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With spring in full swing, April is a great time to stop, smell the roses and book a trip. Whether you plan to get on the road, take a train or hop on a flight, getting away this month is a popular choice among travelers — and for good reason.
For starters, it’s the season where many places begin to come back to life after a long, cold winter. With beautiful blooms like cherry blossoms peppering branches and bright tulips peeking from the earth, Mother Nature puts on a spectacular show around the world in April. Not sure where to witness nature’s breathtaking beauty this month? You’ve come to the right place. We’re rounded up some of the best places to visit in April.
Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast who lives for a good hike, someone who thrives on checking out a city’s arts and culture scene, a person who craves relaxation or somewhere in between, you’re bound to find a destination on this list that speaks to your travel sensibilities. Plus, we’ve also considered families with school-age children and college students looking for the perfect place to enjoy spring break.
It should also be noted that April is a semi-busy travel month. Since it falls before the height of the summer travel season, it’s a prime opportunity to visit popular places without sweltering heat or large crowds.
Let this round-up be your personal travel guide to finding the best destinations to satisfy your wanderlust this April. And for more recommendations, be sure to check out Good Housekeeping’s Family Travel Awards.
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Tinseltown sparkles all year round, but it shines even brighter in April. With temperatures in the low 70s, it’s the perfect place for those seeking moderate weather. The climate sets the stage for countless outdoor activities like biking, hiking or escaping to a beach for endless surf and sand. The City of Angels is jam-packed with chef-driven restaurants and trendy eateries such as Bestia and Manuela that offer locally-sourced meals.
Visitors who want a taste of glitz and glamour can spend an afternoon at the new Academy Awards Museum to see exhibitions like Regeneration: Black Cinema 1898–1971 or take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to spot your favorite celebrity’s name.
For those who appreciate exquisite architecture, art & design, and pristine gardens, a trip to the Getty Center is a must. Did we mention it’s free?
With countless hotels to choose from, Hotel Figueroa is a sure bet. The historic boutique hotel is home to an on-site restaurant and offers amenities like an outdoor heated pool and pet-friendly rooms.
With mild temperatures and nature blooming, Canyon Point is ripe for spring visitors. The desert oasis tucked away in a valley at the border of Utah and Arizona, provides numerous opportunities to get out and explore the great outdoors. From hiking to touring the national parks, it is a peaceful wonderland for nature lovers.
For luxurious five-star lodging, Amangiri is a sure bet. Its location on the Colorado Plateau and its proximity to the iconic landscape of Monument Valley is a draw for adventurous travelers. Resort guests have access to expert in-house and local guides offering custom itineraries. They can help tourists plan one-of-a-kind excursions by air, horseback, kayak and more.
Although this New England destination is a top pick for summer vacationers, it’s also a wonderful place to visit in the spring. With mild temperatures and whale-watching season in full effect, Cape Cod comes alive in April.
Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or have your family in tow, the hook-shaped peninsula has something for everyone. Kid-approved activities include the Whydah Pirate Museum, Atlantic White Shark Center and Cape Cod’s Children’s Museum to name a few.
When it comes to food, this coastal town is chock-full of fine dining options like Cuvée at Chatham Inn Relais & Châteaux, which serves fresh seafood prepared with local ingredients.
Guests can stay at the Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club. The sprawling family-friendly resort offers numerous kid activities, heated indoor pools, an on-site spa and direct access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, ideal for hiking and biking. Plus, it has a private beach and bar.
First-time London visitors flock to the central part of the city — and for good reason. It’s the prime location for historic sightseeing, dining and more. Tourist attractions like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, The Tower Bridge and The London Eye are must-sees and non-negotiables when crossing the pond.
After taking in the sights, explore this walkable city on foot and discover local gems like Milk to get a jolt of java and a tasty bite of house-baked cornbread. Thanks to the mild weather, which hovers around 60 degrees in April, strolling the city by foot or via public transportation is a good idea.
For those who enjoy America’s favorite pastime, Boston is the place to be in April. Home to the oldest and arguably most iconic Major League Baseball (MLB) stadium, Fenway Park — Beantown is heaven on earth for baseball fans. With the Boston Red Sox kicking off their season on March 30 followed by more than a dozen home games in April, visitors can catch a fun game at the famed venue.
