15+ Underrated Spring Break Destinations in the United States

(Last Updated On: January 25, 2021)

When people think of Spring Break Vacations in the United States, they often think of California and Florida Beaches, Disneyworld, or visits to major cities. However, there are a ton of underrated spring break destinations in the United States that you would not have thought about visiting before. From the gorgeous National Parks to Texas Hill Country and the rugged landscapes of Alaska, the United States offers so many hidden gems. 

Underrated Spring Break Destinations: West Coast

Death Valley, California

A woman in Death Valley. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Margherita of The Crowded Planet

If you love open landscapes, nature, adventure, and the timeless charm of the desert, Death Valley National Park is one of the perfect underrated spring break destinations. 

National Parks in the Southwestern US are usually best visited in the late spring or summer, but the best time to visit Death Valley is winter or early spring, as the rest of the year is unbearably hot. After all, Death Valley is the hottest place on the planet, and temperatures top 120°F in summer! 

Death Valley is also the largest National Park in the Lower 48, measuring a whopping 140 miles from north to south. Since it’s so big, it’s hard to find crowds anywhere, even at the most famous points of interest, making it a great place to enjoy your spring break in nature. 

You will definitely need a car to visit Death Valley, and the two closest major airports are Las Vegas and Los Angeles. We recommend spending at least 3 days in the national park to have the chance to explore most places of interest, with a shorter stay you will end up spending most of your time driving around. 

For instance, on day 1 you could start your day at the visitor center for maps and tips, then hike down Mosaic Canyon and spend your afternoon at the Mesquite Sand Dunes; day 2 could be spent hiking around Ubehebe Crater and/or Zabriskie Point, before checking out the Devil’s Golf Course and Badwater Basin, and on your last day you could either visit the stunning Devil’s Palette or hike to Darwin Fall – an oasis in the desert.

Since Death Valley National Park is so big, we recommend staying in one of the hotels located within park borders. The Oasis at Death Valley is great if you are looking for luxury, for something more budget-friendly check out the resort at Panamint Springs.

Southern Utah

Delicate Arch at Arches National Park #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Margie DQ of DQ Family Travel

Southern Utah is usually not at the top of people’s Spring Break destination list, as most people visit this area in the summer. Visiting during the spring provides travelers with fewer crowds and much less heat. The five national parks attract many visitors to the state and spending a week or two visiting them all is a great way to stay active and enjoy the scenic beauty. Plus, if you purchase a national parks annual pass, you can avoid the entrance fees to the parks and save a considerable amount of money. 

The easiest way to get to this area is to fly round-trip into Las Vegas and then drive towards Zion National Park. I would recommend staying in the gateway town of Springdale and then taking the shuttle to hike the Riverwalk Trail, Emerald Pools, and the Canyon Overlook Trail. The scenic drive at this park is stunning. Be sure to stop at the overlooks here and other national parks.

From Zion, head to Bryce Canyon to view the collection of hoodoos. There are a number of gorgeous viewpoints, but you could also hike down in the canyon by taking the Navajo Loop Trail. Then, head north towards Capitol Reef and stay in the town of Torrey. Hike Hickman Natural Bridge and check out the petroglyphs just off the main road. Then grab a homemade pie in the town of Fruita and drive towards Moab.

Moab should be your home base for a couple of days as both Arches and Canyonlands are just a short drive away. Arches National Park contains many short hikes to various arches from the main road; however, the highlight of the park is the iconic Delicate Arch. Once you are done exploring Arches, head to Canyonlands to drive the scenic road until you reach Grand View Point. From there, work your way back and hike to Mesa Arch and stop at the Shafer Trail Viewpoint. 

Besides hiking, there are plenty of outdoor excursions available with outfitters in the area. You could rent a 4×4, go kayaking, white-water rafting, zip-lining, or take guided tours with professionals. If you are looking to save money, consider camping. The weather should be rather mild and Utah is filled with low-cost and free camping options.

