The Best Places to Visit in April in the USA
We’re nearly done scraping snow off our cars, and the cold temperatures of winter are leaving us. Spring is here, and summer is just around the corner. It’s a perfect time to head out on a vacation or road trip and see some new sights!
Today, we’re highlighting some of the best places to visit in April – mostly throughout the western United States. With lush forests, stunning red rocks, perfect beaches, high desert gems, and mountain towns, there’s so much to see and experience in April.
Time to pack your bags. It’s time to travel!
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10 of the best places to visit in April in America
Let’s dive into the places and help plan out your next vacation!
1. Sedona, Arizona
With its fiery red rock formations and endless blue skies, Sedona is a dream in April. The weather is perfect for hiking iconic trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge without the brutal summer heat.
Plus, the wildflowers are popping, adding a splash of color to the already stunning landscape. End your day with a sunset at Cathedral Rock that will leave you speechless.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Set out on some gorgeous hiking trails – Boyton Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Devils Bridge, Wilson Mountain
- Hop in a Pink Jeep Tour
- Drive up Oak Creek Canyon
2. Extended Seattle Area, Washington
April in Seattle is when the city wakes up from its winter slumber. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom at the University of Washington, and the iconic Pike Place Market is buzzing with fresh spring produce.
Plus, heading east to the Cascades, you’ll catch waterfalls raging from the snowmelt. It’s the best of both the city and nature on one trip.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
- See all the cherry blossoms
- Take a whale-watching boat for orcas
3. Santa Barbara, California
Beach vibes, mountain hikes, and wine country—Santa Barbara delivers it all in April. The coastal weather is near perfect, making it a prime time to explore the waterfront, sip wine in the Santa Ynez Valley, or hike up Inspiration Point for panoramic views.
It’s a laid-back paradise with just the right amount of adventure.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Lounge at the Santa Barbara Hot Springs
- Hike Cold Springs Loop
- Hang out in the Funk Zone
4. Yosemite National Park, California
April is when Yosemite shakes off winter and roars to life. The waterfalls—Bridalveil, Yosemite Falls, and Vernal—are at their peak flow, and the crowds are still manageable before the summer rush.
Whether you’re hiking to Mist Trail or just soaking in the Valley views, this is one of the best months to experience Yosemite at its finest.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Look for climbers on El Capitan
- Hike the Mist Trail (moderate) or Yosemite Falls (hard)
- Hike to Mirror Lake before it dries up
5. Tuscon, Arizona
The Tucson area is pure magic in April. The temperatures are warm but not scorching, and if you time it right, you might catch the desert in bloom.
Hike up Wasson Peak for stunning desert views, explore the otherworldly formations of Gates Pass, and then grab some yummy Mexican food because, well, it’s amazing!
Three things to do when you visit:
- Walk around my alma mater, the University of Arizona
- Explore both sides of Saguaro National Park
- Drive to the top of Mt Lemmon, a sky island
6. Redwood National Park, California
There’s something humbling about standing among the world’s tallest trees. In April, Redwood National Park is a peaceful, misty wonderland, with lush green ferns carpeting the forest floor.
Hike the Fern Canyon Trail (a scene from Jurassic Park was filmed here) or drive the epic Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway to feel completely immersed in nature.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Hike the Boyscout Tree Trail
- Explore Stout Grove
- Trilium Falls
7. Durango, Colorado
Mountain town charm meets outdoor adventure in Durango. April is the sweet spot before peak summer tourism, and the San Juan Mountains still hold some snow, creating a stunning backdrop.
Whether you’re riding the historic Durango & Silverton train or hitting early-season hikes, this spot is an underrated spring gem.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Spring skiing at Purgatory
- See Mesa Verde National Park
- Paddle, float, or raft the Animas River
8. Bend, Oregon
Bend in April is a haven for adventure lovers. The high desert landscape starts warming up, the Cascade peaks are still dusted with snow, and the Deschutes River is perfect for early-season paddling.
Add in the town’s killer craft beer scene, and you’ve got yourself a springtime playground.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Hike around Smith Rock State Park
- Go to the Observatory
- Check out the High Desert Museum
9. Maui, Hawaii
April is one of the best months to visit Maui—fewer crowds (you’ll likely miss spring break), great weather, and whale-watching (though December through March is best). Snorkel at Molokini Crater, drive the iconic Road to Hana, and soak up the island vibes with a sunset at Haleakalā. It’s paradise, plain and simple.
See my 11 best places to visit in Maui.
Three things to do when you visit:
- Drive to the top of Haleakala National Park for sunrise (reservation needed) or sunset
- Have an authentic Hawaiian Poke Bowl
- Drive the road to Hana and end up at the black sand beach of Waianapanapa State Park
10. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The waterfalls here are next-level in April. Due to spring runoff, the waterfalls are gushing. Wildflowers carpet the hillsides, and the hiking is unbeatable.
Bonus: Hood River’s breweries and cideries make for the perfect post-hike reward.
Three things to do when you visit:
- See Multnomah Falls, Fairy Falls, Latourell Falls, and more
- Hike Dog Mountain on the WA side (at the end of April for wildflowers)
- Drive up to Vista House at Crown Point
What to consider when traveling in April
Mountain weather can be varied
Depending on where you go in April, be prepared for winter weather if you’re at higher elevations. In 2021, I went to Rocky Mountain National Park in late April, and we were snowed on quite heavily. It was pretty incredible, so make sure you have the right gear.
Double-check local spring break
Spring break seems to be all over the place and can sometimes veer into April. So, do a quick check when the area’s spring break is and maybe not go that week.
Bring Allergy Meds
Spring is in the air, and that means pollen is flying all over the place! Bring your allergy meds and keep any allergy attacks at bay.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in April
As you’ve probably noticed, these are all West Coast locations.
Well, that’s where I live, and that’s where I’ve been able to explore! I apologize to all the East Coasters; I’m sure you have some lovely places. That said, I think the West Coast is far more stunning and offers some truly magical places to explore during April.
I hope you can plan a trip and explore these best places to visit in April!
Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.
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