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50 Free Things to Do in Dallas

Having fun doesn’t have to cost a dime. Consider these exciting and absolutely free things to do in Dallas:

2. Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players: The mission of the DFACP is to enrich and enhance the quality of life for North Texas area residents, especially families and children, through FREE concerts of classical music and educational activities.  Various locations.

3.  Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive : Featuring 70 bronze steers and three bronze trail riders by artist Robert Summers, this larger-than-life cattle drive sculpture is situated on the actual Shawnee Trail drive of the 1850s, located in front of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Downtown, Young & Griffin streets.

4.  Thanks-Giving Square : Visitors can spot this square easily in downtown by the beautiful, white spiral Chapel that breaks up the angular lines of the office buildings around it. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the Thanks-Giving Foundation promotes the unifying spirit of giving thanks to communities near and far, and welcomes people of all nations, cultures and religions. 1627 Pacific Ave.

5.  City Hall : Dallas City Hall is one of the most distinctive and iconic structures in town. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect I.M. Pei, the inverted wedge shape is a site to see and also features a 7-acre plaza with sculptures by Henry Moore.  1500 Marilla St .

6.  Fair Park : History buffs will love the more than 3 million historic documents and three-dimensional objects on display at the Hall of State located at Fair Park – home to the largest collection of 1930s art deco exposition style architecture in the North America.

7.  Deep Ellum : Of Dallas’ many different neighborhoods, none are quite as intriguing as Deep Ellum, the city’s music epicenter. More than 100 years ago, this area was where jazz and blues musicians cut their teeth, and where gamblers and rabble-rousers danced the night away and attended minstrel shows. Now, it is home to much of the city’s avant-garde culture, where art galleries, music venues, restaurants and theaters line the streets, just as they did in the early 1900s. Between Good-Latimar and Exposition Ave., Main, Elm and Commerce streets

8.  Founder’s Plaza : This open park area in the center of downtown next to the Old Red Courthouse houses the replica of John Neely Bryan’s log cabin—the home of the city’s founder. The site also includes a fountain, terrazzo map of Dallas County in the 1800s and the John F. Kennedy Memorial.  600 Elm St.

9.  McKinney Avenue Trolley ( M-Line Trolley ) : Hop on the free M-Line Trolley—restored, vintage trolleys that run through Uptown and Downtown. The trolleys stop at several points of interest, including West Village, Hotel Zaza, Shops at The Crescent, Dallas Arts District and more.    10.  D-Link : Another free transportation service provided by Dallas Area Rapid Transit, the D-Link is a shuttle that runs throughout all of downtown and into the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff. Stops include Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Omni Dallas Hotel, The West End, The Sixth Floor Museum, Main Street Garden, Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, Victory Park and the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff.   11.  Free Admission Museums : Who says one needs money to get cultured? The Dallas Museum of Art is free and features more than 22,000 works of art spanning all mediums and time-periods, from ancient civilization to modern art. Other must-see museums include The Samurai Collection at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum ,  Crow Collection of Asian Art, African American Museum and the Museum of Geometric and MADI Art. The Meadows Museum of Art, with one of the largest Spanish art collections outside of Spain, at Southern Methodist University is free on Thursdays after 5 p.m.                                                    

12. Dallas  Arts District : Spanning 68 acres and 19 contiguous blocks, the Dallas Arts District is the largest urban arts district in the country. The area showcases more than a dozen different attractions and world-renowned venues, such as the AT&T Performing Arts Center and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas Museum of Art (free admission), Nasher Sculpture Center, Crow Collection of Asian Art (free admission), Klyde Warren Park and much more. 214-744-6642, 2301 Ross Ave. (Blue Garage for area parking)

14.  The Samurai Collection at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum : Nestled in a unique location on the second floor of the Saint Ann restaurant and bar, this collection includes Japanese armor, artwork, helmets, masks, horse armor, weaponry and accessories. It’s one of the largest collections of its type in the world. Then afterward, pull up to the bar downstairs for craft beer and charcuterie. 2501 North Harwood St.

15.  Southern Methodist University campus : This nationally ranked private university is situated in the heart of central Dallas. Opened in 1915, the school is rich in Dallas history and architecture, and the campus is gorgeous. Stroll the tree-lined boulevard and beautifully manicured landscape, and visit the school’s libraries or the classic Dallas Hall—built in 1915 with a three-story rotunda.  6425 Boaz Ln .

16.  Tour of Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center : Located in the Arts District, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center was designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect, I. M. Pei, and it has impressive architectural features, open spaces, unsurpassed acoustics and is surrounded by stunning sculptures and works of art. It's visually spectacular, and seeing it with your own two eyes does not require a concert ticket. 2301 Flora

17.  J. Erik Jonsson Central Library : Dallas’ first public library opened in 1901 with help from Andrew Carnegie. The current locale, named after a former mayor, opened in 1982. Visitors can view not only the extensive book collection, but an original print of the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776), and William Shakespeare’s first folio, compiled in 1623. 1515 Young St.

18.  Mary Kay Cosmetics : Take a walk through history and experience a dream that began more than four decades ago, when Mary Kay Ash set out to build a company that would give women unlimited opportunity. The cosmetics headquarters offers a free museum that showcases the accomplishments and business ideas of Mary Kay Ash, and includes a theater and Hall of Honor. Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.  16251 Dallas Parkway, Addison

20.  Uptown and West Village : Dallas’ popular Uptown district is exploding with new residential, retail and entertainment centers with a variety of elements coming together for an experience that will appeal to all types and tastes. Hop on the free M-Line Trolley and explore the sights of one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods. The West Village shopping center is the unofficial epicenter; start there, or sightsee historic homes off McKinney Avenue. 3699 McKinney Ave. 21.  Historic West End : This historic neighborhood offers a glimpse to Dallas’ past with masterfully restored buildings. Visitors can stroll the cobblestone streets, people watch and experience street festivals. A myriad of shops, restaurants and entertainment abound, including The Sixth Floor Museum and Wild Bill’s Western Store. 603 Munger Ave.  

22.  Lower Greenville Avenue : This area of Greenville Avenue, south of Mockingbird Lane and north of Ross Avenue, is one of the city’s liveliest nightlife spots. Lower Greenville is bar, after café, after live music venue, jam-packed on the weekends and decently populated during the week. One of Dallas’ biggest yearly festivals happens on Lower Greenville, too. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches each year down this street, and culminates in a green-beer-flowing block party with local and national acts and fun costumes. Greenville Avenue between Mockingbird Lane and Ross Avenue  

23.  Flagship Neiman Marcus : Originally opened in 1907 and permanently moved to its current location on the corner of Main and Ervay streets in 1914, the Neiman Marcus flagship store is a must-see for any sartorialist. Stroll the street and window shop, or venture inside for luxury goodies. 214-741-6911, 1618 Main St.  

NorthPark's 1.4-acre landscaped garden, CenterPark, doubles as a serene urban retreat and an exciting venue for free community events. Relax and dine amid world-class sculpture, canopies of trees and a lush green space. A complimentary map of the NorthPark Art Tour with descriptions of each piece on display is available from the NorthPark Center Concierge. 8687 North Central Expwy., Complimentary shuttle to/from Park Lane DART Light Rail Station. 214-363-7441

25.  Galleria Dallas : Inspired by Italy’s famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Galleria Dallas is touted by USA Today as one of the “Top 10 Places to Shop.” Featuring an impressive international collection of more than 200 shops and boutiques, Galleria Dallas sets the standard for world-class shopping. It even has a full-sized ice-skating rink, and during the holiday season it boasts the largest indoor Christmas tree in the United States. 13350 Dallas Pkwy., 972-702-7100 26.  More Shopping Centers to Love : Window-shopping is completely free, but with more shopping centers per capita than any other major U.S. city, buying may be hard to resist in Dallas! Highland Park Village – First planned shopping center in the country and a historical landmark, it features exclusive designer boutiques such as Dior, Alexander McQueen, Harry Winston, Chanel, Stella McCartney, Jimmy Choo, Diane von Furstenberg and more. 47 Highland Park Village Mockingbird Station – 5321 E. Mockingbird Ln.   Snider Plaza – Intersection of Hillcrest and Lovers Ln.  Shops at Park Lane - 8080 Park Ln. West Village – 3699 McKinney Ave.  Allen Premium Outlets – 820 W. Stacy Rd., Allen Grapevine Mills – 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy., Grapevine

33.  Free admission annual festivals : The weather in Dallas is mostly mild, which makes for great festival weather, and there are plenty free events throughout the year, including: Deep Ellum Arts Festival  Earth Day Texas  Oak Cliff Earth Day  Texas Veggie Fair   St. Patrick’s Day Parade  Easter in Lee Park and Pooch Parade   Dallas Cinco de Mayo Cottonwood Art Festival  Asian Festival  Chinese New Year in Dallas Arts District

34.  Dallas Symphony Community Concert series : For more than 20 years, the DSO has presented the Community Concerts Series throughout Dallas in the spring. These free outdoor performances include the popular Memorial Day Concert at Flagpole Hill, which is topped off by a stirring fireworks show. Other locations are selected on a rotating basis. Various locations  

44.  Hiking and biking trails : There are dozens of nature trails in Dallas, each with a distinct personality, trail experience and views. Some trails are paved and populated, like White Rock Lake and Katy Trail, while others like the Cedar Ridge Nature Center and Oak Cliff Nature Preserve offer more peace and quiet. White Rock Lake Katy Trail Trinity River Audubon Center Cedar Ridge Nature Center Oak Cliff Nature Preserve 45.  Haunted Dallas : Every city has supposed haunted places, and armed with a little historical knowledge and a good camera, visitors may just find something unexpected at these places around town (please note: these venues are only allegedly haunted, and may not be free admission to enter), including: Sons of Hermann Hall in Deep Ellum, Historic West End, Millermore Mansion at Old City Park, The Adolphus Hotel, Majestic Theatre and White Rock Lake.

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THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Dallas

Best free things to do in dallas.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Dallas
• Northwest Dallas-love Field
• West Dallas
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Dallas Museum of Art

2. Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District

3. Klyde Warren Park

4. Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures

5. White Rock Lake Park

6. NorthPark Center

7. Bishop Arts District

8. Pioneer Plaza

9. Katy Trail

10. Highland Park Village

11. Galleria Dallas

12. Deep Ellum

13. Crow Collection of Asian Art

14. Southern Methodist University

15. Dallas Arts District

16. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

17. Deep Ellum Brewing Company

18. Cedar Ridge Preserve managed by Audubon Dallas.

19. Giant Eyeball

20. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum : The Samurai Collection

21. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

22. Dallas Farmers Market

23. Half Price Books

24. Thanks-Giving Square

25. Times Ten Cellars

26. African American Museum

27. Grassy Knoll

28. Cathedral Santuario de Guadalupe

29. Turtle Creek Park

30. Greenville Avenue

What travelers are saying

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

25 Fun Free Things to Do in Dallas, TX — Places to Go for Free!

Dallas is a bustling and vibrant city that is full of surprises.

It also has a rich history and diverse culture, and its many free attractions reflect this diversity.

From parks and gardens to museums and landmarks, this city has fun attractions waiting to be discovered.

And whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or nature, you’re sure to find something that will spark your interest.

With so many places to visit, deciding what attractions to explore can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry.

I’ll definitely help you make the most of your trip by reviewing the best attractions in Dallas that offer free admission.

I have been to Dallas and learned many things during my trip.

I’ve also talked to locals and other travelers and will use their insights, recommendations, and other tips.

Lastly, I have also listed the attractions according to their family-friendliness, safety, fun factor, and more ratings.

Get ready to explore the fun free things to do in Dallas, TX, by reading our comprehensive reviews below.

Free Things To Do In Dallas Compared 

From iconic art museums to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone in Dallas.

Check out this list of the top-rated free attractions in the city.

Editor’s Choice

John F. Kennedy Memorial

Erected in 1970, the John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial is a monument located in the historic district downtown.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Educational Value: 3.5/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Fine Arts Chamber Players

In collaboration with the Dallas Museum of Fine Arts at Fair Park, Fine Arts Chamber Players was founded in 1981.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive

Located in front of the Convention Center District of downtown Dallas, Pioneer Plaza relives the beginnings of Dallas and is the second most visited tourist attraction downtown.

• Educational Value: 4/5

Here are the 20 free things to do in Dallas.

1. John F. Kennedy Memorial (Editor’s Choice)

646 Main Street Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 747-6660 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Peaceful and reflective atmosphere
•  Convenient location
• Limited things to do or see

Why We Recommend This Free Activity

The “open tomb” style memorial was designed by notable architect Philip Johnson, who was also a family friend of the Kennedys.

Intended for reflection and remembrance, the memorial’s structure also symbolizes JFK’s personality.

About 200 yards from the memorial is the very site of Kennedy’s assassination, which is now a city park called Dealey Plaza.

You might want to drop by before leaving the area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Crescent Court

Related: Best Things to Do in Dallas

2. Fine Arts Chamber Players

3630 Harry Hines Boulevard Suite 302 Dallas, TX 75219 (214) 520-2219 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• A variety of classical music performances
•  Intimate and cozy atmosphere
• Limited seating

FACP offers free classical concerts and educational activities.

Through the years, Dallas families have witnessed their majestic, free Beethoven Festival and Hallam Family Concerts, played by professional musicians from local ensembles performing a diverse range of music.

The Beethoven Festival is held on Sundays in July, while Hallam Family Concerts happen during weekends.

If you want to attend any of these concerts, do come early to secure seats.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Dallas Hotel

Related: Top Dallas Attractions

3. Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive

1428 Young Street Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 953-1184 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

• Unique attraction showcasing Texas history and culture
• Spacious area for picnics or relaxing
• It can be crowded during peak hours

Through its bronze statues, Pioneer Plaza celebrates and commemorates the trails that brought settlers to the city.

Its shady trees, native plants, and flowing stream particularly make a refreshing escape right in the heart of Dallas.

The Pioneer Park Cemetery next to the park is also an important place to drop by.

The remains of several of the city’s earliest founders, four Dallas mayors, the city’s first businessmen, and heroes of the Texas revolution are buried here.

Like the plaza, it’s completely free!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: HALL Arts Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Also See: Free Stuff to Do in Houston What to Do in Fort Worth for Free Free Things to Do in San Antonio

4. Dallas Museum of Art

1717 N Harwood Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 922-1200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the United States.

The museum’s permanent collection consists of more than 24,000 objects dating from the third millennium BC to the present day.

With its family-friendly activities and diverse art collection, the Dallas Art Museum is an excellent alternative to the John F. Kennedy Memorial and Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive.

One thing you should know about Dallas is that it’s a hub of museums.

If you’re an art junkie, the Dallas Museum of Art showcases art from all over the world across history, perfect to shake off anyone’s art block.

There are monthly and weekly live shows that add a twist to the experience, so check out their calendar to catch one.

There could be one today or right this weekend!

If you’re an artist in need of a huge dose of inspiration, the museum allows you to bring along your sketchbook and pencil and doodle your way as you wander the halls and exhibits!

On the third Friday of each month, the Museum of Art stays open till midnight too!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cambria Hotel Downtown Dallas

5. Deep Ellum

Main Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 748-4332 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 1873, Deep Ellum has been the city’s vibrant entertainment district famous for its concert venues, quirky art galleries, and street murals.

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Dallas, enjoy a lot of them here!

Deep Ellum is the epicenter of live music in Dallas and all of North Texas.

You can spend the entire day here admiring its iconic outdoor art and getting to know the Austinian entertainment scene.

And after the sun sets, this district amps up its energy, thanks to its beloved live music venues.

Deep Ellum is not only known for its galleries, outdoor art, performing arts venues, and live music; with casual eateries, upscale dining options, and cool bars, this trendy district offers exciting gastronomic experiences too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites by Hilton Dallas Downtown at Baylor Scott & White

6. Klyde Warren Park

2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 716-4500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Traveling with the little ones?

With year-round family-friendly programs, this 5.2-acre park has a lot of the top free things to do in Dallas with kids .

Klyde Warren Park is a beloved community gathering spot, featuring everything from a butterfly garden to food trucks.

It also has a lineup of events throughout the year, including kiddie entertainment, musical performances, and dance lessons.

Klyde Warren Park is blessed with views of the Dallas skyline as a backdrop, so don’t miss this chance to snap selfies.

Kids, meanwhile, should enjoy the splash pad, playgrounds, and water fountain at the park’s children’s area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Dallas Hotel

7. Cedar Ridge Nature Center

1570 FM1382 Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (972) 291-3900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 1991, this 600-acre park offers an unspoiled nature escape for anyone looking to leave behind the stress of the daily grind for a while.

Cedar Hill State Park is a playground for outdoorsy adventurers and nature lovers.

Whether you’re yearning to relax or experience the Dallas natural landscape, you’ll definitely find your bliss at this state park’s nine miles of trails, all totally free to access!

While you can fill your vacation days here fishing, boating, birdwatching, biking, and hiking, the park closes the trails during rainy days, so do check the weather forecast before heading here.

Also, pack trash in and out as the only trash bin available is at the entrance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas Cedar Hill

Also See: Free Things to Do in Austin What to Do in Lubbock for Free Free Fun Things to Do in El Paso

8. Fair Park

3809 Grand Ave Dallas, TX 75210 (214) 670-8400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 1880, Fair Park is a sprawling cultural center with over 200 acres of park areas, exhibit facilities, and museums.

Fair Park is a historic treasure and the city’s largest cultural center.

From outdoor amphitheaters to exhibit facilities, the park teems with amenities to entertain its visitors till 9 PM.

Furthermore, it hosts public events all year round, including the country’s largest state fair.

Fair Park is completely free to the general public!

Though some things and special events here are ticketed, the park has stuff that you can admire for free, including architecture, fountains, landmarks, a lagoon, memorials, and gigantic murals.

If you’re in Dallas late September, you can check out the Dallas State Fair!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency Dallas

9. White Rock Lake

8300 E Lawther Dr Dallas, TX 75218 (214) 660-1100 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

From casual park visitors to bikers and runners, over a million people visit this 1,015-acre urban lake each year.

White Rock Lake is one of the most popular free attractions in Dallas, known for its natural areas and diverse activity options.

Likewise, it’s a host to a number of runs and special free events in Dallas year round.

While swimming is strictly prohibited, there are still plenty of things to do at this park.

You can go rollerblading, picnicking, biking, fishing, bird-watching, kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding.

There are also amenities, like pavilion rentals, a dog park and a picnic area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas East

10. Sixth Floor Museum

411 Elm Street Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 747-6660 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in downtown Dallas, this unique museum beautifully chronicles the assassination and life of JFK from a cultural, social, and historical perspective.

Over 60 percent of Americans believe that Oswald’s assassination of President JFK was a part of a much larger conspiracy.

If you’re a JFK conspiracy theorist, then you’re in for a special treat at this museum.

With over 60,000 artifacts, the Sixth Floor Museum is one of the must-see free places to go in Dallas, especially for history buffs.

Don’t miss the chance to stand in the exact spot where Oswald made the shot that echoed around the world.

Also, stroll the Grassy Knoll so you can see the spot where JFK was fatally shot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Warwick Melrose Hotel

11. Dallas Farmers Market

920 S Harwood Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 664-9110 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In 1941, the market was established for farmers to bring their dairy, meat, and produce to the city.

Nowadays, with the rapid development in downtown, it has evolved to a go-to spot for delicious food and great shopping finds.

Open daily, the Dallas Farmers Market is home to a wide array of shops and eateries.

With its craftsmen, artisans, and vendors, it’s also a great place to taste the cultures and flavors of Texas.

Best of all, it’s free to visit and browse!

Head to the market’s Shed complex, where you’ll find vendors offering more than 30 types of radishes, local pumpkins, squash and gourds.

Also, the market has some pleasurable weekly events, like peanut and local beer tastings.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection By Hilton

Also See: Free Fun Things to Do in Corpus Christi

12. NorthPark Center

8687 N Central Expressway Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 363-7441 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With over 230 unique retailers, department stores, and restaurants, NorthPark promises a wealth of free activities in Dallas.

NorthPark Center is, no doubt, the ultimate entertainment, dining, and shopping experience in Dallas.

Besides its trendsetting boutiques, this shopping paradise also hosts captivating events on a regular basis, many of which do not cost anything to witness or join.

Don’t know what to do after window shopping?

Check out the mall’s award-winning architecture, world-class art collection, and 1.4-acre landscaped garden.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Dallas-Park Cities

13. Wild Bill’s Western Store

311 N Market Street #101 Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 954-1050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

A three-minute walk from the Sixth Floor Museum will take you to Wild Bill’s Western Store, a family-run business in the historic district of Dallas.

For more than 60 years, Wild Bill’s Western Store has been an iconic store known for celebrating the city’s Old West history and identity.

In fact, it has welcomed countless renowned personalities, like Mick Jagger and Bon Jovi.

Wild Bill’s Western Store is the best place to check out authentic Western clothing, jewelry, hats, boots, and buckles.

If you do decide to buy something from the store, you can enjoy a cold beer for free here while you have your cowboy boots or hat custom-shaped!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Highland Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton

14. Bishop Arts District

Bishop Arts District Dallas, TX 75208 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hip and colorful, Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff neighborhood is well-known for its eye-catching street art and diverse nightlife.

Bishop Arts District is a young traveler’s paradise.

From its Instagram-worthy mturals to chic boutiques, this district has a variety of treats to delight the younger crowd.

Stroll along the district’s charming streets, and strike a pose next to its irresistible street art.

If you find yourself craving because of the aroma coming from the district’s eateries, check out Lockhart Smokehouse for Texan barbecue or Hattie’s Restaurant for Southern fare.

Afterward, you may hunt vintage items and bargained goodies at shops, such as the Wild Detective and Ely Artisans Jewelry.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Dallas

15. McKinney Avenue Trolley

3153 Oak Grove Avenue Dallas, TX 75204 (214) 855-0006 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Established in 1983, this historic trolley operates 365 days every year and will take you to several notable spots in the city.

The McKinney Avenue Trolley was founded with the intent of returning heritage streetcars to the streets of Dallas.

It’s completely free of charge, making it an awesome experience for budget-conscious travelers looking forward to enjoying a bevy of the striking sights in Dallas.

For a memorable experience, hit and the Trophy Room and the Standard Pour, which is beloved for its barrel-aged cocktails.

You may also check out things like Klyde Warren Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel ZaZa Dallas

16. Nasher Sculpture Center

2001 Flora Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 242-5100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Established in 2003, this outstanding art museum beckons visitors with its premier collection of gorgeous contemporary sculptures.

Nasher Sculpture Center is home to some of the world’s finest collections of modern sculptures.

As a matter of fact, it features masterpieces from the likes of Picasso, Serra, and Calder.

If you’re looking for free stuff to do, come here during the first Saturday of any month from 11 AM to 1 PM!

Also, there’s a free event every third Friday of the month from 6 PM till midnight, where you get to witness a free concert, free film, tours, activities, and games!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Anatole

17. Museum of Geometric and MADI Art

3109 Carlisle Street Dallas, TX 75204 (214) 855-7802

Established in 2002, the Museum of Geometric and MADI Art is the only museum in North America dedicated to abstract art and the Madi movement.

