April is one of the best times of year to explore the United States. As spring takes hold across the country, the weather becomes milder, the landscapes start to bloom. From scenic road trips to cultural festivals, here are some top reasons to consider visiting the USA in April.
Pleasant Weather
April sees mild, pleasant weather, especially in regions that can be uncomfortably hot during the summer months. In the Southern states, such as Texas and Florida, spring days are warm and sunny without being stifling. It is an ideal time to explore cities, coastlines and cultural landmarks.
Further west, places like Nevada and Southern California are equally inviting, with desert landscapes coming to life under crisp blue skies. In Northern California, San Francisco enjoys cool, comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring its hilly neighbourhoods and waterfront. Just a few hours inland, Yosemite National Park starts to open up for the season, with more hiking trails becoming accessible as the snow begins to melt. Northern states and along the East Coast, cities like New York, Boston and Chicago begin to shake off the winter chill. Additionally, Washington, DC is especially beautiful at this time of year, and a highlight for spring travellers.
Smaller Crowds and Better Value
April is considered off-season in many parts of the United States, which means fewer tourists than during the summer months. This makes it an ideal time for those looking to avoid the crowds at popular attractions, restaurants, and national parks. Major theme parks, such as Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World, tend to be quieter outside of the school holidays, meaning shorter queues and a more relaxed experience.
You’re also more likely to find better deals on flights, hotels and car hire, particularly if you book in advance. Whether you’re planning a city break in San Francisco or a road trip through the Deep South, travelling in April can help your budget stretch further.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
From coast to coast, April is packed with unique festivals and seasonal events. Music lovers can head to New Orleans for the French Quarter Festival, which showcases local jazz, blues and brass bands alongside delicious street food. In California, wine regions like Napa and Sonoma come alive with tasting events and vineyard tours, often paired with food festivals and outdoor concerts. April is also a brilliant time to visit Walt Disney World, where the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival fills the park with vibrant floral displays and pop-up food stalls celebrating flavours from around the world.
You will also find colourful Easter parades, farmers’ markets, craft fairs and flower festivals taking place throughout the month. These local celebrations are a wonderful way to experience American culture and hospitality.
Cherry Blossom Season in DC
One of the USA’s most iconic springtime celebrations takes place in the capital. The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC usually runs from late March into mid-April, depending on the bloom. Thousands of delicate cherry blossoms surround the Tidal Basin and national monuments, creating a beautiful backdrop for visitors and keen photographers alike.
The festival also includes cultural performances, parades, art installations and food stalls, celebrating the long-standing friendship between the United States and Japan. It is a must-see event if you are visiting the East Coast in early spring.
A Great Time for Road Trips
If you are dreaming of the open road, April is a brilliant time to take a road trip across the USA. The weather is generally favourable, and major routes are less busy than during the summer months. It is the perfect time to drive Route 66, with its classic Americana and quirky roadside stops, or Highway 61, famously known as the Blues Highway, which winds its way through the musical heart of the South from Minnesota to Louisiana.
For breathtaking coastal views, California’s Highway 1 delivers dramatic cliffs, ocean breezes and charming seaside towns as you travel between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Or head south to the Florida Keys, where the Overseas Highway (US-1) stretches across turquoise waters on a series of bridges and islands from Miami to Key West, perfect for tropical sunsets, beachside dining and laid-back vibes. With spring landscapes in full bloom and longer daylight hours, a road trip in April is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the USA.
Spring Landscapes & Wildlife
Nature lovers will find April an excellent time to explore the USA’s incredible network of national parks. In places like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and the Great Smoky Mountains, spring brings blooming wildflowers, stunning waterfalls and active wildlife.
Temperatures are generally comfortable for hiking, cycling and outdoor exploration, while park roads and trails begin reopening after winter. For an especially scenic experience, consider driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway or exploring California’s Highway 1. Both offer dramatic views and peaceful surroundings. Not sure which National Park is right for you? Check out our blog on the Top 5 National Parks to Explore in Spring.
American Holidays, Your Way
Ready to discover your perfect April getaway? Get in touch with our Personal Travel Planners and start planning your dream USA trip with American Holidays today.
