Off the Beaten Path: 3 Budget-Friendly Florida Spring Break Destinations
From drained college kids to families looking to escape northern weather, Florida has long been a Spring Break destination.
Typically Spring Break falls between early March and mid-April when both school-aged kids and college students get at least a week-long break.
Historically the top three Spring Break U.S. destinations have all been in Florida – Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, and Panama City. In recent years other cities in the state have risen to the top of the ranks including Orlando, Tampa and Cocoa Beach.
But that’s just the tip of the melting iceberg when it comes to places to catch sun and fun in Florida.
Vacationers looking to avoid the crowds and save on expenses would do well to explore some off the beaten path destinations for Spring Break.
Here are three budget friendly Florida Spring Break destinations:
📍Port St. Lucie
Located in the heart of Florida's Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie is a great destination for those seeking a slower pace and experiences with nature. The city’s extensive collection of hiking trails takes visitors through a wide variety of local flora and wildlife. Spruce Bluff, one of St. Lucie’s most diverse trails, features a prehistoric Indian mound. Into sports? Take in a ballgame. St. Lucie is Spring Training home for the New York Mets. And don’t forget the beaches. There are more than five beaches to choose from in Port. St. Lucie. Looking for a great deal on a place to stay? Check out the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port St. Lucie, conveniently located near the city’s best attractions.
📍Plant City
Sandwiched between the beaches of Tampa Bay and the theme parks of Orlando is Plant City, FL. Home of the famous Strawberry Festival, Plant City is so much more than strawberries. Plant City has a lot of other sights and experiences that make for a great family Spring Break experience. For youngsters, Dinosaur World is a great option. Experience 200 life size dinosaurs in this self-guided outdoor museum. Lace up your hiking boots and head over to Edward Medard Regional Park and explore its more than 1,200 acres, including canoe rentals and camp sites. Take it slow and explore Plant City’s historic downtown perusing the shelves for vintage finds at The Mercantile followed by a great lunch at Norma's Cuban restaurant. Keep Spring Break affordable with deals at the Hampton Inn Plant City.
📍Miramar
About 20 miles north of Miami and 14 miles south of Ft. Lauderdale, the city of Miramar is a great central destination for those who want to maximize their Spring Break vacation options while avoiding the hub-bub of Miami Beach. Get an adrenaline fix at Sawgrass Recreation Park on a guided airboat tour of the Everglades full of alligators and other wildlife. The nearby Shops at Pembroke Gardens offers open air shopping and dining. Want some beach time? Miami Beach is less 30 miles from Miramar. The Home2 Suites by Hilton is centrally located in Miramar and offer great rates during Spring Break.