by Sunny

As a teacher, it should come as no surprise that I a) love Spring Break and b) try to avoid destinations where my students are going. That glorious week in early April is reserved for spending time away from my school family and close to my immediate family.  While most of the families at my school head south to the Florida panhandle, I have other destinations in mind.  Check out my top three Spring Break alternative getaways:

Downtown Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdale, Arizona:

If you’ve never visited this gem of a city, you really should give it a try.  I went for the first time as a teen and then later with my own family of three.  By visiting during April, you avoid the pricy winter rates during snowbird and Spring Training season.  The weather is also choice.  Think low 80s everyday in the desert. Being from the Midwest, I am fascinated by the landscape of the Southwest.  Camelback mountain against the Arizona sunset is breathtaking.  Scottsdale is a golfer’s paradise with many beautiful courses.  Downtown, particularly the neighborhood known as Old Town,  is walkable, charming, and chock full of art galleries, shopping and dining. Try Old Town Tortilla Factory for refreshing margaritas and indulge in the warm, house-made tortillas and butter delivered to your table.  Consider the all-suite Orange Tree Resort for a budget-friendly stay.  At under $200 a night during April, the rooms are spacious with a separate bedroom, living space, kitchenette, and bathroom with double sinks and whirlpool tub.  And if you are feeling adventurous, consider driving 125 miles north to the unique and serene Sedona, Arizona or even making the 260 mile trek to check the Grand Canyon off of your bucket list!

A naughty MJ reaches for a margarita at the Old Town Tortilla Factory 20 years too soon

Nashville, Tennessee

Being within driving distance of Nashville, we sometimes overlook it in favor of farther destinations.  Last Spring Break, we decided to rekindle our love of the Music City.  It really does have a great downtown area as well as plenty to do in the surrounding areas.  Downtown is home to more free music than you could ever want.  Wander in and out of the bar-lined streets with live music pouring out of the entrances.  Don’t be shy about taking the kids, just get started earlier in the day when there is no age restriction and no cover. Splurge on a pair of cowboy boots at one of the many western shops and then try them out at the famous Wildhorse Saloon where you can learn a new line dance or two.  Don’t forget to visit the expansive Opryland Resort Hotel and the nearby Opry Mills Mall for great outlet shopping and themed dining like the Rainforest Cafe.  Check visitmusiccity.com for a list of FREE Nashville activities as well as other featured events in the area.

Nashville, TN in front of the AT&T “Batman” building

San Antonio, Texas

The Alamo

San Antonio is a gorgeous, historic city that has so much to offer.  When most people think of San Antonio, they think of the Alamo. This historic mission was defended by over 200 Texans including the legendary Davy Crockett from the invading Mexican forces led by General Santa Anna.  The site still stands very much intact today in the heart of the modern city of San Antonio.  Entrance to the Alamo site is free and includes historic exhibits, a lush botanical area, and daily retellings of the famous battle. Afterward, take a stroll on the lovely and serene River Walk. The River Walk was by far the most memorable part of San Antonio for me.  It is unique in that the River Walk actually exists below street level and lines both sides of the San Antonio River with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.  I would suggest taking an informative riverboat cruise early in your stay.  We were glad we did.  We not only got to hear about the history of the River Walk and enjoy the leisurely boat ride, but also got a lay of the land as well as ideas for dining and entertainment during our stay. We had many wonderful Tex-Mex meals, most of them alfresco and listened to a great Jazz trio one evening at The Landing, considered one of the best Jazz clubs west of New Orleans.  We also chose a hotel situated on the River Walk which was both convenient and offered beautiful views.  Don’t miss El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the US.  Located near the River Walk, it is home to open air and enclosed markets that sell everything from produce to handmade clothing.  Great for souvenir shopping! Take a break with a prickly pear margarita and enjoy the sights and sounds of the dancers and the mariachi bands.  Check the website getcreativesanantonio.com for details about cultural events and festivals at El Mercado.

A view of the River Walk from a river cruise

Do you have any Spring Break Alternatives?  Tell me about them in the comments section!