dallas nearby places to visit

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

If you are looking for fabulous day trips from Dallas, Texas , you are in the right place!

It is no secret that Dallas, Texas, is a popular tourist destination.  

Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scen e. 

All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it, though; sometimes you want to get out of the city and explore other areas. 

There is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks !

That is why we put together this post of Dallas day trips !

We have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area our entire lives, so we know something about getting out of the city!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Luckily, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas, which makes for a fabulous day trip! 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor Mansion and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend.

The first Monday flea market takes place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop in Weatherford!

Read Next: 30 Awesome Facts About Texas (Know Before You Go)

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas , Texas, to Fort Worth. 

Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth. 

We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do.

Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city, and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and dancing for the evening.

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

There are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. 

Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas and a great place to spend Christmas in Texas as it comes alive during the holiday season!

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Located less than 1 hour (about 30 minutes) from Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas, the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area. 

Arlington has sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark.

Sports fanatics will be home here since the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

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Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly First Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States.

The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit.

The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry about missing the Trade Days; Canton has other attractions. 

You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

If you want to stay overnight, there is a fun place you can try covered wagon camping in Canton!

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Galveston, TX

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County, and in just under 1 hour (about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival every April. 

Here you can drive over 40 miles of trails riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

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Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant, Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30-minute getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games you would expect, but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel! 

Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas. 

Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently.

Denton Square has fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton also has a thriving art scene and great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

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Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3-Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas, and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas.

While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest comprises more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands.

This is a huge area of piney woods and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods.’

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to enjoy miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.

Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area.

Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river float trips, and more.

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are some of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is in North Texas, just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex.

Lake Texoma is situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma.

Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

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Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas.

Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls.

Be careful ; the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift .

Be sure and check the conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or relax!

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Read Next: 15 Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music. 

Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money. 

You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well.

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

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Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma, near the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips.

Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore. 

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night.

Just note that Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city. 

Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city, and make it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake.

The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas.

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

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The lovely little lake town of Granbury, Texas, is just under 2 (about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  There are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutiques, shops, and restaurants the Granbury Square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas. 

This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat located about 2 hours away from Dallas.

At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

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Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is about 2 hours away from Dallas. 

Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park.

At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hiking over 20 miles of trails, and seeing some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails, and you can find horseback riding there.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are many other things to do in Glen Rose, TX, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas, is like a day trip back into Texas’ past. 

This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really, it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville. 

Visitors can climb inside the silo walls and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  The area also has a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation.

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You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours. 

Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5-mile stretch of Main Street in Salado. 

Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. 

You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden and the historic Stagecoach Inn and watch a glass-blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas, and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park. 

This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities. 

You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake or hike and bike on the many trails you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper. 

While Fixer Upper has drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco has been popular far before. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas , Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.

Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth!

The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Consider taking a bus from Dallas to Waco to save someone else’s driving.

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory and heading to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop downtown Dublin’s fun and quirky shops, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not try it?

You know you are in for a treat if you visit a town with an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the boutique and specialty shops you will find downtown. 

While in this area, take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse and visit some East Texas wineries like Walker’s Mill and Enoch’s Stomp ! 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do. 

Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the riverboat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo. 

After touring the Alamo, we recommend you follow the San Antonio Mission Trail and visit the other national historic missions within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas, and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips to experience incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

You must visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, and the Downtown Aquarium and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy outside while visiting Houston.

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Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas, and you will find Colorado Bend State Park.

A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas.

Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves!

All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns outside San Antonio.

Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. 

One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX, is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas. 

Located near Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX ; deciding how to spend your day will be hard!

Wimberly has several swimming holes, including Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and Blue Hole.

You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery or an olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the town’s many art galleries and boutique stores and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is about 3 hours north of Dallas and packed with things to do. 

Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area has shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. 

If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

There is a State Firefighters Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Another fun Oklahoma attraction is the Oklahoma elephant sanctuary, the Endangered Ark Foundation, which can be found in Hugo, Oklahoma.

Fredericksburg

We love the small-town feel, German heritage, and many  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX , that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park. 

This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Note, though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping at the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas !

We hope we have inspired you to explore the great areas within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and tell us what to add to our trips from the Dallas list.

We still have lots of exploring in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Other Texas Posts:

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Monday 21st of November 2022

You didn't mention something cool about Murray Lake State Park. It has tons of buildings built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps. This weekend we climbed up the Turner Tower, which was built by CCC/WPA with the intention of providing a weekend retreat for Oklahoma governors. It wasn't ever used for that purpose, but instead was opened as a museum. Today there is a museum of the WPA/CCC work at Murray Lake, as well as a mastodon skull and tusks shown there. Next to Turner Tower is a Nature Museum showcasing local wildlife. We had a great visit.

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

Thank you for the this, Suzie. We will definitely check it out on our next visit.

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

I’m doing a little online research trying to find a quick holiday getaway , feeling quite nostalgic having visited many of these places as a child. When much to my surprise, I scroll down to read about the author and it’s an old friend! Good memories all around!

Saturday 4th of December 2021

Hi Lana!! Oh my gosh! It is so great to hear from you! I am so glad that you found our little piece of the internet. Please reach out if you have questions or just want to chat!!

Saturday 19th of June 2021

I lived in Dallas for a few months in 2018 for an internship, and I wish I had more time to explore the nearby cities. There's so much to see down south!

Monday 21st of June 2021

There really is. Maybe you can come back and visit!

I had no idea there were so many cool day trips from Dallas! The bluebonnet trail would be so amazing in full bloom.

Yes! They are so beautiful. It truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas is no doubt right for you.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in all of the country, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Dallas is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: NOLA is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

Consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular road trips from Dallas in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall), to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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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. While The Market Building is open seven days a week (from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.), it’s best to go anytime from Thursday through Saturday, when the atmosphere is at its most vibrant and you can enjoy live music, chef demonstrations and other special events. Note that The Shed is only open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.   

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.

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.

Even if you're not interested in seeing a game, you might still want to take a tour of this venue, which also houses an extensive collection of art. In fact, there's a guided tour specifically devoted to the stadium's artwork. But recent visitors say that avid sports fans should tag along on the VIP tour, which leads attendees through the private suites, the press box, the locker rooms and even out onto the field.

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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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48 Fun & Interesting Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Have a long layover in DFW and looking for nearby day trips from Dallas?

Live in Dallas and need a short break from routine?

Discover our favorite Dallas day trips in this epic guide.

Dallas is a bustling city with an impressive skyline in the Lone Star State.

From Six Flags over Texas and the Fort Worth Stockyards to Oklahoma City and Lake Texoma, there’s something for everyone near Dallas!

Explore a small town in North Texas or sip wine in the Texas Hill Country wineries.

The options are endless!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas

Best Texas cities & suburbs to visit on a day trip from Dallas

Looking for a way to escape Dallas but still want to enjoy urban attractions?

Plan a visit to one of these nearby Texan cities and suburbs to enjoy a relaxing day. 

Spend time in museums and art galleries and enjoy a fine meal on these urban day trips from Dallas.

Fort Worth is very close to Dallas, making it one of the perfect day trips from Dallas.

One of the major attractions in Fort Worth is the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.

The Fort Worth Stockyards are filled with historic buildings, cattle drives, and mock shootouts.

Fort Worth also has many museums including the Modern Art Museum of Worth Worth, Kimbell Art Museum as well as restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

Arlington is a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

It’s easily commutable from Dallas, and is one of our favorite day trips from Dallas for a variety of reasons.

Arlington is home to the University of Texas campus and the UTA Planetarium.

On a visit, kids can see a variety of interactive space themed exhibits and spot celestial objects through the telescope.

Watch a game at AT&T Stadium, visit one of the theme parks, go on a walking tour of the murals downtown, or see the Arlington Museum of Art.

If you’re looking for something outdoors, there’s plenty of fishing, boating, paddle boarding, and kayaking opportunities at River Legacy Parks, located on the banks of the Trinity River.

Denton is a great place to live because it’s so diverse.

The town is also one of the best trips from Dallas.

One of the best things about the city is that you can visit many different restaurants and find something for anyone’s taste.

The town has a lot of bike trails, parks, and festivals that happen throughout the year.

If you’re looking for arts and culture, there are many galleries in Denton, as well as an art museum.

You can also find historic homes in the Downtown area!

A highlight is the Old Alton Bridge, a historic iron truss bridge which makes for a charming photo op.

Frisco is a popular city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and there are so many things to do!

This is the perfect place for people who love nature and exploring.

There are a lot of hiking trails, parks and fishing opportunities at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

Downtown Frisco has plenty of history, charm, and activities to enjoy.

Museums such as the Frisco Heritage Museum and National Videogame Museum are great to spend the day.

The city also hosts festivals throughout the year, including a holiday lights festival in December.

Grapevine is one of the best day trips from Dallas for the entire family because it’s surrounded by kid-friendly attractions, wineries, shopping, and restaurants.

In the heart of Grapevine , you will find a walkable downtown district that features charming historic buildings, a vintage railroad, shopping, and restaurants.

The city also has plenty of outdoor attractions, including water activities such as fishing and boating.

Grapevine is famous all over Texas for its Christmas celebrations, making this one of the popular times to visit the city.

Also Read: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Texas

Highland Village

Located near Lewisville Lake, Highland Village suburb of Dallas has a lot of things to offer visitors.

One of the most popular attractions is shopping and the many lakeside parks.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing at Pilot Knoll Park or LLELA Nature Preserve.

Irving is a city just outside of Dallas, and has many fun things to do!

There are lots of museums to explore, such as the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, which includes interactive exhibits about the life and career of George W. Bush.

The Irving Convention Center is also located in the heart of downtown Irving, and it has hosted many different events over the years.

If you’re looking for something artsy, Irving is home to multiple galleries and museums including the Irving Arts Center.

For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of parks and fishing opportunities. 

Irving offers a variety of restaurants to try as well as shopping malls if you’re looking for something new.

Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie is one of the great day trips from Dallas if you’re looking for shopping and culture.

It is home to a variety of historic sites such as the Pioneer Museum, which is a favorite with kids.

Texas Motor Speedway, one of the most iconic race tracks in Texas is also located here.

Check out the Crockett Civic Center where you’ll find plenty of live music shows, games, and activities for people of all ages to enjoy.

Plano is one of the best day trips from Dallas.

The city is only a few miles from Dallas and it’s home to many fun things to see and do for both kids and adults.

Plano has a variety of attractions that will make you want to plan a whole day just for this city.

There are plenty of unique restaurants, theatres such as Arbor Theatre, as well as outdoor activities in Plano.

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Southlake has a lot of things to offer visitors.

There are family-friendly activities such as shopping and dining, nature, and outdoor recreation.

Shopping in Southlake includes rodeo shops, unique boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and more.

There are also many lakeside parks that provide fishing opportunities and hiking trails.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like camping, birding, photography, or biking.

Keller is a city in Tarrant County that offers visitors a variety of things to do.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, birding, hiking, and swimming.

Visitors will also come across many lakes and streams which provide fishing opportunities for the more adventurous travelers.

The town also has a lot of shopping and dining opportunities including Keller Farmers Market, Shannon Brewing Company, and art galleries.

There are also restaurants throughout the area that offer meals with an eclectic flare from burgers to pizzas to tacos.

The city of Glen Rose, Texas is one of the best day trips from Dallas for families with small kids.

Glen Rose has many family-friendly attractions and museums as well as a charming walkable downtown district.

The highlights are Dinosaur Valley State Park and Dinosaur World, which are beloved by dinosaur crazy kids.

The Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose offers more than 500 acres of natural beauty in four different areas.

Visitors can see all sorts of wildlife, including buffalo, bison, deer, prairie dogs, and more on a drive through safari visit.

Visitors also have the opportunity to meet with a variety of animals and learn about their adaptations.

Waco is located on the Brazos River and offers nature, outdoor recreation, and history.

The Brazos River winds through Waco creating a natural barrier between the city’s east and west sides.

Lively downtown Waco offers a variety of shopping opportunities as well as local art galleries.

Outdoor activities include tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and camping.

Take a cruise down the river or visit the famous Magnolia market at the Silos or…..

….see the mammoth skeletons at Waco Mammoth National Monument or,

tour the Dr Pepper Museum to spend a fantastic day in Waco.

The Dr. Pepper Museum is sure to be a hit with any fans of the popular soda!

The interactive museum explores the history and mystery of Dr. Pepper by telling its story in four parts: History, Mystery, Taste and Adventure.

Visitors can taste dozens of flavors at the “Taste Lab” and learn about the soda’s past at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Magnolia Market, from the show Fixer Uppers, is known for its homespun apparel, flea market treasures, and excellent food.

Waco makes one of the best day trips from Dallas for all types of travelers.

Best Dinosaur Attractions to visit on a day trip from Dallas with kids

Did you know that the Lone Star State has many dinosaur attractions for the littles?

Many of them are located close to Dallas, such as Glen Rose and Bastrop.

Take the kids out on one of these day trips to learn about the prehistoric beasts such as T-Rex and see the dinosaur skeletons, tracks, and fossils.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Attractions in Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is located in the town of Glen Rose, the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

The dinosaur tracks were formed in the Paluxy river bed several million years ago during Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

The fossil beds are considered some of the most significant of any kind in North America.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a national treasure and favorite with all dinosaur lovers, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas.

It’s the only park of its kind where visitors can actually follow the trails and touch the preserved dinosaur tracks.

The park terrain is wooded and hilly with steep limestone cliffs. Other activities include biking, camping, and swimming in the river.

Dinosaur World, Glen Rose

The cool attraction of Dinosaur World in Glen Rose, Texas is not just for little kids.

The museum is one of the world’s largest indoor dinosaur attractions and features more than 40 life size dinosaurs in a natural environment.

Kids can learn more about the prehistoric creatures through interactive displays that teach them all they need to know about fossils and dinosaur life.

Visitors can also explore a museum onsite, view giant skeletons of some of the largest animals ever to walk the earth, and dig for dino bones!

Arlington Archosaur Site

The Arlington Archosaur Site is a fossil locality in the east Texas area.

It consists of a limestone outcrop containing the remains of terrestrial animals that lived about 195 million years ago during the early part of the Jurassic Period.

Visitors on this day trip can see fossils from some of the oldest mammals, crocodiles, and dinosaurs in North America.

Dinosaur Park, Bastrop

Dinosaur Park in Bastrop / Cedar Creek is the place where everyone in the family will have fun!

The kids can enjoy 2 miles of scenic nature trails, and the dinos will be waiting for them at the end.

Also Read: 21 Best Things to do in Bastrop, Texas

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, located in McKinney, Texas is one of the best Dallas day trips.

Located on several acres of forested land, the Heard Sanctuary is an excellent destination to spend time with friends and family while learning about nature and wildlife.

In the museum, kids can see dinosaur skeletons and fossils.

They can also see exhibits about ecosystems of North America, explore the Texas coastal area and more.

There are also picnic areas and boardwalk hiking trails through the sanctuary.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a fun-filled day trip from Dallas that can be enjoyed by all ages!

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is a national monument that is located in Waco, Texas.

The national park was created to preserve the remains of two American mastodons and Columbian mammoth.

The fossils were found around 60 years ago.

Visitors can view exhibits that show how these giants lived on earth.

Best Beach & Swimming Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Looking to cool off and soak up the sun?

These are some of the best beach day trips from Dallas.

Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area

Joe Pool Lake is located in southwest Dallas County and is the perfect place to go swimming.

