tourist attractions in dallas fort worth texas

101+ Things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth

Everything is bigger in Texas, and Dallas/Ft. Worth is no exception.  There are so many awesome things to do in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area.  

Whether you are coming to visit, or want to be a tourist in your own town, I bet this list has something for you.  Let’s get started with our list of 101 Things to do in Dallas/Ft. Worth.

If you’re looking for ideas for  date night in Dallas , we have you covered for that as well!

If you are looking to get a little further out of the city, then be sure and check out all of the  incredible day trips from Dallas  as well.

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Things to do In Dallas

• Visit the Sixth Floor Museum –  It’s full of history and well worth a visit, especially if you purchase a Dallas CityPass, as the museum is one of the sights that is included.
• Dealey Plaza- Located just outside of The Sixth Floor Museum, Dealey Plaza is the location of the assassination of John F. Kennedy.  Consider taking the  JFK Assassination and Museum Tour  for a first-hand experience from a local guide.  This is a must for history buffs.
• Walk the beautiful gardens of the  Dallas Arboretum .  Choose admission to the Arboretum or the George W. Bush Library as part of your Dallas CityPass.
• While at the Arboretum, partake in afternoon  tea at the historic DeGoyler House .
• Get hands on with exhibits at  The Perot Museum.    Your Dallas CityPass includes admission to The Perot and is a great way to save money if you are visiting several attractions in Dallas.
• You will find way more than books at the  George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.   Inside you will find a full-size replica of the Oval Office, the original White House Situation Room, and the “Nation Under Attack” exhibit displaying items from the September 11th terroristic attacks. You can choose the George W. Bush Library or The Dallas Arboretum as part of your Dallas CityPass.
• The Dallas Museum of Art.    I told you everything is bigger in Texas, and this museum lives up to that motto.  With over 159,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the United States.
• Get your mind blown at the  Museum of Illusion .  Ok, not literally, but this is a really fun museum to go to with your loved ones.  You can spend the afternoon learning all about illusions and taking some fabulous pictures like we did.  Head to our  Instagram  page to check these out.
• Learn the history and culture of Dallas at The  Old Red Museum .
• Take a step back into a historical village at the  Dallas Heritage Village .

• See a performance at the  Music Hall at Fair Park .
• Be surrounded by sharks and walk through a tropical rainforest at  The Dallas World Aquarium .
• Grab lunch and some fresh produce from  The Dallas Farmers Market.
• Take a  Historic Dallas Segway Tour.
• A trip to the  Reunion Tower Observation Deck  gives you an amazing view of the city and is included in your Dallas CityPass.
• Enjoy the 5.2-acre public park that is over a freeway!  Yes, that is correct,  Klyde Warren Park  is located over Woodall Rogers Freeway!
• Enjoy breathtaking view and tons of walking/jogging trails at  White Rock Lake .
• Visit the  West End Historic District.
• If you’re in Dallas in September/October, you have to visit  The Texas State Fair .  See BigTex and indulge in all things fried!

• Take a free ride on  The McKinney Avenue Trolley.
• Experience the history and stories of aviation at  The Frontier of Flight Museum .
• Visit  The Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park.
• Spoil yourself with a unique shopping experience at  The Galleria Mall.
• Catch a sporting event or concert at  The American Airlines Center.
• Participate in a  Dallas Wine Tasting Tour.
• Experience beautiful Asian art at  The Crow Collection of Asian Art.
• Roam through an outdoor museum at  The Nasher Sculpture Center.
• Dedicated to the remembrance of World War II, the  Dallas Holocaust Museum  is a world class exhibit.
• Feed the giraffes at the  Dallas Zoo .  You can choose zoo admission or The Sixth Floor Museum with your Dallas CityPass.

• Explore  Texas Discovery Gardens  located inside Fair Park.
• Visit The  Trinity River Audubon Center  located just outside of downtown Dallas.
• Throw popcorn at the performers at  The Pocket Sandwich Theatre !
• Enjoy a romantic dinner at  The French Room.
• Take a  Best Tacos and Margaritas Tour.
• Experience jousting, romance, and medieval food at  Medieval Times.
• Put on your boots and two-step the night away at  Gilley’s Dallas.
• Explore the eclectic neighborhood bars, restaurants, and club in  Deep Ellum.
• Have some extreme family fun at  Zero Gravity  thrill park.
• Tour  Mary Kay Cosmetic Company.
• Do a food tour of The Bishop Arts District.  Read all about our experience on this awesome tour in our post,  Eating Our Way Through The Bishop Arts District .

Things to do in Fort Worth

• Although their permanent collection is small, less than 350 pieces, the permanent collection is FREE at the  Kimbell Art Museum , and it is compromised of distinguished pieces.
• Find rare photos, interactive exhibits, and theatre presentations at the  National Cowgirl Museum.
• Rodeo and Cowboy fans will love the  Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame .
• Adults and kids will love the world class  Fort Worth Zoo .

• Spend a fun evening watching a live performance at  Circle Theatre  in Sundance Square.
• Enjoy an oasis of water in the heart of Downtown Fort Worth at The Fort Worth Water Gardens.
• Visit  Sundance Square  for great shops, restaurants, and tons of nightlife.
• Get hands on at  The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
• Watch a show in the amazing  Omni Theatre  located at The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
• See how money is made by touring the  Fort Worth Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
• Find vintage planes at the  Vintage Flying Museum.
• Do some start searching at  The Noble Planetarium.
• Watch a cattle drive, ride a mechanical bull, and visit some great bars in  The Fort Worth Stockyards .

• Take a kayak or canoe down The Trinity River.
• Watch a performance at Casa Manana Theatre.
• Tour the  Budweiser Brewery.
• Get lost in the  Cowtown Cattlepen Maze.
• Enjoy nature and get in some exercise on the miles and miles of Trinity Trails.
• Visit the  Amon Carter Museum.
• Experience living history at Fort Worth’s  Log Cabin Village.
• Take in modern art and architecture at  The Modern Art Museum  of Fort Worth.
• Learn how alcohol is made with Texas rainwater at  Trinity River Distillery.
• Get up close with a buffalo herd and a prairie dog colony while exploring the countless trails at  The Fort Worth Nature Center.
• See a live performance at beautiful  Bass Hall.
• See over 2,500 species of native and exotic plants on the 109-acres of  The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens.

• Grab a drink and enjoy some live music at the historic  White Elephant Saloon .
• Head to  Billy Bob’s  to dance the night away or ride a mechanical bull in a true Texas honky-tonk.
• Enjoy a bakery tour at  Mrs. Baird’s Bakery.

Things to do in the Suburbs of Dallas/Fort Worth

• Museum of the American Railroad – Head just north of Dallas, and you will find the Museum of the American Railroad.  Housing a collection of historic trains and rail equipment, this museum appeals to all train lovers.
• Cavanaugh Flight Museum – In Addison, you will find this a great little aviation museum.  That not only has display items but also prides themselves on vintage aircraft restoration and maintenance.
• Tour AT&T Stadium  (aka Cowboys’ Stadium).
• Visit the iconic  Southfork Ranch .
• Visit one of the three largest planetariums in Texas,  The UTA Planetarium.
• Experience the odd and unusual at  Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
• Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie  will have you betting on the horses!
• Step back in time and take a ride on  The Grapevine Vintage Railroad , especially on one of their theme rides!
• Watch a race at  Texas Motor Speedway , or better yet, get behind the wheel yourself with one of these tours:  Ride Along in a Dragster,  or a  Side by Side Camaro Competition ,   Drive a Dragster.
• Drive through the exotic animals at  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.
• Compare your foot to that of a real dinosaur at  Dinosaur Valley State Park. 
• Have lunch with the bears at  Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch.
• See rays, sharks seahorses and more at  SeaLife Aquarium  in Grapevine.
• Gaze at the stars at  The UNT Sky Theatre.
• Six Flags Over Texas  is a guaranteed thrill for coaster enthusiasts.
• In the hot summer months, cool off at  Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.
• Take a gondola cruise in the canals of Las Colinas.
• Take in a live performance at the historic  Granbury Opera House.
• Visit one of DFW’s many lakes:  Eagle Mountain Lake, Lake Granbury, Grapevine Lake, Lake Lewisville, Lake Worth, Benbrook Lake, or Lake Ray Roberts just to name a few.
• Hawaiian Falls  is a great way to cool off in the Texas heat.
• Go ice skating at The Dr. Pepper Star Center or at Ice at The Parks Mall.
• Have some fun at  Sandy Lake Amusement Park.
• Visit  Globe Life Park  to watch The Texas Rangers play ball!
• Catch a RoughRiders game at  The Dr. Pepper Ballpark.
• Learn how to live like a pioneer at  Nash Farm  in Grapevine.
• Visit one of many  North Texas Wineries.

• Ride horses at  Benbrook Stables.
• At  The Irving Arts Center,   you can enjoy live performances and art exhibits.
• History comes to life at  Chestnut Square  in McKinney.
• Learn all about the Texas environment and see Texas wildlife at  Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center.
• Check out  The River Legacy Living Science Center  before exploring the acres of River Legacy Park in Arlington.
• Visit  Trader’s Village  in Grand Prairie.
• Listen to live music at the Grapevine Opry.
• Shop til you drop at First Monday Trade Days in Canton .

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

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.

Meet Saxena

Friday 5th of April 2019

You have shared an amazing guide of the things to do in Dallas. It will come handy at the time of my visit to Dallas.

Harmony, Momma To Go

Friday 23rd of February 2018

I've never been to Texas but this list is insane! I will def be trying to use city pass when I visit different places, they are such a good deal. I love the big ferris wheels! Im surprised we dont have one in NY

thattexascouple

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Thank you! I'm surprised that NY doesn't have a big ferris wheel as well, they seem to be very popular!

National Cowgirl Museum, never heard of that, I should give a try. Maybe to dress like a cowgirl or it's too much)) Anyway, thanks for tips!

You can definitely dress like a cowgirl anywhere in Fort Worth, you won't be the only one. LOL!

I didn't know they had Dallas wine tours! I'd love that. Where is a great place to get BBQ?

Yes, Maggie. We really have some great Texas wineries in this area. And there are so many good places to get BBQ. In Dallas, Mike Anderson's BBQ is really good and in Fort Worth, I personally love the Woodshed. BBQ is very competitive in this areas, so if you start asking around, you'll get tons of different favorites. Rudy's Country Store is also pretty popular. I know it's a chain restaurant but it's still good. LOL!

Cherene Saradar

Sunday 10th of September 2017

Looks like lots of fun to be had in Dallas!

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Dallas Ft. Worth

The saying “Everything is bigger in Texas” rings true when it comes to Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) attractions. The metroplex’s attractions are loud, large, big, and exciting, keeping visitors entertained and engaged. Whether it’s enjoying the luscious outdoors, flying fast on thrilling rides, or getting your two-step on, here are the top 20 things to do in the DFW.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas is the event of the year in Dallas, a major festivity with a long tradition that goes as far back as 1886. The fair is held in Fair Park, a larger-than-life venue featuring an impressive number of entertainment venues, amusement rides, museums, gardens, landmarks and more. For about three weeks every year, Fair Park is swept over with visitors enjoying the most diverse forms of entertainment, from food tastings to art exhibitions, and live music shows to livestock competitions. Unique highlights are a grand, full-fledged car show, and the so-called Red River Shootout, a football game played by the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas. All of this is overseen by Big Tex, the event’s 55-feet-tall iconic mascot installed in the park.

Located near the Convention Center on the south end of downtown, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is a unique urban oasis surrounded by high walls and shade-providing trees. The urban plaza was designed by Philip Johnson and includes 4.3 acres of three pools, waterfalls, and fountains. Though there are three separately designed pools, the best known is the active pool featured in the 1976 sci-fi film Logan’s Run . As you descend the terraced steps, you can feel the force of falling water all around you. Be sure to check out the gardens at night; they are illuminated until 10 p.m.

Dallas Museum of Art

Founded in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art is one of the biggest and most reputable places to see art in the Texan city. Next to its program of rotating exhibitions, the museum offers its visitors a varied and international range of permanent art collections. The African Art collection focuses on artwork from the Sub-Saharan region, and the Contemporary Art collection showcases an impressive selection of paintings and sculptures from contemporary artistic movements such as abstract expressionism and minimalism; the Pacific Islands Art collection consists of sculptures and textiles made in Indonesian islands. A number of other collections, both permanent and temporary, are on display, demonstrating an impressive grasp on international — and American — art.

