Need a lakeside escape with Texas charm and city convenience? Head to Rockwall, Texas! Located just east of Dallas along Lake Ray Hubbard, Rockwall blends waterfront fun, boutique shopping, and historic flair. Whether you're sailing at sunset, enjoying live music, or dining with lake views, Rockwall is a relaxing and lively getaway.
🌤 When I like to visit
The best time to visit Rockwall is in the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Mild temperatures are perfect for lakeside walks, outdoor events, and waterfront dining. Summers are hot but great for water sports and nightlife by the lake.
🗺 My tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Rockwall is located along I-30, about 25 miles east of downtown Dallas and easily accessible via major highways.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Dallas Love Field (DAL) and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), both about 40–50 minutes away by car.
- By Public Transit: Public transportation is limited—most visitors drive or use ride-shares to get around.
🏬 Where I like to stay
- Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront – Upscale lakefront hotel with a pool, spa, and beautiful views of Lake Ray Hubbard.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Rockwall – Modern all-suite hotel near The Harbor with easy access to shops and restaurants.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rockwall – Affordable, pet-friendly stay with comfortable amenities and quick freeway access.
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- The Harbor Rockwall – Scenic lakeside development with restaurants, shops, live music, and a waterfront trail.
- Lake Ray Hubbard – Go boating, paddleboarding, fishing, or enjoy a lakeside picnic and sunset cruise.
- Downtown Rockwall – Stroll brick-lined streets filled with boutiques, bakeries, and historic charm.
- Harry Myers Park – Family-friendly park with walking trails, playgrounds, a dog park, and splash pad.
- Rockwall Farmers Market – Held Saturdays in historic downtown (May–September), offering fresh produce, local goods, and live music.
Unique Attractions
1. San Martino Winery
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"Visit a charming winery to sip handcrafted wines and enjoy a relaxing, romantic setting."
San Martino Winery is a small, family-owned winery just outside the city of Rockwall, Texas, on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, specializing in handcrafted wines using modern techniques. San Martiño Winery & Vineyards was established in 2003 and the same year processed by hand their first grapes. Today the winery produces about 5,000 cases of wine using state of the art equipment. Nevertheless, just like the first harvest, family and good friends still de-stem, crush and process grapes grown in Texas. Over the years the winery has grown and won numerous awards in Texas as well as in international competitions in San Francisco, Los Angeles and other places. Wine lovers are invited to visit their tasting room and sample winery’s select wines. There are frequent music events in the evenings.
San Martino Winery, 12512 State Hwy 205, Lavon, TX 75166, Phone: 972-772-6043
2. Rockwall County Historical Foundation
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"Explore exhibits showcasing local history, preserved artifacts, and historic buildings from the past."
The Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum is located in the 1850 Manson-La Moreaux-Hartman House in Harry Myers Park, Rockwall, Texas.
The museum is operated by the Rockwall Country Historical Foundation and features a range of artifacts and memorabilia from the former residents of the Manson-La Moreax-Hartman House as well as other Rockwall County residents. The Rockwall County Historical Foundation was established in 1978 in order to preserve the heritage of Rockwall County. Some of the ongoing projects of the Foundation are to maintain the home that houses permanent museum and keep it open to the public, to tape oral histories from elderly local residents who lived in the early days of Rockwall County, to preserve the historic districts, sites, structures and objects significant in Rockwall County and much more.
Rockwall County Historical Foundation, 901 E Washington St, Rockwall, TX 75087, Phone: 972-722-1507
🥗 Where I Like to Eat
- Sail with Scott – Not a restaurant, but a dinner cruise! Enjoy sunset or moonlight sailing with wine and views.
- Zanata – Cozy Mediterranean and wood-fired pizza spot in the heart of downtown Rockwall.
- The Oar House – Elegant fine dining with seafood, steaks, and wine in a romantic lakeside setting.
- Standard Service – Trendy eatery with brunch, burgers, and cocktails in a stylish modern space.
🎟 My favorite local events:
- Concert by the Lake Series (Summer) – Free live music at The Harbor every Thursday evening by the water.
- Rockwall Founders Day Festival (May) – Celebrate the city’s roots with live music, vendors, food, and family fun.
- Christmas in Rockwall (December) – Holiday lights, carriage rides, and festive downtown celebrations throughout the season.
🚙 My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Rockwall, Texas:
- Dallas (30 min) – Explore world-class museums, dining, and entertainment in one of Texas’s largest cities.
- Rowlett (15–20 min) – Visit Paddle Point Park for kayaking and tranquil views along the lake.
- Heath (10–15 min) – Quiet residential town with golf courses and scenic country roads for a relaxed drive.
- Lavon Lake (30 min) – Another nearby lake great for camping, boating, and fishing.
- Royse City (20 min) – Small-town charm with antique shops, diners, and family-owned boutiques.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Rockwall, Texas located?
- Rockwall is a city in Rockwall County, Texas.
- It is part of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and is located about 30 miles from downtown Dallas.
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How did Rockwall get its name?
- The city was named after the great sandstone wall located beneath it.
- This natural formation has not been completely excavated yet.
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What is San Martino Vineyard?
- San Martino Vineyard is a small, family-owned vineyard in Rockwall.
- It is located on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
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What is the Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum?
- The Rockwall County Historical Foundation Museum preserves the city's history.
- It is located in the historic 1850 Manson-La Moreaux-Hartman House within Harry Myers Park.
Map:
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