Has your family spent too much time glued to screens lately? A spring break vacation is the perfect antidote, offering a chance to reconnect, recharge, and create lasting memories without overspending. Across the United States, incredible, budget-friendly destinations await, packed with fun attractions and affordable lodging.
Unforgettable Spring Break Getaways for Families
From exciting theme parks to stunning natural landscapes, planning an epic spring break doesn’t require emptying your wallet. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or relaxing escapes, these top Spring Break Destinations For Families promise unforgettable experiences. So, get ready to pack your bags and discover these amazing, budget-conscious spring break ideas!
1 | Branson, MO | Known as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” Branson, Missouri, offers a unique blend of family fun and natural beauty. With over 60,000 theater seats, live shows are a Branson staple. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, this destination boasts lush scenery perfect for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to watersports on its three major lakes. Westgate’s Branson resorts provide a comfortable base for exploring the area’s attractions.
A must-visit is Silver Dollar City, a renowned amusement park celebrated for its thrilling rides and showcasing over 100 resident craftsmen. Witness artisans demonstrating traditional American crafts like leatherworking, pottery, furniture making, and candy crafting.
For a unique and educational experience, the Titanic Museum offers an immersive journey into the Titanic’s history. Guests receive a passenger boarding ticket and explore real artifacts recovered from the wreckage, making history tangible for all ages.
Pro Tip: Consider staying at Westgate Branson Woods Resort or Westgate Branson Lakes Resort for family-friendly accommodations and convenient access to full-day excursions exploring Branson’s highlights.
2 | Cocoa Beach, FL | For a classic Florida beach experience without the wild spring break crowds, Cocoa Beach is ideal. This charming beach town offers family-friendly surfing waves, laid-back beachside hotels, and a variety of local shops and restaurants. Conveniently located just an hour from Orlando, it’s perfect for combining beach relaxation with theme park adventures.
Jetty Park provides excellent family amenities, including clean restrooms and fantastic views of cruise ships entering and leaving port. For a less crowded option favored by locals, Cherie Down Park offers free parking, restrooms, and easy beach access.
No trip to Cocoa Beach is complete without visiting the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. Spanning 52,000 square feet, it’s the world’s largest surf shop, a true retail spectacle.
Pro Tip: Unwind after a day in the sun at the historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Enjoy sunset drinks and delicious dining at Cocoa Beach restaurants right on the pier, all while taking in stunning ocean views. For accommodation, Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort offers a fantastic beachfront stay.
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3 | Gatlinburg, TN | Nestled at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the US, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an affordable and exciting spring break choice. While touristy, Gatlinburg’s lively atmosphere is part of its charm.
Downtown Gatlinburg is easily walkable and brimming with unique shops, museums, and numerous pancake houses – a local culinary quirk you must experience!
Anakeesta, a mountaintop theme park, offers zip lines, a mountain coaster, and the thrilling Treetop Skywalk, featuring over 800 feet of swinging bridges suspended high in the forest canopy.
Other Gatlinburg highlights include Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! and the spooky Mystery Mansion haunted house, open year-round. Adults can enjoy a taste of local spirits at the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery.
Pro Tip: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park, located just 10 minutes from the national park entrance, features a year-round indoor/outdoor water park and a host of family-friendly amenities.
4 | Orlando, FL | Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, is synonymous with family fun. While theme parks can be pricey, Orlando offers numerous budget-friendly alternatives. Explore countless things to do in Orlando, many of which are free!
Icon Park provides both free and paid entertainment options for all ages. Thrill-seekers can ride the Orlando StarFlyer, the world’s tallest swing ride, or enjoy panoramic views from The Wheel. For less adrenaline-pumping fun, visit Madame Tussauds wax museum or the SEA LIFE Aquarium.
Disney Springs is another must-visit for Disney fans on a budget. Stroll through this vibrant entertainment complex, soak in the Disney atmosphere, and enjoy free entertainment. Of course, unique Disney merchandise is available if you want to bring home a piece of the magic.
Indulge in sweet treats at Sprinkles Cupcakes or Gideon’s Bakehouse, go bowling at Splitsville, or take an unforgettable hot air balloon ride in the world’s largest hand-painted helium balloon.
