There are still a few weeks to plan one of these cheap spring break trips for your group.

Feeling blue because of the winter? Now is the time to plan your inexpensive spring break getaway, whether it be a trip to warmer climes, a tour of a new city, or a staycation somewhere close to home. We still want to go somewhere fun for spring break, and we can do so even if money is tight. To learn how to travel on a budget, all you need to do is pick a place that won't break the bank. You can rest assured that you are not sacrificing quality for quantity with this list.

Spring break typically occurs in the spring, between the months of March and April, and is a popular time for teachers, college students, and parents of school-aged children to take vacations. The long winter has left everyone restless, so we've compiled a list of the top destinations for solo travelers, couples, and families. While we did find that prices at some of the most well-known spring break destinations tend to skyrocket during the busiest travel times of the year, we also found that there are plenty of other great destinations that are much more affordable without sacrificing the quality of your Check out these cheap family vacations, hidden gems in every state, and budget airlines to get you to the best places to travel for spring break if you're worried about not having enough money.

Here's how we picked the most affordable vacation spots for spring break.

We read a ton of reviews, consulted with travel professionals, and combed through online data to determine the best budget destinations for spring break. When you add in our own explorations of lesser-known places, you get a list of some fantastic (and cheap) off-the-beaten-path vacation spots. vacations in the spring

In that case, what sorts of low-cost spring break vacations did we include? We looked at states that are both affordable and packed with attractions. We also considered locations during their off-peak or shoulder seasons when costs are typically lower. In addition, we avoided popular spring break destinations to save money. Finally, we've included some non-cliched alternatives to the usual spring break hotspots that you might not have considered.

In what ways are things considered "cheap"

We targeted flights departing from New York for under $500 (flight prices vary greatly depending on where you're starting from and where you're going). We considered Saturday-to-Saturday travel because it makes the most sense for those who have a week off for spring break; however, if you're flexible and willing to fly midweek, you can likely find even cheaper flights than we've cited here. There are a number of ways to save money when booking a trip. These include using a travel rewards credit card, a travel booking app, and signing up for fare alerts.

We tried to keep hotel costs to less than $300 per night whenever possible; this way, you can rest assured that you'll be staying in a place that is both affordable and pleasant.

Given the wide range of hotel and airfare rates depending on specifics like travel dates and booking times, these are just ballpark estimates and not a guarantee. Nonetheless, you can still have a cheap spring break if you go to one of the places we recommended. Locations we visited are revealed below.

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Excellent for achieving a calm state of mind

A vacation in Jamaica's Montego Bay

Jamaica, the island where reggae music was first created, is a great place to visit if you're feeling down during the winter. Spring is the traditional shoulder season for travel to the Caribbean, and Jamaica is already a relatively inexpensive island. And while U is a S Islands provide an alternative to crowded spring break destinations like Florida. Jamaica is the ideal vacation destination for families, couples, and groups of friends thanks to its extensive network of beautiful beaches, abundance of outdoor activities (such as snorkeling and zip-lining), and assortment of restaurants and beach bars. A change of just one or two days in your travel dates may result in a significantly lower flight price.

Where to stay: Along a stunning stretch of turquoise water, all-inclusive family resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica, offer fantastic package deals. Costing about $240 per night, the Royal Decameron Montego Beach is a great place to stay.

Pros:

• Casual island atmosphere
• Stunning coastlines
• March and April highs in the 80s

Con:

• If you want the lowest possible flight price, you might need to be flexible (within a few days).

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Early spring in New Orleans is a pleasant time to visit due to the mild weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices that follow the busy and expensive Mardi Gras season and precede the popular Jazz and Heritage Festival in late April. Despite its reputation as a spring break party destination, New Orleans is actually a great place to bring the family and "laissez les bon temps rouler" (literally "let the good times roll") at any time of year. Enjoy a night out with a stroll through the quaint streets of the French Quarter (the state's top tourist destination), a snack of beignets from Café du Monde, and the smooth sounds of local jazz musicians.

