The Best 2021 Spring Break Staycation Spot in Each State

One of the most important travel lessons we've learned over the last year is that sometimes you simply have to appreciate what you have around you. As travel picks up more and more steam, spring break 2021 might be one of the last great opportunities to truly relish the staycation, and the following are the best spots in each state to do it. Of course, be sure to check your state's local advisories and rules are constantly changing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Head due south to Dauphin Island to plant your feet in the sand and soak up the salty sea breeze. Spend a few days relaxing on the beach before you take the ferry over to historic Fort Morgan to learn about its storied past.

The charming small town of Homer hits well above its weight when it comes to both cultural attractions and cafes, a combination that is sure to please every member of your spring break crew. What's better? The town is known for having a very mild climate, so while tropical vibes are doubtful, don't be surprised if you experience some downright pleasant spring weather.

The Grand Canyon State may share this manmade wonder with Utah, but the Arizona city of Page serves as the unofficial jumping-off point for the lake. Rent a houseboat for the ultimate bonding experience or just spend your days on the water kayaking to hidden sections of the lake.

Eureka Springs boasts one of the most historic townscapes in the state, complete with romantic downtown carriage rides. Your family is sure to love the handsome rooms and haunted tours at the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa-one of the nation's most historic inns-and since the town also happens to reside directly next to a beautiful lake, you won't come up dry when it comes to water-based recreation.

You don't have to leave the Golden State to feel like you've arrived in a far-flung isle as Catalina possesses the same type of spring break magic that some people travel across the globe to find. Hit the hiking trails, lunch al fresco or just carve out a comfy space on the beach.

The name of the town may be ideal for Valentine's Day, but the charm of Loveland is still in full bloom come March. After spending a few days skiing and getting to know this loveable town, take a day trip to Denver or Boulder for even more family-friendly, educational attractions.

Spend your days in Hartford exploring the pleasant parks and fascinating museums (the Mark Twain House and Wadsworth Atheneum are both special), which are certain to keep every member of the family intrigued. Then, use one day of your staycation to drive to Kent Falls State Park in order to compare and contrast rural and urban Connecticut.

Delve into the heritage of Delaware in Dover, the state capital. The Old State House offers detailed insight into the history of legislation, while Dover International Speedway is a place of pilgrimage for motorsports fans.

It will be a while before Floridians have this much of O-Town to themselves again, so now is the chance to explore the theme parks, water parks and interesting neighborhoods of this city before the crowds return en masse.

The Masters is scheduled to take place in April once again this year, which means spring break will be a time of anticipation and pleasant weather in Georgia's Garden City. Kick your exploration of the city off by taking a stroll on the characterful Riverwalk, before moving on to the meandering pathways of the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park.

You may not find a deserted stretch of beach in the heart of Honolulu, but you will find the highest concentration of fun things to do in the state. Hike to the top of Diamond Head before touring Iolani Palace and watching a sunset on the beach one day, spend the next paying your respects to those who perished at Pearl Harbor at the poignant USS Arizona Pearl Harbor memorial.

Often overshadowed by Boise and up-and-coming Coeur d'Alene, Twin Falls makes for a terrific spring break escape. Settle in and get to know downtown-and the wide array of shops and eateries-before heading to the Snake River Canyon to admire the gracefully arched Perrine Bridge. Then, it's time to make for Shoshone Falls, the "Niagara of the West".

The City of Big Shoulders springs to life each March after its winter hibernation and while the weather won't be confused with the Caribbean, the endless list of things to do still makes it the perfect place for your spring break. Museums, parks, skyscrapers and the most interesting collection of neighborhoods this side of the Big Apple will fill your week with endless memories.

This spring break, make your way to Fort Wayne and you'll find one of the Midwest's most underrated cities. The kids will have fun while learning about the world around them at Science Central, while the rest of the crew are sure to be smitten with Fort Wayne's walking paths and the old historic fort which helped give the city its name.

The Hawkeye State's biggest city is the place to go for a fun-filled spring break. The weather may still be a bit on the chilly side, but it feels fine inside the glass conservatory at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park is sure to put a warm smile on your face. After you have seen those two attractions, visit the State Historical Museum to learn all about what makes Iowa so special.

This city in the suburbs of Kansas City is the perfect base from which to explore the attractions of both the Kansas and Missouri side of the KC metro area. Start your exploring off at the architecturally-stunning Museum at Prairiefire before heading downtown to visit the excellent National World War One Museum, the American Jazz Museum and to feast on some of the country's finest barbecue.

