Burn off some serious summer energy at Town of Little Elm’s The Cove at the Lakefront: this aquat- ics destination is just north of Dallas and packs a ton of family-friendly attractions into one site. In just one visit, you can hang ten with the FlowRider double surf machine, zip down thrilling slides, dodge water can- nons in the interactive play areas, practice your form at the diving pool, and chill in a lazy river. The aquatics center also offers a “Snack Shack” with burgers, hot dogs, pizza and snacks, plus a full bar for the grown- ups. Cabana seating is available, along with party rentals. There are also programs for all ages, includ- ing water aerobics classes, swim lessons, toddler time and themed adults-only nights. Day passes, resident and non-resident memberships, and combo passes with The Rec at The Lakefront (with a 7,000 square- foot fitness center, group exercise classes, open play pickleball and more) are also available; visit thecove- atthelakefront.com for a full list of amenities, activities and admission info. Explore beautiful North Texas landscapes at the City of Cedar Hill’s The Great Greenway outdoor district. Located only 20 minutes from Downtown Dallas, this network of seven parks, nature preserves and trails offers fishing, hiking, biking, camping, watersports, or just some quiet contemplation away from the hustle and bustle. Take in over 2,800 acres of forest and lake scenery, plus 36 miles of trails to explore, including the Balcones Trail, Big Cedar Wilderness Trail, and Ce- dar Hill State Park trails. Visit thegreatgreenway.com for hiking and biking trail maps, events at the park within the Greenway network, and a list of available outdoor experiences. Before you go out into the great outdoors this sum- mer, check in with the North Texas Council of Gov- ernments’ Air North Texas project at airnorthtexas. org for the latest air quality index, with forecasts and current conditions related to area air pollution level in and around the Metroplex. You can also find facts about air quality and how it affects you, as well as ac- tion items for implementing your own clean air prac- tices. Let the kids slide to their heart’s content at Slick City Action Park: this indoor slide park has locations around the Metroplex, including Denton, Arlington, Frisco, Plano, Colleyville, and North Dallas. Fulfill your need for speed on giant slides that include adren- aline-boosting hills, spirals, swirling bowls, serious plunges, steep drops and huge half-pipes. Other ac- TOWN OF LITTLE ELM’S THE COVE AT THE LAKEFRONT GET ACTIVE 6 DALLAS OBSERVER • SUMMER GUIDE 2026
