Best Fun Things to Do for Spring Break in Dallas, TX

Fun Things To Do in Dallas This Spring Break

From lush gardens in full bloom to action-packed museums and lively neighborhoods, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Dallas this spring break!

Stroll Through a Floral Wonderland at the Dallas Arboretum

Springtime in Dallas means the Dallas Blooms Festival (February 22 to April 3, 2025) at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden! As the nation’s largest spring floral festival in the Southwest, this event showcases over 500,000 varieties of spring bulbs, including vibrant tulips, cherry blossoms, and azaleas.

Families can enjoy themed activities, live music, and hands-on gardening workshops, making this a must-visit destination for a picturesque spring break outing. Kids will love the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, where younger guests will learn about life and Earth sciences.

With more than 2,000 varieties of azaleas, along with daffodils, tulips, and pansies, the 6.5-acre Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden stands as a breathtaking highlight of springtime at the Arboretum. Before you leave, indulge in a delightful grilled cheese sandwich or a cup of elote from the onsite Grilled Cheese Kiosk, open exclusively in spring and fall.

A person sits among vibrant yellow daffodils and purple tulips

A colorful flower bed with yellow and orange flowers.

Feed Giraffes at Dallas Zoo

For an up-close experience with wildlife, head to the Dallas Zoo, which often hosts special spring break safari-themed activities. Feed the giraffes by hand on the Diane and Hal Brierley Giraffe Ridge, watch spectacular animal encounters, or explore the Giants of the Savanna, home to elephants, giraffes, and lions.

Dallas Zoo is an ideal destination for families eager to connect with exotic animals and deepen their understanding of wildlife through engaging field trips and educational programs. Spring Homeschool Day on March 6, 2025, offers homeschoolers and their families a day filled with discovery, engaging hands-on learning experiences, and unique opportunities to connect with wildlife in enjoyable and educational settings.

Dallas Zoo also hosts other spring events for children of all ages, such as Thursday Safari, Friday Safari, Stroller Buddies (10 to 35 months), and WildLife Heroes Club. Check out the Zoo’s spring spring schedule and select the perfect event for your little adventurers.

Have Fun at Fair Park’s Spring Break Events

Fair Park, spanning 277 acres, is more than just the venue for the State Fair of Texas; it’s a lively hub of special events, seasonal festivals, and outdoor concerts that create unforgettable memories year-round. Families can connect with a multitude of aquatic wonders at the Children’s Aquarium, where the beauty of sharks, loggerhead sea turtles, cownose stingrays, and vibrant fish await alongside axolotls and even a majestic giant octopus.

Don’t miss the chance to wander through the 7.5-acre Exotic Butterfly House to discover exotic butterflies and insects. With authentic Texas BBQ, delectable seafood, and cozy coffee cafes just across the street from Fair Park, your spring adventure will be invigorating and energizing. Check out the park’s events calendar for the upcoming spring events.

Couple with corn dogs in front of the Fletcher's Corny Dog booth

Picnic and Play at Klyde Warren Park

Spring break calls for sunshine, and Klyde Warren Park is ideal for picnics and outdoor fun in the heart of Dallas. This urban park offers free fitness classes, yoga, lawn games, live performances, outdoor movie nights, and a rotating selection of food trucks to satisfy every craving.

This year, Klyde Warren Park’s events calendar is packed with spring break fun for the whole family, where Spring Celebration Ballet Performance (March 8, 2025), Spring Break Printmaking Party with hand-carved stamps and ink (March 10, 2025), and Witty Kids Discovery Walks (March 15, 2025) are just a few highlights. Here’s the park’s event calendar if you want to check out the full lineup of spring break activities at the venue.

Children play on a blue climbing structure in a park

A distant skyscraper against a clear blue sky.

Enjoy Outdoor Adventures at White Rock Lake Park

For a break from city life, head to White Rock Lake Park for spring kayaking, paddleboarding, or biking along scenic trails. This 1,015-acre park is perfect for nature lovers looking to spend spring break outdoors. Pack a picnic lunch, watch migratory birds, rent kayaks or bikes to explore the 9-mile trail, or relax by the water and breathe fresh spring air.

