trip spots in dallas

Dallas   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Pgiam | Getty Images

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

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

• All Things To Do

Klyde Warren Park Klyde Warren Park free

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

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

Dallas Museum of Art Dallas Museum of Art free

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Tours

JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House

(1741 reviews)

from $ 76.92

Dallas' Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket

(492 reviews)

from $ 24.50

John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas

(389 reviews)

from $ 22.00

Reunion Tower Reunion Tower

Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from atop Reunion Tower, which stands 470 feet high in downtown. Referred to as "The Ball" by locals thanks to its spherical shape, Reunion Tower offers an indoor/outdoor GeO-Deck that's accessible via an elevator on the tower's ground floor. From the top of the tower, you'll spot some of the city's most famous landmarks and attractions, including Dealey Plaza .

Recent visitors raved about the view and the friendly staff. A few recommended going during the day and at night to enjoy both perspectives of the city.

Dallas Arts District Dallas Arts District free

Culture hounds will want to devote a day to exploring the Dallas Arts District, which is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States. Sprawling across more than 20 square blocks, the neighborhood features museums, performing arts venues, restaurants and bars. Popular attractions within the Dallas Arts District include the Crow Collection of Asian Art , Klyde Warren Park , the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , among others. Performance venues abound as well and include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, which houses the Winspear Opera House and the Wyly Theatre.

Recent visitors praised the amount of coffee shops and restaurants in the area, as well as the variety of things to see and do. Popular restaurants include Musume and Yolk. 

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Perot Museum of Nature and Science

If you've brought the kids to the Big D, set aside some time for a visit to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This 180,000-square-foot facility is jam-packed with hands-on exhibits and educational displays that address such topics as anatomy and energy. One particular highlight for recent visitors was the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, which features towering dinosaur skeletons and an educational scavenger hunt. The Rose Hall of Birds also captivated visitors: Here, interactive displays explain how birds fly and socialize.

Many travelers say that the Perot Museum makes an excellent respite from the hot and humid Texas weather and they were pleasantly surprised by the museum's excellent hands-on exhibits. Reviewers also said this is a great activity for the whole family, as its attractions appeal to a wide range of age groups.

Best Dallas Tours

Dallas Tours

The 8 Best Dallas Tours

April 23, 2020

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Visiting in spring or fall? Plan your trip to the arboretum around the Cool Thursdays Concert Series, which showcases some of the region’s best performers. Pack a picnic and a blanket or chair, as concerts take place on the lawn. – Justine Harrington

True, Dallas has plenty of towering skyscrapers and traffic-laden highways. But it's also rich in green space. For a respite from the big city, head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which occupies 66 acres in White Rock Lake Park about 7 miles northeast of downtown. Forget about the hustle and bustle with a stroll through the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, where more than 2,000 varieties of azaleas blossom in the spring and several acres of chrysanthemums come to life during the fall. Crepe Myrtle Allee is another must-see for the natural tunnel that's created by the arching crepe myrtle trees.

White Rock Lake and Park White Rock Lake and Park free

Travelers can embrace nature at White Rock Lake and Park, which is located approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Dallas. Bird-watching, fishing, biking, rollerblading and picnicking by the lake are just a few of the activities people can enjoy. Keep in mind that swimming in the lake is prohibited. But with local attractions nearby like the White Rock Lake Museum, Bath House Cultural Center and  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , and amenities like a picnic area, dog park and pavilions for rent, you can find entertainment rain or shine.

Visitors often report wildlife sightings, such as different kinds of birds throughout the year. Families note that it's a dog-friendly park as well, with plenty of space for kids and pets to run around. And many recommend visiting at off-peak times, like in the afternoon and evening, to enjoy fewer crowds and take in the colorful sunset. Active travelers also say it a great spot to run, hike or bike.

3hr Dallas Cowboys Stadium Small Group Tour with Transportation

(105 reviews)

from $ 107.99

Southfork Ranch and Dallas / JFK Highlights Tour

(120 reviews)

from $ 145.00

Dallas and JFK Cruizer Tour

(444 reviews)

from $ 34.99

Dallas Farmers Market Dallas Farmers Market free

What began in 1941 as a place for local farmers to sell their produce has morphed into a full-blown foodie and retail destination. Today, the Dallas Farmers Market is a 26,000-square-foot food hall and market with four restaurants and a variety of local food vendors. Of course, there are still plenty of farm-fresh vegetables, eggs and meat to be found, all of which are grown and raised in Texas or within 400 miles of Dallas. Peruse homegrown produce, pasture-raised meats, canned goods and regional specialties at The Shed, an open-air pavilion that’s almost always bustling with activity. 

In the Market Building (the main building), visitors can check out handmade crafts and sample all kinds of tasty eats, such as macarons, tacos, smoothies and more. If it’s nice out, one of the best things to do is grab a snack and a beverage and hang out at one of the seating areas outside – the views of the city skyline are lovely from here.

Bishop Arts District Bishop Arts District free

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy and looking to peruse local boutiques, head about 5 miles southwest of downtown Dallas to the Bishop Arts District. Along with antiques, home goods and gifts, the neighborhood is also home to one-of-a-kind clothing stores. Popular restaurants include Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ, Boulevardier and Lucia, among others.

Recent visitors said the neighborhood offers a great mix of indie shopping and tasty restaurants. Several said the area was perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Dallas World Aquarium Dallas World Aquarium

Perhaps "aquarium" isn't the right word to describe this attraction. Of course, there are fish, stingrays, eels and octopuses – you'll find these and a variety of other aquatic creatures occupying the facility's expansive tanks. But the Dallas World Aquarium also houses animals not commonly found in aquariums, including sloths, monkeys and toucans. Observe birds in free flight in the aquarium's vast rainforest and then marvel at the lizards, snakes and bats in the aquarium's Mundo Maya exhibit, which features a cenote.

Recent travelers said they were pleasantly surprised by the number of animals housed in the Dallas World Aquarium, and many say that a visit here makes a great alternative to the Dallas Zoo , especially during the hot summer months. However, some do warn that the space can feel crowded, especially when schools are on break. Another sticking point for some visitors was the high cost of admission, though others say they felt a visit here was well worth the money.

Nasher Sculpture Center Nasher Sculpture Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every third Friday of the month, from March through October, ‘til Midnight at the Nasher presents live music, film screenings, a special menu and bar services. This event also includes free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to visit. – Justine Harrington

Sitting across the street from the  Dallas Museum of Art  in the Big D's lively Arts District , the Nasher Sculpture Garden repeatedly wows locals and visitors with its striking indoor and outdoor galleries (a particular highlight for past visitors). The center houses more than 300 works of art by modern and contemporary artists like Matisse, Picasso and Rodin. Pieces here range from small marble sculptures to massive installations.

African American Museum of Dallas African American Museum of Dallas free

The African American Museum of Dallas features one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the U.S. The museum displays African art, Black renaissance paintings, decorative arts, period rooms and contemporary art, some of which are centuries old. What's more, entrance is free.

Recent visitors recommended the museum for its collections and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Many described a visit here as moving.

Hop On Hop Off Dallas Tour

(75 reviews)

from $ 32.00

Sightseeing Tour of Dallas

(720 reviews)

from $ 62.99

Secret Food Tour of Dallas with Private Tour Option

(63 reviews)

from $ 89.10

Crow Museum of Asian Art Crow Museum of Asian Art free

Tucked within the Dallas Arts District, the Crow Museum of Asian Art displays works hailing from China, Japan, India, Korea and Southeast Asia. Along with more than 1,000 artworks, there's also a library of more than 12,000 books, catalogs and journals. The space also shelters a sculpture garden with historical and contemporary pieces among a landscape of bamboo, maples, azaleas and pine trees.

The museum's permanent collection was originally owned by Trammell and Margaret Crow, a Dallas couple with a deep appreciation for Asian art and culture (they visited China more than a dozen times over the course of their lives). They opened the museum in 1998 with the hopes of sharing their love for Asian art and culture with locals and visitors.

Deep Ellum Deep Ellum free

This neighborhood just east of downtown Dallas is a nightlife hot spot that brims with live music, performing arts, eye-catching murals, unique shops and bustling bars. Its status as a live music hub dates back to the early 20th century, when jazz and blues performers like Bessie Smith, Huddie William "Lead Belly" Ledbetter and Lemon Henry "Blind Lemon" Jefferson frequented its stages. If you're hoping to catch a show in Deep Ellum, venues like Trees, The Factory in Deep Ellum and Club Dada are popular spots. Many of the neighborhood's bars also host live music, including Sons of Hermann Hall and Three Links.

In addition to its live music venues, Deep Ellum is also home to a burgeoning dining scene. Popular restaurants include Pecan Lodge (famous for its barbecue), Ichigoh Ramen Lounge, Adair's Saloon (come here for the burgers), Serious Pizza and Nori Handroll Bar.

George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum

Set on 23 acres in northern Dallas' University Park, The George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum houses extensive textual, audiovisual and electronic records from the 43rd presidency. As you can imagine, the library is more of a research facility than it is a tourist attraction. Instead, casual visitors should make their way to the adjacent 14,000-square-foot museum, where detailed displays explore events of Bush's time in office such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, as well as the themes of education reform and the economic crisis. Inside the museum, you'll find interactive exhibits that put you in the former president's shoes: You can walk around a replica of the Oval Office, and in the Decision Points Theater, you can experience the Bush administration's decision- and policy-making process.

According to recent visitors, the highlight of a visit to the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum is the 9/11 exhibit, which they describe as extensive and well-organized. Other travelers appreciated the special exhibits, which rotate frequently. 

Dallas Contemporary Dallas Contemporary free

Modern art lovers will enjoy the Dallas Contemporary, a non-collecting museum displaying cutting-edge works created by Texan artists, as well as national and international artists. The museum was founded by Patricia Meadows in the late 1970s as a nonprofit space before transitioning into the contemporary art hub that it is today. Located in a former metal fabrication plant in the Design District, the Contemporary has ample space to accommodate multiple large-scale exhibitions at a time. 

Because the Contemporary does not have a permanent collection, the focus here is on showing art as opposed to amassing a collection of artworks. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so visitors can expect to rarely, if ever, see the same thing twice. In general, the museum tends to show work from boundary-pushing artists engaged in relevant social and political conversation. Mediums run the gamut from sculpture to installation to painting, among others. 

AT&T Stadium AT&T Stadium

If there's one thing the people of Dallas love, it's football. So, a stop by the home of the Dallas Cowboys is necessary for a glimpse into the area's culture. The Cowboys' former kingdom in Irving was demolished in 2010 to make way for a bigger, better venue. Now you can visit "America's Team" at AT&T Stadium. The largest domed stadium in the country with a capacity for 80,000 screaming fans is located in Arlington, Texas – approximately halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth.

If you do decide to go to a game, prepare for steep ticket prices. To save a buck or two, purchase your seats well in advance, or opt for standing room only tickets, which start at around $30.

JFK Assassination Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House

(466 reviews)

from $ 55.38

The Real Unreal at Meow Wolf Grapevine

(7 reviews)

from $ 45.26

Small-Group Dallas and Fort Worth City Sightseeing Tour

(306 reviews)

from $ 134.95

Pioneer Plaza Pioneer Plaza free

Part history lesson, part public art display, Pioneer Plaza attracts visitors looking for a prime photo-op. This 4.2-acre park in downtown Dallas features a re-creation of a cattle drive with bronze longhorn steers being driven by three cowboys on horses. The bronze statues celebrate the trails that originally attracted settlers to Dallas centuries ago. In addition to the statues, the park also features native plants and trees and a stream.

Recent travelers described Pioneer Plaza as a great place for photo-ops thanks to the skyline views. They also say the bronze statues are beautiful. According to reviewers, a quick visit is all you need.

Thanks-Giving Square Thanks-Giving Square free

Plan a visit to Thanks-Giving Square for an escape from the bustle of downtown Dallas. Constructed in the 1970s, the park is significant not only for its peaceful atmosphere, but also for its architecture. It was designed by famed architect Philip Johnson, who incorporated fountains and walkways to encourage visitors to pause and meditate. The square is also set 15 feet below ground level, with a 4-foot wall that blocks the sight of cars on surrounding streets to create a serene escape for visitors. The highlight of the square is undoubtedly the Chapel of Thanksgiving, which has a spiral-shaped façade that rises 90 feet above street level. If you step into the chapel, you'll see the impressive Glory Window by Gabriel Loire, which contains 73 panels of faceted glass that follow the spiral shape of the ceiling.

Recent visitors use words like "beautiful" and "peaceful" to describe Thanks-Giving Square. Reviewers were particularly fond of the mosaics, the fountains and the stained-glass ceiling in the chapel.

Dallas Zoo Dallas Zoo

When the Dallas Zoo was founded in 1888, it housed two deer and two mountain lions. More than a century later, the zoo – which is the oldest and largest in Texas – has grown to shelter more than 2,000 animals representing more than 400 species. Across its 106 acres, you'll find large animals like elephants, giraffes, lions and gorillas, alongside smaller creatures like penguins, toucans, frogs and snakes. There are also animal encounters and experiences, such as giraffe feedings and keeper chats, and attractions like a carousel and a miniature train.

Previous visitors were complimentary of the zoo, praising its manageable size, variety of animals and affordable pricing. Reviewers suggested spending between two and four hours exploring all of the zoo's offerings, and recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the midday crowds. Others described it as small and not particularly impressive, but a worthwhile stop if you're traveling with kids.

Highland Park Village Highland Park Village free

This Mediterranean-style shopping center is home to upscale stores in an open-air setting where visitors can wander for a few hours. The shopping center, which was one of the first of its kind, houses restaurants and shops that reflect the wealthy neighborhood where it is located (such as Jimmy Choo and Rolex). Some refer to it as the "Beverly Hills of Dallas," which should be an indicator of just how high-end the stores are, and locals say it's one of the  top shopping spots in Dallas . The architecture of the longstanding shopping center is also a draw, and shoppers recommend checking out Highland Park Village around Christmastime when lights and decorations transform the outdoor mall.

The shopping center offers concierge services, personal shoppers and complimentary valet parking at multiple stores throughout the village. International shoppers can acquire Texas sales tax refunds from select retail stores by presenting receipts and identification and flight information at the on-site TaxFree Shopping, Ltd.

Things to Do in Dallas FAQs

Explore more of dallas.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 12 best things to do in Dallas 

Apr 18, 2022 • 7 min read

You can stop in at the Dallas Museum of Art (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works spanning some 5000 years © Alamy Stock Photo

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis that’s bursting with fun and exciting things to do. It's the ninth-largest city in the US and the birthplace of the frozen margarita, packed with world-class shopping, delicious dining, a diverse art scene and plenty of history, outdoor activities and pop-culture curiosities.

Come for the scream-worthy roller coasters, sports teams and luxe malls. Stay for the barbecue, beer and mural-strewn neighborhoods, filled with musicians playing everything from the blues to hip-hop beats.

Explore Dallas’ neighborhoods 

Dallas is an amalgamation of neighborhoods, each with their own flavor of fun. Shop and dine out in the laid-back and artsy  Bishop Arts  district. Deep Ellum is a great neighborhood for live music, beautiful murals, art fairs, and restaurants. Uptown attracts visitors for its strip of restaurants on McKinney Street that turn into bars at night, and Oak Lawn is a nationally known hot spot for the LGBTIQ+ community. 

Grab a bite at Allgood Cafe,  rooftop drinks at the Green Room,  or rub elbows with bikers at Renos Chop Shop Saloon.   Pecan Lodge  slings mean barbecue in Deep Ellum, while  Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse  is a beloved local favorite for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Near  White Rock Lake ,  Mariano's Hacienda  is where the frozen margarita  was invented in 1971 – though the original margarita machine is now part of the Smithsonian Institution's collection in Washington, DC. 

Get cultured in the Arts District 

Downtown Dallas is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States, the Dallas Arts District. Spend time exploring an impressive selection of larger-than-life sculptures at the  Nasher Sculpture Center  before stopping in the  Dallas Museum of Art  (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works of art spanning some 5000 years.

Walk across the street to the  Crow Museum of Asian Art , or  Klyde Warren Park , which sits on top of a highway. For an evening activity, buy tickets to a  Dallas Symphony Orchestra  concert at the Meyerson Symphony Center. To be close to all the district offers, stay at the new HALL Arts Hotel – and be sure to check out its curated selection of art.  

Root for the home team at an athletic event 

With seven professional teams in the area, it’s easy to see why this is a sports-loving city. Fans of pro basketball and hockey can cheer on their teams – the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars – at the  American Airlines Center , while fans of WNBA and MLB can scoot over to Arlington, to take their loved ones out to the ball game at the new  Texas Rangers  stadium or watch the Dallas Wings hit the court at College Park Center. You can also make the short drive to Frisco to catch a soccer match with FC Dallas. 

Experience the thrill of race-car driving with NASCAR at Texas Motor Speedway , and of course, don’t miss a chance to watch America’s Team, the  Dallas Cowboys  – though their home field at Jerryworld is also technically in nearby Arlington.  

Learn about the John F Kennedy Assassination 

One of the darkest moments in Dallas’ past is the assassination of President John F Kennedy. Pay your respects by visiting the  Sixth Floor Museum  to learn about the president’s life and death, then go outside to see the “X” on Elm Street that marks where he was hit. Just a block from Dealey Plaza is the John F Kennedy Memorial Plaza, which features a statue commemorating the president. 

For more JFK history, drive to  Texas Theatre  to watch a film in the same spot where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested, or to the Hilton Fort Worth, where JFK spent his last night alive.  

Kayak on the Trinity River 

Outdoor lovers will find a plethora of activities in Dallas, from running on the Katy Trail to sailing on White Rock Lake. But the most unique experience one can have is kayaking on the Trinity River Paddling Trail, a National Recreation Trail with more than 130 miles of river.

Those with their own kayak or canoe can choose from 21 different launch sites, some of which lead through wilderness and others guide you under the city’s most notable bridges next to the skyline. Trinity River Kayak Co.  offers various kayaking tours, including one at sunset. 

Unwind at the Dallas Arboretum  

Set next to White Rock Lake, the  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden  is one of the most beautiful spaces in town. It’s known as one of the best arboretums in the world because of its phenomenal seasonal displays that celebrate Halloween, winter holidays and tulip season. Live concerts and art shows are also a common occurrence.  

Spend a day at the first-ever Six Flags  

Six Flags is a worldwide name in amusement parks, and Dallas just so happens to be the home of the brand's very first park.  Six Flags Over Texas  is a located in Arlington, a suburb of Dallas, and is a great place to spend the day with friends or family. Have a blast on 14 roller coasters and 45 thrilling rides across 212 acres. Mr Freeze, the Texas Giant and El Diablo are just a few of their most exciting roller-coasters.  

Go big at the State Fair of Texas 

If you visit Dallas between September and October, you must get a ticket to the  State Fair of Texas  and say "howdy" to Big Tex, a 52ft cowboy statue at the entrance of the fair.

As one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the country, the State Fair of Texas is a huge to-do in Dallas that draws millions of people state and nationwide, who love the thrill of amusement-park rides, agriculture shows and rodeos, live music, shopping and playing games. It's also known for having some of the most creative fair food in the nation, like cotton-candy burritos and waffles stuffed with fried chicken.  

Delve into Dallas fandom at Southfork Ranch 

Uncover the mysteries of who shot JR with a visit to  Southfork Ranch , home of the Ewing Mansion from the 1978-1991 TV show Dallas . Fans of the hit series can explore the ranch with a guided tour – you’ll see spots made famous on the show, as well as a selection of memorabilia like Lucy’s wedding dress. After your tour, shop at a themed retail store and grab a bite from the on-site deli.  

Museum-hop around the city  

Although there are quite a few museums in Dallas’ Arts District, we'd be remiss not to mention that there are other museums worth a visit.

In  Fair Park , the  African American Museum  is the largest such institution in the southwestern US and has a selection of historical and cultural displays, while steps away from Dealey Plaza, the  Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum  delves into the Holocaust and the development of human and civil rights movements that followed. 

Take your kids to the  Perot Museum of Nature & Science  to do hands-on science experiments, or explore the galleries of the  Meadows Museum , which houses one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain.  

Shop til you drop, all over town

Home not only to the oldest shopping center in the US,  Highland Park Village , but also to the first  Neiman Marcus  store, which still welcomes customers today, Dallas has definitely earned the right to be called a shopper’s paradise.

Experiences vary between world-class malls, like the  Galleria  and  NorthPark Center  (home to an Andy Warhol painting!), and localized spots like  Traders Village , the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and the  farmers market  on the weekend.  

