22 Best Family-Friendly Spring Break Destinations on the East Coast

Are you looking for the best spring break destinations on the East Coast for families? We’ve got you covered!

We love spring break!

It’s that time of year when the weather starts to tease us with a few warm days and we all get cabin fever.

It’s always fun to dream about luxurious spring break destinations, but sometimes you don’t have the budget or the time. Luckily, there are several great options for spring break closer to home.

We’ve traveled to many of these East Coast spring break destinations. Sometimes we spent a long weekend. Other times, a full week. They all offer fun for families and won’t necessarily break the bank.

If you’re looking for some great ideas on what to do for spring break with your family, you’ve come to the right place. The guide below shares spring break destinations for families if you love visiting cities, the beach, or anywhere in between. Let’s check them out!

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Spring Break Destinations on the East Coast

1. St. Petersburg, FL

Month	High	Low
March	76°F	58°F
April	81°F	63°F

St. Petersburg in Florida is the perfect spring break destination for families! With something for everyone, this town has it all: beaches, kayaking, and boat tours for outdoor lovers.

There are also plenty of museums and shopping for those looking to spend some time inside. And St. Petersburg is close to Tampa, giving visitors even more fun options like ZooTampa, Busch Gardens, and the aquarium.

Baseball lovers will especially enjoy this area for spring break, as many Major League Baseball teams complete their spring training near St. Petersburg. Fans can easily catch a Yankees, Phillies, or Blue Jays game within a short drive from town.

2. Outer Banks

Month	High	Low
March	59°F	45°F
April	66°F	53°F

The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a popular summer destination for families, but it can be fun over spring break, too!

With fewer crowds and off-season pricing, the Outer Banks is an inviting spring break destination for families looking to relax and unwind.

With average temperatures of 65-70°, it’ll feel like summer for those coming from the colder states.

🤩 Learn all about the “Lost Colony” on this walking tour

Shops and restaurants are starting to open up again in March, giving spring breakers first dibs on new offerings. Museums, lighthouses, and other attractions are open as well! Even if the weather isn’t cooperative, there are plenty of things to do when it’s raining.

And for those who love to fish, March through May is known as the best time for surf fishing in the Outer Banks.

3. New York City

Month	High	Low
March	50°F	35°F
April	60°F	44°F

What? Did we put New York City on a spring break ideas list? Yes, we did!

Whether it’s hot or freezing cold, New York makes a beautiful spring break destination for families. Between the sightseeing, museums, and Broadway theater, you can fill an entire week and still have more to do on another visit.

Between March and April, the weather in New York City can fluctuate. You may get lucky and catch a beautiful 60-70° day! That’s the perfect time to visit Central Park. Of course, you could also experience a massive snowstorm.

🤩 Enjoy a self-guided tour around Central Park!

No matter what, the weather will not ruin your fun. You can avoid the snow by using the subway. And even if it’s freezing, there still is plenty to do in New York City.

New York can be expensive. However, you can keep your budget in check by visiting some of the FREE and inexpensive attractions. Like riding the Staten Island Ferry!

4. Myrtle Beach, SC

Month	High	Low
March	64°F	43°F
April	72°F	52°F

Like the Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach is hopping during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do over spring break!

Myrtle Beach has tons of events starting in March, including concerts, car shows, and Irish Festivals.

One of the best things about a family spring break in Myrtle Beach is the hotels! Many of them have indoor waterparks with slides and lazy rivers. So it doesn’t matter what the weather is doing outside.

No matter what the weather may bring, you’ll be sure to have a great time. Other attractions like Ripley’s Believe it Or Not, Alligator Adventure, and even Medieval Times give you plenty of ways to spend your time.

5. Florida Keys

Month	High	Low
March	78°F	68°F
April	81°F	72°F

The Florida Keys encompasses a large area. From Key Largo to Key West, it’s 113 miles, crossing over 44 islands and 42 bridges. That gives you and your family plenty of things to do on your family spring break.

If snorkeling and scuba diving appeal to you, Key Largo is the island to be. With John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo, you’ll be able to fill your days with tons of ocean fun.

In particular, Key West is an exceptionally great spring break destination on the East Coast. You can start your visit with a trip to the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. Not only can you enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, but you can snorkel right from the beach.

🚣‍♀️Try this kayak tour through the mangroves

You can also watch the sunrise at South Beach or ride the conch tour train. This experience is 90 minutes long and teaches you about the area’s history. Afterward, grab a slice of key lime pie at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe and visit the Ernest Hemmingway House. 

