As August arrives in the Lone Star State, you can feel the anticipation of the school year in the air. Two-a-days have started in football to prepare for the upcoming Friday Night Lights, marching bands are practicing for their epic halftime shows and the school fight song, and cheerleaders are perfecting lifts and big smiles as they get ready to cheer their teams on to victory. V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!!
But before you sharpen those pencils and pack those backpacks, there’s still time to make a few more Texas-sized memories with family and friends! Whether you’re craving last-minute adventure, simple pleasures, or a little Texas tradition, this back-to-school bucket list is your guide to squeezing every last drop out of summer.
1. Take a Dip in a Texas Swimming Hole
Where to Go
The Texas sun isn’t letting up anytime soon, so cool off the classic way! Visit iconic spots like Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs, Barton Springs Pool in Austin, or Blue Hole in Wimberley. If that’s too far to drive, check out your local city pool. There’s nothing like a swim to refresh your spirit before school starts.
2. Catch a Movie at a Drive-In Theater
Experience Classic Texas Nostalgia
Photo Credit – San Antonio Magazine
There’s something magical about watching a movie outdoors. The first drive-in I ever went to was with my church youth group. We drove over from the Texas town of Follett in the panhandle to Oklahoma, where we watched the first Star Wars. Yes, I’m that old.
Enjoy popcorn and soft drinks in the car or sitting on the tailgate of your truck, if allowed. Texas still boasts several old-school drive-in theaters. Try Stars & Stripes in Lubbock or New Braunfels or The Last Drive-In Picture Show in Gatesville for a night of family fun under the stars.
3. Visit a Waterpark or Amusement Park
Splash and Play
Photo Credit – Splash Kingdom
Make a splash or scream at one of Texas’s legendary parks. Whether it’s the thrilling slides at Schlitterbahn, the wave pools at Splash Kingdom, or the rides at Six Flags or Morgan’s Wonderland, finish August strong.
4. Go on a Food Adventure
Taste of Texas Summer
Texas summer is bursting with flavors. Track down the best snow cone or raspada stand in your town, try a new taco truck, or grab a scoop of Blue Bell’s latest flavor at home or at their headquarters in Brenham. Make it a family challenge to find your new favorite treat!
5. Enjoy a Backyard Picnic
Savor the Outdoors
Pack up a cooler with brisket sandwiches, watermelon salad, Texas sheet cake, or your favorite homemade fixins’. Spread out a blanket under a shady oak, play a few lawn games, and enjoy the simple pleasure of eating outdoors. While you’re together, plan out future trips in Texas. Get inspiration from How Big Is Texas, Travel Texas, and Tour Texas.
6. Explore a Texas State Park
Get Back to Nature
Hike the trails at Palo Duro Canyon, kayak at Inks Lake, or spot gators at Brazos Bend. Not sure where to start? Visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website for inspiration and pick a new spot to discover. I only have 12 more to go before I’ve visited all of them.
7. Shop Tax-Free Weekend (August 7–9)
Shop Local
Turn school prep into an event! During Texas’s Tax-Free Weekend, stock up on back-to-school clothing and supplies without paying sales tax. Make a day of it by supporting local shops, grabbing lunch out at a mom-and-pop restaurant, and enjoying one last summer shopping spree.
8. Take a Day Trip to a Fun Texas Town
Explore Something New
There’s always a new corner of Texas to discover. Having visited all 254 counties, I have found something interesting in all of them. Think Waxahachie’s gingerbread homes, birdwatching in the Rio Grande Valley, the antique shops in Gruene, the water activities in Rockport, or Marfa’s mysterious lights. Pick a town within driving distance and make some spontaneous memories.
9. Host a Family Game Night with Texas Games and Snacks
Beat the Heat Indoors
Beat the heat indoors with a Texas-style game night! Play 42 or dominoes, Texas hold ’em, Texas Trivia, or cornhole. You can serve up some of Texas’s favorite snacks like chips, salsa, and queso, Frito pie, and Buc-ee’s nuggets. Wash it all down with sweet tea, Dr Pepper, or Big Red. Or if you prefer a more adult beverage for the grownups, make it a Ranch Water, a Chilton, a frozen Margarita, or your favorite craft beer. It’s a low-key way to wind down summer together, Texas style.
10. Watch a Texas Sunset Together
End the Day the Right Way
Sometimes, the best moments are the simplest. Find a hilltop, a field, or a porch, bring out the lawn chairs, and soak in those big Texas skies as the sun goes down. Snap a photo or just savor the view. It’s a perfect way to mark the close of summer. Where’s your favorite place to see a Texas sunset?
No matter how you spend these last days of summer, Texas is full of adventures big and small. There’s always something new to explore together before the school bell tolls. What’s on your family’s back-to-school bucket list? Share your ideas in the comments!
Until next time from Texas…safe travels!