places to visit near dallas in summer

40 Things To Do This Summer in Dallas // The Dallas Summer Bucket List

Looking for things to do in Dallas this summer for your summer Dallas bucket list? Look no further, here are 40 of my favorite summer activities in Austin! Whether you want to soak in the sun, keep cool by the pool, or avoid melting by staying indoors we have something on this list for everyone.

SEE MORE : The Ultimate Dallas Guide // A Weekend in Dallas, TX

GO ROCK CLIMBING AT LAKE MINERAL WELLS Such a fun camping trip and great activity for kids, speaking as one that used to go all the time with my family during the summer. Hit up Lake Mineral Wells just outside of Dallas for a fun camping experience and try out their literal rock climbing!

TAKE A SHOPPING DAY AT THE CANTON MARKET If you’re a fan of flea markets, then you’re going to love Canton Market ! This is a once-a-month event so make sure you get the date down on your calendar and pick up some killer decor for low prices. Also a great place to take your mom this summer, just saying!

VISIT THE CINDERCADE FOR A GAME NIGHT My friends and I always love hitting up the Cidercade for an arcade night! If you’re looking for a more l low-key Dallas summer bucket list spot, then this is one of your best bets.

HIT UP THE FORT WORTH WATER GARDENS I love the Fort Worth water gardens, and definitely consider them a Dallas Fort Worth hidden gem. Spend the afternoon walking around Sundance Square in Fort Worth and then walk down to the water gardens for a beautiful summer oasis

WAIT IN LINE FOR BBQ AT PECAN LODGE Come at me, tis is the BEST BBQ in Dallas! Granted, this is why there is always a solid line at 10am for lunch. So get there bright an early, because the amazing brisket and ribs are totally worth the wait.

DRINK WINE AT ONE OF THE GRAPEVINE VINEYARDS Grapevine is full of gorgeous wineries, no need to drive all the way down to Fredericksburg for these gems. Whether you hit up Delaney Vineyards or one of the countless others , you’ll have a lovely night!

S PEND THE DAY AT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM Enjoy a relaxing afternoon walking around the Dallas Arboretum , and take your parents with you if they’re in town! Love walking through these beautiful gardens and soaking in the flowers during the spring and summer in Dallas.

GO WATCH THE FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW It was be simply un-American to skip a Fourth of July firework show. Check out this list with tons of different shows and festivals happening across Dallas Fort Worth around July Fourth that you can attend!

WALK AROUND AND ENJOY BISHOP ARTS Bishop Arts is, in my opinion, the best Dallas neighborhood. I love that’s its so walkable and full of cute local Dallas shops. I recommend taking your mom especially on a little Bishop Arts day, and you can find all my favorite restaurants & shops in Bishop Arts on this Bishop Arts Guide !

HIT THE HORSE RACES AT LONE STAR PARK Something I still haven’t crossed off my own Dallas summer bucket list! Catch the horse races at Lone Star Park . Make sure you wear your most ridiculous derby hat to really make the most of it too.

SPEND THE DAY AT GRAPEVINE LAKE (& CATCH THEIR FIREWORK SHOW) I grew up in Grapevine, so this happens to be my personal favorite Dallas summer bucket list item. Grab your friends and head over to the lake for the day! You can rent a boat for a pretty affordable price, or just hang out by the water. Plus, they do a fireworks show over the lake every Friday night.

SEE MORE \\ EVERYTHING TO DO SEE AND EAT IN GRAPEVINE TEXAS

ENJOY A PICNIC OR YOGA CLASS AT KLYDE WARREN PARK Ever had a picnic over at Klyde Warren Park ? Well if not, then add that to your Dallas summer bucket list! Pack something yummy to eat on the Downtown lawn, or wait and pick something up from one of the countless amazing food trucks always parked at Klyde Warren. Either way, it’s going to be a lovely afternoon!

LEARN ABOUT JFK AT THE SIXTH FLOOR MUSEUM Are you a history buff? Then spend the afternoon wandering the Sixth Floor Museum; it’s all about JFK and his story and his assasination. To be honest, I am not even a history buff and I still thought it was super interesting. Or check out one of the amazing other DFW Museums!

SEE MORE \\ THE BEST MUSEUMS IN DALLAS FORT WORTH

GRAB A TRUE SOUTHERN COMFORT LUNCH AT BABES CHICKEN Peak southern comfort food at Babe’s Chicken, you’re going to loveeee how delicious it is! Think fried chicken and collared greens and mashed potatoes galore. Get your stomachs ready and take the whole squad out for Babes.

PULL OUT YOUR BOOTS FOR THE FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS AND RODEO The top of my Fort Worth bucket list, to be honest! I love spending the day at the Fort Worth Stockyards , watching the live stock parade, and ending the day at the Fort Worth rodeo. If you aren’t from Texas, this will definitely be quite the treat for you. Plus, tons of other fun Fort Worth things to do in our Fort Worth guide!

SEE MORE \\ GUIDE TO FORT WORTH TEXAS FROM A LOCAL

SWIM IN THE TEXAS SHAPED POOL IN PLANO Go full-on Texan by taking a dip in the giant Texas-shaped swimming pool out in Plano! That’s right, a giant pool in the shape of Texas. Which is so so very Texas. You can also find lots of other fun Plano things to do on our Plano guide while you’re there!

GAME NIGHT AT MAIN EVENT ON MONDAY NIGHTS My high school self, and college self, AND POST GRAD SELF LOVE MAIN EVENT. Honestly we go all the time when we go back home. The best spot ever. And on Monday nights they do this all in deal for $10 with unlimited games and laser tag. SOLD. If you want something fun to do with your friends, I honestly will recommend this.

DRIVE DOWN FOR A SAFARI AT FOSSIL RIM Another amazing hidden gem in the area, I used to LOVE going to Fossil Rim when I was little. Seriously such a fun thing to do with kids in Dallas and a key Dallas summer bucket list item. You basically get to drive through this mini-safari and have the animals come straight up to your car!

HIT UP A SUMMER CONCERN AT FAIR PARK OR THE TOYOTA CENTER Even though Austin is the live music capitol, Dallas has no shortage of great music festivals and concerts itself this summer! Grab tickets to a concert at Fair Park or the Toyota Center this summer, or check out this list of all the music festivals happening across Texas.

HIT UP A LOCAL DALLAS FORT WORTH CRAFT BREWERY Texas loves it’s craft beers, and there’s no shortage of great breweries to spend your summer afternoon at and enjoy a cold brew. You can check out this list of awesome breweries in Dallas Fort Worth , and see if you can knock all of them out on your own Dallas summer bucket list – brewery edition!

GO BROKE GAMBLING AT WINSTAR CASINO Definitely not Vegas, but it’s something to do if you’re looking for some gambling! While it’s illegal to gamble in the state of Texas, it definitely is not in the state of Oklahoma. So we Dallasites like to drive up the hour and a half and spend the night gambling all our money away at Winstar !

HAVE HAPPY HOUR ON A DALLAS ROOFTOP BAR If you’re like me, then you’re working all summer and need more Dallas summer bucket list items you can do post-work! Let me recommend hitting up a rooftop hour with a sunset view. You can check out this list for some of the best Dallas rooftops to do that from!

SEE MORE \\ THE BEST HAPPY HOURS IN DALLAS, TEXAS

WALK AROUND THE DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART FOR FREE Want a free thing to do in Dallas this summer? Explore the Dallas Museum of Art! The museum is free to the public (some exhibits are paid, but mostly free) and get some culture in ya this summer.

HAVE A DINNER NIGHT AT MI COCINA I could list a million amazing Dallas restaurants, but honestly none are as iconic as Mi Cocina. They have plenty of locations and some absolutely delicious food. Make sure its on your date night restaurant list !

TAKE AN HGTV DAY TRIP DOWN TO MAGNOLIA MARKET Are you an HGTV fan, or just a fan of delicious cupcakes? Then head down to Waco for the day and explore Magnolia Market! This gem has completely put Waco on the map, so you know it should be on your bucket list this summer. Highly recommend waiting in line for a Silo’s cupcake too!

SEE MORE \\ EASY DAY TRIPS YOU CAN TAKE FROM DALLAS

SPEND THE DAY SOAKING AT A HOTEL POOL If you don’t have a pool at your apartment complex or house, you can definitely take advantage of some of these amazing Dallas hotel pools! From affordable to luxury living, you’ve got all the poolside options in Dallas.

ROLLER COASTER DAY AT SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS It isn’t a Dallas summer if you don’t hit up Six Flags at least once! I think I have gone a minimum of 20 times now throughout my years. Perfect time to hit those water rides, and then dry RIGHT off on the Titan.

SWING LIKE TARZAN AT THE GO APE ROPES IN PLANO I even had no clue this course existed until recently! Right up north in Plano is a giant treetop ropes course that (can confirm) is a blast for kids and adults both. Such a fun activity, and you can check out of Plano Guide for even more fun Plano activities.

TAKE YOURSELF OUT TO THE BALL GAME I am perfectly willing to admit that watching baseball in TV is not my personal favorite activity. But watching it live at the field and singing the songs and drinking the overpriced beer? A summer classic! Get some Rangers tickets for this summer!

ATTEND A DALLASITES EVENT The Dallasites girls throw some KILLER events in the summer, and I highly recommend looking at their events calendar to find some that are upcoming! Also a great way to make new friends in Dallas if you’re new to the city.

HAVE A FUN WATERPARK ADVENTURE AT HURRICANE HARBOR Just like Six Flags, I cannot think of a single summer that I didn’t spend at Hurricane Harbor! A blast of a water park where you absolutely will not get bored throughout the day. And a spectacular thing to do in Dallas with kids this summer!

CHECK OUT THE SHARKS AT THE DALLAS WORLD AQUARIUM A great Dallas summer bucket list item for kids especially! Take your kiddos to the Dallas World Aquarium for the day and enjoy the penguins and sharks and all the other cool gems they have.

HAVE A DATE NIGHT AT A DRIVE IN MOVIE You cannot go wrong with an old-school drive in movie date. Grab a ton of snacks and some blankets for a romantic movie night together. You can either head to Coyote Drive In by Fort Worth or Galaxy Drive In  just south of Dallas!

SEE MORE \\ 15 DATE NIGHT IDEAS IN DALLAS FORT WORTH

SPEND THE DAY WANDERING THE PEROT MUSEUM I do not care how old you are, you are never too old for a fun science museum. If your date considers themselves nerdy, then this will be a treat. Spend the afternoon exploring the  Perot Museum  in Dallas for only $25+ a person. They also have exclusive adult-only nights  with plenty to drink and eat if you can snag some tickets!

SPEND THE DAY WITH THE ELEPHANTS AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO I refuse to mention the Dallas zoo, because the Fort Worth Zoo is SOO much better! Especially a great thing to do in Dallas with kids this summer. Spend the day hanging out with the baby elephants and the monkeys, what could be better than that.

CATCH A SYMPHONY AT THE BASS HALL IN FORT WORTH My parents always love attending symphonies and plays at Bass Hall in Fort Worth! Snag some tickets to a show here, or you can check out the Winspear Opera House in Dallas. Either way, immerse yourself in the arts this summer on your Dallas bucket list.

And that’s it folks! So many things to do in Dallas, and honestly even though I grew up there I still feel like I have so much left to do. So if you have managed to pull off doing everything on this list, then MAJOR kudos to you because this Dallas Summer Bucket List definitely is not for the faint of heart.

READ MORE ON A GIRL FROM TX 12 Essential Dallas Coffee Shops for Studying + Working 15 Blogging Tools You’ll Love Using Every Day 10 Travel Essentials For Your Carry On This Summer 15 Texas Bloggers You’ll Love Following on Instagram Find More Dallas Summer Bucket List Items at Aceable

SAVE THIS BUCKET LIST FOR LATER

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Comments (4).

July 1, 2019 at 6:00 am

This article is exactly for me. I love to visit sub-spots. Thanks girl from TX.

June 29, 2021 at 7:19 pm

I love this list. You really should check out the Dallas zoo though because I think it is better than the fort worth zoo now. Ownership has changed and it is amazing!

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July 19, 2021 at 12:58 pm

Ohhh that’s a great tip! I haven’t been to the Dallas Zoo in the while because I was not a huge fan of it growing up, but will have to check it out with the new management

August 6, 2023 at 8:52 pm

I’m a climber and I’d never heard of Lake Mineral Wells until I read this. I’ve recently moved to Austin so it might be worth a drive. Thanks.

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Your 2022 Summer in Austin Bucket List \\ 40 Things To Do This Summer in Austin

The ultimate guide to san francisco.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

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

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

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

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

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

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

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

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

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

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma City, OK

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

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

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

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

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

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

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

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

3 hours, 30 minutes.

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

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

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

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

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

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

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

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

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

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

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

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

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

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

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

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

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

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

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

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

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

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

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

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

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

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

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

Broken Bow, OK

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

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

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

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

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

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

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

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

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

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

3 hours, 45 minutes.

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

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

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

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

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

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

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

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

Branson, MO

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

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

New Braunfels, TX

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

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

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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13 BEST Things to do in Dallas in Summer

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Looking for the best things to do in Dallas in summer? From the beautiful Klyde Warren Park to visiting Fort Worth, this is what to do in Dallas!

As one of the biggest cities in the whole of the US, Dallas is full of amazing activities and places to visit during the summer months.

Whether you love spending time in the great outdoors, want to hit up some of the best eateries in the city, or just hang out and enjoy the distinct North Texan culture, Dallas in summer can deliver it all and more.

Personally, I love cities that have a ton of outdoorsy activities either in the city itself or on its doorstep. From the beautiful Klyde Warren Park to the rugged walls of Lake Mineral Wells, there are so many green and blue spaces in the heart of Dallas to enjoy the summer sunshine.

Summer in Dallas also signals a ton of great festivals and gigs all across the city. Dallas summer events can be found around every corner from live music to rodeos to fireworks displays. There’s a little something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and diverse southern city!

So, what kind of activities and places to visit can you expect to enjoy in Dallas in the summer? Let’s dive in and find out!

Also, don’t forget to check out some of the best day trips from Dallas when planning your trip here!

Dallas summer weather 

Okay, so Dallas in summertime is no joke. Temperatures can range anywhere from 23-36°C (70-97°F) and when you combine that with the super high humidity levels, it can feel like you’re constantly in a warm and sweaty hug. 

That’s why getting out and about in nature is one of the best reprieves from the swampy heat. You can take a dip in a lake, enjoy the air-con indoors, or sit underneath a shady tree in one of the city’s beautiful parks. I’m all about the hiking in Dallas. This is what I love about the USA – that you c an get outside and explore the country so easily.

Best things to do in Dallas in summer

Check out the fort worth water gardens.

If you’re looking for a tranquil spot to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, I’d recommend heading to the Fort Worth Water Gardens . This gorgeous tiered landscape garden is a popular spot with locals and tourists alike and is designed to promote meditation.

You can simply sit and watch the world go by or enjoy the amazing architectural marvel that’s all around you in this Dallas hidden gem. 

Enjoy a yoga class at Klyde Warren Park

Looking to stretch out all those kinks from a long flight over the Dallas? Head over to the always-popular Klyde Warren Park and take part in one of their open-air yoga classes. Flow in the wide open spaces of the green park, and afterwards you can treat yourself to one of the many food trucks that set up shop all around the area.

Take in some live music at Fair Park 

Who doesn’t love enjoying live music on those long, lazy summer nights? Dallas has you completely covered with a whole host of live music performances all over the city, but some of the best can be found at Fair Park.

You can see a wide array of local music acts, normally completely free of charge, and bring a picnic along to make a day of it. You can check out the different events on offer at Fair Park here .

Wave a flag at the Fourth of July celebrations

Is there anything more American than the Fourth of July celebrations? Well, what they say is true – in Texas, they do everything bigger and better!

When it comes to Independence Day, the fireworks displays and barbecues are huge. If you find yourself in Dallas at the start of July, make sure you find a prime spot to watch a firework display – you won’t regret it!