The Fort Worth Stockyards

An authentic Texas cowboy experience can be found in nearby Fort Worth, approximately an hour’s drive from downtown Dallas. The Fort Worth Stock Yards are situated in a national historic district, which retains the feel of a Western movie set and even hosts a twice-daily cattle drive. Complete with brick walkways and wooden corrals, this is the place to visit if you’re looking to step back in time. Daily rodeos, horse-and-cart rides, the world’s largest honky-tonk, and a choice of BBQ joints make this the Texan experience many tourists are looking for.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Thom Mayne, a winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate designed the astoundingly beautiful Perot Museum of Nature and Science. There’s 11 permanent exhibit halls at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science that offer hands-on science experiences for kids, the likes of which include activities that focus on minerals, geology, energy, fossils, and technology. Architecture tours, speakers, and family experiments are other ways the Perot Museum engages visitors.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

On the fateful day of November 22, 1963, 35th president John F. Kennedy was assassinated at Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. Now, Dealey Plaza has been converted into a memorial for the late president and houses the Sixth Floor Museum, a place to learn all about that historic day, and the life and death of the president. Watch short films, see photographs, hear first-hand testimonies, discover artifacts, and more. The museum also has a full library and reading room for more literature on the subject in addition to information about other Dallas history. Be sure to check out the educational, youth, and teaching programs that are available.

Cedar Ridge Preserve

Cedar Ridge Preserve is a place that is dedicated to the land and wildlife. It’s maintained by the Dallas Audubon and is free to the public. There is a lot of hiking going on here, and many people come and let their dogs get in on the challenge with their trails. With nine miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, there is something for everyone. It’s quiet and cool from the shade of the trees. Many people also come to bird-watch year-round. It’s a great attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Kimbell Art Museum

Even casual art fans will appreciate the breadth of the Kimbell. From ancient art to 20th-century pieces, the Kimbell’s display is world-class. It contains Michelangelo’s first painting as well as works from Rembrandt, Picasso, and Monet, making it one of the country’s best small museums. Recognized as a prime example of modern architecture, the building itself has an open-floor plan and is filled with natural light. The Kimbell’s permanent collection is manageable in one visit, while high-profile traveling exhibits are worth returning for. Enjoy lunch at the museum’s well-prepared buffet of sandwiches, salads, and quiches, and sit in the manicured courtyard of one of the city’s best museums.

Six Flags Over Texas

A classic theme park, but an ultimate goody. Located in Arlington, about 15 miles outside of Dallas, Six Flags Over Texas offers thrilling roller coasters, great entertainment shows, carnival-style games and plenty of restaurants. From rides like the Titan and the Texas Giant for teens and adults to softer rides like Daffy Duck Bucket Blasters and Bugs Bunny Boomtown for toddlers and small children, there is something for everyone. With over 45 rides, including five water rides, be sure to grab an all-access THE FLASH pass to enjoy all of Six Flags Over Texas has to offer.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden features 66 acres of gardens, from the ornamental to the sunken and colorful. This beautiful serene place is a year-round attraction that’s fun for all ages. Children are sure to enjoy over 150 activities in the 8-acre Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden that features The Texas Skywalk, The Moody Oasis, a Walk in the Clouds, and much more. Grab lunch to-go from one of the many restaurants and have a picnic on the lawn while soaking in the sun, or sit back and relax at a summer evening concert. With plenty of family activities including indoor and outdoor learning galleries, a scavenger hunt, and tons of interactive exhibits, find out why the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Dallas. Don’t forget the camera, as there are plenty of photo ops.

Dallas Cowboy Stadium

You don’t have to be a Cowboys fan to tour the Dallas Cowboy Stadium. The AT&T Stadium is full of endless fun and facts as the world’s largest domed structure. Tour the locker rooms, walk through the tunnel, or simply admire its contemporary art. Guests have the option of choosing from four daily tours: Self-Guided, VIP-Guided, Art Tour, or an Educational Tour. Enjoy a quick bite at the café, shop the Official Dallas Cowboys Gift Shop, or toss the football around (bring your own) on the actual field for as long as you want. The AT&T Stadium located in Arlington is an experience sure to appeal to everyone.

Texas Theatre

The Texas Theatre in Oak Cliff is a gem and stands as the location that Lee Harvey Oswald sought out for a hiding place after murdering Officer J.D. Tippit. He was then arrested. Oswald would later assassinate JFK. It has survived the times and has become a charming and renowned theater for the avid filmgoer. A director’s hall of fame shines beautifully in the lobby of the theater, of distinguished directors both old and new. In fact, it’s almost a mini film museum, showcasing old cameras and classic relics. The theater shows independent movies, film festivals, independent screenings, documentaries, old classics and 35mm films. Any movie buff would feel understood here. They also have a full-service bar that serves smaller batch boutique products, offers cheap Texas and Mexican beers, and a slew of homemade cocktails inspired by films that you can take into the theater with you.

Reunion Tower

At 561 feet (170 meters) tall, the Reunion Tower is an observation tower with 360-degree views of the city of Dallas. The observation deck level features interactive and digital experiences, including information about Dallas history, the Reunion Tower itself, and more, and there are also numerous telescopes to get a close-up view of the skyline. Pop into the Cloud Nine Café for a snack or refreshing drink or eat at Five Sixty, a Wolfgang Puck fine dining restaurant located on the top, rotating floor. Eat a delicious gourmet meal while enjoying incredible views that overlook the city. The tower is also connected to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, so it’s perfect for visitors who want to stay close by to this Dallas attraction.

Klyde Warren Park

Most parks are just open green spaces for people to stroll around for fresh air, but not Klyde Warren Park! This public space is located on top of Woodall Rodgers Freeway and hosts a hub of activities and events all year long. For the body, enjoy Sunday morning yoga, Wednesday night Zumba, or Saturday afternoon Tai Chi and boot camp. For your mind, attend a pleasant outdoor meditation or take a guided tour of the city skyline, while learning historical facts about Dallas. For your appetite, there are a variety of food trucks at the park nearly every day, including an ice cream truck! You can also take a free art class or listen to a concert, and if you want a more traditional park experience, you can relax in the sun, play chess, bring your dog to the dog park, or participate in a group sport.

Toyota Music Factory

Toyota Music Factory is set to be one of the most thriving entertainment concepts in Dallas Fort Worth. The Pavilion is the centerpiece, a concert stage that has hosted big name acts and speakers like Ringo Starr, Hillary Clinton, and Trevor Noah. There’s also 25 restaurants and an Alamo Drafthouse. Big Beat Dallas will be a major aspect of the Toyota Music Factory, offering live music daily, a morning farmer’s market, an open container beverage policy between Big Beat Dallas restaurants, and late-night hours.

White Rock Lake

Once a privately owned reservoir located on over 1,000 acres of land, the lake (and adjacent park) is an amazing place to spend the day. The lake is a popular site for mild water activities, such as kayaking and sailing, and the park has a 10-mile hiking and biking trail, in addition to it being a great site for bird watching. This spot features both a dog park and picnic areas, and the lake is in very close proximity to the White Rock Lake Museum, Bath House Cultural Center, and Dallas Arboretum. Rent a pavilion to have a private family event or stay active by taking a stroll around the scenic waterfront.

Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza is a park that’s home to trees and man-made cliffs, but the centerpiece of the park is the life-size sculpture that recreates a cattle drive, complete with bronze longhorn cattle and three cowboys on horses. Visitors often hike around the cliffs, take photos with the longhorn sculptures, and marvel at the waterfall.

Trinity River Audubon Center

Opened in 2008 along the banks of the Trinity River, this center is at the entry of the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest. The Trinity River Audubon Center offers each of its visitors a chance to discover miles of trails that feature local birds, vegetation, and wildlife and features public programs like guided hikes, bird watching classes, and the chance to learn more about the four breeds of owls that are native to Dallas. In addition, there is an indoor exhibit hall that showcases native animals like fish, snakes, lizards, and more. Visitors also have the option to tour the architecture of the eco-friendly buildings, taste local honey from the six beehives, and watch a movie about the Trinity River and its history. The center also offers school field trips, like the four-hour eco-investigations that feature a pond study, guided hike, and nature study. There is a two-hour guided float trip down the Trinity River, which is perfect for a short weekend adventure. The Trinity River Audubon Center serves to educate Dallas residents about the natural environment and the fragility of the ecosystem of the largest urban forest in the United States. With the educational opportunities, scenic wooded trails, and extensive visitor activities, the Trinity River Audubon Center is a great place for field trips, volunteering, and fun.

Lone Star Park

While casinos are illegal in Texas, Lone Star Park at Grand Prairie offers some gambling fun with a Class 1 horse track. It receives 800,000 visitors per year and offers horse races on weekends during the season, a sports bar, and year-round events like concerts, weddings, and meetings. With seating for 8,000 people and a one-mile track, the odds are good that you’ll have a great time here.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Seeing a bison up close and personal is possible at the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, a fantastic area that offers 3,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and prairies full of wildlife, including a fenced-off section for bison. Hike for hours, launch a canoe in the river, or spy a herd of bison — at a safe distance, of course. It’s well-worth the price.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Indulge Your Love of Jazz Over Labor Day Weekend on the Dallas Riverfront

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Need help putting together an itinerary while you're here? There's plenty of things to do in Fort Worth. 

Browse the popular attractions below. Looking for something more specific? Narrow your search by category or location to plan the perfect Fort Worth experience.

Things To Do

• Fort Worth Water Gardens
• Fort Worth Zoo
• Attractions
• National Cowgirl Museum
• Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
• Drink Responsibly
• Martin House Brewing Company
• Panther Island Brewing Company
• Rahr & Sons Brewing Company
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Fort Worth   Travel Guide

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14 Best Things To Do in Fort Worth

Updated December 22, 2022

If you're looking for a big dose of cowboy culture, head to the Fort Worth Stockyards for a self-guided tour. In addition to twice-daily cattle drives, this one-of-a-kind National Historic District is also home to Billy Bob's Texas , a

• All Things To Do

Fort Worth Stockyards Fort Worth Stockyards free

If you only have a day in Fort Worth, head straight to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. This living museum pays tribute to Fort Worth's Wild West heyday with daily cattle drives and plenty of restaurants serving up cowboy cuisine like beef tenderloin and rabbit-rattlesnake sausage. Start your visit at Stockyards Station, which sits at the heart of this historic neighborhood – from here, you can join a guided walking or Segway tour or hop on a stage coach. If you're interested in the district's history, pay a visit to the Stockyards Museum, which is housed in the former Livestock Exchange building and now contains an extensive collection of documents and artifacts from Fort Worth's Old West era. Meanwhile, the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Texas Trail of Fame will also offer insight into the people who made an impact on the sport and business of rodeo, and the western lifestyle in Texas. If you have kids in tow, take a twirl through the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze or a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.

Recent visitors strongly recommend visiting the Stockyards on a Friday or Saturday night for the Championship Rodeo. Starting at 7:30 p.m., talented cowboys will show off their riding, roping and racing skills in the Cowtown Coliseum. Afterward, you can test your dancing skills at Billy Bob's Texas – at 3 acres, Billy Bob's claims to be the world's largest honky-tonk. While many reviewers said this was a great activity for first-time visitors, they also cautioned that it is quite touristy.

Sundance Square Sundance Square free

To get a sense of historic Fort Worth, pair your visit to the  Stockyards  with an afternoon at Sundance Square, which is located in the heart of the city. Named for the Sundance Kid – partner to the infamous Butch Cassidy – this 35-block district has been entertaining Fort Worth visitors since the city's Wild West days. During the 1800s, cowboys following the Chisholm Trail would stop here in town to linger in the saloons, gambling parlors and dance halls. Today, the area's red-brick buildings house a variety of shops, restaurants and bars. Sundance Square's pedestrian plaza (located along Main Street between Third and Fourth streets) also features several fountains – the jetted fountains being the most popular. Bring your bathing suit for an afternoon of ducking and diving beneath the spray of 216 jets, or bring your camera in the evening when the fountain is lit by underwater LED light fixtures.

Recent visitors to Sundance Square enjoyed their time, describing the ambiance as quaint and the dining options as varied and plentiful. Many say it's much more fun when there are events going on, which liven up the scene even more. Others were particularly impressed with the area's holiday displays.

Fort Worth Zoo Fort Worth Zoo

Since it opened in 1909, this Texas zoo has been exposing Fort Worth residents and visitors to wildlife from around the world. When it first opened, the Fort Worth Zoo housed one lion, two bear cubs, a coyote, a peacock, an alligator and some rabbits; now, it's a full menagerie with exhibits showcasing everything from jaguars to flamingos. Make your way to the Australian Outback to observe Aussie residents like kangaroos, or visit the African Savanna for views of the Southern black rhinos. Recent visitors also highly recommend spending time in the Museum of Living Art, an award-winning facility that houses some 5,700 birds, reptiles and amphibians who live among hand-painted murals.

Those who have visited the zoo find plenty of aspects to praise, including the well-shaded pathways (lined with water misters primed to keep you cool on hot summer days) and the option to bring your own food and beverages. But heed the advice from these travelers to not ignore the other pastimes found on zoo grounds. For example, spend some time in Texas Wild!, a model Wild West village complete with a petting corral and a laser shooting gallery, as well as several snack options. Other attractions include a carousel, a 25-foot rock climbing wall and a 14,000-square-foot splash area complete with slides, a dump tower and water cannons.

