Family Trip Ideas for Spring Break?
Swimming with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands. Photo: Lindblad Expeditions
by Wendy Perrin
A great question has come in that I'm going to throw out there for all you travel-savvy parents to help me answer:
"Can you recommend a few great ideas for Spring Break?" asks reader cliffcadle. "We are a family of four with a 15-year-old and a 6-year-old. We have done the Disney thing a few times already."
It's hard to answer without knowing where you live, how exotic you want to get, what your budget is, how much culture you want, etc. The most family-friendly and budget-friendly ideas that come to mind are (1) Hawaii and (2) a Caribbean cruise. If it were me, though, and if money were no object and I wanted my kids to have a vacation that's also an education--yet includes plenty of beach activities--I might opt for an expedition-ship cruise in the Galapagos Islands.
I invite all you traveling moms and dads out there to post your spring break suggestions in the "Comments" section below. If you've got a travel blog or web site, please include the URL so we can click to read more. Thanks!
RSS Feeds
That's a wide open question - there's literally a world of options to consider! If you want to have a foreign experience without going too far afield, try Quebec City. A delicious taste of old Europe in the heart of North America. Ooh la la.
Catherine Forth
Have Kids Will Travel
http://www.havekidswilltravel.net
Posted by: HKWT | November 11, 2008 at 08:04 AM
Hi Wendy! Fun post. One of my favorite family vacations is the classic road trip (yay, for gas prices decreasing!), particularly Arizona's Route 66. Much of the road has been replaced with updated highway but there are plenty of "authentic" stretches and classic attractions. You can fly into ABQ and drive west as far as you want - even go to the end in California or fly into Phoenix, and use Flagstaff as a base. Just a few of the highlights include the Grand Canyon, Williams (a well preserved Route 66 town), a meteor crater, the Petrified Forest/Painted Desert and in Winslow there is the Standing on the Corner Park - http://tinyurl.com/57egv8
Beth Blair
http://travelingmamas.com
http://bethblair.com
Posted by: DesertMama | November 11, 2008 at 08:10 AM
As Wendy mentioned, not knowing your budget or location makes it hard to give the best suggestions. Hawaii is offering some great deals this year, and depending on if your family has a passport will also determine where you can travel.
Spring break is a time to see out some of the warmer destinations. Key West might be a good choice if you like Florida but want to stay away from the theme parks. The famili can check out pirate treasures, enjoy the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, and relax on the beach.
New Orleans is comfortable in the spring and if you make it around Mardi Gras, you'll be surprised how family friendly this celebration can be. Just keep the kids off Bourbon Street :)
Check out more here at The Perrin Post or http://TravelingMamas.com, as well as the many useful travel sites out there to help with your decision. Let us all know where you choose to go.
Posted by: CajunMama | November 11, 2008 at 08:22 AM
I'm always a fan of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico & the Caribbean. Activities for all ages and fun in the sun. Easy peasy for families w/ buffets for picky palates and kids' clubs, teen discos, included watersports & games around the pool.
If you're thinking urban trip, maybe Washington, D.C. for some educational value.
Check out www.travelingmamas.com and click on Family Travel in our categories box for more ideas.
Posted by: karasw | November 11, 2008 at 09:38 AM
Great topic, Wendy!! We tend to either stay closer to home, or go far from home! :) We are in Mid-Michigan, so there are lots of great things to take advantage of.
I can't wait to take our daughter to the Lapa Rios Ecolodge, in Costa Rica. It is the perfect family place. We interviewed them here: http://tinyurl.com/5h28tm
As to closer to home, sometimes we head to the Kalahari Waterpark, in Sandusky, Ohio. The warm air inside, and all the water, is balm to my winter-parched soul. We also try to head to Chicago to see the Shedd Aquarium, great museums, and excellent food. Detroit is fun, the DIA has new things and we need to see those. Wherever we go, an art museum is in the picture, as well as good food!
If money were no object (nor time), we'd head to either Greece or Italy. My aunt is in Greece, and she's an archaeologist - we'd have LOTS of fun exploring ruins and 'helping' with her work.
I would also love to head to Grenada - we've profiled several really cool places there on our site, http://www.wanderingeducators.com, including Jason deCaires Taylor's underwater sculpture park, and Grenada Seafaris, for learning the history of Grenada.
