Top 10 East Coast Spring Break Destinations for Families

Published on January 13, 2020 - Updated on January 13, 2020

Top 10 East Coast Spring Break Destinations for Families

While most people think of summer as the official kick off to vacation season, I think that spring break offers great opportunities for families to get out and explore. If you’re on the east coast, you have no shortage of choices when it comes to cities that offer kid friendly spring break options. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 east coast spring break destinations for families. All of these places offer a week (or more) of family fun, for a much lower price tag than the Carribean!

Washington, D.C.

The heart of The Smithsonian Institution, D.C. offers more amazing museums for free than anyplace else in the United States. Families can learn about natural history, air and space travel, the history and culture of American Indians, and so much more. You can easily spend your whole vacation exploring spectacular attractions without ever paying a single entrance fee!

Baltimore

Just a short 45 minute drive from D.C., Baltimore offers another fabulous option for families looking for a mid-Atlantic spring break. Families will find the Baltimore offers a wonderful combination of a bustling downtown, complete with a world-class aquarium and children’s museum, plus plenty of historic neighborhoods that give Baltimore it’s nickname of Charm City.

Boston, MA

Boston offers so much for families to do, you might find that you need to plan a second vacation. The city offers plenty of free activities like a stroll down the Freedom Trail or a tour of Harvard’s campus. If you’re looking for some paid fun, be sure to visit The Boston Science Museum or take a ride on one of the many boat excursions that the city offers!

Asheville, NC

There are so many great spring break destinations to choose from in North Carolina, it’s hard to pick just one. What we like about Asheville is it’s close proximity to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. With a stay in Asheville you can spend part of your week exploring grandiose mansions like Biltmore Estate and the other half getting back to nature in one of the East Coast’s best National Parks

New York City

If you’re looking for a big city vacation, there’s no better place than New York City. Spend your days exploring all of the iconic spots that the city has to offer (we’re looking at you Central Park!) or immerse yourself in one of New York’s many amazing burroughs.

Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is steeped in American History and there’s no better place to explore the birth of our nation, but The City of Brotherly Love has more to see than Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell! Families should also be sure to put the Please Touch Museum, the Adventure Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo on their list of places to see!

Atlanta, GA

If you’re looking to head towards warmer temperatures, Atlanta might just be the spot for you. Downtown Atlanta boasts plenty of great family friendly options including Legoland Discovery Center and a hands on children’s museum!

Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg is a history lover’s paradise. The home of Colonial Williamsburg, the city allows families a truly immersive experience. Kids can see what colonial life was like by visiting period buildings and talking with interpretive staff. For family members that are looking for a more modern experience, Williamsburg is also home to Busch Gardens amusement park!

Newport, RI

April is a great time to visit Newport. Technically the off-season, visitors will find that a spring break trip to Newport offers a city that is a bit calmer (and less expensive). Many of the fabulous mansions in the area offer tours that are kid friendly and you’ll also want to be sure to visit the 3.5 mile cliff walk for some of the most breathtaking views in the area!

Orlando, FL

The most southern location on our list, Orlando offers a chance to escape the fickle spring weather of the east coast and head to warmer places. While Orlando might get expensive if you’re taking advantage of the world of Disney, the city is actually one of the least expensive places to fly to and stay in. For a budget friendly vacation, split your time between the theme parks and free destinations like Lake Eola Park or a day trip to the beach!

Don’t forget to download the mobile app before you go for access to all of our favorite activities at your fingertips!

Thoughtfully captured by:

Katie Raspa

Our work in Baltimore is truly a family affair. Husband and wife, Matt and Katie, work together to head up our ambassador team in Charm City. Katie is a Maryland native and has lived in the state her whole life. She moved to Baltimore in 2007 after graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. She has been working in the field of early childhood education as a teacher and family coach for the past 12 years. Katie also holds a Masters of Education in Literacy from Loyola University. She is passionate about giving kids and families the knowledge and tools that they need to thrive. Matt grew up in the Highlandtown neighborhood of Baltimore. As a city native, Matt is a great resource on all that the city has to offer. After months of helping Katie explore the city for her role at a Happy Active Family, he decided to put his love of writing to use and officially come on board as an ambassador. Matt and Katie have two girls, ages 5 and 7. They spend their weekends camping, hiking, or exploring other hidden gems in their area. Tap into their insider knowledge by downloading the app today!