Popular Tours

Billy Bob's Texas Honky Tonk Dinner and Photo Package

(50 reviews)

from $ 51.00

Bikes and BBQ: Electric Bike Tour of Fort Worth

(47 reviews)

from $ 140.00

Cow Town Ghost Tour: Hauntings of the Wild West

(32 reviews)

from $ 30.00

Kimbell Art Museum Kimbell Art Museum free

The Kimbell Art Museum has earned a reputation as one of the top small museums in the world. The facility itself is a work of art, complete with vaults and skylights and a sculpture garden designed by prominent Japanese-American artist, Isamu Noguchi. And despite its modest size, this museum is a must-see for any art buff: the permanent collection houses works that span history and features artists ranging from El Greco and Rembrandt to Monet and Picasso. Other collections include Egyptian and classical antiquities, Asian, Mesoamerican and African art.

Although art aficionados were already impressed by the original Louis Kahn building, which was constructed in 1972, the addition of the Piano Pavilion (named for Italian architect Renzo Piano, who helped design  Paris ' famous  Centre Pompidou ) in 2013 has made the Kimbell feel less cramped, recent visitors say. Many reviewers call this one of the best-kept secrets in Fort Worth, and one that is not to be missed.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Visitors to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden can explore 120 acres of gardens, horticultural displays and exhibits. Dating back to 1934, the garden is the oldest of its kind in the state, and houses more than 2,500 species of plants. It is composed of 23 distinct gardens, including the renowned rose and Japanese gardens, the latter of which features koi-filled ponds and cascading waterfalls.

Recent visitors were blown away by the beauty of the gardens. Notably, for an outdoor attraction, many travelers say this destination is worth a visit during any month of the year. It's also a family-friendly attraction, although some note upkeep could be improved.

Amon Carter Museum of American Art Amon Carter Museum of American Art free

Can't get enough of Fort Worth's Cultural District? Art buffs should not miss the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Visitors will find quintessential artists like Grant Wood, Georgia O'Keeffe and Jacob Lawrence featured at this museum, and may discover a new contemporary favorite, too.  The museum exhibits American art from the 18th century to the present day represented across a variety of different mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photographs and works on paper.

Recent visitors raved about the collections, particularly the locally-relevant cowboy artworks. The museum is widely considered a must-see, and many noted that it is conveniently located near two other major art museums in the neighborhood (the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth and the Kimbell Art Museum ).

Billy Bob's Texas Billy Bob's Texas

Billy Bob's Texas is a spacious honky-tonk, featuring an enormous dance floor (that can accommodate up to 6,000 people), pro bull riding and a stage graced by stars like ZZ Top. There are nearly three dozen bar stations in the neon-lit 1910 building – which was originally an open-air barn. Anyone looking for a quintessential Texas good time will find something to enjoy at this massive, 100,000-square-foot venue.

Recent visitors enjoyed the endless array of sights at Billy Bob's Texas. Nearly everyone notes the Texas-sized space, and many appreciated the live music and memorabilia on display. Several travelers mentioned that there is a $3 entry charge, including during the day.

Fort Worth Water Gardens Fort Worth Water Gardens free

The Fort Worth Water Gardens are a downtown "oasis" designed by famed 20th-century architect Philip Johnson. Spanning more than 5 acres, the site contains three "pools," including a Quiet Pool, an Aerated and an Active Pool. The Active Pool, which features a canyon of concrete terraces over which water flows to a basin 38 feet below, is perhaps the most visually striking. The Quiet Pool, which is surrounded by bald cypress trees, offers an ideal meditative spot. This shady urban paradise can be experienced year-round; an evening visit offers the chance to view the pools' dramatic architectural lighting. Note that though they are called "pools," swimming and wading is not allowed at the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Recent visitors called this spot a hidden gem, especially in the summertime. It can be peaceful or quite lively, depending on the weather. Reviewers noted that following posted safety instructions is important, as ignoring them to enter the fast-moving waters is dangerous.

Fort Worth Stockyards Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

(27 reviews)

from $ 38.72

Pedal Saloon Fort Worth West 7th 2 Hour Private Tour

(262 reviews)

from $ 410.00

Half-Day Guided Tour of North Texas Wineries and Vineyards with Wine Tastings

(14 reviews)

from $ 169.00

Bass Performance Hall Bass Performance Hall free

Whether you love live music, theater or architecture, the Bass Performance Hall is not to be missed. Inspired by European opera houses, the building, which opened in 1998, fuses a historicizing exterior with a decidedly modern – but no less spectacular – interior. Architectural highlights include two 48-foot-tall limestone angels on the hall's exterior and an interior dome that measures 80 feet in diameter and features paintings by two Fort Worth artists. After you've gawked at the architecture, step inside for shows ranging from Broadway tours, to concerts, to stand-up comedy.

Recent visitors praised the acoustics of the Bass Performance Hall, as well as its beautiful design. However, some reviewers found the security measures and staff less than welcoming.

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. This interactive museum includes popular traditional exhibits featuring dinosaurs and Plains cultures, but also offers many opportunities for visitors to touch and experiment. For example, "DinoDig" replicates a field site with mock fossils, allowing visitors to become amateur archaeologists. Meanwhile, "Innovation Studios" allow kids to make memories – literally – with its focus on drawing, inventing and designing. The "Children's Museum" exhibit features a kid-sized grocery store, resources to design a building or train station, and a variety of age-appropriate play spaces. There is also a playground, a planetarium and the separate Cattle Raisers Museum on site, which features exhibits on the history and science of the cattle industry.

Recent visitors note that the museum is small, although it packs a lot of exhibits into the space. Some say it is best for young children and adults, though others found that toddlers to early teens alike enjoyed the outing for hours.

National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame celebrates the women who helped shape the American West. The 33,000-square-foot museum features interactive galleries, theaters and archives that house thousands of artifacts that serve to tell the stories of more than 750 women. Artifacts include Annie Oakley's handwritten letters, her wedding ring and one of her shotguns. But it's not all ranchers and rodeo winners here; Laura Ingalls Wilder, Sacagawea and even Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor are honored in the museum's hall of fame. Among the museum's exhibits are some high-tech, interactive features, including the opportunity to create your own digital boot, shirt or horse projection, as well as the ability to superimpose yourself riding a bucking bronco in a digital rodeo.

Recent visitors enjoyed their stop here. Many noted that this is a unique museum experience and that there is a substantial variety of artifacts to reward a visit. Many were impressed with Annie Oakley hologram.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Modernists will not want to miss this museum in the city's Cultural District. The museum showcases art from the 1940s to the present day and is housed in a striking concrete, glass and steel building that features 40-foot transparent walls and an exterior reflecting pool. Inside, there are paintings by Rothko, prints by Andy Warhol and sculptures by Jenny Holzer. There is a cafe on site, and special events take place regularly, including film screenings, musical performances and drawing programs for children, teens and adults.

Recent visitors raved about this museum. Aside from the excellent collection, travelers also complimented the knowledgeable staff, cafe offerings and modern building. Exhibits rotate, so it is a good idea to make sure many are open for your visit, as occasionally a floor is closed for installation.

Sid Richardson Museum Sid Richardson Museum free

The Sid Richardson Museum is an art museum located in Sundance Square that showcases paintings of the American West. It exhibits the art collection of oilman and philanthropist Sid Williams Richardson. Exhibits seek to bring new context and depth to depictions of the West by artists, such as Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

Recent visitors recommend adding this museum to your itinerary if you have an interest in art depicting the American West. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable docents and many appreciated the artful landscapes. Some called this a "hidden gem" in Sundance Square.

Stockyards History Tour Fort Worth Pub Crawl

(143 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Pedal Saloon Fort Worth Stockyards 1 Hour Private Tour

(3 reviews)

from $ 285.00

Fort Worth Highlights Tour

(28 reviews)

from $ 240.00

Trinity Park Trinity Park free

Dedicated in 1892, Trinity Park is a spacious, 252-acre outdoor space that's equipped with a variety of amenities, including a basketball court, a playground and water features. This municipal park, which sits along the Trinity River, was the first parkland in the city. It includes walking and bike paths that connect to a 100-plus mile paved trail network known as the Trinity River Trails. Amenities like restrooms, water fountains and picnic areas make it easy to pass an entire afternoon here.

Recent visitors praise the park for its safe and clean atmosphere and grounds. According to reviewers, the park is very family friendly. Others applaud the number of activities it offers. Cyclists, in particular, love the many trails found here.

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The best attractions in Dallas to add to your bucket list

Rodeo shows, sculpture gardens, trolley rides and football stadiums are just the beginning

If everything’s bigger in Texas, then everything’s mahoosive in Dallas. Y’all need to carve out some solid dates when in town, because there’s plenty to keep everyone busy, no matter what their interests.

Let’s begin with the stuff that Dallas is best known for. The Dallas Cowboys, champions of the AT&T Stadium; actual cowboys, saddling up at the rodeo; and of course, meat, served at Dallas’ best restaurants and BBQ joints . Cows aside, the Big D is packing everything else too (including vegan-friendly activity - phew!). From world-class art museums and botanical gardens, to hipster neighborhoods with a variety of dining options and all-welcoming watering holes , this is a metropolis with variety , no bull about it. Here’s the wide spectrum of fun that can be had in delicious Dallas.

RECOMMENDED:   The best attractions in Dallas RECOMMENDED:   The best things to do in Dallas RECOMMENDED:   The best Airbnb   treehouses in Dallas

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Best attractions in Dallas

1.  Reunion Tower

Would you like to see Dallas and beyond from above? The best place to enjoy panoramic views of the city is from the GeO-Deck, an observation platform located in the Reunion Tower of the Regency Hyatt Dallas. The GeO-Deck is 470 feet high. Look for special sky-high activities like sunrise yoga and painting with a view of the city.

Book top attractions in Dallas with a CityPASS.

2.  Dallas Arts District

• Greater Dallas

The Dallas Arts District is the city's hub for performing and visual arts. The Dallas Museum of Art , the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Crow Collection of Asian Art are within yards of each other. Take a stroll along Flora Street and you’ll pass by the striking Meyerson Symphony Center, home of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra , the fabulous Winspear Opera House , the Wyly Theater and the undulating lines of the Moody Performance Hall.  Keep an eye out for the public art along the way, especially the majestic Pegasus outside the Booker T. Washington High School and the KPMG Plaza at Hall Arts.

Learn about the JFK assassination on a Dallas tour.

3.  The Sixth Floor Museum

Every school kid knows what happened in Dallas on November 22, 1963—and the majority of Americans (60 percent) still believe that Lee Harvey Oswald’s assassination of President Kennedy was part of a bigger conspiracy. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. The infamous Texas School Book Depository is now The Sixth Floor Museum, a world-class center dedicated to telling the story from every angle. Poke through 40,000 artifacts and stand at the exact window Oswald fired from, then head to the grassy knoll below to make up your own mind over the “second shooter.” Afterward board the JFK & Dealey Plaza bus tour to explore your theories first-hand, taking in key sites including the Texas Theatre, the art-deco cinema where Oswald was finally apprehended.

4.  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

• Little Forest Hills

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the city? Head to the Arboretum. This urban oasis provides plenty of breathing space in a natural setting. Take a stroll around the different gardens, each with a different style. Take a moment for reflection in the beautiful Women’s Garden and enjoy the fantastic views of White Rock Lake below. The best times to visit the Arboretum are in the fall when the leaves turn all kinds of shades of russets, reds, yellows, and ochres; and the spring, when the Dallas Blooms Festival is in full swing with its vibrant colors.

5.  Dallas Museum of Art

• City Center District

The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) is the cultural epicenter of the city. The permanent collections encompass the art of the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe, as well as contemporary art and design. The museum offers tours, gallery talks, workshops and lectures with renowned artists. Take a break at the  museum café. Don’t miss out on special events like murder mystery games and kids' nights.

Go on a Dallas Arts District scavenger hunt.

6.  American Airlines Center

• Sports and fitness
• International Center

Victory Park is less of a traditional green space but more of an entertainment district, with The American Airlines Center at its core. AAC is home of NBA force Dallas Mavericks and local hockey team Dallas Stars. Concerts and other entertainment events also take place at the expansive venue throughout the year. Whilst here be sure to grab a snap in front of Texan artist Rob Wilson’s mural honoring Dallas’ greatest hits, which has recently become somewhat of a local ‘gram sensation.

7.  Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum was established in 1873 as one of the city’s first commercial districts for African-Americans. Much of its early history is associated with trade and industry, but now it’s more famous for a number of things. First, music, from the jazz and blues of the 1920s to today’s booming music scene. Visual arts, a la murals and sculptures like The Traveling Man, a series of three sculptures in stainless steel ranging from 8 to 38 feet tall. And last but not least, the former warehouses have been converted into apartments, stores, restaurants and some of today’s hippest bars (you’ll find us at the Deep End and Trick Pony , FYI)

See Deep Ellum on this tour.

