Thinking of things to do in Dallas Texas? Read through to see the things we did when we visited Dallas Tx. This list is by no means exhaustive, it does not contain all the fun things you can do while visiting Dallas, but it has enough to ensure that you enjoy your visit.
Prior to visiting, we asked ourselves what Dallas was famous for, in the hope that the answer will help us to curate a list of activities to engage in while there. It turned out that Dallas is famous for a lot of things, there are world renowned museums, memorable landmarks and buildings, home to the cowboys and many more.
There are many cities located within the greater Dallas Metropolis. However, we will try to limit the activities and attractions that we will discuss to those within the Dallas city limits.
Even with that, we can assure you that you will probably run out of days during your vacation before running out of memorable things to do in Dallas Tx. So, whether you have one day is the Big D city or a week, relax and have fun.
Below Are Some Of The Most Incredible Things To Do In Dallas Texas
1. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
| Ticket Prices | Free |
| Hours | All Week 24 Hrs |
| Address | 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202 |
The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza located in downtown Dallas/west end historical district is a magnet for tourists. Naturally, it was one of the first places that we stopped at after parking and briefly stopping in the Museum of Illusions.
The plaza has a simplistic design yet very symbolic. It’s an enclosure that is open at the same time. That means, it has four concrete walls with a granite slab in the middle, equidistant from the walls. The slab has John Fitzgerald Kennedy embossed on it.
Question: What does the design of John F. Kennedy’s Plaza in Dallas Tx mean?
Answer: This cenotaph or memorial plaza was designed to mean and showcase the freedom of JFK’s spirit. It was created to allow tourists who visit the area the opportunity to solemnly reflect and remember the life of John F. Kennedy.
2. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
| Ticket Prices | Adults (13-64) $20 Seniors (65+) $16 Child (2-12) $12 Members Free |
| Hours | Daily 9AM-5PM |
| Address | 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218 |
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens should be on top of the list of things to do in Dallas Tx for those who love nature and the outdoors. There is a certain kind of ambience that pervades the garden while strolling through it.
It is large and very encompassing, thus, people who visit do so for a variety of reasons. While strolling through the garden, we saw a lot of other people who were walking and strolling through too.
There were people sitting and enjoying a drink and people who came to take pictures and do photoshoots. There is more, you can enjoy live music and fine dining. We interacted with their very friendly staff, who showed eagerness and enthusiasm to answer all our questions.
You can easily spend the whole day in this garden and not come close to exhausting all the natural beauties to admire here. There are 66 acres in this magnificent facility, with several sections and gardens.
What To Do In Dallas
Our favorite section was walking under the crape myrtle trees which provided much needed shade during a hot Texas summer afternoon. This tree tunnel leads to the popular Toad Corner of the garden.
Parking costs $15 when you purchase it at the parking lot of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens but costs $11, if you purchase it online. Additionally, at certain times during the year, they have discounted ticket prices. Check Them Out At Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
Question: Can I bring food to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden?
Answer: Yes, you can bring food and drinks to the garden grounds and have a picnic. If you prefer, there is a range of dining options available here too. You can take advantage of the sit-in restaurants or the many vending machines available.
Question: Is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, it is wheelchair accessible. They also have free wheelchairs for use by visitors, but it is given out on a first come, first served basis.
3. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
| Ticket Prices | Varies $15 – $45 |
| Hours | Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sunday 11am-5pm |
| Address | 2201 N Field St, Dallas TX. 75201 |
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is another place that we went to while in the general area of the Dealey Plaza. It is the farthest place we went to from our parking lot, but since we wore comfortable shoes and were in the mood to walk around, it wasn’t a big deal.
There are parking lots that were closer to this museum than where we parked originally, but we opted to walk, since the area has a good network of sidewalks. It is a multi-story building that houses museum exhibits on different floors.
The ground floor has an area to buy food, which can then be eaten inside or on the patio. We enjoyed the meal, got their chicken burger and helped ourselves to their salad options from the salad bar.
There are various permanent exhibits in this museum, ranging from skeletonized assembly of Dinosaurs to insights about rocks and minerals, to the display about energy and the universe and much more.
4. The Dallas World Aquarium
Visiting the Dallas World Aquarium is another activity that should make most people’s list of things to do in Dallas Texas. It is also conveniently located within walking distance of the Dealey Plaza and we walked there, without having to get our car out of the original parking lot that we parked in.
It is a very popular place to visit and as such, it can easily get a long slow queue of people seeking to gain entrance into the aquarium. On the day we went, there was a queue that was quite slow-moving but once inside, the experience more than made up for the initial hassle.
We have been to quite a few aquariums in different cities but the Dallas World Aquarium is unique. We really liked the ambience and tropical scenery; it was neat and we saw other none aquatic animals.
5. The Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza
| Ticket Prices | Adults $18 Seniors (65+) $16 Youth (6-18) $14 Kids (0-5) Free |
| Hours | Mon-Tue Closed Wed-Sun 10AM-5PM |
| Address | 411 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75202 |
The Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza is a short work from the JFK memorial plaza and a few other memorable places that we visited and wrote about in this article.
