{"id":658474,"date":"2025-11-09T12:00:11","date_gmt":"2025-11-09T12:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=658474"},"modified":"2025-11-10T18:50:24","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T18:50:24","slug":"21-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-april-in-the-usa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/21-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-april-in-the-usa\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Amazing Places to Explore in April in the USA"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end\">\n<div class=\"pt-0\">\n<div class=\"gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full\">\n<div class=\"relative p-1 rounded-sm flex items-center justify-center bg-token-main-surface-primary text-token-text-primary h-8 w-8\">I discovered that April is an awesome time to explore the United States &#8211; with warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the first real taste of spring. After many Aprils on the road, I can say these are the cities, beaches, and hidden gems you <em data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"168\">need<\/em> to visit this month&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>1. Naples, Florida<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/5th-Avenue-Naples-Florida.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769248 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"5th Avenue Naples, Florida\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779581\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779581\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.jpg?resize=1024%2C679&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"679\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.jpg?resize=1000%2C663&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-a-Florida-sunset.jpg?resize=768%2C509&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779581 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of a Florida sunset\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779581\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The warm, golden-orange sunsets here in Florida in April were just incredible!&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">I found this upscale Gulf Coast city to be the perfect warm spring escape \u2014 sunny 27<span class=\"s1\">\u00b0C<\/span> days, soft white-sand beaches, and even dolphins playing just offshore. It felt peaceful and blissful, without the spring break chaos you get in Miami. I got to attend the eco-friendly <a href=\"https:\/\/conservancy.org\/events\/earth-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Earth Day Festival<\/a>, and the lively <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usopenpickleball.com\/event-guide\/schedule\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pickleball Championships<\/a> were also happening this month.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I flew into Fort Myers and was on the beach within 45 minutes. I spent my days sunbathing on Vanderbilt Beach, kayaking the earthy mangrove tunnels at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, taking a thrilling <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/naples-florida-l104274\/naples-catamaran-cruises-with-wildlife-views-t1057862\/?ranking_uuid=2ad74078-8621-412f-b22a-3fdfd057085d\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Miss Naples Catamaran Cruise<\/a> and exploring the boutiques and alfresco dining &#8211; the spa-like <a href=\"https:\/\/stores.bluemercury.com\/fl\/naples\/34935\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bluemercury<\/a> and the chic M Waterfront Grille were stand-outs!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Naples,+FL,+USA\/@26.1450745,-81.7935125,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88dae19b73c2d7ad:0x673f5318d72c9aaa!8m2!3d26.1391777!4d-81.7955475!16zL20vMHJrNzE?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTEwNC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gulf Coast,<\/a> Florida, Southeast USA&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> Upscale beach escape | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 28\u00b0C to 29\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying in the lush 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/inn-at-pelican-bay.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-236946_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-17_dow-Saturday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250118_ppt-_lp-2826_r-16705877455664003644&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;all_sr_blocks=23694601_88759687_4_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-18&amp;checkout=2025-01-19&amp;dest_id=20023293&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=23694601_88759687_4_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=23694601_88759687_4_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=23694601_88759687_4_0_0__33420&amp;srepoch=1735729034&amp;srpvid=db404d03b9090b41&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Inn at Pelican Bay<\/a> &#8211; I loved the lakeside dining, and all the lux details such as the trendy fire pits, the Peloton bikes in the gym and the cloud-like Serta\u00ae Sweet Dreams pillow-top mattresses!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. Texas Hill Country<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-653714 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Texas Hill Country Photo\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country-Photo.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-653715 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Texas Hill Country flowers\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Texas-Hill-Country.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">April in Texas Hill Country felt like that full-on spring feeling \u2014 rolling hills covered in bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and pink primroses, warm sunny days, and perfect vineyard weather without the summer heat. I came during the <a href=\"https:\/\/bluebonnetfestival.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bluebonnet Festival<\/a> in Burnet, and locals also raved about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.beckervineyards.com\/events\/26th-Annual-Lavender-Fest\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lavender Fest<\/a> at Becker Vineyards which was also on this month.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">I flew into Austin, drove just over an hour, and stayed a week. I cruised the Willow City Loop, hiked Enchanted Rock (entering through Loop Trailhead), browsed Wimberley Market (I loved the vintage Texas signs!), tasted a lovely 2023 Viognier Reserve at Pedernales Cellars, and happily worked my way through peach cobbler and breakfast tacos at rustic farm-to-table spots.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Texas+Hill+Country,+TX,+USA\/@30.4524262,-102.3716747,7z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x865a7cd9cba78b3b:0x15dcbfbd1594a2ca!8m2!3d30.1795917!4d-99.5450974!16zL20vMDF2MWt5?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Central Texas<\/a>, South-Central USA&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> charming and unique | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 24\u00b0C to 29\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the unique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/barons-creekside-resort.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-6058570_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-11_dow-Sunday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250112_ppt-_lp-2826_r-3768376054585190140&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;all_sr_blocks=605857003_237538083_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-01-12&amp;checkout=2025-01-13&amp;dest_id=20128143&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=605857003_237538083_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=605857003_237538083_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=605857003_237538083_2_0_0__32654&amp;srepoch=1735728277&amp;srpvid=4deb4b897d2b00d1&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Barons CreekSide Resort<\/a> &#8211; I adored my hand-crafted Swiss log cabin (complete with hot tub!) and sitting by the fire-fly dotted creek with a glass of Becker Vineyards Viognier, listening to live traditional European music!