No more pencils, no more books, no more teacher's dirty looks. While school isn’t officially out for the session, spring break couldn’t have come at a better time. A much-needed bout of freedom as the restlessness of spring fever sets in; it’s a time to reset and recharge to be able to power through the rest of the year. Whether you’re the parent of a child in school, looking to do a little spring cleaning on your social life, or just a community member antsy to enjoy the beautiful weather, March has a number of ways to get outside and celebrate the season.
For the Adrenaline Junkies – Go on an Airboat Ride
Feel the wind in your hair as you scout swamp creatures on an open-air pontoon charter. Fly through the bayou as you crane your eyes looking for gators amongst the stoic cypress forest and murky swamps. Part adventure tour part eco-tour, it’s a wild ride that gives you an overview of the area’s unique biodiversity and how the region’s habitat helped shape its environment.
For the Water Babies - Canoe or Kayak
Family owned and operated for 25 years, Sharp’s rents kayaks and canoes for $30 a day. With 21 miles of paddling trails in the Big Thicket, you could either make it a strenuous arm work out or a relaxing float trip. Pack a picnic and relax amongst the wildlife on the shores taking in the scenery.
For Those Looking for a New Hobby – Try Birdwatching
When school’s out and you have nothing but time, there’s no better time to try birdwatching. Spring migration peaks in March/April, which means the skies are buzzing with birds. Cattail Marsh has free binoculars to borrow, and the Wetlands Education Center is happy to instruct you on what species are common and what to look out for.
For Outdoor Lovers – Find Your New Favorite Trail
With mild weather and temperatures, there’s no better season for hiking and biking, and the Big Thicket has over 40 miles of nature to explore. Whether you want a quick jaunt through the woods or an overnight campout, routes range from 0.3 miles to 18 miles round-trip for varying degrees of athleticism. Find the trek that appeals to you on AllTrails, which has detailed reviews and descriptions.
For Those that Love the Kitchen – Visit the Farmer’s Market
Beyond spring cleaning, a week off school or work means finally finding that extra time to cook, bake, and enjoy home life along with the therapeutic effects of time in the kitchen. Snag some goods from the farmer’s market and go to town. All the produce has all been grown within a 150-mile radius of the city so you can feel good shopping local and supporting the community.
For Those with Kids Home from School – Colorado Canyon
A fun family outing to make lasting memories, treat the kids to a day at Colorado Canyon. With mini-golf, laser tag, and an arcade all under one roof, there’s an activity or attraction for the little ones to the teenagers. And after a long, arduous year, they earned it.
For Those Needing Some Zen – Yoga and Spa
If you need some time to reset and recharge, start the day by clearing your mind with a relaxing yoga class before heading to Rosa'Vita Spa-aah for some much-needed pampering. Because Self-Care Spring Break > Self-Care Sunday, am I right?
For Those Who Want to Keep Learning – Make it a Museum Day
For those ultra-ambitious students who actually like school, take the education outside the classroom. Most of Beaumont’s best museums are free or less than $5. You can learn about the history of the oil industry at Spindletop or the Texas Energy Museum, get innovative at the Edison Museum, or get cultured at AMSET (the Art Museum of Southeast Texas).
For Those Looking for a Thrill – Visit Gator Country
Part rescue facility, part adventure park, Gator Country is the place to get hands-on with the real locals. Home to over 400 reptiles, kids can hold, feed, and swim with gators and other creatures.
For Those Who Like Freebies – Signup for the Birdie Passport Program
Beaumont’s Birdie Passport is the way to play tourist in your own town. A scavenger hunt that will take you all over the city, collect a stamp from at least 10 of the 16 stops, and you’ll get to take home an adorable stuffed birdie. Eight of the stops are free, so you could spend less than $10 for a whole day of activities.
For Those Looking to Get Back to Nature – Head to Tyrell Park
Home to the free Botanical Gardens, Cattail Marsh, and the horse stables, you could hoof it in the morning before exploring the beautiful flora and fauna in the afternoon.