While some people go to church and feast en famille for Easter, others prefer to get away for a few days – looking for vacation ideas for Easter in the US and beyond. It’s easy to see why. Everywhere you turn feels fresh and new in the spring, promising light warm days and the need to wear far fewer layers.
Easter isn’t recognised in the US with national holidays, however, Good Friday is a state holiday in 10 out of the 50 states and there is certainly plenty to see and do in the US at Easter time.
If you are keen to explore what to do at Easter – beyond the US – please see these helpful suggestions:
As the US is such a vast and diverse country, it can be a little overwhelming to decide where to explore if you’re planning a trip at Eastertime. Here’s a great collection of recommendations from top travel bloggers who share their very best vacation ideas for Easter in the US, including what to see and do, where to eat and where to stay:
The Best Vacation Ideas for Easter in the US
This article includes ideas for Easter in the US in cities, beach locations and a few real hidden gems too!
Ideas for Easter – US Cities to Visit
New Orleans, Louisiana
By Denise of Chef Denise
There is no place quite like New Orleans, Louisiana. Famous for its jazz, architecture, food, Creole and Cajun cultures, and, of course, Mardi Gras celebrations. Since Easter is the flip side of Mardi Gras, it’s no wonder that New Orleans is one of the best places to celebrate this holiday.
Best Things to See and Do in New Orleans
The first Easter parade begins early in the morning through the French Quarter to St. Louis Cathedral where you can attend Easter Mass. Early afternoon holds the Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade filled with entertainers and traditional bead throwing. Later in the day, the Gay Easter Parade culminates the day’s festivities.
Spend some time in the French Quarter, New Orleans’ oldest neighbourhood. Admire the historic buildings from the 1800’s. Notice the intricate ironwork and the beauty of the facades.
Walk down iconic Bourbon Street and through the National Historic Landmark, Jackson Square. You’ll notice there are lots of French influences in NOLA, and that includes the cuisine.
One of the most famous foods from France, the Beignet, is so popular here, it’s been named the official doughnut of Louisiana! The most famous place to eat beignets is Cafe du Monde. This food-centric city has no shortage of excellent restaurants and and must-try foods like gumbo, po’ boys, and crawfish.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Denise recommends staying in the French quarter or nearby for easy access to most of the top restaurants and attractions in New Orleans. “The Marriot is a great central location and some rooms offer terrific views of the Mississippi river”.
Boston, Massachussetts
By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA
Boston is an interesting city for history fans who like food. It is easy to get around and most of the attractions are within walking distance. There is plenty to keep you going for 2-3 days, including seafood, architecture, beer, and tours.
Best Things To See and Do in Boston
The Freedom Trail is one of the most popular self-guided or walking tours as it covers locations associated with the American Revolution. For food, head to Quincy Market, which is part of the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Here you can dine on chowder in bread bowls, fried clams, pizza and cookies. Walk it off by Boston Habor at Massachusetts Bay, the main port for importing and exporting goods in the region during the Revolutionary War.
Since the city has many relaxed pubs, there are plenty of things to do at night in Boston, like getting a pint at the Cheers pub where the 80s TV show was filmed. If Sunday brunch is on the menu this Easter, consider Cafe Bonjour or The Gallery – W Hotel; both restaurants are downtown, so you don’t have to travel far for eggs benny.
Spring technically begins around the start of April in Boston, but snowstorms in previous years have hindered the seasonal change. So keep a close eye on weather forecasts before you pack.
How to Get to Boston
The city has a reliable public transport system called ‘The T’, which you can take from Boston Logan International Airport.
Where to Stay in Boston
Amanda says that The Godfrey and The Langham are perfect central hotels.
St Louis, Missouri
By Christina from Ragain Adventures
Visiting St. Louis, Missouri and the surrounding area is a great way to spend your Easter Holiday. St. Louis is a city full of history and outstanding city life adventures.
Best Things To See and Do in St Louis
The best-known cultural location in St. Louis is the Gateway Arch. Located along the Mississippi River the 630 ft Arch stands as a symbol of the United States western expansion after the Louisiana Purchase. At the Arch, you will find a park area where you can relax and enjoy nature. Inside/below the Arch, there is a welcome centre, museum, and tram entrance.
Top Tip: Be sure to book your tram tickets to the top of the Arch ahead of time as same-day tickets sell out quickly.
