US Spring Cities
You don’t need to break out your passport or go far off the beaten path to make the most of the longer, warmer days of spring. Here are five vibrant US cities that truly come out of hibernation — and really put on a show — in April and May.
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Seattle
Washington
There’s never a bad time to go to Seattle, but there’s something extra special about it in spring. The coffee shops are buzzing, the spring flowers are in full bloom, and it’s still shoulder season, which means there are plenty of deals to be had at hotels, restaurants, and area attractions. After getting your fill of urban adventure, take a day trip to nearby Anacortes, a seaside town just a 90-minute drive from Downtown, and hop on a whale-watching tour to see orcas, gray whales, and humpbacks making their way north. Back in the city, stay at The Graduate, a modern hotel that perfectly matches Seattle’s cool, cultured vibes
Santa Fe
New Mexico
Make your way to the desert city of Santa Fe this spring to beat both the heat and the crowds. In April, the average temperature in Santa Fe hovers in the low 60s, making it an ideal time to stroll its gallery-filled streets, visit its world-class hiking trails, and see the city without the bigger crowds of tourists who vacation here in the high summer season. Be sure to visit the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, which tells the story of Indigenous peoples throughout the American southwest (and check out the 19th annual Native Treasures Market if you’re visiting over the Memorial Day weekend). Book a stay at the nearby Inn and Spa at Loretto, which sits within walking distance of many of the best local attractions, including the Santa Fe Plaza.
San Diego
California
If you’re eager to get your first taste of summer, head to Southern California’s most laid-back city, San Diego. This surfer’s paradise hits a 70-degree average in April, making it entirely acceptable to sit on the beach all day long, and even warm enough to hop in the ocean for a surf lesson or two. Visit in early May to join in the city’s Cinco de Mayo celebrations — some of the biggest in the US. And be sure to leave time to visit the famed San Diego Zoo, go on a local brewery tour, or take a stroll through Torrey Pines State Park to see the blooms. At the end of the day, rest up at the Fairfield Inn & Suites, San Diego Old Town, which sits in the middle of the action (and close to the Cinco de Mayo festivities), making it an ideal home away from home.
Breckenridge
Colorado
Not quite ready to say goodbye to winter? Make your way to Breckenridge, a quaint mountain town about a two-hour drive from its larger neighbor, Denver. The mountain is beloved for its deep springtime snow thanks to its more than 9,600-foot base elevation. In fact, historically the mountain has one of the latest closing dates in the nation, making it entirely possible to ski all of April, May, and sometimes even into June if Mother Nature agrees. Stay right at the base of the mountain at Gravity Haus, a grown-up ski lodge that offers a unique recovery zone with several hot tubs and saunas that are ideal for weary skiers and riders.
New Orleans
Louisiana
Okay, so New Orleans never really turns off in winter, but it most certainly turns up just a little bit more in spring. Head to the Big Easy in late April for warmer temperatures and to take part in one of the best music festivals in the country — The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. In 2023 it runs from April 28 to May 7 and features a massive lineup of some of the world’s greatest artists, creatives, and chefs, all ready to share their talents with you. Stay at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, a French Quarter gem that’s just a 10-minute drive from the main festival venue.