Camp at Cedar Hill State Park 

If you grow tired of Dallas’ urban sprawl and want to reconnect with nature, visit Cedar Hill State Park, just a 25-minute drive from downtown Dallas. The 1826-acre park offers overnight camping, as well as trails for hiking, running or mountain biking. Boat owners can spend the day on Joe Pool Lake, fishing for bass, crappie and catfish, while those without a boat can just jump on in for a swim.  

You may also like: The best neighborhoods in Dallas 16 free things to do in Dallas Wichita's magician of millinery helps put hats back on top

This article was first published Jun 14, 2021 and updated Apr 18, 2022.

Explore related stories

Festivals & Events

Jun 17, 2024 • 8 min read

The Fourth of July is one of America's most festive holiday. Here are the best places to celebrate.

Feb 29, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Aug 15, 2023 • 6 min read

Dec 15, 2021 • 2 min read

Sep 24, 2021 • 6 min read

Sep 23, 2020 • 2 min read

Jan 23, 2020 • 5 min read

Nov 24, 2019 • 4 min read

Nov 22, 2019 • 4 min read

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Texas Chevron

Dallas Chevron

The 14 Best Things to Do in Dallas

You’ve heard the expression: Everything's bigger in Texas —and those who say it all over the state aren’t wrong. But few Texas cities embody that mantra more than the sprawling metropolis of Dallas, one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, already boasting the largest urban Arts District in the nation, and the country's second-busiest airport. With more than 20,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline (second only to New York City ), and preparations well underway for its upcoming spotlight as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, there’s never been a better time to experience the Big D. Here are the best things to do in Dallas when you inevitably come to town.

Rad our complete Dallas travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Klyde Warren Park Arrow

This public park spans more than five acres across the busy Woodall Rogers Freeway. It acts as a bridge connecting uptown to downtown, but it also has abundant green space, a paved trail for joggers or walkers, fountains, a dog park, and daily free programming, ranging from yoga to movie screenings. In November 2022, its most recent addition saw an improved 6,000 square foot children’s park open, including a state-of-the-art kids’ climbing wall and a shaded pavilion for events.

Dallas Arboretum Arrow

Frequently named one of the top botanical gardens in the world, the fairytale-esque Dallas Arboretum sits resplendent on 66 glorious acres, overlooking majestic White Rock Lake. From the innovative Trial Gardens to the serene Woman’s Garden, this is the kind of Eden-like enclave where you’ll actively want to get lost amid the blooming beauty. The ‘Cool Thursdays Concert Series’ on the manicured lakeside lawn are also a major treat in the Spring and Fall—particularly when enjoyed with a picnic and a glass of bubbly in hand.

AT&T Discovery District Arrow

Located at the geographic heart of downtown, the new Discovery District was years in the making and is a great outdoor meeting, drinking, and dining spot for commuters and tourists alike. It's essentially an enormous courtyard, so it's easy to navigate—the only real choice is where to sit and order. Jaxon, with its large outdoor space, is a favorite, but there are also plenty of great options in the Food Hall, including Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine from Baboushi and delicious seafood options from The Dock. AT&T clearly put a lot of thought into the space's installations: the 104-foot-tall Media Wall is hard to miss, bringing digital art to life in incredible detail, while The Globe is a perspective-twisting multicolored tunnel containing an interactive light and sound experience. It's a perfect place for a weekday lunch or a relaxed evening, with excellent people-watching as all of Dallas flows by. 

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Arrow

Set in the infamous Texas School Book Depository building, the museum covers the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy and is one of the state’s most visited historic sites. Explore the story from every angle at the impressive Sixth Floor Museum, housed in the infamous book depository from where Lee Harvey Oswald’s shots ricocheted on November 22, 1963. Poke through 40,000 artifacts and stand at the exact window where Oswald fired from, then head down to the grassy knoll to make up your own mind about the existence of a ‘second shooter.’ Afterwards, board the JFK Trolley Tour to visit other key sites first hand, including the Texas Theatre, the art-deco cinema where Oswald was finally apprehended by police.

Crown Block Arrow

Situated atop Dallas' iconic Reunion Tower, Crown Block boasts the best views in town—and also some of the best food. A rare steak and fine seafood restaurant, it's swiftly become a place for the big movers and shakers of the Big D to see and be seen since its opening in April 2023. As the elevator opens onto the 18th floor restaurant, it's hard not to be blown away by the sight of downtown Dallas in all its glory, unfurling beyond the floor to ceiling windows. There's a strict dress code, exceptional service, and an unbelievable sense of romance. It's the perfect place for an important date or a big birthday, basking in the undeniably sexy surroundings.

Dallas Museum of Art Arrow

Dallas boasts one of the largest urban arts districts in America, encompassing a mind-boggling 118 acres of museums, galleries, and theaters. Highlights include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, a four-venue complex centered on Sir Norman Foster’s striking drum-shaped Winspear Opera House, as well as I.M. Pei’s lavish Meyerson Symphony Center. But the headline act of them all is the Dallas Museum of Art, one of the largest institutions of its kind in the country, housing nearly 25,000 objects from the third century through present-day, across 159,000 square feet. The museum’s permanent collection (free to enter for all, every day) is particularly strong in African sculpture, decorative arts, and contemporary works, including paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.

Upstairs Circus Arrow

This is a completely different take on a regular bar, where you complete craft projects while drinking craft cocktails. It's a lot of fun, with people of all ages chatting and laughing while completing creations ranging from jewelry and leather wallets to homeware. Most people are either on dates (this is a genius date idea) or in bigger groups of friends. The location is great, the drinks are affordable, and you get to head home with a cool item you created yourself. It's a win-win-win. Because of the set-up, it's more about the creative projects than the creative juices on the menu, but the cocktails are genuinely tasty. (The trick is not to drink too many, so you don't mess up what you're working on.)

Sweet Tooth Hotel Arrow

Opened in October 2022, Sweet Tooth Hotel is not a hotel but an immersive art exhibit open to the public daily. A platform for emerging experiential artists, it's bright, dynamic, colorful, and an Instagrammer's dream—think edgy modern art gallery meets neon disco garden. The nine distinct gallery spaces are loosely linked by the "hotel" theme. Each one feels like you are entering a new, vibrant suite with something different to say. The staff are great—readily available to explain the thinking behind the exhibits (which is very helpful, as signage is limited). The bar staff at the Calirosa Cocktail Lounge are also awesome, and make a great selection of inventive cocktails, including Bubble Ducky—a pink tequila concoction served in a tiny bath with a miniature rubber duck floating in it.

Lee Harvey's Arrow

A "private social swim club", Lee Harvey's Dive In is like no other venue in Dallas. Essentially a sunny swim club across the street from a beloved 50-year-old dive bar, it's a brilliant, affordable option if you need to cool off from the intense summer heat of Texas, and fancy doing so with a delicious cocktail in hand, surrounded by beautiful people. There's a good selection of ice cold beer, both domestic and imported, but really this place is about colorful cocktails, which may or may not get spilled in the pool. The rum punch is surprisingly good and they serve a solid margarita too. For those feeling a bit more daring, try the Ocean Water: a party-starting fusion of malibu, vodka, and blue curacao.

Dallas Farmers Market Arrow

For years, the Dallas Farmers Market was mostly a wholesale market with purveyors primarily selling goods to restaurants. But a more recent emphasis on close-to-home farmers (and a major facelift of the site itself) has made it well worth a visit during any trip to the Big D. Check out The Shed—a breezy outdoor pavilion behind the main building where you can buy all kinds of fresh produce and delicious street food—before browsing everything from quirky housewares to artisanal jewelry in the main hall itself.

Pecan Lodge Arrow

Whichever way you slice it, barbecue is king in Texas, and Dallas has one of the finest BBQ restaurants in the entire state: Pecan Lodge. Here, the pit-smoked food is so good that the lines snake around the block pretty much every day at lunchtime (tip: if you order more than five pounds of meat, you can skip straight to the front). The handmade jalapeño sausages and beef brisket with southwestern seasoning are particularly superb, while the “hot mess” (sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with barbacoa and chipotle cream) is deliriously good. If you’re really hungry, order “the trough,” a hot, sticky selection of everything from the menu. Just make sure you save room for dessert: Aunt Polly’s banana pudding is the stuff of a local legend.

Bishop Arts District  Arrow

A hipster-pocket neighborhood just across the Trinity River from downtown, Bishop Arts is packed with more than 60 unconventional boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries, all within an easily walkable hub. Perennial favorites include homeware store Home on Bishop, cozy independent bookstore The Wild Detectives (which also serves a mean cocktail), and legendary confectionary store Dude, Sweet Chocolate. Meanwhile, recent additions include Ame, an exquisite French-Indian eaterie with a champagne bar, and Paradiso, a glamorous restaurant and cocktail bar built around a Mediterranean-style courtyard.

White Rock Lake Arrow

Located about five miles northeast of downtown, White Rock is a serene, 1,000-acre city lake surrounded by criss-crossing trails, picnic areas, and wildlife refuges. Looping the lake (about 9.3 miles on a well-maintained path) is a popular fitness pastime for both runners and cyclists, while the water sports on offer include rowing, sailing, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, with several local operators available. Meanwhile, at the old White Rock Municipal Fish Hatchery in the park’s southwest corner, you’ll find 50 acres of dense woodland to explore, with coyotes, red foxes, beavers, and pelicans among the wildlife in abundance here.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Arrow

A sleek, futuristic masterpiece next to Klyde Warren Park, the Perot Museum was designed by superstar architect Thom Mayne to resemble a large cube hovering over the landscape. Its immersive, interactive interior is even more impressive, with 180,000 square feet of exhibition space covering everything from dinosaurs to distant galaxies. Kids will love the “Earthquake Shake” in the Dynamic Earth Hall, while dads will equally enjoy the Lamar Hunt Family Sports Hall, where they can “race” legendary NFL running back Jamaal Charles. The superb onsite café, by Wolfgang Puck, makes it easy to spend a whole day here.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport Guide
• Neighborhoods to Know
• Public Transportation Guide
• 48 Hours in Dallas
• Day Trips From Dallas
• Top Things to Do
• Free Things to Do
• Things to Do With Kids
• Best Museums in Dallas
• Top Parks in Dallas
• Camping & Hiking Near Dallas
• Live Music Venues
• Texas State Fair Guide
• Shopping in Dallas
• Food to Try in Dallas
• Top Restaurants
• Best Bars in Dallas
• Breweries to Visit
• Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• United States
• Dallas-Ft Worth

The 18 Best Things to Do in Dallas

Dallas boasts a unique cultural identity that distinguishes it from other Texan cities. Undeniably flashy and glitzy, with deep roots in global trade and business, the city indeed occupies a big part of the country's cultural imagination—but unlike the hit TV show "Dallas" would have you believe, it's not all oil barons and socialites with sky-high hair here (though, let's be honest, there's some of that). Dallas is also home to a world-class arts scene, a slew of lush urban green spaces, iconic cultural attractions, and pockets of walkable, cool neighborhoods dense with hip eateries, breweries, and shops. Look no further than this list if you're on the hunt for the all-time best things to do in Dallas.

Explore the Dallas Museum of Art

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art is home to over 24,000 diverse works that span 5,000 years of history, representing a range of global cultures. Their permanent international collection includes works by Pollock, Manet, Rothko, O’Keeffe, Cezanne, Monet, and Van Gogh. There are also weekly lectures, literary events, dramatic and dance presentations, concerts, and more. Best of all? General admission is free.

Walk Around Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is the (newish) crown jewel of Dallas’s cityscape. Perched atop the freeway between St. Paul and Pearl streets, this sprawling, 5.2-acre green space has much to offer visitors. You’ll find vast swaths of lawn, areas for croquet and chess, a dog park, a children’s park, and putting green, plus two restaurants and a rotating selection of food trucks. Apart from being a much-needed dose of urban nature, Klyde Warren boasts a wide variety of daily programming, from yoga classes and outdoor concerts to movies and festivals. Parking is conveniently located around the Park; we recommend checking out the calendar before your visit.

Try Dallas's Signature Cocktail at Mi Cocina

Courtesy of Mi Cocina

Dallas’s signature drink is the frozen margarita; in fact, some say the frozen drink was invented here. The Mambo Taxi at Mi Cocina was recently named D Magazine’s Favorite Margarita, and most locals would agree. Despite its pretty basic ingredients (Sauza Silver tequila, lime juice, house-made sangria, brandy), there’s truly something special about the ever-popular, ever-refreshing Mambo Taxi.

Go to a Concert in Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is Dallas's live music , arts, and culture hub. This bustling, graffiti-splashed district is the perfect place to see all your fave touring musicians and discover local artists, thanks to the vibrant collection of homegrown clubs and renowned venues here. (For a list of upcoming shows, check out the neighborhood's calendar .)

Delve into Political History at Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza examines the life, assassination, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Prepare to be swept up in the history and political landscape of the early '60s—the museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, the spot where evidence of a sniper (Lee Harvey Oswald) was found following JFK's assassination—in addition to the sniper's perch, the permanent exhibits here include news reports, photos, and footage from the era.

Get a Fun Education at the Perot Museum

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, visitors can explore five floors of permanent exhibits that feature animals, gems and minerals, dinosaur bones, birds, a 3D animation lab, and more. With so much to choose from, plan your day carefully—you’ll need at least a whole morning or afternoon to experience the Perot fully. 

See Art at the Nasher Sculpture Center

Conveniently situated just across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art, in the booming heart of the Arts District, the Nasher Sculpture Center is home to the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection, one of the most stunning collections of modern and contemporary sculpture in the world. Visitors can marvel at over 300 masterworks by Picasso, Rodin, Ernst, Giacometti, Miro, Moore, and dozens of other world-renowned artists.

Hike or Bike Around White Rock Lake

Situated a few miles east of downtown, White Rock Lake Park is one of the city’s most popular green spaces, and for a good reason. There’s so much to do there; you’d need a whole weekend to discover it all. The park is more than twice the size of New York’s Central Park. White Rock Lake Park features a scenic, 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail that circles the lake, numerous picnic areas, playgrounds, an Audubon Society-designated bird-watching area and wetlands site, fishing piers, a cultural center, and a dog park.

Go to a Texas Rangers Game

If you’ll be in Dallas between April and September, there’s a decent chance the Texas Rangers will be in town. Check the website for tickets to upcoming games, and get ready to cheer on the Rangers with a famous “Boomstick” hot dog in hand (we recommend sharing with a friend!) 

Connect with Nature at the Cedar Ridge Preserve

Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown, the Cedar Ridge Preserve is a prime spot for dirt-path hiking and communing with nature. This 600-acre habitat has open meadows, vibrant wildflowers, sloping hills, butterfly gardens, wild grasses, and native trees galore. Bird-watching is a popular activity here, but hiking sets Cedar Ridge apart from many other trail systems in Dallas. Over 9 miles of trails wind through the hilly terrain and afford extraordinary views of the area.

Enjoy the View from Reunion Tower

If it’s a clear, sunny day, a visit to the Reunion Tower is a must-do. The view—a 360-degree look at Dallas’s glittering skyline and the surrounding area—is incredible. (Buy tickets in advance on their website .) 

Stroll Around the Bishop Arts District

In recent years, Dallas’s Bishop Arts District has undergone a lightning-fast transformation in the heart of Oak Cliff. It’s a fun place to explore on foot (this is one of the most walkable areas in the city). There are over 60 independent shops, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Be sure to stop into The Wild Detectives, an indie bookstore deemed Dallas’s “literary heart,” where you can sip craft brews while you peruse books.  

Have a Picnic at the Arboretum

Situated along the shores of White Rock Lake, just minutes from downtown, the Dallas Arboretum, and Botanical Garden is considered one of the top arboretums in the world. That’s because this 66-acre urban oasis is brimming with colorful display gardens, spacious stretches of lawn, and thick groves of trees: in short, it’s beautiful. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit the Arboretum. Pack a picnic lunch or order food from one of the many cafes and restaurants scattered around the grounds.

Ride the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Riding on the McKinney Avenue Trolley is the best way to get around Uptown. This fleet of vintage streetcars runs on a hop-on, hop-off route 365 days per year. It’s a fantastic way to see the city: Get off at St. Paul and Ross station for easy access to the Crow Collection, the Nasher, and the Dallas Museum of Art. The Trolley also goes to Klyde Warren. Rides are free but consider dropping a donation.

Check Out Where the Cowboys Play

You don't have to be a sports fan to appreciate the Dallas Cowboys' cultural impact on the world. If you can't make it to a game, you can experience the AT&T Stadium, about 20 miles west of downtown, or check out The Star in Frisco, the team's 91-acre, state-of-the-art training facility and multi-use development (including dining, shopping, and a hotel). The Star offers VIP tours every day of the week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sample Texas Barbecue at Pecan Lodge

Courtesy of Pecan Lodge 

Eating at Pecan Lodge is a rite of passage for locals and out-of-towners alike. What started as a tiny stall at the Dallas Farmers Market has since morphed into an iconic restaurant that serves the best barbecue in the city (and possibly in the state, which is saying something!) Be prepared to wait in line, especially if it’s a weekend. For real-deal Texas barbecue, though, the wait is 100 percent worth it. 

Walk Along the Katy Trail

The 3.5-mile Katy Trail is one of the city’s most popular places to get outside and soak up the great outdoors. The trail was built over an old railroad line, and it extends from the SMU campus to the American Airlines Center, winding through parks and several of Dallas’s central districts. To access the trail from the north end, there’s a parking lot near Knox Street; on the southern end, you can park at Reverchon Park. (For further trail info, look at the trail's website .)

Go Two-Stepping at the Round-Up Saloon

For a true Texas-style treat, country-western dancing is a great way to experience the soul of Dallas—and at the Round-Up Saloon, Dallas’s premier gay western dance club, you can learn how to two-step with the best of them. This Cedar Springs institution hosts free line dance lessons every week (check their calendar for more info), in addition to karaoke nights, freestyle dance competitions, rowdy happy hours, and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties. Don a pair of cowboy boots and get ready to do-si-do around the dance floor; you’ve never experienced anything like the Round-Up. 

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Things To Do
• Food & Drink
• en es español
• Travel Trade
• Attractions
• Arts & Culture
• Spas & Wellness
• Free Things To Do
• Margarita Mile
• Weekend Picks
• Annual Events
• Free Events
• Family Events
• Seasonal Events
• Submit Your Event
• Steakhouses
• Food Trucks
• Top 15 Breweries in Dallas
• Coffee Shops
• Neighborhoods
• Experiences
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Official Visitors Guide
• Speakeasiers
• Late Night Food & Drink
• FIFA World Cup 2026
• Sports Commission
• Transportation
• Dallas CityPASS®
• Itineraries & Guides
• Dallas Mobile Visitor Center
• Why Meet in Dallas
• Convention Center
• Venues & Vendors
• Meeting & Event Services
• Contact Sales & Services
• Dallas Deals

Itineraries

With so much to do in Dallas, you can make your time count by choosing exactly what you want to experience. We've mapped out over two dozen guided tours, each wrapped around a theme that you can use to sample the unique tastes of Dallas that match your lifestyle and your trip through the city.

Enjoy a Pampered Getaway in this 48-hour itinerary through town – think shopping splurges, decadent brunches and spas in a whirlwind trip to Dallas. Celebrating the soon-to-be husband in the crew? Use our guide to the best Bachelor Weekend you could ask for in Dallas to make planning easy. We didn’t forget the bride! Use our guide to a Bachelorette Weekend in Dallas to plan the girls getaway as well.

How about a guide to spending a Family Vacation in Dallas , or how to explore Dallas on a Budget ? Or head outdoors during your visit, with this crafted tour made to enjoy Outdoor Dallas , with parks and trails and bikes and hikes. Even better, put on your boots and go Country and Western with horse riding, two-stepping, history and old west eateries.

There’s more! Explore Dallas in different ways with our crafted tours. Take the Architecture Tour, or the Music Lovers Tour. Learn your way around Deep Ellum or the Arts District , or where to go on famous Greenville Avenue . Spend the weekend immersed in Dallas’ Asian Scene , or the Latino culture throughout the city, or in the deep African American roots of the town. And hey, don't leave Fido behind - check our tour to navigate Dallas with your furry friend right beside you.

Experience all the city has to offer! Dallas is a richly diverse American city: over the years it has become a melting pot of cultures, religions and lifestyles.

Get our articles in your inbox!  Sign up

America From The Road

22 Best Things To Do In Dallas – Ultimate Dallas Bucket List

Dallas may not be as high on the list of cities to visit as trendy Austin or coastal Houston for most visitors to Texas but we can assure you that it is a city full of fun things to do, incredibly good food, and people who thoroughly enjoy having a good time.

