If you’re planning a trip to Texas, there’s no better place to visit than Rockwall. Located on the eastern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, this charming city has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, shopping, dining, or just soaking up the local culture, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do in Rockwall.
To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a Rockwall Texas Visitor’s Guide that covers everything you need to know. From the best places to stay and eat to the top attractions and activities, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or with a group of friends, you can use this guide to plan the perfect trip to Rockwall.
Discover Rockwall, Texas
Welcome to Rockwall, Texas! We are a small-town community located just 22 miles east of downtown Dallas on Interstate 30. Our charming town is situated on scenic Lake Ray Hubbard, providing picturesque landscapes and warm Texan hospitality.
Rockwall is known for its rich history and unique charm. Visitors can take a stroll in our historic downtown square, where they will find several buildings from the 1800s that have been converted into boutique stores, cafes, and restaurants. The downtown area is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing through the various stores or enjoying a nice meal at one of the restaurants.
For those who love the outdoors, Rockwall has plenty to offer. Lake Ray Hubbard, located just east of Rockwall, provides ample space for fishing, water skiing, kayaking, and boating. The lake is also home to several parks with swimming beaches, hiking, and biking trails, making it a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
When visiting Rockwall, be sure to check out Harbor Rockwall on Lake Ray Hubbard. This premier waterfront destination offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Overall, Rockwall, Texas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Whether you’re looking to relax by the lake or explore our historic downtown, we have something for everyone. Come visit us and discover all that Rockwall has to offer!
Historic Downtown
Rockwall’s Historic Downtown is a charming destination that is steeped in history and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. With its picturesque streets lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy restaurants, it’s a great place to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere.
Historic Downtown Square
At the heart of Historic Downtown is the Historic Downtown Square, a beautiful public space that is home to a variety of events throughout the year. From farmers’ markets to music festivals, there’s always something going on here. The square is surrounded by a range of shops and restaurants, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Rockwall County Courthouse
Another must-see attraction in Historic Downtown is the Rockwall County Courthouse. Built in 1922, this impressive building is a great example of Classical Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can take a guided tour of the courthouse and learn about its fascinating history.
Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Historic Downtown is a must-visit destination in Rockwall.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, Rockwall has plenty to offer. From parks to lakes, there’s something for every nature lover. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Rockwall.
Harry Myers Park
Harry Myers Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. This park offers a variety of activities including picnicking, hiking, biking, and more. The park also has spacious fields for playing sports like soccer and baseball. If you’re looking for a place to take your furry friend, Harry Myers Park also has a dog park.
Lake Ray Hubbard
Lake Ray Hubbard is a beautiful freshwater lake that offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can fish for bass, catfish, and other fish species or enjoy kayaking and boating. The lake also has several marinas where you can rent boats and jet skis. If you’re looking for a relaxing day out, you can take a scenic cruise on the lake.
Boating and Fishing
If you’re a fan of fishing or boating, Rockwall is the place to be. Lake Ray Hubbard offers plenty of opportunities for both. You can rent a boat or bring your own and enjoy a day out on the lake. If you’re looking to catch some fish, the lake is home to a variety of species including bass, catfish, and crappie.
Overall, Rockwall is a great destination for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, or just enjoy the scenery, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Harbor
When it comes to visiting Rockwall, The Harbor is a must-see destination. This premier retail and dining development is located on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
Shops at The Harbor
While The Harbor may not be a traditional shopping complex, it offers a variety of shops that are sure to satisfy any visitor’s needs. From clothing boutiques to specialty stores, The Harbor has it all. Some of our favorites include the boutique clothing store, The Impeccable Pig, and the charming gift shop, The Fatted Calf.
Dining at The Harbor
The Harbor is home to some of the best restaurants in Rockwall. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, The Harbor has a dining option for you. For a taste of Texas, we recommend dining at El Porton Mexican Restaurant or Dodie’s Cajun Diner. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, head to Zanata for delicious Italian cuisine.
Entertainment at The Harbor
The Harbor is not just a place to shop and dine, but also a hub for entertainment. From live music to movies, there’s always something going on at The Harbor. Catch a movie at the Cinemark 12 or enjoy a live music performance at the Amphitheater. For a unique experience, take a sunset cruise on Lake Ray Hubbard with DFW Boat Ride Sail with Scott.
Overall, The Harbor at Rockwall is a destination that should not be missed. With its beautiful lake views, wide variety of shops and restaurants, and fun entertainment destinations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Downtown Shopping
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, Downtown Rockwall is the place to be. With a mix of boutique shops and local markets, you’re sure to find something special.
