tourist attractions around dallas texas

Dallas   Travel Guide

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The 22 Most Fun Things to Do in Dallas, Chosen by a Local

There’s more to Dallas than meets the eye. Though that flashy skyline and cowboy reputation may be what initially draws you in, you can expect to find a city rich in the arts, fashion, culinary experiences and unique districts. After paying a visit

• All Things To Do

Klyde Warren Park Klyde Warren Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun way to get to the park, take the McKinney Avenue Trolley. This is Dallas’s last remaining streetcar line, running (free of charge) from downtown through Uptown. The trolley passes the city’s most popular attractions, including Klyde Warren. – Justine Harrington

With free Wi-Fi access, weekly events, a dog park, walking trails, a children's park, food trucks and a performance pavilion, Klyde Warren Park is not your typical green space. Built over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway and managed by the Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation, the urban space in the heart of Dallas hosts events ranging from yoga and concerts to outdoor films and holiday celebrations like tree lightings and trick-or-treating. The park, which sprawls across more than 5 acres, can also be reserved for public or private events – the skyline and location make it an ideal backdrop for weddings and concerts.

Dallas Museum of Art Dallas Museum of Art free

The Dallas Museum of Art houses a collection that spans artistic eras and continents: On gallery walls and behind glass display cases, art aficionados will find ancient works from Africa, Asia and Latin America; European art spanning the 14th to 21st centuries; and contemporary pieces by such artists as Mark Rothko and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum also plays host to various traveling exhibitions, which have in the past included works by Cindy Sherman and the fashions of Jean Paul Gaultier.

Reviewers said the Dallas Museum of Art is a must-see, praising the works on display and the knowledgeable staff. They also appreciate that admission is free and recommend pairing your visit to the museum with a stop at the Nasher Sculpture Center , which is also located in the Dallas Arts District .

The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza

On Nov. 22, 1963, shots from Lee Harvey Oswald's gun echoed through Dealey Plaza as President John F. Kennedy's motorcade turned off of Houston Street onto Elm. Today, this scenic green space in downtown Dallas is visited every year by thousands who gather to honor the 35th president.

This tragic day in United States history has been immortalized on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository, where Oswald pulled the trigger 60 years ago. The Sixth Floor Museum (which actually occupies the sixth and seventh floors of the building) houses exhibits detailing JFK's life, presidency and assassination, as well as the history of the 1960s.

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Reunion Tower Reunion Tower

Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from atop Reunion Tower, which stands 470 feet high in downtown. Referred to as "The Ball" by locals thanks to its spherical shape, Reunion Tower offers an indoor/outdoor GeO-Deck that's accessible via an elevator on the tower's ground floor. From the top of the tower, you'll spot some of the city's most famous landmarks and attractions, including Dealey Plaza .

Recent visitors raved about the view and the friendly staff. A few recommended going during the day and at night to enjoy both perspectives of the city.

Dallas Arts District Dallas Arts District free

Culture hounds will want to devote a day to exploring the Dallas Arts District, which is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States. Sprawling across more than 20 square blocks, the neighborhood features museums, performing arts venues, restaurants and bars. Popular attractions within the Dallas Arts District include the Crow Collection of Asian Art , Klyde Warren Park , the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , among others. Performance venues abound as well and include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, which houses the Winspear Opera House and the Wyly Theatre.

Recent visitors praised the amount of coffee shops and restaurants in the area, as well as the variety of things to see and do. Popular restaurants include Musume and Yolk. 

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Perot Museum of Nature and Science

If you've brought the kids to the Big D, set aside some time for a visit to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This 180,000-square-foot facility is jam-packed with hands-on exhibits and educational displays that address such topics as anatomy and energy. One particular highlight for recent visitors was the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, which features towering dinosaur skeletons and an educational scavenger hunt. The Rose Hall of Birds also captivated visitors: Here, interactive displays explain how birds fly and socialize.

Many travelers say that the Perot Museum makes an excellent respite from the hot and humid Texas weather and they were pleasantly surprised by the museum's excellent hands-on exhibits. Reviewers also said this is a great activity for the whole family, as its attractions appeal to a wide range of age groups.

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Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Visiting in spring or fall? Plan your trip to the arboretum around the Cool Thursdays Concert Series, which showcases some of the region’s best performers. Pack a picnic and a blanket or chair, as concerts take place on the lawn. – Justine Harrington

True, Dallas has plenty of towering skyscrapers and traffic-laden highways. But it's also rich in green space. For a respite from the big city, head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which occupies 66 acres in White Rock Lake Park about 7 miles northeast of downtown. Forget about the hustle and bustle with a stroll through the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, where more than 2,000 varieties of azaleas blossom in the spring and several acres of chrysanthemums come to life during the fall. Crepe Myrtle Allee is another must-see for the natural tunnel that's created by the arching crepe myrtle trees.

White Rock Lake and Park White Rock Lake and Park free

Travelers can embrace nature at White Rock Lake and Park, which is located approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Dallas. Bird-watching, fishing, biking, rollerblading and picnicking by the lake are just a few of the activities people can enjoy. Keep in mind that swimming in the lake is prohibited. But with local attractions nearby like the White Rock Lake Museum, Bath House Cultural Center and  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , and amenities like a picnic area, dog park and pavilions for rent, you can find entertainment rain or shine.

Visitors often report wildlife sightings, such as different kinds of birds throughout the year. Families note that it's a dog-friendly park as well, with plenty of space for kids and pets to run around. And many recommend visiting at off-peak times, like in the afternoon and evening, to enjoy fewer crowds and take in the colorful sunset. Active travelers also say it a great spot to run, hike or bike.

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Dallas Farmers Market Dallas Farmers Market free

What began in 1941 as a place for local farmers to sell their produce has morphed into a full-blown foodie and retail destination. Today, the Dallas Farmers Market is a 26,000-square-foot food hall and market with four restaurants and a variety of local food vendors. Of course, there are still plenty of farm-fresh vegetables, eggs and meat to be found, all of which are grown and raised in Texas or within 400 miles of Dallas. Peruse homegrown produce, pasture-raised meats, canned goods and regional specialties at The Shed, an open-air pavilion that’s almost always bustling with activity. 

In the Market Building (the main building), visitors can check out handmade crafts and sample all kinds of tasty eats, such as macarons, tacos, smoothies and more. If it’s nice out, one of the best things to do is grab a snack and a beverage and hang out at one of the seating areas outside – the views of the city skyline are lovely from here.

Bishop Arts District Bishop Arts District free

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy and looking to peruse local boutiques, head about 5 miles southwest of downtown Dallas to the Bishop Arts District. Along with antiques, home goods and gifts, the neighborhood is also home to one-of-a-kind clothing stores. Popular restaurants include Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ, Boulevardier and Lucia, among others.

Recent visitors said the neighborhood offers a great mix of indie shopping and tasty restaurants. Several said the area was perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Dallas World Aquarium Dallas World Aquarium

Perhaps "aquarium" isn't the right word to describe this attraction. Of course, there are fish, stingrays, eels and octopuses – you'll find these and a variety of other aquatic creatures occupying the facility's expansive tanks. But the Dallas World Aquarium also houses animals not commonly found in aquariums, including sloths, monkeys and toucans. Observe birds in free flight in the aquarium's vast rainforest and then marvel at the lizards, snakes and bats in the aquarium's Mundo Maya exhibit, which features a cenote.

Recent travelers said they were pleasantly surprised by the number of animals housed in the Dallas World Aquarium, and many say that a visit here makes a great alternative to the Dallas Zoo , especially during the hot summer months. However, some do warn that the space can feel crowded, especially when schools are on break. Another sticking point for some visitors was the high cost of admission, though others say they felt a visit here was well worth the money.

Nasher Sculpture Center Nasher Sculpture Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every third Friday of the month, from March through October, ‘til Midnight at the Nasher presents live music, film screenings, a special menu and bar services. This event also includes free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to visit. – Justine Harrington

Sitting across the street from the  Dallas Museum of Art  in the Big D's lively Arts District , the Nasher Sculpture Garden repeatedly wows locals and visitors with its striking indoor and outdoor galleries (a particular highlight for past visitors). The center houses more than 300 works of art by modern and contemporary artists like Matisse, Picasso and Rodin. Pieces here range from small marble sculptures to massive installations.

African American Museum of Dallas African American Museum of Dallas free

The African American Museum of Dallas features one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the U.S. The museum displays African art, Black renaissance paintings, decorative arts, period rooms and contemporary art, some of which are centuries old. What's more, entrance is free.

Recent visitors recommended the museum for its collections and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Many described a visit here as moving.

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Crow Museum of Asian Art Crow Museum of Asian Art free

Tucked within the Dallas Arts District, the Crow Museum of Asian Art displays works hailing from China, Japan, India, Korea and Southeast Asia. Along with more than 1,000 artworks, there's also a library of more than 12,000 books, catalogs and journals. The space also shelters a sculpture garden with historical and contemporary pieces among a landscape of bamboo, maples, azaleas and pine trees.

The museum's permanent collection was originally owned by Trammell and Margaret Crow, a Dallas couple with a deep appreciation for Asian art and culture (they visited China more than a dozen times over the course of their lives). They opened the museum in 1998 with the hopes of sharing their love for Asian art and culture with locals and visitors.

Deep Ellum Deep Ellum free

This neighborhood just east of downtown Dallas is a nightlife hot spot that brims with live music, performing arts, eye-catching murals, unique shops and bustling bars. Its status as a live music hub dates back to the early 20th century, when jazz and blues performers like Bessie Smith, Huddie William "Lead Belly" Ledbetter and Lemon Henry "Blind Lemon" Jefferson frequented its stages. If you're hoping to catch a show in Deep Ellum, venues like Trees, The Factory in Deep Ellum and Club Dada are popular spots. Many of the neighborhood's bars also host live music, including Sons of Hermann Hall and Three Links.

In addition to its live music venues, Deep Ellum is also home to a burgeoning dining scene. Popular restaurants include Pecan Lodge (famous for its barbecue), Ichigoh Ramen Lounge, Adair's Saloon (come here for the burgers), Serious Pizza and Nori Handroll Bar.

George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum

Set on 23 acres in northern Dallas' University Park, The George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum houses extensive textual, audiovisual and electronic records from the 43rd presidency. As you can imagine, the library is more of a research facility than it is a tourist attraction. Instead, casual visitors should make their way to the adjacent 14,000-square-foot museum, where detailed displays explore events of Bush's time in office such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, as well as the themes of education reform and the economic crisis. Inside the museum, you'll find interactive exhibits that put you in the former president's shoes: You can walk around a replica of the Oval Office, and in the Decision Points Theater, you can experience the Bush administration's decision- and policy-making process.

According to recent visitors, the highlight of a visit to the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum is the 9/11 exhibit, which they describe as extensive and well-organized. Other travelers appreciated the special exhibits, which rotate frequently. 

Dallas Contemporary Dallas Contemporary free

Modern art lovers will enjoy the Dallas Contemporary, a non-collecting museum displaying cutting-edge works created by Texan artists, as well as national and international artists. The museum was founded by Patricia Meadows in the late 1970s as a nonprofit space before transitioning into the contemporary art hub that it is today. Located in a former metal fabrication plant in the Design District, the Contemporary has ample space to accommodate multiple large-scale exhibitions at a time. 

Because the Contemporary does not have a permanent collection, the focus here is on showing art as opposed to amassing a collection of artworks. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so visitors can expect to rarely, if ever, see the same thing twice. In general, the museum tends to show work from boundary-pushing artists engaged in relevant social and political conversation. Mediums run the gamut from sculpture to installation to painting, among others. 

AT&T Stadium AT&T Stadium

If there's one thing the people of Dallas love, it's football. So, a stop by the home of the Dallas Cowboys is necessary for a glimpse into the area's culture. The Cowboys' former kingdom in Irving was demolished in 2010 to make way for a bigger, better venue. Now you can visit "America's Team" at AT&T Stadium. The largest domed stadium in the country with a capacity for 80,000 screaming fans is located in Arlington, Texas – approximately halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth.

If you do decide to go to a game, prepare for steep ticket prices. To save a buck or two, purchase your seats well in advance, or opt for standing room only tickets, which start at around $30.

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Pioneer Plaza Pioneer Plaza free

Part history lesson, part public art display, Pioneer Plaza attracts visitors looking for a prime photo-op. This 4.2-acre park in downtown Dallas features a re-creation of a cattle drive with bronze longhorn steers being driven by three cowboys on horses. The bronze statues celebrate the trails that originally attracted settlers to Dallas centuries ago. In addition to the statues, the park also features native plants and trees and a stream.

Recent travelers described Pioneer Plaza as a great place for photo-ops thanks to the skyline views. They also say the bronze statues are beautiful. According to reviewers, a quick visit is all you need.

Thanks-Giving Square Thanks-Giving Square free

Plan a visit to Thanks-Giving Square for an escape from the bustle of downtown Dallas. Constructed in the 1970s, the park is significant not only for its peaceful atmosphere, but also for its architecture. It was designed by famed architect Philip Johnson, who incorporated fountains and walkways to encourage visitors to pause and meditate. The square is also set 15 feet below ground level, with a 4-foot wall that blocks the sight of cars on surrounding streets to create a serene escape for visitors. The highlight of the square is undoubtedly the Chapel of Thanksgiving, which has a spiral-shaped façade that rises 90 feet above street level. If you step into the chapel, you'll see the impressive Glory Window by Gabriel Loire, which contains 73 panels of faceted glass that follow the spiral shape of the ceiling.

Recent visitors use words like "beautiful" and "peaceful" to describe Thanks-Giving Square. Reviewers were particularly fond of the mosaics, the fountains and the stained-glass ceiling in the chapel.

Dallas Zoo Dallas Zoo

When the Dallas Zoo was founded in 1888, it housed two deer and two mountain lions. More than a century later, the zoo – which is the oldest and largest in Texas – has grown to shelter more than 2,000 animals representing more than 400 species. Across its 106 acres, you'll find large animals like elephants, giraffes, lions and gorillas, alongside smaller creatures like penguins, toucans, frogs and snakes. There are also animal encounters and experiences, such as giraffe feedings and keeper chats, and attractions like a carousel and a miniature train.

Previous visitors were complimentary of the zoo, praising its manageable size, variety of animals and affordable pricing. Reviewers suggested spending between two and four hours exploring all of the zoo's offerings, and recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the midday crowds. Others described it as small and not particularly impressive, but a worthwhile stop if you're traveling with kids.

Highland Park Village Highland Park Village free

This Mediterranean-style shopping center is home to upscale stores in an open-air setting where visitors can wander for a few hours. The shopping center, which was one of the first of its kind, houses restaurants and shops that reflect the wealthy neighborhood where it is located (such as Jimmy Choo and Rolex). Some refer to it as the "Beverly Hills of Dallas," which should be an indicator of just how high-end the stores are, and locals say it's one of the  top shopping spots in Dallas . The architecture of the longstanding shopping center is also a draw, and shoppers recommend checking out Highland Park Village around Christmastime when lights and decorations transform the outdoor mall.

The shopping center offers concierge services, personal shoppers and complimentary valet parking at multiple stores throughout the village. International shoppers can acquire Texas sales tax refunds from select retail stores by presenting receipts and identification and flight information at the on-site TaxFree Shopping, Ltd.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dallas, TX

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 28, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper and photographer Ian Henderson traveled through Dallas to catch some of the best attractions in the city.

The city of Dallas has a rich history rooted in ranching, farming, and oil production, growing rapidly as a trade center after the introduction of the railroad in 1873. After WWII, the city became home to numerous insurance corporations and banks, making it an important business and financial center — perfect fodder for that most famous of soap operas about power, money, and intrigue: Dallas .

The fascinating history in Dallas is just one reason that people visit, but there are so many other attractions and things to do. The city center is the best place to start a visit . Here, you'll find many excellent museums, restaurants, and hotels, as well as countless fun things to do.

You can branch out into other Dallas districts, like the West End, the Arts District, and the reemerging Deep Vellum District with eclectic restaurants and shops.

For more sightseeing opportunities and places to visit in this Texas city, read through our guide to the top attractions and things to do in Dallas.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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Highlights: "Grassy knoll" outside the museum, location on the roadway of JFK's assassination

Forever etched in infamy, the former Texas School Book Depository at the intersection of Houston and Elm Streets in Dallas is now home to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , dedicated to remembering one of the nation's most tragic and defining moments: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Visitors to the museum are first introduced to the historical context with multimedia exhibits that describe the political climate of the early 1960s and then go on to highlight President Kennedy's trip to Texas in November of 1963 and the last days of his life. Just past here, you will see the sniper's perch in the corner window from which Oswald took the deadly shots, recreated to match the original photos from the crime scene.

The remaining exhibits walk you through the tense hours following the shooting. These include recollections of the state of shock that enveloped the nation and the world, the investigations that followed, and JFK's legacy.

Exhibits also include historical artifacts, like a replica of the Mannlicher-Carcano rifle found at the crime scene, the scale model of Dealey Plaza used by FBI agents during the investigation, forensic evidence, and items such as Lee Harvey Oswald's wedding ring and Jack Ruby's hat.

Spend some time walking around outside on Dealey Plaza. It's a powerful experience to see the exact locations bearing such historical significance, like The Grassy Knoll and even markers on the roadway indicating where the fatal shots hit John F. Kennedy.

Address: 411 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Seasonal festivals take place among the internationally renowned gardens

Located just minutes from downtown Dallas, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden sits on 66 acres along the southeast shore of White Rock Lake . The property's fourteen world-famous displays showcase seasonal flowers, ornamental shrubs, trees, and plant collections. The gardens also host seasonal outdoor festivals, concerts, art shows, and educational programs, and guided tours of the property are available.

Although conceived in the early 1930s, this splendid tourist attraction didn't become a reality until 1984, when the park was laid out on the grounds of a mansion built in 1939. Adding to the fun are the exquisite sculptures and fountains in areas with names like Toad's Corner, Texas Town, and Pecan Grove.

Be sure to do a little exploring around White Rock Lake Park , too. Surrounded by 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, this huge lake covers an area of over 1,000 acres and is known for its excellent bird and wildlife spotting, as well as fishing and sailing experiences.

Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Multi-sensory experiences like the Orinoco rainforest exhibit and the Cloud Forest Trek

Conveniently located within easy walking distance of the city's historic downtown core, Dallas World Aquarium is a fun and educational excursion for young and old alike. Housed in some 87,000 gallons of saltwater are a vast array of sea life including bonnethead sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, sea turtles, giant groupers, and rare leafy seadragons, all living in natural reef settings.

A fun highlight is the Orinoco Rainforest exhibit. This fun attraction comes complete with numerous free-flying birds, such as toucans, along with tree sloths and aquatic species such as Orinoco crocodiles and poison dart frogs. Be sure to check the feeding schedule before arrival for a chance to see the animals at their most animated, as well as for details of upcoming talks and lectures.

To add to your visit, plan to eat at one of the three restaurants at the aquarium, which serve everything from gourmet and international food to sandwiches and snacks with views of the resident sea life.

Address: 1801 N. Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: 360-degree views of Dallas, GeO-Deck observation platform at the top of the tower

While not the tallest building in Dallas, the Reunion Tower is undoubtedly the most distinguished and most recognizable. Completed in 1978 and appearing as a geodesic ball perched atop five cylindrical concrete poles, its 560-foot length is spectacularly lit up at night, emphasizing its unique outline.

The highlight of the tower is the GeO-Deck observation viewing platform, with panoramic views of Dallas from 470 feet in the air. There are always special events taking place with those 360-degree views, from yoga to painting classes.

Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Unique artifacts from the 9/11 terrorist attacks, an exhibit featuring the popular Bush Whitehouse pets

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum has an in-depth look at America's 43rd president and the history of the Bush family's public service. The museum is located on a 23-acre area on the Southern Methodist University campus. Walk through the galleries and archives that feature more than 43,000 artifacts collected during the George W. Bush presidency.

Some of the items housed in the permanent collection include diplomatic gifts and items from the September 11th terrorist attacks, as well as a fun exhibit that showcases the lives of Miss Beazley and Barney, the First Pets, that became popular in the Bush Whitehouse. Wrap up your museum visit with a coffee or bite to eat at the museum at Cafe 43 or outdoor dining at the Courtyard Cafe.

Address: 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: A ride on the 54-foot escalator, views out the tall glass windows to the creatively designed courtyard

Housed in a massive architectural masterpiece designed by Thom Mayne, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a top Dallas attraction for families and curious tourists.

The building itself was designed with sustainability as a foremost goal. Innovative eco-friendly design features include summer water conservation with the use of recaptured condensation from air conditioners and drip irrigation, the use of recycled and locally sourced building materials, and solar-powered water heaters.

The museum is divided into thematic areas with interactive educational stations, games, and high-tech displays. These themes include engineering and innovation, energy, evolution, earth sciences, and more. It also features a 3D theater, the Moody Family Children's Museum and playground, and a 54-foot escalator that overlooks the property from within a glass enclosure.

Address: 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: One of the largest art museums in the United States with extensive collections

The Dallas Museum of Art has been a long-standing institution in the city since it opened in 1903. One of the 10 largest museums in the United States, it has a collection of more than 24,000 works from the Americas and around the globe, including everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

Highlights from the collection include Classical art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, paintings by Claude Monet in the European art gallery, and several contemporary pieces by Jackson Pollock. In addition to the permanent collections, temporary exhibits highlight the work of prominent artists, explore thematic topics, and display historic collections.

Another art exhibit worth catching is the Wendy and Emery Reves Collection , an extensive collection from a single philanthropist donor containing more than 1,400 artifacts. Some of the treasured items include painted fans, lacquered boxes, Chinese porcelain, and 17th-century European furniture.

Address: 1717 N Harwood Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Mid-afternoon social scene on almost any given day surrounded by music, food, outdoor dining, and water fountains

A great place to stop and relax as you make your way through downtown Dallas is Klyde Warren Park . The beautiful public park is a place of respite tucked in the middle of the downtown streets and high-rise buildings. On any given day, you can enjoy food trucks, outdoor dining, green space, public art, and a casual social scene.

Throughout the five-acre space there are cafés to enjoy and many sitting areas by the fountains. There are always public events taking place at the park, but it's just as fun to take a blanket and a picnic as you visit the local attractions and find a half hour just to enjoy the Dallas city scene in a relaxing way.

Address: 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Daily programs like animal feedings and keeper presentations

The Dallas Zoo is a 106-acre park housing more than 2,000 exotic animals from 406 species in a variety of different habitats. Always popular with families, this fun attraction — just three miles away from the city center — was established in 1888, making it one of the oldest zoos in the United States.

The zoo is segmented into regional areas, like ZooNorth, the Wilds of Africa, Giants of the Savanna, and a children's zoo. Some of the most engaging experiences at the zoo include animal encounters, like daily giraffe feedings, programs on the Wild Encounters Stage, and the interactive aviary called Birds Landing.

While there are several restaurants and plenty of snack stands available, you may want to bring a picnic and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables located throughout the zoo grounds.

Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: The walkable PNC plaza surrounding the arena with restaurants to grab a bite before or after the show

It is no surprise that top entertainment acts come to Dallas, and many of them perform at the American Airlines Center arena. It is one of the premier arenas in the United States for concerts, live entertainment, and sporting events. It is also home base for the National Basketball Association's Dallas Mavericks and National Hockey League's NHL Dallas Stars.

In addition to hosting home games for the Mavericks and Stars, you will find a nearly nightly lineup of entertainment no matter what time of the year, so you can easily plan a night out at the venue and even stay in one of the nearby hotels. Before or after your event, walk the PNC Plaza around the arena that to enjoy the restaurants and social scene that accompanies the arena entertainment.

Address: 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: One of many arts-centric stops that you can visit in the Dallas Arts District

Opened in 2003, the Nasher Sculpture Center has a collection of modern and contemporary sculpture and contains exhibits exploring the history of the art of sculpture. Located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District and just steps away from the Dallas Museum of Art, it also features a number of large outdoor sculptures on display throughout the tree-lined grounds.

Highlights of its interior exhibits include pieces by Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Max Ernst, and Andy Warhol. The museum and sculpture park also regularly host events, including lectures and concerts. Located in the University of Texas at Dallas, this art museum is dedicated to the arts and cultures of China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.

Address: 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Collection of unique shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment within a several-block area

If you are looking for things to do, the Bishop Arts District in Dallas's North Oak Cliff neighborhood has nearly endless possibilities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It features more than sixty independently owned and operated businesses. Here, you will find chic boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cozy coffee shops in an inviting small-town atmosphere.

Among the unique purveyors are specialty shops that cater to male clientele, like the quirky M'antiques; several women's vintage clothing boutiques; and a myriad of shops that carry items made by local artists and designers. A place with a strong sense of community, the neighborhood often hosts family-friendly street festivals and public entertainment.

Location: North Bishop Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: One of the top must-see landmarks in downtown Dallas

Pioneer Plaza park, maintained by the adjacent Dallas Convention Center, is designed to resemble a section of the Shawnee Trail, a major Texas cattle drive route in the 19th century. It's a beautiful, large green space in Dallas's central business district that's fun to wander, and even features a stream that falls over limestone cliffs.

But its most remarkable features are the 49 larger-than-life bronze sculptures of Texas Longhorn cattle that are being herded through the park and across the creek by three mounted cowboys. Designed by artist Robert Summers, the park is landscaped to reproduce the scene of the iconic industry that defined early Texas.

Location: Young Street, Pioneer Plaza, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Catching a symphony performance in one of the local parks in the summer

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is one of the most prominent performing arts experiences in Dallas and remains the largest such organization in the southwest region of the United States. The symphony is known for its outstanding classical and modern concert performances that take place at Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center .

Under the direction of Fabio Luisi, the Dallas Symphony also regularly performs in other venues throughout Dallas and provides educational programs to give back to the city. If you visit during the summer, you can attend one of the free outdoor concerts during the Symphony in the Parks series that takes place in several Dallas community parks.

