Spring Break Destinations Less Than 6 Hours Away

Just a short drive to Big Adventure: 5 Spring Break getaways under 6 hours from Huntsville 

Huntsville is a vibrant city abounding with unique experiences and things to do; if you’re fortunate enough to call yourself a native of the Rocket City, you know! But, when Spring Break is here, it’s nice to get away to observe a change of scenery with friends and family for recreation, rest, and relaxation.

The caveat to traveling in 2024 is the rising airfare, hotels, rental cars, and activity costs. One way to keep costs down while traveling is by driving! Though long car rides can be challenging with small children, a good rule of thumb for families traveling is to keep driving distances within 3-6 hours or roughly a half-day or under. That way, you can rise early and travel until  lunchtime, enjoying the afternoon at the destination; likewise, on the departure day for the trip back home, your family can enjoy the morning through lunch and load up in the afternoon and still be home before nightfall. 

We’ve compiled a variety of destinations three to five hours away. There is one instate beach destination, three mountain destinations, and three out of state  travel opportunities, all under six hours.

Atlanta, Georgia

Approximate travel time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

(photos courtesy of Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau)

If traveling to another state sounds interesting, consider exploring Georgia’s capital. Atlanta is the 40th largest city in the United States, spans 131 square miles, and offers an eclectic myriad of things to enjoy. 

The Atlanta Braves are a professional baseball team with four World Series titles and an admirable history. Visiting Truist Park for a ball game or spring training is an exciting experience. Atlanta is also home to Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre greenspace commemorating the home of the 1996 Summer Olympics – the nucleus of Atlanta’s downtown culture. The park offers playgrounds, gardens, lawns, landmarks, outdoor concert arenas, and the iconic fountain of rings to cool off in the summertime.

If food is your thing, there are plenty of unique culinary experiences available, but be sure to not miss out on The Varsity. The world’s largest dine-in restaurant and home of the famous Atlanta chili dog since the 1920s, The Varsity is a must-see. We struggle to pass through Atlanta without stopping for chili dogs and a frosted orange!

You can buy combo tickets for the awe-inspiring Georgia Aquarium and the neighboring Coke Museum – our favorite is trying the unique international beverages at the end. The High Museum of Art is worth the drive alone, especially if you are interested in the current exhibit. Other notable locations are the Martin Luther King Jr. National Park, Stone Mountain Park, and Zoo Atlanta, and if you time it right, you can enjoy the Dragon Con, or the Atlanta Film Festival.

Here are a few fun facts about Atlanta: It is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, the state capital shines with 43 ounces of gold, and you’ll find over 70 streets named “Peachtree” in Atlanta – it can get confusing. Atlanta is a diverse city with a muse for everyone!

Orange Beach, Alabama

Approximate travel time: 5 hours and 30 minutes

(photos courtesy of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

If white sandy beaches and small coastal towns are your ideal, Orange Beach is a solid Spring Break choice for beach enthusiasts. Orange Beach is only six miles from Gulf Shores, separated by the Gulf State Park. While Gulf Shores is bustling with tourists, its neighbor is a bit more reserved, offering a quieter and more laid-back experience for those who want to lounge on the beach and 32 miles of white and copious sunshine.

If you choose to vacation here and encounter a rainy day, need a reprieve from the sun, or need a fun family outing, there are also options!

The Wharf: The hub of Orange Beach, the Wharf offers unique shops and delicious restaurants and is the official entertainment district. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or play a game at the acclaimed SPECTRA laser tag light experience! There are hundreds of family-friendly events, so check the calendar before going.

The Wharf Amphitheater: This 10,000-seat facility is for those big on sound and experience! It hosts regular shows and famous headliners. Check the schedule ahead to secure a ticket to a show.

The Wharf Express Train: For a jaunt around Main Street, a ride on the Wharf Express is a fun excursion for kids of all ages and a great way to learn about the area.

Orange Beach History Museum: For history buffs, the Orange Beach History Museum is a historical location itself. Housed in a schoolhouse from 1910, the museum has been home to local artifacts and memorabilia about the local fishing heritage and native American culture since 1995.

