Beyond the Metroplex: Summer Escapes for Dallasites

Fredericksburg, TX | Silvio Ligutti/Shutterstock.com

As we begin the month of August, the dog days are officially upon us. The final notes of the symphony we call summer rise in a resounding crescendo of extensive heat, before the leaves begin to fall and the Cowboys begin their inevitable quest for a first round playoff exit. With so much on the horizon, there is no better time to venture beyond the beautiful confines of the Dallas Fort-Worth area and explore the rest of what Texas has to offer. Here are a few of our favorite summer vacation destinations for Dallasites to check out.

Fredricksburg, TX

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country roughly 4 hours from Dallas. Known as the “Napa of Texas,” it is home to an abundance of world-class wineries and vineyards that offer tours and tastings, making it a wine lover’s paradise. If you are the kind of person who prefers a cold stein of beer to a cold glass of Sancerre, there is no need to panic, as it has several renowned biergartens as well. Historic Main Street is lined with grand old buildings crafted in the mold of 19th century German architecture that house boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and restaurants. Though there are plenty of reasons to visit during any season, visiting in the summer means you can go peach picking at the numerous orchards throughout the charming town. 

Corpus Christi, TX

A five hour drive from Dallas, Corpus Christi is the perfect spot for a weekend by the ocean. Resting along the Gulf, there are many scenic beaches and barrier islands, such as Padre Island, to explore. The vibe of the city is smooth and steady, like the breeze that blows through its salt-water scented air. Known as the “Wind Capital of Texas,” you will find ample opportunities to partake in sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Fishing is also incredibly popular and accessible, with the Bob Hall Pier offering plenty of space on land, and extensive intracoastal canals and bays providing plenty of space for boaters and kayakers. For a quintessential Texas beach day, it does not get much better than Corpus.

Glen Rose, TX

Just an hour and a half away from Dallas, Glen Rose holds a title that is equally as unique as it is prestigious: “The Dinosaur capital of Texas.” The charming town that stands today was once home to an array of prehistoric prowlers, and they have the footprints to prove it! Dinosaur Valley State Park is a gorgeous natural trail that spans 1,500 acres, and offers visitors the chance to see real, 113 million year old dinosaur footprints that are preserved within the riverbed of the Paluxy River. 

If you love dinosaurs, but hold an equal affinity for living creatures, then the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center has you covered. It offers a 9.5 mile safari, where you can watch free roaming herds of over 1,000 species, including giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. The town of Glen Rose contains many enjoyable restaurants and shops, with their Main Street serving as a lovely place for an afternoon stroll.