As spring blooms this month across the country, the U.S. comes alive with wildflowers and national park adventures. You’ll find one-of-a-kind festivals, urban escapes, and balmy temperatures to tempt every traveler. Here are the very best places to visit in the USA in April.
Whether you’re looking for off season destinati ons to explore with fewer crowds or places that just shine in spring, read on for what to do and see from coast to coast.
Best Places to Visit in April in the USA
1. Oahu, Hawaii for Humpback Whales
April is absolutely ideal for visiting Oahu, known as “the gathering place.”
First of all, the weather is perfect…with average highs of 79 degrees Farehneit and lows of 66. Winter rains are abating and the strong summer sun has not yet arrived. (Lots of snowbirds flock here in January!)
Your itinerary for Oahu should also include a humpback whale watching cruise as whale watching season in Hawaii runs from December to May.
April is also when the Hapalua Half Marathon takes place.
Plus, you’ll find lei making workshops, beers galore at the Hawaii on Tap exhibition, and the First Friday Art Walk in Chinatown Honolulu.
All this, plus the opportunity to pay your respects at Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head—one of the most popular trails on Oahu—and snorkel gorgeous Hanauma Bay.
While you’re here, be sure to sample a “malasada”—a custard-filled donut of sorts—and feast on shrimp at the many food trucks on the north shore.
Shave ice (which can be ordered with an ice cream base) is always a good idea to cool down after beach time.
2. Seattle, WA for Tulips
After the long, dark winter, Seattle finally starts to thaw in April, with cherry blossoms and other springtime flowers blooming.
And while you’re likely to run into a bit of rain while you’re here (it’s the springtime in the Pacific Northwest, after all), the surrounding mountains and rainforests will look that much lusher. (Go in June if you’re looking for better weather.)
In fact, snow will begin to melt on the lower elevation hiking trails in and around the nearby mountains, like Rattlesnake Ledge and Franklin Falls.
Get out and enjoy Seattle’s incredible natural beauty before the crowds of summer descend.
If you’re a garden lover, April is one of the best times to visit Seattle.
Cherry blossoms explode on trees all around the city; for the best blooms, head to Seward Park (where you’ll also enjoy an impressive view of Mount Rainier looming in the distance on clear days) or the University of Washington campus. (Mount Rainier makes a great day trip!)
The tulips in Washington also spring to life in April, with the nearby Skagit Valley Tulip Festival taking place throughout the entire month.
Held an hour and 15 minutes north of the city in the town of Mount Vernon, the festival features fields upon fields showcasing millions of vibrant tulips, all against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains.
It’s no wonder that Oprah named this one of the top ten flower festivals in the United States!
Jessica | Uprooted Traveler
3. Antelope Canyon, AZ for Slot Canyon Light Beams
Antelope Canyon is one of the coolest slot canyons in the entire world and definitely worth a visit.
With its wavy walls glowing red and orange hues, it’s truly a place like no other.
There are two different sections to this slot canyon, Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon; you’ll need to sign up for a tour to visit either or both sections.
When choosing between visiting Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, keep in mind that Upper Antelope Canyon can get really crowded, especially in April, as this is when the light beams shine down from the ceiling for a mesmerizing view.
Lower Antelope Canyon doesn’t really have the light beams, but it is still a gorgeous section of the canyon to visit.
In April, Antelope Canyon offers extremely pleasant weather. Highs are around 70 degrees F and days are sunny and bright.
Insider tip: You can only see the light beams at certain times of the day when the sun is highest in the sky. If you want to see the light beams in April, book your tour between 11 and 1:30pm.
Jessica | Unearth the Voyage
Read more on USA travel:
• Best US travel destinations in February
• Where to go in the USA in March and in May
• Best places to explore in the USA (any time of year!)
4. Chicago, IL for Conservatory Flowers
Visiting the Windy City in April is ideal. As Chicago warms up and spring flowers unfold, get ready to explore striking botanical displays around the city.
Chicago’s free conservatories—Lincoln Park and Garfield Park—are excellent spots for spring flowers. Be sure to check their website for up to date hours in advance.
Both conservatories are free of charge but require an advance reservation that can be made through their web page.
April’s also a fabulous time to stroll past Chicago’s monuments. Tulips are abundant here!
Cherry blossoms can also be spotted in Lincoln Park. Even a rainy, balmy day bodes dramatic scenery for the bloom.
