The spring break travel season is poised to be a busy and expensive one as Americans look to thaw out after a long winter.
Warm-weather cities and regions will be in high demand as will some ski-friendly mountain locales for those seeking one last winter blast before the seasons officially change.
Making the most of spring break requires pinpointing the places where you can achieve your goals without the crowds.
Here are some of the more underrated destinations to explore to enjoy a crowd-free spring break in 2025.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs with Pikes Peak in the background. (Photo Credit: Neil/Adobe)
A hidden gem nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs boasts fewer crowds than other Colorado cities like Denver and Aspen in addition to 300 days of sunshine.
Highlights here include splendid natural attractions like the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods as well as cultural standout sites like the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and the nation’s first and only U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum.
Visitors can also look forward to First Friday Downtown on the first Friday of every month and featuring dozens of galleries, retailers and nonprofits. Consider staying at the newly reimagined Mining Exchange Hotel to enhance your experience in this underrated destination.
The Maine Highlands
Head to the Maine Highlands for unrivaled outdoor adventure and unique attractions. Visitors can beat the crowds while exploring vast nature and wildlife in the Bangor City Forest and Hirundo Wildlife Refuge, for example.
Meanwhile, families can get hands-on at the interactive Maine Discovery Museum and partake in The Maine Science Festival from March 19-23. What’s more, travelers can explore iconic Stephen King landmarks, including the famed author’s house.
The Black Bear Inn and Ursa Hotel offer cozy accommodations. Plus, the Highlands feature an array of great restaurants, craft breweries and boutique shops offering one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Grote Knip beach, Curacao, Netherlands Antilles. (Photo Credit: Simon Dannhauer / Adobe Stock)
Curaçao
If a Caribbean getaway is in your future, consider Curaçao. This tropical destination isn’t getting any less popular but it still seamlessly blends adventure, relaxation and culture like few others. The island stands out for many things but perhaps nothing more than its colorful Dutch-influenced architecture and vibrant coral reefs.
When travelers aren’t restoring their spirit on Curaçao’s spectacular beaches they can explore the lively and colorful capital of Willemstad featuring inviting boutiques, art galleries and historic landmarks.
Visitors can even dive into a diverse culinary scene when they aren’t quite literally diving or snorkeling in the island’s crystal-clear waters or touring the beautiful Shete Boka National Park.
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort is the ultimate spring break retreat providing travelers with unparalleled luxury and convenience.
Cape Coral, Florida
This underrated Gulf Coast city might just be Florida’s best-kept secret. Cape Coral not only offers plentiful sunshine and March temperatures in the 80s but more than 400 miles of navigable canals and waterways and access to glorious beaches.
Sky view from The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. (Photo Credit: The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village)
To make the most of your spring break getaway, be sure to check into The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, Caloosahatchee River and San Carlos Bay, the resort boasts sprawling apartment-style accommodations and easy access to activities like bicycling, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding, among others.
Guests can also look forward to a complimentary two-hour dolphin cruise, rejuvenating on-site spa services, a trio of pools and waterfront dining.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Spring break in Mexico doesn’t have to be crowded beaches. San Miguel de Allende is a renowned destination in the center of the country, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s been named the friendliest city in the world on top of blending culture, art and history.
Visitors can tour lively streets, dine with scenic views from delectable rooftop restaurants and tour stunning landmarks like Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel while enjoying comfortable weather and premier accommodations and services at the luxurious Live Aqua San Miguel de Allende.
State Parks of Arkansas
Nature lovers less passionate about large crowds should set their sights on the sensational state parks across Arkansas. After all, Arkansas is the Natural State and boasts a whopping 52 state parks—all of which are free to visit.
Some can’t-miss protected lands include Murfreesboro’s Crater of Diamonds State Park, which is one of the few places on the planet where travelers can search for real diamonds in their natural volcanic source.
For scenic hikes, there’s Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton. Take the Cedar Falls Trail to the majestic 95-foot Cedar Falls before or after checking out Petit Jean Coffee, a charming community-focused coffee shop with stunning mountain views.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Roland can’t be beaten when it comes to stellar panoramic views of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, the Ouachita Mountains and West Little Rock. Traverls and also enjoy local hand-crafted ice cream at Loblolly Creamery’s newest outpost after the hike.
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