The St. Louis Carnival’s Busch Stadium is also a favourite place to visit. If you love baseball, be sure to check to see if a game matches up with your travel dates. In addition to the baseball games, Busch Stadium offers stadium tours and has a Hall of Fame and museum.
You can see the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, the Mississippi River, and much more on this tour.
Before you head out of town, be sure to visit one of the Augusta Wine Trail Wineries for great wine or the Anheuser-Busch Biergarten for unique brew options.
Union Station St. Louis is a great place to stop for dinner during your visit with great restaurants including The Train Shed, 1894 Café, Landry’s Seafood House, and Station Grille. Before your meal you may want to take a ride on the St. Louis Wheel or explore the St. Louis Aquarium located inside of Union Station.
Where to Stay in St Louis
As a large metropolitan area, St. Louis has all the major hotel brands. Christina says that many visitors like to stay downtown in hotels with river or Arch views; however, her two favourite hotels are a little further from the arch:
- The Angad Arts Hotel is a unique experience where you choose your room color to match your mood. It’s located near the Fox Fabulous Theater and the St. Louis Symphony
- La Méridian St. Louis Clayton is a beautiful, quiet high-end hotel is in the Clayton downtown district that has plentiful of local restaurants.
Asheville, North Carolina
By Jen Ciesielski from Dabbling in Jet Lag
Nestled at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains lies the ever-quaint city of Asheville. It’s slowly becoming one of the trendiest cities in North Carolina and for good reason. Here you’ll find magnificent scenery, endless activities, and charming farm-to-table restaurants.
Things To See and Do in Asheville
For a glimpse into Asheville’s art scene, tour the River Arts District. From studios filled with up-and-coming artists to bustling cafes, an afternoon here won’t disappoint. Then, if you’re looking to get outside, visit the North Carolina Arboretum. They have a beautiful collection of flora and fauna spread across several gardens. You can explore on foot via one of the many hiking trails or by bike.
Afterward, stop by Tupelo Honey for some delicious southern-style food with a twist. And, of course, no trip to Asheville is complete without visiting the Biltmore Mansion. This is the largest estate in the United States, totaling 8,000 acres! To say it’s impressive would be an understatement.
While Asheville is a year-round destination, it’s definitely one of the best vacation ideas for Easter in the US. The weather is mild, prices are lower, and the summer crowds have yet to arrive. It’s also very easy to reach.
How to Get to Asheville
Asheville’s regional airport is well-served and it’s only a 2-hour drive from the nearest international airport in Charlotte.
Where to Stay in Asheville
Jen says that there is an abundance of hotels in Asheville and suggests staying at one of the chain hotels, like Best Western, near Asheville Mall if you want to save money.
Miami, Florida
By Lavinia from Continent Hop
Miami is a destination on the West coast of the US that’s perfect all year round because of its pleasant weather, beautiful beaches and colourful beach huts. Yet what makes it one of the best places to visit during Easter is that Spring is the best time to visit Miami.
The temperatures stay pleasant during the months from March to May at between 18-24 degrees Celsius. There are numerous things to do here and you should spend at least 2 days in Miami.
Things To Do and See in Miami
The top attractions here are Wynwood Walls, as over the past few years this area has been famous on social media. Wynwood has numerous colourful murals that share a social message and has helped the local community so is worth a visit. Little Havana helps give a peek into the Cuban culture in Miami and you’ll find many authentic Cuban restaurants, art galleries and parks here.
The Everglades National Park is also worth a visit and you’ll find numerous crocodiles here, which you can watch from your airboat.
How to Get to Miami
Miami International airport is located about 40 minutes away from South Beach. When you arrive, you can take the shuttle, which will drop you right at South Beach!
Where to Stay in Miami
Lavinia recommends Loews Miami Beach as a comfortable resort to opt for when in Miami. You’ll also find numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood on Ocean drive that you shouldn’t miss.
New York City
By Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad
New York City is hands down one of America’s best East Coast vacation spots during the Easter holiday, especially if you’re looking for a fun city break. This once-in-a-lifetime destination has it all, from renowned museums and world-class entertainment to relaxing green spaces and international cuisine. Add in Easter festivities to the mix, and vacationers can never get bored.
Things To See and Do in New York
One cannot spend Easter in NYC without joining the crowd at the city’s famous Easter Parade, which takes place annually along 5th Avenue on Easter Sunday. Put on a colourful costume and bask in the fun. The parade starts at 10 am on 49th Street and ends at 4 pm on 57th Street.