Spring also marks the opening of many well-loved outdoor markets and festivals in Chicago. Head to Maxwell Street Market for an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, live music, and delicious Chicago street foods.
Chicago is great to visit year-round. Summer features outdoor markets and concerts every weekend; fall brings beautiful foliage; and winter hosts Chicago’s famous Christkindle Markets.
But the beautiful blooms in spring are magical.
Alyssa | An Apple A Plane
5. Tucson, AZ for Desert Wildlife
Heading to Tucson? Don’t miss Saguaro National Park!
Divided into two units, the park protects swaths of Saguaro cacti, the largest cacti in the world as well as important habitat for regional wildlife.
On a spring visit, travelers have the opportunity to see mountain lions, snakes, javelinas, birds of prey, and more.
In Tucson itself, explore the Pima Air & Space Museum and the Arizona History Museum.
Interested in climate change? Be sure to visit the famous Biodome 2 located just north of the city.
Once an infamous “live-in terrarium”, Biodome remains an important ongoing experiment in human ecology as part of the University of Arizona. Visitors are invited for a self-guided tour through the facility.
While you’re here, explore Tucson Mountain Park, visit Airplane Boneyard, and check out nearby historic Tombstone town.
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit the Southwest. Days are getting longer and the weather is not yet searing hot as in the summer.
April also brings art exhibits, outdoor movies, and Spring Fling, a popular Tucson event featuring rides, games, and food booths at the University of Arizona campus.
Anwar | Beyond My Door
6. Portland, OR for the Columbia Gorge
Portland and its Columbia River Gorge—bordering Oregon and Washington—are fantastic places to visit during the spring months.
There are so many wonderful things to do in Portland.
Plus, cherry blossoms begin to bloom in early April and can be spotted on streets all over the city. But the best place to see them is Tom McCall Waterfront Park, just off of the Willamette River.
Also, just 30 minutes south of Portland, you’ll find the popular Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, which takes place every April.
Wander through thousands of tulips and enjoy views of Mount Hood in the distance.
Another fantastic place to see those beautiful floral blooms is Tryon Creek State Park, with an abundance of Trilliums, Oregon’s earliest blooming native flowers.
If you’re a hiker, head into the Columbia River Gorge and embark on some of the best wildflower hikes in Washington and Oregon.
The flowers begin to bloom in early April and are best found on the Dog Mountain and Coyote Wall trails.
While Portland is beautiful year-round, the spring and summer months are the best times to visit, making April ideal for an Oregon vacation.
Kassidy | The Hiking Helper
7. Estes Park, Colorado for Rocky Mountain Adventures
Located in Larimer County, about four hours from Aspen, Estes Park is one of the best places in Colorado and most famous national parks in the west.
It’s the gateway to stunning Rocky Mountain National Park for epic hikes, horseback riding, biking, fishing, and camping.
In Estes Park itself, fisherman head directly to Lakes Estes Marina, another popular tourist attraction.
The best reason to visit in April? Come for the Bigfoot Days Festival which typically opens on April 1st. From axe throwing and climbing walls to enjoying a Bigfoot-themed dinner, it’s all things Bigfoot here!
Estes Park is less crowded in spring, and as a result, it’s a great time to save on hotels. Wildflowers are more abundant when you visit in August, however.
This area is replete with natural beauty. Visit Bear Lake, Black Canyon National Park, Grand Mesa National Forest, and Colorado National Monuments nearby.
Trijit | Budget Travel Buff
8. Washington, D.C. for Cherry Blossoms
One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is Washington, DC.
After all, April is Cherry Blossom season in the capitol!
You can enjoy seeing these beautiful pastel pink blooms from the end of March through early April.
And some of the best places to see them include the Tidal Basin, which is home to upwards of 3,700 different trees.
Just arrive early and expect crowds since this is a very popular time of year in the city.
After that, spend the weekend in Washington, DC exploring the National Mall and the city’s most iconic monuments; the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial can’t be missed.
Then embark on a sobering visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum before checking out the Smithsonian Castle and exploring the impressive grounds of the United States Botanical Gardens.
The city comes alive with festivals this month. Check out the DC Pizza Festival, Petalpalooza, and Anacostia River Festival.
Victoria | Southern Trippers
9. Lake Tahoe, CA for Spring Snow
This mesmerizing alpine lake sits high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The best part? April is still off-season in Lake Tahoe for fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. It’s a beautiful place to visit in California in April!
