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Eight Places To Go For Spring Break That Aren’t Tropical 

Updated Published
Jac Noel Student Contributor, Virginia Tech
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia Tech chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Tired of scrolling through your feed and seeing the same spring break snapshots on repeat? 

Punta Cana. Cancun. Hawaii. Repeat

Skip the usual college vacation spots and truly explore somewhere new. From cozy small towns hiding delightful surprises to bustling metropolises that’ll have you saying, “I could totally live here,” these eight non-tropical destinations pack just as much adventure—with fewer sunburns than Mexico. Strap in and let’s explore! 

chicago

From deep-dish pizza to the four-story Starbucks Reserve Roastery, Chicago’s energy, culture, and architecture are just magnetic to the eye. Personally, Chicago is where my best friend and I are spending our spring break this year, and I cannot wait to step back into this city. 

Las VegaS

The neon lights and the 24/7 casinos will have you itching to spend money, but there’s more to Vegas than slot machines and dancers. Explore the city and eat at Hell’s Kitchen and experience all the hype around Gordon Ramsay.  

New York City 

Want to live your Gossip Girl dreams in the big city? Head to New York and check out the Broadway shows, interesting museums, delicious foods, and culture in the neighborhoods, each with their own distinct personalities. NYC’s energy will keep you up all night with the city that never sleeps. 

Toronto 

Step into the world of Degrassi and experience the torture of what the Toronto accent is all about. Visit the CN Tower and check out Lake Ontario’s iconic views.  

Grand Canyon National Park 

Tired of all the city life you have been experiencing? Take a break away from technology and truly immerse yourself in nature.  

Lake Tahoe 

Spend your entire time on the slopes skiing and hitting Cloud 9. These outdoor activities will keep you properly exhausted.  

Nashville 

Hang out down on Broadway and explore the bustling nightlife of Nashville. Explore the delicious Southern food like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken or bus it down in Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar.   

Atlanta 

Chill out in Atlanta and educate yourself on the state’s history, specifically civil rights. Visit the World of Coca-Cola and try over 100 beverages from around the country in the Coca-Cola family. 

Spring break does not always need to be tropical to be considered a vacation. Consider other options around North America and see what interests you. Remember these are just recommendations and you are completely free to ignore my suggestions. Trust, I have had my fair of tropical vacations. 

Jac Noel

Virginia Tech '26

Jac Noel is a News & Politics Intern and National Writer for Her Campus, where she covers academics, trending news, promos, and everything in between. She’s interviewed powerhouses like Symone Sanders and Lisa Leslie (and is still not over it).

Outside of writing, Jac can usually be found curled up with a book, rewatching Twilight for the millionth time (Team Edward forever), or convincing her friends to go shopping “just to look” (which btw never actually happens). She’s also obsessed with digital art and loves bringing her ideas to life through animation and 3D modeling.