solo day trips from dallas

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 .

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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.

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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!

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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 .

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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.

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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!

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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.

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Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

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

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

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

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

Happy Travel, friends!!

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

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

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About the Author

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

Monday 21st of November 2022

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

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

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

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

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

Saturday 4th of December 2021

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

Saturday 19th of June 2021

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

Monday 21st of June 2021

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

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

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

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

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

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

48 Fun & Interesting Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

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

Live in Dallas and need a short break from routine?

Discover our favorite Dallas day trips in this epic guide.

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

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

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

The options are endless!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also find historic homes in the Downtown area!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Texas

Highland Village

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grand Prairie

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

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

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

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

Plano is one of the best day trips from Dallas.

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

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

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

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Southlake has a lot of things to offer visitors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Attractions in Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dinosaur World, Glen Rose

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

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

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

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

Arlington Archosaur Site

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

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

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

Dinosaur Park, Bastrop

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

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

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

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

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

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

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

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

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

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

Waco Mammoth National Monument

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

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

The fossils were found around 60 years ago.

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

Best Beach & Swimming Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Looking to cool off and soak up the sun?

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

Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area

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

This is one of the largest lakes in Texas.

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

Lakeside Park in White Rock Lake

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

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

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

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

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

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

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

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

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach

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

It has campsites and boat slips, too.

The park provides boating, swimming and fishing opportunities.

Lake Texoma

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

The main attraction of Lake Texoma is its vast size.

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

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

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

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

Cedar Hill State Park

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

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

Little Elm Park

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

Little Elm Park is on beautiful Lewisville Lake.

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

Campers can enjoy camping by the lake, too!

Tyler State Park Beach

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

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

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

Rockwall & Lake Ray Hubbard

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

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

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

Six Flags Theme Park, Arlington

Arlington is known for its Six Flags theme park.

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

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

Best Dallas Day Trips for nature lovers

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

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

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

Davis, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Caddo Lake State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Texas

Davy Crockett National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Small Towns to Visit on Day Trips from Dallas

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

These adorable downtowns are a haven for cultural travelers.

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

Here are our favorite small towns near Dallas.

Canton, Texas

Canton, Texas is a wonderful day trip from Dallas. 

The town is most famous for First Monday trade days. 

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

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

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

Granbury, Texas

Another charming small town near Dallas is Granbury .

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

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

Terrell, Texas

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

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

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

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

Greenville, Texas

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

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

Athens, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Rusk, Texas

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

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

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

Palestine, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salado, Texas

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

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

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

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

Jefferson, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

Best Major Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Dallas

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

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

Austin, Texas

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

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

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

San Antonio, Texas

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

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

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

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

Houston, Texas

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

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

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

Also Read: Best Things to do in Houston, Texas

Galveston Island, Texas

Looking for a true beach vacation near Dallas?

Galveston Island is your best bet!

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

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

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

Oklahoma City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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15 Best Day Trips from Dallas, TX

Life in the Big D is fun, fast-paced, and a food-lover’s dream. But every once in a while, it’s good to get out of the big city and enjoy one of the best day trips from Dallas!

These fun Dallas day trips will help you discover adorable historic towns, immerse yourself in nature, and get in touch with your inner cowboy.

Each destination is less than 3 hours away from Dallas, so you can spend time exploring instead of driving. 

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Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Fort worth, tx.

Fort Worth often gets lumped in with Dallas as one big Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

But you’d be mistaken if you thought the two cities were twin-like in activities and attitude.

Like its nickname implies, Cowtown is Dallas’ country cousin, where you’re likely to see more cowboy hats than business casual attire. 

Drive 40 minutes west of Dallas and spend the day watching one of the two daily cattle drives (11:30 am and 4:00 pm) in the Fort Worth Stockyards , stroll through the Fort Worth Water Gardens, and grab a bite to eat at one of 30+ restaurants in Sundance Square.

After a day spent exploring, two-step the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s biggest Honky Tonk!

It’s true what they say… everything’s bigger in Texas!

Visiting on a Friday or Saturday? The Fort Worth Stockyards hosts the world’s only year-round rodeo! 

If you’ve reached your cowboy quota for the day, enjoy a smoother side of the city with a cocktail and some music as you pay homage to the city’s deep-running jazz roots at the Scat Jazz Lounge. 

Driving Distance From Dallas

40 minutes.

Denton is the “lil d” to the “Big D” of Dallas.

It’s an artsy college community with all the charm of small-town Texas just 45 minutes away and is one of the easiest day trips from Dallas.

At the heart of the quaint city square sits the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, a free museum focusing on the town’s culture and history.

Built in 1896, the courthouse was restored in 2004 according to the original blueprints and is an iconic symbol of the city. 

While you’re here, enjoy the live music scene, bolstered by talent from the local college, or support the burgeoning craft beer scene by visiting a local brewery!

Another great idea is to watch a play at the iconic Campus Theatre, which opened in 1949 as a movie theater and was later reimagined as a performing arts facility.

45 minutes.

Terrell, TX

Located just 40 minutes east of the city, Terrell is a great day trip from Dallas if you don’t want to spend too much time in the car.

Developed as a railroad town in 1873, historic roots run deep.

Visit the charming Historic Downtown District and admire the classic storefronts and hand-painted murals. 

Terrell is far from the Gulf, but scuba-certified visitors can take a dive at Scuba Ranch, where you just might meet Sisco the Shark, the largest freshwater shark in the US. (Don’t worry… he can’t bite!)

From the depths of the lake, head to a high-flying adventure.

Celebrate the bond between Great Britain and the US with a visit to the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum.

During WWII, British cadets were sent to flight training schools across the US, and Terrell’s school was the first and largest, graduating over 2,200 Royal Air Force and United States Army Air Corps cadets between 1941 and 1945. 

Greenville, TX

Once known as the “cotton capital of the world,” Greenville is now a charming small town that celebrates its historic roots. 

Shop in the Historic Downtown and take a step into the past.

Read the historical markers to learn about the people and industries that once thrived in Greenville, and try to find the four buildings on the US Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places list. 

55 minutes.

On the weekend prior to the first Monday of a new month, head one hour east of the city, because Canton is the place to be!

First Monday Canton is a flea market of epic proportions with more than 5,000 vendors selling everything from antiques to clothing to home decor.

Shopping works up an appetite, and Canton offers some of the best fried food outside the Texas State Fair!

Munch on a giant turkey leg and red velvet funnel cake, then wash it down with some freshly squeezed lemonade while exploring one of the best places to visit in North Texas .

1 hour. 

Day Trips from Dallas Within 2 Hours or Less

Just over an hour southeast of Dallas, Athens offers all the charm of a small town with the amenities of a big city.

Most buildings in their historic downtown were built in the early 1900s and surround the 1913 Henderson County Courthouse, a 3-story Classic Revival style landmark. 

Nature lovers will feel right at home with a visit to Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, where you can see an operational fish hatchery and learn about native Texas fish.

Get even closer to native fish when you scuba dive in Athens Scuba Park, where you can explore the wreckage of a 60′ Hawker 600 Jet, a Lockheed C-140 Jet Star, Clint Eastwood’s film crew’s triple-deck party barge, and a DART bus.

1 hour, 15 minutes.

Granbury, TX

Get wild in Granbury, Texas with a visit to nearby Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose!

Walk in the fossilized footsteps left by dinosaurs and stand in awe of giant dinosaur replicas once displayed at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. 

Venture into more recent history with a trip to the Historic Downtown Square, Texas’ first downtown square listed on the National Historic Register.

Visit charming boutiques, historic landmarks, and Granbury’s own saloon!

Learn more about the history of this Texas lakes and plains region town at the Hood County Jail Museum and Granbury Historic Railroad Depot. 

1 hour, 20 minutes.

Lake Texoma, OK

One of the largest reservoirs in the US, Lake Texoma was built by the US Army Corps of Engineers on the Oklahoma/Texas border.

Although it attracts 6 million visitors each year, the sheer size of the lake ensures that you’ll be able to jet ski, water ski, fish, or simply relax far away from any crowds. 

The region provides ample opportunities for horseback riding, hunting, hiking, biking, and camping for outdoor enthusiasts.

When you’re done adventuring, nearby wineries and distilleries offer libations for the gastronomically inclined! 

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Aside from being home to the Baylor Bears, Waco has recently become an enormously popular attraction for home renovation specialists and reality TV lovers.

Visitors flock to Waco to visit Magnolia Market at the Silos, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper with hopes of running into the famous couple… or at the very least, fixing up their own home! 

All that shopping is bound to work up a thirst! Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum, celebrating America’s oldest soft drink.

Book in for their Make-A-Soda experience or simply peruse the extensive soft drink memorabilia. 

Embark on another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where you can sign up for a Dig Shelter Tour and see the bones of a nursery herd of Colombian Mammoths who died here approximately 65,000 years ago.

When these bones were unearthed in 1978, they were the first discovery of their kind in North America! 

1 hour, 3o minutes.

If you want to see the world through rose-colored glasses, hop in the car and head east to Tyler, the rose capital of America!

If you’re visiting in October, you’ll see the city in full bloom, with roses of every variety and color on display.

Don’t miss the Tyler Rose Garden, which boasts 38,000 rose bushes over 14 acres! 

Tyler is also home to some of East Texas’ most unique craft beverages.

Take a free, self-guided Thirsty Pines Tour to savor the local flavor while soaking in the Art Deco and neoclassical-style buildings, rolling hills, and rich ranchland of the region.

When hunger hits, be sure to stop by Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ for live music and some of the best brisket and baby back ribs in East Texas! 

Explore the Pineywoods on foot with a visit to Tyler State Park.

Thirteen miles of trails provide ample opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying the scenery.

Check out Whispering Pines Nature Trail, a one-mile loop built by The Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938, featuring pine trees, a wading pool, and a waterfall.

1 hour, 40 minutes.

For stunning natural beauty just two hours from Dallas, head north and cross the border into Davis, Oklahoma.

Pack a swimsuit, because you’ll love visiting Turner Falls State Park, where you can take a dip in the swimming hole and stand in awe of one of the largest waterfalls in Oklahoma– the 77-foot Turner Falls.

After you’ve cooled off, get the adrenaline flowing at the nearby 777 Zip, a 777-foot zip line toward Turner Falls for stunning aerial views of the park. 

When the weather is nice, take a hike through the Arbuckle Mountains.

This ancient mountain range is the oldest formation between the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains, so every step you take is steeped in history while you’re surrounded by natural beauty. 

Dallas Day Trips Within a 3-Hour Drive

Possum kingdom state park, tx.

Just over 2.5 hours west of Dallas, Possum Kingdom State Park may have a funny name, but the area promises serious fun for everyone.

Possum Kingdom Lake boasts a variety of fish, and you can expect the aquatic equivalent of traffic jams on summer weekends with jet skis and boats galore.

Don’t miss the Hell’s Gate party cove, where you can link up with your friends and spend the day in the sun or watch one of the best 4th of July fireworks shows in Texas! 

Out of the water, hiking trails boast 360° views over the picturesque cliffs of the Palo Pinto Mountains and Brazos River Valley. 

2 hours, 35 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park, TX

Caddo Lake State Park is 2 hours and 40 minutes east of Dallas, but you’ll feel like you’ve entered an entirely different world. 

Explore the bayous, dotted with bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, and experience the pure serenity of nature.

Hike the trails or paddle the waters in a canoe or kayak, but I don’t recommend swimming, since alligators have made their home in this lake!

But, who can blame them?

With over 70 species of fish in the lake, fishermen aren’t the only ones excited to make a catch! 

2 hours, 40 minutes.

Broken Bow, OK

At nearly three hours northeast of the Big D, Broken Bow is the furthest destination on this list of day trips from Dallas.

Forget all of your big city anxieties, and let the serenity of Broken Bow’s untouched beauty envelop you. 

Aquatic adventures abound as you canoe, kayak, or tube down Mountain Fork River or rent a SUP board on Broken Bow Lake.

If you have a fishing license, you’ll enjoy casting a line in one of the stocked trout streams or catch-and-release trophy areas. 

If you prefer land-based escapades, take a hike through Beavers Bend State Park, trot through the Ouachita Mountains on horseback, or ride around on an ATV through Broken Bow’s best trails.

No matter the mode of transport, the views are guaranteed to be stunning! 

2 hours, 50 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

Visit the 19th-century town of Jefferson where you’ll experience the beauty of historic homes, charming hotels, and over 100 historical landmarks as you make your way through town.

Prefer something spooky over sentimentality?

Jefferson is regarded as the most haunted small Texas town, and you can take a ghost tour to learn about its history, legends, and maybe even meet the long-departed residents. 

Want to stay the night? The Kahn Hotel is one of the top 10 most haunted hotels in Texas… check in if you dare! 

2 thoughts on “15 Best Day Trips from Dallas, TX”

If you travel to Terrell, Tx between apx. May 15-August 15th……be sure to stop at Ham’s Orchard just outside of Terrell. The homemade soft served peach and strawberry ice cream is worth the trip there. They sell lots more than ice cream. Look for their website online. There is also a Buc-ee’s nearby.

Peach ice cream AND a nearby Buc-ee’s?! I’m sold!!

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12 Best Day Trips From Dallas, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for some of the best day trips from Dallas? Here’s our list of 12 incredible Dallas day trips you should add to your itinerary!

The Lone Star State is packed with incredible things to see and do. If you’re visiting the busy city of Dallas , the attractions here alone could entertain you for days on end.

In Dallas, a city known for its cosmopolitan flair and rich cultural offerings, some of the best things to do include exploring the historic Dealey Plaza, where the Sixth Floor Museum chronicles the events surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

Additionally, visitors can indulge in the city’s vibrant arts scene by touring the renowned Dallas Museum of Art or strolling through the picturesque Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, offering a delightful escape into nature within the heart of the city.

But if you have time for a day trip, consider venturing outside the city to explore more of Texas !

Our list of the top day trips from Dallas combines all the most fascinating parts of East, Central, and North Texas. Some of these day trips from Dallas even take you all the way into Oklahoma!

You can tour art galleries in cities like Austin or go horseback riding through a state park. You can visit the gorgeous natural wonder of Turner Falls, or lounge on the sandy beaches of a lake. Or head up to Oklahoma’s capital city or explore the wilderness in Beaver Bend State Park.

These day trips from Dallas allow you to make the most of your time in Texas and see beyond the excitement of the city. So make sure you save some time in your exploration of Texas to try some of these day trips from Dallas!

Explore more of the Lone Star State with our list of the best things to do in Texas .

Table of Contents

1. Fort Worth

2. oklahoma city, 4. davy crockett national forest, 5. beavers bend state park and nature center, 6. big cypress bayou, 7. lake texoma, 8. turner falls park, 9. dinosaur valley state park, 11. glen rose, wrapping up, the 12 best day trips from dallas, texas.

Dallas is located in northeastern Texas without many other major cities nearby. So many of these day trips from Dallas require a bit of driving. Just start the day early and you can easily fit any of these day trips into your Dallas itinerary !

If you don’t already have a car, try to rent one in the city. There isn’t tons of public transport that reaches these Dallas day trips, so having your own vehicle is ideal. Any of these day trips would also make a great weekend trip as well, particularly the further destinations that require 3 hours of driving one way.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Dallas: 32 miles
• Driving time: 30 minutes

Fort Worth , located in the heart of North Texas, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich Western heritage with a modern urban atmosphere. It’s one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Dallas!

Known as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” Fort Worth proudly embraces its cowboy roots, evident in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards District. Here, visitors can witness the daily cattle drives, explore the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, go on a pub crawl , and soak in the Old West charm of saloons and rodeo arenas.

Beyond its Western allure, Fort Worth boasts a thriving cultural scene, with world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum, the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. These institutions showcase an impressive collection of art, history, and culture, making Fort Worth a great place to dive into Texas’s cultural influences.

The city’s downtown area, Sundance Square, is a bustling hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping. With its red-brick streets and historic architecture, Sundance Square exudes a welcoming atmosphere and serves as a focal point for community events and festivals.

Fort Worth is also home to other attractions like the Fort Worth Zoo and The Fort Worth Water Gardens. The latter is a stunning urban oasis that captivates visitors with its modernist architecture, serene pools, and cascading waterfalls.

Whether one is exploring its cowboy heritage, indulging in cultural pursuits, or enjoying the vibrant city life, Fort Worth stands as a dynamic and multifaceted destination, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the best of Texas hospitality and charm.

• Distance from Dallas: 207 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours

You can venture all the way up to Oklahoma on a day trip from Dallas! At just about 3 hours away, Oklahoma City is a great option for Dallas day trips.

Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city of the state of Oklahoma, blends a rich history with modern progress.

Nestled in the heart of the Great Plains, the city’s skyline is marked by impressive architecture, including the iconic Devon Energy Center. The Oklahoma City National Memorial, located at the site of the tragic 1995 bombing, stands as a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.

The Bricktown Entertainment District, once an industrial area, has transformed into a vibrant hub featuring an array of restaurants, bars, and shops along the scenic Bricktown Canal. This district is particularly lively in the evenings, offering a lively atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

Oklahoma City is deeply connected to its Western heritage, evident in attractions like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of Western art and artifacts.

The city’s commitment to the arts is further exemplified by the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, home to a diverse range of exhibits and a stunning collection of Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures.

With a thriving cultural scene, a welcoming community, and a mix of historic charm and contemporary offerings, Oklahoma City is one of the best day trips from Dallas. Because it is a 3-hour drive, this also makes a great weekend trip from Dallas!

Related: Check out these other great road trips from Dallas !

• Distance from Dallas: 95 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

One of the most popular day trips from Dallas is Waco, an exciting city situated along the banks of the Brazos River in central Texas.

Known for its friendly atmosphere and cultural attractions, Waco has gained national attention in recent years, thanks in part to the popular renovation of the historic Magnolia Market at the Silos. Founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame, Magnolia Market has become a major draw, attracting visitors with its stylish shopping, delicious food trucks, and vibrant community space.

Beyond Magnolia Market, Waco offers a range of cultural experiences, including the iconic Dr Pepper Museum. Housed in the original bottling plant, the Dr Pepper Museum offers a delightful journey through time, showcasing vintage advertisements, memorabilia, and a glimpse into the evolution of the beloved beverage.

Waco’s downtown area has undergone revitalization, featuring a mix of trendy boutiques, eateries, and entertainment venues. The Brazos Riverwalk provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities, offering a peaceful escape within the heart of the city. You can even go horseback riding with a cowboy guide !

The city is also known for the Waco Mammoth National Monument a paleontological site that preserves the fossilized remains of a herd of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age creatures. Visitors to the monument can take guided tours to explore the well-preserved mammoth fossils in their original context.

