Summer in Texas may be hot (and unbearably so at times!), but we still find ways to enjoy it. From world-famous waterparks and river tubing adventures to finger-licking good BBQ and ripe, juicy peaches, this is my own personal Texas summer bucket list. If you’re in search of the best things to do in Texas during summer, look no further!

1. Schlitterbahn

I was around five years old when I first visited Schlitterbahn, and it remains one of my favorite summer destinations. The original location in New Braunfels is my personal preference - I love all of the lazy rivers!

2. Float the river

Tubing is a summertime rite of passage in Texas. There are many different rivers to float on - most of which are located in the beautiful Hill Country - but I think it’s safe to say the Comal is the most popular. After all, who doesn’t love a tube chute?

3. Cool off in a swimming hole

Since Texas gets so hot in the summer, it’s a true blessing we have so many great options for cooling off. From Hamilton Pool to Krause Springs, swimming holes abound here in the Lone Star State.

4. Stargaze at Big Bend National Park

Summer night skies are something else, and there’s no place quite like Big Bend National Park to see them. This desert oasis boasts some of the darkest skies on Earth, so you can marvel at the Milky Way and all your favorite constellations.

5. Watch baby sea turtles hatch on the Padre Island National Seashore

I’m pretty sure it’s a universal truth that baby animals are adorable, and if you visit the Padre Island National Seashore in the summer, you can see some up close. Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles hatch all season long, captivating onlookers as they scurry towards their ocean home.

6. Visit a beach town like Galveston

There are so many things to do in Galveston - especially in the summer! From dolphin tours to visiting Moody Gardens, you’ll never run out of activities to enjoy.

7. Stroll along the San Antonio River Walk

Magic is, in fact, real, and it exists on the San Antonio River Walk. Between the rich heritage, the lively atmosphere, and the plethora of incredible shops and restaurants, there’s no denying how special this historic place is.

8. Swim in the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool at Balmorhea State Park

Everything really is bigger in Texas - including our swimming pools! Balmorhea State Park in Toyahvale has the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool, so there’s plenty of room for everyone.

9. Take a vineyard tour on the 290 Wine Shuttle

Few feelings compare to that of enjoying a glass of wine on a summer evening. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just like to imbibe every now and then, the 290 Wine Shuttle offers the experience of a lifetime. You can visit dozens of wineries in and around Fredericksburg - and you don’t even need a designated driver!

10. Sink your teeth into delicious BBQ at The Salt Lick

I used to be a vegetarian, but now, there’s nothing I look forward to more than a heaping plate of BBQ. The original Salt Lick in Driftwood serves up exactly that, and the meat is so good, it practically melts in your mouth.

11. Sample farm-fresh peaches from Jenschke Orchards

Biting into a ripe, juicy peach is - for me, at least - one of summer’s greatest joys. Getting to pick them myself is even better, and Jenschke Orchards in Fredericksburg lets you do just that. They even sell homemade peach ice cream!

Do you agree with me that these are the best things to do in Texas during summer? Let me know in the comments!

If you need somewhere to stay during your summer travels, I can almost guarantee there’s a Hilton wherever you’re going!