Die-hard fans can stay at Hotel Commonwealth, the official hotel of the Boston Red Sox — only footsteps from Fenway. The baseball-themed guest rooms, score major points for those seeking an immersive baseball experience.
Not big on sports? Don’t fret, Boston has plenty of fun activities to partake in during your visit. From shopping on Newbury Street to sightseeing Duck Tours, the city has something to offer all travelers.
Plus, foodies can get their grub on at newly-opened eateries like Blue Ribbon Sushi or Pescador for fresh coastal fare.
The U.S. capital transforms into a botanical paradise with gorgeous cherry blossoms blooming from countless trees flanking the streets and parks. The pink and white petals fall to the ground turning sidewalks into pastel-colored paths that are almost too pretty to walk on. The best place to see these awe-inspiring flowers? The National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 16), of course. Get an up-close-and-personal look at these magnificent wonders sprinkled around the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, in East Potomac Park (Hains Point) and on the Washington Monument grounds.
After you’ve taken in the sights, visitors can stay at the Salamander Washington DC, which is just minutes from popular attractions and restaurants. What’s more, many of the hotel’s 373 rooms and suites overlook the Potomac River and Tidal Basin — giving guests a first-hand glimpse of the gorgeous cherry blossoms. Plus, if you want to really unwind, don’t miss the spa for special offerings like the Cherry Blossom Treatment, a seasonal full body ritual inspired by Japanese tradition.
Although Richmond is well known as one of America’s oldest cities, new adventures await for travelers visiting Virginia’s state capital. For East Coasters, getting there can be a quick and accessible road-trip with outstanding scenic views. Upon arrival, tourists will find that the Richmond Region comprises seven distinct destinations: the Town of Ashland, Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Hanover County, Henrico County, New Kent County and of course, Richmond itself. Each area adds a unique flavor that makes up the eclectic city.
From small town vibes to bustling nightlife, Richmond has a bit of it all. Travelers will appreciate its striking balance of rich history and local charm.
For a week (April 15-22), visitors can take in the city’s Historic Garden Week, the only statewide house and garden tour. Perfect for art lovers, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will debut a new sculpture exhibit, “Incanto: An Oasis of Lyrical Sculpture” on April 28.
Those who want to eat, play and take in some art can stop by The Park, a 55,000 square foot entertainment hub that is a playground for all ages. The space features extensive bar and dining options, virtual golf bays, bowling alleys, a karaoke room, mini golf, a comedy club and art and murals from local artists.
The country’s peak season begins to taper off in April, making it an optimal time to visit. With average temperatures in the 80s, it’s the perfect getaway for travelers seeking warm weather.
From its famous jerk chicken dishes to the mesmerizing reggae music, the island and country’s tourism capital is brimming with rich culture. The relaxing, laid-back vibes also create a welcoming environment that attracts countless tourists.
Plus, the immaculate sandy shores and natural beauty abound. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and more aquatic activities on the island.
Guests can stay at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, which is great for families. It boasts a kid’s zone and is also the site of Sugar Mill Falls, one of Jamaica’s largest water parks.
Spanning California and Nevada, North Lake Tahoe is surrounded by majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada, with bright skies reflecting into the largest mountain Lake in North America. The sparking blue alpine waters and mountainous landscape make this a top family-friendly destination for spring breakers.
Its notable tranquility provides optimal opportunities to reconnect with loved ones through nature. Whether it’s through hiking, taking in awe-inspiring views, or simply relaxing at one of the area’s many hotels and resorts, North Lake Tahoe has something for everyone. Those who need a bit of retail therapy can check out some of the shopping destinations such as Kings Beach, Incline Village or specialty stores in Tahoe City.
Home to approximately four million people, Bali is a home away from home for many travelers seeking a beautiful respite. With white sand beaches in the south and black volcanic sand in the north, it’s the most famous and arguably the most gorgeous island in Indonesia.
In the springtime, temperatures hover around 80 degrees, creating a warm and balmy tropical atmosphere. The resplendent landscape includes majestic mountains, lush greenery, marvelous waterfalls and more. Nature’s beauty abounds at every turn.