This is one of the largest lakes in Texas.

There are 3 boat ramps for watercraft, fishing jetties, and a swimming beach that is supervised during the summer time.

Lakeside Park in White Rock Lake

Lakeside Park at White Rock Lake offers beautiful scenery and a wide variety of outdoor fun for everyone.

This urban park has picnic shelters, an outdoor eating area and a half mile walking trail around the shoreline.

The White Rock Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming.

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

One of Burger’s Lake’s highlights is its sandy beaches.

In the summer, they are a popular summer attraction with people who come to cool down and have fun in the water.

This lake has sparkling-clean water and is spring-fed.

The area has picnic tables, play areas, diving platforms, and more making it a must-visit place during the summer.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a scenic destination with a sprawling park and clean beach.

It has campsites and boat slips, too.

The park provides boating, swimming and fishing opportunities.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, is a fantastic day trip from Big D.

The main attraction of Lake Texoma is its vast size.

Lake Texoma has a lot to offer with 520,000 acres of water.

It also has 1,286 miles of shoreline, making it one of the largest lakes in Texas.

Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, trails for hiking and biking, bird watching, and ATV riding.

Lake Texoma State Park is full of opportunities for outdoor recreation and even makes a great weekend trip.

Cedar Hill State Park

Cedar Hill State Park is a large park with beach and water recreation.

The park has hiking trails, paddle boat rentals, canoe and kayak launches, picnic grounds and a playground.

Little Elm Park

Looking for a great place to swim and have fun in the sun?

Little Elm Park is on beautiful Lewisville Lake.

It is a popular swimming, water-skiing, and fishing spot.

Campers can enjoy camping by the lake, too!

Tyler State Park Beach

Tyler State Park is a popular destination for swimming, boating and fishing.

The park has a wide variety of activities available including camping, picnicking and hiking.

It is located in Tyler, Texas at the northern shoreline of Lake Palestine.

Rockwall & Lake Ray Hubbard

Rockwall is a great destination for visitors who love jet skiing, sailing, and watersports.

The lake covers several acres of water that are open to boat-racing, fishing and swimming in the summer.

There’s also beautiful Lakefront Park with picnic tables, playgrounds and walking trails.

Six Flags Theme Park, Arlington

Arlington is known for its Six Flags theme park.

It’s a fun place to spend the day with your family.

There are thrill rides, water parks and wave pools making it popular to beat the Texas heat.

Best Dallas Day Trips for nature lovers

Dallas is known as one of the most visited cities in America and has plenty of attractions.

But sometimes it’s nice to just get away from all that metropolitan noise and into nature where you can unwind with some peace and quiet.

Here are our favorite hiking, camping, biking, and birding destinations near Dallas.

Davis, Oklahoma

Davis, Oklahoma is a town that has a rich history.

It can be easily reached from Dallas via I-35.

In addition to exploring the rustic charm of this old Western town, visitors can enjoy some of the recreational opportunities Davis has to offer.

The most popular outdoor destinations here are Turner Falls Park and the stunning wilderness of Arbuckle mountains.

Located in Davis, Oklahoma, Turner Falls is one of the state’s most popular spots for family vacations.

The natural waterfall is 78 feet high and it is surrounded by several caves with trails that lead to different faces of the falls.

Turner Falls Park also has fishing opportunities, birding, wildlife viewing, and picnic areas.

The Turner Falls are especially beautiful during the spring when they’re at their peak flow rate.

During the summer, Turner Falls are popular for cooling off and splash fun.

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is great for hiking and all kinds of outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for a day trip or even a weekend trip close to Dallas, this is the perfect place!

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Caddo Lake State Park

This is a great day trip for people who love the outdoors and exploring. 

Caddo Lake State Park is located in Piney Woods region in East Texas, and it’s the perfect place for families.

The park includes walking trails, kayaking and paddling trails, fishing, and a lot of wildlife.

Kayaking on Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou is amongst the best kayaking trips in Texas .

The scenery of bald cypress trees and Spanish moss on the Big Cypress Bayou looks stunning at dusk or during fall.

If you want to extend the trip, you can enjoy camping facilities as well as cabins on the lakefront and spend time in nature.

Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

Beavers Bend State Park, located in Broken Bow, is a great place for family fun.

Kids will love the natural attractions, including scenic drives through the pine forests and wildlife encounters.

There are also horseback riding opportunities just outside of the park as well as opportunities to go birdwatching.

If you’re looking for something more serene, there are plenty of trails to explore in the park that are perfect for hiking.

The Fall colors at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow are spectacular.

The trees display a variety of colors: oranges, yellows, and reds, making Broken Bow one of our favorite fall day trips from Dallas .

Ennis, Texas is a small town just a few miles southwest of Dallas.

The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails are famous during the spring season when visitors can enjoy close-up views of the fields in bloom.

The city parks also have other scenic drives and trails, and are a favorite spot for fishing.

Downtown Ennis, you will find historic buildings, murals, charming shops, and more.

Visitors come from all over to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities that Ennis has to offer, and it’s a great place for groups with varying interests to have a good time together.

Also Read: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Texas

Davy Crockett National Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest is located in Rusk County, Texas.

The forest was named after the Texas hero Davy Crockett, who died defending the Alamo in San Antonio.

There are many opportunities for visitors to experience nature while at Davy Crockett National Forest.

There are great hikes that cover a variety of terrains and distances, as well as horseback riding and biking opportunities.

Visitors can see amazing wildlife including deer, coyotes, wild boar, raccoons, river otters and more in the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Visitors will also come across many lakes that provide fishing opportunities as well as primitive camp sites for outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp in an isolated environment. 

Best Small Towns to Visit on Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas is surrounded by several charming small towns that offer a glimpse into Texas’s history.

These adorable downtowns are a haven for cultural travelers.

Visitors can wander their historic streets, look for antiques, revel in the old-world charm, and have lunch at a delicious mom and pop restaurant. 

Here are our favorite small towns near Dallas.

Canton, Texas

Canton, Texas is a wonderful day trip from Dallas. 

The town is most famous for First Monday trade days. 

It’s the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and is amazing for hunting for one of a kind treasures.

Canton is also filled with historic buildings – several of them have been designated as historical landmarks. 

For a fun day trip from Dallas that allows you to learn a little about Texas history, Canton is one of the best places to visit.

Granbury, Texas

Another charming small town near Dallas is Granbury .

There are many historical buildings in the Historic Granbury Square such as the Hood County Courthouse, Jail Museum, Railroad Depot Museum and more. 

Visitors can stroll around and shop for antiques, or grab some barbecue at one of the local restaurants.

Terrell, Texas

Terrell, Texas is a wonderful small town in Hunt County.

This former railroad town prides itself on being a quaint and historic place

There are tons of year round events that celebrate the culture and welcome tourists every year. 

Visitors can dine at quaint restaurants or relax at one of the many bed and breakfasts that dot the small town.

Greenville, Texas

Greenville, Texas is a wonderful historic town filled with beautiful architecture and old time ambiance.

There are many great ways to experience Greenville such as the American Cotton Museum, the Greenville Farmers Market, and the Landon Winery.

Athens, Texas

Athens, Texas is a small town known for the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

Here you can see the large collection of different freshwater fish species in tanks and exhibits as well as alligators!

There are several great dining options as well as unique shops to explore when in Athens.

Looking for something fun to do outdoors? Try ziplining or visit the Athens Scuba park.

The town is filled with history and classic architecture and makes a fun day trip from Dallas.

Rusk, Texas

If you’d like to escape to a completely different part of Texas, Rusk is the perfect day trip!

The town is known for its rich history and unique architecture. 

The primary attraction in Rusk is the scenic tour on the vintage steam train at Texas State Railroad to adjacent Palestine, Texas.

Palestine, Texas

Palestine, Texas is a great small town on the outskirts of Dallas.

During the Holiday Season, the Texas State Railroad conducts the Polar Express Ride from Palestine which is a hit with kids.

It has many attractions besides the famous Texas State Railroad ride.

In Palestine, you can visit the Museum for East Texas culture located downtown or take a tour of the historic buildings adjacent to the Anderson County Courthouse.

There are several antique stores as well as craft shops to explore while you are in Palestine.

Rusk, Palestine, as well as the railroad can be combined to create one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Salado, Texas

If you want to experience a small town with a truly unique culture then you need to visit Salado, Texas. 

This quaint little town is known for its artsy residents and upscale shops.

Salado is a wonderful place to window shop because it has a vast collection of interesting boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and wine tasting.

Visitors to Salado can spend an afternoon discovering this unique little town.

Jefferson, Texas

If you’ve always wanted to explore the attractions in the Piney Woods Region of East Texas , then Historic Jefferson is your best bet.

This quaint little town has several great historical buildings and a local downtown district that is perfect for shopping or dining.

Each year there are many events such as the candlelight tour of historic homes and the Christmas Parade.

Jefferson is also a great place to explore the scenic Caddo Lake.

If you’re looking for a quiet day trip from Dallas with lots of nature, this is the perfect place!

Best Major Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Dallas

You can also visit major Texas cities on a day trip from Dallas including Houston, San Antonio and Austin.

Here are some of our favorite cities to visit on a day trip from Dallas.

Austin, Texas

Austin is the state capital of Texas and also one of the most popular cities in Texas.

You’ll find Austin has a unique “weird” culture that contrasts with Dallas’ corporate styled city.

There are tons of great things to see and do in Austin, ranging from visiting the sprawling University of Texas campus or checking out the funky live music scene.

San Antonio, Texas

If you’re looking for a big city feel in Texas then San Antonio is the place to be!

The Alamo and RiverWalk are two of the most famous attractions in this Texan city.

This city has a rich history and is also filled with unique cultural traditions.

There are many great hotels, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as live music entertainment in the city of San Antonio, making it one of the best Dallas day trips.

Houston, Texas

Houston is a vibrant modern city and a great day trip from Dallas.

You can visit the Houston Space Center or see some more modern attractions such as The Medical Center and Downtown District!

This city has several large museums, art galleries and performing arts venues.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Houston, Texas

Galveston Island, Texas

Looking for a true beach vacation near Dallas?

Galveston Island is your best bet!

Popular Galveston attractions include museums, beautiful beachfront resorts, and seafood restaurants.

Galveston also has an historic district with some great shopping opportunities!

If you’re looking to explore Galveston, be sure and take the historic Seawall Boulevard tour.

Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City makes an amazing trip from Dallas.  You can enjoy hiking, biking, camping or just sightseeing.

Popular attractions in Oklahoma City include  the Oklahoma City Zoo, The Myriad Botanical Gardens, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Frontier City Theme Park.

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a must visit for those who love arts and the rodeo.

Also Read: Best Road Trips from Dallas to explore attractions such as New Orleans, Denver, and even Big Bend!

The innumerable day trips from Dallas are a great way to relax and have a fun day within a short time.

Whether you like history and unique architecture or artsy shops and upscale boutiques, there is the perfect day trip destination waiting to capture your interest near Dallas.

From historic Jefferson to bustling Galveston Island, you can find great options for Dallas day trips if you’re seeking an escape from city life.

Which one would make a good day trip destination from Dallas for yourself? Let us know in the comments below!

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• Day Trips from Dallas
• Trips From Dallas

28 Day Trip Destinations Up to 2 Hours Driving from Dallas

Get a break from the city and spend a different day in the amazing Dallas surroundings. Discover 14 small towns and 14 State Parks near Dallas ideal for a day trip!

Looking for a change of air but not in the mood for a sleepover? Browsing side trips within a short driving distance from Dallas? 

These 28 top day trip destinations near the city will do the job!

Say goodbye to boredom and enjoy a different scene exploring the rich and diverse Dallas surroundings. Discover surprising travel destinations as close as 30 minutes from Dallas, ideal for a quick day trip. 

Looking for things to do in Dallas as well? Check 52 ideas to enjoy a leisure day in DFW here . 

Planning to spend the weekend away? Explore the 16 weekend travel destinations up to 4h30 from Dallas .

Peek at our ideas below and start exploring DFW suburbs, neighboring towns and nearby nature preserves.

1. Glen Rose, TX

Distance: 75 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Start your day exploring Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , Texas’ finest zoo safari and only a short driving-distance from Dallas.

Enjoy the 7.2-mile Gosdin Scenic Drive and stop along the way to admire wildlife and feed the animals. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Head to  Dinosaur Valley State Park to enjoy the rest of your day. Bring a picnic, hiking gear and a good camera – be prepared for great photo ops. And swimming suits and water shoes on summer.

Spend the day exploring the several and beautiful hiking trails and looking for real Dinosaur footprints along Paluxy’s river riverbed. During the excruciating Texas summer, cool off at beautiful swimming holes and river beaches.

Nestled in an area once part of an ancient ocean, Dinosaur Valley features real dinosaur tracks left millions of years ago, making this place incredibly unique and a must-visit destination from Dallas year-round.

Insider’s tip: dinosaur tracks are not always visible – it depends on the water levels – so check the State Park Facebook page in advance for current trails status and dinosaur tracks visibility.

Big Rocks Park

Have some extra time left? Pay a visit to Big Rocks Park , a beautiful and unique natural area featuring Big Rocks along the Paluxy River.

A cool place to contemplate nature, have fun climbing the rocks and cool off on summer. Best part? The access is completely free!

2. Piney Woods Wine Trail, TX

Distance: starting 70 miles/ 1h00 min from dallas.

With locations as close as one hour driving from Dallas, the Pine Woods Wine Trail features 19 Texan Wineries and Vineyards, offering experiences ranging from wine tours to wine tastings and onsite restaurants.

Visiting some of them is an amazing way of enjoying a different day in the Dallas surroundings, and one of the best ways to soak in beautiful East Texas.

Here you can find all wineries part of the Piney Woods Wine Trail, as well as the trail map. Click on each one of the wineries to check the activities offered, make reservations and plan your self-guided tour

3. Davis, OK

Distance: 130 miles/ 2h00 min from dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness

Start off your day at Arbuckle Wilderness . Drive through the beautiful rustic zoo safari and feed the animals from your car.

Allow about one hour to fully experience it. Head then to your next stop, Turner Falls.

Turner Falls Park

On your way to Turner Falls stop by Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies to grab some delicious pies for a picnic.

At Turner Falls hike, visit the castle, explore the caves, go zip-lining and, weather-permitting, swim in the falls and adjacent swimming areas.

Turner Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma and specially gorgeous low-season – you usually cannot swim during the colder months, but you get to skip the crowds and enjoy this stunning nature setting at its best.

4. Island View Park - Pottsboro, TX

Distance: 85 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Scenic Beach near Dallas

Life is better at the beach. And your best bet to bury your feet in the sand without driving long hours, is to head to gorgeous Island View Park, a little over one hour driving from Dallas.

By Lake Texoma shores, Island View features two beach areas. One with infra-structure including covered shelters and picnic tables, and another wilder – and more beautiful – with nothing more than white sand and the crystal-clear lake.

Bring a picnic, an umbrella, water shoes (the bottom is rocky) and enjoy a day by the beach right at the Dallas outskirts.

5. Waco, TX

Magnolia Market

Visit the town made famous by HGTV Fixer Upper show stars Chip and Joanna Gaines.

Start by exploring the couple’s Magnolia Market at the Silos , a shopping, entertainment and gastronomy complex. Have a cupcake at Magnolia Bakery, chill out playing lawn games and grab a bite at one of the local gourmet food trucks. Stroll through the store to check Joanna Gaines home goods selection.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Head then to the nearby Waco Mammoth National Monument and tour a real excavation site featuring Columbian mammoth fossils. 