Posted by: jessiev | November 11, 2008 at 09:57 AM
We always travel for spring break and we are on a tight budget. Weve done Disney 3 times, as well. Were in Ohio, so were looking for warm weather. My son is always off Easter week, which can be in March or April. During March, weve gone to Tucson, Az. Thats spring training time and were baseball fans. Tucson also offers hiking and outdoor activities, the wonderful Desert Museum, Old Tucson, good birding, day trips to Bisbee and Douglas&.lots to do. Is your 15 year old into music? Last year we made a weekend trip to Memphis and had a wonderful time. We flew to Nashville via Southwest and drove to Memphis. We stayed downtown and toured the Gibson factory, Sun Studios, Stax Records and the Civil Rights Museum and Graceland. And it was 30 degrees warmer than at home. Not Florida, but it was warm enough. This year we might go to Texas or Williamsburg. Id steer clear of DC if your break is Easter Week. Its a zoo
Posted by: maryliz1 | November 11, 2008 at 10:12 AM
I've traveled to the Galapagos & wouldn't make my top 10 list for family travel - especially a 6 yr old. Long trip into S Amer / overnite / then long flite to one island - then, boat shuttle to your ship. New island each day... lots of trekking, rough volcanic terrain. On & off ship onto tricky inflatable Zodiak every day. Some landings are wet... some involve hoping off onto narrow ledges. Some beach snorkling - but barely for an hour. Ship is small - no child activities. Extraordinary opportunity - loved our time there & I did swim with dolphin, but not sure good choice for spring break.
Posted by: deannadv | November 11, 2008 at 10:21 AM
Ariau Amazon Towers in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest (Manaus) is a wonderful option for Spring Break. Please read world famous nature photographer Rick Sammon's family vacation experience here:
http://www.ariauamazontowers.com/family-article.htm
Manuas is just a 5 hour evening flight from Miami available every night on TAM Airlines. Starting on 19 December, Delta Airlines will have non-stop flights to Manaus from Atlanta.
I have received countless letters from parents over the years, commenting how their children have become "little environmentalists" after their experience at Ariau. Ariau has over 10 miles of sturdy canopy walkways which allows guests an up close and personal experience into the magic wonder of the Amazon Rainforest.
Jill Siegel - Brazil Travel Specialist
www.SouthAmericanEscapes.com/blog
Posted by: jsananda | November 11, 2008 at 10:22 AM
Costa Rica might be perfect. (That's where we're going this spring break). There's plenty of wildlife excitement for your younger child, and your older child can do side excursions like ziplining and river rafting.
Also, it's a safe enough place for an independent teen to break away for some private time.
Check out this post we did on Costa Rica with kids:
http://www.travelsavvymom.com/blog/family-travel/costa-rica-five-family-favorites/
Jamie
www.travelsavvymom.com
Posted by: jamiepea | November 11, 2008 at 10:49 AM
You'll need a destination with a wide range of activities to keep both a 6- and 15-year-old happy, so Wendy's suggestion of a cruise makes a lot of sense. I'm also a huge fan of our national and state parks--especially in this economy, when everyone is more interested than ever in getting value for money--since there are typically an array of active choices available, from hiking and mountaineering to horseback riding and cycling. Another great bet (also a budget option) is a the YMCA of the Rockies--a family camp with a fabulous location and, again, a ton of amazing active pursuits with the proverbial "something for everyone" (high ropes for your teen, perhaps, and low ropes for your 6-year-old).
Check out our "search by child's age" tool that lets you find hotels and resorts that we've reviewed on WeJustGotBack.com (http://www.wejustgotback.com) that are good for kids of both ages. Here are two that spring to mind:
Club Med Ixtapa
http://www.wejustgotback.com/default.aspx?mod=clubmed_ixtapa
Rocking Horse Ranch
http://www.wejustgotback.com/default.aspx?mod=rockinghorseranch
Suzanne Rowan Kelleher, WeJustGotBack.com
Posted by: SuzanneKelleher | November 11, 2008 at 11:21 AM
We are going to go all out on a 3 generational cruise to Spain and Morocco. Finally found one that fits teens' school schedule. It is a golf trip, but has lots of included sightseeing for the non golfers.
I would reaffirm previous commenter about Costa Rica. Great place for all. A note about a popular volcano site. Takes a long time to get there, and usually coluded over.
