Ever catch yourself staring at the same four walls, wondering when you last saw the sun? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Winter’s final days feel like doing time, with your couch as the cell and delivery apps as your only contact with the outside world. But listen up – spring’s calling, and it’s time to answer. These spring getaways and spring travel destinations are exactly what you need right now. We’ve compiled the best spring vacation spots to help kick that cabin fever once and for all.
Swap those ratty sweatpants for adventure gear. Trade that streaming queue for summit views. It’s officially time to round up your buddies and chase some vitamin D. Below are 15 spring getaways guaranteed to jumpstart your system after months of hibernation. No more excuses, fellas.
Table of Contents
1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Where Cowboys Meet Luxury
Jackson Hole isn’t just a ski destination – it’s a playground for guys who can’t decide between rugged and refined. Start your morning carving fresh tracks down Teton Pass, then switch gears for an afternoon hike through meadows exploding with wildflowers. As one of the best spring vacation spots in the Mountain West, this spring getaway offers that perfect sweet spot between winter and summer. For outdoor enthusiasts planning spring getaways, Jackson Hole offers that perfect transition between winter sports and summer hiking.
The town itself? Pure magic. Step into the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, plant your ass on those famous saddle stools (yes, actual saddles), and order something that’ll put hair on your chest. The local elk steak will change your life, guaranteed.
After a few rounds, stumble over to one of the luxury lodges where the fireplaces are always roaring and the whiskey selection would make your grandfather weep with joy. The real move? Grab a cabin with your boys, stock the fridge with local beers, and spend evenings on the porch watching elk graze while you debate which trail to tackle tomorrow. For romantic spring vacation ideas for couples, consider booking one of the secluded cabins with hot tubs overlooking the Tetons.
Don’t miss Snake River for some of the best fly fishing you’ll ever experience. Even if you catch nothing but a buzz, the scenery alone beats anything on your Instagram feed right now.
2. Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Charm with a Kick
Charleston hits different in spring. The humidity hasn’t kicked in yet, making this spring travel destination perfect for exploring those cobblestone streets without sweating through your shirt.
Wake up early (trust us) and hit the harbor with a fishing charter. Nothing beats reeling in redfish as the sun rises over historic Fort Sumter. Back on land, head straight to Hyman’s Seafood where the fried okra and shrimp n’ grits will fix whatever’s broken inside you. As one of the best budget-friendly spring break destinations on the East Coast, Charleston delivers high-end experiences without emptying your wallet.
As the sun sets, Charleston transforms. The city boasts some seriously haunted history, and ghost tours are surprisingly badass – especially after a few cocktails. Speaking of which, the rooftop bar scene here is unreal. Grab a bourbon at The Vendue or The Watch, where the views of the harbor complement whatever smooth-talking you’re attempting with the locals.
Stay in the historic district if you can swing it. Those antebellum mansions and gas-lit streets hit different at 2 AM when you’re walking back from King Street’s bars. And yes, golf is practically mandatory here – with courses like Kiawah Island nearby, you’d be crazy not to swing a club or two between seafood feasts.
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado: Red Rock Paradise
Once winter loosens its grip, Colorado Springs transforms into a red-rock wonderland that’ll make you question why you ever lived anywhere else. This spring getaway should top your list, massive sandstone formations jutting dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. The hiking trails range from casual strolls to “maybe I should’ve worked out more” challenges. These spring getaways to Colorado’s red rock paradise offer mild temperatures perfect for exploration.
For the adrenaline junkies, Royal Gorge Bridge awaits. Standing 950 feet above the Arkansas River, it’s America’s highest suspension bridge and a serious test of your fear of heights. The real power move? Take the zip line across the gorge. Nothing says “I’m alive” like flying at 50 mph with nothing but air beneath you. As one of the off-the-beaten-path spring travel locations, you’ll avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying perfect weather.
After pushing your limits, Colorado Springs offers sweet relief: over 20 craft breweries scattered throughout the city. Bristol Brewing Company and Goat Patch Brewing Co. serve up killer IPAs on sun-drenched patios where you can compare notes with fellow adventurers sporting fresh sunburns and satisfied grins.
Don’t leave without driving up Pikes Peak Highway. The 19-mile road climbs over 7,000 feet with views that’ll make your knees weak. At the summit, crack open a celebratory beer at 14,115 feet and toast to not being stuck on your couch anymore.