Staying at the highly-rated Jung Hotel will provide you with affordable and comfortable accommodations for around $200 per night. The French Quarter and other popular sights are also easily accessible on foot.

Pros:

• Excellent cuisine, tunes, and partying
• Culturally overflowing
• Conditions that are neither excessively hot nor cold

Con:

• Tourists expecting Mardi Gras-style revelry might be let down.

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Although it may not be warm enough for swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, the Outer Banks make for a great spring break destination because of the pleasant temperatures for fishing, golfing, and long walks on deserted beaches. adventures like hiking to lighthouses or riding horses The first airplane flight ever took place in Kill Devil Hills, so why not check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial, see some wild horses on the beach, or even go off-roading (with a permit, of course) along the coast? To top it all off, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a fantastic route for a road trip.

To cut costs, rent an apartment instead of a hotel, and prepare some of your own meals instead of eating out every night. It's possible to live in a prime oceanfront location if you pool the resources of several families to purchase a home there.

Pros:

• The availability of vacation rentals is a financial boon.
• Holiday on the coast to unwind
• Nature, history, and recreational opportunities abound.

Con:

• Irrelevant to swimming temperature

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The 100 natural sandstone arches, cliffs, bridges, and other amazing rock formations in this popular rock-climbing destination in Daniel Boone National Forest are at their most beautiful in the spring. You don't have to be a mountaineer to appreciate "The Red," with its scenic walking trails, waterfalls, and abundant flora and fauna. Along the Red River, tourists can go mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, or even caving. The natural bridge at National Bridge State Resort Park can be viewed from the sky via a "sky lift" (similar to a ski lift), in addition to the park's miles of hiking trails.

Where to stay: Camping is a great money-saving way to get the most out of your adventure in one of the cheapest states to vacation in; the affordability of the destination may even permit you to choose a luxury camping adventure that even indoor people will love. National Bridge State Resort Park is just one of the places where you can stay in a cabin or lodge room for less than $200.

Pros:

• Many exciting activities are available.
• Incredible scenery of the natural world
• There is a flurry of wildflowers once school lets out for spring break.

Con:

• You can go glamping here, but don't expect to find any five-star hotels.

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It is within a day's drive of most of the eastern states in the U.S. S Washington, D.C. C , is an excellent place for a spring break vacation with the kids. When school is out of session, kids in the city have a fantastic chance to keep up with their studies. Free admission is offered to all museums, monuments, and the National Zoo on the National Mall. Kids will also have a great time at the International Spy Museum, which is worth the price of admission. In addition, the National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place during spring break (March 20–April 16), when the beautiful trees are adorned with pink and white blossoms. East Potomac Park is a beautiful place to see the flowers without the crowds of visitors any time of day, but especially early or late.

Place to stay: less than a 10-minute stroll from the U is a great place to call home at the end of the day. S You can stay near the U.S. Capitol for about $250 per night at the Yotel Washington D.C. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant, pool, and rooftop lounge while staying here for a reasonable price.

Pros:

• There is no more instructive vacation for the whole family than a visit to U S Politics and Past Events
• Institutions like the museums, monuments, and zoo are providing their services at no cost to the public.
• The cherry blossoms are at their most beautiful during the spring break season.

Con:

• More people visit during the cherry blossom season.

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Spring breakers on a budget can enjoy a lively destination full of great food and, of course, plenty of live music by flying to Nashville for less than $150 from New York. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry, or take the kids to the Nashville Zoo, Adventure Science Center, and SoundWaves, one of the best indoor water parks in the country. The city has a thriving restaurant scene, with options for those who love not only Southern food and barbecue (though there is plenty of that) but also those who want to try new flavors from around the world. In early spring, the weather can be quite changeable, so it's best to be prepared.

Stay at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, a 15-minute stroll from the Broadway bar district. Rooms start at about $230 per night and may come equipped with a kitchenette. For those looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, a rooftop lounge is the perfect spot.