This large and sprawling city has plenty of museums, green spaces, amusement parks, some of the country’s top sporting teams like the Dallas Cowboys, and world-class restaurants. No matter what you are into, you will find it in Dallas!

We’ve prepared the ultimate Dallas bucket list filled with the best things to see and do so you don’t miss any of this beautiful city’s highlights and top attractions.

Dallas Bucket List

1. geo-deck at reunion tower.

The  Reunion Tower  is an iconic landmark in Dallas and one of the most easily recognizable features of the Dallas city skyline. Visitors can experience panoramic views of downtown Dallas from the Reunion Towers 470-foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck. The observation deck is reached via a thrilling ride inside a glass-panel elevator which is definitely not for the feint of heart! Admission to the Geo-Deck is free with the  Dallas CityPass .

2. Dallas Arts District

Dallas can lay claim to having the largest urban arts district in the United States. Situated over twenty blocks, the area has a huge concentration of sculptures, some of the city’s top attractions, and many architectural gems surrounding the landscape.

Some of the top Dallas attractions you can find here include the Crow Museum Sculpture Garden, the Nasher Sculpture Center, the Winspear Opera House, the Dallas Museum of Art, the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

While you’re in the Arts District, be sure to also visit the the oldest Catholic church in the city; the beautiful Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe. With its towering 224-foot spire, 49-bell carillon, and 100 stained glass windows, it is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in Dallas.

3. Dallas Museum of Art

The  Dallas Museum of Art  is located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District and features a stunning collection of over 25,000 works of art from all cultures spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. Pieces include work from ancient Mediterranean art, 18th century European, American, African and Asian art. Some of the artists on display here include Andy Warhol, Renoir, Van Gough, Cezanne, and Monet. In addition, the museum has lots of fun programming for kids of all ages and events for adults that includes a lecture series with authors, poets, and visionaries.

4. Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge

The Ronald Kirk Bridge is a pedestrian footbridge over the Trinity River in Dallas which connects Downtown Dallas and West Dallas. While there is nothing too special about this pedestrian bridge, what is special are the up close views of the iconic white Margaret Hunt Hill bridge that runs parallel. Not only that, but you can also see spectacular Dallas skyline views from here too.

You can find the Ronald Kirk Pedestrian bridge in Trinity Groves, a green space in West Dallas which provides a good place to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. There are also hiking and biking trails and picnic facilities for family gatherings.

5. AT&T Stadium

The AT&T Stadium is the largest domed stadium in the world and the largest enclosed stadium in the NFL which is fitting because everyone knows everything is bigger in Texas! Home to the Dallas Cowboys, this impressive stadium cost over one billion dollars to construct making it also one of the most expensive sports venues ever built.

Catching a Dallas Cowboys game is a thrilling event, from the the pre-game tailgating parties to sitting in an arena packed with 80,000 energetic fans, this is a must do if you’re visiting Dallas. If you are not in Dallas during a home game or in football season you can still visit the stadium and take a  guided or self-guided tour of this astounding building .

AT&T Stadium is located in Arlington which is about thirty minutes from downtown Dallas. Public transport from downtown Dallas is non-existent so you will either need to rent a vehicle or get an uber or lyft to visit.

6. Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is a five-acre deck park which sits over an eight-lane freeway. The park is a feat of engineering and design made of more than 300 concrete beams while using a combination of Geofoam and specially designed soil to stop the deck from being too heavy.

This green space connects the vibrant Uptown neighborhood with the Dallas Arts District and downtown area transforming a former freeway into an urban oasis for local residents. The landscaping includes native plant species and 322 tree’s offering the community an environment they can come together and connect at. You will also find a handful of restaurants and food trucks here.

7. George Bush Library and Presidential Center

The  George W. Bush Library and Presidential Center  is a state of the art facility which gives visitors an in-depth look into the George Bush American Presidency and displays over 40,000 gifts and artifacts given to the President and First Lady during their time at the White House.

Highlights of the Presidential Center include a number of exhibits such as ‘Life in the White House’; an inside look into what life is like inside the White House, the ‘Oval Office’; an exact replica of the Oval Office in scale and design during the Bush administration, and a ‘Nation Under Attack’; a memorial to the September 11 attacks with many artifacts, photographs and letters on display.

Tickets for the George W. Bush Library & Presidential Center can be purchased upon entry or you can buy them in advance online and save 39% on admission (along with three other city attractions) using the  Dallas CityPass .

8. Giant Eyeball

One of Dallas’ most unusual attractions is the giant thirty-foot tall eyeball sculpture located outside of the popular five-star  Joule Hotel .

This weird sculpture which looks like it just fell out of a zombie’s eye socket was created by Tony Tasset and modeled after the artist himself. ‘The Eye’ was created by a company who specializes in kitschy fiberglass sculptures for roadside attractions and eventually bought by the Joule Hotel who is known for their expansive art collection. The public are permitted to stroll the gardens of the Joule Hotel where you will find the gigantic eyeball.

9. Perot Museum of Nature & Science

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science visitors will find five floors housing permanent exhibit halls that will exercise their brains through hands-on activities, educational games, and life-like simulations. On the main floor there is an incredible thirty-five foot  Malawisaurus  fossil, access to the roof deck, and a 300 seat theater. There is also a children’s museum including outdoor play area.

The extraordinary building itself and outdoor space serves as a living science lesson; it has a stone roof which features a landscape of drought-tolerant greenery inspired by Dallas surroundings and the plinth is landscaped with a one acre rolling green roof consisting of rock and native drought-resistant grasses that reflects Texas’ indigenous landscape demonstrating a living system that will evolve naturally over time. This impressive building stands 170 feet high and was conceived as a large cube floating over a landscaped base.

10. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

The  Sixth Floor Museum  at Dealey Plaza explores the life, death and legacy of John F. Kennedy. This museum presents exhibits that document the social and political landscape of the 1960’s and relive Kennedy’s assassination in 1963 and following aftermath. Visitors can see in person the snipers perch and the area where the rifle was found, watch television broadcasts, and learn more about the facts and mystery surrounding the assassination of JFK.

11. Pioneer Plaza

Pioneer Plaza is a large public park located in the Convention Center District of downtown Dallas. This popular park and tourist destination holds a large sculpture commemorating the 19th century cattle drives that took place along the Shawnee Trail. The trail was the earliest and eastern-most route by which Texas longhorn cattle were taken to northern rail heads passing through Austin and Waco, Texas.

The forty-nine bronze steers and three trail riders were created by artist Robert Summers. Each steer is six feet high and all together the sculpture is the largest bronze monument of its kind in the world. Set along an artificial ridge, with the addition of a man-made limestone cliff and flowing stream help to create a realistic and dramatic depiction. The sculptures are a must see if you’re visiting Dallas.

12. Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is a former warehouse district which has since been transformed into a trendy neighborhood for hipsters with a happening night life. You can find plenty of cool bars here and live music venues to enjoy a night out.

Besides the night life, this lively entertainment district is also known for its striking street murals, off-beat art galleries, and the  Deep Ellum Brewing Company . Other drinking venues not to miss here include the Deep Ellum Distillery, a vodka distillery with unique flavors like strawberry-basil and Serrano pepper, and  Trinity Cider  who offer several different ciders on tap. Be sure to save room for some of the most amazing BBQ and Tex-Mex eateries!

13. Dallas Heritage Village

The  Dallas Heritage Village  in historic Old City Park is a living history museum with a collection of historic buildings representing the period between 1840 to 1910 in Texas. The mission of the Dallas Heritage Museum is to preserve and teach the history of Dallas and the North Central Texas area through exhibits, publications and educational programs.

The site of the museum and village itself is quite special having been the first city park of Dallas created in 1876. Browder Springs which now flows underground was the first water supply with a wooden water main carrying water to the then young city. There was even an upscale neighborhood here called ‘The Cedars’. However after World War II many residents moved out to the suburbs and highways were built to get them in to the city faster for work which left the area in a state of decline until a group of women decided to rescue and restore Old City Park.

Now visitors may tour the old park and see authentic buildings and other preserved artifacts related to life in Dallas from the frontier days beginning in 1840’s to the early 1900’s.

14. Dallas Zoo

Dallas Zoo  is a 106 acre attraction located only three miles from downtown Dallas. This zoo is one of the oldest parks in Texas having been established in 1888 and home to over 2,000 animals! The zoo offers giraffe feeding, bird landings, and even cheetah encounters. Other attractions that the children will love include an Adventure Safari monorail, endangered species carousel ride, and T-Rex mini train.

15. Dallas World Aquarium

The Dallas World Aquarium is a great place to put on your bucket list if you are traveling with kids or you are yourself a wildlife enthusiast. The aquarium has a diverse range of fish including birds and mammals such as penguins, sloths, and ocelots.

Begin your adventure at the top of the rainforest exhibit where you can view exotic birds such as toucans and cockatoo’s along with two-toed and three-towed sloths. Move on to see endangered species like the manatee and Orinoco crocodile and finish up at the South African display area.

16. Dallas Farmers Market

Nestled among the skyscrapers and the hustle of the city is the Dallas Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is a 26,000 square foot indoor food pavilion and vendor market featuring restaurants, local specialty foods, and artisanal food vendors. Patrons of the market can enjoy a quick bite to eat or sip on coffee while taking in the Dallas skyline views.

Next door to the Farmers Market is ‘The Shed’, an open-air pavilion where you can shop from regional vendors who grow, raise, make, and produce food. You’ll find a mix of farmers with seasonal produce grown in the Texas climate, and ranchers with naturally raised meats, cheese, eggs, honey, and other food artisans who make breads and canned foods. There are also has a handful of arts and crafts vendors throughout the year.

In the summer heat, misters and ceiling fans lower the temperature by fifteen degrees so it is a great place to relax and cool off.

17. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

One of the most beautiful places you can visit in Dallas is the  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens . This sixty-six acre park is one of the world’s premier botanical gardens and a top attraction for visitors to Dallas.

This urban oasis is acclaimed for it’s colorful year long floral display and gorgeous vista’s of White Rock Lake and the Dallas city skyline. The park features several annual events and festivals such as the Dallas Blooms Festival but most impressive would be their Pumpkin Village display during Autumn when over 90,000 pumpkins and gourds are featured.

18. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Attending a Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is probably one of the most fun things you could do in Dallas. The show offers an entertaining medieval themed battle involving jousting and sword fighting. This attraction may seem very touristy, and it might be so, but it doesn’t take away any of the fun! The combat features an impressive display of horsemanship and swordsmanship which can be enjoyed over an included four-course dinner.

Be aware that no eating utensils are supplied (it is the medieval times after all), so if you are not comfortable eating with your bare hands, this is probably not the destination for you.

19. Six Flags

If you’re looking for some thrills during your trip to Dallas head to Six Flags in Arlington. You can find some of the fastest, tallest, and most gut-wrenching rides in the country right here. Dare to free fall from one of the highest drop towers in the world at a staggering 325 feet in the sky on the Superman Tower of Terror or ride the Shock Wave which delivers a stunning 5.9 Gs on a record setting classic double loop ride. From pulse pounding roller coasters to much gentler options if you have the little ones in tow, Six Flags is fun for everyone. The theme park is open year round.

20. Travelling Man

The Traveling Man is an installation in Deep Ellum that serves as an ambassador for the neighborhood reminding visitors and locals of the area’s history with trains and it’s more recent history as a cradle for the arts.

There are in fact three Traveling Man’ sculptures on Good Latimer Expressway and each of the figures are made of polished metal sheets held together with rivets, all meant to evoke the railway history of the Deep Ellum neighborhood.

These installations are the work of artist Brad Oldham and Brandon Oldenburg and each figure stems from a different narrative the artists created. The story starts with a blues musician sitting underneath an elm tree who spills his can of gin which soaks down to the roots of the tree and touches a train car buried deep underground. The gin and the iron mix together and magically activate creating the Traveling Man.

The second installation is called ‘Waiting on a Train’ and can be found on the corner of Good Latimer and Gaston Avenue. Here, The Traveling Man is completely emerged from the ground and leans on a slab of concrete with a guitar in his hands sharing his art.

Finally, the third sculpture located at Good Latimer and Swiss Avenue is called ‘Walking Tall’. The Traveling Man now towers over Deep Ellum and he’s in the middle of taking big strides with a smile on his face, a bird on his arm, and a hole in the middle of his chest symbolizing where the spirit of art comes from and representing art take flight in the community.

21. The Rustic

If you’re looking for a place to dine al fresco, head to The Rustic. You can enjoy your meal and a cold beverage under twinkling string lights while listening to some Texas country. The Rustic offers a fun and lively atmosphere that is guaranteed to make your night special. The menu features seafood from the Gulf, steak from local ranchers, and other produce that is locally sourced. Live music is on every day of the week!

22. Fort Worth

While technically not in Dallas, Fort Worth is only a short twenty-five minute drive away and certainly should not be missed if you are visiting Dallas. The city of Fort Worth and particularly the Stockyards District attracts visitors from all over the world that come to experience the American West.

Nothing embodies Western heritage better than Fort Worth’s Stockyards National Historic District. From the original brick walkways to the wooden corrals, every inch of the Stockyards tells the history of Texas’s famous livestock industry. One of the highlights would have to be watching the drovers herd steer down the main street which happens twice daily.

Dallas Guide Books

Recommended Hotels In Dallas

Luxury Hotels

• Thompson Hotel
• Virgin Hotel
• Fairmont Hotel

Affordable Hotels

• Doubletree By Hilton
• Lorenzo Hotel

Save Money In Dallas

Dallas City Pass Dining Out In Dallas Best Hotel Deals In Dallas Fun Tours In Dallas

Search Hotels In Dallas

For weekly USA destination inspiration follow our facebook travel page .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » North America » Dallas

27 BEST Places to Visit in Dallas (2024)

People often dismiss the idea of traveling in their own country. When they have a holiday, they’d rather go somewhere exotic. But if you choose to travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy all the same attractions without the long flight. Dallas has amazing scenery, a vibrant music and arts scene, seriously intense shopping, and the tastiest barbecue foods you’ll ever encounter.

Dallas may not be on your travel bucket list, which is why you may need a little help working out what you should see in this exciting city. There are lots of attractions and activities that will suit every taste, preference, and fitness level, so you may need some help deciding what to do. To help you with that, we’ve created this list of the best places to visit in Dallas that includes some attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dallas:

These are the best places to visit in dallas, faq on the best places to visit in dallas, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in dallas.

Located just east of downtown is the lively and vibrant neighbourhood of Deep Ellum. A hub for entertainment and live music, Deep Ellum is perfect for music lovers and anyone looking to rock out all night long.

• Browse the shops, stalls and vendors at the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market.
• Listen to live music every night of the week at the Free Man.
• See Deep Ellum’s Traveling Man statues, a trio of massive installations spread across the neighbourhood.

Deep Ellum isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Perhaps you want somewhere quieter or off the beaten track even. Be sure to check out where to stay in Dallas to find the BEST area for you! Now, onto the fun…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – The Sixth Floor Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dallas

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

• The best place to visit in Dallas if you’re curious about JFK.
• This museum is an impartial record of JFK’s death and documents every angle of the event.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s a lot of controversies out there about JFK and how he died, and this museum does its best to clear up that confusion. It documents it from every angle, including the historical context and cultural perspective, to try to give visitors a balanced and objective view.

What to do there: If you think that JFK’s death is part of a bigger conspiracy, then this museum might convince you differently. Take the time to explore the more than 40,000 artifacts, as well as the window that Lee Harvey Oswald shot from, and make up your own mind once you have all the facts. You can then head to the grassy knoll below and experience the scene for yourself.

#2 – Texas Horse Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Dallas

• If you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids, then you can’t go past horse riding while you’re in Texas.
• This park pays homage to the history of the city, which is why visiting is a Dallas must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a 302-acre park that is within the Great Trinity Forest and is part of Davy Crockett’s legacy. You can enjoy a variety of horse-based activities here including riding lessons, trail rides, and hippotherapy.

What to do there: Give in to your traditional side while you’re visiting Dallas and get close to nature at the same time. The trail rides are particularly good because you’ll be able to enjoy ancient trees, springs, and a Native American archaeological site alongside the Trinity River. And best of all, when you add this to your Dallas itinerary, you’ll be able to do it all with the sparkling lights of the city close by.

#3 – Klyde Warren Park – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Dallas

• A new park that’s become a favorite amongst tourists and locals alike.
• This part only opened in 2012 and it’s now one of the best places to visit in Dallas for a relaxing hit of nature.

Why it’s so awesome: This park cost the city 110 million dollars and was built over a railway line to connect the uptown and art districts. It’s become one of the city’s social centers and offers a range of free activities to suit every taste.

What to do there: While you’re wandering around Dallas , the traffic and the fumes of the city can get to you. When it does, you should make a detour to visit this park. Locals and tourists alike visit the park to breathe in a bit of nature, to enjoy some outdoor activities, and to just relax. So, check out what’s on while you’re in the city, from yoga to ice-skating, table tennis, or chess.

With a Dallas City Pass , you can experience the best of Dallas at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#4 – Highland Park Village – A great place to see in Dallas if you love architecture

• This was the first outdoor shopping center in America.
• The Spanish influenced architecture is as popular as the designer labels inside the building.

Why it’s so awesome: This shopping center is located inside a lovely, Spanish inspired building that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. And then when you go inside, you’ll be confronted with the latest labels and fashions, from Dior to Chanel and Alexander McQueen. So really, it’s the best of both worlds.

What to do there: If you love to shop, and have a flexible budget, then this is the place you need to visit. So, take an afternoon or a morning, warm up your credit card, and shop the labels with the rest of the city.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

#5 – Fearing’s Restaurant

• This restaurant is owned by celebrity chef Dean Fearing.
• This is the place to visit if you’re looking for a sophisticated experience as well as great food.

Why it’s so awesome: If you enjoy an elegant décor and slow, sophisticated food, then this restaurant will suit your preferences. Located within the Ritz-Carlton hotel, this restaurant offers hearty food with a traditional twist and unusual flavor pairings that will leave your mouth tingling.

What to do there: This is the perfect restaurant for a relaxed, elegant night out. So, get dressed up and head in for an unforgettable meal. Try the chicken-fried Maine lobster and wood-grilled antelope steak if you’re looking for something tasty and unusual. And afterwards, head out to one of the nearby bars for a relaxed drink in sophisticated surroundings.

#6 – Southfork Ranch

• Home of TV’s dysfunctional Ewing clan.

Why it’s so awesome: Most people will recognize this white house at first sight from the TV, and if you’re a fan of the show then exploring it is a Dallas must-do. The house was home to some of the most iconic moments in TV history, including the shooting of J.R. and is one of the most popular points of interest in Dallas because of it.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the house and then explore the museum as well. The tour will take you through the most famous rooms in the house and you’ll be able to see costumes, clips, and props from the TV show.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Dallas Arboretum – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Dallas!

• A stunning botanical garden in the center of the city.
• The garden also holds amazing Cool Thursdays Concerts on the lawn.

Why it’s so awesome: This garden is stunning on its own, with lots of areas and exhibits that will interest every member of the family. The Thursday concerts are amazing as well and cover a range of genres, which includes 70s and 80s tribute music.

What to do there: If you’re in the city on a Thursday then make sure you turn up to see what music they have on. But the gardens are worth visiting during the day as well. Take the kids to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, wander the Texas Skywalk and walk under the Cascades, a stunning waterfall.

#8 – George W. Bush Presidential Library

• This is the best place to visit in Dallas if you want to learn more about 21st-century history.
• There’s an exhibit on the 9/11 attacks at this museum, so be careful if you’re particularly sensitive.

Why it’s so awesome: This probably isn’t the type of museum that kids will enjoy, but it’s still a fascinating place for adults who like learning more about the history of the places they visit. If this is one of your favorite pastimes when you travel, then this museum is a treasure trove.

What to do there: There are a few exhibits in this museum that get top ratings from visitors. You can see an exact replica of the Oval Office, learn more about 9/11, and get insights into the Bush dynasty. Afterwards, make sure you try out the Decision Points Theater, where you get to make decisions based on evidence the President had at the time of the choice. It’s a sobering and fairly difficult look at the weight that comes with power.

#9 – The Nasher Sculpture Center

• Home to some of the best art in the city, which is why it’s one of the most popular hotspots in Dallas.
• Located in Dallas’s Art District, there’s something for everyone here.

Why it’s so awesome: If you like art then you’ll love this center. It includes both temporary and permanent exhibits as well as a two-acre garden that’s filled with works by some of the best artists and photographers in the business. The center also offers the Nasher prize and you can see exhibits from past winners at the center as well.

