The USA is one of those countries that is on everyone’s bucket list. In fact, one of the popular trends is to try and visit all 50 states. The question however that always arises is how do you pick the right one for your next destination?
It is hard! There are so many experiences and adventures just tempting a person in all directions. Me… I find that the easiest way to narrow it down is to think about which month I’m travelling in. That’s why I started this series of posts on visit the USA by month. In this post, we cover all the best places to spend April in the USA. We have 17 amazing locations recommended by travel experts and locals in the area!
Don’t forget to check out the rest of our posts on travelling USA by month. You can click through them below.
April In The USA: Table Of Contents
- Seattle, Washington
- Washington DC
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Hatteras Island, North Carolina
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Mendocino, California
- Lake Tahoe, California
- Page, Arizona
- New York City, New York
- Estes Park, Colorado
- Hilo, Hawaii
- Oahu, Hawaii
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Orlando, Florida
- Anna Maria, Florida
- Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
1. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a fun place to spend April in the USA.
Location: Seattle, Washington, on the west coast of the US
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Seattle is by airplane, with the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport located 11 miles from downtown Seattle. However, Seattle is also accessible by car, bus, and train (from cities like Portland, Tacoma, and Vancouver, Canada).
Where to Stay:For a luxurious hotel overlooking Pike Place Market (one of the best sights in Seattle at night), stay at the Inn at the Market.
If you’re looking for fabulous places to visit on the west coast of the US, you have to check out Seattle, Washington.
Seattle is a city famous for its endless rain, but April is surprisingly one of the best times to visit. While it’s more-likely to rain in April than in July or August, the weather tends to be quite pleasant and visiting Seattle in April in the USA is great for avoiding the summer crowds!
But what should you do in Seattle? A city surrounded by breathtaking scenery and filled with incredible sights, there are many ways to spend a Seattle itinerary: explore Pike Place Market, go up the Seattle Space Needle, take a self-guided Seattle walking tour, or admire the skyline from Kerry Park.
If it does happen to rain, there are many amazing Seattle art galleries and museums to visit! My personal favorite is the Chihuly Garden and Glass, but you can also visit the Museum of Pop Culture, the Seattle Art Museum, the Museum of Flight, or the Pacific Science Center.
Needless to say, Seattle is one of the best cities to visit in the USA!
By Mia From Walk Awhile With Me
2. Washington DC
Washington D.C. is one of the most memorable places to spend April in the USA.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Getting There: Washington, D.C. is convenient to reach by car (via Interstate 95); train (via Amtrak); or plane (via Reagan National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)).
Where to Stay: Mandarin Oriental, Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
Washington, D.C. is a memorable place to visit in April in the USA. The early spring marks the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival. Every year the event takes place at a different time, generally coinciding with the peak bloom of the Cherry Blossoms that line the Tidal Basin. Most years the festival occurs at the end of March or the beginning of April.
The Tidal Basin is conveniently located close to many major attractions in Washington, D.C., including the Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King Jr Memorial.
As part of the festival, visitors can walk along the paths that line the Tidal Basin and pass under the many cherry blossom trees that line the body of water. At peak bloom, the trees are a lovely sea of pink and white flowers. It is a beautiful and photogenic sight to behold.
As part of the official National Cherry Blossom Festival, there are many free events that occur in Washington, D.C., including art exhibitions at the nearby Smithsonian Museums, musical performances, a parade, a kite festival, food vendors, and much more. Definitely a great place to spend April in the USA.
By Merry Allison from Virginia Vacation Guide
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to spend April in the USA.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Getting there: Philadelphia is fairly easy to access given its proximity to New York City; Washington, D.C.; and Atlantic City. You can reach the city by car, train, plane, or bus with relative ease. There are many direct flights into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) each day, with nearly 500 daily outbound flights to a variety of domestic and international destinations.
Where to stay: Stay in Old City, Center City, or Fishtown for a fun and central experience without a car. If you have a car or enjoy making your way through a city, you can stay in South Philly near the Italian Market. The accommodations will be more budget friendly in this area, and you’ll definitely experience more of the local flavor.
Known for its unique culture, iconic cuisine, and intriguing historical sites, Philadelphia is a place that should definitely be on your list. April is the perfect time to visit, as the flowered trees are just starting to bloom and the locals are venturing outside to the city’s many parks to enjoy the sunshine.