Hit the rock climbing scene at Lake Mineral Wells 

Consider yourself the next Tommy Caldwell or Brette Harrington? Well, just outside Dallas you’ll find Lake Mineral Wells , one of the best places to go rock climbing in the area. This outdoor recreation area is also full of campsites so you can easily make a long weekend out of it if you’re looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature. 

Sail on a sunset cruise on Lake Ray Hubbard

Located up in North Texas is the beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard. Jump in your rental car and head up for a beautiful day cooling down in the stunning waters. Once you’ve cooled down, head to the marina and get on a sunset cruise. With the panoramic views of the lake, seeing the sun dip below the horizon after a long day is pure Texan magic.

Taste some classic Texan barbecue at Pecan Lodge

Okay, I love barbecue food. I mean, who doesn’t, right? There are few things as messy, delicious and sticky as a big plate of slow-barbecued meat and sides. Luckily, Dallas is one of the best places in the world to get this delicious, delicious cuisine. The best place in Dallas? It has to be Pecan Lodge .

If the reviews were enough to go on, the fact that the place has queues from as early as 10am for the lunch service is definite proof of how tasty this place is really going to be.

Be wowed by the sharks at the Dallas World Aquarium

Are you travelling to Dallas with children? Then the amazing Dallas World Aquarium has to be near the top of your summer itinerary. One of the biggest draws of this family-friendly favourite is the super intriguing shark display. 

The DWA also spends a lot of time, money, and effort on conservation efforts, so you’ll be supporting these amazing causes as well as having an amazing day in the wonderful air con!

Escape the heat at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center

It’s hardly news to say that Dallas can feel like a sweaty pit of despair in the heart of summer, so one of the best places to visit in Dallas in summer is the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center . Yes, you read that right – ice skating in summer. 

Especially if you’re travelling with kids, this place is a fun and energetic way to spend a few hours and cool down at the same time.

Check out the Fort Worth Stockyards Rodeo

Want to combine history and entertainment all in one unique Dallas summer event? Head on over to the historic Fort Worth Stockyards . Each day in the summer months you can see a classic Texan rodeo and get in the spirit of the deep south. 

Bring your cowboy boots and enjoy a local pastime in historic and beautiful surroundings. After you’ve enjoyed the show, you can enjoy a tasty dinner at a host of local establishments. It’s a great place to visit, especially for first-timers to the city.

Wander around Dallas’s amazing food trucks

Is there anything that says summer fun more than going around sampling from food trucks? Dallas is famous for some of the best and most diverse food trucks in the country.

A great way to explore the city on your own is to wander around the different food trucks, experiencing different neighbourhoods as you go from tacos to barbecue to burgers to coffee shacks and more.

Take a day trip to the Grapevine vineyards

Looking for a Dallas day trip that takes you outside of the city? Located just north of Dallas, you’ll find the Grapevine region. As the name suggests this area is home to a ton of boutique wineries and vineyards, all offering tastings during the summer months. 

It’s definitely a lot closer than the famous Fredericksburg wine region and you might find the individual vineyards to be a lot less crowded too!

Enjoy paddleboarding at White Rock Lake

Spanning over 1000 acres of land, White Rock Lake is one of the most popular parks in the Dallas area. Whether you want to wander around the hiking and running trails, check out the arboretum, stare in wonder at the botanical gardens, or hit the water, there are plenty of amazing options. 

One of the most recent activities to take White Rock Lake by storm, especially in the summer, is paddleboarding . Rent a board from one of the places on the shore and take in this awesome park from the water. 

Where to stay in Dallas

Luxury: hotel crescent court.

If you’re looking for opulent glamour from your luxury hotel in Dallas, you have to check out Hotel Crescent Court. With a huge lobby that has elegant columns, a private garden, and an exclusive spa area this Uptown Dallas favourite is a great option if you’re looking to treat yourself. 

Mid-range: Le Meridien Dallas, The Stoneleigh

Looking for sleek hotel bars, cosy and modern rooftop lounge areas, and huge rooms? Le Meridien Dallas, The Stoneleigh in Uptown Dallas is going to be right up your street. Check yourself in and benefit from a comfortable suite, strong cocktails, and beautiful views of the city. 

Budget: The Beeman Hotel

Personally, I love modern, geometric design, and The Beeman Hotel has it in spades. You can chill in your large, comfortable rooms, or you can hang out and cool yourself off in the refreshing indoor pool. It’s a perfect spot after a long day exploring Dallas. 

So, there you have it – my comprehensive guide to Dallas in the summer. What’s your favorite activity to enjoy in the summer months? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll make sure to check them out.

Looking for something a little different? Then check out these places to visit in Colorado in summer .

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Rebecca Crowe is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about travel, food, and outdoor adventure. She is often found holding a taco, in an airport, or halfway up a climbing wall.

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Last Edited on April 12, 2024 in Texas Day Trips

Tyler (1 hour 30 min from Dallas)

Lake Tyler and Lake Tyler East are just two of the area’s many lakes where visitors can enjoy watersports or outdoor activities.

Terrell (35 min)

Browse awesome day trips from Houston , Fort Worth , Austin and San Antonio .

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (4 hours)

16710 Ranch Rd. 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, Phone: 830-685-3636

Kimbell Art Museum (40 min from Dallas)

3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard Fort Worth, TX 76107, Phone: 817-332-8451

Longview (2 hours)

Visitors who prefer to spend time outdoors can enjoy a round of golf or a hot air balloon ride. Numerous nearby parks provide endless opportunities for fun for all ages.

Jefferson (2 hours 30 min)

If you want to learn a bit more about the history of Jefferson and the Piney Woods region, check out one of the town’s museums. The city hosts many holiday and seasonal events throughout the year, especially during Christmas.

Athens (1 hour)

One of the most popular of Athens attractions is the Athens Scuba Park, which allows visitors the unique opportunity to scuba dive in the town’s clear water lake.

Greenville (1 hour)

Greenville is a great place to take in the arts. The city boasts a strong music scene, including the Dallas Symphony, as well as live entertainment venues that run the gamut of talent. Several annual events and festivals help make Greenville an attractive place to visit year-round.

Fort Worth (40 min)

The Fort Worth Zoo is a day trip all on its own, and the Texas Motor Speedway attracts race fans nationwide. Fort Worth offers visitors a chance to explore the real, historical American West in the Stockyards National Historic District. Whether you come to see a rodeo at cowtown coliseum or to admire the art in the Modern Art Museum, Fort Worth has something to offer any type of traveller.

Turner Falls (2 hours 10 min)

US Hwy 77, Davis, OK 73030, Phone: 580-369-2988

Day Trips from Dallas: Lake Murray State Park (2 hours)

3323 Lodge Road, Ardmore, OK 73401, Phone: 580-223-4044

Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute (1 hour 30 min)

300 South 5th Street, Waco, TX 76701, Phone: 254-757-1025

Lake Texoma (1 hour 40 min)

In addition to the activities happening on the water, the area surrounding the lake has miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking, and more. The area’s two wildlife refuges are home to deer, wild hogs, eagles, and a variety of other large birds.

Davy Crockett National Forest (2 hours 40 min)

18551 State Highway 7 East, Kennard, TX 75847

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (3 hours 15 min)

1700 Northeast 63rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73111, Phone: 405-478-2250

Pat Mayse State Wildlife Management Area (2 hours)

More ideas: Richardson, Texas

Road trips from Dallas: Angelina National Forest (2 hours 50 min)

111 Walnut Ridge Road, Zavalla, TX 75980, Phone: 936-897-1068

Arbuckle Wilderness park (2 hours)

6132, Kay Starr Trail, Davis, OK 73030, Phone: 580-369-3383

Hawaiian Falls Mansfield (Seasonal)

490 Heritage Pkwy S, Mansfield, TX 76063, Phone: (817) 853-0050

The Houston Museum of Natural Science (3 hours 40 min)

5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston , TX 77030, Phone: 713-639-4629

State Capitol (3 hours)

1100 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701, Phone: 512-463-0063

Palestine (1 hour 50 min Day Trip from Dallas)

Popular events include the 1836 Chuckwagon Race, the annual Mardi Gras celebration, and Christmas in Palestine.

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum (2 hours 50 min)

1000 George Bush Drive West, College Station , TX 77845, Phone: 979-691-4000

Caddo Lake State Park (2 hours 30 min)

More to know: Best DFW Airport Restaurants

Fort Worth Zoo (45 min)

1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110, Phone: 817-759-7555

• 1. Tyler (1 hour 30 min from Dallas)
• 2. Terrell (35 min)
• 3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (4 hours)
• 4. Kimbell Art Museum (40 min from Dallas)
• 5. Longview (2 hours)
• 6. Jefferson (2 hours 30 min)
• 7. Athens (1 hour)
• 8. Greenville (1 hour)
• 9. Fort Worth (40 min)
• 10. Turner Falls (2 hours 10 min)
• 11. Day Trips from Dallas: Lake Murray State Park (2 hours)
• 12. Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute (1 hour 30 min)
• 13. Lake Texoma (1 hour 40 min)
• 14. Davy Crockett National Forest (2 hours 40 min)
• 15. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (3 hours 15 min)
• 16. Pat Mayse State Wildlife Management Area (2 hours)
• 17. Road trips from Dallas: Angelina National Forest (2 hours 50 min)
• 18. Arbuckle Wilderness park (2 hours)
• 19. Hawaiian Falls Mansfield (Seasonal)
• 20. The Houston Museum of Natural Science (3 hours 40 min)
• 21. State Capitol (3 hours)
• 22. Palestine (1 hour 50 min Day Trip from Dallas)
• 23. George Bush Presidential Library and Museum (2 hours 50 min)
• 24. Caddo Lake State Park (2 hours 30 min)
• 25. Fort Worth Zoo (45 min)

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30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

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

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

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

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

Read Next: How We Travel With Only a Backpack

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

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

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

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

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Canton and Canton Trade Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Chocktaw Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

Read Next : The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary

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

Davy crockett national forest.

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Texoma

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

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

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

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

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

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

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

Read Next: 101 Travel Experiences For Your Couple’s Bucket List

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Taking the Naples to Capri Ferry: All You Need To Know

Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

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

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

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

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

Read Next: 20 Romantic Things To Do In Vegas For Couples

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

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

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

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 26 Fabulous Things to do in Eureka Springs

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can check out Siloville. 

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

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to do in Marble Falls

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Murray State Park

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

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

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

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

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: 70 Cheap Things To Do In Vegas That You Will Love

Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

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

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

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

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

Happy Travel, friends!!

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

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

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About the Author

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

Monday 21st of November 2022

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

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

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

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

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

Saturday 4th of December 2021

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

Saturday 19th of June 2021

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

Monday 21st of June 2021

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

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

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

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

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

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

48 Fun & Interesting Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

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

Live in Dallas and need a short break from routine?

Discover our favorite Dallas day trips in this epic guide.

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

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

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

The options are endless!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also find historic homes in the Downtown area!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Texas

Highland Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grand Prairie

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

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

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

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

Plano is one of the best day trips from Dallas.

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

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

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

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Southlake has a lot of things to offer visitors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Attractions in Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dinosaur World, Glen Rose

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

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

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

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

Arlington Archosaur Site

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

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

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

Dinosaur Park, Bastrop

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

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

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

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

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

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

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

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

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

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

Waco Mammoth National Monument

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

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

The fossils were found around 60 years ago.

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

Best Beach & Swimming Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Looking to cool off and soak up the sun?

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

Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area

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

This is one of the largest lakes in Texas.

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

Lakeside Park in White Rock Lake

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

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

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

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

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

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

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

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

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach

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

It has campsites and boat slips, too.

The park provides boating, swimming and fishing opportunities.

Lake Texoma

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

The main attraction of Lake Texoma is its vast size.

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

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

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

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

Cedar Hill State Park

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

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

Little Elm Park

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

Little Elm Park is on beautiful Lewisville Lake.

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

Campers can enjoy camping by the lake, too!

Tyler State Park Beach

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

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

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

Rockwall & Lake Ray Hubbard

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

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

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

Six Flags Theme Park, Arlington

Arlington is known for its Six Flags theme park.

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

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

Best Dallas Day Trips for nature lovers

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

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

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

Davis, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Caddo Lake State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Texas

Davy Crockett National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Small Towns to Visit on Day Trips from Dallas

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

These adorable downtowns are a haven for cultural travelers.

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

Here are our favorite small towns near Dallas.

Canton, Texas

Canton, Texas is a wonderful day trip from Dallas. 

The town is most famous for First Monday trade days. 

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

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

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

Granbury, Texas

Another charming small town near Dallas is Granbury .

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

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

Terrell, Texas

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

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

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

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

Greenville, Texas

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

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

Athens, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Rusk, Texas

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

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

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

Palestine, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salado, Texas

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

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

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

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

Jefferson, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Best Major Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Dallas

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

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

Austin, Texas

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

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

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

San Antonio, Texas

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

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

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

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

Houston, Texas

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Things to do in Houston, Texas

Galveston Island, Texas

Looking for a true beach vacation near Dallas?

Galveston Island is your best bet!

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

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

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

Oklahoma City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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20 Swoon-Worthy Summer Weekend Getaways from Dallas

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A lot of people in Dallas skip town and head out of state during the summer months. But who said you had to cross state lines to enjoy a top-tier summer getaway? In fact, this big ole’ state has plenty to offer in every direction. Ready to hit the highway and explore? Here, 20 swoon-worthy Texas getaways just hop, skip and jump away from Dallas.

6 Charming Small Towns in Texas That You Probably Haven’t Been to Yet

1. The Hummingbird At Sunrise Point (1 hour 10 minutes from Dallas)

This Cedar Creek Lake rental is perfect for summer social distancing. Located at Sunrise Point, it is one of four rentable cottages, making it the ideal destination for a friend group who likes a mix of togetherness and see ya later. Each cottage has a queen-sized bed and a full bathroom. Common areas include a putting green, lakeside seating, pool, jacuzzi and more. Think of this one like a summer fun camp, but you know, for adults.

2. Inn On Lake Granbury (1 hour 20 minutes from Dallas)

Love wine and water? This three-acre waterfront property in Granbury might be just what the doctor ordered for a weekend away. Enjoy amenities of a cozy inn like complimentary appetizers and wine delivered to your room for happy hour or book the full breakfast package to truly unwind. Spend the morning relaxing by the pool and then walk the two blocks to downtown for wineries, breweries, restaurants, and shops galore. Have a Revolver Blood & Honey for us, will you?

3. High Hill Farm (1 hour 50 minutes from Dallas)

For something totally different, try heading east. To East Texas, that is. This charming resort in Arp is an excellent option for those that want to relax and recharge but don’t want to skimp on quality cuisine. Relax by the pool, dine at Côte, and even play a 9-hole round of golf all without leaving the grounds. Be sure to check out their events schedule so you don’t miss movie night on the lawn or one of their epic Sunday brunch experiences.

4. Brazos Moon At Hell’s Gate Basin (2 hours and 40 minutes from Dallas)

Possum Kingdom Lake (or “PK” as the regulars call it) is home to Hell’s Gate, however, a weekend here will feel like heaven. Nestled in the foothills of the Palo Pinto mountains, the rugged coastline here is a far cry from Dallas living and you just can’t help but unwind from a hectic work week while lapping up the beautiful views here. This particular rental has four bedrooms, a new swimming pool and hot tub in addition to a killer firepit pavilion that’s perfect for watching the big game and enjoying the scenery.

5. Through The Looking Glass At Broken Bow (2 hours and 50 minutes from Dallas)

Broken Bow is the new IT vacation spot that Texans simply cannot get enough of. The wilderness vibes are just strong enough to scratch the itch for most city dwellers in need of some time outside. This glass cabin features split buildings for family and friends to spread out and although there are only three bedrooms, it accommodates up to 12 people. We are really digging the game room that features both a poker and pool table in addition to the covered porch that connects the two buildings. Anyone want to build a fire and roast a marshmallow or two?

6. Lake Austin Spa (3 hours from Dallas)

Possibly the biggest splurge on the list but this luxe retreat is definitely worth it. Whether you find yourself here for the mind, body or soul, this rejuvenating destination is sure to fill your cup. Not only is this waterfront property stunning, but the food is next level. Pair that with innovative wellness treatments (the serenity scalp massage is divine) and serene surroundings and you are destined to fall in love.