It’s also wildflower season. If it’s warm, hike to Emerald Bay. (But always check weather conditions and trail closures before setting out since snow can linger at this time of year.)
If there is still snow on the ground, hit the slopes at Heavenly Mountain Resort and then enjoy the annual Easter Egg Hunt here.
Late April brings Earth Day related clean-up events and the Forever Dance Lake Tahoe Spring Break Event.
April is really the best time to visit the best beaches in Lake Tahoe since you’ll enjoy the picturesque stretches of shoreline crowd-free. Just be aware the water is quite cold!
Meg | Fox in the Forest
10. Key West, FL for a Spring Break Party
In search of a Florida destination for spring? Check out Key West, a fun tropical island in southern Florida.
April is probably the best time to visit the Florida Keys since the weather is a bit warmer and there are a ton of fun festivals to enjoy (although November is nice too!).
Just be aware that this is high season in Key West with plenty of Spring Breakers so you may need to navigate larger crowds and higher prices.
Popular attractions here include the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, and a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.
But don’t miss the unique Key West festivals that happen this month!
These include the Florida Keys Seafood Festival, the Afro Roots Fest Key West, and the 7-mile Bridge Run from Knights Key to Pigeon Key.
Love to fish? April is the perfect time to catch Mahi Mahi, Yellowtail, and Blue Marlin before joining the area’s one-of-a-kind Conch Republic Independence Celebration.
Victoria | Florida Trippers
11. Monterey + Big Sur, CA for the Sea Otter Classic
California’s central coast is full of natural beauty and small town vibes, making it ideal to visit in April! Monterey and Big Sur both make great day trips from San Francisco.
Walk Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey; it’s the perfect spot for a whale watching excursion.
Then head to nearby Cannery Row to explore local shops and delicious eateries or visit the world-renowned Monterey Aquarium with a variety of marine exhibits.
Because they are so close to each other, getting from Monterey to Big Sur is fairly easy and quick.
The Big Sur coastline offers stunning views from the Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, or parks like the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Be sure to pack sturdy shoes, as some of the best of Big Sur’s Point Lobos State Natural Reserve hikes involve moderate trails and rocky beaches.
Also in April: The Big Sur International Marathon, which has been voted the Best Marathon in North America.
Non-runners can still enjoy Monterey in April at the Sea Otter Classic, a world-premiere cycling festival.
Watch as thousands of top-form cyclists fly through the courses in the competition!
For an adventurous getaway with plenty of activities to choose from, California’s central coast in April is the place to be!
Pafoua | Her Wanderful World
12. Louisville, KY for Bourbon
Temperatures in Louisville reach an average high of 70°F this month so you’re almost guaranteed a warm, sunny vacation when you visit Louisville in April.
Though it may not be your first thought for a spring destination, Louisville offers plenty to enjoy for people of all ages and interests.
Visit the Slugger Museum and Factory followed by a visit to bourbon distilleries, like Maker’s Mark and Old Forester Distilleries, on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
The dining scene is also on point here. Try Louisville restaurants like Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse and Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar.
April is also known as “Mint Julep Month” because the city hosts a series of events called The Kentucky Derby Festival to build anticipation for the Kentucky Derby in May.
Celebrations include Thunder Over Louisville, a spectacular fireworks display, and $5 Harbor History Cruises on the Ohio River.
Brittany | Travel by Brit
13. Monument Valley, AZ for Navajo History
Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes in the US and includes stunning rock formations on the border of Arizona and Utah.
The set of many movies in modern times, Monument Valley is also, more importantly, sacred to the Navajo people who have been living in the region for centuries.
Visit the Navajo Tribal Park visitor center and museum while you’re here to full appreciate this unique history.
Hike around the Mittens. Drive the 17-mile loop road passing through the park. Enjoy the views from John Ford’s Point.
Spend the night in a Hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling. Or tour by horseback for a unique experience in the American Southwest.
With scorching temperatures in the summer, Monument Valley is far better to visit in April when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner.
Here in early April? Admire the Mitten Shadow, where the shadow of the West Mitten Butte casts over the East Mitten Butte at sunset.
This peak event happens around March 30th but continues for a few days after as well.
Patricia | Ze Wandering Frogs
14. Mackinac Island, MI for Off Season Quiet
Mackinac Island is one of the best islands in the Great Lakes. And towards the end of April, many local businesses begin to open as they prepare to get a jump on the busy summer season.
In April, you’ll likely have the island all to yourself with low season hotel prices to match.