It is the only place in the world with an entire herd of Colombian Mammoths on display.

Cameron Park

For some outdoor fun, climb the short but steep Jacob’s Ladder at the beautiful Cameron Park.

The park is a gorgeous nature setting right in the middle of Waco, crossed by the Brazos River, with cliffs, picnic areas and trails.

6. Burger's Lake - Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 39 miles/ 0 h 45 min from dallas.

Not an Ordinary Waterpark

Memorial Day through Labor Day, this is the place to cool off and have a summer blast in the Dallas surroundings!

Burgers Lake is beautiful and sparkling clean spring-fed lake with sandy bottom, surrounded by two white sand beaches, lounge areas and picnic tables. It features slides, diving boards, trapezes and more.

A popular summer destination in DFW and a must for those looking for summer fun at its best.

Distance: 145 miles/ 2 h 00 min from Dallas

Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Only 10 minutes away from Downtown Salado, Chalk Ridge Falls is a beautiful nature area featuring a gorgeous waterfall, trails, swimming holes and even a small suspended bridge!

A must visit for nature lovers year-round, and an amazing way to kick off a leisure day in Salado.

Barrow Brewing Company

Head to Barrow Brewing Company for beer tasting. Grab a wood fired pizza from the onsite food truck and, on select days, listen to live music while enjoying it.

Salado Glassworks

Salado is known by its vibrant artsy community. And Salado Glassworks , right next door to Barrow Brewing, is one of the best places in town to enjoy it.

Stop by to watch artists blowing amazing glass pieces. Or dive headfirst into the experience and create your own masterpiece in one of the blowing events offered in the studio.

Main Street

Stroll down historic Main Street.

Explore its shops and art galleries. Stop by rustic and charming Salado Winery Co tasting room.

Prepare to head back home or, if you still have some energy left, have dinner at Barton House , an over 150 year old historic restaurant.

8. Tyler, TX

Distance: 98 miles/ 1 h 30 min from dallas.

Tyler State Park

Tyler is a home to the gorgeous   Tyler State Park .  

With a beautiful lake ideal for paddling and swimming and more than 13 miles of trails, Tyler State Park is a nature lover’s paradise any time of the year.

Nestled in the Pine Woods region of Texas, it is the closest place to Dallas to experience this unique environment and find yourself in the middle of the woods only a short drive away from the city.

Head to Tyler early in the morning and enjoy the day at Tyler State Park.

Bring a picnic or, summer-only, stop by Ham Orchards and grab a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich and a pint of homemade peach ice cream to be enjoyed surrounded by tall trees.

Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary

Top off your day with a tour at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary . Learn more about their rescue and rehabilitation programs and see the beautiful wild cats.

A wildlife preserve home to over 40 rescued big cats and other endangered species, Tiger Creek offers an inspiring and educational experience, only a few miles away from Tyler State Park.

9. Rockwall, TX

Distance: 25 miles/ 0 h 30 min from dallas.

Lake Ray Hubbard

Enjoy the day at Lake Ray Hubbard, one of the largest lakes in north Texas. 

Head to the  Chandler’s Landing Marina to rent a boat or jet ski and explore the lake. For a more modest budget, drive 10 minutes to Paddle Point Park on the neighboring town Rowlett and rent a kayak or a stand up paddle board to take an amazing leisure trip through Lake Ray Hubbard.

Later on, on a clear sky day, breath in an amazing sunset from The Harbor , a lakefront dining and entertainment district. Watch it from Gloria’s or Rodeo Goat’s patios while you have a margarita, a beer or enjoy a delicious meal at one of these top restaurants. 

Or on summer, for privileged views from the water, take a sunset cruise instead through Sail with Scott , and watch the sun going down while you sip a glass of wine and enjoy some snacks (BYOBF).

San Jacinto Plaza

At night, head downtown. 

On summer, listen to live music at San Jacinto Plaza while you enjoy a beer from Beer Geeks .

Any other time of the year, enjoy a few drinks or dinner at locals favorites’ Zanata or Bin 303

Distance: 35 miles/ 0 h 40 min from Dallas

Bluebonnet and Sunflower Fields

Flowers, flowers, and more flowers. If you are looking for beautiful Bluebonnet Fields on Spring and inspiring Sunflower fields on summer, Ennis is your destination.

Throughout April, the small town is home to the ‘Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas’, an over 40-mile long drive. It is one of the best places in Texas – and the closest one to Dallas among those – to spot these beautiful wildflowers protected by law and take that perfect Spring snapshot. 

On early summer, you can find beautiful Sunflower fields (check US 287 from Ennis to Wax late June for some beautiful photo ops).

Drive-In Movie Theater

A perfect spring or summer day trip to Ennis?

After driving through the beautiful Bluebonnet or Sunflower fields – depending on the time of the year you’re visiting – head to  Galaxy Drive-In Movie Theater  for an old-fashioned movie session under the stars.

11. Grapevine, TX

Distance: 22 miles/ 0 h 25 min from dallas.

Wineries and Wine Tastings

Explore local wineries, embark on a vintage train and stroll through unique shops and boutiques at Historic Main Street, in this charming small town less than half an hour away from Dallas.

For wine lovers, try Homestead Winery, Messina Hof Winery or Cross Timbers, all part of the Texas’ Grapevine Wine Trail  and located on or right off Main Street. Texas is – surprisingly for most – the 5th largest wine producer in the U.S, so if you love wine and have not tasted the Texas’ varieties yet, you are missing out.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

To step back in time, hop on an authentic Victorian-era train from the 1920’s at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad .

Embark on a short 1-hour excursion – ideal for families with small kids – or take the long Cotton Belt Route ride instead, including a stop at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Stroll along Main Street and explore quaint and unique shops. 

Stop by the Grapevine Olive Oil Co and Vetro Glass Blowing Studio and Art Gallery, to name a few.  For a quick – and delicious – bite, head to the Main Street Bistro & Bakery. For a treat, Dr Sue’s Chocolate. 

Christmas Capital of Texas

Grapevine is also the self-proclaimed Christmas Capital of Texas with over 1400 events happening in 40 days during this time of the year.

Some of the most famous not to be missed include the Ice! exhibition at the Gaylord Texan Resort , the Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s  North Pole Express® and the Carol of Lights street event.

12. Canton, TX

Distance: 60 miles/ 1 h 00 min from dallas.

The World's Largest Flea Market

Visit the largest outdoor flea market in the world and the oldest in the US at Canton, about one hour away from Dallas.

The First Monday Trade Days takes place from Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday of each month ( check the dates here ). It features over 5,000 vendors sprawled over 700,000 sq. ft. It is huge and a destination by itself. Plan to spend the whole day there. 

Spring and fall are the best times of the year to visit it – avoid summer at all costs, the heat can be excruciating! If possible, go on a Thursday to skip the crowds.  Wear comfy shoes and bring cash – there are tons of good food options on site and many vendors do not accept credit cards.

Canton’s First Monday is not your ordinary shopping experience. There you will find almost anything you can imagine and interact with vendors like in the old times. Prepare to treasure hunt, bargain, and walk a lot. If you like vintage stuff, collectibles, and antiques, you will love this place. 

13. Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 32 miles/ 0 h 35 min from dallas.

Sundance Square and Fort Worth Water Gardens

Home to the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards and to one of the best small museums in the US, Fort Worth is a perfect destination for a short day trip from Dallas – or even a staycation.

Start off the day with a brunch at the Sundance Square . Reata and Bird Cafe are some good restaurant options in the area.  Afterwards take a short walk towards the Sundance Square Plaza and head then to the beautiful Fort Worth Water Gardens .

Kimbell Art Museum

Visit the nearby  Kimbell Art Museum , a master piece of modern architecture. It is considered one of the best small museums in the USA.

There you will find world-class exhibitions as well as premium art pieces from the permanent collection, including Michelangelo’s first known painting as well as works from Miro, Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt

Fort Worth Stockyards

Top off with a r eal rodeo championship , held every Friday and Saturday night year-round at the Fort Worth Stockyards. 

Or hit the floor at an authentic Honky Tonk instead – the Stockyards is home to Billy Bob’s Texas , the world largest honky tonk, and to the legendary White Elephant Saloon .

Coyote Drive-In

Or watch a movie under the stars from the comfort of your trunk – or lawn chairs – at Coyote Drive-In , an old fashioned movie theater offering live music on Fridays and Saturdays night.

A seasonal i ce rink is also available on site late November through mid-January.

14. Granbury, TX

Distance: 70 miles/ 1 h 15 min from dallas.

Historic Granbury Square

Explore Historic Granbury Square, considered one of the most beautiful in Texas. Stroll through unique shops, boutiques, cafes and visit the nearby museums.

Have lunch at Ketzler’s Schnitzel Haus & Biergarten or Christina’s Bistro – you cannot go wrong with any of them.

Local Goat Distillery and Barking Rocks Winery

Walk a few blocks from Granbury square and go tour or spirits tasting at Local Goat Distillery . 

Or hop in the car and drive a few minutes to Barking Rocks , a quaint winery and vineyard with beautiful grounds, offering wine tastings.

Granbury Beach City Park

Finish your day with a sunset at Granbury Beach City Park.

A well-kept white sand beach by lake Granbury and popular destination summertime, but also enjoyable any time of the year.

14 Texas State Parks up to 1h30 from Dallas

Distance: 0h25 to 1h30 min from dallas.

14 State Parks up to 1h30 driving from Dallas

In need of a nature fix? The Dallas surroundings are home to 14 State Parks, up to 1h30 from the city.

Gorgeous nature preserves, maintained by the government, featuring everything from hiking, horseback riding and cycling trails to swimming holes, lake beaches, rock-climbing areas and more.

Here you find all of the 14 State Parks you can visit in a day trip from Dallas , with distance and relative location to the city, links for reservations and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

My favorites? Tyler, Dinosaur Valley, Eisenhower, Lake Whitney, and Lake Mineral Wells.

The Dallas surroundings offer amazing day trip opportunities. And here you discovered great ideas to spice up your weekends and make you enjoy the experience of living in Dallas to the fullest!

Glen Rose, the Piney Woods Wine Trail, Davis, Island View Park, Waco, Burgers Lake, Salado, Tyler, Rockwall, Ennis, Grapevine, Canton, Fort Worth and Granbury are all amazing destinations up to 2 hours from the city.

Add the 14 State Parks up to 1h30 listed here to the equation and you got yourself 28 travel ideas to choose from whenever you feel like taking a break from routine!

What is your favorite day trip from Dallas? Share in the comments section below.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas, Texas’ third most populous city, holds appeal for its modernity and metropolitan range of things to do and see.

From museums, culture and arts, to a thriving food and drink scene – and not just for Texas barbecue – it’s understandable that its popularity is growing, even among those who aren’t Dallas Cowboys fans.

Don’t just come for its historical significance – it was, after all, the place where JFK was assassinated – come for the broad range of activities to be had within the city, as well as the plentiful options in its nearby surrounds.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Dallas :

1. Beavers Bend State Park

Natural beauty is one of many things that Dallas’ surrounds has going for it, and Beavers Bend State Park is one great example of this.

Located in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, the fresh, clear waters of Beavers Bend Lake is its main source of entertainment, with kayaking, jet skiing and boating on offer.

If you’re after a more relaxed visit, however, nearby Hochatown has great restaurants and wineries to browse; perfect for a tranquil escape from the busy city life of Dallas.

2. Fort Worth

For a truly authentic Texan experience, nearby Fort Worth, ‘where the West begins’, is certainly worthy of a visit (if you’ll pardon the pun). Cowboy boots and ten gallon hats abound, and the place is complete with plenty of Tex-Mex foodie options, as well as the world’s largest honky-tonk at Billy Bob’s.

In Fort Worth you can experience the real Wild West, with cattle drives twice daily and regular rodeos – and all of this is just 45 minutes’ drive to the west of Dallas.

If the cowboy hype just isn’t doing it for you, there’s also the nearby zoo, and plentiful other cultural attractions in the city to keep you entertained.

3. Athens, Texas

If finding the birthplace of the great American hamburger has been languishing on your bucket list for ages, then making the 90-minute drive from Dallas to Athens would be a worthwhile excursion.

Rumor has it that a local man introduced his minced beef sandwich invention at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, but the quaint town is far from a one-hit-wonder.

The downtown area is full of shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic buildings, and there’s a popular farmer’s market on the weekends as well.

There’s also a scuba park on the town’s clear lake, so plan on making a day of it.

4. Fredericksburg

Some of the state’s best wines hail from Fredericksburg, set right into Texas Hill Country.

Its picturesque setting means Fredericksburg would certainly be a great option for couples or girls groups looking to escape.

With more than two dozen different wineries on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice – but any and all will certainly satisfy.

Then, when you’re done sipping on the region’s best, a stroll along the town’s gorgeous historical streets will provide the perfect way to end your day.

5. Jefferson

The home of US history, Jefferson has heaps of options for culture lovers.

Located in the Piney Woods region, the city’s biggest draw is the historic houses, some of which are opened up for tours during the day, and others of which actually operate as bed-and-breakfasts.

A great place to get a sense of pre-civil war America, Jefferson’s many museums are one of the main things to do there – check out the Gone With the Wind museum for a diverting couple of hours! If museums aren’t really your thing, you can also take a river boat tour of the Big Cypress Bayou.

6. Turner Falls State Park

Yet another nature-lover’s option, Turner Falls State Park offers lots of things to the passing day-tripper, among them swimming holes, picnic spots and hiking trails.

It is also home to Oklahoma’s biggest waterfall, a 77-foot beauty tumbling into the water below.

Visitors can spend the day exploring the walking trails around the park, seeking out caves and strolling along streams, and there’s also opportunity to spot some wildlife along the way.

When you get tired, you can always stop and relax on one of the park’s many sandy beaches.

Not many things would attract a day tripper from Dallas to Waco, if not for the intriguing highlight of the town: the Dr Pepper museum.

Undoubtedly the only one of its kind, the museum was where the popular soda was bottled from 1906 until the 1960s.

Nowadays you can wander round to explore the many exhibits, take a look at the old-fashioned soda fountain, and of course, purchase one of a whole range of Dr Pepper-based memorabilia from the gift shop.

Also nearby is the Magnolia Market, made famous by US HGTV show Fixer Upper.

Many people make the trip to the home improvement store just for the novelty value!

8. Lake Texoma

If you’re after a tranquil day trip, why not take the opportunity to go to Lake Texoma to check out its fishing scene? With over seventy species of fish swimming around in its depths, this is a great place for both amateurs and experts.

There are also lots of other activities on offer in Lake Texoma, from boating on the lake to hiking and biking on the many trails that adorn its circumference.

You can also spend some time exploring some of more than fifty parks that fringe the lake.

9. Davy Crockett National Forest

Though this forest is also used for commercial purposes, there’s plenty of fun activities on offer around the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area for the whole family.

The 45-acre lake is great for swimming, of course, but also for boating and fishing, and there are some great picnic spots nearby for lunch.

For something a bit different, there’s also Piney Creek Horse Trail, which stretches for over 50 miles through the forest.

It would only be right to see the park on horseback, given its famous namesake.

• 10. Pat Mayse State Park

Located in the town of Arthur, Texas, Pat Mayse State Park is comprised of nearly 10,000 acres of varied environments that are particularly popular with nature lovers, sportsmen, and those looking to escape the big city crowds in Dallas.