Posted by: oilrag | November 11, 2008 at 11:22 AM
What a great list of ideas!
I think I have one that would blow your socks off & I know several American families that have done this for spring break.
Go to the Sahara for an amazing, awe inspiring experience that you will never forget!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrrAFDt9W_U
We have been traveling the world for going on 3 years now & that was our most profound experience. Tons of European families go to Morocco for spring break, but few Americans realize what a unique gem it is and have false fears about this country.
It is like no where else and the riad experience is very luxurious and not to be missed.
http://www.i-escape.com/hotel.php?hotel_key=MC010
The kids can feed camels after yummy breakfast, experience ancient history & even see where movies were filmed!
I only went to Morocco for the educational value for my child and previously had no desire and lots of fear about it. We all fell in love with the Sahara! Both your kids are at the perfect age to adore it ( mine was 6 when we were there). You will remember this unique shared experience forever!
I know families that combined Barcelona and Morocco for spring break, but I would do Fez and Sahara.I would avoid Marrakesh & Casablanca. You do not need a tour & it is easy to book it all yourself.
Here are pictures and more information about our experience there:
http://www.soultravelers3.com/morocco/index.html
I would make sure you book Les Nomades for the Sahara portion as they are the best with a western mom who speaks 6 languages and married to a Berber with kids of their own! nomad.http://www.nomadsaharabivouacmerzouga.com/bivouac-tents-excursions-merzouga-morocco.html
They understand western comforts and needs of families. I am mobility challenged as well, so they were great with meeting all of our needs.They will treat you like cherished family.
Turkey is another great option. Read the book "Exotic Travel Destinations for Families" for more inspiration. Even ordinary families like us, can have extraordinary experiences and it is much easier than most realize! Go for it!
Posted by: Soultravelers3 | November 11, 2008 at 12:01 PM
I'd head to Paris! If you've been focused on mostly Disney, it would be a great way for your kids to experience another culture without diving off the deep end.
There are playgrounds all over the city (literally in every church yard) for your 6 year old, and the streets are safe enough that you might consider giving your 15 year old some free time to explore
If you purchase tickets ahead, you can skip the lines at most of the museums, and I'd recommend going at whatever pace your kids are comfortable with. Try to focus on aspects of the museum that they might be interested (eg the underground castle walls at the Louvre) and on offbeat sites, like the sewer tour that might hold their interest.
I have yet to meet a kid who doesn't love the crepe stands and french hot chocolate (thick enough to eat with a spoon.
I have more tips and suggestions for a family trip to Paris at:
http://www.deliciousbaby.com/travel/france/paris/
Debbie Dubrow
http://www.deliciousbaby.com
Posted by: debbied | November 11, 2008 at 12:40 PM
I second Beth Blair's Grand Canyon suggestion. We drove from San Francisco to Arizona with an overnight on the strip in Las Vegas last spring break. The strip is fun for a night w/ Bellagio dancing fountains, Sirens of TI @ Treasure Island & visiting the lions at MGM Grand; all free! M&M store for 6 yo. There's a Cheesecake Factory, too. Gotta keep the 15 yo happy.
We did the Grand Canyon railroad, staying overnight in the canyon and even the 16 yo thought it was fun.
The all inclusive Mexico resort was a hit the year prior as we went with another family with kid's the same age. Our kids were 11 and 15 at the time. We went to the Royal Solaris in Cabo San Jose and it was great. Plenty of food options for picky eaters, nightly shows put on by the staff. Everything was paid for so no, "Mom, I need money." Kid area will work for 6 yo and 15 yo.
Nancy D. Brown writes about travel on her "What a Trip" blog. Visit http://www.Nancydbrown.com
Posted by: WhataTrip | November 11, 2008 at 01:10 PM
Depending on budget, I second the notion of a family trip to France, but go farther afield than just Paris. I just returned from the best ever family trip with my two boys 15 and 8 to the Dordogne region of France. We started off with a few days in Paris, then headed off to our villa in the SW of France. To some, it may sound crazy to take kids so off the beaten track but if you rent a villa like we did, it's an amazing way to have a great adult experience and memories of a lifetime for kids. My kids were in awe of this region... touring the caves of Cro-Magnon man, visiting huge medieval castles from the 100 years war, canoeing the Dordogne river, great cycling and hiking, remarkable cliff-perched villages everywhere, and fabulous food and wines for mom and dad. I recommend the great service, trip planning and vetted properties of HomesAway.com.