Adventure Island: Fun-seeking families can enjoy go-karts, bumper boats, glow-gold, and kiddie rides at Adventure Island. The indoor area has an arcade and a five-story replica of an erupting volcano, complete with fire and sound effects!

Next Level: Located at the Wharf, Next Level is a new family attraction that features laser tag and bazooka ball and is a perfect rainy day option. 

Dolce Vita Charters: If you want to spend a relaxing day on the water without driving a boat, Dolce Vita is the perfect charter. It’s a restful retreat with a lounge pad, a lily pad, and a capacity for six passengers. 

Both repeat visitors to Orange Beach and local residents love Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar and The Gulf for great seafood. For hotels, many brand hotels are available beachside, as well as VRBO and Airbnb cottages, condos, and full houses. Orange Beach is the perfect choice for a low-key, relaxing beachside vacation without a lot of development.

Asheville, North Carolina

Approximate travel time: 5 hours and 15 minutes 

(photos courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com)

Yes, Asheville is the gold standard of fall foliage views in October. Still, it is also stunning in Springtime with the vibrant, tender baby green popping up and dotting the breathtaking aerial views you’ll find on every hike! Asheville offers myriad outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

Take in Downtown Asheville and the River Arts District

You could start your day with a leisurely stroll through downtown Asheville, grabbing coffee and breakfast at one of the many local cafes, then head to the arts district, where you can browse an array of eclectic artwork and observe artists working on their original creations. Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant or local brewery in the afternoon, wrap up your day at a downtown restaurant showcasing Appalachian food, and visit one of the many venues showcasing local musical talent.

For a day filled with outdoor adventures!

Start your day with a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway, dotted with overlooks and lookout points to view surrounding mountains and valleys and take in the stunning views. Next, plan to visit Pisgah National Forest to get some hiking in; trails range in intensity, with the most visited trail spots being Looking Glass Rock Trail or the Black Balsam Knob Trail. My sister was married on Black Balsam Rock, and it was a challenge to get up there; make sure you wear proper hiking shoes! Following the hike, cool off in one of the area’s natural swimming holes or visit Skinny Dip Falls or Sliding Rock. After a rigorous day outdoors, consider returning to Asheville and booking a relaxing evening at a spa or wellness center to rejuvenate, unwind, and relax.

Biltmore estate and gardens

America’s largest home built by George Vanderbilt, The Biltmore is a historic house, museum, and tourist attraction. Featuring some of the most breathtaking Blue Ridge views spanning 80,000 miles, Biltmore visitors can tour the mansion, explore the historic estate, and meander through meticulously kept gardens. For lunch, several onsite farm-to-table restaurants feature gourmet food sourced from Biltmore’s gardens and farms. After lunch, enjoy one of the estate’s outdoor activities; biking, horseback riding, or hiking trails – drink an afternoon glass of wine at the onsite winery while planning which upscale Asheville restaurants to dine at, and don’t forget to try one of the award-winning wineries in the area.

Cultural exploration: 

Asheville offers a robust cultural experience if you encounter a rainy day; start the day with the Asheville Art Museum; next, explore the Botanical Gardens; and then have a leisure picnic at one of the parks overlooking the French Broad River. End the day with a sunset walk on the Urban trail, either self-guided or a walking tour – view thirty sculptures and historical markers telling the story of Asheville’s deep history.

With a mix of activities, we know you’ll find Asheville a lovely city brimming with stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and exceptional dining.

The Smoky Mountains, Sevierville, Tennessee

Approximate travel time: 4 hours

(Photos courtesy of VisitSieverville.com)

Sevierville is a top-choice destination with Dollywood, one of Tennessee’s most popular tourist attractions in nearby Pigeon Forge. Named after the iconic star and co-owner, Dolly Parton, Dollywood is among the top 50 most visited theme parks in the world and is packed with thrilling rides, live shows, and the nostalgic vibe of stepping back in time to a small country town or a local fair. The theme park has over 50 world-class rides, renowned entertainment, and award-winning dining. Top it all, Dollywood is the friendliest park environment you will find!

