Family-Friendly Things to Do During Spring Break in Texas

Austin: Embrace Outdoor Fun and Family-Friendly Events

Hike and Splash at McKinney Falls State Park

Spring is the perfect time to explore McKinney Falls State Park, just outside Austin. Enjoy hiking, swimming, waterfall views, and camping in mild temperatures. Hike scenic trails, admire wildflowers, and cool off by the waterfalls. Pack a picnic and relax around Onion Creek, with areas for wading and kids to play.

Don’t miss the “Old Baldy” trail for stunning views of the Lower Falls. Be sure to secure day passes in advance, as they sell out quickly on weekends and holidays.

A person relaxes on their stomach in a vibrant field of bluebonnets

Admire Spring Blooms at Zilker Botanical Garden

Nicknamed “A Jewel in the Heart of Austin,” Zilker Botanical Garden bursts with color in spring, featuring tulips, cherry blossoms, and lush greenery. This 28-acre nature oasis offers themed gardens, live oaks, streams, and Koi-filled ponds, perfect for a peaceful spring day with family. Explore the Japanese garden, rose garden, and Hartman Prehistoric Garden.

The garden offers free days (Stay tuned for updates!) and hosts school programs and self-guided tours, making it an educational escape for all ages.

Be sure to check out their events calendar for exciting upcoming spring activities!

A colorful birdhouse village made from twigs and moss

A woman in a red floral dress walks beside a serene waterfall

Hike to the Top of Mount Bonnell for a Stunning View

For breathtaking panoramic views of Austin and the Colorado River, hike up to Mount Bonnell. Spring’s mild temperatures make this 102-step-climb sweat-free and enjoyable, and it’s a great spot for family photos against the backdrop of an Austin sunset.

Once you reach the top, take a moment (or maybe an hour) to admire the sweeping views of the surrounding area from the deck and pavilion at 781 feet, and then perhaps spread a family picnic with picnic tables available on the spot.

Golden sunset over a river winding through a quaint riverside town

Yee-Haw at Rodeo Austin

Rodeo Austin (March 13 to 28, 2026) is a spring break staple offering thrilling rodeo competitions, bull riding, live music, delicious fair food, and a family-friendly fairground with carnival rides and games. Kids will especially enjoy the petting zoo and mutton bustin’ events, while parents can watch livestock shows.

Check the schedule for concerts and special rodeo events happening during your visit.

Corpus Christi: Soak Up Sun, Sand, and Sea Adventures

Soak Up the Sun at Padre Island National Seashore

Padre Island National Seashore, the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island, offers 66 miles of pristine coastline for family fun this spring break. Build sandcastles, spot migratory birds, and enjoy sea turtle hatchling releases. Clear skies make it perfect for stargazing at the Night Sky Observatory or along the beach.

For an overnight adventure, try camping on North Beach, just 1.5 miles from the water.

A scenic beach view at dusk, with people walking along the shore

Dig into Creativity at Texas SandFest

Don’t miss Texas SandFest (April 17-19, 2026) in Port Aransas, the USA’s largest beach sand sculpture competition! Watch master sculptors create stunning sand art, enjoy live music, and indulge in food from local vendors. Kids can have fun with face painting, hula hooping, and hands-on activities at the Kids’ Corner, while older kids can learn sandcastle techniques from YouTube star Andy Hancock.

Explore the daily schedule of events on the SandFest website and prepare to elevate your beach adventure.

Interact With Marine Life at Texas State Aquarium

Spend a day at the Texas State Aquarium, where interactive exhibits and close encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks await. Families can enjoy educational programs and the Snorkel with a Shark Exclusive Encounter, getting up close to sandbar sharks in a 10’x10’ cage.

Spring Break 2026 also brings the reopening of the 15,000-square-foot H-E-B Splash Park, featuring a new multi-level slide, water dump, and fun for all ages with slides for tweens and interactive features for toddlers.

A shark glides underwater near a sunken shipwreck

A cheerful dolphin swims upwards, smiling with open mouth

Grab a Texas-Sized Bite at Whataburger’s Flagship Location

Corpus Christi, the birthplace of Whataburger, may have lost the original location, but the iconic 2-story Whataburger on the marina stands as a testament to great moments shared over Texas-sized burgers and stunning waterfront views. Treat the family to Texas-sized burgers and enjoy the waterfront views—because sometimes, the best family moments happen over a great meal.