Between its ancient fossils, bustling markets, and Dr Pepper Museum, Waco is one of the top Dallas day trips!

• Distance from Dallas: 144 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Davy Crockett National Forest, located in East Texas, is a sprawling expanse of woodlands and waterways that honors the legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett.

Encompassing over 160,000 acres, Davy Crockett National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring an extensive network of hiking trails, including the 20-mile Four C National Recreation Trail, which winds through scenic pine and hardwood forests.

The forest’s terrain is interspersed with serene lakes and rivers, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Big Slough Wilderness , a designated wilderness area within the forest, offers a pristine and untouched natural environment for those seeking a more secluded and immersive outdoor experience.

Davy Crockett National Forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to a variety of plant and animal species. The forest’s diverse ecosystems range from upland pine forests to bottomland hardwoods, creating a gorgeous day trip destination. Birdwatchers can delight in the abundance of avian life, while deer, squirrels, and other wildlife are commonly spotted by those exploring the forest trails.

Davy Crockett National Forest serves as a peaceful retreat, inviting travelers to engage in camping, picnicking, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the East Texas wilderness.

Read next: 14 Best Day Trips From Austin, Texas

• Distance from Dallas: 181 miles

Located in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Encompassing over 1,300 acres along the shores of Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River, the park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters.

Visitors to Beavers Bend State Park can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the towering pine and hardwood trees, offering glimpses of native wildlife and providing a serene escape into nature. The park’s centerpiece, Broken Bow Lake, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water recreation against a backdrop of picturesque hills.

The park’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty is complemented by the Beavers Bend Nature Center, where educational programs and exhibits enhance visitors’ understanding of the diverse ecosystems that thrive within the park.

The Beavers Bend Nature Center serves as an interpretive hub, providing valuable insights into the flora and fauna of southeastern Oklahoma. Naturalists and park rangers lead guided tours and educational programs, engaging visitors with hands-on experiences and informative exhibits that highlight the region’s biodiversity.

Additionally, the center offers a range of family-friendly activities, making it an excellent resource for those looking to deepen their appreciation for the great outdoors. Beavers Bend State Park and its Nature Center offer one of the best day trips from Dallas for people of all ages.

• Distance from Dallas: 170 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 40 minutes

Big Cypress Bayou , located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, is a picturesque waterway known for its serene beauty and rich ecological diversity. Flowing through the historic town of Jefferson, the bayou has played a significant role in the region’s history, serving as a vital transportation route during the steamboat era in the mid-19th century.

Today, it remains a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The bayou is surrounded by lush cypress and hardwood forests, providing a tranquil setting for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Visitors can explore the scenic waterway, immersing themselves in the peaceful ambiance while spotting a variety of wildlife, including turtles, waterfowl, and the occasional alligator.

One of the notable features along Big Cypress Bayou is the Caddo Lake, a sprawling and iconic lake known for its bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, creating an enchanting and almost mystical atmosphere.

The interconnected waterways offer a unique opportunity to explore the bayou’s beauty and the historic remnants of the steamboat era, such as old paddlewheel boats and remnants of riverboat landings. Big Cypress Bayou and Caddo Lake State Park collectively form a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil day trip into the natural wonders of East Texas.

• Distance from Dallas: 88 miles

One of the less touristy day trips from Dallas is Lake Texoma. Straddling the border of Texas and Oklahoma, this is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States and a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

Formed by the confluence of the Red River and the Washita River, the lake spans over 89,000 acres, offering a vast expanse of water for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Known for its clear blue waters and scenic shoreline, Lake Texoma attracts visitors from both states and beyond, providing a diverse range of experiences, from serene coves for relaxation to open waters for sailing and jet-skiing.

The lake’s extensive shoreline is dotted with marinas, campgrounds, and parks, providing ample opportunities for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Fishing enthusiasts flock to Lake Texoma for its reputation as a prime fishing destination, hosting a variety of fish species, including striped bass, catfish, and crappie.

The lake is also home to the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge , a haven for birdwatchers, where migratory birds and waterfowl find sanctuary. You could easily spend a whole day trip exploring this one spot, but there is so much to see here!

Lake Texoma’s combination of recreational amenities, natural beauty, and diverse ecosystems make it a year-round destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and a peaceful escape into the heart of the Southern Plains.

Heading south? Check out our list of the best things to do in San Antonio !

• Distance from Dallas: 128 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours

Turner Falls Park, nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, is a scenic and recreational haven renowned for its stunning waterfalls and natural beauty.

The park’s crown jewel, Turner Falls, cascades 77 feet into a natural swimming pool, creating a picturesque landscape that draws visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The clear spring-fed waters and the surrounding lush greenery make it a popular destination for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, which leads to panoramic viewpoints, cave formations, and the Collings Castle, a historic structure built in the 1930s that adds a touch of enchantment to the park’s landscape.

Turner Falls Park also offers diverse recreational amenities, including water activities in Honey Creek that meanders through the park, providing opportunities for canoeing and paddle boating. There are plenty of places to camp and there are some fun family attractions such as Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

Due to its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Turner Falls State Park is one of the best day trips from Dallas for families and nature lovers.

• Distance from Dallas: 80 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 22 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Dallas is Dinosaur Valley State Park , a captivating destination that allows visitors to step back in time to the prehistoric era.

The state park is renowned for its exceptional fossilized dinosaur tracks, which can be found along the riverbed. These tracks, dating back millions of years, offer a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the footprints of massive dinosaurs such as the Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon.

Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the state park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching, providing nature enthusiasts with a chance to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Visitors to Dinosaur Valley State Park can also enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the river, with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and even camping. The state park features well-maintained trails that lead to scenic overlooks, and the iconic Blue Hole offers a refreshing spot for swimming in the clear waters of the Paluxy River.

With its combination of paleontological wonders and outdoor recreational opportunities, Dinosaur Valley State Park stands as a unique and educational destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the ancient past.

Find more gems with our list of the best places to visit in Texas .

• Distance from Dallas: 195 miles

Another one of the best Dallas day trips is the mighty capital city of Texas, Austin ! Known for its unique blend of live music, thriving tech scene, and recreational opportunities, Austin has so much to offer travelers.

Located along the banks of the Colorado River, Austin has earned the moniker “Live Music Capital of the World,” boasting a dynamic music scene that comes to life in its numerous live music venues, festivals, and events.

The iconic South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, an annual celebration of film, music, and technology, draws creative minds from around the globe, solidifying Austin’s reputation as a cultural hub. The city’s famed Sixth Street, also known as the “Dirty Sixth,” is a lively entertainment district lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a diverse array of experiences for both locals and visitors.

Beyond its musical scene, Austin embraces its natural surroundings with an abundance of parks and green spaces. Travelers can explore the scenic Barton Creek Greenbelt, hike along the trails of the Barton Creek Wilderness Park, or go kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, all within the heart of the city.

Austin also has an amazing culinary scene that celebrates local flavors and diverse cuisines, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. Join a guided food tour to uncover all the local secrets of Austin’s eateries!

Whether enjoying the energetic atmosphere of downtown, immersing oneself in the beauty of nature, or savoring the culinary delights, Austin captures the essence of Texas’s diverse and dynamic spirit.

• Distance from Dallas: 75 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Glen Rose, a charming town in Somervell County, Texas, is nestled in the picturesque Brazos River Valley and is renowned for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. The town is often celebrated for its dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past.

Beyond this iconic state park, Glen Rose exudes a small-town charm with historic buildings, boutique shops, and family-owned restaurants. The downtown area, surrounded by rolling hills, provides a relaxing atmosphere, inviting visitors to stroll along the streets and enjoy the local hospitality.

The town is also known for its cultural events and festivals, including the annual Somervell County Peach and Melon Festival, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.

Glen Rose boasts cultural attractions as well, such as the Barnard’s Mill Art Museum, housed in a historic gristmill, showcasing local and regional artwork.

With its unique blend of natural attractions and community warmth, Glen Rose is one of the best day trips from Dallas for those seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of Texas history and charm. This small town is close by and perfect for a day trip!

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Austin Itinerary

• Distance from Dallas: 97 miles

Tyler, known as the “Rose Capital of America,” is another one of the best day trips from Dallas and it’s only about an hour and a half drive. This vibrant city in East Texas is celebrated for its blooming rose gardens and charming Southern hospitality.

The Tyler Rose Garden, one of the largest in the country, showcases over 38,000 rose bushes and 500 varieties, attracting visitors from far and wide. Each October, the Texas Rose Festival transforms Tyler into a floral wonderland, featuring parades, garden tours, and other events that highlight the city’s deep-rooted connection to horticulture and the rose industry.

Beyond its floral fame, Tyler offers a diverse range of cultural attractions and recreational activities. The city’s downtown area is home to a mix of historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and local eateries. The Caldwell Zoo provides a family-friendly adventure, housing a variety of wildlife species in naturalistic habitats.

Tyler State Park, just outside the city, offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping amid the beautiful piney woods of East Texas. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and community spirit, Tyler stands as a welcoming day trip destination that embraces both its floral heritage and the modern amenities that make it a thriving hub in the region.

So whether you’re looking to explore a small town in a hidden corner of the Lone Star State, or head up to Oklahoma to check out the capital city, there are so many amazing day trips from Dallas!

If you have more time, there are plenty of weekend trips from Dallas that are worth trying as well.

Head down to Houston and check out the famous Space Center Houston, or explore the eclectic neighborhoods like the Museum District and tour the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Or spend more time in central Texas near Austin and embark on a journey out to the scenic Texas Hill Country. Here you can tour Guadalupe River State Park or explore the historic town of Fredericksburg.

Or try to see it all on a 10-day Texas road trip itinerary ! Whether you’re looking for day trips, weekend trips, or epic road trips, Texas really does have it all!

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.

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Last Updated By VI on June 5, 2024

Tyler (1 hour 30 min from Dallas)

Terrell (35 min), enchanted rock state natural area (4 hours), kimbell art museum (40 min from dallas).

• Complete List & Map

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

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

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

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

Longview (2 hours)

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

Jefferson (2 hours 30 min)

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

Athens (1 hour)

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

Greenville (1 hour)

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

Fort Worth (40 min)

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

Turner Falls (2 hours 10 min)

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

Lake Murray State Park (2 hours)

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

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

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

Lake Texoma (1 hour 40 min)

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

Davy Crockett National Forest (2 hours 40 min)

18551 State Highway 7 East, Kennard, TX 75847

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

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

Pat Mayse State Wildlife Management Area (2 hours)

More ideas: Richardson, Texas

Angelina National Forest (2 hours 50 min)

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

Arbuckle Wilderness park (2 hours)

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

Hawaiian Falls Mansfield (Seasonal)

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

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

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

State Capitol (3 hours)

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

Palestine (1 hour 50 min Day Trip from Dallas)

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

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

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

Caddo Lake State Park (2 hours 30 min)

More to know: Best DFW Airport Restaurants

Fort Worth Zoo (45 min)

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

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

More Texas Getaways:

Resources: Padre Island , San Antonio Missions

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25 Best Day Trips from San Antonio, Texas

The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg, Texas

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27 Worthy Day Trips from Dallas: All Under 4 Hours!

So, you’ve finally got a day to spare in Dallas, and you’re itching to explore. No worries! 

There are tons of fun day trips from Dallas that are just a short drive away, like walking in real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park or literally stopping to smell the roses in the small town of Tyler. Texas is a big place, but all the spots on this list are less than 4 hours away and ranked by distance.

I understand how tricky it can be to choose the perfect spot when you’re short on time. I used to juggle corporate with weekend escapes that were always just a bit too far away.

Fortunately, adopting the van living lifestyle let me work full-time while going all over the West Coast. So, after exploring all the best of Dallas during my month+ Texas adventure, here are my top picks for places to visit near Dallas that are just a short drive away.

Easy Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 1 Hour

1. fort worth, texas.

Distance:  ~32 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Urban Best Time to Go to Fort Worth:  Spring or fall

Merging the nostalgia of the Old West with urban sophistication, Fort Worth is more than just cowboy boots and rodeos. The Stockyards National Historic District, with its cattle drives and Western saloons, is the heart of cowboy culture and the chance to two-step in Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk. I personally went just to see the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Fort Worth is worth visiting for its well-preserved history and art scene, and it is absolutely one of the quickest Dallas day trips to take. The city is a jewel for those wanting to experience the Texan bravado without straying too far from downtown Dallas. Also, if you’re an art aficionado, the Cultural District houses masterpieces by the likes of Warhol and Picasso.

2. Arlington, Texas

Distance:  ~20 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Entertainment Best Time to Go:  Year-round

Arlington is your go-to spot for thrills and spills. As the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers, you can catch a game and soak up the electric atmosphere at AT&T Stadium or Globe Life Park. The energy at the stadiums is contagious, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the hot dogs and halftime shows. 

Nearby, the Six Flags Over Texas offers roller coasters galore for those who dare to ride!

3. Denton, Texas

Distance:  ~40 miles/45 minutes  Type:  College Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring or fall

Feel the youthful energy and quirky vibes of Denton, a small town with a big personality that lies just north of Dallas. Known for its vibrant music scene, it’s often referred to as “Little Austin.” The town square is sprinkled with vintage shops, cool cafes, and upbeat music venues.

If you’re someone who delights in discovering local artistry and musical talent, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University always make sure there’s something happening. Don’t miss the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival if you’re around in the fall.

4. Canton (Canton Trade Days)

Distance:  ~60 miles/1 hour  Type:  Shopping & Cultural Best Time to Go:  First Monday of each month

Experience one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world! The First Monday Trade Days are a massive event that consumes the small town of Canton each month.

Canton Trade Days is worth it for its sheer scale and variety. You’ll find everything from unique home decor to farm animals for sale at this flea market. It’s a treasure hunter’s dream with the added bonus of hearty Texas food and live entertainment. Plus, the friendly Southern atmosphere makes it as much a social occasion as a shopping spree.

Best Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 2 Hours

5. athens, texas.

Distance:  ~73 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Nature & Adventure Best time to visit:  Spring or Fall

Affectionately labeled as the “Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World,” Athens, Texas, is set in the lush, green rolling hills of East Texas. 

Dive into freshwater fun at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center where fishing and interactive exhibits make a splash with the entire family. The East Texas Arboretum showcases nature trails and beautiful gardens.

Cultural curiosity is also satisfied with historical landmarks like the Henderson County Courthouse and the Athens Scuba Park for those up for underwater exploration. After working up an appetite, savor the local cuisine with down-home eateries that serve up more than just black-eyed peas. Think succulent barbecue and sweet slices of pie that taste like Southern hospitality.

6. Granbury, Texas

Distance:  ~70 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Historic Town & Lake Retreat  Best Time to Go:  Spring to fall

Stroll around the well-preserved 19th-century buildings of Granbury. It’s an attractive spot for those who appreciate history, architecture, and a slower pace of life.

With Lake Granbury at its doorstep, pull up for a day of boating, fishing, or chilling on a lakefront bench. Add to that a lineup of unique boutiques, wineries, and cozy eateries, and you’re in for a treat. 

Check out Granbury Opera House for a show, and the night-time Ghosts and Legends tour is a must for a spooky encounter with the town’s past residents. 

7. Waco, Texas

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Eclectic Attractions & Heritage Best Time to Go to Waco:  Late spring or early fall

Before going, I used to only know Waco from that miniseries, but it really is a hidden gem for those looking for an authentic slice of Texan life. 

Why should Waco be on your go-to list? For starters, it’s home to the renowned Magnolia Market at the Silos, birthed by the visionaries Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame. Here, shopping, dining, and leisure converge, all set in a rustic, beautifully landscaped space. Here, you can sample some of the best food trucks in the area.

Learn something from the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum or the Dr. Pepper Museum, which is all about the nation’s oldest major soft drink. The Cameron Park Zoo has exotic animals, while the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a jaw-dropping peek at the remains of mammoths that roamed the region thousands of years ago.

8. Tyler, Texas

Distance:  ~98 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Roses and Outdoor Activities Best Time to Go:  Spring for the Rose Festival or fall

Dubbed as the “Rose Capital of America,” Tyler, Texas is a city renowned for its enchanting rose gardens and charming historic district. Wander through the Tyler Rose Garden to experience one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S., home to thousands of rose bushes and myriad vibrant blooms. It is especially breathtaking during the annual Texas Rose Festival in October.

Other than roses, go visit the historic Carnegie Library, the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum, the contemporary exhibits at the Tyler Museum of Art, or go chill by Lake Tyler.

9. Lake Texoma, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Nature  Best Time to Go:  Early summer through fall

Straddling the border between Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is a massive reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, for fishing, boating, and windsurfing fun. It covers an impressive 89,000 acres.

Anglers from everywhere come to test their skills against this sought-after game, Striped Bass. But with over a hundred miles of shoreline dotted with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, Lake Texoma is a great spot to get into nature without venturing too far from the conveniences of the city.

10. Glen Rose (Dinosaur Valley State Park)

Distance:  ~80 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Travel back in time at  Dinosaur Valley State Park  in Glen Rose, Texas, where you’ll find real dinosaur footprints preserved in the riverbed. Take a dip in the Paluxy River while keeping an eye out for these ancient tracks, or walk along the park’s hiking and biking trails.

For even more dino fun, visit Dinosaur World to see life-size replicas of various species and take part in interactive exhibits. At the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, you can drive through and see over 1,000 animals, including bison and giraffes, in their natural habitats. 

Nearby, there is another park filled with unusually large rock formations creatively named Big Rocks Park.

11. Mineral Wells Fossil Park, Texas

Distance:  88 miles/1.5 hours Type:  Outdoor & Nature Best Time to Go : Year-round

For the young or young at heart,  Mineral Wells Fossil Park  is a great spot for fossil hunting and learning about Earth’s history.

The park is open to the public, and you can keep whatever fossils you find. The park is a treasure trove from the Pennsylvanian Period, meaning you can literally pick up fossils that are over 300 million years old. Just BYOT – bring your own tools.

12. Paris, Texas

Distance:  ~100 miles/1.75 hours  Type:  Quaint Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual Dogwood Festival

Just a short drive from Dallas is a charming town named after its French counterpart. Paris, Texas, boasts gorgeous architecture with a mix of Victorian and Art Deco styles. 

Take a tour of the Eiffel Tower with a replica built in Paris, or visit the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to those who have served our country. And there’s an annual Dogwood Festival in spring, where you can see thousands of blooming dogwood trees throughout the city. 

13. Dublin, Texas

Distance:  ~122 miles/2 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration

Dublin, Texas, may be a small town, but it is known as the birthplace of Dr. Pepper. You can actually go taste the original formula at the Dublin Bottling Works. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area to admire its collection of murals, or stop by the Ben Hogan Museum to learn about the legendary golfer’s roots.

Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a total highlight, complete with a parade and plenty of Irish-inspired activities. And for a dose of outdoor adventure, head to nearby Lake Proctor for fishing and boating.

14. Davis, Oklahoma (Turner Falls Park)

Distance:  ~130 miles/2 hours  Type:  Natural Landmark & Water Recreation Best Time to Go:   Summer for swimming

Turner Falls State Park  in Davis, Oklahoma, boasts the state’s highest waterfall, measuring at seventy-seven feet. This landscape set in the Arbuckle Mountains is filled with miles of trails, swimming, and photography. 

The waterfall isn’t the only attraction here; there are also caves, rock formations, and natural pools to explore. For those wanting to extend their stay, there are campsites and cabins available for rent. Plus, the nearby town of Davis offers a variety of restaurants and shops to complete your trip.

15. Texas State Railroad, Palestine & Rusk, Texas

Distance:  ~127 miles/2 hours Type:  Train ride and historical tour Best Time to Go : Spring through fall

Ride on the  Texas State Railroad , a historic train chugging through the piney woods of East Texas. The railroad has both vintage steam and diesel locomotives, with different themes for each car, such as the first-class First Lady or open-air coach Sunset Limited.

The trip includes a stop at an 1880s-style train depot where you can explore exhibits and watch a traditional train robbery reenactment. You can also opt for a themed ride, like the popular Polar Express during the holiday season or a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner train.

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 3 Hours

16. old zoo nature trails, cisco, texas.

Distance:  140 miles/2.5 hours Type:  Outdoor Adventure & Nature  Best Time to Go : Anytime except for during hunting season

Los Angeles isn’t the only place with an abandoned old zoo to wander around. If you’re up for some hikes in a unique spot, check out the Old Zoo Nature Trails in Cisco, Texas. 

Opened in the 1920s, the local residents were delighted to have some tourism come to their part of town. Despite its limited animal variety compared to today, people loved it. That is, until the zoo’s closure was triggered by a murder mystery involving a poisoned bear and suspicious deer deaths. 

Abandoned in the 1930s, a local nonprofit later transformed the site into a hiking trail. Visitors can still walk by the old enclosures, shelters, and staff offices, creating an eerie yet tranquil 1.5-mile track.

17. Austin, Texas

Distance:  ~200 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban & Foodie Adventures Best Time to Go to Austin:  Spring or Fall

Probably better for weekend trips than an Austin day trip, I was surprised by how much I loved this city! I’ve since gone back three more times, staying 2 weeks to a month each. It helps when one of your best buds just became a homeowner.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin is a young city filled with fun activities, music, and delicious food, especially Terry Black’s Texan BBQ. Stroll South Congress Avenue to see street art, boutique shops, and tasty food trucks. Watch the bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (best in summer months). 

And, of course, paddleboard Ladybird Lake or catch a live music show along Sixth Street (Dirty Six) or at one of the many music festivals throughout the year, such as South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits.

18. Caddo Lake State Park, Karnack, Texas

Distance:  168 miles/3 hours Type:  Water Recreation & Wildlife Watching Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Caddo Lake  is a hidden gem in Northeast Texas, bordering Louisiana. This magnificent bayou is created by a 25,400-acre mix of swamps and ponds. Spanish moss hangs over bald cypress trees, and in winter, the moss turns silver, resembling long gray hair on the trees. Birds chirp, frogs croak, and alligators swim through the water. 

The lake’s rich history dates back to the pearl rush of 1910 when freshwater pearls were found in the mussels. The rush lasted three years until rising water levels made it hard to reach the mussels. Though the pearl seekers are gone, Today, most visitors journey by boat through the sloughs and ponds to fish, observe the birds, or search the murky waters for signs of its reptilian inhabitants.

Travel Tip:  Beware the alligators here!

19. Colorado Bend State Park

Distance:  ~186 miles/3 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

 Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country,  Colorado Bend State Park  is over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, rivers, moss, and caves. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and investigating the many caves within its boundaries. 

One of the highlights of the park is Gorman Falls, a 60-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 

20. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~205 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Oklahoma City : Spring and Fall

Although it’s not in Texas, Oklahoma City is still a great option for a day trip from Dallas. The city has a rich history with the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, as well as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing.

For some family fun, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo or Frontier City amusement park. And Oklahoma is also quite famous for its barbecue joints. 

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 4 Hours

21. san marcos, texas.

Distance:  ~225 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to San Marcos : Spring to fall

Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is another great spot for river tubing on the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Although tubing here is a bit far from Dallas, I can attest to how fun this is, even if we got caught in a lightning storm the day we went. 

After a day of outdoor fun, head to one of the many local breweries or wineries for some craft drinks. 

22. Pedernales Falls State Park

Distance:  ~235 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go:  Spring and fall

Located just west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is a peaceful retreat. The highlight of the park is the beautiful Pedernales River, which flows over limestone ledges and large smooth rocks.

Dive into the cool waters at the limestone falls, a local favorite for swimming and tubing, or lace up your hiking boots to explore trails that lead you to sunset views atop white cliffs.

23. Houston, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Cultural & Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Houston : Spring and fall

As the largest city in Texas, there’s no shortage of things to do on a Houston itinerary. This is another city that shocked me. I spent three days running around trying to fit everything in and just couldn’t, so this city might be better left for a longer road trip.

If you don’t get to anything else, go see the Space Center Houston to learn about NASA’s space exploration missions, or go see the immersive art at Seismique or famous works at the Menil Collection. Although it’s just a centerpiece for a park, the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is pretty darn cool too.

If you really want to spend another hour driving, you can reach the coast of Galveston Island. 

24. Wimberley, Texas

Distance:  ~230 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

For a peaceful day trip with small-town charm, head to Wimberley. This Hill Country gem is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful scenery. Take a dip in the amazing-looking Blue Hole or hike to Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring that is actually a submerged cave system that divers have explored to depths of over 100 feet!

Try a new activity at the Wimberley Glassworks for a glass-blowing experience and some of the delicious local wines at one of the many wineries in town. 

25. New Braunfels, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to New Braunfels:  Summer for river tubing and water parks

Between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is a popular summer destination for its two main attractions: the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. These beautiful bodies of water are a fun and popular way to beat the Texas heat with river tubing, kayaking, and rafting. 

You’ll see hordes of groups tie tubes together and float down the river, with packed coolers of beer and snacks. There’s also a city tube chute in town for a more intense experience.

If you’re more into traditional water parks, check out Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort or Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

26. Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance:  ~249 miles/4 hours  Type:  Small Town & Wine Country Best Time to Go to Fredericksburg : Spring and fall for Oktoberfest celebrations 

Known as the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town with a German background. Although best known as the Napa of Texas for its many wineries and tastings, you can also explore the historic Main Street or take a scenic drive to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. And try some German cuisine while you’re in town! 

During the spring, check out the beautiful wildflower fields, and in the fall, don’t miss out on their annual Oktoberfest celebration. I love bat caves, so there’s also a deserted railroad tunnel 10 miles away that’s home to up to 3 million bats if that’s something you want to see up close. 

27. San Antonio, Texas

Distance:  ~275 miles/4 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go to San Antonio : Fall and spring

Now, this is starting to be a long drive, but San Antonio is a must-visit destination in Texas and a pretty small city good for one day . The city’s beloved River Walk is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its beautiful waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. You can also visit the historic Alamo for a lesson in Texas history.

 For some family fun, head to SeaWorld San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas for roller coasters and water rides. And eat delicious Tex-Mex food while you’re in town!

Final Thoughts: Best Mini Road Trips from Dallas

Isn’t it wild how much there is to see just outside of Dallas? This list should guide you to some surprisingly fun spots like Canton Trade Days or lead you to natural gems like Pedernales Falls State Park. 

And if you’re eager to explore other parts of Texas, don’t forget to check out our other guides on the Lone Star State.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Texas?

I’ve stayed with friends and vanlifed around, about, and through much of Texas. If you’re looking for more information on the Lone Star State, check out these other destination itineraries.

• One Day in Dallas Itinerary: Perfect First-Timers Day Trip
• One Day in Big Bend National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
• One Day In San Antonio Itinerary: What To Do In 24 Hours
• Perfect One Day In Houston Itinerary For First Timers

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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3 Best Day Trips From Dallas

By Diana Oates and Tommie Ethington

A visit to Dallas is likely to involve a lot of driving even if you never leave the city limits. But if you're willing to hoof it in the car for just a little bit longer, there's much to see outside the city, too. We did the on-the-ground research for you and have selected our picks for the best plan of attack less than two hours outside Dallas—and we’d go so far as to say that to consider yourself a Texan at all, a visit to each of these destinations is necessary. Read on for our favorite day trips from Dallas, to Frisco, Waco, and Fort Worth, for when you're ready to spend a day away.

Click the link to read our complete Dallas guide .

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s really not much to say about Waco without establishing one overarching theme first—it ain’t what it used to be. Everyone, regardless of any aversion to “touristy things,” need not resist the urge to see the empire Joanna and Chip Gaines have created because chances are, it's everything they hope for. The city is warm and welcoming like Jo, and quirky and fun like Chip. If you're looking for hints of “the old Waco” pre- Fixer Upper, spend time walking through Baylor University on a crisp afternoon, or head downtown for antiques and a coffee pick-me-up. At the end of the day, a trip to “The Heart of Texas” is a lot more fun than binge watching HGTV.

Magnolia Market at the Silos Arrow

Magnolia Market is a one-stop home-décor shop. There's good news for Fixer Upper fans: It's safe to assume owners Chip and Joanna Gaines have given each piece their stamp of approval. The store itself is wonderful, but Magnolia Market at the Silos' real draw is the sense of nostalgia and community. At the very least, make sure you pick up a seasonal candle to bring a little bit of the Magnolia Market home with you.

Czech Stop Arrow

This is a bustling bakery inside of a Shell station about 20 miles north of Waco. If you're road tripping you'll be stopping for gas at some point, so you should make sure to do it here, where you can also fill up on kolaches, cinnamon rolls, jalapeño poppers, and pepperoni puffs. Though there's often a line, the delectable baked goods behind the counter are enticing enough to make it worth the wait.

Balcones Distilling Arrow

Balcones is the most famous name in Texas whisky—its single malts have a dedicated following all over the United States. Visiting the distillery itself is a real treat. It is located inside the former Texas Fireproof Storage Co. building in downtown Waco, and the 90 minute tour offers a great survey of the whisky making process. You'll see the whole space from the grain silos to the Scottish stills, and, of course, finish up with a tasting of the distillery's various offerings.

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits Arrow

This place makes for a fun first stop during a day trip to Waco, when you still need a bit of caffeine to kick-start the day, or an early evening happy hour before hitting the road. Here, cocktails are queen. Whatever you want, they've got it—and they've got a witty name for it, too. Creative concoctions, which are strong, but not too strong, include the Hammer of the Gods, and the Coffee Julep.

Magnolia House Arrow

The Magnolia House is a lovely Victorian spot located on an unassuming corner in McGregor, a small town 20 minutes outside Waco. It was lovingly restored by people who really know what they're doing: Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper fame. You get the whole house to yourself, including one of Joanna's famous redesigned kitchens. It's also got six bedrooms, so, plenty of room for the whole family. As a bonus: It was even featured on an episode of Fixer Upper.

Want to know a surefire way to show a local you're not from Dallas? Talk about it and its neighbor to the West as if they are one and the same. Because the truth? They could not be more different. The folks of Fort Worth have a calm confidence about them that is totally Texan, and everywhere you turn there's an innovative new restaurant, a riveting new museum, or a darling local boutique. While the two cities tend to be friendly rivals regarding who sits higher in terms of Lone Star State superiority, most Texans are quite proud to claim both.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth Arrow

The Modern Art Museum of Forth Worth offers a first-rate art experience without the crowds of people you might find in New York City or even Dallas. It's rather incredible how many residents have yet to make it here to see the sculptures, prints, and photographs on display. The atmosphere makes for a very zen art experience. Whether you have 30 minutes or three days, even experiencing just a slice of the museum can be memorable and worthwhile.

Heim BBQ & Catering Arrow

What started as a college hobby for pit master Travis Heim has turned into Fort Worth's coolest barbecue destination, a feat in a place with so much good barbecue. Heim and his wife Emma, who are co-owners, have worked hard to bring a solid barbecue establishment to the city's ultra-hip Magnolia Avenue, and their willingness to learn from Texas barbecue legends has only made the restaurant that much better. Your trip must include an order of the bacon burnt ends—cubed chunks of pork belly coated in a secret smoky-and-sweet spice mixture.

Billy Bob's Texas Arrow

Every adult in North Texas has a story that begins, "So one night at Billy Bob's..." for good reason: This place, which has been dubbed the largest honky tonk in the world, has more than a dozen bars and hosts some of the most famous country musicians around. It's a little rough around the edges—pleasantly so. But more than anything, this is the experience a new tourist imagines when they think of Texas: slide guitars, cheap beer, and a mechanical bull. 

Joe T. Garcia's Arrow

This Forth Worth institution has probably had a long line since it opened in 1935. One major difference since the beginning: Back in the day, it seated a humble 16 people; now, it can host more than 1,000. There is no dinner menu, but you really only need to know about two things: their fajitas, and what they call a "family dinner," which includes cheese enchiladas, beef tacos, a cheese nacho, guacamole, rice, and beans.

M.L. Leddy's Arrow

M.L. Leddy's is a fourth-generation family business that sells luxurious western wear. But really, it's all about the boots—custom boots. If you can dream it, they can make it (in three to four months, at the San Angelo location). Boots off the rack will probably satisfy tourists, but if you're here for the real deal, it's all about a custom pair that can be made of anything from giraffe to stingray.

The Ashton Arrow

Soul seeps through all 39 of the well-appointed guest rooms in this beautiful boutique hotel housed in a renovated building on the National Register of Historic Places. It's located next to Sundance Square—a welcome change of pace, especially when compared with the wedding parties and convention crews that compose the guest roster at the Omni . It's one of the few boutique options in Fort Worth, and from the lobby to the rooms, the feel is a throwback that echoes the 1915 date the building went up.

Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States and just a 30-minute drive from downtown Dallas. But up until the early 2000s, it was mostly farmland. Now, fields filled with hay bales coexist alongside shopping centers that appeared seemingly overnight. A multi-million dollar practice facility for “America’s Team” has led to an influx of new restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment possibilities, while, in historic Frisco, you still get that small-town Texas feel. 

Flea Style and Heirloom Haul Arrow

Flea Style (the shop) and Heirloom Haul (the café) share the same space and bring an old-soul vibe to the shiny new complex that is The Star. Drop by anytime and there’s a good chance you’ll find the owner Brittany Cobb, a former lifestyle editor, working behind the counter, helping style customers, or shopping herself. In the shop you'll find one-of-a-kind items—think vintage kimonos, thrifted Levi’s, handmade pillows, and coconut wax candles in upcycled vessels. On the café side, the eye candy is just as good. A restored ’60s camper (nicknamed Stevie Nicks), floor-to-ceiling gallery wall, and globe chandeliers serve as a backdrop to fast-casual Southern food. Go all out and order the afternoon tea service, delivered via—what else?—an antique cart.

The Heritage Table Arrow

The Heritage Table has manages to both be ahead of its time—it became one of the first fine dining experiences in Frisco when it opened in 2017—and an homage to a bygone era with its back-to-basics culinary approach. For the first two courses, you’ll be asked to pick between farm versus ranch and sea versus land (unless you’re lucky enough to have more than two in your party, then do yourself a favor and get one of each). The ingredients are accompanied by a thorough explanation of their origins—the Lone Star State features heavily—and the freshness is apparent from the first bite. Choose seafood and you'll end up with Texas-sized shrimp, blackened redfish from the Gulf of Mexico, and a crawfish pot pie served in a miniature cast-iron skillet that stole our hearts. 

Karmic Grounds Arrow

There’s a clear sense of community here; it’s the kind of place where the Wi-Fi isn’t password protected. It's also the kind of place where you can order what you want from the espresso machine without fear of being judged. Want a white rose iced mocha? No problem, and no one will think you're “extra.” The house pour hits the spot (and comes with a free refill), but if you’re looking for something special, see the seasonal drinks menu. 

The Star in Frisco Arrow

Only in Texas would a 91-acre football-practice facility become a landmark. But the Dallas Cowboys have essentially done just that with The Star, turning their Frisco compound into a destination. The massive indoor stadium hosts the team's practices, obviously, but also big-name musical acts, World Championship boxing matches, and high school football games. If sports aren't your thing though, this is still worth a stop. The adjacent Star District has shopping and dining options that will appeal to all. 

National Videogame Museum Arrow

The nondescript exterior of the Frisco Discovery Center is akin to, say, your local Best Buy. Inside, however, the National Videogame Museum—with its niche collection of more than 100,000 games, consoles, and rare artifacts—makes for sensory and nostalgia overload. Learn about the culture of video games while standing in an ’80s-themed living room, or stop by the mom and pop shop that contextualizes the video game crash of 1983. Finally, don’t miss the retro arcade, where you can use your complimentary tokens to attempt the high score on Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and other classics.

Texas Sculpture Garden Arrow

Spread across four acres of Hall Park, the Texas Sculpture Garden features 40 contemporary works by some of the state’s most prominent artists. When you first turn in, you might be confused by what appears to be an ordinary office complex. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. There are three designated routes, all under two miles. If you can only do one, make it the yellow route, which takes you past ponds and fountains, through a wooded area, and to Joe Barrington’s sculpture “The Headlines Screamed, Bait House Disappears.” Rising up out of the water, a giant metallic fish clutches a brown fishing shack in its jaws. It’s more comical than menacing, and Barrington encourages the viewer to dream up their own version of events that led to the scene and “walk away with a smile.”

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30 Best Day Trips From Dallas

If you live in Dallas or just visiting the Big D and want to get out of the city, a day trip is the perfect way to explore the surrounding country and see some real Texas.

Although there is a lot to see and do in Dallas , getting out of the city is a great way to explore the smaller towns around Texas, see spectacular nature and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

For those who want to go on a longer drive and explore places further away, check out our list of the best road trips you can go on from Dallas .

Our day trips from Dallas include charming small Texan towns, great cities to explore, National Forests and State Parks, quirky museums and even trips across the border into Oklahoma.

Here's our list of the 30 best day trips from Dallas in order of the time it takes to get there.

1. Visit the Cavanaugh Flight Museum

30 minutes from Dallas (16 miles)

A great museum for those who like flying is in Addison - only about half an hour up the Dallas North Tollway from downtown. The traffic here can be unpredictable so allow as much as an hour if you're coming during the morning rush hour.

The Cavanaugh Flight Museum has one of the best collection of military aircraft spanning time from World War I to World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and other conflicts.