Don’t expect to relax with a cappuccino at the welcome center or rub elbows with the park’s staff, because there aren’t any of either.

For rugged and independent types, that means tons of wide-open spaces and minimal crowds.

It’s open to hunters during the various game seasons, and anglers who come match wits with their aquatic quarry at the park’s streams and reservoir.

11. Arbuckle Wilderness Park

Safari in style at Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Davis, Oklahoma.

One of the best places around to get up close and personal with nature, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is situated in more than 200 acres of great outdoors, just waiting to be explored.

Visitors drive through the park where the animals reside, and might even be lucky enough to have some curious creatures come right up to their windscreen.

There’s also a petting zoo and a reptile house located in the park, as well as designated feeding times for some of the animals.

• 12. Palestine, Texas

Even for law-abiding drivers who obey Texas’ liberal speed limits, Palestine is less than two hours from Dallas, making it another fun day trip option.

It’s a great town in which to relax and stock up on Old West regalia like cowboy boots, hats, and leather belts studded with silver and turquoise.

Don’t worry if they’re not your thing, because the town also boasts a number of historic attractions like the Anderson County Courthouse and the Carnegie Library.

There are two golf courses in town too, and four lakes that are magnets for anglers and water recreation enthusiasts during the warm summer months.

Claimed to be the world’s first and oldest flea market, Canton is certainly worth a visit if you’re there for its First Monday Trade Day – check the date before you go.

In operation for over 150 years, since the 1850s, the flea market hosts antique dealers and artists and craftsmen, and generally a whole host of people who just love to chat.

With slightly unsavoury beginnings, as vendors used to set up shop outside the site of local hangings, the Canton market is, in its modern iteration, certainly a sight to be seen.

Bring lots of cash, and get your bargaining hat on.

14. Lake Whitney State Park

Lake Whitney State Park offers all the usual park-bound activities – hiking, biking, swimming and picnicking – but it has some more unusual activities, too.

Visitors can, strangely, check out the scuba diving available in the waters of the lake – and see what it has to offer from an underwater perspective.

You can even do your PADI open water certificate here (though not on a day trip, of course). Diving aside, Lake Whitney also boasts the option of jet skiing, as well as bird watching around its outer fringes – you might spot anything from wild turkeys to bald eagles to burrowing owls.

15. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

For one of the more intriguing state park offerings, head to Glen Rose and check out the prehistoric fascinations of Dinosaur Valley, straddling the Paluxy River.

Search along the riverbed and you might just spot the footsteps of an ancient creature, who trod where you stand over 113 million years ago.

You can also use the park’s Mapping Dinosaur Tracks app to help you in your search – an advantage little George Adams didn’t have when he first discovered the tracks in 1909.

Aside from dinosaur hunting, the park can be explored on foot, by mountain bike, or on horseback, and provides more than 20 miles of trails for its eager visitors.

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas:

• Beavers Bend State Park
• Athens, Texas
• Fredericksburg
• Turner Falls State Park
• Lake Texoma
• Davy Crockett National Forest
• Arbuckle Wilderness Park
• Lake Whitney State Park
• Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

• Last Updated On
• October 2, 2023

9 Fun things to Do Near Dallas, TX: Best Places to Visit Nearby

From football stadiums, stockyards and railroads to animal interactions and high-flying roller coasters, you’ll find a huge variety of activities, tours and attractions near Dallas, Texas.  

Discover a hidden gem, visit a popular historical site or get back to nature in nearby cities like Fort Worth, Frisco, Arlington and Parker.

Keep reading to check out some free or fun things to do near Dallas, TX the next time you need a day trip or mid-week getaway.

1. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

3200 Darnell Street Fort Worth, TX 76107 (817) 738-9215

Looking for romantic places to visit near Dallas?

Look no further than a leisurely stroll through the minimalist paintings, stainless steel sculptures, and Ilfochrome photographs at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Why We Recommend Going Here

Works by Picasso, Pollock, Lichtenstein, and Warhol … is there really any other reason?

Distance from Dallas

It’s about 35 miles and a 35-minute car ride from Dallas.

Recommended Hotel Near Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth: Stockyards Hotel

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Dallas

2. Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza 646 Main Street Dallas, TX 75202 (817) 892-4000

This two-hour tour takes you and your football-loving crew on a tour of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys.

Check out the radio boxes, press boxes, private suites, Cotton Bowl offices, Ford Motor Company Fountain, and more. 

You’ll also get to see the locker rooms, post-game interview rooms, and the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders’ locker room.

Ever wanted to throw a football in a state-of-the-art stadium?

Check that one off your bucket list on this tour.  

The tour leaves and returns to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza in Dallas.

At about 19 miles away, Arlington is a quick 22-minute shuttle ride.

Recommended Hotel Near Dallas Cowboys Stadium : Live! by Loews – Arlington, TX

Related:   Best Things to Do in Dallas

3. Best of Fort Worth Tour

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza 646 Main Street Dallas, TX 75202

While you’re searching for places to see near Dallas, don’t miss a tour of Fort Worth.

You’ll get to learn about rodeo history at the Stockyards and visit Sundance Square, Bass Performance Hall, the Fort Worth Water Gardens, and the Cultural District.

Between a rodeo, a cattle drive, architectural water garden features, and cultural attractions, there’s something for every generation from Boomers to X, Y, and Z.

This tour leaves from and returns to the J.F. Kennedy Memorial in Dallas.

Fort Worth is about 32 miles and a 31-minute shuttle ride from Dallas.

Recommended Hotel Near Fort Worth: Embassy Suites Fort Worth – Downtown

Related: Restaurants in Dallas, TX

4. Llama Experience

Royse City, TX 75189

For family-friendly fun, you can’t go wrong with a llama tour.

These llamas live the high life alongside an Irish-inspired castle.

Tour the barns and learn all kinds of interesting facts about llamas (and their mamas).

It’s llamas!

Take selfies and interact with this pack of friendly and uber-pampered and pedigreed llamas.

This tour meets in Royse City, TX.

It’s 31 miles and about a 33-minute car ride from Dallas.

Recommended Hotel Near Llama Experience: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Royse City – RockwallRockwall – Royse City

5. Southfork Ranch and the TV Series Dallas Tour

3700 Hogge Drive Parker, TX 75002 (972) 442-7800

You can’t go to Dallas without visiting “Dallas.”

The iconic Southfork Ranch from the ‘80s drama is open and waiting for oil barons of all ages.

There’s a guided train ride around the property where the show was filmed.

Texas longhorns, American Quarter horses, and J.R. Ewing.

You just can’t get more Texan than that.

The tour leaves and returns to the JFK Memorial in Dallas.

At 26 miles, Parker is just a stone’s throw away.

It’s about a 32-minute car ride. Longer if you go by horse.

Recommended Hotel Near Southfork Ranch and the TV Series Dallas : Best Western PLUS Dallas Hotel & Conference Center

Related: Top Dallas Attractions

6. Six Flags Over Texas

2201 Road to Six Flags Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 640-8900

Talk about cool places to go near Dallas.

Six Flags Over Texas features a cool collection of roller coasters, family-friendly rides, entertainment, and cuddly characters.

Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and other Looney Tunes-themed ride delight the youngsters, while memories of these characters bring nostalgia to the rest of us.

Then there are the thrill rides with names like Spinsanity and Pandemonium.

At 18 miles and about 21 minutes by car, Six Flags Over Texas is just a quick drive away.   

Recommended Hotel Near Six Flags Over Texas : Sheraton Arlington Hotel

7. SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium

Grapevine Mills Mall 3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway Grapevine, TX 76051 (469) 444-3004

If you’ve already experienced all the best things to do in Dallas with kids , it’s time to venture out into the neighboring areas.

Start off with a trip to the nearby SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium. 

Stingrays, sharks, starfish, clownfish, and a sea turtle rescue exhibit are just a few of the cool animals you’ll meet here.

The Ocean Tunnel is a fun way to see what’s under the sea.

All sorts of marine creatures swim alongside and above as you walk through the tunnel.

It’s 22.5 miles and approximately 23 minutes by car from Dallas.

Recommended Hotel Near SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium : Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center

Related: Best Beaches Near Dallas

8. Museum of the American Railroad

8004 N. Dallas Pkwy #400 Frisco, TX 75034 (214) 428-0101

If you’re looking for things to do near Dallas, TX, and have train fans in tow, this is the place to be.

Check out full-size antique trains and Pullman cars and learn the history of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives.

There’s also a TrainTopia model train exhibit.

Looking for cheap activities near Dallas?

The Museum of the American Railroad’s walking tours are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 3-12.

Within easy access to Dallas, it’s 28 miles and about 29 minutes by car.

Recommended Hotel Near Museum of the American Railroad : Omni Frisco Hotel

9. Fort Worth Zoo

198 Colonial Parkway Fort Worth, TX 76110 (817) 759-7555

When you’re searching for things to do and see near Dallas , put a pin on the Fort Worth Zoo.

Lions, tigers, giraffes, and jaguars are waiting for your visit.

There are more than 540 species of mammals, birds, and more in habitats from the African savanna to the Australian outback.

Meerkats, river otters, and ring-tailed lemurs.

What more could you want?

At 34.5 miles and about 37 minutes by car, the Fort Worth Zoo makes a nice day trip from Dallas. 

Recommended Hotel Near Fort Worth Zoo: Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown Hotel

9 Fun Things to Do Near Dallas, TX for 2024

• Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth
• Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour
• Best of Fort Worth Tour
• Llama Experience
• Southfork Ranch and the TV Series Dallas Tour
• Six Flags Over Texas
• SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium
• Museum of the American Railroad
• Fort Worth Zoo

Top 30 Places to Visit Near Dallas

Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of Dallas? Looking for a quick escape to unwind and rejuvenate? Lucky for you, there are plenty of places near Dallas that are perfect for a weekend getaway! From the historic appeal of Fort Worth to the scenic splendor of Farmersville, we have compiled a list of the top 30 places to visit near Dallas.

Whether you’re looking for a lakeside destination or a nostalgic drive-in movie experience, we’ve got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the charm and beauty that surrounds Dallas.

Table of Contents

1. Discovering the Charm of Downtown Dallas

Experience the electrifying nightlife in downtown Dallas, embracing a vibrant entertainment scene. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Reunion Tower and the JFK Memorial Plaza while immersing yourself in the Dallas Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture Center.

Indulge in shopping and dining at Bishop Arts and Deep Ellum, and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby parks like Cedar Ridge Preserve and White Rock Lake.

2. The Historic Appeal of Fort Worth

Explore Fort Worth’s rich history by visiting the Stockyards National Historic District. Discover the beauty of nature with a visit to Cedar Hill State Park or enjoy a day of family fun at Six Flags Over Texas amusement park. Experience the art and culture of Dallas at the Dallas Museum of Art and take a trip to Grapevine, known for its wineries and charming small-town feel.

3. Grapevine: The Essence of Texas

Steeped in history and renowned for its wineries, Grapevine offers a myriad of attractions and experiences. The Grapevine Vintage Railroad and the Historic Main Street District beckon visitors to explore the city’s rich heritage. Furthermore, the proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport makes it a convenient stop.

Whether indulging in the annual Grapefest festival or enjoying outdoor activities at Lake Grapevine, there’s something for everyone in this charming Texas city.

4. The Vibrant Ambience of McKinney

Nestled 30 minutes north of Dallas, McKinney exudes charm with its historic downtown area boasting unique shops, restaurants , and art galleries. Visitors can revel in outdoor activities at Towne Lake Recreation Area or indulge in the annual Oktoberfest celebration.

Wine and beer enthusiasts will find delight in the several wineries and breweries scattered across McKinney, making it an ideal destination for connoisseurs. The vibrant ambiance of McKinney beckons, offering a blend of history, recreation, and culinary experiences.

5. The Rustic Beauty of Canton

Nestled an hour east of Dallas, Canton captivates with its small-town charm and rustic allure. Visitors flock to the renowned First Monday Trade Days flea market, while nature enthusiasts explore Lake Tawakoni and Purtis Creek State Park.

History buffs find solace in the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial and the Blackwell House Museum. Canton is a serene getaway for those seeking natural gems and a taste of small-town life, just a short drive from the big city.

6. The Scenic Splendor of Farmersville

Nestled just east of Dallas, Farmersville boasts rolling hills and picturesque countryside, attracting outdoor enthusiasts to its scenic beauty. Visitors revel in activities like hiking, fishing, and camping at the nearby Lake Lavon area, while history buffs explore the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center and the Collin County History Museum.

The town’s vibrant spirit shines through annual events, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing day trip from Dallas.

7. Denison: The Perfect Blend of History and Nature

Nestled an hour and a half north of Dallas, Denison offers a seamless harmony of history and nature. The town boasts the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site and the Red River Railroad Museum, attracting history buffs.

Surrounded by Lake Texoma and Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, outdoor enthusiasts revel in hiking, fishing, and wildlife sightings. With downtown’s eateries and shops, Denison is an ideal spot for unwinding and exploration.

8. Unveiling the Charm of Frisco

Frisco, a growing city north of Dallas, offers attractions for all. The National Videogame Museum showcases gaming history, while Frisco Square is perfect for shopping and live entertainment. The Ford Center at The Star houses the Dallas Cowboys and hosts events.

Sports fans will love the Dr Pepper Ballpark, home of the Frisco RoughRiders. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and the Frisco Athletic Center. Frisco truly has something for everyone.

9. The Unique Attractions of Waco

Explore Waco’s unique attractions, from the shopping and delicious food options at Magnolia Market at the Silos to the iconic history showcased at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Discover famous athletes from the state at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, or immerse yourself in nature at Cameron Park and the Waco Mammoth National Monument. Don’t miss a tour of the McLane Stadium, home of the Baylor Bears football team, for an unforgettable experience.

10. Ardmore, Oklahoma: A Hidden Gem

Ardmore, Oklahoma, a short drive from Dallas, offers diverse attractions for visitors. Explore the Ardmore Convention Center and Greater Southwest Historical Museum.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Lake Murray State Park’s fishing and hiking trails. Shop at unique boutiques and fuel up at vibrant dining spots. Ardmore is an ideal day trip or weekend getaway for those seeking a taste of adventure outside of ‘Big D’.

11. Glen Rose: Fossils, Parks and More

Embark on an adventure at Dinosaur Valley State Park to witness ancient dinosaur tracks and fossils. Immerse yourself in nature at the nearby Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, where fascinating animals roam freely.

Take a leisurely drive through the picturesque Paluxy River Valley, or engage in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, fishing, and camping. Discover shopping and dining delights in the historic downtown square, creating unforgettable memories in Glen Rose.

12. Experience the Serenity of Lake Texoma

Nestled on the Texas-Oklahoma border, Lake Texoma offers a serene escape. Visitors delight in swimming, boating, and fishing activities. The picturesque Lake Texoma State Park provides campsites and cabins for overnight stays, while marinas and restaurants cater to various tastes.

Its tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway, drawing guests from across the United States. A perfect setting for a quick escape from the big city life in Dallas.

13. Tyler: Nature’s Playground

Nestled near Dallas, Tyler beckons nature enthusiasts with its diverse offerings. Tyler State Park invites exploration through hiking, camping, and fishing. Flower aficionados find solace in the Tyler Rose Garden, while the Caldwell Zoo boasts a captivating collection of over 3,400 animals.

