As summer heats up, it can be hard to find the motivation to get out of the house. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of scrolling aimlessly on your phone, but Dallas and the surrounding area are brimming with outdoor community activities. Many of them are free or offered at low costs, and they’re worth stepping outside for.
These activities are fun, but they’re also a chance to feel more connected to your city, your neighbors and the world beyond screens. More people should take advantage of these opportunities, from running clubs to programs in the park to sunset yoga.
Dallas’ running and walking scene is especially vibrant. Groups such as Oak Cliff Run Crew welcome walkers and runners of all abilities, from those training for a marathon to parents with strollers. Kairos Run Club offers “social runs,” encouraging conversation and camaraderie along the route. There’s also a growing number of outdoor yoga and walking groups that provide a more low-key way to stay active and involved. These regular meetups can make exercise accessible, joyful and something to look forward to.
Dallas Park and Recreation also offers free activities for kids and adults. On Wednesday evenings, people meet at City Park in the Cedars neighborhood to play games and sports. Throughout the summer, kids can get creative with crafts or test their detective skills in a scavenger hunt.
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In addition to these local community groups, cities across Dallas-Fort Worth are also offering programming designed to get residents outside. Plano’s Play in the Park program, which began in 2016, is designed for kids. But parents say they benefit, too, enjoying time to catch up with one another while their children play, said Susie Hergenrader, assistant director of recreation.
McKinney’s summer offerings include outdoor fitness classes for adults and camps for children, with an emphasis on keeping them accessible and affordable, according to Amy Kinkade, director of parks and recreation for McKinney.
These programs point to healthy priorities: shared spaces, community involvement and good habits. We applaud the cities and organizations behind these activities. They remind us that recreation doesn’t have to be expensive or exclusive. It just needs to be welcoming. When cities encourage outdoor activities, they help foster a stronger sense of belonging.
So this summer, instead of letting the heat win, more North Texans should join the outdoor fun happening all around them.