The fog of Daylight Saving Time is finally lifting and the days are getting longer. Your instinct to hibernate is subsiding and you’ve once again caught the itch to travel—so why wait until summer to start planning a vacation? Instead of chasing discounted all-inclusive packages to the Caribbean this spring, consider exploring one of America’s great must-see destinations. From North to South, there’s plenty of places to get outdoors, see some world-famous landmarks, and rub elbows with locals in the country’s most scenic spring getaways.
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
Nearest InTown Suites: Knoxville (ZXT) Extended Stay Early spring along the Tennessee and North Carolina border is the perfect time to explore America’s most popular national park. Fewer tourists and cooler weather make it easier to navigate the park’s extensive trail system. Trek through Cades Cove, a beautiful 11-mile trail loop, to discover historic homes, log cabins, and churches built by the area’s European settlers. Explore a dense blanket of forest, home to bears, white-tailed deer, coyotes, turkeys, and more. Remember to bring layers though! Crisp daytime lows give way to balmy afternoon highs, and it’s not uncommon to experience both sun and snow during your springtime visit.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
Nearest InTown Suites: New Orleans/Harvey (YHL) Extended Stay Take a trip to the Big Easy as the flowers are blooming and hordes of Mardi Gras goers are leaving. Enjoy more outdoor adventures with pleasant temperatures and fewer people crowding the beautiful cobblestone streets. Marvel at stunning colonial architecture clad in wrought iron and dripping with ivy. Grab some hot beignets at Café Du Monde. Get a lesson in the city’s music history during the annual French Quarter Festival, taking place this April. More than 20 stages will come alive with local talent representing every genre from Jazz and cabaret to New Orleans Funk, while local restaurants will serve-up Louisiana’s finest at select festival stage locations.
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Nearest InTown Suites: Charleston Central (XNC) Extended Stay There really is no wrong time of year to visit America’s Most Friendly City, but the best time to experience the Lowcountry is at the heights of spring. Warm year-round temperatures and pedestrian-friendly cobblestone streets make Charleston a great place to leave the guidebook behind and explore on foot. See historic mansions and pastel antebellum houses dripping with Spanish Moss. Embrace the region’s charming southern hospitality and culinary traditions with a visit to the Charleston Farmers Market at Marion Square Park, open April to December. Stroll along Waterfront Park for lovely views of the Cooper River, breathtaking fountains, gardens, and the iconic wooden pier jutting out over the Charleston Harbor.
THE GRAND CANYON
Nearest InTown Suites: Phoenix West (MCD) Extended Stay
Cross an item off your bucket list with a springtime journey to the Grand Canyon. Though it’s considered the offseason, April and May offer the same temperate climate and sunny days as the summer months—without the crowds. Enjoy shorter lines and better views of one of America’s most iconic sights. Hike down to the bottom of the canyon. Cruise along the vast Colorado River. Take in stunning views with a helicopter tour. No matter how you choose to view this natural wonder, spring is an excellent time to explore by water, land, or air.
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
Nearest InTown Suites: Savannah (XSG) Extended Stay One of America’s most haunted places also happens to be one of its most beautiful, especially in the spring. Colorful azaleas, historic monuments, and ornate fountains dot some 22 town squares in Charleston’s quaint downtown. Walk down River Street to peruse local shops, find a quaint spot to grab a cold drink, and dive into some southern-style crab cakes while watching the ships comes in. Travel to Chippewa Square—home of Forrest Gump’s famous bench scene. Explore Savannah’s grand architecture with a home tour, a popular springtime event in the city’s National Landmark Historic District. See epic chalk masterpiece and live music at the annual Sidewalk Arts Festival this April. From spooky to spectacular, springtime in Savannah is full of adventure.
Ready to plan your spring vacation? InTown Suites’ extended stay properties offer affordable accommodations in convenient locations. With over 189 locations in 22 states, there’s always an InTown Suites nearby to help make your American getaway even more budget-friendly.