Spring break is a great time to cut loose and celebrate the end of winter. And it’s coming up faster than you might be imagining!
Of course, the date varies by region, school district, all sorts of factors.
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But there are so many ways you can have fun this time of year. Whether you’re a college student, a parent planning a family vacation, a seasoned solo traveler or a retired person looking to expand your horizons, these seven ideas should help kick-start your spring break adventure.
1. Hit the beach.
There’s a reason why destinations such as Mexico and Fort Lauderdale are so popular for spring break. Who wouldn’t want to soak up some sun on a beautiful beach? Add in the festive atmosphere of a resort area, and you’ve got all the ingredients for fun. If you’re going to a popular spring break destination, make your travel arrangements now, as accommodations might sell out.
2. Go skiing.
If you’d rather hit the slopes than laze on the beach, consider going for some late-season skiing over your spring break. The ski season runs until May in many alpine destinations, so no matter when your spring break falls, you’ll be sure to find some snow.
Score a discount on the price of your lift tickets by purchasing them ahead of time.
3. Check out spring training.
As many people are familiar by now, before the beginning of the Major League Baseball season, each team spends about a month and a half practicing and playing exhibition games in warm-weather destinations such as Arizona and Florida. Since spring training generally starts in February and continues until the beginning of the regular baseball season, it makes for a perfect spring break activity. Go online to find out where your favorite team’s spring training camp is located, and buy tickets to games in advance.
4. Take a road trip.
Are you ready to shake off the doldrums and hit the road? Then you’re in luck, as many road-trip destinations are at their best in the coming month or next few months. Whether you want to visit the national parks of the American Southwest, explore Italy’s world-famous Amalfi Coast, or enjoy the green landscapes of Ireland, you’ll find fewer crowds and possibly some good discounts before the peak summer tourist season begins.
It goes without saying, if you’re considering an international trip, better book and make sure those passports are ready!
5. Celebrate the cherry blossoms.
Many locales, from Japan to Vancouver, host celebrations and festivals in honor of the cherry trees that bloom in the spring. In addition to viewing the colorful spectacle, you can join the festivities, which may include music, food and dance. Consult with Google to find out about cherry blossom viewing and festivals in your preferred destination.
6. Try a volunteer vacation.
Would you like to do something more meaningful on your spring break than lounge around on the beach? If so, you'd probably enjoy a volunteer vacation. From building houses for the homeless to teaching English to restoring local wildlife, there are countless volunteer activities that you can participate in all over the world. You'll get to travel and make a difference!
7. Experience autumn - in the Southern Hemisphere.
If you're looking to do something really different for your spring break, why not escape spring altogether with a trip to the Southern Hemisphere? View fall foliage on New Zealand's South Island, or get in on the grape harvest in the wine regions of Chile and Argentina. Trade in the typical beach vacation for a truly exotic experience.
If it feels crazy to suggest planning a trip of that caliber on such short notice, then who knows ... could it be inspiration for next year’s trip?
From lounging on the beach to skiing to volunteering, these seven spring break ideas offer fun for people of all ages. Now, get ready for a fabulous spring break!