The weather also starts to warm this month, so you can enjoy some of the island’s amazing parks without bundling up.
Be sure to visit the immortal Arch Rock during your visit to Mackinac Island. It’s a stunning, limestone rock formation that is located at the terminus of a 2.3-mile loop hike through Mackinac Island State Park.
Then explore the historic buildings of Fort Mackinac. Complete your island tour by admiring local art at The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.
Linda | Midwest Explored
15. Moab for Sandstone Drama
Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are distinctive, awe-inspiring parks that people visit from all over the world.
Each park is unique and offers a different view of the surrounding area. Moab makes a great base to see both!
When should you visit? Spring is lovely! (Winter in Arches off season is also wonderful.)
Both places—considered part of Utahs “Mighty Five”—work well on a road trip itinerary for Utah’s national parks.
Canyonlands follows the Colorado River. This river has created large canyons and goosenecks that can be seen from Canyonlands National Park.
While in Canyonlands, you can take an off-road vehicle and drive into these canyons for a unique adventure.
Arches is an area that has been sculpted by wind and sand for many years, creating impressive arch structures. The park offers many easy day hikes to see a vast array of arches.
The most famous arch here is Delicate Arch, but there are many more unique and beautiful arches to visit, including Double Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and Turret Arch.
Temperate weather makes April an ideal time to visit. In the summer, the area can be blistering hot, limiting hikes to early mornings.
There are also lots of fun things to do in nearby Moab!
Candice | CS Ginger
16. Charleston, SC for the Lowcountry Festivals
With its histroic feel, cobblestone streets, old churches, and rainbow buildings, Charleston is one of the most gorgeous cities in the United States.
April is a fantastic month to visit because the weather is just beautiful, warm but not too hot or humid yet, and flowers are blooming everywhere.
There are many festivals in Charleston in April, including the Lowcountry Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation, the Lowcountry Cajun Festival, and the Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival.
During your days in Charleston, you must visit the Slave Mart Museum, where you can learn about how enslaved Africans were bought and sold in Charleston.
Stop by St Michael’s Church, the oldest church in the city. Stroll picturesque King Street and Broad Street to window shop local boutiques.
Of course, no visit to Charleston would be complete without admiring the iconic pineapple fountain in Waterfront Park, or the exceptionally bright colored houses on Rainbow Row.
Finally, take the ferry out to Fort Sumter; this is where the Civil War began.
Stephanie | The Unknown Enthusiast
17. Las Vegas, NV for the Country Music Awards
One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is internationally renowned Las Vegas. (It also makes the perfect Southern California getaway.)
Known for its blazing temps at other times of year, Las Vegas is still cool in spring with more manageable crowds. Expect temps between 70 to 80 degrees Farenheit; pools are open!
Whether it’s the trapeze artists at the bubbly Circus Circus or the ‘miniature’ Eiffel Tower at the quaint Paris hotel, each casino and hotel offers unique attractions.
There are also plenty of non-gambling things to do in Las Vegas. Take an indoor gondola ride at the Venetian or ride a roller coaster at New York New York.
Adrenaline junkies can get their fill at the top of the Stratosphere; check out the SkyJump for ziplining off the building!
Whether it’s a concert by your favorite musician or a world-class performance Cirque du Soleil, shows in Las Vegas are a special kind of magic/
The American Country Music Awards are also frequently held in Las Vegas this month. Be sure to check their website for complete details.
Other April events: Attend the Bluegrass Festival if you’re arriving early this month. Or check out The Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekender for great music in late April.
Pamela | Directionally Challenged Traveler
18. Colorado Springs, C0 to Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
With its location at the foot of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is home to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
April is an excellent time to take this historic train to the top of America’s Mountain as the views are crystal clear now, unlike in summer.
Another unique attraction is the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
A weekday visit is perfect because the kids are still in school, for a crowd-free experience.
While you’re here, drive through the zoo to reach the Shrine of the Sun. The tower is a memorial to Will Rogers.
Climb to the top for a fantastic view of the city below and the plains stretching into the horizon.
If you want to walk the “Grandest One Mile in Colorado,” visit The Broadmoor Seven Falls.
This series of waterfalls has been a tourist destination since 1885. The attraction is only open between March and November; in April you can visit from Friday through Sunday.
Another must-see is Garden of the Gods. This city park features stunning red rock formations.
Be sure to visit the historic trading post for a bison burger before hiking through the unique landscape.