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">3. Santa Catalina Island, California<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668414 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Santa Catalina Island, California\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-Spring-Break.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668413 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Santa Catalina Island, California\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Santa-Catalina-Island-California.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">April showed this island at its best \u2014 sunny, mild days, wildflower-covered hills, and quiet streets before summer crowds. It was the perfect time for outdoor adventures and coastal views. I timed my visit for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.catalinatours.com\/blog\/catalina-buzz-catalina-events-in-april\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SpringFest<\/a>, which added fun waterfront energy and they also hosted an Easter Egg hunt this month too.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">After a one-hour Catalina Express ferry from Dana Point, I spent a long weekend hiking the Garden to Sky Trail via Hermit Gulch Trailhead, spotting a Catalina bison herd on an <a href=\"https:\/\/catalinaconservancy.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eco-Tours Catalina Island Conservancy<\/a>, and ending my days with Dragonberry Mojitos at Descanso Beach Club.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Santa+Catalina+Island\/@33.3889848,-118.4549432,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80dd6f237be18b25:0x3e59a3d5c5f50eab!8m2!3d33.3878856!4d-118.4163103!16zL20vMDF3dmM3?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTEwNC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Off Southern California Coast<\/a>, Southwest USA&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> unique island retreat | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 16 to 23\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying in the boho boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-avalon-in-catalina-island.en-gb.html?aid=1607597&amp;label=v3.cmb9rfmuvy5ho0858ot0h7fh2&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=142906505_335377060_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-07-29&amp;checkout=2025-07-30&amp;dest_id=1429065&amp;dest_type=hotel&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=142906505_335377060_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=142906505_335377060_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=142906505_335377060_2_0_0__40329&amp;srepoch=1748546495&amp;srpvid=7a62881d7f540784&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#hotelTmpl\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Avalon Hotel<\/a> &#8211; I adored the koi pond, the rooftop sunbathing area and the thoughtful touches such as the little hand-wrapped sea-salt caramels at turn-down!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Sedona, Arizona<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778975\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778975\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=1024%2C685&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"685\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Uptown-district-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778975 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Uptown district in Sedona\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778975\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My April snap of Sedona\u2019s Uptown district \u2014 I loved how the buildings blended so seamlessly into the red rock surroundings.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778976\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778976\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=1024%2C685&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"685\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-IG-snap-of-Bell-Rock-in-Sedona.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778976 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bell Rock in Sedona\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778976\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My April snap of Bell Rock in Sedona \u2014 those red cliffs looked incredible in the spring light.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">This month felt ideal \u2014 warm but not hot, red rock cliffs glowing under clear blue skies, and desert wildflowers adding bright pops of color. The mild weather made hiking and exploring easy, without the summer crowds. My trip coincided with <a href=\"https:\/\/sedonayogafestival.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sedona Yoga Festival<\/a>, which brought soulful music and mindful energy to town.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Driving in via Flagstaff, I spent three days hiking Cathedral Rock via the Back O\u2019 Beyond Trailhead (AZ-179), indulging in an Ancestral Stone Massage at <a href=\"https:\/\/miiamo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mii Amo Spa<\/a>, and spotting Venus and Saturn under Sedona\u2019s famously dark pre-dawn skies.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Sedona,+AZ+86336,+USA\/@34.8544198,-111.9510348,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x872da132f942b00d:0x5548c523fa6c8efd!8m2!3d34.8697395!4d-111.7609896!16zL20vMG55NTc?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Northern Arizona<\/a>, Southwest USA | <b>Vibe:<\/b> spiritual desert oasis | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 16\u00b0C to 27\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the romantic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/inn-above-oak-creek-sedona-sedona.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCBnNlZG9uYUgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gC97rUuwbAAgHSAiQ3YTJmYzc3My1lMDgxLTRjNmQtOGNhNy1lOGU0YmI5MjlmM2XYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=64dac3b82f8cd25518310b91b5ac6403&amp;dest_id=20007140&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;hpos=5&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1735728524&amp;srpvid=2a544bfdedc3112f&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Inn Above Oak Creek Sedona<\/a> &#8211; I loved that it was once an art gallery, the beautiful setting, my jacuzzi tub, and Moki, the super-friendly resident black Spaniel!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>5. Antelope Valley, California<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-658500 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Antelope-Valley-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C625&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Antelope Valley, California In America\" width=\"1000\" height=\"625\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Antelope-Valley-spring.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Antelope-Valley-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C400&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Antelope-Valley-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C480&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Antelope-Valley-spring.jpg?resize=800%2C500&amp;ssl=1 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Antelope-Valley-California-Poppies.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769293 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Antelope Valley, California Poppies\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I took an Insta-worthy April trip to this high desert region and found the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve blanketed in brilliant orange poppies (with peak bloom usually March to mid-April). Framed by rolling hills and wide-open skies, it was perfect for spring hikes and golden-hour photos.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I came especially for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cityoflancasterca.org\/our-city\/departments-services\/parks-recreation-arts\/special-events\/california-poppy-festival\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Antelope Valley Poppy Festival<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/avfair.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Antelope Valley Spring Fair<\/a>, both filled with color, live music, and local flavor. Escaping Los Angeles with a two-hour drive north, I spent a charming weekend at the nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Lancaster-Hotels-Oxford-Suites-Lancaster.h28453.