Another advantage of seeing NYC during Easter is that flowers will be in bloom, so there’s no better time to visit the many parks and gardens in town. Head to Central Park to see thousands of daffodils and tulips, and New York Botanical Garden to see rhododendrons and azaleas.
For one of the best views in town, don’t miss the Top of The Rock Observation Deck. From this skyscraper, you can see the Empire State Building and many other famous landmarks. For a different kind of view, stroll down the High Line, a beautiful and unique elevated greenway.
NYC is known for being a melting pot of cultures, so be sure to try some international cuisines here. Head to Dhamaka for delicious Indian food and Basta Pasta for authentic Italian dishes.
How to Get to New York
There are infinite direct flights and Greyhound buses that take you to NYC, so getting there can’t get any easier.
Where to Stay in New York
Jiayi suggests treating yourself to gourmet dining, the spa, a rooftop terrace and sumptuous rooms at The Peninsula New York in Midtown Manhattan. Alternatively, you might like to push the boat out and stay in unashamed luxury at the Pierre on Upper East Side.
Savannah, Georgia
By Sydney from A World in Reach
If you’re looking for a charming US city to visit for Easter, consider spending a long weekend in Savannah, Georgia. Located on Georgia’s coast, Savannah is full of history, sights, and delicious food. Easter is a great time to visit Savannah. Average April temperatures are in the 70s, and the spring flowers and foliage begin to bloom.
Fun Things to Do in Savannah.
Spend the day wandering through the beautiful Historic District, where you’ll find plenty of beautiful homes, churches, and squares. Make your way to Forsyth Park, where you’ll find the beautiful fountain that is frequently the subject of photos in Savannah.
Savannah is also said to be one of the most haunted cities in the country, so make sure to take a nighttime ghost tour.
What’s a visit to a new city without sampling the local cuisine? In Savannah, you’ll find no shortage of traditional Southern cooking: things like fried chicken, collard greens, fried green tomatoes, and other southern staples. Some of the best spots to try Southern cuisine in Savannah are the Olde Pink House and Mrs Wilkes Dining Room.
How to Get to Savannah
Savannah is served by the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). The airport is served by most major US airlines making it well-connected to many different destinations around the country.
Where to Stay in Savannah
Sydney says “there are a lot of great hotels in Savannah, with the Andaz being one of the best. It’s located just steps from River Street making it easy to walk to Savannah’s best attractions”.
Charleston, South Carolina
By Disha from Disha Discovers
Charleston, South Carolina is a great place to visit any time of the year, but it’s especially lovely around Easter. With its cobblestone streets and charming historic buildings, there’s something extra special about a weekend in Charleston in spring.
The main reason to visit Charleston during Easter is to soak in the beautiful weather. The weather is warm and sunny, and the azaleas and magnolias are in full bloom.
What To Do and See in Charleston
There’s no shortage of cultural things to do in the Holy City. The Battery is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Charleston. It’s a seawall promenade with antebellum mansions on one side and stunning views of Fort Sumter on the other.
Rainbow Row, a stretch of thirteen colourful historic homes, is another must-visit in Charleston. These houses are completely unique with their pastel colouring, and they all have their own fascinating history.
Last but not least, explore Charleston City Market. This is one of the oldest public markets in the USA, so it’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and items from talented craftspeople.
One of the best restaurants in Lowcountry is Poogan’s Porch. It’s famous for Southern cuisine including fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and more.
Speaking of food, going on a food tour is a must. The food in Charleston is among the best in the country, and a food tour is a great way to discover local dishes.
How to Get to Charleston
Getting to Charleston is easy since you can fly into Charleston International Airport.
Where to Stay in Charleston
Disha’s recommendation for the best place to stay is the Hyatt House in the Historic District because of its location and luxurious rooms.
Waco, Texas
By Mary from Bucketlist Places
If you want to spend Easter in a creative city with a small-town vibe, look no further than Waco in Central Texas. April temperatures range from 55 to 75 degrees, perfect for springtime pursuits.
Things To Do and See in Waco
If Easter Sunday has you itching to raise your glass, Barnett’s Public House in Waco hosts an annual Easter Keg Hunt. Adults who join the hunt will search downtown Waco for the golden keg, and enjoy dinner at the pub afterwards.
