Skip the Beach: Top Underrated Spring Break Destinations

Spring break is the perfect time for a getaway to shed the last fragments of winter and defer from obligations for a week. The quintessential oceanfront destinations have become crowded, stressful and often costlier. Cheaper flights to Miami or Vegas are met with heightened hotel rates, and obnoxious crowds. Many underrated places present advantages where the mainline locations deter.

Break the chain of spring break this year by trying one these destinations out for size:

Austin, Texas

Texas’ capital city is a culturally immersive spring break hinged around its art and festival scenes. Austin is the live music capital of the world with daily shows. March is a great time to visit featuring top artistic talent at SXSW, and Austin Urban Festivals. The temperature comfortably averages 70 plus throughout spring break season, which is perfect for taking advantage of Hamilton, and Barton natural pools. Don’t forget to grab some of the signature Tex-Mex breakfast tacos while in town.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has the proximity to the ocean with an entirely different feeling from the Florida hotspots. Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and elegantly displays it with well-kept parks, antebellum architecture, and cobblestone roads. Explore Forsyth Park and River Street for a look into the city’s ageless beauty and charm. Enjoy the ocean view, pier and picturesque lighthouses at nearby Tybee Island. Be sure to grab a crab stew from Nairobi’s Gravy and Grits to savor a coastal essential.

Nashville, Tennessee

The Music City is a great spring destination for the urban explorer. The Broadway strip is great for a bar crawl and the country lover. The music stretches beyond country with a thriving scene featuring nightly rock and indie shows. During the day take a music studio tour, visit Opryland, or observe a full size Greek Parthenon replica. For food try Bob’s barbecue for an authentic Nashville cookout or Uncle Bud’s Catfish for a local staple. The spring is a perfect time to visit Nashville for cheaper flights and hotels before their peak season. Be sure to pack a variety of clothing, as the spring weather is unpredictable.

The National Park System

Why hit the beach when there are natural wonders to be explored? An early spring break is the perfect way to avoid the crowds and take advantage of moderate temps. Here are a few great National Parks for spring break:

Arches

Just five miles from the center of Moab you will find incredible sandstone formations, astonishing hikes, and March highs from 55 to 64 degrees. The earlier the spring break the better deals on hotels, campsites, and adventure rentals. Driving from Salt Lake City or Grand Junction are the most cost-effective means of entry, although direct flights are available.

Zion

The world-famous hikes of The Narrows and Angels Landing can be found in Zion National Park near the southwestern corner of Utah. The average high temp is 55 degrees in March and 62 in April. To get to Zion, fly into Las Vegas and take interstate 15 east for a less crowded chance view of extraordinary beauty.

Yosemite

A great spring choice is Yosemite. Arriving early in the season beats the crowds and allows a chance to see snow on Half Dome and El Capitan. Temperatures reach an average of 58 degrees in March and 64 in April. For the most affordable route to Yosemite, fly into San Francisco, Oakland, or Sacramento and head east.

Olympic

A more unique look in spring is visiting Olympic National Park. Spring grants the chance to see more storms come in off the Pacific, a more active wildlife population, and better waterfall flow from the melting snow. This spring destination is geared for someone who isn’t concerned about slightly cooler temps or rain. The temperature can heavily vary depending on the side of the park. To get to Olympic, fly into Seattle-Tacoma International airport then drive or take the ferry to the park.

This year, avoid the beaches, expensive hotels, and large crowds and take advantage of underrated and unexploited destinations. Explore the history, culture, and parks that you’ve always dreamed of seeing and save the hassle.