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

Updated Published
The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia Tech chapter.

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

I am a Creative Technologies major with a Cinema and Digital Marketing Strategy minor. I am passionate about animation and storytelling, which is shown through my creative hobbies such as reading, collaging, photography, and video editing. HerCampus has allowed me to be more involved on campus, while also expressing my creative side.