Trying to make a plan for spring break with the entire family? You aren't alone. Spring break travel is one of the most popular times for families to get away, according to travel agents.
The best way to guarantee options is by planning in advance, which means getting started now.
"It is a busy time to travel, so if you value choices, plan in the fall," Kiki Humes, a family travel advisor with Ciao Bambino, tells TODAY.com. "Last-minute planners may be locked out of the best family accommodations or the best located accommodations."
Nicole Gerber, SmartFlyer travel advisor, agrees.
"The school year is coming to an end, it’s still on the cooler side temperature wise in most parts of the U.S., and many families haven’t been away in a few months and are itching for a trip before potential summer plans," Gerber says.
Before planning a spring break trip, decide what is important for your family.
"I think it is important (for families) to decide if they want to stay domestic or go international," Gerber says.
She also recommended parents ask themselves:
- How much do we want to spend?
- Are our passports up to date?
- What type of trip are we looking for — sightseeing, history and culture? Adventure? Or relaxing beach and pool time?
Amy Annis, a Ciao Bambino family travel advisor, adds that a smart way to navigate a busy travel season is to think outside the box.
"As spring break is a busy time to travel, consider something off the beaten path," Annis says.
15 Spring Break Ideas For Families
All three professional travel advisors tell TODAY.com that spring break is a great time for families to travel both domestically and internationally.
“I can’t stress enough how smart it is to be focused on planning your vacation schedule six months to one year in advance and even more for bucket list trips," Annis says. "The best defense for a seamless trip is a well-organized itinerary."
Spring Break Ideas For Families In The U.S.
National Parks
While some families may seek seaside destination for spring break, others are opting for National Parks like the Grand Tetons or Yellowstone in Wyoming, Glacier National Park in Montana or Zion in Utah.
Florida
Disney World is an obvious Florida destination for families, but parents seeking a vacation to the Sunshine State without Mickey Mouse might consider Hawks Cay Resort, which features an on-site dolphin facility, or a home rental along Rosemary Beach on Florida's panhandle.
Hawaii
Home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, the Hawaiian Islands has plenty to offer families from the southernmost point in the U.S. on Hawaii Island to Disney's Aulani Resort on Oahu.
California
Whether you're road-tripping along the Pacific Coast Highway, hiking through Yosemite or set on staying at one of many resorts along California's coast, there is something for everyone in the Golden State.
Destination Resorts
Annis recommends destination resorts, like Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in Tennessee or Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri.
"Somewhere where the family has a multitude of activities to choose from onsite," she says.
Big City Trips
Humes recommends New York City, Boston, New Orleans, Washington D.C. or Charleston for spring vacations for families.
Arizona
Destinations like Sedona and the Grand Canyon may be ideal for travelers looking for adventure, while resorts like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offer family travelers multiple swimming pools and a dedicated kid's club for those seeking respite in the sun.
Late-Season Ski Trip
"Depending on when the break falls, it could be right at the tail end of ski season as well," Gerber says.
Family-friendly ski resorts include Smuggler's Notch Resort in Vermont and Steamboat Grand in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Spring Break Ideas For Families Outside The U.S.
Families seeking to get out of town for spring break outside the United States have no shortage of destination options.
Caribbean
"Somewhere with a nice, swimmable beach like Turks & Caicos or The Bahamas," Annis said.
Costa Rica or Belize
"(Both) would be a trip combining activity in the jungle with time on the coast at leisure," Humes said.
Europe
"In Italy, Rome, Florence and Venice or in Spain — Madrid, Andalusia and Barcelona," Annis said.
Big City Trips
All agents agreed that big city combination trips are a popular choice. Top cities include London, Paris and Lisbon. Combinations include: London and Paris, Amsterdam and Copenhagen, Prague and Vienna
Iceland
The dramatic landscapes of Iceland make for an adventurous family trip for those seeking outdoor fun. Make sure to visit iconic destinations like Diamond Bech and Skógafoss waterfall.
Mexico
Mexico is a top destinations for families looking for fun in the sun at resort destinations like Bahia Principe Grand Coba, which features more than 1,000 guest rooms and a water park for children.
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