Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Runaway Bay, TX

  • Published 2022/09/16

Runaway Bay is a charming city in Texas’ Wise County.

It was established in the early 1980s, and settlers inhabited the area before the Civil War.

As one of the county’s most progressive cities, it has its fair share of attractions for its visitors.

Most people remark this place for its proximity to enchanting bodies of water.

You’ll find several recreational areas where you can enjoy outdoor activities.

This place is where you should be if you want a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For starters, here’s the list of the best things to do in Runaway Bay, Texas:

Go Kayaking at Chupacabra Point Paddling Trail

Located on Marco Drive, Chupacabra Point Paddling Trail is a must-visit for those who want a real adventure.

The city and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department brought this trail to life.

Here, you can enjoy canoeing and kayaking while admiring the city’s thriving flora and fauna.

Across the trail, you will also see wildlife species living in harmony.

If you are an avid fan of nature, you should never miss the fun at Chupacabra Point Paddling Trail.

Unwind at RB Golf Club & Resort

At RB Golf Club & Resort on Half Moon Way, you can make your stay in the city worth it.

This golf club is a standout, being home to the only 18-hole golf course in the area.

It’s open to all golf enthusiasts, may they be beginners or professionals.

Starters aged five to 18 may improve their aim by partaking in the Junior Golf Summer Camp.

Visitors are also welcome to join the weekly scramble to win awesome prizes.

You can check out Lakeview Tavern & Grill, where you can fuel up with its delicious meals.

The culinary experience provided by their well-trained staff certainly won’t fail your taste buds.

You can also cool down in the covered driving range with your family or friends.

The fun starts and never seems to end at RB Golf Club & Resort, so be sure to check it out.

Grab a Meal at One Stop of Texas

One Stop of Texas is the place to go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Its delectable food selection will give you the energy you need to get by the rest of the day.

Drive along US Highway 380 West to reach this place and fill up on great food.

You can also shop for groceries at One Stop of Texas.

In addition, there’s a tiny boutique where you can find adorable yet affordable pieces of clothing.

Nestle Your Boat at Runaway Bay Marina

If you have a soft spot for boats, you must witness the grandeur of Runaway Bay Marina.

This marina is like no other, with 122 boat slips situated on a wind-resistant cove.

If you happen to have your own boat, you can sail away on a hassle-free tour around the city, and Runaway Bay Marina can serve as its shelter.

Otherwise, you can always head to this stunning attraction to watch the boats and enjoy the view.

Runaway Bay Marina is located along Runaway Bay Drive.

Relax at The Lodge

If you have yet to choose a place to stay in the city, you may want to book a room at The Lodge.

You can find this relaxing accommodation on US Highway 380 West.

At this lodge, you choose between studio units and standard or deluxe suites to suit your preferences.

After a long day, you can rest in one of their sanitized bedrooms while lighting up the fireplace.

As long as you have the ingredients, you may maximize your suite’s full kitchen.

The hot tub will also give you the warmth you deserve after long days filled with sightseeing.

Swimming and golf are some of the available activities in the area.

You can also use the workout room to stay fit throughout your stay.

Find a home away from home at The Lodge.

Beat the Heat at Runaway Bay Public Beach

The best way to enjoy the waters around the city is by heading to Runaway Bay Public Beach on Ratliff Drive.

You and your family can cool down and dive across the designated area for lake swimming.

At this beach, you may also utilize the cookout grills and covered picnic areas.

It’s a great place to refresh and get some peace in the middle of the city.

If you feel like a simple vacation is all you need, waste no time and visit Runaway Bay Public Beach.

Enjoy and Have Fun at Cricket Ridge Park

Cricket Ridge Park is a great place to visit with family or a group of friends because of its vast space.

At the park, you may have a picnic with your loved ones at one of the designated tables.

You can also play outdoor sports and use the playground equipment.

Visitors can also enjoy the park’s panoramic view of the famous Lake Bridgeport.

Cricket Ridge Park is located on Runaway Bay Drive.

Appreciate Lake Bridgeport

Your stay in the city will not be remarkable without visiting Lake Bridgeport.

This lake is located in the Trinity River Basin and sits across the northern part of Texas.

The construction of this man-made spot goes a long way back, together with the city’s history.

It has 13,000 acres of water surface and serves as a serene scenery for locals of the city and nearby areas.

This multi-purpose lake also fulfills flood control and water conservation purposes.

The lake’s general public area allows boating, sailing, skin diving, and swimming.

If you would like to jump into pristine waters, include Lake Bridgeport on your list.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Uncover the Region’s Past at the Wise County Heritage Museum

Baptist church at Wise County Heritage Museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Wise County Historical Society Museum will appeal to avid fans of history.