Boutique Shops
Downtown Rockwall is home to a variety of boutique shops offering one-of-a-kind items. From clothing to home decor, these shops offer a unique shopping experience that you won’t find at a big-box store. Some of our favorites include:
- Jane & Joe Boutique: This boutique offers a curated selection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Their custom designs are sure to make you stand out.
- No9 Couture: This shop offers a mix of trendy and classic clothing options. They also carry a selection of handbags and accessories.
- Southern Roots TX: This boutique specializes in Texas-inspired clothing and accessories. You’ll find everything from graphic tees to cowboy boots.
Farmers Market
If you’re looking for fresh produce and locally-made goods, be sure to check out the Rockwall Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from May through September, the market offers a variety of vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts. It’s a great way to support local businesses and farmers while also picking up some fresh produce for your next meal.
Overall, Downtown Rockwall offers a unique shopping experience with a mix of boutique shops and local markets. Whether you’re in the market for a new outfit or some fresh produce, you’re sure to find something special in Downtown Rockwall.
Dining and Wineries
When it comes to dining and wineries in Rockwall, we have a lot to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale burgers, tacos, seafood, or Texas wine, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Restaurants
Rockwall boasts a variety of restaurants, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu. From Italian cuisine at Zanata to American fare at Charlie’s, there’s something for everyone. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Pier 101 is a must-visit. They offer fresh seafood dishes and a beautiful view of Lake Ray Hubbard.
Winery and Breweries
Rockwall is home to several wineries and breweries, making it a great destination for wine and beer lovers. San Martino Winery and Vineyards is a local favorite, offering a vast selection of wines, most of which are local. Incognito Winery and Vineyards is another great option, with a focus on quality and small-batch production.
If you’re a beer enthusiast, check out Hemisphere Brewing Company. They offer a variety of craft beers, including American Blonde Ale and Hazy IPA. Siren Rock Brewing Company is another great option, with a focus on quality and innovation.
When planning your visit, make sure to check if the wineries and breweries require reservations or offer walk-in tastings. And don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful scenery while you sip on your favorite drink.
Conclusion
Rockwall’s dining and winery scene is diverse and exciting. From upscale restaurants to casual breweries, there’s something for everyone. So come visit us and indulge in the best of Texas cuisine and wine.
Festivals and Music
Rockwall is not only known for its small-town charm and big city amenities but also for its vibrant music scene and festivals. In this section, we will discuss some of the top festivals and music events in Rockwall.
Live Music Capital of North Texas
Rockwall is known as the “Live Music Capital of North Texas” and for a good reason. With numerous venues and events throughout the year, visitors can always find something to suit their musical tastes. Whether you’re into country, rock, jazz, or blues, there’s something for everyone.
Concert by the Lake Series
One of the most popular music events in Rockwall is the Concert by the Lake Series. Held at the Harbor Amphitheater, this free event features live music, food trucks, and a beautiful view of Lake Ray Hubbard. The series runs from May to July, and visitors can enjoy a variety of genres, including country, rock, and blues.
San Jacinto Plaza Music Series
Another popular music series in Rockwall is the San Jacinto Plaza Music Series. Held at the San Jacinto Plaza, this free event features live music, food trucks, and a fun atmosphere. The series runs from April to October and includes a variety of genres, including jazz, country, and rock.
In addition to these events, Rockwall also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Rockwall Founders Day Festival and the Rockin’ at the Harbor Festival. These events feature live music, food vendors, and fun activities for the whole family.
Whether you’re a music lover or just looking for a fun festival, Rockwall has something for everyone. From the Live Music Capital of North Texas to the Concert by the Lake Series and the San Jacinto Plaza Music Series, visitors can enjoy a variety of musical genres and events throughout the year.
Local Breweries
If you’re a fan of craft beer, Rockwall has some great options for you. One of the most popular breweries in the area is the Siren Rock Brewing Company. As a destination craft brewery, Siren Rock has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Located in Rockwall, Siren Rock Brewing Company is a craft brewery that offers a wide variety of handcrafted beers. The brewery is custom-designed and built from the ground-up on 1.25 acres near beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard. With approximately 7,600 square-feet of the facility dedicated to production, Siren Rock has kegging, canning, and packaging capabilities on-site.