While you’re out exploring the city, be sure to visit the Liberty Bell, the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site, and run up the famous steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
If you drive to these sites, take care to avoid getting a parking ticket. The Philadelphia Parking Authority is so famously vigilant that there was a reality TV show that followed the enforcement officers as they ticketed and booted cars in the city. The show is called Parking Wars and you can watch the first six seasons on Amazon if you’re so inclined.
Philadelphia sports a varied and exciting restaurant scene. The city is famous for both cheesesteaks and soft pretzels–and you’d be wise to try both. Don’t skip the Italian Market on 9th Street, where you’ll find salamis dangling from the ceiling and refrigerated cases full of assorted olives, stuffed peppers, mozzarella, and fresh pasta.
For some authentic Philadelphian fare, visit Wawa, a chain of convenience stores that have a cult following among locals. In addition to the standard soft drinks and processed snacks, they have a sandwich counter serving up different types of hoagies throughout the day and late into the night.
By Amber of Amber Everywhere
4. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is an intriguing place to spend April in the USA.
Getting There: Asheville has its own regional airport or you can fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport and make the two hour drive to the city.
Where To Stay: The Foundry Hotel is centrally located in downtown, an easy walk to many of the city’s breweries.
Asheville is a perfect place for a vacation in April in the USA. The weather in the area has just begun to warm up, though it’s still far from the peak heat you’ll find during the sweltering summer months. Since the weather is likely to be fantastic, you’ll want to spend your trip outdoors for the most part.
One of the best ways to do that is by trying out some of the best hikes near Asheville. You’ll find them all up and down the Blue Ridge Parkway as it passes the city.
If you’re wanting to spend some time outside, but aren’t quite the hiking kinda person then consider doing a brewery tour through the city. Asheville is home to two major breweries (New Belgium and Sierra Nevada), as well as countless other craft breweries. The city has rightly earned its nickname as Beer City, so if you’re a fan of beer, Asheville is the place for you. A definite highlight of the brewing scene is Highlands on the east side of town.
In addition to all the great hiking near town, you can also spend some time on the water as well! Asheville straddles the French Broad River which runs through much of Western North Carolina. Popular activities on the river include boating, tubing, and fishing. If you do happen to run into an unseasonably warm day, cooling off in the waters of the French Broad is a great idea which makes it a great place to spend April in the USA.
By Zach from Florida Man On The Run
5. Hatteras Island, North Carolina
Hatteras is a great island is to spend the April in the USA.
Location: US East Coast
Getting there: Though Hatteras Island is accessible via boat and ferry, the most popular way to get there is driving east on Highway 64 and then south on NC 12.
Where to stay: Since there aren’t many traditional hotels, using an online rental site like Airbnb is the best way to find accommodation that fits your needs. Alternatively, calling a physical rental agency located on the Outer Banks will be able to assist you in your search.
Hatteras Island not only has stunning beaches and plenty of salt marsh, but also a lot of history. It received its name from the Hatteras indigenous tribe and is known for having lots of underwater shipwrecks to explore.
Hatteras is truly a special place, with many small towns that survive from the fishing and tourism industries. For this reason, it can be quite busy in the peak summer months. Visiting Hatteras in April is perfect because the winter storms called ‘Nor’easters’ have started to subside, with spring bringing life back as well.
One of the biggest perks is that you will avoid the sweltering summer heat, but also get to observe different wildlife. As an example, many incredible species migrate during this time, passing through Hatteras.
If you’re into outdoor activities, Hatteras Island is the ideal place for you to spend April in the USA. Besides enjoying the beach, you can go deep sea fishing, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, kiteboarding, and so much more!
By Maria from Maptrekking
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Have you considered spending April in the USA in Charleston?
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
Getting There: You can fly in and out of the Charleston International Airport, which is about 20 minutes from the city.
Where to Stay: The historic center is undoubtedly the best place to stay in Charleston. This is the most beautiful part of town, and almost everything to do in Charleston is within walking distance. The Meeting Street Inn is a good establishment in this neighborhood!
