What makes Dallas special is that there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer city glamour, nature excursions, or just really delicious food, there is something for you!
If you enjoy spending your days outdoors, Dallas offers a variety of exciting activities and experiences during the summer. So next time you are looking to get away from your laptop, or just even out of the house, try these four fun outdoor activities in Dallas!
Paddleboard and Kayak on the Scenic White Rock Lake
If you are looking for a nature fix without getting too far out of the city, White Rock Lake might just be the perfect destination for you. Take in the cool lake breeze and views of downtown while paddling in kayaks and paddleboards from White Rock Paddle Co. If lake sports aren’t your thing, you can walk the trails, catch fish, or watch the fireflies as the sun sets over the city.
Enjoy a Rooftop Happy Hour with Views of the City
Dallas gets hot – like really hot during the summer, but luckily there are a bunch of great restaurant rooftops with happy hour specials and gorgeous city views! Whether you are looking for a place to meet up with friends, an after-work drink or simply need a place to cool off and unwind, Dallas’ array of rooftop restaurants and bars is the perfect summer hangout. Each one has a different atmosphere, view and attraction, but check out some of these popular rooftops to get started!
Walk the Katy Trail and Stop at Ice House
If you want to be outside, exercise and enjoy a reward at the end of it, the Katy Trail is perfect for you! The Katy Trail is a privately maintained public park that extends 3.5 miles from SMU at its north end to the American Airlines Center in the south. During any sunny weekend, you are sure to see people (and pups) walking, biking, and jogging while enjoying the gorgeous trees and flowers that line the trail.
Right off the trail, in Uptown, stands the Katy Trail Ice House. Stop in for an ice-cold margarita or Summer Beer after a long walk in the Dallas heat. Their giant patio is the ultimate weekend spot to enjoy some good Texas BBQ and over 50 beers on tap.
Listen to Live Music at Outdoor Venues
Support local bands and artists at some of Dallas’ most popular outdoor venues. The Rustic, a Texas-themed restaurant bar, boasts a large outdoor space equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and an outdoor concert area. The restaurant’s weekend concerts are the best after-dinner entertainment and free of cost!
Experience local music on a retro outdoor patio complete with a treehouse, food trucks and trailer bars at Truckyard. Self-proclaimed as an “adult playground”, Truckyard offers fun drink specials, a variety of food truck options and live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.