Showcasing hard-edged, non-representational art, this out-of-the-ordinary museum lets you explore beguiling geometric artworks for free!

Visiting this museum is particularly one of the top free things to do in Dallas with kids, especially those who love building Minecraft kingdoms.

The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and docent-led tours, so check out their calendar to join one!

18. Galleria Dallas

13350 Dallas Parkway Dallas, TX 75240 (972) 702-7100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With ample opportunities for shopping and ice skating, Galleria Dallas offers a fine recipe for a fun urban adventure with teens.

Inspired by Italy’s own Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Galleria Dallas features over 200 shops housed in world-class architecture and surrounded by luxurious interior design.

If you’re on a budget, this famous mall is perfect for some window shopping and OOTD snaps.

Shoppers and visitors who have traveled over 50 miles to visit the mall will get a VIP Privilege Card filled with discounts and special offers.

To avail this card, just show a valid ID with photo to the Guest Reception Center on level 1.

19. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

2201 N Field Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 428-5555 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 2012, Perot Museum offers a hands-on, learning experience through science and nature exhibits that inspire children’s minds.

Admission to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science may not be free, but its outdoor plaza and lobby are, and so is its Wi-Fi.

If you thought the plaza isn’t worth the visit, it’s actually a one-acre forest with native plants and oversized, interactive xylophones, chimes, and frogs.

The lobby, on the other hand, displays a 35-foot Malawisaurus fossil and has access to a roof deck with panoramic views.

If you ever need a snack, the museum has a cafe offering delicious fresh meals and snacks that highlight local Texas ingredients.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canopy By Hilton Dallas Uptown

20. Crow Collection of Asian Art

2010 Flora Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 979-6430 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 1998, the Crow Collection of Asian Art is home to more than 4,000 objects from various Asian cultures.

Discover the diverse and beguiling art of Asia at this admission-free museum.

Not only does it feature scores of enthralling artworks, but it will also give you a glimpse of Asia’s diverse history and cultures from ancient eras to the present.

Whether your family is interested in learning about Japanese art or the Malaysian culture, this museum will take you on a journey across Asia.

The museum also hosts free kid-friendly programs throughout the year!

Witness Asian festivals or check out Asian products during these events.

See their official calendar to score more free fun in Dallas.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Suites Market Center Dallas

21. Katy Trail

Airline Road Dallas, TX 75205 (214) 303-1180 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Katy Trail stretches 3.5 miles through the Uptown and Oak Lawn areas of Dallas, transforming what was once an abandoned railroad track.

Need to burn off some calories?

Why not skate, walk, jog, or hike down the bike and pedestrian paths of Katy Trail?

Amazingly, the trail isn’t just a fitness destination.

The trail is equipped with water fountains, plazas, lookout points, mile markers and overhead lighting.

If you brought the furry member of the family along, they’re also welcome here!

Just clean up after them.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont Dallas

22. Thanks-Giving Square

1627 Pacific Avenue Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 969-1977 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dedicated in 1976, the Thanks-Giving Square consists of a landscaped garden with a chapel building, a major section of the underground pedestrian network, and the Bullington Truck Terminal.

Right at the heart of downtown Dallas is a quiet park built to celebrate world traditions surrounding gratitude.

Explore the iconic spiral tower on the park for free, and admire the silence, as well as the colors of the stained-glass window above.

Download the park’s free guide to explore the entire Thanks-Giving Square for free.

The self-guided tour consists of nine waypoints and tells the story of the park’s history, art, architecture, and symbolism.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Dallas Downtown

23. Guacamologist Experience

2121 McKinney Avenue Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 922-0200 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Recognized as the only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel in Texas, Ritz-Carlton is a luxury hotel located in Uptown Dallas.

Who would’ve thought free stuff in Dallas, TX are up for grabs in Ritz-Carlton tonight?

Whether you believe it or not, this luxury hotel offers free guacamole and chips complemented with mini margaritas for everyone every evening at 6 PM!

The free McKinney Avenue Trolley drops you off at the hotel’s doorstep!

After the little guacamole feast, you can wait for the trolley to come by again to bring you north where you can find more dining and entertainment options.

Talk about a combo of free things in Dallas!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Magnolia Hotel Downtown Dallas

24. Kitchen Dog Theater

4774 Algiers Street Dallas, TX 75207 (214) 953-1055 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kitchen Dog Theater was founded by five graduates of the MFA Theater Program at Southern Methodist University in 1990.

Still looking forward to scoring free things in Dallas worth your while?

Kitchen Dog Theater produces locally written plays that discuss justice, morality, and human freedom.

In order to spread the message farther, KDT offers 20 free tickets for everybody for each play!

In order to secure an Admit:ALL ticket, arrive 30 minutes before the show.

The themes of the play are not very appropriate for children.

Kids age 8 to 14 are only permitted when accompanied by a parent.

Kids below 8 are not allowed to attend the performance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Dallas Market Center

25. Samurai Collection

2501 N Harwood Street Dallas, TX 75201 (214) 965-1032 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tucked away above the Saint Ann Restaurant in the Harwood District near downtown is one of the largest and most complete collections of samurai armor in the world.

More fun free things to do in Dallas, TX are to be had at the Barbier-Mueller Museum, which is home to almost 1,000 samurai objects.

Expect weapons, armor, helmets, masks, and even artifacts from other cultures displayed in the admission-free museum.

Enjoy free parking in the lot across the street!

Also, the museum has free family days during the first Saturday of each month, where everyone gets to experience interactive tours and art activities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canvas Hotel Dallas

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

Each attraction in Dallas carries a unique charm. 

If you’re seeking introspection, the JFK Memorial’s peaceful environment is unmatched. 

In contrast, Pioneer Plaza offers an exciting dive into Texan history that captivates all ages. For a cultural treat, the Fine Arts Chamber Players are a delight. 

But if you’re after diversity, the Dallas Museum of Art stands out. 

Its vast collection ranges from ancient to contemporary, making it a more immersive experience compared to the focused offerings of the JFK Memorial or the Pioneer Plaza. 

Ultimately, the choice depends on your mood and interests for the day.

How I Picked The Activities

In order to present you with the most comprehensive review, I undertook extensive research before and during my visit. 

I have spent much time exploring Dallas and its many attractions during my visits.

In addition to my experiences, I consulted with other Dallas locals and visitors.

I did this to make sure that my reviews were well-rounded and accurate.

Also, I read reviews from other travelers and official websites to present credible input on what Dallas has to offer.

Our Rating Method 

 I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendliness of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is this activity safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the family-friendliness of every attraction. 
• Accessibility: This evaluates how accessible the attraction is for families. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Educational Value: This rates the educational benefits that the attraction offers. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Can it teach kids any lessons? These are the questions I ask myself when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Safety: I use this to measure the safety of every activity. Does it take place in a safe and secure environment? Are there safety precautions to ensure the safety of its visitors? These are important factors when evaluating the activity’s safety. 
• Fun Factor: This rates the level of engagement, enjoyment, and excitement that the activity offers. Is it fun for the entire clan? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for kids? These questions are essential whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is dallas texas famous for.

Dallas is famous for its vibrant arts and culture scene, including renowned museums like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. 

Are There Any Free Museums Or Art Galleries In Dallas?

Yes, there are free museums or art galleries in Dallas, such as the Dallas Museum of Art.

Based on personal experiences, it is clear that these fun free things to do in Dallas, TX, have something unique to offer to each visitor.

I loved the chance to immerse myself in the beauty of classical music as we listened to The Fine Arts Chamber Players.

The musicians were incredibly talented, and the experience was relaxing and engaging.

My family and I also enjoyed visiting Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive.

Seeing the large bronze sculptures of cattle and cowboys was a fascinating glimpse into Texas’ rich history.

As we stepped inside the Dallas Museum of Art, we were transported to a world of beauty, creativity, and inspiration.

We sincerely appreciated the museum’s art and its many forms.

But the John F. Kennedy Memorial was the best attraction we’ve visited.

The simple yet impactful design and the serene atmosphere were genuinely moving.

We were also able to reflect on the city’s history and learn about the legacy of John F. Kennedy.

Dallas without dollars: the city's top free things to do

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Distinctive urban art in Deep Ellum, a neighborhood composed largely of arts and entertainment venues near downtown in Old East Dallas, Texas

Dallas may summon the image of glitz, glamor and big bucks, but that doesn't mean you need to be an oil tycoon to enjoy a vacation there. 

From museums to green spaces, popular trails to hidden art parks, there's a little something for everyone in The Big D. Here are 16 of our favorite free things to do in Dallas.

1. Crow Collection of Asian Art

Housed in a modern building in Dallas’ downtown Arts District, this small but exquisite museum allows visitors to follow a winding course through a choice collection of sculptures and artworks from China, Japan, India and Southeast Asia, dating from 3500BCE to the early 20th century. Don't miss the gorgeous sandstone facade from North India.

2. African American Museum

This museum has exhibits of more than 1000 objects that richly detail the art and history of African American people from precolonial Africa through to the present. Its folk-art collection is one of the best nationwide.

3. Dallas Museum of Art

This major museum offers a high-caliber world tour of ancient and contemporary art. Archaeological treasures range from Greek, Roman and Etruscan masterpieces to wonderful bowls from the Mimbres pueblos of New Mexico and a pre-Columbian Peruvian gold mask.

Alongside paintings by Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh, American works include Edward Hopper's enigmatic  Lighthouse Hill  and Frederic Church's sublime  The Icebergs . A re-created villa modeled on Coco Chanel's Mediterranean mansion holds canvases by statesman Winston Churchill.

4. Pioneer Cemetery

This is the resting place of many early Dallas settlers, with gravestones from the 1850s through the 1920s. It's a shady, evocative place amidst the city's roar.

5. Hall of State 

Fair Park is full of superb 1930s art-deco architecture, none of it quite as inspired as this tribute to all things Texan. The Hall of Heroes pays homage to such luminaries as Stephen F Austin and Samuel Houston; the Great Hall of Texas features huge murals depicting episodes in Texas history from the 16th century on.

As you leave the Hall of State , stop by the reflecting pool outside of the entrance: the golden Greek-inspired statues will thrill art-deco buffs.

6. Pioneer Plaza

For a Texas-sized photo op, or simply a sight of what claims to be the largest bronze monument on earth, head to Pioneer Plaza. Its showpiece – 40 larger-than-life bronze longhorns, amassed as though on a cattle drive – has an unmistakable and compelling power.

7. Dealey Plaza and the Grassy Knoll

Infamous for its location alongside the road where John F Kennedy’s motorcade was ambushed in November 1963, the tiny park known as Dealey Plaza is now a haunting, eerily familiar National Historic Landmark. It was created in 1935, however, to mark the center of the original settlement of Dallas.

Lee Harvey Oswald fired the fatal shots from the former Book Depository, immediately north. However, some witnesses also heard shots coming from the so-called 'grassy knoll' alongside, a hillock that rises from Elm St to the railroad yards. The conclusion of the 1970s’ House Select Committee on Assassinations, that a sniper did indeed fire (and miss) from behind the picket fence here, bolstered the belief that Kennedy’s assassination was part of a conspiracy.

8. John F. Kennedy Memorial

You can pay your respects here to the fallen ex-president. Designed by architect Philip Johnson, the unusual monument is a roofless space with a view of the sky and the carved words 'John Fitzgerald Kennedy' is a cenotaph, or open tomb, meant to evoke a sense of the freedom that JFK epitomized.

9. Katy Trail

To enjoy some see-and-be-seen walking, running or cycling, hit the tree-lined Katy Trail. Following a former railroad line for 3.5 miles from the American Airlines Center downtown almost all the way to Southern Methodist University (SMU), it passes through interesting neighborhoods. At times it has a true rural feel. A program of extensions is progressively linking it to other walking routes.

10.  Ride the Trolly

Dallas may have a rep as a car town, and you'd be right – it's easiest to get around if you have your own wheels. But public transit is available from buses to light rail, and the DART M-line is a fun and nostalgic free trolly that boasts air conditioning and runs between the Dallas Arts District and the Uptown neighborhood. If you're staying at one of Dallas' many downtown hotels or having shopping on the agenda, this can be a great way to get to and fro – plus kids always love quirky transit.

11. Deep Ellum Street Art

Funky music and arts hotspot Deep Ellum is chock full of public sculptures, murals, and other visual treats on the sides of buildings, in plazas, and even filling up the space under Dallas' Seussical overpasses. It's free to stroll the neighborhood and take in all the street art, particularly in the art park under the I-30 highway. Just don't blame us if the scents wafting from  Serious Pizza  inspire you to part with a few bucks before you depart.

12. The Trinity Skyline Trail

For epic views of downtown, including the Jolly Green Giant (aka the Bank of America Plaza) and the discoball-esque Reunion Tower, head to the  Trinity Skyline Trail . It stretches 4 miles and will take you to the Trinity Overlook where you can take in the skyline, plus a close-up of the Trinity River and Dallas' flood plain. 

13. Klyde Warren Park

This innovative 5.2-acre park is an urban green space built over the recessed Woodall Rodgers Freeway. It has its own programming and, besides outdoor areas for chess, yoga, croquet and other activities, it offers performances and many more special events. It gets very crowded with families on weekends.

14. The Sweet Pass Sculpture Site

This former dumping ground at 402 Fabrication Street in west Dallas has been transformed into a sculpture park for emerging and mid-career artists. Past installations have included Navild Acosta and Fannie Sosa's "Black Power Naps Park / Parque Siestas Negras," which created a space for BIPOC to rest comfortably in opposition to mass incarceration and systemic racism. Other works featured at Sweet Pass have been a soundscape created by Azikiwe Mohammed called "Away Message III" and the San Antonio collective, BUXTOOF's exploration of baseball, a performance piece called "Bush League."

15.  The Ronald Kirk Bridge

Formerly known as the Continental Avenue Bridge, this pedestrian span was renamed in 2016 for Ronald Kirk, the first African-American mayor of Dallas. More than just a way to get from west Dallas to downtown on foot, however, the Ronald Kirk Bridge has been reimagined as a High Line -esque green space that compliments nearby Klyde Warren Park, complete with a playground, splash pad, shaded lounge chairs, a humans-size chessboard, and more. You can also snag excellent views from here of the cats cradle span of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, which has become an integral part of the Dallas skyline since it was designed by Santiago Calatrava, 2012.

16. Thanks-giving Square

For all its din, drive and shopping malls, Dallas has a surprisingly quiet side – a triangular piece of prime downtown real estate set aside for spiritual renewal and reflection. Thanks-Giving Square was established by the Thanks-Giving Foundation as a 'place where people can use gratitude as a basis for dialogue, mutual understanding and healing.' Also designed by Philip Johnson, the tranquil center includes a meditation garden, a Wall of Praise, an interdenominational Chapel of Thanksgiving and a museum of gratitude.

You may also like:  How to have a big weekend in Dallas, Texas The ultimate guide to BBQ in Texas Texas' 5 best road trips

This article was first published March 2021 and updated September 2021

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The Top 11 Free Things to Do in Dallas

You don’t need to empty your wallet to savor the sights and sounds of Dallas. If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several activities, events, and attractions that won’t cost you a dime, like hiking and picnicking in public parks, going to world-class museums, and exploring the city’s coolest, culture-soaked neighborhoods. Read on for the best free things to do in Dallas .

Spend the Afternoon at Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is the crown jewel of the Dallas cityscape. This innovative 5.2-acre urban green space sits perched right above the freeway with the glittering skyline in the background. Klyde Warren isn’t just your average green space, though—there are areas for chess, croquet, a dog park, a children’s park, and ping-pong, plus walking trails and a rotating selection of delicious food trucks. Best of all, the park boasts a wide variety of daily free programming, from yoga classes and outdoor concerts to movie screenings and lecture series.

Go to the Dallas Museum of Art

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

One of the country’s biggest and best art museums is 100 percent free to experience. Established in 1903 (and conveniently located right across Klyde Warren), the Dallas Museum of Art became the first-ever museum in America to offer free general admission and free membership in 2012 (although special exhibitions do cost money). The museum’s incredible, permanent collection spans several continents and over 5,000 years of human history, with works from Rothko, O’Keeffe, Monet, Cezanne, Pollock, Van Gogh, and many others.  Not to mention, the DMA hosts regular weekly events, including concerts, lectures, classes, and dramatic and dance presentations.

Explore the Dallas Art Scene in Deep Ellum

The thriving, historic Deep Ellum neighborhood is undeniably the cultural hub of the city, with its numerous art galleries, Instaworthy murals, lauded music venues and clubs, unique shops, and exciting festivals. Highly walkable, it’s a great place to stroll around, especially if you’re on a budget. Make plans to spend an afternoon here, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, window-shopping, and looking at all the eye-catching murals splashed across the old brick buildings. Check the calendar for upcoming events before you go; there’s always something fun (and free!) going on in Deep Ellum.

Have a Picnic at White Rock Lake Park

Lush, scenic White Rock Lake Park is located just a few miles east of downtown, but it feels like a peaceful oasis far, far away from the chaos. It’s over twice the size of New York City's Central Park, with a 9.3-mile hike-and-bike trail, an Audubon Society-designated birding area, a dog park, fishing piers, and a kayak concession. We highly recommend packing a picnic and taking advantage of the park’s lovely little picnic areas scattered around the lake—the Stone Tables picnic area, on the easternmost corner of the park near Buckner Boulevard and Poppy Drive, is one of the most popular spots (you can reserve one of the tables or pavilion ahead of time, if you’d like). 

Stroll Around the Bishop Arts District

Courtesy of Bishop Arts District

Like Deep Ellum, the Bishop Arts District is a fun place to simply explore on foot (also like Deep Ellum, this is one of the most walkable areas in the city); there are over 60 independent shops, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries here, but you don’t need to spend a cent to have a good time in Bishop Arts. Stroll through galleries and art collectives, look at antiques at M’Antiques , and pop into The Wild Detectives , an adorable bookstore, coffee shop, and bar that’s been called the literary heart of Dallas.

Watch Planes Take off From Founders' Plaza

Keerthivasan Rajamani / Flickr /  CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Founders' Plaza, in Grapevine, is the ideal vantage point to watch planes as they take off and land at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport . If you’re an aviation enthusiast in the slightest, this makes for a cool activity, whether it’s day or night. And even if you’re not, you’ll still enjoy yourself; pack a picnic and marvel at the wide-open Texas sky. The plaza includes an observation area for plane-spotting, with free telescopes and picnic benches. 

Visit a Museum on a Free Day

Several of Dallas’s premier museums are either completely free, or free on certain days, so museum-hopping is one of the most budget-friendly activities you could do in the Big D. The beautifully designed Nasher Sculpture Center is home to the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection: one of the finest collections of modern and contemporary sculpture in the world. The center is free every first Saturday and third Friday of the month from 5 p.m. to midnight. The Meadows Museum at SMU houses one of the world's biggest collections of Spanish art and is free on Thursdays after 5 p.m. The Crow Museum of Asian Art and the Dallas Museum of Art are always free, as is the ultra-hip Dallas Contemporary , a non-collecting museum (meaning it has no permanent collection) that presents challenging ideas from regional, national, and international artists.

Do a Skyline 360 Tour

Offered at Main Street Garden and Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Architecture + Design Exchange (also called ADEX) hosts brief “standing” tours that give participants a brief overview of the Dallas skyline and its most iconic architecture. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll learn all about the city’s architectural heritage and the history of downtown. Tours are free to the public and no registration is required. 

Go for a Hike in Cedar Ridge Preserve

Though there are a number of great hikes in and around the Dallas area, Cedar Ridge Preserve is easily the most-loved trail system. This 600-acre oasis is chock-full of natural scenery, including rolling hills, dense forest, wildflower-dotted meadows, and plentiful wildlife. The preserve is situated at an elevation of 755 feet, and there are 9 miles of unpaved (yet well-marked) trails that snake through the lovely terrain; these are the best hills in the area, so come prepared for a workout. For those times when you want to get away from the hubbub of downtown and stretch your legs, Cedar Ridge Preserve is a must-do.

Experience the Crow Museum of Asian Art

At the Crow Museum of Asian Art, visitors can peruse a growing permanent and rotating collection that showcases the breadth and diversity of Asian art. There are over 1,000 works from Japan, India, China, and Southeast Asia here, spanning the ancient to the contemporary (including scrolls, paintings, Chinese jades, objects of metal and stone, and large architectural pieces), plus a library of over 12,000 catalogs, books, and journals. Along with exhibits, the museum has a Center for Contemplative Leadership that offers programs on yoga, tai chi, mindfulness, and meditation education. The Crow is always free, and it’s open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Hop on the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Taking a ride through Uptown in a vintage streetcar doesn’t require a deep dive in your wallet; in fact, it’s totally free. The McKinney Avenue Trolley operates 365 days per year and provides a fun, unique way to see some of the best sights in the city. Get off at the St. Paul and Ross station for easy access to the Crow Collection, the Nasher, and the Dallas Museum of Art; the Trolley also goes to Klyde Warren.  

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15 of the Best Free Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski July 01, 2022 Updated October 02, 2023

In Dallas and love freebies? Well, you’re in luck. We’ve listed the best free things you can do in Dallas!

Yes, you can go for a fancy drink at the Statler Hotel’s rooftop bar. Sure, you can spend all your travel budget sampling the many great local restaurants.

But not everything fun in Dallas requires you to whip out your credit card. In fact, the city is full of enough free activities to fill a weekend or more, from touring historical and cultural sites to visiting various parks to chowing down on chips and guac — more on that in a bit.

Free Things to Do in Dallas – Our Top Picks

When you find yourself waiting for your next paycheck to hit but you still want to have fun, consider checking out one of these top free things to do in Dallas, Texas.

1. Visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza & Dealey Plaza

There’s a lot in Dallas’ history — good and bad, including that it’s where former President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

While it costs money to visit The Sixth Floor Museum (the museum dedicated to JFK’s life and legacy), you can still go see the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza . Designed by architect Philip Johnson, the memorial is a cenotaph, meaning it’s an open tomb monument, and visitors can walk inside of it for some quiet contemplation.

From there you can visit Dealey Plaza just down the road, which is the location where JFK was shot and has since been designated as a National Historic Landmark District.

Related read:   5 Must-Do Scenic Train Rides in Texas

2. Check Out the Dallas Museum of Art

Come to the Dallas Museum of Art to see a collection that spans thousands of years and many different mediums, from Jackson Pollock paintings to Indigenous pottery to Turkish carpets.

You could come without a ticket and get sorted at the museum, but it’s better if you reserve a ticket online ahead of time. Note that your free ticket gets you into the museum’s collection galleries and a majority of the exhibitions, but there may be a special exhibit that requires a separate paid ticket.

Related read:  8 Best State Parks Near Dallas for a Natural Escape

3. Visit the African American Museum of Dallas

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by African American Museum Dallas (@aamuseumdallas)

Another museum in the city you can visit free of charge is the African American Museum of Dallas , which is part of the historic Fair Park complex.

Featuring a mixture of African American art, artifacts, documents, and other cultural materials, the museum boasts one of the country’s largest African American folk art collections. They also put on different free events like a summer concert series so check their event calendar to see what’s coming up.

The museum is open every day except Monday and Sunday.