8.  Perot Museum Of Nature and Science

• West End Historic District

Let your inner child marvel at the interactive games and activities; look  a T-Rex or the megafauna of the Ice Age in the eye;  climb on an earthquake simulator or use brainwaves to move an object (a light one, though, like a ping pong ball.) The Perot Museum of Nature and Science opened in 2012 and it captures the spirit of scientific knowledge. The fantastic building is an ode to science; it’s sustainable, energy-efficient and the landscaping reflects a cross-section of the different landscapes of Texas. Take a minute to enjoy the views of Dallas from the windows on level four.

Save with the Dallas CityPASS

9.  Mesquite Championship Rodeo

• Sherwood Forest

If you want to witness the true grit and skill of the Texan cowboy, head to Mesquite Championship Rodeo at Mesquite Arena. This facility, a 15-minute drive east of downtown, holds different events throughout the year, but July, August and September are the busiest rodeo seasons. It is exhilarating to watch each event, from team roping to steer wrestling and calf roping. Experience the speed and grace of the horses and the cowboys' skills with ropes and lassos; feel the sheer power of bucking broncs and bulls. (And, yes, you will feel for those poor clowns!)

10.  McKinney Avenue Trolley

• State Thomas

If you are into historic means of transport, you’ll adore the McKinney Avenue Trolley. Streetcars were abandoned in 1956, but the McKinney Avenue Transit Authority non-profit has operated restored vintage streetcars since the 1980s.  Rosie, the Green Dragon, Matilda, Petunia and Betty will happily take you from Uptown to the Dallas Arts District free of charge. They only ask for a small donation toward their maintenance. Look for the round maroon and white sign. As the trolley approaches, wave your hand out and the motorman will stop so you can hop on board. When you’re ready to hop off, just ring the bell.

11.  AT&T Stadium

AT&T Stadium is the state-of-the-art home of the Dallas Cowboys (although it’s owned by the city of Arlington). The facility was completed in 2009 and its most salient feature is the retractable roof. With 80,000 seats, it’s the fourth largest NFL stadium in the nation. Works of modern art, installations and murals adorn the stadium's six levels, which make for an art gallery inside of the magnificent sports venue. There are four types of tours: VIP tours, self-guided tours (only when there’s field availability), educational tours and art tours. The best part? You can go out on the field and pretend to be an NFL star.

12.  Klyde Warren Park

Until 2012, the Woodall Rodgers Freeway split Dallas in two. Klyde Warren Park, built over the freeway between Pearl Street and St. Paul, now joins both neighborhoods. This beautiful park is a hub of activity. The property features a lending library with a reading area and board games, a children’s park, equipment for croquet, petanque and badminton, ping pong and foosball tables. There are all types of events during the week, from dancing lessons and concerts to tai chi and yoga. Looking for a bite to eat? The food trucks are very popular.

13.  Nasher Sculpture Center

The best feature of the Nasher is the gorgeous garden, which provides a perfect setting for the sculptures by renowned international artists. Even though it’s in the heart of the city, the garden offers much-needed peace and quiet. The lovely café opens up to the garden. The permanent collection includes the biggest names in modern and contemporary art from Alberto Giacometti to Barbara Hepworth. The luminous and expansive building was designed by architect Renzo Piano and opened in 2003. The museum evolved from the personal collection of Raymond and Patsy Nasher, avid collectors and a prominent business family of Dallas.

14.  Pioneer Plaza

• Parks and gardens

Pioneer Plaza is undoubtedly one of Dallas’s most recognizable landmarks. The bronze sculptures recreate a herd of longhorn steers driven by three cowboys through a flowing stream, man-made cliffs and native plants. The sculptures commemorate the cattle drives along the trails that took them from South Texas to the railheads in Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri. Pioneer Plaza is the biggest open space in downtown Dallas and draws many visitors. If you want to take pictures or have a quiet stroll among the sculptures, you may want to avoid the weekends when parents bring their children and quinceañeras do photoshoots.

Book a Dallas tour and see Founders Plaza, Deep Ellum, and more.

15.  Dallas Farmers Market

• Markets and fairs
• Farmers Market District

At less than one mile, the Dallas Farmers Market is a bracing walk away from Downtown, the ideal distance to work up an appetite. The Market, as the food hall is called, is a big shed that houses restaurants, along with artisanal and specialty food vendors. Expect communal seating areas for all except Mudhen, the stand-alone, farm-to-table restaurant. You’ll find it hard to choose one place to eat, with options including tacos, macarons, Neapolitan-style pizza and more. From Ruibal’s nursery, you can see the downtown skyline framing the potted plants and flowers.

Do a Dallas foodie tour.

16.  House of Blues

The House of Blues is one of the many concert venues in the city that gave Stevie Ray Vaughan to the world. It's not all about music though. There's also a bar and restaurant for pre-concert dinner and drinks. Remember to make a reservation. Catch free live music weekly, with show styles ranging from country and western to pop, jazz and electronic. One Sunday morning a month, local traditional and contemporary Gospel singers treat you to a wonderful show while you enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet. It's a truly uplifting experience.

17.  Bishop Arts District

• Bishop Arts District

In the 1920s, the South Dallas neighborhood of Oak Cliff was a bustling commercial area with warehouses and stores. Nowadays, after experiencing a revival, it’s one of Dallas’s trendiest areas. New boutiques, bars, restaurants and smokehouses occupy those old warehouses, which lend the area a lot of character. Some old-timers survive for now, though. Colorful murals—some artistic, some depicting the past and present of Oak Cliff—add a feeling of vitality to the area. For a complete experience, take the free Dallas Streetcar outside Union Station in downtown Dallas to the Bishop Arts stop. The Texas Theater (where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested) is a short walk away.

18.  Southfork Ranch

• Historic buildings and sites

At Southfork Ranch, you can visit the home of one of TV’s richest and most complicated families, the Ewings. The property was a family home at the time of filming, but later became a conference center and event venue located less than 30 miles northwest of downtown Dallas. See how the other half lives during the tour, along with memorabilia from the series like Jock Ewing’s 1978 Lincoln Continental or the gun that killed JR. Tours start at 10:15am daily and run every hour. Alternatively, you can ride the trails at the ranch. The five daily rides are subject to weather and safety conditions.

19.  Historic Downtown McKinney

McKinney is a beautiful historic commercial downtown located 37 miles north of Dallas. It’s a great place to spend a few hours away from the big city. Buildings from the late 1800s surround the main square and the historic courthouse, which is now the McKinney Performing Arts Center . Independent boutiques, antique dealers, coffee shops and restaurants line the leafy streets. Nearby, the historic village of Chestnut Square comprises six historic homes, the replica of a one-room school, a chapel and a store that together bring local heritage and history to life. 

Tour Southfork Ranch and more on a full-day tour.

20.  Legacy West

Legacy West is the newest upscale lifestyle destination in the Dallas Metroplex. The development features the regional headquarters of some big companies, hotels, luxury retail shopping, restaurants, a food hall and apartments. Retailers include staple designers like Coach and J. Crew, along with eye-candy shops like the Tesla showroom. Dining options range from Shake Shack burgers and Italian food at North Italia and Taverna restaurants to superb steaks at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House and French-inspired food at Toulouse . Meet friends for a drink at the upscale-meets-casual Earl’s Bar & Kitchen. 

21.  Dallas Zoo

The Dallas Zoo is the oldest and largest zoo in Texas. The 100-acre park is located 3 miles south of downtown Dallas. The zoo is divided into two areas joined by a tunnel: ZooNorth and the Wilds of Africa. ZooNorth includes the Koala Walkabout with animals from Australia, a tiger enclosure, the flamingo pond and birds from different countries, among many other species. On the other side of the park, the Wilds of Africa brings zoo-goers the giants of the savanna, a gorilla trail and large cats. Inside the zoo, you'll find three restaurants and food stands to fuel your journey through the wild. The zoo draws quite a crowd on weekends, so be sure to visit during the week if you can.

22.  Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture

Note: This museum is temporarily closed.

The Old Red Museum tells the story of Dallas from prehistoric times to the modern day including artifacts used by the first settlers. The Trading Center gallery shows the transformation of a sleepy town into a thriving regional trade center while the Big “D” Gallery shows how Dallas became a nationally relevant city. Make sure to stop by the World Crossroads gallery to see Dallas’ many contributions to pop culture like J.R. Ewing’s Stetson hat and national history items like the handcuffs used on Lee Harvey Oswald.

23.  Dallas World Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums

Even though Dallas is miles away from the sea, you can still see interesting marine life from all over the world at the Dallas Aquarium. The exhibits are divided by region and include birds and reptiles. The aquarium is also involved in several conservation projects to protect endangered species like the Orinoco crocodile. Don’t miss the feedings and talks throughout the day. The aquarium occupies two warehouses built in the 1920s in a similar style to other Historic West End buildings.

You can also check out an aquarium in Grapevine.

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13 museums in Dallas everyone should visit

Dallas is a diverse, sparkling town and a culture fiend’s paradise, packed with tons of cool restaurants, bars and things to do, plus a slew of fun, interesting and must-visit museums. Here are the 13 best museums in Dallas worth exploring.

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dallas, TX

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper and photographer Ian Henderson traveled through Dallas to catch some of the best attractions in the city.

The city of Dallas has a rich history rooted in ranching, farming, and oil production, growing rapidly as a trade center after the introduction of the railroad in 1873. After WWII, the city became home to numerous insurance corporations and banks, making it an important business and financial center — perfect fodder for that most famous of soap operas about power, money, and intrigue: Dallas .

The fascinating history in Dallas is just one reason that people visit, but there are so many other attractions and things to do. The city center is the best place to start a visit . Here, you'll find many excellent museums, restaurants, and hotels, as well as countless fun things to do.

You can branch out into other Dallas districts, like the West End, the Arts District, and the reemerging Deep Vellum District with eclectic restaurants and shops.

For more sightseeing opportunities and places to visit in this Texas city, read through our guide to the top attractions and things to do in Dallas.

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

2. the dallas arboretum and botanical garden, 3. dallas world aquarium, 4. reunion tower, 5. george w. bush presidential library and museum, 6. perot museum of nature and science, 7. dallas museum of art, 8. klyde warren park, 9. dallas zoo, 10. american airlines center, 11. the nasher sculpture center, 12. bishop arts district, 13. dallas cattle drive sculptures at pioneer plaza, 14. morton h. meyerson symphony center, 15. frontiers of flight museum, 16. john f. kennedy memorial plaza, 17. the cavanaugh flight museum, 18. african american museum, 19. spend a day in deep ellum, 20. soap opera superstar: southfork ranch, where to stay in dallas for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in dallas, tx, dallas, tx - climate chart.

Highlights: "Grassy knoll" outside the museum, location on the roadway of JFK's assassination

Forever etched in infamy, the former Texas School Book Depository at the intersection of Houston and Elm Streets in Dallas is now home to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , dedicated to remembering one of the nation's most tragic and defining moments: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Visitors to the museum are first introduced to the historical context with multimedia exhibits that describe the political climate of the early 1960s and then go on to highlight President Kennedy's trip to Texas in November of 1963 and the last days of his life. Just past here, you will see the sniper's perch in the corner window from which Oswald took the deadly shots, recreated to match the original photos from the crime scene.

The remaining exhibits walk you through the tense hours following the shooting. These include recollections of the state of shock that enveloped the nation and the world, the investigations that followed, and JFK's legacy.

Exhibits also include historical artifacts, like a replica of the Mannlicher-Carcano rifle found at the crime scene, the scale model of Dealey Plaza used by FBI agents during the investigation, forensic evidence, and items such as Lee Harvey Oswald's wedding ring and Jack Ruby's hat.

Spend some time walking around outside on Dealey Plaza. It's a powerful experience to see the exact locations bearing such historical significance, like The Grassy Knoll and even markers on the roadway indicating where the fatal shots hit John F. Kennedy.

Address: 411 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Seasonal festivals take place among the internationally renowned gardens

Located just minutes from downtown Dallas, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden sits on 66 acres along the southeast shore of White Rock Lake . The property's fourteen world-famous displays showcase seasonal flowers, ornamental shrubs, trees, and plant collections. The gardens also host seasonal outdoor festivals, concerts, art shows, and educational programs, and guided tours of the property are available.

Although conceived in the early 1930s, this splendid tourist attraction didn't become a reality until 1984, when the park was laid out on the grounds of a mansion built in 1939. Adding to the fun are the exquisite sculptures and fountains in areas with names like Toad's Corner, Texas Town, and Pecan Grove.

Be sure to do a little exploring around White Rock Lake Park , too. Surrounded by 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, this huge lake covers an area of over 1,000 acres and is known for its excellent bird and wildlife spotting, as well as fishing and sailing experiences.

Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Multi-sensory experiences like the Orinoco rainforest exhibit and the Cloud Forest Trek

Conveniently located within easy walking distance of the city's historic downtown core, Dallas World Aquarium is a fun and educational excursion for young and old alike. Housed in some 87,000 gallons of saltwater are a vast array of sea life including bonnethead sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, sea turtles, giant groupers, and rare leafy seadragons, all living in natural reef settings.

A fun highlight is the Orinoco Rainforest exhibit. This fun attraction comes complete with numerous free-flying birds, such as toucans, along with tree sloths and aquatic species such as Orinoco crocodiles and poison dart frogs. Be sure to check the feeding schedule before arrival for a chance to see the animals at their most animated, as well as for details of upcoming talks and lectures.

To add to your visit, plan to eat at one of the three restaurants at the aquarium, which serve everything from gourmet and international food to sandwiches and snacks with views of the resident sea life.

Address: 1801 N. Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: 360-degree views of Dallas, GeO-Deck observation platform at the top of the tower

While not the tallest building in Dallas, the Reunion Tower is undoubtedly the most distinguished and most recognizable. Completed in 1978 and appearing as a geodesic ball perched atop five cylindrical concrete poles, its 560-foot length is spectacularly lit up at night, emphasizing its unique outline.

The highlight of the tower is the GeO-Deck observation viewing platform, with panoramic views of Dallas from 470 feet in the air. There are always special events taking place with those 360-degree views, from yoga to painting classes.

Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Unique artifacts from the 9/11 terrorist attacks, an exhibit featuring the popular Bush Whitehouse pets

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum has an in-depth look at America's 43rd president and the history of the Bush family's public service. The museum is located on a 23-acre area on the Southern Methodist University campus. Walk through the galleries and archives that feature more than 43,000 artifacts collected during the George W. Bush presidency.

Some of the items housed in the permanent collection include diplomatic gifts and items from the September 11th terrorist attacks, as well as a fun exhibit that showcases the lives of Miss Beazley and Barney, the First Pets, that became popular in the Bush Whitehouse. Wrap up your museum visit with a coffee or bite to eat at the museum at Cafe 43 or outdoor dining at the Courtyard Cafe.

Address: 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: A ride on the 54-foot escalator, views out the tall glass windows to the creatively designed courtyard

Housed in a massive architectural masterpiece designed by Thom Mayne, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a top Dallas attraction for families and curious tourists.

The building itself was designed with sustainability as a foremost goal. Innovative eco-friendly design features include summer water conservation with the use of recaptured condensation from air conditioners and drip irrigation, the use of recycled and locally sourced building materials, and solar-powered water heaters.

The museum is divided into thematic areas with interactive educational stations, games, and high-tech displays. These themes include engineering and innovation, energy, evolution, earth sciences, and more. It also features a 3D theater, the Moody Family Children's Museum and playground, and a 54-foot escalator that overlooks the property from within a glass enclosure.

Address: 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: One of the largest art museums in the United States with extensive collections

The Dallas Museum of Art has been a long-standing institution in the city since it opened in 1903. One of the 10 largest museums in the United States, it has a collection of more than 24,000 works from the Americas and around the globe, including everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.

Highlights from the collection include Classical art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, paintings by Claude Monet in the European art gallery, and several contemporary pieces by Jackson Pollock. In addition to the permanent collections, temporary exhibits highlight the work of prominent artists, explore thematic topics, and display historic collections.

Another art exhibit worth catching is the Wendy and Emery Reves Collection , an extensive collection from a single philanthropist donor containing more than 1,400 artifacts. Some of the treasured items include painted fans, lacquered boxes, Chinese porcelain, and 17th-century European furniture.

Address: 1717 N Harwood Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Mid-afternoon social scene on almost any given day surrounded by music, food, outdoor dining, and water fountains

A great place to stop and relax as you make your way through downtown Dallas is Klyde Warren Park . The beautiful public park is a place of respite tucked in the middle of the downtown streets and high-rise buildings. On any given day, you can enjoy food trucks, outdoor dining, green space, public art, and a casual social scene.

Throughout the five-acre space there are cafés to enjoy and many sitting areas by the fountains. There are always public events taking place at the park, but it's just as fun to take a blanket and a picnic as you visit the local attractions and find a half hour just to enjoy the Dallas city scene in a relaxing way.

Address: 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Daily programs like animal feedings and keeper presentations

The Dallas Zoo is a 106-acre park housing more than 2,000 exotic animals from 406 species in a variety of different habitats. Always popular with families, this fun attraction — just three miles away from the city center — was established in 1888, making it one of the oldest zoos in the United States.

The zoo is segmented into regional areas, like ZooNorth, the Wilds of Africa, Giants of the Savanna, and a children's zoo. Some of the most engaging experiences at the zoo include animal encounters, like daily giraffe feedings, programs on the Wild Encounters Stage, and the interactive aviary called Birds Landing.

While there are several restaurants and plenty of snack stands available, you may want to bring a picnic and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables located throughout the zoo grounds.

Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: The walkable PNC plaza surrounding the arena with restaurants to grab a bite before or after the show

It is no surprise that top entertainment acts come to Dallas, and many of them perform at the American Airlines Center arena. It is one of the premier arenas in the United States for concerts, live entertainment, and sporting events. It is also home base for the National Basketball Association's Dallas Mavericks and National Hockey League's NHL Dallas Stars.

In addition to hosting home games for the Mavericks and Stars, you will find a nearly nightly lineup of entertainment no matter what time of the year, so you can easily plan a night out at the venue and even stay in one of the nearby hotels. Before or after your event, walk the PNC Plaza around the arena that to enjoy the restaurants and social scene that accompanies the arena entertainment.

Address: 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: One of many arts-centric stops that you can visit in the Dallas Arts District

Opened in 2003, the Nasher Sculpture Center has a collection of modern and contemporary sculpture and contains exhibits exploring the history of the art of sculpture. Located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District and just steps away from the Dallas Museum of Art, it also features a number of large outdoor sculptures on display throughout the tree-lined grounds.

Highlights of its interior exhibits include pieces by Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Max Ernst, and Andy Warhol. The museum and sculpture park also regularly host events, including lectures and concerts. Located in the University of Texas at Dallas, this art museum is dedicated to the arts and cultures of China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.

Address: 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Collection of unique shops, restaurants, galleries, and entertainment within a several-block area

If you are looking for things to do, the Bishop Arts District in Dallas's North Oak Cliff neighborhood has nearly endless possibilities for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It features more than sixty independently owned and operated businesses. Here, you will find chic boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cozy coffee shops in an inviting small-town atmosphere.

Among the unique purveyors are specialty shops that cater to male clientele, like the quirky M'antiques; several women's vintage clothing boutiques; and a myriad of shops that carry items made by local artists and designers. A place with a strong sense of community, the neighborhood often hosts family-friendly street festivals and public entertainment.

Location: North Bishop Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: One of the top must-see landmarks in downtown Dallas

Pioneer Plaza park, maintained by the adjacent Dallas Convention Center, is designed to resemble a section of the Shawnee Trail, a major Texas cattle drive route in the 19th century. It's a beautiful, large green space in Dallas's central business district that's fun to wander, and even features a stream that falls over limestone cliffs.

But its most remarkable features are the 49 larger-than-life bronze sculptures of Texas Longhorn cattle that are being herded through the park and across the creek by three mounted cowboys. Designed by artist Robert Summers, the park is landscaped to reproduce the scene of the iconic industry that defined early Texas.

Location: Young Street, Pioneer Plaza, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Catching a symphony performance in one of the local parks in the summer

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is one of the most prominent performing arts experiences in Dallas and remains the largest such organization in the southwest region of the United States. The symphony is known for its outstanding classical and modern concert performances that take place at Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center .

Under the direction of Fabio Luisi, the Dallas Symphony also regularly performs in other venues throughout Dallas and provides educational programs to give back to the city. If you visit during the summer, you can attend one of the free outdoor concerts during the Symphony in the Parks series that takes place in several Dallas community parks.

Address: 2301 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: More than 35,000 artifacts including some from the Hindenburg

The Frontiers of Flight Museum is home to more than 40 aircraft and space vehicles and has extensive exhibits that display the journey from the roots of aviation, from Leonardo da Vinci through modern space exploration. The museum's impressive collection includes a full-size model of the Wright Flyer, artifacts from the Hindenburg, as well as numerous WWI and WWII aircraft and artifacts.

Vintage aircraft on display include a fully restored Stearman PT-17 Kaydet Biplane, and the Apollo VII spacecraft. On display at the museum's Love Field location, the Braniff Gallery and Virgin America exhibit highlight the history of commercial aviation.

Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: You can visit both the Dealey Plaza and the memorial in the same visit with a short walk in between

Located just a few blocks away from Dealey Plaza, across from the city courthouse, stands the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza . This imposing yet understated monument to President Kennedy was designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, and its construction was completed in 1970 after years of controversy.

Resembling a cenotaph, the open tomb concept was designed by Johnson to represent what he saw as Kennedy's free spirit. Standing some 30 feet tall and 50 feet wide and made from large marble slabs, it's certainly an impressive site. Be sure to read the two epitaphs located at the entrances to the monument; they contain a thought-provoking remembrance of the President.

Address: 646 Main Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: A self-guided museum to get up close to vintage aircraft and military vehicles

Another excellent aviation museum to visit is the Cavanaugh Flight Museum . Located in Addison just north of Dallas, the museum's impressive collection of vintage aircraft are kept in a massive hangar, along with numerous accompanying artifacts and exhibits.

You can take a self-guided tour to see displays that include military planes used in Vietnam, the Korean War, WWI, and WWII, as well as civilian aircraft. There are also military trucks on display and armored vehicles, including an M50 Super Sherman.

Address: 4572 Claire Chennault Street, Addison, Texas

Highlights: The ongoing lectures and public events held at the museum

Founded in 1974, the African American Museum has a variety of displays of African American artistic, cultural, and historical materials. Full of references to traditional African motifs and cultural icons, the museum's collection includes numerous pieces of artwork, along with a library and historical archive.

In addition to hundreds of artifacts on display, the center features sculptures, paintings, and the largest collection of Folk Art by African Americans in the United States. Educational and entertainment programs are also hosted in the on-site theater.

Address: 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Funky vibe, historically jazz-influenced neighborhood, unique to other parts of Dallas

To experience one of Dallas' revitalized neighborhoods, you can spend a day in the Deep Ellum District . It is an old jazz district with a fun blend of historic 1800s essence and trendy grunge, as evidenced by the vintage signs and artsy murals as you walk along the streets.

The Ellum District is a one-stop place to visit for dining, arts, music, shopping, street art, and entertainment. You can find ample parking in small pay lots, and walk around the district at your leisure.

Highlight: VIP steak dinner events that you can enjoy like one of the elite characters on the hit tv show Dallas

If you were around in the 1980s and owned a television set, read newspapers, or worked in an office, there's little chance you'd have escaped the wave of interest that swept the world when Dallas hit the small screen.

Now that you know who shot JR, you can visit the location where the series was set: Southfork Ranch . About 25 miles north of Dallas, the ranch welcomes visitors for guided tours of the mansion. Afterward, you can enjoy an authentic Texan chuckwagon dinner on the grounds.

Address: 3700 Hogge Drive, Parker, Texas

Downtown Dallas is the place to stay for exploring the sights, and this is where many first-time visitors choose to find accommodation. Just north of here is the popular Uptown district, another good location with restaurants and entertainment options. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in or near these areas:

Luxury Hotels :

• Set in a great location close to the Arts District and within walking distance of several museums and other attractions, the Omni Dallas Hotel features a great terrace pool overlooking downtown.
• To experience the elegance and grandeur of the early 20th century, the historic Adolphus, Autograph Collection , first opened in 1912, is the perfect place to stay.
• In the Uptown district, the Hotel ZaZa is a charming boutique hotel with beautifully decorated themed rooms and a quaint pool area set in lush surroundings.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Homewood Suites by Hilton in downtown is an all-suites hotel in a good location near the Arts District, Convention Center, and numerous restaurants and shops.
• In the former Magnolia Petroleum Company Building, built in 1922, the historic Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown offers modern extended-stay suites and guest rooms and is conveniently located downtown.
• Another good mid-range option is the Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown , in a National Historic Landmark building, which was formerly the Dallas Opera House.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget options in downtown Dallas are limited, but good deals are available just outside the city center. In Uptown is the reasonably priced La Quinta Inn by Windham Dallas Uptown .
• A fair distance outside the city center but offering good value are the Days Inn by Wyndham Market Center and the Candlewood Suites Dallas Market Cntr-Love Field .

The best time to visit Dallas is in the spring or fall when you can comfortably visit all the attractions without the stifling heat and humidity of the summer.

The months of September, October, and November are ideal times to visit, when average daytime temperatures are in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit and there are fewer crowds at local venues. The temperatures are more bearable to enjoy local activities in the fall like the Texas State Fair and Dallas Cowboys football.