Located in Decatur, Texas, it’s only 25 minutes from Runaway Bay.

The museum started as an educational institution in 1891.

The Baptist Association initiated the construction of Baptist College for the residents, but after a few successions of ownership, the building seemed to have failed its purpose.

Coke L. Gage bought the property with the hopes of making things work but failed later on.

He then donated one acre of the land to the Wise County Historical Society—the rest is history.

rb Wise County Heritage Museum2

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The donation became the impeccable site of the county’s past.

It houses exhibits and archives that narrate the history of Wise County.

A variety of rooms in the establishment will educate you on how things went for the region over the decades.

If you have the time to spare, make sure to check out the Wise County Heritage Museum.

Spot Wildlife at the Center for Animal Research and Education

Home for over 60 animals, the Center for Animal Research and Education is a sight to behold.

It’s a non-profit organization that commits to saving the lives of wildlife species.

Since the early 2000s, this center has aimed to provide a safe and permanent sanctuary for animals.

Either abandoned or exploited, all creatures are welcome here.

If you are fond of seeing wildlife species, visit this place in Bridgeport, only 12 minutes from Runaway Bay.

You can book amazing tours at the Center for Animal Research and Education.

A tour of its vicinity will give you adequate information about all the animals in the area.

Its capacity allows only a certain number of guests, so make your reservations in advance.

Donations are welcome and will go a long way toward improving the animals’ living conditions.

Create Artworks at DIY Studio Decatur

If you and your loved ones are fond of making art, DIY Studio Decatur is the perfect place to improve your craft.

Located in Decatur, this studio is a 25-minute drive from Runaway Bay.

It has a generous space where you can learn different art forms and styles.

DIY Studio Decatur provides visitors with all the necessary materials—all you have to do is find a great subject and create wonders.

This studio commits to serving its visitors by conducting workshops on traditional painting and digital printing.

You can also enjoy other activities like candle making, leatherwork, and touring the studio.

Boost Your Energy at Trinity Street Coffee Bar & Roastaurant

Trinity Street Coffee Bar & Roastaurant is commendable because of its serene ambiance.

This coffee house is located in Decatur, only 24 minutes from Runaway Bay.

Since 2017, this place has uplifted the hearts of locals and other visitors.

Coffee lovers must try its energizing barista specials.

This impeccable shop also offers tea and other beverages that you may choose from.

The pastries will also taste better when matched with their drinks.

Plentiful events await you at Trinity Street Coffee Bar & Roastaurant.

On select days of the week, you can taste its wines and whiskeys to make your night more wonderful.

Don’t miss out on the fun and visit this fancy coffee shop!

Savor the Grilling Experience at Rooster’s Roadhouse

After hopping on a long tour, you may want to fuel up at Rooster’s Roadhouse.

It was established by local boys who aspire to bring a fantastic grilling experience to Denton.

You can find this place in Decatur, 25 minutes from Runaway Bay.

Smoking hot burgers and meat barbeques await you at Rooster’s Roadhouse.

The restaurant also offers a wide array of appetizers, salads, and side items, so you’ll never leave unsatisfied.

You can make fun memories at Rooster’s Roadhouse while enjoying a remarkable Texan dining experience.

Master Pottery at The Wright House Arts

Discover the craftsman in you at The Wright House Arts in Decatur, 22 minutes from Runaway Bay.

This spot specializes in hosting pottery classes for people of all ages.

It’s a great bonding activity to enjoy with family, so make sure to include this on your itinerary.

You can also check The Wright House Arts to see artworks made by local artists and purchase anything that tickles your fancy.

Raise Your Bows at Nock It Archery Center

If you want a thrilling activity involving arrows, drop by Nock It Archery Center in Rhome, 30 minutes from Runaway Bay.

Bryan and Theresa Murphy established this archery facility.

When The Hunger Games premiered in 2012, their daughter got curious about archery.

A year after moving to Decatur, the couple formed the Decatur Eagles Archery in 2018.

This non-profit organization strives to help aspiring archers improve their craft.

From here, they established the Nock It Archery Center in the latter part of the year.

The facility has an archery coach that conducts group and private lessons for its students.

Visit the on-site shop if you need some upgrades with your equipment.

Both beginners and experienced archers can take the spotlight at Nock It Archery Center!

Final Thoughts

Given all the best things to do in Runaway Bay, Texas, you must never miss the chance to see this area for yourself.

Apart from a warm community, the touch of nature in the spots around the city will refresh you.

So, if you are planning to visit Texas, do not leave this impeccable city out of your list!

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