Alongside the airplanes, there are some aircraft engines you can look at and a few random exhibits including military vehicles and some regular cars from the 30s and 40s.

For those who like adrenalin pumping through their veins, the museum offers flight experiences in classic fighter and bomber aircraft from different time periods. You have to book in advance but it's an awesome thing to do as part of your visit.

2. Stroll through the Stockyards National Historic District in Fort Worth

30 minutes from Dallas (32 miles)

Fort Worth and Dallas have basically merged into one city in all but name. The Dallas - Fort Worth metro area that also includes Arlington has a lot of great things to do, but given Fort Worth has a huge amount going for it in its own right, a day trip from Dallas is well worth it if you don't want to go too far.

A quick drive down the I-30 will take you from the 9th to the 13th largest city in the United States. Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District which is where you'll want to spend most of the day.

This neighborhood may feel a little touristy, but it is a genuine historic part of Fort Worth that comes with cattle going through it (yep!), cowboys and a rodeo that is worth timing your day trip for.

Once you've explored the quirky shops in Stockyards, you can check out the Fort Worth Zoo or the Botanic Garden.

Finish off the day by going to Sundance Square which is where dozens of the city's best restaurants all sit right next to each other offering you the perfect dilemma for where to have dinner.

3. Try the best of local wine in Grapevine

35 minutes from Dallas (23 miles)

The historic city of Grapevine sits on the edge of its namesake lake and right next to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport so if you're flying into the city, you are basically in Grapevine when you land!

It might not be as well known or popular as the cities of Dallas, Fort Worth or Arlington within the metro area, but this plays to its advantage - Grapevine is quieter and has more of a local feel about it.

The city's name gives away the main reason you should come here. Local wineries offer tours and tastings - make sure you draw lots for who will be the designated driver, or stay the night locally! There are some wine rooms in the town if you want to combine it with dinner.

An alternative dinner option is the Jazz Wine Train which is part of the 1920s Grapevine Vintage Railroad. If you're not sure what this is, the clue, again, is in the name. You get to have your dinner onboard the classic train while listening to local jazz!

4. Go ghost hunting in Terrell

35 minutes from Dallas (33 miles)

Terrell is a quiet and relaxed town just outside Dallas that is known for two things: its ghosts and the World War II era flying school.

If you love ghosts, the town has an official ghost walk that tells you all about the local spirits on Saturday nights as you walk through downtown Terrell.

For a more immersive experience, the Thrillvania Haunted House Park just outside Terrell runs themed events in haunted mansions at weekends.

Don't just turn up in the evening though, the historic downtown area is great for a daytime walk - some of the buildings have intricate murals and there are some interesting and unusual shops to pop into.

If classic military aircraft is your thing and you've already been to the Cavanaugh Flight Museum on the other side of Dallas, the famous World War II flying school has a small museum that is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

This is where the British pilots trained during the war before heading back and taking part and there is a lot of information about what it was like to go through the training program at the time.

5. See the historic Courthouse in Denton

45 minutes from Dallas (40 miles)

The I-35 will take you from Dallas to Denton, northwest of the city. It's a good idea to set off a little later in the morning to avoid the morning traffic - it can get heavy from around 7 a.m. adding half an hour or more onto your journey.

Get breakfast in Dallas and then set off at around 9:30 a.m. and you can be in Denton in as little as 40 minutes.

The center of Denton is designed around the Courthouse-on-the-Square. The courthouse was originally built in 1896 but today houses some Denton County offices as well as a museum about local history, culture and the background of different immigrant groups that settled in the area.

Denton Square is where everything that goes on in the city seems to happen. Expect to see locals meeting up, some social activists or performers and visit the local restaurants and shops to get some lunch and an ice cream.

The Clear Creek Heritage Center and Ray Roberts Lake State Park are both just outside the city and great places for a few hours relaxing in the nature.

Visit these in the afternoon before heading back to Dallas driving around Lewisville Lake on the way back.

6. Spend the day in historic McKinney

45 minutes from Dallas (33 miles)

The small town of McKinney may be just over 30 miles from downtown Dallas, but it is a massive difference between the two and McKinney has a real identity of its own rather than just being a commuter town.

The town was voted as the Best Place to Live in America by Money Magazine in 2014 and the city's lifestyle has led to it growing fast since then - in 2019 it was the 6th fastest growing city in the United States according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Take a stroll down Main Street and you'll see some great local independent shops, buildings that date back to the 19th century and small restaurants and bars that are perfect for sipping coffee sat at a table outside.

The Historic Downtown has more old buildings and piles on the charm and just a few blocks further south is the Chestnut Square Historic Village where 10 restored historic buildings going back as far as 1854 are open to the public and actors dressed in costume will give you a feel for what McKinney was like 150 years ago.

All of these areas are very walkable - your best option is to park the car for the day and explore the city on foot to make the most of the wide sidewalks and the many opportunities to pause to sit down for a drink or lunch.

7. Walk the streets of Greenville, Texas

50 minutes from Dallas (52 miles)

if you're looking to escape the busy streets of Dallas and want to spend the day somewhere where the pace of life is a little slower and the vibe is a bit more relaxed and local, then Greenville is less than an hour up the I-30 to the northeast of Dallas.

The main attraction in town is the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum. This unusual museum has two halves that cover very different topics - the first is dedicated to Audie Murphy who was the most decorated American soldier in World War II. There's a number of exhibits related to him and World War II in general.

The other half of the museum is all about the history of the local cotton industry which was the main earner for local settlers when Greenville was first established in 1852.

Although Greenville does not have as much of a historic status as other cities in the area such as McKinney (#7 above), there are plaques around the city telling you about the importance of some of the buildings and the history feels more intertwined with the everyday life today.

Having said that, the historic downtown area has a number of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and this is the where will find some interesting the local shops and restaurants.

8. Go to the largest flea market in the world in Canton

55 minutes from Dallas (60 miles)

Canton has become famous for the First Monday Trade Days - a huge flea market that takes place over the weekend that comes before the first Monday of the month (which sometimes means it happens at the end of the previous month).

This 4-day market takes place from Thursday to Sunday and is the largest in the United States and quite possibly the world depending on your definition of what a flea market is!

The site is spread over 100 acres and there are pavilions where more established traders set up shop through to small stalls with over 6,000 traders turning up every month.

You can find anything from socks to bespoke car parts in the market and if you have a choice, Thursday and Friday are quieter and you're more likely to find stuff you want - a top tip is that if you do find something you want, buy it there and then because you will either forget where the stall was and never find it afterwards or the item will be sold by the time you come back.

9. Relax by the water in Lake Whitney State Park

1 hour 15 minutes from Dallas (77 miles)

Lake Whitney is a small State Park sitting on the edge of the lake it is named after and if you want a day out by the water, it's not far to come making for a great day trip.

The park has a number of different camping options and many visitors come and stay overnight - if you get here early on the Saturday, you may find less people about. A weekday would be even better if you have the time.

There are two short (1 mile) hiking trails that are more of a gentle walk than a hard hike. The roads that run through the park offer a lot more space to walk, especially along the lakefront.

The park is clean and the water is good for both fishing and swimming when the weather is good. Given how close it is to Dallas and the fact that not much goes on in the evening, you can easily enjoy everything the park has to offer in a day and get back in time for dinner.

10. Visit the quirky town of Sulphur Springs, Texas

1 hour 15 minutes from Dallas (79 miles)

Sulphur Springs is an 80-mile drive up the I-30 from Dallas. The road goes right past Greenville (see #7 above) which you can add to your itinerary if you want to stop along the way.

Not that you'll need to add more things to do - there is plenty to see in Sulphur Springs starting with the Hopkins County Courthouse building that is right in the center of the city on Celebration Plaza.

The amazing building that uses unusual materials like pink granite is a functioning courthouse hosting everything from court cases to passport applications and you are free to enter and walk around to see what it's like on the inside.

The square around it is where many of the city's events happen and also where you'll find one of the most odd public restrooms ever. There are two glass restrooms right on the square and if you use them, you can see everything around you through the glass walls.

Luckily enough, the glass is mirrored on the outside so nobody can see in, but it's a very odd and somewhat unsettling way of using restroom facilities.

The Southwest Dairy Museum and Education Center is about one and a half miles from the County Courthouse and is a really interesting museum about the dairy industry with interactive exhibits that go as far as milking a cow. You can grab an ice cream at the end of your visit in the museum's diner.

11. The Windmill Farm at Tolar

1 hour 20 minutes from Dallas (76 miles)

One of the more unusual day trip options from Dallas is the Windmill Farm near Tolar. Head down Highway 377 out of Dallas and the Windmill Farm is just off the Highway between the towns of Granbury and Tolar.

Follow the signs to the farm and you can drive in to have a look at the windmills - there is a road that takes you through them or you can park up and walk around to get a better view.

Entry to the farm is free and you even get a leaflet which tells you a bit about the individual windmills and their history. Donations for upkeep are welcomed and you should definitely contribute if you're visiting.

There are about 30 classic windmills which were all originally working for different farming and industrial purposes. The windmills have been meticulously restored and aggregated from across the local area and are all within a relatively small area.

The farm is open every day during daylight hours and has a well reviewed bed and breakfast on site if you want to spend the night.

12. Visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose

1 hour 25 minutes from Dallas (80 miles)

Glen Rose is a small town about 90 minutes' drive from Dallas that has a surprisingly large amount of things to do and see - perfect for a day trip out.

The town itself is worth stopping in - the Historic Courthouse Square is the focus of this small town with the Courthouse building dating back to 1893.

Outside Glen Rose, there are a number of different parks you can visit including the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center where some of the most endangered African animal species are preserved including cheetahs, red wolves and the black rhinoceros.

The Dinosaur Valley State Park is a must for your itinerary - the park has some of the best preserved animal footprint fossils in the world and you can see how big their footsteps are as mud they walked through in and around the Paluxy River has turned to stone.

The park has life-size dinosaurs to add to the experience but best of all there is a great selection of hiking trails which weave all the way through the park and are perfect for an hour or two of walking through nature.

13. Go antiques shopping in Waco

1 hour 30 minutes from Dallas (95 miles)

Waco is a located south of Dallas, about halfway along the I-35 to Austin.

The main thing to see in Waco is Magnolia Market which is a 2-block shopping complex including a large store in a converted historic grain barn.

You can't miss it as the infamous two large 1950s silos mark the spot and the silos have become something of an Instagram-worthy attraction in their own right in recent years.

Magnolia Market is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines who became famous for their Fixer Upper TV show - you might spot them around since they have stopped filming the show to focus on other ventures!

If you've watched their show, you'll know that Waco is a huge Mecca for antiques - there are dozens of amazing antique stores here so drive the truck if you want to bring back something for your home.

The Dr Pepper Museum is another amazing place to visit, especially if you are a fan of the soft drink.

Dr Pepper was invented and first produced in Waco and the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company building that houses the museum was the first purpose-built factory that manufactured Dr Pepper from 1906 to 1960.

There are 3 floors of amazing exhibits from the long history of the drink including amazing exhibits about the manufacturing process and classic advertisement posters.

14. Visit the Municipal Rose Garden in Tyler, Texas

1 hour 30 minutes from Dallas (98 miles)

If you like flowers, the Municipal Rose Garden in Tyler is an absolute must visit and given it's only 90 minutes away from Dallas, it's an easy day trip to see the biggest rose garden in the United States.

There are 14 acres of gardens that have some 40,000 rose bushes here with every type of rose plant imaginable somewhere in the area.

There's even experimental new types of rose bushes that have been specifically engineered that go through testing here - the local experts see how the plants behave over a 2-year window before releasing the new rose varieties to the public.

The Rose Garden has given Tyler the proud title of the Rose Capital of America and since it opened in 1952 has expanded its collection of roses year after year.

There are some rose bush varieties here that date back to the 1860s in the Heritage Rose and Sensory Garden. You can easily spend a few hours walking around here and seeing the great variety on display.

15. Try your luck at the casinos in southern Oklahoma

1 hour 35 minutes from Dallas (92 miles)

If you want to play cards or see whether it's your lucky day at the slot machine, but you don't fancy the 18 hour drive to Las Vegas, all you need to do is drive across the Oklahoma border.

There are two options that both take about an hour and a half to get to from Dallas. Given that gambling is unlikely to be legalized in Texas any time soon, both are in southern Oklahoma.

The WinStar World Resort Casino is in Thackerville, about 80 miles north of Dallas and with around 600,000 square feet of combined casino floor space it is not only the largest casino in the U.S., but the whole world. It is owned by the Chickasaw Nation which is a large Native American nation based in Oklahoma.

There are loads of restaurants and a huge hotel to boot if you want to stay the night. To give you an idea of the casino's size, just the poker room alone is 19,000 square feet and has 55 tables!

The Choctaw Casino is the other option - owned by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, it is a little bit further but is less busy as a result with most Texans heading for WinStar instead.

It is much smaller than WinStar, although at around 220,000 square feet of gaming space it is still in the top 10 biggest in the world and larger than most of the huge casinos along the Las Vegas Strip.

16. Go fishing on Lake Texoma

1 hour 40 minutes from Dallas (89 miles)

Lake Texoma is a large reservoir that was made by putting a dam across the Red River in 1944 and flooding several valleys in the area.

Today Texoma on the Texas-Oklahoma border is a popular place to come and relax for residents of both states - there are 2 state and 52 USACE-managed parks surrounding the lake as well as 26 resorts and endless campsites and golf courses.

Red River and the lake sit in an area that used to be the bed of a sea that lay on the border between Oklahoma and Texas thousands of years ago. As a result, the river is unusual in the fact that its water has a high salt content and is not fresh.

This has meant that fish that are normally only found in seawater thrive in the river and striped bass is the most prized of the over 70 different types of fish that are found in the lake.

You may find that some of the campgrounds and facilities in the area have seen better days. If you're just coming for the fishing or to have a picnic by the lake, Texoma is the perfect place to come but if you're looking to stay longer and camp overnight, you might want to opt for a different park area.

17. Learn history at the Fort Richardson State Park and Historic Site

1 hour 40 minutes from Dallas (93 miles)

If you love history and want to learn more about post-Civil War Texas, Fort Richardson is less than two hours away from Dallas and is the perfect day trip for you.

Fort Richardson was built in 1867 at the frontier of the territories occupied by the U.S. Army and played a key role in the defeat of the Comanche and Kiowa. After the Texas panhandle area was secured by the army, the fort was eventually abandoned in 1878.

Almost 100 years later, the disused fort was partially restored and reopened as the Fort Richardson State Historic Park in 1973.

Today a few of the over 50 original fort buildings have been restored - you can visit the hospital, morgue, officer's quarters, guard house, bakery, powder magazine and a commissary.

Tours run twice a day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays and you are free to walk around yourself at weekends. Entry to the park is just $3 per person so this is a budget friendly option!

To add to the experience, two replica barrack buildings were constructed as well.

Make sure you explore the State Park that surrounds the fort and the Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway - the trails here are great and usually very quiet.

18. Drive around the scenic Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma

1 hour 45 minutes from Dallas (104 miles)

Getting to Lake Murray from Dallas is pretty straight-forward - hop onto the I-35 and keep on going for about 100 miles - the lake will be on your right!

Located in southern Oklahoma, Lake Murray State Park is the perfect place to unwind and get away from it all for a day.

Every kind of outdoor activity you might want to do, you can do here - from driving ATVs to fishing to hiking to horseback riding. The lake has a number of great swimming spots and there is a golf course. For the less serious players, there's even mini golf by the Lake Murray Resort.

Given there are few things I like more than a great drive, this lake has one great feature that not many others do - Highway 77S loops all the way around the lake and driving the 25 miles around is a great way to see different parts of the park.

There are small roads that dart off the route towards the lake so you'll have plenty of opportunities of getting closer to the water when you want to stop.

19. Ride the Texas State Railroad in Palestine, Texas

1 hour 50 minutes from Dallas (119 miles)

The 25-mile train track between Palestine and Rusk (both in Texas) sits on the site where a 19th century freight train railroad operated until 1921.

The Palestine depot is just past the town of Palestine along U.S. Highway 84, about 2 hours southeast of Dallas.

Everything about the State Railroad screams history - the depot building has storyboards and information about the history of the railroad and make sure you get out at the other end to see the Rusk depot. Both have small shops where you can get interesting period clothes or a souvenir.

The train ride itself takes 4 hours for a round trip through Piney Woods and you can choose anything from an open air wooden bench carriage through to the Presidential Car - obviously for a different price!

If you really want to get the ultimate experience, $250 buys you the Engine Ride Along where you can go in the steam engine cab. You'll need to book in advance and pass background checks and as there's only one space, it might not be the most sociable way to spend the day with your family or friends!

The trains usually depart at 11 a.m. but there are a lot of special events, additional times and some evening train rides if you want to spend the night or get back to Dallas very late! Check the full schedule at the official Texas State Railroad website .

20. See the waterfall at Turner Falls Park, Oklahoma

2 hours 5 minutes from Dallas (128 miles)

Turner Falls in Oklahoma is 77 feet tall and shares the title of the tallest in Oklahoma with a waterfall in the Natural Falls State Park. It'll take you over 2 hours to get here from Dallas - the I-35 runs all the way.

The park has been a popular weekend getaway destination for some time and as a result, I wouldn't recommend staying the night. There have been repeated reports of trash being left uncollected, loud music and a disorganized campsite.

However, if you're just coming for the day - the falls are a great sight and you can climb up to the overlook to get a better view down as well.

You can swim and walk through the creek area but beware that you'll definitely need water shoes and life jackets are compulsory for children.

Take a lot of care in and around the park - the water can be very cold and deep and swimming here can be dangerous if you're not careful. Some of the hiking trails have sharp rocks and steep drops as well - don't rush things on your way around.

Coming in the middle of the week and getting here early is one way of avoiding the crowds and getting a decent parking spot - it can get pretty busy later on and at weekends so set off nice and early from Dallas.

21. Go on a safari at the Arbuckle Wilderness Park

2 hours 5 minutes from Dallas (130 miles)

If you want to see deer, bison, donkeys, llamas, giraffes and even a rhino right up close and without having to get out of the car, head to the Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Oklahoma.

This is a safari park type of location - you drive along the roads through the park and the different areas are home to different animals that the park contains.

There are hundreds of animals spread throughout the park but to get around, you'll have to drive along gravel and unpaved roads. It can be pretty bumpy - I wouldn't recommend you bring your sports car to look at the exotic animals. An SUV will work a lot better with navigating potholes.

Remember to stay in the car at all times and be careful not to get too close to the animals or annoy them. A donkey kick can make for an expensive panel replacement if you provoke the animal.

If you're making the 2-hour drive up, note that Turner Falls (right above at #20) is a 3-mile drive down the road, so you may well want to combine the two into one big day trip from Dallas!