Tourists can stay at The Laguna Resort & Spa for lavish and convenient lodging. Only 20 minutes from Bali’s International Airport, it’s easy to get to and offers family-family accommodations, including bead-bracelet and mask making to keep children entertained. Plus, it has a range of two-bedroom villas with private pools ideal for families traveling with children.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Picturesque bridges and canals coupled with breathtaking architecture, make visiting this charming European city a top year-round pick. In April, things get even more appealing. For starters, mild weather adds a layer of comfortability that tourists will appreciate. Plus, it’s the best time to experience the city in full bloom — with tulips that is. Millions of the colorful perennial flowers cover Amsterdam, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for exploration.
Those eager to try traditional Dutch cuisine can dig into a raw herring dish, the fatty fish is a staple and is served at countless restaurants in the region. For dessert, try a stroopwafel, which is a popular sweet bite sure to satisfy discerning taste buds.
Travelers can stay at the Pulitzer Amsterdam for refined accommodations. Nestled among the city’s canals, the hotel is a cluster of more than two dozen restored and modernized 17th and 18th century houses. It offers uniquely designed guest rooms with a focus on Dutch craftsmanship, exquisite on-site dining and amenities like 24-hour room service and complimentary Wi-Fi.
With April being the heart of the dry season, there’s no better time to visit Palawan. For those who want a remote getaway with breathtaking beauty, look no further than this archipelago province of the Philippines. With temperatures ranging between 80 and 90 degrees, it’s an ideal place to escape after winter. Stretching 260 miles, the island is known for its incredible biodiversity, namely the famous Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The protected area encompasses one of the world’s most remarkable cave systems.
Guests visiting the island can stay at Amanpulo, a luxury beach resort that offers a variety of aquatic adventures including, kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and kayaking. The property also offers onshore activities like tennis, cycling and bird watching.
As the second-largest Caribbean country, the Dominican Republic is a population destination for many. With proximity to two major U.S. cities: Miami and New York, it’s a relatively short flight (four hours from New York City) from both — making it a convenient escape from busy city life.
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, it’s a tropical paradise with nearly 1,000 miles of coastline and 250 miles of pristine beaches. Known for its top-notch hospitality and merengue dance style, the country is replete with sports, recreation and entertainment options.
For those seeking an exclusive retreat, book a stay at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas. The luxurious property has 250 guestrooms, 50 villas, eight restaurants and three golf courses. Plus, guests can partake in numerous activities that surround Altos de Chavon, a replica 16th century Mediterranean village in the heart of the Dominican countryside.
Springtime in this part of The Lone Star State is spectacular, especially for art lovers. April is Dallas Art Month, which means the city is teeming with activities that appeal to those with a thirst for creativity and culture. Visitors can check out the Dallas Art Fair and view a robust selection of contemporary artworks presented by leading national and international galleries. Plus, see fascinating exhibitions like Movement: The Legacy of Kineticism and Bamana Mud Cloth: From Mali to the World at the Dallas Museum of Art. For those who fancy dancing feet, The Dallas Black Dance Theater presents Encore! Rising Excellence, a contemporary modern dance performance, which runs April 21-22.
Not big on art and dance? No problem. Dallas’ warm and pleasant weather is ideal for dining al fresco at restaurants like The Henry or grabbing drinks at swanky rooftop spots like the Gallery Rooftop Lounge.
When it’s time to turn in, check into HALL Arts Hotel for an artfully luxurious stay. As the first hotel in the Dallas Arts District, the property is home to a diverse collection of compelling works of art including floral artwork by Clare Woods and Nekisha Durrett.
Beat the throngs of tourists that are sure to descend upon this capital city during the busy summer months. Lisbon in April is prime time for sightseeing and day trips but keep your umbrella handy. Some downpours are likely, but rain showers are typically brief. This shoulder season is still ideal for travelers who want to take in breathtaking views of the pastel-colored buildings and enjoy the city’s plentiful sights without the crowds.
Tourist districts like Baixa, the historic downtown area and Chiado, a bustling neighborhood with high-end hotels and premium retailers are top destinations for travelers.
Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience.
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