Spring break is the perfect time to take a break from the daily grind and enjoy a well-deserved getaway with family and friends. Texas, with its diverse attractions, warm weather, and beautiful coastal areas, is an ideal destination for spring break travelers. If you are looking for exciting theme parks, relaxing beaches, or cultural experiences, Texas provides it somewhere within its vast land.
Here is a guide to some of the best family-friendly and trendy destinations in the Lone Star State during spring break:
Where is the Most Popular Spring Break Destination in Texas?
Texas is home to several top spring break destinations, catering to a range of travelers, from families to college students. Some of the most popular spots include:
Padre Island Spring Break
A hotspot for college students during spring break and also families, with its South Padre Island area known as the party hotspot for college students. The rest of this island offers stunning beaches, water sports, dining excellence, and a vibrant nightlife. Families can enjoy dolphin-watching tours and sandcastle-building competitions, while young adults flock to the South Padre Island area’s beachside bars and live music events.
Spring Break In Galveston
This charming coastal city boasts family-friendly attractions like Moody Gardens, the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and its historic Pleasure Pier. Its beaches make for a relaxing vacation, while the town’s history and cultural offerings make it a well-rounded destination.
- Stewart Beach: One of the most popular family-friendly beaches.
- East Beach: Known for its lively atmosphere, concerts, and festivals.
- Seawall Boulevard: A scenic drive or walk along the Gulf with restaurants and shops.
- Galveston Island State Park: Great for fishing, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching.
- The Strand Historic District: A charming area with 19th-century buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Moody Mansion: A beautifully restored 1895 mansion offering historical tours.
- Bishop’s Palace: A grand Victorian mansion with impressive architecture.
- Galveston Railroad Museum: Showcases vintage trains and rail history.
- Moody Gardens: Features an aquarium, rainforest pyramid, and a 3D/4D theater.
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark: A fun water park with slides and lazy rivers.
- Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: An amusement park with rides and carnival games over the water.
- The Bryan Museum: Focuses on Texas and Western history.
- Dolphin Tours: Boat tours to see dolphins in the bay.
- Sea Turtle Rescue at NOAA Fisheries: Learn about conservation efforts.
- Galveston Naval Museum: Features WWII-era submarine and destroyer tours.
San Antonio Family Spring Break
Home to iconic attractions like the Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and SeaWorld, this city is ideal for families looking for both fun and educational experiences during spring break.
- SeaWorld San Antonio: Marine life shows, animal encounters, and roller coasters.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas: A top-tier amusement park with rides, water slides, and live entertainment.
- Morgan’s Wonderland: An inclusive amusement park designed for visitors of all abilities.
- The Alamo: A must-visit for Texas history with interactive exhibits.
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site with historic Spanish missions.
- The Witte Museum: A kid-friendly science and history museum featuring dinosaurs, wildlife, and interactive exhibits.
- San Antonio Zoo – Home to over 750 species, plus a fun train ride for kids.
- Natural Bridge Caverns: Underground cave tours and an adventure ropes course.
- Brackenridge Park: A beautiful park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.
- The DoSeum: A fantastic hands-on children’s museum with STEM activities.
- San Antonio River Walk: A scenic area with boat rides, shops, and restaurants.
- Legoland Discovery Center: Indoor LEGO fun with interactive play areas and a 4D cinema.
- Tower of the Americas: Offers amazing city views and a 4D theater ride.
Spring Break In Corpus Christi
As a fantastic mix of beach relaxation and cultural attractions, Corpus Christi is home to the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington, making it a splendid choice for families. Plenty of family-friendly attractions call this coastal city home, especially if you love the beach, wildlife, and hands-on experiences. Here are some of the top spots:
- Padre Island National Seashore: The longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Mustang Island and Padre Island lay off Corpus Christi’s coast.
- Whitecap Beach: A clean and family-friendly beach with soft sand and gentle waves.
- Cole Park: A great place for picnics, playground fun, and waterfront views.
- Texas State Aquarium: One of the top attractions in Corpus Christi, featuring dolphins, sharks, and interactive touch pools.
- South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center : Offers beautiful gardens, butterfly exhibits, and a great place for kids to explore.