The spring months of March, April, and May are also comfortable times to enjoy visiting Dallas, especially with flowers in bloom and outdoor activities picking up. March temperatures average in the high 60s Fahrenheit during the daytime, with April hitting the high 70s and climbing to the mid-80s by May.

The rainiest months in Dallas are May and October, so you will want to pack a rain jacket and plan your museum and indoor attraction visits during these days. It is best to avoid the summer months of June, July, and August, when Dallas temperatures hold tight in the 90s to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity.

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If you’re planning a weekend or vacation in Dallas, Fort Worth, or any surrounding cities, you can do and see many things in the DFW area. There is a lively nightlife, a plethora of attractions and amusement parks, beautiful lakes, fantastic golf courses, good camping, restaurants, shops, etc.

Whether it’s flying fast on thrilling rides, enjoying the Dallas art district , or getting your two-step on, here are 25 of the best things to do in DFW.

State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas, a major celebration with a longstanding tradition dating back to 1886, is Dallas’ event of the year. The fair is held in Fair Park, a massive venue with many entertainment venues, museums, amusement rides, landmarks, gardens, etc. Every year, for about three weeks, Fair Park is overrun by visitors loving the most diverse types of entertainment, ranging from art exhibitions to food tastings and livestock competitions to live music shows.

Two notable highlights are a full-fledged, grand car show and the Red River Shootout, a football game between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. Big Tex, the event’s 55-foot-tall iconic mascot installed in the park, is in charge of it.

Fort Worth Water Gardens

The Fort Worth Water Gardens, located on the south end of downtown near the Convention Center, is a one-of-a-kind urban oasis surrounded by shade-giving trees and high walls. Philip Johnson designed the urban plaza, which includes 4.3 acres of waterfalls, three pools, and fountains.

The most famous sight is the active pool showcased in the 1976 sci-fi film Logan’s Run though there are three pools. You can feel the power of falling water all around you as you move down the terraced steps. The gardens are illuminated until 10 p.m., so visit them at night.

Dallas Museum of Art (DMA)

The Dallas Museum of Art, founded in 1903, is a prestigious and large art museum in Texas. Besides its program of rotating exhibitions, the DMA offers its visitors an international and varied range of permanent art collections.

The African Art collection focuses on artwork from the Sub-Saharan region. Meanwhile, the Contemporary Art collection features a diverse range of sculptures and paintings from contemporary artistic movements like minimalism and abstract expressionism. 

The Pacific Islands Art collection, on the other hand, consists of textiles and sculptures created on Indonesian islands. Many other collections, temporary and permanent, are on display, showing an impressive grasp of international and American art.

The Fort Worth Stockyards

Nearby Fort Worth, about an hour’s drive from downtown Dallas, offers an authentic Texas cowboy experience. The Fort Worth Stockyards is located in a national historic district that has the feel of a Western film set and hosts a twice-daily cattle drive.

This is the place to go if you want to go back in time, complete with brick walkways and wooden corrals. Daily rodeos, the world’s largest honky-tonk, horse-drawn carriage rides, and various BBQ joints render this the Texan experience that many tourists seek.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

The stunningly beautiful Perot Museum of Nature and Science was designed by Thom Mayne, a Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science has 11 permanent exhibit halls that provide hands-on science experiences for children, such as activities focusing on fossils, minerals, energy, geology, and technology. Other ways the Perot Museum engages visitors include speakers, architecture tours, and family experiments.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

On November 22, 1963, the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, was assassinated at the Dallas Dealey Plaza . Dealey Plaza is now a memorial site for the late president and home to the Sixth Floor Museum, where visitors can learn about that historic day and the president’s life and death. Watch short films, learn about artifacts, hear firsthand accounts, look at photographs, and more.

The museum also has a reading room and full library for additional literature on the subject and information about other aspects of Dallas history. Remember to look into the available youth, educational, and teaching programs.

Cedar Ridge Preserve

This is a place dedicated to wildlife and the environment. It is maintained by the Dallas Audubon society and is open to the public for free. There’s a lot of hiking on here, and many people come to let their dogs join in on the fun with their trails.

There’s something for everyone on the nine miles of trails, from easy to difficult. It’s peaceful and cool, thanks to the trees’ shade. Year-round, many people come to watch birds. It’s a favored destination by tourists and locals.

The Kimbell Art Museum

Even casual art fans will be impressed by Kimbell’s scope. Kimbell’s collection is world-class, ranging from 20th-century works to ancient art. It houses Michelangelo’s first painting and works by Picasso, Rembrandt, and Monet, making it among the best small museums in the country. The building is filled with natural light and has an open floor plan, making it a prime example of modern architecture.

The permanent collection at the Kimbell Art Museum can be seen in a single visit, but high-profile traveling showcases are worth going back to. Enjoy lunch at the museum’s well-prepared buffet of salads, sandwiches, and quiches while sitting in one of the city’s best museums’ manicured courtyards.

Six Flags Over Texas

A classic theme park, but an absolute must-see, Six Flags Over Texas, located about 15 miles outside of Dallas in Arlington, offers thrilling roller coasters, carnival-style games, great entertainment shows, and various restaurants. There is something for everyone, from rides like the Texas Giant and the Titan for teens and adults to softer rides like Bugs Bunny Boomtown and Daffy Duck Bucket Blasters for toddlers and small children.

With more than 45 rides, including five water rides, an all-access THE FLASH pass is required to enjoy everything Six Flags Over Texas offers.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The arboretum and botanical garden encompass 66 acres of gardens, ranging from ornamental to colorful and sunken. This beautiful, serene location is a year-round attraction that is enjoyable for people of all ages. Over 150 activities await children in the 8-acre Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, including The Texas Skywalk, a Walk in the Clouds, The Moody Oasis, and much more.

Grab a take-out lunch from one of the many restaurants and enjoy a lawn picnic while soaking up the rays, or relax and delight in a summer evening concert. Discover why the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is among the best family-friendly attractions in Dallas, with a scavenger hunt, outdoor and indoor learning galleries, and tons of interactive exhibits. Remember to take a camera; there are many photo opportunities.

Dallas Cowboy Stadium

It is unnecessary to be a Cowboys fan to enjoy the Dallas Cowboy Stadium. As the world’s largest domed structure, the AT&T Stadium is brimming with facts and entertainment. You can walk through the tunnel, tour the locker rooms, or admire the contemporary art on display. Guests can choose from four daily tours: self-guided, art tour, VIP tour, or educational tour.

Shop the official gift shop, grab a quick bite at the café, or play football (bring your own) on the field for as long as you like. The AT&T Stadium in Arlington is an experience that is sure to please everyone.

Texas Theatre

The Texas Theatre in Oak Cliff is a hidden gem that served as a haven for Lee Harvey Oswald after he murdered Officer J.D. Tippit. He was then apprehended. Later, Oswald would assassinate JFK.

It has withstood the test of time and has become a famed and charming theater for the ardent filmgoer. A director’s hall of fame shines brightly, honoring both new and established directors in the theater lobby. It’s almost like a mini-film museum, with old cameras and classic relics on display.

Independent films, independent screenings, film festivals, old classics, documentaries, and 35mm films are all shown at the theater. Any film buff would feel at ease here. They also have a full-service bar serving smaller batch boutique products, cheap Mexican and Texas beers, and a variety of homemade cocktails inspired by movies that you can take into the theater with you.

The Reunion Tower

The Reunion Tower is a 561-foot (170-meter) observation tower with a panoramic view of Dallas. The observation deck level includes digital and interactive experiences, such as information about the Reunion Tower, Dallas history, and more, along with numerous telescopes for a close-up view of the skyline.

Visit the Cloud Nine Café for a cool drink or snack, or dine at Five Sixty, a fine dining restaurant on the top, rotating floor. Enjoy a delectable gourmet meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the city. The tower is also linked to the Hyatt Regency Hotel, making it ideal for visitors who want to stay near this Dallas attraction.

Klyde Warren Park

Most parks are open green spaces where people can wander to get some fresh air, but not Klyde Warren Park! This public space is situated at the top of the Woodall Rodgers Freeway and serves as a hub for events and activities.

Enjoy Wednesday night Zumba, Sunday morning yoga, or Saturday afternoon boot camp and Tai Chi for your body. Attend a relaxing outdoor meditation session or a guided tour of the downtown skyline while learning about Dallas’ history. There are various food trucks at the park almost every day, including an ice cream truck!

You can also attend a concert or a free art class, and if you prefer a more traditional park experience, you can sunbathe, bring your dog to the dog park, play chess, or participate in a group sport.

Toyota Music Factory

Toyota Music Factory is poised to become one of Dallas Fort Worth’s most thriving entertainment concepts. The Pavilion, a concert stage that has hosted speakers and big-name acts like Hillary Clinton, Ringo Starr, and Trevor Noah, is the centerpiece. In addition, there is an Alamo Drafthouse and 25 restaurants.

Big Beat Dallas will be a key component of the Toyota Music Factory, providing daily live music, an open container beverage mandate between Big Beat Dallas restaurants, a morning farmer’s market, and late-night hours.

White Rock Lake

The lake (and adjacent park), once a privately-owned reservoir on over 1,000 acres of land, is a fantastic place to spend the day. The lake is popular for mild water activities such as sailing and kayaking, and the park has a 10-mile biking and hiking trail and is an excellent place for bird watching.

The lake has picnic areas and a dog park, and it is close to the Bath House Cultural Center, White Rock Lake Museum, and Dallas Arboretum. Rent a pavilion for a private family event or walk around the scenic waterfront to stay active.

Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza is a park with artificial cliffs and trees, but the park’s centerpiece is a life-size sculpture of a cattle drive, complete with three cowboys on horses and bronze longhorn cattle. Visitors frequently pose for photographs with the longhorn sculptures, hike around the cliffs, and stand in awe at the waterfall.

The Trinity River Audubon Center

This center, which opened in 2008 along the Trinity Riverbank, is located at the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest’s entrance. The Trinity River Audubon Center lets people explore miles of trails that showcase local vegetation, birds, and wildlife, along with public programs such as bird watching classes, guided hikes, and the opportunity to learn more about the four owl breeds native to Dallas.

There is also an indoor exhibit hall with native animals such as fish, lizards, snakes, etc. Visitors can also sample local honey from the six beehives, tour the eco-friendly buildings, and watch a film about the Trinity River and its history. The center also provides school field trips, such as the four-hour eco-investigations, including a guided hike, pond study, and nature study.

A two-hour guided trip down the Trinity River is ideal for a quick weekend getaway. The Trinity River Audubon Center educates Dallas residents about the natural habitat and the instability of the world’s largest urban forest ecosystem. 

The Trinity River Audubon Center is a fantastic place for volunteering, field trips, and fun. This is thanks to its scenic wooded trails, educational opportunities, and extensive visitor activities.

The Lone Star Park

Although casinos are illegal in the state, Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie has a Class 1 horse track and offers some gambling fun. It attracts 800,000 visitors per year and features a sports bar, horse racing on weekends during the season, and year-round events such as weddings, concerts, and meetings. With a one-mile track and seating for 8,000 people, you’re sure to have a good time here.

Nasher Sculpture Center

Raymond Nasher, the developer of NorthPark Center mall, was an avid art collector who amassed a jaw-dropping sculpture collection with his wife Patsy. Much of this was displayed (and still is) at the mall until they could build a more fitting permanent home.

To make these treasures available to the public, the Nasher Foundation secured funding for a Renzo Piano-designed museum with a 2-acre garden at the turn of the twenty-first century. The Nasher Sculpture Center stands out even more against the backdrop of downtown Dallas.

The center’s collection includes works by Alexander Calder, Barbara Hepworth, Giacometti, Richard Serra, Henry Moore, Gauguin, Matisse, Joan Miró, Claes Oldenburg, Picasso, and Rodin. Because they can only showcase a portion of the foundation’s holdings at one time, the exhibition at the center is rotated every few months.

Deep Ellum, just across the I-345 from downtown Dallas, is the place to go for live music, awesome bars, great food, and one-of-a-kind shops. Since the 1880s, this has been an entertainment district, and blues legends such as Bessie Smith, Leadbelly, and Blind Lemon Jefferson have all entertained crowds in their twenties and thirties.

The name is derived from the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, Elm Street, and appears in the Grateful Dead’s song “Deep Elm Blues” and the old blues song “Take a Whiff on Me.”  The live venues and clubs are too long to list, but Trees Dallas has seen performances by Radiohead, Arcade Fire, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam.

There is a slew of craft distilleries/breweries and the trailer park-themed Double Wide for concept bars. During the day, you can explore the street art and eat ramen (Oni), sushi (Nori), tacos (Tiki Loco), or southern comfort food (Get Fried, Brick & Bones).

Fort Worth Zoo

Fort Worth Zoo began modestly in 1909 with only a few animals. It is now a well-known facility throughout Texas and even the country. 

With 7,000 exotic and native animals, Fort Worth Zoo is the state’s oldest one. This is among the most exciting Fort Worth attractions for the whole family, with clear and easy-to-navigate pathways, a nice shade to walk under, and modern amenities.