Just don’t leave without experiencing the area’s vibrant nightlife scene. Just head to Duval Street and check out bars like Flying Monkeys, The Rum Bar, and Sloppy Joe’s. They are easily some of the best bars in Key West.

There is also plenty for families between Key Largo and Key West. Some of the best family-friendly attractions in Islamorada. Feeding the tarpon at Robbie’s has become a standard activity on the Keys. And the Theater of the Sea is a fun place to see and learn about rescued marine animals.

6. Philadelphia, PA

Month	High	Low
March	53°F	34°F
April	64°F	44°F

Often overlooked compared to its larger neighbors, Philadelphia has more to do than most people are aware of.

Like New York, its weather in March and April can vary. But it can be fun to visit Philadelphia in the colder and warmer months.

🤩 A Hop-On / Hop-Off tour is a great way to see Philadelphia!

Suppose you want your kids to learn a bit of history while on your family spring break; the Old City area of Philadelphia will have you covered. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross’s house are just a few of the historical attractions that keep your kids entertained and educated at the same time.

Philadelphia is also home to more than 100 museums! Philadelphia has a museum that your kids would love to visit, from art to science, American history to ancient history, and everywhere in between.

And don’t forget to check out the waterfront with areas like Penn’s Landing and the Spruce Street Harbor Park.

7. Williamsburg, VA

Month	High	Low
March	59°F	38°F
April	69°F	46°F

Include a little education with this fantastic family spring break destination with a fun getaway to Williamsburg, Virginia!

 Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestowne, and Yorktown make for a fun way to learn about history. Take a tour of the historic buildings, experience a traditional colonial meal, or even go for a ghost walk! There are plenty of options for your family to learn and have fun simultaneously.

🤩 The America’s Historic Triangle ticket gives access to all of the sites!

Williamsburg offers more than just history. Families looking for a bit of excitement will love Busch Gardens amusement park. And if you’re looking for a bit of fun in the sun, Virginia Beach is only an hour away.

We love Williamsburg as a family spring break destination due to the many hotel options surrounding the area. Several resorts feature apartment-style rooms, with up to three bedrooms and a full kitchen.

8. Washington, DC

Month	High	Low
March	53°F	35°F
April	64°F	44°F

Everyone plans a family vacation to Washington, DC, at least once. It is a perfect place for spring break with the family thanks to the many FREE museums and attractions in the city.

The weather can still be cold in March but very mild in April, ideal for walking around outside. And you’ll do a lot of walking in Washington, DC!

One of the most significant events is the National Cherry Blossom Festival, typically from mid-March through mid-April. Or you can spend time on the waterfront! The District Wharf has many shops and restaurants, and events throughout the year.

There is a lot to do surrounding Washington, DC as well, like visiting Arlington Cemetery or George Washington’s estate, Mount Vernon. There is also a lot to do and see in Alexandria, Virginia, which is only a 20-minute Metro ride away from DC.

9. Atlanta, GA

Month	High	Low
March	72°F	54°F
April	82°F	64°F

If you want to visit a big city but would rather not worry about snow and cold weather, Atlanta is a great spring break destination for your family. Downtown Atlanta has plenty to offer to keep your kids entertained.

From the world-renown Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola to the SkyView Ferris wheel, you can spend an entire day without having to travel too far.

🤩 An Atlanta CityPASS will get your entrance to many popular attractions

If you’d rather spend some outdoors, places like the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Zoo Atlanta, and the Fernbank Museum are great options. Even the Atlanta History Center, which is part living history and part museum, gives visitors the opportunity to explore outside.

10. Charleston, SC

Month	High	Low
March	70°F	47°F
April	76°F	53°F

Charleston is a popular spring break destination – and with good reason. Located on the Lowcountry coast of South Carolina, Charleston has a mild temperature, making it a great spring destination.

There are so many things to do in Charleston, SC, from beaches to history and even shopping.

Incredible beaches line the shore, ranging from tranquil waters perfect for bathing to popular surfing spots. After enjoying the sun, there are endless restaurants ranging from fresh seafood to typical Lowcountry Cuisine and even upscale dining.

Visit the historic downtown area to enjoy some of the area’s beautiful old houses and history. Popular spots include Rainbow Row, Battery Park, the Charleston City Market, and historic King Street. Take a walking tour to learn more about the area or visit one of the impressive local museums.

🐴 Take a historic horse and carriage ride through the city!

The new International African American Museum follows the history of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and Black accomplishments throughout history. Just next door is the visitor’s center for Fort Sumter, where tourists can book a ferry to the historic fort.

