Irena Kaçi 

If you are one of the fortunate souls who managed to survive February, we are here to help you recover with the only fever worth having, Spring Break Fever. Though we are through the worst of it, summer is still beyond our reach, and dreary March drags. Fret not! To the rescue, is Worcester’s own underrated airport.

With direct flights to Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and NYC, you are set for a weekend or week long getaway. Some of the perks of flying out of Worcester is that there is hardly any traffic to worry about and the checkout is a breeze.  Add to that maybe the most reasonable parking rates of any airport, and you end up with a pretty sweet deal.

I checked in with Andy Davis, Worcester Airport Director who filled me in on the various ways in which flying out of Worcester can raise your spring break fever. “ What you may or may not know is that we have three airlines that fly out of Worcester Airport these days. We have American Airlines flying out to JFK, Delta flying to LaGuardia, and Jet Blue with three separate offerings to Florida. We have JetBlue flights heading to Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, as well as Orlando, Florida.” But more than just these offerings, every March the flight options begin to increase, Davis adds, “Actually, at the end of March, JetBlue flights to Orlando begin to happen twice a day on select days, with one flight happening every day and the second flight  happening four times a week. It’s really convenient if you’re trying to escape the frigid weather and trying to enjoy Spring break.” 

Of course every destination has its own perks and allures. If you’re a baseball fanatic you might consider Fort Myers for a getaway and enjoy National Baseball League’s spring training amongst other amenities. “We get a lot of families heading down to Fort Myers. It’s one of our more family friendly destinations.” Fort Lauderdale is, of course, home to Everglades National Park, so it too has appeal for families looking to soak up some sun. “We see a lot of snowbirds traveling to Fort Lauderdale in the Spring, people whose second homes are down there in Florida, so it’s a lot of repeat flyers, which we like because it creates a rapport. We love having frequent flyers,” Davis says, “It’s a mix of course, because you get a lot of families still connecting flights to the Gulf Coast.” 

Orlando, is understandably a huge spring break attraction. Not only is Orlando a hit for any college students looking to let loose and enjoy some sunshine, but it is also home to Universal Studios and Disney World, which means families and Disneyphiles flock to Orlando every year. “We make it so easy to have a stress-free trip down there,” Davis explains, “Leaving your car in the airport is so affordable. We have maybe the lowest parking rates in the region, at $7/a day, after the first day which is free.” 

But this isn’t just about flying to Florida. Given how challenging traffic can be traveling down the East Coast, having a secure and convenient way to get to New York City in a pinch is invaluable. “We have so many folks traveling for business who find it so much easier to just hop on a plane and arrive from point a to point b in just a reliable hour,” Davis says, “It’s extremely worthwhile. And then once you’re at LaGuardia or JFK, you can connect to anywhere you need to”

Even still, Worcester Airport is always on the lookout for diversifying and maximizing their offerings. “We are constantly talking with the airlines, to increase the service; we would love to see increased services, particularly with American and Delta,” Davis explains, “If we can grow those flights, and offer more attractive options for business travel, Worcester Airport can really start courting some new destinations.  But for now we are focusing on increasing frequency in and out of Worcester.” 

Leisure markets are harder to break into, but with some of the smaller airlines they might be more attainable. Worcester Airport is considering all options, including Spirit and Frontier Airlines.  It is likely only a matter of time before the Airport is able to blossom into its full potential.  I connected with local ‘gal on the go’ Kayti Burt about her experiences flying out of Worcester Airport who is, “constantly recommending using Worcester Airport to others, especially when heading to New York City.”

Though it’s been a minute since Burt last flew out of Worcester Airport, she recalls how convenient and positive the experience was: “I flew from Worcester to New York City (JFK) in 2019. At that time, I had to go into New York City often for work, and there weren’t many transport options that were inexpensive or convenient, let alone both. This was especially true for someone without their own car, which I did not have at the time. I had direct flights between JFK and Worcester Airport, and it took less than an hour each way. Both departing and flying into Worcester Airport was super easy and smooth. Because there are basically no security lines, I didn’t have to arrive very early prior to my departure. When I landed, I basically walked off of my plane and out of the airport. Compared to flying in and out of Boston, it is a breeze.”  

