Say goodbye to the winter cold and staying indoors, and hello to the sunshine and springtime bloom! Spring is upon us, now is the time to step into the great unknown and Be Wild and Free in 2023 and head to those getaway destinations you have only been dreaming about since the New Year!
What’s in store for you this spring season? Let’s dive in and explore the top spring destinations for 2023!
Sedona, Arizona
It’s springtime, and do you know what that means? It’s time to grab your hiking gear and head to the Southwest USA for majestic scenery and outdoor adventures! Sedona’s mesmerizing red rock formations, canyons, and wonder are what draw visitors to this top destination. The best time to visit is from March to May when the flowers add pops of color against the canyon walls, and the temperatures range from the mid-60s to low-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Located just south of Flagstaff as a desert town, Sedona brings new age and art to the community in the downtown area, which is perfect for those who prefer to skip the trails. The outskirts of downtown Sedona offer over 200 hiking trails varying in intensity and popularity for hikers, ideal picnic spots, cascading vineyards, and high-thrill adventures.
For those looking for thrills, visitors can take ATV and Jeep tours among the red rocks, ride hot air balloons at sunrise, raft the flowing rivers, mountain bike the desert canyons, saddle up and go horseback riding, and take the trip to new heights with rock climbing.
If you want to take things at a slower pace, there are ample places for a relaxed setting. There’s something for everyone between therapeutic spa treatments, meditation, spiritual wellness, and visiting the four energy vortexes throughout Sedona. You can find these four vortexes at Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, and Boynton Canyon, and each one is an energy center for healing, meditation, and self-exploration.
Are you looking for day trips? Sedona is the perfect location to stay when venturing to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon in Page, the Ghost Town of Jerome, and even Petrified Forest National Park for a day trip.
Australia
If you have always wanted to venture to the Outback, spring is the best time to visit. During this time, Australia is heading into autumn, when it will start cooling down, making it ideal for venturing to the Outback or participating in outdoor adventures. It is also less crowded during this timeframe, and flights can become more affordable than during the summertime.
So what is there to do in Australia?
Australia is exceptionally diverse regarding things to do, where to stay, and the landscape terrain. It is the sixth largest country in the world, so unless you plan to do some regional flights or have a month to explore the country, you will want to know where you want to spend most of your time. Let’s dive into what each region has to offer below.
New South Wales
- New South Wales offers visitors city views and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you visit the Opera House, take a Sydney Bridge Climb, surf the waves at Bondi Beach, or hike the Blue Mountains. Since most international flights land in Sydney, this area is perfect for exploring when flying in and out of the country.
Queensland
- Queensland is for those ready to explore and have some fun outdoor adventures. Whether hiking the Daintree Rainforest, taking a hot air balloon ride, or diving below the sea and exploring the Great Barrier Reef, this is the perfect spot for adventurers.
Northern Territory
- The Northern Territory is where visitors can experience the true Australian Outback. There are many tours to choose from where you can experience being in the bush and exploring all the surrounding wildlife and landscapes. While visiting the Northern Territory, visitors can also stop by a kangaroo sanctuary, go waterhole hopping, and witness the Ayer Rock in the Red Centre.
Western Australia
- Western Australia is for those who enjoy road trips and laid-back vibes. This region is where you can witness stunning lakes with pink hues. Not only does the Western Australia region have unique lakes, but it also has scenic coastlines and the top-rated Lucky Bay, which is perfect for catching rays.
South Australia
- South Australia is perfect for those who love food, wine, culture, and wildlife. South Australia is known as the Great Wine Capital of the World and home to 680 wineries spread throughout the region, with a couple hundred only a short drive from Adelaide.
This region is also perfect for visiting Koala Bear rescue sanctuaries and taking a day trip to Kangaroo Island. Visitors must board a ferry from Adelaide for a direct route to Kangaroo Island. From there, visitors can witness wildlife in their natural habitat and explore the many nature reserves.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Springtime is the best time to visit Amsterdam when the temperatures are moderate and the tulips are in full bloom, making the area charming and full of color. The city puts on various festivals throughout April and May, making this a top destination with high energy and excitement. Two of the best festivals to attend are King’s Day, when everyone dresses in orange and has a fun-filled day partying in the streets and canals, and the Tulip Festival, where visitors can explore the beautiful fragrant fields. During April, there is usually a lower chance for rainfall, making it the perfect time to venture out and explore the streets and cascading fields of tulips.