Again, the trip of a lifetime for everyone and no crowds in the shoulder seasons!
Liz
Posted by: LizBeatty | November 11, 2008 at 01:40 PM
I "third" what Beth wrote about The Grand Canyon; especially around Spring Break, this is a terrific place to take the kids. It's not too hot (I went in August, gasp) and the skies are clear blue in the Spring.
Starting at around age 6, children can really begin to appreciate the enormity and majesty of this National Park. I can vouch for it having been a highlight of all the trips my kids have taken with me - and that's quite a lot, considering that they're both under 10.
The first time people ever set eyes on the Grand Canyon in person is also remarkable to see. Here, take a look at this:
http://travelingmamas.com/2008/08/14/family-travel-adventures-by-disney-grand-canyon-national-park/
Posted by: JenM | November 11, 2008 at 02:50 PM
For parents of school-age children, Spring Break is a great time to explore international destinations for a much lower cost than during peak summer travel seasons. Airfares to Europe, for example, are significantly cheaper - as shown in the chart on this page http://wanderlustandlipstick.com/blogs/wandermom/2008/04/03/the-farecast-take-on-airfare-seasonality/ (thanks to my friend John at Farecast for that data).
It also helps to be willing to compromise on school schedules a little. For example, we spent Spring Break 2006 on the Algarve, Portugal with family from Ireland. I took my children out of school a day early and they returned a day late - which meant that we had a fun ten day trip.
Posted by: wandermom | November 11, 2008 at 03:31 PM
I'm going to have to go with Malta. It's relatively undiscovered for U.S. travelers and has a little bit of everything. Want to hang out by the pool or enjoy the ocean? Easy. Want to check out some prehistoric temples? You have that, too. Plus, great shopping, eating and people watching.
Posted by: Kayt | November 11, 2008 at 05:05 PM
I'd like to add to Beth's comments about Arizona and Route 66 and suggest a sidetrip to Oatman, a living ghost town complete with dusty roads, wooden sidewalks, and wild burros that wander the streets during the day. Fun for kids and adults of all ages...
Liz
Perceptive Travel Blog
Posted by: Kiwiwriter | November 11, 2008 at 05:18 PM
What about the European Continent, especially as the USD strengthens and plane fares moderate? I have travelled repeatedly to Italy with my family for spring and winter breaks and it has been invigorating and inspiring. Admittedly, I am often working, but we have been able to give various nieces and cousins a chance to come along and experience Florence, Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast and Rome in exchange for child-care. I was discussing a Grand Canyon river trip with our daughters (11 yr old twins) the other night and was told in no uncertain terms they were not interested. They want to go back to Italy. Check out our Tuscany - Family Style page (http://www.homebaseabroad.com/experiences/experience002_tuscany_family_style.html). We call it Travel Teaches. Mara Solomon, Director, Homebase Abroad, www.HomebaseAbroad.com.
Posted by: marasolomon | November 12, 2008 at 10:23 AM
I have been lots of fun places internationally with my children (Chiang Mai, Thailand is really fun!), but since Spring Break is only one week long, maybe you would like to try something a little less exotic and closer to home, like Chattanooga, TN.
It is a historical city with lots of fun things for tourists, including Rock City, Ruby Falls (a water fall inside of a cave! Don't worry, you descend by elevator, no spelunking required!), the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo, one of the largest fresh water aquariums in the Southeast, civil war battle fields, a children's discovery museum, and a walkable down town.
Chattanooga would be low-stress and easy on the budget. For a small town, there is lots to do! Maybe you could stay at a Bed and Breakfast on Lookout Mountain (near Rock City!).
CanCan
www.MomMostTraveled.com
Posted by: MomMostTraveled | November 12, 2008 at 12:44 PM
Hi,
Nothing in the world compares to the Galapagos Islands composed of 19 islands and more than 40 islets in South America.
It is the most incredible living museum of evolutionary changes, with a huge variety of exotic species (birds, land animals, plants) not seen anywhere else. I recommend the trip to Galapagos because besides being very educational, it is also a lovely place with lots of fun activities to perform.