Charleston is a gorgeous southern city, and April is the perfect time to visit, as it’s warm but not hot and sticky yet, and flowers around the city are in bloom. Visit some of Charleston’s churches, including St. Michael’s and St. Philip’s church (Charleston was known as “The Holy City”).
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, you can wander down the name brand and independent boutiques on King Street, or visit the City Market for handmade wares. Learn more about the history of Charleston, including its involvement in the slave trade, at the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeons, and the Old Slave Mart Museum.
Of course, you can’t miss the well-known Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park, or walking by Rainbow Row, a street block with particularly colorful houses. And no trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to Fort Sumter, an island fort in Charleston Harbor where the Civil War officially started. Finish off your days in Charleston with some good Southern cooking – try Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit, or Poogan’s Porch for a finger-licking meal.
By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast
7. Mendocino, California
Mendocino is a cool place to spend April in the USA.
Location: Mendocino, California
Getting There: The charming coastal town of Mendocino is about a 3 hour drive from San Francisco, the closest major airport.
Where to Stay: Brewery Gulch Inn
April is a wonderful time to visit the Victorian Village of Mendocino, California. The weather isn’t that much cooler in the spring than in the summer, and you’ll have less fog and less tourists. You’ll be able to get a better deal on a place to stay and there will be more wild flowers!
The wild flowers include calla lilies, daffodils, iris, lupine, poppies, and so much more. You’ll see them on trails, on the side of the road, and at the Mendocino Headlands Park that borders the downtown district. The trails wind from town through the flowers to the ocean providing beautiful vistas of both. If you can’t get enough flowers, head to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
In addition to the flowers, Mendocino has an abundance of natural beauty from the Pacific Ocean to redwood forests. The spectacular coastline affords one incredible view after another. Mendocino is a hikers paradise with the Pygmy Forest in Van Damme State Park, Russian Gulch Waterfall Loop, Fern Canyon, and the Big River Trail.
The town itself is sprinkled with art galleries, boutiques, and eateries. As a coastal town, Mendocino restaurants specialize in seafood. Everything from rockfish to urchins comes from the local waters! Definitely makes for a great place to spend April in the USA!
By Denise from Chef Denise
8. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is another awesome place to spend April in the USA.
Location: Lake Tahoe, California
Getting there: Reno-Tahoe International airport provides easy access to Lake Tahoe from destinations across the United States and Mexico. The drive from the airport to North Lake Tahoe will take under one hour if the roads are clear.
Where to stay: Accommodations can be found on all sides of the lake, with each area offering its own feel and closeness to nature. A great option is the Basecamp hotel in South Lake Tahoe for its mountain rustic vibe and its attached beer garden, where you can meet fellow travelers while sitting around the fire pit.
April is a time of transition in Lake Tahoe as the winter frost melts and the days start getting warmer. This special part of the year offers a variety of activities that allow you to enjoy the best of two seasons. You can hit the slopes and do some spring skiing at the higher elevations, or you can hike around the lake where most of the snow is gone for the season.
By visiting this alpine lake in April, you will successfully avoid the crowds that flock in for summer play. This shoulder season offers up a much more tranquil visit with prices for accommodations at the lowest of the year. The temperatures are moderate, and you might even get a dusting of snow.
If you plan to do some spring skiing, Palisades Tahoe ski resort is open through the end of April. For the non-skiers, consider visiting Eagle Falls, or Glen Alpine falls, where you will experience nature without the crowds. It has something for everyone and hence is a popular place among people looking for spots to visit in April in the USA.
By Gabriel Glasier of Chef Travel Guide
9. Page, Arizona
A cool place to spend April in the USA is Page in Arizona.
Location: Page, Arizona
Getting There: To get to Page, Arizona you can fly into Las Vegas and rent a car and drive the 4.5 hours to Page. Another option would be to fly into Phoenix, rent a car and drive the 4 hour distance to Page.
Where to Stay: The best place to stay in Page is at the Wingate by Wyndham. It is in a great location, is an updated, clean hotel, and offers great views.
Page, Arizona is a wonderful place to visit in April in the USA. The number one reason why visiting in April is a great idea is because the weather is perfect in this spot during the month of April. Because Page is located in the Southwest of the United States, it can get quite hot in the summer. April is a great month to visit before the heat settles in but it is also not too cold.
