20 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Big, bold, and buzzing with energy—Dallas unfolds like a playground of culture, food, and unforgettable experiences.

Dallas, Texas, is big, bold, and has got a whole lot going on. You may know it for the Cowboys and the BBQ, but trust us, you're in for a whole lot more. This place is a wild mix of cool glass skyscrapers, some pretty art scenes, a sports fan craziness that's unmatched, and some of the most amazing food you've ever had. Whether you're the selfie type, a taco fiend who can eat till they can't fit in a seat, or just someone who wants to explore some really interesting museums, then Dallas's got you covered. So slap on a good pair of walking shoes because we're about to dive right into the best things to do in Dallas.

You know, Six Flags Over Texas was the first one of these huge parks, way back in 1961, in Arlington, practically between Dallas and Fort Worth. And we're talking 212 acres of land here. What's really cool is that the park's got different themed areas that pay tribute to all six historical flags that were flying over Texas back in the day. They've got some intense roller coasters like the Titan and the New Texas Giant. You can either buy a day pass or splurge for a season ticket at the entrance or online. The park's open pretty much on a standard seasonal schedule, though some days have more limited hours. When it comes to food, there are all sorts of food stalls and restaurants scattered all over the park. And don't worry about parking, it’s pretty easy to find a spot near the entrance.

The Katy Trail is this awesome 3.5-mile paved path, built on top of an old railroad track that's been repurposed into a fantastic place for a leisurely walk, a jog, or a bike ride. It runs between Victory Park and Mockingbird Station, so you can start and stop wherever you like. The surface is pretty smooth; it's either concrete or crushed granite, so your legs won't be complaining. They've even put in some water fountains and rest stops to keep you hydrated and refreshed. One more thing, you can bring your pet along for the ride; just make sure to keep it on a leash.

If you've got a few hours to get out of the city, then the Fort Worth Stockyards are definitely worth a visit; they're just about 35 miles from Dallas. Back in the day, this area was the real hub for livestock. It's a real blast from the past. Every single day, the Stockyards put on a free cattle drive, yes, you read that right, right down Exchange Avenue. You get to see these majestic Texas Longhorn cattle up close and personal. The Stockyards themselves are full of shops, restaurants, and even some museums to keep you entertained. On weekends, you can catch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo.

If you're looking for something a bit more high-tech, the Cosm in Dallas is a great place to check out. It's basically an immersive entertainment venue with a massive dome screen that brings live sports and shows to life in a seriously immersive way. They've even got different seating options. If you're looking to splurge, go for the premium sections. Tickets can be picked up online or in person. By the way, food and drinks are all available right at the venue. It's located in the very trendy Grandscape in The Colony. They like to show off all sorts of things, from sports to cinematic experiences.

White Rock Lake is a real gem, sitting pretty in northeast Dallas. It's a massive 1,015 acres of water and a real haven for those who love the outdoors. A 9.3-mile trail goes right around the lake, perfect for walking or cycling. Or if you're feeling super adventurous, you can even kayak or row out onto the water. Fishing is allowed too; make sure you've got a valid ticket. There are loads of picnic areas and pavilions where you can take a break. The Dallas Arboretum is located right on the lake's eastern shore, so you can really soak up the scenery.

Little Elm Beach is situated on the shores of Lewisville Lake, roughly 30 miles north of Dallas. Its sandy beaches are a treat to visit, and its designated swimming zones ensure safety for all. You'll also find volleyball courts and picnic tables scattered about the beach for your convenience. And yes, there is a playground to keep the little ones entertained for hours on end. However, if you're not a local, be prepared to shell out a fee to enter. There's also plenty of parking near the entrance.

Over in Arlington, you'll find Lake Viridian Beach nestled inside the Viridian community. This beach is a popular spot for some sand, sun, and water fun. Before you head in, though, be sure to check out the access rules, as things change from time to time. You're free to bring your paddleboard or kayak, and you can even grab a lounge chair to soak up the sun. The beach has its own operating hours, so make sure to plan.

The Trinity River runs straight through the heart of Dallas, and it just so happens to be one of the longest rivers in Texas. If you're feeling adventurous, follow the Trinity Skyline Trail for a great spot of walking or cycling. There are even some levees along the way to manage flood control. You can relax away for hours in the green spaces along the river, too. And, as it just so happens, access points are popping up all over the city. It's open every day, so you can pop by whenever you like.

Now, if you're looking for some fun for the kids, head on over to the Moody Family Children's Museum at the Perot Museum. This place is a veritable wonderland for kids under 8, with all sorts of interactive exhibits to keep them busy. Science and play are the name of the game here. Now, before you go, you'll need to pick up a ticket for the Perot Museum, and make sure to keep an eye on the little ones while they're in the activity areas; museum staff is on hand to supervise as well. The museum's hours are pretty standard, and it's located in the heart of downtown Dallas, with parking just a stone's throw away.

