The excitement of fall is often associated with changing leaves, crisp air, and pumpkin spice. You might also get excited about planning a spring vacation that’s more affordable and has even better weather. US News Money recommends planning your trip one to three months in advance to get the best deals on domestic travel. This three-month wall allows for deeper investigation.
Once you’ve decided where to go and stay, you can take a little more time to consider what you’ll do once you arrive. Check out these 5 travel suggestions for planning your spring vacation this fall.
Washington DC
eric decker
Cherry blossoms and our nation’s capital are just two reasons why a trip to Washington, DC, in the spring is highly recommended. It was also featured in CNN Travel’s list of “10 Best Budget Travels for Spring.” Flight tickets now cost less than $300. If you’re within a few hours of this city known for its museums and monuments, another option is to take the train.
new orleans louisiana
Sade F.
Spring in New Orleans means festival season. The spring season, just after Mardi Gras, is when the city quiets down from the hustle and bustle of tourists to the pace of locals. Spring brings many holidays, and the Big Easy still celebrates in the form of parades. A trip to New Orleans is less than $500 in both March and April, but you can’t put a price on this city’s amazing food, rich history, and preserved culture.
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
Phil Evenden
Cape Ann, a New England fishing village based in Massachusetts, deserves to be on your list of spring vacation destinations. If you love seafood in particular, you’ll love the lobster mania in New England fishing villages this time of year. Just a 45-minute drive from Boston and Gloucester, Cape Ann offers historic lighthouses and fresh-food dining experiences. Flight tickets in April and May cost about $300.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Brooke Vandy
The tropical vibe of sand and sun isn’t just limited to summer, especially when you’re within driving or plane distance. Biking, kayaking, and fishing are among the many activities outdoor enthusiasts do when in town. Whether you’re poolside or beachside this spring, enjoy a slower pace on Sanibel Island, with flights in April and May for around $300.
joshua tree, california
Pixabay
A popular desert destination in California, Joshua Tree attracts many tourists in the spring. Temperatures range from the low 70s to 90s, which is much more pleasant than midsummer. Reconnect with nature on this spring getaway featuring dams, trails, wildflowers, and wildlife. You can drive from LAX to Joshua Tree in less than 3 hours, and fly from LAX to Palm Springs in less than 2 hours. Flight prices to Palm Springs from most destinations range from $300 to $500. Once you arrive in Palm Springs, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Joshua Tree.
Which trip would you add to your spring vacation list? If you’ve been to any of the five above, please also let us know what your favorite moment was.