Ah, spring break. That unique time of year where college students head to the closest beach to party and unwind after a semester. But, for families, finding a great spring break vacation spot that avoids the college frat parties and has the wholesome entertainment they are looking for can be difficult. If you’re planning the perfect spring break vacation for your family, skip the same old places you always go, and venture out on a new tradition. Take a look at the best family spring break destinations for 2016.
Family Spring Break Destinations – Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for somewhere chocked full of family-friendly fun and adventure, Orlando is the perfect place to be. This town in Florida is large enough to have everything you need right around your hotel, but still small enough that you can easily get where you need to go. Even though Orlando is land-locked, it’s within an hour drive to the coast for some beach fun and sun. However, it’s location to the coast isn’t what makes it a perfect destination for families. Both Disneyworld and Universal Studios are in Orlando and Legoland is just an hour drive away. Make the most of your time there with park hopper passes to all the amusement parks!
Family Spring Break Destinations – Washington, D.C.
Not only does Washington, D. C. have all the great historical and national monuments to tour, but the Smithsonian museums are perfect for families. With different museums for whatever your family is interested in, you can go on an adventure through time or visit outer space all in the same day. Not only does the Smithsonian offer an educational trip, but they have different activity areas for all age groups and special events depending on the day you visit. Similarly, the Washington, D.C. zoo is just a short walk from the National Mall and makes for a perfect day of sight seeing. When visiting in the spring, opt for the weeks when the Japanese cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Family Spring Break Destinations – Wrightsville Beach, N.C.
If going to a sunny beach is your family’s spring break tradition, avoid those gulf shores and Florida beaches. Not only will they be packed with college students, but they will be priced extremely high during the spring break season. Opt instead for a family beach like Wrightsville Beach. The condo homes are a nice change from the hotel ridden beaches popular among tourists. Plus, the entire island is just 4 miles long and can be easily navigated by bike. The city sits an hour north of Myrtle Beach and is just a short 30-minute drive from the Fort Fisher Aquarium. Wilmington is within 5 minutes from the island and offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
Family Spring Break Destinations – Orange County, C.A.
California may not be your first thought when looking for a spring break trip, but Orange County offers many activities for families. From the bustling piers and rides to the surfing and museums, there’s always something to see. Visit the beach for some fun in the sun, or walk around downtown Los Angeles to see the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. With a little of something for everyone, Orange County is perfect for families with older children or teenagers. You can still get the family-friendly activities you’re looking for without worrying about running out of things to do for picky teens.
Family Spring Break Destinations – Disney or Carnival Cruise
When you can’t seem to find somewhere to go for spring break, bring the spring break to you! A Disney or Carnival cruise is perfect for families who want to visit many different locations. If you have different age groups in your family, it can be difficult to find something to please everyone. However, a cruise has a variety of activities for each age group. From clubs and on-ship activities for young children to dances and scavenger hunts for teens, your kids can connect with others in their age group to spend time with and enjoy all the things the ship has to offer. Plus, with a variety of excursion on each island location, you can always find something fun and exciting to do as a family once you dock. The family-friendly atmosphere, movies, and activities make a cruise a perfect destination for spring break.