Theresa | The Local Tourist
19. Orlando, FL for Fewer Amusement Park Crowds
It’s all about Orlando’s amusement parks in April.
Head directly to Universal Orlando Resort, famous for its two theme parks which now include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Orlando is, of course, also home to Walt Disney World. This sprawling theme park area is one of the most-visited vacation spots in the entire world.
It welcomes more than 58 million visitors each year to the four Disney Parks: Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.
Disney World is an especially worthwhile place to visit for families with young children, as the excitement and joy of Disney princesses, heroes, characters, and villains come alive at the “Most Magical Place on Earth!”
While Florida is known for its hot summer weather, a vacation in April offers lovely temps instead.
In fact, it’s also ideal for enjoying the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot Park at Disney World.
Epcot comes alive with displays of horticulture and delectable booths serving up unique takes on cultural foods. Best of all? Crowd calendars project lower numbers of visitors for the majority of this month.
Taylor | Traverse with Taylor
20. Grand Canyon, AZ for Spring Sunsets
One of the best places to visit in the USA in April is definitely the Grand Canyon.
There are many beautiful national parks in the US but a visit to the Grand Canyon should be on everyone’s bucket list.
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it’s easy to see why.
Its south and north rims span 277 miles cutting through colorful sandstone rocks and dramatic plateaus.
Some of the most spectacular views can be found on the South Rim Side. For beautiful sunsets and panoramic views, head to Hopi Point and Mathers Point.
April activities are abundant here, from horseback riding and hiking to helicoptering over the canyon and riding a boat down the Colorado River for a completely different perspective.
For nature lovers, April is ideal for avoiding the summer heat and maximizing blooming wild flowers on walking trails.
Nature and wildlife all come alive this month.
Asha | HomeTravelGuide
21. New York, NY for a Walking Tour
In April, New York City comes to life with budding trees, flowers and blossoms; the mild spring weather makes the city comfortably walkable.
It’s the perfect month to enjoy a free self-guided walking tour of Manhattan.( It’s too cold to walk far in winter and in summer it can get far too hot.)
April’s mild temps are perfect for exploring the city (the next best month is October), so put on some comfortable shoes and get to know the historic city neighborhoods and landmarks by foot.
It’s worth checking out the city parks, too. Central Park feels vibrant and green, lovely for boating on the lake.
Daffodils and crocuses are flowering across the city this month. Head to Riverside Park and Theodore Roosevelt Park for cherry tree blossoms.
Finally, many of the rooftop bars open in April, creating spaces to relax with stunning views across the metropolis.
Top tip: For unforgettable city views, head to Westlight, the rooftop bar at the top of the William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn.
Martha | May Cause Wanderlust
22. Catalina Island, CA for Snorkeling
Sparkling Catalina Island, located about 22 miles off the coast of southern California near LA perfect for a spring visit.
As temperatures begin to warm, the magnificent underwater kelp forests here begin to revive, lending themselves to one of the most thrilling activities: snorkeling!
With some of the best kelp forests in the world and many unique marine animals, snorkeling in Catalina Island will be one of your favorite experiences here.
Catalina Island is also known for its outdoor adventure activities: zip-lining, parasailing, boating, and hiking.
Spend an afternoon with a drink in hand at the Descanso Beach Club. Explore the historic Catalina Casino. Or tour around the island by golf cart.
And make sure to keep your eyes open on your boat ride over, as you may catch a glimpse of some remarkable sea creatures. Humpback and grey whales migrate here in spring!
April through September is ideal at Catalina due to warmer weather but you’ll find fewer crowds in spring for a more relaxed experience to enjoy the pristine beauty of this island.
Janelle | Make the Trip Matter
23. San Antonio, TX for Fiesta
While Texas is often unbearably hot in summer, the temperature in San Antonio in April is just right, with very little rain and fewer crowds than at other times of the year.
Even if you just have 24 hours in San Antonio, be sure to stroll the picturesque and atmospheric San Antonio Riverwalk.
It’s Texas’s most visited tourist attraction. Then visit the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico and the world-famous Spanish mission and fortress known as The Alamo.
April is also when the annual Fiesta celebrations happen!
These festivities have taken place in San Antonio every April since 1891 and last for 10 days, usually at the end of April.
Fiesta is all about celebrating San Antonio’s diverse and vibrant culture and heritage, as well as honoring the memory of the fallen heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.
Experience delicious food, parades and exhibits. With over 3.5 million people coming to celebrate, this is one of the biggest festivals in America!
