In just a few short weeks, spring break will give everyone some time to unwind and prepare for the final months of the school year. Some people will take advantage of the break by baking in the sun and splashing around in refreshing ocean waves. Others will journey into the mountains to carve up the slopes. Some might travel far and wide to reunite with family and friends. However, if you do not have a big vacation planned or want to stay close to home, here are a few local ways to spend that time with family and friends and enjoy that precious time off from school.

1. Miranda Lambert in Concert

Country music star Miranda Lambert will perform at the American Airlines Center on March 12 to promote her most recent album, Platinum. Hits like “Mama’s Broken Heart,” “Over You,” and “Somethin’ Bad” are sure to strike a chord with Lambert’s fans. With special guests Justin Moore and Sunny Sweeney joining her, this will be one of the biggest concerts of the year.

2. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

If it is halfway through the break, and you begin experiencing academic withdrawal, stop by the Perot Museum downtown to quench your thirst for knowledge. Fun and learning mesh in a variety of unique and interactive exhibits designed to engage and immerse visitors. With large areas dedicated to everything from dinosaurs to outer space to the human body, there is something for everyone at the Perot Museum.

3. Arbor Hills

Explore the nature Plano has to offer at Arbor Hills. Numerous biking and walking trails weave through the trees, providing every workout with a scenic view. Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon jog or fun bike ride with friends, Arbor Hills has it all.

4. Reunion Tower

You are not a true Dallas/Fort Worth resident until you have paid a visit to Reunion Tower, one of the most recognizable buildings in the Dallas skyline due to its spherical shape. Perhaps even more interesting than the iconic exterior is the spinning restaurant that resides in the top of the tower. Visitors are given a constantly changing bird’s-eye view of the city as the floor slowly rotates during their meal.

5. Visit College Campuses

While this one might not apply to everyone, those who already know where they are attending college have the opportunity to get a sneak preview and prepare for the next few years. Sitting in on a class, taking a tour of the dorms and exploring the area around campus are just a few ways to get ahead of the game as you prepare for the next step in life.