Looking for spring break destinations can be tricky since everyone’s vacation is within a few weeks of each other. This means lots of people are traveling at the same time and to the same (warm!) locations. We’ll help you find some less crowded spring break destinations that bust out of the usual mode.
Whether you want museums and culture, time outdoors, or a warm place to sit in the sun, we’ll help you find the perfect spot to enjoy spring break.
Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois makes an excellent vacation destination any time of year — except, perhaps, during the dead of winter.
However, Chicago isn’t a very popular spring break destination. Yes, you will likely encounter crowds as you get off your plane and navigate the O’Hare International Airport. But that’s mostly people leaving the city to go on vacations of their own. The city itself won’t be overly crowded unless you happen to be visiting on Saint Patrick’s Day.
While in Chicago, check out the many amazing museums, including the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Museum of Science and Industry. Navy Pier is also worth a stop, and the many amazing restaurants in town mean you’ll have plenty of palatable options.
Portland, OR
Another wonderful city to visit during spring break, Portland, Oregon is full of things to see and do.
Make sure to walk through the Japanese Gardens in Washington Park, as well as the Oregon Museum of Science, one of the best science centers in the country. Other notable attractions include Pittock Mansion, the Oregon Zoo, and the Portland Art Museum.
Besides sightseeing, you’ll want to budget for food, as Portland is full of incredible coffee shops and restaurants. Make sure to sample some of the fantastic creations at Voodoo Doughnut while you’re there.
Charleston, SC
A slightly smaller city, Charleston, South Carolina is a hidden gem in terms of travel destinations.
This city is 100% charming, featuring historic houses, cobblestone streets, and even horse-drawn carriages. It’s reminiscent of New Orleans but without the huge crowds and rowdy parties.
Charleston also has many free things to see and do. The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art is absolutely amazing and doesn’t cost a dime. Additionally, there are beaches just a few minutes away.
Palm Springs, CA
Hot springs, spas, and boutiques make Palm Springs, California a destination worth visiting. That said, many feel that this area is more geared to the wealthy and that they can’t afford to vacation there. Think again! Palm Springs is actually home to many RV parks, providing a more economical option than some of the resorts.
During your visit, be sure to check out the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the trails at Indian Canyons, and the Palm Springs Art Museum. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is also a great stop for people of all ages.
Jupiter, FL
Jupiter, Florida is a lesser-known town in the Sunshine State, which makes it perfect for less crowded spring break destinations. The beaches are absolutely beautiful, offering plenty of Florida sunshine and soft sand. If you can pull yourself away from the beach, you will also want to visit the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum and Downtown Abacoa.
You can also expect to find some delectable seafood in this oceanside town.
Texas Hill Country
Texas is a beautiful and diverse state, but skip the beaches if you want less crowded spring break destinations. Instead, check out the incredible views and fun times offered in the Texas Hill Country.
This part of the Lone Star State is actually a wide swath of land encompassing several towns and miles of gorgeous rolling hills. It’s the ideal road trip destination, as visitors will get the most out of their time here by hopping from one town to the next.
Some of our favorite Hill Country spots include hiking in Enchanted Rock, food in Fredericksburg, the many wineries, natural adventures in Wimberley, and the swimming hole at Blue Hole Regional Park.
Rent an RV in Texas Hill Country
Lake Tahoe, CA
Looking to do some skiing before the snow melts away? Lake Tahoe has skiing and plenty of scenery! The towns that surround the lake are perfect for exploring when you aren’t hitting the slopes. You’ll find art galleries, live music, casinos, and craft beer and restaurant spots.
Santa Fe, NM
Santa Fe, New Mexico makes a wonderful spring break destination. It is the perfect combination of artsy, historic, and outdoorsy, and the surrounding area offers some seriously stunning views. Good Mexican food is plentiful in this town, and it’s rarely very crowded.
During your time in Santa Fe, make sure to visit Santa Fe Plaza, the many art galleries lining the streets, and the museums scattered around town. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of trails around as well!
Lesser-Known National Parks
Our last suggestion could be the best option for avoiding crowds. We all know that national parks are nice, wide open spaces. However, even with all of this space, the more popular parks do tend to become crowded over spring break. But there are plenty of lesser-known national parks that never see crowds. Why not head to one of these?
Some of the least visited national parks include:
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
- Pinnacles National Park, California
- Congaree National Park, South Carolina
- Great Basin National Park, Nevada
- Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
These places offer all the splendor and magic one expects from a national park without the hassle of large crowds.
As you can see, there are plenty of places to go that don’t require you to spend time in a huge crowd.
And, of course, renting an RV is a wonderful way to experience a spring break getaway! This allows you to use your own bathroom and kitchen and avoid hotel common areas entirely while still enjoying vacation destinations.
