Short March trip with S21

I’m looking for suggestions for a 4-5 night trip in mid March with S21. Just the two of us. We live in the South and I’d rather fly than drive (plus anticipating too far a trip to drive). The first destination that came to mind was Canada bc I think my boy would like to get in with some big snow. But I don’t know where in Canada to go (don’t want to ski). And I believe our dates correspond to Canada’s “March Break” which May mean crowds at tourist type places. Not sure. 2019 travel already includes the following: Mexico, Jamaica, Florida, NYC, San Fran, Chicago, Park City.

We like nature (animals, hikes, landscapes), foodie towns with regional specialities, historic sites. We love beaches and snorkeling but get bored if that’s the main attraction. Our favorite trips seem to be ones that include some city (for restaurants and strolling) and nature for outdoor activities.

I read another thread with a request for beach recommendations and was really impressed with all the information everyone provided! I’m holding those suggestions for a summer trip!

How about Iceland?

No snow, but otherwise San Diego fits the bill.

Vancouver is one of my favorite cities in the world and would give you access to easy day trips to Whistler for your big snow and the passenger ferry to Victoria. It would also have the mildest weather in March.

Calgary/Banff comes to mind though the city is not as nice.

Santa Fe/Taos - skiing for him, spas, shopping for you, great hiking, eating and exploring for both of you.

Calgary/Banff/Lake Louise area would give you big snow against the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Banff is about 1.5 hours from Calgary.
https://www.theglobetrottingteacher.com/things-to-do-in-banff-in-winter/

It can be hard to hike in snowy regions at this time of year. :slight_smile:

What about Montreal?

We love Quebec City - can’t get enough of that place. It really feels like you’re in Europe and it’s safe and fun.

Moab Utah. To see Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

ETA: No ‘city’ to stroll

I’d second Montreal - or Quebec City. Good places for eating.

Other suggestions for a short trip for food/history would be Philly, Edinburgh, Santa Fe, or Dublin.

Lots of all the things you mention in Montreal.

For something north and big city but not MAJOR big city, Minneapolis or Madison??

If you go to Montreal, you could also spend a day or two in the Eastern Townships.

Gettysburg & DC

We had a fantastic spring break last year in the desert sw national parks (Death Valley, Zion - including the must-do Narrows hike - so fun!, Bryce, Grand Canyon, plus a stop in Page AZ to see Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.) Also 2 nights in Las Vegas - we aren’t really huge fans of that city but there’s enough to do there even if you aren’t casino people. You could fly to LV and do restaurants and a show or two there, then rent a car and go to one or more of the parks. Death Valley is absolutely beautiful and March is a great time to go (not hot yet).

I’ve taken several trips to Lake Louise and Banff and had a marvelous time. I’ve stayed at the Fairmont at each place. The one at Banff had an incredible spa. The one at Lake Louise had ice skating on the lake and ice sculptures. I think both had nature snow shoe tours including at night, dog sledding, cross country skiing (if you don’t want downhill) and star gazing. Go on their websites and see what else, then call the concierge to get more info. Enjoy!

For skiing and more you can’t go wrong with Whistler, Lake Louise, or Banff in Canada. Fairmont in any of the three are great stays. Conditions may be more reliable at Lake Louise or Banff, but Whistler Village is really nice and the drive from Vancouver is picturesque…

Seattle? :slight_smile:

What about Portland Maine? @MaineLonghorn what do,you think of this suggestion.

Lots of good food, very nice and fun downtown area…and a decent airport. And probably not too far if your trip is only 4-5 days long.

Wow! These are exactly the kinds of ideas I was hoping for! I need to check flights and see what I can narrow down. Quebec and Banff are sounding especially appealing. My only worry with Banff would be the drive from Calgary airport, making the travel days long. I’ll come back with an update!

Thank you, all!!

I’ve read there are car services and buses between the Calgary airport and Banff, if that appeals. We were considering it briefly but opted for Glacier NP and Waterton in July instead. Still hoping to do Banff and Lake Louise one day—have heard great things about it.