7. Sage Hill Inn & Spa (3 hours and 15 minutes from Dallas)

The Texas Hill Country is on full display at this Kyle, Texas inn located on 88 acres above the Onion Creek. Whether you enjoy wildflowers, observing animals in their nature habitat (hello antelope, deer and birds galore), or simply relaxing, there is something for everyone here. The pool, hot tub, and Garden Spa facility are big hits in addition to the Restaurant at Sage Hill. We cannot wait to see what cozy cottage you select.

8. Wahwahtaysee Resort (3 hours and 15 minutes from Dallas)

These luxury safety tents are the talk of Texas. So much so that it is hard to snag a reservation at this Kingsbury resort that is sittin’ pretty on the banks of the San Marcos River. And while just being in nature is perfectly OK, optional activities like fly fishing, kayaking, yoga classes, and horseback riding set this spot apart from your basic rental property. All tents come with fun amenities like a Yeti cooler, Green Egg barbecue cooker, a golf cart, Bluetooth speaker and more. Not about that tent life? First off, your loss, but they also have one container cabin for rent too.

9. Jl Bar Ranch And Spa (5 hours from Dallas)

It was only a matter of time before a Texan tapped in to the type of property that gives you the feeling of staying at a luxurious family ranch without actually having to own it. This Sonora sensation spans 13,000 acres and invites guests to experience horseback riding, mountain biking, spa and culinary classes galore. Do yourself a solid and check out the events schedule before picking a date to enjoy, as there tends to be stellar entertainment that comes to the ranch.

10. Cinnamon Shore (6 hours and 30 minutes from Dallas)

Want the simplistic beach charm of 30A but simply don’t have time to make the 12-hour trek? Cut your driving time in half and hit up this marvelous master planned community that has something for everyone in the family from your playful pup to your vitamin D-obsessed teenager. The community has a pizza shop, ice cream parlor, pool and even a fishing pier. Rentals include houses, condos, townhomes and cottages.

11. The Local Chapter At Big Bend National Park (8 hour and 30 minutes from Dallas)

For those who are ready to go full throttle down the Texas highway, hit up The Local Chapter in Terlingua for an experience unlike anything else in the state. These four luxury yurts, owned by rewardStyle’s Amber and Baxter Box, give you an up close and personal view of the majestic West Texas Terrain. It just so happens to border Big Bend National Park. Amenities include air conditioning and heat (hey, it’s a yurt after all), an indoor fireplace, personal telescope, king bed with Sferra Italian linens and more. And while it might be your first trip out to this part of Texas, we can almost guarantee that after staying here that it won’t be your last.

12. Yurt Life On The Lake In Shell Knob (6 Hours And 20 Minutes From Dallas)

Now this is a yurt! Located a stone’s throw Table Rock Lake, this stylish rental is a unique place to road trip with the family and even get a slight reprieve from the Texas heat. Its midcentury vibes are relaxing yet refined and adults and children alike appreciate the architecture. From lake activities to evening chats and s’more roasting in the firepit, this is going to be a destination that your Dallas friends are going to want the info on as you soon as you post about it.

13. 67a On The Bend In Carlton Landing (3 hours and 9 minutes from Dallas)

Looking for Long Cove vibes but with the potential to actually rent for a long weekend? Give Carlton Landing a try. Despite being a bit farther than Long Cove, it is a darling destination with many of the amenities people are looking for in a vacation destination and thoughfully-planned community—swimmable “beach,” pools, tennis courts, kayaks, fire pits, playgrounds, and more. It’s a place to put high on your road trip list if you’ve got a car full of kids who are already claiming to be bored this summer.

14. Hill Top Retreat In Bastrop (3 hours and 19 minutes from Dallas)

Austin gets a lot of credit for being amazing, and for good reason, it totally is. But sometimes it is nice to step back away from the beaten path. So, for those that love Austin—and might even want to venture into town for a little shopping and sipping—but want a little something different (say, an affordable water view), consider this rental in Bastrop with hilltop views and a large game room. You are close to Bastrop River Company , Dinosaur Park , and 602 Brewing Company (for parents who survive the aforementioned Dinosaur Park).

15. The Willows Casa Grande In Fredericksburg (4 hours and 17 minutes from Dallas)

Head to Texas wine country for farm-to-table food and vineyards and this special rental, which was featured in both the New York Times and Parade. It’s an ideal place to return after a day of wine tasting. And make sure to bring some bottles back with you to enjoy on the front porch as you’re surrounded by nature. But might we suggest you head out at least one more time for a fancy dinner at Vaudeville ? (Just look at that caviar presentation on the dinner menu.)

16. Gage Hotel In Marathon (7 hours and 5 minutes from Dallas)

Surrounded by Big Bend Country, this hotel is one of those surreal places that feels like it is in its own little world. Set up an adventure through Big Bend National Park and then rest and recharge at the Gage Spa with an aromatherapeutic massage. Don’t leave without sipping your cocktail of choice at the iconic White Buffalo Bar. We suggest the Brush Fire which consists of Tito’s, Texas Paula Orange, lime juice, fresh jalapenos and is served up with a spicy salted rim.

17. Walden Retreats In Johnson City (4 hours, 3 minutes from Dallas)

A luxury safari tent overlooking the Pedernales River, this 96-acre property is the definition of privacy. Whether you are climbing Enchanted Rock, fishing for bass and carp, or headed to Garrison Brothers Bourbon, it is nice to “retreat” to a place that feels so uniquely residential and ranch-like.

18. Hotel Lulu In Round Top (3 hours and 43 minutes from Dallas)

Round Top? OMG like Round Top , Round Top? Yes! That Round Top. And while you better hold your breath and pray if you plan to book these highly coveted quarters during antique-show weeks, it is still a darling place to get away during the other weekends of the year. The property recommends Mandito’s margaritas and Tex-Mex on the patio after exploring both Henkel and Rolland Square. And who are we to argue with that?

19. St. Francisville Inn In Saint Francisville, Louisiana (6 hours and 8 minutes from Dallas)

Want to step back into yesteryear? W e mean, really step back? Head to this town of less than 2,000 that will hit you with the nostalgia bug as quickly as the Louisiana Heat. The Inn, owned by Jim Johnston and Brandon Branch, represents a simpler time. Looking for antiques? Shop the darling Sage Hill Gifts. Consider yourself a green thumb? You’ll adore Afton Villa Gardens and its 25 acres of manicured beauty.

20. Thompson San Antonio–riverwalk (4 hours and 19 minutes from Dallas)

It’s another big city but with its own unique twist thanks to its Spanish history and thriving downtown that has a literal river running through it. What we love most about this new-ish property is the fact that while it is technically on the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, it is tucked in a peaceful part of the city center. We suggest spending the morning at the spa followed by lunch and lounging at the pool. After getting cleaned up in what just might be the biggest bathtubs in town, it's time for cocktails at The Moon’s Daughter which is serving up the best sunset sips in town. Craving a little culture? Head next door to the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts followed by dinner at Brasserie Mon Chou Chou at the Historic Pearl.

The 13 Most Beautiful Wedding Venues in Dallas

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The Ultimate Bucket List For Your Summer in Dallas

• April 26, 2023

Summer is here! ☀️

Suns out, buns out! Are you ready to explore all the best things to do this summer in  Dallas ? We’ve created the ultimate bucket list for your summer in Dallas. Whether you’re looking for the best ice cream spots, lakes, rooftop pools, concerts, and more, there is no shortage of fun summer adventures in Dallas.

Ice Ice Baby – Enjoy Some Ice Cream

Is there anything better to get during the summer in Dallas than ice cream? From soft-serve ice cream, ice cream flights, ice cream stuffed donuts, ice cream sandwiches, or just your regular scoop of ice cream. We’ve done our research on the best Dallas ice cream shops to help you take your pick.

Head to the Lake

Lake days are our favorite kinds of days, especially during the summer in Dallas, and luckily, there are plenty of lakes around the city. Pack up your family or friends and spend your summer weekends out on the lake boating, swimming, fishing, and so much more.

Summer Date Ideas

There are so many fun things to do during the summer in Dallas. If you are trying to plan a fun summer date for you and your partner or a first date, we’re here to help you. From watching the sunset, hitting up the food trucks, ziplining, and so much more, you’re sure to have a good time on these dates.

Let’s Have Some Fun at A Water Park

Beat the heat this summer in Dallas and head to one of the many water parks in and around the city. From relaxing lazy rivers to thrilling long winding waterslides, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Head to a Concert

Get ready for an awesome concert lineup this summer in Dallas! You don’t want to miss these upcoming concerts. We’re here to help you snag the latest tickets, stay in the loop with event details, and make some awesome memories with your crew!

Top Texas Road Trips From Dallas

Want to take a road trip to enjoy this long weekend? We’ve created a list of the top Texas road trips from Dallas for you! Whether you’re looking for some great food, fun activities, an outdoor adventure, or just some time to relax, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Let’s pack our bags and hit the road!

Spend The Day at a Rooftop Pool

Summer is here which means we’re all looking for a place to cool off and relax. What better way to do so than at the best rooftop pools in downtown Dallas. Enjoy a stunning view while taking a dip in the pool and sipping a refreshing cocktail this summer in Dallas. Most hotel pools offer day passes.

Spice Up Your IG Feed

Get your phones ready! We’ve found the most Instagrammable restaurants in Dallas for you! From beautiful decor to aesthetically pleasing food and drinks, here are some great spots to spice up your Instagram feed with some awesome photo ops this summer in Dallas.

Enjoy a Frozen Margarita

Cheers! If you’re loving margaritas as much as we do, you’ve come to the right place! There is nothing better than eating some delicious tacos while sipping a tasty margarita. Frozen margaritas are the perfect way to cool off during the summer in Dallas.

Free Things to Do in Downtown Dallas

Are you on a budget this summer? Don’t worry, there is still plenty of fun stuff you can do this summer in Dallas for free. We’ve made a list of the best free things to do in downtown Dallas. Whether you want to see some sights, relax, or learn more about the city’s history, there is no need to spend any money to have a good time.

Visit a Museum

Are you trying to find a way to cool off during the summer in Dallas? Visiting one of the many museums is a great way to go. Explore some of Dallas’ finest museums filled with art, history, science, and culture for all ages.

Enjoy a Staycation

We’re not just on a regular vacation, we’re on a STAYcation! Staycations are a great way to relax and have fun without the travel coast and added stress. From delicious food and drinks to beautiful views of the city, and amazing pools. We’ve found the best hotels in Dallas for your next staycation.

Best Happy Hours in Dallas

It’s five o’clock somewhere! Thankfully, Dallas has no shortage of great happy hour deals. Why enjoy your favorite drink for the full price when you can get it way cheaper during happy hour. We’ve compiled a list of the top happy hours in Dallas that you and your friends don’t want to miss out on this summer.

Hot Girl Summer Walk

Get ready to put those headphones on, turn up your music, and treat the world like it’s your runway. We’ve found some of the best places to take a hot girl summer walk in Dallas, and even though the temperatures might be rising, these places will ensure that your hot girl walk doesn’t burn you out.

Wait! There's more! ?

If you’re looking for more events, things to do and activities in Dallas, check out the  app  or  website .  There is something there for everyone!  If you want to follow the  Stuff to Do in Dallas  team adventures be sure to follow us on  Instagram , and  Facebook , and  TikTok !

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Modern Mom Life

Where food and family fun collide.

The Ultimate Dallas Summer Bucket List for Families

This post may contain affiliate links.  Read my full disclosure.

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There are so many fun things to do for kids and families in the Dallas, Texas area. Check out our Dallas Summer Bucket List that will keep your summer schedule packed with fun and sometimes free activities. Keep reading to find out how you can save even more money entertaining your family.

North Texas fun can be found indoors and outdoors. Not to mention there’s plenty of fun things for teens to do.

How to save money on North Texas attractions

How to use this dallas summer bucket list.

First, download a blank Summer Bucket List and use this weekly blank schedule to plan out your Summer season.

Depending on your kids’ ages and interest pick which activities you want to plan.

Pick a budget for your field trips and outings while sprinkling in a few free activities throughout your Summer.

Many of the family attractions listed below are included with the Pogo Pass Dallas . Save up to 60% off using code MODERNMOMLIFE . Visit a few places to make up for the cost of the pass. It’s well worth the price of $39.98 per person to get access to some of the best family entertainment DFW has to offer.

Fun Things to do in Dallas in the Summer

These activities are listed in no particular order, updated 5/17/2021.  Please check with his business before heading out on your trip. Hours of operation and response to COVID-19 subject to change without notice.

Dallas Indoor Activities for families

• Legoland Discovery Center
• Sealife Aquarium
• Peppa Pig World of Play
• Geppetto’s Marionette Theatre 
• Camp Cinemark Allen – Kid-friendly movie theatre
• Great Wolf Lodge
• Playstreet Museum
• AMC Dine-In Grapevine Mills
• Hat Creek Burger Company (Playground outdoors)
• Urban Air Trampoline Park
• Crayola Experience Plano
• Prosper Playhouse
• Moviehouse and Eatery
• Cheeky Monkeys
• Dallas World Aquarium
• Casa Manana Theatre
• American Girl® Store Experience
• Main Event Entertainment
• Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!   (featuring the  Louis Tussauds Palace of Wax)
• Frisco Public Library’s Ready to Read Railroad
• Dallas Galleria Ice Skating
• Alley Cats Bowling
• Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
• Dallas Children’s Theatre
• Build a Bear Workshop
• The Little Gym
• Scheel’s – Ride the Ferris Wheel, play arcade games, and more!
• Itz Usa – Euless
• Sky Zone – Irving
• Shenaiganz – Rockwall and Greenville bowling
• Altitude Trampoline Park

DFW Museums

• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
• National Videogame Museum
• Fort Worth Museum of Science and History – reopening June 25, 2021
• The Heard Museum
• Sci-Tech Discovery Center
• International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame
• Dallas Heritage Village

Dallas/Fort Worth Water Parks

• Hawaiian Falls
• The Cove at the Lakefront
• Gaylord Texan Summerfest
• The Little Elm Beach
• Hurricane Harbor
• The Texas Pool
• Pirates Cove Fun Zone
• Jadewaters at Hilton Anatole
• Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
• NRH2O Family Water Park

Dallas Outdoor Activities for Families

• Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie
• North Texas Jellystone Park
• Frisco Roughriders
• The Star in Frisco Entertainment District
• Six Flags over Texas
• Sundance Square
• The Heard Museum – hiking trails, park, and exhibits outdoor
• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
• Texas Rangers
• Log Cabin Village
• Texas Discovery Gardens
• Coyote Drive-In
• Klyde Warren Park

North Texas Zoos

• Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch
• Fort Worth Zoo
• Frank Buck Zoo
• Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Things to do in Dallas with Teenagers

• iFly Indoor Skydiving
• Electric Gamebox
• Andretti Indoor Karting and Games
• Escape Game Dallas
• Speedzone Dallas
• iPic Theaters
• Summit Rock Climbing
• Whirly Ball Plano
• DFW Adventure Park

More Summer fun

• Slow Summer Bingo – Play bingo while you mark off summer activities you have done.
• 9 Summer Snack Recipes  – portable and on-the-go treats for kids!
• Best Outdoor Toys  – Get ready for some backyard fun!
• Busy Boxes for Kids  – Daily ideas for independent play.

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Dallas   Travel Guide

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

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

• All Things To Do

Klyde Warren Park Klyde Warren Park free

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

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

Dallas Museum of Art Dallas Museum of Art free

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Tours

JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House

(1465 reviews)

from $ 76.92

John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas

(271 reviews)

from $ 22.00

1-Hour JFK Assassination Walking Tour

(138 reviews)

from $ 27.99

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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9 Best Small Towns Near Dallas | Quaint Texas Getaways

• Destinations
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

As one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States, there is no denying that Dallas–Fort Worth is a bustling community. When you need a break from all of the hustle and bustle of the city, it is nice to know that there are numerous quaint small towns to visit near Dallas. These small towns are big on charm, and they have just the right mix of tranquility and modern conveniences to give you the perfect break from the city.

