In Texas, we consider a “cool” summer day as 93°F and below. So if you’re not accustomed to the heat, it might be a bit of an adjustment, but have no fear because we found spots with plenty of shade, water, and icy A/C! Escape to a cool oasis during your stay and enjoy summer the Texas way by lounging near a pool, with a refreshing treat in your hand, or inside with the air-conditioning blasting. Here is a guide to retreat from the heat during your stay in Round Rock!
Slide into summer at Kalahari
We have two magic words, indoor + waterpark! You don’t have to tiptoe on hot concrete on your way to a slide because everything is sheltered from the sun at this gigantic indoor waterpark. Since its opening in 2020, it’s brought waves of fun for visitors and locals! Whether you book one of their 975 hotel rooms to stay the night or stop by for the day, Kalahari has everything you need to feel like you are partying in paradise. With a selection of five different restaurants, an outdoor and indoor waterpark, and many more amenities, Kalahari is THE spot to see while visiting.
Bowl under the sea at Uncle Buck’s
Underwater bowling? Yes, seas! Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill inside Round Rock’s Bass Pro Shop is a bowling experience like no other. Bowl in the big blue and spot ocean creatures swimming through the lanes. After you score a perfect game, enjoy island-themed dining and play some arcade games!
Enjoy an icy Treat
We consider shaved ice a major food group during the summer in Texas! It’s an icy way to cool down during a scorcher. Kawaii’s Shaved Ice in downtown Round Rock is a great spot to get a sweet snow cone! This hula hut-inspired shop sells seventy-two flavors of shaved ice. They also serve milkshakes, with toppings galore. Complete with a covered patio, customers can enjoy their tasty summer treats while staying out of the sun. Round Rock is also home to Sweet Charlie’s, Andy’s Frozen Custard, and many other dessert places. Stop by these sweet shops to cool off with a frozen treat!
swim at Rock’ N River
Make a splash at Round Rock’s amazing AND affordable waterpark, Rock’N River. If you are looking for a place to relax in the cabanas or play for the day, look no further. Bring your swimsuit and smiles and enjoy features ranging from the lazy river, exhilarating slides, and a water playground. Additional amenities include tunnel showers, a water cannon, tipping frogs, floor geysers & a zero-beach-entry play area. Bring the whole family to cool off at one of the top water parks in the Round Rock area.
Make a Splash Downtown
Round Rock was built with the heat in mind because we have a sprawling splash pad in the heart of downtown. It’s a happening spot during the summer where families spend the afternoon splashing away. After cooling off by the splash pad, you can stroll through our historic downtown, visit shops, or grab a meal. We also have special events downtown throughout the summer. From our patriotic parade on the 4th of July to Music on Main, you don’t want to miss upcoming summer events in our beautiful downtown!
Find a cool souvenir at our shops
Find a cool outfit or a souvenir in the comfort of an air-conditioned shop. Visit the Premium Outlet Mall or local downtown shopping! Round Rock is filled with some of the best shops and stores around. The Outlet Mall offers over 125 stores and restaurants to choose from and is designed to keep you in the shade while you are looking around. While you are downtown, check out Hometown Gift and Décor for “high-quality home décor and thoughtful gifts that are as fun to give as they are to receive.” If you are looking for more locally-owned shops and boutiques, take a look at this list of the top twelve stores in downtown Round Rock.
Enjoy a shaded game
Root, root, root for the Round Rock Express and shaded seats! If you love baseball but not the heat, don’t worry. Dell Diamond has plenty of shaded spots, and the games normally start around 7:05 pm when it starts to cool down. They also have a pool at the ballpark, which is the coolest way to watch the game. You can also head over to the Homerun Dugout and swing virtually indoors!
Chill at your Hotel
When we travel, we normally schedule a couple of poolside hours to relax and unwind. Luckily the 30+ hotel properties in Round Rock have a plethora of pools! Enjoy the outdoor pool and garden at The Ruby Hotel or swim indoors at the pool at the newly opened Embassy Suites. There are so many options for all types of travelers. Check out more of these amazing hotel options for your nights here in Round Rock, Texas!