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-11-23&amp;chkout=2025-11-24&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1762766237468&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=6239494&amp;destination=Antelope+Valley+California+Poppy+Reserve%2C+Lancaster%2C+California%2C+United+States+of+America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=82490563&amp;latLong=34.731645%2C-118.394229&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=79&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=326085905&amp;selectedRatePlan=400051116&amp;searchId=99ee0f72-c0d6-4a2b-8c42-284e800f7aa6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Oxford Inn Lancaster<\/a>, hiked the Poppy Trail South Loop and the Antelope Butte Vista Trail (straight from the Reserve\u2019s main parking area on Lancaster Rd.) and soaked up the&nbsp; wide-open valley views from Tehachapi Vista Point.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Antelope+Valley\/@34.7513879,-118.2625974,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80c243d2cc207703:0x5889f16bc5dac5f!8m2!3d34.7513712!4d-118.2522977!16zL20vMDJoeTVz?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">High Desert<\/a>, Southern California, Southwest USA&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> desert bloom hotspot | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 21\u00b0C to 24\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Shopping at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cityoflancasterca.org\/our-city\/departments-services\/parks-recreation-arts\/special-events\/the-blvd-market\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BLVD Farmers&#8217; Market<\/a> &#8211; the tangy<span class=\"relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem] transition-colors duration-100 ease-in-out\"> green almonds and <\/span>the smoky-sweet Bee &amp; Bramble Velvet Amber Reserve were my favorite highlights!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Tidal Basin and Washington DC<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-658501 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Best places to visit in the USA in April\/Spring\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Best-places-to-visit-in-April-USA.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778963\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778963\" style=\"width: 1910px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.webp 1920w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?resize=1200%2C900&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photo-of-v-in-Washington-DC.jpg?resize=1536%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"wp-image-778963 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Senate Fountain in Washington DC\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"My photo of Senate Fountain in Washington DC\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778963\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Senate Fountain in Washington DC &#8211; it was a particularly attractive sight in spring!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">My early April escape to D.C. was perfect \u2014 the Tidal Basin was in full cherry blossom bloom, creating a dreamy, petal-pink backdrop for warm, sunlit strolls. I joined the <a href=\"https:\/\/nationalcherryblossomfestival.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Cherry Blossom Festival<\/a> and the lively <a href=\"https:\/\/nationalcherryblossomfestival.org\/event\/petalpalooza\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Petalpalooza<\/a> waterfront celebration, which filled the city with music, art, and pink-themed fun.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Flying into DCA, I spent four days at the elegant <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-hamilton-washington-dc.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAso7AFCGnRoZS1oYW1pbHRvbi13YXNoaW5ndG9uLWRjSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEzuAEHyAEM2AED6AEB-AEBiAIBqAIBuALrmZHGBsACAdICJGQzMDVkMTMyLWNkYjYtNDk5OS04MWJlLTE3MWY1MmI0NTlhNNgCAeACAQ&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=18229704_91465618_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-10-30&amp;checkout=2025-10-31&amp;dest_id=20021296&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=18229704_91465618_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=18229704_91465618_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=18229704_91465618_2_0_0__28195&amp;srepoch=1757695216&amp;srpvid=af40753666a8008b&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hamilton Hotel<\/a> and started at the Tidal Basin Paddle Boat Dock (Ohio Dr. SW) and wandered the loop trail past the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the quieter George Mason Memorial.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"550\" data-end=\"850\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Tidal+Basin\/@38.8836445,-77.057903,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7b70a3007df3f:0x11fc0ae52e8ee42b!8m2!3d38.8840761!4d-77.0384557!16zL20vMDltcGtx?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Capital Region<\/a>, Mid-Atlantic USA&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> romantic city escape | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 18\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Walking the scenic Tidal Basin Loop Trail and seeing the gorgeous cherry blossoms along the way &#8211; I loved smelling the faint honeyed aroma from the locally famous &#8220;indicator tree&#8221; and the slightly tart fragrance of the crabapple trees.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>7. Bisti Badlands, New Mexico&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-651502 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Beautiful Bisti Badlands\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/Bisti-Badlands-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.webp 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bisti-Badlands.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-658491 alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bisti Badlands New Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">This month was ideal for exploring this surreal desert wilderness \u2014 clear skies, comfortable hiking temps, and otherworldly landscapes of hoodoos, petrified wood, and strange rock formations. Even the cacti and yucca were blooming, adding soft pops of color.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Flying into Albuquerque, I drove three hours northwest and based myself at the gorgeous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/casa-blanca-inn-and-suites-farmington.en-gb.html?aid=318615&amp;label=New_English_EN_GBIE_5226315025-CjikBCfb7dsgl%2Aw4ETKCPgS640938663734%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi55695114804%3Atidsa-301303784602%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Aag5226315025%3Acmp108539665&amp;sid=6ae8f5f90a4fe7544a7dd28901f226e5&amp;dest_id=66070&amp;dest_type=landmark&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=7&amp;hpos=7&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753961518&amp;srpvid=190c51122edd0af6&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Casa Blanca Inn &amp; Suites<\/a>. I entered from the main Bisti Access Trailhead off NM-371 and hiked an unmarked 4\u20135 mile loop through pale clay washes to the Cracked Eggs (Egg Factory) and Alien Throne formations \u2014 using GPS coordinates since there were no signs and&nbsp;joined the San Juan College guided <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sanjuancollege.edu\/about\/news-events\/calendar\/all-events\/bisti-badlands-trip.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bisti hike<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><\/span>Northwestern <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-new-mexico\/\">New Mexico<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/search\/Bisti+Badlands,+New+Mexico\/@36.2849171,-108.2116298,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest USA<\/a><span class=\"s1\"><b><\/b>&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> alien-like desert landscape | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 15\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Breathing in the dry, sun-baked scent of the desert while standing among the cracked, egg-like rock formations \u2014 the silence here felt otherworldly!