For a different Orlando experience, escape the theme park crowds at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. A short drive from Orlando, this unique destination offers a taste of Florida’s cowboy culture with a blend of adventure and rustic luxury.
The Saturday Night Rodeo is a highlight, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and trick riding in a 1,200-seat arena. Kids can participate in a calf scramble, and a lively street party follows the show.
For unique accommodation, consider glamping at River Ranch in upscale Conestoga wagons or luxury teepees, equipped with king-sized beds, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Traditional RV camping is also available.
Activities abound, from horseback riding and airboat tours to fishing, archery, and skeet shooting.
Pro Tip: For affordable and fun accommodations in Orlando, check out Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa or Westgate Town Center Resort. Both offer proximity to major theme parks and feature on-site water parks.
5 | Williamsburg, VA | Step back in time in Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum where American colonial life comes alive. A visit to Williamsburg is both educational and engaging for families and students.
Explore the Governor’s Palace, learn traditional woodworking at the Carpenter’s Yard, and see 18th-century weaving techniques at the Weaver’s workshop. For a modern thrill, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers European-themed rides and attractions. In warmer months, Water Country USA water park provides aquatic fun (check operating hours).
Pro Tip: Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort offers charming and comfortable accommodations in the heart of the historical area.
6 | Myrtle Beach, SC | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a popular summer destination, is ideal for spring break before peak season crowds arrive. Known for its beaches, seafood, and seaside amusement parks, Myrtle Beach offers classic beach town vibes.
North Myrtle Beach provides a quintessential beach town atmosphere with beachfront restaurants and views of amusement park rides. Family Kingdom Amusement Park offers affordable fun with all-day unlimited ride wristbands for thrill rides, family rides, and kiddie rides.
Pro Tip: Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort is conveniently located steps from Family Kingdom Amusement Park.
7 | New York City, NY | Spring break in New York City offers a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure for families. Explore iconic landmarks and cultural treasures without breaking the bank.
Start with the American Museum of Natural History, where dinosaurs and space exhibits captivate all ages. Take advantage of suggested donation days for affordable entry. Stroll through Central Park, enjoy free performances at Bethesda Terrace, or sail model boats at the Conservatory Water.
The Staten Island Ferry offers free, breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor skyline. Explore the vibrant and historic Chinatown, where Joe’s Shanghai and other restaurants offer delicious and affordable soup dumplings and other culinary delights.
Reflect at the One World Trade Center or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset for stunning, cost-free city views. NYC proves that with smart planning, families can experience the city’s rich offerings on a budget.
Pro Tip: Westgate New York Grand Central provides a luxurious and relaxing retreat amidst the city’s energy.
8 | Las Vegas, NV | Las Vegas, Nevada, is more than just casinos and nightlife. It’s a fantastic spring break destination for families seeking budget-friendly fun and excitement.
The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens offers free, enchanting floral displays that will amaze children. Explore Las Vegas history at the Neon Museum, wandering among vintage Vegas signs at family-friendly prices.
Enjoy a gondola ride at the Venetian for a taste of Italy without the airfare. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the trails at Red Rock Canyon, offering stunning, Instagram-worthy scenery at minimal cost.
The Las Vegas Strip offers diverse and affordable dining options, from food courts to hidden gems, ensuring delicious meals without overspending. Las Vegas delivers a memorable, action-packed family spring break without gambling away your budget.
Pro Tip: Indulge in a themed suite at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino for a unique family stay in Las Vegas.
9 | Daytona Beach, FL | Daytona Beach, Florida, offers sunshine, fun, and relaxation for families on a budget. Build sandcastles and splash in the waves on the famous Daytona Beach, where beach fun is free!
Visit the Daytona International Speedway for a behind-the-scenes tour, offering thrilling excitement at family-friendly prices.
Walk the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, where free concerts and fireworks often light up the evenings. Explore the Marine Science Center for interactive exhibits and a sea turtle rehabilitation facility (small admission fee applies).
Enjoy casual, affordable seafood at beachside eateries. Daytona Beach provides a perfect spring break blend of sun, fun, and budget-friendly memories.
Pro Tip: Westgate Harbour Beach Resort offers a relaxing beachfront retreat in Daytona Beach.
