Spring Break is right around the corner! Families are ready for a break from the hustle and bustle of making lunches, studying for state tests, and waking up before the sun rises. Spring break is the perfect time to sleep in, dine on favorite foods, and hit the beach. The beautiful state of Texas is the ideal place to find all that you are seeking to refresh and renew yourself and family for the Spring.
RELATED READING :: South Austin Spring Break Guide
Tip: If you are military/veteran, police, fire, or EMS, you are eligible for discounts from select companies. Be sure you take your I.D. with you for verification.
1. Arlington
Home of the Dallas Cowboys, Arlington has an array of activities that will keep families busy. Schedule a tour at the AT&T Stadium. If you are also interested in art you can schedule a guided tour at the stadium. Be sure to check the schedule for tour information and times. Thrill-seekers will enjoy rides and the Spring Break Lip Sync Challenge at Six Flags Over Texas. Spend your day screaming on Mr. Freeze or relax while enjoying the antique cars. Spend your day at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark. From splashing in the waves, floating lazily in the lazy river to plunging on one of their fastest slides, you’re sure to have an epic vacation!
Where to stay: Hyatt Place
Where to eat: Babe’s Chicken Dinner House
2. Austin
Explore the Capital city of Texas. Austin is known for its culture, music, and liveliness. Spring is a busy season in Austin. Join in on the fun in the city’s South by Southwest Conference and Festivals. You can experience upcoming films and technology. Enjoy new musical artists and more. This is the prime opportunity to see the city come alive. If you are seeking a more serene Austin experience, visit the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center. With its Hill Country location and beauty, Westcave is truly one of Austin’s best-kept hiking secrets. If you’re hoping to tour this preserve with its breathtaking grotto, be sure to schedule a guided tour. Looking to share with family and friends proof you visited Austin? Head to South Congress and snap a photo in front of the “I Love You So Much” mural.
Where to stay: Lakeway Resort and Spa
Where to eat: Waterloo Icehouse
3. Corpus Christi
All aboard! Take a tour on the USS Lexington where you’ll be able to take part in LockDown on the Lex, an escape room. Ride high in their virtual simulator and complete your very own mission. Discover the Texas State Aquarium and all its beauty within. Hang with sloths and feed the stingrays. Visit Padre Island National Seashore for a lovely day on the beach. Let the waves set you free. You’ll enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, and more. If you’ve ever dreamed of horseback riding on the beach, Corpus Christi is the ideal place to do so.
Where to stay: Radisson Hotel Corpus Christi Beach
Where to eat: Blackbeard’s on the Beach
4. Dallas
Have a Lego enthusiast? Begin your journey at Legoland Discovery Center. Experience the 4-D cinema, character interaction, and Space Mission. Once you’ve found yourself ready for more adventure, glide across to Sea Life Aquarium. There, you’ll view the aquatic life and Scale Tales. You can purchase the Ultimate Combo experience, which will cover the cost for both Legoland and the Aquarium. Check out their page for a list of their springtime events. Looking for even more fun? Purchase the Dallas CityPass. The pass gets you into four of the city’s most popular attractions at a discounted price. If you’re ready for an adventure back in time, visit Medieval Times, a show of knights and horses jousting their way to victory to become champion.
Where to stay: Gaylord Texan
Where to eat: Rainforest Cafe
5. Fredericksburg
Take a dive into Texas history and German culture in the small town of Fredericksburg. Visit the Pioneer Museum and experience how early pioneers lived. During spring break, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with living history presenters, docents, and Texas Rangers. After venturing back into history, fill your belly with German food from one of the local German restaurants. Needing to work off that tasty German food? Take a hike at the majestic Enchanted Rock. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring drinking water to quench your thirst. Hike until your heart’s content on the hiking and nature trails. Enchanted Rock is also the perfect location to stargaze. Order your passes before your visit. Also, pick up the Junior Ranger Journal, activity guide, and Junior Ranger explorer packs to fully engage in this experience and receive a Junior Ranger pin upon completing the activities.
