Our Favorite Summer Spots in Dallas and Austin
Summer is one of our busiest seasons, which means we’re constantly on the road setting tables, celebrating newlyweds, serving cocktails, and bringing gatherings to life across Dallas and Austin.
But between load-ins, event days, and late-night pack-outs, we’ve found a few favorite places to slow down, cool off, and soak up everything we love about summer in Texas.
Whether it’s grabbing an iced coffee before an event, celebrating a successful wedding with a patio margarita, or spending a Sunday morning wandering a local farmers market, these are a few of the spots our team keeps coming back to.
The Best of Dallas: Vestals Catering Team edition
Watch Fireworks from The Statler Rooftop
Nothing says summer in Dallas quite like a rooftop view and some time at a pool. Head to The Statler for cocktails, skyline views, and (if you’re lucky!) fireworks! Before or after the show, wander through downtown. There are plenty of great restaurants, bars, and hidden gems just steps away to make an evening of it.
Grab a Beer at Katy Trail Ice House
Whether you’re wrapping up a walk on the Katy Trail or simply looking for one of the city’s best patios, Katy Trail Ice House never disappoints. Grab a local beer (our team loves their Summer Beer), order a burger, and settle in under the trees! It’s one of those places that feels like summer from the moment you arrive.
Spend an Evening at White Rock Lake
Some of our favorite summer evenings are the simplest, and that always means White Rock Lake. Pack a picnic, walk the trails, watch the sunset over the lake, or find a shady spot to catch up with friends. Need picnic provisions? Vestals Fresh has everything you need to build the perfect spread before you head out.
Visit Saint Michael’s Farmers Market
Saturday mornings are made for farmers markets, and Saint Michael’s is one of our favorites. Browse fresh seasonal produce, local flowers, baked goods, and artisan products while supporting small businesses. It’s also one of the best places to find inspiration for your next dinner party or gathering.
Experience Thursdays on Tap at the Perot Museum
Looking for something a little different? Thursdays on Tap transforms the Perot Museum into an adults-only evening complete with drinks, live music, food, and after-hours access to the exhibits. It’s a fun way to spend a summer night whether you’re with friends or planning a unique date night.
Cool Off with Parlor’s Ice Cream
Texas summers practically require an ice cream stop. Parlor’s serves delicious seasonal flavors alongside nostalgic favorites (think: Milk & Cookies, Sweet Peach, Brownies a La Mode…) making it the perfect excuse to treat yourself after dinner, or anytime the Dallas heat calls for something sweet.
The Best of Austin: Vestals Catering Team edition
Grab a Margarita at De Nada
Bright colors, great tacos, and frozen margaritas? That’s our kind of summer afternoon. De Nada has become a favorite for its lively patio, flavorful menu, and laid-back atmosphere that captures everything we love about Austin.
Enjoy Texas Barbecue at Terry Black’s
You really can’t go wrong with barbecue in Austin, but Terry Black’s is one of our favorite spots when we’re craving brisket, ribs, and all the classic sides. If you’ve planned ahead (and don’t mind an early morning), Franklin Barbecue is always worth experiencing at least once.
Catch Blues on the Green
Pack a blanket, bring a few friends, and enjoy one of Austin’s favorite summer traditions. Blues on the Green is a free outdoor concert series that combines local music, great weather, and community. Basically, everything that makes Austin feel like Austin.
Cool Off at Barton Springs
When the Texas heat turns up, Barton Springs is where locals go. Spend the afternoon swimming in the spring-fed pool, relaxing on the grassy hillside, or exploring nearby trails before grabbing dinner somewhere on South Congress.
Watch the Bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
It might sound a little unexpected, but it’s one of Austin’s most iconic experiences. Around sunset, more than a million bats emerge from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge, creating a nightly show that’s surprisingly magical, and definitely worth seeing at least once.
Grab Coffee at Jo’s on South Congress
Whether you’re starting your morning or taking a midday break, Jo’s Coffee is an Austin classic. Pick up an iced coffee, snap a photo in front of the famous “I love you so much” mural, and spend some time wandering the local shops along South Congress.
Treat Yourself to Amy’s Ice Cream
No summer is complete without ice cream, and Amy’s has been an Austin favorite for decades. Choose from rotating seasonal flavors, add your favorite mix-ins, and don’t be surprised if your scoop gets tossed through the air before landing perfectly in your cone.
Spend Sunday at Mueller Farmers Market
Fresh produce, local makers, pastries, live music, and plenty of neighborhood charm make Mueller Farmers Market one of our favorite ways to spend a slow Sunday morning. Come hungry, because you’ll probably leave with breakfast, fresh flowers, and a few things you didn’t plan on buying.
Order the Bob Armstrong Dip at Matt’s El Rancho
If you’re headed to Matt’s El Rancho, there’s really only one way to start your meal: the legendary Bob Armstrong Dip. Pair it with a margarita, order your favorite Tex-Mex classics, and you’ll quickly understand why generations of Austinites keep coming back.
Why We Love Celebrating in Dallas & Austin
After hundreds of weddings, corporate events, holiday parties, and milestone celebrations, we’ve learned that no two events (or cities) are exactly alike.
Dallas brings timeless elegance, vibrant neighborhoods, and unforgettable venues. Austin offers laid-back charm, live music, and a creative energy that’s impossible to replicate. It’s a privilege to help our clients celebrate in places we’re proud to call home.
Whether we’re serving dinner at a downtown gala, catering an intimate backyard wedding, or helping bring a company celebration to life, we’re always inspired by the communities around us and the people who make them so special.
Planning a Dallas or Austin event?
Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate gathering, fundraiser, holiday party, or private celebration, the Vestals team is here to help you create an experience your guests will remember long after the last bite.
Ready to start planning? We’d love to celebrate with you.
