As the days get warmer, it’s time to have some fun in the sun in Rockwall, Texas. The picturesque city is perched along Lake Ray Hubbard’s eastern shore, 20 miles east of Dallas. Rockwall, a city of 53,000, retains its small-town hospitality while offering loads of entertainment, outdoor activities, and resort amenities.
We know it sounds cliché to say that Rockwall has something for everyone, but it truly does. Rockwall’s charm and laid-back vibe captivate music lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone wishing to escape the big city hustle and bustle. Here are four fabulous ways to enjoy Rockwall’s great outdoors on your next visit.
Lake Ray Hubbard
Picturesque parks hug Lake Ray Hubbard’s coastline. With sandy beaches, hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, you could easily spend the entire day playing along the shore. But the Sirens of this shimmering, 35-square-mile lake beckon visitors to play in the water, as well. Kayakers and paddle boarders can silently glide through the tranquil waters, while adrenaline junkies can get their fill of excitement on jet skis, wakeboards, and water skis. Along with personal watercraft rentals, local marinas rent boats that run the gamut from double-decker pontoon boats with waterslides to high octane performance boats. The opportunities for water lovers are endless.
Anglers are in for a treat, too. Cast your line from the shore, head to one of the fishing piers, or hit the open water in your own boat or one that you rent. No matter how you go about it, “a bad day fishing is better than a good day at work.” And we believe it. At Lake Ray Hubbard, the largemouth bass, white bass, and catfish can’t wait to bite!
Sail with Scott
When you’re ready for someone else to take the helm, Sail with Scott. Climb aboard the Seawolf, a 40-foot catamaran handcrafted by Scott Self. From the lofty deck, you can appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Ray Hubbard from a whole new perspective. Imagine sailing in the late afternoon on a family-friendly outing or gliding over calm waters on a sunset voyage as a tapestry of pink, orange, and gold unfolds over the horizon. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can wow your sweetie with a Starlight Cruise. Sailing under a blanket of stars makes an unforgettable date night.
On all of Sail with Scott cruises, you’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages on board and dine at one of the tables on deck. Cruises leave from the marina at The Harbor Rockwall and run from May until early November.
Scott Self Lighthouse
If you’re wondering how a lighthouse ended up on a lakeshore rather than the Gulf Coast, it pays tribute to Scott Self, who passed away in 2020. Scott not only built the beautiful catamaran and introduced thousands of visitors to Lake Ray Hubbard, he was a longtime resident, Rockwall City Councilman, and a philanthropist. Take a stroll on the jetty to admire the Scott Self Lighthouse up close and snap a few Instagram worthy pics of the spectacular view of Lake Ray Hubbard while you’re here.
The lighthouse is functional, by the way. Not only does it guide mariners into the marina, it guides hungry patrons to the casual eateries and fine dining restaurants at The Harbor Rockwall! The Harbor is an upscale destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment with an outdoor space that invites you to linger by the fountain and soak in the panoramic view of the lake. And if you visit The Harbor on a Thursday, you’re in for another treat . . .
Concert by the Lake Series
The Concert by the Lake Series is a star of Rockwall’s music scene. It’s held on Thursday nights from May through July starting at 7 pm. At this year’s opening concert, put on your costume and cosplay as the Rockwall Philharmonic plays dinosaur and dragon themed music. Rock and pop tribute bands, country music bands, jazz/R&B, and dance bands are also on tap this summer. With tribute bands playing Brooks and Dunn’s Boot Scootin’ Boogie and The Beatles’ Twist and Shout, good luck staying in your seat.
The fantastic lineup isn’t the only reason this event tops the charts each year. It’s also the venue — The Harbor Rockwall Amphitheater overlooking Lake Ray Hubbard. So, BYOB, pack your lawn chairs, grab some takeout from one of The Harbor’s eateries, and enjoy not only great music but also front row seats to a glorious sunset. And there’s no need to bring your hard-earned cash or a credit card. All of the concerts are free!
Make it a Long Weekend
The Concert by the Lake Series is just one of the reasons the 2017 Texas legislature named Rockwall the “Free Live Music Capital of North Texas.” Why not take in more live music over a long weekend?
You’ll find hotels to suit every budget and preference, restaurants to please everyone in your group, and a whole host of activities and attractions. With summer just around the corner, head to Rockwall, TX, for some fun in the sun!