Finally, leave space in your bags because Charleston is an excellent destination for shopping. King Street is lined with boutiques and local shops, while the Charleston City Market hosts vendors selling all sorts of wares, including the famous Sweetgrass Baskets.

11. Gettysburg, PA

Month	High	Low
March	52°F	30°F
April	64°F	40°F

Taking the family to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, for spring break offers a unique
blend of educational and entertaining experiences for visitors of all ages.
Although the town is best known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, you will find
that it offers much more than just a history lesson.

As spring blossoms, Gettysburg’s scenic landscapes come alive, making it the
perfect time for exploring the 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park.
Interactive tours, led by knowledgeable guides, bring history to life in a way that is
engaging to both kids and adults. The park also offers numerous walking trails and
picnic spots, ideal for enjoying the mild weather.

🤩 Take a self-guided driving tour of Gettysburg National Battlefield

Another highlight in Gettysburg is the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the home
and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This site offers a glimpse into the life
of the 34th President and is great for young history buffs.

Everyone in the family should keep their eyes open for objects that are hidden in
plain sight, like artillery shells still lodged in buildings and a cannon from the War
of 1812 that remains lodged in the sidewalk.

Crowds are lighter in March and April, making it a great time to visit this historic small town in Pennsylvania.

12. The Florida Space Coast

Month	High	Low
March	77°F	55°F
April	81°F	60°F

Consider Florida’s Space Coast, the coastline surrounding Kennedy Space Center, including famous Cocoa Beach, for your next spring break on the east coast.

Coming to Florida in March and April is perfect for beating the Florida summer heat while still being warm enough for those needing a winter reprieve. Think highs in the mid to upper 70s and lows in the upper 60s. 

It is an excellent destination for kids because you can mix beach days with a fun and educational visit to the Kennedy Space Center. At NASA, you can see rockets, go on tours, play in a massive space-themed indoor playground, and try astronaut ice cream. You may even be lucky enough to catch a rocket launch, a much more frequent occurrence now with SpaceX.  

There are beautiful beaches all along the coast. For the buzz of Spring Break, hit Cocoa Beach, or for a chiller atmosphere, head south of Cocoa.

🚣‍♀️Try a self-guided kayaking manatee and dolphin tour

In Cocoa, you could easily spend a whole afternoon in the massive Ron Jon’s Surf Shop. For more family-friendly activities, you could also spend a day at the Brevard Zoo or paddle boarding and kayaking on the many canals off the rivers and explore islands like Samson Island.

13. New Orleans, LA

Month	High	Low
March	72°F	53°F
April	78°F	60°F

Not officially on the east coast, but we’re sliding in New Orleans as a great option if you’re looking for a good time spring break. Live music, delicious food, and living history fill the streets, making it a great family getaway destination. 

Weather-wise, March and April are great months to visit New Orleans. With an average high temperature of 76° F, it’s the perfect weather to explore The Big Easy on foot. Travelers won’t have to worry too much about rain, and springtime falls outside the hurricane season as well.  

🚣‍♀️ Explore the bayou on this airboat ride

There are so many amazing things to do with kids in New Orleans. Young families traveling to New Orleans will love spending time in City Park. More than just play areas and greenery, you can enjoy a small amusement park, miniature golf, pedal boating, and so much more! Consider purchasing as Go City Pass to enjoy them all.

Families with older children will love the culture and history of the city. Whether you spend time exploring the French Quarter and the Garden District, taking a history lesson at the WWII Museum, enjoying some live music, or taking a river cruise, 

Don’t rule New Orleans out when planning your East Coast spring break getaway! 

14. Hilton Head Island, SC

Month	High	Low
March	69°F	49°F
April	75°F	55°F

Hilton Head Island is one of the Southeast’s top family-friendly beach destinations in the Atlantic. The island is open and operating year-round (unlike other beach towns), so visitors can experience all that it has to offer in early Spring without all of the traffic that comes during the Summer. 

Hilton Head offers access to historical sites, fun tourist activities for families with kids of any age, and beaches with private and public access points. 

Beaches on Hilton Head Island are known to be the busiest from Memorial Day through Labor Day, which makes March and April the perfect time to schedule a relaxing beach trip. Coligny is the most popular beach on the island, but, as such, it is usually the busiest. You can find a complete list of beach parks (including maps and parking information) here.

🐬Look our for dolphins on this fun boat ride

Some of the best things to do in Hilton Head are actually not on the beach, though. If the water is still a little chilly when you visit in the spring, try exploring The Sandbox Children’s Museum, spending a day at sea on one of their amazing dolphin tours, or visiting a historical site like the Harbour Town Lighthouse. The list of activities here is endless!

