5 Cheap or Free Activities to Do in Texas During the Summer
Texas summers can be incredibly hot, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to stay entertained. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities that let you make the most of your time under the Texas sun. From exploring natural parks to enjoying cultural events, here’s a list of cheap or free activities to do in Texas during the summer.
1. Visit Texas State Parks
Texas is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and many of them offer free or very affordable entry fees. Spend a day hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of places like:
- Big Bend National Park: Offering stunning views of desert landscapes and mountain ranges, Big Bend is perfect for hiking, stargazing, and river activities.
- Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: Known for its massive pink granite dome, this park is ideal for climbing, hiking, and picnicking.
- Pedernales Falls State Park: Located near Johnson City, it’s a great spot for swimming, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful falls.
2. Explore the Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country, famous for its rolling hills, wineries, and scenic drives, is perfect for a summer day trip. Take a leisurely drive along the Willow City Loop or explore the Guadalupe River. The cool, crystal-clear water of the river is perfect for wading, swimming, or floating. Many of the surrounding towns, such as Fredericksburg and Wimberley, offer free or low-cost activities like window shopping and visiting local parks.
3. Hit the Beach
Texas has a long coastline with several stunning beaches that are perfect for a summer getaway. While some beaches charge parking fees, others are completely free to visit. Try:
- South Padre Island – Famous for its clear blue water and sandy shores, you can spend the day lounging on the beach or watching the sunset without spending a dime.
- Port Aransas – A laid-back beach town where you can enjoy free access to the beach, or go shell collecting along the shores.
- Galveston Island – Galveston offers several free public beach access points, and you can take a stroll along the historic Galveston Seawall for great views of the Gulf of Mexico.
4. Free Museum Days
Texas is home to several world-class museums, and many of them offer free entry on certain days. Some of the best museums to check out include:
- The Texas State Capitol in Austin – Learn about the state’s history and enjoy free guided tours of the Capitol building.
- The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston – Free admission on Thursdays, you can explore both permanent collections and rotating exhibits.
- The Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin offers free entry on certain days and offers a fascinating look at Texas’ past, from Native American history to space exploration.
5. Attend a Local Festival
Texas hosts many festivals during the summer, and many are free or low-cost. Here are a few to check out:
- The Free Music Concerts: Cities like Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio host free summer concerts, where you can hear everything from jazz to country,