There are a ton of awesome things to do in Page to occupy your time and it’s a great destination for outdoor lovers. This area of the Southwest is known for its incredible slot canyons, the most famous being Antelope Canyon. Spend the day hiking through some slot canyons, or visit Horseshoe Bend overlook for some insane views.
If you’re looking for even more to do in Page, you can spend the day out on Lake Powell, either on a kayak or by renting a boat. Don’t forget to drive over Glen Canyon Dam Bridge to see some more unbelievable views. If you want even more views of the dam as well as the canyon it goes over, try hiking the Glen Canyon Dam overlook. It’s a short trail, but has some really great views along the way!
By Jessica From Unearth The Voyage
10. New York City, New York
My bucket list item for April in the USA is New York!
Location: New York City, New York
Getting There: New York City has three major airports for you to fly into, including LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark.
Try flying into JFK so that you can take the AirTrain directly to Jamaica station. From here, hop on the LIRR railroad and take it directly to Penn Station and midtown Manhattan.
If you’re not sure where to go this April in the USA, then try booking a flight to New York City. Upon arrival, you’ll love that this is a cheaper and less busy time of year to visit the Big Apple.
Plus, the city actually comes alive with the vibrant hues of gorgeous flowers in places like Central Park and Prospect Park.
In fact, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden has an amazing Japanese garden that is filled with stunning Cherry Blossom trees that always bloom at this time of year.
So, be sure to stop by and experience the Cherry Blossom Festival here before checking out some amazing modern American art at the Whitney Biennial.
It’s a fantastic event that is typically held from April through September and that features a wide array of special art exhibits.
Just be sure to stop by the rooftop too so that you can enjoy epic views of the city and the nearby Hudson River.
Next, head over to Rockefeller Center and enjoy a fun retro roller skating sesh at Flipper’s.
It opens around mid-April and is a great place to enjoy the warmer weather and one of the more unusual things to do in NYC.
Finally, grab some delicious pizza from Loring Place or a quick spinach artichoke slice from Artichoke Basille’s before unwinding for the night inside a room at the Sofitel New York.
In fact, it’s well located in the theater district and has over 30 floors filled with rooms that offer wonderful vintage NYC vibes.
By Kelly from Travel New York Now
11. Estes Park, Colorado
Estes park is a great place to spend April in the USA if you like the great outdoors!
Location: Estes Park Colorado
Getting there: Just fly into Denver International Airport and then grab a rental car and drive 1.5 hours to Estes Park.
Alternatively, you could hop on the Estes Park Shuttle at Denver Greyhound Bus Station and take that to the area for $95 per person, round trip.
If you love the great outdoors and want to visit in April in the USA then try planning a trip to Estes Park, Colorado.
After all, it’s a quaint mountain town in Colorado that makes for a perfect home base from which to explore Rocky Mountain National Park.
And April is a great time to visit since you won’t have to deal with the insane crowds of the summer and can still enjoy fun snow-related sports like snowshoeing.
However, the highlight of any visit here is a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. In fact, it’s the fourth most visited park in the country and a place that is home to some of the best hikes in Colorado.
However, if you’re planning a visit in April, remember that there will still be snow on the ground since snow doesn’t melt until mid-June at higher elevations.
You’ll also want to keep an eye for avalanches since they can be a very real threat when hiking at this time of year.
So, stay up to date on those warnings before you explore immortal park locations like Bear Lake, Dream Lake, Sprague Lake, and Emerald Lake.
If you can, try and get to the park early – like before 1:00 am for some parking lots – since these trails can be packed with visitors.
Also try and time your visit to Emerald Lake so that you watch the sunrise from there.
Afterward, relax inside a room at the famous Stanley Hotel. In fact, you probably know it from the film The Shining and it will make for a unique place to stay while you’re in Estes Park.
Finally, hop aboard the amazing Aerial Tramway and enjoy sweeping views of the alpine landscape before inhaling a craft beer at Rock Cut Brewery
You can also try white water rafting on either the Poudre or Colorado Rivers. Just try and time your visit for the end of April or early May since this is when snowmelt is greatest and rapids are at their most intense.
By Meg from Fox in the Forest
12. Hilo, Hawaii
If you are considering Hawaii as a place to spend April in the USA, then look at Hilo!
