The good news? We also know how to cool it down.
Texas summers are so, so hot, with average temperatures typically ranging from 90°F to 100°F during June, July, and August – and usually multiple days of consecutive 100°F+. And because we do things BIG here, cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin frequently have heat indexes (temperature x humidity) that make it feel even hotter than the thermometer reading, so fun!
Let’s break down what kind of summer you can expect in the great state of Texas. The heat intensity varies by region (although a heatwave by any other name is still a heatwave):
- East Texas tends to be hot and humid. Maybe just stay inside?
- North and Central Texas experience hot, often dry conditions. Tumbleweeds abound.
- West Texas and the Panhandle can be extremely hot, but with lower humidity. Take the win, West Tex.
- South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley often see the highest temperatures in the state, a real badge of honor around these parts.
When temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s across Texas, there’s only one proper escape plan: find water—fast! From natural springs to retro pools and slip sliding adventures, these five pools offer very on-brand escapes from the Texas heat. So dive in—and stay cool out there.
1. Barton Springs Pool, Austin
No, it’s not a mirage. It’s a man-made three-acre pool fed by natural springs, in the middle of the city. Do you even live in Texas if you haven’t dipped in Barton Springs?
Hot tip: $5–$9 admission, open daily (except Thursday mornings for cleaning)
Who you’ll see there: Nature lovers, college students, and all those city-dwellers who prefer swimming in natural settings.
2. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs
Heaven is that you? No, it’s just the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Found in an actual natural grotto with an actual trickling waterfall, you can cool off while taking in the majestic Texas Hill Country landscape.
Hot tip: Reservation is required; swimming is dependent on water quality, so be sure to check the website first!
Who you’ll see there: Instagram influencers, waterfall enthusiasts, and adventurers.
3. Typhoon Texas, Katy
Want to chill out AND get your adrenaline fix, then you want to head on over to Typhoon Texas. And don' you dare skip the lazy river, it’s a full day of wet fun for all ages.
Hot tip: Various ticket options; open May through September
Who you’ll see there: Families, kids, lots of kids, and maybe some good ‘ol thrill-seekers.
4. El Segundo Swim Club, Houston
Torn between wanting to go clubbing and cooling off? Head to the El Segundo Swim Club. This adults-only swimming destination offers a more sophisticated poolside experience. With craft cocktails, DJs, premium lounge seating, and even more premium pool floats.
Hot tip: Membership options available; 21+ only
Who you’ll see there: Social swimmers seeking a refined, resort-like vibe, a cocktail, and no kids.
5. The Texas Pool, Plano
Swim across Texas—literally. This historic saltwater pool is shaped like the Lone Star State and has been cooling down North Texans since 1961. So kitschy, it’s charming.
Hot tip: Community-run nonprofit; day passes available
Who you’ll see there: Families and those who appreciate quirky Texas charm. Also, Texas-shaped pool enthusiasts.
And one last hot tip: Remember to stay hydrated—even while swimming—and reapply waterproof sunscreen often. The Texas sun does not mess around!
The good news? We also know how to cool it down.
Texas summers are so, so hot, with average temperatures typically ranging from 90°F to 100°F during June, July, and August – and usually multiple days of consecutive 100°F+. And because we do things BIG here, cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin frequently have heat indexes (temperature x humidity) that make it feel even hotter than the thermometer reading, so fun!
Let’s break down what kind of summer you can expect in the great state of Texas. The heat intensity varies by region (although a heatwave by any other name is still a heatwave):
- East Texas tends to be hot and humid. Maybe just stay inside?
- North and Central Texas experience hot, often dry conditions. Tumbleweeds abound.
- West Texas and the Panhandle can be extremely hot, but with lower humidity. Take the win, West Tex.
- South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley often see the highest temperatures in the state, a real badge of honor around these parts.
When temperatures soar into the 90s and 100s across Texas, there’s only one proper escape plan: find water—fast! From natural springs to retro pools and slip sliding adventures, these five pools offer very on-brand escapes from the Texas heat. So dive in—and stay cool out there.
1. Barton Springs Pool, Austin
No, it’s not a mirage. It’s a man-made three-acre pool fed by natural springs, in the middle of the city. Do you even live in Texas if you haven’t dipped in Barton Springs?
Hot tip: $5–$9 admission, open daily (except Thursday mornings for cleaning)
Who you’ll see there: Nature lovers, college students, and all those city-dwellers who prefer swimming in natural settings.
2. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs
Heaven is that you? No, it’s just the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Found in an actual natural grotto with an actual trickling waterfall, you can cool off while taking in the majestic Texas Hill Country landscape.
Hot tip: Reservation is required; swimming is dependent on water quality, so be sure to check the website first!
Who you’ll see there: Instagram influencers, waterfall enthusiasts, and adventurers.
3. Typhoon Texas, Katy
Want to chill out AND get your adrenaline fix, then you want to head on over to Typhoon Texas. And don' you dare skip the lazy river, it’s a full day of wet fun for all ages.
Hot tip: Various ticket options; open May through September
Who you’ll see there: Families, kids, lots of kids, and maybe some good ‘ol thrill-seekers.
4. El Segundo Swim Club, Houston
Torn between wanting to go clubbing and cooling off? Head to the El Segundo Swim Club. This adults-only swimming destination offers a more sophisticated poolside experience. With craft cocktails, DJs, premium lounge seating, and even more premium pool floats.
Hot tip: Membership options available; 21+ only
Who you’ll see there: Social swimmers seeking a refined, resort-like vibe, a cocktail, and no kids.
5. The Texas Pool, Plano
Swim across Texas—literally. This historic saltwater pool is shaped like the Lone Star State and has been cooling down North Texans since 1961. So kitschy, it’s charming.
Hot tip: Community-run nonprofit; day passes available
Who you’ll see there: Families and those who appreciate quirky Texas charm. Also, Texas-shaped pool enthusiasts.
And one last hot tip: Remember to stay hydrated—even while swimming—and reapply waterproof sunscreen often. The Texas sun does not mess around!
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