Pros:

• Prospering music scene
• Fabulous restaurants and saloons playing country music
• In addition, there are attractions geared toward families.

Con:

• Potentially chilly conditions in the weather

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Although the Rocky Mountains are still experiencing winter, tourists can still enjoy the region's natural hot springs at places like the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Iron Mountain Hot Springs, and Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, which feature the only natural geothermal steam bath in North America. River rafting season begins in April, and those who want to beat the summer crowds at Glenwood Caverns can do so. Even though spring arrives in Glenwood in March and April, rather than April and May, like it does in other ski towns (and there is no dreaded "mud season" because of Glenwood's lower elevation), the mountains still provide ample opportunity for spring skiing.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Denver, the historic but thoroughly modern Hotel Denver is a good choice for slightly more than $200 per night. The hotel is located in the heart of charming downtown Glenwood Springs, directly across from the train station, and is within walking distance of many of the town's restaurants and its very own brewpub.

Pros:

• A spa-like getaway with natural hot springs
• Sports and Games
• Trendy lodgings and dining

Con:

• While it's only three hours by car or train from Denver, the closest airports are still thirty to forty miles away in Vail and Aspen.

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Savannah's pre-Civil War architecture, haunting cemeteries, and Spanish moss-draped trees give the city an air of antiquity that is hard to match. As an added bonus, Savannah is at its finest right when its lush gardens begin to bloom and before the summer's sweltering heat sets in. After all, it's one of the most stunning springtime destinations in the United States. The Savannah Music Festival (March 23 - April 8) and the Tour of Hidden Gardens (April 14 - 15) could make it busier in the city during this time. Visit Savannah's surrounding wildlife refuges or relax on the beach at Tybee Island to round out your trip.

Savannah is filled with lovely inns, but if you're looking for a place to stay for less than $300 per night, a hotel chain like the Residence Inn Savannah Downtown/Historic District is a good option. The hotel is in a great location, and it provides cottages, rooms with kitchenettes, a beautiful courtyard, and a pool.

Pros:

• Southern hospitality and old-world architecture
• Comfortable conditions
• There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and the beach close by.

Con:

• One of the busiest tourist seasons is spring.

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Many Myrtle Beach establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, reopen for the season in March. However, you'll still be visiting one of the cheapest beach destinations in the country. The weather is fantastic for any kind of outdoor activity, whether it be golfing, fishing, shopping, playing mini golf, or just taking a stroll along the beach or boardwalk. Take a trip to Brookgreen Gardens, located just south of Myrtle Beach proper, to enjoy beautifully kept gardens, art displays, a zoo, and a children's play area. Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, like many other Carolina beach towns popular during spring break, are likely to be too cold for swimming.

Many hotels on the main strip offer oceanfront rooms, but those looking to avoid the crowds should consider the oceanfront Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort and Spa at Grande Dunes, which can be had for less than $300 per night. The hotel is located on a gorgeous stretch of golden sand and features an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and a variety of other amenities.

Pros:

• Lots of fun things for youngsters to do
• More hotels means more options and lower prices.

Con:

• The water in the ocean will be quite cool.

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There is no hurricane risk in the Caribbean during the spring shoulder season, which begins in March and lasts until May. Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean can be found in Punta Cana, and round-trip flights from New York cost just over $400 (allow a few days to find the best rate). The Dominican Republic is one of the most cost-effective destinations in the Caribbean. Its stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters will make you feel like you got a steal.

If you're looking for a place to stay, an all-inclusive resort on the beach is hard to beat. Take advantage of discounts such as the 20% off hotel-direct offer at Ocean Blue & Sand Resort (just over $200 per night).

Pros:

• Fantastic coastlines
• Travel to the Caribbean on a Budget
• Options that cover everything you need and more

Con:

• The cost of a flight will change based on the dates of your arrival and departure.

