10 Must-Do Summer Activities for Kids In Temple, Texas

Soak up the sunshine and make the most of your summer in Temple, Texas! Create unforgettable memories as you explore the city's museums, cool off with water activities, and indulge in the top 10 must-do experiences curated by Discover Temple.

Looking for a fun way to beat the summer heat? Plan a visit to the local water park! Lions Junction offers a variety of attractions including water slides, lazy rivers, splash zones, and areas for younger children. The water park operates from Tuesday to Saturday, from 12 PM to 7 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 6 PM. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the pool every day this summer. The season ends on September 2, so make sure to visit before then. For more information on the park and admission details, please visit the Temple Parks website.

The Miller Springs Nature Center offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, gain knowledge, and enjoy recreational activities. This exceptional destination brings together education and outdoor adventure, providing a variety of hiking trails, an abundance of wildlife sightings, and engaging educational programs. While a few trails may present more of a challenge for younger children, the center offers a diverse range of trail options suitable for wilderness enthusiasts of all ages.

The Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is perfect for interactive exhibits, historical trains, and community events. If your children have a passion for trains, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with an impressive collection of rolling stock outside the museum, which is just the beginning of the immersive experience that awaits within. As you step inside, you'll discover a captivating array of permanent and temporary exhibits that will spark the curiosity of both children and adults alike.

Additionally, mark your calendar for the first Saturday of the month, as it's Family Day at the museum. This special day offers a complimentary event where kids can engage in educational activities, interactive play, and fascinating discoveries.

The Temple Children's Museum goes above and beyond by providing interactive and educational play areas within its welcoming indoor space. It's the perfect destination for younger children, offering a blend of entertainment and learning. Whether your visit is during a special event or on a regular day, this local museum is guaranteed to create lasting memories for the whole family.

During the summer, the Temple Public Library is open to the public and offers great programs for children, teens, and adults. The highly anticipated Summer Reading Program, a beloved tradition in the community, offers an abundance of literary delights, including reading challenges, captivating stories, hands-on crafts, mesmerizing music and entertainment, and much more. With a dedicated focus on fostering an appreciation for reading and nurturing creativity, the Temple Public Library ensures that all participants are able to immerse themselves in activities that cater to their individual interests and passions.

Don't forget to get your Summer Family Passport at one of the participating locations. Participants must get their passports stamped before August 31. Learn more by visiting Discover Temple.

Spare Time provides many activities for young kids and the young at heart. From bowling and arcade games to outdoor fun and racing, Spare Time has everything you need to make this summer fun. 

Hot Summer Sounds is a great series of concerts organized by the City of Temple Parks & Recreation Department every summer. Every Friday night in June and July, visitors can come to local parks to listen to live music and entertainment. The park location changes throughout the months. For the final concerts this season, visitors can come to the Santa Fe Plaza to enjoy a night out with music and family fun. Learn more by visiting the website. 

The Cultural Activities Center offers art classes, productions, cultural events, and more. It also provides a variety of creative and educational programs for children. Summer camps are offered for children ages five and up. Camp activities range from arts, ceramics, crochet, and cross stitch to STEM classes and theater. Explore your creative side this summer. Currently, guests can sign up for an intro to crochet teen class, Camp AAMP'D, and Acting Camp. Register online. 

Farmers Markets are a fun way to get the family outdoors and support locals this summer. Vendors include bakers, crafters, farmers, and more. The West Temple Farmers Market is located in Downtown Temple until the end of July. Every second Saturday, there's also a great market in Downtown Temple put on by Main Street Design & Consign.

Whistle Stop Playground is cherished by the locals in Temple as one of the most beloved parks. Children are drawn to the train-themed playground equipment and enjoy running around at this park, which offers views of the train yard. Additionally, the park includes picnic areas for families to enjoy.

There's no better time to enjoy an ice-cold treat than during the summer months. Stop by Freezing Point, Weird Doughs, Gogo's, Granny's Shaved Ice, Tamarindos, Jeremiah's, Helados La Azteca, La Michoacana, Bon Bon Market, and Sweet Rolled Tacos. 

Don't forget to SPF (Stay Pretty Fun) in Temple, Texas. Whether you choose to get outdoors in this Texas heat or opt for some air-conditioned fun, we can't wait to see how you experience Temple this summer.