Exterior of a vintage Whataburger building with white walls

Dallas: Discover Family Fun in the Big D

Explore Aquatic Wonders at Dallas World Aquarium

This spring, embark on a journey from the Amazon rainforest to a South African penguin colony at Dallas World Aquarium—all indoors! Discover diverse marine life like sharks, penguins, and sloths, plus exotic birds and rainforest creatures. Walk through a 20,000-gallon glass tunnel in the South American rainforest exhibit, with sharks swimming above you. Enjoy feeding demonstrations, interactive animal encounters, and family-friendly dining options.

It’s a memorable, educational adventure that kids will talk about long after spring break ends!

Get Creative at the Dallas Museum of Art

With 25,000 artworks from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, the Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the U.S. During Spring Break Family Fun (March 18-20, 2026), families can enjoy interactive exhibits, free programs, artmaking, sensory play, and gallery story time. General admission is free, making DMA one of the top spots for budget-friendly family fun in Dallas this spring break.

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.

Splash and Play at Great Wolf Lodge

For a splash of spring break fun, head to Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, located between Dallas and Fort Worth. This family-friendly resort offers year-round indoor water park fun with wave pools, waterslides, and themed suites. Kids can enjoy MagiQuest games, story time, and character meet-and-greets, while parents relax at the spa.

Book your stay with the Spring Celebration Deal (between February 6, 2026, and June 18, 2026) using code 2626 and save up to 30%!

Galveston: Combine Adventure and Relaxation by the Coast

Scream Together on the High Adrenaline Rides at Galveston Island Pleasure Pier

Scream down the 100-foot vertical Iron Shark Roller Coaster, or admire the panoramic views of the Pier and Gulf of Mexico when you swing and suspend 230 feet above sea level on the Texas Star Flyer. Pleasure Pier is a historic boardwalk-style amusement park for families craving high-adrenaline spring break fun with roller coasters, a 100-foot-tall Ferris wheel, carousel rides, and carnival games.

Amusement pier at twilight featuring colorful rides, games, and food stalls

Savor fresh Gulf seafood at Fish Tales near Pleasure Pier, or enjoy a perfectly cooked steak at Saltgrass Steakhouse. For a classic meal, indulge in burgers, pizza, and sweet treats for the whole family. This spring break, enhance your adventure with a Galveston Island pass! Get unlimited access to thrilling rides at Kemah Boardwalk, Pleasure Pier, and the Downtown Aquarium from March 6 to 22, 2026. Don’t miss out on an exciting and flavorful experience!

Spring Break Tip: Purchase tickets online to skip the lines and try to arrive early in the morning as the spring season is quite busy.

Pleasure Pier amusement park in Galveston

Explore Moody Gardens with the Family

Moody Gardens offers a spring break packed with adventure, featuring its aquarium, iconic glass pyramids, and interactive exhibits. The Aquarium Pyramid, home to penguins, seals, sharks, and the Jellyfish Gallery, is one of the largest in the Southwest. Explore the Rainforest Pyramid, with over 1,700 exotic plants and endangered animals, and ignite curiosity at the Discovery Pyramid with wave experiments, music creation, and robotics. For thrills, try the Ropes Course, zip line, or enjoy golf nearby.

Spring Break Camps (March 9-13, 2026) offer fun for kids with animal presentations, crafts, and hands-on experiments!

A scarlet macaw perches on a branch by a pond

A woman in a flowing red dress walks along a wooden path

Make a Splash at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston

Beat the spring heat at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, where a mile of excitement awaits across three distinct park sections. With 2026 season passes available for just $89, get ready for high-speed slides like Rohr!, MASSIV, and Screaming Serpents. Test your surfing skills at Boogie Bahn Surf Ride, while little ones enjoy kid-friendly water playgrounds. For a more relaxed vibe, unwind in picnic pavilions, wave pools, or serene cabanas.

Refuel with BBQ, cheeseburgers, funnel cakes, and more at one of 16 dining spots throughout the park!

A thatched-roof bar by a pool, with people enjoying the water

A person in a yellow floral bikini leans against a stone wall

Step Back in Time at Galveston Railroad Museum

All aboard for a journey through history at the Galveston Railroad Museum! Explore vintage locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars, and interactive exhibits that will fascinate all ages. Families can enjoy the “Harborside Express” or join field trips to learn about the history of railroading.