Address: 2301 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: More than 35,000 artifacts including some from the Hindenburg

The Frontiers of Flight Museum is home to more than 40 aircraft and space vehicles and has extensive exhibits that display the journey from the roots of aviation, from Leonardo da Vinci through modern space exploration. The museum's impressive collection includes a full-size model of the Wright Flyer, artifacts from the Hindenburg, as well as numerous WWI and WWII aircraft and artifacts.

Vintage aircraft on display include a fully restored Stearman PT-17 Kaydet Biplane, and the Apollo VII spacecraft. On display at the museum's Love Field location, the Braniff Gallery and Virgin America exhibit highlight the history of commercial aviation.

Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: You can visit both the Dealey Plaza and the memorial in the same visit with a short walk in between

Located just a few blocks away from Dealey Plaza, across from the city courthouse, stands the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza . This imposing yet understated monument to President Kennedy was designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, and its construction was completed in 1970 after years of controversy.

Resembling a cenotaph, the open tomb concept was designed by Johnson to represent what he saw as Kennedy's free spirit. Standing some 30 feet tall and 50 feet wide and made from large marble slabs, it's certainly an impressive site. Be sure to read the two epitaphs located at the entrances to the monument; they contain a thought-provoking remembrance of the President.

Address: 646 Main Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: A self-guided museum to get up close to vintage aircraft and military vehicles

Another excellent aviation museum to visit is the Cavanaugh Flight Museum . Located in Addison just north of Dallas, the museum's impressive collection of vintage aircraft are kept in a massive hangar, along with numerous accompanying artifacts and exhibits.

You can take a self-guided tour to see displays that include military planes used in Vietnam, the Korean War, WWI, and WWII, as well as civilian aircraft. There are also military trucks on display and armored vehicles, including an M50 Super Sherman.

Address: 4572 Claire Chennault Street, Addison, Texas

Highlights: The ongoing lectures and public events held at the museum

Founded in 1974, the African American Museum has a variety of displays of African American artistic, cultural, and historical materials. Full of references to traditional African motifs and cultural icons, the museum's collection includes numerous pieces of artwork, along with a library and historical archive.

In addition to hundreds of artifacts on display, the center features sculptures, paintings, and the largest collection of Folk Art by African Americans in the United States. Educational and entertainment programs are also hosted in the on-site theater.

Address: 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Funky vibe, historically jazz-influenced neighborhood, unique to other parts of Dallas

To experience one of Dallas' revitalized neighborhoods, you can spend a day in the Deep Ellum District . It is an old jazz district with a fun blend of historic 1800s essence and trendy grunge, as evidenced by the vintage signs and artsy murals as you walk along the streets.

The Ellum District is a one-stop place to visit for dining, arts, music, shopping, street art, and entertainment. You can find ample parking in small pay lots, and walk around the district at your leisure.

Highlight: VIP steak dinner events that you can enjoy like one of the elite characters on the hit tv show Dallas

If you were around in the 1980s and owned a television set, read newspapers, or worked in an office, there's little chance you'd have escaped the wave of interest that swept the world when Dallas hit the small screen.

Now that you know who shot JR, you can visit the location where the series was set: Southfork Ranch . About 25 miles north of Dallas, the ranch welcomes visitors for guided tours of the mansion. Afterward, you can enjoy an authentic Texan chuckwagon dinner on the grounds.

Address: 3700 Hogge Drive, Parker, Texas

Downtown Dallas is the place to stay for exploring the sights, and this is where many first-time visitors choose to find accommodation. Just north of here is the popular Uptown district, another good location with restaurants and entertainment options. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in or near these areas:

Luxury Hotels :

• Set in a great location close to the Arts District and within walking distance of several museums and other attractions, the Omni Dallas Hotel features a great terrace pool overlooking downtown.
• To experience the elegance and grandeur of the early 20th century, the historic Adolphus, Autograph Collection , first opened in 1912, is the perfect place to stay.
• In the Uptown district, the Hotel ZaZa is a charming boutique hotel with beautifully decorated themed rooms and a quaint pool area set in lush surroundings.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Homewood Suites by Hilton in downtown is an all-suites hotel in a good location near the Arts District, Convention Center, and numerous restaurants and shops.
• In the former Magnolia Petroleum Company Building, built in 1922, the historic Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown offers modern extended-stay suites and guest rooms and is conveniently located downtown.
• Another good mid-range option is the Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown , in a National Historic Landmark building, which was formerly the Dallas Opera House.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget options in downtown Dallas are limited, but good deals are available just outside the city center. In Uptown is the reasonably priced La Quinta Inn by Windham Dallas Uptown .
• A fair distance outside the city center but offering good value are the Days Inn by Wyndham Market Center and the Candlewood Suites Dallas Market Cntr-Love Field .

The best time to visit Dallas is in the spring or fall when you can comfortably visit all the attractions without the stifling heat and humidity of the summer.

The months of September, October, and November are ideal times to visit, when average daytime temperatures are in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit and there are fewer crowds at local venues. The temperatures are more bearable to enjoy local activities in the fall like the Texas State Fair and Dallas Cowboys football.

The spring months of March, April, and May are also comfortable times to enjoy visiting Dallas, especially with flowers in bloom and outdoor activities picking up. March temperatures average in the high 60s Fahrenheit during the daytime, with April hitting the high 70s and climbing to the mid-80s by May.

The rainiest months in Dallas are May and October, so you will want to pack a rain jacket and plan your museum and indoor attraction visits during these days. It is best to avoid the summer months of June, July, and August, when Dallas temperatures hold tight in the 90s to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity.

More on Texas

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• Things to do
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The 20 best things to do in Dallas

Looking for fun things to do in Dallas? Read on for horse riding, street food and afternoon tea

There’s a lot of cowboy culture in Dallas , but that’s not all the city has going for it. The best things to do in Dallas range from brilliant museum exhibits to wacky attractions, with an ever-expanding culinary scene to match. 

Come for the cowboys, for the TV series, and to learn about one of the most significant assassinations in US history, and stay for the unforgettable street food, world-class sports, and fabulous green spaces. Here are the best things to do in Dallas right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🥩 The best restaurants in Dallas 🍹 The best bars in Dallas 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Dallas 🏨 The best hotels in Dallas

This guide was updated by Alex Temblador , a writer based in Texas. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

What to do in Dallas

1.  the sixth floor museum.

The Sixth Floor Museum chronicles the life and assassination of JFK from a historical, social, and cultural perspective. Poke through more than 90,000 artifacts and stand in front of the window from which Lee Harvey Oswald fired his rifle. Afterward, head to the Grassy Knoll to see the “X” in the street where JFK was fatally shot before making your way to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza a few blocks away.

2.  Dallas Arboretum

• Little Forest Hills

This 66-acre botanical garden is one of the top botanical gardens in the world, offering spectacular nature exhibits throughout the year, such as the largest floral festival in the southwest, Artscape (an arts and crafts show), and jaw-dropping pumpkin and Christmas displays in the fall and winter. Wander along the  Texas Skywalk  for spectacular views, relax on the rooftop of the  Moody Oasis , and walk under a waterfall at the  Cascades .

3.  McKinney Avenue Trolley

Dallas has more than just pickup trucks—jump on the city’s trolley, which trundles up and down the lively McKinney Avenue in Uptown and the downtown Arts District. Founded in 1983, it usually operates 365 days a year and is free of charge. Hop on and off as you sample the best pubs in town (one particular highlight is  The Standard Pour , known for its barrel-aged cocktails), or hop off at  Klyde Warren Park  or even the  Dallas Museum of Art  to see what downtown has to offer.

4.  Pecan Lodge

• Soul and southern American

There are plenty of top barbecue joints in town, but the one that locals keep going back to is the award-winning Pecan Lodge. The pit-smoked food at this restaurant in the hip Deep Ellum neighborhood is out of this world (as evidenced by the lines out the door, around the corner, and into the parking lot). The handmade jalapeño sausages, ribs, and beef brisket are particularly excellent, while the “hot mess” (sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with barbacoa and chipotle cream) is deliriously good.

5.  Stockyards Championship Rodeo

Pop your rodeo cherry in Fort Worth at the Stockyards Championship Rodeo. Held in the historic 1908 Cowtown Coliseum, this was the site of the world’s first indoor rodeo. Fast forward to the modern day, and it still hosts events starring the finest cowboys and cowgirls in town. Befriend gregarious Texans while you’re there and hit up  Refinery 714  on Main Street for the after-party.

6.  Arts District

Dallas boasts the largest contiguous urban arts district in America: a 118-acre expanse packed with museums, restaurants, and theaters. Get your bearings on a  scavenger hunt  or  walking tour  before deciding where to invest your time. Highlights include the  Dallas Museum of Art ,  Nasher Sculpture Center ,  Crow Museum of Asian Art , and the  AT&T Performing Arts Center , a multi-venue music and theater complex centered on the striking drum-shaped  Winspear Opera House.

7.  Reunion Tower

Seattle has the Space Needle, New York has the Empire State building, and Dallas has the  Reunion Tower . This skyline icon is more than just a pretty observatory—partake in permanent and seasonal activities on the deck like yoga, painting, and a revolving restaurant and bar. On the lookout for over-the-top romance? Lovers can also book a “Love Is in the Air” proposal package to pop the question with bubbles in a private section. 

8.  George W. Bush Presidential Library

• Greenville Ave

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum might not sound like a barrel of laughs, but this is a fascinating treasure trove of early 21st-century history. In addition to a significant exhibit on the 9/11 attacks, the museum includes an exact replica of the Oval Office, plus incredible insights into the Bush dynasty. The standout attraction, however, is the strangely addictive Decision Points Theater, where visitors make decisions based on genuine evidence the President had at his disposal. Spoiler; being President isn't as easy as it looks.

9.  AT&T Stadium

There are sports stadiums, and then there are sports spaceships—AT&T Stadium (home of the Dallas Cowboys) is undeniably the latter. Nicknamed ‘Jerry World’ after Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, this incredible $1.15-billion gridiron cathedral seats upwards of 100,000 fans and has won multiple awards for its innovative design. Jump on the VIP guided tour, and get behind-the-scenes access to everything from the press box to the locker room.

10.  Klyde Warren Park

• Greater Dallas

The long, narrow Klyde Warren Park opened in late 2012 on top of the Woodall Rogers Freeway and has since become one of the most popular spots in Dallas. This 5.2-acre park hitches the city’s Uptown and downtown Arts District together. You’ll find a popular playground, a stage that hosts live concerts, and  food trucks  that line one side of the park. Throw in dozens of free daily activities (think table tennis, badminton, chess, ice skating, concerts, and yoga), and it’s easy to see why Klyde Warren Park is a worthwhile stop on any visit.

11.  The Nasher Sculpture Center

This calming space is nestled within Dallas Arts District and is home to one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world. The lush two-acre sculpture garden is a paradise for photographers and Instagrammers, with works by Rodin, Henry Moore, George Segal, and more. It also forms an incredible backdrop to  ’ til Midnight at the Nasher , a free live music and outdoor movie series that includes admission to the museum.

12.  Round Up Saloon

Locals like both kinds of music in Dallas: country and western. The best way to enjoy both? By two-stepping, naturally. With six bars, karaoke, a pool room, and a large dance floor perfect for busting a move, don your cowboy boots and get ready to boogie at Round Up Saloon. This glitzy gay bar and dance hall offers popular line-dancing lessons nearly every night of the week, so get ready for box steps and partner-swinging galore.

13.  Wild Bill’s Western Store

Ever fancied a Stetson hat, bolo tie, or cowhide boots? Wild Bill’s Western Store will hook you up. Situated in Dallas’ historic West End, the iconic store has welcomed everyone from Bon Jovi to Mick Jagger. Just going into the store is a Texan bucket list experience in and of itself.

14.  Highland Park Village

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Highland Park Village (@hp_village)

Shopping is a local sport in Dallas, so if you want to play ball with your credit card, you’ve come to the right place. Highland Park Village (the first outdoor shopping center in the US) is renowned for its Spanish-influenced architecture and haute couture (think Chanel, Dior, and Alexander McQueen). After shopping, grab a cupcake from Bird Bakery to make the most of your trip. Or, if you’re on the hunt for more style points, Dallas is also home to the epic  NorthPark Center , an award-winning citadel of style that blends over 235 stores with contemporary art and a 1.4-acre garden. 

15.  The Katy Trail

• Parks and gardens
• Knox/Henderson

Get a breath of fresh air on this 3.5-mile trail, a route stitching together several Dallas districts that follow the path of the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. While you won’t find any trains along the trail, you will find almost everything else; the Katy Trail is popular with cyclists, dog walkers, inline skaters, and runners alike.

16.  Southfork Ranch

• Historic buildings and sites

No trip to Dallas is complete without a visit to the most famous white house west of Washington, D.C. Home to the dysfunctional Ewing clan of the Dallas TV show, Southfork Ranch is an easy 40-minute drive from downtown Dallas to the small suburb of Parker, Texas. This is a functioning ranch, and you can take horseback riding lessons or hit the trails with a guide. You can’t miss a chance to join a guided tour of the house, taking in everything from J.R.’s bedroom to the gun that shot him, as well as plenty of costumes, clips, and props from one of the longest-running shows in television history.

17.  The Bonnie and Clyde Tour

While the police were on their trail for over two years, you can capture Bonnie and Clyde’s time in Dallas in a swift three hours. Both the infamous Depression-era outlaws grew up in the Dallas area, where their crime and murder spree began before ending in a hail of bullets just across the Louisiana border on May 23, 1934. On an excursion with DFW Historical Tours, you’ll stop at Clyde’s family home, the cafe where Bonnie worked, their hole-ups and crime sites, and their graves. The tour includes transportation and a guide whose family has been connected to the outlaws for nearly a century.

18.  Hotel Crescent Court Afternoon Tea

When uptown, indulge in Dallas’ glamorous side at the swankiest afternoon tea spot in town. Every weekend, Hotel Crescent Court’s conservatory sunroom and courtyard transform into a quaint English-meets-Texan celebration of tea and scones, with views overlooking the property’s beautifully manicured gardens and grand fountains. Dress to impress, and opt for the “endless champagne” option for extra glamour.

19.  Texas Horse Park

• Sports and fitness
• South Boulevard

Get to know Dallas on horseback at Texas Horse Park. The 302-acre park sits within the Great Trinity Forest, an area once owned by Davy Crockett and his wife. With riding lessons, trail rides, and hippotherapy, the Texas Horse Park is a tribute to Texas' equestrian history. Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl as you ride along the Trinity River amid ancient trees, freshwater springs, and a large Native American archaeological site.

20.  Lower Greenville

Lower Greenville, formerly an area worth avoiding, has become the hottest ticket for a good time in town. Shop through small gift and clothing shops on the avenue, or have a beer on the buzzing outdoor patio at the  Truck Yard . F inish the evening with cocktails on the lively roof terrace at  HG Sply Co  or a live show at the  Granada Theater .

More great things to do in Dallas

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The 12 best things to do in Dallas 

Apr 18, 2022 • 7 min read

You can stop in at the Dallas Museum of Art (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works spanning some 5000 years © Alamy Stock Photo

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis that’s bursting with fun and exciting things to do. It's the ninth-largest city in the US and the birthplace of the frozen margarita, packed with world-class shopping, delicious dining, a diverse art scene and plenty of history, outdoor activities and pop-culture curiosities.

Come for the scream-worthy roller coasters, sports teams and luxe malls. Stay for the barbecue, beer and mural-strewn neighborhoods, filled with musicians playing everything from the blues to hip-hop beats.

Explore Dallas’ neighborhoods 

Dallas is an amalgamation of neighborhoods, each with their own flavor of fun. Shop and dine out in the laid-back and artsy  Bishop Arts  district. Deep Ellum is a great neighborhood for live music, beautiful murals, art fairs, and restaurants. Uptown attracts visitors for its strip of restaurants on McKinney Street that turn into bars at night, and Oak Lawn is a nationally known hot spot for the LGBTIQ+ community. 

Grab a bite at Allgood Cafe,  rooftop drinks at the Green Room,  or rub elbows with bikers at Renos Chop Shop Saloon.   Pecan Lodge  slings mean barbecue in Deep Ellum, while  Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse  is a beloved local favorite for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Near  White Rock Lake ,  Mariano's Hacienda  is where the frozen margarita  was invented in 1971 – though the original margarita machine is now part of the Smithsonian Institution's collection in Washington, DC. 

Get cultured in the Arts District 

Downtown Dallas is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States, the Dallas Arts District. Spend time exploring an impressive selection of larger-than-life sculptures at the  Nasher Sculpture Center  before stopping in the  Dallas Museum of Art  (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works of art spanning some 5000 years.

Walk across the street to the  Crow Museum of Asian Art , or  Klyde Warren Park , which sits on top of a highway. For an evening activity, buy tickets to a  Dallas Symphony Orchestra  concert at the Meyerson Symphony Center. To be close to all the district offers, stay at the new HALL Arts Hotel – and be sure to check out its curated selection of art.  

Root for the home team at an athletic event 

With seven professional teams in the area, it’s easy to see why this is a sports-loving city. Fans of pro basketball and hockey can cheer on their teams – the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars – at the  American Airlines Center , while fans of WNBA and MLB can scoot over to Arlington, to take their loved ones out to the ball game at the new  Texas Rangers  stadium or watch the Dallas Wings hit the court at College Park Center. You can also make the short drive to Frisco to catch a soccer match with FC Dallas. 

Experience the thrill of race-car driving with NASCAR at Texas Motor Speedway , and of course, don’t miss a chance to watch America’s Team, the  Dallas Cowboys  – though their home field at Jerryworld is also technically in nearby Arlington.  

Learn about the John F Kennedy Assassination 

One of the darkest moments in Dallas’ past is the assassination of President John F Kennedy. Pay your respects by visiting the  Sixth Floor Museum  to learn about the president’s life and death, then go outside to see the “X” on Elm Street that marks where he was hit. Just a block from Dealey Plaza is the John F Kennedy Memorial Plaza, which features a statue commemorating the president. 

For more JFK history, drive to  Texas Theatre  to watch a film in the same spot where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested, or to the Hilton Fort Worth, where JFK spent his last night alive.  

Kayak on the Trinity River 

Outdoor lovers will find a plethora of activities in Dallas, from running on the Katy Trail to sailing on White Rock Lake. But the most unique experience one can have is kayaking on the Trinity River Paddling Trail, a National Recreation Trail with more than 130 miles of river.

Those with their own kayak or canoe can choose from 21 different launch sites, some of which lead through wilderness and others guide you under the city’s most notable bridges next to the skyline. Trinity River Kayak Co.  offers various kayaking tours, including one at sunset. 

Unwind at the Dallas Arboretum  

Set next to White Rock Lake, the  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden  is one of the most beautiful spaces in town. It’s known as one of the best arboretums in the world because of its phenomenal seasonal displays that celebrate Halloween, winter holidays and tulip season. Live concerts and art shows are also a common occurrence.  

Spend a day at the first-ever Six Flags  

Six Flags is a worldwide name in amusement parks, and Dallas just so happens to be the home of the brand's very first park.  Six Flags Over Texas  is a located in Arlington, a suburb of Dallas, and is a great place to spend the day with friends or family. Have a blast on 14 roller coasters and 45 thrilling rides across 212 acres. Mr Freeze, the Texas Giant and El Diablo are just a few of their most exciting roller-coasters.  

Go big at the State Fair of Texas 

If you visit Dallas between September and October, you must get a ticket to the  State Fair of Texas  and say "howdy" to Big Tex, a 52ft cowboy statue at the entrance of the fair.

As one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the country, the State Fair of Texas is a huge to-do in Dallas that draws millions of people state and nationwide, who love the thrill of amusement-park rides, agriculture shows and rodeos, live music, shopping and playing games. It's also known for having some of the most creative fair food in the nation, like cotton-candy burritos and waffles stuffed with fried chicken.  

Delve into Dallas fandom at Southfork Ranch 

Uncover the mysteries of who shot JR with a visit to  Southfork Ranch , home of the Ewing Mansion from the 1978-1991 TV show Dallas . Fans of the hit series can explore the ranch with a guided tour – you’ll see spots made famous on the show, as well as a selection of memorabilia like Lucy’s wedding dress. After your tour, shop at a themed retail store and grab a bite from the on-site deli.  

Museum-hop around the city  

Although there are quite a few museums in Dallas’ Arts District, we'd be remiss not to mention that there are other museums worth a visit.

In  Fair Park , the  African American Museum  is the largest such institution in the southwestern US and has a selection of historical and cultural displays, while steps away from Dealey Plaza, the  Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum  delves into the Holocaust and the development of human and civil rights movements that followed. 

Take your kids to the  Perot Museum of Nature & Science  to do hands-on science experiments, or explore the galleries of the  Meadows Museum , which houses one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain.  

Shop til you drop, all over town

Home not only to the oldest shopping center in the US,  Highland Park Village , but also to the first  Neiman Marcus  store, which still welcomes customers today, Dallas has definitely earned the right to be called a shopper’s paradise.

Experiences vary between world-class malls, like the  Galleria  and  NorthPark Center  (home to an Andy Warhol painting!), and localized spots like  Traders Village , the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and the  farmers market  on the weekend.  

Camp at Cedar Hill State Park 

If you grow tired of Dallas’ urban sprawl and want to reconnect with nature, visit Cedar Hill State Park, just a 25-minute drive from downtown Dallas. The 1826-acre park offers overnight camping, as well as trails for hiking, running or mountain biking. Boat owners can spend the day on Joe Pool Lake, fishing for bass, crappie and catfish, while those without a boat can just jump on in for a swim.  

You may also like: The best neighborhoods in Dallas 16 free things to do in Dallas Wichita's magician of millinery helps put hats back on top

This article was first published Jun 14, 2021 and updated Apr 18, 2022.

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20 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Keep this list of museums, restaurants, and exciting activities in mind the next time you’re in Dallas.

Peeterv/Getty Images

Dallas is one of those cities that tends to be unfairly judged by travelers who have never been before — or by those who have only experienced a sliver of its offerings. If they look beyond the heat and traffic, though, they’ll discover a long list of reasons to visit this Texan metropolis. Lily Cabatu Weiss, the executive director of the Dallas Arts District Foundation , describes it as a destination that’s “diverse with an energy, synergy, and an economic engine,” partially fueled by its exciting arts scene, popular sports teams, and an extensive list of first-rate museums. In her words — and as evidenced below — there’s “so much to do, see, explore, and enjoy” in Dallas. 

That said, to gain a comprehensive understanding of all things Dallas, you’ll want to either rent a car or be open to using a rideshare service throughout your trip. “Travelers don’t realize how much of a big city Dallas is and how many different neighborhoods are within a 5-minute drive of the downtown core. You can visit these neighborhoods and get a genuinely different version of Dallas in each one,” says Gabe Sanchez, beverage consultant for Midnight Rambler, a cocktail bar at The Joule. 

Meet the Expert

Lily Cabatu Weiss is the executive director of the Dallas Arts District Foundation.

Gabe Sanchez is a beverage consultant for Midnight Rambler , a cocktail bar at luxury hotel The Joule.

Ready to plan a trip to the Lone Star State? Read on to discover the 20 best things to do in Dallas, with recommendations from local experts. 

Related: Travel + Leisure ’s Guide to Dallas

Explore the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Courtesy of VisitDallas.com

“The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is an exquisite, world-class botanical exhibition with rotating seasonal exhibits in east Dallas on White Rock Lake,” says Weiss. If you’re visiting between mid-February and mid-April, be sure to buy tickets for Dallas Blooms , ​​the Southwest’s largest annual floral festival. 

Don a pair of cowboy boots.

It’s not a trip to Texas without trying on — and maybe buying — at least one pair of cowboy boots. Wild Bill's Western Store , Cavender’s , or Boot Barn are great options for those who just want the experience (and might not wear their boots all that often). If your budget is on the higher end of the spectrum, though, head to one of the Lucchese locations or the Miron Crosby storefront in Highland Park Village.

Taste the flavors of a Thai street food market.

Dallas’ culinary options go further than tacos and barbecue, and Sanchez has the inside scoop on where to go. “You should visit the Thai food market on Sunday at the Buddhist Temple of North Dallas,” he says. “The food is amazing, and the prices are hard to beat.” Just remember to bring cash and sunscreen; the market is held outside.

Cheer on a local professional sports team.

Professional sports are king in Dallas, the home of the Cowboys, Stars, Mavericks, Wings, and FC Dallas, among others. Depending on the team and the season, you might be able to snag tickets for a game — if not, you can always root for the home team from one of the city’s sports bars.

Visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

Getty Images

Weiss recommends spending some time at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , where the main exhibit, “John F. Kennedy and the Memory of a Nation,” explores the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Timed-entry tickets can be purchased online . 

Attend the State Fair of Texas.

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the annual state fair. The State Fair of Texas is held from late September through October, and you’ll want to come hungry. It’s an event known for its wide range of mouthwatering, deep-fried treats — from deep-fried Texas Oatmeal Pies and deep-fried praline cheesecake egg rolls to fried stuffed wings and fried mac and cheese.

Discover Dallas’ different neighborhoods.

When you come to Dallas, you can’t just stick to one neighborhood. “Go to Uptown, the Design District, Oak Cliff/Bishop Arts, and Henderson Avenue,” says Sanchez. This map is a great start for understanding what you may find in each part of the city. 

Related : This District in Dallas Is Full of Unknown Gems — Including a Brand-new Luxury Hotel

Stay at one of the city’s best hotels.

Courtesy of Mansion on Turtle Creek

You can certainly count on Dallas to excel in the luxury hospitality department. In the 2023 World’s Best Awards , T+L readers voted Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas , and The Joule as the top hotels in Dallas, a distinction earned based on their rooms, location, service, food, and value.

Spend a day in the Dallas Arts District.

Travelers interested in architecture and urban design have to spend at least an afternoon — if not a full day — in the Dallas Arts District, which reportedly houses “more buildings designed by Pritzker award-winning architects than any location in the world. “Standouts not to be missed are the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , an interactive experience; Klyde Warren Park , the game-changing deck park built over a freeway that connects Downtown Dallas to Uptown; and the Dallas Museum of Art , owning an impressive assortment of art,” explains Weiss.

Go shopping in Highland Park Village.