I have lived in the Dallas–Fort Worth area my entire life, so I fully understand the need to escape every once in a while. When I don’t have time for a full-blown vacation, I take the day (or weekend) to explore the small towns in the area instead.

A typical Texas small town offers a charming blend of Southern hospitality and Western flair. With wide streets and quaint storefronts, locals often gather in the town square or at family-owned diners or BBQ joints. Football games are community events, and the pace of life is relaxed, emphasizing close-knit relationships and a strong sense of community.

Years of touring the small towns near Dallas have allowed me to compile this list that I am happy to share with you today.

All of the suggestions in this article are within a 3-hour drive of Dallas, making them quick and easy to explore. So pack your bags, and let’s set out exploring some of the most charming towns in and around the Dallas–Fort Worth area. 

9 Best Small Towns Near Dallas – Meet Rural Texas Getaways

1. canton, texas, 1 hour from dallas.

Head about an hour east of Dallas into East Texas to find the charming small town of Canton, Texas. 

Home to Canton Trade Days, one of the largest flea markets in the United States, Canton draws thousands of visitors to its doorstep each month. To visit the Canton Trade Days, plan your visit on the weekend before the first Monday of the month. 

In addition to Trade Days, Canton has several other unique activities to keep visitors busy during their time in the city.

One of the unique things to do in Canton is to stay in a covered wagon at Silver Spur Resort . History lovers will want to check out the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial and the Blackwell House Museum. For those of you wanting to shop, there are several fun shops and restaurants located in Downtown Canton.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Canton, Texas

2. Waxahachie, Texas

30 minutes from dallas.

Waxahachie , Texas, is an impressive small town filled with Victorian homes and loads of fun boutique shops. 

Founded in 1850, Waxahachie was instantly a wealthy town thanks to its involvement in the cotton industry. This wealth is evident still today as you make your way down the tree-lined streets filled with prominent Victorian-style homes, many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The history doesn’t stop at the homes, though. Make your way to the downtown area to see the historic buildings that have been transformed into boutique shops and restaurants. 

Known as the “Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas,” a visit to Waxahachie during the summer months allows you to see the city abloom with the flower. Not only that, but they even host a Crape Myrtle Festival every summer in July. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Waxahachie, Texas

3. Ennis, Texas

When the Houston and Texas Central Railway came to the Dallas area in 1872, the small town of Ennis, Texas, was born. 

The biggest draw for Ennis is the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails and Festival . Every spring, the town of Ennis welcomes thousands of visitors to see the fields of beautiful bluebonnets across the town . After shopping at the festival, visitors can drive over 40 miles of mapped bluebonnet trails to take in the most photographed flower in Texas. 

11 Peaceful Bed & Breakfasts In Texas To Book Now

If you find yourself visiting Ennis at other times of the year, be sure to see the artifacts at the Ennis Railroad & Cultural Heritage Museum or enjoy a performance at the Ennis Public Theatre. For a nostalgic night out, you can also visit Ennis  Galaxy Drive-In ! Visitors also enjoy the recreational activities offered at Bardwell Lake or the car races at the Texas Motorplex. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Ennis, Texas

4. Granbury, Texas

1 hour and 30 minutes from dallas.

Just over an hour southwest of Dallas is the fun lakeside town of Granbury, Texas . Voted “Best Historic Small Town in America” by USA Today readers in 2021, Granbury is loaded with Southern charm. 

The Historic Granbury Square attracts visitors year round thanks to the 40+ boutique stores housed in the historic buildings surrounding the square. This small area is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, clothing, artwork, and home furnishings. When you have finished shopping, you can enjoy taking a break at the restaurants, wineries, and breweries that also call the square home. 

The main attraction in Granbury is the lake. Lake Granbury encompasses 103 miles of shoreline and is perfect for fishing, riding jet skis, or skiing. Visitors and locals love visiting Granbury’s City Beach Park, which is located within walking distance of the town square. City Beach Park offers a protected swimming area along with a sandy beach so everyone can enjoy a day on the lake. The park is open year round and provides amenities such as restrooms and picnic tables. 

Pro Tip: Granbury is full of fun wineries, breweries, and distilleries. If you enjoy visiting these, be sure to add them to your Granbury itinerary.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Granbury, Texas

5. Jefferson, Texas

2 hours and 30 minutes from dallas.

You will find the town of Jefferson, Texas about 2.5 hours east of Dallas. People love to visit Jefferson because of its historic homes, museums, vintage railroad, and the Big Cypress Bayou. 

After checking in at one of Jefferson’s many bed and breakfast accommodations, consider taking a ride on the Jefferson Historic Railway to explore the area on a vintage gas-powered train. This ride is especially fun during the holiday season when they offer the Christmas Express, a ride that includes Christmas decorations along the track as you listen to the Story of Christmas.

In addition to the antique shopping and small town Texas charm , people also come to Jefferson to experience the Big Cypress Bayou. The Big Cypress Bayou is a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake . This region is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river system in Texas. 

Pro Tip: The Big Cypress Bayou and Caddo Lake areas are beautifully photogenic, so plan a guided tour of the river to ensure you get out on the water during your visit to Jefferson.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Jefferson, Texas

6. Glen Rose, Texas

The small Texas town of Glen Rose is famous for its unique history that includes a fun state park, Dinosaur Valley State Park , that draws visitors from all over the United States. 

You would be doing yourself a disservice if you only visited the state park, though. Glen Rose also offers a great drive-thru wildlife safari, charming boutique hotels, and a historic town square area for visitors to explore. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park helped to give Glen Rose its claim to fame as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas.” While it is well known that dinosaurs once roamed this area millions of years ago, it is the evidence that they left behind that makes this park so special. When you visit Dinosaur Valley, you can see this evidence for yourself. Dinosaur tracks are permanently cemented in the mud of the Paluxy River inside of the state park. Not only can you see them, but you can also get into the river and stand in them! It’s definitely a experience you need to see ! Once you’ve had your fill of the tracks, you can further explore the park by swimming in the river, camping, geocaching, or riding horses on their miles of equestrian trails.

Another huge attraction in Glen Rose is the drive-thru wildlife center, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center . Fossil Rim rescues, rehabilitates, and houses numerous animal species, including several endangered species. Visitors have the option of doing a self-guided tour in their personal vehicle or taking a guided tour on one of the safari’s vehicles. During the tour, you will encounter numerous animals from all over the world and even have the opportunity to feed them if you would like.

Pro Tip: Be sure and visit Big Rocks Park in Glen Rose, a beautiful little park located on the banks of the river. 

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7. Salado, Texas

2 hours from dallas.

The charming town of Salado, Texas, is situated about 2 hours south of Dallas. Located on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is the perfect escape for art and antique lovers. 

The 1.5-mile stretch of Salado’s Main Street is the perfect place to kick off your trip to the city. Here you will find numerous boutique shops selling everything from custom artwork to clothing. I personally love visiting Salado’s art galleries, as the majority of the works here are from local artists. 

A few blocks from Main Street, you will find the Salado Sculpture Garden. A dirt path leads you through the garden, which houses sculptures and art installations from numerous artists. Be sure to be on the lookout for the giant sock monkey and the cute rust-colored moose. During your time in Salado, you might also want to see a performance at the Tablerock Amphitheatre before spending a night in the historic Shady Village Hotel and having a nice meal at the Stagecoach Hotel, both of which have been a Salado staple for over 150 years! 

Pro Tip: Salado is an extremely small town, but it is well worth spending a couple of nights in. You can enjoy the peace and quiet, do some shopping, and visit the local wineries for a nice, relaxing weekend. 

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8. Pilot Point, Texas

This quaint little ranch town with its charming historic district is a perfectly situated gateway town. The area is best known for its gentle, rolling hills, nearby state parks, and serene Lake Ray Roberts recreation activities.

Take a walking tour of the Historic Town Square and learn the stories behind the old buildings. But not before you stop for a fried pie and a cup of coffee at the Pilot Point Coffee House .

Pilot Point is also about a one-hour drive from Dallas, and easily reachable by heading north on the Dallas North Tollway.

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9. Little Elm, Texas

35 minutes from dallas.

Located on the shores of Lake Lewisville, Little Elm is only 35 miles from Dallas. Its most popular attraction is the Lakefront , a sandy beach that will make you forget Little Elm is in North Texas. 

Grab a cocktail from Margarita To-Go or dine in at Hula Hut on your way home. Embark on hiking and biking trails at Johnny Broyles Nature Trail, or have a picnic at Cottonwood Park.  If you plan to visit Little Elm for your next family vacation, couples getaway, solo trip, or any other visit, Elm by Wyndham Boutique Hotel is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with easy access to all attractions in Little Elm.

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Why Visit Dallas Rural Towns?

Rural towns in Dallas, Texas offer a unique small-town experience while staying close to the DFW Metroplex Area. Rural towns near Dallas boast authentic country lifestyles, gorgeous scenery, historical landmarks, and attractions like Dinosaur Valley State Park and Texas Motor Speedway.

What to Expect from Small-Town Culture Near Dallas, Texas?

Small rural towns in Texas are known for cowboys, cacti, and a wide range of cultural experiences like live music venues and dance halls, country boutiques and modern art installations, barbecue, wineries, and Tex-Mex. 

Is There More to Dallas’ Topography Than Just Land?

Yes, there are more than a dozen lakes and reservoirs in North Texas. The most popular are Lake Ray Roberts and Lake Lewisville. There are also numerous streams, creeks, and lakes across the North Texas landscape.

Is It Better to Stay In Downtown Dallas or Fort Worth?

First-time visitors should stay in historic Downtown Dallas for a more central location within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Dallas North Tollway, George Bush Tollway, and other routes offer a perfect getaway to charming rural towns nearby.

What Rural Towns Are Farther Away From Dallas?

Being a 2-hour drive from Downtown Dallas, Jefferson, and Salado are some of the farther drives away from Dallas. Other similarly remote quaint rural towns are Lake Texoma, Fort Worth, and Canton, all about an hour away from Dallas.

This love of travel has allowed her to visit numerous countries and to fall in love with Italy. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

35 of the Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas in 2024

January 7, 2024.

After four years living in Dallas, I’ve learned that there is so much to discover within a three hour’s drive. Welcoming tiny towns, beautiful parks, historic sights and more are waiting for you if you are willing to venture out of your neighborhood bubble.

I hope this list reminds you that opportunities to explore are everywhere and you might not have to travel far away to find your next adventure.

These day trips from Dallas are listed in order from closest to furthest when navigating from the city of Dallas.

2024 Update: Many of these day trips from Dallas are in the path of the total eclipse occurring on April 8th, 2024! Be sure to make your reservation 30 days in advance if you plan on watching it from a Texas state park.

Table of Contents

Weatherford, canton first mondays, go skydiving, dinosaur valley & glen rose, turner falls, daingerfield state park, jefferson + caddo lake, oklahoma city, colorado bend state park, wichita mountains wildlife refuge, dripping springs, final thoughts, day trips under one hour from dallas.

Fort Worth is an obvious but often overlooked destination near Dallas. The most iconic stop is the Stockyards: a historic district where you can watch the rodeo, drink in a saloon and experience a daily cattle drive.

Other great places to visit in Fort Worth include the Kimbell Art Museum , the Japanese Gardens and the Fort Worth Water Gardens . The Water Gardens are free and especially unique, as they are a large urban fountain that you can actually climb down into and explore (and stay mostly dry!).

After exploring the city, head to Joe T. Garcia’s for an iconic Tex-Mex dinner served on a gorgeous patio.

Grapevine is a charming small town centrally located between Dallas and Fort Worth. Main Street in Grapevine has so many shops, wineries and restaurants that you could spend hours stepping in and out of unique places. Some stops to make include the Messina Hof Winery , Main Street Bistro for brunch and the Grapevine Olive Oil Company to sample a wide selection of olive oils and balsamics.

You can also ride the Grapevine vintage railroad to Fort Worth or visit the House of Shine interactive museum to unearth your strengths, needs and more. Grapevine has also been nicknamed the “Christmas Capital of Texas” and is a great place to visit around the holidays.

Frisco is another suburb north of Dallas and is a great area for sports fans. It is home to the training facility of the Dallas Cowboys, the Frisco Roughriders minor league baseball team and the FC Dallas soccer team.

If you’re a Cowboys fan, walk around the Ford Center Frisco Star , which is full of restaurants, official Cowboys merchandise and outdoor tv’s. If you time your day trip correctly, you can also catch a Frisco Roughriders game. The minor league games are a lot of fun and there is even a lazy river in the stadium!

If you are interested in rail transportation, spend your day in Frisco visiting the Museum of the American Railroad to see an impressive collection of rolling stock.

For a post-exploring treat, grab one of the best doughnuts in DFW at Detour Doughnuts , enjoy soft serve inside of a taiyaki cone (a Korean dessert) at Somisomi or enjoy a giant gourmet cookie from Cookie Society .

Plano is a large suburb located just north of Dallas that offers some of the best outdoor activities in DFW. I recommend hiking in Arbor Hills or climbing the rope course at Go Ape .

Go Ape’s aerial obstacle course is a very adventurous outdoor activity that includes testing your balance, ziplining from the treetops and more, all with the safety of a fall harness. After enjoying the outdoors, head to quaint downtown Plano or bustling Legacy West for dinner, shopping and drinks.

Ennis is one of the best places near DFW to spot the famous Texas bluebonnets (the state flower of Texas)! Typically, the bluebonnets bloom throughout the month of April, and Ennis holds a bluebonnet festival during the third weekend of the month. During your visit, you can drive the bluebonnet trails, have a drink at Sugar Ridge Winery and pose for photos among fields of bluebonnets at the Meadow View Nature Park.

Denton is a college town with so much to explore. The city is located right next to the University of North Texas campus and has a charming and historic downtown square. During your trip, be sure to explore the downtown area surrounding the courthouse and stop into the various shops and restaurants.

LSA Burger is a great place for lunch, it’s an iconic spot on the square serving a variety of burgers with a strong Texas attitude. I also love shopping at Recycled Books Records and CDs for a huge selection of secondhand books, vinyl, movies and more. If you enjoy beer, be sure to stop at Armadillo Ale Works for a local brew in a large industrial space.

McKinney is yet another historic and beautiful small town located north of Dallas. Get a taste of the town by exploring the historic downtown area of McKinney and entering all of the wonderful shops.

Don’t miss Fair and Square Imports for home goods from all around the world and McKinney Hat Company for an authentic custom hat.

After shopping, visit Layered for brunch, Franconia Brewing Company for a beer or Hutchins for authentic Texas BBQ.

Weatherford, Texas is a beautiful small town near Fort Worth. For hiking or rock climbing nearby, be sure to visit Lake Mineral Wells State Park , which has awesome rock formations surrounding a lake.

After a morning of hiking, visit The Full Cup for coffee and the beautiful Chandor Gardens to immerse yourself in tranquil gardens full of fountains and waterfalls. Weatherford also has a great downtown area to explore, complete with murals, shops and more.

Cleburne State Park is one of my favorite day hiking trips from Dallas. The park has great hiking trails that offer a bit of challenge in terms of elevation change. The park also has a lake, an historic CCC limestone spillway and Texas bluebonnets in the spring.

If you still want to explore after hiking, visit the small town of Cleburne. Here you’ll find a Gone with the Wind Museum , a Railroad Museum and a museum all about the Chisholm Trail . When you get hungry, visit Burger Bar , La Cima or the Garden of Eating Bistro for a great meal.

Canton is a great small town in the Texas Piney Woods if you love deal hunting! Be sure to schedule your day trip to Canton on the correct weekend of the month to shop at Canton First Mondays. This is the world’s largest flea market and typically occurs on the first weekend of the month.

Canton First Mondays is the place to find handcrafted goods, clothing, antiques and so much more. There are food vendors, farm animals and other activities, so you can easily make a day out of this event. Admission is free. Downtown Canton also has additional shops and restaurants nearby.

Day Trips Under 2 Hours from Dallas

Just over an hour from Dallas, you can have an exhilarating skydiving adventure at Skydiving Dallas 35 . They offer regular and high altitude tandem jumps and it’s a great place to go for first time skydivers.