Related read:   9 Cool Places to Stay in Dallas that Will Blow Your Mind

4. Go Plane Spotting at DFW Founders’ Plaza

Another one of Dallas’ famous plazas is DFW Founders’ Plaza . Not to be confused with the Founders Plaza downtown, this one is an observation area next to DFW airport where you can watch the planes coming and going.

More than just an open lawn or roadside patch of grass, the area has picnic tables, telescopes, and a radio broadcasting air traffic control communications. Plane spotters and other aviation enthusiasts can enjoy the plaza anytime from 7 am to 7 pm.

Related read:  The Ultimate Dallas to Austin Road Trip

5. Hang Out at Klyde Warren Park

One of the most popular parks in the city, Klyde Warren Park isn’t big (it’s just over five acres), but it sure does make the most of its space.

Every day you can find some kind of free programming going on there from yoga classes to concerts to film screenings. Just have a look at their online calendar and you’ll see the jam-packed agenda. Surrounded by skyscrapers and built over a freeway, it’s also a most welcome bit of green in the heart of the city.

Klyde Warren Park is open every day from 6 am to 11 pm.

Related read : The 7 Best Camping Spots Near Dallas, Texas

6. Relax at White Rock Lake

You don’t have to leave the city limits to get some lake time. All you have to do is visit White Rock Lake , which is just over 1,000 acres.

Spend your time here hiking or biking the nine-mile trail, having a nice picnic, fishing, and kayaking. If you’re lucky enough to have access to a boat, you can take that out too, but sadly, swimming is not allowed—for humans at least since there’s a swimming area for dogs in the dog park.

White Rock Lake is open from 6 am to 11 pm every day.

Related read:  8 Cozy Cabin Rentals Near Dallas, Texas

7. Take the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Texas is definitely not known for its public transportation system, but Dallas has something special in the McKinney Ave Trolley .

Also called the M-Line, the trolleys are fun to ride even if you don’t have a particular destination you need to get to since they’re restored vintage cars. But they’re nice for touring Dallas too since the five-mile route brings you close to some of the city’s main attractions.

While touted as “free,” the tram service is technically name-your-price so you might want to leave some coins in the fare box.

8. Hike or Bike the Katy Trail

Walking the 3.5-mile Katy Trail is like walking through history since it was once a railroad line.

This route was part of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (get it—K-T…Katy), and nowadays it’s enjoying a second life as a green space to go for a stroll or a bike ride that’s even more pleasant because no motorized vehicles are permitted on it.

Keep an eye out for the sculptures installed along the way that are part of the Katy Trail Art project.

Related read:  9 of the Best Romantic Getaways in Dallas, Texas

9. Go for a Snack at the Guacamologist Experience

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas (@ritzcarltondallas)

No one would connect an upscale brand like The Ritz-Carlton with the word “free,” nor is it normal to think of guacamole as something complimentary (we’ve all had to shell out for that extra avocado).

That’s part of the reason why the Guacamologist Experience at The Ritz-Carlton Dallas is so fun. Every evening at 6 pm you can make your way to the hotel lobby to enjoy some freshly prepared guacamole with some mini margaritas.

10. Explore the Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve

Located in the southwest part of the city, Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve offers miles of hiking trails amid 600 acres. You’re just 20 minutes from downtown, but it may feel like you’re in the middle of the Hill Country as you wander past all the native trees and plants.

Before you leave, stop by the butterfly garden. The preserve is open every day except Monday since that’s when they close to give the land some rest. If you’re wanting to visit after it’s just rained, its best to check their Facebook page for updates since they close the trails temporarily after rain to prevent long-term damage.

Related read:  10 Unforgettable Glamping Spots Near Dallas, Texas

11. Watch a Show at Dallas Comedy Club

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Dallas Comedy Club (@dallascomedyclub)

In need of a good laugh? Dallas Comedy Club in the Deep Ellum neighborhood has you covered. Their schedule is full of improv performances from different troupes and open mic stand-up comedy evenings.

You’ll have to pay for some of the shows at Dallas Comedy Club, but there are also plenty that are free of charge and you’ll just need to RSVP for. Come with a sense of humor and prepare to be entertained.

12. Stroll Around the Dallas Farmers Market

You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy a farmers market. Sometimes it’s just fun to enjoy the weather and have a look at what all is for sale.

At the Dallas Farmers Market , you can pursue a variety of food and artisanal vendors across their 26,000-square-foot covered hall (called The Market Shops) and their open-air pavilion (called The Shed). Depending on when you go, you may also catch some live events like musical performances or chef demonstrations.

The Market Shops are open every day of the week and The Shed is open on the weekends.

Related read:  The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip

13. Go to Trammell Crow Park

Trammell Crow Park is a nice place to spend a sunny afternoon for a variety of reasons. For one, it has some pretty great views of the Dallas skyline.

Two, it’s located around the Trinity River and offers space to hike, picnic, and paddle. You’ll also probably see some hang-gliders and paragliders doing their thing here. Three, the stone cow sculptures scattered around the place in lifelike situations add a delightful bit of whimsy.

14. See History at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

The city’s first public library, the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library is home to far more than just shelves and shelves of books available for borrowing.

Come here and you can see two pretty incredible pieces on the 7th floor: an original broadside print of the Declaration of Independence from 1776 and Shakespeare’s First Folio from 1623. Down on the 4th floor, you’ll find other visual art exhibitions in the Lillian Bradshaw Gallery.

Related read:  8 Best Weekend Road Trips from Dallas, Texas

15. Listen to a Free Concert by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Every year, in addition to the ticketed shows of their normal season, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra puts on free, outdoor concerts throughout the city in places like Flag Pole Hill Park and Kidd Springs Park.

Their Memorial Day performance is particularly popular, and normally they let off some fireworks after that one. The concert program is always different so you can check their website to see what’s on the agenda in which location.

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Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

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10 Fabulous Free Things To Do In Dallas, Texas

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The Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex is one of the fastest growing areas in the U.S., and with good reason! There’s an inspiring art scene, endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, and delicious food that is second to none. The best thing about DFW is that it offers a ton to do that won’t cost you a penny. 

Here are some fabulous and free things to do in the Dallas–Forth Worth Metroplex!

1. Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is a park and town square built over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway. It is the perfect space for having a picnic, as there are food trucks lined up around the perimeter, on Food Truck Lane. There are activities and programming just about every day of the year, and most of them are free. 

Pro Tip: Come at night to enjoy the new nightly illumination show at the Nancy Best Fountain. It is magical!

2. Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards district is an amazing place to soak up some Texas history. This national historic district is close to 100 acres, and it offers everything from shopping and dining to concerts and rodeos!

Every day at 11:30 am and 4 p.m., the cattle drivers herd about 20 longhorn cattle through the streets of the Stockyards. This is a not to be missed photo opportunity, and we recommend arriving early for a good spot. The entire parade takes about 20 minutes, but it’s a must-see!

Don’t miss the Old West Gunfight Shows on the weekend and the Fort Worth Herd Experience (Friday through Sunday), where you can meet the cattle drovers and ask questions about the longhorns.

Pro Tip: The Stockyards are the only place in the world that has a rodeo every Friday and Saturday night year round. This event isn’t free, but if you’ve never experienced the thrill of the rodeo, make sure you head to Fort Worth Cowtown Coliseum and check it out!

3. Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market has been operating continuously since 1941 and covers 26,000 square feet of space in the heart of downtown. Whether you’re a hardcore shopper or more of a window shopper, we are sure this is a Dallas experience unlike any other.

Everything farm related happens in The Shed , an open-air pavilion that features local produce, arts and crafts, flowers, and more. All of the products are grown within 400 miles of Dallas, ensuring the epitome of quality and freshness. This is a great opportunity to meet and connect with the people that grow and raise our food.

There’s also The Market, which is a food hall and artisan market. This is the perfect spot to rest after all of your shopping and grab a bite to eat. It’s also a good spot to people watch and take in the Dallas scenery.

4. Dallas Arts District

Did you know the Dallas Arts District is one of the largest in the country? And even better, the majority of its museums are free! If you are visiting Dallas and love art, it’s worth carving out half a day (or more) to explore the area’s art museums.

Start with the Dallas Museum of Art , which offers over 25,000 works of art for viewing. Some of their more popular pieces include paintings by Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Jackson Pollock. Also noteworthy are their collections of African and Islamic art.

Afterward, head to the Crow Museum of Asian Art , which showcases classic and modern Asian artwork. There’s a constant rotation of exhibits, so be sure to check before your visit to see what’s on display.

If that’s not enough art for one day, be sure to make time for a visit to the Nasher Sculpture Center . While admission isn’t free every day, Nasher does offer free admission on the first Saturday and third Friday of each month. There’s a lovely indoor collection featuring sculptures by Joan Miró and Auguste Rodin as well as an incredible outdoor sculpture garden that’s worth a visit.

5. Oak Point Park And Nature Preserve

Dallas–Fort Worth is blessed with parks throughout the metroplex, but one of our favorites is Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve in Plano. This park has over 8 miles of paved trails and 5 miles of soft trails, so it’s made for hiking and biking. Those with their own paddle boards and kayaks can get out on the water at Big Lake, making this a great place to spend the day.

Pro Tip: There are dozens of restaurants and grocery stores in the immediate area, so stop and grab picnic supplies before heading to the park.

6. The McKinney Avenue Trolley (M-Line Trolley)

One of the easiest ways to explore downtown Dallas is to hop on the M-Line Trolley . There is no fare, but donations are accepted. The trolley has several different routes, and riders can hop on and off wherever they choose. 

Fun stops include the Sixth Floor Museum (the former Texas School Book Depository that tells about the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy), American Airlines Center (home of the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars), and the Perot Museum (the city’s amazing science center).

7. Historic Nash Farm

Nash Farm is located in Grapevine, just 10 minutes from DFW airport. The farm dates to the late 1800s, and the property includes a historic barn, farmhouse, and farm equipment. There are often actors who give demonstrations of skills and trades that would have been used on the Texas prairie. This is a working farm that is open for self-guided tours at no charge. 

Pro Tip: Nash Farm hosts several events throughout the year (for a fee) that are quite popular with locals. We recommend the farm-to-table dinners, Victorian Christmas events, and their Patriotic Picnic.

8. Founders’ Plaza — DFW Airport

If you love the simple act of watching airplanes take off and land, be sure to spend some time at Founders’ Plaza next to DFW airport. The park is open to the public every day of the year. There are picnic tables, and binocular viewing stands, and the airport has a live feed from the control tower that plays over the speakers. It’s a very unique experience in Dallas.

9. Deep Ellum Neighborhood

Deep Ellum is the live music capital of North Texas, but it’s so much more than music! This historic Dallas neighborhood was settled after the Civil War by formerly enslaved people. Shortly thereafter, it became known as the area of Dallas that was welcoming to both Blacks and European immigrants. It became a center of industry with the arrival of Henry Ford in the neighborhood in 1914. He chose to build a plant in Deep Ellum for his Model Ts.

Fast forward to today, and Deep Ellum is a vibrant haven for the arts. There is live entertainment every day of the week, in over 30 different venues. If music isn’t your thing, there is an endless number of boutiques and specialty shops. Art lovers will appreciate the dozens of street murals and local galleries Kettle Art Gallery and Maestri Gallery .

10. Fair Park

Architecture fans should head to Fair Park, built in 1886 to host the Dallas State Fair. In the early 1900s, two important buildings were added, the Cotton Bowl and The Centennial Building, both of which are standing today.

Fast forward to 1936. The site was chosen to host the World’s Fair, causing a huge influx of designers and artists from around the world to create an Art Deco masterpiece that still stands today.

There are several museums throughout the park. The African American Museum has the largest collection of African American Folk Art in the U.S. and offers free admission. There is a Children’s Aquarium (this has an admission fee) and the Texas Discovery Gardens (not free, but they have a beautiful butterfly garden and stunning grounds to explore).

If you want to take a guided tour of Fair Park, there is a tram tour that explores the history of the park in an hour-long presentation every third Wednesday of the month.

Fair Park hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, but the biggest is the annual State Fair of Texas, which happens every October. In 2021, there were more than 2 million visitors to the fairgrounds, and they expect attendance to be even higher in 2022. The State Fair has endless food options, games, exhibits, and entertainers, and everyone should visit at least once.

Pro Tip: Parking at Fair Park can be a headache, and it can be a long walk from the lots to the buildings. We recommend taking the DART green line train, which drops you right at the front gate!

Don’t want to leave Texas? Here’s more:

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Kirsten is a former Travelocity brand ambassador whose work has been featured by NBC, The Washington Post , MSN, Bravo TV, AFAR , and various other national publications. She loves traveling the world and sharing her latest adventures.

31+ Fabulous Free Things to Do in Dallas, Texas (2024)

Gorgeous botanic gardens. Historic museums. Cultural Texas icons.

The sheer number of free things to do in Dallas, Texas, is staggering, as there is so much to see here without ever opening your wallet.

Spend the day at art museums featuring African-American influences, or check out a large collection of samurai armor (seriously).

Get outdoors and check out the stuff to do in Dallas for free in the Texas sunshine at places like Benbrook Lake, or take the kids to the best free playgrounds in Dallas.

Figuring out what to do near Dallas for free can be overwhelming, but this guide will make sure you have enough to plan an entire trip basically for nothing!

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• 21 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

How to get around Dallas

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Dallas is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

Okay, everyone put on your favorite Dallas shirt and let’s get going!

1. Visit the Amon Carter Museum

If you like free art (and who doesn’t?), the Amon Carter Museum of American art is the place to go for free things in Dallas!

This fantastic museum is focused on art that deals with the topic of the Old West, ranging from prints to paintings to photograph.

Marvel at the pieces depicting the settlement of North America, from Native American history all the way through to European exploration.

In fact, the art here, many done by Charles M. Russell and Frederic Remington, have really helped influence American ideas of what the frontier experience was like.

So dive into the Old West through art!

The museum is open most days of the week, but usually closes on a Monday, so while it is free, check the schedule in advance.

2. Listen to the Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players

If you’re into live music, let the Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players help you take it up a notch with a free concert.

You’ll want to check their schedule ahead of time, but they are typically putting on free concerts somewhere in Dallas to help new generations and people fall in love with classical music.

Dallas is a hub for music, art, and culture, and the free nature of many of the Fine Arts Chamber Players concerts make it easily accessible to everyone.

3. Explore the Meadows Museum

Got an afternoon to head to Southern Methodist University?

Here, you’ll find one of the most surprising art collections: one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain at the Meadows museum!

From Picassos to Grecos to Goya, the collection here is stunning and ranges from the 10th to the 21st centuries so you can really understand how the art movements developed as did the history of Spain.

Pause and take in the oil sketches or marvel at the wood sculptures and canvases.

And why is all of this Spanish art here in Dallas?

The museum began with a gift to the university from a man named Algur Meadows, who often visited Spain and collected art.

Now you can enjoy for free!

4. Visit the African American Museum

African-American history is American history, and there’s no better place in the Southwest of the US to check out African-American history and art than the African American Museum.

The museum is completely free and it holds one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the US.

You’ll find it in Fair Park, and the riches of this museum don’t just stop with art, as there are also libraries and an on-site theatre with classrooms for regular events.

You might notice some big names featured as artists in the museum, including Benny Andrews and Jacob Lawrence.

This is a must-do in Texas for free so you can see for yourself a wonderful museum that aims to bring a meaningful experience to people who don’t usually visit art museums.

5. Experience the The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

For one of the most fascinating free things to do in Dallas, head to the Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum.

This collection of helmets, masks, and armor from the Japanese Samurai is certaintly something that you don’t usually see in Dallas!

How did the museum get there?

Well, it opened in 2012 as a means to house the personal collection of the family who had been collecting these kinds of artifacts for over 20 years, dating back to about the 12th to 19th century in the Japanese Edo period.

It’s fun, it’s unique, and it’s totally free!

6. Wander the Trinity River Audubon Center

Get outside and spend time in the Trinity River Audubon Center, one of the largest urban hardwood forests in the US.

You can find it ten miles south of Dallas, so make sure you have a car, and then spend your day exploring the 6,000 acres (okay, you won’t get to them all) and doing some excellent bird and animal watching.

It’s completely free to enter, and you’ll feel so many miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

And, even better, part of the center was an old dump site now transformed into a wildlife refuge, which is a fantastic initiative for the environment and the thriving wildlife that now call it home.

7. Try the Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Nearby in Fort Worth, those interested in the money-making process can visit one of the best free things to do near Dallas: the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

It’s run by the US Department of the Treasury and yes, they print real dollars here: billions of them!

Take a free self-guided tour around the viewing areas where you can see the process on the production floor in action, and then stop by the permanent exhibits featuring the history of money in the US.

There’s also a fun gift shop where you can buy shredded money and other money-themed gifts to commemorate your trip.

It does close on government holidays and weekends, so make sure to check the opening hours before you go and visit during the week.

8. Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science Grounds

Looking for something to do with kids in Dallas for free?

Head to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science – the museum itself isn’t free, but there’s an outdoor plaza that spans about an acre that is a must-do with kids in good weather.

There are water features to splash around in, as well as musical instruments and other fun kid-friendly activities to take part in.

Bring your own picnic blanket and just enjoy the views and the day here.

9. Look around Billy Bob’s Texas

Billy Bob’s Texas is an absolutely iconic piece of Dallas history, where typical events include rodeos and line-dancing.

While you will have to pay a fee for events, you can usually get in for a very small price or free if you just want to have a look around.

There are lots of things to see, including plaques on the wall about Texas history and a fun gift shop.

10. Play in the Fort Worth Water Gardens

There’s nothing better than water fountains to play in on a hot day, and you’ll find the best thing to do near Dallas with kids for free in the sun: the Fort Worth Water Gardens!

Instead of real “gardens,” the water gardens are actually water fountains and pools of water that make for a great place to cool off.

You can’t swim in them, but can splash around in them and sit in their mists.

This example of modernist architecture dates back to 1974 and is a beloved part of the local area (especially when it’s scorching) these days.

11. Go fishing in Benbrook Lake

If you’ve got your own fishing poles, you can head out to Benbrook Lake for a free day of fishing from the shoreline.

This lake is surrounded by stunning countryside, and you’ll feel super relaxed as you sit in your chair trying to reel in your catch or enjoy a picnic blanket to sit in the prairie meadows.

Take part in some hiking or bird watching if fishing isn’t your thing and enjoy the best free outdoor thing to do near Dallas!

12. See Lake Worth Castle

One of the best Texas castles is free to see near Dallas.

It’s called the Lake Worth Castle, and while you can’t go in, it’s free to drive-by on the shores of Lake Worth.

It dates back to the 1920s and of course has a history of wealthy residents.

It’s a great free photo op!

13. Shop at Dallas Farmer’s Market

It’s totally free to visit the Dallas Farmer’s Market, located Downtown, and while you will need some cash if you want to buy anything, you can take in the atmosphere completely for free.

There’s a strong history in Dallas for this market, dating back to 1941, and it’s a fun place to meet locals and see what’s going on in town.

14. Gather at Pegasus Plaza

Meet friends or family at a free meeting point in Dallas, Pegasus Plaza.

You’ll find it on the corner of Akard and Main Street in downtown Dallas, and it’s a fabulous stretch of green space that is often used for festivals.

There are also fountains to sit around, and benches to enjoy.

The plaza was built in 1994 to help encourage more residents and visitors to come to Downtown Dallas.

15.Get fresh air at River Legacy Park

Not too far from Dallas is River Legacy Park in Arlington, which is free to visit and features everything from forests to wetlands.

You can bring your own mountain bikes for some thrilling outdoor fun, or you can keep it tamer and just walk on the paved trails that last for miles.

Bring your own picnic to enjoy the picnic benches and really take your time here, meditating or reading or just talking as you sit in spots overlooking the river.

If you’ve got the little ones in tow, you’ll love the playground that’s available for them to use for free.

A great way to get outdoors and burn off some steam!

16. Experience the Mary Kay Cosmetics Museum

There’s no doubt you’ve heard of Mary Kay Cosmetics, but did you know that its headquarters is actually in Dallas?

The Mary Kay Cosmetics Museum is completely free to enter, as it’s located within the lobby at the headquarters, and here you’ll find out about the history of the brand, Mary Kay herself, and how it’s spread across the US.

Tours are self-guided, and you’ll also find tributes to some of the brand’s top sellers as well as inspirational speeches.

17. Play at Fantasy Landing at Kiest Park

Take the kids right now and head straight to Fantasy Landing.

Seriously, this playground is one of the best in Texas and it’s completely free to visit.

Designed with a fantasy-themed play area and incredibly colorful equipment, they’ll play for hours here at no cost to you at all.

It’s also specifically designed for accessibility, allowing children of all physical abilities to play together.

Seriously, what are you waiting for?

18. Get sun at Reverchon Park

In the Texas sunshine, sometimes the best thing to do for free is to head to one of the parks.

Reverchon Park is a fantastic choice if you’re in the area as it has picnic tables to sit back and relax at, as well as marked trails for jogging or walking, and even basketball courts and baseball fields if you’ve brought your own sports equipment.

It’s been a sanctuary for Dallas visitors and residents since 1914 and has plenty of garden areas, as well as grills if you want to cook your food there.

19. Go walking at Klyde Warren Park

Get your steps in for free at Klyde Warren Park, where you can do laps on the walking paths or take part in exercise classes that are often held here.

There’s a ton of space to spread out, as well as playgrounds and sometimes children’s activities.

Get involved in the local community by stopping by when the food trucks are there, or stop by in the afternoon for a few hours of quiet or play.

20. Experience the vibe at Southern Methodist University

There’s something about experiencing new cities that always leads me to the universities in the area, and one of the more unique ones in Dallas is Southern Methodist University.

It’s free to wander along the tree-lined pathways and just soak in the university atmosphere.

Bring a snack and sit on a bench and observe true “local life.”

21. Find your inner cowboy at Fort Worth Stockyards

One of the best attractions near Dallas, full-stop, also just happens to be free!

The Fort Worth Stockyards will make you feel like you’re a cowboy in no time as you walk past the saloon doors, see the daily cattle walk, and see more cowboy hats than you’ve seen in your life time.

You’ll step right into the Old West as you explore the historic stockyards.

They were used during the cattle trade in the area between 1866 and 1890 and is the reason it’s called “Cowtown.”

You can see the stockyards themselves or stop by in the gift shops or take some fun self-guided walks through the area (sometimes there’s even free musical events!).

22. See Thanks-Giving Square

If you need some moments of contemplation, seek out Thanks-Giving Square, which is an art installation in Dallas that seeks to help inspire the spirit of thanksgiving and gratitute for what we have.

There’s a meditation garden and chapel, and it’s been well-used and loved since it was designed in 1976.

The chapel has gorgeous stained glass and is open to all people, and you can visit daily for free.

23. Go biking at Oak Cliffe Nature Preserve

Hop on your two wheels and head to Oak Cliffe Nature Preserve for an afternoon of cycling.

There are fantastic biking trails here that take you past rolling hills and meadows, or you can walk and observe the native wild flowers that make it feel like a scene out of a fairytale.

Get healthy, get active, and keep that wallet put away while you explore the great outdoors in Dallas.

24. Walk the dog at Main Street Garden

Another Downtown Dallas gem for free is Main Street Garden, a unique park and gathering place.