The park also features a dog park if you travel with your furry companions and picnic areas with pavilions available for rent.

A woman in a vibrant floral dress dances on a wooden dock

Sign Up. Be Inspired. Travel.

Experience travel like never before with our exclusive tips, tricks, and recommendations. Join our newsletter for the best advice on making the most of your Texas adventures!

Explore Nature’s Playground at the Trinity River Audubon Center

Stunning prairie views, five miles of hiking trails through the Great Trinity Forest, a diverse community of plant, animal, and migrating bird species, a unique mixture of bottomland hardwoods, wetlands, and grasslands, and excursions on the Trinity River. Spring break in Big D becomes a slice of paradise if you take a 10-minute drive from downtown Dallas to Trinity River Audubon Center.

The Center’s Spring Break Camp (March 11 to 14, 2025) will bring four exciting days of hands-on adventures and nature exploration for young campers aged 8-12 who will explore ponds, rivers, and the creatures inside them. Best of all, you can enjoy free admission to TRAC throughout the spring until June 30, 2025! However, it’s recommended to reserve a ticket online before your visit.

A live band performs on stage at Rockin' the River

Immerse Yourself in Art at the Dallas Museum of Art

Ranked among the 10 largest museums in the United States, the Dallas Museum of Arts is the largest museum in the Dallas Arts District. The museum’s collection of 25000 artworks spans over 5,000 years of human creativity, offering a glimpse of the centuries-old cultures of Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Spring Break Family Fun at DMA (March 12 to 14, 2025) invites kids and families to engage in free programming that sparks creativity, including drop-in art-making, sensory play, and story time in the galleries.

With general admission to DMA free for all, DMA is one of the best places to visit for anyone looking for free spring break activities in Dallas. Don’t forget to check out their calendar to uncover even more unique events.

A woman with colorful top taking a pose in front of an art museum.

Step into History at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

History buffs can dive deeply into one of America’s most significant moments at The Sixth Floor Museum. Housed in a historic Texas School Book Depository building, the Museum presents programs, events, and special exhibits reflecting on the social and political landscape of the early 1960s.

This is presented through immersive exhibits and historical artifacts that narrate the story of President Kennedy’s assassination and its aftermath and reflect on his impactful contributions to our nation and the world. Spring break visitors can also participate in special film screenings and discussions to enhance their experience.

Unleash Your Curiosity at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a wonderland for curious minds, from dinosaur skeletons to interactive STEM exhibits. Although not quite in spring this year, the museum frequently offers Discovery Camps for children, along with live science demonstrations and special exhibitions, making it an exceptional destination for families and students eager to learn and explore the answers.

Spring brings extended hours to the museum (March 31 to May 31, 2025), when the museum opens early at 9 am so that school groups can access increased learning opportunities.

Admire Outdoor Art at the Nasher Sculpture Center

Spring weather is perfect for exploring the Nasher Sculpture Center, where art lovers can wander through stunning outdoor exhibits admiring the finest collections of modern and contemporary sculptures worldwide. The Galleries and Gardens showcase rotating exhibitions from the Nasher Collection and special exhibitions sourced from other museums and private collections.

Be a part of Spring Break at the Nasher this season (March 12 to 16, 2025), and let your imagination soar during a week of free programming at the Nasher featuring guest artists, tours, collaborative projects, and more. Let your little ones engage in creative play with blocks and games while you create your own art pieces with featured guest artists, or sketch your surroundings and find inspiration in the Nasher collection.

Make a Splash at Great Wolf Lodge

Indoor water slides, a lazy river, and MagiQuest adventures? Yes, please! Just outside Dallas, Great Wolf Lodge offers a spring break paradise with its massive indoor water park, themed activities, and interactive kids’ entertainment. The Spring Breakout (March 6 to April 27, 2025) at Great Wolf Lodge invites you to endless family-friendly fun, including Sunshine Dance Party, uplifting spring yoga with story times, photos with themed characters, and springtime arts and crafts.

