Growing up in the south, summer temps can have long stretches of high temperatures for days at a time. In fact, Dallas averages 17 100-degree days a year. Staying home may be the answer for some, but for the rest of us, we would go stir crazy. Here are some fun and creative ways to beat the heat without breaking the bank.

Ice Skating at the Galleria

Image of the ice skating rink in Galleria Dallas with the annual Christmas tree in the center.  Skaters skate around the tree while others watch from the balconies.
Galleria Dallas Skating Rink

13350 Dallas Parkway, Suite #200, Dallas, TX 75240

How better to beat the heat than at an ice skating rink? Public skate times vary, so check their website.

Galleria Dallas opened in 1982 with Olympic Champion Dorthy Hamill performing on the new rink. According to their website, since then, a number of other Olympic athletes have performed on this rink more than any other in Texas. During their public skate times, they charge $12 for admission and $5 for skate rental, then you can skate as long as you would like. Just remember, there is a no “in and out” policy.

Fort Worth Cultural District

Modern Art Museum

If you are someone who enjoys museums and food, the Fort Worth Cultural District is for you. With five museums within walking distance of each other in a park-like setting, there is plenty to see and do. While there, you can enjoy food from around the country. Check out their website to see current events and installations.

AT&T Stadium Tour

AT&T Stadium

One AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Tour types and prices vary, check their website for more information.

Regardless if you are a sports fan or an art fan, there is something for you at AT&T Stadium. According to their website, you can spend an afternoon on the field throwing a ball, or admire museum-quality works of art displayed throughout the stadium. If that does not interest you, you can also check their website for upcoming events like concerts from Garth Brooks, The Weeknd, and Bad Bunny to car shows. Just remember, the events will cost you more

Perot Museum

Perot Museum

2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201

The Natural museum of science and history is more than meets the eye. This museum fosters a fun learning environment for all ages, making it one of the best museums in Dallas. The Perot Museum also holds adult and community programs, hosts a wide range of summer activities, and holds exclusive private events.

Be sure to check their website for the next upcoming event.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

If you want to have some fun in the sun and stay cool, try Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. You can choose from water slides to wading pools, and even give surfing a try in the Surf Lagoon. No matter your water comfort level, there is something for everyone.

Fort Worth Stock Yards

Visit the historic Fort Worth Stock Yards. There are plenty of places to beat the heat. Eat and drink at the legendary White Elephant Saloon, or Cattlemen’s, and two-step at the amazing Billy Bob’s. Shop for your western duds at Mule Alley and see a live cattle drive twice a day. Check out events and other places to eat and shop.

Texas Rangers

Globe Life Park

1000 Ballpark Way Suite 400, Arlington, TX 76011

Grab a ticket and head on down to Globe Life Park, this indoor venue is perfect for those hot summer days in Texas. Better yet grab a beer and some nachos while enjoying the game with a friend. Not a baseball fan? No problem. Globe Life also happens to be next door to a popular two-story bar, Texas Live!

Prices Vary, be sure to check their website for updates on game days and additional information

Dallas World Aquarium

Dallas World Aquarium

1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202

The Dallas World Aquarium has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages. Some fun facts about the aquarium include a three-level rainforest ecosystem and allow visitors to watch Dallas crocodiles be fed every Saturday. That is only the tip of the iceberg at this aquarium. With 464 animals that represent 248 different species, there’s sure to be something exciting to see.

Check their website for more.

Top Golf

Top Golf

8787 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75231

Locations and prices vary, check their website for information

This classic hangout spot has food, drinks, and of course golf. Don’t worry, this isn’t your traditional country club affair. Top golf is an interactive golf game that can be enjoyed with a group of friends in a fun environment. Dust off your skills and get ready to channel your inner Tiger Woods. Did we mention it’s shaded? No need to worry about the texas heat ruining your game.

Paddle the River

Paddling the Trinity Near Downtown Dallas

Most people don’t remember that there is a river just a mile west of Downtown Dallas! In fact, the Trinity River stretches 710 miles from the Red River to the Gulf of Mexico making it the longest river in a single state. The best way to explore the river is from the water. Grab a kayak and paddle part of the Trinity River Paddling Trail – a 130-mile-long National Recreation Trail with 21 launch sites in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Pack your phone in a dry bag to snap some great views of Downtown Dallas as you slowly make your way downstream. 

Tacos and Margarita Tour

4925 Greenville Avenue
Suite 255 Dallas, TX 75206

Four stops, award-winning tacos, and margaritas all summer long. What’s not to love? One of the many Dallas Bites and Sights Tours and named the #1 tour by the Dallas observer. A motorcart will take you to enjoy plenty of tacos washed down with excellent margaritas. As an added bonus a “Taco Trivia,” prize is included. Grab some friends and a ticket for this fun summer tour around Dallas, TX.

Prices and times vary, check their website for more information

Favorite Indoor Places

  • The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
  • The George W. Bush Center
  • Dallas Museum of Art
  • American Airlines Center
  • NorthPark Center

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Cool Dog

Your furry and feathered friends need to beat the heat too. Protect them from the sun, offer plenty of water, limit time outside, and never, NEVER leave them in a car, even for a few moments.

Beat the Heat with Indulgences

Snow Cone

This brutal heat is a great reason to give yourself permission for some sweet treats. Indulge in all the ice cream, snow cones, and smoothies you want, all in the name of cooling yourself down.

Wherever you go and whatever you do stay hydrated, stay cool and enjoy. Remember, even the Texas heat eventually ends.