They’ve got WiFi in case you need to sit down and get connected, and there’s also a public art installation.

If you’ve got Fido with you, you can take him to the doggy area, and there’s also a small children’s play area for the little ones.

You’ll be surrounded by skyscrapers while sitting in a patch of green grass, which makes for some great pictures and a moment of peace within the noise.

25. Fair Park

Fair Park is free to visit in Dallas and is so large that you’ll find other Dallas attractions in it like the African American Museum.

The entire area has a history to it, as the buildings were actually built in an art deco style for the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936.

It’s a National Historic Landmark that now plays host to large festivals like the State Fair of Texas, and as you walk around you’ll also notice some interesting sculptures.

The sculptures were created by Robert Summer and represent the cattle drive along the Shawnee Trail.

26. Take the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Hop on board the McKinney Avenue Trolley for some free views of Dallas from a vintage trolley!

You’ll get to see parts of downtown Dallas that you might not have gone to on your own, as well as learning the history of the trolley cars that were an important part of Dallas history.

27. Walk around White Rock Lake

Whether you want to hike, bike, or just take a packed lunch to enjoy, White Rock Lake is the place to do it in Dallas.

It’s one of the most popular parks in Dallas and spreads over 1,000 acres, even including the Dallas Arboretum as part of the park!

Bring your dog to play in the dog parks with his furry friends or explore the wetlands (don’t forget your walking shoes!).

28. Pioneer Plaza Cattle Driving

Looking for a unique thing to do in Dallas for free?

Visit Pioneer Plaza, a giant public open space with the cattle drive sculpture commemorating Dallas’s history and culture.

29. Discover Deep Ellum

If you want to really experience the vibe of Dallas in the evening, head to Deep Ellum.

This restaraunt and entertainment district obivously requires some dollars if you want to eat out, but if you are just wandering through, it’s free!

You’ll see the neighborhood that played home to some of the most important jazz and blues music in Texas, and it’s perfectly Instagrammable with some fantastic views, historic buildings, and fun vibes.

There’s also some great street art to marvel at.

30. Relax at Fort Worth Botanic Gardens

Whether you want to check out the indoor greenhouses with exotic plants from around the world or you just want to walk through the Rose gardens and stop and smell them, the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens are well worth a visit and one of the best things to do near Dallas.

You can spend just a half day here, or really commit and lose yourself here for a full day (there’s really a lot to see).

Entrance is for a small fee during regular hours, but there are often free events so check the schedule ahead of time to see if there are any that coincide with your visit!

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29 Awesome & Free Things To Do in Dallas, Texas

The Greater Dallas-Fort Worth area is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. As such, it’s not surprising that there are many free things to do in Dallas. From diving into the city’s vibrant art scene to catching one of Texas ’ beautiful sunsets, Dallas has it all – and yes, everything on this list is free!

In Dallas, you’ll find free museums, parks, trails, lakes — and even a giant eyeball!

Ready to get started? Here are 29 amazing free things to do in Dallas that you and your group will adore.

FREE MUSEUMS

In downtown Dallas, art, history, and culture enthusiasts will lose themselves in a collection of the city’s best museums. The Dallas Arts District houses world-class institutions, such as the Dallas Museum of Art and the magnificent African American Museum. Many of these remarkable museums are free for visitors.

DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART 

The Dallas Museum of Art hosts one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of artwork. Part of what makes the Dallas Museum of Art shine against its brethren are the 24,000 works of art contained within. The artifacts date as far back as the 3 BCE — a.k.a. the period of Carthage, Rome, and the Punic Wars.

Additionally, the Dallas Museum of Art’s diverse array of artifacts places the institution high on the list of “must-see” art museums in the U.S. 

Its collection ranges from an African-carved wooden Senufo rhythm pounder to bronze sculptures from the Mughal Empire of India. You can practically tour the art and culture of the globe while strolling through the DMA.

The DMA offers family-friendly activities throughout the year to introduce children to the arts – most events are 100% free to attend. There’s also an inexpensive cafe onsite in case you get hungry.

THE ANN & GABRIEL BARBIER-MUELLER MUSEUM

Nestled in the park-like space of the Harwood District, the Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum houses one of the world’s most unique collections of Japanese artifacts. You may know it by its other name: The Samurai Collection.

As the nickname indicates, the Samurai Collection contains one of the world’s largest collections of Samurai armor. If that doesn’t steal your breath away, this fact will – it’s the only museum of its kind in the United States. And yes, it’s free to visit.

Among the artifacts at the Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum are intricate hachi helmets, magnificent chainmail, and examples of the famed Samurai swords – katanas and wakizashi.

The Samurai Collection offers family-specific visits on Wednesdays and free “Iron Kid” events on the first Saturday of the month, where kids can learn about different aspects of Samurai armor and culture.

CROW COLLECTION OF ASIAN ART

A short five-minute drive from the Samurai Collection down Olive Street will bring you to another exemplary collection of Asian art collections. The Crow Collection of Asian Art has a more diverse collection than The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Collection, spanning artwork and artifacts from Thailand to Cambodia to the Philippines. 

Its gorgeous sculpture garden is perhaps the most unique and enchanting part of the Crow Collection. The garden is a serene courtyard featuring vibrant trees, carefully tended landscaping, Qin Feng’s marble-and-glass temple lions, Jain temple columns, and the quiet trickle of glittering fountains.

Inside the Crow Collection, you’ll find stunning displays of Chinese Jade, Buddhist sculptures, and other Asiatic artwork. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits throughout the year on topics related to the artifacts and cultures reflected in the museum.

AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 

Since 1977, the African American Museum in Dallas has sought to preserve and share artifacts and artwork from African American culture. Its collection rivals museums across the country, and is one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the United States.

Artists featured in the African American Museum span the prolific artwork of Romare Bearden to the work of quilter, painter, and former plantation worker Clementine Hunter. Artwork at the African American Museum dives into the rich history of African Americans and their integral part in our country’s history.

Admission to the museum is free for groups of less than ten people.

MUSEUM OF GEOMETRIC  AND MADI ART

You won’t find a more exciting or unique museum in Dallas than the Museum of Geometric and Madí Art . This particular museum specializes in shapes and the abstract art movement of Madí, which originated in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Artwork at the Museum of Geometric and Madí Art is vibrant, playful, and colorful, which are trademarks of the Madí movement. The collection features artists from around the world, spanning Russia, South America, and the United States. You’ll find your mind and eyes dazzled by the seemingly impossible shapes and abstract designs depicted in the artwork at the museum.

THE MEADOWS MUSEUM OF ART

If you want to visit Spain without leaving Texas, try visiting the Meadows Museum of Art . Located on the Southern Methodist University campus, the museum offers complimentary visits on Thursdays after 5 p.m. If you plan to visit at a different time, it’s only $12 for adults and $4 for students any other time (and kids under 12 are free).

But back to visiting Spain. The Meadows Museum of Art features the most extensive collection of Spanish outwork outside of Spain – earning it the nickname “Prado on the Prairie,” in reference to the Museo Nacional del Prado, Spain’s national art museum in Madrid. 

Lining the museum’s exhibits are breathtaking displays of Baroque paintings, Renaissance pieces by El Greco, works by Goya, Pablo Picasso, Dali, and more. Every step will lead you through the culture and beauty of Spanish artwork.

KLYDE WARREN PARK

Explore over five acres of a lush landscape while taking in the iconic views of Downtown Dallas’ skyline at Klyde Warren Park . The park is a popular stop for food trucks, yoga lovers, frisbee teams, and families. 

Klyde Warren Park features a ton of free activities, including its shady dog park (perfect for Fido and friends), free fitness classes, like yoga and tai chi, and the sweeping Great Lawn that has room for all of your favorite outdoor activities. In addition, a dedicated Children’s Park recently expanded to an 18,000 sq. foot area. The park features a climbing wall, water features for cooling off on a summer day, and plenty of other play equipment. 

Be sure to check out the Klyde Warren Park calendar for free events throughout the year. On select Saturdays, the park hosts movie nights, in addition to all the free fitness classes offered by day. A visit to this park is one of the best things to do in Dallas.

PIONEER PLAZA

Discover the rich ranching history of the Dallas area at Pioneer Plaza . The centerpiece of this quiet park is the massive iron sculpture of a cattle drive, complete with cowboys and horses driving along the herd.

Pioneer Plaza is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic without the hustle and bustle of some of Dallas’ busier parks. The plaza has a pond and fountain to add a unique ambiance to your next picnic. Make sure to bring your camera – it’s a great photo op if you’re there around sunrise or sunset.

RIDE THE MCKINNEY AVENUE TROLLEY

The McKinney Avenue Trolley is a piece of Dallas’ past. The iconic trolley first ran in 1989 as an homage to the street car services of the past. Today, the trolley continues to run as a non-profit, providing public transportation while commemorating a part of Dallas’ history.

Riding the McKinney Avenue Trolley will take you through the best of Downtown Dallas all the way to Uptown. It’s the perfect free transportation to most of the museums I mentioned earlier.

Note, the trolley provides free fare, but asks riders to “name their price” by donating cash or coin in the fare box or visiting their website. So, if you have some spare change, the trolley folks sure appreciate it.

The city of Dallas has over a 150 years of history to explore, with many neighborhoods holding unique histories of their own. Deep Ellum is one such neighborhood that has existed in Dallas since 1873.

Deep Ellum began as one of Dallas’s first commercial districts of African Americans and European immigrants. Initially, the neighborhood carried the name “Deep Elm,” but its early residents pronounced the name “Ellum,” and it has since stuck. Over the years, Deep Ellum has grown to accommodate many of Dallas’ historical landmarks, including one of Henry Ford’s first automobile plants, The Palace Blacksmith Shop, and The Grand Temple of the Knights of Pythias. 

Today, Deep Ellum is a thriving entertainment district. Walking its streets is totally free and provides a fantastic walk through Dallas’ history while exploring its present-day culture. The area has hundreds of murals lining the alleys and walls, art galleries, and the Latino Cultural Center – which is usually free to visit, but occasionally has an admission fee for special events.

BIKE WHITE ROCK LAKE

While Dallas is a sprawling metropolis, the city does strive to create green spaces for residents to reconnect with nature. One such place is White Rock Lake , a 1,015-acre city lake located near Downtown Dallas.

Though man-made — White Rock Lake is a reservoir — the lake offers a serene beauty for its visitors to enjoy. The lake features a tree-lined, 9.33-mile-long trail for biking, running, and hiking that is very popular with Dallas residents. There’s also a dog park, kayak rental service, and picnic areas around the lake.

While visiting White Rock Lake, you can also take in the galleries, concerts, and festivals at the Bath House Cultural Center. The Center used to be the boat house for rowing teams, but has since converted to a multi-purpose arts center. In addition, the White Rock Lake Museum and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden are near the lake.

JOHN F. KENNEDY MEMORIAL

On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy lost his life at the hands of an assassin. Two days after his death, Dallas County Judge Lew Sterrett proposed a memorial to honor the president. 

That proposal eventually came into being as the John F. Kennedy Memorial. The memorial is a “cenotaph,” or open tomb, designed by architect and friend of the Kennedy family, Phillip Johnson. The monument rises 30 feet high, glittering brilliantly in the sun. The memorial is always quiet, a place of reflection and remembrance, just as First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy wanted.

BELO GARDEN PARK

One of Dallas’ newer parks, Belo Garden Park , provides a relaxing space in the city’s heart where you can enjoy the smell of fresh-cut grass while watching clouds float along the sky. Belo Garden Park is smaller than many of Dallas’ mega-parks, with only 1.7 acres of space, but its fantastic fountain rivals that of its bigger neighboring parks.

The park itself offers an escape from urban business. It’s lined by more than 100 trees and 10,000 ornamental grasses. You can enjoy an afternoon picnicking near the fountain – though I always like reading a book on one of the picnic chairs in the shady grove.

MARGARET HUNT HILL BRIDGE

The city of Dallas is full of architectural wonders, but one of my favorites is the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge . The bridge rises on the Dallas skyline, a graceful arch designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. 

The design of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge reminds me a bit of a harp. Fifty-eight cables span the arch length as if some giant needed a musical instrument in Dallas. At the base of the bridge is Trinity Groves , a vibrant shopping and restaurant hot spot in West Dallas.

DEALEY PLAZA NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DISTRICT  

Many people know Dealey Plaza as “the birthplace of Dallas.” The plaza houses some of the most important buildings in Dallas history, many of which feature classical architectural styles like Romanesque and Gothic Revival. Some of the most notable buildings to explore in the district are the Old Dallas Courthouse and the Texas School Book Depository – the site of Lee Harvey Oswald’s assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

While visiting the Dealey Plaza, I recommend visiting the “Grassy Knoll.” Before Kennedy’s assassination, the knoll was not particularly interesting to visitors. However, after the assassination, the knoll was suspected to be the place where the shots originated. Though the knoll was not, in fact, Oswald’s vantage point, it remains a point of interest for history buffs visiting the area.

THE GIANT EYEBALL

Okay, it’s a giant eyeball , folks – need I say more? It rises at 30 ft. tall with a bright blue iris that stares out at the Main Street District of Downtown Dallas.

Of course, you probably want to know why there’s a giant eyeball sculpture in Downtown Dallas before you visit it. Well, the eyeball’s designer, Chicago-based artist Tony Tasset, said to the Nasher Sculpture Center that he wanted to make something that “speaks a lot to people.” It certainly managed that. And, The Giant Eyeball also sits on the site of Dallas’ first skyscraper, the Praetorian Building circa 1909.

TRINITY RIVER AUDUBON CENTER

At the Trinity River Audubon Center , you can experience the beauty of nature without traveling too far. The center resides in the Great Trinity Forest in Southeast Dallas. 

The 120-acre center is part of the City of Dallas-Trinity River Corridor Project. Visitors to the center can enjoy five miles of walking trails surrounded by birdsong. There is also a butterfly garden and picnic areas at the center.

NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER

I mentioned the Nasher Sculpture Center previously, and now I’m going to explain why you should totally visit this one-of-a-kind art center. I’ll preface this by noting that going inside the center is not always free – tickets cost around $10 for adults most days. However, admission is free on the First Saturdays of the month and every third Friday of the month from 6 p.m. to midnight.

So, why should you visit the Nasher? The center exhibits a remarkable array of sculptures ranging from pre-Colombian artwork to work by Picasso and Matisse. The center also has a lovely sculpture garden with 25 sculptures in a park-like oasis.

DALLAS FARMERS MARKET

Get your fill of window shopping while taking in the vibrant scenes of Downtown Dallas at the Dallas Farmers Market . This market has been serving up fresh produce, crafts, and artisanal wares since 1941!

You have a variety of places to shop at the market. The Market Shops, for example, are open seven days a week and have an array of restaurants and vendors to enjoy. In addition, the Farmers Market @ The Shed is an open-air pavilion hosting vendors on Saturdays and Sundays.

FANTASY LANDING AT KIEST PARK

If you’re visiting Dallas and a local recommends visiting Fantasy Landing with the kids, they’re likely referring to the playground at Kiest Park – though all of Kiest Park is a bit of a fantasy!

The playground at Kiest Park has equipment for kids of all ages, plus restrooms with changing tables for younger children. The park also has tennis and volleyball courts, soccer fields, and a beautiful pond lined by stones and pergolas.

DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE – OLD CITY PARK

The Dallas Heritage Village, or Old City Park , is a collection of historic buildings dating back to 1840 and is now run as a museum. It’s also Dallas’ oldest park – hence the name “Old City Park.”

Tours of the Dallas Heritage Village will take you through Victorian homes and buildings, like the Millermore Plantation House. Tours are free, and in the fall, a spooky ghost tour version is available to the public. After walking around the homes, you can swing by Brent Place Restaurant for historic-themed meals or McCall’s Store for a souvenir. 

WALK THE KATY TRAIL

The scenic Katy Trail is probably one of the best walking areas in all of Texas. The trail runs along an old railroad line that runs about 3.5 miles.

Today, the trail is a fully-paved path used by over 1.5 million visitors annually. Pets, bicyclists, runners, and walkers are welcome to enjoy the flourishing greenery of the easy trail. Plus, after your long walk or run, you can grab a bite at the Katy Trail Ice House – they have delicious burgers.

RON KIRK PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

The Trinity River provides a lovely background for the City of Dallas. Catching a sunset on the river will leave you breathless, and there’s no better place to view the sunset than the Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge.

The Ron Kirk Pedestrian Bridge connects Downtown and West Dallas, providing a safe crossing point for pedestrians. The bridge also has a playground, giant chess board, and splash park surrounding it. It’s a great place to take a walk and let the kids burn off some energy!

THANKS-GIVING SQUARE

Thanks-Giving Square is one of Dallas’ most prized parks. Built in 1976, the square is home to a non-denominational chapel and a beautifully landscaped garden. The square is dedicated to celebrating thanksgiving as a root belief in the cultures and religions around the world. 

The glittering of the spiral tower and stained glass windows of the chapel is one of the most iconic scenes in Dallas. The square and its garden sit 15-feet below ground level, blocking the quiet park from the sights of urban life. Thus, you’re left standing in a peaceful garden, surrounded by beautiful granite structures referring to scriptures and quotes from the world’s religions.

CEDAR HILL STATE PARK

Next to Cedar Ridge Preserve awaits one of Texas’ natural paradises. Cedar Hill State Park is the place to escape city life and enjoy a day or two of adventure. Known for its lake activities, camping sites, and hiking trails, Cedar Hill State Park has an outdoor activity for everyone.

Free activities at Cedar Hill State Park are abundant. You can swim or boat in the lake, or if you’d rather stick to land, spend the day geocaching along the trails. Another popular site at the park is the Penn Farm Agricultural Center, an old homestead farm that is a testament to the Texas farming way of life from the 1800s.

DALLAS FINE ARTS CHAMBER PLAYERS

Take in the music scene of Dallas with a visit to one of the Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players ‘ free concerts. The Chamber Players host both live music and online events for the public, but most of the concerts take place at the Sammons Center for the Arts.

In addition to free concerts, the Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players also put on an annual Basically Beethoven Festival. The festival is free to attend and features four free concerts that perform music in a given theme or genre. The festival usually occurs in July, but the other concerts happen throughout the year.

BISHOP ARTS DISTRICT

The Bishop Arts District is another one of Dallas’ historically significant neighborhoods. The district calls itself “Dallas’ most independent neighborhood” because of the number of small, independent businesses residing there.

Strolling through the Bishop Arts District is a treat for the eyes. Window shopping at the boutiques is 100% free, as is admiring the murals and flowers that line the sidewalks. Additionally, several art galleries call the Bishop Arts District Home, many of which are free to stroll through.

FLAGSHIP NEIMAN MARCUS STORE

For over a century, Neiman Marcus has been an upstanding name in the American fashion industry. But, did you know the first store opened in Dallas…and it’s still open?

You can visit the first ever Neiman Marcus Department Store in Downtown Dallas. Of course, window shopping and perusing the items in the store is 100% free – and who doesn’t like taking in a historic building’s architecture while eyeing beautiful scarves and clothing?

THE NORTHPARK ART COLLECTION

Dallas’ top shopping destination is the NorthPark Center , which houses some of the greatest names in fashion and mercantile products (think Versace, Burberry, and J. Crew). But, NorthPark Center also houses a remarkable collection of sculptures and artwork, particularly in its CenterPark green space.

The NorthPark Art Collection features over 50 works from the Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Collection. It’s free to walk through the center and take in the awe-inspiring artwork, as well as enjoy the garden space of the shopping center.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO TEXAS

• YOUR TEXAS VACATION
• DALLAS WITH KIDS: 27 Things To Do In Dallas With Kids (& The Greater Dallas Area)
• DAY TRIPS FROM DALLAS: 16 Fun Day Trips From Dallas You’re Gonna Love
• THE WOODLANDS: 11 Awesome Things To Do In The Woodlands, Texas
• ARLINGTON: 11 Outstanding Things To Do In Arlington TX

WHERE TO STAY IN DALLAS

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50 Free Things To Do In Dallas-Fort Worth

There are so many free things to do in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area that you could stay busy for months.  

While many of the attractions here can add up quickly, you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time in DFW.  

Take it from us, Marty and I were born and raised in the DFW metroplex, so we know how to have fun without spending a ton of money.

There are so many free things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth that you can easily have a great time without breaking the bank.  

Honestly, there is so much stuff to do in Fort Worth that you could stay busy for months!

All of the free stuff near me makes it great to visit.

Of course, many of these also make for a great date night in Dallas-Fort Worth ! 

We have included Dallas indoor activities, and Dallas activity deals all here for you!

If you are looking to get out of the city for a little while, then you should definitely consider some of the  incredible day trips from Dallas  as well.

Dallas is such a great city to visit. I mean, people come from all over to visit.

If you find yourself in San Antonio, consider taking one of the buses from San Antonio to Dallas to enjoy the city!

We have also included things to do near DFW.

*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 Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

50 Free Things to Do in Dallas-Fort Worth

Klyde warren park.

Klyde Warren Park is a little oasis in a big city in the Downtown Dallas Arts District and downtown.

However, Klyde Warren Park isn’t your ordinary park, though is actually one of the cool free things in Downtown Dallas.

Klyde Warren Park is built over Woodall Rodgers Freeway and is packed with things to do.  

You would never know it, but you are right over Woodall Rodgers Freeway!

Enjoy a great green space on Woodall Rodgers Freeway, free wifi, a dog park, food trucks, live music, exercise classes, chess, and more! 

Klyde Warren Park also offers a great view of the Dallas skyline.

Not only is Klyde Warren Park one of the best free things to do in Dallas , but it is also one of the great  ideas for date night in Dallas !

McKinney Avenue Trolley

Take a ride in a vintage streetcar through Uptown Dallas for free!  

The McKinney Avenue Trolley operates 365 days a year and is a great way to hit the many shops, restaurants, and bars in this trendy neighborhood.

The McKinney Avenue Trolley is one of the top ways to see the city.

It’s fun to watch the McKinney Avenue Trolley coming down the street; it feels so nostalgic.

The McKinney Avenue Trolley is one of the great free things to do in Downtown Dallas!

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Trinity River Audubon Center

Located just south of downtown Dallas, the Trinity River Audubon Center is the largest urban hardwood forest in the United States .

What was once an illegal dumpsite has been repurposed and cleaned up.

Today, you will enjoy a 130-acre sanctuary.  

Encompassing miles and miles of trails and beautiful natural green space, this is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a little while.

You can give yourself a self-guided tour during your visit.

While there is normally an admission fee, you can visit for free on the third Thursday of each month from 9 a.m. -4 p.m.

This is one of the fabulous free things to do in Dallas.

Nasher Sculpture Center

You will find this outdoor museum in the Dallas Arts District.  

Sprawled over 2 acres, the Nasher Sculpture Center houses a great collection of contemporary and modern sculptures.

This beautifully designed museum features rotating and special exhibits throughout the year.

The Nasher Sculpture Center hosts special events, including twilight strolls through their sculpture garden, including musicians and guest speakers.  

Normally, there is a small entry fee to visit the Nasher Sculpture Center and sculpture garden, but visiting the first Saturday of each month is free!

The Nasher is one of the best free things to do in Dallas.

