With the first of the bluebonnets approaching full bloom, Texans know spring is almost here. This means longer days, starry nights, and a much needed break are upon us all.
Many families are embracing Spring Break as a mini-getaway. This time of year, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are lessened, and the opportunities for relaxation abound.
Here are some great places to explore.
State Parks
If activities such as hiking, camping, horseback riding and caving appeal to your family’s sense of adventure, you’ll want to check out some of Texas’s best state parks. Dinosaur Valley, a short drive north of Fort Worth in Glen Rose, offers the opportunity to roam where the dinosaurs did along the banks of the Paluxy River. In San Antonio’s surrounding area, you can experience the deeps of Texas’s legendary caverns at Longhorn Cavern State Park or Kickapoo State Park. Most parks offer campgrounds and amenities.
Galveston Island
Experience Galveston’s rich history (did you know it is the site of the greatest natural disaster to ever occur in the United States?) and have plenty of fun learning and playing. Moody Gardens offers a spring break discount and invites your family to enjoy their aquarium and rainforest exhibits, the recently reopened Discovery Museum, movies in 3D/4D, and activities such as ropes courses and ziplines. Stay awhile in Galveston and get your waterpark fix with Schlitterbahn, an all-inclusive indoor water resort. For rollercoaster adventures, visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.
Texas Hill-Country
Leave the urban scene behind and head to the hills for a family retreat like no other. Dixie Dude Ranch in Bandera can take you through trails on horseback, give you a bunk to rest, and feed you a family-style meal. There’s a swimming pool and hot tub, on-site massage therapy, and accommodations range from new guest rooms to rustic cabins.
Whether you go inclusive or exploring, take a few days with your family this spring break to stop—and smell the bluebonnets.
Links
Dinosaur Valley — http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/dinosaur-valley
Longhorn– http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/longhorn-cavern
Kickapoo– http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/kickapoo-cavern/
Moody Gardens– http://www.moodygardens.com
Schlitterbahn– http://www.schlitterbahn.com
Dixie Dude Ranch– http://www.dixieduderanch.com
Pleasure Pier– https://www.tourtexas.com/attractions/536
Tour Texas– https://www.tourtexas.com