Dallas Arts District is a whopping 68 acres of artsy goodness right in the heart of downtown Dallas. This place is actually the largest urban arts district in the whole of the United States. You'll find the Dallas Museum of Art, the Winspear Opera House, and, of course, the Nasher Sculpture Center all within the same zip code. As you wander the district, keep an ear out for public art installations tucked away in all corners. And, while some places are free to visit, be sure to check the individual venues for any parking that might be nearby; it's all pretty convenient.

Parr Park's Rock Art Trail is located in Grapevine, just down the road from Dallas. You'll notice painted rocks all along the walking paths; visitors can pick up and pass on the decorated ones. It's a pretty sweet spot with both hiking trails and a nice open green space to hang out. There's even a playground for the kids and a bunch of picnic tables to grab a bite. You can swing by anytime, as the park is open every day, and it's completely free, plus parking is right by the entrance.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is situated on the White Rock Lake shore. It's got 66 acres of some pretty amazing views, and during different times of the year, they get some incredible seasonal flower displays. If you've got kids, you should check out the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, though you will need to buy a ticket to get in. The arboretum has all sorts of events going on throughout the year. It's open daily, and if you need a place to park, there are some on-site, plus they have some food options available while you're there.

The M-Line Trolley's an easy way to get around Uptown Dallas; it just runs on a regular schedule on a fixed route. It'll hook you up with a ride downtown to Uptown for free. They use vintage streetcars for the line and have designated stops marked out along the route. You can catch a ride just about any day; just hop on at a designated stop on their schedule. It's run by McKinney Avenue Transit Authority.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is situated right in the heart of downtown Dallas; it's in the old Texas School Book Depository building. The museum is all about the life and times of John F. Kennedy, and it's got some really cool exhibits with photos, films, and artifacts to check out. Again, you'll have to buy a ticket to get in, and they'll be closed on certain holidays, so check ahead of time. There's plenty of parking nearby if you need it.

The Dallas Farmers Market is situated in the center of downtown Dallas. It's got The Shed and The Market building, and a bunch of different vendors selling all sorts of local produce, fruits, and vegetables, with other goodies. There are restaurants and food stalls inside to grab a bite too. You can swing by at any time, as entry to the market itself is free, but some of the shops and stalls may have their own hours. They have events going on throughout the year, and if you need a break, there are some seating areas to hang out at. Parking is close by.

Reunion Tower in downtown Dallas is a 561-foot observation tower, and at the top features a geodesic dome with some pretty incredible views of the city all around. You can check it out on the GeO-Deck on the observation level. It opened back in 1978 and is part of the Hyatt Regency complex. They've got elevators to take you up to the view. It's open every day, but check the hours, and if you need a place to park, there are plenty nearby.

The Dallas World Aquarium is nestled in the West End Historic District. It's home to a wide variety of both land and marine animals and offers a glimpse into rainforest and aquatic environments. You'll see sharks, birds, and reptiles among the many species on display, and that's just the beginning. Tickets are required for entry, but once you're in the indoor space, you can explore the exhibits at your own pace. The aquarium is open every single day, with specific hours of operation.

Down in the heart of downtown Dallas, you'll find the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This place has been going strong since 2012, and with five full floors of exhibits, you could spend hours exploring the world of science, technology, and natural history. Interactive displays let you get hands-on, and the museum even has a pretty cool glass-enclosed escalator that's worth checking out. Admission requires a ticket, but trust us, it's worth it.

Klyde Warren Park is one of those hidden gems that really shouldn't be a secret. It's built right on top of the Woodall Rodgers Freeway, and yet it feels like a completely different world. It connects downtown and Uptown Dallas with a beautiful 5.2 acres of walking paths, lawns, and plenty of space to relax. You'll find food trucks rolling in every day to keep your hunger at bay. The kids can even get their energy out at the park's playground. And did we mention the events and classes that happen here all the time? The park is open every day, and public restrooms are available too. No doubt, it is one of the best Dallas attractions!

Fair Park is located just east of downtown Dallas. It's a massive property, taking up a whopping 277 acres. One of the biggest events of the year is the State Fair of Texas, but you'll also find historic Art Deco buildings, museums, and even performance venues. If you're there for an event, be sure to check the entry rules as they can vary. But one thing that's always true is that the park is open every day, and there's on-site parking to boot.

In a nutshell, this guide covers a wide mix of attractions, from museums and parks to iconic landmarks, making it easy to explore many places to visit in Dallas in one trip.

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