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Whether you’re on the hunt for something specific or just enjoy window shopping, you’ll be dazzled by the stores and brands inside Highland Park Village . The high-end roster includes the likes of Carolina Herrara, Dr. Barbara Sturm, Moncler, and Loewe. 

See a movie at the historic Texas Theatre.

In a world of on-demand movies, it can be refreshing to catch a film at a movie theater. “[ The Texas Theatre ] has been fully restored to its original glory. If you are a JFK buff, you can see the seat Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested in,” says Sanchez, who also says it’s a good idea to first “go to Bishop Arts District , grab a coffee, and make the short walk to Jefferson Blvd.”

Walk the Katy Trail.

Dallas might not be the most walkable city, but there are definitely places where you can get your daily steps in. Take the Katy Trail , for example. Built on an abandoned railroad line, the trail spans 3.5 miles, with markers at every quarter mile. Walkers, joggers, and bikers can take advantage of its paved, well-lit path through greenery and blooming flowers.

Eat some Texas barbecue.

If you’re in Texas, there’s a good chance barbecue is on the menu. “I always suggest trying two or three places and comparing apples to apples,” says Sanchez. “Go to Terry Black’s and Pecan Lodge (they’re a block from each other), get the brisket at each, then make your decision on who should have bragging rights.”

Bring the whole family to the Dallas Zoo.

The Dallas Zoo holds the title of the largest zoo in Texas, with more than 2,000 animals representing 406 species across 106 acres. It’s located just three miles south of downtown Dallas, and guests can see everything from a Galapagos tortoise to giraffes, elephants, and penguins.

Uncover the cultural sites and experiences in Fair Park.

It might be home to the State Fair of Texas, but the 277-acre Fair Park complex has reasons to visit all year round. Weiss recommends “experiencing the art deco architecture [and] seeing a Broadway show at the Music Hall ,” but there’s also the African American Museum of Dallas and The Women's Museum to discover.

Enjoy a sky-high meal at Monarch.

At the top of The National, the building that houses Thompson Dallas , sits Monarch , a culinary wonder from Michelin-recognized chef Danny Grant. The food — handmade pasta, steak, and seafood — may be the star of the show, but the breathtaking position on the 49th floor also plays a critical role in the overall experience, with skyline views for days.

Cross over the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge.

Thomas Faull/Getty Images

“The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge (designed by Santiago Calatrava), with a pedestrian bridge running parallel, is a must-do,” says Weiss. The 400-foot-tall bridge, one of the vehicular bridges in the Trinity River Corridor Project , connects downtown Dallas to West Dallas and traverses the Trinity River.

Treat yourself to a spa day.

Courtesy of The Joule

Sometimes a little TLC is necessary on a trip — and Dallas has several options for incredible facials, massages, and body treatments. Local favorites include The Spa at The Joule , The Spa at Thompson Dallas , and Spa Adolphus .

Step back in time at Old City Park.

If you have a large stretch of time to fill in your day, Sanchez suggests spending a few hours in Old City Park , Dallas’ first and oldest park. “[It] has a collection of fully restored homes and businesses from the founding of Dallas,” he says, and there are several guided tours you can book on weekends, including the Black History Tour and the Women’s History Tour.

Polish off a few tacos.

Last, but certainly not least, you have to find a good spot for tacos when you’re in town. Sanchez recommends Taco Y Vino , El Come Taco , and Pepe’s and Mito’s . At the latter, he specifically calls out the tacos nortenos.

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The 18 Best Things to Do in Dallas

Dallas boasts a unique cultural identity that distinguishes it from other Texan cities. Undeniably flashy and glitzy, with deep roots in global trade and business, the city indeed occupies a big part of the country's cultural imagination—but unlike the hit TV show "Dallas" would have you believe, it's not all oil barons and socialites with sky-high hair here (though, let's be honest, there's some of that). Dallas is also home to a world-class arts scene, a slew of lush urban green spaces, iconic cultural attractions, and pockets of walkable, cool neighborhoods dense with hip eateries, breweries, and shops. Look no further than this list if you're on the hunt for the all-time best things to do in Dallas.

Explore the Dallas Museum of Art

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art is home to over 24,000 diverse works that span 5,000 years of history, representing a range of global cultures. Their permanent international collection includes works by Pollock, Manet, Rothko, O’Keeffe, Cezanne, Monet, and Van Gogh. There are also weekly lectures, literary events, dramatic and dance presentations, concerts, and more. Best of all? General admission is free.

Walk Around Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is the (newish) crown jewel of Dallas’s cityscape. Perched atop the freeway between St. Paul and Pearl streets, this sprawling, 5.2-acre green space has much to offer visitors. You’ll find vast swaths of lawn, areas for croquet and chess, a dog park, a children’s park, and putting green, plus two restaurants and a rotating selection of food trucks. Apart from being a much-needed dose of urban nature, Klyde Warren boasts a wide variety of daily programming, from yoga classes and outdoor concerts to movies and festivals. Parking is conveniently located around the Park; we recommend checking out the calendar before your visit.

Try Dallas's Signature Cocktail at Mi Cocina

Courtesy of Mi Cocina

Dallas’s signature drink is the frozen margarita; in fact, some say the frozen drink was invented here. The Mambo Taxi at Mi Cocina was recently named D Magazine’s Favorite Margarita, and most locals would agree. Despite its pretty basic ingredients (Sauza Silver tequila, lime juice, house-made sangria, brandy), there’s truly something special about the ever-popular, ever-refreshing Mambo Taxi.

Go to a Concert in Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is Dallas's live music , arts, and culture hub. This bustling, graffiti-splashed district is the perfect place to see all your fave touring musicians and discover local artists, thanks to the vibrant collection of homegrown clubs and renowned venues here. (For a list of upcoming shows, check out the neighborhood's calendar .)

Delve into Political History at Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza examines the life, assassination, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Prepare to be swept up in the history and political landscape of the early '60s—the museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, the spot where evidence of a sniper (Lee Harvey Oswald) was found following JFK's assassination—in addition to the sniper's perch, the permanent exhibits here include news reports, photos, and footage from the era.

Get a Fun Education at the Perot Museum

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, visitors can explore five floors of permanent exhibits that feature animals, gems and minerals, dinosaur bones, birds, a 3D animation lab, and more. With so much to choose from, plan your day carefully—you’ll need at least a whole morning or afternoon to experience the Perot fully. 

See Art at the Nasher Sculpture Center

Conveniently situated just across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art, in the booming heart of the Arts District, the Nasher Sculpture Center is home to the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection, one of the most stunning collections of modern and contemporary sculpture in the world. Visitors can marvel at over 300 masterworks by Picasso, Rodin, Ernst, Giacometti, Miro, Moore, and dozens of other world-renowned artists.

Hike or Bike Around White Rock Lake

Situated a few miles east of downtown, White Rock Lake Park is one of the city’s most popular green spaces, and for a good reason. There’s so much to do there; you’d need a whole weekend to discover it all. The park is more than twice the size of New York’s Central Park. White Rock Lake Park features a scenic, 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail that circles the lake, numerous picnic areas, playgrounds, an Audubon Society-designated bird-watching area and wetlands site, fishing piers, a cultural center, and a dog park.

Go to a Texas Rangers Game

If you’ll be in Dallas between April and September, there’s a decent chance the Texas Rangers will be in town. Check the website for tickets to upcoming games, and get ready to cheer on the Rangers with a famous “Boomstick” hot dog in hand (we recommend sharing with a friend!) 

Connect with Nature at the Cedar Ridge Preserve

Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown, the Cedar Ridge Preserve is a prime spot for dirt-path hiking and communing with nature. This 600-acre habitat has open meadows, vibrant wildflowers, sloping hills, butterfly gardens, wild grasses, and native trees galore. Bird-watching is a popular activity here, but hiking sets Cedar Ridge apart from many other trail systems in Dallas. Over 9 miles of trails wind through the hilly terrain and afford extraordinary views of the area.

Enjoy the View from Reunion Tower

If it’s a clear, sunny day, a visit to the Reunion Tower is a must-do. The view—a 360-degree look at Dallas’s glittering skyline and the surrounding area—is incredible. (Buy tickets in advance on their website .) 

Stroll Around the Bishop Arts District

In recent years, Dallas’s Bishop Arts District has undergone a lightning-fast transformation in the heart of Oak Cliff. It’s a fun place to explore on foot (this is one of the most walkable areas in the city). There are over 60 independent shops, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Be sure to stop into The Wild Detectives, an indie bookstore deemed Dallas’s “literary heart,” where you can sip craft brews while you peruse books.  

Have a Picnic at the Arboretum

Situated along the shores of White Rock Lake, just minutes from downtown, the Dallas Arboretum, and Botanical Garden is considered one of the top arboretums in the world. That’s because this 66-acre urban oasis is brimming with colorful display gardens, spacious stretches of lawn, and thick groves of trees: in short, it’s beautiful. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit the Arboretum. Pack a picnic lunch or order food from one of the many cafes and restaurants scattered around the grounds.

Ride the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Riding on the McKinney Avenue Trolley is the best way to get around Uptown. This fleet of vintage streetcars runs on a hop-on, hop-off route 365 days per year. It’s a fantastic way to see the city: Get off at St. Paul and Ross station for easy access to the Crow Collection, the Nasher, and the Dallas Museum of Art. The Trolley also goes to Klyde Warren. Rides are free but consider dropping a donation.

Check Out Where the Cowboys Play

You don't have to be a sports fan to appreciate the Dallas Cowboys' cultural impact on the world. If you can't make it to a game, you can experience the AT&T Stadium, about 20 miles west of downtown, or check out The Star in Frisco, the team's 91-acre, state-of-the-art training facility and multi-use development (including dining, shopping, and a hotel). The Star offers VIP tours every day of the week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sample Texas Barbecue at Pecan Lodge

Courtesy of Pecan Lodge 

Eating at Pecan Lodge is a rite of passage for locals and out-of-towners alike. What started as a tiny stall at the Dallas Farmers Market has since morphed into an iconic restaurant that serves the best barbecue in the city (and possibly in the state, which is saying something!) Be prepared to wait in line, especially if it’s a weekend. For real-deal Texas barbecue, though, the wait is 100 percent worth it. 

Walk Along the Katy Trail

The 3.5-mile Katy Trail is one of the city’s most popular places to get outside and soak up the great outdoors. The trail was built over an old railroad line, and it extends from the SMU campus to the American Airlines Center, winding through parks and several of Dallas’s central districts. To access the trail from the north end, there’s a parking lot near Knox Street; on the southern end, you can park at Reverchon Park. (For further trail info, look at the trail's website .)

Go Two-Stepping at the Round-Up Saloon

For a true Texas-style treat, country-western dancing is a great way to experience the soul of Dallas—and at the Round-Up Saloon, Dallas’s premier gay western dance club, you can learn how to two-step with the best of them. This Cedar Springs institution hosts free line dance lessons every week (check their calendar for more info), in addition to karaoke nights, freestyle dance competitions, rowdy happy hours, and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties. Don a pair of cowboy boots and get ready to do-si-do around the dance floor; you’ve never experienced anything like the Round-Up. 

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas)

55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas)

A well-rounded city growing out of the stark North Texas prairie, Dallas has a jumble of ultramodern skyscrapers, the largest arts district in the United States, museums of the highest quality and pulsating nightlife.

Whole swathes of the city have been reinvented in recent times, like the Design District breathing new life into an austere neighborhood of warehouses, or Klyde Warren Park, on the former route of a freeway.

But if you’re hunting for old-time Texas trademarks like big steaks, BBQ and honkytonks among the upscale restaurants and high-culture, you’ll find them with little trouble.

Dallas will also forever be tied to the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, and at Dealey Plaza you’ll discover how the city has come to terms with this tragedy.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Dallas:

1. Dealey Plaza

In Dallas you can visit a place where the course of history was changed forever.

The landmarks at Dealey Plaza, like the Texas School Book Depository, the Grassy Knoll and Elm Street as it bends down to the railroad tracks, would be unremarkable were it not for the assassination of John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.

The cityscape at Dealey Plaza is mostly unchanged, and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1993. It’s hard not to be moved looking up at the corner sixth floor window from which Lee Harvey Oswald fired his three shots, seeing the X that marks the spot where JFK was struck by the fatal second bullet and standing on the bank from which Abraham Zapruder took his famous footage.

Tip : start your visit with the Dallas City Highlights Tour

2. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

All the context you could want about the assassination of John F. Kennedy is available at this thorough and even-handed museum housed in the former Texas Schools Book Depository and opened in 1989. As you work your way up to Lee Harvey Oswald’s sixth-floor roost you’ll find out about JFK’s career and the landscape in the early-1960s, taking in the Civil Rights Movement and the Cold War.

The deed itself is covered in great detail, with hundreds of photographs from the scene and analysis of the Zapruder film (the Zapruder family donated the copyright to the museum in 1999). Inevitably there’s also background on the myriad conspiracy theories swirling around the assassination, to the point where even obsessives may pick up a new titbit.

Finally, Lee Harvey Oswald’s vantage point, preserved behind glass, is as cluttered as it was when he fired his shots in November 1963.

Recommended tour : JFK Assassination and Sixth Floor Museum Tour

3. Arts District

Dallas lays claim to the largest urban arts district in the United States, on 20 square blocks to the south-east of Uptown, and with a rare concentration of cultural attractions.

We’ll visit plenty of the attractions in this area, like the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Klyde Warren Park and the Winspear Opera House.

Respected venues and institutions are shoulder-to-shoulder in the Arts District, from the vaunted Dallas Black Dance Theatre in the east to the Dallas Museum of Art in the west.

There’s also tons of architectural interest, in monuments like the neo-Gothic Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe (1902), with a 68-meter spire and 100 stained glass windows.

If you really want to get to know the Arts District’s cityscape there are 90-minute walking tours on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 10:00.

Related tour : 1.5-Hour Dallas Sightseeing Tour by Segway

4. Dallas Museum of Art (DMA)

One of the top art museums in the country sends you on an international journey through 5,000 years of history, from antiquity to contemporary art.

Art-lovers can leap across time periods and civilizations, inspecting 1,700-year-old Buddhas, a Greek funerary relief from 300 BCE, ancient American art in gold and a Nok terracotta bust from Nigeria dating back 2,000 years.

The American and European art collections are as rich as you’d hope, with works by O’Keeffe, Hopper, Childe Hassam and masters like Canaletto, Courbet, Monet, van Gogh and Piet Mondrian.

Every post-war trend from Abstract Expressionism to Installation Art has a place in the comprehensive Contemporary galleries, featuring Sigmar Polke, Jasper Johns, Jackson Pollock, Franz Kline and many more.

Founded in 1903, this is one of the ten largest art museums in the United States, with ten concurrent exhibitions, and a program of talks, tours, concerts , film screenings and workshops.

Included in:   Dallas CityPASS

5. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

An exceptional attraction and head-turning new landmark for Dallas, the Perot Museum of Nature (2012) has 11 permanent exhibit halls on five floors.

This extraordinary building is designed as a large cube over a water garden, while the facade evokes the drought-tolerant grassland of North Texas.

It would be impossible to sum up this multifaceted museum in one paragraph, but as with any state-of-the-art science attraction, you can be sure that there’s lots of interactivity and hands-on activities.

You can experience an earthquake, make music in a sound studio, build your own robot, smell the beeswax of the Blackland Prairie, compete against world-class athletes and take a whirlwind trip around Dallas in miniature.

No natural history museum would be complete without dinosaur skeletons, and the “Life, Then and Now Hall” is ruled by gargantuan Alamosaurus and T. rex fossils, but also has a superb Paleo Lab where you can watch the museum’s cutting-edge dinosaur research on screens in real-time.

Included in : Dallas CityPASS

6. Klyde Warren Park

A patch of Downtown Dallas in the Arts District was completely transformed in the early 2010s when the Woodall Rodgers Freeway moved underground for three blocks to make way for this innovative public park on its route.

Dreamed up as a central public gathering space for Dallas, Klyde Warren Park has a big lawn fringed by a tree-lined pedestrian promenade, and comes with a restaurant, children’s park, botanical garden, reading room, dog park, performance pavilion and urban games area.

The park opened in 2012 and is named for the son of billionaire Kelcy Warren who donated $10 million for its development.

On a given day there will be ten or more licensed food trucks here, and the park’s website will tell you who they are and what they’re serving up.

Related tour : Full-Day Small Group Tour of Dallas & the JFK Assassination

7. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Dallas has many plus points, but verdure isn’t the first thing that comes to mind.

Even so, there’s a botanical garden to match the best, in 66 acres on the south-east shore of White Rock Lake, only 15 minutes from Downtown Dallas.

We’ll talk about this reservoir in more detail later.

There are 19 named gardens at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden, like the 6.5-acre Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden, with vibrant seasonal beds of more than 2,000 azalea varieties (one of the largest in the United States), as well as tulips and daffodils.

The Palmer Fern Dell, where a brook is edged by ferns, azaleas, camellias and mature trees, is a godsend in the searing summer months, when mist sprayers lower the ambient temperature by several degrees.

The big event on the calendar is Dallas Blooms, from the start of February to mid-April, with more than 100 varieties of spring-blooming bulbs including 500,000 individual tulips.

8. Reunion Tower

One of the towers that make Dallas, Dallas arrived to the south of Dealey Plaza in 1978. Also known as The Ball, the 171-meter Reunion Tower is four narrow shafts (one cylindrical and thee rectangular) crowned with an openwork geodesic dome illuminated at night by 259 LEDs.

The elevators are in the three rectangular shafts, and on the 68-second ride to the GeO-Deck you’ll get a stirring view of Dallas through shaft’s outer glass panel.

And once you reach the GeO-Deck you can brush up the city’s story and changing skyline on interactive screens, peer through telescopes and feel the breeze on the outdoor platform.

There are also two rotating eateries up here, at the Cloud Nine Cafe and Wolfgang Puck’s posh Five Sixty, with an Asian-infused menu.

Book online : Dallas’ Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket

9. AT&T Stadium

For many sports fans the name Dallas is almost always followed by “Cowboys”, 24-time division champions, five-time Superbowl champions and the most valued team in the NFL as of 2019. The Cowboys are tied in second with most Superbowl appearances in history and are currently on a run of sold-out regular and post-season games that has stretched since 2002. In 2009 the franchise moved to the 80,000-capacity (expandable to 105,000) At&T Stadium, located 20-minutes west in Arlington and claimed to be the largest domed building in the world.

One of many astounding things about the stadium is its public art program, which has left it with museum-quality pieces of contemporary art by the likes of Olafur Eliasson and Doug Aitken.

You don’t need game tickets to see the AT&T Stadium up close, as there’s a menu of tours, from self-guided visits to a special VIP Guided Tour with extra tour stop and field access, all with an expert guide.

Book online : Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour with Transport

10. Nasher Sculpture Center

Raymond Nasher (1921-2007), the developer behind the NorthPark Center mall, was a voracious art collector, and together with his wife Patsy assembled a jaw-dropping sculpture collection.

Much of this was put on display at the mall (some still is), until a more suitable permanent home could be built.

At the turn of the 21st century the Nasher Foundation put up the funds for a Renzo Piano-designed museum with a two-acre garden to make these riches available to the public.

The Nasher Sculpture Center is all the more extraordinary against the cityscape of downtown Dallas.

The center’s collection is a who’s who of modern sculpture, furnished with pieces by Alexander Calder, Giacometti, Hepworth, Henry Moore, Matisse, Gauguin, Joan Miró, Picasso, Claes Oldenburg, Richard Serra and Rodin.

Only a fraction of the foundation’s holdings can be displayed at one time, so the center’s exhibition is refreshed every few months.

Included in : Dallas Art District & Museum Of Art Walking Tour

11. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The understated John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza was inaugurated in June 1970, beside the red sandstone towers of the Dallas County Courthouse.

The monument at its core was designed by architect Philip Johnson, a friend of the Kennedy family, and was personally approved by Jacqueline Kennedy.

Conceived to represent the “freedom of John F. Kennedy’s spirit”, the memorial comprises a square room without a roof, with concrete walls 15 x 15 meters long and 9 meters high.

These walls are composed of 72 concrete columns, supported by two legs at each corner and so appearing to hover over the ground when illuminated at night.

In the room is a granite square carved with JFK’s name, painted in gold to catch the light from the walls.

Bestselling tour : JFK Assassination and Museum Tour (Includes Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House)

12. Meadows Museum

The oil baron Algur Meadows (1899–1978) made repeated trips to Madrid in the 1950s, and in that time he fell in love with Spanish art at the Museo del Prado, resolving to create his own “Prado on the prairie” back in Dallas.

This became the Meadows Museum at the Southern Methodist University campus, home to one of the largest assemblages of Spanish art outside of Spain.

The art here dates from the 900s to the present, comprising Renaissance altarpieces, massive Baroque canvases, liturgical polychrome images, graphic art, Impressionist landscapes, abstract painting, sketches and sculpture.

Among the many great artists featured are Velázquez, El Greco, Murillo, Ribera, Zurbarán, Goya (six works), Sorolla, Rodin, Picasso, Dalí, Miró, Henry Moore and Giacometti.

In 2019-20 there were fabulous short-term exhibitions for Sorolla and the great Spanish Renaissance sculptor Alonso Berruguete.

13. Deep Ellum

If you’re out for live music, great food, awesome bars or one-off shops then Deep Ellum is the place to go, just on the other side of the I-345 from Downtown Dallas.

This has been an entertainment district since the 1880s, and blues legends like Leadbelly, Bessie Smith and Blind Lemon Jefferson all entertained the crowds in the 1910s and 1920s.

The name comes from the neighborhood’s main artery, Elm Street and crops up in the old blues song Take a Whiff on Me, and the song “Deep Elm Blues”, made famous by the Grateful Dead.

The lineup of clubs and live venues is too long to list here, but features Trees Dallas, played by Radiohead, Nirvana, Arcade Fire and Pearl Jam.

For concept bars you’ve got a slew of craft breweries/distilleries, and the trailer park themed Double Wide.

By day you can check out the street art and pick from ramen (Oni), tacos (Tiki Loco), sushi (Nori) or southern comfort food (Brick & Bones, Get Fried) for lunch.

Recommended tour : Dallas Deep Ellum Beer & Cider Tour

14. Dallas Zoo

Across the Trinity River from Downtown Dallas, the Dallas Zoo would be a worthwhile family outing even without its greatest attraction.

But the Giants of the Savanna habitat is not something you’ll come across very often.

This $32.5-million habitat, unveiled in 2011 has reticulated giraffes, zebras, impala, ostriches and guinea fowl sharing the same large space.

In the same zone is the zoo’s herd of African elephants, as well as African lions, South African cheetahs, warthogs and African wild dogs.

The Gorilla Research Center, opened in 1990, is another feather in the Dallas Zoo’s cap, a lush recreation of the Congo Rainforest, with enough space for two troops of gorillas, each separated by a wall.

The Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari takes you on a 20-minute, mile-long narrated monorail ride past hippos, okapis, Grévy’s zebra, Thomson’s gazelle’s and some giant birds, from great white pelicans to Goliath herons.

Book online : Dallas Zoo – General Admission

15. Dallas World Aquarium

In the West End Historic District, this aquarium in a reworked warehouse from 1924 has more than just fish.

Mundo Maya keeps ocelots, American flamingos and a variety of colourful passerine birds and owls to go with its vibrant angelfish and axolotls.

The upper floor is taken over by a reproduction of the Orinoco Rainforest, inhabited by sloths, giant river otters and primates like pygmy marmosets and red howler monkeys, as well as dwarf caimans, poison dart frogs, toucans, mata mata turtles and electric eels.

The ten main tanks are on the lower level, where you’ll come within inches of aquatic life from all over the world from giant Japanese spider crabs to brilliant Percula clownfish, tangs, angelfish, butterflyfish and moon jellyfish.

Outside the South Africa exhibit keeps a playful colony of black-footed penguins, numbering only 50,000 in the wild.

16. Pioneer Plaza

The city’s rugged early days are remembered at this park laid out in 1994 in front of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, just south of downtown.

Rendered in bronze by artist Robert Summers is a marvellous sculpted ensemble – the largest bronze monument in the world – depicting an everyday scene on the old Shawnee Trail.

Crossing the plaza are 49 longhorn steers and three trail riders on horseback, all in an environment of ridges and cliffs, planted with trees and plants native to North Texas, a flowing stream and waterfall.

Each steer is a little larger than life, at just under two meters high.

Related tour : 75-Minute Small-Group City Highlights Tour

17. Fair Park

This 277-acre outdoor complex on the right shoulder of Downtown Dallas has a history as a fairground going back to 1886. The space was transformed to lift spirits in the Great Depression, when Dallas hosted the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936. Architects George Dahl and Paul Cret turned Fair Park into a magnificent exhibition of Art Deco design.

Plenty of the attractions on this list can be found right here, and the park holds more than 1,200 events a year, from concerts to sporting events.

For 24 days from the last Friday of September, this is the venue for the Texas State Fair, attended by over two million people each year and presided over by the iconic Big Tex.

One of the main events is the annual college football game between Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns, at the 92,100-capacity Cotton Bowl.

A centerpiece during the fair is the Texas Star, a Ferris wheel 65.8 meters tall, with 44 gondolas.

18. Hall of State

Fair Park’s mainstay is the Art Deco Hall of State, which is a formidable landmark, even if the exterior is showing its age.

There are few better examples of Art Deco architecture in Texas, and it’s bewildering to think that this regal edifice got built in the depths of the Great Depression.

What draws your eye outside is the semicircular recess at the entrance, with limestone pillars rising 23 meters dividing bands of blue tiles evoking the state flower, the bluebonnet.

On the frieze are the names of 60 historical figures with an important role in Texas history.

The monument has belonged to the Dallas Historical Society since 1938, and its radiant interior holds the Hall of Heroes, with six bronze statues representing Stephen F. Austin, Thomas Jefferson Rusk, Mirabeau B. Lamar, Sam Houston, James Fannin and William B. Travis.

During the Texas State Fair in 2019 there was a wonderful exhibition on the history of the state in cinema.

19. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

This compact but ever-popular aquarium opened with the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936, but was given a modern makeover in 2009. There are six main exhibits at the Children’s Aquarium: Freshwater Zone, with red-bellied piranhas and Australian rainbows; Intertidal Zone, for sea stars and sea urchins; Shore Zone, inhabited by seahorses, batfish and home to a Caribbean reef; Near Shore Zone, which has Moray eels, clownfish and porcupinefish, and the Offshore Zone, where you’ll see the ominous-looking Queensland groupers and zebra sharks.

Finally, the outdoor Stingray Bay is most people’s favorite part, where you can touch and feed cownose rays and watch black tip ref sharks in an ample outdoor tank.

20. Frontiers of Flight Museum

Head to Dallas Love Field Airport to be awed by this Smithsonian Affiliate museum in the airport’s south-east corner.

The Frontiers of Flight Museum has more than 30 aircraft and space vehicles on show, a portion of which were built in the North Texas area.

There are also 13 galleries and exhibits to ponder, including artifacts from the Hindenburg, lots of detail about aviators like Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart, and a full-size model of the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Wright Flyer.

As for preserved aircraft, make sure to see Apollo VII, used for the first manned flight of the Apollo Space Program in 1968. Also indispensible is the last surviving Texas-Temple Sportsman monoplane (1928), a de Havilland Tiger Moth (1940), a Bell 47 (of M*A*S*H fame) and jet fighters and bombers including an F-16b (1977), an LTV A-7 Corsair II (1967), a Republic F-105D (1958) and a Lockheed T-33A Shooting Star (1950).

21. Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park

The tree-shaded sidewalks of the Dallas Heritage Village are lined with the largest ensemble of historic buildings in the city.

These properties, dated between 1840 and 1910, are arranged as an outdoor museum in 20 acres, where the only hint of the passage of time comes from the Downtown Dallas skyline over the trees.

City Park was the first public park in Dallas, plotted in the 1870s and the site of the first city zoo and weekly outdoor concerts in the 1880s and 1890s that would resemble the performances given here today.

The park was at risk of being redeveloped until the late-1960s when the Millermore plantation house became the first of 21 historic buildings to find a new home here.

Each building is decorated with period-specific furniture, tools and ephemera, and a team of role-playing interpreters helping the whole village to life.

22. Texas Discovery Gardens

Also at the historic Fair Park, the Texas Discovery Gardens is a botanical garden in 7.5 acres, growing native and exotic plants from around the world that have adapted to the difficult soils and climate of North Texas.

This is the first public garden that has been certified 100% organic by the Texas Organic Research Center, and is irrigated via sustainable water conservation methods.

The gardens’ plants have also been selected for their ability to provide habitats for wildlife, including birds and butterflies.

Outside you can saunter through the Native Butterfly Habitat, Shakespeare Garden (with plants mentioned in the Bard’s plays and sonnets) and the Master Gardener’s Garden, showing how you can get the most out of drought-tolerant plants.

Children will be wild for the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, where you can even watch butterflies shake out of their chrysalises at the Emergence Chamber on the lower level.

There are also 20 species of venomous and non-venomous native snakes at the Snakes of Texas exhibit.

23. American Airlines Center

Two big-time sports franchises share this multipurpose arena in the Victory Park neighborhood.

Most famous are the Dallas Mavericks, who clinched the NBA Championship in 2011, led by Dirk Nowitzki, who had just retired in 2019 after a 21-year spell.

The Mavericks are renowned for their passionate fans, and at the time of writing were going through a home-game sell-out streak that had continued since 2001. Owner Mark Cuban’s strategy is to sell off unsold tickets at big discounts or give them away to charity.

At roughly the same time of year, this is also home rink for the Dallas Stars, who last lifted the Stanley Cup in 1999. American Airlines Center has hosted up to 20 major concert dates a year since it opened in 2001. Elton John, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Eagles and Celine Dion were all on the program in 2019-20. Food-wise, there are lots of choices for Tex-Mex (Mesero), Southern-style cuisine (House of Blues), pizza (Olivella’s) and sushi (Imoto) within a five-minute walk of the arena, and ample concessions inside, from tacos to hot dogs.

24. Design District

North-west of Downtown Dallas, the Design District has taken root on the regenerated floodway of the Trinity River.

Where before there were old showrooms and warehouses from the 1950s, there’s now an eclectic but upmarket neighborhood of art galleries, men’s and women’s fashion boutiques, swish interior design shops, a slew of fine dining establishments and brand new high-end residences.

One of the many things to love about the Design District is that it has developed naturally, and the low, almost nondescript warehouses that had been here for decades remain, accompanied by dazzling new architecture.

No massive mixed-use developments, national chains or wholesale demolition has been allowed here.

Related tour : Dallas Design District Brewery Tour

25. Crow Museum of Asian Art

The real estate baron Trammell Crow (1914-2009) was a keen collector of East and Southeast Asian Art, and even put his son to use as an art purchaser in Tokyo to enhance his inventory which grew to 7,000 pieces.

In 1998 almost 600 pieces were donated as a gift to the people and visitors of Dallas, at this museum that opened in the Dallas Arts District.

The museum is organized into three main spaces: Gallery I featured Japanese works by master ceramic artists, marvellous prints and a samurai suit of armor.

Gallery II, for Chinese art, holds one of the largest collections of jade in the United States, as well Qing Dynasty snuff bottles, mostly from the 1700s.

Gallery III holds works from across India and Southeast Asia, comprising two Mughal baradari gazebos and highly ornate pieces like the gilded Nepalese Seated Manjushri Dharmadhatsuvajisvara buddha from 1823. Linking Gallery II with Gallery III is the glass Skybridge, commanding a privileged view of the Trammell Crow Center and the Nasher Sculpture Center.

26. African American Museum

The Hall of Negro Life at the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936 was thought to be the first recognition of African-American culture at a world’s fair.

Fair Park’s African American Museum was built on the exact same plot as that hall and opened in 1993, although its history as an institution goes back to 1974. The museum has amassed a vital collection of African and African-American art, historical artefacts and decorative arts, presented across four vaulted galleries.

In the collection are pieces by luminaries like Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden, Clementine Hunter and Larry D.

Alexander, but the museum is also engaged in a vibrant and enlightening program of music performances, dance, lectures and book fairs.

A thrilling ongoing exhibition, Facing the Rising Sun, investigates North Dallas (now Uptown), displaying found objects, historical documents, photographs and firsthand accounts at special interactive kiosks.

27. Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum

This educational museum recounting one of the pivotal events of the 20th century and its repercussions opened in 2019 in a high-impact modern building by Dealey Plaza in the West End Historic District.

The attraction’s origins lie in an organization founded by 125 Holocaust survivors in 1977. The Holocaust/Shoah Wing tells the 3,000-year story of the Jewish People, covering their persecution over many centuries before Hitler’s rise to power and the murder of six million Jews in the Second World War.

There are testimonies by survivors and liberators throughout this wing, and devastating artefacts like a genuine boxcar from a concentration camp train.

The Human Rights Wing goes into the progress made since the Holocaust, while the Pivot to America Wing is optimistic and highly interactive, celebrating diversity, encouraging people to confront their own biases and recreating a Civil Rights-era sit-in.

28. Welcome to Dallas 3-Hour Small Group Tour by Van

If you have limited time in Dallas or just want a comprehensive introduction to the city, this three-hour tour on GetYourGuide.com is just the ticket.

Even more so if you visit in summer, as you’ll travel in an air-conditioned van to see all the obligatory landmarks and areas.

This whistle-stop trip takes in Dealey Plaza, Old Red, Founder’s Plaza, Pioneer Plaza, the Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, Swiss Avenue, and Klyde Warren Park, all in the space of three short hours.

29. Magnolia Hotel

The Magnolia Petroleum Company (merged to form Mobil in 1959) built itself a majestic Beaux-Arts headquarters in the early-1920s.

Exceeding its neighbor, the Adolphus Hotel (1911), the Magnolia Building briefly became the tallest in the state at 122 meters.

The tower is 29 stories, with its two wings connected by an arch about three quarters of the way up.

In 1934 the Magnolia Building was given its most iconic feature: A rotating neon Pegasus, which became a symbol for Dallas even after the tower became crowded out on the skyline, and was re-made for the new millennium.

You’ll see it best approaching Downtown Dallas from the south.

Mobil moved out in the 1970s and the tower was sold off to the city, later becoming a luxury hotel.

30. Dallas County Courthouse

On the south-east side of Dealey Plaza is a formidable Romanesque Revival building, built from a warm, rusticated red sandstone with rusticated marble for its first floor and window openings.

Affectionately known as Old Red, the courthouse, impossible to miss for its turrets and soaring central tower, dates to 1892 and lost its governmental role when a new courthouse building was completed close-by in 1966. Since 2007 this grand building has held the Old Red Museum.

On the second floor the permanent exhibition walks you through the city’s past, from prehistory to the present, showing off fossils, items relating to 19th-century trade, war weapons, sports paraphernalia and the people who have put Dallas on the cultural map.

Included in : Dallas and Southfork Ranch Small-Group Combo Tour

31. Giant Eyeball

Heading along Main Street on the edge of the Dallas Arts District you’ll find yourself being stared down by a humungous blue eye.

This 9.1-meter fiberglass sculpture by multimedia artist Tony Tasset, was completed in 2007 for an installation in Chicago before finding a new home in Dallas.

The enclosing astro-turf lawn is owned by the arty Joule Hotel across the street, and is usually fenced off from the public, but there’s a clear line of sight to a work that has become a bit of a modern emblem for Dallas.

32. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

World-famous architect Santiago Calatrava’s contribution to the Dallas cityscape is this startling cable-stayed bridge spanning the Trinity River and named for the oil heiress and philanthropist Margaret Hunt Hill.

The bridge, easily recognized by its 120-meter central arch pylon, opened in 2012 and was part of a large-scale project to redevelop the Trinity River.

Connecting the underside of the arch to the roadway is a system of cables that seem to intersect in different ways depending on your perspective.

That arch is visible for miles and stands out on the riverbanks, that have been left mostly clear of development.

The Trinity Skyline Trail passes along the river below and you can get a great perspective not far south at the Trinity Overlook park off N Beckley Ave.

33. Trinity Groves

In the same program, a new 15-acre shopping, dining and entertainment destination has sprouted up by the bridge on the western bank of the Trinity River.

Trinity Groves has made a name for its cutting-edge dining, thanks to a Restaurant Concept Icubation Program, allowing entrepreneurs to test drive restaurant concepts to see if they are ready for an expansion.

Because of this constant process of trial and error, no two visits will be the same.

34. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Completely free to enter and more commonly known as the Samurai Collection, this museum in the Harwood District compiles hundreds of years of Japanese craftsmanship at the former St. Ann’s School.

The collection has been fastidiously amassed by real estate developer Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, his wife Ann and their children.

Objects on show date from the 600s to the 1800s, and include suits of armor, horse armor, masks, helmets and katanas.

The exhibition is reworked twice a year, and the museum has a traveling exhibition that has visited cities around the world.

35. Museum of Biblical Art

This attraction next to the immense NorthPark Center bounced back after a fire in 2005 destroyed its former building along with more than 2,500 works of art.

As the name may tell you, the Museum of Biblical Art collects works inspired by the bible, and the list of artists featured is prestigious.

There’s art by Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, John Singer Sargent and Ben Shahn, just by way of intro.

Since 2014 a whole wing of the building has been home to the National Center for Jewish Art, with a superb array of Judaica (Jewish ceremonial art).

36. Mia’s Tex-Mex

On Oak Lawn’s Lemmon Avenue (4334) is a revered Tex-Mex eatery that has been around since 1981, an eternity by Dallas standards.

It was founded by couple Butch and Mia (Mama Mia) Enriquez.

In these 40-odd years, Mia’s Tex-Mex has become an institution favored by movie and TV stars, Dallas Cowboys and almost anyone who calls the city home.

Specialities include Butch’s Original Brisket Tacos, which come with Monterrey Jack, poblano peppers and grilled onions, and comes with brisket gravy, rice and beans.

Also big are the Homemade Rellenos (stuffed poblano), Mama’s Quesadillas and Mama’s Chicken Lemon (breaded breast with a lemon butter sauce). Don’t forget chips and guacamole, or a round of Mia’s famous margaritas.

37. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

The seat of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) was completed in 1989 and has a reputation for its supreme acoustics.

The project was a collaboration between the Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei and the Artec Consultants, the firm of acoustical expert Russell Johnson, resulting in a shoebox shape with a “reverse fan” configuration at the back of the hall.

Even the most distant seats enjoy a clear line of sight and perfect sound.

Check the DSO’s program for something that might take your fancy, be it symphonies (Prokofiev’s sixth at the time of writing in Nov ’19), movie and musical soundtracks, reworked classic rock and pop, world-renowned soloists and lots of family-friendly performances around Christmas.

38. Wilson Building

Sharing the same block as the Giant Eyeball, wrapping around Main Street, N Ervay Street and Elm Street in an E-shape, is a handsome trace of old Dallas.

A Beaux-Arts office and commercial complex modelled on the Palais Garnier in Paris, the Wilson Building (1904) was constructed for the cattle magnate John B. Wilson.

The main tenant was the Titche-Goettinger Department Store, occupying the basement and first two levels.

At first the building was only on Main Street and Ervay Street, but it was such a success that a new wing was added on Elm Street in 1911. Among its conveniences were two telegraph offices and an artesian well more than 450 meters deep.

The Wilson Building is now residential, but as you pass by you can take a moment to behold its elegant curved corners and the rich carvings on the cornice and window arches on the fifth floor.

39. NorthPark Center

In the top 20 largest malls in the country, NorthPark Center is also praised as one of the top premium shopping destinations in the Southwest.

This was already the world’s largest climate-controlled building when it opened in 1965. But it more than doubled in size in the mid-2000s after an expansion that also gave rise to the CenterPark, a tapestry of lawns and mature trees on crushed granite paths.

Among more than 230 stores are luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Bulgari, Cartier and Versace, as well as more day-to-day retailers from Sephora to H&M, Gap, Macy’s Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

A branch of the wildly popular Eataly Italian market chain is slated to open at the NorthPark Center in 2020. World-class sculpture, by artists like Antony Gormley, Andy Warhol and Frank Stella, has been integrated into the NorthPark Center since it first opened, and you can pick up a complimentary map for a tour.

Included in : Dallas Shopping Tour

40. George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Whatever your opinion on the 43rd President of the United States, it’s a fact that he was in office for some of the country’s most crucial events since World War II.

After Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2009 George W. Bush settled in the Preston Hollow neighborhood of Dallas, and his Presidential Center opened on the campus of Southern Methodist University in 2013. One engrossing exhibit is a detailed replica of the Oval Office, but you’ll also see material recovered from Ground Zero, accompanied by Bush’s diary entry on 9/11 and the various gifts given to the president by foreign politicians.

The interactive Decisions Points Theater puts you in the hot seat, and you can see how your response to Katrina differs from what Bush actually did.

On the lighter side there’s a whole exhibit devoted to Bush’s sense of humor.

Outside is the Texas Rose Garden and 15 acres of native Texas prairie with wildflowers and grasses.

41. Trinity River Audubon Center

The project to revitalize the Trinity River also encompassed this National Audubon Society nature center down the Trinity River and barely 15 minutes out of Downtown Dallas.

The city will feel very distant here on the edge of the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest, the largest urban hardwood forest in the country.

The center is on what used to be illegal landfill, now a mosaic of habitats for species like scissor-tailed flycatchers, little blue herons and northern harriers.

The LEED certified nature center holds an informative natural history museum, and the Audubon Society arranges lots of programs like bird-watching, conservation treks, night hikes and activities for schools and scouts.

42. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

If a break from sightseeing is in order there’s good old family fun at this waterpark where you’ll never have to contend with sunburn.

One thing’s for sure: Epic Waters has not compromised on size, as these slides and pools are contained by a huge, retractable structure.

In fact at 80,000 square feet it’s the largest attraction of its kind in the state, with 11 rides attached to its lofty slide tower.

Three of these are “first in industry” rides, like the Lasso Loop, which is literally a body slide with the tallest loop in the country, or Aquanaut, the first indoor double rider inner tube slide in the country.

There are more sedate attractions like a lazy river, outdoor wavepool and a space for toddlers and smaller children.

There’s hunger-slaying fast food and a big video arcade area with new games and old-time amusements.

43. Cedar Hill State Park

Another open space surprisingly close to Downtown Dallas is this state park protecting a tract of old farmland, on rocky limestone slopes, parcels of prairie and the east shore of the 7,500-acre Joe Pool Lake.

You can get acquainted with this land’s past at the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center, touring reconstructed and original farm buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Dallas Off-Road Bike Association (DORBA) has drawn up a 12-mile trail through the park, made up of three concentric routes ranging from 3 to 12 miles long.

Joe Pool Lake is a major draw for swimmers at the gravel beach and fishers casting off for crappie, largemouth black bass and catfish.

And, if you want to make a weekend of it, there are 350 developed campsites, all with water, electricity and access to hot showers.

44. Globe Life Field

At the time of writing, in the 2019-20 off-season, the new home of MLB’s Texas Rangers was under construction, due to open with the 2020 season.

From 1994 to 2019 the Rangers had played just across the road at Globe Life Park, which was being repurposed for XFL’s Dallas Renegades and the FC Dallas affiliate, North Texas SC.

The brutal summer heat in Texas has always had an impact on Rangers’ attendances.

So, at a construction cost of more than $1.1bn, the new 40,000 ballpark has a retractable roof to protect fans from the glaring sun and also avoid rain delays.

This will be partially transparent, and able to open and close in record time.

If you happen to read this post before the work is completed in 2020, you can watch the progress from the Hilti Observation Deck on the upper right field concourse of Globe Life Park.

45. Dallas Farmers Market

Right next to the skyscrapers of Downtown Dallas is a big public market that has been trading since 1941. Safe to say that things have changed a lot in 80 years, and what started out as a horse-and-wagon wholesale business is now a testament to the changing relationship between North Texans and their food.

The Dallas Farmers Market’s guiding principles are Honesty, Responsibility and Transparency.

The main market is open seven days, and is a bountiful food hall and artisanal vendor market for fresh produce, meat, seafood, flowers, housewares, handmade gifts and a world of snacks, baked goods and delicious meals made on the spot, from tamales to banh mi.

The Shed meanwhile is an open-air pavilion where local ranchers gather on weekends to sell their seasonal fruits and vegetables, honey, eggs, farm-raised meats, cheese and all manner of specialty foods.

46. White Rock Lake Park

A mere 15 minutes in the car from Downtown Dallas will get you to a blissful slice of water and greenery at this 1,250-acre reservoir.

White Rock Lake came about by damming the namesake creek to bolster the city’s water supply at the start of the 20th century.

By the middle of the century the reservoir had lost its main role as a water source and had become a little paradise for recreation.

You can rent paddleboards, canoes and kayaks on the shore, and there are piers and launches for people hoping to land white crappie, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

You may just prefer to wander a piece of the 9.33 mile loop around the water, fixing your gaze on the Dallas skyline, which is all the prettier at sunset.

On your way you’ll be joined by lots of joggers and bike riders, and should see lots of turtles sunning themselves on the rocks.

47. Highland Park Village

Both an abiding piece of American retail history and a place to indulge in some luxury shopping, Highland Park Village became the first self-contained shopping center when it opened in 1931.

The plaza, designed as a shopping center that could also serve as a town square, took design cues from Spanish, Californian and Mexican towns, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000.

Today’s tenants cater to the top end of the market, and include names like Fendi, Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Cartier, Dior and Carolina Herrera.

The Village Theater was the first luxury movie theatre in the state when it opened in 1935. Much-changed, the theatre plays first-run movies at two state-of-the-art screening rooms with plush seating.

48. Swiss Avenue Historic District

At the start of the 20th century the inventor of the system cotton gin, Robert S. Munger, turned his hand to real estate, developing a big tract of East Dallas for his deed-restricted Munger Place community.

This fifty-block neighborhood possesses America’s largest contingent of prairie-style homes, inspired by the great Frank Lloyd Wright.

For sightseers on foot or by car, the most picturesque part is the four-block, 57-acre Swiss Avenue Historic district, between Fitzhugh Street and a little way north of La Vista.

Along with Prairie School, preserved houses in the district include Colonial Revival and a variety of other opulent historicist styles like Tudor, Italian Renaissance, Spanish, Queen Anne and Craftsman.

Students of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work will notice a strong resemblance at the R. W. Higginbotham House (1913) at 5002 Swiss Avenue.

49. Winspear Opera House

The sophisticated stage for the Dallas Opera is a Foster + Partners building conceived as a traditional horseshoe opera house re-imagined for the 21st century.

The Winspear Opera House is one of four cultural venues at the AT&T Performing Arts Center and had its inaugural season in 2009/2010. Many agree that this is nation’s finest opera house, and its horseshoe configuration kindles a certain intimacy despite accommodating audiences of 2,200. When you arrive you’ll be met by the Annette and Harold Simmons Signature Glass Facade, more than 18 meters high, while the slatted Sky Canopy gives shade to more than three acres of Sammons Park.

French conductor Emmanuel Villaume has been director of the Dallas Opera since 2013, and in store for the 2019-2020 season were The Magic Flute, The Golden Cockerel, Don Carlo, The Barber of Seville and Pulcinella/La voix humaine.

50. Six Flags Over Texas

The first ever Six Flags theme park was established in Arlington about halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth.

In case you were wondering, the name “Six Flags” refers to the flags of the six nations that have governed Texas: Spain, France, Mexico, Republic of Texas, United States of America and the Confederate States of America.

This is a day trip not to pass up, especially if you’re in town with children or teenagers.

The littlest thrill-seekers will love the rides and entertainment at Bugs Bunny Boomtown, while bigger adrenaline fiends will have 13 rollercoasters and 3 water rides to take on.

One of the headlines is the New Texas Giant, converted from wood to steel in 2011, with a nerve-shredding 79° drop 45 meters long.

The outlandish Mr. Freeze: Reverse Blast, is a high-speed shuttle rollercoaster turned back to front and accelerating from 0-70 mph in 3.8 seconds.

51. Founders Plaza (Dallas County Historical Plaza)

Opposite the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza on Main Street is the unassuming Founders Plaza, which, along with a terrazzo map of Dallas County in the 1800s and a fountain, has a small wood cabin.

This looks much like the one built by John Neely Bryan (1810-1877), who in 1841 founded the settlement that became Dallas after first visiting the area two years before.

Bryan had a busy life, departing for the California Gold Rush in 1849, becoming a delegate to the Texas state Democratic convention in 1853 and shooting a man (non-fatally) for insulting his wife in 1855. In 1860 a fire wiped out most of the city’s original log cabins, but this example, made from cedar, is a rare survivor, dating to around 1850. It has been taken down and rebuilt several times over the last 170 years, and was placed at its current site in 1971.

Included in this tour : Full-Day Small Group Tour of Dallas & the JFK Assassination

52. Dallas City Hall

The current city hall is in the south of Downtown Dallas and was designed by I.M. Pei, also known for the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

This Brutalist, buff-colored concrete building held its first City Council in 1978 and is in the shape of an inverted pyramid, looking a little like a stadium grandstand from Young Street.

That was all a consequence of how much more space was needed above by the offices that ran the government, compared to the citizen services and public areas on the lower levels.

An interesting factoid about the building is that there’s a tunnel on the third level basement that was intended to be used by a future underground rail transit system that was never built.

To movie fans of a certain vintage, City Hall is better known as the Headquarters of the OCP company in the Robocop movies.

53. Bob’s Steak & Chop House

The original Bob’s Steak & Chop House is at 4300 Lemmon Avenue in Dallas.

In the 25+ years since this steakhouse opened its doors, the chain has gone nationwide, but time has stood still at the original location.

The decor has hardly changed, and, amazingly, you’ll still be greeted at the door by founder Bob Sambol . Bob’s Steak & Chop House is all about Texas-sized portions of high-quality cuts, full of flavor and hand-picked from the top 2% of USDA prime beef.

Whether you order prime steak, chops or seafood, every dish is accompanied by Bob’s signature, a single glazed carrot.

Most cuts are butchered at the restaurant, and all are given a five-minute rest before returning to the broiler for Bob’s hallmark hard sear.

54. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

This legendary BBQ joint frequented by George W. Bush, Larry Hagman (J.R. Ewing) and Jimmy Buffett has a fun backstory.

Sonny Bryan came from a line of Texas restaurateurs going back to his grandfather Elias in 1910. In 1958 he and his wife, a beauty pageant regular, sold their gun collection and staked all their money on a restaurant by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

He ran this location for the next 30 years, selling it to an investor group in 1989. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse has spawned many more locations, although only seven survive today, and mostly in the Dallas area.

The original, on Inwood Road, has starred in all sorts of food/travel shows, like Man v. Food Nation and Rachael Ray’s Tasty Travels.

The interior is as basic as it gets, as Sonny Bryan resorted to reusing old school desks in the 50s.

Needless to say the real story is the brisket, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, pulled chicken and sides like BBQ beans, potato salad and mac & cheese.

55. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Anyone willing to travel a bit further for some natural beauty will be rewarded by this 200-acre park, 20 minutes away in Plano.

At Arbor Hills there’s a trail system adding up to about nine miles, including three miles that are paved.

The park is broken down into three main habitats: Blackland Prairie, Riparian Forest and Upland Forest, sustaining birds like woodpeckers, herons, owls and turkey vultures, as well as coyotes, deer, bobcats and several snake species.

There’s free Wi-Fi in the developed parts of the park, as well as a picnic pavilion and playground for wee ones.

Make for the observation platform for a pleasing view of the landscape and parts of Plano.

