A few weeks ago, I had a startling realization—Spring Break is coming up fast, and we have exactly zero plans. Not a single itinerary, reservation, or desperate Google search in sight. Now, I love a good Disney trip as much as the next dad (I mean, churros, right?), but I thought maybe this year we should mix it up. So, I turned to you guys for recommendations, and the verdict is in: We all just want some sun and warmth!
So, if you’re also scrambling to come up with something fun before your kids turn your living room into an obstacle course of chaos, here are some top Spring Break ideas that’ll keep everyone entertained (and, hopefully, keep your sanity intact).
Cruise into Spring Break (Literally)
The number one recommendation? A cruise! Nothing says “family bonding” like being trapped on a floating hotel with unlimited buffets and a slight risk of seasickness. But in all seriousness, cruises are an amazing way to get sun, relaxation, and entertainment all in one place.
Things to Know Before You Set Sail:
🛳 Most cruise cabins max out at four people. If you’re a bigger family, you’ll need multiple rooms or a special booking.
🛂 Passports required for international trips, but some U.S.-only cruises don’t need them. Double-check with your cruise line!
💰 Travel agents = secret deals. You might get cabin upgrades or onboard credits. A friend recommended checking out Vacations to Go for good discounts.
📍 Look at a map of the ship before booking—unless you enjoy being next to a noisy nightclub or, worse, the kid’s club (trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way).
🏝 Some cruise lines have private islands (aka paradise), so check if yours does!
Now, let’s talk about the best cruise options for families, ranked from “How much did that just cost?!” to “Okay, that’s not too bad.”
🏰 Disney Cruise: The Rolls Royce of Family Cruises
If your kids loved Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique on land, imagine their faces when they find out they can do it on a ship. Disney cruises are next-level, with Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, and the kind of service that makes you feel like royalty. But all that magic comes at a price—starting around $5,032 for a 3-night cruise for five people. Oof. If you’re interested in setting sail with Mickey, check out Disney Cruises here.
🏝 Royal Caribbean: The Ultimate Action-Packed Adventure
If you’ve seen the Icon of the Seas and thought, That looks like a floating amusement park, you’re right. This cruise line has it all—surf simulators, zip lines, and even an ice-skating rink (because nothing says vacation like falling on your face). Spring Break prices start at $496 per person for shorter cruises, and you might even score a “kids sail free” deal! Check out their current offerings here.
🎡 Carnival: The Fun, Loud, Budget-Friendly Option
Carnival is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, wild waterslides, and onboard SkyRide, where you can pedal a bike over the ocean. Cruises start around $300 per person, making it one of the more affordable options. If you’ve got little ones, they have great kids’ clubs and activities. More details here: Carnival Cruises.
🤖 MSC Cruises: Where Kids Always Sail Free (Seriously!)
MSC is the budget-friendly choice, and they know how to win over parents—kids sail free on many cruises! The MSC Seascape has 11 restaurants, an infinity pool, and even the first-ever robotic roller coaster at sea. Prices start at $300 per person, but you can upgrade to fancier rooms for a bit more. Check out their deals here: MSC Cruises.
Indoor Water Park Bliss at Great Wolf Lodge
If being surrounded by water but still having a solid floor under your feet sounds more appealing, Great Wolf Lodge is a top pick. It’s a massive indoor water park with locations all over the country (closest to Utah: Colorado Springs, CO, or Scottsdale, AZ).
Why It’s a Great Pick for Families:
🌊 Huge indoor water parks (so weather is never an issue).
🎯 Activities like rock climbing, mini golf, and a MagiQuest adventure where your kids can battle dragons and cast spells (and yes, you’ll end up playing too).
🛏 Family-sized rooms, some with separate kid areas (translation: you might actually get some sleep).
🏷 Spring Sale Alert! If you book by Sunday (Feb 23, 2025), you can get 40% off—meaning a 3-night stay for a family of six in Scottsdale starts at $1,278. Snag the deal here: Great Wolf Lodge.
Spring Training & Scottsdale Fun
Already heading to Scottsdale? Why not catch some Spring Training baseball? The San Francisco Giants and Colorado Rockies play in Scottsdale, but Arizona’s stadiums are so close together that you can see almost any team. Just make sure to go before March 25th—after that, the regular season starts.
Other Scottsdale Highlights:
🦋 Butterfly Wonderland ($32.95 per person) – Walk through a butterfly-filled rainforest!
🐺 Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center ($35 adults, $25 kids) – Like a zoo, but only for mammals!
🚂 McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (Free!) – Trains, a carousel, and a playground.
🐠 OdySea Aquarium ($49.95 adults, $39.95 kids) – Sharks, penguins, and a sloth—yes, a sloth!
🎈 Hot Air Balloon Rides – Not cheap, but an unforgettable bucket-list experience.
California Dreamin’
Ah, California—where we seem to migrate every Spring Break. The top recommended cities this year? San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles.
San Francisco
🏟 Giants Game (April 4-9) – Tickets start at $68.
🚢 Alcatraz Tour – Spooky but fun for older kids ($53.25 adults, $35.55 kids).
🍫 Ghirardelli Square – Because no trip is complete without chocolate.
San Diego
🐼 San Diego Zoo – Yes, giant pandas are back! Tickets are $76 for adults, $66 for kids.
🎢 SeaWorld – Roller coasters and dolphins—what’s not to love?
🌊 Coronado Beach – The perfect spot to let the kids run wild.
Los Angeles
🏰 Disneyland – Do I even need to explain? Three-day tickets for six: $2,415.
⚾ Angels & Dodgers Games – Baseball season is in full swing!
🎡 Santa Monica Pier – Games, rides, and a classic SoCal sunset.
Honorable Mentions
If you’re feeling extra adventurous:
🏔 Mount Rushmore – Because nothing says “family bonding” like giant stone faces.
🌊 Oregon Coast – Beautiful beaches, moody weather, and maybe even a whale sighting.
🎢 Dollywood (Tennessee) – Because roller coasters and country music make a great combo.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you go this Spring Break, just make sure it’s warm, fun, and doesn’t leave you needing a vacation from your vacation. Good luck, fellow parents—you got this!
