With Spring Break just around the corner, the time has come to pre-plan your trip. If you’re traveling with kids, especially multiple age groups, planning how to keep them entertained on spring break is as important as deciding where to go. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of tips on traveling for spring break with kids, to help guide you through the chaos that it can bring!
Pre-Flight Essentials
Pack Smart:
Good quality luggage is an investment for your kids and can help to make preparing for travel fun, especially with the selection of branded options available on the market. Colorful rolling suitcases such as the Samsonite Disney range or Trunki are a great way to involve kids in the preparation process.
Personalizing luggage is another way to get kids excited for a spring break adventure; make an activity out of getting them to decorate their luggage using stickers or funky travel tags.
If you’re feeling especially brave, you can even ask your kids to pack their own case – with supervision of course! If the whole case is too much, then get them to choose a favourite cuddly toy, item of clothing, or book to bring. Involving kids in this process will give them a great activity to participate in and a sense of ownership.
Snacks Galore:
It’s essential to pre-pack some delicious and filling snacks to keep little tummies happy. Trail mix, fruit pouches, cheese sticks, and crackers are great options to have on hand. A refillable water bottle is also recommended to keep everyone hydrated, especially when dealing with plane air-conditioning. Involve your kids in the planning!
Entertainment on Demand:
Movies and entertainment are key to keeping the kids occupied when it comes to traveling for Spring Break. Shorter flights often don’t provide in-flight entertainment, so it’s a good idea to invest in electronics where you can download movies, games, and audiobooks. Specialized children’s tablets are available on the market, or if you’re feeling old school, why not dig out a portable DVD player with car chargers as optional activities for kids?
Activity Kits:
Travel-sized versions of popular board and card games are also great for keeping the kids entertained when you travel. Think etch-a-sketch, travel bingo, or jigsaw puzzles (though try to avoid anything with small pieces, as they’re likely to get lost along the way). Why not pick up a few activity books with stickers, as these are usually a hit with little ones. You could even treat them to their choice of new book or magazine.
Make Pit Stops Count:
Driving to the airport can become long and tedious, especially if you’re traveling from afar to your nearest airport. Choose a scenic spot on your journey for a small picnic to break up the journey. You could even book one of our ParkSleepFly hotel & parking lot packages so you can all get a much-needed night’s rest before your morning flight to your spring break vacation spot.
Take-off to Touchdown
Embrace the Window Seat:
Try to snag a window seat on the plane and let your kids enjoy “cloud spotting” or watching the sky for other planes. Packing binoculars can encourage some excitement for your spring break trip, keeping the kids awe-inspired during the flight while giving them a tech break too.
Get Creative with Travel Games:
“I Spy” is another popular in-cabin game you can participate in, especially when surrounded by travel-themed clues. Other fun travel games include tic-tac-toe and hangman.
Destination Adventures
Plan Age-Appropriate Activities:
Make sure you do lots of research when planning aspects of your trip that can cater to children’s interests. Museums and zoos are popular for springtime, offering an indoor/outdoor adventure and giving you a break from spring showers or the sun. Check reviews before you visit so you’re armed with information on queuing times and facilities, and make sure the attraction is open on the day you plan to visit to avoid disappointment.
Get Crafty:
Art activities for kids are also ideal when it comes to planning your spring break vacation. Travel-sized craft kits and art supplies can go alongside a stroll and picnic, keeping them entertained between taking in the sights. Crafting souvenirs of the places you’ve visited gives kids a fun souvenir to take home too! For older kids, why not encourage them to write a holiday diary or create a scrap book with tickets and mementoes from the holiday?
Embrace Downtime:
Downtime can also help with relaxation and winding down amped-up little ones. Make sure to pack books, coloring books, and other mentally stimulating activities that will help everyone get a good night’s rest throughout the trip.
Worried about parking hassles for your spring break trip? Pre-booking your ParkSleepFly hotel and parking package can ensure a good night’s rest before you travel. Sleep soundly, fly out, and spring into adventure!
Now that the excitement and sparkle of the holiday season has worn away and the white, fluffy snow has melted, it’s time to start planning your alternative spring break escape. What is an alternative spring break?
Your common spring break locations include Miami, San Diego and South Padre Island which are known for their hot weather and beach parties. Alternative spring breaks see travelers visit more uncommon locations or hidden gems if you will.
Top 10 Alternative Family-Friendly Spring Break Ideas
Most spring break destinations cater to college students during their spring semester, but what family vacations are available at this time of year?
Fear not! Here are 10 best alternative family-friendly spring break destinations to escape to and enjoy with the family.
