Spring conjures up images of tulips, the scent of a thawing winter, and the sounds of birds looking for mates. It’s the season that competes with fall in the category of “best in color.” After months of chilly weather, short days, and lots of time spent indoors, most of us are itching to get back outside again by the time March, April, and May roll around.
College students aren’t the only ones who deserve a spring break. If you’re looking to get away from the daily grind, explore a new city, or just get some sun on your skin, there are plenty of enticing options near and far. Below are some of our favorite places to visit this spring—and where we love to stay.
View from the Fairmont Banff Springs
Photo by Brandon Withrow
Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada
Banff National Park in Alberta’s Canadian Rockies is what everyone imagines when they think of idyllic mountain beauty. In Banff, you’ll find the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, evergreen trails, and waterfalls. Late May to early June is when spring really shows up, and lakes and trails thaw. Come between April 22 and May 4 to experience the annual Banff Food and Cocktail Festival and reward your outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay
The castle-esque luxury of Fairmont Banff Springs is a must with the best views humanly possible. If you are staying at Lake Louise, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has unbeatable views of those stunning turquoise waters.
Waterfall pool at Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn.
Photo by Brandon Withrow
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the place for jungle-rainforest adventures and relaxation, and a leader in sustainable tourism. If you’re a birder, plan a visit around Global Big Day (May 10) and try to log as many as many of the country’s 900 species on eBird as possible. To get the most of that Costa Rican “Pura Vida,” spring runs from March to June. The weather is driest in March and April April, while in May and June you’ll experience the early days of the rainy season.
Where to Stay
Many tourists think of visiting Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, but to avoid crowds, we recommend spending at least part of your stay in the Central Valley. There, you’ll find the capital city, the coffee highlands, and a great starting point for exploring the country. Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm And Inn is a luxury and sustainable stay with fresh coffee, plenty of birds, and stunning views.
The Peacock Room at the Davenport.
Photo via Davenport Hotel Collection
Spokane, Washington
Spokane doesn’t get enough love. The city has everything, from plentiful outdoor activities to a lively restaurant and cocktail bar scene. If you like a challenge, join 50,000 participants who run, walk, or jog 12 km each year for the annual Bloomsday Run on May 4. Looking for spring color? Join a crowd of 150,000 people for the Lilac Festival from May 17-20 and discover why Spokane is called the Lilac City.
Where to Stay
More than a century old, the stunning Davenport Hotel, continues to improve with age. When you stay, check out their Peacock Room Lounge, a cocktail bar harkening to the jazz age that boasts a jaw-dropping, 5,000-piece stained-glass ceiling.
Photo courtesy of Contiki
Jaipur, India
Spring in India is the time for Holi (March 14), the Hindu Festival of Colors, where bonfires are lit and colored water and powder are tossed, covering everyone. The Taj Mahal might be the iconic place for visitors, but Hawa Mahal, a red and pink sandstone palace in Jaipur (Rajasthan’s capital), is the second-most photographed building in India and a great alternative.
Where to Stay
If you’ve never been to India, and want some guidance, consider joining a tour group. Every year, the long-established tour company Contiki leads tours, with the 12-Day Eternal India itinerary arriving in Jaipur on Holi. If you’re looking to do a Jaipur visit on your own, and want to feel like royalty, consider a luxury stay at Taj Rambagh Palace in Jaipur.
Looking downtown from New York's West Village.
Photo by Ana Lanza on Unsplash
New York City
It’s no hidden gem, but New York is the city of a thousand faces—and it wears spring colors especially well. New York offers plenty of ways to celebrate the return of post-winter life. Look for Easter colors and spring celebrations with the Easter Parade & Easter Bonnet Festival (April 20), where you’ll find the people donning their colorful best. Start at St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a view. The Cherry Blossoms will also be in flower from late March to April.
Where to Stay
While the city has no shortage of options for stays, Tempo by Hilton is a unique option for first-time visitors. The hotel offers easy access to the city for first-time visitors, due to its dead-central location near Rockefeller Center. It’s also a calming retreat, with wellness rooms that include plenty of Pelotons and yoga mats. You might even like it enough to return at New Years Eve, because they have 31 Ball Drop view rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Their cocktail Bar, Highball, offers drinks in both spirited and alcohol-free versions.