Athens, Texas is a small town east of Dallas offering a couple fun outdoor adventures. Visit the East Texas Arboretum for a beautiful garden display and go hiking at Purtis Creek State Park a few minutes outside of town. For a more exhilarating adventure, visit the New York, Texas ZipLine Adventures and fly from treetop to treetop while enjoying amazing views.

Denison is located next the border of Oklahoma, a little over an hour from Dallas. The town has a lot to offer, from Dwight Eisenhower’s birthplace to a beautiful downtown Main Street.

For outdoor adventures, visit Eisenhower State Park and Waterloo Lake Regional Park . Eisenhower State Park has picturesque rocky cliffs right along Lake Texoma and includes a beach, hiking trails and OHV trails.

Waterloo is a great place to hike, rent kayaks and search for caves. One of the best places to eat in Denison is Incubator Rail Yard , a food hall with a variety of different restaurants and a bar.

Waco is a college town known as the heart of Texas. One of the most popular things to do in Waco is to visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos, which you may recognize from the tv show Fixer Upper. At the silos, you can shop for home goods, enjoy a cupcake at Silos Baking Co and more.

Other fun things you should do in Waco include learning about the history of Dr Pepper at the Dr Pepper Museum , seeing mammoth bones at the Waco Mammoth National Monument and going hiking in Cameron Park . For a great American dinner, check out Brazos Bar & Bistro , Union Hall or Jake’s Texas Tea House .

The city of Tyler is the largest city in Northeast Texas and has a lot to offer. Many are drawn to the town for the annual rose festival in the fall or the Azalea trail in the spring. Year round, visit the 14-acre Tyler Rose Garden to see over 500 types of roses and other plants.

Other things to do include exploring historic downtown Tyler, enjoying a cup of coffee at The Foundry , learning about trains at the Cotton Belt Depot Museum or learning about planes at the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum. After some exploring, enjoy a drink at a large patio at True Vine Brewing Company .

Right outside of town, you can also hike in Tyler State Park . The park features a pine-hardwood forest that surrounds a man-made lake. You can swim, kayak, hike, mountain bike or just enjoy the outdoors in this Texas State Park .

Granbury is a small town on the outskirts of DFW that is home to a city beach along the Brazos River, a historic downtown, breweries and more. Spend an afternoon swimming in Lake Granbury or hiking at the Acton Nature Center.

For a drink, visit Revolver Brewing for a beer and live music, or Barons Creek Wine Room for high quality Texas wine. If you like German food, also check out Ketzler Schnitzel Haus and Biergarten for traditional German fare.

Dinosaur Valley is one of my favorite hiking day trips from Dallas! However, the park offers more than great hiking trails: it even has real preserved dinosaur tracks right along the riverbank!

While visiting the park, you can enjoy the hiking trails, swim in the Paluxy River and of course, see the dinosaur tracks! I recommend the Overlook trail for an amazing view of the river and valley below. After hiking, you can also explore the small but charming town of Glen Rose.

Another adventure nearby is Fossil Rim , a non-profit wildlife center that is dedicated to wildlife conservation and the protection of endangered animals. There are over 50-species of animals including giraffes, cheetahs and emu. To visit, you can either drive your own car through the wildlife area or take a guided safari tour. Dinosaur Valley also makes a great day trip from Dallas for families.

Hico ’s motto is “Where Everybody is Somebody” and you’ll feel right at home in the small town atmosphere. Start your day at 2nd Street Bakeshop or the Koffee Kup and then go shopping in some of the historic buildings. Blue Star Trading offers clothing, home decor and more in a restored building from the 1890s, and Hico Mercantile has a collection of vendors inside an 1895 Opera House. For drinks in town, enjoy a whiskey tasting paired with cheese at the Pecan Street Drink Shoppe or a glass of wine at Silver Spur .

Turner Falls is the highest waterfall in Oklahoma and just a couple hours north of Dallas. In the summertime, it’s a wonderful place to swim and relax next to the river. The park also has miles of hiking trails, caves and a quirky Rock Castle. Note that the admission to Turner Falls varies by season and is typically $16 per person in the peak summer months.

Paris, Texas is a small town east of Dallas known for historic buildings, great food and most iconically, a miniature replica of the eiffel tower wearing a cowboy hat.

During your day trip, visit the town square and see the beautiful Culbertson Fountain, find Jesus wearing cowboy boots in the Evergreen Cemetery and learn about the local history in the town’s historic sights. When you get hungry, enjoy a pastry from Paris Bakery or street corn followed by gelato at Street Eats Paris .

Clifton is a small town with a population under 4,000 that has been nicknamed “The Norwegian Capital of Texas.” Learn the history of the area at the Bosque Museum , catch a show at the historic Cliftex Theatre and explore the historic downtown full of antique shops, galleries and restaurants. If you appreciate wine, stop in at the Red Caboose Winery for a tasting and a cheese platter.

Day Trips Under 3 Hours from Dallas

Dublin, Texas is nicknamed the “Irish Capital of Texas” and there is evidence all around town with four leaf clovers, Irish shops and more. One of the best things to do in Dublin is to visit the Dublin Bottling Works . In this historic soda bottling facility, you can tour the bottling line, have a soda at Old Doc’s Soda Shop and see Dr. Pepper memorabilia at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Another great place to visit is Veldhuizen Farm , where you can take a cheese making tour of a family run farm. During the tour, you will learn all about cheese making and finish with a cheese tasting paired with wine. Finally, visit Lucky Vines Winery and enjoy wine in a light and airy space.

Salado makes for a great day trips from Dallas for couples! Salado is a small town north of Austin full of art, wineries and riverside views. Spend your day watching a glass demonstration at Salado Glassworks , swimming in the Salado Creek or exploring the Salado Sculpture Garden.

For a unique and quick stop, don’t miss the historic Salado College Ruins in town either. For drinks and food, visit Salado Winery , The Shed or Barrow Brewing Company .

Daingerfield is a small but very charming North Texas state park. Visit year round to enjoy the hiking trails, which total 3.6 miles and include lake views and forest scenery.

In the summertime, you can swim and paddle in the lake, while in the fall, the park has nice fall foliage. It’s a beautiful park that is perfect for relaxing in nature and packing a picnic lunch.

Georgetown is a town on the edge of Texas Hill Country known for its red poppies in the spring, beautiful town square and variety of outdoor activities. Hike to the gorgeous Crochet Garden Falls in Cedar Breaks Park, go swimming at the Blue Hole and explore underground at the Inner Space Caverns .

When you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the retro-feeling Monument Cafe or enjoy a farm-to-table experience at 2020 Market Scratch Kitchen & Bar .

Brownwood is a small town in central Texas with a lot to offer. Go hiking and enjoy the views in Lake Brownwood State Park , where you can see historic buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, see wildlife and enjoy nature.

After exploring the park, head into Brownwood where you can eat in a train car at the Runaway Train Cafe, walk through an arch of books at Intermission Bookshop and enjoy the many murals that the town has to offer.

Caddo Lake is a mysteriously beautiful lake right on the border of Louisiana. To visit, either head to the town of Uncertain, Texas and take a guided boat tour of the lake, or visit Caddo Lake State Park and rent a kayak to explore Mill Pond, a portion of the lake full of lily pads.

Just a few minutes away from the lake is the historic town of Jefferson, which used to be a major port city in the mid-1800s. In Jefferson, you can go on a ghost tour, explore the antique stores, get a view of the Howe Truss Train Trestle Bridge and more. Be sure to check out the Jefferson General Store for gifts and Kitt’s Kornbread Sandwich and Pie Bar for comfort food.

Austin has way more to offer than can be seen in one day, but if you don’t want to spend the night, a day trip is still a good option!

If you have only one day, I recommend checking out some of the Austin must-do’s like shopping on South Congress Ave, swimming in Barton Springs and eating tacos or BBQ. One of my favorite tacos spots in Austin is Veracruz All Natural , which has a few different locations around the city.

Broken Bow is located in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma and is home to a large lake, cozy cabins and many outdoor activities. If you have one day, I recommend paddling down the rapids of the Mountain Fork River. The river has Class 2+ Rapids and ends with a three foot waterfall. It’s a very fun adventure that you can do on your own or in tandem with a partner. Many outfitters offer rentals but I had a good experience with Tippa Canoe.

After a few hours on the river, hike the 1.5 mile Friends Loop Trail in Beavers Bend State Park for beautiful views of the river and forest. Finally, end the day at one of the local restaurants like the Mountain Fork Brewery for pizza, burgers and beer.

Day Trips Under 4 Hours from Dallas

Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and is full of great activities, art and food. One must-see in Oklahoma is the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum . This museum commemorates the victims and heroes involved in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 and is an emotional and powerful place to visit.

If you love art, be sure to visit Factory Obscura while you’re in town, an impressive interactive art museum that is similar to the famous Meow Wolf in Santa Fe .

Finally, if you love architecture be sure to visit the Myriad Botanical Gardens , a greenhouse and park with a beautiful cylindrical glass greenhouse.

For food in Oklahoma City, visit Stitch Cafe for a delicious and fresh brunch spot and Cheever’s Cafe for a wonderful date night dinner. And if you have enough time, Bricktown is a great neighborhood for more restaurants, breweries and activities like mini golf.

Colorado Bend is a beautiful state park located at the northern edge of Texas Hill Country. The best things to do at Colorado Bend State Park include hiking to the famous Gorman Falls, a beautiful 70 foot waterfall accessible via a moderate 2.8 mile trail.

The park also has many more hiking trails including some that even lead to swimming holes. Other things to do in the park include renting kayaks and going on a cave tour. If you have time, Fiesta Winery is located not far outside of the park.

The Wichita Mountains are located in Oklahoma and are one of the closest mountain ranges to Dallas. If you enjoy hiking, I recommend the 1.4 mile Forty Foot Hole Trail and the 2.7 mile Narrows Trail , both of which have beautiful rock formations with rivers that have carved narrow canyon walls.

For views without much hiking, be sure to drive to the top of Mount Scott for 360 views of the entire area, visit the Lake Quanah Parker Dam and stop at the prairie dog town. After outdoor adventures, head to Medicine Park for a meal or to cool off in the Medicine Creek.

Dripping Springs is an adorable Texas Hill Country town nicknamed the ‘Gateway to Texas Hill Country.’ Some of the best things to do in Dripping Springs include taking a tour of olive vineyards at the Texas Hill Country Olive Co , hiking to a grotto at Hamilton Pool Preserve and visiting the lush greenery at West Cave.

Also nearby, Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous park to hike on a waterfall and see hill country views. For food in Drippings Springs, visit Rolling in Thyme and Dough for brunch, Crepe Crazy for lunch and Tillie’s for a high end dinner in a beautiful space.

Houston is another city that deserves more than a day, but you can still cover a lot if a day is all you have! Be sure to visit one or more of the iconic museums in Houston, such as the Space Center Houston and the Museum of Fine Arts . For something unique and quirky, check out the Art Car Museum , which is full of wildly decorated cars and the Beer Can House , which is made of over 50,000 recycled beer cans.

Houston is also a great foodie destination and has food options from all around the world. Options include enjoying dim sum at Ocean Palace , high tea at Proper Rose Garden and an upscale Indian meal at Kiran’s .

Wimberley, Texas is great for a summertime destination in Texas Hill Country. Make reservations at Jacob’s Well to jump into a submerged cave and Blue Hole Regional Park to swim under shady cypress trees.

If you visit during cooler weather, the short hike to Old Baldy is a great way to take in the Texas Hill Country views. For food and drinks in Wimberley, visit Shady Llama for a beautiful beer garden space, Community Pizza for great Italian food and Sugar Shack Bakery for a pastry and coffee.

As you can see, there is no shortage of day trips from Dallas and the surrounding area! For more inspiration for Texas travel, check out some of the articles below. Happy Exploring!

A Four Day Itinerary of Dallas, Texas

The Ultimate Texas Nature Bucket List

The Best Hiking Trails Near Dallas, Texas

40+ Things To Do in Texas Hill Country

Things To Do in the Texas Piney Woods

The Best Romantic Getaways from Dallas, Texas

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• Day Trips from Dallas
• Summer in Dallas
• Things to Do in Dallas
• Trips From Dallas

Discover 6 superb ways to spend a hot summer day in and around DFW.

Beaches, waterfalls, drive-thru safaris and more. These summer adventures near Dallas will surprise you!

Missing that vacation feeling but travelling is not in your plans? Receiving guests this summer? Looking for out of the box staycation ideas in Dallas? 

We got your back! 

Discover here 6 outstanding places to visit in DFW and surroundings that will transport you elsewhere and give you that summer vibe you have been craving for.

Unbelievable beaches you would expect to find only in the coast. Nature preserves with tall trees, shady trails and swimming areas that will blow your mind. Unique experiences to make everlasting memories. 

A fine selection of some of the best things to do in Dallas and surroundings this summer while keeping safe and fresh at the same time.

The best part? All attractions are outdoors (safety first), and in DFW or close enough for a short day trip, so you can spend the most amazing summer day ever and be back home by dinnertime to relax in the comfort of your home.

Peek below and plan your summer staycation!

For summer road travel ideas from Dallas, check our 2020 Summer Special .

Little Elm Beach

Little Elm, TX   0h40 from Downtown Dallas

Looking for a sandy beach really close to Dallas? The Beach at Little Elm Park is your best bet.

In the Dallas suburbs, in Denton County, Little Elm Beach is a great place to spend a summer day and swim on Lake Lewisville.

The area is family-friendly, well -maintained and top-rated by users. Some amenities there include kayak and sup rental, volleyball nets, covered pavilion, and restrooms.

Make sure to pack a picnic – there are no food vendors there. Or combine your visit to the Little Elm Beach with lunch at nearby Hula Hut , a waterfront restaurant with outdoor seat and fun decor.

Burger's Lake

Fort Worth, TX 0h30 from Downtown Dallas

This place is A LOT of fun! Located in Fort Worth, Burger’s Lake is sort of a rustic waterpark in a beautiful natural setting.

The spring fed lake has a beautiful color and is surrounded by small sandy beaches, lounge areas and shady picnic tables. Parents can relax in the water surrounded by the amazing scenery, while kids go wild sliding and jumping in one of the several diving boards, tall slides – including a 20-foot slide – and 25-foot trapeze.

It is an amazing summer staycation destination in DFW, and one to be definitively included in your summer adventures.

Tip: get there early to enjoy it safely, as it tends to get crowded later in the day.

Island View Park

Pottsboro, TX – 1h25 from Downtown Dallas

This is by far my favorite beach in the Dallas surroundings, a true northeast Texas hidden gem. It is the place to go if you are in serious need of a beach fix but paying a trip to the coast is not in your plans.

Island View Park , at the Lake Texoma shores, is home to two outstanding sandy beaches, with an unbelievable scenery and clear water.

One of them more rustic – and more beautiful in my opinion – without any amenities other than a few shady areas under the trees.

Other with covered picnic tables (requires reservation in advance), paddling rentals, restrooms, and a food truck, also beautiful but with a rockier bottom – make sure to bring water shoes.

Choose the one that suits better your style and get your beach fix near Dallas. You will be astounded by this place beauty!

Dinosaur Valley and Fossil Rim

Glen Rose, TX – 1h20 from Downtown Dallas

Other favorites on the list. Now when it comes to Texas State Parks and family-friendly attractions.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is one of my favorite State Parks in the Dallas surroundings ever. It is gorgeous. It offers tons of amazing swimming opportunities – a blue hole, sandy beaches along the Paluxy River shores, shallow river areas with running water for sort of an open-air spa lol.  It has a superb trail system. And it is home to real dinosaur footprints! 

It is the perfect place to beat the Texas heat and right next door to one of the best safari zoos in Texas, Fossil Rim.

Fossil Rim is another superb summer attraction near Dallas – you can drive through the animals and feed them from the comfort of your air-conditioned car.

Go early in the day to combine both Fossil Rim and Dinosaur Valley in a single trip and have the most perfect summer day ever. And heat-proof and social distancing friendly – beat that! 

Tyler State Park and Ham Orchards

Tyler, TX – 1h30 from Downtown Dallas

Tyler State Park is one of the closest places to Dallas to experience the beautiful Piney Woods Region of Texas.

