Spring Travel Delights: 28 Must-Visit Destinations for Your Seasonal Escape

Thinking of planning some spring travel?

This guide explores 28 different places ideal for springtime exploration—whether you crave the pink glow of Kyoto’s cherry blossoms, the laid-back vibe of coastal shores, or the festive atmosphere of local celebrations. Get a concise glimpse of where spring travel can take you, from mountain retreats to cultural hubs, with practical tips that cater to your sense of adventure.

Cherry Blossom Festivities: Embracing the Season of Renewal

Spring brings a vibrant spectacle to cities around the world as cherry blossoms burst into bloom, painting landscapes in hues of pink and white. Few places embody this enchanting transformation better than Kyoto, Japan, where the sakura season turns the city into a living postcard. The ancient temples and gardens of Kyoto, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine, offer enchanting views of sakura in full bloom, giving visitors a front-row seat to this seasonal spectacle.

But the cherry blossom season is not only a feast for the eyes; it’s also an invitation to immerse oneself in the rich cultural traditions of Japan. During this time, the city hosts various festivals and traditional tea ceremonies, offering visitors a chance to experience the cultural ties to the season of renewal.

Consider Kyoto as your bucket list spring destination and create unforgettable memories amidst blossoming flowers.

Coastal getaways: White sand beaches and turquoise waters

As the chill of winter subsides, the allure of sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters becomes irresistible. For those seeking a spring getaway by the sea, the Emerald Isle in North Carolina or the U.S. Virgin Islands offer idyllic escapes. These coastal gems are renowned for their pristine beaches and turquoise waters, offering the perfect destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation.

For those seeking a more exclusive beach experience, consider visiting the white sand beaches of Rendezvous Bay in Anguilla, Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, or Palm Beach in Aruba. These destinations are renowned for their glistening sands and crystal-clear waters, offering an unparalleled beach experience for travelers.

Whether you wish to soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, or just unwind with a good book, these coastal getaways are sure to leave you refreshed and revitalized this spring.

Mountain retreats: Fresh air and wildflower blooms

For those seeking a different kind of spring getaway, the mountains offer a refreshing change of scenery. As winter’s snow thaws, mountain landscapes come alive with blooming wildflowers and fresh, crisp air. The Canadian Rockies and the Great Smoky Mountains are two such destinations that offer this invigorating experience.

Whether you prefer to trek along the hiking trails, bike down mountainsides, or simply bask in the natural beauty, these mountain retreats are sure to take your breath away.

On the other hand, the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains offer exquisite accommodations at Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain. Here, guests can partake in a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and even wheel-thrown pottery, against a stunning backdrop of blooming wildflowers.

Spring in the city: Urban adventures and pleasant temperatures

Cities have their own charm during the spring season. As temperatures become milder, cities like Los Angeles and Chicago offer a myriad of attractive tourist offerings. From exploring world-class museums to enjoying a leisurely stroll in a blooming park, these cities provide a memorable springtime experience.

In Los Angeles, for example, springtime visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from visiting the Getty Center and Getty Villa, to exploring the Griffith Observatory, and even sampling local cuisine in bustling markets.

In Chicago, the historic Lincoln Park Zoo and Millennium Park are must-visit destinations, offering a blend of nature and culture in the heart of the city.

These destinations will surely tick all the boxes if you’re looking for a spring break filled with city adventures.

Natural hot springs: Wellness seekers’ paradise

Spring is also an ideal time to indulge in wellness retreats. And what better place to rejuvenate one’s senses than at natural hot springs? Soaking in these thermal waters is known to offer myriad health benefits, from stress reduction and increased circulation to promoting restful sleep.

In Iceland, older adults can enjoy the therapeutic waters of the Blue Lagoon, Reykjadalur Hot Springs, and the Secret Lagoon.

Natural hot springs like Artesian Bath House in Santa Fe offer a variety of amenities catering to the needs of seniors, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Consider taking a plunge this spring and let nature’s hot springs restore your vitality.

Desert wonders: Springtime oasis and starry nights

For a truly unique spring break experience, consider exploring the captivating landscapes of the desert. In the springtime, destinations like Utah, Arizona, and Oman transform into an oasis, offering a stark contrast to the otherwise inhospitable desert landscape.

In Utah, for instance, the Amangiri Resort offers adventure experiences amidst its stunning desert landscape, while in Arizona, the Miraval Resort offers exclusive wellness experiences to its guests.

Meanwhile, the desert regions of Oman offer a different kind of experience, with breathtaking natural spectacle that rivals the beauty of the Alps, the Amazon, and the Serengeti.

Cultural celebrations: Spring festivals around the world

Spring is also a time of celebration and festivity in many parts of the world.

In Holland, Michigan, the Tulip Time festival celebrates the town’s Dutch heritage with a massive display of millions of tulips in full bloom.

Meanwhile, in Copenhagen, the Liquorice Festival offers a unique culinary experience, with a wide range of licorice-based foods and drinks to sample.

Joining the springtime celebrations, just before the peak summer season and avoiding the summer crowds, could make your travel experience all the more memorable.

