Winter Break, March Break or Spring Break—no matter what you call it, many people are eager to get away when schools close. Timing varies by province, but whether you leave in early March or later in the month, there are plenty of affordable, family-friendly options. Below are four value-minded destinations that offer culture, sunshine, outdoor adventure and good bang for your travel dollar.
New Orleans
New Orleans, known as the Big Easy, packs a remarkable mix of history, music and food into neighbourhoods that are easy to explore on foot or by public transit. Start in the French Quarter, the city’s oldest district, where the Jean Lafitte National Park Visitor Center provides free maps, information and occasional guided walks. Look up as you wander: the city’s ornate wrought-iron balconies are iconic and make for great photos. At street level, Royal Street features numerous art galleries that typically offer free admission and showcase local talent. Historic sites such as the Old Ursuline Convent Museum and St. Louis Cathedral are must-sees for anyone interested in early American and colonial-era architecture.
The Warehouse District is ideal for art lovers: the Ogden Museum of Southern Art houses one of the most extensive collections focused on the American South, with reasonable admission prices for adults and children. If your visit lines up with mid-March to mid-May, you may also catch free outdoor concerts in Lafayette Square.
Getting around can be part of the experience—ride the historic streetcar along St. Charles Avenue for just a couple of dollars per trip or opt for a day pass. The route passes grand antebellum mansions, and a stop at Washington Street puts you within walking distance of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where you can take a self-guided tour of above-ground tombs and learn about local burial traditions.
Cuba
If sunshine is the priority, Cuba remains a strong value. Instead of the well-worn resort strip, consider newer areas such as Cayo Cruz for quieter beaches and recently opened properties, including boutique-style and adults-only resorts. Resorts make it easy to relax, but it’s worth venturing inland to experience Cuban culture. The nearby city of Camagüey, with a historic centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers winding streets, hidden plazas, museums and colonial churches—perfect for a day trip arranged through your hotel or a private driver.
For travellers from Canada, Cuba is accessible via several carriers with direct service from select cities, making it straightforward to find package deals and seasonal promotions. Resorts come in a range of price points, so you can choose the balance of comfort and cost that suits your family. Beyond the resorts, Cuba offers extensive natural and cultural attractions: hundreds of beaches, national parks, colonial architecture and numerous museums—ample reasons to plan at least one day away from the pool to explore.
Buffalo / Niagara
Buffalo has reinvented itself beyond bargain shopping into a compelling short-break destination with culture, architecture and family-friendly activities. The Explore & More: Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that teach local history and keep young visitors engaged. Nearby Canalside is a waterfront district where families can try seasonal activities like ice bumper cars or ice biking on a large rink.
Architecture fans will appreciate sites such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House Complex, recently restored after a major multi-decade project, and early skyscraper designs like the Guaranty Building. And no visit to Buffalo is complete without sampling the local food scene: follow the Buffalo Wing Trail to taste classic and modern interpretations of the city’s signature dish, and don’t miss the regional beef on weck sandwich, a roast-beef specialty served on a salted roll.
Lodging in the Buffalo area offers strong value—suburban rooms often average around US$100 per night, while boutique city hotels can be found from roughly US$129, providing a comfortable base for exploring. Cross the border to Niagara for the natural spectacle of the falls, plus indoor attractions such as the Niagara SkyWheel and the Butterfly Conservatory—ideal options for colder weather. In warmer months, thrill-seekers can try the Niagara Speedway or the Zipline to the Falls. Combination attraction passes can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites over a couple of days.
Maui
Maui can carry a higher airfare price, but smart planning and stopovers can reduce costs. Once on the island, keeping your trip focused on Maui limits travel expenses and lets you explore at a relaxed pace. Renting a car is the most practical way to get around and can cost about CAD$50 per day, depending on season and vehicle choice. Ka’anapali is a convenient and family-oriented area with many hotels—some offer kitchen facilities that make eating in a budget-friendly option, and many properties provide daily kids’ programs and evening entertainment.
There are standout day trips and experiences that capture Maui’s appeal. The Road to Hana is a classic scenic drive with waterfalls, coastal views and roadside stops—leave time for exploration. Haleakalā National Park, centered on a massive shield volcano, offers sunrise vistas and hiking opportunities from the summit. Whale and dolphin watching tours are memorable ways to see marine life in season, while the Lahaina Historic Trail provides a self-guided look at local history. On the west side, Ka’anapali Beach hosts surf lessons, parasailing and other water sports, and nearby attractions include golf, ziplining and family-friendly evening options at Whalers Village such as live music, dining and luaus.
Read more about travel:
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- What you need to know about Canada’s new air passenger rights
- 5 trending winter vacation destinations for budget travellers
- 11 top travel sites to help plan your next vacation