Looking to cool off this summer? That’s easily done in Bastrop. Texas is our turf, so we’re pros at staying in the shade. Swimming in the lake, indulging in ice cream, finding fun things to do indoors … yeah we’re definitely cool like that. Read on for a few of our favorite ways to beat the summer heat:

SWIMMING SPOTS

Hanging out in the pool, lounging lakeside (or riverside) or kayaking down the Colorado River are cool ways to play here.

Bastrop State Park

Go for a float or try a class. The Bastrop State Park Swimming Pool is open from June 21, 2022 - September 3,2022. To manage crowds and help ensure a good experience, you’ll need to make a reservation for your visit. You can check out their class schedule too or even schedule a birthday party.

Fisherman’s Park

Situated right along the Lower Colorado River, Fisherman’s Park has some shady spots to relax along the river. You can rent a canoe or kayak from Bastrop River Company, and there’s even a splash pad your littles can play at.

Lake Bastrop (North & South Shores)

This 900-acre lake has separate areas marked off for swimming, along with shaded spots for picnics nearby. You’re welcome to bring your own boat or watercrafts or grab a rental from either of the parks’ facilities.

Lake Bastrop

COOL TREATS

Like we need a reason to eat ice cream, but sure, hot weather will do. 😉 Here’s the scoop on cool treats in Bastrop.

Sugar Shack Bastrop

Come here for straight-up Texas goodness in their shakes made with Blue Bell Ice Cream. They’ve got tasty ice cream bars too and more than 100 bulk candies to check out.

Tough Cookie Bakery

Head here for cool drinks and vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free treats. They have a full breakfast and lunch menu too.

Tropical Sno

These aren’t your ordinary snow cones. This little sno cone shop has been serving up snowballs to the community for quite some time.  They’ll customize your cone to your heart’s content, or you can go with one of their recommended flavor combos like P.O.G. (Passion + Orange + Guava), Paradise Island (Mango + Guava + Coconut Cream) or Purple Cow (Grape + Vanilla Cream). Try their new banana, coconut and vanilla cream topping!

Radiant Juice & Smoothie Bar

Simple and delicious, their cold-pressed juices and fresh smoothies use whole, plant-based ingredients for an emphasis on healthy living. Really their whole menu is perfect for summer with salads, smoothie bowls, wellness shots, fruit muffins and avocado toast. This place has a ton of plant appeal and it’s all sooo good.

TJ’s Flavored Ice

Snow cones with 30 flavors is what you’ll find at this mobile restaurant and it’s not like you have to pick just one. Try all their flavors over in Smithville, TX or let them come to you for a party, sporting event, wedding and more.

Sugar Shack Mom and Son

INDOOR IDEAS

When it comes to A.C., we ain’t kidding. Texas kind of revolves around it and Bastrop is no exception. Check out all the ways you can play indoors:

R.A. Green Mercantile

Right in the heart of historic Downtown Bastrop, RA Green Mercantile is one of our favorite spots to shop. Local artists are offering hand-crafted pottery, ceramics, fiber work, jewelry, painting, sculptures and more.

Bridges Emporium

Did we mention that we’re big on art here? It’s true. This artist collective hosts work from seven unique artists including found art, oils, acrylics, watercolors, photography, hand-painted décor and keepsakes.

KC Outfitter

Cute and comfortable is kind of their thing. At KC Outfitter, you’ll find casual, comfy clothes for men, women and kids. Shopping is always a smart idea in our book, especially in the summer.

Black & White Interiors

Do I need an antique piano and zebra rug? I think I do. The selection at Black & White Interiors is pretty diverse and they’re great at what they do from helping you find some finishing touches or designing a whole room from scratch. Head here for a refresh from the heat and for your home too.

RC’s Playhouse

Kids need to get some energy out, but too hot outside? RC's Playhouse is perfect for the 10 and under crowd!  It's an air-conditioned indoor playground, complete with a zipline, a 24' windowed tube crawl, 4 different types of slides, mini rollercoasters, puzzles, games, snacks/drinks, free coffee and more!

Astro Record Store

A true music-fan’s destination, this quirky record shop specializes in rare and unusual LPs, CDs, collectibles, music memorabilia and more. The air conditioning is just a convenient perk.

Painted Porch Bookstore

Another Main Street treasure in Downtown Bastrop, this smalltown bookstore carries a small collection of only their absolute favorite books. If it’s amazing and they think you should read it too, you’ll find it on their shelves.

Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center

Proof that learning really is fun, the Bastrop Museum and Visitor Center offers scavenger hunts for kids – yes, even for the big kids among us. Plus, they have some pretty cool exhibits to check out spanning more than 200 years of Bastrop history from Native American times all the way up to WWII and the 20th century. Did we mention that it’s all indoors?

Film Alley

Movies, bowling, arcade games, billiards and good eats are a fantastic way to escape the heat. Film Alley is famous for their hospitality too, so you know you’ll be treated right. They seriously bring the popcorn refills to you. No need to get up.

Bastrop Skating Palace

Roller skating is still all kinds of cool, especially since it’s indoors. This place is super family friendly and they cater to all ages with games, music and fun. It’s cash only though, so be sure to bring some bills.

Museum inside

KEEPING IT COOL IN BASTROP           

Forget the heat. Cool off with great times in Bastrop around the lake, with cool eats or playing indoors. Plan your visit to Bastrop today! Be sure to get on our email list as well, for the latest Bastrop happenings.