{Texas Summer Bucket List: Dallas/Fort Worth Edition}

I know that according to the school calendar, summer may be winding down... but if you’ve spent any amount of time in Texas, then you know...summer is far from over around here! In fact, we’ve still got weeks (and maybe even months!) of sunshine, heat, and blue skies ahead of us.

If you're local to the Dallas/Fort Worth area (or just visiting!), there’s no shortage of things to do that scream Texas charm and family fun. I’ve rounded up a bucket list of my favorite summer must-dos, from waterparks and drive-ins to cowboy culture and Instagram-worthy murals. Grab your sweet tea, and your comfiest sandals, and let’s make the most of this Texas summer!

Float the Lazy River at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Grand Prairie, TX
Beat the Texas heat indoors! This place has slides, a wave pool, and one of the longest indoor lazy rivers in the state.
👉 Pro Tip: Book weekday tickets online for fewer crowds.

Catch a Movie at Coyote Drive-In

Fort Worth, TX
A summer night under the stars with popcorn, blankets, and a great movie lineup? Yes, please.
👉 Pro Tip: Bring lawn chairs and bug spray!

Day Trip to Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose, TX (just outside DFW)
Wade in the river, hike scenic trails, and step in real dinosaur footprints!
👉 Pro Tip: Bring water shoes and plenty of sunscreen — the rocks get hot!

Visit Ham Orchards

📍 Terrell, TX

Peach ice cream, fresh fruit picking, BBQ, and adorable photo ops — this orchard is a summer staple!

👉 Pro Tip: Grab a jar of their peach butter and sit on the patio with a cone of fresh peach ice cream. Summer bliss!

Splash Around at NRH2O Family Water Park

📍 North Richland Hills, TX
Perfect for families with little ones and thrill-seekers alike. Lots of slides, a lazy river, and wave pool.
👉 Pro Tip: Buy your tickets online and bring a cooler (yep, they allow outside food!).

Go Swimming at Burger’s Lake

📍 Fort Worth, TX
A spring-fed lake with diving boards, slides, and a sandy beach area — it’s old-school and fun!
👉 Pro Tip: It’s cash-only at the gate, and weekends get busy. Go early or on a weekday!

Explore Hawaiian Falls Waterpark

📍 Multiple Locations in DFW (Mansfield, The Colony, Roanoke)
A classic summer outing with rides, splash zones, and lazy rivers. Family-friendly and more affordable than bigger parks.
👉 Pro Tip: Look for weekday deals and season pass discounts — they’re often worth it.

Attend a Texas Rangers Game at Globe Life Field

📍 Arlington, TX
A/C + baseball = summer done right. Plus, kids love the in-park entertainment!
👉 Pro Tip: Friday night games often include fireworks.

Visit the Frisco RoughRiders Lazy River Ballpark

📍 Frisco, TX
A baseball game with a lazy river? Yes, it’s real! Swim while watching the game.
👉 Pro Tip: Book in advance — tickets for the lazy river section go fast!

Attend a Free Summer Movie in the Park
📍 Cities across DFW host these!
Bring a blanket, cooler, and enjoy movies under the stars.
👉 Pro Tip: Check local city websites for schedules — most are on Friday nights.

Texas summers are what memories are made of ...sun, sweat, and soul-filling fun. Whether you’re keeping cool at a waterpark, exploring an orchard, or taking in a baseball game, the DFW area has something for everyone. I hope this list helps you savor the season and find beauty in both the big adventures and the small, still moments.

💬 What’s on your Texas summer bucket list? Share your must-do DFW favorites in the comments below or tag me on Instagram @hallaroundtexas!

Here’s to the backroads, small-town squares, and hidden gems that make Texas worth the drive...see y’all on the next Texas Tuesday! 🌵🏘️✨