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">8. Port Townsend, Washington<img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668429 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Port Townsend Washington\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Washington.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668431 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Port Townsend Beach Washington\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Port-Townsend-Beach.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">This Victorian seaport made the perfect mid-spring escape \u2014 cherry blossoms and wildflowers lined its storybook streets, waterfront parks were waking up with color, and I could explore and whale-watch without summer crowds. The <a href=\"https:\/\/jcfmarkets.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Port Townsend Farmers Market<\/a> was back in full swing, and I even joined the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.foodcoop.coop\/calendar\/beachclean\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Earth Day Beach Cleanup,<\/a> which was a surprisingly fun way to meet locals.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">After a two-hour drive from <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/cool-hotels\/top-15-cool-and-unusual-hotels-in-seattle\/\">Seattle<\/a>, I spent my days hiking Fort Worden State Park (I took the Point Wilson Trail to the lighthouse), exploring the historic downtown along Water St., and watching for whales in Admiralty Inlet from Chetzemoka Park. Dinner at cozy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.restaurantfinistere.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Finist\u00e8re<\/a>, was a standout \u2014 the maitake mushrooms were smoky, earthy, and sumptuous!<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Port+Townsend,+WA,+USA\/@48.1210534,-122.7824131,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x548fe9a4d291b6fd:0xf5e669eab50680c0!8m2!3d48.1170387!4d-122.7604471!16zL20vMDEwcjRj?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTEwNC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Olympic Peninsula<\/a>, Northwest USA<\/span><span class=\"s1\">&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b>&nbsp; Victorian seaside town&nbsp;| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 7\u00b0C to 16\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the unique 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Port-Townsend-Hotels-Manresa-Castle.h13279384.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-01-21&amp;chkout=2025-01-22&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1735729225071&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=6054473&amp;destination=Port+Townsend%2C+Washington%2C+United+States+of+America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=13279384&amp;latLong=51.5338%2C-0.4542&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=82&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7NO7BhDsARIsADg_hIZR9FzapgodNfFOrDq1P0-tnWf2w0jKq7PCH8UntOCGDxOxx0PQNOcaAtW4EALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=201770353&amp;selectedRatePlan=208841148&amp;searchId=218986ac-9e9d-4ff7-a9f2-a2b286cdeede&amp;pdpImageUrls=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F14000000%2F13280000%2F13279400%2F13279384%2F6390f724.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D598%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F14000000%2F13280000%2F13279400%2F13279384%2F9a0756b2.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F14000000%2F13280000%2F13279400%2F13279384%2F3f905235.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F14000000%2F13280000%2F13279400%2F13279384%2Fcb31f576.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit&amp;propertyName=Manresa+Castle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Manresa Castle<\/a> which was housed in a fine century-old building. I loved the dark wood and red ornate interiors and hearing from the staff how it was designed to resemble the castles of the owner&#8217;s native Prussia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>9. Flint Hills, Kansas<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-658494 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Flint Hills, Kansas USA\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Flint-Hills-Kansas.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-769295 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Flint Hills, Kansas\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">It was awesome to see this region wake up in spring \u2014 tallgrass prairie turning lush green, wildflowers on the rolling hills, and mild weather perfect for scenic drives and long hikes. With fewer visitors, I spotted bison, deer, and prairie dogs in the sunshine and even witnessed the haunting controlled burns that keep the prairie healthy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Just two hours southwest of Kansas City, I hiked trails in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.org\/en-us\/get-involved\/how-to-help\/places-we-protect\/tallgrass-prairie-national-preserve\/?en_txn1=bl.ch_ks.eg.x.g\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve<\/a> (starting from the Prairie Trailhead near the Visitor Center) and drove the Flint Hills Scenic Byway (KS-177) gazing at endless rolling hills of native grasses.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Flint+Hills\/@37.2833767,-96.6856027,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x87ba12088fb7481f:0xf1d637b7cf8a52ca!8m2!3d37.2833606!4d-96.675303!16zL20vMDU0X25w?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eastern Kansas<\/a>, Midwest USA<\/span><span class=\"s1\">&nbsp;| <b>Vibe:<\/b> rolling green prairies&nbsp;| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 13\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying in boho luxury tents at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.airbnb.co.uk\/rooms\/846313967374523529?source_impression_id=p3_1726344282_P3KhTanIiZBvL7SQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Flint Hills Glamping<\/a> &#8211; I adored the copper lanterns, natural linen bedding scattered with red macram\u00e9 cushions and sitting on my porch with a Watt\u2019s Coffee Co. Americano!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>10. Miami, Florida<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778937\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778937\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=1024%2C615&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"615\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=640%2C384&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=1000%2C601&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?resize=768%2C461&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778937 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snap of Avalon Hotel in Miami\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778937\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snap of the Avalon Hotel in Miami \u2014 the pastel Art Deco colors looked even brighter in the spring sunshine!&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_778939\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-778939\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Ocean-Drive-in-Miami-Beach-at-night.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-778939 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Ocean Drive in Miami Beach at night\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-778939\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My April snap of Ocean Drive at night \u2014 warm air, neon glow, and the buzz of people dining outside!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p2\">I went all in on a classic Miami spring break \u2014 golden sunshine, low humidity, and perfect beach weather, especially on the quieter sands of Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles, and North Beach.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">I joined the rainbow-bright <a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamibeachpride.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Miami Beach Gay Pride<\/a> festivities and caught screenings at the <a href=\"https:\/\/miamifilmfestival.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Miami Film Festival<\/a>, which added extra buzz to the city. Flying into MIA,&nbsp; I spent my days on the quieter sands of Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles, and North Beach, walked the Art Deco Historic District, and kayaked the mangroves at Oleta River State Park (I launched from the Blue Moon Outdoor Center).