22. Spend a day in the water at Possum Kingdom State Park

2 hours 15 minutes from Dallas (134 miles)

The time to come to Possum Kingdom State Park is when the weather gets hot from late spring onwards - the park sits along the edge of Possum Kingdom Lake and the best way to spend the day is get out on the water.

Fishing for bass, swimming, boating, canoeing, snorkeling and even scuba diving are available so take your pick!

Although the State Park only covers a small part of it, Lake Possum Kingdom has over 300 miles of coastline and the jagged shape means there are lots of rocky coves and scenic spots to stop and relax.

In the afternoon you can have a go on water skis or go tubing - the fresh clean water in the lake make it an absolute blast!

There isn't quite as much to do on dry land - there is a grand total of 2 trails with one being half a mile and a 1.4 mile Lakeview Trail that has a shortcut for those who don't want to walk the whole way round (which is officially the third trail).

That doesn't matter though, because you can still enjoy the scenery walking along the lakefront roads and there is so much to do on the lake for the whole day.

23. Dive into Texan culture in Marshall

2 hours 15 minutes from Dallas (151 miles)

Marshall is a 150 mile trek east from Dallas and is the place to come if you're looking for small town charm.

The locals have self proclaimed Marshall to be the Cultural Capital of East Texas and there are a few cultural sights to explore. The Harrison County Historical Museum is inside the huge County Courthouse building in the middle of town.

A major transport hub in the 19th century, Marshall is also home to the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum and you can visit the Michelson Museum of Art and the Starr Family Home State Historic Site.

But ticking off the museums is not the only reason to come to Marshall. The Wonderland of Lights is a Christmas-themed lights festival that starts in late November and runs through December. It's one of the biggest light festivals in the United States and well worth coming for during the festive season.

Along with the lights, the town gets decorations all over, Christmas horse-drawn carriages and an ice rink!

24. Slow down time in Jefferson

2 hours 30 minutes from Dallas (167 miles)

Jefferson is a historic city where life is a little slower and relaxed than in the Big D. The best way to explore the city is to take a stroll through the historic downtown area or go on a short boat ride along the Big Cypress Bayou that runs through.

There are a few interesting museums to pop into - the Jefferson Historical Museum tells the town's story, Gone With The Wind Museum is dedicated to the famous book and the stories it tells and you should go to the Museum of Measurement and Time for a quirky exhibition of clock mechanisms and other things that measure anything and everything.

The Historic Jefferson Railway is fun if you have kids - you get to go on a short railway ride with a stop at the Diamond Don's Gator Pit where you can see alligators being fed.

Jefferson is famously called the Bed and Breakfast Capital of the U.S. If you want to spend more than a day and combine it with a trip to Caddo Lake and maybe a stop in Marshall (which is a very good itinerary for a weekend!), then you are spoiled for choice with local lodging options.

Some of the boutique hotels have very creative and unique rooms - amazing for a 1 or 2 night break.

25. Discover beautiful swamps and bayous at Caddo Lake

2 hours 35 minutes from Dallas (168 miles)

Louisiana bayous and swamps may feel like a different world when you are in the middle of Texas, but you can go and see a real Southern marsh at Caddo Lake on a day trip from Dallas!

Caddo Lake sits on the border between Texas and Louisiana, a few miles further than Marshall (#23 above). Take the I-20 all the way to Marshall and the Caddo Lake State Park is just a little further towards the State line.

For $4 per adult entry fee, you get the opportunity to see the natural beauty of the swamp with tall bald cypress trees growing straight out of the water and the fluid mix of land and water everywhere you look.

The appropriately named Big Cypress Bayou flows right past the State Park and into the lake and you can hire anything from a small kayak to a boat to go around the lake.

There are steamboat tours that can add to the experience - these stop at little lakeside towns and can make for a relaxed afternoon on the water.

Both, Marshall and Jefferson (#24 above) are very close to Caddo Lake and you could combine your visit with a stop in one of the historic towns for brunch or dinner before heading back to Dallas.

26. Go to the Texas capital - Austin

2 hours 45 minutes from Dallas (195 miles)

Austin is a long drive down the I-35 from Dallas - the drive will take about 3 hours if you stop once along the way and it's a pretty long way to come for a day trip, although I've done this exact drive myself before and it wasn't all that bad.

Some other recommendations for day trips from Dallas recommend going to the Texas Hill Country, see the cowboy towns of Bandera and Fredericksburg and go to some of the local wineries or even tell you to go to San Antonio.

While all of these are great places to go to and I heartily recommend them as a road trip destination, they are just too far to go to and come back from in one day, so Austin is as far south as this list goes. Check the link in the intro for longer road trip routes from Dallas.

Austin is the capital of Texas and is a very different city to the other major hubs in the State. Austin has a large student population and with that comes a rich and vibrant night life and music scene and great food options.

Austin is a very liberal city within a highly conservative State - to get a sense for its culture you can start by visiting the very impressive State Capitol building and then stop by one of the many great museums. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a very good option and is only 3 blocks from the Capitol building.

Zilker Park on the south bank of the Colorado River is a perfect place to chill in the afternoon in a natural pool filled with perfectly clear (and cold!) spring water.

27. Davy Crockett National Forest

2 hours 45 minutes from Dallas (180 miles)

Davy Crockett National Forest is part of the Piney Woods part of Texas which is quite different to the rest of the State. There's no hills, deserts or dusty plains and instead you get lush pine forests, ponds and lakes.

If relaxing in the wild forest and hiking along trails through it for a day sounds like a good idea, then you can get down to the National Forest in under 3 hours if you beat the rush hour traffic in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.

The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is the best place to come if you're just here for the day - there's plenty of things to do, good parking and easy trails through the woods with benches and places to stop along the way.

Being over 2 hours from all the major cities, Davy Crockett National Forest is quieter than other parks in and around Dallas and so you can switch off the phone and lie on the grass underneath a tall pine tree without crowds of visitors next to you.

28. Angelina National Forest

2 hours 50 minutes from Dallas (169 miles)

The Angelina National Forest stretches along the length of the Angelina River, Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Neches River in east Texas and is a large protected area where you can do almost every outdoor activity you want.

As with much of this part of Texas, most of the forests are pine and although the forest starts further north, you may want to drive down to the area around Sam Rayburn Reservoir as this is where a lot of the things to do can be found and the nature is richer.

Boykin Springs are another 40 minutes further south between the southern end of the reservoir and Neches River and great hikes along the natural springs that cascade down the rocks.

The Sawmill Hiking Trail is the most popular in the forest - it's over 5 miles long but is relatively easy and has great views of springs and the National Forest along the way.

It's definitely a long drive to get here, but the driving through the forest is part of the experience which makes it worthwhile despite the distance.

29. Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

3 hours from Dallas (180 miles)

Beavers Bend is a state park in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma near the border with Arkansas and centered around the Broken Bow Lake.

I mentioned that Davy Crockett National Forest and Angelina National Forests are far from major cities and Beavers Bend takes it one step further with a solid 3 hour drive from Dallas, 3 and a half hours from Tulsa and 4 hours from Oklahoma City.

Given the distances, not too many city dwellers make it out to Beavers Bend for a day trip so the park remains relatively quiet even during weekends with perfect weather so if you want to go hiking away from it all and enjoy some beautiful scenery, the 3-hour drive up to Oklahoma is definitely worth it.

There are some beautiful driving roads through the park and if you like a great driving road, take a few random turns and see where you get to!

All the usual water-based activities are here on the Broken Bow Lake from fishing (remember you need an Oklahoma license!) to water skiing.

30. A day trip to Oklahoma City

3 hours from Dallas (206 miles)

Oklahoma City is the capital of the State of Oklahoma and its largest city. You can get here from Dallas in about 3 hours - the I-35 runs from one downtown to the other so there's not many turns you'll have to remember to take!

The city has traditionally had associations with cowboys and oil rigs, but today Oklahoma City is developing a funky vibe that goes much further than that.

The Bricktown neighborhood is right at the heart of Oklahoma City and is a vibrant mixture of converted brick wharehouse buildings, beautiful canals and the Bricktown River Walk Park.

Bricktown has seen a large number of restaurants and bars spring up in recent years and this is where you should grab lunch and an early dinner before heading back - otherwise you'll be eating very late back in Dallas.

Make sure you stop at the Oklahoma City National Memorial which pays tribute to those who perished and those whose lives were affected in the 1995 bombing.

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Dallas is a wonderful location to spend some time, but it's also an excellent starting point for day excursions when you're ready to experience something new. You'll discover unique little villages, big cities, and magnificent natural landmarks if you travel a few hours in any way - in short, you'll experience the best of what the region has to offer.

Many of these day excursions are between 1 and 2 hours from Dallas, allowing you to spend more time sightseeing rather than traveling.

These are some of the most interesting day trips and weekend getaways from Dallas.

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1. Austin, Texas

The state capital of Texas is renowned as the world's live music capital because of its flourishing art, culture, and food, making it one of the best day excursions from Dallas.

Explore Austin's many concert venues in the historic Sixth Street District , bars, eateries, and art galleries.

The 2nd Street District is a wonderful location to go shopping and contains more than 40 boutique and retail stores.

Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and the historic State Capitol provide free guided tours.

There are only a handful of the various outdoor recreational choices, including Lady Bird Lake Trail , Barton Springs Pool , Zilker Metropolitan Park , and Mount Bonnell .

During the night visit Congress Avenue Bridge, to see hundreds of bats flying once a lifetime.

Distance and driving time: Austin is at a distance of 195 miles, roughly 3 hours drive from Dallas.

2. Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma's finest state parks, attracts nature enthusiasts to the town of Broken Bow.

Whether you love great food, hiking in the outdoors, kid's activities, or simply relaxing in your cabin, Broken Bow & Beavers Bend State Park has so much to make a memorable vacation for you and your family.

Broken Bow Lake is a 14,000-acre stretch of water nestled in the Ouachita Mountains' foothills. It boasts 180 miles of beautiful, tree-lined natural coastline that is ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities.

Beavers Bend State Park is an ideal place to spend the day hiking through, bird watching, and enjoying nature in Ouachita National Forest .  

During your hikes, you may enjoy beautiful views of the Mountain Fork River or observe wildlife such as eagles, deer, turkeys, and a variety of birds and other creatures. Whether you choose Skyline Trail , an 11.6-mile challenging hike winding through waterfalls and mountain peaks, or Lookout Mountain , a 1.9-mile easy trail with incredible views, or hike up and down the Lower Mountain Fork River, these parks have wonderful hiking among towering pines, rivers, and vistas.

The region is renowned for its long fall color season, which starts from late October to early November and is transformed from luxuriant green to dazzling colors like gold and crimson.

The Mountain Fork River is a year-round location for some of the finest trout fishing in the area. Brown and Rainbow Trout, ideal for fly fishing, are located in colder water below Broken Bow Dam all year round.

Distance and driving time: Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma are about 3 hours from Dallas covering approximately 183 miles. 

3. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth is often grouped alongside Dallas as part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. But you'd be wrong if you believed the two cities' activities and attitudes were identical.

Cowtown, as its name suggests, is Dallas' country cousin, where cowboy hats are more common than business casual clothing.

Fort Worth offers excellent cuisine, fantastic museums, a vibrant cowboy culture, and lively nightlife.

Sundance Square in Fort Worth offers excellent cuisine, museums, shopping, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is bustling with activities. Before dinner, get a coffee and relax by the fountains in Sundance Square to watch people.

Foodies will appreciate visiting the city's West 7th Street district , while history buffs will enjoy visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards .

Billy Bob's, dubbed "The World's Largest Honky-Tonk," is a must-see when visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Billy Bob's is a Fort Worth institution and the ideal spot for live music and dancing in the evening. That's the honky-tonk way of life! If Billy Bob's isn't your thing, there are plenty of other honky-tonk clubs to choose from in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

The Fort Worth Water Gardens , Trinity Trails , Fort Worth Zoo , and Fort Worth Botanical Gardens are all popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. The Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum are both worth exploring.

Distance and driving time: Fort Worth is at a distance of 32 miles, roughly 30 minutes drive from Dallas.

4. Jefferson, Texas

History enthusiasts will enjoy a day trip to Jefferson, Texas. There is no lack of structures and museums with more than 70 historical settings around the city.

Try visiting the   Jefferson Museum of History . The museum is situated in an elegant red-brick structure, constructed in 1888, in the old Jefferson Federal Courthouse and Post Office. 

Inside, there are exhibits of Civil War antiques, Caddo Indian artifacts, early pioneer tools, and implements, and much more from the region's history. Behind the museum, a replica early 1900's train depot houses an intricate scale model of the Texas & Pacific Railway that was over 30 years in the making.

After touring the museum, sit back and enjoy the lush scenery from your seat on the   Historic Jefferson Railway . The locomotive takes you on a 40-minute ride through the Big Cypress Bayou.

The   Big Cypress Bayou , a series of wetlands on the border of Caddo Lake, is a significant attraction to this region. The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas. Fishing and canoeing are popular activities here.

Make sure you stop by the   Jefferson General Store   before you go back to Dallas. This business has been a store since the 1870s and retains an ancient look.

Distance and driving time:   Jefferson is at a distance of 166.6 miles, roughly 2 hours and 36 minutes drive from Dallas.

5. Arbuckle Wilderness Park, Davis, Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Davis, Oklahoma, is a private wildlife sanctuary featuring bison, emus, zebras, giraffes, and other exotic animals wandering freely across 200 acres. It's approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes from Dallas by Interstate 35. It's not nearly as spectacular as the aforementioned Fort Worth Zoo, but it's worth a visit if you're traveling through Oklahoma.

Take a drive-through safari to view the animals and feed them. The drive is quite challenging; although it only takes approximately 30 minutes, the experience is better if you’ve got access to an SUV or a truck.

Distance and driving time: Arbuckle Wilderness Park is at a distance of 130 miles, roughly 2 hours drive from Dallas.

6. Canton, Texas

Canton is a peaceful, charming town an hour east of Dallas with a great variety of parks, restaurants, historic buildings, and local businesses. It's also home to the First Monday Trade Days , which is touted as the world's biggest flea market - and if you're searching for a place to shop, you won't want to miss it.

Begin your shopping in the Original First Monday Park, and then stroll around the miles of paved aisles to your favorite station. Vendors selling anything from golf equipment to antique furniture.

Every month, the First Monday Trade Days take place from Thursday through Sunday before (you got it) the first Monday. Parking should be paid for in cash by non-residents.

Distance and driving time: Canton is about a 1-hour drive from Dallas covering approximately 60 miles.

7. Greenville, Texas

Greenville, approximately 50 miles northeast of Dallas, has a few notable historical and architectural attractions.

Start with a downtown walking tour, which will take you past the Katy Depot , the Greenville Post Office , the Hunt County Courthouse , and Central Christian Church , all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places . All of these monuments have stunning architecture, and while you walk about admiring them, you'll see many historical markers that explain the town's rich past.

The Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum , which commemorates the town's most famous citizens, is a must-see for anybody interested in WWII. Murphy received every military combat medal for bravery bestowed by the United States Army during World War II, and he did it before the age of 21. 

The museum also includes displays honoring other Texas soldiers, as well as exhibits devoted to the history of the American cotton industry, as its name suggests.

After you've gotten your fill of Texas history, visit the Landon Winery to taste award-winning wines or attend a show at the historic Texan Theater .

Distance and driving time: Greenville is roughly 55 minutes drive from Dallas.

8. Turner Falls

The magnificent 77-foot cascade known as Turner Falls – Oklahoma's biggest waterfall — is nestled under the Arbuckle Mountains in south-central Oklahoma, just under an hour from the Texas/Oklahoma border. 

The waterfall descends into a pool of natural spring water where visitors from all over come to enjoy the ambiance of what Mother Nature has made.

Many people come here simply to stroll about the park and take in the beauty of its surroundings, which spans over 1,500 acres on three levels.

Turner Falls Park is a great place to spend the day hiking. There is a two-mile hiking trail featuring many detours to shorter trails that leads to views of the park's attractions. Set out to explore the park and keep an eye out for wildlife including whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and other animals that have made it their home.

Trout fishing is available at Turner Falls from late November to the middle of March if you have a chance to be there during the winter months.

Picnicking in the park seems to be a common pastime.

During the summer, you may enjoy a whole day of swimming, hiking, exploring natural caves, viewing an ancient rock castle, and more from dawn to sunset.

Distance and driving time: Turner Falls is at a distance of 128 miles, roughly 2 hours drive from Dallas.

9. Terrell, Texas

Terrell is an excellent day trip from Dallas. Historic roots go deep in this town, which was founded in 1873 as a railroad town. Admire the historic shops and hand-painted murals in the beautiful Historic Downtown District .

Although Terrell is far from the Gulf, scuba-certified tourists may dive at Scuba Ranch , where they may see Sisco the Shark, the world's biggest freshwater shark.

Head to a high-flying adventure from the lake's depths. Visit the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum to commemorate the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States. Between 1941 and 1945, British cadets were deployed to fly training schools throughout the United States, with Terrell's school being the first and biggest, graduating over 2,200 Royal Air Force and United States Army Air Corps cadets.

Distance and driving time: Turner Falls is at a distance of 35.8 miles from Dallas. It's just 40 minutes east of the city.

10. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a 1,587-acre park that lies alongside the Paluxy River and is home to many dinosaur tracks left by prehistoric Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon.

The primary reason tourists visit Dinosaur Valley State Park is to look for dinosaur tracks. There are signs describing the different kinds of dinosaurs that previously roamed the park.

You may take your journey around the park in whatever direction you choose thanks to the area's 20 miles of nature trails. When you sign in, you'll be given a map that lists all of the trails and their difficulty levels. The trails are divided into two categories: easy and moderate.

While wandering among the woods on the Monarch Trail , if you're fortunate and at the park at the appropriate time, you may encounter fluttering birds and butterflies. Alternatively, you may be able to view tiny waterfalls when hiking the Buckeye Trail .

If you visit after a good heavy rain, the Paluxy transforms into a fast-moving whitewater river that is ideal for kayaking. However, navigating this situation may be very difficult. There is no kayaking if there has been no rain for weeks or even days. The Blue Hole is a popular area to go swimming. 

In the park, there is a designated picnic spot. There is a pavilion with a fireplace, picnic tables, and beautiful and clean toilets nearby that may be rented for the day by large groups, but there is no electricity.

Distance and driving time: Dinosaur Valley State Park is at a distance of 79.6 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 28 minutes drive from Dallas.

A journey to Hico, Texas is like a day excursion into the history of Texas. This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas.