The 'Ville overflows with fun things to do all times of the year, but the city is dazzling in spring. Families will love the Kentucky Science Center no doubt, while those looking for a romantic spring break will swoon aboard the Belle of Louisville steamboat. This is to say nothing of the sensational dining and bourbon imbibing available around nearly every corner.

The state capital is perfect for an outdoors-based spring break as the weather is typically perfect in this neck of the woods in March. The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center is the ideal place to begin your adventure as the boardwalk paths get you up-close and personal with a myriad of flora and fauna. Then, head downtown to take a stroll on the Mississippi River Levee path and delve into the past at River Road African American Museum.

Vacationland can also be Staycationland this spring break. In a state with some of the most astounding natural scenery on the East Coast, it's the biggest that makes the best base for a week of exploring. Walk along the cobbles of the Old Port before viewing the beloved Portland Head Lighthouse and settling in for a sipping session at one of the many excellent local craft breweries.

Sure, you may need your sweatshirt on for that walk along the beach, but March is still a marvelous time to see Ocean City. You'll enjoy far fewer crowds than in summer, which means your crew might just have a section of the beach practically to yourself. After a couple of days on the coast, bounce over to Berlin, one of the nation's coolest small towns.

The biggest city in the Bay State is the best place to hunker down for a week and dive into the heritage of the nation. Walk the Freedom Trail to Bunker Hill to get a crash course in Revolutionary history before spending an afternoon soaking up some early spring sunshine at Boston Common. Then, head out for a snack in North End, one of the nation's most characterful Italian neighborhoods.

Grand Rapids may be Michigan's second-biggest city, but it feels more intimate and manageable than many cities its size, making it ideal for spring break. Your first port of call should be the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in order to catch up on the latest blooms, before meandering through Millennium Park and exploring the booming local brewing scene.

This historic river town on the Mississippi makes for an idyllic spring break escape. Outdoors-focused travelers will love exploring the dramatic hills and bluffs around Red Wing while those interested in history will love diving into the wealth of local museums.

Located in the center of the state and at the cultural crossroads of Mississippi, Jackson is always a good idea. Start your staycation off by tracing the part the city played in the fight for equal rights at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, then set off for Fleur's Bluff State Park for a picnic as spring might just feature the best weather of the year here.

Your family won't leave the 'Lou lacking memories. The City Museum is now famous around the country for its utterly unique approach to interactive fun while the St. Louis Zoo is arguably the nation's best free zoo. The Missouri Botanical Garden offers up lush greenery for your enjoyment and this is to say nothing of that giant arch downtown.

No big trip to Billings can begin until you've visited the Western Heritage Center, which opens for the season in early March and this year will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. After you've learned all about the region's roots, head to the wondrous Rimrocks cliffs to enjoy expansive views of the Yellowstone Valley and downtown.

The biggest city in the Cornhusker State is easily the best place to spend a week of your spring break. The excellent Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium receives scores of accolades and is considered by many the best zoo this side of San Diego. After you've come face-to-face with animals from around the world, head to the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge to cross the Missouri River into Iowa-just so you can say you did.

Even if you live here or visit often, there's always something more to discover in the Las Vegas Valley and spring break is the perfect time to find something new in familiar surroundings. Head to Red Rock Canyon for hikes that feature stunning views before heading downtown to play off-the-beaten-path tourist for the night.

The gorgeous coastal town of Portsmouth is the perfect place to get your fill of salty air on spring break in the Granite State. The star attraction for families is Strawberry Banke, an incredible 10-acre outdoor history museum that features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

The Grand Lady of the Jersey Shore doesn't take a season off and while you might not pick up a golden tan in Cape May this time of year, you're sure to have a good time. Trek to the local lighthouse to take in sweeping views of the Atlantic before renting a bicycle to view the town's grand collection of Victorian buildings.

One of the most historic cities in America, Santa Fe always surprises. Start with one of the classics-The Georgia O'Keefe Museum-to gain a new appreciation for the legendary artist before blazing your own trail on one of the local hikes that all feature spectacular Southwest scenery. Then, treat your crew to a true New Mexican meal, one of our nation's most distinctive cuisines.

Leave the big city behind for a few days among the tranquil woods and rushing water of Letchworth State Park. Watch the Genesee River rumble through the rocks and cascade over three waterfalls before making the short drive to Rochester to visit the former home of one of the nation's most accomplished equal rights campaigners: Susan B. Anthony.

Wilmington boats the rare one-two punch of being a bustling, cosmopolitan city that also happens to be right by the beach. Focus in on the fascinating Cape Fear Museum of History & Science before strolling the town's famed Riverwalk and local boardwalks. Then, it's time to head for the shore to dig your feet in the sand and work on your early season tan.