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After the dreary winter and before the frenzied summer, March and April are a great time to visit this normally pricey beach town. Getting around Santa Barbara is easy and inexpensive thanks to the public shuttle, which can take you to the beach, downtown, or even the world-famous Santa Barbara Zoo. Discover the "American Riviera's" thriving art, culture, and food scenes. " (Money-saving hint: On the first Thursday of every month, admission to many art museums and performing arts centers is completely free. One of the best restaurants in the entire country is located there, as voted on by its diners. Lots of fun things to do on the beach, in the parks, and in the mountains with the kids can be found all year round.

To stay in style during your visit to Santa Barbara, book a room at the Avania Inn for about $275 per night (special hotel-only rates may be found on their website). This vintage beach motel is spotless and conveniently located one block from the water.

Pros:

• Lots of restaurants and museums to check out.
• Amazing shores

Con:

• There are activities for the whole family to enjoy, but couples may enjoy it more as a vacation spot.

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Spring skiing in Utah is a great option for those who just can't bring themselves to let winter go. March is one of the snowiest months of the year, and visitors can even ski into April. There is more daylight, warmer temperatures, and lower lodging costs in the spring, making it an ideal time to go skiing for a cheap spring break vacation. Flights to Salt Lake City are notoriously pricey, but we were able to find deals for under $500 round-trip from New York (and under $200 round-trip from Los Angeles) by signing up for fare alerts.

Many ski resorts can be reached in less than 45 minutes by ski shuttle from the city center, allowing you to save both time and money on your ski trip. Several of the best ski resorts in the United States, including Brighton, Alta, and Solitude, offer ski-and-stay packages with discounts of up to 25% and other deals, such as "kids ski free" promotions. Ski passes can be purchased in advance to save money.

For just $160 a night, you can stay in a converted warehouse at the one-of-a-kind Evo Hotel in the heart of downtown. Not only can you rent ski and snowboard equipment, but there is also a rooftop lounge, skate park, climbing gym, and yoga classes here. In addition, you can save 15% on your room by booking directly with the hotel.

Pros:

• Less people on the slopes and cheaper prices in the spring.
• The spring season has more daylight hours, making it ideal for skiing.

Con:

• When skiing in warmer weather, it's important to dress in layers and drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and chills.

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We looked all over Florida, which is still in its high season in early spring, for an affordable spring break destination and finally settled on Anna Maria Island, a family-friendly destination that even your jaded teenagers will love. There are no high-rises or nightclubs on this seven-mile-long, two-mile-wide island near Tampa, so don't expect to find any spring breakers there. Explore the island's beaches and scenery by renting a bike, setting out on foot, or taking advantage of the free trolley service. We found rates just over $100 round-trip in March from New York City to either Sarasota or Tampa, so it's worth checking both to see which has better deals.

It's possible that this island could be one of the least expensive options for a spring break getaway, given the prevalence of vacation rentals and the ease with which visitors can shop for and prepare their own meals. Traveling with another family can help you save money by allowing you to share a larger, better-equipped rental in the same or nearby location.

Pros:

• Place where families can relax in peace
• Discounted airfare to both Sarasota and Tampa airports
• Relax on sandy beaches without leaving the country

Con:

• Don't expect to find a thriving nightlife scene here.

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This region of northern Oregon is one of the travel hot spots you probably haven't heard of — yet —but you and your family or travel group will have a blast exploring it. Since the water temperature never rises above 60 degrees, even in the height of summer, this is not your typical beach destination; you are better off going in the spring to avoid the crowds. Cannon Beach's Haystack Rock, Blumenthal Falls, the sea caves of Hug Point, and the tidal pools of Arcadia Beach are just a few of the many natural attractions in this untamed coastal region less than two hours from Portland. The historic district of Cannon Beach is a great place to stroll and explore the many shops, galleries, and restaurants. Although March weather in Oregon's coastal regions can be unpredictable, some visitors still venture out in the hope of witnessing a spectacular storm.

