With summer getting closer and closer to an end, now is the time to take a day trip or three before getting back into work mode. We made it easier for you and researched where to go and what to do. Here are some of our favorites to get you started. You only have to decide which direction you want to go. north, south, east, or west.
North
If north is the direction you want to take, then you have one more decision: which road to take. Whether you decide to take Interstate 35 or Highway 75, the final destination at an Oklahoma casino is guaranteed. Here are some things you can do going up or coming back if you decide to take I-35.
Lake Lewisville
What better way to embrace the Texas heat than to have a lake day? Lake Lewisville, one of the more popular lakes in north texas, offers weekly activities for all ages. Ranging from swim activities for kids, pilates on paddleboards for moms, and even boat parties. An especially unique event the lake hosts every full moon is a “watch party” that includes food, games, and paddle boards so participants may paddle at night to see the moon reflect off the water. They also offer plenty of yacht rentals for those who want nothing more than a calm lake day. So go, have a classic lake day, and don’t forget to bring your friends and family to enjoy the fun.
Lavender Ridge Farms
As you continue north, stop by the Lavender Ridge Farms to either pick lavender or stop in the restaurant and taste some. About an hour’s drive from Dallas, guests can walk through and view various gardens, including the lavender fields, and cut bunches of lavender during the blooming season. While there, stop by the cafe and try something sweet or savory infused with lavender. If you are not that adventurous, you can dip your toes in with a taste of their lavender lemonade or iced tea.
South
Lake Whitney State Park
Located in Whitney, TX, Lake Whitney State Park is just a short hour and a half drive. On your way down or back, you venture a little farther south and stop in Waco (see below) to enjoy lunch or dinner. This is the place to visit if anything outdoors is your ideal day trip. They have plenty of activities on and off the lake. From fishing and swimming to hiking and biking. Check out their interactive trail maps to plan your route through this beautiful state park.
Waco
Situated on the Brazos River and about two hours south of Dallas is the city of Waco. For those thrill seekers, it offers a BSR cable park. This park is famous for its “Royal Flush Slides” that send riders a few feet into the air before dunking them into the crisp water below. They also offer cable surfing or for a more relaxed day, check out their lazy river. For a more relaxed visit, the popular Magnolia Market offers retail centers, a variety of restaurants and bakeries, and fun events. Oh, and did I mention Waco is home to the famous soda Dr Pepper? Now that’s an opportunity no Texan can pass up. If you have the time, take a tour through the Dr Pepper museum where you get a free Dr Pepper in their Soda Fountain.
East
Tyler
Known as the “Rose Capitol of America,” Tyler is a charming town with plenty to offer. Make sure to visit the popular Rose Garden and museum, which displays their award-winning roses. Be sure to visit in October when Tyler hosts their annual Rose Festival! There is more to Tyer than roses; they even have a unique Tiger creek animal sanctuary. If you’re a tiger king fan, then this refuge center is a must-see. They rescue big cats and attempt to educate their guest about these large animals while keeping them safe and preserving their futures. On your next trip to Tyler remember to stop and smell the roses, or even better, stop to see the tigers.
Jefferson
As you are approaching the Texas/Louisiana border and slightly north of Marshall, Texas, you will find the historic town of Jefferson. The downtown area is reminiscent of its glory days with antique shops, original brick streets, and horse-drawn carriage tours, and you can also take a trip on the bayou that runs through. If you are into the historical aspects, you can visit one of the museums or go for a ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway. If you need to get your animal petting fix, visit the Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park and feed the animals as you drive through this 125-acre safari.
Terrell
Ham’s Orchards is about a 90-minute drive from Dallas east in Terrell. One of the state’s first peach orchards, Ham Orchards offers peaches, strawberries, tomatoes, an assortment of jams and preserves, fabulous ice cream, fudge, cider, pecans, and so much more. Save time and appetite for the Eddie Deen BBQ in the pavilion. Open Monday-Saturday until mid-August; check before you head out.
West
Fort Worth
You cant visit Dallas without visiting its neighboring city of Fort Worth. It’s always a good time in Fort Worth when the rodeo is in town; bring on the cowboys! Between the Stock Yards, Bass Hall performances, and plenty of restaurants, there is always something to do. Not to mention all the amazing shopping Fort Worth offers, including custom-made cowboy boots and hats. So dust off those boots, or buy some in town, and have some old fashion Texas fun- p.s don’t forget the ranch water.
Glen Rose
Just an hour and a half drive from the SMU campus, Glen Rose offers many things you can do regardless of your interests. There is the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, where you can feed emus, zebras, and giraffes from the comfort of your car. Glen Rose is also home to the famous Dinosaur State Park, a small valley filled with various fossils and dinosaur footprints. There is also a section with life-size dinosaur statues and fossil digging activities for the kids! Of course, be sure to visit the gift shop before you go. If you want to get some water activities in while you are here, you can visit Big Rocks Park to climb, explore and play on unusually large rocks. Some of these rocks are in shallow water areas where you can splash around or float and take in the sights.
Mineral Wells
Two hours and thirty minutes from Dallas, Mineral Wells offers some unique attractions. For starters, make sure to bring a bottle to taste the best natural beverage texas has to offer, mineral water! Straight from the well itself and said by Ed Disumke to hold “magical healing properties.” Don’t miss the famous Crazy Water Co. bottling plant, founded in 1881 and the first bottler in Mineral Wells.
Before You Go
This time of year is unpredictable, with long stretches of heat and no rain. So before you head in any direction, make sure to check the Texas A&M Forest Service webpage for any wildfire dangers in the areas you want to visit.