Expect tall trees and tons of shade. If you are not a local, you will find it hard to believe we have this type of landscape in Texas, let alone so close to Dallas!

On your way there, take a detour and stop by Ham Orchards , in Terrel, to pack your picnic. It is a local fave, open only during summer, famous for its barbecue and homemade peach ice cream.

Head then to Tyler State Park to enjoy it surrounded by nature. Then burn those extra calories hiking the gorgeous and shady trail around the lake. Top off with a splash from the diving platform located in the designated swimming area. 

Get back home just in time to watch your favorite movie and recharge for your next summer adventure. Sounds like a fun summer day, doesn’t it?

Turner Falls and Arbuckle Wilderness

Davis, OK – 2h00 from Downtown Dallas

A gorgeous waterfall, a rustic zoo safari and the best fried pies in Oklahoma will give you the impression you have traveled some place far far away – and yet you’ll be only 2 hours away from Dallas.

Turner Falls Park is a popular travel destination in Oklahoma, and home to the tallest waterfall in the state. It offers swimming, hiking and even zip-lining.

It’s right next door to Arbuckle Wilderness , a zoo safari where you can drive your car through the animals and feed them – go early in the morning for the best experience.

Between the two places – which are really only a few minutes apart – you’ll find mouthwatering Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies . Make sure to stop by and try this local staple, it is goooooood.

Our last – but not least summer staycation idea to enjoy in Dallas and surroundings. Now pic your favorites, hit the road and have (tons of) fun!

In this post we have covered unique ideas on summer day trips from Dallas, ideal for a staycation.

Places far enough from the city for a change or air, and close enough that they do not require a sleep over.

Little Elm Beach, Burger’s Lake, Island View Park, Dinosaur Valley, Fossil Rim, Tyler State Park, Ham Orchards, Turner Falls and Arbuckle Wilderness are our ideas for a perfect summer adventure near Dallas.

I hope you have enjoyed this post (share with friends if you did!) and that you have a blast exploring the most amazing summer destinations in northeast Texas!

What is your favorite place near Dallas to spend an outstanding summer day? Leave a comment below!

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Home » North America » Dallas

27 BEST Places to Visit in Dallas (2024)

People often dismiss the idea of traveling in their own country. When they have a holiday, they’d rather go somewhere exotic. But if you choose to travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy all the same attractions without the long flight. Dallas has amazing scenery, a vibrant music and arts scene, seriously intense shopping, and the tastiest barbecue foods you’ll ever encounter.

Dallas may not be on your travel bucket list, which is why you may need a little help working out what you should see in this exciting city. There are lots of attractions and activities that will suit every taste, preference, and fitness level, so you may need some help deciding what to do. To help you with that, we’ve created this list of the best places to visit in Dallas that includes some attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dallas:

These are the best places to visit in dallas, faq on the best places to visit in dallas, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in dallas.

Located just east of downtown is the lively and vibrant neighbourhood of Deep Ellum. A hub for entertainment and live music, Deep Ellum is perfect for music lovers and anyone looking to rock out all night long.

• Browse the shops, stalls and vendors at the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market.
• Listen to live music every night of the week at the Free Man.
• See Deep Ellum’s Traveling Man statues, a trio of massive installations spread across the neighbourhood.

Deep Ellum isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Perhaps you want somewhere quieter or off the beaten track even. Be sure to check out where to stay in Dallas to find the BEST area for you! Now, onto the fun…

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#1 – The Sixth Floor Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dallas

• The best place to visit in Dallas if you’re curious about JFK.
• This museum is an impartial record of JFK’s death and documents every angle of the event.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s a lot of controversies out there about JFK and how he died, and this museum does its best to clear up that confusion. It documents it from every angle, including the historical context and cultural perspective, to try to give visitors a balanced and objective view.

What to do there: If you think that JFK’s death is part of a bigger conspiracy, then this museum might convince you differently. Take the time to explore the more than 40,000 artifacts, as well as the window that Lee Harvey Oswald shot from, and make up your own mind once you have all the facts. You can then head to the grassy knoll below and experience the scene for yourself.

#2 – Texas Horse Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Dallas

• If you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids, then you can’t go past horse riding while you’re in Texas.
• This park pays homage to the history of the city, which is why visiting is a Dallas must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a 302-acre park that is within the Great Trinity Forest and is part of Davy Crockett’s legacy. You can enjoy a variety of horse-based activities here including riding lessons, trail rides, and hippotherapy.

What to do there: Give in to your traditional side while you’re visiting Dallas and get close to nature at the same time. The trail rides are particularly good because you’ll be able to enjoy ancient trees, springs, and a Native American archaeological site alongside the Trinity River. And best of all, when you add this to your Dallas itinerary, you’ll be able to do it all with the sparkling lights of the city close by.

#3 – Klyde Warren Park – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Dallas

• A new park that’s become a favorite amongst tourists and locals alike.
• This part only opened in 2012 and it’s now one of the best places to visit in Dallas for a relaxing hit of nature.

Why it’s so awesome: This park cost the city 110 million dollars and was built over a railway line to connect the uptown and art districts. It’s become one of the city’s social centers and offers a range of free activities to suit every taste.

What to do there: While you’re wandering around Dallas , the traffic and the fumes of the city can get to you. When it does, you should make a detour to visit this park. Locals and tourists alike visit the park to breathe in a bit of nature, to enjoy some outdoor activities, and to just relax. So, check out what’s on while you’re in the city, from yoga to ice-skating, table tennis, or chess.

With a Dallas City Pass , you can experience the best of Dallas at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#4 – Highland Park Village – A great place to see in Dallas if you love architecture

• This was the first outdoor shopping center in America.
• The Spanish influenced architecture is as popular as the designer labels inside the building.

Why it’s so awesome: This shopping center is located inside a lovely, Spanish inspired building that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. And then when you go inside, you’ll be confronted with the latest labels and fashions, from Dior to Chanel and Alexander McQueen. So really, it’s the best of both worlds.

What to do there: If you love to shop, and have a flexible budget, then this is the place you need to visit. So, take an afternoon or a morning, warm up your credit card, and shop the labels with the rest of the city.

#5 – Fearing’s Restaurant

• This restaurant is owned by celebrity chef Dean Fearing.
• This is the place to visit if you’re looking for a sophisticated experience as well as great food.

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy an elegant décor and slow, sophisticated food, then this restaurant will suit your preferences. Located within the Ritz-Carlton hotel, this restaurant offers hearty food with a traditional twist and unusual flavor pairings that will leave your mouth tingling.

What to do there: This is the perfect restaurant for a relaxed, elegant night out. So, get dressed up and head in for an unforgettable meal. Try the chicken-fried Maine lobster and wood-grilled antelope steak if you’re looking for something tasty and unusual. And afterwards, head out to one of the nearby bars for a relaxed drink in sophisticated surroundings.

#6 – Southfork Ranch

• Home of TV’s dysfunctional Ewing clan.

Why it’s so awesome: Most people will recognize this white house at first sight from the TV, and if you’re a fan of the show then exploring it is a Dallas must-do. The house was home to some of the most iconic moments in TV history, including the shooting of J.R. and is one of the most popular points of interest in Dallas because of it.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the house and then explore the museum as well. The tour will take you through the most famous rooms in the house and you’ll be able to see costumes, clips, and props from the TV show.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Dallas Arboretum – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Dallas!

• A stunning botanical garden in the center of the city.
• The garden also holds amazing Cool Thursdays Concerts on the lawn.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden is stunning on its own, with lots of areas and exhibits that will interest every member of the family. The Thursday concerts are amazing as well and cover a range of genres, which includes 70s and 80s tribute music.

What to do there: If you’re in the city on a Thursday then make sure you turn up to see what music they have on. But the gardens are worth visiting during the day as well. Take the kids to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, wander the Texas Skywalk and walk under the Cascades, a stunning waterfall.

#8 – George W. Bush Presidential Library

• This is the best place to visit in Dallas if you want to learn more about 21st-century history.
• There’s an exhibit on the 9/11 attacks at this museum, so be careful if you’re particularly sensitive.

Why it’s so awesome: This probably isn’t the type of museum that kids will enjoy, but it’s still a fascinating place for adults who like learning more about the history of the places they visit. If this is one of your favorite pastimes when you travel, then this museum is a treasure trove.

What to do there: There are a few exhibits in this museum that get top ratings from visitors. You can see an exact replica of the Oval Office, learn more about 9/11, and get insights into the Bush dynasty. Afterwards, make sure you try out the Decision Points Theater, where you get to make decisions based on evidence the President had at the time of the choice. It’s a sobering and fairly difficult look at the weight that comes with power.

#9 – The Nasher Sculpture Center

• Home to some of the best art in the city, which is why it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Dallas.
• Located in Dallas’s Art District, there’s something for everyone here.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like art then you’ll love this center. It includes both temporary and permanent exhibits as well as a two-acre garden that’s filled with works by some of the best artists and photographers in the business. The center also offers the Nasher prize and you can see exhibits from past winners at the center as well.

What to do there: There are a range of exhibits and activities at this center that are worth seeing. Make sure you check out the sculpture garden where you’ll see pieces by Henry Moore, Rodin, and George Segal. This is also the place where you can enjoy live music and outdoor movie screenings. So, find out what’s on while you’re in the city and make sure you go along.

#10 – The Katy Trail – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Dallas

• A 3.5 mile route through the parks of the city.
• This is the local’s favorite place to exercise, so if you want to work off your holiday then this is the place to do it.

Why it’s so awesome: This trail winds through the parks of the city and through some of the most popular districts in Dallas. It’s popular with dog walkers, runners, and cyclists, and follows the path of the old railroad, known as the MKT or the Katy. As long as the weather is reasonable, you’ll find locals exercising and enjoying the outdoors in this location.

What to do there: If you’ve been eating too much on your holiday or just miss the endorphins you get when you work out, then put on your exercise gear and head down to this trail. You can walk the route and stop off whenever you see something interesting or just focus on your fitness and explore afterwards, whichever you want to do.

#11 – AT&T Stadium

• This stadium has an innovative and award-winning design that seats 85,000 fans and makes for a fantastic sporting experience.
• Sports are huge in Dallas, so you might as well be a part of the action!

Why it’s so awesome: People in Texas love their sports and Dallas is no exception. A sign of just how deep this love goes is this amazing stadium, which is to normal stadiums what a luxury car is to a family station wagon. This stadium is high tech, amazing to look at, and makes the sporting experience even more exciting than it normally is.

What to do there: You should obviously see what sports are on while you’re in the city and try to catch a game at the stadium. But even if you aren’t there at the right time, you can still get the America’s Team guided tour and get a behind the scenes look at everything from the artwork in the stadium to the locker room.

#12 – Lower Greenville – Cool place to see in Dallas with friends!

• One of the recently renovated hotspots in Dallas.
• This area used to be a little scary but is now one of the city’s best spots for nightlife.

Why it’s so awesome: This part of Dallas used to be rundown and most tourists and locals avoided it when possible. However, after a facelift and some marketing, it has become one of the most popular attractions in Dallas. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun night out and to enjoy some of Dallas’s best restaurants and cocktails.

What to do there: You’ll find a variety of unusual and trendy places to eat, drink, and hang out in this area. Visit during the day for a meal and then dessert at Steel City Pops, with its variety of gourmet popsicles. And then head over to HG Sply Co. for cocktails on the roof terrace with the hippest people in the city.

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#13 – The State Fair of Texas – Awesome place to visit in Dallas with kids!

• Don’t miss this incredibly popular fair.
• Kids, adults and everyone in between will find things to do, see, and eat at this iconic event.

Why it’s so awesome: Between late September and October, the State Fair of Texas offers everyone amazing food, attractions, concerts, animals, and acres of fun, lights and sound. This fair is famous even outside of Texas and is an iconic event that sums up everything that Dallas is known for.

What to do there: If you’re in the city at the right time, then this fair is a Dallas must do. It draws in visitors from all over the state and you’re bound to find something to enjoy there. Try the food, watch a concert, or just wander around and enjoy the atmosphere. If you’re from another part of America or the rest of the world, it’s like stepping into the Texas that you’ve seen in movies and on television.

#14 – Reunion Tower

• The best place to visit in Dallas for a spectacular view of the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome: When you visit a new city, you absolutely must see it from high up at least once. The Reunion Tower is the best place in the city to get these amazing views and to start to understand Dallas in its entirety.

What to do there: Take your camera up to the observation deck of the Reunion Tower on a clear day and go nuts with the pictures! If it’s cloudy or overcast, you probably won’t get the best view, so try to pick your time carefully for the best view and images.

#15 – Dallas Museum of Art – A perfect place to visit in Dallas if you are on a budget!

• Admission to the general exhibition is completely free.
• This is one of the best places to visit in Dallas with kids too!

Why it’s so awesome: Located in the arts district just across from Klyde Warren Park, this museum is the pride of the city. There are more than 24,000 objects in the museum dating from the third millennium to the present day as well as amazing educational programs that have won awards for their innovation and creativity.

What to do there: You’ll need a bit of time when you visit this museum as it’s one of the largest in the US and takes visitors on a journey from the ancient past to the modern-day. Make sure you take a look at the different collections too, including artwork from Africa, all over Asia, the Mediterranean, and the contemporary collection.

The arts district is home to some of Dallas’s best Airbnb’s so why not stay in the area and roam the museum until your heart’s content.

#16 – Trinity Groves – A must-see for foodies!

• No matter what food you enjoy, you’ll find it at this restaurant hub.
• This is the perfect place to start your night out in Dallas.

Why it’s so awesome: This area is Dallas’s restaurant hub and you’ll find a dizzying array of food options in this business district. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, vegan, Asian, seafood or Mediterranean food, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings in this area.

What to do there: For a really awesome night out, try sampling everything that’s on offer. Start out at Tapas Castile for an appetizer, find another restaurant for your meal and then find somewhere else for dessert. And don’t forget the after-dinner drinks either, because you’ll find a variety of options for a quick drink in between courses along the way.

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#17 – The Arts District – One of Dallas’s coolest historical sites!

• A whole area where you’ll never be short of things to do and see!
• One of the most famous places in Dallas for the arts and for a great day and night out.

Why it’s so awesome: You might not know this, but Dallas has one of the biggest urban area areas in America at the moment. The Arts District stretches for 19 blocks across the city and is filled to the brim with restaurants, museums, and theaters. There’s something for everyone in this district, which makes it the perfect place to visit in Dallas if you have a free couple of hours or even a whole day to fill!

What to do there: One of the best things you can do in this area is to wander and just explore what’s around. But if you prefer to be more directed, then don’t forget to check out what’s on at the AT&T Performing Arts Center while you’re in the city. A good way to explore this area is by taking a walking tour so you can get an insider’s view of the district before you start to explore on your own.

#18 – Fair Park

• This park is a nationally registered historic landmark.
• It was designed by George Dahl and the whole area is a stunning example of art deco.

Why it’s so awesome: This park originally opened in 1886 for the Dallas State Fair and the fair is still the highlight of the year. But even if you travel to Dallas at a different time of year, there’s still a lot to see in this area. There are a variety of amazing Art Deco buildings in the area that are prime examples of this trend. They’ve been adapted to suit modern standards, but still look amazing in photos.

What to do there: If you’re in Dallas at the right time of year, make sure you see the State Fair in October. The Cotton Bowl in the middle of the park also hosts the annual University of Texas versus the University of Oklahoma game, so if you’re in the city at the right time then make sure you see this iconic, extremely popular game.

#19 – The Travelling Man

• This exhibition includes 3 installations spread throughout a Dallas neighborhood.
• The statues are meant to indicate the different stages of life and are a startling and fascinating addition to the neighborhood of Deep Ellum.

Why it’s so awesome: Created by the artist Brad Oldham, the statues were created to replace murals that had to make way for the city’s rail lines. Each figure is made of polished metal sheets that are riveted together and evoke the railway history of the neighborhood. There are 3 separate statues and they tell the story of the Traveling Man from birth to life. According to the stories, the Traveling man started out as a buried locomotive that was brought to life by a splash of gin that turned him into a type of transformer!