Families flock to the Discovery Science Place for engaging scientific exhibits, and history buffs revel in tours of the Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum. The annual East Texas State Fair adds a festive flair to this nature-centric destination.

14. Grapeland: A Paradise for Wine Lovers

Nestled in East Texas, Grapeland beckons wine enthusiasts with its renowned wineries and vineyards. This charming town offers a unique experience, boasting a variety of grapes such as Blanc du Bois and Black Spanish.

Award-winning wineries like White Fox Vineyards and Maydelle Country Wines await, inviting visitors to savor leisurely walks through scenic vineyards. Wine-related events like the annual Grapefest and Wine Tasting Festival further enrich the experience, making Grapeland a haven for oenophiles.

15. Calvert: A Victorian Treasure Chest

Nestled 90 miles south of Dallas, Calvert boasts impeccably preserved Victorian-era homes, churches, and commercial buildings. The town’s historical district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers self-guided walking tours for explorers.

Visitors also flock to Calvert for its antique shops, art galleries, and local dining options. With its rich architectural heritage and diverse attractions, Calvert is a Victorian treasure chest waiting to be discovered.

16. Jefferson: The Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas

Jefferson, a mere 2-hour drive from Dallas in East Texas, boasts historic homes and buildings transformed into delightful bed and breakfasts. Visitors can explore the historic district with guided tours or at their own pace.

The town also offers antique shops, boutiques, and outdoor activities at Lake O’ the Pines and Caddo Lake. Annual events like the Jefferson Candlelight Tour of Homes and Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards add to its allure.

17. Georgetown: A Quick Escape from the City

Escape the bustling city with a short drive to Georgetown, just 30 miles north of Austin . This quaint town boasts a historic downtown square filled with unique shops, art galleries, and outdoor dining options.

Nature enthusiasts can explore Lake Georgetown for fishing and boating, as well as the San Gabriel River for kayaking and tubing. History buffs can visit the Williamson Museum and catch a show at the restored Palace Theatre. Don’t miss the Red Poppy Festival and Christmas Stroll for some local charm.

18. Broken Bow: An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream

Nestled in southeastern Oklahoma, Broken Bow beckons just a short drive from Dallas. This picturesque retreat allures outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes and a plethora of activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

Beavers Bend State Park offers camping, swimming, and horseback riding, while Hochatown boasts wineries, breweries, and quaint boutiques. The area also hosts the scenic Talimena Drive and Ouachita National Forest, making it a perfect escape from the big city.

19. Miraval Austin: The Ultimate Wellness Retreat

Situated on 220 acres of picturesque Texas Hill Country, Miraval Austin offers a range of wellness activities, including yoga, meditation, and outdoor adventures.

The luxurious accommodations are designed for ultimate relaxation, while the spa provides various treatments and massages, along with a sauna and hot tub.

Guests can savor fresh and healthy cuisine with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensures a customized retreat experience, making it an ultimate wellness destination.

20. The Mesmerizing View of Island View Park – Pottsboro

Discover the mesmerizing outdoor spaces, like the stunning Island View Park in Pottsboro. Take a stroll through the charming town of Grapevine and immerse yourself in its historic charm and unique shops.

Dive into history at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, documenting the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Experience the adrenaline rush with thrilling roller coasters and attractions at Six Flags Over Texas.

Serene escape awaits at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden amidst beautiful flora and fauna. Embark on a behind-the-scenes tour of the famous AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys.

21. Burger’s Lake – The Unconventional Waterpark in Fort Worth

Burger’s Lake delivers a unique, retro swimming experience with its 30-acre spring-fed lake and sandy beach. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as picnic areas and a water slide, perfect for a family day trip or a leisurely outing. The clear, cool spring-fed water is ideal for swimming and diving, offering a refreshing escape from the nearby city.

22. Salado – The Best of Art and Craft

Discover the artistic allure of Salado, a quaint town renowned for its vibrant art galleries and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Delight in special events such as captivating art fairs and craft shows, making it a haven for art enthusiasts and treasure hunters alike.

Notably listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Salado’s historic district offers a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage, adding depth to an already enriching experience.

23. Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary in Tyler

Nestled in Tyler, Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary serves as a refuge for big cats and other fascinating animals, offering guided tours to educate visitors about wildlife conservation.

The sanctuary provides a spacious, safe environment for various animals, including lions, tigers, and leopards, dedicated to the welfare of endangered species. It’s a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to witness these majestic creatures up close and contribute to their preservation.

24. The Harbor in Rockwall: A Beautiful Lakeside Destination

Nestled along the serene waterfront, The Harbor in Rockwall beckons with a delightful mix of shops, dining venues, and entertainment options. Whether indulging in waterfront dining, savoring live music, or partaking in special events, visitors are assured of a memorable experience.

The picturesque boardwalk and iconic lighthouse add to the allure, creating the perfect setting for a stroll or a romantic evening. This lakeside gem offers the ideal blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination .

25. Drive-In Movie Theater in Ennis: A Nostalgic Experience

Experience a nostalgic cinematic adventure at the Ennis drive-in movie theater, where visitors can enjoy movies under the starlit sky from the comfort of their vehicles.

The theater’s retro ambiance and classic concession stand create a unique and memorable movie-watching experience, perfect for a fun, throwback movie night. Ennis drive-in offers a delightful escape, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the magic of classic cinema beneath the open sky.

26. Grapevine Vintage Railroad: A Journey through Time

Step back in time with the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, offering a historic journey through the countryside. Experience a nostalgic train ride on a steam or diesel locomotive and indulge in special events like wine tasting and holiday-themed rides.

The scenic journey provides a unique and charming perspective of the area’s natural beauty, making it a must-visit attraction near Dallas for those seeking a delightful travel experience .

27. Sundance Square and Fort Worth Water Gardens

Nestled in the heart of Fort Worth, Sundance Square beckons with its bustling urban energy, offering an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. This vibrant downtown district boasts captivating outdoor art, live music performances, and a lively atmosphere, creating an irresistible invitation to explore.

Meanwhile, a tranquil haven awaits at the Fort Worth Water Gardens, where visitors can admire the stunning water features and modern architecture, immersing themselves in the serene landscapes for a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility.

28. Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth: A Visual Treat

The Kimbell Art Museum boasts an extraordinary permanent collection, featuring a diverse range of art, including European masterpieces.

Visitors can marvel at the museum’s stunning architectural beauty and serene setting, providing a rich cultural experience for art enthusiasts and history buffs.

With its world-class visual and educational offerings, the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth truly stands out as a captivating destination for aficionados of fine art and culture.

29. Coyote Drive-In in Fort Worth: Movies under the Starlit Sky

Places to visit near Dallas experience a unique outdoor movie adventure under the starlit sky at Coyote Drive-In. With a diverse selection of movies for all audiences, this drive-in theater creates a nostalgic and laid-back atmosphere.

Enjoy food trucks, picnic areas, and an outdoor bar for a memorable cinematic experience. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a family outing, Coyote Drive-In in Fort Worth is the perfect destination to enjoy movies and create lasting memories.

30. Choctaw

Located just a short drive from Dallas, Choctaw beckons with a vibrant atmosphere and a unique blend of entertainment. Boasting gaming, dining, and live entertainment, this destination provides the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled getaway.

Special events, concerts, and performances ensure a lively experience for visitors, making it an exciting and dynamic destination within a short drive from Dallas. Choctaw offers an unforgettable combination of entertainment and leisure activities, making it a must-visit spot near Dallas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular attractions to visit in Dallas and the surrounding areas?

Some of the most popular attractions near Dallas include the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, offering beautiful gardens and seasonal events. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza provides a historical look into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

The Fort Worth Stockyards offer a glimpse into Texas’ cowboy culture with cattle drives and live music. Other attractions include the AT&T Stadium, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and Kimbell Art Museum.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known destinations near Dallas worth checking out?

Explore the lesser-known destinations near Dallas, and you’ll uncover hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the Fort Worth Water Gardens, the National Scouting Museum in Irving, or the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney.

Venture to Grapevine or Waxahachie for a taste of small-town charm, or explore the historic district of Granbury. And don’t forget to ask locals for their recommendations!

What is the best time of year to visit these top 30 places?

The best time to visit these top 30 places near Dallas depends on your preferences and the specific location. Spring and fall, with their mild weather, are generally considered the best times to go. Summer is great for water activities and outdoor events, while winter offers indoor attractions and holiday festivities.

Are there any budget-friendly options for visiting these top 30 places?

Places to visit near Dallas Yes, there are ways to visit these top 30 places on a budget. Consider going during the off-season or weekdays to save money. Look for discounted tickets or coupons online before your trip. Bring your food and drinks to cut down on dining expenses.

Places to visit near Dallas whether you are a local or a visitor, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has a vibrant range of attractions to explore. From the charm of downtown Dallas to the historic appeal of Fort Worth, there is something for everyone. Grapevine offers a taste of Texas, while McKinney boasts a vibrant ambiance.

If you’re seeking rustic beauty, Canton is the place to be, and Farmersville offers scenic splendor. Denison combines history and nature, while Rockwall’s harbor provides a lakeside escape.

Ennis offers a nostalgic drive-in movie theater experience, and the Grapevine Vintage Railroad takes you on a journey through time. Explore Sundance Square and the Fort Worth Water Gardens, immerse yourself in art at the Kimbell Art Museum, or watch a movie under the starlit sky at the Coyote Drive-In. Whatever your interests, the Dallas area has something to offer.

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Welcome to Dallas! If you're looking for free activities with the kids, or a fun night out on the town, Dallas has so many things to do for your next adventure.

From the classics like Reunion Tower and Perot Museum of Nature and Science , to new experiences in must-see spots like Trinity Groves and the Design District , there are endless ways to fill a trip to Dallas. Throughout Dallas, you'll find plenty of ways to fill a one, two, or even three-day trip to Dallas with performances , restaurants , and adventures. Check out the nation's largest urban arts district , world-class shopping and accommodations , the mouth-watering cuisine from countless restaurants and eateries , beautiful green spaces , outdoor trails , and live entertainment in our distinct neighborhoods , each with their own compelling vibe.

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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 .

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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

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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 .

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Home » North America » Dallas

27 BEST Places to Visit in Dallas (2024)

People often dismiss the idea of traveling in their own country. When they have a holiday, they’d rather go somewhere exotic. But if you choose to travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy all the same attractions without the long flight. Dallas has amazing scenery, a vibrant music and arts scene, seriously intense shopping, and the tastiest barbecue foods you’ll ever encounter.

Dallas may not be on your travel bucket list, which is why you may need a little help working out what you should see in this exciting city. There are lots of attractions and activities that will suit every taste, preference, and fitness level, so you may need some help deciding what to do. To help you with that, we’ve created this list of the best places to visit in Dallas that includes some attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dallas:

These are the best places to visit in dallas, faq on the best places to visit in dallas, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in dallas.

Located just east of downtown is the lively and vibrant neighbourhood of Deep Ellum. A hub for entertainment and live music, Deep Ellum is perfect for music lovers and anyone looking to rock out all night long.

• Browse the shops, stalls and vendors at the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market.
• Listen to live music every night of the week at the Free Man.
• See Deep Ellum’s Traveling Man statues, a trio of massive installations spread across the neighbourhood.

Deep Ellum isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Perhaps you want somewhere quieter or off the beaten track even. Be sure to check out where to stay in Dallas to find the BEST area for you! Now, onto the fun…

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#1 – The Sixth Floor Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dallas

• The best place to visit in Dallas if you’re curious about JFK.
• This museum is an impartial record of JFK’s death and documents every angle of the event.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s a lot of controversies out there about JFK and how he died, and this museum does its best to clear up that confusion. It documents it from every angle, including the historical context and cultural perspective, to try to give visitors a balanced and objective view.

What to do there: If you think that JFK’s death is part of a bigger conspiracy, then this museum might convince you differently. Take the time to explore the more than 40,000 artifacts, as well as the window that Lee Harvey Oswald shot from, and make up your own mind once you have all the facts. You can then head to the grassy knoll below and experience the scene for yourself.

#2 – Texas Horse Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Dallas

• If you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids, then you can’t go past horse riding while you’re in Texas.
• This park pays homage to the history of the city, which is why visiting is a Dallas must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a 302-acre park that is within the Great Trinity Forest and is part of Davy Crockett’s legacy. You can enjoy a variety of horse-based activities here including riding lessons, trail rides, and hippotherapy.

What to do there: Give in to your traditional side while you’re visiting Dallas and get close to nature at the same time. The trail rides are particularly good because you’ll be able to enjoy ancient trees, springs, and a Native American archaeological site alongside the Trinity River. And best of all, when you add this to your Dallas itinerary, you’ll be able to do it all with the sparkling lights of the city close by.

#3 – Klyde Warren Park – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Dallas

• A new park that’s become a favorite amongst tourists and locals alike.
• This part only opened in 2012 and it’s now one of the best places to visit in Dallas for a relaxing hit of nature.

Why it’s so awesome: This park cost the city 110 million dollars and was built over a railway line to connect the uptown and art districts. It’s become one of the city’s social centers and offers a range of free activities to suit every taste.

What to do there: While you’re wandering around Dallas , the traffic and the fumes of the city can get to you. When it does, you should make a detour to visit this park. Locals and tourists alike visit the park to breathe in a bit of nature, to enjoy some outdoor activities, and to just relax. So, check out what’s on while you’re in the city, from yoga to ice-skating, table tennis, or chess.

With a Dallas City Pass , you can experience the best of Dallas at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#4 – Highland Park Village – A great place to see in Dallas if you love architecture

• This was the first outdoor shopping center in America.
• The Spanish influenced architecture is as popular as the designer labels inside the building.

Why it’s so awesome: This shopping center is located inside a lovely, Spanish inspired building that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. And then when you go inside, you’ll be confronted with the latest labels and fashions, from Dior to Chanel and Alexander McQueen. So really, it’s the best of both worlds.

What to do there: If you love to shop, and have a flexible budget, then this is the place you need to visit. So, take an afternoon or a morning, warm up your credit card, and shop the labels with the rest of the city.

#5 – Fearing’s Restaurant

• This restaurant is owned by celebrity chef Dean Fearing.
• This is the place to visit if you’re looking for a sophisticated experience as well as great food.

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy an elegant décor and slow, sophisticated food, then this restaurant will suit your preferences. Located within the Ritz-Carlton hotel, this restaurant offers hearty food with a traditional twist and unusual flavor pairings that will leave your mouth tingling.

What to do there: This is the perfect restaurant for a relaxed, elegant night out. So, get dressed up and head in for an unforgettable meal. Try the chicken-fried Maine lobster and wood-grilled antelope steak if you’re looking for something tasty and unusual. And afterwards, head out to one of the nearby bars for a relaxed drink in sophisticated surroundings.

#6 – Southfork Ranch

• Home of TV’s dysfunctional Ewing clan.

Why it’s so awesome: Most people will recognize this white house at first sight from the TV, and if you’re a fan of the show then exploring it is a Dallas must-do. The house was home to some of the most iconic moments in TV history, including the shooting of J.R. and is one of the most popular points of interest in Dallas because of it.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the house and then explore the museum as well. The tour will take you through the most famous rooms in the house and you’ll be able to see costumes, clips, and props from the TV show.

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#7 – Dallas Arboretum – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Dallas!