55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas):

• Dealey Plaza
• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
• Arts District
• Dallas Museum of Art (DMA)
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Klyde Warren Park
• Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
• Reunion Tower
• AT&T Stadium
• Nasher Sculpture Center
• John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
• Meadows Museum
• Dallas World Aquarium
• Pioneer Plaza
• Hall of State
• Children's Aquarium at Fair Park
• Frontiers of Flight Museum
• Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park
• Texas Discovery Gardens
• American Airlines Center
• Design District
• Crow Museum of Asian Art
• African American Museum
• Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
• Welcome to Dallas 3-Hour Small Group Tour by Van
• Magnolia Hotel
• Dallas County Courthouse
• Giant Eyeball
• Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
• Trinity Groves
• The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum
• Museum of Biblical Art
• Mia's Tex-Mex
• Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
• Wilson Building
• NorthPark Center
• George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
• Trinity River Audubon Center
• Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
• Cedar Hill State Park
• Globe Life Field
• Dallas Farmers Market
• White Rock Lake Park
• Highland Park Village
• Swiss Avenue Historic District
• Winspear Opera House
• Six Flags Over Texas
• Founders Plaza (Dallas County Historical Plaza)
• Dallas City Hall
• Bob's Steak & Chop House
• Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse
• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

60 Best & Fun Things To Do In Dallas (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

If you’re looking for a city that makes you feel welcome whether you’re a lifelong resident or just making a pit stop, you should come to Dallas, Texas.

In a state that’s full of cities worth visiting, Dallas is especially wonderful.

In this list, we’ll tell you about the 60 best and fun things to do and see in Dallas, Texas.

Table of Contents

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

ShengYing Lin / Shutterstock

A part of the former Texas School Book Depository, this museum honors the life and legend of President John F. Kennedy, who lost his life in Dallas.

This is one of the best places for learning about an influential leader.

If you’re coming to Dallas this weekend, try to make some time for this museum.

At the Sixth Floor Museum , you’ll really get a primer on President Kennedy.

Exhibits cover important matters like what happened when he was assassinated and how this event shaped history.

It’s one of the most impactful tourist attractions in Dallas, Texas.

If you’re still rather shaky on Kennedy’s story beyond the basic details, this is definitely a good place to come to.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza offers an indispensable history.

It’s open on Mondays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and from Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is $1 for adult guests, $16 for seniors, $14 for youths, and free for children five and younger.

Address:  411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

2. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

In Dallas, you’ll be spoiled for great BBQ.

However, one of the absolute best places for it is Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse .

This is one of the bigger culinary hot spots in the city.

Coming to Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse is something you have to do if you want to really lick your fingers.

Part of the fun of going to Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse is drooling over the menu.

You might be ready to go as soon as tomorrow when you hear about selections like their ribs, brisket, and pulled chicken.

It’s all made with so much care towards flavor and presentation.

There are four locations in the Dallas area.

Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse deserves to be considered one of the top BBQ joints in Texas.

We feel confident that you’ll have a satisfying experience there.

Check with the locations for their hours.

Address:  2202 Inwood Rd, Dallas, TX 75235, United States

3. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

You don’t need to still be in grade school in order to enjoy this Dallas aquarium.

Going to the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park lets you see all sorts of unique things.

These are some of the best marine animals the world has to offer.

Giving you a glimpse at creatures you otherwise might not be able to see without deep-sea diving equipment, the Children’s Aquarium is great for both the young and the not-so-young.

It’s so much fun to be able to see colorful creatures like these.

You might also find out you have a future marine biologist in your midst.

It’s hard to blame them for being fascinated, as these species are just so compelling.

The Children’s Aquarium provides families in Dallas, Texas with a truly wonderful time.

Your kids will hopefully love seeing all of these creatures.

It’s open every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Address:  1462 1st Ave, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

4. Studio Movie Grill

Yelp Inc. / flickr

You can see a movie just about anywhere, but Studio Movie Grill in Dallas isn’t just anywhere.

This is one of the best places to check out for entertainment and food.

If you want to see a movie this weekend, do it at Studio Movie Grill.

The best thing about Studio Movie Grill is its variety.

That’s true not only of its movie selection, but also its menu.

Try things like gourmet popcorn, amazing sliders, and all kinds of burgers and pizza.

It’s also what to do if you want to have a great cocktail with your movie.

It’s definitely a lot better than just being stuck with low-rent popcorn and overpriced candy.

Going to the movies should be about more than just giving yourself something to distract you for a few hours.

It should also be losing yourself in the moment and having a good time.

At Studio Movie Grill, you can achieve that feeling.

Address:  11170 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75243, United States

5. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

David Kobuszewski / flickr

Located in Plano, Texas, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a wonderful display of natural beauty near Dallas.

If you’re looking for places to go that are beautiful and rewarding to experience, come here.

It’s one of the most gorgeous places in the Dallas area.

Not only can you get some great exercise hiking the trail, but you can also see some truly stunning wildlife.

There are birds, reptiles, and wildcats all around Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

Be careful to not disturb them, and they should show you the same respect in return.

It’s definitely one of the most appealing tourist attractions in Texas .

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a knockout of an attraction.

It’s open from Thursdays to Tuesdays from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Admission is free.

Address:  6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Austin  & things to do in Waco !

6. Nasher Sculpture Center

Nasher Sculpture Center

If you’re an art lover, one of the best things to do in Dallas is to go to the Nasher Sculpture Center .

Some of the best works in Texas can be found here.

It’s also an especially great place for couples.

Going to the Nasher Sculpture Center is one of the best activities for igniting some creative passions.

Started in 2003 by late husband-and-wife Raymond and Patsy Nasher, it showcases the ingenuity in sculptures like you might’ve never seen.

There are also extraordinary things to be seen both inside and outside, such as their garden area.

If you’re not able to make it to the museum, it’s possible to view their collection online.

At the Nasher Sculpture Center, you’ll be able to see just how much nuance this kind of art style can have.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for students and teachers, and free for children younger than 12, as well as military members and first responders.

Address:  2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

7. Dallas County Courthouse

f11photo / Shutterstock

You don’t need to have any pressing legal matters to go to the Dallas County Courthouse .

One of the most interesting places to see in the state, it actually hasn’t been used as a courthouse for more than 50 years.

Instead, the Dallas County Courthouse is a celebration of Dallas and its history.

Called “Old Red” by Dallas locals, the Dallas County Courthouse is certainly one of the most important buildings in the city, even if its purpose has changed.

It also includes the Old Red Museum.

Here, you can have fun seeing all sorts of important pieces from Dallas’ story, which is being told to this day.

Whether you want to call it the Dallas County Courthouse or “Old Red,” you should find this to be a very rewarding place to visit.

You can come to the museum every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adult visitors, $8 for seniors, $7 for children, and free for children younger than three.

Address:  600 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

SOLUNA Festival

You’ll need to be careful with your trip planning if you hope to check out SOLUNA .

This is an annual festival and one of the best events in Dallas.

Artists from around the world come to Dallas and share their phenomenal music with anyone they can.

Entertainment is seldom as powerful as it is at SOLUNA.

In addition to the music, SOLUNA also incorporates thought-provoking scientific aspects.

For three weeks, a city flourishing with culture already hosts a one-of-a-kind experience.

The only bad part is that it, unfortunately, has to come to an eventual end.

Being in Dallas during SOLUNA can be like being in New Orleans during Mardi Gras in terms of vibrancy.

You should try to come for at least a few days of the festival.

It’s definitely a great showcase of how much Texas has to offer in terms of arts.

9. Winspear Opera House

Roberto Michel / Shutterstock

Performing arts lovers know the Winspear Opera House is one of the most incredible Dallas attractions.

Part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, this venue has become one of the most renowned opera houses in barely more than a decade of existence.

If you’re seeking enriching things to do in downtown Dallas, you should come to the Winspear Opera House.

If you think an opera house is destined to be a stodgy venue, irrevocably stuck in the past, think again.

Winspear Opera House is incredible not only for the quality of performances but also for its modern design.

Aspects like the Annette and Harold Simmons Signature Glass Facade and the Sky Canopy are wonders of design that should have you enchanted even before you take your seat.

Once the show starts, the transportation process will be complete.

Venues matter more than people might realize when it comes to creating spectacular live shows.

At the Winspear Opera House, you can have a night out that won’t just fade away after a few days.

The entire complex is a wonderland that’s just waiting for you to come through.

Address:  2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

10. Spa Habitat Organic Spas

Spa Habitat

A vacation is a great way to unwind, but going to Spa Habitat Organic Spas is something you must do if you really want to relax.

These are some of the most satisfying places to go to in Dallas.

If you’re tired from sightseeing and need some rejuvenation, you should come here.

You could be having the time of your life in Dallas, Texas and still benefit from a trip to the spas.

After all, hours of entertainment can be exhausting.

Fortunately, you’ll have these spas to help you get rejuvenated with treatments like massages and facials.

Consider scheduling your appointment around the middle of your trip, as that might be when you’re in most need of some revitalization.

If you feel like you definitely need a spa day, you should come to Spa Habitat Organic Spas.

If you think you might need one, you should still come.

The beauty of going to a spa is that it can make you feel better when you’re feeling bad and even better when you’re already feeling good.

Address:  3699 McKinney Ave # 304, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

Traveling to other areas of Texas? Check out our lists of things to do in Galveston  & things to do in Fort Worth !

11. Deep Ellum

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One of the best Dallas attractions for live entertainment, Deep Ellum is a ridiculously cool district.

Come here at night, have a few drinks, and take the time to really enjoy the environment.

There might be something happening this weekend that you have to see.

The musical history of Dallas, Texas couldn’t be written without talking about Dallas Ellum.

Some of the best jazz and blues artists have played here.

Its legacy has not been thwarted, as it continues to offer wonders for visitors and locals alike.

If you’ve been looking to recapture your youth even just a little bit, Deep Ellum is where to go.

Deep Ellum isn’t a place to just cruise through.

While you won’t be able to see all of it in one visit, taking your time to really appreciate your experience is the way to go.

You’ll see why Dallas has so much love as a cultural city when you come to Deep Ellum.

Address: Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226, United States

12. Fearing’s Restaurant

Fearing’s Restaurant

Don’t be afraid to go to Fearing’s Restaurant , as it’s one of the best places to eat in Dallas.

Located inside the Ritz-Carlton, Fearing’s offers Texas dining at its finest.

A list of the top 10 restaurants in Dallas should definitely include Fearing’s.

Named for its founder, renowned chef Dear Fearing, Fearing’s Restaurant has earned so many plaudits that you should probably make your reservation tonight.

Open for lunch, dinner, and brunch, Fearing’s includes amazing offerings like Maple/Black Peppercorn Soaked Buffalo Tenderloin and Baltimore Style Crab Cakes.

There’s also a great vegetarian menu, featuring things like Mesquite Grilled Cauliflower Steak.

All of these items are so delicious, it feels cruel to have to choose between them.

Places like Fearing’s Restaurant are as much about expanding your mind about what food can do as they are about filling your stomach.

Eating here is your opportunity to have one of the most incredible meals possible in Dallas, Texas.

Fearing’s is open for dinner from Thursdays to Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

13. Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum

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When you’re touring around Dallas, you should also make time for educational experiences.

A lot can be learned at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum , which is a great place for adults and younger visitors who are mature enough to handle the intense subject matter.

It’s one of the most important places to visit for understanding a tragedy that changed the world forever.

At the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, you need to prepare yourself for a very emotionally intense experience.

Exhibitions include things like an authentic boxcar used to transport prisoners and video testimonials from Holocaust survivors.

It’s enough to leave you speechless for the rest of the day, if not longer.

However, it can hopefully help yourself to grow just a little bit in your empathy.

Visiting this museum might put a very big lump in your throat, but if you feel its too important to skip, make sure to go.

It’s open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $16 for adult guests, $12 for seniors, and $14 for seniors, military personnel, and first responders.

Address: 300 N. Houston, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

14. Dallas World Aquarium

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Another fun place to see fish is the Dallas World Aquarium .

It’s also very cool for how much work is done in terms of conservation.

You can enjoy seeing all the sights and learning about the importance of preserving these species and their homes.

If you love fish, you’re sure to have a lot of fun at the Dallas World Aquarium.

Among its treasures are seahorses, jellyfish, and starfish, octopi, and eels.

There’s also a great recreation of the Orinoco Rainforest, featuring many non-aquatic species.

Some of these include sloths, parrots, and howler monkeys.

The Dallas World Aquarium is like a gateway to another world.

It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $26.95 for adult guests, $18.95 for children, $22.95 for seniors, and free for children two and younger.

Address:  1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202, United State

15. Cedar Hill State Park

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Close to Downtown Dallas is Cedar Hill State Park .

A former farm, Cedar Hill State Park provides activities on land and in the water.

It’s one of the top points of interest for fun for visitors of all ages.

Should you feel like roughing it, there are campsites available at Cedar Hill State Park.

Otherwise, it’s a great place to just spend a few hours, especially for things like fishing and bike-riding.

You can have fun and become quite refreshed in the process.

You might even want to visit multiple times on your trip.

Whether you’re spending most of your day at Cedar Hill State Park or just a few hours, you should get enjoyment out of the experience.

This is a truly wonderful place.

It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  1570 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, United States

Planning a road trip around Texas? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Houston  & things to do in Lubbock !

16. Dallas Museum of Art

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Anyone putting together a travel guide for Dallas has to mention the Dallas Museum of Art .

There’s no question that this is one of the best art museums in the country.

At the Dallas Museum of Art, you can have so much fun seeing and learning about all the cool things on display.

The Dallas Museum of Art hosts works that go back thousands of years.

There are also works from around the world, including Texas.

Some awesome exhibitions have also been hosted here, such as “Wearable Raffia from Africa” and “Chagall: Beyond Color.”

Whenever you come, you can count on there being awesome things while you’re there.

You don’t have to be anything close to an art scholar to enjoy going to this museum.

The Dallas Museum of Art is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

There’s no charge for general admission.

Address:  1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

17. Mia’s Tex-Mex

Mia’s Tex-Mex

Much of what we know of as Mexican cuisine is actually a fusion with Texas cuisine known as “Tex-Mex.”

However, when it’s done right, like at Mia’s Tex-Mex in Dallas, it’s a total delight.

This is one of the best places to go in Dallas if you want to have some great tacos and more.

Come to Mia’s Tex-Mex today for items like brisket tacos, rellenos, and quesadillas.

Eating here is what to do if you want to have a meal that will fill you up in the best way possible.

One of their delicious margaritas is also one of the best ways to cap off your meal.

Just make sure you’re not going to be checked out for the rest of the day as a result.

You’ve had a taco before, but you’ve never had one quite like the ones at Mia’s Tex-Mex.

There’s a reason why this place has become such a Dallas institution.

Mia’s Tex-Mex is open on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  4334 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

18. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Philip Lange / Shutterstock

Do you remember being a kid and how much fun you had by finding out how things worked and unraveling the general mysteries of life?

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in downtown Dallas, you can reignite those passions.

More importantly, you can share that excitement with your children.

One campus of the Perot Museum is located at Victory Park, while the other is located at Fair Park.

At the Fair Park location, you can encounter an awesome IMAX theater and planetarium.

Both are absolutely excellent places to visit, however.

If ever return to the city, you might try coming to the one you missed out on the first time.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science gives minds of all kinds a chance to really expand.

Your kids might have so much fun they may not even realize they’re learning.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

19. Texas Discovery Gardens

Texas Discovery Gardens

This is a discovery that’s going to be lots of fun.

Texas Discovery Gardens features some of the most beautiful sights in Dallas.

A part of Fair Park, it’s a fun place to see all kinds of unique things as well as to enjoy some solitude.

It helps to show why Dallas is one of the most beautiful places in USA .

Texas Discovery Gardens are fun and gorgeous.

Not only does it showcase amazing plants, but there are also plenty of butterflies fluttering about.

Plus, you can see some slithery wonders as part of the “Snakes of Wonder” attraction.

Texas Discovery Gardens lets you channel your connection with nature.

Admission for the Butterfly House and Gardens is $10 for adult visitors, $8 for seniors, $5 for children, and free for children two and younger.

Address:  3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

20. Garden Cafe

Garden Cafe

For some of the best flavor of Dallas and its people, you should come to the Garden Cafe .

This is one of the top places to visit for a quality meal and quality company.

At Garden Cafe, you’ll get to try food made and presented with true integrity.

Garden Cafe specializes in a farm-to-table approach.

It’s hard to miss freshness with ingredients this high-quality.

Some of our favorite dishes here include omelets and turkey melts.

They really know how to make familiar favorites feel new again.

For a dining experience that’s comforting but not completely predictable, you should come to Garden Cafe.

It’s got a great menu made with true pizzazz.

Garden Cafe is open from Saturdays to Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address:  5310 Junius St, Dallas, TX 75214, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Check out our lists of things to do in San Antonio & things to see in El Paso !

21. Bob’s Steak & Chop House

Bob’s Steak & Chop House

You might have been to a Bob’s Steak & Chop House in another city, but going to the original one in Dallas is something you must do.

For decades, this has been one of the best steakhouses around.

Anyone seeking out culinary tourist spots needs to come to Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

A fun day can be made even better by going to Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

There are locations around the country, but we really love the one in Dallas, Texas.

If you love steak, you’ll be in heaven.

Their ribeyes, T-bones, porterhouse, and other cuts are out of this world.

Should you be looking for something lighter, there are plenty of great seafood options available, such as crab cakes and shrimp scampi.

Be sure as well to save room for dessert options, such as bread pudding, creme brulee, and chocolate cake.

You can have a tremendous and filling meal at Bob’s Steak & Chophouse.

We hope you find the right evening to visit.

Call the location you’ll be visiting for information about hours.

Address:  4300 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

22. Reunion Tower

stock_photo_world / Shutterstock

What is Dallas famous for?

Well, quite a lot, but if you’re picturing their skyline, you’re probably seeing Reunion Tower .

This is a must see attraction, and not just from afar.

Going to Reunion Tower is lots of fun and also a very moving experience.

While it’s great to see Reunion Tower from the ground, you need to go up to really experience it.

Looking out from the observation deck is unbelievably fun.

Plus, you can get a meal at the rotating Five Sixty restaurant, founded by Wolfgang Puck.

Reunion Tower is a true achievement in a city that’s not lacking for such things.

It’s open on Mondays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Fridays to Sundays from 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Admission is $18 for adult visitors, $14 for seniors, and $9 for children, ages four to 12.

Address:  300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207, United States

23. Museum of Biblical Art

Daniel Lobo / flickr

One of the best places of interest for Christians and those who follow other paths, the Museum of Biblical Art showcases incredible works inspired by incredible stories.

Some of the best artists who ever lived have pieces on display here.

These are among the most beautiful things to see in Dallas.

Works at the Museum of Biblical Art use the text as a springboard for truly wonderful expression.

Some names you might not expect to see at such a museum have works here, including Andy Warhol.

It goes to show just how important the Bible is, even today.

Seeing the collection at the Museum of Biblical Art is a truly satisfying experience.

It’s open from Wednesdays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular admission is $15, $12 for seniors and students, and $10 for children, ages six to 12.

Admission is free for active military members and children five and younger.

Address:  7500 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75225, United States

24. The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Philip Armitage / Shutterstock

Former President George W. Bush is known for his connections to Texas, and his presidential library and museum lets you really learn about him.

Featuring all sorts of important pieces from his presidency and life, this is a very cool place to visit for those who are fascinated by the work of our Presidents.

In terms of design, it’s definitely one of the top Dallas attractions.

Not only is this an educational experience, but it’s also a very moving one.

You can learn more about the monumental moments in history that Bush presided over, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

This can really give you more appreciation for what leaders have to go through for the sake of their countries.

If you want to see a great facility with lots of learning opportunities, come to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum .

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $21 for adult guests, $18 for seniors, $19 for youths, ages 13 to 17, and $15 for children, ages 5 to 12.

College students also get in for $18.

Address:  2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

25. Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas

There are Six Flags parks throughout Texas, but this is the very first.

One of the best theme parks in any city or any state, Six Flags Over Texas provides truly magnificent thrills for adults and kids.

Located near Dallas in Arlington, Texas, there’s no doubt you’re going to have an exorbitant amount of fun here.

Fun is impossible to miss at Six Flags Over Texas.

The roller coasters are especially awesome.

Some of the ones you’ll have to check out if you love thrills include El Diabo and Judge Roy Scream.

It also includes rides for the younger and less thrill-inclined visitors.

Going to Six Flags Over Texas is a guaranteed way to have the time of your life.

Check the calendar to see when it’ll be operating while you’re in town.

You’ll also need to purchase your tickets in advance of your visit.

Address:  2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76011, United States

Planning to visit other areas of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in New Braunfels  & some of the places to visit in Corpus Christi ?

26. Dallas Heritage Village

While there’s plenty about Dallas that’s sleek and modern, they haven’t lost sight of where they came from.

Dallas Heritage Village is one of the loveliest points of interest in the city.

There are so many cool things to see and to learn about here.

Dallas Heritage Village is part of Old City Park.

It includes a magnificent collection of older homes with Victorian and pioneer designs.

There are also vintage buildings to explore, such as a school, bank, and church.

Put away your smartphone and let yourself enjoy the feeling like you’ve stepped into a time machine.

Going to Dallas Heritage Village is a way to learn about the history of this city in a really cool way.

During the summer, it’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., except for Thursdays, when it’s also open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Admission is $8 for adult guests and seniors.

Visitors under 13 get in for free.

Address:  1515 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75215, United States

27. AT&T Stadium

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If you’re a true football fanatic, you probably already have AT&T Stadium on your list of places to check out.

The home turf of the beloved Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is a great venue for a great team in a great city.

Even those with lower levels of sports fandom should include it on their sightseeing itinerary.

You don’t have to be going to a game to have fun at AT&T Stadium.

Going on a tour of this stadium can bring plenty of satisfaction.

If you go on the VIP Guided Tour, you can get a chance to go on the field.

Being in the stadium during these times lets you appreciate just how big it really is.

Just being inside the walls of AT&T Stadium can be enough to feel like a champion.

Whether you’re seeing a game or going on a tour, this is a truly great place.

We hope you’re able to experience its glory during your trip.

Address:  1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011, United States

28. Klyde Warren Park

Si Vo / Shutterstock

Just outside of the Dallas Arts District is Klyde Warren Park .

This is one of the top parks in all of Texas.

It’s an excellent place for having fun and really enjoying nature.

Whether you’re looking for something to really engage your senses or you just want to chill out, Klyde Warren Park is a fun time.

There are events like movie screenings and musical performances, as well as tons of great bites from food trucks.

It’s also just a great place to focus on nothing more than your breath and the air.

At Klyde Warren Park, love is in the air, and not just the romantic kind.

There’s so much adoration for the community here that you have to see it.

This park is open every day from 6 a.m to 11 p.m.

Address:  2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

29. Dallas City Hall

A city as great as Dallas doesn’t get that way by chance.

It needs to have people doing their best to make it run properly.

When you come to the Dallas City Hall , you can get a better idea of how the city government achieves this and have fun touring a very impressive and essential piece of Dallas.

With its inverted-pyramid design, Dallas City Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in Texas.

Acclaimed architect I.M. Pei is behind its design.

If you can’t place why it looks so familiar, it played a role in the “Robocop” films.

The good news for you is that’s there’s going to be much less unwelcome excitement during your visit.

Dallas City Hall is a key part of a great city.

You can have a really good sense of how this city functions so well when you’re here.

It’s open Mondays and Wednesdays to Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Address:  1500 Marilla St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

30. Dallas by Chocolate

Dallas by Chocolate

For an experience that’s both fun and sweet, come on a tour with Dallas by Chocolate .

This is a very cool experience, especially if you want to look inside Dallas’ history with chocolate.

You’ll also get to try some of the top chocolate in the country.

As you go on this tour, you’ll have fun not only sampling all these scrumptious treats, but also getting the lowdown from your guide.

For three-and-a-half hours, you can be in total chocolate bliss.

We can sense you licking your lips as you read this.

Just make sure you don’t make yourself sick in the process.

Dallas by Chocolate tours put you in a world of truly wonderful sweetness that you can continue to look back on fondly.

The signature tour runs from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Prices start at $43.

Address:  4925 Greenville Ave Suite 255, Dallas, TX 75206, United States

31. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

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Close to downtown Dallas is the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden .

This is one of the top tourist places if you want to see incredible plant life.

It’s also great for couples who are looking for an affordable date activity while in Dallas.

The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is this city at its most lush.

With more than 60 acres to get lost in, you might find yourself achieving a new kind of calm.

The flowers can certainly do wonders for delighting your senses.

If you need a bit of a respite from overstimulation, the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is the perfect place to go.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Tuesdays, when it closes at 5 p.m.

Admission is $17 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for children, ages 2 to 12.

Address:  8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, United States

32. NorthPark Center

One of the most fun things to do in Dallas, Texas can be going to the mall.

NorthPark Center is a truly wonderful shopping complex with lots of cool stores.

If you’ve needed an excuse to pick up a great new outfit, NorthPark Center is where to go.

Some of the stores at NorthPark Center include Louis Vuitton, Macy’s, and Neiman Marcus.

If you’re looking for things beyond clothes, there’s Bath and Body Works and LEGO.

There are also quality places to eat, such as La Madeleine Country French Café and Seasons 52.

NorthParkCenter can truly feel like a paradise for shoppers.

Anyone in Texas who knows about retail therapy can attest to that.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:  8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75225, United States

33. Trinity River Audubon Center

Trinity River Audubon Center is among the top sites in the whole country for bird lovers.

Here, you can have fun looking at all these unique species and really appreciate the beauty of biodiversity.

It’s a marvelous experience that makes Dallas one of the best vacation destinations around the world .

Birds you can see here include herons, sparrows, and woodpeckers.

Trinity River Audobon Center does an excellent job of respecting these species and their habitats.

As a visitor, you should follow their example.

Avoid any nuisance activities and follow any and all rules that are posted.

You may be surprised by how much you love coming to the Trinity River Audubon Center, even if you’re not particularly interested in birds.

It’s open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217, United States

34. Gemma Restaurant

Gemma Restaurant

You might not expect to get a taste of California whilst in Texas, but Gemma Restaurant provides it.

Owned by two former Californians, Gemma Restaurant has a menu that’s as inspired as it is delicious.

It’s one of the top Dallas attractions for anyone whos serious about new culinary experiences.

At their Dallas location, you’ll have great options, such as spaghetti lobster, halibut, and braised rabbit.

They also have awesome wine and cocktail options.

Gemma Restaurant lets you be lavish and unapologetic about it.