Siloville is a place worth visiting. Siloville has climbing walls on both the inside and outside of the silos, a ropes course, and a zip line, and is ideal for children, adults, beginners, and experienced climbers.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Bosque River's tree-lined walking trail, or have a picnic lunch at one of the many covered tables that overlook the river. The trail is paved and easily accessible, and it is located just north of Hico City Park, making it ideal for running or bicycling.

Explore the numerous boutique stores and restaurants that line the street in Hico's downtown district.

There is also a fantastic golf course and other enjoyable outdoor activities in the area.

Distance and driving time: Hico is at a distance of 101 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 45 minutes drive from Dallas.

12. Dublin, Texas

Dublin, Texas is a pleasant town located approximately 2 hours west of Dallas.

When you first arrive in Dublin, Texas, you're met by a green sign in the form of a four-leaf clover greeting you to town–in other words, there's no question that Dublin takes its title as the Irish capital of Texas very seriously!

Touring Dublin Bottling Works is a charming, colorful, and incredibly interesting experience that will allow you to learn about the company's 120-year history, bottle your own soda on a tour of the small but still-functioning plant and learn all about why the company's most famous product–Dr. Pepper–ceased to be bottled there in 2012.

If you take a tour of Dublin Bottling Works, you'll end up at Old Doc's Soda Shop , where you can sample some of Dublin Bottling Works' original soda–but even if you don't have time for the entire trip, it's still worth stopping by.

For more information about the establishment of Dublin Bottling Works in the late 1800s and the expansion efforts of its founders, see the W.P. Kloster Museum Annex .

The WM Wright Historical Park is worth a visit. It's a pleasant visit with a 19th-century log house and grist mill that doesn't take long to view.

The Dublin Rodeo Heritage Museum recounts the story of the Lightning C Ranch, a Dublin-based business that produced rodeos as far away as New York and as large as the famous Houston Rodeo, before moving next door to the Dublin Historical Museum .

Distance and driving time: Dublin, Texas is at a distance of 122 miles from Dallas.

13. Lake Murray State Park

Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma's first state park, is named after former Oklahoma governor William H. "Alfalfa Bill" Murray. This 12,500-acre park has a man-made reservoir, a big lodge, cottages, campsites, beaches, and recreational areas, as well as a human-made reservoir built in the 1930s.

Lake Murray is a recreational paradise for swimmers and fishers. Sunbathers and swimmers may nest on Sunset Beach on the east side of the lake and a smaller beach on the southwest side.

Lake Murray State Park's miles of multi-use trails provide a great chance to stroll, trek, or horseback ride in a natural environment.

Elephant Rock Trail (2.2-mile paved trail) is ideal for novice hikers and walkers looking to connect with nature. Buckhorn Hiking Trail offers great views of the lake and the park's wooded setting with a 3.4-mile out-and-back. The Ski Jump Trail begins near the Ski Jump Campground and leads into the woods, providing a beautiful view of the lake. This track is popular among mountain bikers.

Martin's Landing has a designated fishing pier, and the lake includes a number of tiny coves with calm waters for boat fishing.

A visit to Tucker Tower which offers a picturesque view of the lake is a must-do. Relax with a round of mini-golf or conventional golf on one of two 18-hole courses, one for each kind of golf.

There are nine campsites along the lake's beaches, ranging from Duke's Forest Campground in the north to those near the park's headquarters in the south. Each campsite has toilets and showers, as well as RV hookups, a playground, and boat ramps close by.

Day-use parking passes are issued throughout Lake Murray State Park, starting at $10 per vehicle.

Distance and driving time: Lake Murray State Park is at a distance of 105 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 36 minutes drive from Dallas.

14. Davy Crockett National Forest, Kennard, Texas

The   Davy Crockett National Forest , named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas, and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties, the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins. If you want to see the natural marvels of Texas and don't mind a little trekking, you'll enjoy your stay here.

The forest has 50 miles of horseback riding routes, as well as a swimming beach, hiking trails, and fishing and boating activities. 

On the trails, magnificent trees give shade from the heat, while many campsites provide peace and quiet to campers. You could spend days trekking the paths, but if you want a less physically demanding excursion, the forest offers lots of picnic places for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

The Davy Crockett National Forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Squirrels, deer, quail, pigeon, turkey, and waterfowl are among the most common game animals. The red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered species, lives in a forest habitat that has been carefully maintained.

The forest is a popular spot for hunters, so avoid visiting during the fall deer season (unless you’re planning on hunting).

Distance and driving time:   Davy Crockett National Forest is at a distance of 166.6 miles, roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes drive from Dallas.

15. Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is located in North Texas, about two hours north of the Dallas metroplex. It is one of the biggest lake reservoirs in the United States, covering more than 74,000 acres. It's also known as the " Work Striper Fishing Capital ."

Lake Texoma is a water lover's dream come true. You may participate in water activities such as fishing, swimming, and canoeing while visiting Lake Texoma. You may also enjoy shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife in the Lake Texoma region.

You can enjoy several hours of striper fishing on Lake Texoma. You may either fish for stripers on your own boat or hire Sparky's Guide Service, the finest striper fishing guide in the region. All you have to do with Sparky is show up since all of your equipment, bait, and gear are supplied.

Willow Spring Marina is a great place to rent a cabin, camp, or launch your boat. On the Oklahoma shore of Lake Texoma, Willow Springs Marina is situated.

The Cross Timbers Trail is a 15-mile hiking trail that starts at the Juniper Point recreation area and runs west along the Lake Texoma shorelines for 15 kilometers. The path has a moderate difficulty rating.

Distance and driving time: Lake Texoma is at a distance of 88 miles from Dallas.

16. Ennis, Texas

The city of Ennis in Texas, USA, is a short drive from Dallas and offers a variety of activities for the entire family to enjoy. Museums, parks, theaters, outdoor recreation areas, restaurants, bars, cafés, and more abound in this historic cotton farming and trading center.

The plethora of things to see and do in Ennis will leave visitors spoiled for choice. From catching the pretty bluebonnets in bloom at the annual Bluebonnet Trail, wine tasting at a Sugar Ridge Winery, reading books at the Ennis Public Library to visiting Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, there are a plethora of activities to keep you busy.

Distance and driving time: Ennis can be reached with a 35-minute drive from Dallas covering 35 miles.

17. Arlington

This busy city, located halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth, is home to two major sports teams (the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers), world-class stadiums, and two magnificent amusement parks. Arlington has something for everyone, whether you want to cheer on your favorite team, shop to your heart's content, experience some thrills, or just relax in the beautiful outdoors.

The Dallas Cowboys play their home games in AT&T Stadium , which is a world-class venue. From September through January, join thousands of other silver and blue-clad Cowboys supporters in cheering for their team, or attend a concert by an internationally famous band. Globe Life Park , home of the Texas Rangers, has hosted two World Series Championships and the 1995 All-Star Game. The stadiums are open for tours year-round.

River Legacy Park , on the banks of the Trinity River, is the crown gem of Arlington's park system, with over 1,300 acres of North Texas hardwood forest. Hiking, riding, and wildlife watching are all recommended activities.

Arlington Highlands is home to upscale stores, world-class restaurants, and a variety of entertainment options. There are more than 50 shops and 250 restaurants, as well as a movie theater and an improv comedy club, in this outdoor mall.

Within the Arlington Entertainment District, Lincoln Square is a renowned shopping, eating, and entertainment destination.

Take a look around the Arlington Museum of Art to discover amazing pieces by well-known painters. This non-collecting museum features rotating exhibitions of Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other works. The art museum's website provides information about current and future exhibitions.

Distance and driving time: Arlington is at a distance of 20.5 miles, just 23 minutes drive from Dallas.

18. Waco, Texas

Waco is an easy day trip from Dallas, surrounded by all of central Texas' natural beauty and home to two beautiful rivers. 

Visitors come to Waco in the hopes of bumping into Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV's Fixer Upper or, at the least, fixing up their own house at Magnolia Market at the Silos, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper. Magnolia Market is a true home décor paradise, nestled at the base of two historic silos and now spanning two acres.

Don't miss a visit to The Old Church , a restored 1894 church that is one of Waco's oldest structures.

When you think about surfing, Waco may be the last location that springs to mind. A sandy beach leads you into seas churned by a surf machine capable of producing waves similar to those seen on Oahu's North Shore, one of the world's most famous surfing spots.

Explore the Bosque and Brazos rivers with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Pura Vida Paddle for beautiful vistas of lush parks and Waco's historic bridges. 

When it comes to swimming, Lake Waco isn't the only option. At Hawaiian Falls Waco Water Park, you can add some thrills to your spills.

Hike the quiet trails of the Lake Waco Wetlands or the Lake Waco Dam , or go fishing, boating, or swimming at one of the five parks along the lake's coastline.

Explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument , the Cameron Park Zoo , and the Waco Downtown Cultural District , where you can visit art galleries, view huge colorful murals, shop at boutique apparel and home goods shops, and sample locally produced food in a one-of-a-kind restaurant.

You'll find something local to tickle your taste buds in Waco, whether you're a craft beer consumer, a wine enthusiast, or a hard liquor lover.

Sugary-sweet and pleasantly carbonated, Dr. Pepper is not only a Waco original but also a symbol of everything Texan. The Dr. Pepper Museum , housed in a historic 1906 bottling facility in downtown Waco, is where the magic has been happening for over a century.

Distance and driving time: Waco is at a distance of 96.7 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 32 minutes drive from Dallas.

19. Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake State Park in East Texas may be just the thing at your next outdoor excursion.

You may fish, paddle, walk, picnic, camp, or stay in a cabin at Caddo Lake State Park if tenting or RVing isn't your thing. While you're here, you can go geocaching and boating.

Access the 26,810-acre Caddo Lake for fishing, which is home to more than 70 kinds of fish. For convenient access to the sea, there is a fishing pier and a boat ramp. In a state park, you don't need a fishing license to fish from the shore.

Paddle through the twists and bends of Caddo Lake. You may hire a canoe or kayak at the park or bring your own. The more than 50 miles of paddling routes in the Caddo Lake region will entice you.

Caddo Lake State Park has 46 campsites ranging from water-only to full hookup RV sites.

You may also rent a historic cabin or overnight in a screened shelter. The cabins are available in sizes ranging from two to six people, with some being ADA accessible.

On foot, explore the woodland. The Caddo Forest Trail is ADA accessible for a quarter-mile.

The park store sells gifts and souvenirs.

Alligators reside in the park, and they don't like it when they're touched! Make sure you follow the safety precautions.

Distance and driving time: Caddo Lake State Park is at a distance of 168.3 miles, roughly 2 hours and 36 minutes drive from Dallas.

20. Possum Kingdom State Park

Possum Kingdom Lake, near Caddo, Texas, lies approximately midway between Fort Worth and Abilene and is just a couple of hours from Dallas.

West Texas isn't known for being lush and green, but Possum Kingdom Lake, one of the Brazos River Basin's oldest and biggest reservoirs, is an exception. Possum Kingdom Lake now resembles a natural lake rather than a man-made reservoir.

Possum Kingdom Lake has approximately 300 miles of coastline, so there are plenty of land-based activities to do, such as getting some exercise on one of the park's hiking or bike trails or gathering the family for a picnic or BBQ at one of the lake's picnic sites.

Possum Kingdom State Area is mostly a camping park, with excellent amenities, particularly at the RV campsite.

Hiking trails provide 360-degree views of the Palo Pinto Mountains and the Brazos River Valley .

Don't miss the Hell's Gate party cove, where you can get together with your friends and enjoy the day in the sun or watch one of Texas' finest Fourth of July fireworks shows!

Distance and driving time: Possum Kingdom State Park is at a distance of 134 miles, roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes drive from Dallas.

21. Tyler, Texas

Tyler is one of the best day excursions from Dallas, with everything from historic homes and art museums to a modern zoo and one of the country's largest rose gardens.

The world-famous Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is a tribute to the rose's color and beauty. The 14 beautiful acres of the garden are filled with more than 32,000 bright rose bushes of more than 500 kinds, offering a magnificent green area to explore.

Tyler State Park , situated less than 15 miles north of Tyler, offers a beautiful East Texas landscape and plenty of room for outdoor enjoyment.

The Rose Rudman Recreational Trail , a 4.2-mile trail suitable for hiking, running, and bicycling, offers all of East Texas' natural beauty right in the center of Tyler.

The Tyler Museum of Art has a varied collection of thousands of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and other works of art.

The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum , a beautiful collection of historic aircraft situated at the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, will appeal to aviation lovers. The Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum is a magnificent Civil War-era house packed with antique furniture, pictures, and other artifacts dating from the mid-nineteenth century. The Cotton Belt Museum contains a collection of over 2,000 model train engines and cars, which are kept in the former baggage area of a historic depot building.

Caldwell Zoo is an 85-acre zoological facility that contains over 3,400 species, including giraffes, cheetahs, elephants, white tigers, and capybaras.

Distance and driving time: Tyler is at a distance of 98 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 35 minutes drive from Dallas.

22. Granbury, Texas

Granbury is located on the banks of a lake and has one of the most gorgeous downtown squares in Texas, is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Dallas. 

Granbury Square is not only the first Texas courthouse square to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but it also serves as a thriving tourism and community hub, with restaurants, boutiques, wine tasting rooms, bed and breakfasts, the city's opera house, and more crowding the square's edges.

This kind of density is uncommon in Texas, especially in a tiny town, and exploring the square fully is undoubtedly one of the finest things to do in Granbury.

Rent a boat, go fishing, or just drop in for a swim: there are lots of ways to cool down on the lake at Lake Granbury !

City Beach Park is a sandy beach in North Texas that is located on the shores of Lake Granbury.

The Granbury Ghosts & Legends Tour is known for its suspense and narrative, and it's a great opportunity to see Granbury at night.

The Hood County Jail Museum is a must-see. This fascinating structure, which was built in 1886 (the same year as the neighboring Granbury Opera House), served as a prison until 1978, supervising almost a century of law enforcement in Granbury and Hood County.

Distance and driving time: Granbury is at a distance of 70 miles, roughly a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from Dallas.

23. Athens, Texas

Athens, located a little over an hour southeast of Dallas, combines the beauty of a small town with the conveniences of a large metropolis. 

The Henderson County Courthouse , a three-story Classic Revival style landmark, was constructed in 1913, and most of the buildings in its historic downtown were built in the early 1900s.

A visit to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center , where you can view an operating fish hatchery and learn about native Texas species, will make nature enthusiasts feel right at home. 

Scuba diving at Athens Scuba Park allows you to get even closer to local species by exploring the wreckage of a 60′ Hawker 600 Jet, a Lockheed C-140 Jet Star, Clint Eastwood's film crew's triple-deck party barge, and a DART bus.

Distance and driving time: Athens can be reached with a 1 hour and 10 minutes drive from Dallas covering 73 miles.

Denton, a hip college town with all the charm of small-town Texas, is only 45 minutes from Dallas and one of the most accessible day excursions.

The Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum , a free museum focused on the town's culture and history, is located in the center of the charming main square. The courthouse, which was built in 1896 and was rebuilt in 2004 according to the original plans, is an iconic landmark of the city.

Enjoy the live music scene, which is boosted by local student talent; support the growing craft beer industry by visiting a local brewery; or see a play at the famous Campus Theatre , which first opened in 1949 as a movie theater and was subsequently reinvented as a performing arts venue.

Distance and driving time: Denton is at a distance of 40.5 miles from Dallas.

25. Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls is on the Pedernales River in the Texas Hill Country. The Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls.

The park includes almost 20 miles of hiking trails, and something is available to everyone. Duration and challenges are different. 

Pedernales Falls Trail System   (1.8 miles),   Twin Falls Nature Trail   (0.5 miles),   Wolf Mountain Trail Loop   ( 5.8 miles) are some of the best trails in the park!

In Texas summer heat, the best way to chill is by taking a dip on the river. Make sure you swim only in designated points.

There is a large campground with 69 sites at Pedernales Falls State Park. They can accommodate up to 8 persons in each space for 20 dollars per night at campgrounds. Next to the nature trail and bathing area of Twin Falls.

The   Juniper Ridge Trail   is for the more adventurous mountain bikers. It’s a 10-mile advanced trail with plenty of obstacles.

$6 Daily entrance charge per individual aged 13 years and older.

$70 Texas State Park Annual Pass (covers the entire family for every Texas state park).

Distance and driving time:   Pedernales Falls State Park can be reached with 3 hours and 45 minutes drive from Dallas covering 235 miles.

Other popular day trips in the United States!

• 20 Best Day Trips From San Antonio, Texas
• 25 Best Day Trips From San Francisco
• 20 Best Day Trips From Las Vegas

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The 22 Best Day Trips From Dallas for Every Style of Adventure

Day trips from Dallas include historic villages, quirky roadside exhibits, and beautiful natural wonders! Find your next escape on our list.

Dallas is one of the Lone Star State’s greats. It is a popular location for tourists and given the great food scene and world-class museums, but it is also well situated for some awesome side excursions. Day trips from Dallas include historic villages, quirky roadside exhibits, and beautiful natural wonders!

Texas is a big state, so to get anywhere you have to drive a little, but for the purpose of this guide, we have tried to keep our recommendations to less than 2 hours, 3 hours max! But, that still leaves a huge array of activities to choose from. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, something active, or a historical learning trip, we have an adventure for you on the list. Let’s get to it!

Learn about the Lone Star State !

Let’s Roam offers several scavenger hunts in Dallas and its surrounding towns. For starters, let us take you on an art hunt in the Big D ! You’ll see sculptures and award-winning architecture, as you explore the cultural district with a series of trivia questions and photo challenges. Discover the area in a fun and unique way!

Day Trips From Dallas, Texas

The distances listed in this article are based on Google Maps driving estimates at the time of writing. Travel times may vary depending on traffics and the day and time you choose to travel.

1. Shopping and Surfing in Waco

Distance: 98 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 40 mins

For the avid DIYer, there is no better day trip from Dallas than Waco. Waco is a charming city that has become a famous shopping location in the last decade because of HGTV’s Fixer Upper sensations Chip and Joanna Gaines. Their Magnolia Market is not only a solid place to get the modern farmhouse decor you crave, but it is has become a bucket list travel destination in its own right. The complex covers an entire 2-block radius and consists of two iconic silos from the 1950s. Whether you can afford anything at Magnolia Market might be debatable, but it is fun to peruse anyway.

Fixer Upper elevated Waco’s public persona, but it has always been a Mecca for vintage and antique shopping. Bring an empty vehicle, as you are sure to stock up on treasure in Waco. 

Waco is not only the home of Chip and JoJo. It’s also the home of the sweetest elixir on all the earth … the mighty Dr. Pepper. The Dr. Pepper Museum is located in the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Co. building where Dr. Pepper was manufactured in its early years. The factory was used from 1906-1960. The museum houses exhibits on the manufacturing process, vintage memorabilia, and a collection of former advertising campaigns from Dr. Pepper’s long history. 

