15 Destinations to Visit in the Spring

This is the point in winter when Cabin Fever has lost its novelty and is actually starting to cause a few screws to come loose. Snowmen are not nearly as endearing, and you’d give an appendage to see some leaves on the trees. What to do while waiting for the snow plow to come through again? Why not plan a spring vacation to help you forget your shovels and Valentine’s Day disappointments.

The good folks over at US News & World Report have put together a list of locations that come alive in the spring. Here’s a look at some of the top locales from their list. Whether you’re interested in cultural events or just in need of a few more hours of warm sunshine, these destinations should fit just about everyone’s travel needs.

15. Charleston, SC

Average April Temperature (Fahrenheit): 72

Southern charm is just the beginning of a Charleston, SC vacation. Mild weather, lots of history and a great culinary tradition await on the coast. Visit the historical center, the Citadel, and the waterfront park before you leave. While this part of the country is a destination-must for golfers, if that’s not your sport, SEC Spring Football is just a short drive away in Columbia.

14. San Antonio, TX

Average April Temperature: 81

The River Walk and the Alamo are magic in the spring—lots of beautiful space to enjoy outdoors without being jostled by too many other visitors. April is also when the streets come alive with the city’s Fiesta, with parades, fireworks, and live music. You might even be able to dance off all the calories from the delicious Tex-Mex and chili you eat from the vendors!

13. Orlando, FL

Average April Temperature: 83

Theme Park City is great to visit in the spring—not nearly as many people or as humid as the summer months, but still warm and sunny. Don’t forget to get out of the Magic Kingdom or the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to take in one of the nearby state parks or the Harry P. Leu Gardens.

12. Monte Carlo, Monaco

Average April Temperature: 61

Venturing outside of the US during the spring can be renewing, as well. If luxury is your game, then Monte Carlo is the name for you. Between the glamorous beaches on the Mediterranean and the world-renowned casino, the city brings out the Bond character in everyone. Learn about Princess Grace Kelly, see where the Gran Prix takes place and enjoy delicious seafood in the tiny principality of Monaco.

Photo via Flickr user Artur Staszewski/Creative Commons

11. Cape Town, South Africa

Average April Temperature: 77

North America’s spring is South Africa’s fall, meaning mild temperatures and fewer locals on holiday. Whether you’re interested in a beach vacation, a mountain hike, or a city tour, Cape Town offers it all, along with a fascinating history. And don’t forget South Africa’s popular wine industry is alive and well in Cape Town.

Photo via Flickr user Derek Keats/Creative Commons

10. Bermuda

Average April Temperature: 71

While the resort town of Kokomo “off the Florida Keys” is fictional, the Beach Boys did have it right about taking a romantic vacation to Bermuda. Pink sands, high-end resorts, and blissful temperatures make the collection of islands an ideal destination, particularly in spring when winter pricing is still available. No guaranteed appearance of a steel drum band, though.

Photo via Flickr user JoshuaDavisPhotography/Creative Commons

9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average April Temperature: 76

If Carnival is not your thing, waiting a little longer into the spring months to avoid the hoopla in Rio is absolutely worth it. The warmth and vibrancy of the city is noticeable long beyond the wild parades and parties. Check out the beaches, samba with some locals, and tour the stadium that hosted the final of the 2014 World Cup.

8. Athens, Greece

Average April Temperature: 56

The most popular tourist destinations in the world are often less crowded during the spring, and Athens is no different. Not only do you avoid the crowds, you also can avoid some of the stifling heat that comes with the summer months. Get your fill of Greek food while you ponder the birthplace of philosophy and republic governments.

7. Washington, DC

Average April Temperature: 56

Two words: cherry blossoms. The pink buds are elusive and finicky, but once you see them, there can be no doubt winter is on its way out the door, no matter what any rodent has said. Go shopping in Georgetown, explore the pubs and restaurants on DuPont Circle, and enjoy some of the lesser-known museums on the mall, like the Freer Gallery. Plus, spring is a great time to catch a Washington Nationals baseball game.

6. San Diego, CA

Average April Temperature: 68

It's not just bears that end their hibernation in spring; the whole city of San Diego wakes up from its winter chill. In addition to all of the usual wonderful things that come alive in Southern California, spring marks the annual Coranado Flower Show with its vibrant floral displays (and a pretty sweet beer garden). But if bears are your thing, the world famous San Diego Zoo is a good start for a vacation activity.

5. Grand Canyon, AZ

Average April Temperature: 51

Nights are still very chilly in the Arizona desert this time of year, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy one of nature's greatest wonders during the spring. You'll have an easier time booking tours and getting around before school lets out for the summer.

Photo via Flickr user Ed Ouimette/Creative Commons

4. Paris, France

Average April Temperature: 52

Even US News and World Report admits that Paris in the springtime is cliché, but there are plenty of good reasons the city of lights is on this list. Outdoor seating at cafes open up, offering the chance to soak in some sun with your tiny coffee and pastry. The gardens around the Louvre are enjoyable any time of year, but the beginnings of new life on display in March and April add a bit more magic to the visit.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Average April Temperature: 47

There is never a bad time to visit Amsterdam, but the city thrives in the spring. Hop on a canal tour and see the historic buildings in a very civilized manner, or explore the Van Gogh museum and marvel at the unfshed masterpieces. But do not miss Keukenhof tulip festival just south of the city. You can take a bike through the fields upon fields of the spring bulb, or tour the specially designed theme gardens on display. Just don't forget to pack some orange clothing; the Dutch honor Queen's Day in April, and the whole country gets decked out in orange!

2. Vancouver, BC

Average April Temperature: 47

Secretly wishing you had taken that ski vacation over Christmas instead of visiting the in-laws? You can still get the best of the slopes and sunny days in Vancouver. The city puts on loads of festivals to welcome back warmer weather. With hip eateries, a vibrant outdoor lifestyle and plenty of access to both sea and mountains, the Pacific Northwest is a delightful choice for a spring getaway.

1. US Virgin Islands

Average April Temperature: 68

It doesn't get much better than turquoise water, pink sandy beaches and a dash of festival to shake off the winter doldrums. The U.S. Virgin Islands throw one heck of a Carribean Carnival every spring, and with off-peak flight and hotel rates, St. Thomas and St. Croix are pretty affordable destinations. So ditch that parka and book your trip, because everything gets better on island time.

Click here to view US News and World Report’s list.

Image via Flickr user Jeremy Hall/Creative Commons