Spending your Spring Break in Texas?
With a whole week of freedom and usually great weather in the Lone Star State, Spring Break is a great time to explore everything from the beaches to the Hill Country to the state parks.
I’ve spent over 10 of my Spring Breaks in Texas in my life, having done so many of these activities with my family and friends, and I hope this sparks your imagination on where you could go in Texas for Spring Break.
If you don’t want to read the entire article, know that my favorite Spring Break in Texas ideas for outdoorsy types are ziplining, tubing the Guadalupe River, and heading to Galveston for the beaches, and my favorite Spring Break ideas if you’re wanting more of an indoor feel are Dallas for the Arboretum, the Houston Space Center, and the Corpus Christi aquarium.
- 1. Take a Beach Retreat
- 2. Bluebonnet Road Trip
- 3. Big Bend National Park
- 4. Austin Music Festival
- 5. San Antonio River Walk
- 6. Houston Space Center
- 7. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
- 8. Guadalupe River Tubing
- 9. Dallas Arboretum
- 10. Texas State Parks
- 11. Texas State Aquarium
- 12. Ziplining in the Hill Country
- 13. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- 14. Graffiti Art Tour in Houston
- 15. Cavern Tours
- 16. Dallas Zoo
- 17. LBJ Ranch
- 18. Hot Air Balloon Ride
- 19. Texas Wine Country
- 20. Fiesta San Antonio
- 21. Kemah Boardwalk
1. Take a Beach Retreat
Probably the most popular option for spring break in Texas is a trip to one of the many beaches along the coast of Texas.
My personal favorite destination is Galveston, Texas, with so many amazing Galveston activities (including sandcastle building lessons) and some cool Galveston tours, but you can also escape to the Gulf Coast or South Padre Island for a rejuvenating beach vacation.
Enjoy the warm sun, soft sand, and soothing sound of the waves.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a lively beach party, Texas beaches offer diverse options to suit your preferences.
They might not compare to the beaches of somewhere like Florida, but they’re special in their own right.
2. Bluebonnet Road Trip
The Texas Hill Country is alive with the sound of, or rather, view of, bluebonnets during traditional spring break dates.
With bluebonnet wildflowers in full bloom, you can plan a scenic drive along highways like the Willow City Loop or visit wildflower-rich areas such as Ennis or Brenham.
Don’t forget to take your camera because you’ll want to get out of the car multiple times to capture the absolutely stunning landscape.
3. Big Bend National Park
Feeling adventurous?
Big Bend National Park is one of the best natural gems in Texas, and it offers everything from hiking along the trails to exploring the Chisos Mountains to experiencing the rugged nature of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Check out one of the Big Bend campgrounds (my favorite is this one) to camp under the starlit sky, or check out one of the many AirBnbs and VRBOs around this area (again, my favorite is here) to give you a cushier place to stay for the week.
4. Austin Music Festival
Immerse yourself in the live music scene of Austin by attending one of its renowned festivals, such as South by Southwest (SXSW), typically in March.
Discover new artists, enjoy performances by established musicians, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
Austin’s eclectic music scene ensures a memorable spring break experience for anyone who loves live music.
5. San Antonio River Walk
San Antonio is a must-see destination for a Texas spring break if you’ve never been, particularly for the beauty of the River Walk in the Spring.
This network of pedestrian walkways along the San Antonio River offers charming paths lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, and you can also visit the Alamo, take a boat tour, and enjoy some Tex-Mex cuisine (seriously, San Antonio Tex-Mex is out of this world) while visiting.
San Antonio is one of the more “happening” cultural areas in Texas, so it’s a nice place for foodies and for those who want a spring break with a little bit more sightseeing packed in rather than just plopping yourself down at the beach.
6. Houston Space Center
“Houston, we have a problem”…if you’ve never been to Space Center Houston!
So many people know about the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, but Houston is perhaps the most famous for that iconic line.
There’s so much to see here, including interactive exhibits, historic spacecraft, and educational programs about the life of astronauts and everything NASA has done over the years to send humans to the great beyond.
This is a family-friendly thing to do in Texas for Spring Break, appealing to everyone from the kids to the teens to the grandparents, so pack everyone up in the car and get going.
7. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
If you’re an animal lover, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a must-visit during Spring Break in Texas.
This conservation center in Glen Rose allows you to drive through over 1,000 acres of land to spot animals like giraffes (you can even feed them from your vehicle!), antelope, cheetah, rhinos, and more.
It’s considered where “Africa comes to Texas” and they offer guided tours through the sanctuary as well in case you want some expert information and to have someone else drive you around the park (this lasts for about 2 hours and is really worth it if you have an interest in animals rather than just wanting to keep the kids occupied while looking out the window!).
