Spring is all about being outside. Shake off the cold and start this sunny season with the perfect trip to one of our top 10 spring destinations.
Washington, DC
This northeastern political city sheds its suit and tie for flip flops and flowers during the National Cherry Blossom Festival each April. The buds were given from Tokyo in 1912 to celebrate Japan’s relationship with the United States. Walk through the floral maze and catch the Smithsonian Kite Festival, Cherry Blossom Photo Safaris, afternoon teas and a fireworks show.
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
The only thing better than spending a sunny afternoon by one of Amsterdam’s peaceful canals, is wandering through the endless array of brightly colored tulips. Seven million bulbs are planted twice a year at Keukenhof Gardens which is just 20 minutes outside the city, and showcases Holland’s national symbol in all its glory.
Paris, France
Who doesn’t love Paris in the springtime? Visit in April or May to see the Foire de Paris – a celebrated wine and food festival, or Foire du Trone, which caters toward children and families. In May, catch Museum Night, where some of the world’s most magnificent museums stay open all night long. For a daytime treat, explore the Jardin des Tuileries, which stretches from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde.
Galapagos Islands
Not that you need another reason to want to go here, but May specifically is considered “low season” so it’s the best time to take advantage the natural environment, more populated with striking wildlife, looming volcanoes and exotic animals than human beings.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston thaws out and readies itself for fierce competition in the spring. Few things beat Fenway Park in April, when the Red Sox storm the city, and on April 19, the Boston Marathon brings fans from every corner of the state to cheer on their favorite runners. Make a weekend of it, and head to Boston’s annual Beer Summit on Saturday, April 17th.
San Antonio, Texas
Visiting San Antonio during Fiesta Week puts you in the center of the city’s history. Stroll along the River Walk where the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto are honored, and the city lights up with carnivals, parades, and parties. The party kicks off April 15 – 25 with food, art displays, and a champagne brunch.
Ottawa, Canada
Celebrate the 65th anniversary of the Canadian Tulip Festival this May in Ottawa. Tulips are displayed throughout the city, and especially Commissioner’s Park on Dow’s Lake, where 300,000 bulbs are planted. The festival incorporates free live music performances and family attractions. Visit this year any time from May 7-24.
Yosemite National Park, California
When the chill melts and the ground softens, nature makes way for new growth – which is why spring is the perfect time to experience Yosemite National Park in California. The waterfalls are at their best, and all along the trails dogwoods, greens, and baby animals fill the blossoming environment. Crowds that make their way during the summer don’t begin just yet, so take advantage of the peace and quiet and visit now.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Spend one of the first weekends in spring celebrating The Big Easy’s French Quarter Festival. The largest free music festival in the south, this jazz-infused fête yields performances across 18 stages that span from the French Quarter to the banks of the Mississippi River. Get ready for a scintillating medley of jazz, blues, gospel, classical and zydeco (not to mention 90 food and beverage booths) April 9-11.
Louisville, Kentucky
Big hats and big engines are two ordinarily unrelated things until the first Saturday in May, when Churchill Downs fills with ladies and gentlemen sipping mint juleps and taking part in traditional Southern horse-racing. Kick off the warm weather with your very own fashion statement and check out the Kentucky Derby Museum when you’re done.
