Top 10 Destinations to Explore in April

Many of the top travel spots in April are located in the US, offering affordable and convenient getaways.

The highlight of this April is the total solar eclipse. The US east coast is the best place to witness this spectacular event. Throughout the country, April is vibrant with music festivals, especially at the iconic Coachella.

Beyond the US, culinary events, comedy shows, and nationwide water fights fill the schedule, from Brittany to Bangkok. Here are my top picks for places to visit in April, both domestically and internationally. 

Top 10 Destinations for April Travel

Best Places to Visit in April Across the US

Springtime festivals, music, art, and the enchantment of longer, warmer days—plus a total solar eclipse. The best places to explore in April across the US are diverse and plentiful, offering something for everyone.

1. New York State

• Discover more: New York travel guide
• Why visit in April? Experience the total solar eclipse in all its celestial wonder.

New York is fully embracing the celebration of the total solar eclipse on April 8th. In collaboration with NASA, the state will host a variety of free events across the 124-mile path of totality. Expect a festive atmosphere at venues like the Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory and the Rochester Museum and Science Center. 

There are numerous fantastic viewing spots to choose from. In the southwest, create unforgettable memories amid the lakes, mountains, and vineyards of Chautauqua-Allegheny. The pristine air and clear skies of the Finger Lakes and the majestic Adirondacks also provide perfect vantage points in stunning settings.

I’ll be choosing Niagara Falls, where the eclipse will begin at 2:04 PM. Full totality will occur at 3:18 PM, lasting for three minutes and 31 seconds of enchanting wonder. Concluding at 4:31 PM, you’ll have to wait two decades for the next one. It promises to be a stunning backdrop for this remarkable celestial event.

2. Islamorada, Florida

• Find out more: Islamorada travel guide
• Why visit in April? Three words: Key Lime Pie.

Located at the midpoint of the Florida Keys, Islamorada consists of seven square miles and six islands, making it a hidden gem. For those less familiar, this village may seem like just a pit stop on the way to the lively Key West. However, take a moment to explore, and you’ll find there’s so much more beyond the Overseas Highway.

Nature enthusiasts can wade into Alligator Reef and snorkel among an astonishing array of fish. If fishing is more your style, you’ll discover some of the finest deep-sea fishing just off the coast. On land, Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park offers a tropical forest filled with remarkable hardwood hammock trees.

From the upscale Caribbean dining at Pierre’s to what might be the best Key Lime Pie in the nation at Blonde Giraffe, culinary choices are abundant. Being in the Conch Republic, you must try the conch chowder or fritters. Few do it better than Lorelei, which boasts beautiful waterfront views to enhance your meal.

3. Dallas, Texas

• Discover more: Dallas travel guide
• Why visit in April? To immerse yourself in the art scene.

April is Art Month in Dallas. The city embraces its cultural side, celebrating the diversity of local artists. Numerous fairs, events, exhibitions, and performances transform the Downtown Arts District into a vibrant festival hub.

Kicking off the festivities is the Dallas Art Fair from April 4th to 7th. Located at the Fashion Industry Gallery, it features modern and contemporary art showcases. The free Dallas Arts District Block Party offers a family-friendly carnival atmosphere with performers, musicians, and street theater. Keep the artistic spirit alive by visiting the Crow Museum of Asian Art and Nasher Sculpture Center, which offer free admission on Saturday, April 6th.

Culminating the month into May is the Dallas International Film Festival, which begins on April 26th. Spanning across the city’s historic theaters, it features awards and screenings from over 60 countries. 

4. Nashville, Tennessee

• Discover more: Nashville travel guide
• Why visit in April? Dive into music at Tin Pan South.

As the heart of country music, Nashville thrives with its unique rhythm throughout the year. Spend your days at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and honor the legacy of the Man in Black at the Johnny Cash Museum. When night falls, explore the honky tonks of Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. Finish your evening at the iconic Grand Ole Opry, the epicenter of country music.

In addition to the usual attractions, April hosts the 32nd Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival. From April 2nd to 6th, Nashville welcomes the world's top songwriters for the largest gathering of its kind. Enjoy fabulous nightly concerts at iconic venues throughout the city, including the Commodore Grille and The Vinyl Lounge.

If that’s still not enough music for you, head over to the historic RCA Studio B. Known as the birthplace of the ‘Nashville Sound,’ this studio is where Elvis Presley recorded more than 150 songs.

5. Coachella, California

• Why visit in April? Dance in the desert at the Coachella Festival.

Staying on the musical theme, all eyes will be on Coachella this April. Over two weekends, from April 12th-14th and 19th-21st, the Colorado Desert will resonate with a diverse array of headline performers. In 2023, acts like Bad Bunny, Blink-182, and Blackpink stole the spotlight—2024 is bound to showcase the biggest names in music as well. 

A prime spot to see and be seen in April, anticipate large crowds, high glamour, and even steeper prices. For the full experience, book a stay at Ace Hotel and Swim Club in Palm Springs, renowned for its lively Coachella pool parties. 

Use your downtime to discover this trendy city’s stunning retro-chic architecture while mingling with the elite. If it all becomes overwhelming, retreat to the serene Joshua Tree National Park to reconnect with nature. See you in the desert!

Top destinations to visit in April around the globe

Globally, April is an ideal month to explore numerous countries, from Australia to Egypt. With warm yet comfortable weather, vibrant celebrations, food festivals, and more, it truly is a magical time to travel.

6. Paimpol, France

• Why visit in April? Indulge in seafood at La Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques.