You can get oceanfront rooms at the Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach for slightly more than $200 per night. The setting is unrivaled, with Haystack Rock as a backdrop.

Pros:

• Wonderfully rugged natural beauty
• Places to stay that are warm and inviting
• Pleasant urban core

Con:

• Those looking for opulence may find it too rustic.

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Visit French-influenced Montreal in Canada to get a taste of Europe without breaking the bank on a trip to Paris. March and April in this Canadian gem can be a mixed bag when it comes to the weather, but savvy travelers can score excellent off-season hotel rates by coming in prepared. Be sure to bundle up for your visit to Montreal's historic Old Port and beautiful Mount Royal Park. The Montreal Biosphere, the Basilica of the Notre Dame de Montreal, and the Museum of Fine Arts are just a few of the many indoor attractions. There is a lot of variety in the city's dining scene, from hip, modern spots to old favorites like the legendary deli Schwartz's. The best part is that round-trip flights from New York cost just over $200, making it affordable for spontaneous weekend getaways.

Location: Centrally located hotels, such as the Hôtel Place d'Armes, can be had for less than $200 per night. The hotel features two restaurants, a spa, and a rooftop terrace in a collection of historic buildings.

Pros:

• The flavor of Europe without the hassle of crossing the Atlantic
• Fantastic dining scene
• Numerous cultural and historical landmarks

Con:

• Spring break in Montreal is a chilly experience.

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One of the most underrated tourist spots in the world is this cultural center outside of Phoenix, where sports, the arts, and nature all come together. Mesa, Arizona, is a great destination for a spring break trip due to the sunny weather and high temperatures (in the 70s) that are expected there in March. Mesa Grande Cultural Park features Native American artifacts and a ceremonial mound, while the Arizona Museum of Natural History houses fossils of extinct animals, the Idea Museum encourages children's curiosity about learning, and the Mesa Arts Center showcases the work of local artists. The desert landscape provides a wealth of natural beauty as well.

Several downtown and nearby chain hotels provide comfortable stays at affordable prices. In Phoenix, a stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa will set you back slightly more than $200 per night on a room-only basis, thanks to a special hotel-direct offer.

Pros:

• Spring training games are broadcast live for baseball fans.
• Venues rich in history and tradition
• Amazing scenery of the desert

Con:

• Despite the fact that there is still a lot to do, spring training is over by April.

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The news of cheap flights to Iceland may have gotten your attention, but a new Nordic budget airline is now focusing on Norway. In June 2022, Norse Atlantic Airways took off for the first time, and since then, airfare on all airlines has fallen as a result of competition. We were able to find affordable flights to Oslo for the month of March and the first half of April, with prices ranging from $400 to $500 from New York and around $500 from Los Angeles. Although it will likely still be winter in Norway during spring break, this is no reason to postpone your trip; after all, it is still the off-season, which means cheaper prices.

It may be out of the way at the moment, but a trip to Norway is well worth it to see the country's natural wonders, such as the fjord that borders the city. Visit the city of Oslo and its many attractions, such as the Akershus Fortress, the royal palace, the lush greenery of the Bygdy Peninsula, and the city's many museums dedicated to art, culture, and Viking history. Plus, it's one of the safest places in the world for solo travelers.

One can find reasonably priced places to stay in the heart of the city. For around $200 per night, you can stay in luxury at the historic and lavish Hotel Bristol (renovated in 2019). It is conveniently located near many popular attractions.

Pros:

• Fantastic scenery just outside of Oslo
• An innovative low-cost carrier has made air travel more affordable.
• Cultural landmarks and historic sites

Con:

• Flight time is longer (nine hours from New York City).

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Including this low-cost U S city to your list of places to see before you die, and then go there for spring break and see it for real. San Antonio's family-friendly theme parks attract many Texans every summer; to avoid the crowds, high prices, and even higher temperatures (it can soar to over 90 degrees) visit in the spring instead. Comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and cheaper hotel rates all come together in March and April. River Walk is a popular area for bars and restaurants to set up outside along the banks of the San Antonio River. Visit the new Alamo Collections Center on March 3, 2023, to learn about Texas history and view artifacts from the famous battle site.