It is dedicated and run to accurately capture and present to visitors, events surrounding JFK’s assassination and also his life’s legacy. We saw lots and lots of pictures, memorabilia, artifacts, and evidentiary materials from the events associated with the assassination.
They have also attempted to recreate the scene as it were on that day in 1963.
Question: Why is it called the sixth-floor museum?
Answer: It is called the sixth-floor museum because it was on the sixth floor of this building that they found a rifle and sniper’s perch. Therefore, a majority of the museum’s discoverables and artifacts are housed on this floor.
6. George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
| Ticket Prices | Adults $26+ Seniors (62+) $23+ Youth (13-17) $24+ Child (5-12) $20+ |
| Hours | Mon-Sat 9AM-5PM Sunday 12PM-5PM |
| Address | 2943 SMU Blvd, Dallas, Texas. 75205 |
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is another place you can visit while in Dallas Texas. The building is impressive, and the layout was well thought out, neat and very well maintained.
This museum chronicles George W. Bush’s two terms as the president of the United States. There were a lot of historic decisions taken during his presidency and in this library/museum, you will come across such decisions and the reasoning behind them.
7. Trinity Forest Adventure Park
| Ticket Prices | Adults (16+) $59.95 Seniors (55+) $49.95 Youth (10-15) $54.95 Child (6-9) $49.95 |
| Hours | Sun-Thurs 10AM-6PM Fri-Sat 10AM-6PM |
| Address | 1800 Dowdy Ferry Rd, Dallas, TX 75217 |
The Trinity Forest Adventure Park is a fun filled place to visit for Dallas locals and tourists who enjoy outdoor adventures. Do you enjoy obstacle courses and ziplines? Then, a visit to the Trinity Forest Adventure Park will be well worth your while. They have different courses with varying degrees of difficulties.
Question: Is there a weight limit to be able to participate in Trinity Forest Adventure Park?
Answer: Yes, you must be less than 265 lbs to take part in the activities that go on at the Trinity Forest Adventure Park.
Question: Is there a height limit to be able to participate in Trinity Forest Adventure Park?
Answer: Yes, you must be 48in or taller to take part in the activities that go on at the Trinity Forest Adventure Park.
8. Reunion Tower
| Ticket Prices | Adults $19+ Seniors (65+) $14+ Youth (4-12) $9+ Child (under 3) Free |
| Hours | Mon-Thurs 2PM-9:30PM Friday 2:30PM-9:30PM Sat-Sun 12PM-9:30PM |
| Address | 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207 |
The Reunion Tower in downtown Dallas offers visitors and tourists unique panoramic view of the city within and beyond. It is conveniently located close to other touristy places and so, you can fit a visit and exploration of the Reunion Tower easily into your things to do in Dallas Texas schedule.
Just like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the best time to go to the Reunion Tower is in the evening. It is very captivating to watch the sunset above the Dallas skyline. Overall, we enjoyed our time here. They have a lot of friendly staff and the views where stunning.
Question: Are guided tours available at the Reunion Tower in Dallas?
Answer: Yes, there are guided tours. It lasts for about an hour and at the end, you will get a photo gift to take home.
9. The Dallas Galleria Shopping Mall
The Dallas Galleria shopping mall is popular and situated right at the epicenter of Dallas. If you are visiting Dallas Texas and, in the mood, to shop, then a visit to the Dallas Galleria shopping mall is a good option to explore. There is plenty of parking and even if you do not want to shop, you can just go there and shuffle through the many outlets there. The skating rink is a very good attraction, both locals and tourists really enjoy skating here.
Address: 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75240
10. Museum of Illusions
| Ticket Prices | Adults $21 Seniors $19 Youth (5-12) $19 Military $19 Child (under 3) Free |
| Hours | Sun-Thurs 2PM-8PM Fri-Sat 10AM-9PM |
| Address | 701 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75202 |
The Museum of Illusions was not really on our list initially, but it happened to be our first point of call as soon as we secured parking in one of the numerous parking lots in downtown Dallas.
So, we parked and was heading towards JFK memorial when we came across the Museum of Illusions. The name was intriguing and out of curiosity we decided to check it out.
Boy! Are we glad that we did. We did not spend a lot of time there but the short time we spent there was well worth it. The name Museum of Illusions is very apt for the activities they do there. Optical illusions and trickery are some of some the acts to expect.
11. Dallas Zoo
| Ticket Prices | Adults (12-64) $20-$22 Seniors (65+) $16-$17 Youth (3-11) $16-$17 Kids (Under 3) Free Members Free |
| Hours | Everyday Oct 1-Feb 28 8AM-4PM Mar 1-Sep 30 9AM-5PM |
| Address | 650 SRL Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX. 75203 |
Another interesting thing or activity to do while in Dallas TX is to visit the Dallas Zoo. The zoo is located just minutes from downtown Dallas and sits on about 100 acres of land.
There are approximately 2000 animals housed in the zoo, making up about 406 species. Like best and well-run zoos, the Dallas Zoo has legible and easy to read direction and navigation pointers. They also have colorful maps, which come in handy while exploring the zoo.
