10 Fun Things To Do In & Around Denton, Texas
If you’re looking for a laid‑back North Texas getaway with a creative vibe, live music, and small‑town charm,
Denton, Texas is a great pick. Tucked in
Denton County, just about 40 miles north of Dallas and Fort Worth, this college town feels cozy but never boring.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting kids at college, or just passing through on I‑35, here are
10 fun things to do in and near Denton that locals and visitors love.
1. Stroll Around Denton’s Historic Downtown Square
If you only have time for one thing in Denton, make it the
Denton Historic Square.
At the center sits the beautiful
Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square, built in 1896. The building looks like something out of an old Western movie, and on a sunny day its stone walls practically glow.
Around the square, you’ll find:
- Local shops – vintage clothing, vinyl records, books, gifts, and antiques.
- Restaurants and bars – from tacos to burgers to craft beer.
- Live music – many bars and venues host bands most nights of the week.
Grab a coffee, walk a slow lap around the square, and do some people‑watching. On weekends, you’re likely to catch street musicians or a small event happening on the courthouse lawn.
2. Tour the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum
While you’re on the square, step inside the
Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum.
This small museum gives you a look at
Denton County history — from Native American artifacts to farming tools to stories from the early days of the town. The building itself is the real star: high ceilings, detailed woodwork, and big stone staircases.
Why go?
- It’s free or very low‑cost (check current info before you go).
- It’s a quick, easy stop — you can see it in under an hour.
- It’s air‑conditioned, which matters in a Texas summer.
If you enjoy old buildings and local history, this is a simple and satisfying way to learn what shaped Denton.
3. Explore the University of North Texas & Fry Street Area
Denton is a true
college town, home to the
University of North Texas (UNT) and
Texas Woman’s University (TWU). UNT, in particular, is famous for its music program, which helps explain why Denton has such a strong live music scene.
Take a walk through the UNT campus:
- Stroll the green spaces and tree‑lined walkways.
- Check out the Union for food options and student life.
- Look for public art and murals scattered around.
Just off campus is the
Fry Street area, a classic student hangout spot with bars, eateries, and patios. It’s a good place to:
- Grab a drink and some bar food.
- Catch live music at a small venue.
- Soak in the laid‑back, artsy Denton vibe.
If you’re visiting with a high school student, walking the campuses can double as a casual college tour.
4. Enjoy Live Music at Local Venues
Denton punches way above its weight when it comes to
live music. Thanks to UNT’s music school and a strong arts community, you can find bands playing everything from jazz and indie rock to country and blues.
Some well‑known spots (always check current lineups and hours):
- Dan’s Silverleaf – a classic Denton venue with touring and local bands.
- Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios – artsy, alternative, and very “Denton.”
- Bars and restaurants around the square that host acoustic sets and open mics.
If you love discovering new artists before they’re famous, this is your kind of town. Show up with an open mind, and you might leave with a new favorite band.
5. Visit the Denton Community Market (Seasonal)
On many Saturday mornings in warm weather, the
Denton Community Market pops up near downtown (usually from spring through fall).
Think of it as a mix of:
- Farmers market – fresh produce, honey, baked goods.
- Art market – handmade jewelry, art, crafts, soaps, and candles.
- Mini festival – live music, food trucks, and families with kids and dogs.
It’s an easy way to support local makers, grab breakfast or coffee, and enjoy the Denton community vibe. If you’re visiting on a weekend, check the schedule and swing by for an hour or two.
6. Get Outside at Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Ready to trade coffee shops for pine trees? Head about 20–25 minutes northeast of Denton to
Ray Roberts Lake State Park in Denton County.
This park is a popular spot for:
- Hiking and biking – miles of trails with views of the lake.
- Swimming – designated swim areas (great for hot summer days).
- Camping – tent sites and RV spots if you want to stay overnight.
- Fishing and boating – bring your gear and cast a line from shore or boat.
If you enjoy simple outdoor fun — think picnic tables, grills, and sunset over the water — Ray Roberts is worth the short drive. Pack sunscreen, plenty of water, and maybe a portable hammock.
7. Ride or Walk the A‑Train & Local Trails
Denton has something you don’t see in every small city: a commuter rail line called the
A‑train. It connects Denton to Carrollton, where you can transfer to the DART system that reaches into Dallas.
Ways to make it part of your day:
- Take a low‑stress train ride just for fun, especially with kids who love trains.
- Use it as a car‑free way to explore more of North Texas.
Along with the train, Denton has a growing network of
bike and walking trails. On a nice day, rent a bike or simply walk:
- Local greenways and park paths.
- Neighborhood routes near UNT and TWU.
It’s a simple, budget‑friendly way to see more than you would from inside a car.
8. Check Out the Denton Firefighters’ Museum
For something a little different, stop by the
Denton Firefighters’ Museum.
Located inside a working fire station, this small museum showcases:
- Historic fire trucks and equipment.
- Old uniforms and helmets.
- Photos and stories from Denton’s firefighting past.
Kids who love fire trucks will be thrilled, and adults often find the history surprisingly fascinating. Since it’s a real firehouse, it’s smart to check current visiting hours and be respectful of any active calls.
9. Taste Denton: Local Restaurants, Coffee, and Craft Beer
Food might not be a “thing to do” on its own, but in Denton it almost is. The city has a strong
local food and drink scene with a lot of personality.
You’ll find:
- Tex‑Mex and tacos – you’re in North Texas, after all.
- Burgers and comfort food – casual and hearty.
- Coffee shops – perfect for working, reading, or just relaxing.
- Craft breweries and bars – many with patios and live music.
If you like to plan ahead, search for “best restaurants in Denton TX” or “Denton coffee shops” and build your own little food tour. Or just wander around the square and follow your nose.
10. Take a Short Drive to Lewisville Lake
A lot of visitors to Denton also spend time at nearby
Lewisville Lake, which stretches into Denton County. It’s only about a 20–30 minute drive from downtown Denton, depending on where you go.
At Lewisville Lake, you can:
- Rent a boat or join a friend on the water.
- Fish from shore or by boat.
- Relax at lakeside parks with picnic tables and swim areas.
If you’re visiting in the summer and want a classic Texas lake day — cool water, warm sun, and a cooler packed with drinks and snacks — Lewisville Lake is a solid choice.
Planning Your Trip to Denton, Texas
Here are a few quick tips to make your Denton visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall tend to be the most comfortable, weather‑wise. Summers are hot, but that’s where lakes and air‑conditioned bars come in handy.
- Getting around: A car is helpful, but you can walk a lot once you’re near the square or campuses. Rideshare services are also available.
- Where to stay: Look for hotels near downtown Denton or along I‑35 for easy access.
If you like places that feel creative, friendly, and a bit quirky, Denton will probably win you over. It’s big enough to offer variety, but small enough that you can actually relax.
What Would You Do in Denton?
Have you been to
Denton, Texas or anywhere else in
Denton County?
- Which spots did you enjoy the most?
- Did you discover a great coffee shop, bar, or hiking trail?
- Is there a hidden gem that didn’t make this list?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments — your ideas help other travelers plan a better trip.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a North Texas visit or a weekend road trip. The more people discover Denton’s charm, the better these local businesses and artists can thrive.
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