<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b>Florida, Southeast USA <\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe:<\/b>&nbsp; lively beach city| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 24\u00b0C to 29\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.hotels.com\/ho1951939712\/the-goodtime-hotel-miami-beach-united-states-of-america\/?chkin=2025-01-07&amp;chkout=2025-01-08&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1735729285174&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly91ay5ob3RlbHMuY29tL0hvdGVsLVNlYXJjaA%3D%3D&amp;rffrid=sem.hcom.GB.156.003.localuniversal.02.desktop-1.kwrd%3DGGMETA.60966866GBen-20250107-D-ABW%3D6-camp%3D20254680863-aud%3D-N&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=8833&amp;destination=Miami+Beach%2C+Florida%2C+United+States+of+America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;neighborhoodId=553248635975724424&amp;selected=60966866&amp;latLong=51.3975%2C-0.3507&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=209&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7NO7BhDsARIsADg_hIbK1CoH4cZhrn1JuS0OQvfGi9_TNtpbY0H4yZNoz30nTJBh-8iY9LsaAkerEALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=323867920&amp;selectedRatePlan=393026316&amp;expediaPropertyId=60966866&amp;searchId=304bf8e0-ff83-4b70-a749-b71230c8dba1&amp;pdpImageUrls=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F61000000%2F60970000%2F60966900%2F60966866%2F565d8fb2.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D598%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F61000000%2F60970000%2F60966900%2F60966866%2Fa53a6b77.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F61000000%2F60970000%2F60966900%2F60966866%2F681e0354.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F61000000%2F60970000%2F60966900%2F60966866%2Fa4e05474.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit&amp;propertyName=the+goodtime+hotel%2C+Miami+Beach%2C+a+Tribute+Portfolio+Hotel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Goodtime Hotel<\/a> &#8211; I loved the pastel pink upscale decor, the Insta-worthy swimming pool surrounded by luxury cabanas and the super-cute pink rotary dial phone in my guest room!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">11. Caddo Lake, Texas and Louisiana<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779587\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779587\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779587\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-a-swamp-shack-in-Caddo-Lake.jpg?resize=1024%2C688&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"My snap of a swamp shack in Caddo Lake\" width=\"1024\" height=\"688\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-a-swamp-shack-in-Caddo-Lake.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-a-swamp-shack-in-Caddo-Lake.jpg?resize=640%2C430&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-a-swamp-shack-in-Caddo-Lake.jpg?resize=1000%2C672&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-a-swamp-shack-in-Caddo-Lake.jpg?resize=768%2C516&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779587\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">I snapped this quiet old fishing shack tucked among bald cypress and palmettos on Caddo Lake\u2019s backwaters.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779588\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779588\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.jpg?resize=1024%2C642&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"642\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C401&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C627&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-shot-of-a-croc-in-Caddo-Lake-in-the-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C482&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779588 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My shot of a croc in Caddo Lake in the spring\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779588\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One of the many young alligators I saw quietly basking along the still, mossy bayous of Caddo Lake!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p1\">This maze of bayous and cypress swamps made for an unforgettable spring getaway \u2014 mild weather, fresh green leaves, and wildflowers along the banks made it perfect for paddling, photographing the moss-draped trees, and enjoying the swamp before the summer heat and bugs arrived.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Spring also brought the Caddo Lake Earth Day Festival and the Annual Car Show and Swap Meet, adding a fun local buzz. After a 2.5-hour drive from Dallas, I spent a peaceful week at the quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Hotel_Review-g56800-d646743-Reviews-Moonglow_Lodge-Uncertain_Texas.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Moonglow Lodge<\/a>, and went birdwatching for herons, egrets, and prothonotary warblers and browed nearby Jefferson\u2019s antique shops &#8211; the eclectic <em>Old Vault<\/em> was a stand-out!<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Caddo+lake\/@32.7534334,-94.1282747,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8636bddcc2b82d37:0x9b01111fc660b15!8m2!3d32.7104318!4d-94.0184661!16zL20vMDI1dDBr?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">East Texas \/ Northwest Louisiana<\/a>, South USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe:<\/b> mysterious swamp | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 21\u00b0C to 27\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Going on a <a href=\"https:\/\/captainronswamptours.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Captain Ron\u2019s Swamp Tour<\/a> &#8211; I loved Ron\u2019s quirky stories, spotting turtles and eerie alligators gliding by, and breathing in the earthy scent of moss and wet reeds!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>12. Nantucket Island, Massachusetts<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-652407 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Nantucket.jpg?resize=1000%2C710&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Nantucket - most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts\" width=\"1000\" height=\"710\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Nantucket.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Nantucket.jpg?resize=640%2C454&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Nantucket.jpg?resize=768%2C545&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668425 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Nantucket-Island-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C740&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Nantucket Island, Massachusetts\" width=\"1000\" height=\"740\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Nantucket-Island-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Nantucket-Island-1.jpg?resize=640%2C474&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Nantucket-Island-1.jpg?resize=768%2C568&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Nantucket-Island-1.jpg?resize=150%2C111&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Famous for its summer crowds, this island felt like a secret in April \u2014 windswept beaches, quaint cottages, quiet cobblestone streets, and daffodils and whale sightings giving everything a cheerful spring glow. I came for the<a href=\"https:\/\/daffodilfestival.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Daffodil Festival<\/a> which was filled with parades, picnics, and the quirky Daffy Hat Pageant!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">After a two-hour ferry from Hyannis, I spent a week wandering the Historic District\u2019s boutiques (I loved the unique clothes at Res Ipsa!), admiring rose-covered cottages in Sconset, visiting the moving <a href=\"https:\/\/nha.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Whaling Museum<\/a>, and strolling Surfside and Madaket beaches with hardly anyone around.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Nantucket,+MA,+USA\/@41.3166573,-70.3091365,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89fadc7bbbde6a6b:0x33a391f9049fc84d!8m2!3d41.28394!4d-70.0999891!16zL20vMGd2MTA?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Off the Coast of Massachusetts,<\/a> Northeast USA <\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe:<\/b> Historic New England island | <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 11\u00b0C to 13\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the boho-chic 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/21-broad.