While winters bring frigid and cold weather, spring in the U.S. is beautiful with its blossoms, vibrant blue skies, and unique experiences for every traveller. There are scenic drives, lively festivals, and outdoor adventures, all of which add to the experience of the visit.
If you are planning a trip to the U.S during the spring season, having a solid plan of the cities should enable you to have a worthwhile vacation. There’s something for every traveller to enjoy and experience during the spring season.
Whether it is national parks or cities ingrained with history, there are numerous spots to visit and explore, and this guide will walk you through the top 10.
1. Washington, D.C
- Best Time to Visit: Late March to early April
- Top Attractions: National Cherry Blossom Festival, National Mall, Smithsonian Museums
If you have 3-5 days to spend, Washington is the most beautiful springtime destination in the U.S. The National Cherry Blossom Festival paints the entire city in a light shade of pink, especially around the Tidal Basin. This occurs during early April, so ensure you book your tickets beforehand. Beyond the blossoms, head to the iconic Smithsonian Institution and walk around the historical monuments like the Lincoln Memorial. You can also plan a picnic at the National Mall or enjoy a great meal at Georgetown.
Check out our detailed guide on the Best Weather to Visit Different Parts of Earth to plan the perfect trip year-round.
2. Savannah, Georgia
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Top Attractions: Forsyth Park, River Street, Bonaventure Cemetery
Savannah’s southern charm is unmatched, especially if you are a fan of Spanish moss and azaleas, because they will be everywhere. The cobblestone pathways and the historic squares in the city centre further add to the travel experience of the place. The spring season in Savannah is perfect for you to stroll through Forsyth Park or enjoy a unique outdoor dining experience on River Street. Also, if you are a fan of festivals, don’t miss out on the Savannah Music Festival, which also happens during the spring season.
3. San Antonio, Texas
- Best Time to Visit: April
- Top Attractions: The Alamo, River Walk, San Antonio Missions
For a 4-5 day trip around Texas during the spring season, head to San Antonio. The time around mid-April is considered peak because the spring celebrations peak during this period. The festival initially started to honor the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo and has now evolved into a grand 10-day celebration where you can enjoy fairs, parades, cultural events, music, and much more. While there, plan a stroll around the River Walk where you will find numerous cafes, markets, etc.
Learn the subtle distinctions and origins between the terms used for the season after summer in our in-depth comparison here.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Top Attractions: Magnolia Plantation, Historic District, Waterfront Park
If you are a fan of historical spots and like to learn more about the history of a place, Charleston is another excellent springtime destination in the U.S for you to consider. The combination of blooming gardens, antebellum architecture, and mild temperatures makes it a fantastic experience to walk through. One of the most popular spots in the city is the iconic Historic District, where the cobblestone alleys and churches add to your historical knowledge. Also, Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place are in full bloom during spring, making them a feast for the eyes.
5. Skagit Valley, Washington
- Best Time to Visit: April
- Top Attractions: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Roozengaarde Display Garden, La Conner
Tulip lovers should head to Skagit Valley in spring, specifically in April. The highlight of this place is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which paints the entire landscape in different bright colors of red, pinks, yellows, and purples. The countryside is filled with rows of blooming tulips, making it an excellent time for tulip photography, if you are interested in the same. While there, visit the nearby town of La Conner to check out the local art galleries and thrift stores. The laid-back vibe of this place is truly remarkable for individuals looking for an escape from the hustle of city life.
6. Asheville, North Carolina
- Best Time to Visit: April to May
- Top Attractions: Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Parkway, River Arts District
For garden walks and mountain drives during the spring season, head to Asheville in North Carolina. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this is a nature lover’s dream, especially during spring. The entire mountain region of this town is covered in wildflowers and rhododendrons during the spring season, enabling you to experience scenic drives through the blooming landscapes. Downtime Asheville is also known for its vibrant art scene with live music and excellent craft breweries, making it an unbeatable destination during the spring season.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Top Attractions: French Quarter, Garden District, Audubon Park
Beyond the charm and fun of Mardi Gras, New Orleans has a lot more to offer, especially during the spring season. If you want a laid-back and relaxing travel experience, this is potentially one of the best destinations to visit and explore. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, held in late April and early May, is a major spring highlight, featuring top musicians, food vendors, and cultural performances. You can also consider a walking tour through the Garden District, adding to the fun of the vacation.
Make your journey smoother with our complete resource on checking conditions before hitting the road—find the full guide here.
8. Sedona, Arizona
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Top Attractions: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Oak Creek Canyon
For a unique spring destination in the U.S., head to Sedona in Arizona, renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes and blooming desert flora. Despite being a desert area, springtime contributes to the blooming of thousands of different wildflowers and cactus blossoms, which are bound to enhance your travel experience during the spring season. The mornings are cool and afternoons are warm, so if you are into hiking, there are several trails you can check out.
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-April to May
- Top Attractions: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Roaring Fork Motor Trail
No list highlighting springtime destinations in the U.S is complete without mentioning the iconic Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also termed as the “wildflower wonderland,” there are 1500 different types of wildflowers that grow around the national park during the spring season. The lush green trails are perfect for exploring and planning a hike around. There are camping facilities available too, adding to the adventure of the experience as well.
10. Central California Coast
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
- Top Attractions: Bixby Bridge, Point Lobos, Pfeiffer Beach
The central California coast is the perfect destination if you are a beach and coast person. The stretch comprises San Simeon to Monterey, where you can explore rugged cliffs, wildflower-covered hillsides, and the coastal charm. One of the most popular activities while you are there is hiking in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The drive down Highway 1 is truly enchanting if you are into road trips. Depending on your time, ensure to check out Carmel-by-the-Sea and explore the art galleries, cozy inns, etc.
Final Words
The spring season in the U.S brings many unique experiences, festivals, and destinations you won’t believe exist until you see them with your own eyes. Be it the stunning wildflowers, desert blooms, or the vibrant tulip fields, there is a diverse range of springtime experiences and activities that you have to experience the next time you are in the U.S. The highlight of this season is that there are so many unique spots, cities, and towns, ensuring that every kind of traveller has something that caters to their interest.