Oregon Coast

A rock in the water on the Oregon Coast #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Chantelle of Flannels or Flipflips

The Oregon Coast is one of my favorite underrated spring break destinations! There is a ton of fun to be had for everyone. Whether you are traveling with small kids, teens, or an adult getaway the Oregon Coast will have something for everyone.

The Oregon Coast spreads for 361 miles, but for this trip, we will focus on the Northern section of the coast. If you are coming from far away, you will want to fly into the Portland Airport, and you will definitely want to rent a car.  The fun locations are not too far apart from one another, but you will find it best to do your own driving.  

Astoria- just over an hour and a half from the airport this super cute town is a great place to spend the day exploring. There is a shipwreck on the beach, a tall tower to climb, and cute restaurants and shops. The Astoria-Megler Bridge is 4 miles long and crosses the Columbia River, and it is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America.  When you have explored Astoria completely, head south.  

Seaside- This is where you should stay the night, especially if you have kids. The town is adorable and features fun food and shopping. There is an arcade, an aquarium where you can feed seals, a carousel, and a wide wonderful beach with swings. The beach is awesome for kite flying and there is a cute kite store right there to buy one.  

Cannon Beach- Just a bit further south of Seaside is Cannon Beach. Another great beach here, this time with Haystack Rock, the most photographed place in Oregon. Try and time your visit to get here at low tide and explore the tide pools and walk this scenic beach with sea-stacks, and huge cliffs bordering it. Several films like the Goonies and Kindergarten Cop were filmed here in Cannon Beach.

There are numerous beaches, hikes, breweries, and boutiques between these 3 towns to spend your time in. I would recommend at least 3 days, but if you wanted to spend a week, you could easily fill it!  The cost will depend on the activities you do. If you want to enjoy the beaches and hiking, along with window shopping, this will be very inexpensive. 

Northern Lights in Alaska

The Northern Lights in Alaska. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Michael of Live Travel Teach

Visiting Alaska to see the northern lights is one of the best underrated spring break destinations. Spring is great because it is not bitter cold but still has enough darkness to see the lights. Spring is the shoulder season making it a budget-friendly time to visit since the main tourist season is summer. Even better for your budget is that most Alaskan experiences are in a state park, national park, or national forest with minimal parking/entrance fees.

I would recommend coming to Alaska for at least a week and renting a car to get around. You will probably want to get a hotel or Airbnb in Anchorage and do day trips out to Chugach National Forest, up to Hatcher Pass, or even out to Knik Glacier.  If you are aurora hunting then hope for clear skies and a strong kp forecast.

Some great aurora hunting spots can be found along the Knik River, in Hatcher Pass, or closer to Anchorage on Mount Baldy and Flattop.  If your main reason to visit Alaska is to see the aurora then stay further north like in Talkeetna or even Fairbanks. Chena Hot Springs Resort is a great option if you are willing to head all the up north.

Spring also opens up some great hikes as the snowy passes begin to melt. The drive from Anchorage to Seward through Turnagain Arm and then Turnagain Pass is one of the most scenic drives in all of America. Spring also brings gray whales into Seward! You can stop at Exit Glacier in  Kenai Fjords National Park before taking a wildlife or glacier cruise deeper into the park.

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

A rocky shore with waves rolling in. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Jenessa Baird-Van Woerkom of Destination Daydreamer

Point Reyes National Seashore in California is a perfect underrated spring break destination for a peaceful and rejuvenating springtime getaway! It is a gorgeous place full of miles of sandy beaches with crystal-blue waters lined with gorgeous cliffs.

Spring is an ideal time to hike through blooming wildflowers at Point Reyes with sweeping ocean views (the peak is February-June). And the two best hiking trails to enjoy the wildflowers are Chimney Rock Trail (2.5 km/1.6 mi) and Abbotts Lagoon Trail (3.2 km/2 mi).

Also, spring is a great time to view a large population of elephant seals at Point Reyes. You can safely (for the seals and for you) observe them from a special overlook near Chimney Rock. Point Reyes even has a lighthouse from the 1800s you can visit! 