Wildlife encounters: Prime spots for nature lovers

For nature lovers, spring is a great time to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. As the season brings new life, destinations like Alaska or South Africa offer prime spots for wildlife watching.

Whether it’s observing the peak of whale feeding season in Glacier Bay, Alaska, or witnessing the stunning wildflowers bloom in South Africa’s Namaqualand, these destinations offer a unique wildlife experience. Grabbing your binoculars this spring and setting off on a wildlife encounter could create memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Historic trails and cobblestone streets: Walking through time

As the weather warms up, destinations like St. Augustine, Florida, and Madison, Indiana, offer a chance to walk through time, uncovering hidden gems along the way.

In St. Augustine, you can take a walking tour of the city’s historic district, immersing yourself in its rich history and charming architecture. Meanwhile, in Madison, Indiana, you can explore significant historical landmarks like the Dr. William Hutchings’ Office & Museum and the Francis Costigan House.

Lacing up your walking shoes this spring to discover the stories that these historic towns have to tell could be a great idea.

Active adventures: Outdoor activities in national parks

For adventure enthusiasts, spring vacation ideas include outdoor activities in national parks, just before the peak travel season. From hiking and biking to wildlife watching, these parks offer a range of activities for the active traveler.

In Yosemite National Park, for instance, you can trek along senior-friendly hiking trails, while in Mammoth Cave National Park, you can explore the world’s longest known cave system. And if you prefer a more structured excursion, guided tours are available, offering a remarkable experience for nature lovers at Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Embracing the great outdoors this spring and embarking on an active adventure in the heart of nature could be a thrilling experience, especially during pleasant weather and warm weather.

Road trips: Scenic drives and hidden gems

Spring is also a great time for road trips. As the weather clears up and the landscapes come alive with spring colors, iconic routes like Route 66 and the Ohio and Erie Canalway offer a chance to embark on a memorable journey.

Driving along Route 66, you can explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks, while the Ohio and Erie Canalway offers a blend of scenic beauty and historical charm. And if you prefer a more structured journey, guided tours are available, offering an organized and educational experience.

Hitting the road in your RV this spring to uncover the hidden gems along these iconic routes could be an exciting adventure.

Serene countryside: Rural charm and peaceful retreats

For those seeking tranquility, a spring getaway to the serene countryside is an ideal choice. Destinations like Adams County, Ohio, and Barnard, Vermont, offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In Adams County, you can enjoy serene activities like hiking at Cedar Falls, while in Barnard, Vermont, you can explore attractions like Silver Lake State Park.

Escaping to the countryside this spring to enjoy a peaceful retreat amid rural charm, with fewer tourists around, could be a soothing experience.

Luxury resorts: Exclusive spring havens

For those seeking a touch of luxury, spring is a great time to indulge in an exclusive resort getaway. From the tropical paradise of Maui, Hawaii, to the tranquil shores of Lake Oconee, Georgia, these resorts offer a luxurious escape like no other.

In Maui, you can enjoy the luxury of spacious suites and private lanais overlooking the ocean, while in Lake Oconee, you can experience the tranquility of a lakeside retreat. Indulging in a little luxury this spring could make your spring break an unforgettable one.

Preparing for spring travel

Spring is the perfect season to explore the world, with each destination offering a unique experience. From cherry blossom festivals and coastal getaways to mountain retreats and city adventures, there’s a spring vacation idea for every traveler. So, whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, an art enthusiast, or simply someone looking to relax, seize the opportunity this spring and embark on a journey that caters to your travel aspirations.

When the time comes to head out on your next adventure, be sure to bring along Emergency Assistance Plus® (EA+®) for the journey.

Opposed to travel insurance, we deliver various advantages for our members, such as:

• Emergency medical assistance in the event that you or a loved one has a medical emergency during a trip.
• If you’re hospitalized, EA+ provides emergency medical evacuation if you or your loved one has to be transported to another facility for medical reasons, and you’re not on your own to figure out logistics at the last moment.
• Specialized escorts like nurses, to provide ongoing medical care and to help get you or your loved one home safely after a medical emergency occurs while traveling, when medically necessary.

To learn more about how we help people have peace of mind on any trips, take a look at our membership details or give us a call at (866) 863-4460.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to travel in the spring?

The best places to travel in the spring include destinations like Honolulu, St. Lucia, Asheville, and Costa Rica, offering diverse experiences for different preferences. Consider the specific activities or atmosphere you seek when choosing your destination.

Why is spring a good time to travel?

Spring is a great time to travel because of smaller crowds, fantastic festivals, spring blooms, and mild temperatures. It’s the perfect time of year to book your travel plans.

Note: Spring isn’t the only great time of year to travel, budget-friendly journeys await with off-season travel destinations. Check out these budget friendly off-season travel destinations.

What are some spring vacation ideas for seniors who enjoy nature and wildlife?

Consider visiting destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains and Alaska, which offer outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Another option is to explore blooming wildflowers in public gardens across the Midwest.

What are some recommended destinations for a spring beach getaway?

Consider visiting Emerald Isle in North Carolina or the U.S. Virgin Islands for a beautiful and relaxing spring beach getaway.