What to do there: This is one of the most fun things to do in Dallas . Check out the statues in order to get the best impression of the story being told. The first statue is known as Awakening and features just part of his head emerging from a pit of gravel. From there, you can see the robot on Good Latimer Street, leaning against some debris, and then taking a stroll in the third and final piece.

#20 – Adrian E. Flatt Hand Collection – Quite the quirky place in Dallas!

• This museum is one of the most unusual things to do in Dallas!
• A singular collection that you won’t soon forget.

Why it’s so awesome: The contents of this museum were created by an orthopedic surgeon who has a slight obsession with hands. It’s filled with bronze casts of the hands of famous people as well as significant figures in history and society. The creator was a surgeon who specialized in hand surgery and this lit the spark that led to this singular collection.

What to do there: This is a quick, quirky visit that will look great in photos and give your trip a more unique flavor! Make sure you have a look at some of the famous hands in the collection such as Walt Disney, Mickey Mantle, Doctor Seuss, and Dwight Eisenhower. You’ll also find the hands of composers and astronauts. In fact, the collection includes over 100 pairs of bronze casts.

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#21 – The ‘Eye’ Sculpture

• A slight strange display outside of the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas.
• This art installation was created to surprise passers-by and it certainly does that.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you see an enormous, 3 stories tall eye lying in a garden, but this is precisely what you’ll see in Dallas. The eyeball is impressively rendered, with streaky red veins, and looks unsettlingly real. It was created by Tony Tasset in 2007 as part of a temporary display and is made of fiberglass. It started out its life in Chicago, was taken to St. Louis, and finally ended up in the center of Dallas.

What to do there: This is a prime selfie spot and will look great on social media! It’s owned by the Joule Hotel and is located in the middle of an otherwise lovely sculpture garden. It really draws attention where it is, and even the locals sometimes look surprised to see a huge eye staring back at them as they hurry past.

#22 – The Perot Museum

• The perfect place to take the kids for an interactive and educational experience.
• The museum contains 5 floors of exhibits, so you could while away hours there.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum stays up with the times and includes 11 permanent exhibition halls with 3D computer animals, life-like simulations, educational games, video, and interactive kiosks. There are also some additional displays for kids including an outdoor play space and dedicated children’s museum. Your kids will love the robots and 35-foot tall fossils as well!

What to do there: If you’re looking for a place to take the kids while you’re visiting Dallas, then this is the perfect location. They’ll learn about the world without realizing that they’re learning, and you’ll enjoy the experience as well.

#23 – White Rock Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Dallas

• This park is home to a variety of special events in Dallas.
• When you want to do some exercise in natural surroundings, this is the perfect place to visit.
• The kids will love this area too because it manages to offer several wildlife experiences right in the heart of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: White Rock is one of the most popular parks in Dallas and for good reason. It’s the chosen venue for special events throughout the year and even on quiet days, it’s the place the locals visit to exercise, picnic and just soak up the natural surroundings. The park also contains miles of hiking and bike trails, dedicated picnic areas, a dog park, and wetlands along with the associated wildlife just meters from the busy city!

What to do there: Check out what’s on in the park while you’re in the city and make sure you don’t miss any of the special events. But apart from that, this is a great place to spend an afternoon. The park offers prime bird watching opportunities, kayaking and canoeing across the lake and miles of hiking and bike trails. Basically, whatever you like to do in nature, you’ll be able to do it in this park!

#24 – Frontiers of Flight Museum

• A Dallas must do for aviation fans!
• This museum contains over 35,000 historical artifacts that show how humanity finally lifted off the ground.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in aviation or in space, then you need to pay a visit to this museum. It has a collection of over 30 aviation and space flight exhibits which includes 13 galleries of displays of small aircraft models. There are also over a dozen full-sized planes including a model of the Wright Flyer, created by the Wright brothers, and aircraft from different wars.

What to do there: Spend some time learning about flight! You’ll get the chance to explore the histories of aviation pioneers such as Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and Bessie Coleman. You’ll also get the chance to see planes from the World Wars and the Cold War as well as an Apollo pod.

#25 – Zero Gravity Thrill Park

• This park has a perfect safety record, so although the rides may be scream-inducing, they’re also extremely safe for you and your family!
• The perfect place to spend some time with your family or friends.

Why it’s so awesome: This park contains some of the scariest and most thrilling rides in the world. It’s one of the best places in Dallas if you like a little adrenalin with your trip and includes rides like the 7 story Bungee Jump, the Texas Blastoff, which travels straight upwards at 70mph, and the Skyscraper, which hits four G’s as it goes around! This is definitely not the kind of park which is designed for the faint of heart!

What to do there: Prepare yourself for some scares and take your bravest friends along with you. If you’re going to visit this kind of park then you need to go on as many rides as your stomach can take, so see how many you can take before your stomach says, ‘no more’. This park is also popular amongst kids and does have some slower, safer rides that will suit all ages.

#26 – Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament – One of the more unique places to visit in Dallas!

• If you’ve ever wanted to watch jousting while eating with your hands, then this is the place to do it.
• There are only 8 of these restaurants in the US, so you need to try them whenever you can.

Why it’s so awesome: For some reason, the medieval times have always excited people’s imaginations and their stomachs, and this restaurant is the only place in the modern world where you can indulge that interest. It offers 11th-century style meals that you can eat with your hands while you watch the knights joust for the right to be the Queen’s champion.

What to do there: If you’re looking for more unusual places to eat in Dallas, then try this restaurant for a meal you can really sink your teeth (and your hands) into. The food is relatively authentic, satisfying, and not all the healthy, but you don’t visit this type of restaurant for its vegetables. Instead, let yourself enjoy the atmosphere and the jousting and picture yourself back in a time long before your birth.

#27 – Legoland Discovery Center

• A wildly popular attraction in Dallas ever since the release of the movies!
• Great for kids and adults who are in touch with their inner children.

Why it’s so awesome: This Legoland is actually an amazing Lego playground with rides, build and play areas, a 4D cinema and a factory tour where you can learn all about how Legos are made. It’s the perfect place to take any child who loved the movies and wants a chance to build their own creations on a larger scale!

What to do there: Spend an afternoon or a morning at Legoland and let yourself remember how fun it can be to create without any expectations. Check out the 4D movie and then take the factory tour to get a behind the scenes look at how Legos get their colors and shapes. It’s much more interesting than it sounds!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dallas

What is the top place to visit in Dallas, Texas?

The Sixth Floor Museum and the J.F.K. Memorial Statue are the top places to visit in Dallas because of their cultural importance.

What is the best outdoor place to visit in Dallas?

The Dallas Arboretum is a stunning outdoor botanical garden in Austin and a perfect place to visit in Dallas in the outdoors.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas at night?

The views from Reunion Tower are fantastic at night when the city is all lit up.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas for adults?

Fearing’s Restaurant is a sophisticated restaurant with food cooked by the top chefs, a perfect place to enjoy without the kids.

Exploring the many and varied cities in America can be as exciting as visiting more exotic locations. When you travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy amazing food, shopping, a vibrant atmosphere, and lots of sports excitement during an easy, relaxed trip. This might not be a destination you’ve considered visiting before. That’s why we’ve decided to inspire you with this list of the best places to visit in Dallas no matter what you like doing, seeing, or eating!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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101 Awesome Summer Activities for Kids near me & Things to Do in DFW

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Categories Play , Family Fun

What fun things to do are near me?

We have created a list of 101 things to do near us during the Summer months around Plano, Frisco, Dallas, and further afield in DFW . You don’t need to search any further for fun Summer activities for kids near me.

Be sure to check with each venue before you go, as their hours and capacity may change.

This post may contain Affiliate Links. Our Full Disclosure is available.

Energy- Busting Indoor Places

Trampoline parks, altitude trampoline park.

You gotta have all the energy to even think of going there with the kids. The park features high-energy equipment such as trampolines, a foam pit, a battle beam, a trapeze, and much more entertainment for families, groups, and individuals.

Urban Air Adventure Park

The place where you can release that energy; this place is the ultimate indoor playground for your entire family. Urban Air Adventure Park has been voted BEST Gym In America for Kids by Shape Magazine, BEST Place To Take Energetic Kids, and BEST Trampoline Park.

J.W. Entertainment Allen

Jumping World Allen is the BEST place for indoor trampolines, foam pits, basketball dunking, dodgeball, and more!

Just one of the perfect Summer Activities for Kids near me: During the Summer some of our local Bowling alleys take part in the Kids Bowl Free program, which gives free games of bowling all Summer long to kids who register. The nearest to us is Plano Super Bowl.

Plano Super Bowl

Plano Super Bowl has been open since 1985, a family entertainment facility in which guests can enjoy the Scratch Drafthouse bar, the Scratch Kitchen, an arcade, private VIP rooms, and the bowling alleys. Big bowling alley with room for almost 50 lanes, a cafe & a staging area for live music and they have an arcade area for more fun. They offer leagues and lessons to improve your game.

Your ultimate entertainment destination features a restaurant, full-sized bowling lanes along with an array of indoor games and attractions. Summer will never get boring for the kids and the parents.

Every occasion is a celebration when you visit the Main Event for bowling.

Strikz Entertainment is a family-owned and operated entertainment center featuring 32 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, 12 boutique lanes in the Rose Room, a huge arcade featuring tons of games, a One-of-a-kind laser tag arena, Billiard tables, and a Bar and Grill.

Go Ice Skating

Galleria ice skating rink.

A perfect place to literally cool off this summer is to take some classes or even just to have some fun ice skating at Galleria. The Galleria Ice Skating Center is a popular destination for families and children year-round, but for summer, this can be your go-to place. If you’re ready to hone your skills, start with their private lessons or get right to it during public hours on the rink.

StarCenter Community Ice Rink Plano

A perfect choice for Summer Activities for Kids near me: Beat the heat, bring your family and friends out for public skating at your local Starcenter. Check out their public skating time .

Dr. Pepper StarCenter  

Dr Pepper StarCenter is the official home of the Dallas Stars, and as such has two NHL-sized sheets of ice, which can definitely help you cool off this summer. It offers five different locations for public ice skating, figure skating lessons, ice hockey, broomball curling, and more. All locations have a Learn To Skate skating academy that can start kids off at three years old.

Allen Community Ice Rink

Run by the City of Allen, this facility includes not just ice skating but also hockey , figure skating, and more. The schedule for open skating varies from day to day, so check out the site for public skating session hours.

Fitness/ Gym/ Gymnastics

Something exciting and new, is an innovative 360-degree synergy training program designed to develop your kid’s mental, physical, and character skills. They help parents build stronger, smarter, and more athletic kids. KidStrong classes are based on science and taught by professionals – Ages 14mo-8yrs. They offer a free trial, check them out.

They offer fun and educational camp programs for boys and girls ages 3 and up.

All 4 Frisco

Just about anything on fitness;  All 4 is the place to go in Frisco, Plano McKinney, Prosper, Celina, and surrounding areas. Offering cheer classes, competitive cheer teams, preschool gymnastics classes, recreational gymnastics classes, and competitive Gymnastics and tumbling classes. Also, you can enjoy and use the place for parties, open gyms, kid’s summer camps , and kids day camps.

Gymnastics is really popular around Plano!

A spacious playground of entertainment and the largest and most modern playground maze which includes slides, bungee walls, cave, tunnels, zip line and a lot more. They have a separate area for smaller kids, “MiniMania” toddler-only play place which is equipment for children their size and physical abilities.

Where every day is a party!!!

Perfect for younger and older kids alike (up to age 11) with Obstacles, slides, a multi-level playscape, and room to run around, plus a separate space for toddlers to play freely. They also have an arcade (games require coins). No outside food allowed, but there are snacks and drinks available to purchase in the lobby. Socks are required in the play area.

Kidz Indoor Playground at Prestonwood Baptist Church  

KIDZPlay is free but you must check in at our KIDZ Central desk. This special play area is for children 10 years and under. KIDZPlay is located at the Plano Campus of Prestonwood Baptist Church (6801 W. Park Blvd, Plano). Follow the signs in the parking areas to “Main Entrance.”

KIDZPlay is located immediately to the right of the main Atrium doors. There are restrooms and water fountains just outside the doors. At the opposite end of the Atrium, down the steps and to the left, you’ll find Main Street Café, with salad bar, food stations, coffee station, snacks and drinks. Kids need shoes on and are not allowed inside with Food, gum or Drinks. 

Hours: Monday – Friday 10 am – 4 pm. , closed Saturdays.

This is a great option for free or cheap things to do with kids around DFW .

Fun and Educational Indoor Places

Museums and libraries, heritage farmstead museum.

A living history site, all about the history of the Texas Blackland Prairie region. The whole family can enjoy what it has to offer – it has over 10,000 objects and archival materials, plenty of collections, and exhibits.

Interurban Railway Museum

A restored 1911 railway car parked in the Historic Downtown Plano , just within walking distance to modern-day DART light rail tracks. It features some interesting interactive exhibits on electricity, science, and Plano’s history. They also offer guided tours through historic Car 360!

Explorium Denton Children’s Museum  

Art Explorium is a fun, safe place where Hawaii’s children of all ages have the opportunity and permission to create freely.

Frontiers of Flight Museum

According to Wikipedia, Frontiers of Flight Museum features an extensive collection of aviation history artifacts and vehicles and focuses on the history of aviation and space exploration with an emphasis on the role of the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Exhibits include the Apollo 7 Command Module; a World War I Sop with Pup biplane replica; artifacts from the German airship Hindenburg and other airships; and over 200 World War II aircraft models.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

So many things to do and see here, a day visit wouldn’t be enough. Perot Museum is a destination for everything from dinosaurs to the universe, to beautiful gems and minerals and a lot more. Have fun exploring the 11 permanent exhibit halls, watch a 3D film, and check out the traveling exhibition.

Dallas Museum of Art

One of the largest art museums in the country, its collections include more than 24,000 works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to modern times. Visitors can enjoy its exhibitions, lectures, literary events, presentations, and more. Admission to the DMA is FREE!

Nasher Sculpture Center

Located at the Dallas Arts District, 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, featuring more than 300 masterpieces by Matisse, Moore, Picasso, Rodin, Serra and a lot more. It offers a series of special programs like artist talks, music concerts, artist-led classes, lecture programs, and exclusive member events, to enrich the museum experience.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

A must-visit museum in Dallas , and if you have school aged kids, they for sure significantly appreciate visiting this historical site. Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicles the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. It is located within a national historic landmark site; the Museum is in the former Texas School Book Depository building.  

Frisco Heritage Center

A cute Historic Park where you can visit the Frisco Heritage Museum , historic buildings, a steam locomotive, a wooden caboose, and more. Experience the early days of Frisco and the Shawnee Trail by stepping into a living town from the past. Learn the stories of past residents who shaped the foundation of what later became the City of Frisco, including Mrs. Ethel, the owner of the first beauty parlor in Frisco and Sam Lane, one of the city’s first mayors. Learn also about the early farmers and how the cotton industry evolved locally & the impact of the American railroad . Check out the Heritage Theater, authentically showing silent black and white films, free of charge for attendees. You’ll need tickets to the rest of the Center.

Frisco Discovery Center

Home to the Black Box Community Theater, Frisco Art Gallery, Sci-Tech Discovery Center, and Special Events Center.

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

With its mission, it aims to provide dynamic educational experiences that inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to embrace discovery and innovation through the active exploration of science, math, and technology.

Visit your Local Libraries for all the summer fun activities

Heard Museum, McKinney

They have an indoor museum, little outdoor zoo, settlers village, animatronic dinosaurs, and walking trails. You can walk the long trail, takes about 45 mins to an hour. You walk over suspended walkways over wetlands. We’ve seen deer several times, turtles, and beautiful birds.

Try an Escape Room. There are several in the area now, and some have rooms especially designed for Kids! Best for ages 10+ check with the individual Escape Rooms in the area. We love Breakout Games at 2301 North Central Expy: Ste 275 & 285 Plano.

Roleplay and Imagination

Play street museum (multiple area locations).