What to do there: There are a range of exhibits and activities at this center that are worth seeing. Make sure you check out the sculpture garden where you’ll see pieces by Henry Moore, Rodin, and George Segal. This is also the place where you can enjoy live music and outdoor movie screenings. So, find out what’s on while you’re in the city and make sure you go along.

#10 – The Katy Trail – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Dallas

• A 3.5 mile route through the parks of the city.
• This is the local’s favorite place to exercise, so if you want to work off your holiday then this is the place to do it.

Why it’s so awesome: This trail winds through the parks of the city and through some of the most popular districts in Dallas. It’s popular with dog walkers, runners, and cyclists, and follows the path of the old railroad, known as the MKT or the Katy. As long as the weather is reasonable, you’ll find locals exercising and enjoying the outdoors in this location.

What to do there: If you’ve been eating too much on your holiday or just miss the endorphins you get when you work out, then put on your exercise gear and head down to this trail. You can walk the route and stop off whenever you see something interesting or just focus on your fitness and explore afterwards, whichever you want to do.

#11 – AT&T Stadium

• This stadium has an innovative and award-winning design that seats 85,000 fans and makes for a fantastic sporting experience.
• Sports are huge in Dallas, so you might as well be a part of the action!

Why it’s so awesome: People in Texas love their sports and Dallas is no exception. A sign of just how deep this love goes is this amazing stadium, which is to normal stadiums what a luxury car is to a family station wagon. This stadium is high tech, amazing to look at, and makes the sporting experience even more exciting than it normally is.

What to do there: You should obviously see what sports are on while you’re in the city and try to catch a game at the stadium. But even if you aren’t there at the right time, you can still get the America’s Team guided tour and get a behind the scenes look at everything from the artwork in the stadium to the locker room.

#12 – Lower Greenville – Cool place to see in Dallas with friends!

• One of the recently renovated hotspots in Dallas.
• This area used to be a little scary but is now one of the city’s best spots for nightlife.

Why it’s so awesome: This part of Dallas used to be rundown and most tourists and locals avoided it when possible. However, after a facelift and some marketing, it has become one of the most popular attractions in Dallas. It’s the perfect place to go for a fun night out and to enjoy some of Dallas’s best restaurants and cocktails.

What to do there: You’ll find a variety of unusual and trendy places to eat, drink, and hang out in this area. Visit during the day for a meal and then dessert at Steel City Pops, with its variety of gourmet popsicles. And then head over to HG Sply Co. for cocktails on the roof terrace with the hippest people in the city.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – The State Fair of Texas – Awesome place to visit in Dallas with kids!

• Don’t miss this incredibly popular fair.
• Kids, adults and everyone in between will find things to do, see, and eat at this iconic event.

Why it’s so awesome: Between late September and October, the State Fair of Texas offers everyone amazing food, attractions, concerts, animals, and acres of fun, lights and sound. This fair is famous even outside of Texas and is an iconic event that sums up everything that Dallas is known for.

What to do there: If you’re in the city at the right time, then this fair is a Dallas must do. It draws in visitors from all over the state and you’re bound to find something to enjoy there. Try the food, watch a concert, or just wander around and enjoy the atmosphere. If you’re from another part of America or the rest of the world, it’s like stepping into the Texas that you’ve seen in movies and on television.

#14 – Reunion Tower

• The best place to visit in Dallas for a spectacular view of the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome: When you visit a new city, you absolutely must see it from high up at least once. The Reunion Tower is the best place in the city to get these amazing views and to start to understand Dallas in its entirety.

What to do there: Take your camera up to the observation deck of the Reunion Tower on a clear day and go nuts with the pictures! If it’s cloudy or overcast, you probably won’t get the best view, so try to pick your time carefully for the best view and images.

#15 – Dallas Museum of Art – A perfect place to visit in Dallas if you are on a budget!

• Admission to the general exhibition is completely free.
• This is one of the best places to visit in Dallas with kids too!

Why it’s so awesome: Located in the arts district just across from Klyde Warren Park, this museum is the pride of the city. There are more than 24,000 objects in the museum dating from the third millennium to the present day as well as amazing educational programs that have won awards for their innovation and creativity.

What to do there: You’ll need a bit of time when you visit this museum as it’s one of the largest in the US and takes visitors on a journey from the ancient past to the modern-day. Make sure you take a look at the different collections too, including artwork from Africa, all over Asia, the Mediterranean, and the contemporary collection.

The arts district is home to some of Dallas’s best Airbnb’s so why not stay in the area and roam the museum until your heart’s content.

#16 – Trinity Groves – A must-see for foodies!

• No matter what food you enjoy, you’ll find it at this restaurant hub.
• This is the perfect place to start your night out in Dallas.

Why it’s so awesome: This area is Dallas’s restaurant hub and you’ll find a dizzying array of food options in this business district. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, vegan, Asian, seafood or Mediterranean food, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings in this area.

What to do there: For a really awesome night out, try sampling everything that’s on offer. Start out at Tapas Castile for an appetizer, find another restaurant for your meal and then find somewhere else for dessert. And don’t forget the after-dinner drinks either, because you’ll find a variety of options for a quick drink in between courses along the way.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#17 – The Arts District – One of Dallas’s coolest historical sites!

• A whole area where you’ll never be short of things to do and see!
• One of the most famous places in Dallas for the arts and for a great day and night out.

Why it’s so awesome: You might not know this, but Dallas has one of the biggest urban area areas in America at the moment. The Arts District stretches for 19 blocks across the city and is filled to the brim with restaurants, museums, and theaters. There’s something for everyone in this district, which makes it the perfect place to visit in Dallas if you have a free couple of hours or even a whole day to fill!

What to do there: One of the best things you can do in this area is to wander and just explore what’s around. But if you prefer to be more directed, then don’t forget to check out what’s on at the AT&T Performing Arts Center while you’re in the city. A good way to explore this area is by taking a walking tour so you can get an insider’s view of the district before you start to explore on your own.

#18 – Fair Park

• This park is a nationally registered historic landmark.
• It was designed by George Dahl and the whole area is a stunning example of art deco.

Why it’s so awesome: This park originally opened in 1886 for the Dallas State Fair and the fair is still the highlight of the year. But even if you travel to Dallas at a different time of year, there’s still a lot to see in this area. There are a variety of amazing Art Deco buildings in the area that are prime examples of this trend. They’ve been adapted to suit modern standards, but still look amazing in photos.

What to do there: If you’re in Dallas at the right time of year, make sure you see the State Fair in October. The Cotton Bowl in the middle of the park also hosts the annual University of Texas versus the University of Oklahoma game, so if you’re in the city at the right time then make sure you see this iconic, extremely popular game.

#19 – The Travelling Man

• This exhibition includes 3 installations spread throughout a Dallas neighborhood.
• The statues are meant to indicate the different stages of life and are a startling and fascinating addition to the neighborhood of Deep Ellum.

Why it’s so awesome: Created by the artist Brad Oldham, the statues were created to replace murals that had to make way for the city’s rail lines. Each figure is made of polished metal sheets that are riveted together and evoke the railway history of the neighborhood. There are 3 separate statues and they tell the story of the Traveling Man from birth to life. According to the stories, the Traveling man started out as a buried locomotive that was brought to life by a splash of gin that turned him into a type of transformer!

What to do there: This is one of the most fun things to do in Dallas . Check out the statues in order to get the best impression of the story being told. The first statue is known as Awakening and features just part of his head emerging from a pit of gravel. From there, you can see the robot on Good Latimer Street, leaning against some debris, and then taking a stroll in the third and final piece.

#20 – Adrian E. Flatt Hand Collection – Quite the quirky place in Dallas!

• This museum is one of the most unusual things to do in Dallas!
• A singular collection that you won’t soon forget.

Why it’s so awesome: The contents of this museum were created by an orthopedic surgeon who has a slight obsession with hands. It’s filled with bronze casts of the hands of famous people as well as significant figures in history and society. The creator was a surgeon who specialized in hand surgery and this lit the spark that led to this singular collection.

What to do there: This is a quick, quirky visit that will look great in photos and give your trip a more unique flavor! Make sure you have a look at some of the famous hands in the collection such as Walt Disney, Mickey Mantle, Doctor Seuss, and Dwight Eisenhower. You’ll also find the hands of composers and astronauts. In fact, the collection includes over 100 pairs of bronze casts.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

#21 – The ‘Eye’ Sculpture

• A slight strange display outside of the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas.
• This art installation was created to surprise passers-by and it certainly does that.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you see an enormous, 3 stories tall eye lying in a garden, but this is precisely what you’ll see in Dallas. The eyeball is impressively rendered, with streaky red veins, and looks unsettlingly real. It was created by Tony Tasset in 2007 as part of a temporary display and is made of fiberglass. It started out its life in Chicago, was taken to St. Louis, and finally ended up in the center of Dallas.

What to do there: This is a prime selfie spot and will look great on social media! It’s owned by the Joule Hotel and is located in the middle of an otherwise lovely sculpture garden. It really draws attention where it is, and even the locals sometimes look surprised to see a huge eye staring back at them as they hurry past.

#22 – The Perot Museum

• The perfect place to take the kids for an interactive and educational experience.
• The museum contains 5 floors of exhibits, so you could while away hours there.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum stays up with the times and includes 11 permanent exhibition halls with 3D computer animals, life-like simulations, educational games, video, and interactive kiosks. There are also some additional displays for kids including an outdoor play space and dedicated children’s museum. Your kids will love the robots and 35-foot tall fossils as well!

What to do there: If you’re looking for a place to take the kids while you’re visiting Dallas, then this is the perfect location. They’ll learn about the world without realizing that they’re learning, and you’ll enjoy the experience as well.

#23 – White Rock Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Dallas

• This park is home to a variety of special events in Dallas.
• When you want to do some exercise in natural surroundings, this is the perfect place to visit.
• The kids will love this area too because it manages to offer several wildlife experiences right in the heart of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: White Rock is one of the most popular parks in Dallas and for good reason. It’s the chosen venue for special events throughout the year and even on quiet days, it’s the place the locals visit to exercise, picnic and just soak up the natural surroundings. The park also contains miles of hiking and bike trails, dedicated picnic areas, a dog park, and wetlands along with the associated wildlife just meters from the busy city!

What to do there: Check out what’s on in the park while you’re in the city and make sure you don’t miss any of the special events. But apart from that, this is a great place to spend an afternoon. The park offers prime bird watching opportunities, kayaking and canoeing across the lake and miles of hiking and bike trails. Basically, whatever you like to do in nature, you’ll be able to do it in this park!

#24 – Frontiers of Flight Museum

• A Dallas must do for aviation fans!
• This museum contains over 35,000 historical artifacts that show how humanity finally lifted off the ground.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in aviation or in space, then you need to pay a visit to this museum. It has a collection of over 30 aviation and space flight exhibits which includes 13 galleries of displays of small aircraft models. There are also over a dozen full-sized planes including a model of the Wright Flyer, created by the Wright brothers, and aircraft from different wars.

What to do there: Spend some time learning about flight! You’ll get the chance to explore the histories of aviation pioneers such as Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh and Bessie Coleman. You’ll also get the chance to see planes from the World Wars and the Cold War as well as an Apollo pod.

#25 – Zero Gravity Thrill Park

• This park has a perfect safety record, so although the rides may be scream-inducing, they’re also extremely safe for you and your family!
• The perfect place to spend some time with your family or friends.

Why it’s so awesome: This park contains some of the scariest and most thrilling rides in the world. It’s one of the best places in Dallas if you like a little adrenalin with your trip and includes rides like the 7 story Bungee Jump, the Texas Blastoff, which travels straight upwards at 70mph, and the Skyscraper, which hits four G’s as it goes around! This is definitely not the kind of park which is designed for the faint of heart!

What to do there: Prepare yourself for some scares and take your bravest friends along with you. If you’re going to visit this kind of park then you need to go on as many rides as your stomach can take, so see how many you can take before your stomach says, ‘no more’. This park is also popular amongst kids and does have some slower, safer rides that will suit all ages.

#26 – Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament – One of the more unique places to visit in Dallas!

• If you’ve ever wanted to watch jousting while eating with your hands, then this is the place to do it.
• There are only 8 of these restaurants in the US, so you need to try them whenever you can.

Why it’s so awesome: For some reason, the medieval times have always excited people’s imaginations and their stomachs, and this restaurant is the only place in the modern world where you can indulge that interest. It offers 11th-century style meals that you can eat with your hands while you watch the knights joust for the right to be the Queen’s champion.

What to do there: If you’re looking for more unusual places to eat in Dallas, then try this restaurant for a meal you can really sink your teeth (and your hands) into. The food is relatively authentic, satisfying, and not all the healthy, but you don’t visit this type of restaurant for its vegetables. Instead, let yourself enjoy the atmosphere and the jousting and picture yourself back in a time long before your birth.

#27 – Legoland Discovery Center

• A wildly popular attraction in Dallas ever since the release of the movies!
• Great for kids and adults who are in touch with their inner children.

Why it’s so awesome: This Legoland is actually an amazing Lego playground with rides, build and play areas, a 4D cinema and a factory tour where you can learn all about how Legos are made. It’s the perfect place to take any child who loved the movies and wants a chance to build their own creations on a larger scale!

What to do there: Spend an afternoon or a morning at Legoland and let yourself remember how fun it can be to create without any expectations. Check out the 4D movie and then take the factory tour to get a behind the scenes look at how Legos get their colors and shapes. It’s much more interesting than it sounds!

Get insured for your trip to Dallas!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dallas

What is the top place to visit in Dallas, Texas?

The Sixth Floor Museum and the J.F.K. Memorial Statue are the top places to visit in Dallas because of their cultural importance.

What is the best outdoor place to visit in Dallas?

The Dallas Arboretum is a stunning outdoor botanical garden in Austin and a perfect place to visit in Dallas in the outdoors.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas at night?

The views from Reunion Tower are fantastic at night when the city is all lit up.

What is the best place to visit in Dallas for adults?

Fearing’s Restaurant is a sophisticated restaurant with food cooked by the top chefs, a perfect place to enjoy without the kids.

Exploring the many and varied cities in America can be as exciting as visiting more exotic locations. When you travel to Dallas, you’ll enjoy amazing food, shopping, a vibrant atmosphere, and lots of sports excitement during an easy, relaxed trip. This might not be a destination you’ve considered visiting before. That’s why we’ve decided to inspire you with this list of the best places to visit in Dallas no matter what you like doing, seeing, or eating!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Share or save this post

Thank you for the credit on the photo! Great article.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Destinations A-Z

Visit Dallas for Incredible Barbecue, Cool Neighborhoods, and an Over-the-top State Fair

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Lots of things are bigger in Texas. Dallas is one of them. The North Texas city covers nearly 400 square miles and anchors the largest metropolitan area in the Southern U.S.

Dallas is a city that gave birth to Meat Loaf, Morgan Fairchild, and Luke and Owen Wilson. It raised Erykah Badu, Norah Jones, and Jessica and Ashlee Simpson. Mark Cuban, Jerry Jones, Terry Bradshaw, Troy Aikman, George W. and Laura Bush are among those who call the city home.

Dallas is both a sports aficionado's and an art connoissour's paradise. The city is home to the legendary Dallas Cowboys, the NBA champion Dallas Mavericks, and the Dallas Stars, who left the Minnesota cold behind two decades ago. The Texas Rangers baseball team plays in nearby Arlington. The city also houses a number of world-class museums and intimate art galleries.

Prefer to catch a show? You'll find concerts and live performances galore.

Tex-Mex and barbecue are staples, but chances are you can find whatever cuisine you're looking for here in Texas' third-largest city. And if you're looking to shop until you drop, Dallas is going to feel like paradise. And while you'll find both in the Big D, there really is a lot more to Dallas than cowboys and rodeos.

Central Standard Time. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)

Unless you're looking to melt, you'll want to avoid summer, when thermometers push into the 90s and 100s. Late September through late October offer not only cooler temperatures, but also a chance to check out the larger than life Texas State Fair , where you'll find Big Tex, a 55-foot cowboy who's become a Texas icon. March brings a Pinball festival while April and May are studded with arts festivals across the greater Dallas area. Dallas has a thriving LGBTQ community and hosts one of the best Pride celebrations in the South. Dallas Pride is in June, but it's an event that's worth braving the summer heat for.

Dallas is part of a sprawling area known as the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex covers 13 counties and includes Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington. The area is commonly referred to as DFW.

Dallas is criss-crossed by a number of highways, and getting around the city no joke. Dallas is one of the most congested cities in the U.S., and traffic can be fierce with rush hour lasting from 6:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6:3 p.m. on weekdays.

Public transit has improved in recent years, but many people still drive most places.

Dallas can be hot, hot, hot in the summer. Use a windshield cover to cool down your car during the summer and carry a water bottle wherever you go.

Trains: Dallas Area Rapid Transit, known as DART, operates local buses and trains from 5 a.m. to midnight. Bus fares start at $2.50 per ride. Train fares start at $3.00 per ride.

Taxis: Several taxi companies serve the Dallas area. Dallas Yellow Cab allows for online bookings.

Rideshare: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Dallas. A members only rideshare service, Alto, launched in Dallas in early 2019.

Hotel Indigo

Address: 1933 Main St., Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 741-7700 Book Now

If purple is your color, you're going to love this place. Hotel Indigo is a pet-friendly, downtown Dallas hotel that's a registered historic landmark property. Rooms are modern, trendy, and feature historic quotes from the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald. The boutique hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to Downtown and Uptown Dallas.

The Guild Uptown

Address: 2500 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (512) 856-6303

The Guild is a boutique hotel that offers giant suites with fully equipped kitchens in Uptown Dallas, a true walkable neighborhood with ample restaurants, bars, and epic people-watching. Grocery delivery is available. Rooms are Texas-themed and the service is about as friendly as it gets. If you're planning to stay a while, this is the place to do it.

The Westin Galleria Dallas

Address: 13340 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX 75240 Phone: (972) 934-9494 Book Now

If you're looking to shop until you drop on your Dallas vacation, there's no better place to stay than the Westin Galleria. This award-winning hotel is located inside a shopping mall, making it easy to drop off heavy shopping bags between stores. Private in-room spa treatments are available, fine art is on view at the hotel gallery, and rooms feature Westin Heavenly beds.

The Hilton Anatole Hotel

Address: 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207 Phone Number: (214) 748-1200 Book Now

The Hilton Anatole is an art lover's paradise. It has comfortable rooms, expansive outdoor spaces, and a collection of Asian art that could rival a museum's. It's also home to a chunk of the Berlin Wall. The hotel features an exclusive fireworks show during the summer and a pool with water slides, cabanas, a swim-up bar, and a lazy river for tubing.

Magnolia Hotel

Address: 1401 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 915-6500 Book Now

The Magnolia Hotel is a luxurious historic hotel in downtown Dallas. It is housed in the former Magnolia Petroleum Company Building, the first U.S. highrise to feature air conditioning and Dallas' first skyscraper. It's one hotel you won't have a problem finding. Pegasus, the flying red horse, still sits atop the 29-story structure.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Address: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219 Phone: (214) 559-2100 Book Now

Rosewood Mansion is a Texas icon tucked into an exclusive oasis in Uptown Dallas. It was once an opulent private residence, but nowadays it's one of Dallas' most luxurious hotels. The property was constructed in the 1920s and its parties have hosted guests including President Franklin D. Roosevelt and author Tennessee Williams. It became a hotel in 1979, but each of its generously sized rooms are sure to feel like home from the second you walk in.

Ritz-Carlton

Address: 2121 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 922-0200 Book Now

The Ritz-Carlton is located in the heart of the action on downtown Dallas' McKinney Avenue. This hotel offers all of the luxury and elegance you expect from a Ritz Carlton property but with a Texas twist. The renovated five-star property may well be the only Dallas hotel where you can sample guacamole with a Guacamologist. It's also home to Texas' celebrity chef Dean Fearing's namesake restaurant.

Joule Hotel

Address: 1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 748-1300 Book Now

If you like your hotels quirky and luxurious, head straight to the Joule Hotel. The hotel is located in a 1920s neo-Gothic landmark building in the heart of Dallas' Central Business District. It's close to both the Dallas Arts District and the flagship Neiman Marcus location. It's also where you'll find the Eye, a giant 30-foot fiberglass eyeball sculpture. The hotel includes 160 rooms, each with the most creative minibars in Dallas.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

Address: 10477 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, TX 75220 Phone: (214) 366-2000 Website

Pappas Bros. is a family-run steakhouse that's been serving up some of Texas' best steaks since 1976. This is where to go for that perfect, mouth-watering Texas steak. The restaurant employs more full-time chefs than the average steakhouse and is a perfectionist when it comes to food. The restaurant only uses corn-fed beef and USDA Prime graded cuts. Meat is dry aged in-house. Several sommeliers also wander the restaurant, ensuring perfect pairings whatever your meal.

