10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Dallas, Texas
Planning a trip to
Dallas, Texas? Or maybe you live nearby in
Dallas County and want some fresh ideas for a weekend? Either way, you’re in the right place.
Dallas is big, bold, and full of surprises. From world-class museums to classic Texas BBQ, rooftop views, and quiet nature escapes, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Below are
10 things to do in Dallas (and close by) that give you a real taste of the city.
1. Explore Downtown Dallas & Klyde Warren Park
If you’re new to Dallas, start downtown. It’s easy to walk around, and there’s a lot packed into a small area.
Right in the middle of it all is
Klyde Warren Park, a green space literally built over a freeway. It’s like Dallas took a concrete jungle and planted a park right on top of it.
- Food trucks lined up at lunchtime
- Lawn games, live music, and yoga classes
- A children’s area with a playground and splash pad
I once spent an entire afternoon just wandering the park, grabbing tacos from a truck, and people‑watching. It feels like the city’s living room.
From the park, you can easily walk to:
- The Dallas Museum of Art
- Historic buildings downtown
- Trendy bars and restaurants in the Arts District
2. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Dallas is closely tied to one of the biggest moments in U.S. history: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
At the
Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, you stand in the very building where the events of November 22, 1963, unfolded. The museum does a powerful job of telling the story without being over‑dramatic.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Historic photos and videos
- News clips from that day
- Exhibits about JFK’s life and legacy
Even if you’re not a big history buff, it’s hard not to feel something standing by the window and looking out over Dealey Plaza.
It’s one of those
must-do things in Dallas at least once.
3. Stroll (and Snack) Through the Dallas Arts District
Just a short walk from Klyde Warren Park, you’ll find the
Dallas Arts District, the largest urban arts district in the country.
Within a few city blocks, you can:
- Explore the Dallas Museum of Art (general admission is often free)
- Check out modern art at the Nasher Sculpture Center
- Catch a show at the Winspear Opera House or the Wyly Theatre
Even if you’re not usually into art, the sculptures and outdoor spaces are fun to wander.
Here’s a simple tip:
Visit during the day for museums, then come back at night when the buildings are all lit up. Grab a drink on a nearby rooftop and watch the city glow.
4. Meet Animals at the Dallas Zoo
Traveling with kids? Or just a kid at heart? The
Dallas Zoo is one of the top family-friendly things to do in Dallas.
The zoo covers over 100 acres and includes:
- Giants of the Savanna: giraffes, elephants, and zebras
- A walk‑through aviary to see birds up close
- Hands‑on experiences like feeding giraffes
Plan for at least half a day here, especially if you’re visiting in cooler months. In the Texas summer, try to arrive early in the morning when it’s not blazing hot.
5. Shop, Dine, and People‑Watch in Deep Ellum
If you want to see Dallas’ creative side, head to
Deep Ellum.
This historic neighborhood is known for:
- Colorful street art and murals (perfect for photos)
- Live music venues and bars
- Independent shops and local restaurants
Deep Ellum has roots in jazz and blues, and you can still catch live bands most nights of the week. You might wander in for a quick dinner and end up staying for hours.
Ask yourself:
Am I hungry, or do I just want an excuse to try Texas BBQ, burgers, and tacos all in one night?
In Deep Ellum, it’s easy to do both.
6. See the City from Reunion Tower
Want a bird’s‑eye view of Dallas? Go up in the sky.
Reunion Tower is the round “ball” on the city’s skyline that you’ll spot from all over town. Inside, an observation deck gives you 360‑degree views of the city.
Why it’s worth it:
- Stunning views, especially at sunset or after dark
- Interactive screens to help you spot landmarks
- Great photo opportunities of downtown Dallas
If you’re celebrating something special—like a birthday or anniversary—consider planning your visit around golden hour when the city looks its best.
7. Eat Your Way Around Trinity Groves
If you love trying new restaurants,
Trinity Groves is a fun spot just west of downtown, near the base of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge.
Think of it like a food playground. In one compact area, you’ll find:
- BBQ and burgers
- Tacos and Tex‑Mex
- Dessert shops and casual bars
You can park once and walk between spots. It’s perfect if your group can’t agree on what to eat—everyone can find something they like.
After dinner, walk across the nearby pedestrian bridge for great skyline views of Dallas. It’s also a nice place to snap a nighttime photo of the city lights.
8. Wander the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Need a break from traffic, noise, and tall buildings? Head to the
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden on the shores of
White Rock Lake.
This peaceful spot offers:
- 66 acres of landscaped gardens
- Seasonal festivals like the famous pumpkin village in the fall
- Views of the lake and Dallas skyline in the distance
Bring comfortable shoes and a bottle of water. It’s easy to spend a few hours slowly exploring.
If you’re visiting with kids, there’s a dedicated children’s garden with fun, hands‑on exhibits. It’s one of the best
outdoor things to do in Dallas when the weather is nice.
9. Catch a Game or Tour a Stadium
Dallas and sports go hand in hand. Even if you’re not a die‑hard fan, the local stadiums are impressive to see.
Here are a few options in and around Dallas County:
- American Airlines Center in Dallas – Home of the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) and Dallas Stars (NHL). Catch a game or a big concert.
- Cotton Bowl Stadium at Fair Park – A historic venue used for football games and special events like the State Fair of Texas.
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther in the metro area:
- AT&T Stadium in nearby Arlington – Often called “Jerry World,” home of the Dallas Cowboys. Stadium tours are popular, even in the offseason.
Checking the event calendar before your trip can reward you with a last‑minute ticket to a game or concert you’ll never forget.
10. Experience the State Fair of Texas (Seasonal)
If you’re in Dallas in the fall, you’re in luck. The
State Fair of Texas, held at
Fair Park, is one of the biggest and most famous fairs in the country.
What to expect:
- Over‑the‑top fried foods (fried Oreos, fried butter, and more)
- Rides, games, and live music
- Iconic “Big Tex,” the huge talking cowboy statue
It’s loud, colorful, and a little wild—in the best way.
Even if you’re just visiting Dallas for a weekend, the State Fair gives you a big dose of Texas culture all in one place.
Tips for Visiting Dallas, Texas
To make the most of your trip to Dallas and Dallas County, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Weather: Summers get hot—often over 95°F. Plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.
- Getting around: Dallas is spread out. Having a car helps, though ride‑share apps and the DART light rail can be useful.
- Dress code: Casual is normal almost everywhere. Bring comfortable walking shoes.
- Food: Don’t leave without trying Texas BBQ and Tex‑Mex at least once.
Ready to Plan Your Dallas Adventure?
Dallas is more than just a big city in North Texas. It’s a mix of:
- Urban energy
- Deep history
- Outdoor spaces
- Seriously good food
Whether you’re into museums, sports, nature, or nightlife, you’ll find plenty of
fun things to do in Dallas and around Dallas County.
What about you?
Which of these spots are you most excited to visit—Klyde Warren Park, Deep Ellum, the Arboretum, or somewhere else?
Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you’ve already been to Dallas, drop your favorite hidden gem or restaurant recommendation so other travelers can check it out too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Dallas, Texas!
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