Texas' Uniquely-Shaped Pool Is A Legendary Landmark That Lets You Swim Across The State

An activity you didn't know you needed to add to your summer bucket list, is to swim across the state of Texas ... in pool form! The Texas Pool is open for the summer season and just 25 minutes from Dallas in Plano. Known for its unique shape modeled after the state of Texas, the iconic saltwater pool is a fun place to bring the family to cool off in the summer heat. It's such a beloved landmark that it's even been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

You will find fun highlights across the pool in different parts of the "state." For example, the 10-foot deep end is in the "panhandle" of the state and there is a diving board where you can show off your best dive or cannonball. If you swim to "South Texas," you will find a shallow area for young children including a small yellow slide that ends in water just 2 feet deep. While you have your little ones around the pool, don't forget some tips to stay safe around bodies of water. If you're hoping to be more active, there is always a volleyball net set up somewhere between the pool's Houston and DFW airport. If you're looking for a challenge, see how fast you can swim across the whole state. 

The Texas Pool is open most days from Memorial Day to Labor Day and draws locals and visitors alike. The admission fee is $10 per person and free for kids under two years old. While you plan your family trip the pool, keep in mind that it has bathrooms but does not have changing rooms or lockers.

There is so much to do at the Texas Pool that you may not want to leave to eat, so pack a lunch for a poolside picnic. There are free gas BBQ grills for the community to use, which include propane, so all you have to remember is the food. You can also get pizza delivered to the pool, which sounds like a perfect plan for a lazy summer afternoon. When packing the drinks cooler, remember that alcohol and glass bottles are not allowed at the pool for safety reasons. If you forget snacks, there is also a small shop on site where you can purchase some food, drinks, and even some essentials you may have forgotten, like pool floats or sunscreen.

If you want shade while you eat at the pool, there are two cabanas over picnic tables that are available first come, first served, if no one reserved it for the day. However, to guarantee access to a cabana, you can reserve it for a $20 reservation online or at the front desk. The Texas Pool also offers cushioned lounge chairs that seem like they would be something you would have to pay for, but they are actually free and first come, first served. (Just don't forget about this unspoken poolside etiquette rule.) You will also find plenty of standard lounge chairs and picnic tables with umbrellas available to use during your visit. Be sure to check out the pool's calendar because there are programs to keep you busy all summer from yoga by the pool to a chess club and mermaid classes.

The Texas Pool is not just a spot for some summer fun but has had a positive impact on the community since 1961. There are many ways the Texas Pool Foundation gives back, including by offering free annual memberships to some families who have come on hard times and providing community service memberships to people who volunteer to work 40 hours on behalf of the pool. The Texas Pool Foundation works with community groups to sponsor local events and fundraisers and partners with scouting programs to choose valuable community service projects. For lifeguards of all levels from junior lifeguards to more seasoned ones, there are educational scholarships available to increase their training.

The Texas Pool also has a Little Free Pantry, where people in need can take donated pantry items. There is also a Little Free Library book exchange, so be sure to bring an old book along to trade it in for something new to read by the pool. Another unique feature, the butterfly garden along the back fence attracts migrating butterflies and raises awareness about the value of protection efforts. While you explore the pool, there are odes to the community visible, with murals and artwork painted by community artists all around the property. For another exciting summer destination in Texas, check out the world's largest RV resort pool.