Though a trip to the beach is always a welcome getaway, we can’t argue with the affordability and ease of a great staycation. If you’re planning to spend your spring break in Dallas this year, there are plenty of events to keep the family busy from March 11-15, including structured day camps for kids and free educational programming to explore at your leisure.
It wouldn’t be spring break without the exceptional programming provided each year by the Dallas Museum of Art. Kicking off on March 12, this year’s events will focus on nature-themed art-making — think classes on floral collage-drawing and outdoor sketching in the Fleischner Courtyard — plus story time, guided tours and gallery activities geared towards families. All events are free to the public, and most take place in the early afternoon.
If you prefer structured activities to fill up your kiddo’s week, it’s not too late to register him or her for a week-long Discovery Camp, organized by the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Choose from two options this year: “Storybook Science” for Pre-K children with morning (9 a.m.-noon) and afternoon (1-4 p.m.) options or “Medieval Adventures” for K-4 children with full-day option (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Prices start at $225, and discounts are available for museum members.
The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: Samurai Collection will also be hosting its own spring break programming starting March 12. Families can enjoy free activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., including a thrilling samurai-themed scavenger hunt and the unique chance to try on samurai armor for yourself. In addition, the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth will be on-site from Tuesday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., to host free storytelling and calligraphy workshops.
If your child wants to be where the wild things are, check out the Wild Adventures Spring Break Camp at the Dallas Zoo. These single-day camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are open to children Pre-K to 5th grade. Each day, campers will explore a new area of the Dallas Zoo via a guided tour, test their art skills with fun animal-themed crafts and learn more about zoology from the zoo’s certified educators. Camps start at $45. Make sure to register soon if you’re interested — programs are selling out fast.
The Nasher Sculpture Center will also be throwing a spring break celebration this year by offering free admission March 12-17from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum’s programming will focus on the 2019 Nasher Prize Laureate, German contemporary artist Isa Genzken. Interactive resources will be available for families who want to explore the big ideas presented in Genzken’s groundbreaking work.
Lastly, if you’re looking for one more camp option for your child, don’t miss the Little Farmers Spring Break Camp, hosted by the Dallas Farmers Market. The camp is open to kids ages 4-8 with only 10 spots available per session, so you can expect an intimate learning environment for your child as he or she explores the themes of nature and food. Camps run March 13-15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and include garden-play and farming activities. Choose from a three-day option for $100 or a $50/day drop-in option.
How will you spend spring break with your family this year? Share your plans with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
