We’re in the dog days of summer, which can only mean one thing – it’s pool season. In a state like Texas, where temperatures are known to sit in triple-digit territory for days on end, we take our swimming seriously. While many communities are content creating conventional kidney-shaped or regular rectangular pools, others are taking state pride a step further with Texas-shaped pool designs.
In this article, we’re exploring a few of the best illustrations of Lone Star-inspired oases so you can seek them out this summer.
The Original Texas Pool
Location: 901 Springbrook Drive, Plano, Texas
Created: 1961
Price of Admission: $0 – $10
The first pool on our list is not only a North Texas staple but is also a National Historic Landmark. This 168,000-gallon outdoor saltwater has been a welcome escape for North Texas swimmers for over half a century. Even today, it’s remained a hot spot during the heat of summer.
“The pool opened in 1961 in one of Plano’s very first neighborhoods,” said Tracy DeLatte, Communications Director for The Texas Pool. “It was a swim club for several years. Then, in 1990 it became an exclusive members-only club. Between the ’90s and around 2007, memberships started to decline, and the pool came close to shutting down. Thankfully, in 2013 the Texas Pool Foundation was formed and we were able to preserve this incredible landmark.”
In the last several years, this pool has earned a couple of distinctions. In 2019, the Texas Pool was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the first Texas-shaped pool in the country. Then, just this year The City of Plano designated it as a historic landmark in the city.
“It’s interesting to see how so much of this pool has remained the same,” DeLatte said. “But at the same time, we’ve made some incredible updates.”
Texas Motor Speedway
Location: 3575 Lone Star Cir, Fort Worth, Texas
Created: 1998
Price of Admission: Private
The Lone Star Tower at the Texas Motor Speedway is an exciting environment for a number of reasons. Situated above Turn Two on one of the most famous tracks in the motorsports realm, this beautiful building encompasses about 150,000 square feet of individually-owned residential condominiums. Among its amazing amenities is one unbelievable pool.
“The Texas-shaped pool at the Lone Star Tower is absolutely iconic,” said Realtor Austin Tate with URocket Realty. “It’s the spotlight of the clubhouse and everyone loves hanging out in it when the weather is warm. Kids really get a kick out of it.”
“Of course, everyone wants to have a look at the pool,” said Tate. “Especially when selling properties like condos these amenities are so important so having such a unique one is really special.”
Marriot Marquis Houston
Houston First Corporation
Location: 1777 Walker St, Houston, Texas
Created: 2016
Price of Admission: $75
While this last pick isn’t technically a pool, it definitely deserves a spot on the list. Located in Houston at the Marriot Marquis, the Texas lazy river offers an array of options for an unforgettable escape. Whether you’re floating the river, fanning off in a lounger, or renting a full-on pergola, this attraction has something for everyone.
And while it is a part of one of Houston’s most incredible hotels, you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy it. Resort Pass offers adult admissions for any reservation type. Packages range from a single-day pass at $75 all the way up to a Double Gazebo rental for $1,850.
Now that you have the tip on the state’s top Texas-shaped pools, kick up your summer with a stately swimming experience.
