Warm weather, lazy mornings, long lunches and wildflower sightings. Who doesn’t look forward to spring break in Texas? But if this fabulous time of year has somehow managed to sneak up on you, no worries. We’ve got plenty of ideas for staycationers, last minute moms and dads, and anyone else who’s looking to have a ton of fun during spring break in Arlington, TX (and some hotel and travel package deals, too). Take a look:
Bowling, arcade games, rock climbing and laser tag—plus a restaurant and bar for Mom and Dad. Indulge Spring Break pricing with the “Morning Madness!” deal that lasts from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. M-F and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday. It includes unlimited bowling and shoes, a $10 game card, Jumbo Hot Dog and 16oz soft drink. The “Playcation!” package is M-F from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and includes unlimited: bowling and shoes, laser tag, putt-putt golf, a $10 game card, jumbo hot dog and 16 oz soft drink. The wall-to-wall play goes on daily until 10 p.m. or later at one of Arlington’s most fun-stuffed destinations. See website for pricing.
2: Arlington Parks & Recreation Camp
This super-fun and affordable camp has basketball, skating, crafts and much more, and is open to kids ages 5 through 13. Hours: 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. , March 14-18. Drop-ins welcome. Cost: $35 per day, $115 for the week.
3: Arlington Public Library Camps
Messy Play Storytime, a petting zoo, a robotics seminar and a filmmaking workshop are just a few of the activities planned for the Arlington Public Library’s Week of Play and Teen Tech Week. See the website for a camp schedule. Pre-registration required for some sessions. Admission: Free.
4: Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame
A one-of-a-kind destination for history fans, bowling fans, or anyone who just loves learning new stuff. Hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays from 9:30 am – 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p. m. Admission: $7.50 (kids and seniors) or $9.50 (adults).
The mighty UTA Mavs take on Texas Tech at what’s sure to be a super-exciting game on Tuesday, March 15 at 7 p.m. at Globe Life Park. Call 817-272-9595 for ticket information.
6: Crystal Canyon Natural Area
You won’t be sorry you visited this gorgeous and intriguing outdoor destination, featuring 38 acres of virtually untouched nature. Open daily 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission: FREE
Explore Arlington’s past and get the scoop on local legends at this must-do destination for anyone who’s crazy about history. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission: $3.
Ice skating during spring break in Texas? Why not? Public skating sessions are held daily—see the website for specific times. Cost: $7 for kids, $8 for adults, $3 for skate rentals. Kids 5 and under skate free.
9: K-1 Speed
Indulge your need for speed at this high performance indoor go-kart race track. Open daily until 10 p.m. or later, see the website for specific times. Cost: Begins at about $19.99 a race (and a $6 annual license is also required). See website for pricing details, package deals and promotions.
10: Kayaking on Lake Arlington
Take in scenic views and float your cares away on the Lake Arlington Discover Kayak experience. Kids welcome! Hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pricing: Begins at $20.
11: The Planetarium At UT-Arlington
Examine heavenly bodies and enjoy stunning full-dome theatrical shows at one of Arlington’s most unique destinations. SPRING BREAK BONUS: The planetarium is offering free admission on Saturday, March 12 for Museum Day Live, an all-day special event; and extended spring break hours March 14-18. See the website for particulars. Cost: $3-$6. Kids 3 and under get in free.
12: Picnicking In The Park
If you can’t remember the last time you enjoyed a picnic on a lovely afternoon, then one of Arlington’s 90-plus parks and outdoor spaces has your name on it. Bonus tip: Stop by Whole Foods to pick up some gourmet organic treats for your picnic basket! Hours: Most Arlington parks are open daily 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission: FREE
13: Putt-Putt Golf
They call it Putt-Putt, but we call it perfect-perfect for date nights, family get-togethers, and fun outings with friends. Plus, there’s a giant fake zebra. Who doesn’t dig a giant fake zebra? Hours: Open daily until 10 p.m. or later. Admission: Begins at $7.99 SPRING BREAK BONUS: Putt-Putt is offering a licensed spring break camp for kids ages 5-13. Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., March 14-18. Cost: $200. Call 817-467-6565 for details.
14: River Legacy Parks/Living Science Center
Hike, bike, kayak, picnic and play in this stunning 1,300-acre oasis on the banks of the Trinity River—and also spend some time in the Living Science Center, a delightful place for kids or anybody who loves learning about nature. Park Hours: Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Living Science Center Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: Free
15: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
It’s DFW’s top destination for the weird, bizarre, and fascinating—not to mention the only place you can take a selfie with a wax Taylor Swift. Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. (weekdays) or 6 p.m. (weekends). Tickets: Begin at $8.99 for kids and $18.99 for adults.
An Arlington spring break tradition for more than 50 years. Enjoy world-class thrill rides, family rides, live shows and Pink Things. You gotta have a Pink Thing. SPRING BREAK BONUS: Season pass holders can be the first to try the New Revolution Virtual Reality Coaster, an incredible 360-degree visual experience synced to the action of a classic roller coaster ride. See the park’s website for deal details, discounts and special offers.
One of Arlington’s best-kept secrets, featuring 58 acres of untouched nature and dramatic views. Open: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Admission: FREE
18: Sunday Brunch at Blue Mesa Grill
A ginormous spread of Southwestern-flavored favorites, plus Mimosas, a taco bar and an omelet station? Yes, please! Hours: Sundays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $22 for adults, $7 for kids, free for five and under.
19: Spa Getaway At The Sanford House Inn & Spa
Say “adios” to the boss, the kids, or both and head to this charming luxury spa retreat located in downtown Arlington. Day and overnight packages are equally available—and if you stay for dinner you won’t regret it. See website for pricing, packages, and appointment and room availability.
Get warmed up for Opening Day and a winning 2016 season with a behind-the-scenes tour of one the world’s premiere ballparks. Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $7-$14.
21: Theatre Arlington Spring Break Camp
Kids ages 6 through 12 get to test their acting chops and log a little on-stage time at one of Arlington’s leading performing arts venues. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 14-18. Cost: $250. Pre-registration required.
22: The Trinity Trails Geocaching Adventure
Discover hidden gems, historically significant locations and some of the most popular spots along the banks of the Trinity River. Perfect for families looking for something out-of-the-ordinary, educational and fun. Cost: FREE
It’s a color explosion at the gallery’s latest exhibit, which takes a look at the madcap world of prominent San Antonio artist John Hernandez, who passed away last year. Open: Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m. See website for parking info. Admission: FREE
24: Urban Air
This 25,000 square foot trampoline park knows how to put the “spring” in spring break. Open daily, with late night hours on Friday and Saturday. All ages and fitness levels can participate. Admission: Begins at $12 an hour for kids ages 6 and up and adults. Check out the park’s website for coupons and specials.
25: Village Creek Historical Area
Fish, bike, picnic and relax in this tranquil green space, which is also the site of the earliest pre-historic and Native American settlements in the area. Open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m . Admission: FREE