The historic and conveniently located Menger Hotel can be yours for less than $200 per night. The stunning property is located a short distance from both the Alamo and the River Walk.

Pros:

• Stunning outdoor dining along the scenic River Walk.
• Visit the Alamo to get a sense of Texas history.
• Temperatures in the 70s and 80s, just right for outdoor enjoyment

Con:

• It can be challenging to find a parking spot and navigate downtown.

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Flights to Puerto Rico from New York City typically cost less than $400 during the shoulder season months of March and April. In fact, we were able to locate some airfares for less than $200. The island's tourism industry is booming again after it was hit hard by a hurricane and an earthquake within the past five years. White-sand beaches, friendly locals, and cheap prices are just a few of the reasons why this destination can't wait to have you as a visitor.

Vacation spots dot the island's coastline, while Old San Juan provides a glimpse into the island's past. Puerto Rico is a diverse and exciting destination, offering everything from mountain sports to urban nightlife. Also, it's a U, so S territory, you and your relatives can travel there without a passport.

A room at the San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel on Isla Verde Beach, one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico, can be had for about $200 per night. It's hard to beat the convenience and beauty of this urban beach in San Juan.

Pros:

• You can travel without a passport.
• Affordable Caribbean Vacation Spot
• Exciting nightlife, exciting history, and beautiful beaches.

Con:

• Despite the letter U shape, S region where English is not the native tongue (hey, language barriers are part of the fun! )

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Embark on a vacation filled with outdoor activities in the midst of Maine's stunning scenery. Spring break in this northern state is relatively inexpensive because the busy season doesn't begin for a few more months. Maine's spring season is a great time to go hiking, bird watching, whale watching, fishing, or eating lobster (which can be found all year round). Although local establishments are only just now reopening after the long winter, vacationers staying in privately owned homes need not worry about the availability of goods and services. Bar Harbor is one of the most charming small towns in the country, making it the ideal destination for a romantic spring break away from the crowds.

If you're not up for a vacation rental, there are plenty of small inns and bed-and-breakfasts that have excellent off-season deals for less than $200 per night. For brand new, comfortable lodgings close to the city center, the harbor, and Acadia National Park, consider the Inn on Mount Desert.

Pros:

• There is an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities.
• In order to avoid the throngs of tourists, it is recommended that you travel there in the spring.
• Bargain rooms at charming B&Bs

Con:

• It's possible that the first part of spring will be cloudy and chilly.

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Taking a bite out of New York City in the spring is wonderful because locals are emerging from their winter hibernation and the city is not yet overrun with tourists. Avoid the summer's heat, high prices, and crowded streets by going now. With the return of milder weather, New York City's many attractions—including Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art—are all within easy walking distance.

Whether you're a theater lover looking to catch the next big show on Broadway or a family looking to dig through dinosaur bones at the Museum of Natural History, New York City has something for you.

Staying downtown at the highly rated and reasonably priced Artezen Hotel is recommended over staying in the throngs of people in Times Square. The hotel has nice rooms for a reasonable price (around $250 per night) in Manhattan.

Pros:

• In terms of cities, New York is among the best in the world to visit.
• So many places to go and things to do, it's impossible to list them all.
• Springtime has less crowds and more bearable temperatures.

Con:

• It's possible that a week wouldn't be enough time to see everything.

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Before the haze of "May Gray" and "June Gloom" set in and before the peak season of summer, this southern California playground has perfect spring temperatures, plenty of attractions for kids, and sunny beach days. Naturally, there's the beach, though you should know that spring in San Diego is typically not warm enough for swimming. Beautiful parks, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Sea World, and Legoland will give you even more to do. One can take advantage of the water by going on a boat ride, kayaking excursion, or fishing trip, and another can learn about the area's naval history at the U. S S Maritime Museum of San Diego and the USS Midway Museum The hardy among us can also don their wetsuits and try out a surf lesson or a jet ski tour. Balboa Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and is home to lush gardens, theaters, artist studios, and 17 museums in addition to the zoo, making it an ideal destination for cultured tourists.

