Uh…Is it spring yet? Because we’re ready for a vacation. Luckily, March is here, meaning it’s time to plan your most exciting break since the holidays. What’s new this year? We crunched the numbers and discovered the 10 cheapest March Break destinations across North America (all with flights less than C$400).
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Median price: C$253
Take in the beauty of Winnipeg starting at The Forks, a historic site transformed into a community gathering place. Enjoy unique food, beer and shopping at The Forks Market before skating outside on one of the longest naturally-frozen skating trails in the world. And when you’re done on the ice, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is only steps away.
Montreal, Quebec
Median price: C$323
Dreaming of an island vacation? Look no further than the island of Montreal. No, you won’t be lounging on a beach, but there’s plenty to do in this cultural hub. Explore nature in Mount Royal Park, shop in the sprawling Underground City and let your taste buds run wild throughout the city. If you’re looking to put some of the money you saved on a good meal, we like Beau Mont for its seasonal menu and locally sourced ingredients.
Portland, Oregon
Median price: C$327
At #3 on our list, Portland offers up cultural (and counter-cultural) things to see and do. Browse Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, before checking out what Portland’s over 75 breweries are all about. And if you’re feeling curious, take a stroll over to the Portland Troll Bridge to contemplate why so many tiny troll dolls call it home (and add your own to the mix).
Ottawa, Ontario
Median price: C$334
Head to Canada’s capital city for a history, culture and natural beauty. Step into Parliament Hill for a free guided tour before boating, walking (or skating) the Rideau Canal and exploring countless museums including the Canadian Museum of Nature.
New York, New York
Median price: C$343
Explore diverse neighborhoods, indulge in worldwide cuisines and experience an iconic Broadway show after walking under the lights of Times Square. If you don’t have a specific show in mind, you can grab same-day tickets at one of the three TKTS Discount Booths around the city.
Toronto, Ontario
Median price: C$344
Look out over the city from one of the observation decks of the CN Tower. For the full experience, walk on the World’s highest hands-free external walkway. Hockey fans can also see Lord Stanley’s Cup in person and so much more at the Hockey HOF. As a bonus, rent a car and drive less than 2 hours to Niagara Falls where you can spend the day checking out the iconic waterfalls before heading back to the city.
Chicago, Illinois
Median price: C$356
First off, you can’t visit Chicago without getting a picture at the Cloud Gate sculpture (yes, that’s the Bean). Once you check that off your list at Millenium Park, the city is yours. Walk along Lake Michigan, experience Navy Pier’s waterfront attractions, visit Wrigley Field and enjoy endless food options throughout the city (the famed Chicago Dog is a must-try for a reason).
La Paz, Mexico
Median price: C$360
If a March Break at the beach is more your speed, La Paz is the place to be. Soak up some sun at Balandra Beach with its white sand and glassy water. Then, when you need to liven it up, head over to Isla Espiritu Santo to explore ocean wildlife including sea lions and lots of colourful fish. For the best views, snorkelling is the way to go.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Median price: C$367
Spend your mornings strolling through the gardens of Queen Elizabeth Park and taking in views of the city. Take the Aquabus across False Creek to experience the unique culture of Granville Island, full of opportunities for shopping and dinings. And to cap it off, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge (just don’t look down).
Calgary, Alberta
Median price: C$371
Experience a 360° view of the city atop the Calgary Tower (or enjoy a meal at Sky360 while it revolves). Walk – or bike – across the Peace Bridge while capturing incredible photos. And take in art and history at the Glenbow Museum
Ready to start planning? No matter where you decide to go, we can help.
Methodology
KAYAK considered flight searches conducted on the CA KAYAK site from January 1 through February 15, 2019 for spring break travel (March 2 through April 21, 2019). To compare year over year search findings, KAYAK looked at flight searches on the CA KAYAK site between January 1 through February 15, 2018 for travel between March 3 through April 22, 2018. All searches were pulled from KAYAK’s internal database.