And with a variety of onsite dining and refreshment options, including Starbucks, rest assured your sweet, savory, and bold cravings will be satisfied without skipping a moment of fun.

Dive into an Underwater World at the Dallas World Aquarium

Want to admire the most diverse kinds of marine life from around the globe this spring? The Dallas World Aquarium is the place to be. Walk through a rainforest canopy, spot penguins, and encounter majestic sharks and graceful stingrays alongside exotic birds and rainforest creatures in this immersive sanctuary. Step into the amazing South American rainforest exhibit and stroll through a breathtaking 20,000-gallon glassed-in tunnel where sharks glide above you.

Keep an eye out for special feeding demonstrations and interactive animal encounters throughout the week. With three full-service & family-friendly restaurants offering everything from international gourmet selections to Tex-Mex fare and quick on-the-go snacks like deli sandwiches, salads, and pizzas, your springtime marine adventure at Dallas World Aquarium will be delicious.

Build and Play at Legoland Discovery Center

Spring break is a great time to let creativity run wild at Legoland Discovery Center, Located near Grapevine, just a short 20-minute drive from Dallas. This indoor attraction features themed rides, massive Lego builds, and a 4D cinema experience. It’s a dream destination for kids and families looking for hands-on fun.

Experience Dallas’ Vibrant Music and Arts Scene in Deep Ellum

For an energetic spring break vibe, explore the iconic Deep Ellum district. This artsy neighborhood is home to live music venues, street murals, and eclectic bars. It also boasts some of the best food spots in the city, including the delicious smokehouse nachos at Pecan Lodge.

A spacious distillery bar featuring a large copper still

A bartender with tattooed arms pours a cocktail from a shaker

Shop and Skate at Galleria Dallas

Looking for a mix of shopping and entertainment? Welcoming more than 12 million visitors annually, only Galleria Dallas delivers the consummate Dallas shopping experience. This iconic shopping mall features over 200 top-brand stores and superb dining options. It also boasts a year-round indoor ice skating rink, perfect for cooling off between shopping sprees.

Experience the Magic of Light at LEKTRIK: A Festival of Lights

This spring break, step into a mesmerizing world of color and creativity as LEKTRIK: A Festival of Lights makes its Dallas debut at Texas Discovery Gardens! This award-winning illuminating art experience is set to dazzle visitors with over 100 breathtaking lamp scenes and more than 1,000,000 LED lights, all meticulously handcrafted by 150 artisans using 120 tons of steel and 150,000 feet of silk.

Beyond the stunning visual displays, the festival features live acrobatic and juggling performances, artisan vendors, and delicious food. With refreshing beverages and a lively atmosphere, it makes the perfect nighttime adventure for families, couples, and friends. Since each year brings a brand-new and uniquely customized design, this is a one-time-only experience you won’t want to miss! Tickets start from $19 and are available online.

Take in Breathtaking Views from Reunion Tower

End your spring break adventure with a 360-degree view of Dallas from Reunion Tower. Snap sunset selfies at the Reunion Tower Geo-Deck, capturing stunning views of the city. Then, enjoy a meal at Crown Block with rare steaks, the finest seafood, and breathtaking vistas of Dallas right before your eyes. Whether you visit during the day or at night, this observation deck offers stunning cityscapes, interactive exhibits, and an unforgettable skyline experience.

Other Things to Do for Spring Break in the DFW Metroplex

If you’re ready for a short drive beyond the Dallas city limits, the greater Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is waiting to be explored. Vibrant spring activities await in the surrounding area, offering something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do for spring break in Dallas Fort Worth.

Enjoy an Overnight Stay Amidst Wild Animals at Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is an excellent alternative to the Dallas Zoo, offering animal feedings and interactive exhibits. Kids can enjoy Texas Wild! a hands-on area with a petting zoo, and see all four great ape species in the 2.5-acre primate habitat. They can also get up close with endangered reptiles and amphibians at the Museum of Living Art (MOLA).

For the adventurous, there are overnight stays with dinner and a scavenger hunt. It’s easy to see why the Fort Worth Zoo is ranked among the top zoos in the nation.