Catrina | 24 Hours Layover
24. San Francisco, CA for the Cherry Blossom Festival
San Francisco is celebrated worldwide for its impressive parks, beaches, museums, hiking, history, and more.
If you’re looking for iconic American experiences, be sure to visit to the Golden Gate bridge and ride the historic cable car.
Explore San Francisco’s many unique neighborhoods, including Haight-Ashbury, Chinatown, and Japantown. Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry building are also musts on any San Francisco itinerary.
With an extra day, head to nearby Muir woods to hike among the giant redwoods.
In San Francisco, April signals a return to sunny outdoor activities. Hike the Lands End Trail. Cycle the Golden Gate Bridge. Picnic at Alamo Square.
April also brings lovely blooms with abundant flowering trees.
One of the best places to see them? At the Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown, an incredible free event celebrating Japanese food and culture.
Flower lovers should head directly to the Tulip garden in Golden Gate Park for technicolor blooms.
Agarwal | Destination Checkoff
25. Zion National Park, UT for Epic Waterfalls
Full of spectacular canyon views and gorgeous hiking trails, Zion National Park is wonderful in April.
It’s the perfect time for bucket list hikes like Angels Landing and Observation Point Trail that are more challenging in soaring summer temps.
April travelers in Zion are rewarded with substantial wildflower bloom, as giant splashes of color light up Zion’s red rocks. It’s truly spectacular!
Keep a look out for mammals this month like baby bighorn sheep, wild turkey chicks, and deer fawns but always keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.
Waterfalls are mesmerizing this time of year, too, thanks to winter rains.
The best places to ogle them? Lower Emerald Pools and the 300-foot fall at Upper Emerald Pools.
Snow has melted by this month so trails are accessible without needing winter crampons.
Plus, the Virgin River turns a gorgeous aqua blue water at this time of year. Sunsets and sunrises are dramatic.
The weather in April is ideal, with warm sunny days and an average high of 74°F and average low of 44°F.
Catrina | 24 Hours Layover
26. Sedona, AZ for Red Rock Hikes
Sedona is a true outdoor lovers paradise and the perfect place to visit in April.
The temperatures are ideal—lower 70s—and the wildflowers carpet the scenic red rock trails.
During this spring getaway, you’ll enjoy countless opportunities for excellent trails. I recommend adding the insta-worthy Devils Bridge to the top of your list.
Even though it’s popular, it’s 100 percent worth it. Make sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
For more hikes, head to Soldiers Pass (to search for the hidden caves), Boyton Canyon (home to the famous Subway Cave), and Cathedral Rock (for epic sunsets).
All hiked out? Explore Sedona on a Pink Jeep tour, take a sunset horseback ride or get on a mountain bike. Consider a winery tour along the Verde Valley.
April also brings several fun annual events in Sedona, the Celebration of Spring and a Spring Yoga festival. There are so many adventurous things to do in Sedona!
It’s no secret that Sedona is a very popular location—especially in the spring—so be sure to book your accommodation early.
Budget tip: If you’re hoping to save a bit of money, try hotels outside the city in nearby Cornville, Cottonwood, or Camp Verde.
Jordan | The Homebody Tourist
26. New Mexico for American Indian Week
In April, travelers will enjoy exploring the abundant nature, culture, and history across the great state of New Mexico. Two excellent areas to enjoy this month are Alamogordo and Albuquerque.
Alamogordo is the gateway into the otherworldly White Sands National Park. Spring is the ideal time to hike in this unique desert park.
On the night of the full moon in April, take the ranger-led Full Moon Hike offered by the National Park Service.
History buffs will enjoy a rare opportunity to visit the White Sands Missile Range’s Trinity Site Open House here, now a registered site of historical significance.
The tour is only offered twice per year, in April and October.
A sobering but fascinating experience, you’ll learn all about the first atomic tests in 1945.
Highlights for April in Albuquerque include two festivals celebrating Native American heritage.
The first is American Indian Week at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a celebration of Native American traditions and culture. Learn about Pueblo traditions like food, pottery, and jewelry-making .
The other festival is in late April; visit the Gathering of Nations Powwow for a colorful night at University Arena.
You’ll enjoy traditional arts-and-crafts exhibitions, lively dance competitions, and the Miss Indian World contest.
Whether you are interested in culture, nature, or history, New Mexico makes a great April destination.
Monica | This Rare Earth
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