15. Portland, ME

Month	High	Low
March	42°F	25°F
April	53°F	35°F

Portland, Maine, is a charming and vibrant city with much to offer, making it a great destination for spring break, especially for families.

With the weather warming up from winter, Portland offers many picturesque views and outdoor adventures for your family to explore over spring break. Check out the historic Portland Head Light and take a walk along the coast to see views of Casco Bay and the rocky shoreline. You can also walk through the trails at Fore River Sanctuary for more nature experiences.

While in Portland, you cannot miss out on exploring Old Port. Lined with cobbled-stone streets, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants, your family will enjoy an outing here! You can also join in a donut-tasting walking tour in Old Port for some sweet treats!

🐬Take a historical walking tour through Old Port

If you plan to visit in early March, you can experience the Winter Fun at Carnaval, Maine, which happens in Old Port. The kids can enjoy face painting and craft making while you can try some local craft brews and food pairings. 

However you and your family decide to explore Portland, Maine, you won’t regret spending your spring break vacation here! 

16. St. Augustine, FL

Month	High	Low
March	72°F	55°F
April	77°F	60°F

Families looking to escape during spring break can experience the perfect trip in Saint Augustine, Florida. Located on Florida’s east coast and just an hour south of Jacksonville, families can enjoy an array of activities and fun in the sun.

Families can immerse themselves in history by exploring the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, one of the oldest masonry forts in the United States. For something more laid back, families can enjoy an Old Town Trolley tour through Downtown Saint Augustine. Or perhaps you can visit Saint Augustine’s Alligator Farm, which is usually a hit with the little ones.

😎 Visit multiple museums and ride the trolley with this pass

Of course, while you’re visiting Saint Augustine, you’ll want to enjoy the beaches. What’s great about Saint Augustine is that the beach crowds are usually lower here than other beaches across Florida during spring break. Another unique factor is that there are several entry points to the beach where you can drive on the beach for a small fee.

Whether you’re seeking relaxing days in the sun on the beach or hoping to explore Saint Augustine’s charm, the family is sure to love this beautiful city on their spring break getaway.

17. Savannah, GA

Month	High	Low
March	70°F	50°F
April	77°F	57°F

Savannah, Georgia, is a year-round location. However, it is particularly splendid to visit during spring.

Firstly, the weather is warm and comfortable to walk around in. The temperatures usually range from 60°F to 70°F.

Secondly, the entire area becomes gorgeous during spring. Gorgeous azalea flowers start to bloom at iconic attractions such as Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery.

As for activities, you will have so much to do. You can take a riverboat cruise to various landmarks. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint John The Baptist is also definitely worth adding to your Savannah itinerary. There are also plenty of family-friendly museums where you can learn more about Savannah’s history.

😎 Visit multiple museums and ride the trolley with this pass

You can also consider taking a beach trip to Tybee Island, which is less than an hour away.

Finally, if you’re visiting during Saint Patrick’s Day, you can also take part in their annual Saint Patrick’s parade, which is such a fun way to bring the locals and tourists together!

18. Tampa, FL

Month	High	Low
March	78°F	59°F
April	84°F	66°F

As Florida’s third largest city, Tampa has a lot to offer, from theme parks and beaches to a stellar art scene and natural beauty. The city also enjoys nice warm weather in March and April, with highs in the upper 70s and low 80s. Best of all, Tampa has a whopping 361 days of sunshine every year!

🚋 Learn about Savannah’s history on this trolley tour

With all that sunshine, hitting the beach should be at the top of your list. For example, some of the most popular beaches in Tampa are the Ben T. Davis and Davis Islands Beaches, and you’re also just a short drive away from some of the state’s most iconic beaches, like Clearwater.

For more spring break fun, one of the best things to do is to spot manatees, a large marine mammal that migrates from the chilly waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean to the warm waters of Florida’s springs from November through March.

There’s a manatee hotspot in Tampa itself by the Tampa Electric Co. (they love the warm water that the plant discharges!), which has its own wooden platform overlooking the water.

Alternatively, for a more up close and personal experience, consider heading about an hour north to Crystal River, which is one of the best places to snorkel in Florida with the manatees!

For a different kind of adventure, consider a stop at Busch Gardens, a family-friendly theme park. It offers everything from water rides to classics, like bumper cars and a merry-go-round to an eye-popping ten rollercoasters—plus it’s a lot more affordable than some of its neighboring theme parks in Florida!

19. New Jersey

Month	High	Low
March	50°F	38°F
April	67°F	43°F

New Jersey is one of the most overlooked spring destinations in the United States!