4. Newport, Rhode Island: Old Money Vibes Without the Trust Fund
Newport is what happens when New England charm hooks up with obscene wealth, and spring is prime time to pretend you belong. The famous Cliff Walk lets you stroll alongside sprawling mansions that’ll make you reconsider your career choices. These “summer cottages” of the Vanderbilts and Astors are basically American castles, and the tours are genuinely fascinating. Among spring travel destinations in New England, Newport offers that perfect blend of history and coastal beauty.
After playing tourist, hit Thames Street for a proper lobster roll, buttery, overstuffed, and worth every penny. Newport’s wharf restaurants deliver seafood so fresh it was swimming this morning. Wash it down with a local brew from Newport Craft Brewing.
The real move in Newport? Get on the water. Charter a sailboat (or befriend someone who has one) and cruise Narragansett Bay with a cooler full of cold ones. The harbor views of the city’s gilded coastline hit different from the water. Don’t sail? No problem. The Newport Rum Runner tour combines booze and history in the best possible way. This spring getaway is ideal for guys who want to play rich for a weekend without the trust fund.
As night falls, the Clarke Cooke House offers multi-level debauchery: start with classy cocktails upstairs, end with dancing downstairs. Just don’t be the guy who can’t handle his oyster shooters.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana: Beyond Bourbon Street
Skip the Mardi Gras crowds and hit NOLA in spring when the city truly shines. Temperatures hover in the perfect zone – warm enough for short sleeves, cool enough to avoid the infamous summer swamp heat. As spring getaways go, few cities offer the sensory overload that New Orleans delivers.
Crawfish season peaks in spring, making this one of the best spring vacation spots for seafood lovers. Find a local spot like Bevi Seafood or Clesi’s and order by the pound. The proper technique? Twist, peel, suck the head (yes, really), eat the tail. Repeat until your lips burn.
Music flows through this city like the Mississippi, and spring brings festivals almost weekly. Jazz Fest draws headliners, but the real magic happens in tiny clubs on Frenchmen Street, where $10 covers get you front-row access to musicians who’ll blow your mind. For family-friendly spring getaways in the US, check out the afternoon shows where kids can experience authentic jazz while parents enjoy craft cocktails.
Yes, you should visit Bourbon Street – once. Down a Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s, marvel at the chaos, then escape to more authentic spots. The Bywater and Marigny neighborhoods offer dive bars where locals actually hang. Try Vaughan’s or BJ’s Lounge for genuine NOLA character without the tourist markup.
Don’t leave without a sunrise beignet run to Café du Monde. Those powdered sugar-covered pillows of fried dough have saved many a hangover, and the chicory coffee kicks like a mule. Pro tip: wear black and you’ll leave looking like you got in a fight with a coke dealer.
6. Sedona, Arizona: Desert Magic for Skeptics
Sedona’s famous “energy vortexes” might sound like new-age nonsense, but don’t knock it till you’ve stood on Bell Rock at sunset. Something about this place gets under your skin, maybe it’s the towering red rocks, maybe it’s the desert air, or maybe those vortexes are legit. Either way, this spring getaway offers hiking that’s top-tier.
Devil’s Bridge Trail leads to Sedona’s most photographed spot – a natural stone arch where you can snap pics that’ll make your ex regret everything. Cathedral Rock offers a more challenging scramble with views that’ll make you forget about your phone altogether. As spring travel destinations go, Sedona delivers spiritual vibes alongside outdoor adventure like nowhere else.
After getting dusty, Sedona’s wine scene provides the perfect recovery. The Verde Valley Wine Trail connects tasting rooms pouring surprisingly solid Arizona wines. Oak Creek Vineyards and Page Springs Cellars offer outdoor seating with ridiculous views.
For next-level exploration, book a Pink Jeep Tour. These iconic off-road adventures take you places regular vehicles can’t reach. The Broken Arrow tour includes “road” sections so steep you’ll question physics and your life choices simultaneously.
As night falls, Sedona offers some of the best stargazing in America. The dark sky ordinances mean you’ll see stars you forgot existed. Grab a blanket, some bourbon, and head out of town for a cosmic show that beats anything on Netflix.