Waco also has a really unexpected adventure complex for extreme watersports lovers. BSR Cable Park has a wave-generator pool capable of producing Hawaii-sized waves for landlocked surfers. They also have a full cable park offering all manner of high-flying, water adventures. For the less crazy, there is also a waterslide and lazy river. 

2. Beavers Bend State Park

​Distance: 180 miles

Travel Time: 3 hours

Beavers Bend State Park is located in Southeast Oklahoma, near the city of Broken Bow. Beaver’s Bend is a really long day trip, but sometimes you just need a quiet day in the woods! The park will give you plenty of room to stretch your legs after the long drive. The park offers ample options of cabins and resort rooms to stay in. Miles of trails traversing waterfalls and lakefronts are available, and watersports abound. 

Not only can you canoe or river raft on the Red River, but The Mountain Fork River also runs through the area, as well as the Broken Bow Lake. Swimming and watersports are popular on the lake, and Mountain Fork River is a great place for trout fishing. Just remember you need an Oklahoma fishing license and trout stamp. If you are looking for a more relaxing day, find a sandy beach around the lake and just enjoy the view. For an even better trip, make it a full weekend, and book yourself a cute cabin for a night or two!

​3. Safari in the “Wilderness”

Distance: 129 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 55 mins

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is a great day trip for families. The drive-thru safari is located in Davis, Oklahoma, and features llamas, giraffes, emus, zebras, and rhino up close and personal. Warning, the roads in the park are gravel and can be a bit rough. You will traverse over 200 acres of land, so you might want to bring a truck or SUV if you have one. Special feeding programs allow you to get face to face with a few of the exotic creatures, which of course, the kiddos love! The park is open year-round and is surrounded by the beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains.

The Turner Falls Park is only a few minutes away and makes for a nice pairing!

4. Take A Train Ride

Distance: 116 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 50 mins

The portion of the Texas State Railroad, stretching from Palestine to Rush, is about 25 miles, and the ride is so fun. The freight train is from the 1800s and departs from the vintage Palestine depot. Take a few minutes to review the historical information in the depot, both at Palestine and the ending destination of Rusk. The depots have interesting storyboards and great gift shops where you can score some period-specific souvenirs. 

The ride duration is 4 hours roundtrip. It chugs along through the Piney Woods and offers beautiful views all along the way. The train offers several classes of carriages from open-air bench seating to full-dining. The full package even offers a visit to the conductor’s cab. The daily rides depart at 11, but the company offers frequent special events and even some evening rides. A ride on the Texas State Railroad is both fun and nostalgic. It’s the perfect day trip from Dallas for train enthusiasts, little boys, and history buffs. You’re gonna love it!

5. Fort Richardson State Historical Park

Distance: 92 miles

Fort Richardson is one of the best day trips for history lovers. Built in 1867, on the eastern shores of Lost Creek, Fort Richardson was built for the unseemly task of subduing Native American Tribes of the Plains and keeping them in reservations north of the Red River. Not cool. The US army was responsible for settling north Texas and expanding the territory, keeping it out of the hands of Native tribes. The fort saw several skirmishes between the US army and frustration Native forces. The most expansive battle, the Battle of Palo Duro, took play in 1874

Today, the complex consists of more than 50 original structures, lovingly restored. Tours allow you to visit the morgue, officer’s quarters, bakery, magazine, and hospital, just to name a few. Guided tours are available, usually twice a day. 

Once you get your fill of sad history, head out to explore the land the way the Natives did on the hiking trails and wooded paths of Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway. 

6. Check Out The Culture Capital of East Texas

​Distance: 151 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 20 mins

Okay. Okay, so it is the self-proclaimed culture capital, but no bother, Marshall is great anyway. This small town is full of Texas charm. Marshal was a major hub of transportation throughout the 1800s. It now is home to the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum. The collection is located inside the Marshall Depot, next to the active Amtrak tunnel. It’s full of artifacts depicting the importance of the railroad and in particular the Marshall Depot over the course of its history, including its role in both WWI and WWII. 

A few other cultural sites to see in Marshal include the Harrison County Historical Museum inside the lovely courthouse. It sits in the middle of town, you can’t really miss it. Also, stop by the Michelson Museum of Art. This little art museum has a surprisingly impressive array of paintings, drawings, and lithographs.

From late November to January, Marshall comes alive with The Wonderland of Lights. This festival is strangely one of the biggest lights events in the USA! It’s really a heartwarming story. In 1897, Marshall was in the throws of the worse economic depression it had ever seen, and spirits were low. Newspaper editor George S. Smith had an idea. He envisioned that town square, beautiful courthouse, and every business strung with tiny lights and how magical it would be. A former resident of France somehow got their hands on the article, and they sent a $25,000 check to Smith with the message to make it happen. The festival has now grown to include a train ride, vintage carousel, ice skating rink, and a replica of Santa’s Village. While Marshal is always lovely, Christmas is definitely the best time to visit!

7. Lake Texoma

​Distance: 83 miles

Less than a 2-hour drive north of Dallas, Lake Texoma is a manmade reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, resulting from the Red River Dam. It sits on the border of Oklahoma and Texas, hence the name, and is populated with an endless array of campsites, golf courses, and resorts. 

The area has everything you would imagine in a lake resort. Canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and even scuba diving. It is a very popular place to fish for Striper, as the water has a high salt content. The area has many boutiques, spas, and restaurants to enjoy once you have had your fill of the water. Hikers enjoy the nearby Cross Timbers Tail, a 15-mile jaunt from Juniper Point Recreation Center that tracks along the coast of Lake Texoma. It’s rated moderate and offers a nice change from the busy shores and shops. While you could enjoy yourself for a day, consider booking a site and making it a weekend trip!

8. Arlington, Texas

Distance: 21 miles

Travel Time: 25 minutes

Arlington is a quick trip just west of Dallas proper and makes for a great day trip for sports lovers! Arlington is part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, lying right between the two cities. It is home to both the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers. If you know anything about Texas, then you probably know that football is king! So, seeing a Dallas Cowboys’ game at the impeccable AT&T Stadium is a highlight for any sports lover. The venue also holds mega concerts when football season is not running. 

Spend a day hiking or biking in River Legacy Park, 1,300 acres of dense hardwood forest along the Trinity River. Visit Arlington Highlands for some upscale shopping, and spend the evening in Lincoln Square, Arlington’s center of nightlife and entertainment. 

Arlington is also home to Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark , so it’s also a great place for a day trip with the family. 

9 Hico, Texas

​Distance: 111 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 45 mins

Hico is a cute little town southwest of Dallas that provides a relaxing day trip. The historic downtown is littered with boutiques, and there are beautiful biking trails along the Bosque River. It’s a relaxing place to escape the city and have a quiet day of shopping and romantic dinner. 

Hico also has some fun recreational sites and interesting historical sites. The Billy The Kid Museum is one of those interesting tidbits. For those that know the official story, you may wonder why Hico has a Billy the Kid museum. He was born in New York and died in a shootout with a sheriff in New Mexico … or was he? The official story is that sheriff Pat shot and buried the kid in 1881 in Fort Sumner, NM. However, there is no body in that grave. Legend has it that “The Kid” lived on and settled in Hico under the alias of “Brushy Bill” Roberts. It’s an interesting little museum, and it might just make you a believer!

Hico also has an inventive spot for climbers! Siloville is a climbing park that features rock walls and rope climbs both inside and outside of three giant grain silos. The park consists of a Ninja Warrior Course, a low ropes course, a bouldering gym, and even a zipline.

Cute downtown, good restaurants, cowboy conspiracy theories, and climbing adventures…what more could want in a Texas day trip?

10. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Distance: 90 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 30 mins

Dinosaur Valley State Park is the land of the dinos and the perfect day trip for family adventures. It lies less than two hours southwest of Dallas in the town of Glen Rose. The park revolves around tracks found in the Paluxy River bed. We don’t know many little kids that don’t go through a dinosaur obsession phase. What could be better than hunting for real dinosaur footprints?! 

While hunting for dinosaurs is the main activity, the park offers lots of outdoor adventures too. Horseback riding is popular. You can bring your own horse (how very Texan!) or Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company offers guided trails rides and wagon rides. These guys are experts and will escort littles or inexperienced riders the whole way! 

There are over 20 miles of trails rated easy and moderate to explore. Kayaking the Paluxy is also fun when the waters are high, but this rarely happens unless there has been very recent rain. The Blue Hole is popular for swimming, a much appreciated cool off after all that adventure! 

11. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Distance: 32 miles

Travel Time: 32 mins

You won’t even notice you have left the city when you head from Dallas proper to Fort Worth, but you will notice a change in pace. Fort Worth is known by Dallas residents as “Cowtown,” and for good reason. Fort Worth has thriving cowboy culture and is home to Billy Bob’s “World’s Largest Honky-Tonk” Billy’s is a destination all on its own. With huge parties, a full-southern kitchen with incredible food, live bull-riding, and plenty of two-stepping, it’s a great place to people watch and dance the night away after a busy day exploring.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the major draw for the area. Be transported back to days of the wild west, as herds of longhorn cattle are brought storming down the center of town, twice daily. They make their way down original brick walkways through the center of historic saloons and modern boutiques in historic facades. The area is certainly touristy, but it gives you a good idea of what living in a real wild west town would have been like. Special events like shootouts often happen in the streets, and even Santa shows up in cowboy boots here. Cowtown is a pretty perfect name.

After a morning herding cattle, head for Sundance Square and visit some of the great museums that Fort Worth has to offer. Grab a coffee or an ice cream and do some people watching by the incredible fountains. Stroll past the incredible modern installations at the Fort Worth Water Gardens. They are mesmerizing. Fort Worth also has a great botanical garden and a noteworthy zoo! It’s a wonderful adventure for the whole clan. While you can have a great day trip to Fort Worth, you will certainly be left wanting more. Plan to come back a few times to see all this beautiful city has to offer. 

​12. Cavanaugh Flight Museum

Distance: 15 miles

Travel Time: 20 mins

Just north of Dallas, the Cavanaugh Flight Museum offers the perfect getaway for aviation or military nerds. The museum is in the town of Addison and while traffic can be frustrating, it is usually an easy trip. The Cavanaugh collection is huge and includes warcraft from WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, and civilian aircraft. Tours are self-guided and aircraft is labeled with important information and interesting stories. 

It’s amusing to wander through the vintage aircraft and admire their beauty, but the real fun in this museum happens in the cockpit. Cavanaugh offers visitors the chance to climb behind the controls of a classic fighter Warbird and hit the skies. You will need an advanced ticket for this, but oh man is it worth it! 

The collection at Cavanaugh is almost exclusively functional. Most planes are kept in flying condition, and many of them fly frequently in their scheduled airshows and special events. It is definitely worth the short trip from Dallas.

13. Grapevine Jazz Wine Train

Distance: 22 miles

Travel Time: 25 mins

Grapevine is just northwest of Dallas Downtown. In fact, if you are flying into DFW Airport, you will land in Grapevine. As the name suggests, Grapevine is the wine region of North Texas. While there are several local wineries to indulge in a tasting or tour, the real standout is the Jazz Wine Train . 

Picture this. You and your boo, in your best getup, board a 1920s Victorian coach train filled with the soft sounds of the saxophone and the smell of fresh hors d’oeuvres. The ride is two hours of fine food, beautiful live jazz, and a sampling of wine from each of Grapevine’s tasting rooms! It is the best way to try out all the local specialties without hopping from tasting room to tasting room. It all comes to you, in one sumptuous place. 

The train has day time and evening journey and requires advanced booking. Get there early as boarding is strict and you will not be allowed on the train after boarding ends. There are several packages available at varying prices that will determine what food and seating you and your company enjoy. 

For its close proximity to Dallas, its uniqueness, and the pure nostalgia, we think the Grapevine Jazz Wine Train is the perfect day trip for a romantic getaway.

14. Greenville, Texas

Distance: 51 miles

Travel Time: 54 mins

Greenville is just an hour northeast of Dallas, but it feels a world away. Greenville is an amusing day trip for anyone interested in US war history or the cotton industry of the south. The quaint downtown has several buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is worth a walk around to explore the boutique and shops. Pay attention to the little plaques on the building facades for interesting historical facts about the structures.

While the town is cute, the main event in Greenville is the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum . This unique museum is two-part. One half covers the life and memory of Audie Murphy. Audie was a small-town boy who registered willingly for WWII at the Greenville post office in 1942. In the next three years, Audie managed to become the most decorated war hero of WWII, winning every acknowledgment possible, including the Congressional Medal of Honor. The exhibit not only details Audie’s life and work but also several other war heroes and WWII history in general. 

The second half of the museum focuses on local history and the important (if controversial) legacy of the cotton industry in Texas. Greenville, and Hunt County in general, were a hub for the cotton industry. It even boasted the largest inland cotton press in the world, which is on display at the museum now.

15. Largest Flea Market In The World

Distance: 60 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr

Calling all bargain hunters! Canton Texas is your place for flea market shopping, and it is an easy day trip—just an hour east of Dallas. First Monday Trade Days happens each month on the weekend before the first Monday of a month. Yeah, that is a little confusing. Chew on that one for a minute. Anyway, the market usually runs from Thursday to Sunday. Whether it is the largest in the world is debatable, as the definition of “flea market” can be tricky. It is definitely the biggest in the United States though. 

The market covers more than 100 acres and features wares from over 6,000 traders. Pavillion after pavilion tote treasures of every imaginable category. Smart shoppers get there on Thursday, as it is less busy and less picked-over. It’s a bit of a maze, and as mentioned really big. So, if you find something you like, go ahead and buy it, because the likelihood of finding your way back to it is slim!

16. Tolar Windmill Farm

Distance: 76 miles

The Windmill Farm at Tolar is a quirky day trip from Dallas. The farm lies between the two small towns of Tolar and Granbury. The farm consists of a collection of 30 vintage windmills, gathered from local farms around the region. The windmills have been restored to perfection and all are in working order. They are gathering new windmills all the time and many are in the restoration process now. Park at the site and feel free to roam. There is a pamphlet available at the site to detail specifics on each windmill. Usually, many of them are in operation. The site is open for self-guided tours every day during daylight hours. 

The site is free, but donations for restorations and upkeep are encouraged. Should you happen to fall in love with the farm, which is highly probable, their bed and breakfast is a charming place to spend a night!

17. Tyler Municipal Rose Garden

The Tyler Rose Garden is a must-do road trip for flower lovers. The garden covers 14 acres, with 35,000 rose bushes of over 500 varieties. It is the largest rose garden in the United States (well of course, because everything is bigger in Texas)! Tyler has a long history of rose growing and is home to the Texas Rose Festival. The park is beautiful with multiple water features and stunning landscaping. The best part is that the whole place is free! 

Explore the gardens any time of year, but the peak bloom season for the roses is twice a year in October and late May. It is open from dawn until dusk and a wonderful place to spend a peaceful afternoon.

18. Oklahoma Casinos

Distance: 80 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Oklahoma has a couple of claims to fame, Native American reservations and historical sites, and casinos! Southeastern Oklahoma has some great casinos that are within a day-trip range from Dallas. In Thackerville, the Chickasaw Nation owns and runs the Winstar World Resort Casino, which happens to be the largest casino in the world (guess in this case, things are bigger in Oklahoma)!  

The casino covers over 600,000 square feet of space and as you would imagine is loaded with amazing restaurants and a massive hotel. If you want to do some gambling, the Winstar is your closest and best. However, if it’s a bit much for you, there are smaller and just as awesome casinos all up the border of easter Oklahoma. It just depends on how far your want to drive.

19. Bar Hop In Austin

Distance: 196 miles

Travel Time: 3 hr 25 mins

Austin is the capital city of Texas and a haven for foodies and nightlife lovers. It admittedly is a long way for a day trip. However, it is a great city, with a totally different flavor than the rest of Texas. We would definitely recommend that you make this a long weekend trip, but you can have a great day in Austin if you want to take it on in a day. Start with a visit to the State Capitol building and a quick stop by the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum. Then head for Sixth Street District and begin your bar hop. Austin is home to the University of Texas and is the live music capital of the world, so it has a young, fresh vibe, and the nightlife is amazing! 

Let’s Roam can help you find all the best spots with our app-led scavenger hunt, “ Sixth Street Spree: Austin Bar Crawl .” We will take you and your friends on a competitive adventure, exploring Sixth street with a series of photo and trivia challenges that will keep you on your feet, without killing your buzz. Obviously, if you decide to go on a bar crawl, you should find a place to stay the night! 

Austin is much more than a party town. If you decide to stay a few days, make sure to check out some of the great museums. Our guide to the “ Best Museums in Austin ” will help you narrow it down. Between the museums and the nightlife, Austin is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Dallas.

20. Jefferson

Distance: 166 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 40 mins

Jefferson is a mecca for history lovers, with over 70 registered historical sites. Start with a visit to Jefferson Museum of History , the former Federal Courthouse and Post Office, dating back to 1888. The museum hosts an interesting collection of Caddo Tribal artifacts and Civil Ward memorabilia. Step behind the museum and explore the scale model of the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot from the early 1900s. 

Kids will love a ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway, a 40-minute locomotive chug through the Big Cypress Bayou, along Caddo Lake. Fishermen bring your poles because the assortment of fish in the bayou is unmatched anywhere. 

Jefferson also boasts the Gone With The Wind Museum , the Jefferson General Store, open since the 1870s, and Diamond Don’s Gator Pi t, where kids can get up close to alligators at feeding time.

21. Davy Crockett National Forest

Distance: 181 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 50 mins

The Davy Crockett National Rainforest leaves you in disbelief … disbelief that you are still in Texas that is. The Piney Woods is pretty far from the windswept plains of Texas that we all imagine when we think of the vast state. Leave early in the morning, as it is a long drive. Once you arrive, you will be treated with the complete relaxation that the forest offers. 

The forest covers 160,000 acres of East Texas land, mostly in Houston County. It features multiple streams, recreation areas, ponds, and lakes. There are more than 50 miles of designated trail riding routes, multiple hiking trails, quiet campsites, and fishing, boating, and swimming on the lakes. 

22. Turner Falls Park

Distance: 127 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 3 mins

Turner Falls Park rounds out our list of Dallas day trips. The waterfall is the tallest in Oklahoma, at 77 feet, and is truly stunning. It has a large swimming pit at the base and is a fun destination for an active day outside. Swimmers should always wear water shoes here and lifejackets are necessary for children. The area is slippery in general, even on the hiking trails, so be on guard. Make sure to view the falls from the top overlook at well. It’s a pretty short, manageable climb.