Another top activity is enjoying a walk along the beach from Limantour Beach to Sculptured Beach (4 mi/6.4 km roundtrip). The sand is packed and easy to walk on, and you will end at beautiful rock formations in the ocean (including an arch!). 

Many people might overlook Point Reyes since it is located so close to the bustling and frequented city of San Francisco. However, the short 1-hour drive north to Point Reyes is well worth the trip! Two-three days are ideal to fully relax and enjoy Point Reyes. However, you can get a great feel for the area in one day if that is all the time you have. 

And, if you want to road trip through Northern California this spring break, check out this two-day guide to Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea. This is another gorgeous destination to add to your trip.

Travel and Lodging Details

Nearby Airports: San Francisco (1-hour away), Sacramento (2-hours away)

Lodging: Three campgrounds ($20 per night) and one hostel (shared and private rooms) are located within Point Reyes. Also, a large number of charming Airbnbs are located just outside of Point Reyes and average about $150 per night.  

Transportation: A car is definitely needed to get to Point Reyes and fully enjoy the area. If flying into San Francisco or Sacramento, I recommend renting a car at the airport.

Sante Fe, New Mexico

Downtown Sante Fe, New Mexico #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Ellie of Ellie’s Travel Tips 

Once the northernmost American outpost of the Spanish empire, Santa Fe has since transformed into a historic and culture-rich destination ideal for a budget-friendly and underrated spring break destination. To truly experience the diverse activities and attractions in Santa Fe, vacationers should plan to stay in the area for at least four or five days.

Spring breakers can either drive to this breathtaking city or hop on a flight to nearby Albuquerque International Airport. From here, they will enjoy a short drive one-hour north. While it is possible to explore Santa Fe’s downtown area on foot, visitors should consider either road tripping or renting a car at the airport to explore the surrounding attractions.

The best area for tourists to stay in is downtown Santa Fe with its proximity to popular attractions, delicious restaurants, and local shops. Here, visitors can explore Canyon Road– a historic trade route now home to cafes, galleries, craft workshops, and restaurants alike. Santa Fe’s Museum of Indian Arts and Culture is a fantastic spot to discover impressive collections of exquisite jewelry, pottery, saddle blankets, and basketry. Nearby Bandelier National Monument offers unique opportunities to explore the ancient cave dwellings and structures belonging to the Pueblo people’s ancestors.

Whether touring the oldest church in the United States (San Miguel Mission), strolling down the city’s colorful streets, or hiking the numerous nearby hiking trails, spring breakers will quickly fall in love with what Santa Fe has to offer. With many of the city’s attractions offering kids free admission, budget-friendly spring breakers will be pleased! Individuals can expect to spend around $500 for a weeklong spring break trip to Santa Fe, while a family of five should budget around $1200 for their adventure.

Joshua Tree, California

A shop in Joshua Tree, California. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Cecily of Groovy Mashed Potatoes

Joshua Tree is one of the many underrated spring break destinations in the United States. Spend your spring break in one of the funkiest towns in California, known for its boho culture, quirky boutiques, incredible desert sunsets, and vibrant music scene. The 2.75-hour road trip from LA to Joshua Tree is beautiful through the Mojave desert. Rent an eclectic Airbnb for a few days in town or in the remote surroundings among uniquely shaped cacti. Look for a place with good outdoor space, so you can spend some relaxing downtime with your friends outside.

If you are a music lover or wellness enthusiast, there are many fun activities to do. Hike the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park during sunset to see stunning desert hues. If you like yoga or meditation, try a sound bath at Integration, an incredible sound experience that induces deep relaxation and introspection. In the evening listen to live indie bands at the famous music venue, Pappy & Harriet’s. It is located in Pioneertown, an old west movie set from the 40s and 50s.

Spring Break is one of the best times to visit Joshua Tree as the weather is around a comfortable 68 °F and not too hot. Budget around $100 USD per person per night to stay at the top-rated Airbnbs, $25 USD per vehicle to enter Joshua Tree National Park for hiking, and around $25 USD for tickets to a music show. You can save money on food if you choose to cook at your Airbnb.