Sixteen permanent exhibits dot the zoo, each with a different themed habitat designed to make the animals as comfortable as possible. It’s fun to go through them, and each location feels like it transports you somewhere new! The zoo frequently seeks to educate visitors on animal conservation so that everyone can benefit from it.

The most popular area of the zoo is probably Texas Wild!, an eight-acre area with seven different exhibits inside, each of which is dedicated to a different aspect of the state’s animals and plants. Other popular exhibits include Meerkat Mounds, Parrot Paradise, Raptor Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef, World of Primates, and the Museum of Living Art.

Cowtown Cycle Party

Taking part in the Cowtown Cycle Party is among the most exciting things in Fort Worth and a unique and excellent way to explore this Texas city today!

Each Cycle Party is a massive bar on wheels with a maximum capacity of 16 people, built to be rented in big crowds and taken to roam Fort Worth and see the best offers. The tour takes around two hours, though there aren’t any fixed routes.

Nonetheless, it includes some of the city’s most popular attractions and favorite spots, such as Sundance Square, Water Garden, and Magnolia Avenue. You’ll learn about the city’s history and culture, see beautiful architecture, and discover some restaurants and bars to visit later.

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

You can see a bison up close and personal at the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge, a wonderful area with 3,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies teeming with wildlife, including a fenced-in section for bison. Launch a canoe down the river, hike for hours, or observe a bison herd from a safe distance. It’s well worth the money.

The Dallas Zoo

The Dallas Zoo, located across the Trinity River from downtown Dallas, is a worthwhile family outing even without its main attraction. The Giants of the Savanna habitat is not something you’ll come across very often.

This $32.5 million habitat, which opened in 2011, houses reticulated ostriches, giraffes, impala, zebras, and guinea fowl. The zoo’s African elephants, warthogs, South African cheetahs, African lions, and African wild dogs live on the same site.

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The Perfect Dallas/Fort Worth Outdoor Itinerary

Whether you're a local or just got to Texas as fast as you could, I've mapped out the perfect Dallas/Fort Worth outdoor itinerary, chock-full of fun activities. Remember to travel safely. Wear a mask, stay home if you feel unwell and keep your distance. Get more information on traveling safely through Texas .  ​

As a native of Dallas, I'm very proud to call this city home. We have a surprisingly diverse landscape of activities, shopping, nightlife, art, culture and entertainment. But what's so often forgotten is that there are many outdoor options in and near the DFW metroplex. Whether you're wanting to get your heart pumping with a bike ride or a hike, leisurely gaze at the funky art scene, explore a historical neighborhood or capture an Instagram shot of the beautiful skyline, it's easy to keep yourself busy. The Dallas/Fort Worth area has 232 days of sunshine year-round! So you'll surely find a day that's perfect to enjoy outdoors. 

Dallas/Fort Worth Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 – See the best of Dallas! We'll spend a full day in Dallas exploring the best this historic city has to offer.

Day 2 – Dallas and Fort Worth. We'll start our day in Dallas, get some fun activities in along the way, then finish off in Fort Worth. 

This is a jam-packed schedule of fun and outdoor adventures for any age. Too many things to do? Feel free to take a few things off the daily itineraries.

Day 1 Outdoor Activities in Dallas

While Dallas has plenty of high-end things to do, those often come with a price tag. There are plenty of totally free outdoor activities in Dallas waiting for you. One of my favorite things about my hometown is that it welcomes everyone outside to enjoy the warm Texas weather, even in the heart of the city and no matter the time of year. Even better, exploring Dallas outdoors is an activity that can be done without spending a dime.

Morning at White Rock Lake

White Rock Lake is my favorite park in Dallas. It's beautiful, accessible and provides lots of activities. The 9.5-mile loop allows you to run, bike or walk. With 1,015 acres, you can easily go for a picnic, take photos of the skyline or even go stand-up paddleboarding. 

It’s hard to believe you can go fishing, kayaking or sailing so close to downtown, but that’s what makes this park so special. Head to the park during early morning to snap photos of the sunrise against the Dallas skyline. Don't forget, you can also bring your dog to the dog park here or take a stroll around the lake.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Located on White Rock Lake, you'll find the lovely 66-acre Dallas Arboretum . Filled with beautiful flowers, botanical plants and unique vegetation, this is a great place for all ages. Different seasons and holidays offer new decor, so you might even want to opt for a season pass to see all the different offerings. This is one of the most-visited botanical gardens in the country!

Afternoon at Deep Ellum Murals

The funky and cool area of Deep Ellum is one of the best areas of Dallas to see art for free. There are dozens of murals painted on buildings. You'll see everything from Texas and Dallas history, along with artist's renditions of people, places and influences. The rich cultural ties and artistic roots make Deep Ellum a haven for street art. If you're looking for a great Instagram shot, don't miss Deep Ellum. See the most Instagram-worthy spots in Dallas here. 

Klyde Warren Park

A park above the freeway? Yes! And it's meticulously landscaped along with unique features to photograph. Klyde Warren Park is located directly between the downtown and uptown districts. The 5.2 acres of play space for kids and adults is actually constructed above the Woodall Rodgers Freeway, offering a unique escape from the traffic that inevitably comes with city living. Here you can grab a bite to eat at the food trucks, walk your dog or enjoy a different view of Dallas.  

Evening at Highland Park Village

This is one of the prettiest areas of Dallas. You can drive around to see the homes and stroll around Highland Park Village , or go window shopping. It's one of the oldest open-air shopping centers in the country, which adds a bit of culture to your shopping adventure. Here, you’ll find names like Chanel, Fendi, Ralph Lauren and Jimmy Choo, as well as younger, trendier names like Anthropologie and Rag & Bone. This is also a great place to grab a coffee or see the historical movie theater. 

Trinity Skyline Trail

We're ending day one in Dallas with the perfect view of the skyline and our newish Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge . This 4.6-mile recreational trail is perfect for hikers & bikers, or those that just want a great view. Here, you can see the Trinity River in the Dallas Floodway. Another great place to take a walk in this west Dallas area is the Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge , right next to Trinity Groves , which is a mecca for outdoor patio restaurants.

Day 2 In and Around Dallas/Fort Worth

Morning at dallas farmers market.

Dating back to 1941 and founded on downtown’s east side, this market is one of the largest in Texas. It features more than 150 stalls, selling everything from honey, local produce and eggs to artisanal foods, Mexican imports and T-shirts. It’s easy to spend a big chunk of your day shopping and dining in the Dallas Farmers Market , and possibly even longer if you visit during a live musical performance or special event.

Cedar Ridge Preserve

A quick 20-minute drive from Dallas, and on your way to Fort Worth, the Cedar Ridge Preserve covers 600 acres with nine miles of trails, a butterfly garden and lush trees and wildflowers. Dallas is home to a shocking number of mountain biking paths. DORBA (Dallas Off-Road Bicycle Association) shares many great spots for mountain biking trails in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. 

Don't want to venture too far from the heart of Dallas? Check out the Katy Trail . This former rail line is a beacon for walkers and joggers near the Uptown and Downtown neighborhoods. This 3.5-mile trail is also near many of Dallas' must-see districts and restaurants.

Afternoon at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Just because Dallas has a great botanical garden, doesn't mean Fort Worth doesn't have an equally great one. Started in 1934, this is the oldest major botanical garden in Texas. The beautiful garden is focused on beauty, education and research, as well as the opportunity to observe and admire nature in the 110-acre space. My favorite is the Japanese Garden . Get ticket prices and more information for the Fort Worth Botanic Garden .

Midday at the Fort Worth Stockyards

If you really want to feel like a Texan, head to the stockyards . This is a historic district in Fort Worth, and twice a day, there's a cattle drive that's a must-see! In addition, you can see the historic buildings and walk the Texas Trail of Fame , where the Chisholm Trail began.

Evening at the Drive-In Movie Theater

You've had a busy past two days! Check out the Coyote Drive-In Theater in Fort Worth. This outdoor theater features a big, covered concession area serving local beers and snacks, plus there's a playground.

Now, you've really seen some of the best things to do in Dallas/Fort Worth!

This post is sponsored by Travel Texas. All opinions expressed are my own.

Helene Sula

Helene Sula is a Dallas native who has traveled the world with her husband and two dogs. After living in Germany for the past three years, she's back in Texas to continue blogging, writing a book, and experiencing America in an RV. Helene has a passion for photography and capturing the moment. A former social media marketer, Helene grew her blog and Instagram to become a full-time content creator and has helped 1,000s of other bloggers build and grow their brand through tried and tested strategies. You can find more from Helene here.

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DFW Visitor & Living Guide

It’s no accident that Dallas is known as Big D. As the ninth-largest city in the country, Dallas is all about BIG fun, BIG events, and BIG attractions. Home to exclusive shopping, world-renowned museums, five-star dining, lush green spaces, and vibrant nightlife, in Dallas, a visitor can do it all. And, in no small way. Check out our list of must-sees, in no order of importance.

Dallas Attractions

Dallas is justifiably proud of its big city vibe. For instance, at 68 acres in size, the Dallas Arts District is the largest self-contained urban arts district in the USA. This area includes the Museum of Art , Crow Collection of Asian Art, Nasher Sculpture Center , Morton H. Meyerson Symphony center and the AT&T; Performing Arts Center.

Popular Dallas attractions also include the Dallas Zoo , the Dallas Arboretum , the Texas Discovery Gardens , several historical sites and a bunch of top-rated restaurants.

Fort Worth Attractions

Fort Worth sights are an interesting combination of sophistication and earthiness. Locals often brag that Fort Worth is, “Where the West begins,” and rightfully so. This city was founded on wealth from cattle and hardworking cowboys. Even now, the city’s own herd of handsome longhorn cows strut through the Fort Worth Stockyards twice a day!

Everywhere you turn, there are interesting Fort Worth attractions to explore: Cowtown boasts an award-winning zoo, a world class opera house, and is home to the only Michelangelo painting in the western hemisphere.

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Dallas-Fort Worth Outdoors Guide

Dallas is the ultimate playground. Klyde Warren Park is a new, modern 5.2-acre green space above Woodall Rodgers Freeways that connects Uptown neighborhood to downtown. The innovative park features a concert stage, children’s playground, dog park, food trucks, free Wi-Fi, and free exercise classes. Two other outdoor venues are the $17.4 million Main Street Garden Park, a 1.75-acre public park located in downtown Dallas, and the 120-acre Trinity River Audubon Center, a beautiful renovation project.

Dallas-Fort Worth Sports

Attention Sports Nuts: Dallas is the ideal city for you. AT&T Stadium is home to “America’s Favorite team,” the NFL Dallas Cowboys. The stadium covers 73-acres is 900-feet in length and features an end-zone to end zone, convertible-like retractable stadium ceiling. Visitors can also see the Texas Rangers play baseball at the Globe Life Park and the American Airlines Center see the Dallas Mavericks shoot basketball hoops, and the Dallas Stars take hockey to battle on the ice. If you want to watch one of Dallas’ amazing sports teams, but not at an actual game, the Owner’s Box at Omni Dallas Hotel is a sports lover’s dream with state-of-the-art features and the latest technology including a 16-foot screen for viewing the game.

Dallas-Fort Worth Restaurant Guide

There are nearly 4,000 dining options in Dallas and 12,000 in DFW. Opened by Macaroni Grill founder Phil Romano, Trinity Groves is one of the first incubator concepts in the nation helping small businesses get started. Located in the center of Klyde Warren Park, Savor Gastropub is a modern gastropub run by veteran chef John Coleman.

Dallas-Fort Worth Nightlife Guide

When the sun sets, Dallas comes to life. For live music, head to Deep Ellum , one of Dallas’ oldest districts. In the early 1900s, it was best known for Jazz and Blues, and today it’s still rocking. The Cedars Social is a cocktail den and kitchen featuring handcrafted drinks by one of the nation’s leading barmen, Michael Martensen, and modern comfort food by award-winning chef John Tesar. With live music on the weekends, an outdoor patio, a cozy fireplace, and a killer menu, Lee Harvey’s lives up to its legendary name.

Dallas-Fort Worth Spas & Hotels

If you are worn out and need a little R&R, Dallas is the place to unwind. Four great options are all located in hotels : Exhale Spa at the Highland Hotel; The Ritz-Carlton Dallas Spa; ESPA at the Joule Hotel; and Mokara Spa at the Omni Dallas Hotel. While Exhale Spa offers traditional services, it’s in unique ones, such as barre and yoga classes and acupuncture, in which it shines. For classics like massage and facials, visit one of Dallas’ most timeless hotels, the Ritz-Carlton Dallas, or Omni Dallas Hotel’s Mokara Spa. And, ESPA Spa at the Joule houses the first ESPA branded spa in Texas.