Embrace the springtime weather in Cameron Park, the perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll along the many riverfront trails. Saturday mornings host a buzzing farmers’ market, and Spice Village is a unique complex of over 60 boutiques selling vintage items.
However, the most iconic attraction in Waco is Magnolia Market. Created by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame, this community space includes adorable stores, a bakery, and open green space. Don’t miss the chance to dine at Magnolia Table, one of the best restaurants in Waco.
How to Get to Waco
Waco has a small regional airport, but you’ll have more luck finding a flight into DFW and taking a bus from Dallas to Waco. Luckily, it’s only 90 miles from Dallas, and the bus ride takes under an hour and a half.
Where to Stay in Waco
To fully lean into the Gaines vibe, Mary says that you could stay in one of several vacation homes originally fixed up in their hit show “Fixer Upper.” Hotel Indigo is another great option for trendy boutique style plus typical hotel amenities.
Palm Springs, California
By Chelsey from Chelsey Explores
Palm Springs is the ideal place to spend Easter as the weather is warm but not too hot! The average temperature is 89 degrees – perfect for having fun at your hotel’s pool, enjoying nature, and having fun in the sun!
Things to do in Palm Springs
DesertX happens once a year as a recurring international art exhibit in desert locations. International artists create outdoor art exhibits that respond “meaningfully to the conditions of desert locations, the environment, and indigenous communities.” If you happen to be in Palm Springs during one of these exhibits then I highly recommend checking them out.
Go on a bike ride! Biking is another great outdoor activity to do in Palm Springs. You can either rent a bike or check with your hotel to see if they have bikes available to use. Off-Roading if you are a thrill-seeker then off-roading could be a good choice for you. As Palm Springs is located in a desert, you can imagine how much open land there is to go off-roading.
Where to Eat in Palm Springs?
- Chef Tanya’s Kitchen – a delicious vegan restaurant
- Las Casuelas Terraza – an insanely delicious Mexican restaurant
- El Jefe Hotel restaurant
How to Get to Palm Springs?
From California, you can get to Palm Springs by car. Palm Springs is only a 2.5 hours drive from San Diego, a 1:45 hours drive from Los Angeles, a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas, and a 4-hour drive from Phoenix. If you are not coming from the area, you can book a flight to the Palm Springs International Airport which is located in Downtown Palm Springs.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs?
Chelsey highly recommends staying at the Parker Palm Springs Hotel as they have all the amenities you can think of from croquet to tennis, a cute pool, and fun places to eat and drink.
Pittsburgh, PA
By Bernadette of Explorer Chick
The “City of Bridges” aka Pittsburgh has 440 bridges that criss-cross the city and it has a great history tied to steel production.
Things to See and Do in Pittsburgh
To learn more about Pittsburgh’s steel-making past, go to the Carrie Blast Furnaces to see the ruins and street art. Andy Warhol hails from Pittsburgh and the 7-storey Andy Warhol Museum full of his work is the largest museum dedicated to one artist.
At the Heinz History Center visitors can see sets from the popular kids show Mister Rogers Neighborhood that was taped locally. And there is a whole section dedicated to another local brand, Heinz pickles and ketchup.
There is a lively brunch scene in the “Steel City” and Fl. 2 promises a stunning setting to enjoy favourites like eggs benedict and a mimosa or two. For a religious-adjacent brunch check out The Church Brew Works which is housed in a former church built in 1903. It might feel weird for Catholics to enjoy beer and pierogies in front of the church altar, but it is still quite an experience to cap off an Easter weekend.
How to Get to Pittsburgh
Getting into Pittsburgh is easy enough since there is the Pittsburgh International Airport just outside town.
Where to Stay in Pittsburgh
Bernadette points to the Strip District as tourist central and recommends the contemporary AC Hotel as a great home base. It has new amenities, plus it’s within walking distance of great restaurants, shops, and museums.
Portland, Maine
By Kelly of Girl with the Passport
Portland is an ultra-rad city in southern Maine right by the ocean and it is a great trip that should be part of anyone’s Maine itinerary. Fair warning, the town is mega hipster but because of that, there are so many cool places to see like the Portland Museum of Art, lighthouses, and even a vintage train ride.
Best Things to Do in Portland
The first thing to consider for an Easter trip is where to go for Easter brunch. Central Provisions is a great local restaurant with a dynamic menu of creative dishes right in the heart of the Old Port area. And at some point in this trip, I absolutely recommend you try duck fat fries or Holy Donut for humongous donuts, because, why not?!