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Dallas Museum of Art

Everything is bigger in Texas, so it only makes sense that Texas would house one of the largest art museums in America , the Dallas Museum of Art.

And what a bonus that general admission at the Dallas Museum of Art in the downtown area is free daily!

The Dallas Museum of Art gallery boasts one of the largest collections, comprising over 22,000 works of art encompassing over 5,000 years of history.

The permanent collection here is outstanding and one of the largest art collections in Dallas and the United States.

With art from all over the world and pieces of all mediums, you will surely find a portion of the Dallas Museum of Art you love.

We especially love the Egyptian pieces that are housed here.

The Dallas Museum of Art also offers yearly events, including family and teen programs and make-and-take art classes.

Visit on the second Thursday of the month to enjoy Second Thursday With a Twist for a fun and unique experience at the museum.

There is also a performing arts section of the museum called the Arts & Letters Live.

During this event, literature is combined with the performing arts.

Visit their website for more information.

A world-class museum like the Dallas Museum of Art should definitely be on your list of free things to do in Dallas.

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Crow Collection of Asian Art

This beautiful collection of art at the Crow Collection of Asian Art is dedicated to the art of Japan, China, India, and Southeast Asia.  

Also located in the beautiful Dallas Arts District, the collection at the Crow Collection of Asian Art originated from Trammell and Margaret Crow as a gift to their children and the visitors of Dallas.

The Crow Collection of Asian Art is small, housing just over 500 pieces, but the pieces are beautiful and world-class.

The Crow Collection of Asian Art is one of the free things in Dallas that is well worth your time.

Visit their website for the most up-to-date operating hours.

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Mary Kay Museum

Makeup lovers and female entrepreneurs take note.  You can tour the Mary Kay museum for free!

Celebrating the legacy of one of Dallas’ most loved female entrepreneurs, Mary Kay Nash, the Mary Kay Museum is located in the headquarters of the Mary Kay Company.

The museum has a theatre where you can hear Mary Kay give a motivational pep talk while the displays encompass four decades of her legacy.

You can find more information about the Mary Kay Museum here .

White Rock Lake and Park

Whether you want to grab your running shoes or a picnic, White Rock Lake and Park is a great setting to do either!

White Rock Lake encompasses over 1,000 acres just north of downtown Dallas.  

You will find a museum, dog park, walking paths, picnic areas, ample green space, and boat ramps on the property.

In addition, White Rock Lake is one of the top places to exercise in Dallas.

There are also several great restaurants and bars around White Rock Lake.

White Rock Lake is one of the great free things to do in Dallas for outdoor lovers.

You can visit White Rock Lake any day of the year to enjoy some time outdoors.

Enjoy the Deep Ellum Neighborhood

Deep Ellum is the place to go for a trendy, hip neighborhood in Dallas.  

The Deep Ellum neighborhood comprises arts and entertainment venues and is even known as the live music capital of North Texas.

Enjoy a walk through Deep Ellum and catch the live music blaring out the door of the many clubs and bars.

Deep Ellum hosts several events yearly, including the ever-popular St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the great graffiti around the Deep Ellum neighborhood. 

The Deep Ellum is fun and quirky and definitely worth a visit.

Deep Ellum is also a great place to enjoy some nightlife in Downtown Dallas.

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is a monument to honor President John F. Kennedy, as this was the spot of his assassination in downtown Dallas.

Dealey Plaza is so popular that you will see people at the outdoor plaza at all times of the day.

Dealey Plaza holds much more Dallas history than just the JFK assassination.

The John F. Kennedy Memorial site is the original ‘birthplace of Dallas’ and was often called “The Front Door of Dallas.”

The monument at Dealey Plaza stands 30 feet high and 50 feet wide and is said to resemble an ancient tomb.  

The monument offers free admission 24 hours a day.

Definitely a piece of American history.

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Bishop Arts District

Another trendy Dallas neighborhood, The Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff, is home to over 60 boutiques, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Marty and I love coming to the Bishop Arts District to walk around.  

There always seems to be something going on! 

There is also a great  food tour of the Bishop Arts District .  We had so much fun on this tour!

African-American Museum

Another of the free things to do in Dallas is the African American Museum.

As the largest museum of African-American Folk Art in the United States, the African-American Museum is well worth a visit during your time in Dallas.

In addition to the ongoing exhibits, the African American Museum also hosts several rotating exhibits throughout the year.

Visit their website for operating hours and more information.

A visit to Fair Park in Dallas should be on everyone’s list of free things to do in Dallas, especially if you are visiting when the Texas State Fair is in town.

Even if the State Fair is not in town, you can still visit Fair Park.

The year-round attractions at Fair Park include the Cotton Bowl Stadium, the African American Museum, and the Children’s Aquarium.

Fair Park is also home to a nice area to enjoy a picnic and a day in nature.

Consider Taking This Tour of the Cowboys Stadium:

Dallas farmers market.

A visit to the Dallas Farmer’s Market allows you to catch a glimpse of the local life in Dallas.

You will find vendors at the Dallas Farmers Market year-round selling fruits, vegetables, and other local foods.

The Dallas Farmers Market is also the perfect place to grab a bite. You can taste local food from the many shops located on site.

Barbier-Mueller Museum

The Barbier-Mueller Museum is a popular attraction in Dallas thanks to The Samurai Collection housed here.

Centuries of Samurai masterpieces have been collected by Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller and their children and are now on display in the Barbier-Mueller Museum.

These works of art are truly unique and very fascinating.

The Barbier-Mueller Museum is free to enjoy and is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Pioneer Plaza

Another popular attraction in Dallas is Pioneer Plaza.

As the largest public open space in the Dallas Business District, Pioneer Plaza is visited by locals and tourists.

One of the top attractions in Pioneer Plaza is the bronze statues that re-create a cattle drive in the outdoor plaza and an awesome place to spend the day.

Frisco Heritage Center

Head north of Dallas to the suburb of Frisco, and you will find the cutest little heritage center.

The Frisco Heritage Center is a village comprised of an old church, some old houses, and a replica of the Frisco Railway Depot, all lovingly restored.

You can rent the area for special events, or they offer free admission on the third Sunday of each month. 

There are so many fun  things to do in Frisco, Texas , that you could spend an entire day just in Frisco!

This is one of the best free things in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Meadows Museum

You will find the Meadows Museum on the campus of Southern Methodist University in Dallas.  

The Meadows has an extensive collection of Spanish art.

Here on the campus of Southern Methodist University at the Meadows Museum, you can also find works by Picasso, Goya, and Rodin.  

The museum at Southern Methodist University usually charges for admission, but the museum offers free admission on Thursdays after 5 p.m.

Visit their website for more information and add this to your list of the best free things in Dallas.

 Amon Carter Museum of American Art

Housing permanent collections of works of art, including American Art, the Amon Carter won’t disappoint art lovers.

We love to go to the Amon Carter for the photography collection.  

With over 30,000 photographic prints, The Amon Carter is a shutterbug’s delight!

You can visit their website for more information.

Check Out the Art on Magnolia Avenue

Magnolia Avenue is right up your alley if you love street art!

Combine the fun graffiti and street art with the great boutique shops and restaurants, and you have a winning combination.

Fort Worth Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Show me the money!

That’s exactly what they will do at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Fort Worth.

This Bureau of Engraving and Printing site is where over half of the nation’s currency is made.  

You can tour the facility absolutely free of charge.

Take the self-guided tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and interact with displays and exhibits, all while seeing the beautiful currency produced.

Visiting the Bureaus is one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s best free things to do.

Tour The Stockyards Museum

The Stockyards Museum is one of the cool free things to do in Fort Worth .

Located in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, this museum gives you insight into the cowboy history of Cowtown.

Here, you can learn all about ranching and the cattle-raising industry.

Trinity Trails

Fort Worth definitely is not short on walking trails, and some of the favorites are the Trinity Trails.  

The Trinity Trails follow the Trinity River, and its tributaries offer a variety of outdoor activities.

The Trinity Trails run for miles, but some of the most popular stretches are just on the edge of downtown Fort Worth by the Trinty River.

This area includes Trinity Park. Trinity Park has a children’s playground, miles of trails, and more.

People love to bring a picnic to Trinity Park on a nice day!

Picnic areas, boat launches for canoes and kayaks, equestrian trails, and even a slalom water-ski course along the Trinity Trails.

This is one of the best free things to do in Fort Worth.

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See the Fort Worth Herd in the Stockyards

Where else can you see a cattle drive headed down the middle of the main street in a major city?

You can witness a live cattle drive in The Fort Worth Stockyards twice daily.

Texas cowboys lead their herd of longhorns down Exchange Avenue every day at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The drive has been taking place for years and is one of the unique Fort Worth attractions.

A visit to the Stockyards is not complete without seeing the cattle drive.

Giving people a taste of our cowboy heritage has to be on the list of fun things to do in Fort Worth !

You can find more information on the Herd by clicking here.

Fort Worth Water Gardens

Located on the southern end of downtown Fort Worth, across the street from the Convention Center, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is a little oasis in Fort Worth.

The Fort Worth Water Gardens is unlike most urban parks.

Instead of green space, you are surrounded by water in this park.

Families love the visit the Fort Worth Water Gardens, as kids enjoy being around all of the water pools here.

Venture down the main waterfall area, and water will surround you.

In other parts of the Fort Worth Water Gardens, you will find a meditation pool and several fountain pools, all surrounded by beautiful oak trees.

The Fort Worth Water Gardens is one of the best things to do in Fort Worth .

Check out this article for more information on the  Fort Worth Water Gardens .

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Fort Worth Cultural District

A few miles west of downtown lies the Fort Worth Cultural District.  

This neighborhood hosts great museums in a beautiful park-like setting.

The Amon Carter, Will Rogers Memorial Center, the BRIT, and the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens are here.  

Trinity Park, located across the street from the Botanical Gardens, is a great way to spend the afternoon outdoors.

Go and explore this great neighborhood.  You will be surprised by all that it houses.

Heritage Trails of Fort Worth

This walkthrough of downtown Fort Worth showcases the people and events that shaped Fort Worth.

Visit historical landmarks throughout downtown to learn about Fort Worth’s history.

Download the interactive map and get to exploring.

John F. Kennedy Tribute-Fort Worth

Come and visit the tribute to John F. Kennedy while you’re in downtown as well.  

This historic location is where JFK spoke to a crowd outside the Hotel Texas (now the Fort Worth Hilton) on a rainy day just before he died in Dallas.

Today, a gorgeous bronze statue honoring the former President is surrounded by photographic displays and quotes.

Sundance Square in Fort Worth

Sundance Square is the perfect area to explore day or night.  

This 35-block area located in downtown is full of boutique shops, great restaurants and bars, art galleries, and live performance venues.

After shopping the day away, relax in Sundance Square Plaza, enjoying the fountains before heading to catch a play or comedy show.

This is one of the best things to do in Fort Worth.

Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell Art Museum is a world-renowned art museum located in the heart of the Cultural District in Fort Worth.

Home to a permanent collection of works of renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Michelangelo, the Kimbell Art Museum will fascinate any art lover.  

Be sure and admire the unique architecture of the building itself while visiting.  

While some exhibits have an entry fee, the general exhibits can be viewed for free anytime.

Livestock Exchange Building

Located in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, the Livestock Exchange Building has over 100 years of history.

Once known as the “Wall Street of the West,” the exchange building is where cattle traders would come to do business.

Today, most of the building is office space, but an area devoted to the North Fort Worth Historical Society Museum is worth a visit.

Billy Bob’s Texas

Put your boots on and head to the world’s largest honky-tonk, Billy Bob’s Texas.

Try your luck on the mechanical bull or dance the night away while listening to live music.  

Billy Bob’s is a legend and a must-do while visiting Fort Worth.

Take note, because this is a concert venue, there is a charge if a concert is scheduled, but you can visit Billy Bob’s for free most of the day.

Monnig Meteorite Gallery

On the beautiful campus of Texas Christian University, you can get up close and personal with space!  

The Monnig Meteorite Gallery houses over 3,000 meteorites, many of which are on display for you to see.

While you are here, check out the grounds of Texas Christian University as well.

Sid Richardson Museum

Located in Sundance Square, the Sid Richardson Museum is the place to go if you want to see 19th-century art about Western America.

For free, visit the museum anytime during business hours or stop by for a guided tour on Tuesday or Saturday.

Fort Worth Stockyards

Hanging out in the Stockyards will make you feel like a modern-day cowboy.  

The Stockyards offers many restaurants and clubs and some great shopping.

You will see the original brick walkways and the tried and true wooden corrals.  

Spend some time exploring the cattle pens before boot-scootin’ in Billy Bob’s and seeing the cattle drive on Exchange, the main street in the Stockyards.

Take time to eat at one of the many great restaurants in the area.

You will find awesome Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex food, and some delicious steaks here.

There is also a ghost tour in the Stockyards on the weekends, which is interesting.

Texas Trail Hall of Fame

While exploring the Stockyards, you will probably notice bronze markers outlining the achievements of different individuals.  

This is the Texas Trail Hall of Fame.

Celebrating Texas heritage is a great way to learn about the Western culture that helped shape this area.

The markers are interesting, modeled after a frontier marshall’s badge.

Fort Worth’s Molly the Trolley 

Hop on the vintage-looking Molly the Trolley for easy transport around downtown Fort Worth, Texas, including Main Street and the Fort Worth Sundance Square area.

Molly the Trolley is a fun, vintage-looking trolley that makes several stops along its route, making it a great way to get around.

Molly the Trolley travels between Sundance Square and the Convention Center on Main Street for quick access to the places you want to visit, and it’s free!  

Molly the Trolley runs seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Average wait times for Molly the Trolley are about 15 minutes.

William Campbell Contemporary Art Gallery

Rotating exhibits are a key feature of the William Campbell Art Gallery in Fort Worth, Texas, a staple of the local art scene for over 40 years.

The gallery features artists with all media types, including photography, prints, ceramics, mixed media, and paper.

Take note that the gallery is closed on Sunday and Monday.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

While there is normally an entrance fee for the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum, you can visit for free on Sundays and half-price on Wednesdays!

The Modern houses over 3,000 art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, videos, and photographs representing all major movements.

There is also a great restaurant within the museum called The Modern.

Here, you can enjoy a fabulous meal with a beautiful view over the grounds of this museum.

Cowtown Opry

Every Sunday at 2 p.m., you can head down to the Livestock Exchange Building in the Stockyards for a free concert by The Cowtown Opry.

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado

Fort Worth Community Arts Center

Check out one of the art exhibits at the Fort Worth Community Arts Center.  

After the exhibits, the art is usually available for purchase.

You never know; you might find a favorite piece to take home with you!

Hike to Airfield Falls

Find your way to Tarrant County’s only natural waterfall, Airfield Falls.  

The trailhead is adjacent to the Pumphey Drive entrance to the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base.

If you choose to do this hike in the summer, take lots of water as it gets really hot in Texas.

River Legacy Park

Located between Dallas and Fort Worth in Arlington, you will find the 1,300-acre recreation area known as River Legacy Park.

The park is home to 8 miles of paved hike and bike trails and a 10-mile mountain bike trail.

You will also find picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, and canoe launch areas.

Lake Worth Castle

You read that correctly; a castle in Fort Worth, Texas, just north of Fort Worth, in Lake Worth.  

You can’t go inside the castle as it is privately owned, but you can drive by and see it.

Surrounded by mystery and intrigue, the castle is said to be haunted.  

Locals swear that they have seen a figure of a woman dressed in white running from the castle and into the lake.

Maybe you will catch a glimpse of her on your drive by.

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Cedar Ridge Preserve

The Cedar Ridge Preserve is part of the Dallas Audubon Society.

Located on Mountain Creek Parkway in southwest Dallas, Cedar Ridge Preserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife and trails on over 600 acres of park space.

This wooded area is home to a variety of flora and fauna that is native to Texas.

Visitors here can enjoy facilities that include restrooms, picnic tables, and miles of natural surface hiking trails. This is a great place to spend some time outdoors while in Dallas.

Levitt Pavillion in Arlington

In the middle of downtown Arlington, you will find Levitt Pavillion.  Enjoy free music here over 50 days of the year.  

Their concerts include music from all genres.

You can enjoy jazz, country, or hip-hop, to name a few.  Visit their website for a complete calendar.

Visit the Historic Fielder House

Also, connect to a little bit of Arlington history in Arlington, Texas, by visiting the Fielder House.

Here, you will find historic exhibits encompassing the city of Arlington.

Southwest Nature Preserve

The Southwest Nature Preserve is a 58-acre natural preserve in southwest Arlington.  

Three ponds allow catch-and-release fishing, outdoor seating, and many nature trails.

Like most places in Texas, take care of yourself if you are out in the Texas heat.

Roanoke Skate Park

Skateboarders will love visiting the world-class skate park in Roanoke, TX.  

Whether practicing your ollie or learning to skate the rails, you will have a great time at Roanoke Skate Park.

Read Next : Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Trader’s Village

If you like flea markets, you must visit the Texas-size flea market of Trader’s Village in Grand Prairie.

Trader’s Village has many vendors selling everything from furniture to car accessories.

You can walk around for hours browsing the many shops before eating fun carnival-style food.

If you are so inclined, you can buy a new pet here!

Kids will enjoy the carnival-style rides available at Trader’s Village.

Play Free Games at Barcadia

Eat, drink, and play at Fort Worth’s Barcadia.  

On Monday and Tuesday nights, you get free arcade play!

Grab a drink and meet some friends at Barcadia to show them your awesome gaming skills.

The Gallery at UTA

The Gallery at UTA is located in the Fine Arts building of The University of Texas at Arlington.  

The Gallery provides young artists with an area to promote their art.

They offer several exhibits showcasing all different media.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Enjoy one of the largest city-owned refuge sites in the United States.  

The Fort Worth Nature Center covers over 3,600 acres of natural preserve.

You will find tons of hiking trails and several educational opportunities here.

In addition to this, there is a buffalo herd on site that visitors can view.

Read Next: 20 Fun Things To Do In Galveston

Check out Artspace 111

Home to monthly exhibits showcasing local artists, Artspace 111 is a trendy space for viewing.

Spend Friday on the Green

Live music and vendors abound at Friday on the Green.  

This free outdoor concert celebrates local bands of the DFW area.  

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the show!

Need a place to stay in Dallas?

There are many great places to stay while visiting Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Here are some of our favorites:

Fairmont Dallas – The Fairmont Dallas is right in the heart of the Dallas Arts District, so you are close to several attractions we have mentioned here in this post.

Aloft Dallas Downtown-  The Aloft Hotel in Downtown Dallas is a great loft-inspired hotel in downtown Dallas.

The Magnolia Hotel Dallas – The Magnolia is close to the American Airlines Center and offers a boutique experience right in the middle of the action.

Omni Fort Worth Hotel – The Omni Fort Worth is a great hotel in downtown Fort Worth, Texas, that allows you to be close to the action of Sundance Square.

Hilton Down town Fort Worth– The Hilton Fort Worth allows you to stay close to shops and restaurants while enjoying the laid-back style of Fort Worth.

Hyatt Place Fort Worth Stockyards -If you want to experience the “cowboy culture” of Fort Worth, then the Hyatt Place Fort Worth Stockyards is exactly where you want to be!

Stockyards Hotel – Another great hotel in the Fort Worth Stockyards is the Stockyards Hotel.  This historic hotel might be the perfect place for you to call home.

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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.

Couple vacation in texas – Touriago

Sunday 31st of July 2022

[…] it or not, Dallas-Ft. Worth should definitely make the list of romantic weekend getaways.  I mean, there are so […]

USA Weekend Trips: The 25 Most Amazing US Cities for Quick Getaways! - It's Not About the Miles

Sunday 5th of June 2022

[…] you’ll find lots of free things to do in Dallas, so you won’t have to break the bank to visit this exciting Texas […]

Carlisa Rushin

Tuesday 4th of January 2022

Some of these are no longer free. For instance the BRIT and Ft. Worth Botanical Gardens now charge an entrance.

thattexascouple

Thursday 6th of January 2022

Thank you so much!! I will get this updated!!!

Monday 6th of September 2021

Wow so many cool free museums! I'd love to go to the cafes though

Sunday 12th of September 2021

Dallas-Fort Worth is so great! There are so many fun things here!

Sunday 5th of September 2021

This is such an exhaustive list. I hav lived in Dallas suburbs, but I didn’t know about so many free things. Have visited a few though. Hopefully can get back someday. Thanks for sharing

Thanks so much! It really is a great area!!

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Free Things to Do in Dallas

LAST UPDATED BY Ilene Jacobs April 18, 2022

Whoever said the best things in life are free must have been talking about Dallas, because the city has tons of things to do that will cost you literally nothing. And we’re not just talking about hanging out in the malls (though that’s fun too).

Did you know that you can soak up some of the area’s most amazing cultural offerings without spending a penny? For example, the Dallas Museum of Art boasts one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the nation and there’s never an admission charge to get in. Located around the corner is another free gem, the Crow Collection of Asian Art . And we’d be remiss to not mention the gloriously free Kimbell Art Museum , located in Dallas’ sister city, Fort Worth.  

Oh, and that's not all, there's live music, comedy, and a slew of other fun activities on offer as well. The cost? Absolutely nada. So, put away your credit cards and get ready to explore the 10Best free things to do in and around Big D.   

Guacamologist Experience at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas

Normally anything associated with the Ritz isn't going to be free, however, the hotel's Guacamologist Experience is a fantastic exception to the rule. Just show up in the hotel lobby any evening at 6 p.m., and you can score guacamole and chips, freshly prepared by a professionally trained "guacamologist." Oh, and there's booze on offer as well, including selections from the hotel's tequila vault as well as a mini version of Dean Fearing's signature margaritas. All of it is free for the taking regardless of whether you're a hotel guest or not. Kids are also welcome to tag along.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : The Guacamologist Experience at the Uptown Ritz is a great way top off the day after wandering around the Dallas Arts District.

Ilene's expert tip : Park in the West Village for free and take the complimentary McKinney Avenue Trolley to the hotel.

Read more about Guacamologist Experience at the Ritz-Carlton, Dallas →

Free Music at Adair's Saloon

Sure, the drinks are cheap, and the burgers are legendary, but what lassos most folks into this Deep Ellum dive is its undeniably unpretentious vibe and a weekly roundup of free live music. And it's not just any live music, Adair's brings in the cream of the country music crop when it comes to up-and-coming indie bands and singer-songwriter acts. Even heavy hitters like Jack Ingram, the Dixie Chicks and Miranda Lambert have taken to Adair's tiny stage at one time or another. As if that wasn't enough, Adair's offers an awesome happy hour all day Sunday through Thursday.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : Adair's is the best place to catch free live country music every night of the week.

Ilene's expert tip : There's free pool and a free jukebox on Mondays.

Read more about Free Music at Adair's Saloon →

Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve

Contrary to common belief, Dallas' topography is not as flat as you think. At least not at this 600-acre paradise located 20 minutes south of downtown. Situated at an elevation of 755 feet, the preserve offers 9 miles of unpaved trails that wind through a lush terrain of native foliage and wildlife. Best of all, there's a wide variety of trails to please any type of outdoorsy adventurer. Be sure to make your way up the Escarpment Trail to get a bird's eye view from the highest point in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Take note that no bikes are allowed, but dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve is one of the city's best places to hike.