Vacations should be about treating yourself, and Gemma Restaurant is truly a treat.

Come here for a California meal in Texas.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Thursdays and Sundays from 5 p.m. to midnight and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  2323 N Henderson Ave #109, Dallas, TX 75206, United States

35. Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village

One of the best places to shop in Dallas is also one of the most important places in the nation.

Highland Park Village started the wave of self-contained shopping centers when it first opened in 1931.

Since then, visiting it has been something you must do if you’re in town.

Put some money aside specifically for the fun you’ll have shopping all around Highland Park Village.

Among their amazing stores include Dior, Tom Ford, and Cartier. Of course, it wouldn’t be a great shopping center without great food.

Fortunately, Highland Park Village delivers in that regard as well.

Places like Bistro 31 and Café Pacific provide you with the perfect fuel after you’ve shopped your heart out.

When you’re at Highland Park Village, you’re not just picking up a few items.

You’re experiencing one of the most historically important parts of one of the finest cities in the country.

Highland Park Village is open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  47 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

36. The Library Bar

The Library Bar

Bars are rarely points of interest, but bars also are rarely like the Library Bar .

This posh establishment is one of the best places to grab a drink in Dallas.

If you’re looking for one of the most fun tourist attractions, you should definitely come here.

The Library Bar is actually part of the Warwick Melrose Hotel, but if you’re thirsty and wanting to go somewhere that isn’t just run-of-the-mill when it comes to drinks, you need to come here.

If you come at night, you can have fun seeing the live entertainment they have available.

Sitting amongst the locals and other tourists at the Library Bar can be a really fun experience.

You never know what kind of stories you’ll get to hear, and the great drinks make things even better.

The Library Bar is open from Mondays to Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to midnight.

Address:  3015 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

37. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Tallmaple / Shutterstock

One of the top places for learning around Dallas is The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum .

Focused on Japanese works, going to this museum is what to do in Dallas if you really want to get a better understanding of another culture.

It’s also a lot of fun to check out all of these amazing exhibitions.

This museum has an incredible “Samurai Collection.”

This includes pieces that these revered Japanese military men wore and used in combat.

You may be astonished by how well they were able to preserve these pieces.

If you’ve ever been to Japan or are interested in joining, this museum may especially interest you.

A place like The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum can’t be found in just any city, and visiting it can teach you so much.

It’s a great place to go for anyone, not just history buffs.

Address:  2501 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

38. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Seeing a performance by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is one of the top things to do in Dallas.

Here, you’ll see a musical ensemble that’s part of a tradition that’s been in the city for more than a century.

It also helps to affirm Texas as a music lover’s state.

Performing at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra doesn’t limit itself in terms of music played.

Along with classical compositions, there are also performances of beloved rock songs.

Take a look at their schedule and see if there’s anything special coming while you’re in town.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra may be the pinnacle of culture in a city that has such a rich arts scene.

If you have any chance to see them perform, take advantage of it.

You’ll likely be moved in a very profound way.

Address:  2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

39. Dallas Farmers Market

On a gorgeous summer day in downtown Dallas, there’s no better place to be than the Dallas Farmers Market .

This is what to see if you really want a taste of Dallas and its community.

Carve out a few hours in your schedule and devote it to looking all around the Dallas Farmers Market.

Going to the Dallas Farmers Market is your chance to enjoy all sorts of great food from some very kind vendors.

Besides food, you can also pick up lots of excellent craft pieces.

You should make at least one trip to the Dallas Farmers Market.

The Dallas Farmers Market has so much activity and so much to enjoy.

Give yourself all the time you can to really experience it.

It’s open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  920 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

40. Latino Cultural Center

Photo: Andreas Praefcke / CC BY

Dallas wouldn’t be what it is without the profound influence of different cultures.

The Latino Cultural Center is something you must see.

It’s one of those tourist places that can help you to become a more well-rounded person.

With great attributes like a fountain and plaza, the Latino Cultural Center is fun for visitors of any background.

There are free tours available as well as movies and live performances.

It’s definitely one of the most meaningful places to visit in Dallas, especially if you have Latin heritage.

The Latino Cultural Center is a wonderful place for celebrating diversity.

There are also great events that are hosted here.

Some of these include dance classes and events for seniors and youths.

Address:  2600 Live Oak St, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

41. Design District

In a great city full of eye candy, the Design District is one of the most important parts of Dallas.

So many impressive sites can be visited here.

Come by this week if you’re itching to go someplace that will make you feel like royalty.

The Design District hosts some of the finest shops in all of Texas, especially if you’re looking to give your home a revamping.

We’re talking about places like Accent Decor Inc. and Farzin Rugs, Inc.

There are also outstanding places to get food and clothes.

There are so many ways to upgrade your way of life when you’re in the Design District.

When you care about how things look, going to the Design District can be a real treat.

Let your imagination go as far as it can as you look through all of these stores.

You could have an entirely new aesthetic taste on your horizon thanks to coming here.

Address: 1025 N. Stemmons, Dallas, TX 75207, United States

42. Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill

One of the top places to visit for a nourishing meal in Dallas is Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill .

It’s got a delectable menu and wonderful hospitality.

When you’re closing out a day of sightseeing, going to Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill can be a great way to treat yourself.

Your taste buds may go into overdrive just by you reading the menu at this restaurant.

Some of the finest options here include the steak sandwich, Chilean sea bass, and numerous cuts of steak.

It’s the ideal place to go when you have an appetite that absolutely needs to be addressed.

We advise you to savor every last bite.

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill is a place for people with big appetites and discriminating palettes.

You can get a truly nourishing meal when you’re here.

It’s open from Sundays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  5000 Belt Line Rd #775, Dallas, TX 75254, United States

43. Giant Eyeball

When it comes to naming unique Dallas attractions, you have to include Giant Eyeball.

This aptly named sculpture was first in Chicago but is now a delightfully weird part of Dallas.

If you’re looking for unforgettable things to see, look no further.

Measuring 9.1 meters and made of fiberglass, Giant Eyeball is a giant beauty.

Although access is restricted for visitors by a fence, you should still be able to get a quality view of the eye.

It’s a sight for all eyes, not just sore ones.

Attractions like the Giant Eyeball are wonderful curiosities that should be embraced.

It adds so much flavor to a city already teeming with it.

Most importantly, it also just looks really cool.

Address:  1601 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

44. Le Bilboquet

Le Bilboquet Dallas

One of the top New York restaurants also has a location in Dallas.

Le Bilboquet is a place not only for a great meal but also for a nourishing experience for your mind overall.

Try to make a reservation tonight if you’re really looking for a great time.

At Le Bilboquet, you’ll get to try some of the finest French cuisine available in the United States.

We urge you to consider options like the Texas ribeye, the mushroom risotto, and the Dover sole.

Really though, it’s all great, especially when you’re taking in such a marvelous ambiance.

This is a restaurant that’s got every part of the fine dining experience covered.

You can feel so very refined when you’re eating at Le Bilboquet.

Put on your most dapper outfit and let yourself really appreciate just how good of a dining experience you’re giving yourself.

Le Bilboquet’s hours are below:

Wednesdays and Thursdays: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fridays: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sundays: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Address:  4514 Travis St Ste 124, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

45. Founders Plaza

BD Images / Shutterstock

If you just walked past Founders Plaza in Dallas, you might not think much of it.

After all, it can look just like a basic cabin, nothing particularly noteworthy.

However, what if we told you coming here is one of the best things to do in Dallas in terms of historical importance?

While this isn’t the original cabin that Dallas founder John Neely Bryan constructed, it’s quite a beautiful recreation.

A cedar cabin, it was constructed sometime around the mid-19th century, before Bryan had passed away.

Although it has seen different locations, its current one seems to have been good to it.

It’s been there since 1971.

Even a city as impressive as Dallas had to start somewhere.

Founders Plaza lets you see just how much pride this city takes in its backstory.

By coming here, you can really understand the importance of perseverance and how years of effort can result in something truly astounding.

Address:  1700 N Airfield Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States

46. Trinity Groves

Trinity Groves

Looking to experience many different activities in one place in Dallas?

Come to Trinity Groves , where you can shop, eat, and share many laughs with friends and family.

So many awesome sites can be explored at this Texas location.

The fun feels like it never stops when you’re at Trinity Groves.

There are lots of fine places to shop and splendid activities, such as free movies.

However, our favorite thing is their food.

They also do something really cool called “Restaurant Concept Incubation Program.”

This is a chance for new restaurant ideas to get tried-out to see just how much potential they would have.

For a great night out in Dallas, you should come to Trinity Groves.

It definitely offers something for everyone.

Trinity Groves is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  3011 Gulden Ln, Dallas, TX 75212, United States

47. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

One of the coolest things in Dallas is the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge .

This bridge is gorgeous at any time of day, but especially at night.

It’s definitely one of the most inspiring sites in the whole city.

Going over the picturesque Trinity River, Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge has been a jewel in Dallas’ crown since it first opened in 2012.

Aside from its structural strength and convenience for commuters, it also looks beautiful.

Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this bridge has a jaw-dropping 400-foot arch as its arguable main highlight.

If you’re looking to come out to West Dallas, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is your beautiful gateway.

On a twilight evening, seeing it standing so powerfully can give your goosebumps.

This is a feat of engineering that this city should be very proud of.

Address: Spur 366 Over the Trinity River, Dallas, TX, United States

48. Dallas Zoo

The Travellers / Shutterstock

Going to the zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Dallas.

It’s a must see environment for anyone interested in animals.

If you’re looking for great things to do with your family, you absolutely have to come to this great Texas zoo.

If your kids have never been to the zoo before, we greatly recommend you take them to this one first.

At the Dallas Zoo , you’ll get to see so many exciting creatures.

Some of these include giraffes, tigers, elephants, and gorillas.

Come to the Dallas Zoo for a wildly good time seeing all of these animals.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets can be reserved online.

Address:  650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203, United States

49. Meadows Museum

A trip to the Meadows Museum is among the best things to do in Dallas if you’re truly into art.

This museum, founded by late oil magnate Algur Meadows, featuring an absolutely stunning collection of Spanish art.

See if you can come this weekend for a truly eye-opening experience.

This museum is a part of Southern Methodist University, and works go as far back as the 10th century.

If you can name a Spanish artist, there’s a chance you can see their work here.

Some with works on display include Goya, Dali, and Picasso.

At Meadows Museum, you can see just how many ideas can sprout out of just one country.

This Texas museum is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  5900 Bishop Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

50. African American Museum

Michael Barera / CC BY-SA

Located in Fair Park, the African American Museum is one of the top museums in Texas.

It’s one of the most important places to visit in Dallas if you want to better understand the importance of African American contributions to our country.

If you’re coming to Dallas next weekend, you definitely need to include a visit to the African American Museum.

So much of African American culture is highlighted at the African American Museum.

Exhibitions highlight some of the greatest visual artists and musicians the community has ever known.

There are also many important historical artifacts and photographs here.

The African American Museum is necessary to see for comprehending what a huge impact African Americans have had on society.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and seniors and $5 for children, ages four to 12.

Address:  3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

51. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Located in Grand Prairie, Texas, Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is an absolutely exhilarating experience.

So much watery wonder can be enjoyed here.

It’s fun for anyone who lives for thrills and who isn’t afraid of getting at least a little wet.

If you’ve never been to an indoor waterpark, you might think there’s no way it can be as fun as an outdoor one.

Well, think again, because Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark might be the most unbelievable waterpark you’ve ever experienced.

If you’re skeptical, tell us what you think after taking a ride on the Lasso Loop.

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is the place to be if you want to soak up some excitement.

It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For non-Grand Prairie residents, admission is $22 for guests over 48-inches tall, $17 for guests under 48-inches tall, and $20 for seniors.

Address:  2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, United States

52. Wilson Building

Steven Martin / flickr

A historic building that’s more than 100 years old, the Wilson Building is one of the best tourist attractions in Dallas, Texas.

Even if you’re only able to see it from the outside while doing other sightseeing, it’s still a great thing to witness.

Snapping a picture in front of it is worth putting on your list of Dallas activities.

If you’re already seeing the Giant Eyeball, you’ll be in the same vicinity as the Wilson Building.

Named after cattle giant John B. Wilson, this building was first used for retail purposes.

Now, it’s a residential building.

The Wilson Building is definitely one of the most special buildings in all of Texas.

The people who get to live here should hopefully recognize what a historic place they ‘re in.

Don’t let yourself pass up on any opportunity to see this amazing part of Dallas.

Address:  1623 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

53. Swiss Avenue Historic District

If you’re looking for stuff to do related to architecture and history in Dallas, you need to come to the Swiss Avenue Historic District .

Some of the most spellbinding homes Texas has ever known are here.

From their date of completion to today, they’ve been undeniably important parts of Dallas and its story.

Made up of four blocks, the Swiss Avenue Historic District showcases Dallas homes at their finest.

Every house you go by deserves your full attention.

Think about just how attractive these homes are and just how much effort went into constructing them.

The Swiss Avenue Historic District is so well-kept and gorgeous without losing its character.

It’s a testament to city planning that it continues to look so good.

We hope you’re able to find the time to visit it during your trip.

Address: Along Swiss Ave. between La Vista Dr. and Fitzhugh Ave Northeast of downtown, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

54. Crow Museum of Asian Art

EQRoy / Shutterstock

What is Dallas known for?

After finishing this guide, you might say that it’s respect for different cultures, and you wouldn’t be wrong for saying so.

The Crow Museum of Asian Art is another one of the greatest art museums in Texas, with an extraordinary collection available.

Some of the most captivating pieces from the Crow Museum of Asian Art are ones from Japan and China.

You can see pieces going back to eras like the Qing Dynasty.

If you want to further your knowledge of Asian countries and cultures, you ought to come to this museum.

Asian art is some of the most beautiful in the world.

At the Crow Museum, you can really see just how phenomenal it is.

This museum is open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission.

Address:  2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

55. Welcome to Dallas Tour

W. Scott McGill / Shutterstock

You might not have as much time to experience Dallas as you’d like but still want to see as many important points as you can.

If this is the case, you should go on a “ Welcome to Dallas Tour .”

You can get many Dallas activities knocked off your list through one of these tours.

Highlights of a “Welcome to Dallas” tour include Founders Plaza, the JFK memorial, and Deep Ellum.

Over three hours, you’ll be able to tick numerous items off your list.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about securing parking or transportation for all of these attractions.

You could also make friends with other passengers on the tour.

“Welcome to Dallas” tours don’t just fly through destinations without so much as a second thought.

They give you time to learn about and appreciate them in a much more compact amount of time.

These tours depart at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Tickets $55 per person.

Address: 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

56. Fair Park

Named due to its original purpose of hosting fairs, Fair Park in Dallas, Texas could also be called “Extraordinary Park.”

One of the most fun things to do in Dallas is to come to this park.

Lots of excellent activities and great memories can be had here.

Comprising of more than 250 acres, Fair Park shows that Dallas knows how to make the most of their land.

While it’s beautiful no matter when you come, the ideal time to visit is in the fall.

That’s when the Texas State Fair occurs.

Even if you’re not coming for the Texas State Fair, you can still have a truly excellent time at Fair Park.

It’s so very huge and so very awesome.

This city without Fair Park just wouldn’t be the same.

Address: 1300 Robert B Cullum Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

57. Pioneer Plaza

Dallas, Texas might have never become what it did without the efforts of pioneers.

Going to Pioneer Plaza is what to do if you want to have fun while also realizing just how much value Dallas places in their past.

Its also centered around some truly fantastic works of art.

The main attraction at Pioneer Plaza is the 49 bronze sculptures of steer and three of men on horseback.

These are done with such fine detail.

Look at it through the right lens, and you may feel like you’re back in settlement days.

We might be long past the pioneer days, but that doesn’t mean we have to stop appreciating their historical importance.

Pioneer Plaza is a fantastic tribute to them.

When you come here, you may feel like you’re being emboldened with the pioneer spirit.

Address:  1428 Young St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

58. American Airlines Center

Petr Fryba / Shutterstock

Another excellent place to see sports and other events in Dallas is at the American Airlines Center .

Not only is it the home of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and the Dallas Stars hockey team, but it’s also where you can see some of the hottest musical acts perform.

Check the schedule today to see if there’s anything especially awesome coming to the American Airlines Center while you’re in Dallas.

Musical arts that have performed at the American Airlines Center include Justin Timberlake, Eagles, and Ariana Grande.

You can get a great view, experiencing these once-in-a-lifetime events.

At a sold-out concert, you could be one of 20,000 cheering fans.

The American Airlines Center is one of the most awesome venues in Texas.

We hope that you’re able to find a great event to attend here.

Consider putting some many aside specifically for big events and keep in touch with their calendar.

Address:  2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

59. Magnolia Hotel

Magnolia Hotel

Even if you’re not specifically seeking out the Magnolia Hotel , this is one Dallas attraction that should quickly grab your attention.

Initially the home office of the Magnolia Petroleum Company, it’s now one of the finest hotels in Texas.

You don’t have to be staying there to have fun at the Magnolia Hotel.

It’ll be hard to miss the Magnolia Hotel, give that its a skyscraper.

With 29 stories, it provides even more great character to the downtown area.

Inside, it’s an absolutely beautiful place for rest and business.

The Magnolia Hotel is a great display of hospitality.

We greatly encourage you to reserve a room here if you can.

It’s definitely a way to make a great trip even greater.

Address:  1401 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

60. White Rock Lake Park

Sabrina Janelle / Shutterstock

To close out our guide, we wanted to highlight another great Dallas park.

White Rock Lake Park is a scenic and blissful piece of Texas.

There are fun activities galore at this beautiful park.

Activities are plentiful in the water and on the land.

You can take out a paddleboat, go fishing, bringing a bicycle, or simply go for a stroll.

Whatever the case, White Rock Lake Park is a haven.

Being in a city’s parks is a way to really experience its distinct character.

White Rock Lake Park is such a fine example of this.

This park is ideal for anyone who just needs a little time to themselves as well as those who want to share some great experience with others.

Address: 8300 E. Lawther Drive, Dallas, TX 75218, United States

Planning to explore other areas of Texas? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, TX  & some of the things to see in Amarillo ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Dallas

Before reading this, your main idea of Dallas might have been that it was a big city in Texas with some sports teams.

That kind of mindset is understandable, but we hope we’ve helped you to break through some of those barriers.

This is a city with so much going on and so much diversity.

These items should let you see why being a resident of Dallas, Texas is also so great.

Things like all of these parks and museums give inhabitants plenty to be proud of.

You might soon be thinking about how soon you can get a place there.

However, we don’t want to get ahead of ourselves.

Use this list as a guide for when you come to Dallas and see just how much you love the city.

You’ll hopefully also find plenty of other great places that aren’t on this list, such as other restaurants and shops.

Trust us, if we listed all the awesome things in this city, you might spend the whole day reading this article.

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America From The Road

22 Best Things To Do In Dallas – Ultimate Dallas Bucket List

Dallas may not be as high on the list of cities to visit as trendy Austin or coastal Houston for most visitors to Texas but we can assure you that it is a city full of fun things to do, incredibly good food, and people who thoroughly enjoy having a good time.

This large and sprawling city has plenty of museums, green spaces, amusement parks, some of the country’s top sporting teams like the Dallas Cowboys, and world-class restaurants. No matter what you are into, you will find it in Dallas!

We’ve prepared the ultimate Dallas bucket list filled with the best things to see and do so you don’t miss any of this beautiful city’s highlights and top attractions.

Dallas Bucket List

1. geo-deck at reunion tower.

The  Reunion Tower  is an iconic landmark in Dallas and one of the most easily recognizable features of the Dallas city skyline. Visitors can experience panoramic views of downtown Dallas from the Reunion Towers 470-foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck. The observation deck is reached via a thrilling ride inside a glass-panel elevator which is definitely not for the feint of heart! Admission to the Geo-Deck is free with the  Dallas CityPass .

2. Dallas Arts District

Dallas can lay claim to having the largest urban arts district in the United States. Situated over twenty blocks, the area has a huge concentration of sculptures, some of the city’s top attractions, and many architectural gems surrounding the landscape.

Some of the top Dallas attractions you can find here include the Crow Museum Sculpture Garden, the Nasher Sculpture Center, the Winspear Opera House, the Dallas Museum of Art, the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

While you’re in the Arts District, be sure to also visit the the oldest Catholic church in the city; the beautiful Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe. With its towering 224-foot spire, 49-bell carillon, and 100 stained glass windows, it is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in Dallas.

3. Dallas Museum of Art

The  Dallas Museum of Art  is located in the heart of Dallas Arts District and features a stunning collection of over 25,000 works of art from all cultures spanning 5,000 years of human creativity.

Pieces include work from ancient Mediterranean art, 18th century European, American, African and Asian art. Some of the artists on display here include Andy Warhol, Renoir, Van Gough, Cezanne, and Monet.

In addition, the museum has lots of fun programming for kids of all ages along with events for adults that include a lecture series with authors, poets, and visionaries.

4. Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge

Ronald Kirk Bridge is a pedestrian footbridge over the Trinity River in Dallas which connects downtown Dallas with west Dallas.

This bridge offers pedestians the opportunity to get up close views of Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, an iconic landmark in Dallas. You’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Dallas’s city skyline from here.

You can find Ronald Kirk Pedestrian bridge in Trinity Groves. Trinity Grove is a green space in west Dallas that has hiking and biking trails as well as picnic facilities for family gatherings.

5. AT&T Stadium

The AT&T Stadium is the largest domed stadium in the world and the largest enclosed stadium in the NFL which is fitting because everyone knows everything is bigger in Texas! Home to the Dallas Cowboys, this impressive stadium cost over one billion dollars to construct making it also one of the most expensive sports venues ever built.

Catching a Dallas Cowboys game is a thrilling event, from the the pre-game tailgating parties to sitting in an arena packed with 80,000 energetic fans, this is a must do if you’re visiting Dallas. If you are not in Dallas during a home game or in football season you can still visit the stadium and take a  guided or self-guided tour of this astounding building .

AT&T Stadium is located in Arlington which is about thirty minutes from downtown Dallas. Public transport from downtown Dallas is non-existent so you will either need to rent a vehicle or get an uber or lyft to visit.

6. Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is a five-acre deck park which sits over an eight-lane freeway. The park is a feat of engineering and design made of more than 300 concrete beams while using a combination of Geofoam and specially designed soil to stop the deck from being too heavy.

This green space connects the vibrant Uptown neighborhood with the Dallas Arts District and downtown area transforming a former freeway into an urban oasis for local residents. The landscaping includes native plant species and 322 tree’s offering the community an environment they can come together and connect at. You will also find a handful of restaurants and food trucks here.

7. George Bush Library and Presidential Center

The  George W. Bush Library and Presidential Center  is a state of the art facility which gives visitors an in-depth look into the George Bush American Presidency and displays over 40,000 gifts and artifacts given to the President and First Lady during their time at the White House.

Highlights of the Presidential Center include a number of exhibits such as ‘Life in the White House’; an inside look into what life is like inside the White House, the ‘Oval Office’; an exact replica of the Oval Office in scale and design during the Bush administration, and a ‘Nation Under Attack’; a memorial to the September 11 attacks with many artifacts, photographs and letters on display.

Tickets for the George W. Bush Library & Presidential Center can be purchased upon entry or you can buy them in advance online and save 39% on admission (along with three other city attractions) using the  Dallas CityPass .

8. Giant Eyeball

One of Dallas’ most unusual attractions is the giant thirty-foot tall eyeball sculpture located outside of the popular five-star  Joule Hotel .

This weird sculpture which looks like it just fell out of a zombie’s eye socket was created by Tony Tasset and modeled after the artist himself. ‘The Eye’ was created by a company who specializes in kitschy fiberglass sculptures for roadside attractions and eventually bought by the Joule Hotel who is known for their expansive art collection. The public are permitted to stroll the gardens of the Joule Hotel where you will find the gigantic eyeball.

9. Perot Museum of Nature & Science

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science visitors will find five floors housing permanent exhibit halls that will exercise their brains through hands-on activities, educational games, and life-like simulations. On the main floor there is an incredible thirty-five foot  Malawisaurus  fossil, access to the roof deck, and a 300 seat theater. There is also a children’s museum including outdoor play area.

The extraordinary building itself and outdoor space serves as a living science lesson; it has a stone roof which features a landscape of drought-tolerant greenery inspired by Dallas surroundings and the plinth is landscaped with a one acre rolling green roof consisting of rock and native drought-resistant grasses that reflects Texas’ indigenous landscape demonstrating a living system that will evolve naturally over time. This impressive building stands 170 feet high and was conceived as a large cube floating over a landscaped base.

10. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

The  Sixth Floor Museum  at Dealey Plaza explores the life, death and legacy of John F. Kennedy. This museum presents exhibits that document the social and political landscape of the 1960s and relives Kennedy’s assassination in 1963 and following aftermath.

Visitors can see in person the snipers perch and the area where the rifle was found, watch television broadcasts, and learn more about the facts and mystery surrounding the assassination of JFK.

11. Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza is a large public park located in the Convention Center District of downtown Dallas. This popular park and tourist destination holds a large sculpture commemorating the 19th century cattle drives that took place along the Shawnee Trail.

The trail was the earliest and eastern-most route by which Texas longhorn cattle were taken to northern rail heads passing through Austin and Waco, Texas.

The forty-nine bronze steers and three trail riders were created by artist Robert Summers. Each steer is six feet high and all together the sculpture is the largest bronze monument of its kind in the world.

Set along an artificial ridge, with the addition of a man-made limestone cliff and flowing stream help to create a realistic and dramatic depiction. The sculptures are a must see if you’re visiting Dallas.

12. Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is a former warehouse district which has since been transformed into a trendy neighborhood for hipsters with a happening night life. You can find plenty of cool bars here and live music venues to enjoy a night out.

Besides the night life, this lively entertainment district is also known for its striking street murals, off-beat art galleries, and the  Deep Ellum Brewing Company .

Other drinking venues not to miss here include the Deep Ellum Distillery, a vodka distillery with unique flavors like strawberry-basil and Serrano pepper, and  Trinity Cider  who offer several different ciders on tap. Be sure to save room for some of the most amazing BBQ and Tex-Mex eateries!