There are 30 craft breweries in town so plan to hit a couple over the course of the weekend. Luckily there is the Maine Brews Cruise and its bright green bus to guide you to some of the best local brews. And Allagash Brewery calls Maine home and they have a tasting room where you can try their menu of beers, stouts, and ales.
A 20-minute ferry ride away is Peaks Island for a super chill afternoon exploring the island scene and getting a bite to eat. It is fun to bike around and they have a super quirky Umbrella Cover Museum run by a local who has a collection of over 2,000 umbrella covers.
How to Get to Portland
Fly into the Portland International Airport to kickstart your Easter weekend.
Where to Stay in Portland
Kelly’s expert recommendation is the Inn on Carleton your home base. She insists that you try their famous breakfast!
Ideas for Easter in the US – Perfect Beaches and Coasts
Big Sur, California
Dhara from Roadtripping California
If you are looking for vacation ideas for Easter in the US, consider Big Sur in California! The region is spectacularly scenic in the spring, making for a wonderful Easter holiday in the great outdoors. You can generally expect fog-free days, so you can capitalise on the stunning ocean views along the Big Sur coast.
Best Things to See and Do at Big Sur
The region is flush with wildflowers, and you may see grey whales in the water on their migratory path to the Arctic Seas. While the entire Big Sur coast is scenic, must-stop spots include McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, and the Point Sur Lighthouse.
Stop in any of the state parks in the area to enjoy epic hiking. Hiking trails in Big Sur range from easy to challenging, so you can find a trail to suit your abilities and the time you have.
How to Get to Big Sur
Big Sur is located along California Highway 1. It is about a 2.5-hour drive from San Francisco in normal traffic. You can also access it from LA in the south: it takes about 4.5 hours to drive from LA to San Simeon, the south end of Big Sur.
Dhara’s Top Tip: If possible, do the drive from north to south, for unobstructed ocean views as you drive!
Where to stay in Big Sur
Dhara says that accommodations in Big Sur tend to be pricey and suggests you consider Big Sur Lodge, which is located centrally in the region and has an onsite restaurant. Nepenthe is a restaurant that offers fabulous ocean views, and the food is good as well.
Mystic, Connecticut
By Bernadette of Book Retreats
Mystic is a sleepy seaside town along the coast of Connecticut with a rich maritime history.
Things to See and Do in Mystic
Once a shipbuilding centre, the town is now home to the Maritime Museum, a museum dedicated to maritime history.
For fresh New England seafood head out to the Oyster Club for Easter brunch. Their food is locally sourced and delicious. Down the road is Barley Head Brewery, and if this is your thing, many other microbreweries dot the downtown area for beers on tap.
At some point during the trip, drop by the Olde Mistick Village, which is a snapshot of an 18th-century New England village. But the shops in this open-air market are full of modern-day souvenirs and restaurants with familiar favourites.
How to Get to Mystic
Mystic is 2 hours away from Boston and New York City by car, which makes it an easy day trip or a nice stop on a New England road trip.
Where to Stay in Mystic
Bernadette suggests you stay in historic downtown Mystic and recommends the Whaler’s Inn – a boutique hotel that just screams beach chic.
Top Tip: The Mystic drawbridge is about a block away and it’s interesting to watch it open so that tall boats can go down the Mystic River.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
By Anna from Anna Tee
Things To See and Do in Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach, Oregon is an amazing place to travel to for Easter, whether it’s a stop on a road trip along the coast, an adventurous hiking trip, or a relaxing beachside vacation. It’s one of the best vacation ideas for Easter in the US because while summers are gorgeous, they’re incredibly popular – so visiting Cannon Beach in the spring will give you a chance to explore the beach and the town without all those people around.
When you’re in Cannon Beach, definitely check out the beach and the nearby hikes! But, there’s also a ton of culture and history to explore. Visit the free Cannon Beach History Center to see unique artefacts, art, and photos. The Native American Longhouse is a great place to go to learn about the indigenous people who first called Cannon Beach home.
How to Get to Cannon Beach
To get to Cannon Beach, you’ll take Highway 26 west from Portland before turning onto the 101, the famous Oregon coastal route.
Top Tip: When you go, be sure to bring some rain gear – spring can be gloomy, but it’s rarely more than a drizzle – and the fog makes for incredible views!