7. Austin, Texas: Where Brisket Meets Beats
Austin’s spring sweet spot lands between SXSW chaos and summer inferno. The city pulses with energy, fueled by smoked meat, live music, and ice-cold Lone Stars. As spring travel destinations go, few cities blend urban cool with outdoor adventure quite like Austin.
Start your Austin adventure on the water. Rent a stand-up paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake and navigate downtown’s skyline. The Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony emerges at sunset, a million Mexican free-tailed bats streaming into the evening sky. It’s weirdly mesmerizing.
Now, about that brisket. Franklin Barbecue deserves the hype, but the line requires dedication. For similar quality without the wait, try La Barbecue or Micklethwait Craft Meats. Order by the pound, respect the bark, and never, ever ask for sauce first. This spring getaway balances outdoor activities with serious culinary credentials.
When the sun sets, Austin transforms. Start on Rainey Street, where bungalows-turned-bars offer craft cocktails and backyard vibes. Progress to East Sixth for divey spots with serious character, then end on “Dirty Sixth” where shot specials and live music fuel bad decisions until 2 AM.
Recovery comes via breakfast tacos. Juan in a Million or Veracruz All Natural will resurrect you with egg-stuffed tortillas and coffee strong enough to wake the dead. Then hit Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre natural limestone pool where the constant 68-degree water shocks your system back to life.
8. Lake Tahoe, California: Mountain Playground
Spring in Tahoe means you can potentially ski and swim on the same day. This dual-season sweet spot offers empty slopes and warming lake temps for the ultimate spring getaway combo. Among the best spring vacation spots for outdoor enthusiasts, Tahoe offers that rare snow-to-sun transition that lets you pack both skis and swimsuits. When planning spring getaways, consider Tahoe’s unique ability to offer both winter and summer sports simultaneously.
Hit Squaw Valley’s legendary runs in the morning while the snow’s still firm. By afternoon, trade ski boots for hiking shoes and tackle the Rubicon Trail or Cave Rock. Pack a six-pack in your backpack for summit celebrations with panoramic lake views that’ll make your dating profile pics instantly better.
The Nevada side offers casinos for post-adventure gambling and surprisingly good restaurants. The California side brings more laid-back vibes with breweries like South Lake Brewing Company and Alibi Ale Works pouring perfect post-activity pints.
For a uniquely Tahoe experience, rent a boat and cruise the lake’s famously clear waters. Find a secluded cove, drop anchor, and jump into the bracing blue. Yes, it’s still cold in spring, but that’s half the fun. The shock factor makes the beers taste better afterward.
Nightlife ranges from upscale lounges in Heavenly Village to dive bars like The Divided Sky where locals and tourists share shot skis. The perfect Tahoe day ends with a sunset whiskey at Chambers Landing, watching alpenglow paint the mountains pink.
9. Hilton Head, South Carolina: Coastal Class
Hilton Head masquerades as a retiree haven, but spring reveals its true identity as a playground for active dudes seeking coastal thrills without the spring break chaos. For spring getaways that balance relaxation with activity, this island delivers on all fronts.
The island’s 12 miles of beaches offer Atlantic swimming, but the real move is renting a kayak and exploring the salt marshes. Dolphin sightings are practically guaranteed, and the maze-like waterways lead to hidden beaches inaccessible by car.
Biking is the preferred transportation here, with over 60 miles of trails connecting the island’s highlights. Pedal to Harbor Town’s candy-striped lighthouse, then grab a cold one at the Quarterdeck while watching million-dollar yachts cruise by. Among spring travel destinations in the Southeast, Hilton Head offers that perfect blend of activity and relaxation.
Golf is religion on Hilton Head, with over 20 championship courses. Harbour Town Golf Links hosts the RBC Heritage tournament right after the Masters, but for mere mortals, Ocean Course at Palmetto Dunes offers equally stunning ocean views with more forgiving fairways.
Seafood dominates the food scene, with Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks serving catches straight from local boats. For sunset entertainment, book a sailing charter – the dolphin sunset cruises are legitimately worth it, especially if you’re trying to impress someone special.
10. Savannah, Georgia: Southern Swagger
Savannah moves at its own pace, and that pace is perfectly calibrated for spring enjoyment. The city’s 22 historic squares drip with Spanish moss and Southern gothic vibes, creating ready-made hang spots for afternoon cigars and people-watching. This spring getaway delivers an atmospheric punch that few American cities can match.