Siren Rock Brewing Company is known for its incredible craft beer, but it also offers a great atmosphere and live music. The brewery is brightly lit, colorful, and full of character. You can enjoy a cold beer while listening to live music on the weekends. The food menu is also worth checking out, and we highly recommend the pretzel bites and the bang bang shrimp.
Overall, Siren Rock Brewing Company is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys craft beer. With its great atmosphere, live music, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why it’s become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. If you’re in the Rockwall area, be sure to stop by Siren Rock Brewery and try some of their amazing beers.
Local Farms and Produce
When visiting Rockwall, TX, we highly recommend taking a trip to some of the local farms and produce stands in the area. Not only can you find fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, but you can also support the hardworking farmers in the community.
Blase Family Farm
One farm we highly recommend visiting is Blase Family Farm. Located just a short drive from Rockwall, this family-owned farm offers a wide variety of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade pies and jams.
One of the unique features of Blase Family Farm is their lavender plants. They offer a variety of lavender products, such as lavender soap, lotions, and even culinary lavender for cooking. Be sure to check out their gift shop for these items and more.
During the fall season, Blase Family Farm also offers pumpkin patches, hayrides, and other fun activities for the whole family. It’s a great way to get into the autumn spirit and support a local business at the same time.
Overall, we highly recommend visiting Blase Family Farm and other local farms and produce stands in the Rockwall area. Not only will you find fresh, delicious produce, but you’ll also be supporting the hardworking farmers in our community.
Golfing in Rockwall
If you’re a golf enthusiast, Rockwall is the perfect destination for you. With its scenic views and top-rated courses, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the best golf courses in Rockwall:
Buffalo Creek Golf Club
Buffalo Creek Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer. This 18-hole championship golf course was designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, and it has been rated as one of the best courses in Texas. With its rolling hills, waterfalls, and beautiful views, Buffalo Creek Golf Club is a challenging yet enjoyable course for golfers of all skill levels.
The course features Bermuda grass fairways and bent grass greens, ensuring that the course is always in top condition. The course also has a driving range and a putting green, so you can practice your swing before you hit the course.
Buffalo Creek Golf Club also offers a pro shop, where you can purchase golf equipment, apparel, and accessories. The clubhouse features a restaurant and bar, so you can relax and enjoy a meal or drink after your round of golf.
Overall, Buffalo Creek Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer visiting Rockwall. With its challenging course and beautiful views, you won’t be disappointed.
Rockwall County Historical Foundation
We highly recommend visiting the Rockwall County Historical Foundation during your trip to Rockwall, Texas. This organization was founded in 1978 with the goal of collecting and preserving the county’s history. Today, the foundation owns and operates three historic buildings in Harry Meyers Park: The Manson-LaMoreaux-Hartman House, the Bailey House, and the Tenant Cabin.
Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum
One of the highlights of the Rockwall County Historical Foundation is the Museum. Conveniently located in Harry Myers Park in downtown Rockwall, the museum is home to many historic structures including two homes from early Rockwall County, a Tenant Cabin, the Hartman Windmill, a replica carriage house, outhouse, and gazebo.
Guided tours and self-guided tours may be taken any time the Museum is open. Due to the nature of the houses, we do not accept tours of over 10 people at once and ask that larger tours schedule in advance.
The Museum’s biggest mystery is the Rock Wall. In 1852, three Rockwall founders, Terry Utley Wade, William Clay Stevenson, and Benjamin F. Boydstun were digging for water and made the first discovery of a mysterious rock wall. The City and County were named for this unique formation. Many studies have been conducted over the years, and the origin of the rock wall is still debated.
The Museum also offers exhibits, lectures, and family programs. It’s the perfect place to learn about the rich history of Rockwall County.
The People of Rockwall
At the heart of Rockwall, Texas, lies a community of warm and friendly people. We take pride in our small-town charm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re here for a short visit or to stay for a while, you’ll find that the people of Rockwall are some of the friendliest around.
Our community is made up of a diverse group of individuals, from young families to retirees. We embrace our differences and celebrate our shared values. Our residents are hardworking, honest, and caring. We take care of our own and look out for our neighbors.
One of the things that sets us apart is our strong sense of community. We come together for events like the Rockwall Farmers Market, the Rockwall MusicFest, and the Rockwall County Fair. We also have a strong tradition of volunteerism, with many residents giving their time and resources to local charities and organizations.
If you’re new to the area, you’ll find that our residents are always eager to help out and make you feel at home. We have a vibrant network of community groups, including the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce, the Rockwall Women’s League, and the Rockwall County Historical Foundation. These organizations provide opportunities to meet new people and get involved in the community.
