Dates for a Texas summer
Key facts
| Barton Springs water | About 68 to 70 degrees |
|---|---|
| Barton Springs hours | 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday cleaning |
| The Menil | Free, Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| El Fresco 2026 | Free shows June 19, July 17, August 21 |
A Texas summer changes how you date. Plan early mornings, cool water, indoor afternoons and late evenings. Here are three ideas that beat the heat.
An early swim at Barton Springs
Barton Springs Pool opens at 5 a.m., and lifeguards are on duty from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. The spring water stays at about 68 to 70 degrees all year. An early swim then breakfast is a good summer date.
Source: City of Austin: Visit Barton Springs Pool, checked 9 November 2026
A free afternoon at the Menil
The Menil Collection in Houston is always free and open until 7 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday. Food and drink are not allowed in the buildings, so plan a meal nearby. It is a calm, cool place to talk.
Source: The Menil Collection: Visit, checked 9 November 2026
El Fresco nights in El Paso
The El Fresco Music Series puts on free evening concerts at the Convention Center Plaza in El Paso. In 2026 the summer shows ran on June 19, July 17 and August 21. Look out for next year's dates.
Source: Visit El Paso: Festivals and events, checked 9 November 2026
Questions
Is Barton Springs open all year?
The water is good for swimming all year, and the city lists hours for holidays too. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and Thursdays have a cleaning break.
Is the Menil really free?
Yes. The Menil says admission is always free. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
How do we stay safe on a hot day out?
Go early or late, carry plenty of water, rest in the shade and tell someone your plans if you are heading somewhere remote.
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