Lake Mead, Nevada

A view of a lake and beach. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lake Mead is a perfect underrated spot for Spring Break in the US. Lake Mead is a National Recreation Area that spans across the Arizona and Nevada borders. Often overshadowed by other nearby parks and destinations, Lake Mead has a lot to offer for travelers in general, and specifically for spring breakers.   

First, there is a lot of beautiful nature to see, both within the recreation area as well as nearby.  There are nine designated wilderness areas at Lake Mead for hiking, including Black Canyon which is breathtaking. Also, there are plenty of nearby parks to explore, like the ever-famous Grand Canyon or the lesser-known Valley of Fire.   

Second, there are countless activities at Lake Mead and in the surrounding areas.  Rock climbing, cycling, rafting, and swimming are all possible here!  An unexpected surprise, scuba diving is even gaining in popularity. Lake Mead is known as one of the top five freshwater lakes in the world for scuba diving, and some highlights you can see are a sunken barge or white gypsum reefs.    

Lake Mead can be very inexpensive. Campsites are only $20 USD per night, meaning for a full week you will be paying $140. Even if there are only two people in your party, that is just $70 for a full week’s accommodation. If camping is not your thing, houseboat rentals are a popular way to stay overnight here, too.

Underrated Spring Break Destinations: Midwest

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Grand Prismatic in Yellowstone National Park. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Christina of Live A Wilder Life

A great underrated spring break destination that is big on nature and small on crowds is Yellowstone National Park. While Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in the US, most people visit in the summer. Traveling to Yellowstone in the spring may mean cooler weather, but it is also the best time to visit for viewing wildlife, having fewer crowds, and hiking among the spring wildflowers. Known as the “American Serengeti,” you will have amazing chances of seeing grizzly bears, brown bears, bison, and wolves. 

If you are an animal lover, make sure to drive to the Lamar Valley or Hayden Valley to see if you can spot any of the animals that call Yellowstone home. Visiting in the spring also means you’re more likely to see bear cubs and wolves. If you’re lucky, you can even spot the animals right from your car. 

No Yellowstone Itinerary is complete without visiting Grand Prismatic, the 3rd largest hot spring in the world. The best way to view Grand Prismatic is from above while doing the Fairy Falls Hike. Other highlights of the park are seeing Old Faithful Geyser explode 70 feet in the air, seeing the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone’s massive waterfalls, and the otherworldly travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.  

The park’s colossal size (it spans three states) means it is best to stay in the park to cut down on driving time. The nicest and most central hotel is Canyon Lodge. If staying in the park is too costly, the best place to stay is in an Airbnb in West Yellowstone right outside the west entrance. If you cannot drive to the park, most people opt to fly to Salt Lake City and rent a car for a five-hour road trip.

Four days in Yellowstone is enough time to see all the main highlights with space for spontaneity and breathing room. If you have more time, seven days can give you a deeper dive into the park with additional time to visit the nearby Grand Teton National Park.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

A view of water with greenery in Oklahoma. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

One of the best underrated spring break destinations in the United States is the small town of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Located in southeast Oklahoma, the destination is only about three hours from Dallas and Tulsa. Its proximity to these cities makes it a camping and glamping hotspot, perfect for a springtime getaway. Broken Bow is tucked away in the forested hills at the confluence of Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake. Broken Bow is the gateway to Beaver Bend State Park and as you may imagine it’s full of outdoor activities. 

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in Broken Bow Lake. Besides the beautiful nature in Broken Bow, spring is a great time to visit the area’s wineries, like Girls Gone Wine on Route 259. Beavers Bend Brewery is a great alternative if you prefer a beer tasting to a wine tasting.

Spring in Broken Bow is ideal for camping and wilderness living. For some visitors that means staying at campsites or RV parks and for others, it means cabins in Broken Bow Airbnb cabin rentals, which are sometimes as nice as five-star resorts. Either way, it means a spring trip and an outdoor getaway in a beautiful region of the country. 