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-1074636_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-117_dow-Monday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250428_ppt-_lp-2826_r-8926245676914432854&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;all_sr_blocks=107463604_397733080_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-04-28&amp;checkout=2025-04-29&amp;dest_id=20062728&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=107463604_397733080_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=107463604_397733080_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=107463604_397733080_0_1_0__49036&amp;srepoch=1735729331&amp;srpvid=93d04d9750450317&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">21 broad hotel<\/a> &#8211; the vitamin C infused shower heads and sitting on my veranda with a mellow <em data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"157\">Sconset Blend<\/em> from Nantucket Coffee Roasters each morning were highlights!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>13. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina<img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-653569 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Myrtle-Beach-SC.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Myrtle Beach spring time vacation\" width=\"1000\" height=\"563\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Myrtle-Beach-SC.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Myrtle-Beach-SC.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Myrtle-Beach-SC.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779591\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779591\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.webp 260w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1024%2C589&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"589\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C368&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C442&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Myrtle-Beach-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=260%2C151&amp;ssl=1 260w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779591 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of Myrtle Beach taken in spring\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779591\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This was Myrtle Beach in April \u2014 warm sun, calm surf, and that easy spring energy!&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"816\">I escaped to this upbeat seaside city and found it just right \u2014 sunny, mild days, quiet beaches to stretch out on (still a bit brisk for swimming), and a lively boardwalk vibe without the summer crowds or prices. April brought the Myrtle <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/mbfoodtruckfestival\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Beach Food Truck Festival<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shagdance.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SOS Spring Safari Shag Dancing Festival<\/a>, and also a family-friendly Easter Egg Hunt!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"816\">Flying into MYR, I spent a week enjoying Grand Strand beach days, riding the SkyWheel gazing at coastal views, wandering the flower-filled paths at Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet), and stopping by the legendary <a href=\"https:\/\/thebowery.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bowery<\/a> for their tasty Double D\u2019s Dill Chips!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"598\" data-end=\"816\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Myrtle+Beach,+SC,+USA\/@33.7198609,-78.9612093,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x890068953b552101:0xbc0fb115b5d09618!8m2!3d33.6954218!4d-78.8802094!16zL20vMF9tM2s?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Atlantic Coast<\/a>, South Carolina, Southeast USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>l<\/span>ively coastal resort <span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 20\u00b0C to 23\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the upscale 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.hotels.com\/ho246262\/marina-inn-at-grande-dunes-myrtle-beach-united-states-of-america\/?chkin=2025-01-05&amp;chkout=2025-01-06&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1735729372061&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly91ay5ob3RlbHMuY29tL0hvdGVsLVNlYXJjaA%3D%3D&amp;rffrid=sem.hcom.GB.156.003.localuniversal.02.desktop-1.kwrd%3DGGMETA.1489283GBen-20250105-D-ABW%3D4-camp%3D20254680863-aud%3D-N&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=601685&amp;destination=Myrtle+Beach%2C+South+Carolina%2C+United+States+of+America&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=1489283&amp;latLong=51.3975%2C-0.3507&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=124&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiA7NO7BhDsARIsADg_hIZWTCuxQ22pAmxsNbKfbVmZH6uJiGd7JRhUpi2LGowSWQpr7g111VMaAvvSEALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=201705004&amp;selectedRatePlan=208501396&amp;expediaPropertyId=1489283&amp;searchId=5e947262-3c0b-40db-9c79-fa35895bcaba&amp;pdpImageUrls=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F2000000%2F1490000%2F1489300%2F1489283%2Fb1eabf61.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D598%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F2000000%2F1490000%2F1489300%2F1489283%2F4f37b5ee.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F2000000%2F1490000%2F1489300%2F1489283%2F49259538.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit%2Chttps%3A%2F%2Fimages.trvl-media.com%2Flodging%2F2000000%2F1490000%2F1489300%2F1489283%2F520a7a4a.jpg%3Fimpolicy%3Dresizecrop%26rw%3D297%26ra%3Dfit&amp;propertyName=Marina+Inn+At+Grande+Dunes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marina Inn at Grande Dunes<\/a> &#8211; I loved the views of the marina and the Intracoastal Waterway, my spacious mini-suite and the impressive Har-Tru tennis courts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>14. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, North Carolina<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-658499 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Blue Ridge Parkway in April\" width=\"1000\" height=\"668\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-672123 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Blue Ridge Parkway National Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"668\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Blue-Ridge-Parkway-National-Park-spring.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Spring here completely exceeded my expectations \u2014 mild hiking weather, budding trees, and wildflowers like trillium and mountain laurel made the trails and scenic drives feel freshly alive. The mountains were full of wildlife too, and loved that I even spotted a black bear!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Spring also meant great music and culture, from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.blueridgemusiccenter.org\/concert-events\/blue-ridge-music-trails-spring-concert-series\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blue Ridge Music Trails Spring Concert Series<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/merlefest.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MerleFest<\/a> in Wilkesboro. Flying into Asheville, I based myself at the 4-star quirky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/1889-whitegate-inn-cottage.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=asheville-Ujkguq08GdRwwBWg4UPuMQS392965610869%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap165%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-51924720%3Alp1007065%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=f9eb3a41ff9d3e00f2e86a45c287368f&amp;dest_id=20090971&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=17&amp;hpos=17&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1762793264&amp;srpvid=ae1c760cde9a0ad3&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Blind Tiger Hotel<\/a>, drove flower-lined stretches of the Parkway, and hiked to Linville Falls and Crabtree Falls (starting from their respective visitor parking areas), and looked out from Rough Ridge across rolling blue ridgelines and the famous Linn Cove Viaduct!