Overall, the people of Rockwall are what make our town so special. We’re proud of our community and the strong bonds we’ve built over the years. Whether you’re here for a day or a lifetime, we hope you’ll feel welcome and at home among us.
Family-Friendly Activities
Rockwall is a family-friendly community with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or cultural experiences, Rockwall has something for everyone.
Playgrounds
For families with young children, Rockwall has several playgrounds throughout the city. One of the most popular is Harry Myers Park, which features a large playground area with swings, slides, and climbing structures. The park also has picnic areas, walking trails, and a fishing pond.
Another great option is Chandler’s Landing Marina, which has a playground area with a pirate ship theme. Kids can climb aboard the ship and pretend to be pirates while parents enjoy the scenic views of Lake Ray Hubbard.
Rockwall Community Playhouse
For families interested in the arts, the Rockwall Community Playhouse is a must-visit destination. The playhouse offers a variety of productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and children’s shows.
In addition to performances, the Rockwall Community Playhouse also offers acting classes for children and adults. These classes are a great way to learn new skills and meet other members of the community who share a love of the arts.
Overall, Rockwall is a great destination for families looking for fun and engaging activities. From playgrounds to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community.
San Martino Winery & Vineyards
If you’re a wine enthusiast, San Martino Winery & Vineyards is a must-visit destination during your trip to Rockwall, Texas. This family-owned and operated winery was founded in 1978 by Dr. James M. Johnson Jr. and has been producing award-winning wines ever since.
San Martino Winery & Vineyards is located on a breathtaking 14-acre estate on the outskirts of Rockwall, Texas. The vineyard grows six varieties of grapes suited to the local climate- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Muscat Canelli, Syrah, and Sangiovese.
Our operating hours are Friday and Saturday, 1 pm to 7 pm, and Sunday, 1 pm to 6 pm. You can find us on HWY 205, about 3 miles north of downtown Rockwall. Our phone number is 469-367-9417.
At San Martino Winery & Vineyards, we offer varietal blends as well as tempranillo, sangiovese, syrah, aglianico, montepulciano, and cabs, etc. Our wine list is extensive, and you’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste.
In addition to wine tasting, we offer tours of the vineyard and winery, where you can learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. You can also enjoy the beautiful grounds and tasting room, and even bring a picnic or pizza to enjoy with your wine.
Overall, San Martino Winery & Vineyards is a hidden gem in Rockwall, Texas. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and exceptional wines, it’s a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The Brass Tap
If you’re a beer lover visiting Rockwall, TX, you can’t miss The Brass Tap. As an upscale beer bar, The Brass Tap offers over 150 craft beers from around the globe, including 60 beers on tap, 100+ imports, and local craft beers. Whether you’re looking for a light beer or a bold IPA, you’ll find it here.
The Brass Tap is located in the Harbor Rockwall shopping center and has a neighborhood atmosphere that feels both relaxed and upscale. With its cozy seating and friendly staff, The Brass Tap is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring the city.
Aside from its impressive beer selection, The Brass Tap also offers a great food menu. From burgers to salads, there’s something for everyone. We recommend trying their loaded tater tots or the pretzel bites with beer cheese.
If you’re looking for a fun night out, The Brass Tap often hosts live music events and trivia nights. Check their website or Facebook page for upcoming events.
Overall, The Brass Tap is a must-visit spot for beer lovers in Rockwall. With its extensive beer selection, delicious food, and fun atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it’s a local favorite.
Book Club Café
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a bite to eat in Rockwall, look no further than Book Club Café. Located on the square in Downtown Rockwall, our restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food made from scratch.
We specialize in breakfast and offer a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any appetite. From classic favorites like pancakes and omelets to more unique options like our breakfast tacos and avocado toast, we have something for everyone. And if you’re not in the mood for breakfast, we also have a selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups that are perfect for lunch.
At Book Club Café, we pride ourselves on using as many local and organic ingredients as possible. We never use anything frozen or pre-packaged, so you can be sure that your meal is fresh and made with care. And if you’re a coffee lover, be sure to try our coffee, which is roasted in-house for maximum freshness.
We’re open Monday through Sunday from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, except for Wednesdays when we’re closed. So whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a leisurely brunch with friends, Book Club Café is the perfect spot. Come visit us and see why we’re one of the most popular restaurants in Rockwall.
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