Off-The-Beaten-Path Spring Break Destinations in the US
Off-The-Beaten-Path Spring Break Destinations in the US
Despite ongoing concerns regarding the coronavirus pandemic, spring break remains one of the most popular times to travel each year and 2022 will be no exception.
Instead of heading to the busiest destinations sure to be bustling with activity, people looking to avoid the crowds and maintain their social distance should be considering non-traditional locations for a spring vacation.
Here are the top off-the-beaten-path spring break destinations in the United States.
Murrieta, California
Murrieta may have only become a city in 1991, but the town is already a highlight of California life outside the most popular destinations. In addition to ample options for hotels in the area, visitors can enjoy the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, a hike to Tenaja Falls or a turn at the California Oaks Skate Park.
Vero Beach, Florida
For couples and families looking to visit Florida without the madness of Orlando, Vero Beach is a viable alternative that features the McKee Botanical Garden, Vero Beach Museum of Art and several parks that highlight the miles of pristine beaches. Add in plenty of opportunities to eat seafood or catch it yourself, and Vero Beach is a must-see warm-weather spring break destination.
Roswell, New Mexico
Roswell will forever be known as the site of a reported UFO crash, but the city offers so much more in addition to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Families can enjoy the Spring River Park and Zoo, adults will learn at the Roswell Museum and Art Center and everyone can break a sweat hiking at Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge or Bottomless Lakes State Park.
Port Aransas, Texas
Instead of heading to the biggest cities in Texas, Port Aransas offers over 18 miles of beach along the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center and other wildlife preserves, the city offers fishing, golfing, shopping, coastal dining and ample hotel options.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
While everyone knows Pigeon Forge for Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park, the area is so much more than rollercoasters, waterslides and live concerts. The area boasts over 800 miles of mountain trails, camping sites, southern dining and a mix of modern and classic hotel options.
Delaware County, Pennsylvania
Located just outside South Philadelphia, Delaware County offers the amenities of a larger city with the proximity to rural staples. With renowned hiking and biking trails, world-class dining, historical sites, state and county parks, museums, community theaters and more, Delco is the perfect spot for a family vacation.
Asheville, North Carolina
For foodies looking for a destination not immediately associated with the top restaurants, Asheville is the perfect spot. With over a dozen farmer’s markets and a local restaurant scene that highlights the wide array of southern options, travelers can enjoy elite cuisine while also taking in craft breweries that would rival any big city.
New River Gorge, West Virginia
Located outside Fayetteville, New River Gorge is a 53-mile stretch of land along the river designed as a national park that boasts over 70,000 acres. The area offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities, including guided ATV tours, whitewater rafting, zip-lining and more.
Sedona, Arizona
Warm-weather destinations are always popular for spring break travelers, but few offer the wide variety of views associated with the Arizona desert. The city boasts premium hiking at Bell Rock and Oak Creek Canyon, jeep tours through the desert, hot-air balloons and plenty of nighttime events that take advantage of the unfiltered clarity of the Sedona sky.
Augusta, Georgia
One of the most underrated sporting events in the United States is the Masters Tournament, held each year at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. In addition to attending the premier golf tournament this spring, the area boasts river walks, history museums, parks, theaters, botanical gardens and more.
Deep Creek Lake, Maryland
Instead of heading to Baltimore or into Washington D.C., travelers should consider an adventure to western Maryland for a trip to Deep Creek Lake. In addition to the massive lake ideal for boating, swimming and other water-based activities, the area also offers Swallow Falls State Park, Adventure Sports Center International, museums, restaurants and more.
St. George, Utah
For spring break travelers looking for warm weather and rural surroundings, St. George is the ideal destination. With access to the Mojave Desert, Zion National Park and the Pine Valley Mountains, the region is perfect for any traveler who loves the outdoors. Add in a flourishing golf community and a wide array of restaurants representing the diverse cultures of the area, and the Utah city is a must-see this spring.