Dallas-Ft. Worth Art Guide

Dallas has an arts district made up of 20 square blocks of artistic and cultural destinations, with five cultural venues designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects. Spanning three blocks and 19 acres, the district is home to four buildings designed by Pritzker prize-winning architects. Within walking distance of one another, visitors will find the Dallas Museum of Art , Nasher Sculpture Center, Trammel Crow Center, and Crow Collection of Asian Art , Belo Mansion, the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art boasts an encyclopedic collection of more than 23,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history.

Located adjacent to the DMA, the 55-000-square-foot Nasher Sculpture Center features more than 300 pieces. Music lovers adore the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, home to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and the AT&T Performing Arts Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, which is considered as the most significant new performing arts complex to be built since New York City’s Lincoln Center. The Trammell Crow Center exhibits works of art from Japan, China, India, and Southeast Asia, dating from 3500 B.C. to the early 20th century; while One Arts Plaza is a multi-use structure that offers living space and five extraordinary restaurants: Yolk, Proof + Pantry, Fedora, Tei An and Jorge’s.

Dallas-Fort Worth Shopping Guide

Dallas takes shopping seriously. It boasts the original flagship Neiman Marcus opened in 1907. Highland Park Village, the first planned shopping center, is home to the most exclusive stores, including Chanel, Hermes, and Dior. NorthPark Center , known as the country’s first indoor, climate-controlled mall, marries shopping with award-winning art. Galleria Dallas , another premier shopping mall, boasts an ice rink, plus 200 of the most celebrated shops in the world, including American Girl Boutique and a brand new Belk Department Store. The hip area known as Uptown features the happening West Village Shopping Center, which is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and the ever-popular Magnolia movie theater.

Dallas-Fort Worth Family Fun

If you’re visiting Dallas with the kids in tow, don’t fret. Enjoy a meal with 360 views of Dallas at Cloud Nine at Reunion Tower. To introduce culture to your kid, take in a Broadway-style performance at the Dallas Children’s Theatre, where shows include everything from Skippy John Jones to Miracle on 34th Street. For the adventuresome kid, visit Perot Museum of Nature and Science where you’ll find interactive exhibits for kids of all ages. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, visit the 8-acre, interactive Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which features 17 indoor and outdoor galleries, located in the 66-acre Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden . Another outdoor favorite is the Dallas Zoo , where patrons can feed giraffes and view the groundbreaking 11-acre Giants of the Savanna exhibit, which mixes African animals such as elephants, zebras, and ostriches in the same habitat.

Dallas-Fort Worth History

Perhaps the most talked-about attraction is the George W. Bush Presidential Museum and Library, which opened in 2013 to a warm welcome from all five living presidents. The Center offers visitors a chance to experience the American Presidency with interactive exhibits, a full-sized replica of the Oval Office, thousands of photographs, and a theater. To learn more about politics and history in Texas, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza and the John F. Kennedy Memorial are as stirring as they are innovative; and Southfork Ranch shows a side of Dallas that was once featured on the small screen, as the homestead of the Ewing family in the long-running TV show Dallas.

Dallas-Fort Worth Summer Fun

Whether it’s the triple-digit degrees of summer or the brisk chills of winter, Dallas has a pool for you. As one of the newer infinity pools in the Dallas hotel scene, NYLO South Side, with its rooftop bar and restaurant, offers an ideal view of the city’s skyline. The Omni Dallas also features an infinity pool and is heated in the wintertime, making it ideal year-round. On the 16th floor of the W Hotel, this rooftop glass-enclosed pool awaits, with drink service available poolside. And families adore The Fairmont Dallas’ terrace pool, a junior Olympic-sized pool on the hotel’s terrace level, where visitors are treated to the summertime Dive-In Movie series.

Top Tourist Attractions In Texas

These are the top tourist attractions in texas today.

T here’s no doubt Texas is a great place to live. We have so much to see and do. I sometimes think I won’t be able to see it all in my lifetime. The Lone Star State, the second-largest state in the United States, can overwhelm a person, especially a native like me. I hope to see it all, but if I don’t get to, I can at least write about it and share it with you all. Here are the top tourist attractions in Texas to put on your to-do list. And don’t wait too long!

From the massive amusement parks in Texas to our wonderful national parks, historical sites, world-class museums, and beautiful beaches in the south (we think so), you’ll need to make several trips here to see all these top attractions below.

North Texas

Dallas world aquarium.

One of Texas’s most popular tourist attractions is the Dallas World Aquarium. The aquarium features an impressive collection of plants and animals worldwide. Some say it’s a zoo, too. Visitors can see many different animal species on land, including snakes, lizards, and many more.

You can also find a variety of marine life, such as sea turtles, seahorses, and jellyfish that live in the aquarium’s massive ocean tank. Several exhibits feature plants and other wildlife native to North Texas. In addition to its exhibits, the aquarium offers educational programs for schoolchildren and families.

The Dallas World Aquarium is located in downtown Dallas’s West End Historic District—admission charge.

Dallas Arboretum And Botanical Garden

The Dallas Arboretum features many acres of beautiful gardens full of various flowers and plants within its season. It holds special events throughout the year, including its top two – one in spring and the other in fall. Don’t miss the two historical mansions filled with art and furniture from days gone by—admission charge.

The Sixth Floor Museum

A museum dedicated to the events surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s life, assassination, and the legacy he left behind.

Here, Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed President John F. Kennedy. This museum is dedicated to preserving history and educating visitors about the incident.

The Sixth Floor Museum is on the sixth floor of the old Texas School Book Depository building at the Dealey Plaza and is one of the most popular attractions in Dallas—admission charge.

According to Viator , the Sixth Floor Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Texas.

Fort Worth Botanical Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is an award-winning public garden boasting over 13,000 plants worldwide and is open year-round. If you want to see it all, you’ll spend a long time here. The gardens included are a Japanese Garden, a Desert Bonsai Display, a rose garden, and a few more. It’s large, and you’ll do a lot of walking. We saw one restaurant, and it didn’t open until 11 am. Visitors can also participate in several events throughout the year, such as Holiday Lights.

Fort Worth Zoo

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of Texas’ best zoos, with over 500 animal species, including birds, mammals, and reptiles that can be seen up close …and it’s airconditioning. When the weather is almost unbearable in the summer, we go inside to cool off, but we are always amazed at the chimpanzees and other outdoor animals. Our favorite is the bears.

Fort Worth Stockyards

Fort Worth is known as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” and it’s easy to see why. The city’s historic stockyards are home to shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and even a working cattle drive …and real cowboys! At the center of it is the Livestock Exchange Building, so don’t miss that.

Six Flags Over Texas

An amusement park in Texas that many states north of Texas visit. Fun things happen here all day and into the night. I can’t count how many times I went as a kid and the times I took my kid and grandkids. I am due to take my youngest and his friends, but waiting until they are old enough to want to ride all the roller coasters. Please save your money, because it’s not cheap! But it is the perfect place to have happy kids all day long. Go as soon as it opens in the season and early for shorter lines and better parking spaces.

Central Texas

Texas state capitol.

The Texas State Capitol is located in downtown Austin and is one of Texas’ most iconic buildings and one of the most impressive state capitols in the country.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the building or stroll around leisurely. Touring the State Capitol Building is a must, especially if you’re a Texan. I think I’ve only visited three times in my life. I’m due to take my grandson for sure.

Make a weekend out of your visit.

Austin is known as one of the most beautiful cities in Texas, with its iconic skyline and famous music scene. Having the title Live Music Capital of the World , you can definitely do more there besides touring the Capitol. Making a weekend out of your visit is easy, with live entertainment on every corner. It is an outdoor lover’s paradise with many opportunities to hike, bike, camp, and kayak.

Texas Hill Country

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you’ll love the Texas Hill Country. It’s a haven for outdoor adventure, known for its natural beauty and scenic views. This region in Central Texas is known for its rolling hills, rivers, and lakes. The Hill Country is also home to several state parks that offer camping and hiking trails. The scenic drive along is enough for me. The area also has many wineries, breweries, and distilleries open to the public.

Dripping Springs

In the small town of Dripping Springs, you’ll find Hamilton Pool, with daring limestone cliffs and beautiful waterfalls. It was once a popular swimming hole, but swimming is no longer allowed. Jacob’s Well in Wimberley offers swimming and is worth a trip (I hear).

While in Dripping Springs, visit the visitor center and ask about the true dripping springs. Ask if they have time to tell how the town got its name. The springs are on private property and across the street from the visitor center.

The Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels features several shops, boutiques, and restaurants, including the Gruene Hall, one of Austin’s oldest dance halls. The banks of the Guadalupe River adorn the town. You can also rent inner tubes to float the river. There is a company around the corner from the town –ask someone where it is if you can’t find it.

South Texas

The Alamo is the top national historic landmark in Texas, where visitors spend much of their vacations. San Antonio gets lots of visitors because of the Alamo. This historic site was built as a mission and turned into a frontier outpost. Now it’s where we all convene to learn about our Texas history. The gift shop has a wide variety of Texas souvenirs, including books about the Alamo.

San Antonio Riverwalk River View. Photo Credit: Valencia Hotel Group

San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk is probably the most popular attraction in Texas. It spans 10 miles between downtown San Antonio and Mission Reach Park at its northernmost point. The riverwalk offers over 20 restaurants, hotels, and shopping. If anything, you can enjoy strolling 0n the cobbled walkways along the river banks, viewing all the beautiful buildings and the landscape, and watching the riverboats full of people go by.

The riverboat cruises are fun as well. The tour guide tells the story of the buildings and the history of San Antonio, and I bet they will display information you never knew about. I think you’ll be in awe of it.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Texas’ largest cavern with awe-inspiring cavities and great guided tours. Hidden Wonders is the newest and biggest cave tour at Natural Bridge Caverns.

If you’re feeling it, the zip line course out there now is fun. But I have not been since it’s been added.

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch next door is a drive-through ranch with over 45 animals. Has a separate admission charge.

South Padre Island

South Padre Island (SPI) is a haven for Texans and out-of-state travelers. Popular activities and attractions in SPI include:

• Padre Island National Seashore
• Dolphin Tours
• Isla Blanca Park
• Visit the SPI birding and alligator sanctuary
• Sea Turtle Rehab and Rescue Center
• Build a Sandcastle
• Adventure Park
• Horseback riding on the beach

Image by David Mark from Pixabay

Space Center Houston

FYI. Space Center Houston is the official museum and Visitor Center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

It is a great place to learn about the history of space exploration and get hands-on with some exciting exhibits. From seeing the real Apollo 11 capsule, Apollo 12 Lunar Module Simulator, and the Mission Control Center to learning how astronauts eat in space, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do here. It also has an IMAX theater, which shows various films throughout the year.

Houston Museum Of Natural Science

A unique experience learning about education with interactive exhibits: if it’s anything link the one in Fort Worth, you and your children will be amazed. See the planetarium and butterfly exhibit, and if it’s still there, check out the shark tank. Sharks have always fascinated me, but I wouldn’t want to get up close to one!!

Museum Of Fine Arts, Houston

The Museum District of Houston houses many museums, including this one, and showcases many local artists.

Scenic view of the window in Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park, a West Texas treasure, is a natural area that covers many square miles along the Rio Grande River. The park contains mountains, desert lands, and acres of land untouched by man. Various wildlife is made up of bobcats, coyotes, javelinas, and many more that are hidden from visitors.

Several hiking trails, biking trails, and kayaking opportunities are available along the riverbanks. No matter what season you visit Big Bend National Park, you will find something new each time you visit. This park is excellent for nature lovers and adventurers of all levels.

It amazes me why this national park is on every list I research. It’s one of Texas’s top tourist attractions, yet no one visits it. That’s right, Big Bend National Park doesn’t get that many visitors because it’s so far from everyone. Heck, I have yet to go. My parents took us on many road trips, but not this one – they went alone. My mom still reminds me that she and my dad rode a donkey in Mexico for only $5.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Cadillac Ranch

Just outside Amarillo lies Cadillac Ranch — a roadside attraction consisting of 10 Cadillacs buried nose-first into an earthwork sculpture stretching across two miles of Texas highway I-40 near Amarillo in the state’s Panhandle region.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in southwestern Texas and continues into New Mexico. The park includes a 24-mile stretch of mountains, several high plateaus, and desert valleys between El Paso, Texas, and Carlsbad, New Mexico.

It offers camping facilities and hiking trails that will appeal to all levels of hikers, from beginners to experts.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Photo Credit: Chastity V.

Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon State Park  is a beautiful destination only 15 miles from downtown Amarillo, Texas. in West Texas.

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park has many different trails for visitors to explore, including those that lead to overlooks with incredible views of the canyon floor below.

We can forget about beautiful East Texas. I didn’t find any top tourist attractions in my research, but I want to add my own because there is so much to see in the piney woods.

What about Nacogdoches? It’s the oldest town in Texas.

Caddo Lake State Park, where you can see large cypress trees.

Or what about all the other beautiful state parks? Go explore!

And you may find this article interesting too – Top Attractions In The Texas Panhandle .