Start at Forsyth Park, where the iconic fountain provides the perfect backdrop for plotting your day. The city’s open container laws mean you can grab a to-go cup from any bar and stroll the historic district like you own the place.
For an authentic Savannah experience, hit Pinkie Master’s Lounge, a legendary dive where Jimmy Carter once stood on the bar to announce his presidential run. Follow it with oysters and beer at Sorry Charlie’s, where the rooftop views of downtown complement the seafood perfectly. As one of the best spring vacation spots in the South, Savannah offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and cocktails.
Spring in Savannah means front-porch sitting weather, and The Alida Hotel’s rooftop bar offers next-level lounging. If you’re feeling fancy, The Grey (housed in a restored Greyhound station) serves James Beard-winning southern cuisine that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about grits.
Don’t miss a stroll along River Street, where converted cotton warehouses now house shops, restaurants, and bars. The cobblestones may challenge your balance after a few drinks, but that’s part of Savannah’s charm – this city embraces your wobbles with open arms.
11. Palm Springs, California: Desert Oasis
Palm Springs isn’t just your grandparents’ retirement community anymore. This desert playground has reinvented itself as the perfect spring getaway for guys seeking sun, style, and surprisingly good cocktails.
The pool scene defines Palm Springs, with boutique hotels like the Ace and Arrive offering day passes to their swanky aquatic playgrounds. Order a mezcal drink, grab a lounger, and alternate between cooling off and heating up all afternoon.
When you’re waterlogged, Joshua Tree National Park awaits just 45 minutes away. The alien landscape of twisted trees and massive boulders creates a surreal hiking experience, especially during spring when desert wildflowers add splashes of color to the otherwise khaki terrain. For spring travel destinations that combine poolside luxury with desert adventure, Palm Springs stands alone.
Back in town, Palm Springs’ mid-century modern architecture deserves attention. These spring getaways to the desert offer both relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
12. Washington, D.C.: Beyond Politics
D.C. in spring means two things: cherry blossoms and fewer tourists than summer. The pink explosion around the Tidal Basin creates a surreal backdrop for the city’s monuments, but the real secret is exploring beyond the National Mall. For those seeking culturally rich spring getaways, the nation’s capital delivers in spades.
Rent a bike to cover serious ground – Capital Bikeshare stations are everywhere, and cycling the mall lets you hit the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Building without destroying your step count. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial hits particularly hard at sunset when the black granite reflects the fading light.
Georgetown offers the perfect afternoon detour, with brick streets lined with bars and restaurants. Start at The Sovereign for rare Belgian beers, then work your way to waterfront spots like Tony and Joe’s for seafood with Potomac River views. For a memorable spring getaway, few cities offer the combination of history, culture and natural beauty that D.C. does.
Adams Morgan brings the nightlife energy, with jumbo slices of pizza standing by for 2 AM refueling. U Street’s historic jazz clubs like The Green Room and Blues Alley offer more sophisticated evening entertainment, with cocktails strong enough to make you forget about partisan politics altogether. When planning your spring travel destinations, consider how D.C. transforms during this season.
And yes, those Georgetown Cupcakes are worth the hype, especially the salted caramel. No judgment if you house three in one sitting – we’ve all been there.
13. Moab, Utah: Red Rock Adrenaline
Canyonlands National Park offers even more dramatic landscapes with fewer crowds. The Island in the Sky district provides vertigo-inducing views from 1,000-foot mesas overlooking the Colorado River. The White Rim Road – a 100-mile 4×4 route – circles the district for those seeking multi-day spring getaways. Moab’s spring getaways offer that perfect window when temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities.
Speaking of off-road, Moab’s legendary slickrock trails draw mountain bikers and 4×4 enthusiasts from around the world. Rent a Jeep and tackle Hell’s Revenge, where steep sandstone climbs and descents will have your knuckles white on the steering wheel. Rather pedal? The Slickrock Bike Trail’s 10.5 miles of petrified sand dunes create a lunar-like riding experience that’ll test your skills and your quads.