10 | Sedona, AZ | Sedona, Arizona, is a vibrant desert town with stunning natural attractions, art galleries, and a captivating history set against a backdrop of red rocks. Adventure seekers can take a thrilling Pink Jeep Tour for off-roading excitement.
Cool off at Slide Rock State Park, just north of Sedona, featuring a natural 80-foot water slide formed by Oak Creek. Swim in the refreshing water and enjoy a picnic on the surrounding rocks.
Pro Tip: If visiting Mesa, Arizona, about three hours away, enjoy a round of golf at Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort while the kids enjoy the pool.
11 | Glenwood Springs, CO | Glenwood Springs, Colorado, a lesser-known gem in the Rockies, is perfect for a relaxing spring break. Known for its hot springs, it boasts the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool, along with ancient caves and America’s only mountaintop amusement park.
Reach Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park via gondola. For free activities, explore the Rocky Mountain scenery with hiking trails, including the popular hike to Doc Holliday’s grave.
12 | Lumpkin, GA | Lumpkin, Georgia, a hidden gem south of Atlanta, is a nature lover’s spring break escape. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” offers over 1,000 acres of unique geological formations and red dirt canyons for hiking.
Nearby Florence Marina State Park offers campsites and rustic cabins. Enjoy local brews at Omaha Brewing Company and venture into Eufaula, Alabama, for Southern charm and Cajun cuisine at Cajun Corner.
13 | Grand Canyon National Park, AZ | Grand Canyon National Park, a natural wonder, offers breathtaking panoramic views. Spring break is an ideal time to visit this iconic destination.
Pack blankets and jackets to witness the canyon’s magical sunset transformation, with colors shifting from oranges and reds to ambers, pinks, and purples. A Grand Canyon sunset is a truly unforgettable experience.
14 | Gettysburg, PA | Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, offers an educational and engaging spring break. Visit Gettysburg National Military Park to learn about the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg.
Explore the Jennie Wade House, a museum detailing civilian life during wartime. Jennie Wade, a civilian, tragically died during the battle while baking bread.
For a spooky experience, take a ghost tour or visit Gettysburg National Cemetery, the final resting place of over 3,500 Civil War soldiers, including hundreds of unknowns, and the site of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address Memorial.
15 | Mammoth Cave, KY | Explore the depths of Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the world’s longest known cave system. Descend 300 feet underground and explore miles of passageways.
The park offers various tours of different lengths and difficulty levels, including self-guided options to explore areas like the historic entrance, Rotunda, and Giant’s Coffin. Well-lit paths and stairwells ensure safe exploration.
Above ground, visit Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, just 15 minutes from Mammoth Cave, and encounter kangaroos in their Outback exhibit.
16 | Washington D.C. | Washington D.C., the nation’s capital, is packed with free museums, monuments, and historical sites, making it an excellent budget spring break destination.
Visit the Capitol, Supreme Court, and White House to see the branches of the federal government in action. The Smithsonian museums offer free admission year-round.
Explore the National Mall, home to iconic monuments like the Washington Monument and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Enjoy the spring cherry blossom bloom (check dates for peak bloom).
17 | Gainesville, FL | Gainesville, Florida, a vibrant college town between Orlando and Jacksonville, offers a budget-friendly spring break with a lively atmosphere. Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville provides more than just a college scene.
Explore the university campus, visit Century Tower and Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (“The Swamp”). Dine at Satchels Pizza, a quirky restaurant where you can eat inside a VW van.
Gainesville is close to three stunning natural springs: Blue Springs, Ichetucknee Springs, and Ginnie Springs. Enjoy swimming, tubing, and relaxation at these refreshing Florida springs. Ginnie Springs offers tube rentals and excellent facilities, while Gilchrest Blue Springs State Park is more laid-back and budget-friendly.
18 | Atlanta, GA | Atlanta, Georgia, known for its sports, Southern hospitality, and rich culture, offers a vibrant spring break destination. Explore downtown Atlanta and its surrounding areas.
Visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, or Atlanta Botanical Garden. Learn about the Civil Rights Movement at Martin Luther King Jr.’s childhood home. Escape the city with a day trip to Stone Mountain Park, offering hiking trails and views of downtown Atlanta and the Appalachian Mountains. Hike the Walk-Up Trail to the summit for panoramic views.
19 | Destin, FL | Destin, Florida, in the panhandle, is a popular spring break beach destination with turquoise waters and crystal-clear Gulf Coast beaches. Easily accessible from the South, Destin is ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and boating.
Rentals and tours are readily available. Visit the Destin Harbor Boardwalk for waterfront restaurants with fresh seafood and beach vibes. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park offers water slides and a lazy river for a fun-filled day.
20 | St. George, UT | St. George, Utah, is the gateway to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, known for their stunning red rock landscapes.
Hike The Narrows in Zion (be prepared to get your feet wet!). Explore Bryce Canyon on horseback for a unique perspective. Guided tours offer history and cowboy stories.
BONUS #1 | Estes Park, CO | Estes Park, Colorado, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offers stunning mountain scenery. Hike and drive through the park, stopping at scenic overlooks.
Visit the Alpine Visitor’s Center on Trail Ridge Road (open late May onwards, check conditions), the highest elevation visitor center in the National Park System. Hike the Bierstadt Lake Trail for alpine lake views.
Explore downtown Estes Park’s shops and taffy stores. The Estes Park KOA Campground offers affordable lodging. Visit the historic Stanley Hotel, inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” and take a daytime or nighttime tour.
BONUS #2 | Custer, SD | Custer, South Dakota, home to Mount Rushmore and surrounded by the Black Hills, is a nature and Americana lover’s delight. Custer offers Old West charm, with saloons, cafes, and Western shops.
Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial and explore its history. Custer State Park is home to 1,500 bison. Drive scenic byways and picnic at Sylvan Lake, featured in “National Treasure 2.” Find hand-painted bison statues in downtown Custer.
BONUS #3 | St. Augustine, FL | St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in America, is a budget-friendly spring break destination. Explore the 17th-century Spanish fort Castillo de San Marcos and take guided ghost tours.
The Old Jail After Dark Trolley Tour offers a hands-on ghost hunting experience. Visit Flagler College, a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Explore the walkable historic downtown with unique bars, restaurants, and shops.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Break Vacations for Families on a Budget
Planning an affordable spring break vacation for families raises common questions. Here are answers to help you plan a budget-friendly family trip:
Q: What are some tips for affordable dining during spring break?
- Picnics and Packed Lunches: Pack meals for outings to save on restaurant costs.
- Happy Hour and Specials: Utilize happy hour deals and restaurant specials.
Q: Are there ways to save on activities and attractions?
- Free Attractions: Seek out free attractions like museums, parks, and events.
- Discount Passes: Consider city passes for discounted attraction access.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy low-cost activities like hiking, biking, and beach days.
Q: What are some general tips for planning a budget-friendly spring break?
- Early Planning: Book flights and accommodations early for better deals.
- Flexible Travel Dates: Be flexible with dates to find cheaper options.
- Set a Budget: Create and stick to a budget for all expenses.
Q: How can families save money on accommodations?
- Off-Peak Booking: Stay slightly outside prime areas or book during weekdays.
- Cash-Back Credit Cards: Use rewards credit cards like the World of Westgate Mastercard® to earn cash back.
Q: How can families save on transportation costs?
- Public Transportation: Use public transport instead of taxis or rental cars.
- Walk or Bike: Choose central accommodations to walk or bike.
- Compare Options: Compare costs of rental cars, public transport, and ride-sharing apps.
Q: How can families find deals and discounts for travel?
- Travel Websites: Use travel deal websites to find discounts.
- Last-Minute Deals: Look for last-minute deals if your dates are flexible.
Final Thoughts about Spring Break Ideas for Families on a Budget!
Family vacations create invaluable, lasting memories. Fun and adventure await in every corner of the U.S.—you just need to know where to look!
Consider purchasing the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks. This annual pass provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites. For more travel inspiration, tips, and tricks, explore the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
Have a safe and happy spring break!
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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Plan your next getaway today by calling a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Westgate Resorts is not affiliated with attractions mentioned in this article. Listings are accurate as of the publication date. Check official websites for current details.