North Dakota locals and visitors alike tend to stick to Fargo and its surrounds, so why not take the path less traveled and make for Minot. The roots of the region take center stage at the Scandinavian Heritage Museum, which is destined to be the highlight of your trip.

The capital of the Buckeye State, Columbus is coming up so make this spring break the time you get to know it better. Start things off by admiring the dancing glass of Dale Chihuly at the Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens before going to the German Village to be transported back to the days when recent German immigrants made up a huge percentage of the local population. The Columbus Zoo is also among the best in the entire country.

The entire family will have fun at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which is the perfect tone-setter for a trip to OKC. After a peaceful stroll in Scissortail Park-one of the nation's newest urban greenspaces-pay your respects to the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing at the recently re-imagined Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.

Portland is perfect in spring and while it isn't peak blooming season at the acclaimed Portland Rose Garden, you'll still appreciate the views of the city and Mount Hood and the tranquillity of the Japanese gardens located next door. Then, after you've visited one of the city's amazing breweries, treat the kids to an educational souvenir that will also kickstart their creativity on a trip to Powell's City of Books, the world's largest used/new book shop.

To put it simply, you'll never run out of things to do in Philly. Whether it be the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center or a trip to nearby Valley Forge, the historical sights will leave in awe of America's revolutionary quest for self-determination. As far as modern-day wonders, you can't end your spring break without taking a selfie after jogging up the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Sure, you may think of Bristol as more of a summer destination, but now is the time to beat some of the seasonal crowds and carve out a chunk of this charming town to call your own. After you've visited the local independent shops, take a stroll through Colt State Park-admiring the sea views every step along the way.

There's a reason why people flock from all over the nation to experience Hilton Head and now's the chance for South Carolinians to get out and experience the best of the region. Walk the beaches, hit the links and dive into the unique culture of the Lowcountry at the Coastal Discovery Museum before enjoying an alfresco sunsetter in Harbour Town.

Spend a spring break in Rapid City and you'll walk away with a new appreciation for the Black Hills region, but you're also guaranteed to know more about the former presidents of the United States. That's thanks to the city's remarkable City of Presidents, a collection of life-size statues of all former American presidents. If you're curious, Donald Trump's statue is still being created.

One of the world's great musical cities, Memphis will fill your spring break with fun from start to finish. Kick things off with a trip to the Peabody Hotel to watch the hotel's beloved ducks making their march to the lobby fountain before taking the sky bridge over to Mud Island in order to admire the Riverwalk, which is an interactive recreation of the entire Lower Mississippi River system. Then, spend your nights soaking up the atmosphere and blues-y sounds on always-bubbly Beale Street.

Long the capital of spring break in Texas, South Padre is still the perfect spot for you and your crew to get away from it all for a few days. Fly a kite on the beach, sunbathe in the sand, then visit Sea Turtle, Inc to learn all about-and help protect-these special sea creatures.

Located a short drive from Zion National Park, St. George is the perfect base for enjoying the remarkable park by day and relaxing with city creature comforts by night. And as an added bonus, St. George is renowned for its sunny skies, which is one of the most important elements of a spring break escape.

While this romantic Green Mountain State town certainly gets more press for its autumn vibes, spring is a remarkable time to stop by, too. If the weather is snowy, then hit up the local slopes, but if it's pleasant, the family will love taking to the cycling paths or snapping pics of majestic Moss Glen Falls.

Where else can you experience raft class 3 & 4 water in the middle of a hip American town? Nowhere. This is just the tip of the iceberg of what makes this town so special, a roster that also include standout museums, cultural sights and excellent, on-trend eateries.

Attractions like Pikes Place Market (watch out for the flying fish!) and the Space Needle need no introduction and your spring break squad will certainly enjoy ticking them off the list. In addition, make time for the Museum of Pop Culture and to visit breathtaking Mount Rainier National Park.

Historic and handsome, this quaint town sits at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers and at the crossroads of history. Learn about its pivotal role in the American story and take your group for a day hike on the Appalachian Trail.

Sure, it may seem a little early for "cottage season", but you won't mind a bit when you're curled up next to the fire after a long day exploring the coast and countryside of this naturally stunning county.

Head back to the Old West of Cheyenne for the state's most complete staycation experience. Start off with a scavenger hunt spotting the artistic "big cowboy boots" scattered around town before shopping for some authentic Western wear. While the odds of snow are still strong this time of year, that just gives you and your family an excuse to take to the fat bike paths at Curt Gowdy State Park.