Planning a Spring Break Trip? Put These Activities on Your Bucket List

Still trying to shake off that New Year’s slump? A spring break trip may be just what you need! 

Whether you’re a hard working millennial hoping to blow off some steam with your best gal pals or a family man looking to keep his three kids entertained, there’s always fun to be found in America’s biggest cities — even if you’re planning a staycation.

From Los Angeles to Miami, here’s a quick (and by no means complete) rundown of spring break activities happening in and around the United States' most popular vacation destinations.

The first thing any person visiting Florida should do is hit the beach. You’ve got plenty to choose from, but Miami’s official website can help narrow your search based on what you want to do — whether that’s sunbathing or taking a sunset stroll.

Those seeking a little adventure should consider taking a day trip to Key West or book a sightseeing cruise around Biscayne Bay (we recommend finding one that serves booze).

If you have kids in tow, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Zoo Miami or the Miami Children’s Museum, which hosts a Slime Break event that sounds truly epic.

With a motto like "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas," you best be ready to party. The iconic city has some of the best nightclubs in the country — Network in Vegas recommends you hit up Hakkasan at the MGM Grand and Foxtail at SLS in 2019 — but the alcohol starts flowing early at the many daytime pool parties located along the strip.

If you’re looking for a tamer, yet very Vegas, activity, check out one of the many shows that have taken up residency in Sin City, such as Cirque du Soleil or master magician David Copperfield. But for those in search of the perfect Instagram pic, the Neon Museum is a must-see.

Here’s a quick tip: don’t travel to NYC in March and April if you’re craving 80-degree weather. But, there’s never a bad time to visit the Big Apple. If you’re a first-timer, you have to hit up the predictable tourist attractions like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. They’re famous for a reason!

For those looking to get out of Manhattan, book an open-air bus tour that will take you through the city’s different boroughs, or hop on the Staten Island Ferry for a scenic trip through New York Harbor. (You’ll get a great view of Lady Liberty, too!)

But you can’t visit the city that never sleeps without taking in a Broadway show. Stop by a TKTS booth to get discount tickets to musicals like The Phantom of the Opera and Chicago.

Whether or not you’re traveling with kids, Universal Studios is jam-packed with awesome attractions, featuring new favorites like the Minions, and old Hollywood staples — there’s nothing quite like seeing the Bates Motel from Psycho up close!

You’ll take in some breathtaking views of downtown L.A. with a hike through Griffith Park, but if you’re planning a trip to the coast, we highly suggest you rent a bike to cover more ground.

For visitors looking for something truly unique, hit up the Dana Point Festival of Whales in Orange County from March 2-10. The event marks the annual gray whale migration from the shore with a parade and street fair.

Two words: Mardi Gras. This year, Fat Tuesday falls on March 5, so you better believe that Bourbon Street will be hopping. Thankfully, New Orleans has a website dedicated to helping you plan your trip, from hotels and bars to parades and concerts.

If you’re hoping to avoid the Mardi Gras crowd, book your visit for March 11 or later. There’s still plenty to do once all the beads have been distributed. The New Orleans Bourbon Festival runs from March 20-23 and Lafayette Square hosts a concert every Wednesday evening starting on March 20.

But, if we’re being honest, your main priority should be food. Grab oysters at Casamento’s Restaurant and Po-Boy’s at Domilise’s. Finish the night off with a beignet at Café du Monde because, well, duh.