Ilene's expert tip : The preserve appreciates a donation of $3 or more which can be made through the donation box on the main trail. Also, note that the Preserve is closed on Mondays.

Read more about Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve →

Dallas Comedy Club

For a hilariously good time, nothing beats the Dallas Comedy Club, the go-to venue for some of the best improv, sketch comedy and stand-up in town. Here, you can get your funny fix on five nights a week with everything from improv, open mic, and drunk trivia to stand-up, sketch, and more. And not only are ticketed gigs easy on the wallet ($10+), the improv and open mic shows (Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) are totally free to attend. Seating is general admission, just make sure to go to the website calendar to reserve a free ticket before you go.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : Dallas Comedy Club is a terrific place to take a date.

Ilene's expert tip : For the closest places to park: find surface lots at Main and Hall as well as metered spots on Hall, Elm, and Main. DCC is 21+ after 10 p.m.

Read more about Dallas Comedy Club →

Built in 1886, Fair Park is home to the State Fair of Texas, one of the longest-running fairs in the nation that is held for three weeks in the fall. But what many visitors may not realize is that the 277-acre complex also houses one of the nation's largest collections of Art Deco art and structures, many of which were erected for the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936. The crowning jewel is The Hall of State, a stunning, limestone-clad building that contains an array of murals, statues and artifacts pertaining to the history of Texas. In addition to architectural eye-candy, visitors will want to check out the African American Museum, which also offers free admission.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : Aside from the State Fair of Texas, Fair Park is a must for architecture enthusiasts.

Ilene's expert tip : In addition to the State Fair, the park also hosts a variety of events and festivals, check the calendar on the website for more information. Parking is free to the general public on non-event days.

Read more about Fair Park →

Kimbell Art Museum

If you thought Fort Worth was only about cowboy culture, you might be surprised to know that it has a world-class arts scene as well. For proof of this, you need to head over to the Cultural District, home to several prized institutions, one of which includes the Louis Kahn and Renzo Piano-designed Kimbell Art Museum. The museum showcases around 350 works of art, ranging from classical antiquities to European masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Picasso and Matisse. Speaking of masterpieces, the Kimbell is where you'll find the only Michelangelo painting (The Torment of Saint Anthony) in the Americas. And of course, one of the best perks about it is that visitors can always access the museum's permanent collections without splashing the cash on an admission fee.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : The Kimbell offers first-class art for every type of art lover.

Ilene's expert tip : Located within a stone's throw from the Kimbell is the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, which is also always free as well as the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, which offers free admission on Fridays.

Read more about Kimbell Art Museum →

The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection

Talk about hidden gems. Tucked away above the Saint Ann Restaurant in the Harwood District near downtown lies one of the largest and most complete assemblages of samurai armor in the world. The museum houses several hundred pieces of samurai art dating from the 10th through the 19th centuries, all of which have been amassed by the Barbier-Mueller family. Expect to find weapons galore along with suits of armor, horse armor, helmets, masks and various artifacts. The Museum is open on weekends and by appointment during the week. Admission is always free to the public.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum is a terrific place to bring the family.

Ilene's expert tip : There is complimentary valet available next to the museum on Harry Hines Blvd.

Read more about The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection →

Crow Museum of Asian Art

Formally known as the Crow Collection of Asian Art, this stunning museum in Dallas' Arts District features over 1,000 masterworks, hailing from Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia, many of which have been assembled from the private collection of local real estate mogul Trammel Crow and his wife Margaret. Here, visitors can explore a series of galleries showcasing art objects, paintings, scrolls and large architectural pieces, some of which dates to the 10th century. Highlights include a collection of Chinese jade objects and a suit of Samurai armor from the Edo period. The museum's gift store, The Lotus Shop, is also worth a visit. Best of all, admission to the museum is always free.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : The Crow Collection is one of the few U.S. museums to focus solely on Asian art.

Ilene's expert tip : Visitors can park in the Trammell Crow Center parking garage for $5 during the day on weekdays and a $10 on weekends. There is also metered parking nearby. The free McKinney Avenue Trolley runs through the area as well.

Read more about Crow Museum of Asian Art →

Klyde Warren Park

When it comes to free attractions, parks are always a good bet. But Klyde Warren Park isn't your typical run-of-the-mill park. Perched atop a sunken freeway, this nationally acclaimed 5-acre oasis boasts everything from a butterfly garden to special areas allocated for kids, for dogs and for playing games. As if that weren't enough to keep everyone busy, the park also plays host to myriad year-round programs, ranging from daily fitness sessions to children's entertainment, musical performances and even film screenings. Did we mention this is a great place for a selfie with a backdrop of the Dallas skyline?

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : With a plethora of activities offered throughout the week, Klyde Warren Park is tops when it comes to free outdoor entertainment.

Ilene's expert tip : Park for free in the West Village off McKinney Ave and take the complimentary trolley to the park.

Read more about Klyde Warren Park →

Dallas Museum of Art

The sprawling 370,000-square-foot Dallas Museum of Art, designed by New York architect Edward Larrabee Barnes, offers one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the nation. Its permanent holdings, dating back from the third millennium BC to the present day, encompasses over 23,000 works of paintings, sculptures, jewelry and artifacts from all over the world. Here, you'll find masterpieces from heavy hitters such as Pollock, Rothko, Monet, Rodin and Picasso to name a few. Beyond the galleries, the museum houses a children's creative zone, a sculpture garden and a cafe featuring a window of Dale Chihuly's glass flowers. And with the exception of certain exhibitions and events, general admission to the museum is always free.

Recommended for Free Things to Do because : The DMA boasts world-class art and offers a slew of activities for every age to enjoy.

Ilene's expert tip : Free general admission to the DMA requires a ticket for entry. Visitors are encouraged to reserve tickets online in advance, but walk-ups are also able to be accommodated.

Read more about Dallas Museum of Art →

As a perpetual wanderer, foodie freak and wannabe chef, Ilene is always on the lookout for the best places to see, eat, drink and sleep. When she's not writing about the latest happenings in...   More About Ilene

Explore Dallas

Expert tips.

Ilene Jacobs: Dallas Local Expert

Dallas has an amazing skyline and the best way to see it is 470-feet up in Reunion Tower's GeO-Deck.

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26 Free Things To Do In Dallas

Dallas is a pretty awesome city! Even if you are on a budget there are some great attractions to check out. Here are 26 free things to do in Dallas.

White Rock Lake

These is a beautiful area in Dallas with a lake. It offers great walking, running and biking trails on over 1000 acres! The path around the lake is 9.3 miles if you need to get a longer run in. Also the perfect spot for a picnic! If you have extra dough, you can canoe and paddle board as well.

Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive

What’s more Texan than seeing 49 life size bronze steers and 3 cowboys?!?! This exhibit replicates the historic Shawnee Trail cattle drive that came through Dallas. It’s located by the Dallas Convention Center.

Dallas Museum of Art

This museum has a fantastic collection of art, over 24,000 pieces! Best of all, admission is free everyday!! It’s a great deal for one of the largest art museums in the country.

Nasher Sculpture Center

Mainly an outdoor art museum in the Arts District. It exhibits contemporary and modern sculptures. They do have a small collection of exhibits indoors as well. Admission is free on the first Saturday of the month.

Klyde Warren Park

One of the coolest city parks ever! This park is built over a highway in downtown, but you won’t be able to tell. There’s a mini library, lawn games, a dog park, playground and lots of food trucks!. Plus they offer a variety of events during the month. It’s across the street from the art museum.

Dealey Plaza

This area is famously known for where JFK was shot and assassinated. If you have extra time and money, I highly recommend the Sixth Floor Museum. Especially if you are a history buff! If you don’t have the time, it’s still pretty cool to walk around the area. They placed an X on the street where JFK was shot. Plus the JFK Memorial is here.

Thanks- Giving Square

The Square was designed to help inspire gratitude and honor Thanksgiving. There is a beautiful meditation garden and fountains. The highlight is the gorgeous non- denominational spiral chapel. Take a look inside! It has beautiful stain glass!

McKinney Ave Trolley

The most fun free transportation in the city! The M trolley travels through Uptown and the Arts district with multiple stops. It’s a great free tour of the popular areas in a historic street car. What more could you want?!? Ranks high on my favorite free things to do in Dallas!

Dallas Farmer’s Market

I have a love for farmers markets and this one is fantastic! There’s two different sections: One outdoor area with different vendors and one indoor area with more permanent restaurants and stores. They are open everyday and also offer different events throughout the month.

Hands down best place to jog in the city! A 3.5 mile long jogging and biking trail converted from an old railroad track. There are beautiful parks located on this trail. Reverchon is one of those. Great trails and an overall beautiful area. Plus it has it’s very Urban spots like by the West Village.

Katy Trail Ice House is located right on the trail and is a great place to stop and eat. One of the best patios in Dallas!

Fun neighborhood to walk around cobblestone streets. Restaurants, cool shops and entertainment abound, including festivals and the Sixth Floor Museum.

Children’s Medical Center

I know it’s weird to add a hospital on here, but hang with me. They have an awesome permanent train exhibit in the lobby. In fact, it’s the largest permanent train exhibit in the country! If your kids are into trains, it’s a must do!

Giant Eyeball

Of course you need to see a giant eyeball in the middle of downtown! It’s located at 1601 Main Street in downtown. FYI, this is on private property surrounded by a fence. Don’t trespass!

Crow Collection of Asian Art

This is a smaller art museum in the Arts District that offers free admission. Has a collection of about 500 pieces from Asia and a contemplative sculpture garden.

Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge

This bridge is more of a mini park with exceptional views of downtown Dallas and the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. Plus it’s by Trinity Groves which has amazing restaurants! Park there and walk over.

Kiest Park – Fantasy Landing

The best handicapped friendly playground in the Dallas area!! It’s been featured in magazines! If you have littles, go check it out! S. Hampton Drive in Dallas.

Founders Plaza Observation Station

If your kids love to watch planes, this is the place to be!! It’s located by the DFW Airport, the world’s fourth largest airport!! Has over 2000 flights a day, so it’s the perfect spot to watch the planes take off and land.

The trendy neighborhood of Dallas with art, entertainment venues and tons of restaurants. During the day, this is the best place to people watch and check out the murals. At night, this is the place to be for bar hopping and live music. Plus good food anytime of the day! Always free to stroll around, but a night on the town will cost.

Mary Kay Cosmetics Museum

The Mary Kay Headquarters is located in the Dallas area. If you are a fan of their line, check out the free museum. You can learn all about her journey as a female entrepreneur. Open Monday through Friday 9:00am – 4:00pm.

Trinity River Audubon Center

This is great place to get away from the city and enjoy nature. They offer many hiking trails in a hardwood forest. It’s free on the third Thursday of the month from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Bishop Arts District

Another cute and trendy neighborhood! Great place to just walk around and take it all in. They have trendy boutiques, fabulous restaurants, cute cafes and many instagram worthy photo opportunities! Another of my top favorite free things to do in Dallas!

Southern Methodist University

SMU is a beautiful campus to walk around! The Meadows Museum is located here and has collections of Spanish Art. Admission is free to the museum on Thursday’s after 5:00 pm. Free to stroll the campus anytime.

B & G Signs

Stand in the middle to complete the BIG sign. Cause everything’s BIG in Texas! Make a scavenger hunt out of finding these awesome picture worthy signs.

This one is located in Pegasus Plaza. #DallasBIG

North Park Center

This place is more than just a giant mall. Yes, it’s a perfect place to window shop.It’s also a great place to browse art exhibits.

During the holiday season, they also offer free holiday shows and exhibits. You’ve got to check out the Scrooge Puppet Show if you are here during December!

Cedar Ridge Preserve

Another place to get out of the city and into nature. Offers 9 miles of hiking trails in over 600 acres of natural habitat. My favorite place to hike in Dallas!

Closed on Mondays and right after a heavy rain. They do ask for a very small donation.

Spirit of Dallas

I’ve saved the best for last! My most favorite free thing to do in Dallas is to sail on White Rock Lake with the Spirit of Dallas! How cool is this?!? They want sailing to be available to everyone that is a Dallas resident. You have to book online and they do tend to fill up.

As you can see, there are a bunch of free things to do in Dallas!

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20+ Things To Do in Dallas during Christmas 2020

The Ultimate Dallas Fall Bucket List

Scarborough Renaissance Festival

Dallas Arboretum

I used to live near Dallas as a kid and I’ve been wanting to go back. All those sculptures looks really cool!

You’ll have to come back and visit! I’ve lived here most of my life and it’s changed so much!

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The best free things to do in dallas texas.

You know what they say: everything is bigger in Texas! Dallas is the epitome of BIG southern hospitality and is a part of the 4th largest metropolitan area in the nation. Dallas attracts over 27 million visitors every year from all over the globe and is known for its mix of luxury, modernity, and southern charm. Dallas is a hub for entertainment, restaurants & fine dining, and a growing nightlife scene. Living in the city can get EXPENSIVE, especially with more and more people migrating to the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area to live. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 10 FREE things to do in Dallas for any visitor looking to tackle the city on a budget!

This website contains sponsored and affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. [Learn more]

This is a Guest Post by Kia from Passport Noire

How to Have an Epic (and Cheap) Dallas Trip

I love finding free things to do wherever I travel, and you can have a fabulous time with a very limited budget.  However, there are some things that might be worth paying for if you have the budget to do it.  Perhaps by compromising and saving money on some things, you can afford to splurge a little on something you really want to do.

For example, you could save money by staying in cheap accommodation and doing lots of free activities in Dallas, and then treat yourself to a food tour or a nice dinner, or something unique and fun like a tour of the Dallas Cowboys Stadium.

Some of the most popular tours and activities in Dallas that you might be interested in include:

• Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour
• Dallas Uptown Foodie Walk

JFK Assassination and Sixth Floor Museum Tour

Welcome to Dallas 3-Hour Small Group Tour by Van

Or you can browse more paid things to do in Dallas here .  That said, no matter what budget you have, there is no need to pay for activities in Dallas if you don’t want to.  You can still have an amazing time in Dallas without spending a lot of money, and have some unique experiences you will remember forever!  

FIND A TOUR IN DALLAS

Where to Stay in Dallas on a Budget

If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Dallas, sadly there are no longer any hostels in Dallas since the Deep Ellum Hostel closed in 2022.

For cheap hotels or motels in Dallas, check out Booking.com for great deals on hotel stays like the SOVA Micro-Room & Social Hotel as well as apartments like this cute studio that gets great reviews for the location and facilities. Here are some more affordable hotel options in Dallas: 

• Canvas Hotel Dallas : A boutique hotel offering a stylish and contemporary experience with amenities including beautiful urban decor, a rooftop pool and bar, a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and a prime location near downtown attractions, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a chic and convenient stay in the heart of Dallas. >>>CHECK REVIEWS & PRICES    
• Fairfield Inn & Suites : An affordable option just outside the downtown area, providing guests with comfortable accommodations and amenities including spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a convenient location near major highways and attractions. >>>FIND OUT MORE
• Hotel ZaZa Dallas : Offers an upscale and unique experience with amenities such as stylishly designed rooms, an outdoor pool, a spa, a fine dining restaurant, and vibrant bar scene. Plus, a central location near shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it an exceptional choice for those who want to splurge on their stay in Dallas. >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY    

FIND A CHEAP HOTEL IN DALLAS

10 Free Things To Do in Dallas 

We’ve covered how to enjoy Dallas on a budget and cheap places to stay in Dallas, so now let’s get onto the best free things to do in Dallas!  Here’s our pick:

Explore White Rock Lake and Park

White Rock Lake Park is one of the most popular parks in the DFW area and one of our most famous green spaces. This park surrounds the 1000+ acre man-made lake, which offers a variety of activities for visitors. It has become an ideal location for walking or running, hiking, biking, boating, and even kayaking.

The grounds of the famous Dallas Arboretum also look out onto the lake, so be sure to pay the Arboretum a visit! You will also find a museum that tells the history of the lake, as well as the Bath House Cultural Center.

Hike the Trails of Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve

The Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve offers a respite from the busy city atmosphere and is approximately a 20-minute drive from downtown Dallas. The preserve is a 600-acre natural destination and includes nine trails for visitors to explore. There are trails for all ages and fitness levels.

Some trails, such as the Bluebonnet trail, offer a leisurely stroll, while others around the Cattail Pond offer a bit more of a challenge. Along the trails, there are also a number of lookout points at higher elevations that serve as ideal locations to capture scenic views of the city.

The Preserve is busiest on the weekends, and the small parking lot at the main entrance of the trails can sometimes make parking difficult, so be sure to get there early on weekend days.  The preserve is closed on Mondays.

Tour the African American Museum in Fair Park

The African American Museum of Dallas is a true gem of the city, located in Fair Park of South Dallas. Admission to the museum is free, but I highly recommend leaving a small tip to help continue the museum’s operation.

There are two floors: the bottom floor features a variety of art exhibits from Dallas natives and the top floor features exhibits that explore artifacts, maps, and relics from the city’s early beginnings. You can easily spend 1.5-2 hours at the museum, reading old text or admiring maps of old Dallas.

The museum also has a gift shop, stocked with a number of hand-crafted items, books, and small trinkets. Additionally, the museum often serves as a venue for many events hosted by African-Americans across the city.

Picnic at Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is one of the city’s most famous parks, located in the center of downtown. It features an expansive green space with plenty of small tables and seating areas. Klyde Warren is perfect for a picnic downtown and is also an ideal location for pet owners to bring their small best friends.

Perhaps one of the biggest draws of Klyde Warren as a destination is the array of food trucks that surround the park where you can get a tasty and cheap meal. Whether it’s pizza, Greek, Cuban or Italian, there is a selection of food trucks to choose from that rotate on a weekly basis.

On the right days, you can also catch a variety of programming, including outdoor yoga classes and musical performances.

Visit the Dallas Farmer’s Market

A weekend at the Dallas Farmer’s Market is always a good time. Saturdays at the Market are the most popular. There are two primary areas of the Farmer’s Market: the Market and the Shed. The Market is an indoor area that features a number of vendors selling clothing, hand-made crafts like candles and soaps, as well as a variety of cultural foods.

The Shed is the outdoor portion of the market where patrons can browse fresh produce, locally grown and sourced. There are also a number of food/restaurant vendors (the main reason that I go!) selling a small selection of menu items from their local businesses. Many vendors also offer free samples of their products or foods.

Entry into the Farmer’s Market is completely free, and any purchases made at this market are a great way to support the local community.

Run, Bike or Walk along the Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is known well to many Dallas natives and tourists alike. The “Katy” is a 3.5-mile privately owned trail that runs from Southern Methodist University to the American Airlines Center. On any given day of the week, you can find a swath of runners, bikers, and walkers traversing the well-paved trail.

It is also a common space in the city for many citizens and visitors to walk their dogs! There are several entry points to the Katy Trail, including public parks, recreation centers, and even private entrances from many luxury apartments located along the trail.

Once you reach the center of the trail, don’t forget to stop at the Katy Ice House, a popular restaurant offering patio seating and some of the best beer, burgers, and barbecue in the city! If you’re in town during the fall, don’t miss out on the Katy 5K, hosted every year around September.

Admire the Art at Fabrication Yard

Fabrication Yards is a graffiti artist’s dream! Located in West Dallas, this is a free graffiti art exhibit where anyone can come and contribute to the large numbers of graffiti murals and wall art. The grunge and vibrant colors of the surroundings make it an ideal location for photos and has a reputation for being insanely Instagrammable and cool.

There has been discussion that Fabrication Yard likely won’t remain as a permanent fixture. Several buildings around the area have already been purchased and deemed for future development. As such, if you’re in town, be sure to see this celebration of creativity, as it is likely to disappear soon!

Attend the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) Symphony in the City

If you’re a music lover, this free DSO outdoor concert series is not to be missed. The DSO performs free concerts at various parks throughout the city as a part of their community outreach efforts. The music is typically a mix of classical and popular American patriotic tunes and is perfect for families. The series of concerts typically starts around Labor Day and goes until the end of summer.

Visit the Dallas Museum of Art

The Museum of Art is a 370,000 square foot museum with a number of installations that are sure to dazzle patrons of any age. There are a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that feature art from every continent on the globe. In addition to more traditional portraits and sculptures, the museum also has an impressive interactive art exhibit. These exhibits allow you to release your inner child and can be experienced solo or as a member of a larger group or family.

Visit the Murals in Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is one of the most popular areas of the city and is located near downtown in East Dallas. It is also one of the most culturally significant areas of the city, as it was historically an African-American center for commerce in Dallas. Today, it is home to a number of bars, restaurants, and music venues, making it a staple for nightlife in the city.

By day, many tourists check out the neighborhood to view the plethora of murals and street art that line the walls of many establishments in the area. You can also browse the variety of small shops that line Elm Street, the main street for which “Deep Ellum” is named. Popular restaurants in Deep Ellum include the Pecan Lodge, Emporium Pies, and Vidorra.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Dallas on a Budget

Dallas is an ever-growing metropolitan area with much to do, see, and explore. Whether you are a budget traveler or a connoisseur of all things elegant and luxury, Dallas has something for you! Come visit and see what our city has to offer, and enjoy a combination of fabulous free attractions in Dallas with other exciting things to do.

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About the Author

Kia Byrd is an Internal Medicine physician in Dallas, Texas. She enjoys learning about different cultures through travel and has a passion for sharing her experiences with the world. She is the creator of couples travel blog Passport Noire , along with her co-creator and significant other, Arias WebsterBerry.

They began Passport Noire, initially, with the intention to share their experiences and the lessons they’ve learned from travel with family, friends, and fellow travelers. It has evolved into a platform to encourage young millennials, especially millennials of color, to see the beauty in experiencing the rest of the world.

Kia’s favorite international destination is Barcelona, Spain. Her favorite domestic (US) travel destination is New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Read more from Kia and Passport Noire on “Things to Do” when traveling to other destinations around the Southern US and the world:

5 Things to do in Oxford, Mississippi: A Weekend Travel Guide

5 Attractions to Visit During Your First Trip to Ethiopia

You can also follow Kia on  Instagram and Pinterest .

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Dallas

Best free things to do in dallas.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Dallas
• Northwest Dallas-love Field
• West Dallas
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Dallas Museum of Art

2. Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District

3. Klyde Warren Park

4. Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures

5. White Rock Lake Park

6. NorthPark Center

7. Bishop Arts District

8. Pioneer Plaza

9. Katy Trail

10. Highland Park Village

11. Galleria Dallas

12. Deep Ellum

13. Crow Collection of Asian Art

14. Southern Methodist University

15. Dallas Arts District

16. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

17. Deep Ellum Brewing Company

18. Cedar Ridge Preserve managed by Audubon Dallas.

19. Giant Eyeball

20. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum : The Samurai Collection

21. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

22. Dallas Farmers Market

23. Half Price Books

24. Thanks-Giving Square

25. Times Ten Cellars

26. African American Museum

27. Grassy Knoll

28. Cathedral Santuario de Guadalupe

29. Turtle Creek Park

30. Greenville Avenue

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12 Free Things To Do in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

The Dallas/Fort Worth area is FULL of fun activities, whether you are traveling solo or with a large group. Luckily, many of those activities are absolutely free! Since Dallas and Fort Worth are only about 30 minutes apart, you can easily fit in several activities from both. Each city has its own unique feel, and you really should experience both while in the area. Here are a few of my favorite free things to do in Dallas/Fort Worth!