Fearing's Restaurant

Address: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 922-4848 Website

Fearing's is the brainchild of celebrity chef, country singer, and cookbook author Dean Fearing. Located inside the Ritz Carlton hotel, the restaurant's specialty is finding the perfect mix of sweet and savory. It's known for its tortilla soup, Southwestern barbecue shrimp, and ice-cole margaritas. Don't miss the Rattlesnake Bar, whose menu items include East Texas smoked rattlesnake and corn fritters with venom sauce.

Address: 2323 N Henderson Ave #109, Dallas, TX 75206 Phone: (214) 370-9426 Website

Gemma is a chic oasis owned by the husband-and-wife team Stephen Rogers and Allison Yoder. Rogers, a Dallas native, is the restaurant's chef. The pair moved to Dallas after spending several years running a restaurant in Napa Valley. The menu is small and the dishes straightforward. Fried Texas Quail, braised rabbit pappardelle, and a pork chop with jalapeno peach relish are a sampling of what you'll find on Gemma's dinner menu. Gemma is closed on Mondays.

Smokey John's Bar-B-Que and home Cooking

Address: 1820 W Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75235 Phone: (214) 352-2752 Website

Smokey John's has been serving up barbecue in Dallas since 1976. It used to be called Big John's until the smell of its hickory smoke became so ubiquitous in the neighborhood that customer's nicknamed owner John Reaves Smokey John. Many menu items are under $10. A 1/2 pound rib sandwich will set you back $8.50. Don't forget to order a side of mac & cheese or collard greens.

Mia's Tex-Mex

Address: 4322 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219 Phone: (214) 526-1020 Website

Mia's is a cozy Tex-Mex spot that's been serving local celebrities, athletes, and a whole lot of other hungry Texans since 1981. The restaurant's menu is based on the founder's family recipes. Mia's specialties include grilled chicken quesadillas, ribeye steaks, homemade rellenos, and brisket tacos. Don't miss out on the Big Red-rita, a margarita unlike anything you've ever sipped.

Lockhart Smokehouse

Address: 400 West Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208 Phone: (214) 944-5521 Website

Just because you can't make it to small town Texas on a trip doesn't mean you can't experience some of the best small town barbecue in Texas. Lockhart Smokehouse aims to bring central Texas barbecue north to the big city of Dallas with three area locations. Lockhart smokes its brisket, sausage, ribs, and other meats over Texas post oak, serving them up with classic southern sides like smoked baked beans, potato salad, and mac and cheese.

Pecan Lodge

Address: 2702 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226 Phone: (214) 748-8900 Website

Pecan Lodge got its start as a stall in the Dallas Farmers Market and has since become one of Dallas' most popular barbecue spots. Its BBQ pit burns 24 hours a day, and anything that can be made from scratch is made from scratch. Come for the brisket, but don't leave without trying the Hot Mess, a jumbo sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with South Texas barbacoa, chipotle cream, cheese, butter & green onions.

Torchy's Tacos

Address: Multiple locations Website

Torchy's is a Texas establishment with outposts across the state. It's a casual spot where you can get breakfast tacos all day and sample excellent versions of a couple of Texas staples: guacamole and queso. Torchy's has a variety of vegetarian tacos in addition to several meat-filled options. Do try the fried avocado tacos or one of the rotating tacos of the month.

Revolver Taco Lounge

Address: 2701 Main St #120, Dallas, TX 75226 Phone: (214) 272-7163 Website

If you're looking for a truly unique taco, look here. Revolver Taco Lounge stuffs its corn tortillas with fillings like wagyu beef, aged pork, and goat birria. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Try the lengua (beef tongue) or the langosta (lobster with pineapple pico).

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202 Phone: (214) 747-6660 Website

This is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shot that killed President John F. Kennedy. Back then, it was the Texas School Book Depository. It's since been turned into a museum exploring the impact of Kennedy's assassination on the world. An open-air memorial to Kennedy with an eternal flame is a short walk away.

Reunion Tower

Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207 Phone: (214) 712-7040 Website

If you want a bird's eye view of this sprawling city, Reunion Tower is the place to get it. The revolving restaurant is an icon of the city's skyline. At 561 feet tall, the tower defines the Dallas skyline and is among its tallest buildings. The tower has been home to a number of fine dining establishments over the years and has made appearances in the CBS series Dallas as well as in the 1987 movie "Robocop."

Dallas Museum of Art

Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 922-1200 Website

The Dallas Museum of Art is among the 10 largest art museums in the U.S. It includes more than 24,000 pieces spanning 5,000 years of history. The museum's nearly 160,000 square feet of exhibition space showcases pieces from around the world that date back to the third century B.C. The museum is part of the Dallas Arts District.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Address: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 428-5555 Website

The Perot Museum, as it's commonly known, is a natural history and science museum. The museum is split between two properties with the bulk of its exhibits being housed in Dallas' Victory Park neighborhood. The museum's Victory Park campus includes 180,000 square feet, five floors of publicly accessible exhibitions, and a half dozen learning labs. It's collection includes an interactive video exhibit that allows visitors to race a Dallas Cowboys football player.

Nasher Sculpture Center

Address: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 242-5100 Website

The Nasher Sculpture Center offers a collection of modern and contemporary sculpture in the heart of downtown Dallas. The museum opened in 2003 and its grounds span 2.4 acres of indoor and outdoor galleries.

Southfork Ranch

Address: 3700 Hogge Dr, Parker, TX 75002 Phone: (972) 442-7800 Website

Southfork Ranch provided the setting for the TV show Dallas . Nowadays, it's a special events venue that also offers tours. Visitors can see the gun that shot J.R., eat at Miss Ellie's Deli, and relax on the grounds of the ranch that housed the fictional Ewing family.

AT&T Stadium

Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011 Phone: (817) 892-4000 Website

Located just outside of Dallas in Irving, AT&T Stadium is the home of the Dallas Cowboys, but you don't have to pony up for a game day ticket to take a peek inside. AT&T Stadium offers tours allowing visitors the chance to stand inside the world's largest domed structure, check out a variety of art, and pay homage to "America's Team." Just be sure to book in advance.

Globe Life Field in Arlington

Address: 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, TX 76011 Website

If you're a baseball fan, this stadium is for you. Globe Life Field is the new home of the Texas Rangers baseball team. Can't catch a game? No problem. Stadium tours are available.

Frontiers of Flight Museum

Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209 Phone: (214) 350-3600 Website

This museum is an aviation geek's paradise. It's original location was inside a terminal at Dallas Love Field, but the museum has since moved to its own 100,000 square foot space on airport grounds. The museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and houses a collection of aviation history artifacts, including the Apollo 7 Command Module, artifacts from the German airship Hindenburg, and more than 200 World War II aircraft models.

Address: 1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Website

Many cities have public art, but only Dallas is home to a 30-foot tall fiberglass sculpture of a human eyeball. The giant eyeball is part of the Joule Hotel, a chain known for its art collection. It was created by a Chicago artist who used a photo of his own eyeball as his inspiration. The eyeball had been collecting dust in storage before the hotel bought it. Do stop for a photo, but don't be surprised if you feel like the eyeball is staring at you.

Galleria Dallas

13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX 75420 Phone: (972) 702-7100 Website

The Galleria Dallas is home to more than 200 stores and restaurants, a hotel, and an ice rink. The building is modeled after Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. During the holidays, the country's largest indoor tree takes its place in the center of the mall's ice rink. The four-story tree towers 95 feet above the rink.

Neiman Marcus

1618 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Phone: (214) 741-6911 Website

The upscale department store Neiman Marcus got its start in Dallas in 1907. Nowadays, Its flagship store is the last original department store still operating in downtown Dallas. Neiman Marcus is known for its high-end designer clothing and accessories, personal shopping services and unusual and extravagant holiday gifts. The flagship location is decked out in lights and Christmas cheer during the holidays that shouldn't be missed on a winter trip to Dallas.

Highland Park Village

47 Highland Park Village Phone: (214) 443-9898 Website

If there's a Rodeo Drive of Texas, Highland Park Village is it. HIghland Park Village is a collection of walkable upscale shops that create an idyllic little shopping village in one of Dallas' ritziest neighborhoods. This is where you'll find retailers Christian Louboutin, Hermes, Harry Winston, Alexander McQueen, and more.

Allen Premium Outlets

Address: 820 W Stacy Rd, Allen, TX 75013 Phone: (972) 678-7000 Website

If you're looking for high-end shopping at outlet prices, make the 30-mile drive north to Allen, Texas. This is where you'll find the BCBG Max Azria, and Brooks Brothers factory stores, the Movado Company Store, and a 7 for All Mankind outlet.

Wild Bill's Western Store

311 N Market St #101, Dallas, TX 75202 Phone: (214) 954-1050 Website

You can't come to Dallas and not shop for cowboy boots, jeans, and snap shirts. There's no better place to outfit yourself for Texas than Wild Bill's Western Store in the West End Historic District. Wild Bill's has been around for more than 50 years. It outfitted the cast of Dallas and sells some of the top brands in western wear, including Justin and Luccese. The best part of shopping at Wild Bill's? You can sip on free beer while you shop.

Forty Five Ten

Address: 1615 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Website

Forty Five Ten is a Dallas boutique with an international reputation. The store aims to merge art and fashion to create a shopping experience that's unconventional, eclectic, and inspired. Forty Five Ten's flagship store opened in downtown Dallas in 2016. It includes 37,000 square feet of upscale shopping for men and women looking for clothing and stylish accessories.

NorthPark Center

Address: 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75225 Website

Sometimes, there's no better place to shop than a mall, and Dallas' NorthPark Center is one of America's best. NorthPark Center is home to 235 stores and restaurants and is among the country's 20 largest shopping malls. Stores include BVLGARI, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Neiman Marcus. There's also an Eataly.

Dallas Arts District : The Dallas Arts District is a Texas-sized area dedicated to the arts. It covers 68-square miles and 19 city blocks. It's home to the Dallas Museum of Art, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Nasher Sculpture Center. It's also where Booker T. Washington Performing Arts High School, where Erykah Badu and Norah Jones studied, is located.

Bishop Arts District : This intimate shopping and entertainment district is located in the northern section of the Oak Cliff neighborhood, just southwest of downtown Dallas. This was a warehouse district in the 1920s, home of Dallas busiest trolley stop in the 1930s, and struggled from the 1960s to the 1980s before it was transformed into the independent artists haven it is today.

Deep Ellum : This eclectic neighborhood was a hotspot for jazz and blues in the 1920s. It's an area that's since reinvented itself multiple times. Today you can find live music, good feer, and plenty of local beer.

Uptown : Uptown is a hip neighborhood known for its bars, restaurants, and high-end shops. A free vintage trolly runs up and down McKinney Avenue, the center of Uptown's action. This upscale neighborhood is among Texas' most walkable areas.

Summers can be hot and sticky, but winters are mild and snow is rare. Below are average temperatures in farenheit for each month.

January: 30 to 57 February: 35 to 61 March: 42 to 69 April: 51 to 77 May: 60 to 84 June: 67 to 91 July: 71 to 95 August: 71 to 96 September: 64 to 89 October: 52 to 80 November: 43 to 68 December: 32 to 58

DART GoPass : Public transit ticketing and ride-planning iOs | Android

Waze : Real-time traffic information iOs | Android

DFW Airport App : Everything you need to know about this behemoth airport iOs | Android

Related Articles

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

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

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

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

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

Read Next: How We Travel With Only a Backpack

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

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

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

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

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Canton and Canton Trade Days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Chocktaw Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

Read Next : The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary

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

Davy crockett national forest.

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Texoma

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

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

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

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

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

Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

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

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

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

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

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

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

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

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

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 26 Fabulous Things to do in Eureka Springs

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can check out Siloville. 

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

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to do in Marble Falls

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Murray State Park

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

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

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

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

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

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

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

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

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

Happy Travel, friends!!

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

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

Let’s Connect on Social Media!

• Instagram Follow
• Pinterest Follow
• TikTok follow
• Twitter follow
• YouTube follow
• Flickr follow
• facebook link

Like this post?  Please Pin It or share on your favorite social media!

About the Author

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

Monday 21st of November 2022

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

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

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

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

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

Saturday 4th of December 2021

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

Saturday 19th of June 2021

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

Monday 21st of June 2021

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

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

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

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

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

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

Best Road Trips From Dallas

Top road trip destinations from dallas.

🚗 195 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 50 minutes

Perfect long weekend road trip for foodies and music lovers, Austin is famous for its live music scene and outdoor spaces like Zilker Park. The buzzing city is also home to world-class BBQ joints to farm-to-table bistros.

There is something for everyone on this drive and the amazing places you can visit en route include Silos at Magnolia in Waco and Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum .

San Antonio

🚗 370 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 40 minutes

Visit the historic site of the Alamo, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the River Walk, or have a scenic meal by the river—there is plenty to do in San Antonio, no matter what you are looking for in a road trip!

En route, we recommend stopping at Waco to visit Dr Pepper Museum or grab a meal at Silos at Magnolia and spend some time in Austin .

🚗 240 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

Whether you are looking to explore the Museum District's 19 museums or learn more about space exploration at the famous Space Center, Houston is the perfect place to visit for curious minds.

As you drive to Houston, you can make the best of this road trip by visiting Pearce Museum in Corsicana , Sam Houston Statue in Huntsville and enjoy the small town charm of Conroe .

🚗 800 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 10 minutes

If you want the perfect combination of urban fun and a great outdoor adventure, Denver will deliver. This hip city has many up-and-coming breweries, amazing museums and the majestic Rocky Mountains as its backdrop!

There is plenty to see and do en route, and we highly recommend putting aside some time to visit Wichita Falls , Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo and Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs .

Grand Canyon National Park

🚗 1,060 miles ⏱️ 16 hours

The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring places on earth, and for good reason! Here, you will find plenty of stunning vistas and hiking trails for all fitness levels, and you will even get to see an unforgettable sunset.

As you travel to the Grand Canyon, make sure to check out Amarillo , A lbuquerque , the fascinating Petrified Forest National Park and Flagstaff , home to Lowell Observatory .

🚗 1,220 miles ⏱️ 18 hours

Las Vegas needs little introduction; from its neon-lit Strip, glamorous casinos, and amazing shows where you can watch your favorite artists perform to world-class dining, welcome to the world's entertainment capital!

On this sizeable drive, you will have plenty of amazing places to visit. If you are after Route 66 nostalgia, make sure to stop by Albuquerque and stop at Flagstaff to make a detour to the Grand Canyon en route.

New Orleans

🚗 530 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

The party never stops in New Orleans! Time your road trip with the legendary Mardi Gras celebrations and explore the French Quarter, or plan for a quieter adventure in the Garden District and admire the beautiful architecture.

If you have a little more time on your hands, you can extend your trip to visit Splash Kingdom Paradise Island , a great stop if you are traveling with family, and spend some time in Shreveport and Baton Rouge .

🚗 655 miles ⏱️ 10 hours

Santa Fe is a colorful New Mexican City with an artistic soul. You will find beautiful adobe buildings and some of the most vibrant markets here. Don't miss out on indulging in the delicious Southwestern cuisine!

There are plenty of unique and quirky things to see on this drive, such as the World's Littlest Skyscraper in Wichita Falls and Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo .

Colorado Springs

🚗 730 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Visit Colorado Springs to experience the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Here you can explore Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods to admire the stunning natural landscapes.

Some of the amazing places you can visit on this drive include Wichita Falls , Amarillo , Trinidad and beautiful Pueblo .

🚗 1,240 miles ⏱️ 19 hours, 30 minutes

Looking for a magical destination? Orlando is the perfect destination for families and adventurers alike. Home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios, Orlando offers endless fun and excitement for all ages.

As you make your way to Florida, you will get to spend time in historic cities like Shreveport and Jackson , admire the Gulf Coast views in Mobile and make a detour to Tallahassee .

🚗 670 miles ⏱️ 10 hours

Nashville is the quintessential destination for any music lover. During your visit, make sure to spend some time at the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and catch a gig or two during your visit to Music City.

On the way to Nashville, you can also visit Sulphur Springs , Texarkana , Little Rock and get a taste of live music and follow in the footsteps of the King in Memphis .

Big Bend National Park

🚗 680 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Prepare to be amazed by some of Texas' most stunning landscapes in Big Bend National Park. Bring your hiking boots and set off on a trail or simply enjoy the scenery of Rio Grande's dramatic canyons, and enjoy star-filled nights.

The drive to Big Bend showcases the best of Texas metropolises with something for all travelers, and you can visit Waco , Austin and historic San Antonio en route.

🚗 810 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 10 minutes

There is so much to explore in Atlanta, from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site to the expansive Georgia Aquarium and the beautiful Atlanta Botanical Garden, where you can see the Earth Goddess, pictured above.

This drive is the perfect adventure for history lovers with world-class museums in the cities that dot this route, such as Shreveport , Jackson and Montgomery .

🚗 470 miles ⏱️ 7 hours

Amarillo, the gateway to the Texas Panhandle, offers a slice of classic Americana with attractions like the Cadillac Ranch. The charming city sits on the historic Route 66 and is only a stone's throw from the majestic Palo Duro Canyon.

You will get to experience the best of small town and Southern charm on this drive to Amarillo as you drive past the friendly communities of Abilene and Lubbock .

🚗 170 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 40 minutes

Waco is home to the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, the brainchild of Joanna and Chip Gaines of HGTV's popular reality series "Fixer Upper". This charming Texan city is perfect for a day trip or a laid-back weekend getaway.

Instead of driving directly to Waco, you can extend your trip on this drive to visit Fort Worth , Big Rocks Park , Dinosaur Valley State Park and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center .

🚗 940 miles ⏱️ 14 hours

Windy City is the perfect place to head to if you are looking to do some museum-hopping. While here, don't miss the views from the Willis Tower Skydeck or the art at Millennium Park, and sample some delicious deep-dish pizza.

As you drive to the shores of Lake Michigan, we recommend spending some time in Texarkana , taking a relaxing soak in Hot Springs , and exploring Little Rock and St Louis .

🚗 750 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 45 minutes

Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," Destin is home to an amazing array of marine wildlife, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can expect to find world-class fishing, challenging golf courses, and the freshest seafood in Destin.

This is the perfect "surf and turf" adventure where you can explore historic cities like Shreveport and Jackson inland before heading to the Gulf Coast to enjoy the sun in Gulf Shores and Pensacola en route.

Padre Island

🚗 440 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 40 minutes

Relax on the sandy beaches of Padre Island, the longest barrier island in the world. Enjoy bird watching, the Padre Island National Seashore, and activities like fishing and kiteboarding in this coastal paradise.

On this drive towards the Gulf of Mexico, you can visit bustling towns and cities like Waco , Austin and San Antonio for an unforgettable urban adventure.

🚗 190 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 50 minutes

Visit Shreveport for a taste of Louisiana culture and entertainment. Enjoy the casinos, vibrant music scene, and Southern cuisine. Don't miss the R.W. Norton Art Gallery and the lush American Rose Center gardens.

There is plenty to visit on this drive, such as the pretty small town of Canton , the famous Lonestar Speedway and Kilgore College East Texas Oil Museum .

Oklahoma City

🚗 210 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

Oklahoma City is famous for its cowboy heritage, which you can learn about at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Don't miss out on visiting the vibrant Bricktown district.

You can visit Ray Roberts Lake State Park , Frank Buck Zoo and beautiful Turner Falls Park on your way to Oklahoma City.

🚗 190 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

Caddo Lake, with its hauntingly beautiful cypress swamps, offers a mystical boating or kayaking experience. Discover diverse wildlife and hidden bayous.

You can also add Canton , a charming small town, East Texas Zoo & Gator Park and Kilgore College East Texas Oil Museum to your itinerary en route.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

🚗 510 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 50 minutes

Hike in the stunning Guadalupe Mountains National Park, home to the highest peak in Texas. Experience the rugged beauty of the desert landscape, extensive hiking trails, and the beautiful wilderness.

We recommend also visiting Abilene Zoo , Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park in Carlsbad and Carlsbad Caverns National Park en route.

Lake Ouachita and Hot Springs

🚗 340 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

Reconnect with nature at Lake Ouachita, and unwind at the healing waters of Hot Springs in Arkansas. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, secluded islands, and thermal baths for a relaxing retreat. Make sure to check out the famous Bathhouse Row.

You can take a little extra time on this drive to visit Sulphur Springs and Texarkana en route to make the best of your road trip.

