Getting the whole family organized for a vacation can be tricky. The good news is, staying local offers all the joys of fun out with the family, but with none of the hassle of making sure everyone packed a toothbrush.

Whether you’re an art buff or a nature lover, Dallas-Fort Worth is filled with engaging and unique DARTable spots to make your “staycation” experience one to remember.

Discover Art 

For art fans, Spring Break offers an opportunity to view some extraordinary works by famous artists. Luckily, North Texas has extensive collections to suit your need for more visually intriguing entertainment. Sample art and culture by catching an exhibit at the African American Museum (Green Line to Fair Park Station) or the Trammell & Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art (Red, Blue, Green or Orange line to St. Paul Station in Downtown Dallas).

For family-friendly and free hands-on activities, visit the Dallas Museum of Art (St. Paul Station) during the week of March 14-17. Interactive entertainment for creative types are often included in the free, general admission from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Other popular venues in the Arts District include the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

Enjoy Family Fun

The whole family will enjoy getting up close with a lion or make friends with a giraffe at the Dallas Zoo (Red Line to Dallas Zoo Station).

If you’re looking for an adventure under the sea, check out the Dallas World Aquarium in Downtown Dallas (Red, Blue, Green or Orange line to West End Station) or the Children’s Aquarium in Fair Park (Green Line to Fair Park Station).

Explore Outdoors Adventures

Soaking up the sun this spring is a must and. there are many DARTable spots perfect for enjoying the outdoors, including Klyde Warren Park (Red, Blue, Green or Orange line to St. Paul Station, then M-Line Trolley).

At the Trinity River Audubon Center (Green Line to Buckner Station, then Bus Route 466), you can explore five miles of trails through three ecosystems: wetland, forest and prairie. Want to experience the rain forest just off the Green Line? Stop by the Fair Park’s “urban oasis,” Texas Discovery Gardens, featuring the two-story Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium.

Branch Out

A staycation doesn’t have to mean your own backyard. Take the TRE west to Fort Worth for a fun day out at the beautiful Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Downtown offers just as much beauty in architecture at Sundance Square, and the masterpieces housed at the Kimbell Art Museum, Amon Carter Museum of Art and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Check out more fun things to see and do at DART.org/DARTable or DART.org/specialevents.

For trip planning assistance, visit DART.org/travelagent.