• A stunning botanical garden in the center of the city.
• The garden also holds amazing Cool Thursdays Concerts on the lawn.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden is stunning on its own, with lots of areas and exhibits that will interest every member of the family. The Thursday concerts are amazing as well and cover a range of genres, which includes 70s and 80s tribute music.

What to do there: If you’re in the city on a Thursday then make sure you turn up to see what music they have on. But the gardens are worth visiting during the day as well. Take the kids to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, wander the Texas Skywalk and walk under the Cascades, a stunning waterfall.

#8 – George W. Bush Presidential Library

• This is the best place to visit in Dallas if you want to learn more about 21st-century history.
• There’s an exhibit on the 9/11 attacks at this museum, so be careful if you’re particularly sensitive.

Why it’s so awesome: This probably isn’t the type of museum that kids will enjoy, but it’s still a fascinating place for adults who like learning more about the history of the places they visit. If this is one of your favorite pastimes when you travel, then this museum is a treasure trove.

What to do there: There are a few exhibits in this museum that get top ratings from visitors. You can see an exact replica of the Oval Office, learn more about 9/11, and get insights into the Bush dynasty. Afterwards, make sure you try out the Decision Points Theater, where you get to make decisions based on evidence the President had at the time of the choice. It’s a sobering and fairly difficult look at the weight that comes with power.

#9 – The Nasher Sculpture Center

• Home to some of the best art in the city, which is why it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Dallas.
• Located in Dallas’s Art District, there’s something for everyone here.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like art then you’ll love this center. It includes both temporary and permanent exhibits as well as a two-acre garden that’s filled with works by some of the best artists and photographers in the business. The center also offers the Nasher prize and you can see exhibits from past winners at the center as well.

What to do there: There are a range of exhibits and activities at this center that are worth seeing. Make sure you check out the sculpture garden where you’ll see pieces by Henry Moore, Rodin, and George Segal. This is also the place where you can enjoy live music and outdoor movie screenings. So, find out what’s on while you’re in the city and make sure you go along.

#10 – The Katy Trail – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Dallas

• A 3.5 mile route through the parks of the city.
• This is the local’s favorite place to exercise, so if you want to work off your holiday then this is the place to do it.

Why it’s so awesome: This trail winds through the parks of the city and through some of the most popular districts in Dallas. It’s popular with dog walkers, runners, and cyclists, and follows the path of the old railroad, known as the MKT or the Katy. As long as the weather is reasonable, you’ll find locals exercising and enjoying the outdoors in this location.

What to do there: If you’ve been eating too much on your holiday or just miss the endorphins you get when you work out, then put on your exercise gear and head down to this trail. You can walk the route and stop off whenever you see something interesting or just focus on your fitness and explore afterwards, whichever you want to do.

#11 – AT&T Stadium

• This stadium has an innovative and award-winning design that seats 85,000 fans and makes for a fantastic sporting experience.
• Sports are huge in Dallas, so you might as well be a part of the action!

Why it’s so awesome: People in Texas love their sports and Dallas is no exception. A sign of just how deep this love goes is this amazing stadium, which is to normal stadiums what a luxury car is to a family station wagon. This stadium is high tech, amazing to look at, and makes the sporting experience even more exciting than it normally is.

What to do there: You should obviously see what sports are on while you’re in the city and try to catch a game at the stadium. But even if you aren’t there at the right time, you can still get the America’s Team guided tour and get a behind the scenes look at everything from the artwork in the stadium to the locker room.

#12 – Lower Greenville – Cool place to see in Dallas with friends!

• One of the recently renovated hotspots in Dallas.
• This area used to be a little scary but is now one of the city’s best spots for nightlife.

Why it’s so awesome: This part of Dallas used to be rundown and most tourists and locals avoided it when possible. However, after a facelift and some marketing, it has become one of the most popular attractions in Dallas. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun night out and to enjoy some of Dallas’s best restaurants and cocktails.

What to do there: You’ll find a variety of unusual and trendy places to eat, drink, and hang out in this area. Visit during the day for a meal and then dessert at Steel City Pops, with its variety of gourmet popsicles. And then head over to HG Sply Co. for cocktails on the roof terrace with the hippest people in the city.

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#13 – The State Fair of Texas – Awesome place to visit in Dallas with kids!

• Don’t miss this incredibly popular fair.
• Kids, adults and everyone in between will find things to do, see, and eat at this iconic event.

Why it’s so awesome: Between late September and October, the State Fair of Texas offers everyone amazing food, attractions, concerts, animals, and acres of fun, lights and sound. This fair is famous even outside of Texas and is an iconic event that sums up everything that Dallas is known for.

What to do there: If you’re in the city at the right time, then this fair is a Dallas must do. It draws in visitors from all over the state and you’re bound to find something to enjoy there. Try the food, watch a concert, or just wander around and enjoy the atmosphere. If you’re from another part of America or the rest of the world, it’s like stepping into the Texas that you’ve seen in movies and on television.

#14 – Reunion Tower

• The best place to visit in Dallas for a spectacular view of the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome: When you visit a new city, you absolutely must see it from high up at least once. The Reunion Tower is the best place in the city to get these amazing views and to start to understand Dallas in its entirety.

What to do there: Take your camera up to the observation deck of the Reunion Tower on a clear day and go nuts with the pictures! If it’s cloudy or overcast, you probably won’t get the best view, so try to pick your time carefully for the best view and images.

#15 – Dallas Museum of Art – A perfect place to visit in Dallas if you are on a budget!

• Admission to the general exhibition is completely free.
• This is one of the best places to visit in Dallas with kids too!

Why it’s so awesome: Located in the arts district just across from Klyde Warren Park, this museum is the pride of the city. There are more than 24,000 objects in the museum dating from the third millennium to the present day as well as amazing educational programs that have won awards for their innovation and creativity.

What to do there: You’ll need a bit of time when you visit this museum as it’s one of the largest in the US and takes visitors on a journey from the ancient past to the modern-day. Make sure you take a look at the different collections too, including artwork from Africa, all over Asia, the Mediterranean, and the contemporary collection.

The arts district is home to some of Dallas’s best Airbnb’s so why not stay in the area and roam the museum until your heart’s content.

#16 – Trinity Groves – A must-see for foodies!

• No matter what food you enjoy, you’ll find it at this restaurant hub.
• This is the perfect place to start your night out in Dallas.

Why it’s so awesome: This area is Dallas’s restaurant hub and you’ll find a dizzying array of food options in this business district. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, vegan, Asian, seafood or Mediterranean food, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings in this area.

What to do there: For a really awesome night out, try sampling everything that’s on offer. Start out at Tapas Castile for an appetizer, find another restaurant for your meal and then find somewhere else for dessert. And don’t forget the after-dinner drinks either, because you’ll find a variety of options for a quick drink in between courses along the way.

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#17 – The Arts District – One of Dallas’s coolest historical sites!

• A whole area where you’ll never be short of things to do and see!
• One of the most famous places in Dallas for the arts and for a great day and night out.

Why it’s so awesome: You might not know this, but Dallas has one of the biggest urban area areas in America at the moment. The Arts District stretches for 19 blocks across the city and is filled to the brim with restaurants, museums, and theaters. There’s something for everyone in this district, which makes it the perfect place to visit in Dallas if you have a free couple of hours or even a whole day to fill!

What to do there: One of the best things you can do in this area is to wander and just explore what’s around. But if you prefer to be more directed, then don’t forget to check out what’s on at the AT&T Performing Arts Center while you’re in the city. A good way to explore this area is by taking a walking tour so you can get an insider’s view of the district before you start to explore on your own.

#18 – Fair Park

• This park is a nationally registered historic landmark.
• It was designed by George Dahl and the whole area is a stunning example of art deco.

Why it’s so awesome: This park originally opened in 1886 for the Dallas State Fair and the fair is still the highlight of the year. But even if you travel to Dallas at a different time of year, there’s still a lot to see in this area. There are a variety of amazing Art Deco buildings in the area that are prime examples of this trend. They’ve been adapted to suit modern standards, but still look amazing in photos.

What to do there: If you’re in Dallas at the right time of year, make sure you see the State Fair in October. The Cotton Bowl in the middle of the park also hosts the annual University of Texas versus the University of Oklahoma game, so if you’re in the city at the right time then make sure you see this iconic, extremely popular game.

#19 – The Travelling Man

• This exhibition includes 3 installations spread throughout a Dallas neighborhood.
• The statues are meant to indicate the different stages of life and are a startling and fascinating addition to the neighborhood of Deep Ellum.

Why it’s so awesome: Created by the artist Brad Oldham, the statues were created to replace murals that had to make way for the city’s rail lines. Each figure is made of polished metal sheets that are riveted together and evoke the railway history of the neighborhood. There are 3 separate statues and they tell the story of the Traveling Man from birth to life. According to the stories, the Traveling man started out as a buried locomotive that was brought to life by a splash of gin that turned him into a type of transformer!

What to do there: This is one of the most fun things to do in Dallas . Check out the statues in order to get the best impression of the story being told. The first statue is known as Awakening and features just part of his head emerging from a pit of gravel. From there, you can see the robot on Good Latimer Street, leaning against some debris, and then taking a stroll in the third and final piece.

#20 – Adrian E. Flatt Hand Collection – Quite the quirky place in Dallas!

• This museum is one of the most unusual things to do in Dallas!
• A singular collection that you won’t soon forget.

Why it’s so awesome: The contents of this museum were created by an orthopedic surgeon who has a slight obsession with hands. It’s filled with bronze casts of the hands of famous people as well as significant figures in history and society. The creator was a surgeon who specialized in hand surgery and this lit the spark that led to this singular collection.

What to do there: This is a quick, quirky visit that will look great in photos and give your trip a more unique flavor! Make sure you have a look at some of the famous hands in the collection such as Walt Disney, Mickey Mantle, Doctor Seuss, and Dwight Eisenhower. You’ll also find the hands of composers and astronauts. In fact, the collection includes over 100 pairs of bronze casts.

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#21 – The ‘Eye’ Sculpture

• A slight strange display outside of the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas.
• This art installation was created to surprise passers-by and it certainly does that.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you see an enormous, 3 stories tall eye lying in a garden, but this is precisely what you’ll see in Dallas. The eyeball is impressively rendered, with streaky red veins, and looks unsettlingly real. It was created by Tony Tasset in 2007 as part of a temporary display and is made of fiberglass. It started out its life in Chicago, was taken to St. Louis, and finally ended up in the center of Dallas.

What to do there: This is a prime selfie spot and will look great on social media! It’s owned by the Joule Hotel and is located in the middle of an otherwise lovely sculpture garden. It really draws attention where it is, and even the locals sometimes look surprised to see a huge eye staring back at them as they hurry past.

#22 – The Perot Museum

• The perfect place to take the kids for an interactive and educational experience.
• The museum contains 5 floors of exhibits, so you could while away hours there.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum stays up with the times and includes 11 permanent exhibition halls with 3D computer animals, life-like simulations, educational games, video, and interactive kiosks. There are also some additional displays for kids including an outdoor play space and dedicated children’s museum. Your kids will love the robots and 35-foot tall fossils as well!

What to do there: If you’re looking for a place to take the kids while you’re visiting Dallas, then this is the perfect location. They’ll learn about the world without realizing that they’re learning, and you’ll enjoy the experience as well.

#23 – White Rock Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Dallas

• This park is home to a variety of special events in Dallas.
• When you want to do some exercise in natural surroundings, this is the perfect place to visit.
• The kids will love this area too because it manages to offer several wildlife experiences right in the heart of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: White Rock is one of the most popular parks in Dallas and for good reason. It’s the chosen venue for special events throughout the year and even on quiet days, it’s the place the locals visit to exercise, picnic and just soak up the natural surroundings. The park also contains miles of hiking and bike trails, dedicated picnic areas, a dog park, and wetlands along with the associated wildlife just meters from the busy city!

What to do there: Check out what’s on in the park while you’re in the city and make sure you don’t miss any of the special events. But apart from that, this is a great place to spend an afternoon. The park offers prime bird watching opportunities, kayaking and canoeing across the lake and miles of hiking and bike trails. Basically, whatever you like to do in nature, you’ll be able to do it in this park!

#24 – Frontiers of Flight Museum

• A Dallas must do for aviation fans!
• This museum contains over 35,000 historical artifacts that show how humanity finally lifted off the ground.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in aviation or in space, then you need to pay a visit to this museum. It has a collection of over 30 aviation and space flight exhibits which includes 13 galleries of displays of small aircraft models. There are also over a dozen full-sized planes including a model of the Wright Flyer, created by the Wright brothers, and aircraft from different wars.

What to do there: Spend some time learning about flight! You’ll get the chance to explore the histories of aviation pioneers such as Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and Bessie Coleman. You’ll also get the chance to see planes from the World Wars and the Cold War as well as an Apollo pod.

#25 – Zero Gravity Thrill Park

• This park has a perfect safety record, so although the rides may be scream-inducing, they’re also extremely safe for you and your family!
• The perfect place to spend some time with your family or friends.

Why it’s so awesome: This park contains some of the scariest and most thrilling rides in the world. It’s one of the best places in Dallas if you like a little adrenalin with your trip and includes rides like the 7 story Bungee Jump, the Texas Blastoff, which travels straight upwards at 70mph, and the Skyscraper, which hits four G’s as it goes around! This is definitely not the kind of park which is designed for the faint of heart!

What to do there: Prepare yourself for some scares and take your bravest friends along with you. If you’re going to visit this kind of park then you need to go on as many rides as your stomach can take, so see how many you can take before your stomach says, ‘no more’. This park is also popular amongst kids and does have some slower, safer rides that will suit all ages.

#26 – Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament – One of the more unique places to visit in Dallas!

• If you’ve ever wanted to watch jousting while eating with your hands, then this is the place to do it.
• There are only 8 of these restaurants in the US, so you need to try them whenever you can.

Why it’s so awesome: For some reason, the medieval times have always excited people’s imaginations and their stomachs, and this restaurant is the only place in the modern world where you can indulge that interest. It offers 11th-century style meals that you can eat with your hands while you watch the knights joust for the right to be the Queen’s champion.

What to do there: If you’re looking for more unusual places to eat in Dallas, then try this restaurant for a meal you can really sink your teeth (and your hands) into. The food is relatively authentic, satisfying, and not all the healthy, but you don’t visit this type of restaurant for its vegetables. Instead, let yourself enjoy the atmosphere and the jousting and picture yourself back in a time long before your birth.

#27 – Legoland Discovery Center

• A wildly popular attraction in Dallas ever since the release of the movies!
• Great for kids and adults who are in touch with their inner children.

Why it’s so awesome: This Legoland is actually an amazing Lego playground with rides, build and play areas, a 4D cinema and a factory tour where you can learn all about how Legos are made. It’s the perfect place to take any child who loved the movies and wants a chance to build their own creations on a larger scale!

What to do there: Spend an afternoon or a morning at Legoland and let yourself remember how fun it can be to create without any expectations. Check out the 4D movie and then take the factory tour to get a behind the scenes look at how Legos get their colors and shapes. It’s much more interesting than it sounds!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dallas

What is the top place to visit in Dallas, Texas?

The Sixth Floor Museum and the J.F.K. Memorial Statue are the top places to visit in Dallas because of their cultural importance.

What is the best outdoor place to visit in Dallas?

The Dallas Arboretum is a stunning outdoor botanical garden in Austin and a perfect place to visit in Dallas in the outdoors.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas at night?

The views from Reunion Tower are fantastic at night when the city is all lit up.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas for adults?