There’s a gorgeous overlook point about halfway around, as well as a gift shop and a café there where you can stop for lunch.
8. Guadalupe River Tubing
Cool off and have some fun by tubing down the scenic Guadalupe River in the beautiful Hill Country.
Rent tubes, float along the river, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing float or a more adventurous ride through rapids, tubing on the Guadalupe is a quintessential Texas spring break experience.
My favorite Guadalupe tubing outlet is this one based out of New Braunfels, who offer float trips and tube rental.
9. Dallas Arboretum
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by wandering through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of meticulously maintained gardens, seasonal flower displays, and serene water features.
The arboretum provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those looking to unwind amidst lush greenery and is a great Spring Break option for older kids who want a bit of peace and quiet.
For the younger one, there’s a Children’s Adventure Garden within the Arboretum that offers activities and discovery labs.
10. Texas State Parks
Want to spend your Texas Spring Break in the great outdoors?
Choose from the numerous state parks Texas has to offer and go on a camping and hiking adventure.
Whether you opt for Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Garner State Park, or any other, each park showcases unique landscapes and outdoor activities.
Camp under the stars, hike scenic trails, and appreciate the diverse ecosystems that make Texas state parks a natural haven for fun.
11. Texas State Aquarium
Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi.
Explore exhibits featuring marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond.
From interactive touch tanks to mesmerizing dolphin shows, the aquarium provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
12. Ziplining in the Hill Country
For the thrill-seekers, soar through the treetops on a ziplining adventure in the Hill Country (just don’t look down if you’re scared, you’ll be fine!)
Experience an adrenaline rush as you glide over canyons and forests.
Ziplining parks in Texas offer a unique thing to do during Spring Break as well as a way to get some fresh air and some awesome footage for social media.
Some of my favorites include:
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
Wimberley Zipline Adventures
New York Texas Zipline Adventures
13. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Indulge in classic seaside fun at Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier.
This iconic amusement park extends over the Gulf of Mexico, offering thrilling rides, carnival games, and delicious treats.
Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, enjoy roller coasters, and capture panoramic views of the Gulf for a day filled with family memories.
14. Graffiti Art Tour in Houston
Discover the vibrant street art scene in Houston by taking a graffiti art tour.
Houston’s neighborhoods, especially areas like the Heights, are adorned with colorful murals and expressive street art.
Join a guided tour like this one or explore independently to witness the creativity of local and international artists, turning the city into an urban art gallery.
15. Cavern Tours
Delve into the underground wonders of Texas by exploring Natural Bridge Caverns or Cave Without a Name.
Descend into the depths of these magnificent caves to witness stunning formations, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Guided tours provide insights into the geological history and give you much-needed background of the area as you explore the subterranean beauty.
16. Dallas Zoo
Spend a day with the animals at the Dallas Zoo.
Home to a diverse array of wildlife, the zoo provides an opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and connect with animals from around the world.
Educational exhibits and interactive experiences make the Dallas Zoo an engaging destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
17. LBJ Ranch
Step into history over Spring Break by visiting the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and touring the LBJ Ranch.
Explore the former president’s home, see the “Texas White House,” and learn about the significant events that shaped the nation during the Johnson administration.
The historical park offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s presidents.
18. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience Texas landscapes from a new perspective with a hot air balloon ride.
Soar above the countryside, witnessing the vast expanses, rolling hills, and scenic vistas below.
One of my favorite hot air balloon operators in Texas is located in Austin – the Austin Aeronauts (find them here).
Hot air balloon rides provide a serene and unforgettable adventure, making it a unique way to appreciate the beauty of the Lone Star State.
19. Texas Wine Country
Embark on a wine-tasting journey in the Texas Hill Country.
Visit wineries and vineyards, savoring a variety of local wines.
The picturesque landscapes of Texas Wine Country, combined with the rich flavors of regional wines, create a delightful and relaxing experience for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely escape.
20. Fiesta San Antonio
If your spring break aligns with April, don’t miss the festivities of Fiesta San Antonio.
This annual celebration features parades, cultural events, live music, and vibrant displays of traditional attire.
Join the locals and visitors alike in the lively atmosphere, experiencing the rich cultural heritage of San Antonio during this lively and colorful fiesta.
21. Kemah Boardwalk
Wrap up your spring break with a visit to Kemah Boardwalk near Houston.
This waterfront entertainment complex offers amusement rides, carnival games, and a variety of dining options with scenic views of Galveston Bay.
Whether you’re seeking thrills on the rides or a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, Kemah provides a perfect way to enjoy your Spring Break in Texas.