Play Street is a great Indoor role play destination for smaller kids up to age 8. Locations in Dallas, Plano, McKinney and Allen are themed uniquely. They’ve got free Wi-Fi, and although there is no food allowed, feel free to bring drinks for you and the kids. You’ll need to leave your strollers behind.

Open Play Monday-Friday, exact hours vary by location. Special events and Open Play by Reservation on weekends. Do check before you leave home to ensure they are open for you to visit.

Small Pockets

(Dallas) You can shop and then head downstairs to their curated Tea Room. Aside from being an adorable birthday tea party spot, they host a free Story Time on Fridays and Open Play while you shop. Open Play is available anytime the room is not booked for an event. Story Time is Friday 10:30-11am. Story Time, Open Play, and Playdate reservations are FREE. You can reserve time for a small group if you contact them directly.

EQ Kids Club (Frisco)

This indoor safari play village is very purposeful about learning through play and engaging all the senses. Like Play Street, they keep things nice and organized and clean, just the way we like it. Your kids will be obsessed with the light show sandbox. Trying to find something different and skewed to babies, toddlers all the way to age 8 isn’t easy as most places are bounce-house based. The owner, Marcia Morales is a children’s book author who curated the concept for EQ Kids Club herself. This is not a franchise & offers a roam-free, safe & warm environment for kids to explore, express themselves and for parents to see their natural curiosities.

With a safari theme, the venue offers free tea for parents & comfortable chill-out area. Coffee frothed by Marcia or her husband and a snack & drink for each child is included. Open Play is Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. Special Summer Sundays Open Play from 10am-3pm (subject to change, call to confirm).

See the calendar for monthly parent-child workshops. $12 per child (up to age 8) for up to 2 hours play; children under 1 are free with a paying sibling or $6 on their own; no charge for adults. Memberships are also available

Dallas World Aquarium

Located at 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202 . Open Monday – Friday 8.30 am – 4 pm. The adventure at The Dallas World Aquarium begins at the top of the rainforest exhibit, where exotic birds, such as Cocks-of-the-rock and many species of toucans, can be seen.

Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium :

Mills Mall, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, TX 76051. You can save over $6 with these discounted tickets available . Sea Life Grapevine is an interactive aquarium located at Grapevine Mills in Grapevine, Texas. The aquarium contains thousands of aquatic creatures, plus interactive touch pools and a 360° ocean tunnel. 

Amusement Centers

Ifly indoor skydiving.

8380 TX-121, Frisco, TX 75034 . Flying at iFLY Dallas is as close as you will get to actual skydiving without jumping out of an airplane! The first indoor skydiving wind tunnel in Dallas. Delivering the dream of flight to everyone!

Legoland Discovery Center : 

3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, TX 76051. Save over $6 on tickets !  Legoland Discovery Center Dallas Fort Worth is an indoor family entertainment center located at Grapevine Mills mall in Grapevine. The attraction includes Lego-theme rides, a soft play area, a 4D cinema and a gift shop.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

601 E Palace Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75050 . Get ready to experience the excitement of  Ripley’s  Believe It or Not!—where the unbelievable comes alive right before your eyes!

Arts and Crafts

Crayola experience plano  .

Never a dull moment for you and the kiddos, go and make unique family memories with a day of creativity & fun! There are so many things to do that your kid will get to be creative at the same time burn some of those energies. We have discounts for you if you are planning a visit!

Pipe And Palette

Their goal is to teach art and sell art that they find amazing and useful, this can be such a great experience for you and your little one.  And, they have many talented art instructors who teach from age 5 to adults. They meet you where you are, not the other way around.

Paint ‘N Party

Visit this place, be creative, and have fun while they provide you with just the right amount of assistance. They are not just about parties; you can also just go if you feel like being creative.

Michael’s Arts and Crafts Classes

As much as you can find anything you need for your arts and crafts, Michaels also have some classes to offer for kids and adults. Michaels is ready to help your kid’s creativity takeoff! All parents or caregivers must remain on premises but are free to shop around the store while the kids are having fun. Please take note that classes vary by location, so be sure to check the online schedule for a Michaels near you, and don’t forget to pre-register your child’s name.

Home Depot free Kids’ Classes

Home Depot hosts craft workshops for children- they receive an apron and certificate of completion!

Jump Into Art McKinney

They have drop-in or open studio class available every Saturday. Whether it is painting on canvas, printmaking, or sewing, kids are encouraged to do whatever they feel like at the time. The possibilities are endless here!  All supplies are all included, so no need to bring anything of your own.

Make Expression

Walk in, parties, classes, or camps, they have got you covered. Pottery painting , mosaic creations, glass fusing, canvas painting, candle making, and a lot more.

AR Workshop Frisco

A huge favorite of ours. Camps, classes, arts and crafts of all types

Quiggly’s Clayhouse

A fired-arts studio for adults and children that accepts walk-ins to paint pottery, sculpt clay, fuse glass or make mosaics without an appointment!

Shopping Malls

Shopping malls are not dying; they’re considered a destination because of what they offer – better amenities and entertainment to enhance the shopping experience. They now have restaurants, bars, salons, cinemas, play areas for kids, and some even have fitness centers. So, during summer days, when it is too hot outside, it is a perfect place to beat the heat. Please always check their website for events.

The Shops at Willowbend

Address: 6121 W Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093 . A shopping mall located in Plano, Texas, with over 125 stores and three anchor stores. The mall is located at the intersection of West Park Boulevard and Dallas North Tollway in West Plano.

Galleria Dallas

Address: 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75240 .

The Galleria Dallas is a shopping mall and mixed-use development located at the intersection of Interstate 635 and the Dallas North Tollway in the North Dallas neighborhood of Dallas.

Stonebriar Centre

2601 Preston Rd, Frisco, TX 75034 . Stonebriar Mall, is a mid-range shopping mall located at the intersection of Preston Road and the Sam Rayburn Tollway in Frisco.

NorthPark Centre

8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75225 . NorthPark Mall, is an upscale, enclosed shopping mall in Dallas, Texas. The mall is at the intersection of Loop 12 and US 75. Opened in 1965, the center now has over 235 stores and restaurants.

Movie Theater s

A perfect place to cool off, grab the popcorn, soda, and watch your favorite films. Many of them have discounted deals over the Summer! Check out the Movie options in the area.

Musicals, Concerts and Theater Shows

Watching shows is a perfect way to spend some quality time with the whole family without getting some sunburns.

You may be able to find a Drive-in Movie or fun Pop-up concert too.

Dallas Summer Musicals

Lovingly known as DSM, Dallas Summer Musicals is the preeminent non-profit presenter of Broadway theater in North Texas. DSM produces, presents and promotes live musical theater year-round. It also provides extensive community outreach programs to entertain, educate, and empower young people in the world of theater.

Dallas Children’s Theater

5938 Skillman St, Dallas, TX 75231 . Theater featuring a range of shows for kids & families, along with classes & educational programs.

Courtyard Theater – Downtown Plano

1509 H Ave, Plano, TX 75074 . The Courtyard Theater, in Historic Downtown Plano is a 321-seat, proscenium-style theater. With a large stage and spacious lobby, the venue is perfect for any event. Receptions, recitals, stage plays, musicals, concerts, meetings, and private parties are all common occurrences in this beautiful venue.

Willowbend Center of Arts -North Texas Performing Arts

6121 West Park Boulevard B216, Plano, TX . They are a non-profit organization that provides educational theater programs to Plano and surrounding communities. They offer classes, camps and productions for children and youth ages 3-18.

If you have a little performer in the house, check out some of the Summer Camps that Plano Moms have listed for you.

Outdoor Fun

Visit one of our many Waterparks – we have lots of indoor and outdoor options for you.

Visiting a waterpark is a perfect way to cool off, and since we are far from the beach, this is a great option.

Hawaiian Waters

4400 Paige Rd, The Colony, TX 75056. You can also get in free with the Pogo Pass

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006 . North Texas’ largest water park features 50 acres of rides & slides & a 1-million-gallon wave pool.

Jack Carter Outdoor Pool  

2601 Pleasant Valley Dr, Plano, TX 75023 . Jack Carter Pool will open for the summer on Saturday, May 29, 2021. Summer hours are noon to 6 pm on Sundays and Mondays and noon to 8 pm on Tuesdays-Saturdays.

Rowlett Wet Zone

7723, 5304 Main St, Rowlett, TX 75088 . City-owned swim facility & water park offering a playground, slides, swim lessons & aerobics.

Bahama Beach Waterpark

1895 Campfire Cir, Dallas, TX 75232 .

Great Wolf Lodge

100 Great Wolf Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051 . In addition to a water park, each resort features restaurants, arcades, spas and children’s activities. 

Hilton Anatole – Jade Water Resort Pool

2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207 . The Hilton Anatole is a local favorite for staycations , most notably during summertime when its resort pool, Jade Waters, opens up. Hilton Anatole is located in downtown Dallas, making it an excellent option for visitors and locals who wants to explore the city’s attractions. The Jade Waters is also a perfect oasis to escape from the city’s hustle and bustle and an ideal place to cool off from Texas heat.

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75051 . The largest indoor water park in Texas , open all year round.

Rosemead Rainforest Aquatic Complex

1334 E Rosemeade Pkwy, Carrollton, TX 75007 . The Rainforest section features a zero-depth entry pool, two platform levels with bridge, water cannons, bubblers, spray bars, water slides, a 200 foot lazy river and a 600 gallon dump bucket. The newly remodeled Main Pool section consists of a shaded toddler splash pool, a zero-depth entry activity pool with a depth of 4 feet, a 25-meter lap pool with eight lanes, a diving well, and two 22 foot-tall water slides. 

The facility also includes a newly remodeled bathhouse and concession stand, deck space, picnic tables, lounge chairs, shaded areas and plenty of parking.

Old Town Aquatic Park

535 W College St, Lewisville, TX 75057 . This water park features two leisure pools with play features, a double loop slide, three spray grounds, a small lazy river, a playground, concessions, and more. Open seasonally, from late May through early September.

Frisco Athletic Center

They have an Indoor and Outdoor Water Park and a great lazy river. Concession stands and plenty of shade.

Splash Pads and Places to Swim

A splash pad provides some water fun play for the little ones and the whole family. There are tons of great places to swim in Plano and outdoor Splash Pads close by.

17 of the Best Water Parks around DFW and Texas

Here are more, harry myers park sprayground.

815 E Washington St, Rockwall, TX 75087 .

Doubletree Ranch Park

310 Highland Village Rd, Highland Village, TX 75077 .

Lakes and Beaches

Few areas around DFW that offer beachfront park with lake swimming, picnic areas, playground, athletic fields, hiking trails, and a lot more. We have 45 places within driveable distance you can try!

Little Elm Park

701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068 .

600 Sandy Beach Rd, Lewisville, TX 75057 . Recreational park offering lake swimming & boating, a golf course, athletic fields & picnic areas.

Stonebridge Ranch Sandy Beach Club

6203 Virginia Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75071. Please take a look at their policy for visitors; the beach club is only for residents and friends. It includes an iconic beach and swim lagoon and overlooks beautiful Stonebridge Lake. This original amenity has been serving up family fun for over 30 years! 

Four Seasons Resort and Spa Las Colinas

4150 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX 75038 .

Joe Pool Lake

5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie. Today the lake and the amenities found along its shores allow visitors to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreational pursuits. Whether you prefer to go bird watching or fishing, jet skiing or barbecuing, or like to spend time in your boat or your camper you can find everything you need to have a great time at Joe Pool Lake.

Meadowmere Park

3000 Meadowmere Ln, Grapevine, TX 76051 . This park is best known for the sloping sandy beaches and lake-front camping. There is also a large colorful children’s playground area and a nearby beach with roped off swim zone (one of only two such zones on the lake).  There are restrooms available within the park.  And there are plenty of covered picnic tables located near the lake and the beach area available first come first serve.

Rent a Kayak or take yours on the lake at Oak Point Nature Preserve and Big Lake Park, Plano.

Go Wakeboarding at Hydrous Wake Parks , in Little Elm or Allen!

Gardens, Parks , and Playgrounds

Exploring local gardens, parks, and playgrounds can be so fun for the whole family. Most kids do love the outdoor even though it is so hot; they seem not to care at all. So make sure you get your Sunscreen lotion ready and have fun and they hydrate at all times!

Explore local parks and playgrounds in the area . Plano Parks and Recreation manages some amazing green spaces for us to use around the city, 4,370 acres of parkland; you will never get to visit them all.

Don’t forget to take out your kids on Bikes and hit the Trails around the City too. We really love Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, so give that one a try.

Texas Discovery Gardens

3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210 . Open Wednesday – Sunday // 10am – 5pm. Visit the 7.5 acres of public gardens, the two-story Butterfly House, and the native Snakes of Texas House!

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218. Check out the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden while you are there. It’s highly regarded in the DFW area.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107 . he garden was established in 1934 and is the oldest major botanic garden in Texas, it is located in the heart of the cultural district. It is most popular areas are The Fuller, Rose, and Japanese Gardens.

Rose Garden of Farmers Branch

2610 Valley View Ln, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 . With more than 500 different roses planted throughout the city, Farmers Branch is the perfect place to spend the afternoon taking in the small things in life – like old garden roses and modern hybrid teas.

Shopping Districts

Shop, grab some food, have a drink, watch a movie or concert, all in one place!

Legacy West

5908 Headquarters Dr, Plano, TX 75024 . Located in the heart of Plano, head to Legacy West to shop all your favorite brands and dine at over 20 delicious restaurants and eateries!  

The Shops at Legacy

5741 Legacy Dr, Plano, TX 75024 . Your go-to destination for shopping, dining & fun in North Texas. The Shops at Legacy boasts the hottest brands, upscale and fast-casual restaurants, and a thriving nightlife.

The District at The Shops at Willowbend

6121 W Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093 . Great dining options at The Shops at Willowbend.

Historic Downtown Plano

998 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074 . Downtown Plano is a vibrant community of urban living, performing arts, galleries, event venues, plus unique shops and restaurants that are independently owned and operated; all set against a backdrop of historic buildings, the Plano Station Dart Rail, and Haggard Park .

Grandscape Texas

5752 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony TX 75056. Retail, Dining and much more. There’s Plenty To See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy At Grandscape! A One of a Kind Destination, Grandscape Is Your Oasis in North Texas.

Places to eat and PLAY!

Hat creek burger company.

Nearest locations to us are Allen, McKinney, Richardson and Little Elm. They have a great outdoor playground to use.

Central Market, Plano

Their outdoor play area is mainly shaded and you can choose from a variety of food options inside the store.

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

Burger’s Lake is a 30-acre park featuring a one-acre spring-fed lake for swimming. They have two sandy beaches for sunning; wonderful big trees for shade, a complete staff of certified lifeguards – Over 300 picnic tables – Six diving boards, a 20-foot slide and 25-foot trapeze, Charcoal grills for cooking and you can get a juicy burger in their concession stands .

We love these great restaurants that have play areas too!

Ditch the car and Ride the DART to new places along the network around DFW.

Last, but not least, get the POGO PASS to get free admission to all the fun. Use the code PLANOMOMS to get the discounted rate of 50% off.

Save 50% on the Annual Pogo Pass Membership

This is one steal of a deal for families!

Each pass includes free admission to kids’ activities at over 20 destinations around Dallas/Fort Worth for only $49.99 per person.

Give the gift of experiences all over DFW!

Use code PLANOMOMS or just use our link below to buy.

If you have Questions, we’ve written a huge guide to the Pogo Pass to help you!

For Older Kids and Younger Kids, we have a list of recommendations that are appropriate to their ages.

Related Articles:

• Where to go This Weekend
• 30 Indoor Places in Plano for Kids
• North Dallas Splash Parks
• Best Outdoor Playgrounds in Collin County

So, which of these are you planning to visit or have you visited? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments with us

All articles and photos belong to Plano Moms LLC unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. If you wish to request to use our content  Email Us  first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience. We make no guarantees of any prices or venue-specific information listed on our site. We are not responsible for content on external websites linked to, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we love but we can’t guarantee you will love them, too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Some of our experiences have been hosted but this never impacts how we share the experience with you – opinions are always our own! We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. United States Copyright, Plano Moms LLC

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