Spring break is one of the most anticipated periods in the academic calendar. For some college students, it’s a chance to put down the books and relax, travel and hit some of the best nightlife scenes around. It’s also a great opportunity for families to spend some quality vacation time together, particularly in colder states where a little springtime sunshine could really hit the spot.
This year, we recorded a significant growth in interest in traveling for spring break 2025, as well as a shift in where travelers plan to vacation this season. Between sun-kissed getaways and cultural hotspots, we analyzed search and social listening data from travelers across America to find out where people love to travel most.
So, read on to discover the best spring break destinations to help you plan your next vacation.
Top 5 Spring Break Destinations for 2025
The results are in. We’ve gathered the top destinations to relax and catch some sun this spring break season:
Places offering plenty of lively culture, nightlife, sun and sand are the common threads when it comes to popular spring break destinations. Our runners-up included the likes of Punta Cana, Cabo San Lucas, Maui and Miami Beach.
Learn more about where to spend your spring break this year with our travel trends and insights. Whether it’s a tropical escape or a mid-semester city break – don’t forget to prebook airport parking and airport hotelst to ensure a hassle-free trip.
When is spring break in 2025?
Spring break can vary depending on different school and university calendars across the United States, but peak season often falls between late March to early April.
1. New Orleans
Sitting at the top of our list, the best spring break destination for 2025 is the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans. Affectionately known as the Big Easy or NOLA, New Orleans, Louisiana retains its number one spot from 2024 with a rise in searches from 77,640 to 120,620.
Make your way to Bourbon Street and sample a taste of vibrant jazz clubs and world-class festivals. From live music to al fresco dining, soak up the party vibes that are so entwined in this city’s heritage. Key festivals to look out for this spring include:
- Mardi Gras – March 4th 2025
- French Quarter Festival – April 10th to 13th 2025
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival – April 24th to 4th May 2025
New Orleans also came out on top for 29 states – making it the most popular spring break destination by state too. Here’s who voted for NOLA:
| Alabama | Arizona | Arkansas |
| Colorado | Delaware | Georgia |
| Illinois | Iowa | Kansas |
| Kentucky | Louisiana | Maryland |
| Michigan | Minnesota | Mississippi |
| Missouri | Montana | Nebraska |
| North Carolina | Oklahoma | Pennsylvania |
| South Carolina | Tennessee | Utah |
| Vermont | Virginia | West Virginia |
| Wisconsin | Wyoming |
2. Puerto Rico
Boasting golden beaches and warm temperatures, could Puerto Rico be your next spring break destination?
Popular among students and holidaymakers alike, this Caribbean paradise has piqued the nation’s interest this year, rising from 44,040 in 2024 to a whopping 77,080 searches. It’s also the top choice for travelers flying from Connecticut in 2025.
If you’re looking for stunning beach resorts and every flavor of bar and nightclub, the capital of San Juan is the ideal spot for both bar hopping and relaxation.
3. Fort Lauderdale
Known for drawing crowds of carefree students, Fort Lauderdale is a certified party town between the months of March and April.
With its balmy climate and miles of beachside bars, it’s no surprise that Fort Lauderdale, Florida, ranks among our three most popular spring break destinations. Fort Lauderdale saw a significant boost in popularity with 75,800 searches in 2025, compared to 41,450 in 2024.
Beyond the sandy coastline, make the most of blue skies and more than 300 miles of inland waterways. So-called the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal destination for paddleboarding, party boats, shopping and dining.
According to our results, Fort Lauderdale is the top spring break destination for the following nine states:
- Florida
- Indiana
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Rhode Island
4. Austin
With 65,620 searches, the sprawling city of Austin, Texas, sneaks into our top five most popular spring break destinations. And with almost year-round sunshine – it’s easy to see why.
Best known for its live music, idyllic parks and Southern charm, the wealth of attractions in Austin means that no matter what type of traveler you are, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast eagerly waiting to put down your books, or a family of live music fanatics – take your pick of scenic trails, nightly musicians and fantastic eateries.
