Things To Do
in Rowlett
Rowlett is a lakeside suburban city on the eastern shore of Lake Ray Hubbard in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and parks. The community blends quiet residential streets with growing retail corridors, marinas and waterfront restaurants that draw locals for sunsets and boating. Rowlett has a relaxed small-city feel while offering easy access to Dallas for cultural attractions, sports and major airports.
Outdoor recreation, community events and a steady pace of life make it popular with commuters and families seeking lake access near the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Rowlett Historic Center, where you can explore the local history and the charming architecture of the old buildings. Take a leisurely stroll through the small museum to learn about the city's transformation over the years. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the local atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the Rowlett Community Centre, where various recreational activities are available. Engage in a friendly game of basketball or swim in the pool, making the most of the facilities. Don't forget to check the community schedule for any events or classes that might pique your interest.
As the sun sets, head to the scenic Rowlett Harbor for a picturesque view of Lake Ray Hubbard. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring local cuisine with a view. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the harbor, taking in the gentle sounds of the water.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike along the trails at Lake Ray Hubbard, surrounded by lush greenery and the peaceful sounds of nature. The morning light filtering through the trees creates a serene atmosphere perfect for photography enthusiasts. Take a moment to appreciate the wildlife, as you might spot various birds and small animals along the trails.
After your hike, pack a picnic lunch and head to one of the designated picnic areas by the lake. Relish your meal while enjoying the beautiful views of the water and the skyline of Rowlett in the distance. Post-lunch, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake, enjoying the gentle waves and fresh air.
As the day winds down, return to the trails for a sunset hike, where you can witness the sky transform into vibrant colors. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views over the lake as the sun sets, providing a perfect backdrop for your adventure. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a nearby bistro, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-18 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly for one) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lakeside access and outdoor recreation on Lake Ray Hubbard
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
- Proximity to Dallas for cultural attractions and airports
- Quieter, small-city atmosphere with growing local amenities
- Hot, humid summers with afternoon storms
- Car-dependent with limited local public transit
- Fewer major cultural institutions and nightlife options compared with Dallas
- Some commuter traffic during rush hours
Places to Visit in Rowlett
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunsets over the lake create striking reflections and silhouettes of boats and piers—ideal for golden hour and wide landscape shots.
Open green spaces, walking paths and waterfront views that work well for family and nature photography.
Wooded trails, creek crossings and natural settings providing close-up shots of local flora and fauna.
Boats, pilings and watercraft against the skyline offer dynamic compositions, especially near sunrise or sunset.
Historic storefronts, murals and community events provide authentic small-town civic scenes.
Food in Rowlett
Rowlett Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked brisket, ribs and sausage are local favorites; look for neighborhood smokehouses or joints serving brisket by the pound.
Must-Try!
Enchiladas, fajitas and breakfast tacos are widely available; plate-style Tex‑Mex with queso and grilled meats is a must-try.
Catfish and fried fish are common at lakeside spots and casual seafood restaurants near Lake Ray Hubbard.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering local produce, baked goods and occasional food trucks—ideal for sampling regional ingredients and quick bites.
Check event calendars and park gatherings for rotating food trucks serving tacos, barbecue and fusion street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be informal and polite—small talk, greetings and a friendly demeanor are appreciated.
While conversational, residents value personal space and privacy; avoid intrusive questions about income or politics with strangers.
Family activities, church events and school sports play a big part in local life—be mindful around community gatherings and show respect for local traditions.
Car travel is the norm—yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks, using turn signals and following traffic rules are expected courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Rowlett
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping is customary: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night, and around 10–20% for taxi or ride-share drivers depending on service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, farmers markets or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees and active outdoor event calendars make spring one of the best times to visit; bring layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Hot and humid with temperatures frequently in the 90s°F (32–37°C); plan water activities on the lake, stay hydrated and schedule outdoor time for early morning or late afternoon.
Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, pleasant for hiking and lakeside activities; fall colors are more subtle than in northern states but parks are pleasant.
Generally mild winters with occasional cold snaps and rare light ice or snow; most outdoor recreation remains accessible but bring a warm layer for chilly evenings.
Rowlett at Night
Hiking in Rowlett
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails, creekside paths and natural areas suitable for short hikes, birdwatching and light trail walking close to town.
Easy walking paths along the lake with picnic areas and scenic viewpoints—good for families and casual hikers.
A larger natural area within a reasonable drive that offers longer trails, shaded paths and opportunities to explore regional flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Rowlett by plane.
About 20–30 minutes by car depending on traffic; convenient for domestic flights and closer to central Dallas.
Approximately 30–50 minutes by car depending on traffic; the region’s primary international airport with many domestic and international connections.
Smaller general aviation airport north of Dallas used for private and charter flights; roughly 25–35 minutes by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and professionals who commute to jobs in the broader Dallas metro area, attracted by suburban schools and housing.
A portion of the population is retirees drawn to quieter neighborhoods and lakeside living.
Like much of North Texas, Rowlett has a growing Hispanic/Latino population contributing to cultural and culinary diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school football is a major community focus in the fall; the region also heavily follows the NFL's Dallas Cowboys.
Youth and adult baseball/softball leagues are common; the Texas Rangers (MLB) draw regional interest.
Lake sports—boating, wakeboarding, jet-skiing and freshwater fishing—are very popular because of Lake Ray Hubbard.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rowlett.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available—many Tex‑Mex places can prepare veggie tacos, fajitas or bean-and-cheese dishes; call ahead if you need meat-free versions of traditional plates.
Choices are more limited locally but growing; look for salads, grilled vegetables, and some restaurants that offer gluten-free tortillas and entrées. For broader options visit nearby Dallas.
Restaurants are generally accommodating if you notify servers about allergies, but cross-contact can occur in busy kitchens—confirm ingredient lists when necessary.