<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Blue+Rdg+Pkwy,+North+Carolina,+USA\/@35.8837588,-82.0225303,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x884d9bb8c1baa615:0x8e5adef61caad2cd!8m2!3d35.8837545!4d-82.0199554!16zL20vMDF2bnFi?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Western North Carolina<\/a>, Southeast USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>Peaceful mountain retreat<\/span>&nbsp;<span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 15\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Visiting the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.blueridgemusiccenter.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blue Ridge Music Center<\/a> along the way &#8211; I especially loved the touchscreens where I could explore all the different banjo styles and the awesome sound booth!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">15. Bar Harbor, Maine<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668437 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bar Harbor in Maine\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-Maine.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-668438 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bar Harbor in Maine - great April getaways\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Bar-Harbor-in-Maine.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">This picture-perfect town delivered peak spring enchainment \u2014 crisp air, budding flowers, and quiet trails made for uncrowded hikes with dreamy ocean views. It was the ideal shoulder season: lower rates and a relaxed local vibe, though some shops were still closed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Whale-watching season had just begun, and seeing humpbacks, minkes, and finbacks was unforgettable. I also joined the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.coa.edu\/our-community\/annual-events\/earth-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bar Harbor Earth Day Celebration<\/a> for feel-good eco-activities. After a five-hour drive from Boston, I spent four cozy days at the 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/bar-harbor-inn-and-spa.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=bar-harbor-eQ9fQg91ck8j2oMQsSUSlQS392709426397%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap120%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-181865824%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=6ae8f5f90a4fe7544a7dd28901f226e5&amp;dest_id=20051476&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=7&amp;hpos=7&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753962088&amp;srpvid=5240522f27b70aa6&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bar Harbor Inn and Spa<\/a>, hiking Ocean Path and Jordan Pond in Acadia and stopped by Choco-Latte Cafe for a warming spicy Mex Hot Chocolate!<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Bar+Harbor,+ME,+USA\/@44.358525,-68.4351012,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4caebe4815802593:0x88e91a6528cad91b!8m2!3d44.3876119!4d-68.2039123!16zL20vMDJnMDZr?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Downeast Maine<\/a>, Northeast USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>pretty coastal town<\/span>&nbsp;<span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 7\u00b0C to 13\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favourite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Trying the crispy Brussels sprouts with truffle vinaigrette and the heavenly Maine blueberry pie at the nautical-themed <a href=\"https:\/\/geddys.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Geddy&#8217;s Restaurant<\/a> while gazing out at Frenchman Bay!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>16. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779593\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779593\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1024%2C663&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"663\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C414&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C647&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-snap-of-the-Grand-Teton-National-Park-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C497&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779593 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snap of the Grand Teton National Park taken in spring\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779593\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This was Grand Teton in April \u2014 I discovered that the mountains still dusted in snow!&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779595\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779595\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.jpg?resize=1024%2C604&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"604\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.jpg?resize=640%2C378&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.jpg?resize=1000%2C590&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Grand-Teton-Mountains-taken-in-April.jpg?resize=768%2C453&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779595 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Grand Teton Mountains taken in April\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779595\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Grand Teton Mountains taken in April &#8211; I loved the mix of snowy peaks and bright spring meadows!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p2\">In April, I got the best of both worlds \u2014 tranquil trails, snow-capped peaks, and gorgeous views without summer crowds. Early-season hikes opened as the snow melted, moose and elk grazed in thawing meadows, and the mix of snowy Tetons and new greenery felt incredibly photogenic.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p2\">I also joined the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jacksonhole.com\/rendezvous\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jackson Hole Rendezvous Festival<\/a> for free outdoor concerts and smiled at the quirky retro ski outfits during Gaper Day. Flying into Jackson Hole Airport, I spent four nights photographing the Tetons from Snake River Overlook, hiking the Taggart Lake trail as it thawed, and cruised Moose\u2013Wilson Road where open sections allowed \u2014 most in-park lodges opened in May, so I based in Jackson and day-tripped into the park.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Grand+Teton+National+Park\/@43.8076983,-111.0181633,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5352519ec95d1ba9:0xa5a0b88ecc91a337!8m2!3d43.7904282!4d-110.6817627!16zL20vMGNjNjU?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Northwest Wyoming<\/a>, Northwest USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>scenic snow-capped peaks<\/span>&nbsp;<span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 4\u00b0C to 10\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the gorgeous 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/jackson-lake-lodge.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso7AFCEmphY2tzb24tbGFrZS1sb2RnZUgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gCi8LUuwbAAgHSAiRiZDFlZjAyYi0xZjJjLTRiNjktOWQ4Yi03MDgxOGJjMTdhODTYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;age=0&amp;checkin=2025-04-28&amp;checkout=2025-04-29&amp;dest_id=20151943&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=1&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_age=0&amp;req_children=1&amp;room1=A%2CA%2C0&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1735729424&amp;srpvid=52404dc63d6901f9&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jackson Lake Lodge<\/a> located in the park &#8211; I loved the incredible mountain views, the rustic-chic decor and the pine-scented Mural Room which had ten interestingly painted panels by artist Carl Roters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>17. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-654217 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Garden of the Gods Colorado\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-672121 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Garden of the Gods USA\" width=\"1000\" height=\"662\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Garden-of-the-Gods.jpg?resize=150%2C99&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"364\">During this month, I swapped the summer traffic for peace, cooler temps, and the freedom to hike and watch climbers without the crowds. Prairie spiderworts, sand lilies, and blazing stars lined the trails, and the spring sunshine made the red rocks glow with snowy Pikes Peak gleaming in the distance.