Location: Hilo, HI
Getting there: Fly into Hilo International Airport
Where to stay: Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo – a DoubleTree by Hilton; an oceanfront hotel near downtown Hilo
Hilo is on the east side of the Big Island in Hawaii and holds the title of the rainiest city in the US, with an average of 156 inches a year. However, you wouldn’t guess it, as most of the rain happens during the night, making for daytime travel in Hilo pleasant.
The most popular attraction in Hilo is the Hilo Farmers Market. Vendors sell tropical fruits, island-made foods, and handmade gifts under a network of covered tents. Wednesdays and Saturdays are the biggest days.
Besides the market, old downtown Hilo has walkable blocks full of shopping, restaurants, axe throwing, an escape room, and a tsunami museum.
Other things to do in Hilo is wander through Liliuokalani Gardens park, jump into the water off an old footbridge ruin on Coconut Island, try to find celebrity names you recognize on Banyan Drive like Babe Ruth and Amelia Earhart, and meet new animal friends at the FREE Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.
Just a couple miles out of town discover a series of waterfalls on the Wailuku River, one being the infamous Rainbow Falls. Or, go underground and explore Kaumana Caves.
In April, Hilo hosts the Merrie Monarch Festival, an internationally acclaimed, weeklong hula competition. Hula dancers come from every Hawaiian island to show off their dancing and interpretive skills to compete solo and in groups.
A grand parade is held in downtown Hilo with people in spectacular traditional Hawaiian garb, pa’u princesses on horseback, and festive music marching down the streets. It’s a one-of-a-kind parade not found anywhere else.
It definitely tops many bucket lists when it comes to places to spend April in the USA.
By Tabitha from Travel Compositions
13. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is another great place in Hawaii to spend April in the USA.
Location: Pacific Ocean
Getting There: Fly to Honolulu International Airport (HNL) in Oahu Hawaii
Where To Stay: Imperial Hawaii Resort is located on the beachfront in Waikiki
The island of Oahu Hawaii is at least as beautiful as the other Hawaiian islands, and April is one of the best months to visit, because it’s less busy than the summer months and also less rainy than the winter months.
There are lots of amazing hikes and sightseeing activities in Oahu Hawaii to enjoy year round. The island has nice white sand beaches all over, with two of the very best being Lanikai Beach (on the windward side) and Sunset Beach (on the north shore).
There are also loads of nice hiking trails in Oahu, including beginner and family friendly hikes like the Diamond Head overlook near Waikiki, or the Lanikai pillbox hike near Kailua. These are two easy Oahu hikes with stunning scenery.
If you want more of a challenge, you can attempt the Koko Head hike, which takes you to the top of some railway stairs on an extinct volcano crater. Also known as the Koko Crater trail, this tough hike is a test of fitness and willpower!
Even though April is near the end of the whale watching season in Oahu, you can still see whales from time to time in this month. The whale season generally runs from December to May.
If you want to get out of the big city, check out the north shore or Kailua. These areas of Oahu island are extremely beautiful and a lot more laidback than Honolulu, while still having nice beaches, restaurants, and hikes to enjoy!
By David & Intan at The World Travel Guy
14. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a popular spot to spend April in the USA.
Location: Nevada, USA
Getting there: Use Las Vegas International Airport to fly in and out, or make the 4 hour drive from Los Angeles
Where to stay: Hilton Grand Vacations on the Las Vegas strip, perfectly located in between the strip and downtown Las Vegas
They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but chances are you’ll have so much fun here that you’ll want to tell everybody all about it!
People flock to Las Vegas year-round to catch world-class shows, go gambling, party until the sun comes up and even get married at an Elvis-themed wedding! That said, there are definitely better and worse times of the year to visit Vegas. Luckily for you, April is one of the best!
Unlike summer, when temperatures can reach an unbearable 104°F, April temperatures are a much more pleasant (yet still hot) 84°F. Plus, April is known as shoulder season in Vegas, so prices will be lower and you won’t have to compete with the summer crowds at hotels, shows and attractions.
If it’s your first time in Las Vegas you can’t miss checking out the Bellagio Fountains, exploring the Venetian and Caesar’s Palace, and wandering down the wild and wacky Fremont Street.