Before you jet off, make sure to get your airport hotel & parking secured in advanced for the best rates.
Sedona, Arizona
A great option for families that want to get away from partying college students, the striking Sedona red rock park landscapes offer the perfect place to enjoy family hiking trips and desert view picnic areas and provide a great alternative spring break trip.
Sedona’s art galleries showcase a diverse range of artistic expressions against the red rock landscapes. Renowned for its thriving art community, Sedona boasts galleries that feature a rich blend of Southwestern, contemporary, and Native American art. Visitors can explore these creative havens.
Amidst the awe-inspiring red rock state park scenery, Sedona’s spa resorts offer a place of relaxation providing a blend of indulgence and natural beauty. The spa resorts are renowned for their rejuvenating treatments, from therapeutic massages to holistic wellness experiences. On a Sedona spa day, guests can immerse themselves in luxurious amenities, surrounded by the serene ambiance.
If you are looking to explore unique trinket shops, we recommend the short drive into Scottsdale just south of Sedona, where you can buy your own mini-Cactus!
Heading over to California for your alternative spring break trip is also a great option for students, couples, and family vacations.
Whether you are getting away with a loved one, taking the family to see the Sea Lions at Pier 39, or are a college student wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the beach, San Francisco is the place for you. Pier 39 offers the most trinket and attraction shops, as well as independent eateries, whilst Pier 33 gets you on to the Alcatraz boat tour and prison exploration.
The iconic Golden Gate Park unfolds as a sprawling green paradise in San Francisco, offering a myriad of attractions and recreational opportunities. Boasting over 1,000 acres, the park encompasses gardens, lakes, and cultural centers.
Visitors can wander around the Japanese Tea Garden, paddle across Stow Lake, or revel in the blooming flora of the Conservatory of Flowers, making Golden Gate State Park a diverse and enchanting escape within the heart of the city.
Napa Valley, synonymous with world-class vineyards and picturesque landscapes, is a premier wine region in Northern California. This one has something for everyone and is especially geared towards couples looking for an alternative spring break. If you’re feeling more sophisticated, hop in the car for a day trip to the world-famous wine region.
Renowned for its rolling vine-covered hills, Napa Valley is the place for wine enthusiasts, offering exquisite Napa Valley wine-tasting experiences and guided tours through its lush wineries.
Things to do beside wine? Beyond the Napa Valley wine tours and vineyards, charming towns, Michelin-starred restaurants, and hot air balloon rides contribute to the region’s allure, making it a destination that seamlessly blends culinary delights with breathtaking scenery.
Interested in a more international experience? Head on down to Chinatown for a delightfully authentic tea ceremony. End your day by stretching your legs (and glutes!) and take a stroll in the surrounding hills.
The beautiful capital of Colorado, Denver is a fantastic option if you are wanting a more adventurous spring break trip this year.
At the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a gateway to unparalleled natural beauty, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the nearby Red Rocks Amphitheatre, it is known for its jumping-off point for Denver ski resorts, so perfect for the adrenaline junkie wanting to avoid busy beaches.
This city is well known for its historical ties to the Titanic too, wherein the famed survivor, Molly Brown resided in her mansion. After exploring the ski slopes, why not head into town to view the ultramodern Denver Art Museum for a slower-paced afternoon?
The city’s cultural scene thrives with world-class museums, thriving neighborhoods, and a rich history, making spring break in Denver an enticing destination for those seeking a dynamic mix of urban exploration and outdoor escapades.
If you’re more of a music buff who prefers cowboy boots, head on down to “Music City,” Nashville, Tennessee for your alternative spring break this year! Explore the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, where country legends have performed for decades.
Beyond its musical allure, the city offers a diverse culinary scene. So, after dancing the night away, make sure to get a great big southern sized helping of local favorites like fried chicken and biscuits at Loveless, or fried green tomatoes and banana pudding at Arnold’s Country Kitchen. Most importantly, end your night at any one of Nashville’s scores of music venues for the best live music experience in the South any night of the week.
Whilst you’re in Nashville, be sure to check out The Parthenon, located in Centennial Park in Nashville; it stands as a remarkable replica of the ancient Greek temple in Athens.
Now, if you’re a Swifty, Nashville is home to the super star songstress, Taylor Swift so you can find some of her most cherished spots such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, her favourite coffee shop, Fido and the place where she was discovered, the Bluebird Café, at 14 years old. The perfect Spring Break for Swifties.
Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, emerges as an ideal alternative Spring Break destination, offering a dynamic blend of live music, outdoor activities. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin welcomes visitors with its eclectic music festivals, diverse venues, and a buzzing nightlife on Sixth Street.