Where to Stay in Cannon Beach
Anna recommends the Surfsand Resort or the Arcadia Cottage for cute beachfront accommodations. Visit the Cannon Beach Distillery for locally made spirits, and grab a bite at Surfbird for breakfast and the Cannon Beach Smokehouse for a delicious dinner!
Laguna Beach, Orange County, CA
By Daria from the Discovery Nut
Located in the heart of Orange County, Laguna Beach is a small town with relaxed vibes and plenty of sunshine year-round that makes it one of the best vacation ideas for Easter in the US.
Laguna Beach boasts 22 beaches where you can sunbathe, swim and have a picnic. The main beach is located in the city’s downtown and offers volleyball courts and plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area.
Best Things to See and Do in Laguna Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the area is Victoria Beach thanks to the elegant 60-foot pirate tower that was built in 1926 and provided entrance to the beach. Although the tower is closed today, it is a popular spot for taking photos.
You can also encounter plenty of marine wildlife in the area. Dolphins in particular are common in this area and you can easily see them from the shoreline in Laguna Beach.
Another option is to take a cruise to see migrating gray whales that can be seen in winter and spring.
One of the best places to visit in Laguna Beach is Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, the 7,000-acre site that is home to Laurel Canyon, Laurel Spur, and the popular Willow Canyon Trail Loop – a 3.3-mile trail that offers incredible landscapes including a waterfall. This small beachside community also offers plenty of culture. Check out Laguna Playhouse, where you can see ballets, plays, and musicals.
How to Get to Laguna Beach
You can visit Orange County by taking a drive from Los Ángeles after arriving at Los Ángeles International Airport or flying to John Wayne Airport in Orange County.
Naples and Marco Island, Florida
By Lori from Naples Florida Travel Guide
Easter is a great time of year to visit Naples and Marco Island on Southwest Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast. Temperatures are moderate and the wet season with its high humidity has not yet arrived.
Add in some of the best beaches in the country and a myriad of dining and shopping choices, and you have the perfect spot for an Easter vacation.
Things To See and Do in Naples
When it comes to cultural activities, there is much to see and do. In Naples, Baker Museum host galleries of fine arts, and its next-door neighbour, Artis Naples, is the centre for performing arts. Sugden Community Theatre in Naples features both musical and theatrical performances.
The Marco Island Historical Museum also shouldn’t be missed. Here you will find the history of Marco along with the native Calusa tribe.
Restaurants abound on 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South in Naples with an incredible number of cuisines and restaurants. The dining options on Marco are more spread out but equally as good. The Snook Inn is casual with a menu of fresh seafood while Sale e Pepe is more formal with an excellent menu and wine list.
How to Get to Naples
Most visitors fly into Southwest Florida International Airport and either rent a car or take advantage of a hotel shuttle. If you’re road-tripping, exits on I-75 will easily get you to both.
Where to Stay in Naples
Lodging ranges from famous-brand hotels to high-end stays at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples and the Marco Ocean Resort in Marco Island.
Hidden Gems and Quirky Places For Easter in the US
Beacon, New York
Kelly of Travel New York Now
Beacon is an ideal weekend getaway because it is a quaint Hudson Valley town with plenty of restaurants, museums, and lots of hiking to do in the area.
Things to Do in Beacon
Kelly recommends love chowing down at the Towne Crier Cafe which is a great place to go to for Easter brunch as there will be fantastic food and live music. After brunch, take a stroll through the Beacon Flea Market and sift through all the tchotchkes from 50+ vendors. The main artist’s hub is the Dia Beacon which is in a former Nabisco box printing factory that is full of large-scale installations.
For some fresh air head to Long Dock Park right on the Hudson River. Relax while you enjoy the scenic riverside view or even go fishing. Or if you need to do a workout, tackle Mount Beacon and go to the Fire Tower to enjoy impressive views of the Hudson Highlands and the Catskills.
How to Get to Beacon
Beacon is a 1.5-hour train ride from Grand Central Terminal in New York City.