13. Dallas Heritage Village

The  Dallas Heritage Village  in historic Old City Park is a living history museum with a collection of historic buildings representing the period between 1840 to 1910 in Texas. The mission of the Dallas Heritage Museum is to preserve and teach the history of Dallas and the North Central Texas area through exhibits, publications and educational programs.

The site of the museum and village itself is quite special having been the first city park of Dallas created in 1876. Browder Springs which now flows underground was the first water supply with a wooden water main carrying water to the then young city. There was even an upscale neighborhood here called ‘The Cedars’.

However after World War II many residents moved out to the suburbs and highways were built to get them in to the city faster for work which left the area in a state of decline until a group of women decided to rescue and restore Old City Park.

Now visitors may tour the old park and see authentic buildings and other preserved artifacts related to life in Dallas from the frontier days beginning in 1840’s to the early 1900’s.

14. Dallas Zoo

Dallas Zoo  is a 106 acre attraction located only three miles from downtown Dallas. This zoo is one of the oldest parks in Texas having been established in 1888 and home to over 2,000 animals!

The zoo offers giraffe feeding, bird landings, and even cheetah encounters. Other attractions that the children will love include an Adventure Safari monorail, endangered species carousel ride, and T-Rex mini train.

15. Dallas World Aquarium

The Dallas World Aquarium is a great place to put on your bucket list if you are traveling with kids or you are yourself a wildlife enthusiast. The aquarium has a diverse range of fish including birds and mammals such as penguins, sloths, and ocelots.

Begin your adventure at the top of the rainforest exhibit where you can view exotic birds such as toucans and cockatoo’s along with two-toed and three-towed sloths. Move on to see endangered species like the manatee and Orinoco crocodile and finish up at the South African display area.

16. Dallas Farmers Market

Nestled among the skyscrapers and the hustle of the city is the Dallas Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is a 26,000 square foot indoor food pavilion and vendor market featuring restaurants, local specialty foods, and artisanal food vendors. Patrons of the market can enjoy a quick bite to eat or sip on coffee while taking in the Dallas skyline views.

Next door to the Farmers Market is ‘The Shed’, an open-air pavilion where you can shop from regional vendors who grow, raise, make, and produce food. You’ll find a mix of farmers with seasonal produce grown in the Texas climate, and ranchers with naturally raised meats, cheese, eggs, honey, and other food artisans who make breads and canned foods. There are also has a handful of arts and crafts vendors throughout the year.

In the summer heat, misters and ceiling fans lower the temperature by fifteen degrees so it is a great place to relax and cool off.

17. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

One of the most beautiful places you can visit in Dallas is the  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens . This sixty-six acre park is one of the world’s premier botanical gardens and a top attraction for visitors to Dallas.

This urban oasis is acclaimed for its colorful year long floral display and gorgeous vistas of White Rock Lake and the Dallas city skyline. The park features several annual events and festivals such as the Dallas Blooms Festival but most impressive would be their Pumpkin Village display during Autumn when over 90,000 pumpkins and gourds are featured.

18. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Attending a Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is probably one of the most fun things you could do in Dallas. The show offers an entertaining medieval themed battle involving jousting and sword fighting.

This attraction may seem very touristy, and it might be so, but it doesn’t take away any of the fun! The combat features an impressive display of horsemanship and swordsmanship which can be enjoyed over an included four-course dinner.

Be aware that no eating utensils are supplied (it is the medieval times after all) so if you are not comfortable eating with your bare hands, this is probably not the destination for you.

19. Six Flags

If you’re looking for some thrills during your trip to Dallas, head to Six Flags in Arlington. You can find some of the fastest, tallest, and most gut-wrenching rides in the country right here.

Dare to free fall from one of the highest drop towers in the world at a staggering 325 feet in the sky on the Superman Tower of Terror or ride the Shock Wave which delivers a stunning 5.9 Gs on a record setting classic double loop ride.

From pulse pounding roller coasters to much gentler options if you have the little ones in tow, Six Flags is fun for everyone. The theme park is open year round.

20. Travelling Man

The Traveling Man is an installation in Deep Ellum that serves as an ambassador for the neighborhood reminding visitors and locals of the area’s history with trains and it’s more recent history as a cradle for the arts.

There are in fact three Traveling Man’ sculptures on Good Latimer Expressway and each of the figures are made of polished metal sheets held together with rivets, all meant to evoke the railway history of the Deep Ellum neighborhood.

These installations are the work of artist Brad Oldham and Brandon Oldenburg and each figure stems from a different narrative the artists created. The story starts with a blues musician sitting underneath an elm tree who spills his can of gin which soaks down to the roots of the tree and touches a train car buried deep underground. The gin and the iron mix together and magically activate creating the Traveling Man.

The second installation is called ‘Waiting on a Train’ and can be found on the corner of Good Latimer and Gaston Avenue. Here, The Traveling Man is completely emerged from the ground and leans on a slab of concrete with a guitar in his hands sharing his art.

Finally, the third sculpture located at Good Latimer and Swiss Avenue is called ‘Walking Tall’. The Traveling Man now towers over Deep Ellum and he’s in the middle of taking big strides with a smile on his face, a bird on his arm, and a hole in the middle of his chest symbolizing where the spirit of art comes from and representing art take flight in the community.

21. The Rustic

If you’re looking for a place to dine al fresco, head to The Rustic! You can enjoy your meal and a cold beverage under twinkling string lights while listening to country music.

The Rustic offers a fun and lively atmosphere that is guaranteed to make your night special. The menu features seafood from the Gulf, steak from local ranchers, along with other produce that is locally sourced. There is live music is on every day of the week too!

22. Fort Worth

While technically not in Dallas, Fort Worth is only a short 25-minute drive away and certainly should not be missed if you are visiting Dallas. The city of Fort Worth, in particular the Stockyards District , attracts visitors from all over the world that come to experience the American West.

Nothing embodies Western heritage better than Fort Worth’s Stockyards National Historic District. From the original brick walkways to the wooden corrals, every inch of the Stockyards tells the history of Texas’s famous livestock industry.

One of the highlights would have to be watching the drovers herd steer down the main street which happens twice daily. Don’t miss it!

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

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Dallas is the Lone Star State in a nutshell. A bustling metropolis with a rich Western heritage, Dallas is the perfect place to experience some true Texas culture.

There’s always something going on here, whether that’s a Cowboys or Mavericks game, a raver in Deep Ellum, or a show at the House of Blues! Huge events like the State Fair of Texas (the largest state fair in the country), the St. Patrick’s Parade & Festival (the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the Southwest), and the Dallas Holiday Parade (the city’s largest single-day outdoor parade) are hosted in Dallas annually.

Even if you’re not into large events or big crowds, there’s plenty to do in Dallas. The city is home to over 50 museums, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which offers tours of the place where Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated John F. Kennedy.

If you’re more into nature than culture, Dallas doesn’t disappoint. For instance, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens offer an explosion of color in the spring. Or, if you want to get away from the city for a while, take a short drive out to White Rock Lake, where you can go for a hike or a bike ride.

Finally, the food in Dallas is just unbelievable. We’re talking authentic, smoky Texas barbecue with all the fixins, Tex-Mex staples like enchiladas and fajitas, and some of the best chicken-fried steak you’ve ever had!

With so many things to see and do, the hardest part is making it all fit in one trip! To make sure you don’t miss out on the best things to do in Dallas, we’ve created the ultimate Dallas bucket list. Stick to these recommendations, and you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time exploring this quintessential Texas city!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Dallas

1. catch the sunset from the top of reunion tower.

The 561-foot Reunion Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Dallas and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. You can climb the 807 steps to the top like the runners at the annual Dallas Vert Mile race or take the elevator for a quick trip to the observation deck.

The tower is open the entire day, but we suggest you come right before sunset, just as the city lights are coming on. There’s something so magical about watching the stars come out over Dallas!

Reunion Tower also hosts fun Dallas activities throughout the year. Think sunrise yoga classes, painting with a view workshops, and holiday light shows, so browse their events calendar to see if there’s anything you want to join.

2. Learn about Dallas’ Dark History at the Sixth Floor Museum

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza commemorates the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in Dallas on November 22, 1963. The museum is located on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository building, which is where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot Kennedy from.

The museum’s permanent exhibit features over 200 artifacts, film footage, photographs, and audio recordings that chronicle Kennedy’s life, his presidency, and the events leading up to his assassination.

The Sixth Floor Museum also offers a variety of temporary exhibits and educational programs throughout the year. We recommend buying tickets in advance as the museum can get very crowded, especially during the peak tourist season.

Book a Sixth Floor Museum Tour

3. Stroll Around The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

If you’re visiting during spring, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the coolest things to see in Dallas. The 66-acre gardens come alive with over 500,000 blooming flowers, and there’s nothing more beautiful than a sea of bluebonnets (Texas’ state flower) against a backdrop of the Texas skyline.

While spring is definitely the best time to visit, the gardens are lovely year-round. In fall, you can stroll through pumpkin patches and corn mazes, and in winter, the gardens are transformed into a Christmas Village with over a million lights!

The arboretum is also one of the most kid-friendly Dallas attractions. Little ones will love the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, where they can learn about plants and wildlife through hands-on exhibits like a ladybug release and a butterfly garden.

4. Meet Real Cowboys at the Fort Worth Stockyards

For a taste of the Old West, head to the Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District ! The area was once a major cattle-shipping hub, and it retains its cowboy charm with wooden sidewalks, vintage storefronts, and longhorn cattle roaming the streets.

Today, the Stockyards is one of the most unique things to do in Dallas, with over 100 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Highlights include the Stockyards Rodeo, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame , and Billy Bob’s Texas , the world’s largest honky-tonk!

Don’t miss a chance to see the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive while you’re here. The twice-daily event is a reenactment of the historic cattle drives that used to take place in the Stockyards. Watch as the longhorns are herded down Exchange Avenue, and make sure to tip your cowboy hat when they go by!

There’s also a rodeo every Friday and Saturday night at the Cowtown Coliseum, one of the oldest indoor arenas in the country. Tickets start at just $20, so it’s a great activity if you’re looking for something fun and budget-friendly to do.

5. Bask in Nature’s Glory at White Rock Lake Park

White Rock Lake is a man-made reservoir that’s become one of Dallas’ most beloved parks. There are so many things to do here, such as biking the tree-lined trails, fishing for catfish and bass, renting a paddleboat to explore the lake, watching birds at the Audubon Society, or picnicking at one of the many scenic spots.

The park is also a great place for some prime Dallas sightseeing. Head to the spillway at Sunset Bay for a front-row seat to a blazing sunset!

Craving for more outdoor adventures? Klyde Warren Park is another great option. The 5.2-acre park sits on top of a freeway, and it’s filled with activities like yoga classes, food trucks, live music, and a dog park. There’s also a children’s playground and an amphitheater for special events.

The Katy Trail is another great spot for outdoor lovers. The 3.5-mile trail runs along an old railway line, and it’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and taking your dog for a walk.

6. Visit Deep Ellum for a Night on the Town

Spending an evening in Deep Ellum is hands-down one of the coolest things to do in Dallas. This historic neighborhood was once the center of Dallas’ blues and jazz scene. Today, it’s a hipster haven with funky art galleries, live music venues, and hole-in-the-wall bars, restaurants, and cafes.

Start your evening with a cocktail at one of Deep Ellum’s trendy bars, like Dot’s Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard , then catch a live show at The Bomb Factory or Trees . After that, you can flip through the vinyl records, CDs, and music history books at Good Records. If you’ve got more energy, wander around snapping shots of the cool street art and strike up a conversation with the Dallas natives to get insider tips on the best things to do in Deep Ellum.

End your night with a craft donut or biscuit at Hypnotic Donuts & Chicken Biscuits , and then stumble over to Double Wide bar for a nightcap.

Finally, Deep Ellum is also one of the best places in Dallas to buy souvenirs. Make sure to stop by Deep Ellum Art Company , where you’ll find locally made jewelry, art, and home goods!

7. Go on a Dallas Shopping Spree

If you’re feeling the urge to shop till you drop, you’ll definitely want to add a shopping spree to your Dallas bucket list! The city is home to some of the best shopping malls and outlets in Texas.

If you’re looking for high-end designer labels, head to Highland Park Village . This chic outdoor mall is home to luxury brands like Tory Burch, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, and Chanel. For more affordable options, check out NorthPark Center or the Galleria Dallas .

Both malls have over 200 stores each, so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. They offer more than retail therapy, too. For instance, NorthPark Center has art exhibitions from the likes of Andy Warhol, and the Galleria Dallas has an NHL-sized ice skating rink!

8. Feast on Dallas-Style BBQ and Tex-Mex

You can’t go to Dallas without eating barbecue! Schedule a stop at the Pecan Lodge , an award-winning but no-frills barbecue joint in Deep Ellum.

Their pitmasters smoke all of the meats on-site over pecan and hickory wood, and the results are out of this world. Try ordering a three-meat plate where you can mix and match house favorites like brisket, pulled pork, sausage, and ribs. Don’t forget to add on some mac and cheese and fried okra for a true taste of Dallas!

For a delicious Tex-Mex meal, head to El Fenix , one of Dallas’ most beloved Mexican restaurants. They’ve been serving up authentic enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas, and more since 1918! Wash it all down with a frozen margarita and top it off with a sopapilla for dessert.

Other must-try foods in Dallas include the chicken-fried steak (a battered and fried beefsteak covered in gravy), migas (a Tex-Mex breakfast dish of eggs, tortilla chips, and salsa), and puffy tacos (a fried taco shell filled with meat, cheese, and lettuce).

If you have time for dessert, stop by the Katy Trail Ice House for some hand-crafted ice cream. They have all sorts of unique flavors like blueberry pie and whiskey pecan. Plus, the ice cream is made fresh daily in small batches.

9. Spend a Day at The Dallas World Aquarium

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Dallas, this is it! The Dallas World Aquarium is home to over 200 species of animals from all over the world. Get up close and personal with penguins, sea lions, otters, piranhas, sharks, countless fish, jellyfish, and even an anaconda!

In addition to the wide variety of aquatic life, you’ll also find numerous interactive experiences for guests of all ages. These include a shark dive simulator, a walk-through aquarium tunnel, and a touch tank where you can interact with sea creatures like sea stars, crabs, and sea cucumbers. There’s also a 4D theater where you can watch movies featuring different animals throughout the day.

Tip: Plan ahead! Parking is limited at The Dallas World Aquarium, so make sure you arrive early if you want to avoid long lines on weekends or holidays when crowds tend to be larger than normal.

10. Shop for Local Goods at the Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market has been open since 1941, making it one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the United States! It’s also one of the finest, too, with food trucks and restaurants, indoor retail stores, market stands, and local vendors selling everything from produce to flowers to handmade goods.

Begin your day exploring the 26,000-square-foot The Market, an artisanal vendor market and food hall that houses most of the shops, restaurants, and stands. Check out vendors like Scardello Artisan Cheese for picnic supplies, Bolsa Mercado for unique groceries, and El Palote Panaderia for freshly made loaves of Mexican bread.

There are four anchor restaurants here, along with indoor and outdoor seating where you can watch people while enjoying coffee.

Afterward, stroll through the open-air Sheds to browse goods from local farmers and artisans. Sample local honey, purchase some jams and jellies, or pick up bottles of homemade barbecue sauce. The Sheds also have a wide selection of flowers if you need to pick up a bouquet on the way home!

For some retail therapy head over to the eclectic Harvest Lofts. Explore curated stores and restaurants, including a wine tasting room, a Thai street food place, a home decor shop, and more.

Try visiting the Dallas Farmers Market during the weekend and bring the family along. On Saturdays, there are usually live music performances, and on Sundays, kids can participate in free arts and crafts projects. The live cooking demonstrations are particularly fun to watch and usually feature local chefs using ingredients that are in season.

11. Drink Your Way Through Dallas’ Breweries

Dallas has a fantastic craft beer scene featuring creative local breweries that are always brewing up something new and exciting. For a comprehensive brewery tour, sign up for the Dallas Brew Scene tour, which takes you to four different breweries in the area.

You’ll start at Peticolas Brewing Company , where you can try their award-winning Velocity IPA or The Duke imperial red ale. Then, it’s off to Four Corners Brewing Co. for a tour of the facility, followed by a tasting of some of their most popular beers like El Chingon Mexican-style IPA and Local Buzz honey-rye golden ale.

Next, head to Deep Ellum Brewing Company , where you can choose four different beers to sample from their rotating taps. Some of their must-try brews include the Dallas Blonde Ale, the Easy Peasy IPA, and the Neato Bandito Mexican-style lager. 

Last but not least, finish up your tour at Community Beer Company , where you can relax in their spacious taproom and try a flight of four beers.

If you’re still thirsty after your tour, be sure to visit one of Dallas’ many other great breweries like Peticolas Brewing Company Taproom , Manhattan Project Beer Co. , and Texas Ale Project . With so many choices, you’ll definitely find a new beer (or two) that you love!

12. Play Your Way Through the Perot Museum 

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science deserves a space on any list of top things to do in Dallas. The museum has 11 exhibit halls with topics ranging from the evolution of life to engineering and physics. You could easily spend a whole day exploring everything this museum has to offer!

In the Expanding Earth Hall, learn about plate tectonics and see a recreation of an earthquake. Then, walk through a tornado in the Texas Weather Gallery and experience what it’s like to be in the middle of a severe thunderstorm. For something truly unique, check out the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, which uses augmented reality to bring fossils to life.

Fuel up for your adventure at the Perot Museum Café, which has a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Then, stop by the museum store on your way out to pick up a souvenir or two. Some of the most popular items here are the geological rocks and minerals, which make for great gifts or desk decorations.

13. Ride a Rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Texas

Reserve a day for Six Flags Over Texas , one of the best things to do in Dallas and the entire Lone Star state! The amusement park has over 50 rides, including 13 rollercoasters, so there’s something here for everyone in the family.

For the thrill-seekers in your group, don’t miss out on the Titan, which is one of the tallest and fastest rollercoasters in the country! The Goliath is also a must-do with its stomach-dropping 80-degree drop. If you’re looking for something a bit tamer, take a spin on the Texas Giant, which is a wooden coaster that’s been around since the park first opened in 1961.

Don’t forget to check out the other attractions at Six Flags, like the shows, the 4D theater, and the waterpark! And when you get hungry, there are plenty of places to grab a bite, including fast food options, casual sit-down restaurants, and even a food truck park.

14. Hop on the McKinney Avenue Trolley

For a unique way to see some of the best sights in Dallas, ride the McKinney Avenue Trolley! The vintage trolleys run daily and are free, though donations are encouraged. We love how you can hop on and off at any of the stops along the route, making it easy to explore different parts of the city.

Some of the top places to get off the trolley include the Dallas Arts District, Klyde Warren Park, the American Airlines Center, and the Victory Park neighborhood. 

If you want to stay on for the whole ride, it takes about 45 minutes and ends back downtown. Grab one of the maps from the trolley driver or visit the website before you go so you can plan your route.

15. Have a Grand Time at Fair Park

You really can’t go wrong with Fair Park. This 277-acre outdoor fairground was built in 1886 and is now an outstanding exhibition of Art Deco design. It’s also a National Historic Landmark and home to many great museums, theaters, and gardens.

Fair Park is huge, so you might want to start by picking up a map from the information center because you’re going to need it! 

Then, wander around and explore some of the highlights like the Cotton Bowl Stadium, the Children’s Aquarium Dallas , and the Texas Discovery Gardens . Be sure to also check out the Fair Park Band Shell, which hosts free concerts in the summer.

And, of course, no visit to Fair Park would be complete without taking a spin on the historic Texas Star Ferris wheel! For an even better view, buy a ticket for the Texas Skyway, which is an aerial gondola that takes you around the park.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Dallas. What’s your favorite thing to do in Dallas?

Planning a trip to Texas? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Jamie Delos Reyes is a book addict turned career writer and SEO content marketing geek. She's a freelance content writer, editor, and content manager who thinks no topic is boring - it's always fun to learn new stuff! She loves traveling, meeting new humans and hearing their stories, and tasting her way through the planet's kaleidoscope of flavors. The only thing better than traveling? Writing all about it! Her ultimate dream is to go on a cross-country road trip with her three spoiled dogs.

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21 Best Attractions in Dallas Ft. Worth

The saying “Everything is bigger in Texas” rings true when it comes to Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) attractions. The metroplex’s attractions are loud, large, big, and exciting, keeping visitors entertained and engaged. Whether it’s enjoying the luscious outdoors, flying fast on thrilling rides, or getting your two-step on, here are the top 20 things to do in the DFW.

State fair of texas.

The State Fair of Texas is the event of the year in Dallas, a major festivity with a long tradition that goes as far back as 1886. The fair is held in Fair Park, a larger-than-life venue featuring an impressive number of entertainment venues, amusement rides, museums, gardens, landmarks and more. For about three weeks every year, Fair Park is swept over with visitors enjoying the most diverse forms of entertainment, from food tastings to art exhibitions, and live music shows to livestock competitions. Unique highlights are a grand, full-fledged car show, and the so-called Red River Shootout, a football game played by the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas. All of this is overseen by Big Tex, the event’s 55-feet-tall iconic mascot installed in the park.

Fort Worth Water Gardens

Dallas museum of art, fort worth stockyards.

Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

An authentic Texas cowboy experience can be found in nearby Fort Worth, approximately an hour’s drive from downtown Dallas. The Fort Worth Stock Yards are situated in a national historic district, which retains the feel of a Western movie set and even hosts a twice-daily cattle drive. Complete with brick walkways and wooden corrals, this is the place to visit if you’re looking to step back in time. Daily rodeos, horse-and-cart rides, the world’s largest honky-tonk, and a choice of BBQ joints make this the Texan experience many tourists are looking for.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Building, Museum

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The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Library, Memorial, Museum

Cedar Ridge Preserve

Kimbell art museum, six flags over texas.

Amusement Park

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden

Dallas Cowboy Stadium

Sports Center, Stadium

You don’t have to be a Cowboys fan to tour the Dallas Cowboy Stadium. The AT&T Stadium is full of endless fun and facts as the world’s largest domed structure. Tour the locker rooms, walk through the tunnel, or simply admire its contemporary art. Guests have the option of choosing from four daily tours: Self-Guided, VIP-Guided, Art Tour, or an Educational Tour. Enjoy a quick bite at the café, shop the Official Dallas Cowboys Gift Shop, or toss the football around (bring your own) on the actual field for as long as you want. The AT&T Stadium located in Arlington is an experience sure to appeal to everyone.

Texas Theatre

Reunion tower, klyde warren park.

Dog Park, Park

Toyota Music Factory

Concert Hall, Market

Toyota Music Factory is set to be one of the most thriving entertainment concepts in Dallas Fort Worth. The Pavilion is the centerpiece, a concert stage that has hosted big name acts and speakers like Ringo Starr, Hillary Clinton, and Trevor Noah. There’s also 25 restaurants and an Alamo Drafthouse. Big Beat Dallas will be a major aspect of the Toyota Music Factory, offering live music daily, a morning farmer’s market, an open container beverage policy between Big Beat Dallas restaurants, and late-night hours.

White Rock Lake

Natural Feature, Park

Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza is a park that’s home to trees and man-made cliffs, but the centerpiece of the park is the life-size sculpture that recreates a cattle drive, complete with bronze longhorn cattle and three cowboys on horses. Visitors often hike around the cliffs, take photos with the longhorn sculptures, and marvel at the waterfall.

Trinity River Audubon Center

Forest, Natural Feature

Lone Star Park

While casinos are illegal in Texas, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie offers some gambling fun with a Class 1 horse track. It receives 800,000 visitors per year and offers horse races on weekends during the season, a sports bar, and year-round events like concerts, weddings, and meetings. With seating for 8,000 people and a one-mile track, the odds are good that you’ll have a great time here.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Seeing a bison up close and personal is possible at the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, a fantastic area that offers 3,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and prairies full of wildlife, including a fenced-off section for bison. Hike for hours, launch a canoe in the river, or spy a herd of bison — at a safe distance, of course. It’s well-worth the price.

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The Best Day Trips From Dallas, Texas – within 2 hours

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Looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Dallas? You’re in luck! Just a short drive away, you’ll find a variety of charming towns, scenic landscapes, and unique attractions perfect for a day trip. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a change of scenery, these destinations—all within two hours of Dallas—offer something for everyone.

Here are some of my favorite day trips from Dallas!

First Monday Trade Days

A short drive from Dallas, the  First Monday Trade Days  in Canton is the perfect spot for treasure hunters and bargain seekers. As one of the country’s largest and oldest flea markets, it’s ideal for those who love browsing through an eclectic mix of antiques, crafts, and unique finds.

This flea market is open Thursday through Sunday, sun up ’til sun down, before the first Monday of each month. Vendors sell everything from furniture and home decor to jewelry and vintage clothing.

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It’s one of my favorite picturesque small towns! Known as the “Gingerbread City” for its stunning Victorian architecture and historic homes, Waxahachie is a fantastic day trip option just 45 minutes from Dallas. Explore the historic downtown, visit the Ellis County Courthouse, and stop by the Munster Mansion for a trip back into TV history. The courthouse, with rounded towers, arches, and a clock tower, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. 

Stop by the Ellis County Museum for some local history information in a historic building from the late 1800s. If you visit during spring, don’t miss Tulipalooz a , a community event celebrating the best of spring or the famous  Scarborough Renaissance Festival , especially if you love a medieval theme!

Ennis, nicknamed “The official Bluebonnet city and Trail of Texas,” is the place to be in April – this is when the Texas Bluebonnet Trail blooms in full glory. Just an hour from Dallas, this small town transforms into a sea of blue, attracting visitors from all over. Explore scenic drives, snap photos of the iconic bluebonnets, and experience the beauty of Texas in the springtime. 

The  Ennis Bluebonnet Festival  happens around this time of year – you’ll find local crafts, live music, local food, and plenty of family-friendly fun!