The city’s lush green spaces, including Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Austin’s food scene, featuring renowned barbecue joints and innovative cuisine, adds a flavorful dimension to the Spring Break experience.
Beyond its musical and culinary allure, Austin boasts a vibrant arts scene, with street art adorning city walls and the contemporary galleries of the East Austin Studio Tour. Visitors can also embrace the city’s weird and wonderful spirit at iconic spots like the Cathedral of Junk or by taking a dip in the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool.
Austin’s warm weather during Spring Break complements its diverse offerings, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of creativity, outdoor adventure, and a uniquely Texan experience.
With its laid-back atmosphere, quirky charm, and a mix of cultural attractions, Austin promises a memorable and unconventional Spring Break.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is steeped in American history, offering Spring Break visitors the chance to explore iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The diverse neighborhoods, like Old City and Fishtown, provide unique cultural experiences, with street art, extensive boutiques, and thriving food joints.
Philadelphia’s museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, cater to art enthusiasts. Additionally, the city hosts a variety of festivals and events during the spring, adding a lively and celebratory atmosphere to the visit.
Outdoor spaces like Fairmount Park, Boathouse Row, and the Schuylkill River Trail offer opportunities for scenic walks, bike rides, and picnics. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and diverse activities, Philadelphia provides a well-rounded and engaging destination for an alternative spring break experience.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, with its blend of history, culture, and lively city, makes for an excellent alternative Spring Break destination. The city’s historical significance is evident in landmarks such as the Freedom Trail, where visitors can explore key sites like the Massachusetts State House and Paul Revere’s House. The Boston Common and Public Garden offer picturesque green spaces for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Boston’s diverse neighborhoods, from the historic North End to the trendy South End, provide unique cultural experiences, diverse dining options, and boutique shopping. The city’s world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, cater to art and history enthusiasts.
Boston spring break brings a burst of color with blooming flowers and the Boston Marathon, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere. The city’s proximity to the coast allows for scenic harbor walks, ferry rides to nearby islands, and fresh seafood experiences.
Whether enjoying the academic atmosphere around Harvard Square, attending a performance in the Theater District, or exploring the innovative exhibits at the Boston Museum of Science, Boston offers a diverse range of activities, making it an appealing destination for an alternative and enriching spring break vacation.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, with its unique culture, history, and lively atmosphere, is an exciting choice for an alternative Spring Break destination. Known for its iconic French Quarter, visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich musical heritage by exploring jazz clubs, street performances, and festivals.
The diverse and delicious Creole cuisine is a highlight, with iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets awaiting adventurous foodies. The French Market and Magazine Street offer a variety of shops and art galleries for a memorable shopping experience.
New Orleans’ historic Spanish and French Creole architecture, including the St. Louis Cathedral and charming shotgun houses, provides a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront or hop on a streetcar to soak in the city’s ambiance.
Spring in New Orleans is marked by pleasant weather, making outdoor activities enjoyable. City parks like Audubon Park and City Park provide green spaces for picnics and bike rides. Additionally, the city’s lively street life and vibrant nightlife, including the famous Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter, ensure an entertaining and spirited New Orleans Spring Break experience.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia, offers an experience rich in modern history, making it an enticing alternative Spring Break destination. The city is a cultural center with a rich history, modern attractions, and Southern charm.
History enthusiasts can explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the King Center and Ebenezer Baptist Church, to gain insights into the Civil Rights Movement. The Atlanta History Center and the Swan House provide additional glimpses into the city’s past.
Atlanta’s dynamic neighborhoods, such as Midtown and Buckhead, offer a mix of trendy shops and diverse dining options. The BeltLine, a former railway corridor turned multi-use trail, provides a scenic route for walking, biking, and exploring public art installations.
Families can enjoy the perfect Atlanta spring break attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The city’s diverse culinary scene, ranging from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative dining experiences, adds a flavorful dimension to the trip.
With its mild spring weather, Atlanta encourages outdoor activities in Piedmont Park or the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The city’s cultural events, including festivals and concerts, contribute to a lively atmosphere during spring break, making Atlanta an engaging and well-rounded spot.
Where are you going for your alternative Spring Break?
Beyond the familiar choices lie hidden gems and unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Philadelphia, the culture of New Orleans, the beauty of Atlanta or the music of Nashville, each destination offers its own blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.
Embrace the opportunity to break away from the ordinary and create lasting memories in these diverse and captivating regions. Whatever your preferred escape, may your alternative Spring Break be filled with new discoveries and unforgettable moments. Safe travels!