The ‘Live Music Capital of the World’ was voted as the top spring break hotspot in New Mexico, South Dakota and Texas. If you’re traveling to Austin from Dallas Airport, find cheap parking rates and airport hotels to make planning your spring break a breeze.
5. Las Vegas
Las Vegas is famous for its spring break season, drawing in students and travelers with its dazzling neon lights and entertainment. With 59,190 searches in 2025, Sin City is our fifth top spring break destination this year.
From pool parties and world-renowned concerts to the legendary Las Vegas strip – there’s no shortage of unforgettable attractions to explore.
Arizona is one of our top places to visit in spring. Thanks to the warm Mojave climate, Las Vegas is temptingly mild and inviting this time of year. California, Idaho, Nevada and North Dakota all voted Vegas as their favorite place to enjoy spring break.
Flying from LAX to Las Vegas? Reserve your parking in advance to get the cheapest rates.
Generational travel trends in 2025
Last year, United Airlines expected more than 21 million passengers between March 8th to April 21st. Whether it’s a party boat or a spa retreat, we wanted to shed some light on the main reasons why people travel for spring break.
Partying
As you might expect, partying remains the most popular reason for traveling for spring break – particularly among younger people.
Almost three in five (58%) 18- to 24-year-olds plan to pause their studies and spend their spring break enjoying parties and nightlife. This interest rises to two-thirds (64%) of the 25- to 34-year-old demographic.
Partying continues to attract half (50%) of those aged 35 to 44, before dropping to 42% as travelers reach 45 and older.
Wellness
Meanwhile, some folks prefer to swap pool parties for peaceful hot tub retreats. More than half of 18- to 24-year-olds (52%) and 25–35-year-olds (54%) plan to spend their spring break focusing on wellness and relaxation.
From spa getaways to quiet vacations with a good book, wellness breaks become more popular with age – prioritized by almost two-thirds (62%) of those aged 45 to 54.
For soothing relaxation, consider a yoga retreat at the scenic red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, or a natural hot springs resort in Colorado, Utah or California.
Family and friends
Catching up with family and friends is another major draw for spring breakers. Almost half (48%) of 25- to 34-year-olds plan to share their vacation with loved ones, followed by 46% of 18- to 24-year-olds.
We also found that the older travelers are, the less likely they are to spend time with friends and family during this period. Only 27% of those aged 65 and older plan to take a family vacation between March and April.
For family getaways, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Disneyland Resort in California, Orlando, Florida, or the Grand Canyon National Park. For more tips and tricks for traveling this spring break with kids, check out our handy guide.
Adventure
This year, more spring breakers are embracing the call of adventure. Two in five (40%) of those aged 25 to 34 and 45 to 54 are planning an action-packed getaway.
For aquatic adventure and water sports, look no further than destinations like Maui, Puerto Rico and Key West. Or if outdoor camping and hiking excursions are more to your taste, head to the heights of Yosemite National Park, Zion National Park or the Rocky Mountains.
Education
Educational tourism is another growing trend for the spring break season, particularly for those aged 18 to 34. Almost one in four (23%) 18- to 24-year-olds and less than a third (29%) of 24- to 34-year-olds are planning cultural activities.
Brimming with world-renowned museums and historical attractions, spring breakers looking to visit educational sights might wish to check Washington DC and New York City off their bucket list. If you’re thinking of traveling to the Nation’s Capital or the Big Apple, discover affordable rates at Washington Dulles Airport, JFK and LaGuardia Airport.
Feeling inspired? Whether you’re hoping to scoop up the kids on a well-earned family getaway or forget the books for a little while, make your spring break one to remember. Don’t forget to check out our spring break deals and coupons to maximize your savings.
Methodology
Using search data and social listening data, we were able to reveal the U.S. states that are searching for spring break destinations. We utilized various keywords related to ‘spring break’ and ‘flights’ on social media and Google using the Keyword Tool. We created a ranking to determine where each state is likely to go this spring break. Through desk research, we identified the top spring break destinations and used these to inform our ranking.