Fearing’s Restaurant is a sophisticated restaurant with food cooked by the top chefs, a perfect place to enjoy without the kids.

Exploring the many and varied cities in America can be as exciting as visiting more exotic locations. When you travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy amazing food, shopping, a vibrant atmosphere, and lots of sports excitement during an easy, relaxed trip. This might not be a destination you’ve considered visiting before. That’s why we’ve decided to inspire you with this list of the best places to visit in Dallas no matter what you like doing, seeing, or eating!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The 14 Best Things to Do in Dallas

By Priya Krishna and Jonathan Thompson

You’ve heard the expression: Everything's bigger in Texas —and those who say it all over the state aren’t wrong. But few Texas cities embody that mantra more than the sprawling metropolis of Dallas, one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, already boasting the largest urban Arts District in the nation, and the country's second-busiest airport. With more than 20,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline (second only to New York City ), and preparations well underway for its upcoming spotlight as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, there’s never been a better time to experience the Big D. Here are the best things to do in Dallas when you inevitably come to town.

Rad our complete Dallas travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Klyde Warren Park Arrow

This public park spans more than five acres across the busy Woodall Rogers Freeway. It acts as a bridge connecting uptown to downtown, but it also has abundant green space, a paved trail for joggers or walkers, fountains, a dog park, and daily free programming, ranging from yoga to movie screenings. In November 2022, its most recent addition saw an improved 6,000 square foot children’s park open, including a state-of-the-art kids’ climbing wall and a shaded pavilion for events.

Dallas Arboretum Arrow

Frequently named one of the top botanical gardens in the world, the fairytale-esque Dallas Arboretum sits resplendent on 66 glorious acres, overlooking majestic White Rock Lake. From the innovative Trial Gardens to the serene Woman’s Garden, this is the kind of Eden-like enclave where you’ll actively want to get lost amid the blooming beauty. The ‘Cool Thursdays Concert Series’ on the manicured lakeside lawn are also a major treat in the Spring and Fall—particularly when enjoyed with a picnic and a glass of bubbly in hand.

AT&T Discovery District Arrow

Located at the geographic heart of downtown, the new Discovery District was years in the making and is a great outdoor meeting, drinking, and dining spot for commuters and tourists alike. It's essentially an enormous courtyard, so it's easy to navigate—the only real choice is where to sit and order. Jaxon, with its large outdoor space, is a favorite, but there are also plenty of great options in the Food Hall, including Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine from Baboushi and delicious seafood options from The Dock. AT&T clearly put a lot of thought into the space's installations: the 104-foot-tall Media Wall is hard to miss, bringing digital art to life in incredible detail, while The Globe is a perspective-twisting multicolored tunnel containing an interactive light and sound experience. It's a perfect place for a weekday lunch or a relaxed evening, with excellent people-watching as all of Dallas flows by. 

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Arrow

Set in the infamous Texas School Book Depository building, the museum covers the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy and is one of the state’s most visited historic sites. Explore the story from every angle at the impressive Sixth Floor Museum, housed in the infamous book depository from where Lee Harvey Oswald’s shots ricocheted on November 22, 1963. Poke through 40,000 artifacts and stand at the exact window where Oswald fired from, then head down to the grassy knoll to make up your own mind about the existence of a ‘second shooter.’ Afterwards, board the JFK Trolley Tour to visit other key sites first hand, including the Texas Theatre, the art-deco cinema where Oswald was finally apprehended by police.

Jessica Puckett

Kimberly Wilson

Sarah James

Harrison Pierce

Crown Block Arrow

Situated atop Dallas' iconic Reunion Tower, Crown Block boasts the best views in town—and also some of the best food. A rare steak and fine seafood restaurant, it's swiftly become a place for the big movers and shakers of the Big D to see and be seen since its opening in April 2023. As the elevator opens onto the 18th floor restaurant, it's hard not to be blown away by the sight of downtown Dallas in all its glory, unfurling beyond the floor to ceiling windows. There's a strict dress code, exceptional service, and an unbelievable sense of romance. It's the perfect place for an important date or a big birthday, basking in the undeniably sexy surroundings.

Dallas Museum of Art Arrow

Dallas boasts one of the largest urban arts districts in America, encompassing a mind-boggling 118 acres of museums, galleries, and theaters. Highlights include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, a four-venue complex centered on Sir Norman Foster’s striking drum-shaped Winspear Opera House, as well as I.M. Pei’s lavish Meyerson Symphony Center. But the headline act of them all is the Dallas Museum of Art, one of the largest institutions of its kind in the country, housing nearly 25,000 objects from the third century through present-day, across 159,000 square feet. The museum’s permanent collection (free to enter for all, every day) is particularly strong in African sculpture, decorative arts, and contemporary works, including paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.

Upstairs Circus Arrow

This is a completely different take on a regular bar, where you complete craft projects while drinking craft cocktails. It's a lot of fun, with people of all ages chatting and laughing while completing creations ranging from jewelry and leather wallets to homeware. Most people are either on dates (this is a genius date idea) or in bigger groups of friends. The location is great, the drinks are affordable, and you get to head home with a cool item you created yourself. It's a win-win-win. Because of the set-up, it's more about the creative projects than the creative juices on the menu, but the cocktails are genuinely tasty. (The trick is not to drink too many, so you don't mess up what you're working on.)

Sweet Tooth Hotel Arrow

Opened in October 2022, Sweet Tooth Hotel is not a hotel but an immersive art exhibit open to the public daily. A platform for emerging experiential artists, it's bright, dynamic, colorful, and an Instagrammer's dream—think edgy modern art gallery meets neon disco garden. The nine distinct gallery spaces are loosely linked by the "hotel" theme. Each one feels like you are entering a new, vibrant suite with something different to say. The staff are great—readily available to explain the thinking behind the exhibits (which is very helpful, as signage is limited). The bar staff at the Calirosa Cocktail Lounge are also awesome, and make a great selection of inventive cocktails, including Bubble Ducky—a pink tequila concoction served in a tiny bath with a miniature rubber duck floating in it.

Lee Harvey's Arrow

A "private social swim club", Lee Harvey's Dive In is like no other venue in Dallas. Essentially a sunny swim club across the street from a beloved 50-year-old dive bar, it's a brilliant, affordable option if you need to cool off from the intense summer heat of Texas, and fancy doing so with a delicious cocktail in hand, surrounded by beautiful people. There's a good selection of ice cold beer, both domestic and imported, but really this place is about colorful cocktails, which may or may not get spilled in the pool. The rum punch is surprisingly good and they serve a solid margarita too. For those feeling a bit more daring, try the Ocean Water: a party-starting fusion of malibu, vodka, and blue curacao.

Dallas Farmers Market Arrow

For years, the Dallas Farmers Market was mostly a wholesale market with purveyors primarily selling goods to restaurants. But a more recent emphasis on close-to-home farmers (and a major facelift of the site itself) has made it well worth a visit during any trip to the Big D. Check out The Shed—a breezy outdoor pavilion behind the main building where you can buy all kinds of fresh produce and delicious street food—before browsing everything from quirky housewares to artisanal jewelry in the main hall itself.

Pecan Lodge Arrow

Whichever way you slice it, barbecue is king in Texas, and Dallas has one of the finest BBQ restaurants in the entire state: Pecan Lodge. Here, the pit-smoked food is so good that the lines snake around the block pretty much every day at lunchtime (tip: if you order more than five pounds of meat, you can skip straight to the front). The handmade jalapeño sausages and beef brisket with southwestern seasoning are particularly superb, while the “hot mess” (sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with barbacoa and chipotle cream) is deliriously good. If you’re really hungry, order “the trough,” a hot, sticky selection of everything from the menu. Just make sure you save room for dessert: Aunt Polly’s banana pudding is the stuff of a local legend.

Bishop Arts District  Arrow

A hipster-pocket neighborhood just across the Trinity River from downtown, Bishop Arts is packed with more than 60 unconventional boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries, all within an easily walkable hub. Perennial favorites include homeware store Home on Bishop, cozy independent bookstore The Wild Detectives (which also serves a mean cocktail), and legendary confectionary store Dude, Sweet Chocolate. Meanwhile, recent additions include Ame, an exquisite French-Indian eaterie with a champagne bar, and Paradiso, a glamorous restaurant and cocktail bar built around a Mediterranean-style courtyard.

White Rock Lake Arrow

Located about five miles northeast of downtown, White Rock is a serene, 1,000-acre city lake surrounded by criss-crossing trails, picnic areas, and wildlife refuges. Looping the lake (about 9.3 miles on a well-maintained path) is a popular fitness pastime for both runners and cyclists, while the water sports on offer include rowing, sailing, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, with several local operators available. Meanwhile, at the old White Rock Municipal Fish Hatchery in the park’s southwest corner, you’ll find 50 acres of dense woodland to explore, with coyotes, red foxes, beavers, and pelicans among the wildlife in abundance here.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Arrow

A sleek, futuristic masterpiece next to Klyde Warren Park, the Perot Museum was designed by superstar architect Thom Mayne to resemble a large cube hovering over the landscape. Its immersive, interactive interior is even more impressive, with 180,000 square feet of exhibition space covering everything from dinosaurs to distant galaxies. Kids will love the “Earthquake Shake” in the Dynamic Earth Hall, while dads will equally enjoy the Lamar Hunt Family Sports Hall, where they can “race” legendary NFL running back Jamaal Charles. The superb onsite café, by Wolfgang Puck, makes it easy to spend a whole day here.

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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.

Strekoza2/Getty Images

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.

10 Cities Near Dallas to Buy or Rent in this Year

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Dallas, TX , is the cultural and economic center of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. You’ll find this modern, cosmopolitan city is a major center for the arts, technology, and business. Dallas is also home to some of the tallest skyscrapers in the country, a vibrant arts scene, thriving nightlife, and its world-renowned Texas barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and upscale restaurants.

As much as Dallas has to offer, it may not be the right city for you. And even if your job is in Dallas, that doesn’t mean you have to live in the city. There are plenty of cool cities near Dallas to live in that don’t have the same traffic, cost of living, and city noise.

To help you find the right place to buy or rent in, Redfin has gathered a list of 10 great cities near Dallas to consider instead.

#1: Richardson, TX

Miles from Dallas: 15 Population: 118,500 Median home sale price: $451,354  Average 1-bed rent: $1,872  Walk Score: 44 Bike Score: 33 Transit Score: 53

Richardson is home to a number of large businesses and organizations, including the University of Texas at Dallas. The city has a variety of parks and recreation facilities, as well as a number of schools and colleges.

When living in Richardson , make sure to visit the Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, take a walk or bike ride through the Breckinridge Park, and explore the University of Texas at Dallas campus.

Homes for sale in Richardson, TX Apartments for rent in Richardson, TX

Your next home is just a tap away

Miles from Dallas: 19 Population: 239,000 Median home sale price: $330,000  Average 1-bed rent: $1,379  Walk Score: 40 Bike Score: 29 Transit Score: 41

Garland is a large manufacturing city and Dallas suburb that’s home to around 239,000 people. The city is famous for its signature firewheel, a wildflower that flourishes during the spring and summer. The nearby Spring Creek Forest Preserve is home to over 600 plant species and trees, and some of which are over 300 years old.

You can visit the Garland Landmark Museum, the Historic Downtown Garland, or the Garland Symphony Orchestra if you’re looking for something to do in the city. You can also enjoy the many parks and recreation areas, including the Firewheel Town Center, the Garland Golf Course, and the Rowlett Creek Preserve.

Homes for sale in Garland, TX Apartments for rent in Garland, TX

#3: Plano, TX

Miles from Dallas: 20 Population: 289,000 Median home sale price: $527,500  Average 1-bed rent: $1,751  Walk Score: 41 Bike Score: 15 Transit Score: 52

If you’re looking to move to one of the cities near Dallas and experience some of the best authentic cuisines the state has to offer, then Plano is the city for you. With a population of just 289,000 you’ll get all the benefits of living in a city without overcrowding. Plus, Plano is only 19 miles north of Dallas, making it a great location for commuting or exploring everything Dallas has to offer.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied in Plano, such as visiting the Plano Balloon Festival, attending the Plano International Festival, going to the Plano Symphony Orchestra, and touring the Heritage Farmstead Museum.

Homes for sale in Plano, TX Apartments for rent in Plano, TX

#4: Arlington, TX

Miles from Dallas: 21 Population: 397,500 Median home sale price: $353,000  Average 1-bed rent: $1,072  Walk Score: 38 Bike Score : 0 Transit Score: 40

Arlington offers a wide variety of amenities and activities, whether you’re interested in sports, the arts, or simply enjoy the outdoors. The city is also conveniently located near Dallas and Fort Worth, making it easy to explore what each city has to offer.

Arlington is a great city for nature lovers, with plenty of parks and green spaces, as well as stellar restaurants. The city is also home to popular museums such as the Texas Rangers Baseball Hall of Fame, International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame, and Arlington Museum of Art. Performing arts venues like Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts and Arlington Music Hall are popular among locals. For a quick taste of the town, stop by Tandoor Indian Restaurant or Pioneer Restaurant.

Homes for sale in Arlington, TX Apartments for rent in Arlington, TX

#5: Carrollton, TX

Miles from Dallas: 22 Population: 137,500 Median home sale price: $439,446  Average 1-bed rent: $1,627  Walk Score: 36 Bike Score: 20 Transit Score: 39

Carrollton is located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area and is another one of the great cities near Dallas you may want to move to. A vibrant corporate and residential community, you can find abundant parks, schools, and charming neighborhoods.

If you’re looking for things to do in Carrollton, you won’t be disappointed whether your household is filled with nature lovers, history buffs, or foodies. Be sure to add the A. W. Perry Homestead Museum, City of Carrollton Museum, and Art of this World to your list of must-see attractions. And don’t forget to sample the cuisine at some of Carrollton’s most popular eateries, including Cristina’s Mexican Restaurant, Casa Vieja Restaurant, and Zocados Mexican Restaurant.

Homes for sale in Carrollton, TX Apartments for rent in Carrollton, TX

#6: Grapevine, TX

Miles from Dallas: 23 Population: 54,000 Median home sale price: $517,000  Average 1-bed rent: $1,716  Walk Score: 30 Transit Score: 38

Grapevine is a historic city located between Dallas and Fort Worth. The charming historic Main Street is the heart of Grapevine’s authentic living history, with its renovated 19th- and 20th-century buildings that house art galleries, shops, and and restaurants.

Home to Dove Park, Parr Park, and Oak Grove Park, and there are many parks where you can spend a relaxing evening. Make sure to grab a bite to eat at local favorites like Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano Grapevine and Thai Riverside Restaurant for a small taste of what this city has to offer.

Homes for sale in Grapevine, TX Apartments for rent in Grapevine, TX

#7: Allen, TX

Miles from Dallas: 26 Population: 104,000 Median home sale price: $570,000  Average 1-bed rent: $1,604  Walk Score: 35 Transit Score: 58

Allen is a great city to live that’s just north of Dallas. The city blends local charm and hospitality with world-class amenities.

There are many things to do in Allen including shopping at the Allen Outlets, visiting the Allen Heritage Village, and hiking at the Allen Nature Preserve. Allen has a lot of popular museums, including the Play Street Museum and the Allen Heritage Depot Museum. Parks are plentiful in Allen and you can find green spaces like Celebration Park and Bethany Lakes Park.