Cleveland, Ohio

A view of a waterfall near Cleveland, Ohio. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By McKenna Hurd of One More Step Travels

Cleveland, Ohio may not be a common travel bucket list city, but it is one you don’t want to miss. You will need at least three days to explore all this underrated spring break destination has to offer.

Downtown Cleveland is the best place to stay when visiting. It is located just 15 minutes from an international airport, has many hotel options, and is in a central location to many activities and sights. Take a train downtown from the airport or catch an Uber or Lyft ride to get there. A rental car would be convenient since most outdoor activities and some museums cannot be reached by train or bus travel, but Uber works, too!

When in Cleveland, get cultured. Visit the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame to explore rock star exhibits, from the Beatles to Green Day. Then, head to West Side Market, known for its eclectic food options and lively atmosphere. You can find the best fresh beef jerky, pierogies, and produce there. Open year-round, you will also want to wander through the “A Christmas Story” house, where the popular Christmas movie was filmed. It’s never the wrong time to buy a mini leg lamp.

Check out the Cleveland Metroparks for dozens of trails, ranging from so-easy-a-toddler-could-do-it to adventurous stretches that go on for miles. One of the most popular parks is also a national park—Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Popular trails there include Brandywine Falls and Ledges.

Other great trails in the area include Brookside Reservation (cherry blossoms are in full bloom during the spring), Squire Lane behind the beautiful Squire’s Castle, and the Metroparks Zoo. On a warm and sunny day, walk to Lake Erie from the north end of 9th street downtown or visit Edgewater Beach.

Bonus activities and restaurants: Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ, Little Italy, The Cleveland Museum of Art, Great Lakes Science Center, Playhouse Square, and Lakeview Cemetery.

Grand Tetons, Wyoming

A view of the Grand Tetons and sign. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

One of the best underrated spring break destinations in the United States is Grand Teton National Park. Grand Teton National Park is a great place to visit in the spring because it is the season just before the busy season, so you can really enjoy visiting the park without the extreme crowds that flood the park in the summertime. The Grand Tetons are generally still covered in snow in the springtime, so it is a great destination to go to if you are looking to stay in a cozy lodge where you can ski or snowboard.

Because the snow has not quite left this area yet, people think that spring is not the best time to visit, making it a super underrated destination for spring break. There are lots of things to do at Grand Teton National Park during this time of year, so it is recommended to stay for at least 5 days. To get to the park, you can fly into the Jackson Hole airport which is just outside the park. If it is too pricey to fly straight to the park, you can fly into either Idaho Falls or Bozeman and rent a car. There isn’t any public transportation in the area, so it is best to have a car rental during your visit.

March and April are great months to spot wildlife as new babies are being born and there are fewer people so the animals are still hanging around. It is also prime time for fly fishing and this is also one of the best parts of the country to fly fish in! You can rent bikes and ride along the Jackson Hole Pathway with a wonderful view of the Tetons towering over you the whole time.

Springtime is also a great time to go snowshoeing, snowboarding, and skiing. This trip can be as budget-friendly as you would like it to be. It just depends on what type of accommodation you are looking for and if you plan to eat out a lot or cook at your place. You can rent an Airbnb for around $150 per night and get a car rental for even less.

Texas Hill Country

A view of a church in Texas. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Kay of Enchanting Texas

The Texas Hill Country, located in Central Texas, offers amazing outdoor adventures, charming small towns, and striking landscapes. Austin makes the perfect base for exploring this region of Texas. The area is especially spectacular in spring when the gorgeous bluebonnets bloom all over the landscape. 

There are many amazing things to do in the Texas Hill Country. Fredericksburg is one of the best places in Texas to see the bluebonnets. This German town has beautiful architecture and lots of wineries. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is great for hiking. Beat the Texas heat by floating in the river at New Braunfels. 

You can also go swimming in the Hill Country’s many swimming holes and waterfalls. Jacob’s Well in Wimberley and Hamilton Pool near Austin at the top favorites. Other great small towns to explore include Luckenbach, Johnson City, and Gruene. 