Corpus Christi

🚗 470 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

A relatively short road trip to the shore of the Gulf of Mexico will take you to Corpus Christi for a blissful beach getaway. Enjoy the soft sands of Padre Island, explore the Texas State Aquarium, and have fun with watersports if feeling adventurous!

On this road trip, you can also visit Waco , Temple , the iconic metropolis of Austin , New Braunfels and fascinating Natural Bridge Caverns .

🚗 170 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

If you are looking for a peaceful experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Broken Bow is nestled near Beavers Bend State Park; a paradise for fishing and even camping by the river. Nearby, you will also find restaurants by Broken Bow Lake.

There are plenty of interesting places to see on this drive, including Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum in Greenville , Cooper Lake State Park and Paris , Texas.

🚗 520 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 40 minutes

Branson is a family-friendly destination known for its live shows, beautiful Ozark Mountains scenery, and fun attractions like Silver Dollar City, an 1880s-style theme park. The area is especially stunning during spring and fall, so you might want to plan accordingly!

En route, you can also make stops at Texarkana , beautiful Hot Springs and Little Rock in Arkansas and explore Ozark-St. Francis National Forest .

🚗 320 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

Possibly home to some of the most quirky attractions on our list, Tulsa is known for its Art Deco heritage and beautiful green spaces like the Gathering Place. Make sure to visit the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum.

If you'd like to explore the area more, we recommend making stops at Sulphur Springs , quirky town of Paris , Texas and pretty Lake Eufaula .

🚗 20 miles ⏱️ 25 minutes

Grapevine is home to a historic downtown with its boutique shops, wineries, and festivals. Don't miss the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and the beautiful Lake Grapevine for outdoor activities.

Grapevine sits adjacent to Dallas, so this will be a very short drive. En route, you can stop by Cowboys Red River Dancehall & Saloon for a spot of nostalgia.

🚗 30 miles ⏱️ 35 minutes

In the charming small town of Terrell, you can visit the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum, the historic downtown, and enjoy local dining. Terrell's friendly atmosphere makes it a delightful stop on any road trip.

To make the best of this short drive, we recommend stopping at Spellman Museum of Forney History en route to Terrell.

🚗 60 miles ⏱️ 1 hour

Canton is a pretty small town best known for hosting the world's largest flea market, First Monday Trade Days. Explore this vast market for unique finds and local crafts.

On your way to Canton, you can also visit the Spellman Museum of Forney History and Splash Kingdom Paradise Island , which is a seasonal attraction.

Longer road trips from Dallas

🚗 1,360 miles ⏱️ 20 hours

If you are looking for a beachy road trip, then San Diego is the destination to add to your list! Home to stunning shorelines, this sunny Cali city is home to San Diego Zoo and historic Old Town. Make sure to check out the popular breweries while there!

Los Angeles

🚗 1,440 miles ⏱️ 21 hours

Sitting on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Los Angeles is famously home to the iconic Hollywood sign, sunny beaches, many museums and eclectic neighborhoods that make the city a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.

Yellowstone National Park

🚗 1,385 miles ⏱️ 22 hours

Explore the wild heart of Yellowstone National Park, where you will find world-famous geysers, hot springs, and fascinating wildlife. Make sure to add majestic Old Faithful and stunning Grand Prismatic Spring to your list of things to see!

🚗 1,550 miles ⏱️ 23 hours, 35 minutes

Welcome to the city that never sleeps! Big Apple is an amazing destination for some retail therapy, visiting world-class museums, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and spending some time at Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

Already have an account? Log in

21 Amazing Road Trips From Dallas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

If you’re searching for some awesome ideas for road trips from Dallas, here’s everything you need to know about 21 of our top recommendations!

If you’re looking to explore the landscapes and culture around Texas and the American South, road trips are the best way to do so.

You can take your time cruising through the countryside, stopping at unique locations, chatting with locals, and seeing the beauty of America with your own eyes.

If you’re staying in Dallas , there are some amazing road tip options for you.

Venture down to Texas Hill Country and see beautiful places like Dripping Springs or take on the Texas wine trail. Or continue further south and try out the San Antonio River Walk.

You can also try some longer road trips from Dallas! Head east to New Orleans and explore the French Quarter or try a ghost tour. Tour interesting museums in Oklahoma City, soak in hot springs in Arkansas, or explore canyons in New Mexico.

These road trips from Dallas will help you explore the area and have some amazing travel experiences!

Table of Contents

Caddo Lake State Park

Turner falls park, davy crockett national forest, texas hill country, san antonio, oklahoma city, hot springs, colorado bend state park, big bend national park, new orleans, carlsbad caverns national park, lake charles, palo duro canyon, corpus christi, 21 epic road trips from dallas, texas.

Whether you want to explore the wilderness in the best Texas state parks, or you want to take on a lengthy journey into a neighboring state, here are some of the best road trips from Dallas!

1-Day Road Trips

These road trips from Dallas are around 3 hours one way or less. So any of these can easily be done in a day. Of course, you can stretch them out into weekend road trips, but they are super convenient for a quick and easy day road trip.

Find more nearby attractions on our list of the best things to do in Dallas !

• Driving distance : 95 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 1.5 hours

Drive just over an hour south of Dallas into Waco, a historic town situated along the banks of the winding Brazos River. The journey unfolds amidst endless fields of bluebonnets and rolling hills, offering a picturesque tableau of central Texas. En route, pit stops in quaint towns reveal hidden gems like roadside diners serving up classic Texas barbecue and charming antique shops.

Once you arrive in Waco check out the famous Magnolia Market, a landmark that draws visitors into a realm of artisanal shops, delectable eateries, and a vibrant marketplace.

Waco’s narrative extends beyond its popular attractions; it resonates through the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing the state’s storied law enforcement history, and the scenic Cameron Park, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore its winding trails and picturesque landscapes along the Brazos River.

Waco, with its welcoming spirit and diverse offerings, invites exploration, making it a captivating destination in the heart of the Lone Star State.

• Driving distance : 202 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

You can visit the state’s capital city on a day road trip from Dallas! Austin is around 3 hours south of Dallas. You pass right through Waco on the way, so you could even combine the two into one road trip and just visit Waco on your way to Austin.

Once you arrive in Austin, there is a huge range of amazing things to do. Renowned for its live music scene, the city’s streets resonate with the vibrant sounds of blues, country, and indie rock, especially along the historic Sixth Street.

Beyond the melodies, Austin embraces a dynamic blend of technology, creativity, and natural beauty. The Colorado River winds through the city, offering outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the lush Zilker Park hosts festivals and outdoor concerts.

With its iconic bat colony under the Congress Avenue Bridge and a thriving cultural scene, Austin stands as a bastion of creativity and innovation in the heart of Texas. Also, be sure to check out the impressive architecture of the Texas State Capitol Building!

Check out other fun activities in the area with these day trips from Austin .

• Driving distance : 169 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 2.5 hours

Caddo Lake State Park , located near the Louisiana border in East Texas, is one of the top state parks in the area. This park encompasses the enchanting Caddo Lake, a sprawling maze of bayous, sloughs, and giant cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. The drive here from Dallas is truly stunning.

Visitors can navigate the lake’s meandering waterways by canoe or kayak, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of towering cypress trees and vibrant water lilies.

With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse ecosystems, Caddo Lake State Park stands as a testament to the natural wonders of East Texas, inviting guests to connect with the untamed beauty of this unique and enchanting landscape.

• Driving distance : 32 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 45 minutes

Though it’s under an hour’s drive from Dallas to Fort Worth , it’s still one of the most popular road trips from Dallas. You’ll just head west out of Dallas and enter a city rich in Western heritage and modern allure. Fort Worth has a captivating blend of cowboy spirit and urban sophistication.

Nestled in the heart of North Texas, “Cowtown” embraces its historical roots with the iconic Stockyards National Historic District, where cattle drives, rodeos, and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo pay homage to the city’s cowboy legacy.

Beyond the rugged charm of the Stockyards, Fort Worth boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The Sundance Square downtown offers a dynamic urban experience, featuring lively restaurants, boutiques, and a bustling entertainment district. Tour the city by electric bike to get out in the fresh air and cover lots of ground!

• Driving distance : 128 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Another one of the most beautiful road trips from Dallas that you can complete in a day is Turner Falls State Park. Located in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, this state park is a natural oasis that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty.

The park’s centerpiece is the stunning Turner Falls, a 77-foot cascading waterfall that plunges into a clear, natural swimming pool, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The surrounding landscape features rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and meandering hiking trails that beckon exploration.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming in the cool waters, hiking through scenic terrain, and even exploring the historic Collings Castle perched atop the hills.

Turner Falls State Park is not just a destination for adventure seekers but also a serene retreat, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and recreational activities amidst the tranquil beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains.

• Driving distance : 142 miles

Those looking for outdoor adventure can embark on a road trip from Dallas to Davy Crockett National Forest . As you leave the cityscape behind, the road unfolds beneath a canopy of towering pine trees, guiding you through small towns and picturesque countryside.

As you approach Davy Crockett National Forest, you’ll find a sprawling expanse of wilderness that invites exploration. The forest is home to hiking trails, serene lakes, and dense woodlands, providing a retreat into nature’s embrace.

The road trip not only promises a change in scenery but also a shift in pace, offering a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of Davy Crockett National Forest.

Weekend Road Trips

Here are some more road trips from Dallas that make an ideal weekend getaway. Ranging from 3-5 hours, these destinations are located a bit too far to drive there and back in one day.

So if you have time to spare for a weekend trip, try one of these exciting road trips from Dallas!

Need more inspiration for the Lone Star State? Here are the best things to do in Texas !

• Driving distance : 313 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours

One of the absolute best weekend road trips from Dallas is Texas Hill Country. Characterized by its limestone hills, clear-flowing rivers, and expansive wildflower-covered meadows, Texas Hill Country is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of tranquility.

Quaint towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley beckon with their historic charm, artisan shops, and wineries, contributing to the region’s reputation as a premier destination for wine lovers.

Aside from touring vineyards in Texas wine country, you can also have a blast exploring nature in Texas Hill Country. The Guadalupe and Frio Rivers wind through the countryside, offering opportunities for tubing and water recreation, while the iconic bluebonnets carpet the hillsides in spring.

Dripping Springs is a charming town in Hill Country celebrated for its scenic beauty, artisanal spirit, and outdoor allure. Home to the iconic Hamilton Pool Preserve, this community invites visitors to explore its natural wonders, indulge in local wineries and breweries, and savor the small-town hospitality that defines the essence of Dripping Springs.

• Driving distance : 292 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours and 25 minutes

San Antonio is a super popular weekend getaway from Dallas. Driving south through Texas, you can stop in Waco and Austin on the way down to San Antonio.

Famous for the iconic Alamo, a symbol of Texas’ fight for independence, San Antonio is packed with cool attractions to entertain you for the weekend. The city’s downtown River Walk meanders along the San Antonio River, offering a picturesque setting for dining, shopping, and strolling.

The historic Market Square bustles with colorful shops and lively entertainment, showcasing the city’s Hispanic influences. San Antonio’s cultural tapestry is further enriched by the vibrant arts scene, culinary delights, and annual celebrations like Fiesta, making it a destination where tradition and innovation seamlessly coexist.

Natural Bridge Caverns is a nearby natural wonder home to some of the most impressive caves in the state. You can book a guided tour of this incredible location while you’re visiting San Antonio.

• Driving distance : 205 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Embarking on a road trip from Dallas to Oklahoma City unveils a journey through the heartland of America, weaving together diverse landscapes and a tapestry of cultural experiences. As you cross the Red River into Oklahoma, the scenery transforms into wide-open spaces and glimpses of the state’s iconic wind turbines.

En route to Oklahoma City, the landscape unfolds to showcase the resilience of Route 66, with nostalgic roadside attractions and charming diners punctuating the journey.

Arriving in the state capital, the skyline of Oklahoma City, dominated by the sleek Devon Tower, signals the transition from the open road to an urban adventure filled with history, modernity, and a warm Oklahoma welcome.

Highlights of the city include the enlightening Oklahoma City National Memorial, the lively Bricktown Historic District, and the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens. Or check out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for an insight into the history of the Wild West.

Related: Check out these great day trips from Dallas .

• Driving distance : 286 miles

Another one of the best weekend road trips from Dallas is Hot Springs, Arkansas . Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a charming city renowned for its natural thermal springs and rich spa culture.

The historic Bathhouse Row, lining Central Avenue, showcases the city’s illustrious past with elegant bathhouses that have drawn visitors seeking relaxation for over a century.

Hot Springs National Park, the oldest in the nation, preserves these thermal waters and offers scenic hiking trails through the lush mountainside. Beyond the healing waters of Hot Springs National Park, the vibrant downtown area features art galleries, boutiques, and a diverse culinary scene.

The city’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and therapeutic waters makes Hot Springs a timeless destination, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing embrace of this Arkansas gem.

Find more fun things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas .

• Driving distance : 239 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours

Houston is one of the easiest road trip from Dallas to make in a weekend. It’s only 4 hours and you can stick to Highway 45 for most of the way.

When you arrive in Houston, you can easily fill a whole weekend getaway with fun attractions. Renowned for its Space Center Houston, a testament to the city’s crucial role in space exploration, and the iconic NASA astronaut training facilities, the city embodies a forward-thinking ethos.

The Museum District boasts world-class institutions like the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts , reflecting the city’s commitment to arts and education.

As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston’s skyline, dominated by the distinctive architecture of downtown, symbolizes its position as an economic powerhouse. Yet, amid the urban hustle, the city’s sprawling parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse communities showcase Houston’s unique blend of progress and southern charm.

• Driving distance : 291 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours and 45 minutes

Try a weekend getaway to the seaside with a road trip to Galveston ! The drive takes you through the expansive plains and historic towns, gradually transitioning to the coastal terrain as you approach Galveston.

Known for its rich maritime history, Galveston offers a charming blend of Victorian architecture, sun-soaked beaches, and a lively waterfront. The drive itself, winding through rural landscapes and coastal plains, offers a glimpse into the varied geography of the Lone Star State.

Once in Galveston, visitors can explore attractions like the historic Pleasure Pier , enjoy fresh seafood along the waterfront, or simply relax on the island’s sandy shores. Galveston’s unique blend of history, seaside charm, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for those seeking both coastal relaxation and a dose of Texan maritime heritage.

Need more ideas? Check out these 25 top things to do in Galveston !

• Driving distance : 186 miles

Embarking on a road trip from Dallas to Colorado Bend State Park unfolds as a scenic journey that transitions from the urban sprawl of Dallas to the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

As you leave the city behind, the drive meanders through picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling hills and charming small towns. Upon reaching Colorado Bend State Park, the adventure truly begins. This natural haven, situated along the Colorado River, captivates with its limestone cliffs, dense woodlands, and captivating Gorman Falls.

Hiking trails lead to hidden caves and breathtaking viewpoints, while the park’s remote location offers a serene escape into the heart of Texas wilderness.

Whether exploring the pristine Spicewood Springs, angling for fish in the river, or camping under a star-studded sky, Colorado Bend State Park presents an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the tranquility of nature with the thrill of outdoor exploration.

Longer Road Trips

If you’re willing to cover a bit more ground, there are some fun road trip ideas that let you explore more of Texas and beyond. These longer road trips from Dallas are around 5-10 hours one way. You’ll get to explore the remote regions of Texas and even venture into neighboring states like New Mexico and Louisiana.

• Driving distance : 533 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 50 minutes

Embarking on the scenic drive from Dallas to Big Bend National Park is a journey that traverses the vastness of Texas, unfolding from the urban hustle to the rugged grandeur of the Chihuahuan Desert. The road trip takes you through changing landscapes, from the rolling hills and mesquite-dotted plains of West Texas to the stark beauty of the Big Bend region.

As you approach the park, the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing panorama of towering Chisos Mountains, deep canyons, and the meandering Rio Grande.

Inside Big Bend National Park, adventurers can explore a myriad of nature trails, soak in the views from the Santa Elena Canyon, and witness the breathtaking sunsets that paint the desert sky.

Encompassing a vast expanse of over 800,000 acres, Big Bend National Park is a rugged mosaic of towering mountain ranges, expansive desert landscapes, and deep canyons that carve through the terrain. The iconic Chisos Mountains, with peaks reaching over 7,800 feet, offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert. You could easily spend a few days here as there is so much to do!

• Driving distance : 505 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 40 minutes

One of the best road trip ideas in the American South is driving from Dallas to New Orleans . This road trip takes you south and east as you pass into the hearty state of Louisiana.

New Orleans, a city steeped in history and cultural richness, is a vibrant tapestry of music, cuisine, and architectural charm. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, the city is renowned for its lively atmosphere, especially in the iconic French Quarter, where the melodies of jazz spill into the streets and the scent of Creole cuisine wafts through the air.

New Orleans’ unique Creole and Cajun influences are evident not only in its food but also in the distinctive architecture that lines the historic streets. From the lively energy of Bourbon Street to the timeless elegance of St. Charles Avenue, the city offers a diverse array of experiences.

Dive into the city’s history on a ghost tour where you can learn about the vampires and voodoo that supposedly thrives in New Orleans. Or sightsee on the water with a steamboat jazz cruise .

Whether savoring beignets at Café du Monde, immersing in the revelry of Mardi Gras, or exploring the historic Garden District, the Crescent City welcomes visitors with open arms, inviting them to be part of its lively and enduring spirit.

• Driving distance : 478 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 7 hours and 15 minutes

The drive from Dallas to Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a scenic journey that unfolds through the expansive plains of West Texas, transitioning from open landscapes to the captivating subterranean world that lies beneath the Guadalupe Mountains. This is one of the coolest road trips from Dallas!

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, situated in the rugged mountains of southeastern New Mexico, is a natural wonder that beckons adventurers into an otherworldly realm of immense caverns and intricate rock formations.

The park’s centerpiece, the Big Room, is one of the largest cave chambers in North America, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Descending into the depths of Carlsbad Caverns feels like entering an underground cathedral, where the silence is broken only by the echo of dripping water.

This unique location in New Mexico is easily reachable on a road trip from Dallas.

• Driving distance : 342 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 25 minutes

Head southeast from Dallas on an epic road trip down to Lake Charles, Louisiana . Lake Charles is a city that harmoniously blends Southern charm with vibrant cultural influences.

Set against the backdrop of Lake Charles and the Calcasieu River, the city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Cajun and Creole hospitality. The scenic boardwalk along the waterfront provides a picturesque setting to admire the sunset, while the Creole Nature Trail beckons with its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.

The city’s cultural scene thrives with Mardi Gras celebrations, live music in eclectic venues, and a culinary landscape that boasts delectable seafood and Creole delicacies. With its welcoming atmosphere and a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and lively entertainment, Lake Charles stands as a captivating destination in Louisiana.

Check out more fun things to do in Lake Charles !

• Driving distance : 635 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 9 hours and 15 minutes

Embarking on a road trip to El Paso, Texas, is a journey that unfolds through vast landscapes and diverse terrains, showcasing the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. As you approach El Paso, the Franklin Mountains come into view, framing the city against a backdrop of arid grandeur.

The Sun City, as El Paso is often called, offers a unique blend of Texan and Mexican influences, evident in its rich cultural tapestry, flavorful cuisine, and vibrant local markets.

From the scenic vistas of Scenic Drive Overlook to the historic San Jacinto Plaza, El Paso invites travelers to explore its unique borderland identity, where the spirit of the Southwest and the warmth of Mexican hospitality converge in a captivating fusion.

• Driving distance : 380 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 45 minutes

Another fun road trip from Dallas is heading up to Palo Duro Canyon. The drive takes you through rolling plains and small towns, up in the Texas Panhandle, gradually giving way to the striking red rock formations that define Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” the canyon’s towering walls and vibrant hues create a breathtaking backdrop for exploration.

Upon arrival, hiking trails beckon adventurers to discover the rugged beauty of the second-largest canyon in the United States, while the iconic Lighthouse Rock formation stands as a testament to the geological wonders that await.

The road trip itself becomes a transition from the urban to the natural, promising a remarkable intersection of Texan landscapes and the captivating beauty of Palo Duro Canyon.

• Driving distance : 390 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours and 40 minutes

Explore more of Louisiana with a road trip over to Lafayette , a city that pulsates with a vibrant blend of Cajun culture, Creole influences, and a rich musical heritage.

Known as the “Hub City,” Lafayette is a haven for those seeking the authentic flavors of Louisiana cuisine, lively Zydeco music, and warm Southern hospitality. Strolling through the historic downtown, visitors can explore a mix of eclectic shops, charming galleries, and culinary hotspots.