Homes for sale in Allen, TX Apartments for rent in Allen, TX

#8: Frisco, TX

Miles from Dallas: 30 Population: 188,500 Median home sale price: $672,500  Average 1-bed rent: $1,662  Walk Score: 25 Transit Score: 39

Frisco is a city that’s well-connected to the rest of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. There are many things residents can do in Frisco including shopping at Stonebriar Centre, visiting the Frisco Heritage Museum, cheering on the Frisco RoughRiders minor league baseball team, or hiking and biking on one of the many trails in the city.

Homes for sale in Frisco, TX Apartments for rent in Frisco, TX

#9: Fort Worth, TX

Miles from Dallas: 32 Population: 892,500 Median home sale price: $357,750  Average 1-bed rent: $1,380  Walk Score: 35 Bike Score: 22 Transit Score: 39

It goes without saying that Fort Worth is a great city to consider living in near Dallas. Fort Worth has a vibrant downtown area, an exciting city center, and many things to do, including experiencing the “western heritage” at the Stockyards National Historic District. 

Other things to do in the city include visiting the Fort Worth Zoo, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, the Kimbell Art Museum, and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. If you’re looking to experience one of the best downtowns in the country, Sundance Square is the place to be. You’ll find the perfect combination of cowboy culture and sleek modernity.

Homes for sale in Fort Worth, TX Apartments for rent in Fort Worth, TX

#10: McKinney, TX

Miles from Dallas: 33 Population: 191,000 Median home sale price: $525,000  Average 1-bed rent: $1,623  Walk Score: 27 Transit Score: 42

McKinney offers a unique blend of small town charm and big city living. It’s home to the tallest building in Texas north of San Antonio, the Collin County Courthouse built in 1874.

There are a number of things to do in McKinney. For example, residents can spend time in the historic downtown area or visit the McKinney Performing Arts Center. Additionally, there are a number of parks and recreation areas in McKinney, and such as Bonnie Wenk Park and Erwin Center Park.

Homes for sale in McKinney, TX Apartments for rent in McKinney, TX

Methodology: 

All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Dallas. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from United States Census Bureau .

Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Dallas area, Karen Nesbit is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Dallas area, Karen Nesbit possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.

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President joe biden visits dallas and houston for fundraisers, biden landed in dallas late wednesday afternoon. he had no public events on his schedule..

The Texas Tribune

President Joe Biden is back in Texas on Wednesday for a pair of private campaign receptions and fundraising events.

The Democratic president, who is seeking reelection in November, is scheduled to attend two fundraisers in Dallas on Wednesday and one in Houston on Thursday, as part of a sweep in the West to mobilize voters.

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He landed in Dallas around 5:40 p.m., 20 minutes after his expected arrival and was greeted by Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins. The president headed straight to his car to one of the two private fundraising events being held today.

This was the first time Biden landed at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

One of Biden’s Dallas events will be hosted by Dallas-based trial lawyer Russell Budd and others according to an invitation. Budd hosted Biden’s first primary campaign fundraiser in Texas in 2019.

It is Biden’s second trip to Dallas this year and seventh to Texas since taking office. The president’s last trip to Dallas was in January to pay his respects and attend the funeral of retired U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, a Dallas Democrat, who died Dec. 31 at age 89.

His most recent trip to Texas was late last month to Brownsville , where he toured part of the U.S.-Mexico border. In South Texas, he received a briefing from officials with the Department of Homeland Security and made a push for Congress to approve the bipartisan immigration bill which has been abandoned by the House. That same day his Republican opponent Donald Trump was in Eagle Pass, another border town.

This visit to North Texas is part of a travel campaign since Biden delivered his State of the Union address earlier this month, but also comes as the courts go back-and-forth over whether Texas can enforce a new immigration law.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court permitted a law allowing Texas police to arrest people suspected of illegally crossing the Texas-Mexico border, but hours after a federal appeals court halted the state law by the high court.

“After his border crisis opened the floodgates to deadly fentanyl and migrant crime across the country, Joe Biden tried and failed to sue Texas for enforcing immigration laws. Rather than showing up with solutions, he now looks to use Texas to fill his campaign coffers, and voters are taking note,” Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley said in a statement about Biden’s visit.

Before making his way to Texas, Biden made trips to battleground states like Wisconsin and Michigan. Earlier this week he stopped in Nevada and Arizona where he tried to win support from Latino voters and launched “Latinos con Biden-Harris” of Latinos with Biden-Harris. The campaign is aimed to engage Latinos, who were critical to Biden’s election in 2020. According to AP VoteCast , a survey of the national electorate, Biden’s Hispanic vote base has shrunk. In 2020 Biden won 63% of Hispanic voters, but in the 2022 midterms Hispanic support for Democratic candidates decreased to 57%.

The new Latino campaign rolled out ads in English, Spanish and blended both languages for Spanglish messaging. U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, is the campaign’s co-chair and in an announcement video she explained the key role Latinos will play in the campaign.

Escobar said Trump has demonized Latinos, and encouraged them to support Biden. Biden is emphasizing his support of labor union rights, pro-abortion rights and his efforts to cut housing costs to court Latino voters.

Texas has been a difficult state for Biden and is not expected to be a battleground in the presidential race. A Democrat hasn’t won Texas since Jimmy Carter in 1976. Among Latinos, Trump has found support among evangelicals and those focused on border security.

“When you’re talking about the Latino vote, it lives in the heart of the Lone Star State,” said Antonio Arellano, vice president of communications at NextGen America , the country’s largest youth vote mobilization platform.

Arellano said Biden is not taking Texas for granted, but there’s untapped potential in courting Latino catholic voters. Joe Biden is the second Catholic president in U.S. history, after John F. Kennedy.

“We have a very strong Catholic community, particularly in South Texas,” Arellano said.

He added that he’d like to see another visit to Texas from the Biden campaign to court Catholic voters, because it would “resonate deeply with those communities that have been yearning for leadership that reflects and understands their way of thinking and their values.”

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INSIDE THE RING: Adrian Neaves ready for his pro debut

Scholar athlete of the week: jackson kahanek, central catholic high school, brahmas one week away from first home game, safc wins first match of 2024, ksat 12 nightbeat sunday : mar 24, 2024.

What time is the solar eclipse? Search your ZIP code for a viewing guide

Get ready for a spectacular show: A total solar eclipse will occur above the U.S. on the afternoon of April 8. Most Americans will be able to see it in some form, but the distance between your location and the path of totality will determine how much of the sun will be covered by the moon. Many places in the U.S. − Rochester, N.Y., Cleveland, and Austin, Texas, to name a few − will see a total eclipse, in which the sun is completely obscured. Other locations will see a partial eclipse. Search for your ZIP code below or select a major city to reveal the time, duration, peak and percentage of the eclipse in your area.

What time is the eclipse? How long will it last? What will it look like?

Can't see our graphics? Click here to reload the page.

When is the eclipse?

On April 8 the moon will travel along the path of totality in North America starting in northern Mexico. The shadow of the moon will pass into Texas a little before 1:30 p.m. local time. It will then cover portions of the Midwest and East Coast and touch southeast Canada before it moves out to sea, according to NASA .

Learn more: What is the path of totality for the total solar eclipse? Follow as it crosses the US.

Lea en Españo l: ¿Cuál es la trayectoria de totalidad del eclipse solar total? Siga mientras cruza México y los EE. UU.

Are free eclipse glasses safe? How can I view the eclipse safely without glasses?

If you buy or are given eclipse glasses, be sure they are made by companies the  American Astronomical Society  and NASA have certified as safe. Eclipse glasses should all have the "ISO" (International Organization for Standardization) icon. The glasses also must have the  ISO reference number 12312-2 .

If you cannot find certified glasses, there are other ways to view the eclipse, including with a shadow box you can make yourself. Whatever you do, don't look at the sun without proper protection.

Learn more : What happens if you look at a solar eclipse? A viewing guide for this year's sky show.

Lea en Españo l: ¿Qué pasa si miras un eclipse solar? Una guía para ver el espectáculo celeste de este año.

How does an eclipse work? How often do eclipses occur? Where can I learn more about the science?

A total eclipse occurs when the moon appears the same size as the sun and blocks the entire disk, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. The resulting "totality," when observers can see the outermost layer of the sun's atmosphere, known as the corona, confuses animals – nocturnal creatures stir, and bird and insects fall silent.

Learn more : A total solar eclipse will cross the US in April: Here's where and when to see it

Lea en Españo l: El eclipse solar total cruzará EE. UU. en Abril: dónde y cuándo verl

Contributing: Janet Loehrke, Javier Zarracina and Shawn J. Sullivan

View from Washington, DC

Sun will be 87 % obscured

See what the solar eclipse will look like in your city

April 8 may be your best chance to see a total solar eclipse for two decades.

Scroll to continue

If you could look down on Earth from space during April’s total solar eclipse, you would see the moon cast its shadow on the planet, creating a dark blob that will dart across the land from Mexico into Texas and up toward Maine and Canada.

And if you are lucky enough to be looking up from Earth in the moon’s shadow, you’ll see the sky fall dark, it will get colder and quieter, and for a special three to four minutes, you’ll be able to view the sun’s glowing white corona.

For many people in North America, April 8 is likely to be the best opportunity in their lifetime to experience a total solar eclipse. Most in the contiguous United States, however, will only experience a partial eclipse.

Whether you see a total or partial eclipse all depends on where you are to view the phenomenon.

An estimated 31.5 million people live within the roughly 115-mile wide path of totality that stretches from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Newfoundland, Canada. Inside the path, as the sun, moon and Earth become perfectly aligned, the moon blocks the sun and casts its shadow on Earth. The farther away you are from the center of this path, the less the moon will obscure the sun. People within the contiguous United States who are outside the path will see a partial eclipse.

“During a total eclipse, you’re plunged into the moon’s shadow. You’re in this eerie twilight. You can see bright stars and planets in the sky. And of course, the biggest attraction is you see the sun’s solar corona. You don’t see any of those things in the partial eclipse, even at 99 percent,” said Fred Espenak, a retired NASA astrophysicist who has experienced 30 total solar eclipses. “It’s the difference between night and day.”

The difference is so enormous, even veteran eclipse viewers often don’t have words that do justice to totality.

“You think you know what you’re going to experience, but you have no idea,” said Kate Russo, an author, psychologist and eclipse chaser who will be seeing her 14th total solar eclipse in April. “I always say it’s like the ineffable,” she added. “Sometimes things happen to us that we just have no words to describe.”

View of a total eclipse

Eagle Pass, TX • Sun will be 100% obscured

View of a partial eclipse

Washington, D.C. • Sun will be 87% obscured

Inside the path, as the moon creeps closer to fully blocking the sun, the temperature drops and the light and wind change. Insects and animals may fall silent. Some birds might return to home to roost. And even though you’re expecting it, Russo said, it’s still so surprising.

“You notice the darkening that’s coming toward you, and that’s really eerie and it puts the hair on the back of your neck,” she said. “It really is quite exciting and thrilling, and you just can’t believe that it’s going to happen.”

The fleeting moments of totality will last anywhere from a few seconds to over four minutes, depending where you are inside the path. Mexico and 12 U.S. states have cities that will get duration times longer than four minutes. The longest totality will be in Torreón, Mexico, and will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds . Compared with other eclipses that typically only last a couple of minutes, that’s quite a long time. In 2017, the longest duration was near Carbondale, Ill., where the eclipse lasted for 2 minutes and 42 seconds.

Percentage of the sun

blocked by the moon

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Mexico City

Max coverage percent

Source: NASA

Percentage of the sun blocked by the moon

Max coverage

Los Angeles

For one of her books , Russo interviewed first-time eclipse viewers asking how totality made them feel. Their responses aligned with her own experiences: Within totality, the awe, connection and euphoria that people experience leaves them feeling both insignificant and a part of something greater than themselves, Russo said.

“We’re only on this Earth for just a split second of time. And I think these moments actually highlight that for you,” she said. “It puts all our other concerns or problems just into perspective.”

Within totality, there’s a lot to see when you remove your safety glasses. April’s eclipse will coincide with heightened solar activity. As the moon blocks the bright face of the sun, it reveals the sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona, and can show plumes of gas, referred to as streamers, escaping into space. These look like bright streaks or feathery rays flowing around the edge of the sun. Prominences, or magnetic loops that glow bright pink or red around the inner atmosphere, will also probably be more visible. Venus and Jupiter can also be seen on either side of the sun.

Outside of totality, the partial eclipse — even a view with 99 percent of the sun obscured — must be viewed safely with a simple viewer or safety glasses . According to Espenak, once you’re out of the path of totality, there’s not a big difference in what you’ll see. “It’s just a thinner slice of the sun that’s visible. It’s only when you make that transformation from the partial eclipse to a total eclipse that you get this dramatic change.”

Patrick Poitevin, an eclipse chaser and astronomer from Derbyshire, England, has experienced 24 total eclipses. Poitevin, who said he’s always looking for a “different” or “extreme” view, will travel to Mazatlán in April. He added that there’s lots to see along the edge or just inside or outside the path of totality using a telescope with a hydrogen-alpha filter. “What a show!” he wrote of an eclipse last year in Kosrae, Micronesia, in which he saw from a mile outside of the path a nearly 360-degree view of the chromosphere, a colored layer of the sun’s atmosphere, just above the solar surface. “Mesmerising,” he added.

Eclipses over the next 50 years

This year’s eclipse

While total solar eclipses happen about every 18 months , they are often in remote parts of the world, including the middle of the ocean. By contrast, this eclipse will pass through several densely populated cities. “It’s not that common that you get a total eclipse going through your home country,” Espenak said. “We had the 2017 eclipse, and before that it was 1979. So that was a 38-year gap.”

The next total solar eclipse visible across the contiguous United States won’t be until 2045 and will travel from California through Florida. After that, a 2078 eclipse will pass through nine Southern states.

“If you can’t travel [to totality], still go out and enjoy the partial eclipse,” Russo advises. To view the eclipse in April, she will be heading to Uvalde County, Tex., where she has held workshops and helped local officials with planning. “This is your chance,” she said, “an easy chance to get into the path.”

Espenak, whose work at NASA included eclipse predictions, met his wife, Patricia, during a 1995 eclipse in India. For 25 years, Patricia had struck out on seeing totality — her view was either partial or cloudy. It was only in India where she finally saw totality. The two will be traveling from Arizona to Mazatlán to view April’s eclipse, and Fred will be speaking.

“ I’m excited at every single one. Over a lifetime of seeing these things, I get goose bumps, and there’s that thrill of seeing it every single time,” Espenak said. “No matter how many photographs or videos you look at, it’s nothing like the real McCoy.”

About this story

We created the eclipse animations by interpolating the moon’s path, calculating its trajectory based on the initial, midpoint and final positions during the eclipse.

Eclipse animation data was sourced from the Five Millennium Canon of Solar Eclipses Database by Xavier M. Jubier, which is based on NASA’s eclipse predictions by Fred Espenak. The algorithms used were drawn from “Elements of Solar Eclipses 1951-2200” and “Astronomical Algorithms.” Eclipse track data was obtained from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio.

Eclipse city view animation speeds are not reflective of actual eclipse durations. Half of the city of San Antonio, Texas falls within totality and half falls outside of totality. So depending on where you are inside the city, the sun may not be 100% obscured as it is depicted in the animation.

Kevin Schaul and Denise Lu contributed to this report. Editing by Emily M. Eng and Victoria Jaggard. Copy editing by Vanessa Larson.