Seafood enthusiasts will converge on France’s charming northwest coast in April for a festival dedicated to scallops. The towns of Saint-Quay-Portrieux, Erquy, and Paimpol around the Bay of Saint-Brieuc are renowned as Brittany’s scallop capital, thanks to the extensive scallop banks served by a fleet of 238 trawlers.

On the weekend of April 20th and 21st, La Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques will be celebrated in Paimpol. (Coquille Saint-Jacques is the charming French term for scallop.) The festivities begin Saturday morning with a parade featuring the Knights of the Scallop marching through the streets and port of Paimpol. Following this, indulge in an extravaganza of exquisite scallop dishes paired with endless fine wines—this is France, after all!

Expect all the classic festival highlights: live music and street performances. More uniquely, you can take a boat to see the fishermen in action, participate in a tasting event, and buy some scallop-shaped jewelry as a keepsake.

You’ll need to fly into nearby Dinard via Saint-Malo and rent a car to reach Paimpol.

7. Melbourne, Australia

• Discover more: Melbourne travel guide
• Why visit in April? For laughter that leaves you in stitches.

April marks the onset of early fall in Melbourne, where the days shine brightly without the oppressive heat. This is my preferred time for a visit. While March is packed with events, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival keeps the laughter rolling until April 21st, featuring performances across numerous venues for every taste, from family-friendly to adult-only shows.

After a night of comedy, there’s no better way to rejuvenate than by getting outside. Start your day with a cup of liquid gold—Melbourne is renowned as the coffee capital of Australia, and Monk Bodhi Dharma in St Kilda serves up some of the best. Enjoy your coffee while wandering along the picturesque palm-lined St Kilda Foreshore, reminiscent of Venice Beach's unique culture.

For those seeking a bit more activity, take the metro rail to Lilydale. Rent a bike and explore the scenic 30-mile loop of the Warburton Rail Trail. This route meanders through the beautiful Yarra River Valley, passing quaint villages and idyllic landscapes, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Yarra Ranges National Park.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

• Discover more: Bangkok travel guide
• Why visit in April? Experience Songkran: the most exhilarating and wet New Year celebration on the planet.

Manic, unrestrained, modern, ancient, and utterly captivating—Bangkok is a city that never ceases to amaze. In April, Thailand’s vibrant capital takes the excitement up a notch with its spectacular Songkran New Year celebrations.

Songkran, the exhilarating water festival, kicks off every year on April 13th. In 2024, the Thai government has decided to amp it up, declaring it a month-long celebration. While smaller towns honor the festival's traditional religious and family roots, Bangkok transforms into a whirlwind of three days filled with boozy, water-soaked revelry that drenches the streets. It’s a classic scene: the biggest and most epic water battle takes place on Khao San Road, the famous backpacker hub.

Get ready in your swimsuit and flip-flops, and grab your water-squirting weapon of choice. Fair warning: there’s no escaping a drenching. During my last visit, I witnessed a local dousing a group of unsuspecting police officers with a massive Super Soaker. Their reaction? They tossed him into a giant barrel of ice water.

9. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

• Discover more: San Miguel de Allende travel guide
• Why visit in April? To enjoy the perfect light.

As the dry season draws to a close, many travelers flock to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, especially places like Tulum. However, don’t overlook the historic towns and cities further inland. In April, San Miguel de Allende proudly showcases its UNESCO World Heritage status.

April 2024 kicks off on Easter Monday, marking the conclusion of the Semana Santa Easter Processions, the most revered festival in Mexico. As the festivities wind down and the crowds disperse, the city’s stunning colonial architecture gleams in divine light. 

With its romantic and ancient allure, San Miguel de Allende offers an abundance of remarkable sites to discover. Don’t miss the wedding cake towers of Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel and the nearby Santuario de Atotonilco, often referred to as Mexico’s Sistine Chapel and a symbol of independence.

Amidst all this history, San Miguel de Allende also boasts a cosmopolitan flair, a rarity for such towns. Enjoy sunset drinks on the rooftop at La Azotea, indulge in fine dining at Áperi, and cap off your evening with a mezcal tasting at La Mezcalería.

10. The Nile, Egypt

• Learn more: Cairo travel guide
• Why visit in April? Last chance to cruise the Luxor.

Experience the allure of Agatha Christie’s adventures—minus the murder, of course—by taking a cruise down the Nile this April. With spring in full swing, enjoy long sunny days and warm evenings on deck. It’s the perfect time to sail the river and witness local life unfold against some of history’s most stunning backdrops.

Select your vessel carefully—sailboats and paddle steamers are popular options. For a truly enchanting experience, a traditional felucca wooden sailboat offers a peaceful, eco-friendly, and incredibly romantic way to explore. Your journey will take you from Luxor through the Valley of the Kings to Aswan over five unforgettable days. April marks your last opportunity before the season shifts and the heat becomes intense.

How these destinations were chosen

Dinogo’s travel articles are crafted by enthusiastic writers who share their personal experiences. The featured destinations have been chosen based on seasonal events, festivals, pricing, weather conditions, and activities available throughout the year.

Explore more amazing travel destinations

If you’re a festival enthusiast, the best places to travel in March will have you celebrating in vibrant streets across the globe. For some early spring warmth, check out the best warm places to visit in March.

For everything else, look to Dinogo Explore and travel guides, filled with inspiring destinations for your next getaway. For fantastic deals on flights, car rentals, and accommodations, Dinogo is your go-to source.