- Horses on the Beach: Guided horseback rides along the shoreline for a fun and unique family experience.
- USS Lexington Museum on the Bay: A WWII-era aircraft carrier turned museum with interactive exhibits and flight simulators.
- Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History : Hands-on exhibits about local history, dinosaurs, and shipwrecks.
- Selena Museum: A must-visit for fans of the Tejano music legend Selena.
- Hurricane Alley Waterpark: A fun spot for water slides, a lazy river, and wave pools.
- Funtrackers Family Fun Center: Go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and more.
- Art Museum of South Texas: Offers art workshops and kid-friendly activities.
Do Texas Schools Have Spring Break?
Yes, most schools in Texas, including public and private institutions, have a designated spring break period. Spring break in Texas ranges from mid to late March, though specific dates vary by school district and university. Spring is an annual tribute to earth’s rebirth. And, the time before students must prepare for those pesky and nerve-wracking final exams.
Many colleges and universities schedule their spring breaks around the same time, leading to increased travel and tourism in popular destinations. If you are planning a family trip during spring break to a popular spring break area, it is important to book accommodations far in advance, as hotels and resorts fill up quickly during this time.
Where to Avoid Spring Break Crowds in Texas?
For those seeking a quieter, more relaxing spring break experience, spring break vacationers might consider these less crowded destinations:
- Big Bend National Park: If you’re looking for adventure and breathtaking natural scenery, Big Bend offers hiking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing far from the spring break party scene.
- Fredericksburg: Located in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is known for its wineries, German heritage, and scenic landscapes. It’s a great spot for a laid-back spring break getaway.
- New Braunfels: While it’s more popular in the summer for tubing the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, New Braunfels offers beautiful scenery, historic attractions, and family-friendly activities without the heavy spring break crowds.
- Rockport: A charming coastal town known for its serene beaches and excellent fishing spots. Rockport Beach is one of the cleanest in Texas and provides a peaceful alternative to busier beach towns.
Where Do College Students Go in Texas for Spring Break?
College students needing a lively spring break experience most often party at these Texas destinations:
- South Padre Island: This is the ultimate spring break destination for college students, with beach parties, concerts, and nightlife that draw thousands of young travelers every year.
- Austin: Known for its live music scene, outdoor activities, and nightlife, Austin is a popular choice for college students looking to enjoy spring break in an urban setting.
- Galveston: While Galveston is great for families, certain parts of the island attract college students looking to enjoy the beach, local bars, and events happening throughout each March.
- Port Aransas: This small beach town transforms into a spring break hotspot for college students, offering fun beachside gatherings and a laid-back atmosphere.
Tips for Planning a Texas Spring Break Trip
Book Early
Whether you’re traveling to a busy beach town or a quiet retreat, book accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals and locations.
Consider Travel Dates
If possible, plan your trip either before or after peak spring break weeks if you wish to avoid crowds and higher prices.
Check Local Events
Many Texas cities host special spring break events, so research what’s happening in your chosen destination to enhance your experience.
Pack Accordingly
Texas weather in March varies widely in each region of Texas. In the Hill Country, Gulf Coast, and South Plains regions, pack layers, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for exploring. In the rest of Texas regions, keep abreast of the March weather.
Plan for Traffic
Popular spring break destinations become congested, especially around major attractions. Plan for extra travel time and consider alternative routes.
Spring break in Texas offers a wealth of opportunities for families, college students, and travelers looking for fun, relaxation, or adventure. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of San Antonio, lounging on the beaches of Galveston, or seeking a quiet escape in the Texas Hill Country, there’s a perfect destination for everyone. By planning ahead and choosing the right spot, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable spring break experience in the Lone Star State.
Author: Kendall Davis
Author: Kendall Davis Company: Lumini Services Kendall currently lives on the shores of Lake Texoma in Texas. She traveled across two-thirds of the U.S. for many years camping at lakes, rivers, and three oceans before motels and hotels if at all possible, and she continuously saw God's presence in nature. Writing for Lakehub allows Kendall to share her experience with God's creations. https://kdavis1836.wixsite.com/luminiwrites