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"607\">I drove 1.5 hours from <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/cool-hotels\/top-15-cool-and-unusual-hotels-in-denver\/\">Denver<\/a>, parked at the Main Parking Loop, and explored the Central Garden Trail, Balanced Rock, and Kissing Camels, joined guided nature walks from the Visitor &amp; Nature Center and watched the brave rock climbers scale West Point Crack with chalk-covered hands!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"607\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Garden+of+the+Gods\/@38.8717933,-104.8861757,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x87135012b5cc9c93:0x4e9df5263bf6dab!8m2!3d38.8717933!4d-104.8861757!16zL20vMDF5Z2Ni?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTEwNC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Central Colorado<\/a>, Central USA&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>iconic red rock park<\/span>&nbsp;<span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 10\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/globalgrasshopperltd\/q267nGcfI_\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Garden of the Gods Resort and Club<\/a> &#8211; I loved the incredible park views, the mineral-rich aroma of salt inhalation room and the warming infrared deep heat therapy in the wellness spa!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. San Diego, California<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779504\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779504\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"680\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/My-photo-of-Cafe-Coyote-y-Cantina-in-Old-Town-San-Diego.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779504 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Cafe\u0301 Coyote y Cantina in Old Town San Diego\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779504\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Old Town San Diego &#8211; there was such a quiet buzz here in April!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_779597\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-779597\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"680\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=640%2C425&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=1000%2C664&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/My-photograph-of-Mission-Beach-in-San-Diego-town-taken-in-spring.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-779597 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Mission Beach in San Diego town taken in spring\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-779597\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This was Mission Beach in April \u2014 sun-soaked sidewalks, ocean breeze, and a laid-back SoCal spring feel!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<article class=\"w-full text-token-text-primary focus-visible:outline-2 focus-visible:outline-offset-[-4px]\" dir=\"auto\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-134\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\">\n<div class=\"text-base py-[18px] px-3 md:px-4 m-auto w-full md:px-5 lg:px-4 xl:px-5\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 gap-4 text-base md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem]\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col\">\n<div class=\"flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-[20px] text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"user\" data-message-id=\"aaa2c6a9-10da-4484-8e61-347ce31742db\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden items-end rtl:items-start\">\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[70%] rounded-3xl px-5 py-2.5 bg-[#f4f4f4] dark:bg-token-main-surface-secondary\">\n<div class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap\">\n<p class=\"p2\">This month was when this coastal gem really shined \u2014 off-season rates, quiet streets, and a sunny, local vibe. Balboa Park was bursting with spring blooms, and the mild weather made beach days feel almost summery (just not quite swim-ready without a wetsuit). I browsed the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.artwalksandiego.org\/missionfed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mission Federal ArtWalk<\/a> in Little Italy and admired the rainbow ranunculus fields in Carlsbad.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">After a scenic two-hour Pacific Coast Highway drive from Los Angeles, I spent my days exploring Balboa Park\u2019s gardens and museums, spotting California sea lions and Harbor seals at La Jolla Cove, strolling a more local-feeling Gaslamp Quarter, and unwinding on Coronado and Pacific Beach, where the waves made a soft white-noise hush that felt instantly calming!<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"s1\"><b>Location: <\/b><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/San+Diego,+CA,+USA\/@32.8235824,-117.7329097,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x80d9530fad921e4b:0xd3a21fdfd15df79!8m2!3d32.715738!4d-117.1610838!16zL20vMDcxdnI?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southern California<\/a>, Southwest USA <span class=\"s1\">| <b>Vibe: <\/b>laid-back coastal city<\/span>&nbsp;<span class=\"s1\">| <b>Avg temp:<\/b> 19\u00b0C to 21\u00b0C<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the funky 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-pearl.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-181175_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-60_dow-Sunday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-gb_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250302_ppt-G_lp-2826_r-8745047315886094548&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;all_sr_blocks=18117506_404190187_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-03-02&amp;checkout=2025-03-03&amp;dest_id=20015725&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=18117506_404190187_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=18117506_404190187_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=18117506_404190187_2_0_0__17834&amp;srepoch=1735729469&amp;srpvid=1ada4ddc39070c63&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">The Pearl <\/a>&#8211; I loved relaxing in the hammocks around the swimming pool, the heavenly Parachute Home bed and spa-like Finery x Casetta poplin bathrobes!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b><i>Author\u2019s Travel Note:<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">I\u2019ve spent 12+ years traveling across the US in every season, staying in the most interesting hotels I can find and seeking out the kinds of soulful, memorable experiences that don\u2019t always show up in guidebooks. All of the places and stays mentioned here were personally visited and self-funded, so everything shared comes from direct, first-hand experience.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>April is an awesome time to explore the USA &#8211; with warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the first real taste of spring. Having spent years here and many Aprils traveling, I\u2019ve found that whether you\u2019re after a city buzz, a quirky beach escape, or that perfect Insta snap &#8211; these are my top picks this month&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":778937,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,7],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-658474","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-north-america","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snap-of-Avalon-Hotel-in-Miami.jpg?fit=1024%2C615&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/658474","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=658474"}],"version-history":[{"count":131,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/658474\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":779600,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/658474\/revisions\/779600"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/778937"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=658474"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=658474"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=658474"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}