Things to do in Dallas this Summer during Coronavirus

Summer plans got you at a loss? With Coronavirus still on the loose, it’s hard to think of fun things to do that are open AND safe. Worry no more – this is our guide to fun Dallas summer activities during Coronavirus.

If you haven’t, the BEST way to start the summer is to create a summer bucket list. Get a few of your friends and everybody contributes ideas. It’s best if your summer bucket list is a variety of simple to more complex events and activities. That way when you get to the weekend, nobody has to figure out what to do – you just consult your list!

Fun ideas for things to include might be: water balloon fight, watch a sunrise (and sunset), fly a kite, volunteer somewhere, make homemade snow cones, etc. Let your imagination run wild!

Now, if you’re looking for a few more activities, these are our favorite picks for things to do in Dallas this summer, even during Coronavirus. Don’t let the virus stop your fun! Stay safe, and get creative.

When’s the last time you put together a REAL picnic? Like, the basket and the whole nine yards? Grab your checkered tablecloth and put together an epic spread for you plus a friend or two. Take your picnic to the next level: find some new recipes on Pinterest you may have never tried, pack a fancy bottle of lemonade or two, and make (or order) a fun dessert (pie works well, or just slice up some watermelon!). Then scout your spot: check out a new park you may have never visited before, and be sure to choose a shady spot. Bring pillows for an extra sophisticated experience. Once you’re done eating, play cards or a favorite game. Don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen!

The Dallas Zoo has been able to safely open by making some changes to the ticketing and entry process. We highly recommend you familiarize yourself with the rules before planning your visit! You do have to reserve your time and parking online before your visit. Still, the Dallas Zoo is a one-of-a-kind outing. You can meander from exhibit to exhibit outdoors, and even enjoy a picnic outside too. It’s easy to social distance in such a large area! Make a day of it, and check out everything from the hippos to the elephants. Visit dallaszoo.com for details.

The Dallas Arboretum frequently comes to mind when planning a trip to the great outdoors. But what about some of the lesser-known spots around DFW? For instance, there’s a beautiful nature preserve in Plano, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Miles of trails, and beautiful sights to see. Spring Creek Forest in Garland boasts huge trees and a flowing, clear creek. Explore and dip your feet in the water for a fun afternoon outdoors.

Feeling slightly uncomfortable about visiting your local theatre? We get it. Try something different! Few people know that the Galaxy Drive-In Theatre is open in Ennis, Texas. Tickets are just $7! That’s a steal when you compare it to the local theatre prices. They are open every night, and you never even have to exit your vehicle. Sit inside your car with the trunk open, or even a pick-up bed if you or a friend has a truck. Right now, they’re making exceptions and allowing outside food. Check it out and get directions at galaxydriveintheatre.com.

We used to be a little jealous of the lake culture in Austin. All those people floating around on Ladybird Lake – it looks so relaxing! But guess what? Dallas has recently upped their game when it comes to water activities. This is an affordable, fun activity (social-distancing friendly, too!) that you may not have heard of. You can rent a kayak from Trinity River Kayak Company, or you can check out White Rock Paddle Company. Our absolute favorite (and the best, clean water in our opinion) is Kayak Instruction out on Lake Ray Hubbard, several miles east of Dallas. It’s worth the drive, and you can rent a SUP board or kayak for a few hours. Check out whiterockpaddle.com, kayakinstruct.com or trinityriverkayak.com for more details (most have limited hours right now, or are opening end of June.)

We know these aren’t the most conventional ideas for summer activities in Dallas, but we know everyone can’t stay indoors forever! During these times it seems the rules are ever-changing, but this is what we have learned. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you’ll be in close quarters with crowds. If you can avoid that, you’ll be ensuring your safety, and the safety of others. What other summer activities can you think of that we can add to our list? If you make a Dallas summer bucket list, be sure to share it with us!