And getting to the airport may have been the least challenging travel challenge of all. “On the way, I took a ride share from my apartment to the airport,” Burt recalls, “At the time, I didn’t have a car of my own, and it was early in the morning so I did not want to ask a friend or family member to drive me. As I live about five miles from the airport, it was inexpensive and convenient.”

There is no question that when it comes to flying Logan Airport has many more options and opportunities, but Worcester Airport has its own niche. It offers locals the opportunity to have fair weather flying to some key destinations, while slowly increasing its scope and extending its reach into new and exciting markets. I have no doubt that someday Worcester Airport will really come into its own. When that day comes the development will feature its own set of predictable and unpredictable hurdles. I urge Worcester County folks to enjoy and take full advantage of our Airport’s easy check-ins and modest but reliable destinations this Spring Break, and every Spring Break while the getting is good.

Kevin, can you make pop outs for Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and NYC 

Spring Break in Orlando: Theme Parks, Nightlife & Nonstop Fun

Orlando isn’t just for theme parks—it’s a spring break hotspot with thrills, nightlife, and great food. Start at Universal’s CityWalk, where you can shop, dine, and dance the night away. For theme park lovers, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure offer adrenaline-pumping rides, while Disney Springs has shopping, restaurants, and live entertainment without the park ticket.

Looking for water fun? Hit Universal Volcano Bay for thrilling slides or relax at Wekiva Island, a hidden gem with kayaking, cabanas, and a lively outdoor bar. If shopping is on your list, explore The Mall at Millenia for high-end brands or score deals at the Orlando International Premium Outlets.

When the sun sets, Orlando’s nightlife kicks in. Bar-hop along Wall Street Plaza, dance at EVE Orlando, or sip craft cocktails at Hanson’s Shoe Repair, a hidden speakeasy. For live music and rooftop vibes, check out Aero or Tin Roof on I-Drive.

Fuel up with bites from The Ravenous Pig for gastropub eats or grab tacos at Black Rooster Taqueria. End the night with late-night bites at Gringos Locos.

From theme parks to nightlife, Orlando delivers the perfect spring break mix of fun and adventure!

Spring Break in Fort Lauderdale: Sun, Fun & Nonstop Vibes

Fort Lauderdale is a spring break paradise, packed with sun-soaked beaches, buzzing nightlife, and endless entertainment. Start your day at Fort Lauderdale Beach, where golden sands and crystal-clear waters set the scene for the ultimate beach day. Rent a jet ski, go parasailing, or just soak up the sun with a cocktail in hand.

For shopping, head to Las Olas Boulevard, lined with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and outdoor cafés perfect for people-watching. Want something more upscale? The Galleria Mall has designer stores and high-end dining.

As the sun sets, the party begins. Hit Elbo Room, a legendary dive bar right on the beach, or check out Rooftop @1WLO for skyline views and craft cocktails. If clubbing is your scene, DAER Nightclub at the Hard Rock is a must.

Foodies can’t miss fresh seafood at Coconuts, famous for its “Scoobies” (garlic crab claws), or the lively atmosphere at Boatyard. And for a true touristy experience, hop on a Jungle Queen Riverboat cruise for a dinner show on the water.

From sunbathing to shopping, bar-hopping to boat tours, Fort Lauderdale has everything for an unforgettable spring break!

Spring Break in NYC: March Adventures, Shopping & Nightlife

New York City in March brings cool temps but non stop excitement. Start with a walk through Central Park, where early signs of spring begin to show. For epic skyline views, head to the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, or the Edge observation deck. If it’s chilly, explore The Met or the immersive SUMMIT One Vanderbilt experience.

Shopping in NYC is a must—browse Fifth Avenue for designer brands, hunt for unique finds in SoHo, or score vintage gems at L Train Vintage. Need a warm-up? Stop by Chelsea Market for gourmet eats or sip a hot chocolate from Dominique Ansel Bakery.

At night, the city buzzes with energy. Cozy up in a hidden speakeasy like Please Don’t Tell (PDT) or Bathtub Gin, or dance the night away at LAVO or Marquee. For a rooftop with heated igloos, check out 230 Fifth. If you’re feeling touristy, catch a Broadway show, visit the Museum of Ice Cream, or take a ferry past the Statue of Liberty.

March in NYC means fewer crowds but just as much fun. Whether you’re exploring, shopping, or partying, the city delivers an unforgettable spring break!