Explore the Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Spring brings an explosion of colors to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, with vibrant tulips, cherry blossoms, and themed garden tours. But of course, the highlight will be Spring Break Camp: Nature Play (Mar 18, 2025). At this 3-day camp, young campers ages 5 to 7 will dive deeper into a natural world through imaginative play, nature crafts, and exhilarating outdoor adventures.

As they explore the Botanic Gardens, they will investigate insects and forge a deeper connection with nature. Along the way, they will learn about the incredible plants and animals that inhabit this wondrous space.

A woman in a blue dress stands gracefully on a bridge overlooking a serene pond

Discover Science at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History inspires extraordinary learning experiences for all! Perfect for hands-on learners, this museum offers immersive exhibits, captivating planetarium shows, and engaging spring break science activities. Unearth fossils in DinoDig, watch imaginations soar in the Fort Worth Children’s Museum, and don’t miss the innovative Science Studio.

Step Back in Time at the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards

Step into the West and experience the authentic Texas cowboy culture with live rodeos, cattle drives, and Old West-style saloons. Grab a cowboy hat and boots—photo ops abound! Don’t miss the spring break western-themed activities and live music performances.

cowboys riding horses and leading longhorn cattle

Other Seasonal Activities in Dallas

From cozy winter retreats to spring escapes, summer fun, and fall adventures, Dallas has something for every season. Click below to discover the best seasonal activities in Dallas!

A person holds a transparent inflatable ring in a water park

A woman in a pink dress stands beside a llama

More Spring Break Getaways in Texas

Looking for more Spring Break fun? Texas has plenty of destinations for the perfect getaway. Check out these great spots!

a historic building, a vibrant view of the ocean, and a festive street

Things To Do for Spring Break in Dallas: FAQs

What is the most popular spring break destination in Texas?

North Padre Island is the most popular spring break destination in Texas. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lively parties, and exciting water activities. It attracts college students, families, and travelers looking for a fun and sun-filled getaway. North Padre Island stretches from north to south through parts of Nueces, Kleberg, Kenedy, and Willacy counties near Corpus Christi.

A crowd gathers at the beach, watching a presentation

A gloved hand gently holds a small sea turtle hatchling

Is March a good time to visit Dallas?

March is a great time to visit Dallas due to the pleasant spring weather and blooming gardens. The city also offers exciting spring break events that are perfect for all ages. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city’s top attractions without the extreme Texas heat.

What is the most popular week for spring break?

The most popular week for spring break is mid-March, typically the second or third week of March. This is when most schools and universities across the U.S. schedule their break.

BONUS: Get Your Free Texas Travel Guide!

a woman sitting on a pool edge reading a magazine

If you want to plan more Texas trips without breaking the bank, I’ve put together over 55 trips in Texas. These come with detailed itineraries to help you plan amazing trips around the state. Each trip costs less than $50 per person. Explore Texas, and you’ll uncover amazing hidden gems and wacky attractions throughout the state!

Not ready to purchase just yet? We’re offering the 1st edition of our 50 Texas Trips Under $50 for FREE! Simply click the button below, then scroll down to grab your copy!

Get Your TX Travel Guide

Things To Do for Spring Break in Dallas: Final Thoughts

I’ve road-tripped across Texas more times than I can count, and Dallas in the spring is a standout. The city’s alive with energy, wildflowers are everywhere, and you get the best mix of urban vibes and Southern charm. Here’s my take: Don’t just visit Dallas—really experience it. Watch your kids light up as they feed a giraffe at the zoo. Then, stroll through Deep Ellum’s colorful murals while enjoying some live music or unwind by the peaceful White Rock Lake.

A couple of tips: Wear comfy shoes, book your Reunion Tower tickets in advance, and definitely grab some tacos.

Grab your crew, pack up, and head to Dallas. Your Spring Break is about to get a whole lot better.

Save This Guide for Later

Planning a future trip? Pin these images so you can come back to this guide when you are ready to plan.

fun things to do in dallas for spring break

Save to Pinterest

Last Updated 1 year ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 9, 2025