Summer is around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your vacation. Texas is a popular tourist destination. But while most people opt for the classic sights in bustling cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, or an escape to the famous Big Bend National Park, it doesn’t mean you have to do so as well.
Don’t worry, we’ve done the research and checked out what’s trending these days. On this list, you will find the 7 best places to visit in Texas in summer 2024, to make your stay at the Lone Star State a blast. Here they are.
Horseshoe Bay Resort, Horseshoe Bay
Located on the shores of the lake Lyndon B. Johnson, you will find a fantastic holiday retreat – Horseshoe Bay Resort. It features golf courses, an on-site spa, and a swimming pool. Plus you can choose from various luxurious accommodation options, including spacious rooms, waterfront villas, or condos.
However, what makes the resort truly special is its top-class service. The staff is known to be very nice from the minute you arrive (and probably even from before), the facilities are clean, not to mention the delicious food. Just try it yourself, it’s easily reachable from both Austin and San Antonio.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is another destination for a refreshing dip. But this time, you don’t have to travel far if you’re staying in Austin, as it’s located right in the middle of the city.
It’s fed from underground springs, which makes it very clean and suitable for year-round swimming. It also provides a home to the rare Barton Springs Salamander. They often hide under rocks or in algae but be careful, they’re endangered.
Not much of a swimmer? Don’t worry, during the day, there are lifeguards on duty. Other facilities include restrooms and changing rooms. Note that to help preserve the beauty of the pool, you’re not allowed to bring food.
Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort
Are you looking for the ideal beach camping resort in Texas? We might know one! It’s called Gulf Waters Beach Front RV Resort and it’s set near Corpus Christi in Port Aransas.
It offers 158 RV sites with pads and picnic areas, some of which feature pond-view patios, palapas, and pergolas. There is also a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, and an activity center.
What’s more, the resort has its own 600-foot-long beachfront – you won’t feel crowded at the beach even on the hottest day of the year. And to move around the resort, you can use golf carts.
Splashway Water Park – Best Rated Water Park in TX
Every parent knows that traveling with kids can be rather demanding. Luckily, there is a place that will keep them entertained so you can relax – Splashway Water Park. It’s not just a regular water park, it’s actually the best-rated water park in Texas on Google Maps.
You and your kids can look forward to water slides, rides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and many more attractions. Toddlers won’t come short either. For them, there are shallow pools and splash pads. To refuel, you can choose from a number of eateries and food, from Tex-Mex to pizza.
In case you feel like one day might not be enough, there is a campground with RV and tent sites, cottages, and cabin rentals – perfect for a family weekend or a camping trip full of fun.
Marriott Marquis Houston for Summer Events and Parties
If you want to treat yourself to a stay in a fancy hotel, there is no better option than Marriott Marquis Houston. Not only does it boast comfortable rooms with modern amenities and city views, but there is also a spa and world-class dining opportunities. On top of that, you can take advantage of bike rental, yoga classes, and even personalized fitness training.
The highlight of Marriott Marquis Houston, though, is definitely the rooftop lazy river in the shape of Texas and the infinity pool. Sip on a delish cocktail and let the panoramic vistas take your breath away. All that while being close to all Houston attractions.
Hamilton Pool
It’s one of those scorching hot days and you would appreciate a dip, but everything is either too far or the pools are busy. Get ready this summer and reserve an afternoon at Hamilton Pool, a natural preserve with a cliff, beach, and a little waterfall near Austin.
It will take you about an hour to get there from the city center. You can leave your car at the spacious parking lot. Then, you have to take a short hike to the pool, which is about a quarter-mile long.
Don’t forget to check swimming updates before you go, as the preserve sometimes gets threatened by bacteria, which means entering the water is forbidden.
Garner State Park
Do you like to spend your vacation reconnecting with nature and engaging in outdoor activities? In that case, Garner State Park is the spot for you. It’s set by the emerald-green Frio River, where you can take a swim. It also boasts diverse hiking trails and picturesque views.
But wait, that’s not all. Apart from hiking and swimming, you can enjoy kayaking, tubing, birdwatching, or playing mini golf. And if you’re staying for the night, the area is known for excellent stargazing. Both campsites and cabins are available, and there is a little shop in case you forgot anything.