The city’s cultural calendar is marked by lively festivals, such as Festival International de Louisiane, celebrating the diversity of world music. Surrounded by bayous and wetlands, Lafayette serves as a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Atchafalaya Basin, offering a captivating intersection of cultural richness and natural wonders in the heart of Cajun Country.

Check out our complete guide to Lafayette, Louisiana .

• Driving distance : 411 miles
• Driving time from Dallas: 6 hours

Another one of the top road trips from Dallas is heading down to the Texas seaside. It’s only a 6-hour drive to Corpus Christi, a coastal city situated along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The city’s bayfront, dotted with palm trees and lined with a scenic seawall, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and relaxation.

The USS Lexington, a historic aircraft carrier turned museum, stands as a testament to Corpus Christi’s naval heritage. From the Texas State Aquarium to the bustling downtown Marina Arts District, the city invites exploration. Corpus Christi is also a gateway to Padre Island National Seashore, home to miles of pristine sandy beaches and diverse coastal ecosystems.

With its blend of seaside allure, cultural attractions, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Corpus Christi beckons both water enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Texas Gulf Coast charm.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Best Los Angeles To Grand Canyon Road Trip (2024 Guide)

11 Best Road Trips From Denver, Colorado (2024 Guide)

The 16 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles, California (2024 Guide)

Related posts, 36 of the best things to do in savannah, georgia (2024), the perfect 3 days in key west itinerary (2024 guide), the ultimate northern california road trip itinerary (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Roadside Attractions
• Small Towns
• Hall Of Fames
• National Parks
• Theme Parks
• BILL’S BOOKS
• Meet Bill On The Road

Lafayette is known as the happiest city in America ! And it’s true, there are plenty of reasons to smile while you’re visiting this fun and colorful Louisiana city. The locals are generally quite friendly, with lots of great Cajun food at every turn and more festivals than you can keep count of. Take a boat tour of one of the area’s gator filled swamps and be sure to visit Avery Island – home of TABASCO hot sauce! If you want a unique souvenir to take home – look for a musical washboard you can wear over your chest!

Travel Time: 5h 26m / 391 miles

2. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is slated to be one of the most popular travel destinations for 2021. From a wide range of impressive new restaurants and a new trolley system for tourists – OKC is a great bet for a weekend getaway. Check out the American Banjo Museum, Cowboy Hall of Fame, or the renovated Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial Museum. Spend some time grabbing drinks or seeing a show in the Bricktown District or just chill out in the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens downtown. Oklahoma City is one of the best road trips from Dallas!

Travel Time: 2h 57m / 207 miles

3. Wichita, Kansas

Chances are you’ve never thought of Wichita as a road trip destination but you should definitely add this cool Kansas town to your list! Some of the nicest people in the midwest call Wichita home. Mingle with the locals each evening at the Keeper of the Flames monument. You’ll see the fire display just across the beautiful pedestrian bridge that crosses the Arkansas River. Wichita has terrific restaurants, breweries, some interesting museums, and a brand new minor league baseball stadium. Wichita is also home to the very first Pizza Hut restaurant. The small brick building is located on the campus of Wichita Statue University and is free to tour!

Travel Time: 5h 7m / 364 miles

4. Branson, Missouri

Branson is one of the towns that has a little bit of something for everyone. This southern Missouri entertainment destination once had a reputation for attracting only seniors and retired country music performers. Truth is, there is so much to do for any age group, especially families. See magic or comedy shows, or stroll downtown and shop before watching the synchronized water fountains dance to oldies music. Take a ride on the massive observation wheel overlooking the Branson strip or a ride on the Branson Scenic Railroad. And don’t forget about Silver Dollar City – one of the best theme parks in the country with award winning roller coasters!

Travel Time: 6h 47m / 427 miles

5. Bryan / College Station, Texas

There’s always something going on in a college town! Less than three hours from Dallas/Fort Worth – College Station is a fun weekend getaway. Check out the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and do some shopping in downtown Bryan. Visit the Catalina Hatters store and see where cowboy hats are made for famous folks like Willie Nelson. Enjoy a locally sourced meal at one of the many great dining spots around town and grab a photo in front of the Texas flag – made entirely of books! It’s located inside The George Hotel. College Stations makes for a great weekend trip from Dallas.

Travel Time: 2h 34m / 175 miles

6. Memphis, Tennesee

Memphis may be best known for Elvis Presley but did you know it’s full of other music history? The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is located where Stax Records once produced the likes of Sam & Dave, Al Green, and Issac Hayes. Aretha Franklin’s childhood home is down the street. There’s the Rock N Soul Museum and of course Beale Street. If you’ve never been to Graceland, or it’s been awhile since you last visited – a brand new complex recently opened across the street, dedicated to all things Elvis. For history lovers, the National Civil Rights Museum is very well done and the giant Bass Pro pyramid is pretty cool! Don’t forget the Memphis barbecue!

Travel Time: 6h 25m / 453 miles

7. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs makes our list of great road trips from Dallas as visitors from around the world come to Hot Springs just to bathe in the famous healing waters. Besides a healing bath, enjoy the beauty of Hot Springs National Park, visit the gorgeous Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens or learn about mobsters in the Gangster Museum of America. Arkansas is known as “the natural state” and all of its state parks are outstanding if you’re interested in outdoor activities.

Travel Time: 4h 16m / 286 miles

8. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Louisiana’s Capitol city has come a long way in recent years and has proven to be a great road trip destination. Take an elevator all the way to the top of America’s tallest state Capitol Building which overlooks downtown and the Mississippi River. (Be sure to take the guided tour to see the bullet holes that still exist from when their Governor Huey Long was assassinated!) The old state Capitol is also worth touring – it’s gorgeous! Enjoy some great seafood, see the only real live tiger mascot at Louisiana State University, and tour an old plantation home to learn about early Baton Rouge. If you’re a fan of Cane’s Chicken Fingers – it all started in Baton Rouge and the first location is still open!

Travel Time: 6h 2m / 429 miles

9. Lubbock, Texas

Considered one of the best “western towns” in America, Lubbock is just under five hours from Dallas/Fort Worth. Visit the world’s largest collection of windmills at the American Windmill Museum or learn about music history at the Buddy Holly Center. Lubbock has no shortage of wineries and craft breweries and a great steak awaits you at Bryan’s Steaks. Be sure to see a movie at the Stars & Stripes Drive-In – ranked as one of the best drive-in theaters in the nation according to The Travel Channel.

Travel Time: 4h 51m / 346 miles

10. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa has been working hard to bring their historic city back to life and their efforts are starting to show. Dining options now range from exotic to casual – including one of the best calzones I’ve ever eaten at Bohemian Wood Fire Pizza located downtown. You’ll find plenty of Route 66 history and roadside attractions including The Golden Driller and the Blue Whale of Catoosa – about 15 minutes away. For art lovers, one of the coolest art museums in the south is the Philbrook Museum of Art – housed in the extravagant mansion that once belonged to the founders of Phillip 66. For something a bit unusual, consider a guided tour of Tulsa’s underground tunnel system.

11. Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock has a great mix of history, dining, and outdoor adventure! Arkansas’ largest city is surrounded by beautiful scenery and a short drive from outstanding state parks. In the city limits, Little Rock has become one of the most popular foodie hot spots in the south with new restaurants popping up all the time. Visit America’s only purse museum in the South Main neighborhood, or take a stroll along the riverfront and check out loads of fun statues along the way. See the Clinton Presidential Library, tour the State Capitol, learn about science and the human body at the Museum of Discovery, and then grab some fresh produce at Little Rock’s River Market.

Travel Time: 4h 36m / 319 miles

12. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City is one of the longer road trips on our list but well worth the drive! Spend a day strolling through the world famous Crowne Plaza or try your hand at counting fountains all over town. (Kansas City has the most fountains of any city in America!) Tour the Hallmark Visitors Center – the greeting card company is based there. KC has some really great museums including the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, the Steamboat Arabia Museum, and the Museum of Toys & Miniatures. Make use of the free streetcar that takes visitors from Union Station up to the KC farmers market. Oh and did I mention lots of great barbecue?!

Travel Time: 7h 54m / 506 miles

13. Galveston, Texas

Sometimes you just need to be near some water and Galveston is a perfect spot to enjoy some downtime with a view. Check out the Victorian-era buildings downtown or simply soak up the sun at the beach. You can visit one of the city’s unique attractions: The Offshore Drilling Museum, the Galveston Naval Museum, or maybe a enjoy some rides at the historic Pleasure Pier. For lunch or dinner, explore the many Seawall restaurants for award winning food and drinks and something for every taste!

Travel Time: 4h 13m / 289 miles

14. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is always a perfect destination for a road trip and only four hours from DFW. Grab a great meal or drink along the famous River Walk or take a ride up to the top of the Tower of The Americas. Built for the 1968 World’s Fair – the 750 foot high  observation deck  gives a great 360 degree view of town and could be helpful in getting your sense of direction before you set out to explore. Be sure to check out The Saga light show downtown and visit The Pearl – a mixed use entertainment area a short drive from downtown that has shops, food, and outdoor activities like a local farmers market. San Antonio makes a great weekend trip from Dallas.

Travel Time: 4h 3m / 274 miles

15. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi

Of all the road trips from Dallas, this is the longest one on the list. It’s exactly eight hours from downtown. But, if you’ve never explored Mississippi’s gulf coast, you should add it to your list of road trip ideas. Old Town Bay St. Louis is just east of New Orleans and a good home base to explore the small towns all along the coast up to Biloxi. You’ll find antique stores, diners, art galleries, and yes – the beach! Go out on a boat ride or just relax at one of the local B&B’s in beautiful historic houses. For extra fun – book early and visit during Crusin On The Coast to see hundreds of classic cars line the streets!

Travel Time: 7h 57m / 540 miles

16. Carlsbad Caverns National Park – New Mexico

Visit one of the most impressive caves in the U.S. and enjoy a unique weekend getaway. The caverns include over 100 caves and feature gigantic “rooms” covered in rock formations. It’s a chilly 56 degrees all year long – something that sounds good for a summer road trip! There are no hotels in the park however there are plenty of places to stay in nearby Carlsbad or Whites City. Camping is available in the park with a permit.

Travel Time: 7h 32m / 484 miles

17. Houston, Texas

If you haven’t been to Houston lately, here’s a refresher on all things you can see and do for a weekend getaway. You can explore the city’s impressive museum district, second only to the Smithsonian in Washington DC. There’s also the Houston Space Center to learn all about NASA and its ties to the region. Houston also has one of the most diverse choices in restaurants in the entire nation. Get around downtown easily with the metro trains and relax in the beautiful 56,000 acre Hermann Park. If you’re into quirky attractions, don’t miss the Beer Can House, a residence covered entirely in beer cans! Houston makes a great weekend trip from Dallas!

Travel Time: 3h 27m / 239 miles

18. Roswell, New Mexico

If learning about aliens suits your fancy, maybe Roswell should be on your list. Roswell is one of the longer road trips from Dallas, but a fun family friendly destination. The epicenter for UFOs in New Mexico features museums, gift shops, and tours that all revolve around alien activity that supposedly occurred in the city limits. There is also an aviation museum, a local zoo, and some outdoor recreational opportunities. But, let’s be honest – you’re going here because you want to know if humans are really alone in the universe.

Travel Time: 7h 17m / 492 miles

19. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is near the bottom of our list only because it’s a spot that everyone already enjoys for road trips. Most people enjoy it for drinking and partying – and of course, the food. However, my favorite attraction in New Orleans is the National World War II Museum. It is one of the greatest museums not just in America, but in the entire world. It is truly fantastic. Don’t miss the 4-D film produced by Actor Tom Hanks. The Southern Food & Beverage Museum is another fun stop to learn about cuisine in the south.

Travel Time: 7h 29m / 505 miles

20. Waco, Texas

Waco has become a hot spot for a weekend getaway from Dallas in recent years. Largely thanks to the popularity of Chip & JoAnna Gaines who have their mixed use complex based there. But there’s more to explore around Waco than overpriced wash cloths and home decor. Check out the Dr Pepper Museum to learn about America’s first national soft drink which was invented in a Waco pharmacy in the late 1800s. The original bottling plant still stands and houses the museum. You can visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, the Waco Mammoth National Monument, or enjoy a bike ride along the Cottonbelt Trail.

If you enjoyed this list and love to travel – please consider ordering one of my travel guides to help plan your next adventure! You can find all of my books in the online store. Thanks for supporting Bill On The Road!

• Lafayette, LA
• Oklahoma City, OK
• Wichita, KS
• Branson, MO
• Bryan/College Station, TX
• Memphis, TN
• Hot Springs, AR
• Baton Rouge, LA
• Lubbock, TX
• Little Rock, AR
• Kansas City, MO
• Galveston, TX
• San Antonio, TX
• Bay St. Louis, MS
• Carlsbad Caverns, NM
• Houston, TX
• Roswell, NM
• New Orleans, LA

• Road Trip Lists

Things To See

Here’s where to find the best murals in kansas, here’s an easy way to tour the white house, best 16 free things to do in st. louis, first visit to washington dc: an ultimate how-to-guide, clarksville makes a fun and easy road trip from nashville, these are the best tennessee state park lodges, 27 unusual things to see in kansas, first trip to oregon six amazing places you must see, search the site:, recent stories, 10 useful tips for visiting toronto for the first time, el transcantabrico: what it’s really like on a spanish luxury train, west coast ideas, jeopardy: here’s what really happens during a show taping, this is where you’ll find the first mcdonald’s, 8 cool experiences you need to have in san francisco, how to see pasadena in one day, in-n-out: what you need to know about the original location, how to spend a day in palm springs.

BILL ON THE ROAD | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2024

• North Texas
• South Texas
• San Antonio
• Cities And Towns
• Eating And Drinking
• Outdoor Adventures
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Texas Travel 365

15 Best Road Trips from Dallas You Shouldn’t Miss!

January 24, 2022 //  by  Texas Travel 365

Texas, but especially Dallas, is a great location if you are looking to explore more of what the state (or even country) has to offer! Centrally located in the northern part of the state, there are so many cool and interesting destinations within driving distance! We have rounded up the best road trips from Dallas!

With Texas being such a large state, there are so many places within Texas to visit! Whether it’s a quick two hour trip to a new place or a more extensive drive, you can still find yourself exploring the many beautiful places Texas has to offer. From historical landmarks, to beautiful waterfalls, to the best food you can find, to amazing architecture, Texas has it all!

Since Texas is centrally located in the United States, there is a plethora of road trip destinations that are close enough to be driven, but far enough to be out of state. The United States has so much to see, and Dallas is a great jumping off point if you’re looking to drive!

Road trips are a chance to see more of the state or country, catch up on podcasts or an audiobook, and just take life a little slower! Keep reading for the road trip ideas from Dallas!

Dallas to San Antonio

The drive from Dallas to San Antonio is one of the best short road trips from Dallas. At only four hours, it makes the road trip between these two great Texan cities a must!

The Natural Bridge Caverns are about 35 minutes north of San Antonio on Interstate 35. Natural Bridge Caverns  is over two miles of caverns formed one drop of limestone filled water at a time. The first half mile of the caverns is developed for visitors, with the goals of cavern preservation and guest comfort!

About halfway between Dallas and San Antonio is Jacob’s Well Natural Area , 80 acres of wilderness to explore!

Once you arrive in San Antonio , there is no shortage of things to do, place to explore and food to eat! The River Walk is a must! Dallas to San Antonio is one of the great road trips from Dallas!

Dallas to Austin

One of the most driveable vacations from Dallas is definitely none other than Austin ! Austin has vibe all it’s own. The State Capitol is probably the biggest historical landmark, but there are more sprinkled all of the city. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, you can always find a band or soloist performing at some concert hall or bar!

The drive from Dallas to Austin is only 3 hours! You could make it longer if you wanted to stop at any of the amazing places along the way. If you like flowers, you need to check out the Bluebonnet Trail. There you will find 40 miles of mapped driving trails through fields of bluebonnets, the Texas State Flower!

If you have interest in Czech culture, you must stop in West, Texas! Many immigrants settled there and their food and goods are still very prevalent today!

With so many things to do on the way to and in Austin, it is definitely one of the places near Dallas for a vacation!

Dallas to New Orleans

New Orleans is the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas! At seven hours, the distance is far enough to make an overnight trip a necessity, but we recommend turning it into a long weekend. After all, there is so much to do in the Big Easy.

New Orleans is one of the best driveable vacations from Dallas! One of the most historic cities in the United States, New Orleans is known for their jazz music on every corner and beautiful 18th century architecture. The perfect getaway for foodies, New Orleans is famous for their gumbo, po-boys, jambalaya, beignets, and so much more!

If you’re looking for more of the chilling side of New Orleans, there is rumored to be haunted hotels, cemeteries, and every other location you can imagine. There are a plethora of ghost tours that will take you to all the best spots! Additionally, there is a history of New Orleans Voodoo or Voodoo Catholicism, a religion connected to nature, spirits, and ancestors.

There is so much more to do! New Orleans is one of the most exciting road trips from Dallas!

The road trip from Dallas to Galveston is only four hours and it’s a must see! Galveston is a small island off the coast of Texas where many cruise ships dock. It’s sunny beaches and resorts make it a wonderful day trip (or even overnighter!) from Dallas!

Galveston restaurants are some of the best in East Texas! It’s location in the Gulf of Mexico provides some of the best seafood in all of Texas! If you’re there in the morning, their breakfast options are unparalleled!

Besides food, there is so much to do in Galveston ! From beautiful white sand beaches, to historical homes, ocean piers, beautiful architecture, and state parks, there is something for everyone in this short road trips from Dallas!

Lake Conroe

If you are looking for one of the prettiest lakes in Texas , you must make the trip from Dallas to Lake Conroe. Lake Conroe is one of the best places near Dallas for a vacation!

Lake Conroe is the perfect spot that has a little bit of everything. For some history, you can visit The Lone Star Monument & Flag Park where they display each of the flags used during Texas’ quest for independence. If you want to do some exploring outside, there is Lake Conroe (of course!), but there is also the Sam Houston National Forest or Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm to pick your own blueberries!

Lake Conroe has the perfect blend of city and nature! Less than three hours from Dallas, Lake Conroe is a great Texas road trip from Dallas!

Big Bend National Park

An eight hour road trip from Dallas will take you to Big Bend National Park, one of the best national parks in Texas! With hiking, camping, stargazing, and scenic drives, there is something for everyone at this Texas national park. 

Most popular for the Santa Elena Canyon, with its dramatic canyon walls scaling 1,500 feet. This beautiful canyon is accessed by a mile and half hike in.

There is a plethora of wildlife with over 70 species of mammals and an immense amount of plant life with wildflowers and cacti everywhere you look! 150 miles worth of hiking trails will take you all over this beautiful national park showing south Texas’ desert region! Dallas to Big Bend National Park is one of the best weekend road trips from Dallas.

Dripping Springs

A little over three hours from Dallas, Dripping Springs is one of the best road trip ideas from Dallas! With a small population of five-thousand people, Dripping Springs is known as “ The Gateway to Hill Country ” which is a sought after region that boasts state parks, hiking trails, waterfalls, swimming holes, as well as plenty of history, food, and drink.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most magnificent waterfall and swimming hole locations in all of Texas . The 50 foot waterfall cascades into the clear blue pool below marking one of the most picturesque locations in Dripping Springs.

You can also explore Milton Reimer’s Ranch Park, which is filled with hiking and mountain biking trails, birdwatching, and fishing. Perhaps the most unique activity is star gazing at the observatory! With high power telescopes and very little light pollution, Milton Reimer’s Ranch Park has the best view of stars, planets, and galaxies!

There are also historical sites, olive oil, and wine tasting in the region! Dripping Springs is one of the best scenic drives near Dallas!

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is one of the best state parks in Texas . A little over three hours from Dallas, this state park has everything an outdoor enthusiast could want! Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most popular Texas road trips from Dallas!

The camping at Colorado Bend State Park is one of the best places for camping in Texas ! There is camping, backpacking tent campsites, and drive-up campsites for every level of camper! You can also hike to Gorman Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Texas or swim in on of the luxurious swimming holes!

There is also hiking, fishing, caving, paddling and so much more to do! Colorado Bend State Park is one of the greatest road trips from Dallas!

Dallas to Santa Fe 

When you need a long weekend getaway, look no further than Santa Fe! Only 9 hours from Dallas, the Dallas to Santa Fe road trip should not be overlooked!

The capital of New Mexico, Santa Fe is known for its pueblo style architecture and for having a very artistic community. There are hundreds of galleries and art markets for you to explore!

The city was founded in 1610 and thankfully for us, there is a plethora of history everywhere you look! From state parks, to national monuments, to historic chapels, to museums, Santa Fe really has all aspects of history covered.