Zuri
http://www.galapagos-islands-tourguide.com/
Posted by: zuri | November 12, 2008 at 07:16 PM
My husband and I travel to a lot of cool destinations by ourselves for Jet Set Life, but when it comes to Spring Break we're always looking for great ideas. A great trip to plan for a tween girl is a trip to Southern California (the home of Hannah Montana). We'll hit sprinkles cupcakes, take her on a studio tour, celebrity spot, ride bikes in Santa Monica blvd...the list is endless!
Posted by: kmurgatroyd | November 13, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Costa Rica has been mentioned, but the best way to explore Costa Rica is by small cruise ship. You can get to places you can't get to by road. I am a travel agent and have been taking my kids with me for years all over the world. Costa Rica is one of their favorites. Your 15 year old can zipline, learn to surf, use the banana boat, snorkel and kayak. Your 5 year old can do the same with a little supervision. It is a fun warm water trip. Beach with culture and education, can't beat the mix. I suggest either Cruise West or Lindblad Expedions, both have small ships.
Linda Androlia - Sunstone Tours
www.sunstonetours.com
Posted by: SunstoneTours | November 13, 2008 at 04:28 PM
We just returned from a family trip to Zihuatanejo Mexico. What a wonderful location for a family trip! The area is much less crowded than other parts of Mexico and is equal parts relaxing and adventure. The ease of the area made it possible for the older kids and dads to go deep-sea fishing and explore other activities while moms and babies stayed safe on the beach, under the palapa... I am slowly posting my trip report on my blog: http://caribbeantravelnews.blogspot.com/
Posted by: LauraRSangster | November 13, 2008 at 11:26 PM
Not sure if this reply is timely enough but I can't recommend New Zealand highly enough as a family friendly travel destination.
Everything from Whale watching and swimming with dolphins through to 3 day hikes through some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.
4 million people living in an area the size of the United Kingdom (something like 60 million population) Space to stretch out, enjoy and relax!
Ed Lester
TravelBookmarking.com
Posted by: edlester | November 18, 2008 at 05:17 PM
Sorry, here's some good links for New Zealand websites for anyone wanting to research more.
http://travelbookmarking.com/country/new-zealand?page=1
Posted by: edlester | November 18, 2008 at 05:19 PM
Two more "domestic" options that are rife with history but also fun experiences are New Orleans (I wouldn't necessarily recommend this during Mardi Gras - not for family time...) and the panhandle of Florida...specifically Apalachicola, Florida. I'd not heard of it until this year, when on the recommendation of a friend we went...a very interesting spot, although not more than about 3 days worth of entertainment, but from there you are only about 2 hours from Destin, where the beaches and the boat rides are incredible. For pictures, visit my travel blog (The below link is direct to my New Orleans post, but feel free to explore the other links...I'm currently on a 49-day roadtrip across the U.S. so there'll be plenty more to see which might also be fun ideas!)
http://pieshapedwedge.com/photos-stories/photos-beignets-all-things-french-quarter/
Posted by: pieshapedwedge | November 22, 2008 at 08:19 PM
If you're looking for a family-friendly destination on a small budget, the Panhandle of Florida is the perfect place. The "Forgotten Coast" as they call it is a great place for the whole family to escape from the every day hustle and bustle. The beaches are unspoiled, uncrowded and absolutely beautiful. The beaches in Gulf County, which consists of Cape San Blas, Indian Pass and St. Joe Beach are all pet friendly so you don't have to leave the family pet behind. Cape San Blas was actually voted the #1 Pet Friendly Beach in the US by K-9 Magazine in 2007.
Spring Break is a great time in this area. There will be other families for your children to get to know. There are no high-rise condos, night clubs or other large commercial spots to distract the family. Just peace and quiet on some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world.
If nature is what you are craving, eco-tourism is abound in this part of Florida. They are some of the most beautiful, natural surroundings with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding on the beach, fishing, scalloping, shelling, etc.
There are very few hotels to stay in so there are mostly vacation homes for rent. This is perfect because there are fully stocked kitchens for your family meals and lots of space for everyone. To find out more about this area and vacation homes for rent, visit www.visitfloridabeaches.com.
Posted by: alysong | January 20, 2009 at 10:56 AM
each one like to travel to Morocco and specialy in Desert tracks everywhere and city imperials then live an adventure.also take camel trek ,bivouac into sand dunes of erg chebbi Merzouga.
for all can you look with http://www.moroccotours-secretsahara.com
Posted by: secretsahara | May 31, 2009 at 11:29 AM