Discover seven charming towns in the northern US that come alive in spring with breathtaking nature, delightful shopping, delicious food, quirky activities, and seasonal festivals celebrating everything from flowers and crabs to skiing and European culture.
Amana, Iowa: Embrace German Heritage at Maifest
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Amana, Iowa is a charming town in east-central Iowa that offers a unique and peaceful springtime vacation experience. Known as the main community in the Amana Colonies, Amana preserves its German heritage through its historic buildings, folk industries, and unique culture.
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One of the highlights of spring in Amana is the Eurodivergent spring celebration called Maifest. This festival features maypoles, traditional music, delicious food, and a lively parade. Visitors can enjoy the festivities at the Festhalle Barn and find accommodation at the historic Hotel Millwright.
Nantucket, Massachusetts: Celebrate Spring with Daffodils
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Nantucket, a picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts, is a perfect destination for a serene spring break escape. The Nantucket Daffodil Festival, started in the 1970s, is a vibrant springtime celebration that honors the millions of daffodils planted across the island.
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During the festival, visitors can enjoy a flower show, flower party, picnic, pageant, bazaar, and parades. The festival coincides with the opening of The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin, providing the perfect opportunity to explore the island's beauty.
Big Sky, Montana: Embrace the Snowy Spring
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While many northern destinations bid farewell to snow in spring, Big Sky, Montana embraces it. Known for having the "biggest skiing in America," Big Sky Resort offers an expansive ski area spanning thousands of acres.
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During late March to late April, the resort hosts the Spring Series Après, a series of weekends filled with live music and good vibes. Visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and accommodation options at the resort's mountain village.
Cape May, New Jersey: Relax and Enjoy the Seaside Charm
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Cape May, a popular summer destination, also serves as a delightful springtime getaway. With mild weather and fewer crowds, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the seaside charm.
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Visitors can participate in the Cape May Spring Festival and the Wildwoods International Kite Festival. The Spring Break Family Adventures offer a range of kid-friendly activities, including hiking, birding, crafting, and more.
Mackinac Island, Michigan: Experience the Lilac Festival
Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron, Michigan, is a quaint community known for its annual Lilac Festival. This festival, now in its 76th year, celebrates the island's abundance of lilacs with music, games, and a grand parade featuring horse-drawn carriages.
Visitors can indulge in the island's culinary delights and find accommodation at charming establishments like the Grand Hotel and Bicycle Street Inn.
La Conner, Washington: Immerse Yourself in Vibrant Flower Festivals
La Conner, a small town in Washington, is a paradise for flower enthusiasts. It boasts two famous flower festivals that come alive in spring.
The La Conner Daffodil Festival in March showcases acres of blooming daffodils, while the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April is renowned as the largest tulip festival in North America. Visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant floral displays and also attend the Tulip Parade and Art Bash.
Kodiak, Alaska: Celebrate Crabs at the Kodiak Crab Festival
For a truly unique northern spring break experience, Kodiak, Alaska is the place to be. This Alaskan island community celebrates crabs during the Kodiak Crab Festival held each Memorial Day Weekend since 1958.
The festival features vendors, music, rides, games, art shows, and a grand parade, all accompanied by an abundance of fresh crab meat. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife tours to spot whales, eagles, and Kodiak bears, as well as indulge in shopping at local stores.