If you’re already planning a return trip, it’s time to branch out and visit a few off the beaten path attractions like the many craft breweries of the Arts District, or the fascinating Neon Museum! Makes it one of the popular places to spend April in the USA.
By Ella from Many More Maps
15. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a great family friendly location to spend April in the USA.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Getting there: Orlando International Airport offers flights from most major transportation hubs.
Where to stay: Orlando is best known for its theme parks, with the most iconic being Disney World. You can’t go wrong with staying at any of the 30 hotels on the Disney World Property.
April in Orlando, Florida is one of the best times to go. With highs of 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and lows of 65, the ocean is warm enough to go swimming but it’s not too hot to be unenjoyable. This makes it one of the best places to spend April in the USA.
The most popular thing to do in Orlando, Florida is to visit one of its famous theme parks. Home to iconic parks like Disney World, Legoland, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and Discovery Cove, Orlando is the perfect family-friendly travel destination.
Did you know before Disney World, Orlando Florida only had a population of 50,000 people? Today it’s home to almost 300,000!
Truly a city that Walt Disney built, Orlando is synonymous with Disney World. Visiting in April you’d be treated to their annual “Magic Blooms’ spring festival. As well as their holiday offerings for Easter and Passover.
By Katie from Katie Caf Travel
16. Anna Maria, Florida
A great island to spend April in the USA is Anna Maria in Florida.
Location: Anna Maria, Florida
Getting There: You can get to Anna Maria Island from the Tampa International Airport. Anna Maria Island is an hour south of the airport and there are a couple of ways to get here but the fastest route and most scenic route is to take I275. This route takes you across the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in the country, and gives you amazing views of the area.
Where To Stay: A popular place to stay is a small hotel called Tropic Isle. It’s a pretty low-key place to stay near the center of Anna Maria Island, which is perfect for exploring the northern and southern ends of the island. Tropic Isle has a nice outdoor pool and is also just a short walk from the beach across the road.
If you’re looking for a sunny, warm getaway in April in the USA, Anna Maria Island is the perfect spot. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, the island boasts beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Plus, the weather is lovely this time of year – perfect for spending days outdoors, without it being too hot and also beating the summer crowds.
There are several beaches around the island which include Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach (southern end), Manatee Beach in Holmes Beach (middle of the island), and Bean Point in Anna Maria (northern tip of the island).
Bean Point is highly recommended for a secluded beach getaway with the best views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
If you’re looking for great waterfront restaurants, Anna Maria Island has plenty of options; some of the best are The Kokonut Hut, Rod & Reel Pier, and Bridge Tender. If it’s seafood that you want, Sharky’s and The Feast are both highly recommended.
Leffis Key is a great place to go hiking on the trails or even just sit on a bench by the water and relax in nature, while surrounded by mangroves.
Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or eat the best food around, Anna Maria Island is definitely worth a visit in April in the USA.
By Wayne From Always On The Shore
17. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park is the perfect place to spend April in the USA.
Location: Holbrook, Arizona
Getting there: The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which is approximately three and a half hours southwest of the national park.
Where to stay: Brad’s Desert Inn in Holbrook, which leans into the nostalgy and kitschiness of the historic Route 66, which runs through this town
Petrified Forest National Park is a hidden gem in the northeastern corner of Arizona, boasting colorful badlands, epic desert landscapes, and of course, lots of petrified wood.
One of the best things about the park is its small footprint- you can easily check off most of the park’s main highlights in just one day.
Be sure to hit the Blue Mesa trail, where you’ll follow a path that winds below the rim of a mesa and between the valleys of towering indigo-hued badlands. Along the way, you’ll see plenty of petrified wood remnants slowly becoming exposed as the bentonite clay hills erode away.
If you’re interested in geology, the Crystallized Forest trail is a must see, where an easy loop will take you past rolling hills in every direction, each of which is scattered with countless pieces of vibrant wood, fossilized millions of years ago.
End the day with a visit to the Painted Desert on the northern side of the park, which spans an eye-popping 146 square miles. Here, you can simply drive from overlook to overlook, hike along the rim, or wander down into the desert, which offers pink and scarlet badlands and crumbling mesas as far as the eye can see.
By Jessica from Uprooted Traveler
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