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The Ultimate Texas Bucket List: COVID-19 Edition

Jun 5, 2020

Welcome to summertime 2020! This year certainly looks a lot different than we all envisioned when the ball dropped this past New Year’s Eve. A lot has changed over these past several months, but one thing hasn’t changed: summer vacation, and the annual trek of making fun memories with your family.

“Family vacations look a lot different in this time of social distancing and quarantining, but the fact remains that this is the perfect time to get out of the house, enjoy the sun and take advantage of some only-in-Texas attractions and activities,” says Doris Lea, Executive Director of Hidden Springs of McKinney. “Although many favorite sites might remain closed, and others will only be open on a limited basis, there are still many sights, sounds, tastes and smells you can experience during the 92 days of summer 2020.”

And what better time than now to experience a state-wide adventure with your family? “While we don’t know what the future holds, we do know that this is a historical year and will be one for the record books,” Doris says. “Why not make some happy memories that you’ll talk about for years and years to come?”

To help you get started on your Super Summer of 2020, we’ve put together a list of Truly Texas attractions and activities (that are also quarantine-friendly) that you won’t want to miss.

 

Enjoy local delights from local farmers.

What says summer more than a picnic, and what says “McKinney Eats” more than delicious delights from Local Yocal Farm to Market? Located in the heart of downtown McKinney, this mom-and-pop shop offers some of the best locally farmed beef and a great selection of healthy, wholesome, sustainable, handcrafted, and delicious products. Currently, they’re offering curbside pickup and delivery to McKinney and the surrounding areas. The details: $10 delivery fee for McKinney area and a $25 delivery fee for areas outside of McKinney. A minimum purchase of $100 is required for local delivery. Check out their website for more information.

 

Party in the park.

While some aspects of McKinney’s parks are closed until further notice, families can still enjoy the great outdoors at Towne Lake Recreation Area or go swimming (or golfing, or biking, or hiking) at Lake Lewisville. If golf is more your thing, head to Oak Hollow Golf Course, which is just a stone’s throw away from the historic downtown and is great for golf enthusiasts and novices alike. Check their website for information on hours (temporarily changed due to COVID-19).

 

Paddle down the river.

Ever dreamed of jumping in a canoe and paddling your way through your favorite Texas cities? If so, head to Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Buffalo Bayou in Houston or the Trinity River in Fort Worth. If you have your own canoe and equipment, all you have to do is find a place to launch out on adventure, but you can also contact one of the many rental shops located along the rivers (many of them opened on May 1, but be sure to call and check to determine hours and availability).

 

Take a hike through the mountains.

The 2,709-acre Davis Mountains State Park near Fort Davis is a favorite summer getaway for heat-weary Texans because of its high elevation, low humidity, and frequent breezes. Currently, the park is open for day visitors (no camping allowed), and has certain travel restrictions and requirements for visitors. Advance day pass reservations are required (reserve them online or call 512.389.8900), and no groups of over five non-related people are allowed (families who live in the same household are fine).

 

Or choose your own adventure along the river.

The Lower Colorado River Authority operates 41 parks encompassing more than 11,000 acres – from the Cedar Point Recreation Area along the north shore of Lake Buchanan to the isolated beaches of Matagorda Bay Nature Park. Most of these parks are open for day visitors, so take a look on the website to find a site that speaks to you.

 

Watch the bats launch.

One of the most unique and beloved activities that draws visitors from across the globe is the nightly bat launch that happens across Texas every summer night. More than 15 million Mexican free-tailed bats wheel out of Bracken Cave near San Antonio, while Congress Avenue Bridge boasts 1.5 million bats pouring into the sky every summer night. While it may be more difficult this year due to social distancing, there are plenty of opportunities to see the bats whirl through the skies on their nightly hunt.

 

Get stuffed in the Barbecue Capital of Texas.

Lockhart, TX, is a charming little town that’s home to three of Texas’ biggest barbecue destinations: Kreuz Market, Black’s BBQ and Smitty’s Market. Head on down and make a day of it – can you eat at all three places on the same day? (We don’t know, but we’re willing to make a go of it.) Be sure to bring wet wipes and your appetite.

 

Enjoy the sandy beaches of South Padre Island.

South Padre Island, a tropical oasis located off the southern tip of Texas, is a must-see destination that offers the unsurpassed beauty of the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a year-round destination for visitors and locals alike, and is an experience like none other. Fly a kite, enjoy a delicious meal, wiggle your toes in the sand … the beaches have reopened for visitors and, although you’ll need to follow safety guidelines, there’s nothing better than feeling the breeze in your hair, the sun in your face and the bliss of the seaside.

 

Check out the flora and fauna along I-35.

Texas wildflowers are renowned throughout the country (and the world) for their rambunctious beauty, brilliant colors and sheer ubiquitousness. Hop in your car and drive along I-35 (or one of our many state highways) to see sunflowers, Indian paintbrushes, bluebonnets and many, many more native flowers. Many fields you’ll drive past are private property, so be gracious and take only photographs.

“Texas summers are something everyone should experience at least once,” says Doris. “Even with new safety precautions in place, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the hospitality, adventure and excitement of this great state while making memories to last a lifetime.”

 

Luxury Living in North Dallas

At Hidden Springs of McKinney, we understand how important location is to North Dallas seniors who are looking for an engaging, enriching retirement lifestyle. Located in McKinney, Texas, we are close to medical centers, arts and entertainment, outdoor opportunities and everything else you love about this area. Seniors who choose to make us their home can enjoy a range of trips, opportunities and activities while living their very best life thanks to our innovative focus on wellness.

 

Active Retirement Living for a Healthy Tomorrow

The secret to a life well-lived awaits you at Hidden Springs of McKinney. Envisioned and developed by Madison Marquette, a company with a 25-year track record of investing in vibrant communities and a stellar reputation for developing luxury residences, you’ll discover all the possibilities your retirement brings … as well as the confidence of knowing your future is secure.

Our beautifully appointed, active retirement living community is created for those who expect more out of life. Luxury living, gracious services, resort-quality amenities, engaging programs and stunning apartments in 15 floor plans are just a few of the benefits awaiting you. And with assisted living and memory care services offered on campus, you can retire with complete peace of mind, knowing that if needs change, the care you deserve is right at home.

To learn more about Hidden Springs of McKinney and discover The Secret to a Life Well Lived, call or visit us today. We’d be happy to schedule a tour and show you just how much our location can make your retirement experience exceptional.

Call us today at 972.483.0234.