Some other things to do and explore while visiting the beautiful city are taking a bike ride through the streets, going on boat rides through the canal, visiting windmills, and enjoying an afternoon picnic at a park.
Madrid, Spain
Winter is over, and now is the time to celebrate spring by catching a flight to none other than Spain. Visiting Madrid in the springtime is ideal if you’re not a fan of bitterly cold winters and melting hot summer temperatures. However, be sure to pack an umbrella just in case; April tends to have a higher chance of rainfall.
So why springtime if it’s known to rain during this timeframe?
From March through May, the cherry blossoms are in full effect, making visiting the streets and parks much more memorable. Also, various festivals are happening throughout the season, which brings energy and excitement to the city and is a must-see if you’re planning to visit!
Asheville, North Carolina
Are you looking for quick spring getaways in the US? Look no further and head to Asheville, North Carolina, for a weekend getaway, or stay longer and enjoy the surrounding sights and sounds!
Spring in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a time for rejuvenation after spending days indoors during the winter. So grab your hiking shoes and hit the trails, chase some gorgeous waterfalls, and enjoy the meadows in bloom.
If you’re not much for exploring nature, head to Asheville and spend a day roaming the Biltmore Estate and gardens, stroll through the River Arts District, which is home to over 200 artist studios, and enjoy dining at farm-to-table restaurants that source local fresh ingredients.
If you have extra time, take a day trip to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountain National Park, Maggie Valley, and Bear Lake Reserve.
Yellowstone, Wyoming
Beat the crowds and head to Yellowstone National Park during the springtime. Spring season is the best time to experience fewer crowds and catch glimpses of the area’s wildlife as bears come out of hibernation and baby animals roam the land learning the ropes.
Although spring is ideal for avoiding crowds and seeing the wildlife and fields in bloom, the weather can be unpredictable. It can be sunny and 60 degrees Fahrenheit one day and snowfall with blistery winds the next day. It is best to watch the weather and visit the park’s website before visiting to understand the conditions in the area. If you plan on hiking, be sure to layer up, follow the Leave No Trace Policy, and be prepared for anything.
There are so many things to see and do within Yellowstone. Between hiking trails, geysers, hot springs, canyons, the famous Old Faithful, and exploring the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, there’s something for everyone, especially for outdoor adventurers. Yellowstone National Park is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and small to large groups.
Most top-visited national parks require a timed-entry reservation pass. However, Yellowstone National Park is not one of them. You only need a National Park Pass to gain access, which makes this easier to explore than others.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Yellowstone, head to Big Sky, Montana, or visit the Grand Tetons National Park.
Greek Isles, Greece
Ever dream of getting lost in the tranquil blue seas of the Greek Isles? There’s no better time than the present to grab your passports and camera and find your “tropical” paradise in the beautiful Grecian architecture and cliffside towns.
The best time to visit the Greek Isles is from late April to June, making a trip to the Isles the perfect spring getaway! During this time, visitors will experience favorable temperatures for sightseeing and fewer crowds, which in turn makes island hopping more accessible. Generally, accommodations and car rentals are also more affordable than peak season.
So which isles should you choose?
Those ready to take on the Greek party scene will find the vibe on Los, Naxos, and Paros, with a more luxurious party scene on Mykonos. Visitors will find an abundance of bars, clubs, nightly dancing, and gorgeous beaches. These isles are sure to make you cut loose and enjoy the present.
Calling all history buffs! History and vibrant culture encapsulate the Greek Isles, and no matter which destination you choose, there will be something to explore and see; however, some have more to offer than others. Crete is home to the oldest European city of Knossos. Here, visitors can explore the palaces, rich architecture, and painted murals. A few other hot spots for exploring the rich history, temples, palaces, castles, and charming old towns are on the isles of Santorini, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Rhodes.
Those ready to Be Wild and Free and seek finding adventures should venture to Anafi, Milos, Zakynthos, Santorini, Kalymnos, and Paros. Each of these brings something different to those who love being outdoors – whether adventurers prefer to hike and climb the beautiful landscapes in Milos, Kalymos, and Anafi or to enjoy the water activities and experiences from the other islands.