Don’t miss RailFest on April 25-26, 2026, where model train builders from across the nation showcase large-scale moving trains, plus live entertainment, exhibits, and vendors for a fun-filled spring event!

Houston: Experience Culture, Science, and Outdoor Fun

Learn and Explore at the Houston Museum Of Natural Science

Ignite curiosity at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gems, and planetarium shows can keep your whole family engaged throughout the day. And that’s just the beginning. The museum’s towering T. rex, Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, and Cockrell Butterfly Center are dream come true for curious minds looking to make the most of their spring break.

Keep tabs on the museum’s event calendar for upcoming spring break events.

A dinosaur skeleton exhibit featuring a tall sauropod and a robust theropod

Fossilized skeleton of a Triceratops displayed in a museum

Meet Wildlife at Houston Zoo

The Houston Zoo, spanning 55 acres, is a top destination for animal lovers, attracting over two million visitors each year. This spring, enjoy beautiful weather and get up close with over 6,000 animals, feed giraffes, and meet elephants and lions, including the zoo’s newest residents.

Families can experience Zoo Overnights, designed for ages 6 and up. Enjoy after-hours adventures, animal interactions, nightly hikes, and special spring activities for an unforgettable wildlife experience! Stay tuned for updates!

Blast Off at Space Center Houston

Touch a moon rock, meet astronauts, and tour NASA’s Mission Control at Space Center Houston, an exciting spring break destination for families. With over 400 space artifacts, hands-on STEM activities, and permanent exhibits, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss the Explorer Camps where kids ages 4 to 11 can dive into science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, interactive learning experiences. These 5-day immersive camps offer a perfect mix of adventure and education! Stay tuned for updates!

A space shuttle sits atop a retired Boeing 747 in Independence Plaza

A vintage spacecraft capsule, illuminated from within

Enjoy Rides and Waterfront Views at Kemah Boardwalk

For an amazing spring break day trip, head to Kemah Boardwalk! Enjoy amusement rides, waterfront dining, carnival games, and live entertainment. Ride the 65-foot Century Ferris Wheel, relax in the Boardwalk Tower, or take a scenic tour on the C.P. Huntington Train. Thrill-seekers can test their courage on the Bullet, a wooden coaster reaching heights of 96 feet and speeds over 51 mph.

Get a discounted Weekend Adventure Pass this spring, offering 3-day unlimited access to Kemah Boardwalk, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, and Downtown Aquarium!

Entrance to Kemah Boardwalk featuring a colorful archway

San Antonio: History, Adventure, and Family Fun in Texas Hill Country

Scream And Splash Together at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Kick off spring break in San Antonio at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, where you’ll find thrilling coasters like Iron Rattler and Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger, plus exciting shows for all ages. Cool off in the lively water park with twisting slides like Texas Tumble, a lazy river, and fun play areas for younger guests.

Don’t miss their annual Spring Break Blast Event, featuring electrifying DJs, dazzling fireworks, and unforgettable performances that will keep you on your toes! Stay tuned for updates!

Explore the Depths at Natural Bridge Caverns

Explore the awe-inspiring underground world of stunning rock formations at the Natural Bridge Caverns. The popular Discovery Tour takes you 180 feet below ground, where you’ll witness incredible landscapes in massive rooms illuminated by state-of-the-art lighting. For an extra thrill, try the Twisted Trails zip rails and rope course above the caverns.

Don’t miss the Spring Fever Fest weekends from March 28 to April 19, 2026, featuring family-friendly activities, vibrant pollinator gardens, scavenger hunts, live music, and delicious food!

Inside a mystical cave, water gently flows among ancient rocks

Stroll and Dine along the San Antonio River Walk

Enjoy a relaxing spring day exploring the San Antonio River Walk with a guided barge tour or a paddleboat rental for some DIY fun. Stroll along this 15-mile stretch, taking in the scenic views, riverside dining, and vibrant spring flowers. Experience live music pop-ups, family-friendly events, and local vendors offering Tex-Mex specials and refreshing agua frescas.

Don’t miss the Ford Mariachi Festival from April 23 – 24, 2026, featuring live mariachi performances and Folklorico dancers. This free three-day event celebrates vibrant music and dance!

a woman in a colorful dress, the historic Alamo, and a lively street

Waco: Experience Texas Charm and Family-Friendly Attractions

Explore Baseball History at the Texas Rangers Museum

Baseball fans will love the Texas Rangers Museum, where the team’s rich history comes to life with captivating memorabilia. Established in 1968, this museum serves as the official hall of fame, archives, and museum for the Texas Rangers, the oldest law enforcement agency in the U.S. Explore collections that span three centuries of American heritage and showcase five flags. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the spirit of the American West.