Pssst… if you have a little bit of money to spend when visiting, you could also consider taking a day trip from Dallas to San Antonio for an affordable rate!

Are you planning a trip to Dallas & you don’t have time to read this whole post? Here are some of our top recommendations to save you time.

Best Hotels in Dallas

Best Restaurants in Dallas

Best Guided Tours in Dallas

Transportation in Dallas

Table of Contents

Free Things To Do In Dallas

Ronald kirk bridge.

The Ronald Kirk Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that runs parallel to the Margaret Hunt Hill bridge (the cool white twisty bridge). You can walk from downtown Dallas to the Trinity Groves area (which has tons of restaurants).

On the bridge itself, there are many spots to relax, places for kids to play, and it’s the perfect place to get some awesome picture of the Dallas skyline.

Under the bridge is a walking trail & park that run alongside the river. Tip – there isn’t much shade available, so be prepared.

Occasionally, there are special activities on the bridge for kids. Check the website under “Things To Do” to see the schedule of events.

Get directions to the Ronald Kirk Bridge by clicking here.

M-Line Trolley

The M-Line Trolley is also known as the McKinney Avenue Trolley. This trolley system is a great way to get around in Dallas. These historic streetcars run all around Uptown, the art district, and downtown Dallas. The trolley runs every day, all year long!

There are 42 stops you can choose from or you can ride the entire route (about 45 minutes round trip).

Visit here for general information on the trolley . You can also see where the trolley is right now (each stop is marked). 

Klyde Warren Park

Get outside in the big city at Klyde Warren Park (one of the stops on the M-Line Trolley). This unique city park is 5-acres and is placed OVER the freeway! 

There is plenty of open lawn space perfect for picnics. The park is typically surrounded by a bunch of food trucks as well. There are plenty of places for kids to play, including the Children’s Park.

The park also hosts a number of events and activities including free exercise classes (registration required), evening movies in the park, and much more!

Click here to see the exact location of Klyde Warren Park.

Dallas Museum of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is free and is one of the largest museums in America. While the majority of the museum is free, some exhibits cost to enter. The art ranges from 5,000 years ago up to modern day. 

Plan to spend several hours to really take it all in and enjoy everything this museum has to offer, and don’t forget to check out the Sculpture Garden outside.

Find out how to get to the Dallas Museum of Art by clicking here!

Katy Trail 

The Katy Trail is a great way to get in a bit of exercise while enjoying the outdoors. You are welcome to walk, run, bike, or skate. Dogs on leash are welcomed as well. 

The trail offers a unique mix of city and nature. There are several parks, shops, and restaurants just off the trail. The trail is 3.5 miles out and back. It is easiest to park at Riverchon Park then walk the ramp-up to the trail.

The trail has a paved portion and a new cushioned path specifically for walkers. Please note: This trail is extremely popular on the weekends.

Click here for directions to Riverchon Park.

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

While you will have to pay to enter The Sixth Floor Museum, the memorial is free in John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. The memorial is simple, yet powerful and was intended as a place for remembrance and reflection. The open tomb design is a symbol of John F. Kennedy’s free spirit.

Click here for directions to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza.

Free Things To Do In Fort Worth

Stockyards daily cattle drive (aka fort worth herd).

You can’t visit Texas without seeing some longhorn cattle. Every day (with just a few exceptions) at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm, the trail boss and his cowhands (yes, actual cowboys – complete with horses, chaps & the like) herd the longhorns down East Exchange Avenue. 

The cowhands are available before and after to answer questions, and the longhorn cattle can be viewed before and after in the pens behind the Livestock Exchange Building.

The Stockyards will take you back in time to the Wild West. The area is great for just taking some time to stroll around. There are tons of restaurants, bars, and all the Texas or western-themed souvenirs you could ever ask for! You definitely won’t want to miss the Stockyards Daily Cattle Drive!

Click here for directions to the Stockyards Daily Cattle Drive!

Fort Worth Water Gardens

The Fort Worth Water Gardens are a unique & beautiful water feature with a modern flare located in downtown Fort Worth. There are three “pools” to enjoy: The Aerating pool, the Quiet pool, and the Active pool. If you love the sound of water, you must check it out! 

Please note: Although the area is full of “steps,” climbing is not allowed. Swimming is also prohibited. The Water Gardens are a visual and auditory treat only.

Open to visitors from 7:00am – 11:30pm. At night, the fountains are lit and lovely!

Get directions to the Fort Worth Water Gardens by clicking here.

Bureau of Engraving & Printing

Want to see money being made? Stand on a walkway that overlooks the production floor. Over half of all U.S. currency is printed at this location. The tour is self-guided, but there is also an interesting & informative film. 

There are displays that will walk you through currency history and you can learn more about the intricate process they use when designing bills and coins. There are also many interactive exhibits to enjoy. And of course, you’ll probably want to visit the gift shop for some unique souvenirs!

The Bureau of Engraving & Printing is one of the best free things to do in Fort Worth!

Found out how to get to the Bureau of Engraving & Printing by clicking here!

Free Things To Do Around The Dallas/Fort Worth Area:

North shore trail – flower mound.

If you’d like to do some hiking through the woods, it’s hard to find a better trail in North Texas than North Shore Trail. There are several places you can park and enter the trail for a fee, but Murrell Park is free. The trail is a total of 18 miles, but you can just start and then turn around at any point. It winds around the north shore of Grapevine Lake and through the woods. The trail difficulty is rated as moderate. 

This trail is popular with mountain bikers, so if you are on foot, just be aware. As bikers approach, they will typically call out “on your left,” so just scoot to the right and that will be able to pass. There is not a lot of elevation change in the area, but this trail will give you more ups and downs than most other trails in the area. Also, most of it is shaded, so it’s a great way to spend the day! 

Click here to see Murrell Park’s exact location.

DFW Founder’s Plaza – Grapevine

This is a great spot next to DFW international Airport to sit and watch airplanes take off and land. Kids, especially, love this experience! There is a free parking lot very conveniently located right next to the Plaza, picnic tables, telescopes, and you can hear air traffic control on the radio! 

Click here to see the DFW Founder’s Plaza’s exact location!

Murals – all over DFW

There are many gorgeous murals all over the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Some are perfect for that Instagram photo & some stand on their own.

They can be found around downtown Fort Worth, all around the Deep Ellum area of Dallas, and in several of the suburbs in the surrounding areas.  Here are just a few of my favorites!

– Colorful boxes wall (great for posing in front of)

– A Space To Be Yourself (great for posing)

– Cowboy and son silhouette with colorful square background

– The Yellow Wall (just a bright yellow wall – great for posing)

– Rainbow Spiral

– Inspiration Alley (a collection of fun & funky murals)

– Love Lives Here

– Grapevine, Texas wall

Final Thoughts: Free Things to do in Dallas/Fort Worth

With so many options of free things to do in Dallas/Fort Worth, you are sure to stay busy and have a great (budget-friendly) time. If you are looking for a place to stay in the area, be sure to check out  Top 10 Family Friendly Airbnbs in Dallas .  Looking for a great place to eat in the area? Check out  Grapevine, Texas – The BEST Places To Eat.

Meet The Author: Jody

Jody is a happily married mom of one awesome 12-year-old. She was born and raised in Texas and has lived in the Dallas area for the last 14 years. After growing up in a small town, she loves all this metropolitan area has to offer. Going on vacations with her family is her favorite way to spend her downtime. On her blog,  My Travel Obsession , Jody shares her passion for family travel by providing time-saving vacation planning tips & tools, family travel hacks, itineraries, and more.

Keep up with Jody’s adventures on Facebook , Pinterest , and Instagram.

Volumes & Voyages occasionally hosts posts from guest authors who are experts on their topic.

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Free Things To Do In Dallas

Top hotel collections.

Near American Airlines Center

Near Galleria Dallas

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Best Free Things To Do In Dallas | Cheap Things to Do in Dallas

Here is the list of 15 free things to do in dallas, 1. visit one of the many museums of dallas.

One of the best things about Dallas is that it is dotted with a large number of museums. An absolute treat for art and history lovers, these museums have on display a variety of artworks, literary works, artifacts, antiques, inscriptions, and samurai armor. Not only are these museums known for their extensive collections but also for their unique architectural elements, gardens, courtyards, displays, their histories, and also for the programs, events, and lectures they regularly organize. Some of the museums in Dallas are free to visit throughout the year while others might not charge an admission fee on certain days or for certain people. These venues mostly have designated parking spaces or are quite close to public transportation stops.

2. Marvel at Deep Ellum's Artistic Culture

Over the years, this downtown Dallas neighborhood has come to be known as the hip entertainment district of the city owing to its rich musical history. While Deep Ellum was home to many jazz and blues musicians, and minstrel shows about 100 years ago, it is a lot more today. Situated north of Exposition Park and south of Bryan Place, this neighborhood is quite popular for its street art and wall murals, art galleries, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, music shows, theatres, stores, and markets, and even parks, gardens, trails, and picnic spots. Deep Ellum has something to offer to people of all age groups, and especially to those who enjoy the arts.

3. Relax at the Parks and Gardens of Dallas

The city of Dallas, Texas is home to about 400 parks and gardens, thus providing locals as well as tourists with plenty of options when it comes to finding lush green land amidst the busy city. These parks and gardens are suitable for people of all age groups and many of them not only allow pets but are meant specifically for them. Spread out over different parts of the city, parks like Belo Garden, Ferguson Park, and Griggs Park offer plenty of space for relaxing, walking, jogging, exercising, and playing sports. Many of them have their designated sports areas such as basketball courts, softball complexes and baseball fields, playgrounds with playing equipment as well as trails which are excellent for walking pets or biking as well. They are usually full of thick trees, beautiful flowers, and bushes or even close to lakes, ponds, or creeks. Many regularly host events, festivals, and shows or have distinctive architectural elements like sculptures or memorials.

4. Visit the Dealey Plaza and John F. Kennedy Memorial

While in Dallas, it goes without saying that Dealey Plaza and the John F. Kennedy Memorial is a must-visit. Declared a National Historic Landmark District, Dealey Plaza is where the late former President of the United States, John F. Kennedy was shot dead in 1963 while in the middle of a presidential motorcade. Apart from being of much significance simply because of the assassination, the John F. Kennedy Memorial was erected in 1969, built by Philip Johnson. A cenotaph, it consists of vertically scored walls with narrow openings on two sides and a black granite slab in the middle with the former President’s name in gold. Dealey Plaza is also home to a number of other structures and buildings such as the Texas School Book Depository, which houses the Sixth Floor Museum, Dal-Tex Building, and Annex, Old Dallas County Courthouse, Dealy Statue, Dallas County Criminal Courts Building, etc.

Top Hotels In Dallas

₽ 7,646 onwards

₽ 6,632 onwards

₽ 7,462 onwards

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5. Explore the Dallas Arts District

Located in downtown Dallas, Texas, the Arts District is not only the country’s biggest arts district but is also one of the most significant features of the city spread out over an area of about 68 acres and 19 blocks. It is home to a number of renowned facilities, museums, and other structures that offer people the chance to discover and witness different forms of art. While some of these venues might charge an admission fee, it is absolutely free to roam around the district and marvel at it. It includes venues that feature famous sculptures, paintings, artifacts, literary works, ballet, dance, opera, theatre, and also host regular exhibitions, educational programs, lectures, and festivals. Moreover, there are also a few structures that might not be associated with art but are known for their historical or architectural significance.

6. Watch a show at the Dallas Comedy House

For anyone with a taste for stand-up comedy or just comedy in general, the Dallas Comedy House is the place to be. Situated within the Deep Ellum neighborhood of downtown Dallas, the Comedy House organizes stand-up shows five days a week, with the majority of the performers being part of the comedy school itself. While the stand-up shows cost less than $10, Tuesday nights (8:00 pm) and Sunday afternoons (2:00 pm) are reserved for improvs and open mics that are absolutely free of cost. It is important to arrive early for a show because seating is first-come, first-serve basis. Moreover, the Dallas Comedy House organizes free comedy classes on the last Wednesday of every month. Address: 3036 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75226, United States Timings: 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Wednesday- Thursday), 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Friday to Saturday), 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm (Sunday), Monday- Tuesday closed Shows and Events: Virtual Speed Dating, Online: Intro to Sketch Comedy for Teens, People Watching, All The Feels Stand-Up, etc.

7. Take a tour on the McKinney Avenue Trolley

The McKinney Avenue Trolley Authority, or MATA, runs the M-Line Trolley throughout the year, with two to three cars operating at all times. A vintage trolley service going around Uptown Dallas, it provides clean, air-conditioned as well as heated trolleys that serve as free public transportation. The entire route takes about an hour to complete, owing to traffic and weather conditions, and includes a total of 42 designated stops marked by a maroon “M-Line Trolley” sign. In order to board the trolley at any given point of time, it is necessary to be at one of the 42 stops and to wave at an approaching one so at to make it halt, and to ring the bells overhead the seats when looking to get off. The trolley allows bringing in bikes and strollers given that there is sufficient space for passengers, and well-behaved pets as well. Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (Monday- Thursday), 7:00 am to Midnight (Friday), 10:00 am to Midnight (Saturday), 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (Sunday/ Holidays) Nearby Rail Lines: Blue, Orange, Red, Green Nearby Stations: Cityplace/ Uptown Station, St. Pauls Station, Pearl/ Arts District Station Stops on the Trolley Route: Klyde Warren Park, West Village Shops, Perot Museum, Dallas World Aquarium, Federal Reserve Bank, Nasher Sculpture Garden, Mi Cocina, etc.

8. Tour the Southern Methodist University Campus

A private research institute at the heart of Dallas, Texas, Southern Methodist University hosts a large number of campus tours each year for those looking to enroll at or transfer to the institute or those just looking to tour an educational campus. These tours are organized during the week and the weekend and last about an hour, led by a current student of SMU. A visit to the Dallas Hall, Bishop Boulevard, George W. Bush Presidential Center, library, the museum as well as the Taos campus and Plano campus are some of the highlights of the tour. Moreover, it organizes admission events for prospective students such as Mustang Day along with virtual campus tours. Address: Dallas, TX 75205, United States Admission Events: Mustang Day Campus: Main Campus, Taos Campus, Plano Campus Schools: Cox School of Business, Perkins School of Technology, Lyle School of Engineering, Dedman School of Law, Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences etc.

9. Window Shop at One of the Stores in Dallas

Dallas happens to have the maximum number of shopping centers per capita when it comes to major cities of the United States, and so, it goes without saying that options are abundant for shopping destinations. Purchasing something at one of the stores might cost money but window shopping is absolutely free. All around the city, there are individual stores, shopping centers, malls, and even antique shops containing all kinds of things. The city is home to Highland Park Center, the country’s first planned shopping center and a historic landmark. Moreover, window shopping doesn’t just apply to apparel but also to fruits, vegetables, and other fresh produce that is sold at the Dallas Farmers Market, and sugary treats, sold at stores like Rocket Fizz Deep Ellum.

10. Walk around Different Neighbourhoods of Dallas

There are a number of neighborhoods and districts to be explored in Dallas, each with its own attractions and tourist destinations. Some of them are known for their museums, murals, gardens and parks, restaurants and bars, residential complexes, shopping centers, stores, historic landmarks, educational institutes, and more. Each of these neighborhoods, with their distinctive features, also hosts several events throughout the calendar year. There is a well-connected system of public transportation (rails, buses, trolley services, subway) to take people from one place to the other. Some of the most popular attractions to visit in Dallas, scattered around these neighborhoods are Nasher Sculpture Center, Dealey Plaza, Turtle Creek, Dallas World Aquarium, American Airlines Center, etc.

11. Attend Events or Festivals in Dallas

One of the most interesting things to do in Dallas is to attend an event or a festival since many of them are completely free. The city hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year during national holidays or festivals, and there are many city attractions that organize these on their own. There are events and festivals which focus on art, music, food, sports, important historical figures, and much more, and are suitable for people of all ages, and sometimes even for pets. Also, there are several seminars and events that are organized keeping in mind students and their varying academic or career needs. It is important to keep in mind that while most of these events or festivals charge no admission fee, visitors would have to pay to purchase items such as food and drinks, souvenirs, apparel, etc.

12. Sit at a Sports Bar in Dallas

Watching a sports game at home is undoubtedly fun but what is slightly better is going to a sports bar and watching a baseball, soccer, or hockey game with a lot more people. Dallas has no shortage of sports bars that charges no admission fee, and offer the ideal environment to watch some sports, especially if it’s a major match. Featuring large screens all around the bar, visitors would find themselves completely immersed in the game. Apart from the ambiance, these bars offer drinks and all sorts of snacks to make the experience even better, though it costs some money to get them! Some of these also have a rooftop terrace or patio to sit out on for those who wish to take a little break from the crowded bars.

13. Discover the various Trails in Dallas

The city of Dallas is not only an urban center but also has its fair share of nature, especially in the form of trails. These trails, located all around the city, are the perfect opportunity to get some exercise in the form of walking, jogging, or hiking. Linear trails, neighborhood trails, nature trails, off-road bicycle trails, and loop trails are just a few of the types of trails found in the city; many of these are also perfect for walking dogs. Owing to the fact that a few of them are located within parks, they offer a great deal of space to set up a small picnic and observe the flora and fauna. Another interesting fact about a few of the trails is that they connect parks or neighborhoods to one another, thus making it easy to go from one place to the other.

14. Enjoy a Day at the Dallas Farmers Market

Mainly consisting of three different kinds of sellers; produce dealers, local farmers, and wholesale dealers, the Dallas Farmers Market is a massive public market in downtown Dallas, Texas, that is open throughout the week. The market features a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, nuts, butter, herbs, locally purveyed honey, flowers and plants, and much more. Purchasing something costs money but visitors are allowed to taste some of the food for free, and of course, explore. Furthermore, the market frequently organizes live cooking classes, events, workshops, yard sales, and even festivals. There are also several options for visitors when it comes to finding a place to grab a bite to eat. Address: 920 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm Restaurants/ Cafes: 8 Cloves, El Mero Mero, Palmieri Café, Chelles Macarons, Juicebabe, Taqueria La Venatana etc. Events: Simply Irresistible: Ladies Day Out, The Boho Market Pop-Up, DFM Pumpkin Patch, The Shed etc.

15. Experience the Haunted Sites in Dallas

Just like any other city in the world, Dallas has its fair share of haunted locations and sites for people to visit and maybe get a little spooked. Littered around the city, these were mostly the site of some major historic events, criminal activity, or just have legends associated with them. Consisting of parks, bridges, abandoned buildings, streets, hotels, there have been sights of alleged ghost and animal sightings, demonic presences, and eerie events reported at these sites, with some photographs emerging as evidence as well. For the best spooky experience, it is advisable to visit these locations after the sun sets or late at night, and to preferably bring company! A couple of the best-haunted locations in Dallas are: • Millermore Mansion • White Rock Lake • Historic West End • Goatman’s Bridge • Lake Highland’s High School

Let us know down below if you found this list of free things to do in Dallas interesting and helpful.

This post was published by Arushi Bhowmick

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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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Usa today readers' choice best arts district, unique to dallas.

Dallas World Aquarium

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Diverse Dallas

Experience all the city has to offer! Dallas is a richly diverse American city: over the years it has become a melting pot of cultures, religions and lifestyles.

Dallas' many neighborhoods and entertainment districts have everything you can imagine for an exciting and diverse visit.

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10 Surprisingly Free Things That You Can Do In Dallas

Explore this bustling Texas city without breaking the bank; surprisingly, there are tons of free activities in Dallas.

• Discover the vibrant art scene in Dallas at the free Dallas Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary installations, sculptures, and paintings.
• Immerse yourself in nature at Klyde Warren Park, offering free fitness activities and five acres of lush green spaces to relax and unwind.
• Explore the natural beauty of White Rock Lake, located just outside Downtown Dallas, featuring a hike and bike trail, dog park, and bird-watching area.

Texas is the largest state in the contiguous U.S., which means it offers visitors a variety of exciting cities to explore — and Dallas is certainly towards the top of the list. Situated about 33 miles east of Fort Worth, the bustling metropolitan area attracts 22.5 million visitors each year, making it a popular tourist spot for travelers looking to explore the Lone Star State.

From historical museums and scenic views to lush parks and nature preserves, the U.S. has tons of free bucket list activities , and Dallas has quite a lot of these. And the best part is that many of its enchanting attractions can be enjoyed at no charge. Here are some of the most unique things to do in Dallas that won't cost visitors a thing.

Related: 10 Surprisingly Cheap Places To Travel In The U.S. All Year Round

10 Tour The Dallas Museum Of Art

This art museum is among the top free attractions in Dallas and is nestled in Downtown Dallas' renowned Arts District.

For those looking to admire the museum's fascinating contemporary installations, sculptures, paintings, and more — the good news is that general admission is completely free .

• Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
• Hours: Open Tuesdays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Although admission is free, museum-goers must reserve a ticket for entry, which can be secured online . Some special exhibitions are ticketed and may incur a fee.

9 Unwind In Klyde Warren Park

Not only does Klyde Warren Park offer a plethora of free fitness activities , including yoga, Zumba, and ballroom dancing, but it also offers visitors the chance to relax on its five acres of green spaces.

Stroll the Chase Promenade or head to the Game Room for a seat at the checkers or chess board.

• Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
• Hours: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

A detailed map can be found online for help navigating Klyde Warren Park.

8 Hike Around White Rock Lake

One of the most beautiful lakes to visit in Texas can be found right in Dallas. White Rock Lake is located about five miles northeast of Downtown Dallas and features a dog park, piers, and a bird-watching area.

Plus, as far as underrated Texas hikes go, the area's 9.33-mile hike and bike trail is worthy of being explored.

• Address: 8300 E Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX 75218

Related: 10 Totally Free Bucket-List Things To Do Around The U.S.

7 Get Lost In Nature At The Trinity River Audubon Center

This nature preserve is certainly among the bucket list places not to miss in Texas . Located in the Great Trinity Forest, it's a great place to go to watch wildlife, including birds.

In an effort to increase accessibility to the center, admission is free so long as guests reserve tickets in advance.

• Address: 6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217
• Hours: Open Wednesdays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tickets can be reserved through December 31, 2023, at no charge via the nature preserve's website . Guests must check in at the front desk once they arrive.

6 Enjoy A Picnic In Trammell Crow Park

Trammell Crow Park has it all: soccer fields, hiking trails, stone cow sculptures, and stunning views of Downtown Dallas. Visiting is among the many free things to do in Dallas since there's no entrance fee.

Visitors can also stroll around the shimmering Trammel Crow Lake while admiring the incredible city skyline.

• Address: 3700 Sylvan Ave, Dallas, TX 75207
• Hours: Open 24 hours

5 See The Bronze Steer Sculptures In Pioneer Plaza

The bronze-mounted cowboys and longhorn steer sculptures in Pioneer Plaza are definitely one thing visitors can only see in Dallas .

