dallas summer white rock lake

Dallas

Beat the Hot Weather in Dallas With These Tips

Hot Dallas summer day? Find your chill on White Rock Lake or on a rooftop at a local watering hole. (Photo: Guillen Photo LLC / Alamy Stock Photo)

Temps can soar to the upper 90s on a summer day in the Big D, so the nation’s largest landlocked metropolis prizes water. Manmade lakes are everywhere, and water parks and interactive fountains are abundant. Escape to White Rock Lake, toss your kayak into the spring-fed reservoir and paddle over to the park’s parakeets. Those chatty green-and-white South American immigrants absolutely love the heat. Maybe you’re feeling chatty – a trip to Lake Lewisville, with its party boats and jet skis might be on the agenda.

Either way the heat index doesn’t have to keep you inside when you’re in Dallas. We’ve got three really cool suggestions on how to beat the heat.

Grab a Cold One

There’s nothing better than a watering hole, and we’re not talking about swimming. Locals head to Truck Yard, a trailer park playground for adults with its array of food trucks and bars featuring craft beers. Climb up into the treehouse bar or nab a beer barrel barstool at the airstream bar to sample the Rahr Winter Warmer or Revolver Blood and Honey. For dessert, wander to Bobaddiction for mango shaved snow or Guava Tree for their black bean cupcakes. Either way, there’s nothing better than kicking back at one of the outdoor picnic tables and just chilling out with new and old friends.

Chill With the Locals

Off The Record in Deep Ellum spins together vinyl records and craft beer for a unique combo. Whether you’re in search of classic Beatles or local brews, you’re apt to find it here. Pace yourself as they have 2,000 records and 24 beers on tap. If you find yourself with extra time during a business trip, this downtown spot is a great choice instead of the usual bar scene. Check their Facebook page for upcoming specials, like half-off craft cocktails or $4 beer. Time it right, and you might hit a night when the DJ spins an all Dylan set. Your colleagues will appreciate the insider feeling when you share this spot with them.

Head to the Roof

Make tracks to Urban Crust in Plano and head up to the third floor to 32 Degree Rooftop Bar. No, the name isn’t the temperature of the room, it refers to the temp for the draft beer (shots are chilled to -5°). Take refuge from the Dallas heat and order Grey Goose or a craft cocktail and prepare to chill as you watch the sun set. When hunger pangs have you considering your dinner options, head back downstairs for the wood-fired pizza.