After pushing your limits, Moab’s breweries provide perfect recovery stations. Moab Brewery serves solid ales and surprisingly good pub food, while Moab Garage Co. offers craft coffee for morning fuel-ups before hitting the trails. Looking for the best spring vacation spots that combine adventure with stunning scenery? Moab should be at the top of your list.
Fair warning: Your body will hate you tomorrow. Moab’s adventures demand physical payment, but the bragging rights last forever. Pack extra ibuprofen and prepare to walk funny for days after – it’s the Moab souvenir that keeps on giving.
14. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California: Luxury in Disguise
Carmel sounds fancy – and it is – but it’s secretly perfect for guys seeking high-end adventure without the stuffiness. This fairy-tale town packs serious punch into one square mile, making it perfect for spring getaways that blend luxury with outdoor activities. Spring getaways to Carmel allow you to experience the coastal town before summer crowds arrive.
Start with the obvious: Pebble Beach Golf Links. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s worth it. The coastal holes rank among golf’s most spectacular, and you’ll be replaying them in your head for years. Can’t swing the green fees? The 17-Mile Drive offers similar views for just the entry fee, with pull-offs at landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay.
Carmel Beach rivals any in California, with white sand and cypress trees framing the crescent bay. Morning fog burns off to reveal perfect conditions for surfing, swimming, or just watching dogs go nuts in one of the country’s most dog-friendly towns. The sunset beach walks here are legitimately romantic, especially with a flask of something warming tucked in your jacket.
Food in Carmel gets serious quickly. La Bicyclette serves wood-fired pizzas and French bistro classics, while Casanova offers Mediterranean fare in a cottage supposedly containing Van Gogh’s actual table. For drinks, head to Barmel for craft cocktails or Brophy’s for a more casual tavern vibe. Among spring travel destinations in California, Carmel offers a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty.
The town’s architecture alone is worth exploring – no street addresses, no streetlights, and cottages that look plucked from a Tolkien novel. Just wander the streets, pop into art galleries, and pretend you’re considering buying that $30,000 painting. Hey, fake it till you make it.
15. Key West, Florida: The End of the Road
Key West sits at the literal end of the road – US Highway 1’s final stop before Cuba. This island outpost operates on its own wavelength, where shoes are optional and happy hour starts at brunch. For spring getaways that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Key West delivers. Key West’s spring getaways give you all the tropical vibes without leaving the country.
The fishing here is legendary. Book a charter and target tarpon, permit, or marlin depending on the season. Captain’s Corner and Fishmonster charters know where the big ones hide. Not into fishing? The coral reefs surrounding Key West offer spectacular snorkeling and diving, with trips to the Dry Tortugas National Park providing the ultimate underwater adventure.
Back on land, Duval Street forms Key West’s boozy backbone. Start at Sloppy Joe’s (Hemingway’s old haunt) for live music and strong drinks, then bar-hop your way down to the Green Parrot for late-night shenanigans with locals. For a classier experience, try the Rum Bar at the Speakeasy Inn, where over 365 rums await your sampling. As one of the best spring vacation spots in Florida, Key West offers that perfect island vibe without leaving the continental US.
Food in Key West leans seafood-heavy, naturally. Blue Heaven serves legendary key lime pie in a backyard filled with roaming chickens, while Eaton Street Seafood Market offers fresh-caught fish sandwiches worth waiting in line for.
Don’t miss the sunset celebration at Mallory Square, where street performers, food vendors, and hundreds of tourists gather to applaud the sun’s daily disappearing act. It’s touristy but worth it, especially with a rum runner in hand from the nearby Schooner Wharf Bar.
Time to Ditch the Winter Blues
From mountain peaks to coastal retreats, these spring getaways offer the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and just enough trouble to generate stories worth telling.
The beauty of spring travel destinations? Smaller crowds, better rates, and perfect temperatures. Plus, you’ve been inside so long that even a mediocre view will blow your mind. But these aren’t mediocre spots, they’re the best spring vacation spots for guys seeking real experiences.
So text your buddies, book those flights, and remember to pack light. The best spring getaways require mobility, spontaneity, and maybe a little recklessness. Your couch will still be there when you get back, but you won’t be the same guy who left it.
Just don’t forget the sunscreen. Nothing says “I made poor life choices” like a lobster-red face in all your photos. Now get out there and remind yourself what living actually feels like.