Question: Does the Dallas Zoo have free parking?
Answer: Yes, it does. It has free parking for members only but $10 for every other customer.
Question: When is the best time to visit the Dallas Zoo during the day?
Answer: For zoo, we usually prefer to go in the mornings.
Question: Is the Dallas Zoo wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, the Dallas Zoo is wheelchair accessible.
12. Downtown Dallas
Downtown Dallas Tx was really fun to tour. Once we got a good parking spot, it was quite easy to walk around and explore. We spent quite some time around the west end historical district. There are a good amount of restaurant and bars, with outdoor eating and sitting areas.
13. Old Red Museum
While touring the area around the JFK memorial, we kept wondering what the magnificent and gigantic red building nearby was. Later, we found out that it is known as the Old Red Museum.
Although it was closed to the public when we visited, the imposing structure still made for a wonderful background for pictures. It was originally a courthouse, then it became a museum but now they are in the process of transitioning it back into a courthouse.
Address: 100 S Houston St, Dallas, TX 75202
14. American Airlines Center
The American Airline Center is another place to visit when you find yourself around the Dallas metro area. As a tourist who is interested in live entertainment and watching sporting activities, a visit to this arena should be on your cards.
A fun fact, did you know that the American Airline Center is home to the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars? Like we said above, the activities that go on in this arena goes beyond sports, there is a multitude of different art forms and entertainment activities that this arena plays host to.
Address: 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
Question: Does the American Airlines Center have parking spaces?
Answer: Yes, there are plenty of conveniently positioned parking spaces.
15. Founders Plaza – John Neely Bryan Cabin
| Ticket Prices | Free |
| Hours | Everyday |
| Address | 600 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202 |
The Founders Plaza is also within the general vicinity of the JFK Memorial Plaza. Perhaps the most iconic monument or object in this plaza is the John Neely Bryan cabin.
It is a remarkably historic site, the cabin, even though it is a replica, is designed to mimic the original one built by the founder of Dallas, John Neely Bryan. We recommend that you stop here during your exploration of this area of the Dallas downtown.
Question: Can I go inside the John Neely Bryan cabin when I visit the founder’s plaza?
Answer: No, you can’t. The doors are shut and locked. You can stand outside and work around the hut or cabin.
16. Dealey Plaza
| Ticket Prices | Free |
| Hours | Everyday |
| Address | Dealey Plaza, Dallas, TX 75202 |
Another Plaza within this area is known as the Dealey Plaza and a visit to it is almost a must for tourists as part of their things to do in Dallas Texas list. Today, the plaza is always bubbly and lively with tourists and visitors trooping in and out.
On the day we went, there was a pro-Palestine rally going on and participant were exercising their free speech rights. Look out for the “X” on the road besides the plaza, it holds a very somber meaning.
The plaza can be easily accessed from various open and free entrances, it is worth going there, even if it is just to observe a moment of silence for JFK.
17. Horse Carriage Tour – Things To Do In Dallas Tx
The horse carriage tour is a wonderful way to tour and explore the downtown area of Dallas Tx, especially starting from the west end. If you are not in the mood to walk around or just want to experience the feeling of riding a carriage while exploring historic sites, the horse carriage tour will suit you.
There are various horse carriage companies around the JFK memorial and most of them offer walk up rides and there would not be a need for reservation. If, however, you have specific needs, then we recommend that you call them ahead of time.
18. Segway Tour Of Dallas
Indeed, the beauty of visiting a new city is your ability to tour and explore it. There are various ways to do that nowadays. Above we have talked about exploring certain areas of Dallas by walking and on a horse carriage but there are many more ways to explore the city too.
Another such way is to explore Dallas on a Segway. There are a few companies that offer Segway touring services. You want to use a reputable company that have knowledgeable tour guards. You can checkout Segway Nation Dallas and Segway Tours of Dallas
19. Hike And Run Around The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
Discover an unforgettable outdoor adventure at Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge! Situated in the vibrant city of Dallas, this iconic bridge offers more than just stunning architectural marvel.
Immerse yourself in a world of hiking and leisure, as you traverse the scenic trails that wind their way around the bridge and its picturesque surroundings. Capture breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Trinity River, making every step a visual delight. Beyond hiking, indulge in an array of activities, from cycling to picnicking, all against the backdrop of this modern masterpiece.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing day outdoors, Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge promises an enriching experience filled with exploration and enjoyment. Make the most of your Dallas visit by embracing the diverse offerings of this renowned bridge and its captivating recreational haven.
Summary Of The Top Best Things To Do In Dallas Texas
- John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
- Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
- Perot Museum of Nature and Science
- The Dallas World Aquarium
- The Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza
- George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
- Trinity Forest Adventure Park
- Reunion Tower
- The Dallas Galleria Shopping Mall
- Museum of Illusions
- Dallas Zoo
- Old Red Museum
- American Airlines Center
- Founders Plaza – John Neely Bryan Cabin
- Dealey Plaza
- Horse Carriage Tour – Things To Do In Dallas Tx
- Segway Tour Of Dallas
- Hike And Run Around The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