With all of New Jersey’s flower farms and gardens, there’s a reason why it’s called the Garden State! During springtime, you can find parks filled with beautiful cherry blossoms, Dutch-style tulip fields, stunning rose gardens, and lavender fields later in the season.

New Jersey is a diverse state that has it all with a beautiful coastline to enjoy during the summer months, mountains with woodland trails that illuminate in golden colors during autumn, a ski mountain to visit in the winter, and flower farms, gardens, wineries, and incredible restaurants to experience during springtime.

There’s an ongoing argument about whether Central Jersey exists. Yes, there’s North Jersey and South Jersey, but a sliver of magical land splits the state where you can experience the highlight of spring activities. This area is considered Central Jersey!

Some of the top things to do in Central Jersey during a spring break trip are to visit Holland Ridge Farms in Cream Ridge, NJ, for tulip picking; take a cooking class at Ninety Acres at Natirar in Peapack-Gladstone; or bike ride around the gardens, waterfalls, and woodland trails at Duke Farms in Hillsborough.

The closest airport to fly into to experience all of New Jersey’s best springtime activities is Newark Liberty International Airport. When you land in Newark, NJ, you must also visit Branch Brook Park to see the incredible cherry blossoms!

20. Miami, FL

Month	High	Low
March	77°F	67°F
April	80°F	70°F

Miami, Florida, is a great spring break destination for the entire family! The main attraction is the beach, which can be enjoyed all day long. Staying at a hotel or resort with direct beach access is ideal for families.

These resorts often have large pools on premises, with restaurants and cafes. I recommend mid-beach or north beach, as they’re quieter and more family-friendly.

Additionally, families can enjoy water activities like boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis. Active families will enjoy biking along the waterfront promenade. You can bike down to South Beach and watch the sunset at South Pointe Park.

For the more adventurous, take a day trip to Everglades National Park to see huge alligators and other interesting wildlife. If not looking to venture too far, Jungle Island is a great option, as it has animal interaction experiences and exhibits for all to enjoy, right in the heart of the city.

In case of a rainy day, the Frost Science Museum is a great indoor option.

21. New Smyrna Beach, FL

Month	High	Low
March	75°F	57°F
April	80°F	62°F

You’ve probably heard of Daytona Beach, an infamous college Spring Break destination. But did you know that just south of Daytona is a quaint beach town that has a much more laid-back, kid-friendly vibe?

New Smyrna Beach on Florida’s east coast has so much to offer year-round, and it is the perfect family spring break destination on the east coast.

Now, Florida is a tropical paradise pretty much year-round, but springtime is when the coastal towns really shine. The temperatures are less humid than in the summer, less mosquitos to bother, and the threat of storms is almost non-existent in March and April.

🐬 Try a dolphin and manatee adventure tour!

Visitors will love the wide range of activities in New Smyrna for all ages and activity levels. Some of the best family things to do in New Smyrna Beach include looking for shells and shark teeth along the shore, climbing the tallest lighthouse in Florida, paddling the Intracoastal waterways, and watching a rocket launch. And, of course, riding the waves – New Smyrna is consistently voted one of the top surfing destinations in the world, after all!

There are also over-the-top and wacky restaurants, including one built out of a treehouse and one delectable spot called The Garlic that makes the term “junk chic” make sense. Or stop into a seafood joint right on the water where you can watch the boats come in and even spot a manatee or dolphin! 

22. Fort Myers Bleach, FL

Month	High	Low
March	81°F	59°F
April	85°F	63°F

Fort Myers Beach, Florida, is one of the best places in Florida for Spring Break. With a stunning coastline, abundant seashells, and plenty of activities for all ages, don’t miss out on an East Coast Spring Break in Fort Myers Beach.

Every day, as the tide goes out, you’ll see people walking along the waterline on the beach with their eyes trained on the ground. That’s because Fort Myers has some of the prettiest seashells in the country. It’s well-known for being a great place to collect shells to bring home with you.

If you want more water activities, some of the top things to do in Fort Myers Beach include kayaking, paddle boarding, renting a jet ski, or even parasailing if the weather is right for it. Plus, you can do some Florida hiking at the Six Mile Slough Preserve or learn Florida history at Koreshan State Park or the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.

End your day with a sunset cruise as dolphins accompany your boat out to enjoy the sun sinking into the horizon before or after you grab dinner. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving local seafood and Florida’s best-known dessert, key lime pie.

Fort Myers Beach is a great place to relax on the beach if you want a slower-paced vacation, but there is also plenty to do to keep your whole family busy.

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