Where are the food lovers? Those who enjoy experiencing international cuisine should head to Crete. The dishes served on this beautiful historic isle make this Greece’s hidden gem and is the Gourmet Island. Cretan food has been established from simple traditions that have become elevated and homey with locally sourced ingredients. Dakos (dry barley rusk topped with mizithra cheese, ripe tomatoes, olives, capers, fresh oregano, and olive oil) is the dish to try when visiting the island.
Those looking for landscape masterpieces and relaxation should travel to Symi, Kos, Patmos, Kalymnos, and any of the Dodecanese islands. Visitors will experience thermal baths, pristine sandy beaches, picturesque views, and fewer crowds while enjoying the Greek Isle lifestyle. Discover the true gems of the Mediterranean.
Lake Tahoe, California
Pack your bags and head to one of the purest freshwater lakes in North America. Lake Tahoe is not only surrounded by the picturesque views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, but this beautiful tranquil mountain lake is among the world’s top 20 oldest lakes, making this a highly-rated destination for travelers.
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe is springtime, from March to May, when it’s considered shoulder season. Visitors will experience fewer crowds and generally more cost-effective accommodations during this timeframe. However, the weather can be unpredictable. Some days, it could be full of sun and warmth, giving visitors the best time to hit trails and lake sports, and other times, there is a potential for snow where travelers can still experience winter activities. Either way, there’s plenty to see and do that will make visiting a memorable time.
Some of the best things to do at Lake Tahoe in the spring are waterfall hikes, spring skiing at a mountain resort, snowshoeing at higher elevations, kayak tours, scenic boat rides, and strolling through the ski villages. Whether you relax in a cozy cottage, shop till you drop, or head outdoors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this springtime getaway.
St. Lucia, West Indies
If you’re looking for an island getaway, St. Lucia is the place to be! The constant tropical temperature, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals draw many tourists to this stunning island, which has only increased in popularity.
St. Lucia offers something unique to those ready to Be Wild and Free. It’s an island for adventurers and the romantics looking for captivating views with the dramatic mountain terrain, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, stunning gardens, a drive-through volcano, and unique fishing villages throughout the island. Let the island inspire travelers with its beauty and adventure.
Although one can spend an entire day at the beach, there are endless options for sightseeing and things to do while visiting St. Lucia. Whether you hike the Pitons, dive into the reefs, zip-line through the tree canopies, hit the ATV trails through the jungles, soak in therapeutic mud baths, or hit the street parties, there is something for everyone to have an incredible escape from being stuck inside all winter long.
Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Be Wild and Free and venture to Vancouver for a perfect spring getaway. Vancouver is a vibrant city between the Western seaport and the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. The area provides visitors with diverse outdoor activities that are perfect for adventurers searching for the next thrill or for those museum-goers who prefer a more laidback, relaxed vibe. Although some may think the best time to visit Vancouver is during the summer, it is, in fact, best to visit during the springtime.
During April, visitors can experience the city in full bloom, starting with the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs from April 1st-23rd. During this time, the trees burst with a promise of the new season and bring the city to life after the winter. Travelers can also head to the botanical gardens and parks that are full of pops of color with blossoming magnolias, rhododendrons, dogwoods, and apple trees.
The best part of Vancouver is how accessible it is to get around the city as soon as you step off the airplane. Between the light rail from the airport to the close walkable downtown areas and the variety of car share availabilities, some visitors can get away from even having to rent a car for this getaway.
Although a car rental for a day trip to the wilderness is ideal, visitors can keep the cost low for the needed duration.
So what exactly can visitors do in the spring?
For those looking to have a great time in British Columbia, travelers can experience a whale watch tour, and see the botanical gardens, hike Vancouver North Shore, visit Vancouver Lookout, spend an afternoon at one of the many museums, head to the ski resorts, take a day trip to Victoria or Whistler. There is so much to see and do that everyone can find something that will make this spring getaway that much more memorable!
There is a reason why these are the top destinations for having the perfect spring getaway! All these locations bring something vibrant and new for the incoming season, and I don’t know about you, but I am ready to get out and explore!
How are you going to step into spring?