A charming small town with a vibrant history, Granbury is a perfect day trip destination. Wander through the Historic Granbury Square, lined with boutique shops and cozy cafes. Attend a show at the  Granbury Opera House , catch a movie at  Brazos Drive-In Theater , or grab a drink at  Revolver Brewing .

You can also spend the day out on Lake Granbury and the Brazos river, boating, swimming, or sunbathing. Granbury City Beach has a sandy shore and clean water, and it’s just a quick walk from the town square!

Located on the southeast side of Tyler, Texas, just 100 miles from Dallas, Lake Tyler is great for fishing, swimming, camping, and hiking. Bring your sneakers and check out the Lake Tyler Loop, a 1.3-mile trail leading you around the northern shoreline through a wooded area and campsites.

The Caldwell Zoo  is another popular attraction for the entire family, home to over 2,000 animals worldwide. When it comes to Dallas day trips, you can’t go wrong with Lake Tyler!

Lake Texoma

As one of the largest reservoirs in the country, Lake Texoma is one of the best day trips from Dallas for people who love hanging out on the water. Just a two-hour drive north from Dallas on the Oklahoma-Texas border, there are several sandy beach areas in this large lake area – water temperatures between 65 and 80 feel fantastic during the summer months!

This is also an excellent spot for fishing – it’s stocked with bluegill, crappie, and catfish and is best known for striped bass. Island View Park is one of the most popular spots on this lake, with a soft sandy beach and picnic shelters!

Dinosaur Valley State Park 

Located in Glen Rose,  Dinosaur Valley State Park  is one of the best day trips from Dallas, especially if you’re a dinosaur enthusiast. Thousands of years ago, dinosaurs roamed this area and left footprints behind – you can see real dinosaur footprints along the bed of the Paluxy River. 

You can explore over 20 miles of trails within this park, stay overnight at one of the campsites, or stop by the gift shop for souvenirs. This is one of the best places for dinosaur lovers in Texas!

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

While at Dinosaur Valley State Park, make sure to visit the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. Located within Dinosaur Valley State Park, the  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center  in Glen Rose is home to over 1,000 animals from 50 different species! They are best known for breeding endangered species – you’ll have the chance to see cheetahs, zebras, prairie chickens, and even tarantulas while you’re here. 

They even have a Children’s Animal Center with a petting zoo showcasing animals like goats, turtles, and cats.

Magnolia Market

Just a short drive from Dallas,  Magnolia Market at the Silos  covers two city blocks in downtown Waco, and it’s one of the best road trips from Dallas for shopping enthusiasts and family fun. 

This shopping and entertainment complex was designed by Chip and Joanna Gains from the HGTV hit show Fixer Upper,  to be a place where families can enjoy a day out together. You’ll find multiple shops and boutiques with different themes ranging from custom accessories and home goods to branded souvenirs, plants, and clothing. As you browse through shops and walk around this adorable area, visit the onsite food trucks or grab a coffee from Magnolia Press  or freshly baked cookies at the on-site bakery, Silos Baking Co. There is even a garden area to explore and a baseball diamond for anyone to play on.

Magnolia Market frequently hosts events, such as seasonal festivals, concerts, and special workshops, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the country- it is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a cultural landmark that embodies the Gaines’ vision of creating spaces that inspire and bring people together!

Dr. Pepper Museum

Located in Waco, the  Dr. Pepper Museum  is the perfect stop for soda lovers, and it’s an easy day trip from downtown Dallas. At this museum, you can learn about the history of Dr. Pepper through different memorabilia and exhibits, create your own soda, and experience a blind Dr. Pepper taste test. There’s also an onsite soda fountain with signature Dr. Pepper flavors and Blue Bell Ice Cream – yum!

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Thousands of years ago, Columbian mammoths roamed across what is now present-day Texas. Weighing 20,000 pounds and standing 14 feet tall, you can find the fossils of these massive creatures at the  Waco Mammoth National Monument . 

The site was discovered in 1978 by two young men who were searching for fossils and found a large bone, which they brought to Baylor University. This led to the excavation and subsequent preservation of the site. The site was officially designated as a National Monument in 2015, ensuring its protection and continued research.

At this monument, tour guides will lead you from the Welcome Center down a paved path to the climate-controlled Dig Shelter, where you’ll see mammoth fossils in their original state. You’ll also learn more about the Ice Age and the science of paleontology.

Billy Bob’s Texas at Fort Worth Stockyards 

Billy Bob’s spans over 100,000 square feet and can accommodate more than 6,000 people, making it the largest honky tonk not only in the Lone Star State but in the world. It features multiple dance floors, over 30 bar stations, and even an indoor rodeo arena, where visitors can watch live professional bull riding every Friday and Saturday night.

Spend an evening at this massive venue for live music, line dancing, playing pool, and bull riding. They also have great food – the beef brisket is a fan favorite! Try it on their barbecue-loaded tots or in a taco. Be sure to check out the gift shop before you leave for a honky tonk souvenir. 

Billy Bob’s embodies the spirit of Texas with its traditional honky tonk ambiance. From two-stepping on the dance floor to enjoying a cold beer at one of the bars, it offers a true Texas experience and is less than 45 minutes outside of Dallas. 

Fort Worth Water Gardens

Built in 1974,  Fort Worth Water Gardens  is located on the south end of downtown Fort Worth, so it’s just a short drive from Dallas. Designed by Phillip Johnson, this garden is an intriguing piece of architecture and is an excellent example of engineering. 

This peaceful spot in this downtown area is perfect for a quick stroll or taking pictures; no matter where you are in the garden, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water. As you explore, you’ll notice three pools: the quiet, the aerating, and the active pool. 

Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth

Located in Fort Worth, the  Kimbell Art Museum  is one of the best day trips from Dallas for art lovers. You’ll find 375 works of Asian and European art throughout the different exhibits in this museum, featuring artists like Monet, Michelangelo, Picasso, and Renoir. 

The Louis Khan-designed building is a work of art itself – natural light is the star of the show, with plexiglass skylights, natural materials like white oak throughout the building, and three interior courtyards. 

Fort Worth Japanese Garden

The Fort Worth Japanese Garden, located within the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, is a serene and meticulously designed space that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a special place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of Japanese culture, right in the heart of Texas.

With 7.5 acres, the  Fort Worth Japanese Garden  is one of the best outdoor activities in the area. Stroll through the landscaped pathways, feed the koi fish and turtles in the ponds, or admire the flowers in the Rose Garden. While you can visit this garden anytime, the foliage is particularly gorgeous in autumn!

Turner Falls State Park

Two hours away in Oklahoma,  Turner Falls State Park  is a longer drive from Dallas, but it’s one of the best weekend trips! Nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains, Turner Falls State Park boasts a stunning 77-foot waterfall, the largest in Oklahoma. Hike the two-mile Turner Falls Trail to reach the waterfall, then quickly dip in the natural pool below the falls. 

You can also check out the Lost Lake Trail, a 1.5-mile loop that goes through a dense forest and leads to a tranquil lake. There’s no shortage of outdoor activities here and in the surrounding area!

Pilot Point

Located in North Texas, Pilot Point is a must-visit, especially in the spring! Just under an hour from Dallas, this historic town is where you can stroll through vibrant fields of tulips, hand-pick your favorites, and snap Instagram-worthy photos at  Texas Tulips . The tulip fields are open seven days a week during tulip season. You’ll find over 100 varieties of tulips in shades like red, pink, orange, and yellow. If you’ve brought the entire family, Texas Tulips also has a hay maze – this will keep the little ones occupied while you pick out your bouquet!

With its authentic rural and historical charm, Pilot Point has been the setting for a few notable movies, including Bonnie and Clyde (1967) and Boys Don’t Cry (1999). Visit its historic downtown and enjoy the small-town atmosphere with well-preserved late 19th—and early 20th-century buildings. Pilot Point is a unique and historically significant town in Texas worth the drive from Dallas!

Winstar World Casino 

Located just over the Texas-Oklahoma border,  Winstar World Casino  is the largest casino in the U.S. and only a little over an hour’s drive from Dallas. With its vast gaming floors, top-tier entertainment, and multiple dining options, this is an exciting destination for a quick getaway. 

Explore the nine globally-themed gaming plazas that stretch for nearly a mile long! This casino has a massive live music venue with 6,500 seats, a high-end steakhouse, and countless bars and lounges. If you stay overnight, enjoy the resort-style swimming pool with a poolside bar, or book a massage appointment and hydrotherapy treatments at the spa. You can even practice your swing at one of the two 18-hole courses!

Terrell Heritage Museum 

Just a 35-minute drive from Dallas, in Terrell is the  Terrell Heritage Museum , housed in a historic Carnegie Library building built in 1904. This building is a historic landmark, as it was one of the many libraries funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The Terrell Heritage Museum is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in the rich history of Terrell, Texas, offering a glimpse into the past through its well-preserved exhibits and historic setting.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that tell the story of Terrell’s history, including its role as a railroad town, its agricultural heritage, and its contributions to military history. The exhibits include photographs, artifacts, documents, and memorabilia related to the city’s past. 

British Flying Training School Museum

Step back to World War II at the  British Flying Training School Museum  in Terrell, just 2 miles from the Heritage Museum. This hidden gem preserves the fascinating history of World War II, when British pilots were trained in Texas—over 2,200 Royal Air Force and United States Army Air Corps cadets earned their wings here between 1941 and 1945.

The No. 1 British Flying Training School was established in 1941 as the first of six British flying schools in the United States. The school was set up to train Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots due to the critical need for airmen during World War II and the relative safety and vast open spaces the U.S. offered for flight training, far from the European battlefields. Exhibits include vintage aircraft, uniforms, equipment, and stories from the pilots who trained there. It is a fantastic find for anyone interested in WW2 history.

I hope you enjoy exploring more of what Dallas and Texas has to offer! Whether you’re a Dallas local looking to break up your routine or a visitor wanting to explore beyond the city limits, these day trips offer a perfect escape just a short drive away. So pack a bag, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems that await just beyond the city—you’ll be amazed at what you can find without venturing too far from home. Happy travels!

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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The 18 Best Things To Do in Dallas With Kids [Museums, Wildlife, and Entertainment]

Jessica Merritt

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Table of Contents

The 8 best activities in dallas with kids, the 4 best museums and arts in dallas with kids, the 6 best outdoor fun in dallas with kids, final thoughts.

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Dallas is the third-largest city in Texas and is full of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. It offers a variety of museums, outdoor adventures, and unique attractions that everyone in the family can enjoy.

You can check out expansive parks, engaging science museums, and interactive art spaces on a family getaway to Dallas. Whether you want to meet animals at the largest zoo in Texas, hit an indoor waterpark, or walk the trails of a nature preserve, you can do it all in Dallas. It’s a particularly good destination for education, offering hands-on science experiments, engaging libraries, and interactive art.

Dallas is easily accessible, with 2 major airports and a north-central Texas location that makes it a good starting point for exploring other Texas destinations, including nearby Fort Worth, Grapevine, Frisco, and Glen Rose. It’s also within a day’s drive of Austin, San Antonio, and Houston — you can even reach Oklahoma in just a couple of hours.

This guide has everything you need to know about enjoying kid-friendly things to do in Dallas. Whether you’re a Dallas local looking for new things to do as a family or planning your next family trip to the Dallas Metroplex, we recommend these attractions for a memorable trip to the Big D.

1. Visit the Largest Zoo in Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes the Dallas Zoo . Spanning more than 100 acres and home to more than 2,000 animals and 400 species , the zoo is fun and educational for families. You can see endangered species and learn about conservation efforts. Guests can feed tortoises and giraffes by hand for an up-close-and-personal experience with wildlife.

Ride the Conservation Railway miniature train, take a spin on the endangered species carousel, or feed birds in the interactive aviary. The children’s zoo, featuring play areas and a barn, is a highlight. 

The zoo is just 3 miles south of downtown Dallas and is open every day except Christmas. It’s open in the  summer from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and in the winter from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Admission ranges from $8 to $24, depending on the season . Dallas Zoo members and children under 2 get in free. Parking is $12 per car for nonmembers and free for members.

Visit on the first Tuesday of the month and you’ll pay just $8 admission.

2. Float Into the Dallas World Aquarium

Visit the Dallas World Aquarium to see birds, mammals, and of course, fish . Start at the rainforest to see exotic birds, sloths, otters, and manatees. Within the aquarium, you can watch the jellyfish float by and check out the leafy seadragons. In the Mundo Maya cenote, spot the beautiful ocelot, flamingoes, and kid-favorite axolotl.

Dallas World Aquarium is open every day except Christmas and closes early on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve. Hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with last entries permitted at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.95 for adults, $19.95 for children 3 to 12, and free for kids 2 and under. Seniors 65 and older pay $24.95. Active duty and retired military personnel and 1 guest can get tickets for $24.95 each.

3. Experience the Old West at Fort Worth Stockyards

In the late 1800s, more than 4 million head of cattle were trailed through Fort Worth, earning the city its “Cowtown” nickname. That cattle-driving heritage lives on at the Fort Worth Stockyards with twice-daily cattle drives through the streets , championship rodeo competitions, and more. Kids can go through the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, visit the petting zoo, and ride a train on the historic Cotton Belt Route.

The stockyards district offers entertainment, shopping, food, and more as you walk the same brick walkways as the millions of livestock that have passed through this 98-acre historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Entrance to the Fort Worth Stockyards district is free, and so is watching the cattle drives that are held at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. , weather permitting. Activities, dining, and shopping vary in price. The district is open 24/7, but it’s a good idea to check the hours for the attractions you want to visit.

4. Step Into the Real Unreal at Meow Wolf Grapevine

Set within a former Bed Bath & Beyond at Grapevine Mills Mall, Meow Wolf Grapevine , The Real Unreal, offers a family-friendly art encounter that’s immersive and interactive . You step into the world of an ordinary family’s extraordinary experience with twists, turns, and portals through an interactive landscape. Kids particularly enjoy the arcade in Lamp Shop Alley, dancing with a refrigerator goat in Brrrmuda, and relaxing in the treehouse and book nook in the Forest.

Explore for an hour or a few hours as you unravel the mystery of Meow Wolf. The exhibition is open 7 days a week, though hours may vary depending on events, weather, and demand. Usually, it’s open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays. Ticket prices depend on the entry time you select and start at $40 for adults and $20 for children 4 to 12. Kids 3 and under are free, and there’s a $5 military discount for active duty and veteran servicemembers. Strollers aren’t permitted in the exhibit but can be stored in the lobby.

5. Swim With Wolves at Great Wolf Lodge

The indoor waterpark at Great Wolf Lodge is 84 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so you can swim whether it’s cold, hot, or rainy outside (though the slides close for thunderstorms). Stay a couple of nights at the resort for an immersive family experience with the waterpark, character encounters, and nightly glow parties, or get a day pass to swim and check out the lodge’s additional attractions.

The waterpark is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Prices for resort room reservations vary but start at around $200 per night. Day pass prices also vary depending on the day you want to visit, but you can expect to pay about $50 per person for a full-day pass or $45 per person for a half-day pass from 4 p.m. to closing. Kids 2 and under get in free with paying adults.

6. Play With Bricks at LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Another kid-friendly gem in Grapevine Mills, Legoland Discovery Center is an indoor playground with rides, 4D movies, and plenty of brick-building opportunities. You can splash outside at Pirate Beach, enter a virtual reality racing experience, soar on rides, and see various movies in the 4D cinema. There’s also a peek into the Lego factory and weekend character appearances. You can build and test Lego racing cars, and check out replicas of Dallas-area landmarks. You can take a break at the small cafe inside, and take Legos home from the gift shop, including build-your-own minifigs and a design studio.

Legoland Discovery Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission starts at $19 per person but varies depending on the time slot you select. You can purchase a combination ticket for Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life (the aquarium across the hallway) for as low as $29.99 per person. A triple combination ticket for Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life, and Peppa Pig World of Play (within Grapevine Mills) starts at $36.99. Kids 2 and under are admitted free.

Adults must be accompanied by a child to visit Legoland Discovery Center.

7. Play Vintage Games at the National Videogame Museum

A treat for kids and parents alike, the National Videogame Museum showcases the history of video gaming, from its origins to the games we play today. While some pieces are only on display, most of the museum is open for play . It starts with a huge, interactive Pong game with steering wheel-sized controls, with a display of historic consoles — including some that parents might remember playing as kids.

You can play on a rotating selection of vintage handheld games (usually including the Game Boy), check out the row of vintage computers (complete with Oregon Trail), and enjoy console games with favorites including Mario Kart and Street Fighter. Then, step into an ’80s-themed bedroom to play Duck Hunt before you drop your tokens into the arcade games.

Admission to the National Videogame Museum is $12 for adults and $10 for kids 3 to 10, seniors, educators, and active or veteran military members. Kids 3 and under get in free. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.

Save some time to use your tokens in the Pixel Dreams arcade at the end of your visit. This arcade features classic games — that still work great — and an impeccable soundtrack with ’80s and ’90s jams.

8. Expand Your Mind at the Frisco Public Library

Frisco Public Library is a dream to explore for kids and book lovers. Filled with reading nooks and play pods, including bookshelf tunnels to curl up in, kids have no problem finding a spot to get lost in a book. The entire library is a feast for your imagination, with robots, 3D printers, virtual travel kits, and even baking kits.

Walk past Rexy, the T. Rex replica, and look for her footprints on the floor. If you stand on the footprint windows, you might feel the vibrations of this prehistoric predator’s footsteps. Keep going, and you’ll find exploration play rooms for kids: Tot’s Town and Kid’s Club. Tot’s Town is designed for kids under 5, featuring climbing spaces, a railroad, and interactive displays. Kid’s Club is for kids in kindergarten through fifth grade with robot battles, microscopes, physics challenges, and more. Kids of all ages must be accompanied by an adult.

It’s free to visit the Frisco Public Library , including Tot’s Town and Kid’s Club. Out-of-town visitors can’t check out books or other materials, use the Makerspace (the high-tech design and 3D printing lab), or use computers, though Texans who don’t live in the Frisco area can purchase a membership card for a $50 annual fee to access these features. The library is open daily with hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday to Sunday.

The Frisco Public Library is right next door to the Frisco Discovery Center, where the National Videogame Museum is located, so you can make a day of visiting both!

1. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

The downtown Dallas Perot Museum of Nature and Science features 5 stories of science with a T. Rexcalator and hands-on learning. You can see prehistoric fossils, marvel at gemstones, experience an earthquake, and head outside to splash with the frogs. Interactive exhibits, permanent exhibits ranging from birds to space, and energy, and a 3D theater offer entertainment and enrichment for days.

Kids 5 and under can enter the Moody Family Children’s Museum, where budding paleontologists can dig for fossils at the outdoor dinosaur dig pit. There’s also an art studio, a terrarium of animals, a farmer’s market, and a kid-sized Texas skyline.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission with access to the permanent exhibits is $25 for ages 13 and up and $15 for youth ages 2 to 12. Various admission discounts are available, including free admission for qualifying educators, military members, and first responders.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is one of the few museums where you can see a T. Rex model with hair-like feathers, so don’t skip the dinosaurs!

2. Take in a Show at Broadway Dallas

Broadway Dallas offers families the opportunity to see  Broadway touring shows , including “The Lion King” and “Peter Pan.” The theater also offers the Give a Kid a Seat program, which provides free Broadway show tickets to Dallas students from underserved neighborhoods. In addition, STEAM-based classes taught by Broadway Dallas artists are available .

Age recommendations for shows vary by production, but some are particularly family-friendly and offer matinee showings with lower-priced tickets than evening shows. Broadway Dallas is within Fair Park, where the State Fair of Texas is hosted. Showtimes and ticket prices vary depending on the performance.

3. Develop Art Appreciation at the Dallas Museum of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in America and offers kid-friendly art features every day . Arturo’s Nest is the museum’s play space reserved for kids up to 4, and there’s a Young Learner’s Gallery for older kids. Families can enjoy art in the gallery spaces and create art with classes and workshops for children. The museum also offers summer art camps, family events including pop-up art spots, and Art to Go family totes that can be used to write, talk, play, or make within the museum.

General admission to the museum is free, though all guests must reserve a ticket for entry. Special exhibitions require a paid ticket but are free on the first Sunday of each month. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

4. Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

The 289-acre Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature preserve with permanent science exhibits, nature trails, and gardens . It features animals of the world, a living lab, fossils, and more than 6 miles of hiking trails where you can immerse yourself in North Texas nature. The Animals of the World trail is a favorite with families.

Learn about native plants in the garden and find out how you can plant a pollinator-friendly garden in the native Texas butterfly garden exhibit. The museum offers birding, scouting, homeschool, and preschool programs, summer nature camps, overnight stays, and more.

General admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children 3 to 12 and seniors 60 and older. Kids 2 and under are admitted free. The nature preserve is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

1. Stroll the Gardens at Dallas Arboretum

Perched on the shore of White Rock Lake with more than 66 acres of greenery and gardens, Dallas Arboretum is a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors in Dallas . You can visit the gardens to see various sculptures, flowers and plants, lush green lawns, and flowing water in the fountains.

The Rory Meyers Childen’s Adventure Garden offers interactive exhibits, gardens, and hands-on STEM activities for children to enjoy education and adventure. The children’s garden also features a discovery lab, exploration globe, STEM stops, and adventurer activities. On Family Fun Fridays, kids can enjoy the petting zoo and Kindermusik.

The Dallas Arboretum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $22 for ages 13 to 64, $13 for children 2 to 12, and $18 for seniors 65 and up, though there are various discounts available through the summer months. Admission to the Children’s Adventure Garden is an additional $3, and parking is $12 if purchased online or $15 if purchased on-site.

2. Get Thrilled at Six Flags Over Texas

Spanning more than 200 acres with over 100 attractions, Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington is a major amusement park — and the first in the Six Flags chain. With family rides and rides just for kids, Six Flags Over Texas offers fun for everyone in the family. Kids can stop by the kid security station at the front gate to get a height check and ID wristband, and there are family restrooms in the Bugs Bunny Boomtown kids area. There are also private nursing areas.

Kid-favorite attractions include Marvin the Martian Space Rockets, Looney Tunes Adventure Camp, Taz Tornado Swings, and Wile E. Coyote’s Grand Canyon Blaster. There’s always the classic Gunslinger swings, La Fiesta de las Tazas teacup ride, and the Mini Mine Train for families.

Admission hours and prices vary, so it’s best to check the Six Flags Over Texas calendar ahead of your visit. Daily ticket prices start at $29 per person.

3. Splash and Slide at Bahama Beach

Just 10 minutes south of downtown Dallas, Bahama Beach is an outdoor waterpark with a playground, lazy river, slides, and endless water attractions . This family waterpark features Coconut Cove, a water play area for kids, the Calypso Cooler lazy river, Lil Paco’s Splash Pad for infants and toddlers, and thrilling slides for older kids, teens, and adults — including the 2-person Boomerango tube ride.

You can bring your own small cooler with drinks and food from home for a $5 cooler fee, though Bahama Beach doesn’t allow any restaurant or catered food to be brought into the park. and oversized coolers require a $10 fee.

Bahama Beach is open late May through mid-September, including weekdays during summer break. Hours vary depending on the day but are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. most weekdays and Saturdays, and 12 to 6 p.m. most Sundays. Admission is $15 for guests 48 inches and up, $11 for guests under 48 inches, and free for kids 2 and under.

4. Enjoy the Community at Klyde Warren Park

Known as the “Town Square of Dallas,” Klyde Warren Park is in downtown Dallas with park features and programming for the Dallas community. Splash fountains, fireworks displays, food truck Fridays, fitness classes, outdoor movies, and concerts make this a vibrant park where there’s always something fun to do.

Kids can climb and play to their heart’s content at the playground and join discovery walks or learn about STEM topics. The park occasionally hosts concerts, music classes, and events with kids in mind.

It’s free to enter the park and participate in most events, though some experiences require payment, such as visiting food trucks or Mi Cocina on the Park restaurant. Metered parking is available on the street, or you can visit nearby parking garages. Valet parking is available for $15. It’s $5 with validation if you dine at Mi Cocina on the Park.

5. Walk in Prehistoric Footsteps at Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaurs roamed the earth millions of years ago, but you can still see their footprints today at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose. The main draw of this Texas state park is the Paluxy River, where you can wade or swim to view and walk in tracks left behind by sauropods and theropods .

Walk or wade across the river rock ledge to reach the roped-off main track site, and check out the Blue Hole, popular for swimming. The Ballroom track site is a can’t-miss attraction, where you can get in the river and step into dinosaur tracks below the water.

In addition to dinosaur track sites, the park offers miles of hiking trails, educational exhibits, horseback riding, picnic areas, and camping. It’s $8 for visitors 13 and up and free for kids 12 and under. Camping and horseback riding require additional fees. The park is open daily, with gate hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and office hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The best time to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park is in the late summer, when water levels are lowest and it’s easier to see the tracks and wade in the water. However, bacteria levels may be high if the river isn’t flowing well, so check the park website ahead of your visit for any warnings.

6. Meet African Animals at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a 1,800-acre wildlife facility with more than 1,000 exotic and endangered animals. These animals roam free in herds, and you can take a 7-mile scenic safari drive through the wildlife center to interact with the animals. You can see more than 50 species of wild animals, including giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs.

The Children’s Animal Center within Fossil Rim offers educational opportunities for kids. Here, they can compare domestic animals to native and exotic animals, learn about conservation, and take a short ecotrek through the hiking path around the American red wolf enclosure. Another walking trail offers a reading nook at the center.

You can do a self-guided drive through the wildlife center for $29.95 for guests 12 and up and $24.95 for kids 3 to 11. Children under 2 are admitted free. Each vehicle receives a free cone of animal feed, and additional cones are available for purchase. You can opt for a public guided tour for $44.95 for guests 3 and older, which includes a cone of animal feed for each person. Private guided tours, behind-the-scenes guided tours, and nights in the on-site lodge are available. The wildlife center is open daily except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, and Christmas Eve from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with the last admission at 4:30 p.m.

Dallas is a great destination for family travel, full of activities for families and children of all ages, with world-class museums and outdoor adventures. You can blend entertainment, education, and fun in the Dallas area, whether your family is into art, catching wildlife, or just playing around.

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