We see you, Little Elm. Last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the tiny town 30 miles north of Dallas was the fifth fastest-growing city in the country. Its population jumped 8 percent from July 2021 to July 2022, putting it at more than 55,000 residents. But, at least for now, it’s still billing itself as “The Town with the Lake Attitude.” With 66 miles of shoreline hugging Lake Lewisville, the city is dotted with indoor water parks and outdoor wake parks. On days when the sun is high, you’ll find roads are packed with pickups dragging souped-up boats for a day out on the water.
Leo’s Brunch House
500 W. Eldorado Pkwy., Ste. 400 | 469-555-3833
This bright, modern cafe features down-home favorites. The Bacado, an eggs Benedict with bacon and avocado, comes with crispy hash browns on the side. It all pairs well with a strong cup of the restaurant’s Segafredo coffee.
Lakefront at Little Elm
701 W. Eldorado Pkwy. | 469-535-0863
The city comes alive during seasonal celebrations at Lakefront, the entertainment district that rests on the lake. Autumn Fest in September features rides, games, and food from nearby restaurants; Pumpkin Hollow in October adds a pumpkin walk for little ones and a spookier haunted trail for bigger thrill-seekers.
Little Elm Beach
701 W. Eldorado Pkwy. | 469-525-0863
Pack snacks and drinks, or stop by one of the nearby restaurants to pick up a bite before you head to the sandy banks of Little Elm Beach. Our choice is a frozen margarita to-go from Margarita Hut, just a few minutes down the road. Boaters aren’t allowed to get close to swimmers, so the oasis is yours to safely enjoy.
The Cove
417 Lakefront Dr. | 214-618-2047
When the fickle Texas weather sours, the lake attitude lives on indoors at The Cove. Zip through the twisted waterslides, or keep cool on the kid-friendly splash pads. On a day when you need to Zen out, head for the cabanas and the bubbling lazy river.
Tinman Social
199 Main St. | 214-618-0396
Start out with ax throwing, which needs to be reserved in advance, and then try your hand at the arcade games at this two-story entertainment venue. Keep an eye out for the daily drink specials, too. On Sundays, mimosas are five bucks.
Bubble Well
2785 E. Eldorado Pkwy., Ste. 115 | 972-292-9007
The newest location of Denton-based Bubble Well serves refreshing milky and fruity boba teas with all kinds of add-ons, such as chewy tapioca or a fluffy sea-salt foam. All of the drinks are iced, and the sweetness level is up to you.
This story originally appeared in the September issue of D Magazine with the headline, “One Day in…Little Elm.” Write to [email protected].
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