is a city that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s a place where history, culture, and passion collide, leaving an indelible mark on the soul. So come, lose yourself in its vibrant streets, savor its culinary delights, and discover the magic that lies within its ancient walls.
Experience The Wild Side Of Florida
Forget the manufactured thrills of Orlando. This spring break, explore the side of Florida that pulses with untamed energy, where alligators lurk in shadowy swamps, and panthers stalk through whispering pines. Come back from your Florida spring vacation with photos of the wild and wonderful places rather than selfies with Mickey.
Back in 2020, my family swung down to Everglades National Park, where we strolled among pathways filled with wild alligators and climbed to scenic viewpoints where we could see for miles across untouched wetlands where birds flew across sunset skies.
This is the proper wet and wild side of the state. But rather than the waterfalls of Universal’s Volcano Bay, you’ll experience airboat rides that skim across the water and feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of the chase as you spot alligators basking in the sun.
Beyond the Everglades, a treasure trove of Florida state parks awaits.
- Anastasia State Park: Escape the crowds and discover the pristine beauty of Anastasia State Park. Here, ancient dunes rise above the Atlantic, their windswept sands whispering tales of shipwrecks and pirates. Hike through maritime hammocks, where gnarled live oaks stand sentinel over a tapestry of wildflowers. And as the sun sets, gather around a bonfire on the beach, the crackling flames mirroring the stars overhead.
- Florida Caverns State Park: Venture into the depths of Florida Caverns State Park, where stalactites hang like icy daggers and stalagmites rise like ghostly figures. Explore the subterranean world; its cool, damp air is a welcome respite from the Florida heat. And as you emerge from the cave, blinking in the sunlight, you’ll feel like you’ve journeyed to another world.
- Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Weeki Wachee Springs, where mermaids have captivated audiences for generations. Witness the underwater ballet, a spectacle that blends myth and reality. Then, explore the surrounding park, its lush landscape teeming with wildlife.
- Myakka River State Park: Embark on a safari through Myakka River State Park, where alligators bask on the banks and roseate spoonbills take flight in a flurry of pink. Hike through the wilderness, climb the canopy walkway for a bird’s-eye view, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Florida panther.
Florida’s wild side is a call to adventure, an invitation to reconnect with the natural world. So ditch the crowds and embrace the unexpected. Paddle a kayak through mangrove forests, camp under a canopy of stars, and let the rhythm of the wild guide your journey. This is the Florida that Bourdain would have loved – raw, authentic, and full of surprises.
Eat Your Way Through Quebec City
This spring, consider surrendering to the charms of one of North America’s oldest cities, Quebec City. Here, old-world elegance meets one of the world’s best culinary scenes. We’re not just talking about Michelin-starred restaurants (though this city has those too). We’re diving into the heart of Quebecois cuisine, where hearty flavors and local ingredients reign supreme.
Start your day with a steaming cup of coffee and a flaky croissant at a local boulangerie, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the crisp morning air. Then, wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, its charming architecture a feast for the eyes.
For lunch, head to a classic “casse-croute” (snack bar) and order a poutine, the quintessential Quebecois dish. Crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
In the afternoon, explore the Quartier Petit Champlain, a charming district filled with boutiques and artisan shops. Sample local cheeses, maple syrup, and handcrafted chocolates. And for a truly unique experience, visit the Marché du Vieux-Port, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.
This city has a wild side, too. So, if you’re looking to get outdoors, the marvels of Montmorency Falls are just a 10-minute drive from Quebec’s old city. To dive even deeper into Quebec’s untamed wilderness, venture out 20 minutes to Jacques Cartier National Park, where the epic views of the Laurentian Mountains will blow you away.
You can read more about visiting Quebec City in winter here.
Lake Placid, New York
For those who crave one last taste of winter’s magic, Lake Placid, New York beckons. This remote city, tucked among the snow-dusted peaks of the Adirondack Mountains, offers a family-friendly spring break experience unlike any other. Forget the beach; we’re talking about crisp mountain air, exhilarating winter sports, and cozy nights by the fire.
Lake Placid is steeped in Olympic history. Channel your inner athlete and experience the thrill of bobsledding or ski jumping at the Olympic Sports Complex, where legends were made and dreams were realized. Explore the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, where you can relive the glory days of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Games.
Beyond the Olympic sites, a world of winter adventure awaits. Hit the slopes at Whiteface Mountain, where challenging terrain and breathtaking views will satisfy even the most seasoned skiers. For a more leisurely pace, explore the network of cross-country ski trails that wind through the surrounding forests.
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, strap on a pair of snowshoes and venture into the pristine wilderness. Hike through snow-covered forests, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and marvel at the silence that blankets the landscape.
Denver, Colorado
Trade in the beach for the Rockies this spring break. Denver is a family-friendly city that seamlessly blends urban energy with untamed wilderness. Denver offers a different kind of spring break experience. We’re talking about exploring exciting neighborhoods, delving into the city’s rich history, and venturing into the breathtaking landscapes that surround it.
Denver’s heart beats with a youthful energy. Start your day with a stroll through Larimer Square, the city’s oldest block, where Victorian architecture houses trendy boutiques and farm-to-table restaurants. Fuel up with a locally roasted coffee and a pastry, then lose yourself in the vibrant street art scene of the RiNo Art District.
Embrace the city’s cultural side with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, its iconic titanium building housing a diverse collection that spans centuries and continents. Or, delve into the history of the American West at the Molly Brown House Museum, the former home of the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, a Titanic survivor and Denver socialite.
This spring break trip isn’t just about urban exploring, though. Make the drive from Denver to Estes Park and dive into the majestic Rocky Mountains. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find yourself amidst towering peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear streams.
Head south, and you’ll be hiking through the red rock formations of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a natural wonder that doubles as a world-renowned concert venue, and the wonders of Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods, one of our favorite family-friendly Colorado Springs hikes.
Which Of These Family-Friendly Spring Break Vacation Ideas will You Choose?
Spring break family vacations can be a pain to plan. Sure, beachfront resorts are easy, safe, and predictable. But, this spring break, I challenge you to ditch the ordinary. Trade crowded beaches for hidden trails, amusement parks for ancient ruins, and pre-packaged tours for authentic cultural encounters.
Whether you’re kayaking through mangrove tunnels in Florida, haggling for spices in a Moroccan souk, or hiking to a volcanic summit in Hawaii, embrace the unexpected. Let curiosity be your guide, and let adventure redefine your family vacation.
These are the journeys that will shape your children’s perspectives, broaden their horizons, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on a spring break that will feed your soul and leave you craving more. The world awaits.
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