The 4.2-acre site is historically significant in that it pays homage to the trails that brought settlers to the Texas city.

• Address: 1428 Young St, Dallas, TX 75202

The Pioneer Park Cemetery, which features the Confederate War Memorial, is located adjacent to the Plaza.

Related: Destination Dallas: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things To Do There

4 Tour The African American Museum of Dallas

This free Dallas museum features one of the largest African-American Folk Art collections in the U.S.

Located in Historic Fair Park, visitors can explore Black heritage in America via the numerous art, history, and cultural exhibits on display.

• Address: 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
• Hours: Open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The African American Museum of Dallas can be accessed through Gate 5 of Historic Fair Park.

3 Watch The Sunset On The Ronald Kirk Bridge

Catching the sunset from the Ronald Kirk Bridge is another must-see Dallas experience. The pedestrian bridge, which spans the Trinity River, offers incredible panoramic views of the city.

Trammell Crow Park is also located nearby for those keen on taking a scenic stroll.

• Address: 109 Continental Ave, Dallas, TX 75207

2 Tour The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection's latest exhibition — IRON MEN: The Artistry of Iron in Samurai Armor — is one of Dallas' most interesting exhibits.

Featuring an expansive collection of helmets, armor, weapons, and more, it examines the importance of iron throughout the 4th century up until the end of the samurai era in the 19th century.

• Address: 2501 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
• Hours: Open Wednesdays to Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free admission is available with a timed entry pass, which can be reserved online .

Related: Dallas, Texas: Your Essential Weekend Itinerary

1 Visit The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is perhaps the most evocative place to visit in Dallas.

Made to symbolize " the freedom of President Kennedy’s spirit ," the memorial is located one block east of Dealey Plaza, which is the site where President John F. Kennedy was tragically assassinated in 1963.

• Address: 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202

Visit the other historical landmarks located in the area, including the First Ferry and Bridge - Texas State Historical Marker and The Grassy Knoll, which are both free to see.

19 of the Best Free Things to Do in Dallas Texas

By Author DaniFNW

Posted on Published: October 18, 2017

Categories All Posts , Free Entertainment , Texas

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Are you headed to Dallas? If so, you may be wondering how your family can have fun, but stay within your budget. The answer to that question is the long list of free things to do Dallas Texas ! The DFW Metroplex is a huge area, and that means there are lots of free things to do that your family will love! The more your family can experience for free, the easier it will be for you to stay within your vacation budget!

When visiting Dallas Texas make sure to also check out our Texas Resource page with 51 of the best things to do all over the state. tips on finding the best places to stay, and how to save money on the top attractions!

Table of Contents

Travel Tips

With rentals available all over the world, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. Airbnb has something for everyone. Plus, with prices that are often much cheaper than traditional hotels, you’ll be able to stretch your vacation budget even further.

If you can not find an Airbnb that fits your needs a second option is VRBO . Find an amazing vacation home for your family.

Make sure to check out our travel deals page for any deals or sales on your next trip no matter where it is!

Depending on what you are planning to do it could be very beneficial for you to purchase a pass that bundles attraction for one low price. Here are the best ones for Texas:

• Dallas City Pass
• GoCity San Antonio Pass
• Texas Guided Tours and Day Trips
• South Central Texas Pogo Pass

Each one has its own perks and rates for attractions so be sure to check each one for the best possible bundle for your vacation.

If you’ve never visited the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you might not understand how large it truly is. The entire DFW Metroplex could fit the entire states of Rhode Island and Connecticut inside of it!

That is a good thing for someone looking to travel on a budget though since it means loads of free things to do in Dallas Texas!

Whether you’re looking for a day spent outdoors or a night on the town, you’re sure to find something to keep you and your family occupied when you visit Dallas . These 11 free things to do in Dallas, Texas below are my favorites, and I’m positive you’ll love them too!

While traveling be sure you bring change so you can take advantage of any pressed penny machines you come across. These make great souvenirs. 

1.  Mary Kay Cosmetics Headquarters – If you’re a fan of Mary Kay, make sure to swing by their Headquarters in Addison! You can visit the Mary Kay museum totally free which includes a theater and hall of honor.

2. Pioneer Plaza Cattle Drive – What would a visit to Dallas be without a cattle drive? Head downtown to Young and Griffin Streets and you’ll find a larger than life one! With 70 bronze steers and three larger than life cattle ropers, you’re sure to have fun imagining what it would be like to have participated in the actual Shawnee Trail cattle drive that took place on this very spot in the 1850’s!

3. Founder’s Plaza – Head down to Elm Street and visit Founder’s Plaza. Next, to the Old Red Courthouse, you’ll find a replica of Dallas Founder, John Neely Bryan’s log cabin. The site also includes a fountain and a map of Dallas County from the 1800’s.

Related:  Christmas Events in Dallas Texas

4. Dallas Museum of Art – If you’re a fan of visiting art museums, the Dallas Museum of Art should be on your list and yes! You can visit for free! The first Tuesday of every month is totally free!

5.  JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza – History buffs will enjoy taking in the memorial to President John F Kennedy and walking around Dealey Plaza. The memorial, built in 1970 was created in an “open tomb” style to symbolize the freedom of JFK’s spirit. You can also see the X on the pavement were JFK was assassinated, in front of what is now the museum. If you do happen to have a few dollars to spend, you can also visit the 6th Floor Museum while at Dealey Plaza to learn more about JFK, Jackie O and the events that led to the assassination. If you want to visit this museum I highly suggest the Dallas CityPass , it will allow you to get into 4 of my favorite attractions for 41% off admission prices! If you want to learn more about the Dallas CityPass , I did a write up from our visit.

6. Founders Plaza Observation Station – Do your kids like watching planes? If so, pop over to Founders Plaza at the DFW International Airport to watch over 2,300 planes take off each day! You’ll get to use long distance binoculars to watch the takeoffs and landings, a graph board to help identify aircraft and will be able to listen to air traffic control live!

7. Kiest Park/Fantasy Landing – Fantasy Landing at Kiest Park is one of the most amazing handicapped friendly parks in Dallas! It received an “A” rating on the DallasChild’s Safety Report Card which means you can let your kids play until their hearts are content! It was built with all children in mind which means that there are customized ramps and pull-tunnels with bars for kids in wheelchairs, brightly lit paths for kids who are visually impaired, vented slides and more! Kiest Park is located on S. Hampton Dr. in Dallas.

Related:  29 Free Things to Do in Austin Texas for the Whole Family

8. Children’s Medical Center of Dallas – It doesn’t seem as if a children’s hospital would be on our list of free things to do in Dallas, but if you or your family are model train buffs, it should be! Head over to the lobby of the Children’s Medical Center of Dallas between 6 am and 10 pm each day, and you can take in the largest permanent model train display in the country. 8 model trains run simultaneously through the lobby making it a fantastic stop on your list!

9. White Rock Lake – Feel like getting outside? If so, head to White Rock Lake to enjoy everything from running trails to picnics perfect for amazing family photos. Paddleboarding, canoeing, rowing, and sailing are also fantastic options if you’re looking to spend some time on the water. While you’re there make sure to check out the dog park, Big Thicket, and the Cultural Center.

11. Bonnie Parker’s Grave site – Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow are two of the most notorious criminals in American history, and if you’re in Dallas, you can visit Bonnie’s final resting place. Her gravesite is located on Webb Chapel Road in Dallas. Clyde’s grave is also in Dallas but not as easily viewable.

12. Clyde Barrow’s Grave – You can’t visit Bonies Grave and not Clyde’s! They aren’t buried together, and it’s was a jab to them from their families since they weren’t married. Their graves are several miles apart, and Clyde’s isn’t as easy to see as Bonnie’s.

13. Thanks-Giving Square – The Chapel of Thanksgiving looks so out of place in downtown Dallas, but I think that’s part of the appeal!

14. Deep Ellum – This is a neighborhood in Dallas with a rowdy history. From its music beginnings of Jaz turn gambling. Now it’s a huge area for art museum and culture. This is a great area just to walk around and take in.

15.  Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players  – These guys are a must see! They play all around the city in free performances.

Related:  50 Amazing and Free Things to do in Fort Worth Texas

16. City Hall – The building is a piece of art all on its own. There is also a 7-acre plaza filled with sculpture by Henry Moore.

17. Ride the M-Line Trolley – This trolley service has many popular stops around downtown and it free to ride plus you can get a great tour!

18. Ride D-Link – This is another free service! With different stops then the M-Line.

19. Dallas Farmers Market – Open 7 days a week it’s great to walk and take a look at all the booth and talk to the locals. This is the best place to find out about more things to do!

Make sure to also check out the 31 free things to do in Fort Worth Texas they are worth the drive!

Again don’t forget to also check out our Texas Resource page!

Did I miss any free things to do in Dallas Texas ? Let me know in the comments below, and I will add them! I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the list.

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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.

Best Dallas Tours

Dallas Tours

The 8 Best Dallas Tours

April 23, 2020

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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22 Inexpensive and FREE Things to Do in Fort Worth, Texas

F ort Worth is a city brimming with unique experiences and delightful activities that won’t cost you a dime! Whether you want to immerse yourself in the city’s western heritage or explore the art and culture scene, there are so many inexpensive and free things to do in Fort Worth that make the North Texas destination an affordable family vacation.

This guide to the best things to do in Fort Worth Texas with kids includes fun activities that are free or moderately priced for families.

Our personal experience in Fort Worth, Texas

For five years, Fort Worth, Texas was my home. I lived and worked there and loved everything about it! Since moving away from this amazing city in North Texas, I’ve come to realize I took for granted all of the great and FREE things to do in Fort Worth. 

Often, it is a big event hosted at Texas Motor Speedway or at nearby AT&T Stadium in Arlington that brings people to Fort Worth for the first time.

But there is so much to do in the city of more than 900,000 people, you would be remiss not to spend some time exploring this extremely family-friendly city.

Fort Worth, Texas: A big city with cowboy roots

Nicknamed “ Cowtown ”, Fort Worth, Texas has a long and rich history as a stop along the historic Chisholm Trail, which was used for many years to drive cattle overland from Texas to Kansas.

The city grew quickly and became somewhat of a hub for ranching and cattle raising in the United States. The cowboy culture is still very prevalent in Fort Worth, although you’ll also find a good mix of metropolitan influence, as well.

How much time to spend in Fort Worth, Texas

Many people combine their visit to Fort Worth with a visit to Dallas , located just 45 minutes east, or with a visit to one of the other popular North Texas cities like Arlington, Denton , or Grapevine .

You can hit the highlights of Fort Worth in one weekend or even on a day trip from Dallas . However, there are a lot of fun things to do in Dallas and the rest of the metroplex, as well. So, I would give yourself 2-3 days to truly experience Fort Worth and all it has to offer and a week to experience all of North Texas.

If you are looking for free things to do in Fort Worth, the city has plenty of budget-friendly options which make for a fairly inexpensive getaway with kids.

How to Get to Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth is just west of Dallas, Texas. In fact, the region, which includes the two cities and all the suburbs, is often called DFW, short for Dallas-Fort Worth. 

If you are flying into the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport , it’s about a 35-minute drive to downtown Fort Worth, depending on traffic. It’s about a one-hour drive from Dallas Love Field Airport . 

Traffic is quite congested in the DFW metro area, and road construction on the freeways can slow things down quite a bit. Prepare yourself for that frustration.

Getting around North Texas

Most people drive in North Texas, hence why traffic is horrendous. But Uber and taxi services are also options. 

There is rail service that connects Dallas to Fort Worth and connects downtown Dallas to the airport and other outlying areas, but it is not as widely used by locals. You will likely need to rent a car to explore the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Best time to visit Fort Worth

Texas is known for being painfully hot in the summer. Temperatures can easily reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) or higher in July and August. 

My favorite season to visit Texas is spring, especially during the months of March and April. The weather is cool, and the bluebonnets are in bloom.

Where to Stay in Fort Worth

Because traffic in Fort Worth can be a bit of a headache, I recommend staying somewhat close to downtown .

Most of the attractions you will want to visit are within a few miles of the downtown area. Plus, Fort Worth has a great downtown area that is both safe and walkable. 

Sundance Square is in the heart of downtown. There are plenty of wonderful restaurants (and bars: if traveling sans kids) and a lively, fun nightlife. Staying downtown gives you convenient access to all of that without having to worry about finding parking.

Best inexpensive or free things to do in Fort Worth with kids

While there are plenty of museums and theaters to visit in Fort Worth, my favorite things to do in Fort Worth are free! 

Here are our top 22 inexpensive and free things to do in Fort Worth that will help you plan the perfect, budget-friendly family trip.

1: Watch the world’s only twice daily cattle drive

The cattle drive in the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the most popular free activities in Fort Worth.

Twice a day at 11:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. cowboys dressed in early 20th century attire drive a herd of longhorns through the old brick streets of the Fort Worth Stockyards . 

This is the only place in the world where you can watch a live cattle-drive twice each day, and it is a true Texas bucket list experience ! 

Price: free

2: Tour the Stockyards Museum

After watching the cattle drive, head over to the Stockyards Museum where you can learn about the history of this unique district of Fort Worth and about how the ranching and cattle raising industry shaped the North Texas city. 

The museum only costs $2 per adult which helps cover the cost of operations. 

Price: $2 per person / Free for 12 and under

3: Visit the Amon Carter Museum

The Amon Carter Museum of American Art is one of the best art museums in Fort Worth. Although most kids don’t typically enjoy art museums, Amon Carter often hosts exhibits and events that are great for children and families. 

Frequently, this museum located in Fort Worth’s cultural district has immersive exhibits and events and workshops that are entirely geared toward toddlers and young children. 

4: Visit the Fort Worth Water Gardens

A visit to the Fort Worth Water Gardens is one of the most unique free things to do in Fort Worth, Texas. This serene urban oasis in the midst of a concrete jungle boasts a tranquility pool, aerating pool, and the main draw – an active pool. 

The active pool is a massive man-made waterfall that you can descend down into to fill completely surrounded by running water. 

While the water gardens are a great place to visit, watch young children carefully, as the active pool in particular can be dangerous for unsupervised kids.

5: Watch real money get printed

Fort Worth is one of the few places in the United States where you can watch actual money getting printed. The US Bureau of Engraving and Printing offers free self-guided audio tours where you can learn about the process of printing currency. 

The process is much more complicated than you might think. So, it is an interesting and educational tour for both kids and adults alike.

A word of caution, cell phones and cameras are not permitted on the tours or in the building.

6: Ride the miniature train at Forest Park 

The Forest Park miniature railroad has been a favorite Fort Worth activity for kids since it opened in the late 1950s. Once the longest miniature train in the world, this small locomotive takes you around Fort Worth’s Trinity Park.

From the depot, the five-mile ride travels under the highway, across six bridges and the Trinity River, and through miles of beautiful, scenic green space.

While it isn’t free, it is still one of the most inexpensive things to do in Fort Worth. The 40-minute ride is just $8 per child and $10 per adult. Catch the train from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

Price: $10 per adult, $8 per child

7: Relax under an umbrella in Sundance Square

Sundance Square is the heart of downtown Fort Worth. The urban plaza is lined with restaurants and shops and often hosts community events and festivals.

There are large umbrellas that stretch out across portions of the plaza offering shaded areas to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the square. 

Sitting under the umbrellas is one of the best free things to do in Fort Worth on a nice weather day.

8:  Play in the splash fountain at Sundance Square 

While you relax under an umbrella kids can play and splash around in the fun water features. To make the plaza a more interactive place, the city installed splashing water features that shoot water up from the ground periodically. 

This is great for kids or even adventurous adults who don’t mind getting wet. Be sure to bring a change of clothes if you want to visit one of the nearby restaurants afterward or shop for Texas souvenirs ! 

9: Feed the ducks at Trinity Park

Trinity Park is a wonderful place to spend time on a nice day when the weather is warm. The park is home to lots of ducks that are always happy to be fed.

Just make sure to bring actual duck food rather than breadcrumbs, as it’s healthier for the ducks. 

Enjoy an afternoon relaxing under the large shade trees, bring a picnic basket, or let the kids run and play at the Dream Park , an all-inclusive playground in Trinity Park where kids of all abilities can let their imagination lead. 

10: Explore the Trinity Trails on foot or bike

The Trinity Trails are great for those looking for scenic walking trails in Dallas-Fort Worth. These free, public trails extend more than 100 miles and are great for those looking for fresh air and exercise!

The system of trails takes you along the Trinity River, through the city and numerous parks. 

In recent years, the trails have also become a popular place for geocaching. In fact, there are more than 30 geocaches hidden along the Trinity River. 

11: Paddle board on the Trinity River 

As Fort Worth has grown into a more trendy, urban area, it has naturally attracted more residents who are interested in outdoor activities designed for both wellness and recreation. 

Paddle boarding and kayaking are two activities that have become more popular in Fort Worth over the last few years. If you own your own paddle board or kayak, you can take part in these free Fort Worth things to do along the Trinity River. 

You can also rent paddle boards , paddles, kayaks and life jackets from Panther Island Pavilion for a small fee if you are visiting and want to spend a few hours on the river.

Price: Free if you have your own paddleboard. |$20 to rent paddle board, paddles, and life jacket

12: Check out quirky public art and restaurants on Magnolia Avenue 

Staying true to its nickname, Funky Town, Fort Worth has a budding street art scene. There are several neighborhoods where the street art particularly stands out, and Magnolia Avenue is easily number one. 

The Magnolia district which was once riddled with crime and falling into disrepair, has gone through a transition in the last decade.

This hip area of town replaced graffiti with colorful murals and empty storefronts with vegan and fusion restaurants and locally owned boutiques. 

Wander the streets and take your time finding the best murals, then stop in for lunch at one of the local restaurants.

Price: free 

13: Watch actors in authentic 1800s closing showcase life on the frontier 

For another glimpse at Fort Worth in the mid 1800s, visit the Log Cabin Village . This historic site is one of the best things to do in Fort Worth with kids. 

Actors in authentic period clothing give visitors a look at what life was like on the frontier when Fort Worth was first founded.

It is a great, inexpensive way to learn more about Fort Worth’s incredible history and life in the mid-to- late-1800s.

Price: $7 per adult | $6 per child

14: Learn to two step at  a family-friendly Texas Honky Tonk 

Fort Worth is home to the largest dance hall in Texas. And there is no place better in all of Texas to learn how to country western dance than Billy Bob’s in the Fort Worth Stockyard.

The dance hall is a true Texas-sized honky tonk, with 100,000 square feet of entertainment space. It has hosted concerts by the largest names in country music.

While tickets to concerts come with a higher price, to visit Billy Bob’s on a normal day, the cover charge is minimal.

The Fort Worth dance hall allows children if accompanied by a parent or guardian. We recommend going in the afternoon if visiting with kids. At night, the atmosphere is very much like a traditional bar. 

Price: $3-$6 depending on the day

15. Kimbell Art Museum

Although we don’t tend to visit many art museums when traveling with kids, the Kimbell Art Museum is worth a visit. The museum features art from all over the world including famous works from Asia, Africa, and Europe. 

You’ll see dozens of paintings including Girl on the Pier by Edvard Munch. The famous Norwegian artist is best known for painting The Scream , which is on display in Oslo, Norway .  

The free museum also features ceramics and sculpture art, some of which were created by the links of Bourdelle and Picasso, who created some of the most famous sculptures in Europe .  

Price: Free (although special exhibitions and programs often require a ticket fee)

16: Visit the Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden features 110 acres of beautiful green space that you can roam through and explore.

The outdoor area just west of downtown features 2,500 types of plants over a variety of different gardens, including the cactus garden, vegetable garden, rose gardens and rainforest conservatory.

You’ll find pathways lined with flowers and other pollinator plants, native grasses, and groves of trees. 

Although portions of the botanic garden were once free to visit, there is now an admission fee. But that fee grants visitors access to all areas of the gardens, including the Japanese Garden, which is one of the most popular attractions in the gardens and always required paid admission.

To avoid the fees, however, you can check out a Botanic Pass from the Fort Worth Public Library . You will need a library card in order to do so.

Price: $15 per adult | $9 per child ages 6-15 | Free for children 0-5 years old | Free if you check out a Botanic Pass from the Fort Worth Public Library

17: Attend a festival in Sundance Square 

As previously mentioned, Fort Worth Sundance Square plays host to lots of different events and festivals throughout the year. There always seems to be something going on in this bustling city center.

From the popular Main Street Arts Festival to music and even film festivals, there are some great community events that take place annually in Sundance Square. The best part is that many of them are free to attend! 

Although many of the festivals are free to attend, the food, drinks, and various vendors come with a cost. 

Price: varies by event but often free

18: Watch the Cowtown Opry perform live in the Stockyards 

The Cowtown Opry Club is a group of performers dedicated to upholding the musical heritage of Texas. The group performs free on Sunday afternoons in the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards.

Depending on the weather, you’ll find them performing on either the porch or in the lobby of the Livestock Exchange Building. 

If you’re lucky enough to catch a performance, you’ll hear a mix of country western music, old cowboy ballads, and western swing songs.

19: Visit the Fort Worth Zoo 

Although the zoo is not a free activity in Fort Worth, it is still one or the best things to do in FTW. On Wednesdays, admission is half price making a more affordable activity.

The Fort Worth Zoo has been named one of the best zoos in the United States due to its high standard of animal care and guest enrichment. So, if time and money allow, the zoo is one of the best things to do with kids in Fort Worth. 

The zoo is home to 68 endangered species and 542 total species. Guests will particularly want to check out the elephant exhibit, as the Fort Worth Zoo leads the world in conservation efforts of the Asian Elephant. 

Price: $19 adults | $15 kids | Admission is half price on Wednesdays

20: Take photos in a patch of bluebonnets

If visiting Texas in springtime, one of the best free things to do in Fort Worth is to find a patch of Bluebonnets and do an impromptu photo shoot. Bluebonnets are a type of lupine wildflower that now grows native in Texas.

You’ll find bluebonnets across most areas of Texas. In fact, you can find patches of these vibrant blue or purple flowers growing along the sides of highways, roads and around area lakes. 

If you want to see one of the most impressive displays of Texas Bluebonnets, head southeast of Fort Worth to drive the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails . 

21: Check out western art 

Located in Sundance Square, the Sid Richardson Museum may not be one of the most exciting activities in Fort Worth for kids, but it is still one of the best free things to do in Fort Worth, Texas!

This art museum features permanent and special exhibitions from some of the most notable Western artists and painters.

The art tells beautiful stories about the indigenous people of the American west, cowboys and life on the frontier. In many ways, it is both a history lesson and an art lesson.

You can stop in and take a self-guided tour. For larger groups, request a guided tour on their website with an option for a hands-on studio experience for kids. 

22: Explore and learn at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Like the zoo, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is not free, but for the amount of time you will likely spend at this incredible museum, the price – while moderate – is actually well worth it. 

The museum offers various permanent exhibits including a dinosaur exhibit, an innovation studio where kids can invent, design, and doodle, a children’s museum that lets children play and learn, and a space exhibit.

Admission to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History also includes admission to the planetarium, which is especially fun for space-loving kids! 

Price: $16 per adults | $12 per child

Have you been to Fort Worth, Texas? What are your favorite inexpensive or free things to do in Fort Worth? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.

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