Where to stay: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone National Park-Resort
Where to eat: Old German Bakery and Restaurant
6. Galveston Island
One of my favorite destinations to visit year-round, Galveston Island, is known for its beaches, cruising, and family fun. Find yourself navigating the ocean seas with any of the cruise lines that interest you. From Disney to Carnival, you are sure to find the ship that will provide springtime fun. (Before you book, check and make sure you won’t get stuck with all that is going on right now!) Not into cruising? Visit Rainforest Pyramid, where you’ll enjoy Asian, African, and American rainforests. If you want more excitement, challenge yourself to complete the Sky Trail zipline and ropes course or hop on over to Pleasure Pier. Grab a Spring Break Pass and enjoy rides that are sure to give you a thrill. Take a stroll through time, stop by La King’s Confectionery and Ice Cream Parlour, and shop like a local. If you’re looking for relaxation, make your way to Palm Beach. Kick your feet up on one of their cabanas, play in the sand, and enjoy the sun at this white sandy beach. Spend the day at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, riding the world’s tallest water coaster, the Massiv Monsterblaster, or lazily drift in their wave pool.
Where to stay: Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center
Where to eat: Shrimp ‘N Stuff
7. New Braunfels
Hot times call for cool results. Make a splash at Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort. Located in New Braunfels, about 45 minutes from the city of Austin. You’ll find slippery waterslides, heated pools, and more. The on-site resort is perfect for an all-inclusive spring break. Room sizes vary from the traditional hotel room size to upscale lofts and vacation homes that sleep up to 18. Its Springtime and Adventure is the name of the game. Located just 20 minutes outside of New Braunfels, make your way to the Natural Bridge Caverns where you’ll explore caves beneath the Earth’s surface. Appropriate footwear for this activity is a must. Fun for the whole family, their Zip Rails and Ropes course is not one to be missed.
Where to stay: The Resort at Schlitterbahn
Where to eat: Buttermilk Cafe
8. San Antonio
Spring break in San Antonio offers plenty of family fun and entertainment. If you’re not afraid of heights, visit the 750-foot tall building, Tower of Americas, and experience the most beautiful view of the city on the Observation Deck. Take a trolley ride through downtown or relax on one of the Riverwalk’s boat tours and learn a little about the city’s history. For more thrilling rides and waterpark fun, check out Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Free to experience, visit the Japanese Tea Garden and explore its beauty. Suit up and join the Beluga Whales at SeaWorld San Antonio or work your way over to the tallest, fastest wooden roller coaster in Texas, the Texas Stingray.
Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
Where to eat: Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe
9. South Padre Island
Sandcastles, swimming, and snorkeling, oh my! South Padre is a popular spring break destination in Texas. You’ll find plenty of entertainment and relaxation in this beautiful beach city. Receive informative information on sea turtles and why they are in rehabilitation at Sea Turtles, Inc. Enjoy a beautiful sunset cruise or visit the Largest Outdoor Sandcastle in the country. If you’re looking to be a brave adventurer, check out the South Padre Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary. Spend time with Texas wildlife. It’s the perfect time for bird watching, walking on the scenic boardwalk and spotting alligators. Your experiences in South Padre will definitely be Instagram worthy!
Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island Beachfront
Where to eat: Pier 19
10. Waco
Journey over to Cameron Park Zoo and trek your way through the African Savanna. Children and adults alike will enjoy animals, reptiles, and amphibians. Moms and Dads will delight in stopping at the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos. For the kiddos, the green lawn is a great playspace for cornhole, tag, and more. Try a tasty treat from Silos Baking Co. and shop for trendy items for your home. If you love soda, visit the Dr. Pepper Museum. Put your scientist cap on and participate in Liquid Lab, and visit Frosty’s Soda Shop for a tasty treat.
Where to stay: Hilton Waco
Where to eat: Magnolia Table
Do you have any favorite destinations that you and your family enjoy for Texas Spring Break? Please feel free to share them below!
Au Revoir!
Featured Image Credit :: Noelle Westcott Photography
