Summer is on the horizon, a bright bulb that is pulling us all through the rest of the semester. Many students are already making plans- whether they be internships, summer school, family vacations or full-fledged-big-kid jobs. Without class, endless meetings and studying to occupy our time, the summer offers a wonderful opportunity to explore The Great State of Texas and all of the wonderful things it has to offer.
In the DFW Area
Not looking to leave TCU or your new furnished apartment? No problem. The Metroplex is home to food, and is a cultural center for Texas. Take some of your free time this Summer to explore the city you now call home.
1. Go to a museum- Fort Worth and Dallas have an incredible arts scene. Even if art isn’t your thing, there are always cool pop culture exhibits to see, as well as a museum of Science and History. Look at the Kimbell, Dallas Museum of Art, Perot Museum of Nature and Science and MANY more.
2. Go dancing- I know many of us have gone to Billy Bob’s on college night, but it is an entirely different experience to go with people who can actually dance! Venture out to Bob’s or Red River and learn new moves to impress all of your friends with.
3. Go see a show- DFW is insanely lucky with the tours that it receives. From big Stadium shows at the American Airlines Center, to musicals at Bass Hall and symphony performances at Meyerson Symphony Center, you have plenty of opportunity to get your music fix.
Craving Water?
Although Texas is not typically known for it’s beautiful coasts, there are many locations where you can catch some sun by the water. These are just a few of my personal favorite places.
1. Corpus Christi- Along the East coast of Texas, right on the Gulf of Mexico, lays one of Texas’ hidden secrets. The coast is quiet and beautiful-perfect for a weekend getaway with friends. If it is too busy, you can travel up to Port Aransas, as well!
2. Lake Travis- Many of my favorite lakeside memories have been made at this place. You get to check out the beautiful houses of Austin’s finest, and the lake is at its highest point in years! Enjoy it before the drought once again takes over. Don’t forget to stop by the Oasis for some great food.
3. Schlitterbahn- I would put SeaWorld, but some have moral obligations to the park. Schlitterbahn is the hottest, coolest time in Texas. Located in Fredricksburg, you are only a few hours away from the water park of your dreams.
Some of the Big Cities
Texas is home to some of the biggest and best cities the country has to offer! Take a weekend this summer and road trip through all of them- you won’t regret it!
1. Austin! I am partial. Austin is my hometown, and I love the vibe and energy of the entire city. Go down to South Congress to shop in the boutiques and take pictures with the murals, take a tour of the capitol if that floats your boat, or catch a crazy free concert at Zilker Park! Warning: you will fall in love with the city and you are not allowed to move there.
2. San Antonio- Remember the Alamo? Well, this city is its home! Besides housing the (underwhelming) historical landmark, SA’s River Walk is an awesome, beautiful attraction with great shopping as well! Stop by a Spur’s game and understand some of the pride Texas has for its teams.
3. Houston- This city has so much to offer that is relatively ignored. Houston has a bomb zoo, and incredible museums. If you are looking for some serious enrichment, the Holocaust museum is life changing. Take a day and go shopping in the Galleria and enjoy all that the city has to offer!