As the countdown to spring break 2024 begins, anticipation is high, and the excitement for adventure is palpable among students on college campuses everywhere. Between the stress of midterms, extracurriculars, and internship and job applications, spring break is a student’s opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family, away from the pressures of academic life. As it approaches time to hit pause on the constant hustle and bustle of campus life, where to go on spring break is a question on a lot of college student’s minds. Whether you prefer lounging on a beach with a cold drink in hand or getting to explore a new city’s vibrant streets, there’s a perfect spring break destination for every college student.
Whether it’s about budget, climate, or activities, there are tons of places that college students can visit during spring break. No matter where you choose to go, it’s a chance to recharge your batteries and return to campus ready to take on the rest of the semester, so take advantage! If you’re in need of some ideas on where to go, grab your sunscreen or your coat, pack your bags, and get ready to spend your long-awaited spring break making long lasting memories at one of these popular spring break destinations for college students.
- Panama City Beach, Florida
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Panama City is considered the spring break capital of the world, and for good reason. This Florida hotspot features beautiful beaches and some of the best nightlife there is to offer. Events are constantly taking place that college students would be interested in, and on top of that, it’s known for being budget-friendly.
- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
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Not everyone is able to go out of the country, but if you can, Cabo is one of the most popular spring break destinations for college students who aren’t spending the break within the United States. Cabo features warm weather and clear skies, and has a solid combination of daytime and nightlife activities.
- Las Vegas, Nevada
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Being old enough to gamble and (potentially) old enough to drink, exploring Vegas with a group of friends is an entertaining way to spend your spring break. With shows, special events, and even hiking, there’s no lack of things to do while exploring this city.
- South Padre, Texas
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South Padre is typically extremely popular for spring break, as it’s a cheaper beach destination and well known within the college crowd. Spend all day on the beach or visit nearby parks knowing you’re saving money. With the right group, this is a perfect spring break vacation spot.
- Crested Butte, Colorado
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Crested Butte is known for having the best snow conditions in March, aka when most college students are off for spring break. If you’re looking for a great place to ski or snowboard, this is the proper Colorado town to check out.
- Angel Fire, New Mexico
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Angel Fire is another popular ski and hiking destination that makes a good travel option for the break. This area is a lot more family friendly and boasts not just the typical activities you’d find in a ski town, but other opportunities for adventure like tubing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
- Austin, Texas
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If you’re looking for a city destination, Austin is a great location to spend your week. SXSW will take place at the start of March, which brings in a lot of people, and there are a range of activities to do, from visiting the Texas Capitol to spending the day in Zilker Park.
- Grand Canyon Park, Arizona
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Grand Canyon is on a lot of people’s bucket list, so checking it out over spring break is a great way to check it off. Traveling to this destination is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and destress with some hiking, all while taking in the gorgeous scenery.
- New Orleans, Louisiana
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Another popular destination with college students, New Orleans boasts a wild nightlife scene, and even if you missed Mardi Gras festivities, Bourbon Street stays lively all year around. Plus, they have some of the best food you can find in the country.
- Nashville, Tennessee
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Nashville is another great contender for a spring break trip because of the variety of attractions and activities. Nashville may be Music City, with many attractions that make good on that nickname, but there are tons of options to satisfy any interests you have.
- Orange Beach, Alabama
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This beach destination is a smaller town in Alabama that also attracts a lot of families during spring break. Alabama tends to be more laid back than most Florida destinations, and is still close enough to major hotspots in Florida to take a day trip, like Pensacola and Myrtle Grove.
- Yosemite National Park, California
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Another location to witness natural beauty, Yosemite National Park features amazing shops and restaurants on top of the beautiful park. Plus, it’s located in California, meaning the weather will be beautiful.
- Nassau, Bahamas
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The Bahamas capital has some of the most gorgeous beaches and beautiful coral reefs, where many love to snorkel, scuba dive, and fish. Plus, the island features plenty of bars, clubs, and casinos to enjoy.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
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Another beach that attracts a lot of families, Myrtle Beach is a wonderful place to visit. Visit the boardwalk, relax on the beach, or even play a round of golf. Any way you choose to celebrate your break, Myrtle Beach is one of the South Carolina destinations that offers the most to do.
- New York City, New York
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New York City is another place on a lot of people’s bucket lists, so why not go during your week of freedom? Whether visiting The Met, watching a Broadway show, or spending some time in Central Park, New York has many iconic spots to visit.