Santa Fe really is one of the best road trip ideas from Dallas! The weather is also pretty mild so anytime is a good time to go!

Texas Hill Country

About four hours from Dallas is perhaps Texas’ most sought after region: Texas Hill Country . Located in southern Texas, this region is filled with expansive green hills, fields of wildflowers and bluebonnets (the Texas state flower!), wineries, and so much more! Texas Hill Country is one of the best scenic drives near Dallas!

Dripping Springs is known as the Gateway to Texas Hill Country. There you can go to an olive oil or wine tasting, tour a historical farmstead, visit a memorial park, or check out Westcave Grotto! Venturing further into Texas Hill Country, there is so much more to see!

Cute small towns are scattered all over Texas Hill Country with each offering their own unique experience! Some towns have strong German or Czech influence thanks to the immigrants who settled there, bringing their culture, food, craftsmanship to the United States. Most places have antique shops and interesting places to stay . All places have delicious places to eat. Dallas to Texas Hill Country is a must on your list for places near Dallas for a vacation!

Hot Springs

Have you ever luxuriated in the warmth of a natural hot spring ? For old pros or if it’s your first time Comal Springs is the perfect road trip from Dallas!

About five hours from Dallas, Comal Springs is the largest springs in Texas! With seven main springs and several smaller springs located within Landa Park, these springs are the perfect weekend getaway!

The springs feed a large swimming hole where the water is cooler than the springs, but warm enough to be comfortable for a swim. Dallas to Comal Springs is one of the most fun road trip ideas from Dallas!

Mineral Wells

Less than two hours from Dallas you’ll find the town of Mineral Wells, one of the more kitschy short road trips from Dallas. The water in Mineral Wells was believed to have healing powers because people believed the lithium found in the waters could cure some mental health issues. For quickly, the town became a wellness destination with thousands of tourists flocking there in the early 20th century to be cured.

Nowadays, you can still relax in the “healing waters” but you can also hunt for fossils at the Mineral Wells Fossil Park where it’s possible to find rock and animal artifacts that are millions of years old and you can take the home!

Mineral Wells is fun, different little town to explore and makes for the perfect short road trip from Dallas!

Dallas to Turner Falls, Oklahoma

Two hours north of Dallas is Turner Falls in Oklahoma. Witnessing Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall is one of our best road trip ideas from Dallas!

At 77 feet, Turner Falls is a site to see! Although it alone is worth the two hour drive, the surrounding area is filled with hiking trails, swimming holes, caves to explore, and wildlife to see! If you get hungry, there are delicious restaurants one site at Davis Park. If you want to stay, there are cabins and camp grounds on site as well!

Bonus: on the drive back, swing by the WinStar World Casino and Resort, the largest casino in the United States! The road trip from Dallas to Turner Falls has it all!

Dallas to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Hidden beneath the ground in the Chihuahuan Desert, are the Carlsbad Caverns, over 100 caves. The caves are what is left behind when sulfuric acid dissolves limestone. One of the coolest caverns in the United States, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the perfect weekend road trips from Dallas!

The road trip is about seven and half hours, but the payout is incredibly worth it. These caverns are extensive and breathtaking. Unique to Carlsbad Caverns, visitors can hike in via the natural entrance or take the elevator from the visitor center to the show cave. Their limestone chamber named the Big Room is the largest cave room in North American and the thirty-first largest in the world!

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a wonderful road trip from Dallas, perfect for a weekend getaway.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Standing as an accolade to the American Spas of the 20th century, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas blends people’s contributions to nature with the natural wonders of the world. Hot Springs National Park is one of the great driveable vacations from Dallas!

Within the park, there are nine historic bathhouses that went through many phases of construction as their owners tried to figure out how to have a building that could withstand heat and humidity for prolonged periods of time. Now, eight bathhouses remain and they are beautiful buildings constructed with masonry and steel. Many still offer spa services!

The park offers places to explore the thermal springs, go hiking, birding, photography, and biking. Just five hours from Dallas, this is one of the coolest places near Dallas for a vacation!

9 Dallas-Fort Worth salad spots to enjoy in the summer heat

A s triple-digit days pile up in Dallas-Fort Worth, getting a nice, healthy and refreshing salad might be the perfect way to go. But in a region known for its Tex-Mex and barbecue, where can North Texans find a good salad?

Here are some of our Dallas Morning News food team’s favorites, from national chains to local restaurants, to pick up salads, all laid out in alphabetical order:

Bobbie’s Airway Grill

Named after the CEO’s mother, this upscale restaurant opened last summer in Preston Hollow. It has a varied salad menu available during lunch and dinner time. Bobbie’s Caesar comes straight from the namesake’s recipe book and the seared tuna niçoise is another hearty salad offering.

Bobbie’s Airway Grill . 5959 Royal Lane, Ste. 515, Dallas.

Crisp and Green

This Minnesota chain opened its first North Texas location in January 2021 in University Park. Since then, it has opened four more spots in Lakewood, Southlake, Addison and Rockwall. Their salad menu features classics like caesar, cobb and southwest salads. If you’re feeling the summer weather, you can try their current seasonal offerings like the sunny honey picnic and the pesto parm perfection salads.

Crisp and Green . Multiple locations.

If you haven’t yet made it to local pre-prepared foods spot Eatzi’s to indulge in its salad bar (or sandwich bar for that matter), you’re missing out. A plethora of base greens to pick from, a variety of proteins if desired, and dozens of toppings make for hundreds of unique combinations. Generous portions abound in Eatzi’s plastic serving vessels, so don’t hold back on asking for your dressing on the side to make it into more than one meal. Don’t skimp on the croutons, which are made in-house and dusted with spices.

Eatzi’s . Multiple locations.

Flower Child

Another national chain to make its mark in the D-FW area, Flower Child is all about healthy eating: " we make every last bite from scratch, using fresh ingredients from close to home and serving healthy food that takes you to a happy place,” their website reads. This is also a great spot for vegetarians or vegans with plenty of salads, bowls and other entree options catering to those diets.

Flower Child . Multiple locations.

Gloria’s Latin Cuisine

This chain has its roots in Salvadorian cuisine, but offers a veritable pantheon on Latin dishes. What you might not have tried while distracted by the house pupusas are the bright, well-balanced salads. DMN food & events editor Anna Butler claims that the salmon chimichurri salad — mixed greens top with a generous portion of warm grilled salmon, feta and a zingy chimichurri dressing — helped get her through the long days of work-from-home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gloria’s Latin Cuisine . Multiple locations.

Not many sit-down restaurants do such a breadth of salads so well - though the prices can be a little steeper. The grilled chicken salad with jicama, honey-lime vinaigrette and peanut sauce, emerald kale and rotisserie chicken salad, and ruby star salad are among the favorites. Sister restaurant Honor Bar in Highland Park Village has an equally inventive and tasty salad menu that would brighten up any shopping excursion.

Hillstone . 8300 A Preston Road, Dallas.

Mendocino Farms

This Southern California chain made its way to Dallas in March 2020, since then it has opened four other locations in North Texas. The fast casual restaurant is best known for its sandwiches, but according to DMN food writer Imelda García, their Thai Mango Salad is well worth trying out too.

Mendocino Farms . Multiple locations.

A former DMN food critic called Sachet a “passionate ode to the food and wine of the Mediterranean” in 2019. It hasn’t slowed down since and were a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Wine Program in 2022. Their salads merit inclusion on this list too. Their lunch menu features a number of “Salady Bowls” between $19 and $27. Despite being the pricier side, the chicken shawarma and lamb coulotte salad bowls aren’t something you’re likely to find anywhere else in Dallas.

Sachet . 4270 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas.

This national chain was born in the nation’s capital and expanded into Dallas in November 2021. This restaurant is all about healthy and sustainable food: their online menu lists nutrition facts like calories and protein, but also carbon dioxide emissions for each meal. Their menu offers a solid variety of salads from the kale caesar to the hummus crunch and if you want something a little heartier you could go for one of their rice or quinoa protein bowls instead.

Sweetgreen . Multiple locations.

Editor’s note: Dallas Morning News food & events editor Anna Butler also contributed to this report.

©2024 The Dallas Morning News. Visit dallasnews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Discount bus company Megabus shuts down service in Dallas and Texas

Farewell, Megabus. We will miss you.

A valuable transportation option has shut down in Dallas: Megabus, the cheap and efficient bus company that offered rides for as low as $1, has ended service across Texas, including all routes operating between Austin, Dallas, Grand Prairie, Houston, and San Antonio.

According to a notice on the company's website , they shut down the Texas routes on August 16 as part of a set of new nationwide route changes that also included offloading other routes to competing operators.

The changes come after Coach USA, Megabus' owner, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, winning court approval to sell its Megabus service in July. The company blamed its bankruptcy on a decline in ridership during the pandemic.

Shutdowns :

• Routes operating between Atlanta, Charlotte, Durham, Richmond, and Washington, D.C. will be discontinued as of August 16th, 2024. Customers with tickets booked on these services have been notified and refunds have been processed.
• Routes operating between Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston will be discontinued as of August 16th, 2024. Customers with tickets booked on these services have been notified and refunds have been processed.

New operators :

• Routes operating between New York, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. will be operated by Peter Pan Bus Lines
• Routes operating between New York, State College, Harrisburg, King of Prussia, and Pittsburgh will be operated by Fullington Trailways

All other routes in the United States and Canada will operate as normal.

Megabus still operates in more than 500 different cities and university campuses across the U.S., including several popular routes between New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

Known for its eye-catching double-decker royal blue buses, Megabus was first launched in the U.K. in 2003, then came to the U.S. in 2006. It entered the Texas market in 2012 , where it offered free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and fares for as low as $1.

Texas destinations

2 texas parks climb into top 10 on new list of best u.s. state parks.

There's still plenty of time to pack in one last road trip this summer and fall, and a new study by vacation rental marketplace HomeToGo has determined two Texas state parks should be at the top of the destination list: Palo Duro Canyon State Park and Garner State Park .

The popular parks emerged among the top 10 best state parks in the U.S., according to the " 2024 HomeToGo State Park Index ." The annual report ranks 50 of the top U.S. state parks based on five major metrics: The search volume for vacation rental stays in the area, the size of each state park, the number of trails in each location, the number of wildlife species in each destination, and each park's "picturesqueness" according to photographers.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, known as the " Grand Canyon of Texas ," came out nearly on top as the No. 2 best state park in the country, earning a score of 37.61 out of a possible 50 points. It's the second-largest canyon in the U.S., the report says, where the park's 30-plus miles of trails can keep even the most athletic traveler occupied.

The report goes on further to say Palo Duro Canyon is loaded with "rich geographical history" and "dramatic landscapes" that produce many photographic opportunities.

"[Visitors can] marvel at the stunning rock formations and vibrant sunsets that light up the expansive skies," the report said.

According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website , it only costs $8 per person to enter the park, and children aged 12 years and under get free admission. But the department recommends that campers and day trip visitors reserve passes online and double check that the park hasn't reached full capacity before visiting.

For travelers who don't want to make a drive to the Texas Panhandle, they can head to the Hill Country to visit Garner State Park , which ranked as the No. 9 best state park in the U.S. It earned a score of 33.51 points.

Garner State Park is known for its accessibility to the winding Frio River, which runs nearly three miles throughout the park. There's also ample opportunities to explore, as the park sits on 1,774 acres of land.

"Swim in the Frio River or float its waters on an inner tube, operate a paddle boat, and hike 16 miles of scenic trails," the TPWD's website says. "You can also camp, study nature, picnic, canoe, fish, play miniature golf, geocache and ride bikes."

Visitors who decide to turn a day trip into an overnight stay can take advantage of the park's screened shelters, cabins, and campsites.

Elsewhere in Texas, Caddo Lake State Park ranked No. 40 out of all 50 parks in the study. This East Texas park is a great destination for fishers, thanks to the 26,810-acre Caddo Lake. Over 70 varieties of fish live in the lake, and visitors don't need a fishing license to fish from a state park, according to the TPWD. But keep an eye out for alligators, and brush up on alligator safety .

The top 10 best state parks in the U.S. are:

• No. 1 – Letchworth State Park, New York
• No. 2 – Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
• No. 3 – Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
• No. 4 – Mohican State Park, Ohio
• No. 5 – Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Missouri
• No. 6 – Indiana Dunes State Park, Indiana
• No. 7 – Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
• No. 8 – John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida
• No. 9 – Garner State Park, Texas
• No. 10 – Presque Isle State Park, Pennsylvania

We will not share or sell your email address.

When should you leave? The best and worst times for traffic over Labor Day Weekend 2024

• Travel during the final long weekend of summer will be busy within the U.S., with domestic travel up by 9% from last year.
• This year, international travel is down 4% from 2023, likely due to rising costs.
• The roads will be most congested during the afternoons of Thursday, Aug. 29, and Friday, Aug. 30, and early evening and morning of Saturday, Aug. 31.

As Labor Day weekend approaches, travelers are gearing up for one last summer getaway .

This year, Labor Day falls on Sept. 2, marking the end of a record-breaking travel season. Travel during the final long weekend of summer will be busy within the U.S., with domestic travel up by 9% from last year, according to AAA.

Those driving to their destination can expect heavy traffic, especially during peak travel hours. But they can at least enjoy lower gas prices: The national average is about 20 cents a gallon less than last year's holiday weekend.

This year, international travel is down 4% from 2023, likely because of rising costs. According to AAA booking numbers, international travel for Labor Day weekend 2024 costs 11% more than last year.

Here's what travelers can expect for Labor Day weekend 2024.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What are the most popular domestic destinations for Labor Day weekend 2024?

This year, many U.S. travelers are heading toward Seattle with bookings for the Emerald City up nearly 30% from last year, according to AAA's booking data. Some will be continuing to Alaska, with Anchorage and Juneau also topping the list for the most popular U.S. end-of-summer destinations.

"This is the time of year to go on an Alaska cruises ,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. "There are fewer crowds compared to earlier in the summer, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of fall colors! It’s no surprise Alaska cruises are sold out this Labor Day weekend."

What are the most popular international destinations for Labor Day weekend 2024?

Just north of the Canadian-U.S. border, Vancouver tops the list for the most popular international destination, according to AAA. Following closely behind are beloved European destinations including Rome, London, Paris, Dublin and Amsterdam.

Learn more:   Best travel insurance

What are the worst times to drive for Labor Day weekend 2024?

The roads will be most congested during the afternoons of Thursday, Aug. 29, and Friday, and early evening and morning of Saturday. Returning home from the long weekend, drivers can expect the worst traffic during the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 1, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday and the morning of Tuesday.

"Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. "Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day."

What are the best times to drive for Labor Day weekend 2024?

If you're hoping to avoid traffic jams, plan to hit the road at night or the early morning. The best times to drive for Labor Day weekend are before 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, before noon or after 7 p.m. on Friday, and after noon on Saturday.

For returning home, depart before noon on Sunday, Sept. 1, before 10 a.m. on Monday, or after 1 p.m. on Tuesday.

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

• Go to current travel information
• Go to navigation
• Go to flight search
• Go to main content
• Go to footer

Travel details

Flight from toronto (yyz) to dallas/fort worth (dfw), flight information, book your flights from toronto to dallas/fort worth right away.

Are you looking for cheap flights from Toronto to Dallas/Fort Worth? Check out our offers and you are guaranteed to find the best flight deals. Whether you are planning to spend a fun holiday in the USA or are travelling to Dallas/Fort Worth for a business meeting, booking your flight at lufthansa.com takes you on a comfortable journey from Canada to your desired flight destination. We also make sure that your flight time of approximately 3:20 hours is as relaxing as possible, so you can enjoy your journey from Toronto to Dallas/Fort Worth stress free. You just need to specify the month in which you wish to fly.

*Please note: To provide you with the widest possible selection of flight destinations, some of the direct flights or connecting flights on lufthansa.com are operated by our partner airlines, which may result in a different flight experience than with Lufthansa.

Important information for your trip

Medical Companions

Professional support on the way to the airport and throughout your whole trip.

Push notifications

Sign up for browser push notifications from the Lufthansa Group now.

Discover Airlines

The new premium leisure airline from the Lufthansa Group. Discover from Calgary and Halifax.

Lufthansa in Canada

All about our offices, Corporate Program, Trade fairs, the German National Tourist Office and more.

Your rental car

Additional services, your hotel from booking.com, entry regulations, current weather in dallas/fort worth, discover our destinations.

• Toronto - Dallas/Fort Worth
• Honolulu - Hawaii
• Indianapolis
• Minneapolis
• New Orleans
• Portland, OR
• Raleigh - Durham
• San Francisco
• Canada - USA

With Lufthansa, you can conveniently check in online from 23 hours before departure, select your seat and print out your boarding pass or have it sent to your mobile phone. You can choose to either check in online or use the Lufthansa app . Mobile boarding passes are available for most Lufthansa destinations, but in some exceptional cases they cannot be issued due to official regulations. If this is the case, you will be sent confirmation that you’ve checked in, which you then hand over at the airport counter to obtain your boarding pass. You can also use your mobile boarding pass offline if you have the Lufthansa app, iOS Wallet or Google Pay. You can find more information in our check-in section online .

Enjoy an excellent culinary experience on board your Lufthansa flight. We offer you a selection of snacks and high-quality fresh food, which varies depending on which flight class you’ve booked as well as the duration of the flight. On short-haul and medium-haul flights in Economy Class, you will receive a Lufthansa chocolate if your flight lasts 30 minutes or less, and an additional free bottle of mineral water for a flight of up to 60 minutes. For flights of one hour or more, you can also enjoy a range of delicious fresh snacks and a selection of beverages for an additional charge. On long-haul flights, you can also enjoy complimentary food and beverages in Economy Class. If you have special dietary requirements, you can order special meals or children’s menus up to 24 hours before departure. Learn more about our in-flight menus that will make your flight experience even more enjoyable.

The free baggage allowance and applicable fees for additional baggage depend on your route, flight class and the fare. Use our baggage calculator to find out how much baggage you are allowed to bring with you on your flight and how you can add additional baggage.

Our Lufthansa in-flight entertainment guarantees you an even more enjoyable flight. Not only can you look forward to a varied entertainment program on long-haul flights, but you can also download digital magazines and newspapers from our range of free eJournals , available on all Lufthansa flights. Current blockbusters, TV programmes, music, audio books, podcasts and games are a great way to pass the time on our long-haul flights. In our online guide to in-flight entertainment , you will find exciting trailers, articles and information on the latest entertainment on offer.

Flights from Toronto to Dallas/Fort Worth take approximately 3:20 hours.

Our Lufthansa flights from Canada to Dallas/Fort Worth depart from the following airports: Toronto.

If a flight is cancelled, we automatically rebook all affected passengers. The new flight connection will then be displayed under "My bookings". If you need help, our Lufthansa Chat Assistant Elisa will be happy to assist you.

Baggage allowance refers to the amount of baggage you can bring with you at no extra cost. The size, weight and number of bags or suitcases depends on the fare you have booked, the flight route and your Miles & More status.

Premium Economy Class is our extra comfortable travel class, perfect for long-haul flights. Enjoy numerous advantages such as extra wide seating with increased reclining for a relaxing flight.

This US airport remains the busiest in the world

Airports Council International World released the list of 2023’s busiest airports on Monday. 

The top spots this year show how international travel has continued to rebound since the pandemic dip.

“Global air travel in 2023 was chiefly fuelled by the international segment, propelled by several factors. Among these were the anticipated benefits from China’s reopening and a growing inclination towards travel despite macroeconomic conditions,” Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI World’s director general, said in a statement . “The rankings highlight the crucial role these transportation hubs play in global connectivity, commerce, and economic development. Airports continue to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of global travel. ACI World remains dedicated to advocating for airports worldwide throughout pivotal stages of policy formulation and to advancing the pursuit of airport excellence.”

Here were the top 10 airports by passenger volume in 2023:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), maintaining the top spot with 104,635,151 passengers
• Dubai International Airport (DXB), up from number 5 with 86,994,365 passengers
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), down from number 2 with 81,755,538 passengers
• London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR), up from number 8 with 79,183,364 passengers
• Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND), up from number 16 with 78,719,302 passengers
• Denver International Airport (DEN), down from number 3 with 77,837,917 passengers
• Istanbul Airport (IST), maintaining its spot with 76,027,321 passengers
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), down from number 6 with 75,050,875 passengers
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), down from number 4 with 73,894,226 passengers
• New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), down from number 9 with 72,214,841 passengers

Travelers who want to check out some of the popular destinations these airports serve may be able to take advantage of airline stopover programs to do it. Even if a carrier’s home airport isn’t their final destination, many carriers allow travelers to add extended layovers in those cities. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].