If you’re expecting your first child and fear that your traveling days are over, we understand your concern. Some people’s worst nightmare is having to board a plane with kids in tow and there is no shortage of myths associated with traveling as a family. But we’re here to debunk those myths and give you actionable tips to help you realize that family travel isn’t just feasible, it’s downright magical!
Traveling with Kids: Debunking Travel Myths
Myth #1: It’s too difficult to travel with a baby!
Truth: If we’re being honest here, just being the proud owner of a baby means you already know that it’s difficult no matter what you do. But, traveling is no more cumbersome than heading to the grocery store. And truth be told, traveling with a baby is much easier than traveling with a toddler! Babies sleep a lot and they aren’t yet mobile. So although you’ll be doing more carrying, you’ll be doing much less chasing around.
Millions of Americans are expected to travel for Independence Day this year, take a look at some of our top destinations inspired by all things Red, White and Blue.
Red
Red Canyon – Utah
Part of the Dixie National Forest, Red Canyon is a great place for a hike this Independence Day! Following the red theme, this location is perfect for the avid explorer, with deep canyons to walk or bike through. The Visitor Center offers free maps showing where to hike or bike in Red Canyon and where to stop for a festive 4th of July picnic. If you’re traveling to Red Canyon for Independence Day, pre-book your airport parking lot space from your departure airport with ParkSleepFly!
Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco
One of the tallest and longest suspension bridges in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge is a sight to be seen at any time of year, but extra special on Independence Day. The red hue of the bridge allows passing water vessels to see this extraordinary addition to San Francisco Bay. This remarkable structure becomes an even better place to spend the 4th of July, with a magnificent firework display over the water. If you’re flying to San Francisco from Chicago, check out the ParkSleepFly parking options available from O’Hare Airport.
White
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Celebrate true Independence by visiting South Dakota and seeing the iconic Mount Rushmore. This 60-foot Memorial features George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Each president represents one of the four key characteristics of the U.S. including, birth, growth, development and preservation. This once-in-a-lifetime trip features the monument itself, a half-mile walking trail and a museum and dining area. Flying to Mount Rushmore from New York has never been easier, and ParkSleepFly has a range of parking options available at JFK. Pre-book now to avoid disappointment!
Big Snowy Mountains, Montana
Experience the actual white of the American flag by exploring the Big Snowy Mountains in Montana this Independence Day. The ‘Big Snowies’ are the perfect place for an activity-filled weekend, whether walking with the family or taking snaps of the spectacular mountains. There are many different hiking options, including the Ice Caves Loop, or for something less strenuous, the Promontory Point via Crystal Lake. If you’re heading from Detroit to the Big Snowies, check out the options available on ParkSleepFly for your airport parking lot space at Detroit Wayne County Airport.
Blue
Crater Lake, Oregon
For a more serene option for celebrating American Independence, we highly recommend a boat out on Crater Lake. This volcanic crater in south-central Oregon is the perfect place for a gentle boat trip. The deep gorgeous blue water can be misleading, however, as it is known for being very cold! Designated swimming areas are available for those wanting to explore out on the lake. For a family-fun affair, taking a boat out for fishing activities is also highly recommended, with both Kokanee Salmon and Rainbow Trout available for catching. Flying in from Boston Logan airport? Check out pre-booked airport parking options available with ParkSleepFly before you jet off.
Lake Tahoe, Michigan
This serene lake is the perfect place for a picnic by the water, summer paddleboarding or, for the more adventurous, jet skiing. Lake Tahoe crosses over both California and Nevada, so traveling from both sides is always an option. This family-fun day out is a must to take advantage of the perfect weather conditions for Lake activities, as well as enjoy a delicious Independence Day-themed lunch together. If you’re traveling into the US for Independence Day, flying from Canada is a great choice. Make sure to pre-book your airport parking at Montreal Airport to not delay your trip.
Other Activities for Independence Day
Visiting the White House is the ultimate day out on Independence Day. Expect a historic tour of the grounds and a spectacular fireworks display later in the evening. From BBQ hotdogs to sweet treats for dessert, you don’t want to miss out on this ultimate 4th July celebration in the Capitol.
Things to Remember for Independence Day Travel
The biggest thing to remember if you’re traveling by plane this Independence Day is to pre-book your lot space at the airport. You can make big savings by booking in advance. Here at ParkSleepFly, we have a range of airport parking options available for you to choose from. Being prepared with a lot space already booked means you can relax, knowing your vehicle is safe at the airport, allowing you to escape, explore and celebrate this 4th July weekend!
