We have the top 5 cheapest Spring Break destinations for you!
Need a getaway, but don’t want to break the bank? We’ve got some ideas for you. Let’s dive in!
Washington, D.C.
First on our list is Washington, D.C., a truly underrated travel destination. This city has so much to offer. With multiple museums, monuments, and historical buildings, this is a great way to spend a few days with the family, or even solo. And, did we mention the Smithsonian museums are FREE? That’s a word we love at Broke Teachers Travel!
Your transportation and accommodations will be your biggest expense. If you stay just outside D.C., you can save a substantial amount on lodging. Get a place with a kitchen and you can save even more on food!
Beach Vacation (Specifically Northwest Florida Beaches)
The sand, the sun, the sparkling water. What a way to spend your time off! A beach getaway can be a great way to recharge your batteries. Again, your transportation and accommodations will be your biggest expense. However, bargains on lodging do exist. You simply have to do a little internet research to find them. As a matter of fact, at the time of this post, I was able to find studios near Florida’s beautiful 30-A for under $100.
As with any lodging situation, if you opt for a kitchen, you can save on your food budget too! Eating out is expensive. Save that for splurges, not every meal.
Once you have your accommodations, public beaches are free. And, if you choose to visit a state park beach (check out our latest video for more on St. Andrew’s State Park here.) the entrance fees are usually minimal.
State and National Parks
State and National parks are always budget friendly and a great way to get outdoors. If you enjoy camping, it is a great low-cost option. However, the camping life is not for all of us. That doesn’t mean you have to give up the park experience. Simply book an inexpensive hotel or vacation rental nearby and enjoy the park during normal business hours. You don’t have to travel far. Look in your own local area. Maybe there’s a beach or lake that offers a great way to escape and unwind for a few days.
Many parks offer a variety of experiences for guests. Hiking, swimming, boating, the possibilities are endless!
Day Trips
Day trips are another cost-effective Spring Break option. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own bed at night. Simply do a little research and find destinations that are within a two hour drive. This allows enough time to spend the day away and give you a sense of escape, but not so much that the drive is overwhelming.
Want to really save some money? Pack picnic!
You can even go somewhere different several days in a row. Every day is a new adventure.
***Bonus Teacher Content***
Disclaimer – With all of these special opportunities for teachers, things are subject to change. Be sure to contact the company directly to ensure that these promotions are still available.
For some reason, most venues that offer free admission for teachers are based in Florida. So, with that being said, let’s look at a few of these bargain vacation destinations.
The Crayola Experience
While we do not have experience with this venue first hand (our kids are adults now), we know a lot of people who have visited and say this attraction is underrated. Creativity meets Orlando fun. The kids will love this!
Teachers may receive a free annual pass with proof of Pre-K-12 certification and a photo ID. The going rate for single day admission is $28.99. That’s a good savings.
Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center is an AMAZING freebie for teachers. Spend some time exploring space travel, its history, and its future. This place is unbelievable. Bonus – you can see one of the rockets that Jeff’s step-dad helped design in the Rocket Garden (Gemini – Titan II).
The requirements for obtaining the Educator Study Pass are:
Present a copy of your active teaching certificate from the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. The website also currently says that you may present letter signed by your principal on school letterhead stating your position as an educator.
Currently, a single day ticket is $75. Sign me up for the FREE teacher admission!
Legoland
Legoland is a great getaway for families with younger children. Whether you’re a fan of Legos or just a theme park aficionado, a day here will be well-spent.
Florida teachers will need to present a copy of their current Pre-K – 12 teaching certificate, paystub, or current teacher ID. In return, you will receive 12 months of admission to Legoland!
A one-day admission is currently priced at $119. Florida teachers are getting a real bargain on this one.
SeaWorld Orlando
Whether you’re a love sea life or coasters are your thing, Sea World Orlando has a lot to offer. You can easily spend more than one day here. The sea turtle rescue area is amazing. And, did we mention the penguins?
If you are interested in the Florida Teacher Card, simply visit the Sea World Orlando website and follow the directions. It’s simple and well worth the few minutes it takes to get the pass. A one day adult admission to this park is currently $139. A teacher card will give you unlimited admission until September 5, 2024!
Heading to a theme park for Spring Break? Check out our post How to Travel to Theme Parks With Babies and Toddlers.
And remember, break the monotony, not the bank.
–Marnie and Jeff
