Ahhh…March! It’s now time to put the puffy jackets, big boots, and wool sweaters away and immerse yourself in a thrilling and refreshing Spring Break excursion.

Spring Break may be the most anticipated time of the year for college students, but they’re not limited to Miami or South Padre Island to have fun and party. Many under-the-radar destinations offer the same level of excitement for all kinds of travelers – from students to families – without crowds or high prices.

Adventurers who are willing to think outside the box enjoy many more options than those who prefer to stick with more traditional choices.

Locations that are mostly overlooked for a spring vacation include secluded beaches, ski resorts, big cities and small towns that have impressive nightlife, affordability and tranquility in common. You won’t find packs of co-eds whipping and nae naeing with pricy drinks in both hands. After all, the only thing that sounds better than a week-long spring trip is a cheap week-long spring trip.

You don’t have to leave the U.S. to escape the jam-packed shores, expensive bars, and drunken debauchery. Spring Break can be a time of freedom not too far from where you call home.

Bozeman, Montana

Use the week off and camp out with friends or family. The Bozeman Parks & Recreation Department is offering all-day camps March 14-18. Explore the famous parks and trails in Montana that offer plenty of options for thrilling adventures. Before you go into the wild, though, get up close and personal with the bears in the zoo to learn how to safely deal with Grizzlies should you encounter them. Another interesting location to visit is the American Computer Museum. If you feel like staying in the outdoors, Bozeman offers many fly fishing tours and safaris. The nightlife is as diverse as in any big city. Bars have live music and standup performances, amateur open mic nights, cheap beer, pool tables and poker.

Joshua Tree, California

Why don’t you try rock climbing or an adventure walk through the desert this Spring Break? You will see unique rock formations, called Inselbergs, which are protected. Joshua Tree National Park combines two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado. Few places in the country have a richer history – humans have occupied the area encompassed by the park for at least 5,000 years. Visit the outdoor gallery showcasing the work of Noah Purifoy when you’re in town. You’ll be amazed at what people can create out of random objects and junk.

Flagstaff, Arizona

If you want to see mountains, desert, and ponderosa pine forests everywhere you turn, Flagstaff is the place to go. Hikers, campers and mountain bikers consider it their “mecca.” You can even find cheap hotels to stay in on the iconic Route 66. The city is a known for being a family-friendly destination. You and your loved ones can explore the Lava Tube Cave or visit the Meteor Crater. Families, and especially children, enjoy looking into deep space with telescopes at Lowell Observatory; going on the Scenic Skyride; or skiing at Arizona Snowbowl.

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