Visitors can see the highlights of Texas Hill Country in two to three days. You need a car for the road trip since there is no public transportation in the Hill Country. You can either stay in Austin or the small towns. For a more budget-friendly vacation try camping in one of Texas’s state parks like Pedernales Falls State Park.

Underrated Spring Break Destinations: East Coast

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

A view of Lancaster, PA. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Monica of Planner at Heart

Lancaster, Pennsylvania (also known as Amish country) is great for a long weekend, but, surprisingly, has enough things to do for a week. Even during a holiday weekend, we were able to enjoy all the area had to offer without any crowds thus making it one of the best underrated spring break destinations. To get there, drive from Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, DC Metro Area, NJ, and NYC Metro Area. A car is highly recommended for this country vacation. 

There are so many accommodation options in Lancaster for different interests and budgets. You can stay at a working farm with animals, a real Amish dairy, house rentals, at independent and large chain hotels.  Eden Resort & Suites is highly recommended for family vacations for its wide range of kid’s activities and large rooms. Check out Discover Lancaster’s “Places to Stay” for the options.

There really is something for everyone in Lancaster—cultural Amish experiences, working farm activities, historical tours, outdoor sports, scenic hikes, train lover’s museums and play places, agritainment, and amusement parks. For activity recommendations check out Planner at Heart’s Guide to Lancaster. 

This road trip vacation idea is flexible to meet different budgets. With a wide range of hotels, many free and low-cost activities, and reasonably priced restaurants this destination is a budget-friendly option. 

San Juan, Puerto Rico

A view of Downtown San Juan in Puerto Rico. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Julie of The Cure for Curiosity 

San Juan, Puerto Rico is the off the beaten path and underrated spring break destination you have been looking for. Located just a quick flight away from the East Coast of the US, Puerto Rico is a US territory making it one of the most exotic spring break destinations you can visit without a passport! 

As soon as you step off the plane, the rich culture of Puerto Rico comes alive with sun, sand, and the beat of reggaeton music. Whether you have a weekend or a full week to spend, you will not run out of things to do in San Juan. With a full week on the island, you will want to rent a car to get further outside the city, but if you are coming just for a few days, you can easily get around the San Juan area with the really cheap Uber fares, just a few dollars for most rides! In fact, many things in Puerto Rico are more affordable than the continental US.  

You will want to stay centrally within San Juan, whether it be in the historic district of Old San Juan or in one of the beach areas like Condado or Isla Verde. From there, you’ll be able to reach the highlights of the city and beyond, like:

·         Exploring the colorful streets of Old San Juan

·         Touring Casa Bacardi, the Bacardi Rum Distillery

·         Swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the clear waters of the Caribbean

·         Learning salsa and dancing the night away in La Placita

·         Hiking in El Yunque National Forest

One of the best parts of Spring Break in San Juan? You will find all of the perks of a Caribbean Island with all of the comforts of the US, like using US dollars and a working cell phone! Not to mention you’ll be able to avoid the typical Spring Break crowds.

Colonial Beach, Virginia

A view of the water in Colonia Beach, Virginia. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Jennifer of Family Trip Guides 

Colonial Beach, Virginia is only 1.5 hours south of DC but a world away from city life! It is a wonderful location for families during Spring Break and certainly a hidden gem right on the Potomac. Lots of folks miss this gem on their way to the larger beaches of Virginia Beach or the Outer Banks but I love this area because it is much more relaxed and less touristy. It makes for a great underrated spring break destination in the United States.

I would recommend 3-5 days in Colonial Beach and you do need a car to get around the area. The best area to stay is right on the water at a local Airbnb. We have stayed twice with a large extended family and loved homes with decks right onto the water.

There is lots to do in the small town and surrounding areas including water sports and nature spots!

  • Play on the beach! Colonial Beach has the 2nd largest sand beach on the Potomac.
  • Check out Ingleside Vineyards and Monroe Bay vineyard
  • Rent a Beach Cart on Colonial Ave.
  • Rent bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, or charters at Ferry Landing Pier
  • Visit Caledon State Park a few miles away with old-growth forests, wildlife, and eagle sightings! 

