With spring break less than a week away, everyone at school is buzzing with their plans for vacation. Though a week-long trip to a private island sounds perfect right around this time in the school year, it’s not realistic. If you’re anything like me, you’ve waited until the last minute to make any plans and now you’re scrambling to piece together a spring break that you’ll remember forever. Here are six things you can do without busting your budget and still have a blast this spring break.

Sunrise on the Beach

New Smyrna Beach is one of the most popular hangout spots all year round, but one thing a lot of people have probably missed out on is the beautiful sunrises it has to offer every morning. Waking up at 5 a.m. may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s something I encourage everyone to see at least once in their lifetime because I promise its worth it.

Information here.

Blue Springs

Blue Springs is one of the most nationally known places in central Florida. Known for its manatees, blue springs have many more activities to offer than just sightseeing. For the brave hearted, swimming is available but beware of the chilly 73-degree water. Camping, canoeing, kayaking, and boat tours are just a few other things the state park has to offer.

Information here.

Movies

I know, it seems like a crime to spend any day of spring break inside. However, it’s not always sunny in Orange City. So if you need something to do during a rainy day, look no further than the movies! There is nothing more perfect than cuddling up and watching a movie on a dreary day. With so many new movies being talked about, you won’t have an issue finding one to keep you occupied this spring break. Here are my recommendations:

• Wrinkle in Time
• Black Panther
• Love Simon
• Game Night
• The Greatest Showman (bonus: it’s at the dollar theatre)
• Coco (also at the dollar theatre)

Strawberry Festival

The strawberry festival in plant county is bringing in some big-name country artists like Reba McEntire, Josh Turner, and Brad Paisley. Or if you’re not too into the country scene, you can go on rides and stuff your face with all of the classic fair food your heart desires. If you can find a way to get there, this won’t be something you’ll want to miss out on this springs break.

Information here.

Universal Studios Mardi Gras

It’s Mardi Gras at Universal! This is definitely on the higher end but if you already have a pass or can afford to go, I recommend it. With different performers every night and an endless amount of rides to ride, a trip here would definitely be one for the books. Some of the performers include Macklemore, Fifth Harmony, Jessie J and more. I also highly recommend trying out the limited edition food they have, especially the twisted tater tots.

Information here.

EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival

Or if you have a Disney pass, you can go to the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot. Every corner is filled with beautiful flowers and eye-catching foliage. Even if you’re not all that into gardening, it is still really fun and you will get some amazing Instagram shots. Plus, you can enjoy the 11 countries Epcot has to offer and feel as if you have traveled the world.

Information here.