9 Places You Have To See In April

With warming weather, April brings new reasons to travel. As March comes to an end, here are nine destinations that are simply more beautiful and exciting to explore in April:

1. Attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.

Featuring the famous, stunning cherry blossoms, April is always a great time to visit Washington, D.C. This year, peak bloom (when 70% of the Yoshino cherry trees are in bloom) will occur between March 22 and 25 in Washington, D.C. Still, there will be plenty of flowers at the Tidal Basin for visitors to see as they attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which will run through April 16. The springtime festival is full of fun activities, including the parade, ranger-led tours, fireworks, concerts and exhibits.

(​MORE: 11 Phenomena You Must See In Spring)

2. See Victoria Falls at Peak Flood in Zambia and Zimbabwe

Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, or “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (Smoke that Thunders), is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and it is considered one of the seven wonders of the world. April is prime viewing time at the falls because it is when they are in peak flood. Namibia Tours & Safaris reports that during this month, the spray from the falls is so thick it is difficult to see your hand.

3. Celebrate King's Day and Tulip Season in Amsterdam

The city of Amsterdam is a great April getaway because it marks the start of the city's beautiful tulip season. Tourists can wander through the city's flower markets or take a short trip outside the city to explore the tulip fields or Lisse's Keukenhof Spring Gardens while they are in full bloom. In addition, visitors looking for a party can join the festivities on King's Day, a huge street party thrown on the last Saturday of the month to celebrate the birth of Queen Wilhelmina in 1885.

4. Go Wildlife Watching in The Galapagos Islands

In April, animal lovers head to the Galapagos Islands to see some of the islands’ incredible wildlife. During this time, marine and land iguanas can be seen nesting, as can a number of bird species including the waved albatross and the Great Frigate Birds (on Genovesa Island). While there is a greater chance for rain in April, the water temperatures are warmer, making it an ideal time to go snorkeling. Tourists will also find fewer crowds and lower prices since the busy season doesn't start until May or June.

April may be the hottest month in Thailand, but it is also when the country throws its Songkran New Year Water Festival, a three-day festival held April 13 - 15 every year featuring a huge water fight. Songkran is celebrated all over Thailand, varying somewhat from region to region, and it is part of Thailand's traditional New Year celebrations. The throwing of water originated as a way to pay respect to elders and Buddha, and it is meant as a symbol of cleansing and rejuvenation.

6. Drive the Bluebonnet Trails in Texas

Texas' state flower is the stunning bluebonnet. This beautiful wildflower grows in early April across the state's hill country, especially along the side of highways, making central and southern Texas a great place for a road trip this time of year. Throughout the month, Ennis provides maps to over 40 miles of bluebonnet trails that visitors can drive to witness the bloom.

7. Dive the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is home to more than 1,500 species of tropical fish and other marine animals such as dolphins, sharks and sea turtles, making it an incredible snorkeling and dive spot, especially in April. Temperatures are mild-to warm, rain showers are sparse and, according to Cairns Dive Adventures, the water is starting to cool but is still warm enough that you don't need a wetsuit.

8. Wander through Morocco

Morocco can be swelteringly hot in summer, which is why April is a much better time to visit: the weather is cooler, and the hoards of tourists are starting to thin out, making it a more affordable time to visit. Favorite places to go include Marrakesh, famous for its maze of narrow streets full of markets; Fez, known for its leather-makers; and the blue-painted town of Chefchaouen.

9. Visit the Tulip Fields in Skagit Valley, Washington

Washington's Annual Tulip Festival takes place all month long every April, drawing thousands of tourists from across the country who come to see the flowers and explore the festival's other attractions, including wine tastings, concerts and a parade. The highlight, however, is the millions of tulips that bloom this time of year, causing the valley to burst into vibrant color for about two weeks. There are also many fields of blooming daffodils.

M​ORE FROM WEATHER.COM: Check Out Peak Cherry Blossom Bloom In Washington, D.C.

The Weather Company’s primary journalistic mission is to report on breaking weather news, the environment and the importance of science to our lives. This story does not necessarily represent the position of our parent company, IBM.