Sip and See at the Dr. Pepper Museum

Take a fizzy journey through the history of Dr Pepper at this quirky museum located in a historic bottling plant. Explore captivating exhibits across three floors, mix your own soda flavor, and browse vintage ads. Book exciting experiences like Make-A-Soda, Taste-A-Soda, the Extreme Pepper Experience, or the Paranormal Tour. Don’t miss a delicious Dr Pepper float at the gift shop and soda fountain!

Be sure to book experiences online in advance, while admission tickets can be purchased at the front desk.

Shop and Play at Magnolia Market

Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos, where families can relax on the sprawling lawn, indulge in delicious treats from food trucks, and browse unique shops. Admission is free. It’s a laid-back yet lively way to spend a spring day in Waco. With the shops and grounds evolving frequently, each visit offers the exciting opportunity to see how this family hotspot transforms with the seasons!

Texas State Parks: Adventure Awaits in the Great Outdoors

Hike and Camp at Garner State Park

Spend your spring break surrounded by scenic views at Garner State Park. Enjoy hiking trails, river swimming, and evening dances at the pavilion—an old Texas tradition the whole family will love.

A woman enjoying in a serene river, enjoying the tranquility of the water.

Explore the Pines at Bastrop State Park

Bastrop State Park offers peaceful trails, camping spots, and springtime blooms. It’s an ideal place for families seeking a quieter escape with nature walks and lakeside picnics.

Discover Vast Landscapes at Big Bend National Park

Adventure-loving families should head to Big Bend National Park for breathtaking desert hikes, stargazing, and canoe trips along the Rio Grande. Spring is perfect for exploring the park before the summer heat sets in.

A person in a red dress stands by a calm river

A woman in a colorful poncho stands beneath a large rock

Fish and Paddle at Huntsville State Park

Pack your fishing gear and head to Huntsville State Park for a weekend of outdoor fun. The calm lake is great for canoeing and paddleboarding, and the trails offer peaceful springtime hikes.

A tranquil lakeside landscape with clear blue water

More Spring Break Adventures in Texas

Texas has it all for an unforgettable Spring Break! From breathtaking views to heart-racing adventures, you’ll find endless opportunities for fun. Explore iconic landmarks, charming towns, and hidden gems across the state. Click below to discover all the exciting possibilities!

a historic building, a woman in a flowing dress, and a festive street

Things To Do During Spring Break in Texas for Families: FAQs

Do Texas Schools Have Spring Break?

Spring break in Texas occurs from mid to late March, varying by school district and university. This season celebrates the earth’s rebirth, with many colleges scheduling breaks around the same time, leading to increased travel. If you plan a family trip to popular destinations, booking accommodation early is essential, as hotels fill up quickly.

Is Texas good for spring break?

Yes, Texas is great for spring break! With its diverse attractions, family-friendly activities, beautiful state parks, and vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the spring season.

What is the spring season in Texas?

Springtime (March to May) in Texas is a vibrant celebration of nature, as bluebonnets and other native wildflowers burst into life, inspired by the warming temperatures and nourishing rains. May marks the arrival of the first rainy season, reminding us of nature’s powerful forces. It’s a time when the cold winter air meets the warmth of spring, urging us to remain resilient amidst the beauty.

A woman in white dress on a field of Bluebonnets

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Things To Do During Spring Break in Texas for Families: Final Thoughts

What I love most about spring break in Texas is how diverse the experiences are. One day, we hiked beneath vibrant wildflowers at Zilker Botanical Garden, and the next, we admired the most varied marine life at an aquarium. Later in the evening, we raced down water slides at an amusement park, making for an unforgettable day. And let’s not forget those mouthwatering road trip snacks and local eats along the way. After all, what’s a Texas adventure without a stop at Whataburger?

No matter where your family’s journey takes you, these spring break adventures are more than just activities—they’re memories you’ll cherish for years. So go ahead, embrace the road trips, the laughter, the splashes, and the smiles. Texas is ready to welcome your family with open arms this spring break—and trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

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Last Updated 2 weeks ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 28, 2026