Spring break seemed to come out of nowhere, didn’t it? One minute it was winter, and the next minute, you’re scrambling to find a last-minute destination to enjoy some time with your family. If you’re like us and need some ideas for a family-friendly getaway, you’re in luck! Here are four fun destinations, all with something different to offer.
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Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
This family-friendly city in the Great Smoky Mountains offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages. Country Cascades Waterpark Resort is a great place for families to stay, with themed suites and plenty of on-site entertainment options like bowling, rock climbing and gemstone mining. Active kids will love TopJump Trampoline and Extreme Arena for its trampolines and ninja courses, Crave Golf Club for creatively designed mini golf courses, and The Island, which features the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and carnival-like rides.
For dining, don’t miss The Old Mill Restaurant for Southern comfort food set in a beautiful and historic setting, Local Goat for locally sourced dishes, and West By God CoalFired Pizza for delicious pizza cooked in a coal-powered oven.
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Saint Louis, Missouri
One of the many great things about the Gateway City is its wide array of free museums. You can make a whole family trip just visiting free museums and parks! Museums with free general admission include the Saint Louis Science Center, which offers interactive exhibits where kids can learn about space, dinosaurs and lots more. The Missouri History Museum takes visitors on a journey through the state’s rich history with engaging displays and hands-on activities. And don’t forget about the Saint Louis Art Museum, where you can explore an extensive collection of art from around the world. When you’re ready to venture outside, explore Citygarden, a vibrant sculpture park with plenty of green spaces for picnicking and playing. The Saint Louis Zoo is a must-visit, with over 19,000 animals to marvel at, including penguins, lions and elephants.
Make sure to also put the iconic Gateway Arch at the top of your must-visit list! This breathtaking monument is not only a symbol of the city but also offers an incredible experience for families. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River below.
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Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Spring break is a great time to visit the “Waterpark Capital of the World.” This southern Wisconsin city offers more than 20 indoor and outdoor waterparks, as well as a variety of other attractions. If you’re visiting in the spring before the temps heat up, you’ll want to opt for indoor water parks. Head to Kalahari Resort Waterpark, one of the largest indoor waterparks in the United States, for exciting water attractions like a wave pool and thrilling water slides. Great Wolf Lodge offers a toddler-friendly indoor waterpark, plus lots of indoor water slides for bigger kids and a lazy river for everyone.
Dining options for families abound, with unique spots like Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty and Buffalo Phil’s Grill, where dinner is delivered by a model train. The Wisconsin Dells is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable family getaway.
Fairfield County, Ohio
Located just southeast of Columbus, Fairfield County has activities that will suit every interest. Let your child’s imagination run wild at the AHA! Children’s Museum, and explore more than 60 hands-on exhibits. Children from 6 months to 8 years of age can become explorers, scientists, engineers and artists — and grownups will have fun, too!
Get messy and make a masterpiece at Young at Art, an art studio that provides lessons throughout the year. Their Splatter Studio would make a great indoor spring break activity, especially on a chilly day.
Satisfy your family’s sugar cravings on the Sweet Tooth Trail, which will have you exploring ice cream, donut and candy shops all around Fairfield County. With close to 20 stops on this trail, you’ll need to pace yourself to avoid a tummy ache and sugar crash!
Mackinac Island, Michigan
For those looking for a late spring destination, Mackinac Island is a great place to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This historic and quaint island offers a variety of activities. Such as hiking and horseback riding through wooded trails, relaxing in Adirondack chairs on the beach, shopping in town, and lots more. Mackinac Island’s season begins in May and goes through October, so now is a great time to start planning your trip!
Learn about the island’s rich history by visiting iconic landmarks, like Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Catch a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to clip-clop your way around town in a behind-the-scenes tour. And, of course, no trip to Mackinac Island is complete without trying some of the town’s mouthwatering, world-famous fudge!