Where to Stay in Beacon
For a spot nearby the train station, Kelly’s insider tip is to book into the luxury Dutchess Inn & Spa. It’s an adults-only hotel that is within walking distance to most spots you will want to visit on your trip.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
By Meg of Fox in the Forest
Need vacation ideas for Easter in the US? If so then visit Colorado Springs, Colorado. Not only can you enjoy a decadent Easter brunch at the luxurious Lake Terrace Dining Room in the Broadmoor Resort, but you can actually spend the night glamping at Cloud Camp too. It’s a truly one of a kind resort situated atop the Cheyenne Mountain and can be accessed via the Cadillac Escalade shuttle.
Things To See and Do in Colorado Springs
Once on the summit, enjoy stellar views and a fantastic night’s stay inside premium rooms like the Fire Tower Suite. Afterwards, attend the annual Victorian Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser that is hosted by Miramont Castle. Not only does it feature a fun Easter egg hunt but you’ll also get to enjoy a lovely 3-course Victorian tea service too.
Next, hop aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad’s Easter Train and enjoy a beautiful train ride that is perfectly complemented by an exquisite selection of five gourmet entrees for lunch. Once you’ve taken in all this train has to offer, relax and rejuvenate at some of the best hot springs in Colorado. In fact, you can enjoy some much-needed relaxation at Sunwater Spa before enjoying a healing soak on the Manitaugh Springs Pools.
However, no trip to Colorado Springs would ever be complete without visiting the Garden of the Gods and tackling one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs. Try the Palmer Trail since it’s an easy, 4-mile, loop hike that will take you past all the area’s main attractions.
How to Get to Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is a short 2.5-hour drive from Denver and an amazing place to celebrate the Easter holiday.
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
By Bernadette of Live a Relaxed Life
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania is a town called Jim Thorpe. The former mining town attracts visitors from all around because of its easygoing and delightful main street and outdoor adventures.
Things to Do and See in Jim Thorpe
There is just enough to do that makes a trip to Jim Thorpe a great Easter weekend getaway. Outdoorsy types can hikes or bike in the surrounding parks, mountains, and trails. Otherwise, all the action is in the historic downtown area.
Watching over the town is Harry Packer Mansion Inn and you can call it your home for the Easter vacation weekend. If you like murder mystery parties, make sure to sign up for one while staying at the Inn.
Down below, along West Broadway, are quirky shops, museums, restaurants, and cafes. Harry Potter fans should get a coffee at Muggles Mug and donut lovers will go crazy at Donerds. There isn’t much of a brunch scene in this sleepy town but the Broadway Grille has an amazing breakfast menu that has brunch standards eggs benedict, french toast, and mimosas. It is worth a visit for an unofficial Easter brunch.
Down the road, the train station is home to a vintage diesel train the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway that goes along the Lehigh River. During the Easter vacation, the Easter bunny can be spotted aboard, but he is easy enough to avoid if that’s not your thing.
Page, Arizona
By Candice from CS Ginger
One of the best vacation ideas for Easter is Page, Arizona. Page is a small town in northern Arizona sitting on the banks of beautiful Lake Powell. There are so many fun outdoor activities like Antelope Canyon and the Horseshoe Bend Overlook.
One of the best things to do in Page is touring Antelope Canyon. It is a beautiful slot canyon carved by millions of years of water and wind erosion, and one of the most famous slot canyons in the world. To go into the canyon, you will need to book a tour with a certified guide. The canyon is on protected Navajo land and there are no self-guided tours.
Another fun thing to do is to hike out to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. The hike is about 1.4 miles and ends at a beautiful overlook of the Colorado River. There is a bend in the river that is very pretty and is a great place to take pictures.
Top Tip: There is no shade cover and it can get very hot, so it is good to be prepared with adequate water, good hiking shoes and sun protection.
After a day of outdoor adventure, you can eat to Big John’s Texas BBQ for some highly recommended pulled pork and ribs or El Tapatio for some Mexican cuisine.
How to Get to Page Arizona
The closest airport to Page is the Flagstaff Pullium Airport. If you are looking for a larger airport, you can look into Las Vegas and Phoenix. Both international airports have about a 4.5-hour drive to Page.
Where to Stay in Page
The Hyatt Place/Lake Powell is a great place to stay for your Easter vacation. There are lots of great amenities on site like an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Easter holiday is a wonderful time to visit the US. There are fewer crowds than in the height of summer, making spending Easter in the US a really attractive idea. Whether you prefer bustling cities with busy Easter parades and fun Easter egg hunts, fabulous beaches, or something more wild and remote, there is so much to see and do in the US. The most difficult thing is picking just one of these vacation ideas for Easter in the US!
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