To Eat: We grilled out a lot at our beach rental but also loved the incredible food at Suki the Cuisine, a Thai French Restaurant close to the beach! You can also eat right on the beach with your toes in the sand at two restaurants: Dockside Restaurant and Tiki Bar and High Tides on the Potomac.

And if you want to pair a visit to Colonial Beach to the nation’s capital with your family, check out 24 Great Kid-Friendly DC Restaurants.

Brevard, North Carolina

A view of a small waterfall in a river near Brevard, North Carolina. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Anna of Paddling Space

In the heart of western North Carolina, Brevard is a small college town that draws many visitors and a perfect underrated spring break destination. Transylvania County is known as the land of waterfalls and it definitely does not disappoint. There are plenty of outdoor activities to occupy your time and if you would like a few of the comforts of the big city then Asheville isn’t too far away.

Staying in the area for three to four days will let you experience most of what it has to offer unless you would like to put in more hiking time then by all means stay a full week. You can also extend your trip by staying in Asheville for a few days. You will definitely need a car while here and if you will be flying in then the closest airport is the Asheville Regional.

This town is well known by many North Carolinians for outdoor adventure, but it usually gets overlooked for its larger neighbors for those coming from out of state. There are plenty of hiking opportunities at places like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and Rainbow Falls. There are 250+ waterfalls in the area so many options for sure.

Western North Carolina is also a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. You can take a trip down the Nantahala River with the Nantahala Outdoor Center or the Green River with Green River Adventures.

You can stay here on a budget for just under $100/day or stay in a nice cabin for under $200/day. The best way to visit Brevard (or anywhere in Western NC) is by staying in a cabin with a view!

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Two palm trees on a beach in Alabama. #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations

By Nikki of She Saves She Travels

One of the most underrated spring break destinations in the US is Gulf Shores, Alabama. Its pristine white beaches, affordability, and warm weather make it a perfect spot for a spring break getaway!

While driving to Gulf Shores might be the cheapest way to get there depending on your location, flying there is pretty simple, too. The nearest airport is in Pensacola, Florida, and it’s only about an hour away. So renting a car would be ideal. Once you’re in Gulf Shores, restaurants and activities are pretty spread out so just hang onto that rental car for your stay.

There are plenty of things to do in Gulf Shores for a week-long stay, or you could go for just a long weekend and have a really good time. It is an underrated spring break destination because it is not as well known on the Gulf Coast as Destin or Pensacola, Florida, yet has the same beaches and far less traffic!

Alabama’s gulf coast is stunning with its bright white sand and turquoise waters. Staying right on the water is an option with many large hotels right on the beach. If you’re looking to save some money, try staying further inland at a hotel or vacation rental property.

There is no shortage of activities in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Of course, one of the best things to do is enjoy the beach! There is also go-karting and mini-golf, ziplining and fishing, dolphin cruising, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, just to name a few. Regardless of the type of vacation, you are planning, Gulf Shores, Alabama is a spring break destination in the US that anyone can enjoy.

There are so many fun underrated spring break destinations in the United States. I also recommend checking out the Paso Robles/San Louis Obispo area. Mammoth Lakes is also a fun getaway. You could also opt to take a road trip through some awesome states like Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Texas, and California. No matter what, there are so many destionations to have some fun!

The US has many underrated spring break destinations. From the gorgeous National Parks to Texas Hill Country the United States offers so many hidden gems. Alabama, North Carolina, Wyoming, Alaska, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Ohio, Texas, California, and Oregon all have great places to head to for spring break.  #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations #nationalparks #texas #eastcoast #midwest #westcoast
The US has many underrated spring break destinations. From the gorgeous National Parks to Texas Hill Country the United States offers so many hidden gems. Alabama, North Carolina, Wyoming, Alaska, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Ohio, Texas, California, and Oregon all have great places to head to for spring break.  #springbreak #usdestinations #underrateddestinations #nationalparks #texas #eastcoast #midwest #westcoast

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