There’s so much to see and do across the US throughout all seasons of the year, but during the winter months nothing beats the thrill of skiing, and you may be surprised to hear that there are more than 500 ski resorts in the US.
No matter your abilities, whether you’re a pro on the slopes or a complete novice, this report reveals the best ski resorts across the US, analyzing factors such as annual snowfall, customer reviews, and the cost of a ski pass.
The Best Ski Resorts in the US for 2023/2024
Breckenridge, Colorado – Overall Ski Index Score 8.81
In the top spot is the historic mining town of Breckenridge, Colorado. In the summertime, this resort is alive with plenty of family-friendly activities, and during Fall Oktoberfest is often enjoyed. However, it is during the winter months that the resort transforms into a seasonal wonderland.
Scoring 8.81, this resort has a lot to offer with a total slope length of 153km and 284” of snowfall 2020/2021 season. The resort is also popular on Instagram with over 930,000 mentions, making it easy for you to identify grid-worthy parts of the resort before you go.
Vail, Colorado – Overall Ski Index Score 8.22
Out of the top three resorts shown, Vail has the longest length of slope at 234km and adult season passes start at the same price as those for Breckenridge at $859. Vail also saw 218” of snowfall during the 2020/2021 season. On social media, Vail isn’t as popular as the other top two resorts, however, it is still well known with 228,281 mentions on Instagram.
Park City, Utah – Overall Ski Index Score 8.16
In third place is Park City, in Utah, the only resort in the top five from outside of Colorado.
Park City is one of the country’s major destinations for skiers and has hosted the U.S. Ski Team for training camps. It is also the most Instagrammable resort on this list (1.3 million posts), and the joint biggest in terms of the length of its slopes (250km).
The Longest Ski Slopes
Park City, Utah & Big Sky, Montana – Length of Slope 250km
When it comes to sheer scale, two resorts are tied in first place, each with a total slope length of around 250km.
The first is Park City, Utah, which is the largest lift-served ski resort in the country, after being combined with the neighboring Canyons Resort via a gondola.
The other is Big Sky in Montana, which is also the second-largest ski resort in the US by acreage, with more than 5,800 acres of coverage.
The Ski Resorts with the Cheapest Season Passes
Arapahoe Basin – Adult Ski Pass From $599
The cheapest resort for an unlimited season pass for adults is the Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, with a price of $599.
A-Basin is an alpine resort in the Rocky Mountains and is of great value as it has a longer season than most, staying open until early June or sometimes, July.
The Ski Resorts with the Most Snowfall
Jackson Hole, Wyoming – Average snowfall 437”
With 437” of snow in the 2020/2021 season, Jackson Hole resort tops the list as the snowiest resort. Plenty of snow makes the destination perfect for a ski trip, or for a magical winter experience. The views of the mountains and snow-filled wonderland are perfect for the grid and according to our research, the place is pretty picture-perfect with 973,997 mentions on Instagram.
The Most Insta-Worthy Ski Resort
Park City, Utah – 1,313,970 Instagram Hashtags
When looking at popularity on Instagram we discovered that the most mentioned resort was Park City in Utah, with over 1,000,000 hashtags! This resort offers amazing landscape views of the surrounding resorts of Deer Valley and Utah Olympic Park, which held the 2002 Winter Olympics. The scenery makes for awesome pictures so it’s no surprise that Park City made the first position.
The Most In-Demand Ski Resorts
Heavenly, California – 823,000 Avg. Monthly Searches
Heavenly Ski Resort in California takes the top spot when it comes to average monthly Google searches, with a total of 823,000. 246,000 of these searches come from the US alone and perhaps it’s no wonder; with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe, it is an incredible place to ski and simply take in the scenery.
Now you have all of the details you need to choose the best ski experience for you and your family to enjoy, we hope you have an awesome time on the slopes.
Methodology
In total 523 ski resorts in the US were refined down to 50 based on those with the highest review scores as of October 17th, 2022, according to Skiresort.info.
Each ski resort was ranked on the following factors and was given a normalized score out of 10 before creating an average overall score.
Adult Ski Pass Price was sourced from On the Snow. Where resort details were unavailable prices were retrieved directly from the resort website.
Instagram Hashtags were sourced from Instagram and are based on the number of posts mentioning the resort. Instagram research was undertaken between 16/09/2022 to 19/09/2022. The mentions of resorts with generic names included more specific phrases e.g. ‘heavenlyskiresort’.
Snowfall was sourced from On the Snow and the total snowfall for the 20/21 ski season was analyzed.
