We just celebrated our nation’s birthday, and we are decidedly full swing into summer! As you all know, Nalley-Pickle & Welch has been a part of the Big Spring and Midland communities for generations. And while by this time, we are used to the Texas summer heat, we still like to find ways to stay cool during the hottest time of the year.
We love this area so much, and while Midland and Big Spring might be considered small towns in many ways, we’re not small on fun to offer our friends and family visiting from other parts of the country.
Here are some of the best places to take visitors during the summer – or some great spots to prevent boredom for the kids on summer break.
The Russ McEwen Family Aquatic Center in Big Spring
You might recognize the name of this aquatic center – Robert Russell (Russ) McEwen, III was
very active in the Big Spring community. He also served on the Big Spring City Council in the 1980s and was elected Mayor in 2000, serving until 2010. This family-oriented facility was a dream of his, and it opened under his leadership as Mayor.
You and the kids or grandkids can splash the afternoon away at the 9,300 square-foot leisure pool. With a climbable play structure, lazy river, and two water slides – it’s the perfect spot to cool off during the summer. When the kids (or you!) get waterlogged, they can enjoy the sand play area, shaded areas, and concessions. Just remember your sunscreen!
Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center
Interested in absorbing a little culture during the summer? Find out what’s on stage at the Wagner Noel Preforming Arts Center – the main location for stage events in Midland. From country to Gospel to classic rock, you’ll find something this summer that fits your taste. One of the best parts? This venue which seats over 1,800 is completely air conditioned!
If American history and politics is more your style, the George W. Bush Childhood Home is definitely worth a trip. Located in Midland, from Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 AM until 5 PM, you can tour the home in which the Bush family used to reside. Regardless of your political leanings, you can learn a lot of interesting history about this family which produced two U.S. presidents, two governors, and two first ladies, as well as about Midland history. The home is also on The National Register of Historic Places and is a Recorded Texas Historical Landmark.
And be sure to bring the kids and grandkids! The Laura Bush Bookshelves are always stocked, and children of all ages can come by any time during business hours and pick out one book at no cost.
For those with a mechanical mind, or an interest in airplanes, be sure to make plans to visit the Hangar 25 Air Museum in Big Springs. This completely restored World War II-era airplane is an area icon dedicated to promoting education through the collection, preservation and exhibition of the history of the Big Spring Army Air Force Bombardier School and Webb Air Force Base. They also seek to honor all veterans, and the museum is typically staff by retired veterans who can share stories from the hangar during its heyday in World War II. If you’re proud of this area’s heritage and our veterans, you will love it at the Hangar 25 Air Museum.
No matter where your travels take you this summer, we wish you and your family safety and lots of fun together.
What about you? Where do you like to spend your time when the temperatures rise?