Dollywood aside, there are many fun things to do in the Smoky Mountain Area, brimming with rustic mountain cabins and chalets atop stunning Smokey Mountain views. Sieverville is known for its spectacular picturesque Autumn, but in the Spring, nature wakes up, and new baby greens come alive! This, combined with mild weather, makes Sieverville a magnificent choice.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is breathtaking and offers a variety of hiking trails and abundant wildlife; you might even see a black bear since 1500 of them call the Smokies home! If you prefer scenic drives, Newfound Gap Road offers incredible views! There are lookout points and picnic areas to enjoy an outdoor meal with stunning mountain views. The Foothills Parkway or Little River Road are also scenic routes. If you’d like to view the Great Smokies from an aerial view, consider booking a helicopter for a unique perspective on the landscape!

For the avid adventurer, experience all the thrills of ziplining through the treetops or whitewater rafting down the Pigeon River and explore the underground wonders of Forbidden Caverns. Guided tours are available.

For cultural immersion, check the local events calendar for festivals, concerts, and special events, from craft fairs to music festivals. Also, take advantage of the many varied local attractions, like Ripley Aquarium of the Smokies, WonderWorks, the Titanic Museum in nearby Pigeon Forge, or the Alcatraz East Crime Museum over in Gatlinburg. If food and fun are your thing, try the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud; the food is fantastic, and the show is entertaining for all ages. Another worth noting is Pirates Voyage, owned by Dolly Parton – an engaging performance full of pirates, mermaids, and animals! The actors are excellent, as is the food!

Shop and dine in Downtown Sevierville! Spend some time exploring Downtown Sevierville’s historic district, which features a variety of shops, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Catch a family photo at the Dolly Parton Statue and the Sevier County Courthouse. And there is too much good food to experience in a single day! The Apple Barn is an experience unto itself – the apple fritters are divine! Bennett’s Bar-B-Que serves a blackberry cobbler that is legendary. The Old Mill is an essential breakfast featuring amazing muffins with homemade jelly before 10:30AM. Note: if you’re on a budget, every place is much more affordable during lunch.

North Georgia Mountains:

Approximate travel time: 4 hours and 20 minutes

(photos courtesy of Explore Georgia) 

I grew up summering near Helen in my youth, but anyone thirsting for a beautiful getaway will find much to satisfy in the North Georgia mountains from a cluster of four quaint mountain towns; Blue Ridge, Ellijay, Clayton, and my old stomping grounds, Helen. 

Blue Ridge:

A lovely day in Blue Ridge would start with a visually stunning train ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Afterward, explore downtown Blue Ridge’s unique shops and art galleries and get lunch at a cafe serving locally grown food. You’ll enjoy unwinding at Blue Ridge Lake, where kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing are available.

Clayton:

For a great day in Clayton, start your day with a visit to Tallulah Gorge Park, home to a two-mile-long, almost 1,000-foot-deep canyon. Visitors can hike the rim trails and gain a full view of the gorge and waterfalls or descend into the gorge for a more significant challenge. Be sure to grab lunch downtown and take advantage of a chance to try the local wines from Tiger Mountain or Stonewall Creek Vineyards. Due to its beautiful wildflowers, it’s an afternoon tradition to take a scenic drive along the Warwoman Dell Recreation Area.

Ellijay:

Spend your morning in Ellijay’s apple orchards, enjoying the apple picking, tasting, and Apple Tours. Amicalola Falls State Park is a popular stop featuring the tallest waterfall in Georgia – many hike the trails to see the falls up close, and some bring a picnic to enjoy in the park. Later, relax and grab dinner at one of the many local restaurants, noted for good ole’ Southern comfort food or barbecue.

Helen:

Modeled after a traditional Bavarian town, the charming streets, shops, and cafes were literally designed for browsing, and you can’t miss the chance to sample the German cuisine! The Georgia Mountain Coaster offers all-day passes, which you can leave and return to ride again later – highly recommended! One of the most popular activities during the late spring and summer months is late afternoon tubing in the Chattahoochee River. Also, explore the nearby Unicoi State Park for excellent hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, or schedule some airtime on the ropes course. 

Close your day with dinner at a local restaurant, preferably with outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the view. Also, not far outside of Helen, and a personal favorite of ours – Jumping Goat Coffee Roaster and Tasting Room, which features the best coffee, home brewed mead, and back porch view in all of North Georgia!