Location: There are many inexpensive places to stay in and around San Diego. Forget the hotel vs. motel debate; San Diego is the place to stay in a retro beach motel. Booking a room at the Old Town Inn will put you in a family-run, clean, and comfortable place for less than $200 per night. It's close to the restaurants, shops, and attractions of San Diego's Old Town neighborhood.

Pros:

• Among the largest city gardens in the United States
• Coastline and environs that are naturally beautiful
• Cultural institutions such as museums and galleries

Con:

• If you plan on going swimming, bring a wet suit because the water is still chilly this early in the season.

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I'll bet you have never considered this location for a low-cost spring break vacation. From now on, however, thanks to a new Air Canada route, passengers can fly directly from New York to Halifax for a low price (usually less than $500). To take in Nova Scotia's stunning coastline, visitors can go on rugged hikes, see some of the province's 170 stunning lighthouses, and take scenic drives along the water. Enjoy delicious seafood and warm Canadian hospitality at one of the many coastal towns. Check out some of the city's amazing street art, and then return to the bustling waterfront restaurant and bar scene of Halifax. Don't forget to visit the star-shaped citadel atop Citadel Hill if you're interested in history.

Thanks to the city's favorable exchange rate, many Halifax hotels now offer rooms for well under $200 per night. The highly regarded and conveniently located Cambridge Suites Halifax, which is directly across from the Citadel, costs a little more than $100 per night.

Pros:

• Outstanding examples of North American coastline
• Yummy seafood
• Many trails, historic sites, and landmark lighthouses

Con:

• Travel time and cost are both reduced when departing from the East Coast, while departing from the West Coast is more inconvenient.

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South Padre Island, located on the Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular spring break destination for college students, so you won't be able to avoid the masses if you go there in March. But if you're looking for the best place to throw a party, this might be it. South Padre Island is one of the best cheap beach destinations, so even if hotel prices are higher during spring break, they are still lower than many others. If you take your spring break in April, you can avoid the crowds and make the most of the island's natural attractions, such as the wildlife, hiking, and water sports.

If you want to stay at a beachfront hotel that doesn't break the bank but still has a good time, the Isla Grand Beach Resort is a good choice. There are two pools, tennis courts, volleyball courts, a nightclub, karaoke, and comedy shows.

Pros:

• During spring break, this is the place to let loose.
• Beautiful outdoor scenery
• Expenses at inns are within reason

Con:

• March can get pretty crazy, so if you're bringing the kids, you might want to wait until April.

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Playa del Carmen is a resort town just south of Cancn on the stunning Riviera Maya in Mexico, known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise water. Additionally, there is the pedestrian-friendly Fifth Avenue (La Quinta Avenida) with its many cafes, boutiques, and nightlife options. Tourists from all over the world visit this Mexican hotspot, giving it a truly global feel.

While the atmosphere is classy, you won't have to spend a fortune to visit. Cheap flights from New York cost us about $300. If you'd prefer a more tranquil beach vacation, Riviera Maya has a number of options, including the hippie haven of Tulum and the quieter Akumel (both of which can be reached via flights into Cancun's airport). But Playa's accessibility (it's a walkable city) is a major selling point. In addition to snorkeling and scuba diving in the region's coral reefs, tourists can spend their time exploring the area's Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes (natural sinkholes), and hopping a 30-minute ferry to the island of Cozumel.

To cut costs even further on lodging, consider staying at one of Playa del Carmen's many all-inclusive resorts. Rooms at the beachfront Reef Coco Beach start at around $250 a night, making it one of the best deals in town.

Pros:

• Classy atmosphere
• Shops and restaurants can be found in abundance
• Activities in the local environment and culture

Con:

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