Turner park covers over 1500 acres and features natural rock caves and even a Rock Castle. It has bathhouses and multiple swimming areas with waterslides and diving platforms. Turner Park really is a full day of fun for nature lovers. 

We actually do not recommend staying the night here, especially if you have kids with you. On the weekend, especially, Turner Falls is busy and has become a bit of a party location.

Save For Later

Several travel guides out there suggest day trips to Oklahoma City and even San Antonio from Dallas. While these are amazing cities and are definitely worth a trip. At over 3 hours drive to Oklahoma City and more than a 4-hour drive to San Antonio, they are too far for day trips. This is especially true considering how much each city has to offer. You could easily spend 3-4 full days exploring these destinations!

Let’s Wrap It Up

Dallas is a great city and deserves a few days on its own, but don’t get stuck in the city. Get away from the chaos for a day and explore one of the small historic towns or get some fresh air in one of the beautiful parks. Let us know where you end up in the comments!

Should you decide to just stay in the city, no problem! We have you covered there too! Here’s our list of the “ Best Museums in Dallas ” to keep you busy on a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since the city is perfectly positioned, there are several great educational day trips from Dallas . Check out the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Cavanaugh Flight Museum, or Dinosaur Valley State Park!

Dallas is a great city to explore! Take your date on a  fun-filled city scavenger hunt  or take a day trip and hop a ride on the Jazz Wine Train in Grapevine!

There are beautiful state parks that make  great day trips from Dallas ! Head to Turner Falls Park and swim under the waterfall, hike in the Davy Crockett National Forest, or enjoy Lake Texoma.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas, Texas’ third most populous city, holds appeal for its modernity and metropolitan range of things to do and see.

From museums, culture and arts, to a thriving food and drink scene – and not just for Texas barbecue – it’s understandable that its popularity is growing, even among those who aren’t Dallas Cowboys fans.

Don’t just come for its historical significance – it was, after all, the place where JFK was assassinated – come for the broad range of activities to be had within the city, as well as the plentiful options in its nearby surrounds.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Dallas :

1. Beavers Bend State Park

Natural beauty is one of many things that Dallas’ surrounds has going for it, and Beavers Bend State Park is one great example of this.

Located in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, the fresh, clear waters of Beavers Bend Lake is its main source of entertainment, with kayaking, jet skiing and boating on offer.

If you’re after a more relaxed visit, however, nearby Hochatown has great restaurants and wineries to browse; perfect for a tranquil escape from the busy city life of Dallas.

2. Fort Worth

For a truly authentic Texan experience, nearby Fort Worth, ‘where the West begins’, is certainly worthy of a visit (if you’ll pardon the pun). Cowboy boots and ten gallon hats abound, and the place is complete with plenty of Tex-Mex foodie options, as well as the world’s largest honky-tonk at Billy Bob’s.

In Fort Worth you can experience the real Wild West, with cattle drives twice daily and regular rodeos – and all of this is just 45 minutes’ drive to the west of Dallas.

If the cowboy hype just isn’t doing it for you, there’s also the nearby zoo, and plentiful other cultural attractions in the city to keep you entertained.

3. Athens, Texas

If finding the birthplace of the great American hamburger has been languishing on your bucket list for ages, then making the 90-minute drive from Dallas to Athens would be a worthwhile excursion.

Rumor has it that a local man introduced his minced beef sandwich invention at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, but the quaint town is far from a one-hit-wonder.

The downtown area is full of shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic buildings, and there’s a popular farmer’s market on the weekends as well.

There’s also a scuba park on the town’s clear lake, so plan on making a day of it.

4. Fredericksburg

Some of the state’s best wines hail from Fredericksburg, set right into Texas Hill Country.

Its picturesque setting means Fredericksburg would certainly be a great option for couples or girls groups looking to escape.

With more than two dozen different wineries on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice – but any and all will certainly satisfy.

Then, when you’re done sipping on the region’s best, a stroll along the town’s gorgeous historical streets will provide the perfect way to end your day.

5. Jefferson

The home of US history, Jefferson has heaps of options for culture lovers.

Located in the Piney Woods region, the city’s biggest draw is the historic houses, some of which are opened up for tours during the day, and others of which actually operate as bed-and-breakfasts.

A great place to get a sense of pre-civil war America, Jefferson’s many museums are one of the main things to do there – check out the Gone With the Wind museum for a diverting couple of hours! If museums aren’t really your thing, you can also take a river boat tour of the Big Cypress Bayou.

6. Turner Falls State Park

Yet another nature-lover’s option, Turner Falls State Park offers lots of things to the passing day-tripper, among them swimming holes, picnic spots and hiking trails.

It is also home to Oklahoma’s biggest waterfall, a 77-foot beauty tumbling into the water below.

Visitors can spend the day exploring the walking trails around the park, seeking out caves and strolling along streams, and there’s also opportunity to spot some wildlife along the way.

When you get tired, you can always stop and relax on one of the park’s many sandy beaches.

Not many things would attract a day tripper from Dallas to Waco, if not for the intriguing highlight of the town: the Dr Pepper museum.

Undoubtedly the only one of its kind, the museum was where the popular soda was bottled from 1906 until the 1960s.

Nowadays you can wander round to explore the many exhibits, take a look at the old-fashioned soda fountain, and of course, purchase one of a whole range of Dr Pepper-based memorabilia from the gift shop.

Also nearby is the Magnolia Market, made famous by US HGTV show Fixer Upper.

Many people make the trip to the home improvement store just for the novelty value!

8. Lake Texoma

If you’re after a tranquil day trip, why not take the opportunity to go to Lake Texoma to check out its fishing scene? With over seventy species of fish swimming around in its depths, this is a great place for both amateurs and experts.

There are also lots of other activities on offer in Lake Texoma, from boating on the lake to hiking and biking on the many trails that adorn its circumference.

You can also spend some time exploring some of more than fifty parks that fringe the lake.

9. Davy Crockett National Forest

Though this forest is also used for commercial purposes, there’s plenty of fun activities on offer around the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area for the whole family.

The 45-acre lake is great for swimming, of course, but also for boating and fishing, and there are some great picnic spots nearby for lunch.

For something a bit different, there’s also Piney Creek Horse Trail, which stretches for over 50 miles through the forest.

It would only be right to see the park on horseback, given its famous namesake.

• 10. Pat Mayse State Park

Located in the town of Arthur, Texas, Pat Mayse State Park is comprised of nearly 10,000 acres of varied environments that are particularly popular with nature lovers, sportsmen, and those looking to escape the big city crowds in Dallas.

Don’t expect to relax with a cappuccino at the welcome center or rub elbows with the park’s staff, because there aren’t any of either.

For rugged and independent types, that means tons of wide-open spaces and minimal crowds.

It’s open to hunters during the various game seasons, and anglers who come match wits with their aquatic quarry at the park’s streams and reservoir.

11. Arbuckle Wilderness Park

Safari in style at Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Davis, Oklahoma.

One of the best places around to get up close and personal with nature, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is situated in more than 200 acres of great outdoors, just waiting to be explored.

Visitors drive through the park where the animals reside, and might even be lucky enough to have some curious creatures come right up to their windscreen.

There’s also a petting zoo and a reptile house located in the park, as well as designated feeding times for some of the animals.

• 12. Palestine, Texas

Even for law-abiding drivers who obey Texas’ liberal speed limits, Palestine is less than two hours from Dallas, making it another fun day trip option.

It’s a great town in which to relax and stock up on Old West regalia like cowboy boots, hats, and leather belts studded with silver and turquoise.

Don’t worry if they’re not your thing, because the town also boasts a number of historic attractions like the Anderson County Courthouse and the Carnegie Library.

There are two golf courses in town too, and four lakes that are magnets for anglers and water recreation enthusiasts during the warm summer months.

Claimed to be the world’s first and oldest flea market, Canton is certainly worth a visit if you’re there for its First Monday Trade Day – check the date before you go.

In operation for over 150 years, since the 1850s, the flea market hosts antique dealers and artists and craftsmen, and generally a whole host of people who just love to chat.

With slightly unsavoury beginnings, as vendors used to set up shop outside the site of local hangings, the Canton market is, in its modern iteration, certainly a sight to be seen.

Bring lots of cash, and get your bargaining hat on.

14. Lake Whitney State Park

Lake Whitney State Park offers all the usual park-bound activities – hiking, biking, swimming and picnicking – but it has some more unusual activities, too.

Visitors can, strangely, check out the scuba diving available in the waters of the lake – and see what it has to offer from an underwater perspective.

You can even do your PADI open water certificate here (though not on a day trip, of course). Diving aside, Lake Whitney also boasts the option of jet skiing, as well as bird watching around its outer fringes – you might spot anything from wild turkeys to bald eagles to burrowing owls.

15. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

For one of the more intriguing state park offerings, head to Glen Rose and check out the prehistoric fascinations of Dinosaur Valley, straddling the Paluxy River.

Search along the riverbed and you might just spot the footsteps of an ancient creature, who trod where you stand over 113 million years ago.

You can also use the park’s Mapping Dinosaur Tracks app to help you in your search – an advantage little George Adams didn’t have when he first discovered the tracks in 1909.

Aside from dinosaur hunting, the park can be explored on foot, by mountain bike, or on horseback, and provides more than 20 miles of trails for its eager visitors.

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas:

• Beavers Bend State Park
• Athens, Texas
• Fredericksburg
• Turner Falls State Park
• Lake Texoma
• Davy Crockett National Forest
• Arbuckle Wilderness Park
• Lake Whitney State Park
• Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

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Relocating to DFW

11 drivable day trips from dallas.

Summer is in full swing and we’ve rounded up some fun day trips just outside Dallas! No road trip is complete without starting and ending with a clean car so make sure to go to Carnation Auto Spa to get your car road trip ready!

Updated June 2024

DAY TRIPS FROM DALLAS

Ham orchards.

This peach paradise has been open since 1979 and features five orchards with over 10,000 peach trees, two blackberry patches, and an adorable Market Store. Stop by to grab some juicy peaches to take home, and don't forget to try their famous peach-flavored ice cream and peach pulled pork BBQ! Learn more.

45 minutes from Dallas

Terrell, TX | Directions

FIRST MONDAY TRADE DAYS

Explore the world’s largest and oldest flea market featuring over 5,000 vendors! This place is truly a vintage lovers haven with 45 acres of shopping including jewelry, furniture, clothing, and so much more. The market is only open for a few days each month, so check their calendar before you go!

1 hour from Dallas

Canton, TX | Directions

TX TURE FARM

This family-owned 23-acre farm offers fun activities like alpaca yoga, candle making, and even a Walk-A-Paca experience! Plus, you can shop homemade products using ingredients grown on the farm including lavender, honey, and more! Temporarily closed as of June 2024, check their website for updates .

Aubrey, TX |  Directions

CHOCTAW CASINO & RESORT

If you're looking for a fun weekend getaway, Choctaw Casino and Resort is a perfect escape. Enjoy thousands of slot machines, a variety of table games, a resort-style pool, multiple dining options, entertainment venues, a spa, and more!

1.5 hours from Dallas

Durant, OK | Directions

DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK

Did you know dinosaurs used to roam around Dallas-Fort Worth, along an ancient ocean?! Head to this incredible state park to walk in real-life dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed! Spend the day hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, biking, or even horseback riding.

Glen Rose, TX | Directions

This 1,800-acre ranch houses over 1,000 animals in a free-range setting for visitors to observe exotic and endangered animals! Visitors can see giraffes, zebra, goats, antelope, and more on the 7-mile drive-through safari. Check out our recent experience .  (Featured header image)

MAGNOLIA MARKET

This Texas favorite was founded by the iconic Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the HGTV show Fixer Upper! Enjoy the market, bakery, garden, and adorable food trucks, and restaurant. Don't forget to snap a few Instagram pics!

Waco, TX | Directions

LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK

Experience healing mineral water, explore historic sites, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing! We recommend the Penitentiary Hollow hike , which has amazing scenery and unique rock formations. Be sure to make a reservation, the park often reaches capacity fairly quickly!

Mineral Wells, TX | Directions

This premier surf destination has a state-of-the-art artificial wave system, and you can even take surf lessons! There are also massive waterslides, a cable park, and a lazy river. Our go-to is to hit the beach bar and spend the day chilling at their private beach!

TURNER FALLS PARK

This 1,500-acre park is home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall, standing at 77 feet tall! Plus, visitors can explore miles of trails, caves, campsites, and more. Pro tip: get there early, as they only let a certain number of people in the park each day!

2 hours from Dallas

Davis, OK | Directions

Situated on the border of Texas and Louisiana, Caddo Lake is one of Texas’s only natural lakes! The State Park offers 25,000 acres of beautiful bayous, with a fishing pier, boat ramps, cabins, and more.

3 hours from Dallas

Karnak, TX | Directions

Carnation Auto Spa

One of the most important parts of a road trip is cleaning your car before and after! Carnation can help you get your car road trip ready with their team of experts! They do such an amazing job plus they offer great deals on their monthly wash plans!

Get unlimited washes FREE for one month when using our code DALLASITES101 after signing up for a wash plan!

Multiple DFW locations | Find a location

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The best solo travel destinations, according to a long-time solo traveller

Travelling alone can be one of life's most rewarding experiences, says Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays

Solo travel is having a real renaissance right now. According to American Express’ latest Global Travel Trends report , 69 per cent of travellers are planning to go it alone this year, with women in the post-45 age bracket leading the charge. There are many reasons women choose to travel on their own: separation from a partner, a sabbatical from work, seeking empowerment and freedom, or simply wanting to do things their own way for a change.

So, if you’re looking for a yoga retreat in Spain , want to explore the Golden Triangle in India , or even snuffle for truffles in the forests of Slovenia , there are a million and one solo holiday ideas to garner inspiration from. Here are some of my favourites…

History in Edinburgh , thronging nightlife in Glasgow, heather-strewn glens in the Highlands – Scotland is a brilliant place to explore, period. Solo adventures to be had in Scotland could include a walking holiday in Glencoe, monster-spotting in Loch Ness or island hopping around the Hebrides .

See the best of the Highlands on a four-day Good Housekeeping tour this July, which includes a ride on the world-famous Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig. The train passes the stunning slopes of Ben Nevis, numerous dazzling lochs and the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct (pictured), made famous by the Harry Potter film franchise.

Other highlights of this tour include a ride on the Falkirk Wheel boat lift and a cruise along the Firth of Clyde on the PS Waverley, the world's last ocean paddle steamer.

Spain hits the top spot as one of the easiest places to travel solo. It has Mediterranean beach resorts, buzzing cities abundant with cool bars and restaurants (like Granada, pictured), and small towns and picturesque villages that are perfect for pottering.

Add in a straightforward and reliable transport network, a plethora of solo accommodation options and friendly residents, it's easy to see why Spain is a great choice for a solo sojourn.

The Healthy Holiday Company offers numerous wellness trips throughout Spain. One of the best for solo travellers is Shanti Som, a small, boutique retreat in Andalusia. With just 15 rooms it offers an intimate experience plus has a yoga pavilion and gorgeous little spa that offers different treatments and therapies. FIND OUT MORE

Italy is incredibly welcoming to the solo traveller. Have you read the book or seen the movie Eat, Pray, Love ? Our hero Elizabeth Gilbert fell in love with the country’s great food, romantic language and utterly charming locals. Italy's also an easy country to get around in, thanks to its excellent transport network.

One of my favourite cities in Italy is Bologna (pictured). Known as La Grassa ('the fat one'), the northern city is a mecca for gastronomes . As well as feasting on hearty pasta dishes and locally-made wine, Good Housekeeping's six-day foodies tour (which begins and ends in Bologna) visits producers of Parma ham, balsamic vinegar and Parmesan, and includes an Italian cooking class in the neighbouring city of Modena.

FIND OUT MORE

Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Norway is the perfect destination for solo travellers, especially those looking to embrace friluftsliv , the Norwegian concept of enjoying the great outdoors.

Like other Nordic countries, Norway is incredibly well organised, efficient and easy to traverse. It also has a fantastic, solo-friendly dining scene with a focus on home-grown, seasonal produce.

Norway is one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights , so join Good Housekeeping on this fantastic 12-day Norway cruise with no single supplement.

Departing November 2024 , you'll sail on a Hurtigruten ship, stopping off at the UNESCO-listed port of Bergen, the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø. As you cross the Arctic Circle, the chances of spotting the aurora borealis are almost guaranteed.

Famously welcoming, Slovenia is the perfect destination when travelling alone.

Bordering Hungary, Italy, Austria and Croatia , this small but mighty country is relatively straightforward to explore, thanks to its efficient transport system. The fact that there's also plenty to see and do – and that most people speak English – means it should be on any solo adventurer’s must-visit list.

This six-day guided Slovenia adventure , departing in October 2024, is a great introduction to Central and Southeastern Europe. The trip begins and ends in Ljubljana, Slovenia's cobblestoned capital, and includes tours of Triglav National Park, Lake Bled (pictured) and the UNESCO-listed Skocjan caves.

You’ll also enjoy wine tasting in the Vipava Valley and an afternoon learning about the art of truffle hunting.

For the original Shirley Valentine experience, look no further than Greece and its beautiful islands. Greece is ideal for solo travellers, whether you want to hoover up the ancient history in Athens or hop around the islands, relaxing on beaches and dining Shirley-style in traditional tavernas.

With an abundance of sprawling beach resorts, white-washed fishing harbours and rugged mountain villages to pick from on the islands, the hardest part is choosing which one to visit.

If you're looking to explore your creative side, check out learning holidays company Skyros . Staying in a rustic eco-lodge, this week-long holiday on Skyros (pictured), in the southern Sporades, includes creative writing sessions, stand-up comedy workshops and relaxing yoga classes.

As our closest continental neighbours, France is a good place to start when venturing abroad solo. It's easy to get around, dining alone is welcomed and the French are very accustomed to tourists.

Follow in the footsteps of Claude Monet on this four-day Good Housekeeping holiday taking in Paris and Giverny. Great for single travellers with a passion for art, the base for the trip (departing in July 2024) is the four-star Château de Montvillargenne in the heart of the Chantilly forest.

Excursions include a visit to Château de Chantilly and the market town of Senlis plus a guided tour of Monet's gardens in Giverny (pictured) led by gardening expert and writer Paula McWaters.

Considered to be one of the most captivating landscapes on the planet, Iceland is a must for any adventurer, including those going it alone.

With incredibly welcoming locals, Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice, and offers visitors the chance to bathe in hot springs, climb sheer glaciers or come face-to-face with feisty volcanoes. To see this vast landscape in style, it's well worth joining a group tour (ideal for solo travellers) or hiring a car.

Soak in the famous Blue Lagoon (pictured), see the Skógafoss waterfall and hike up the Sólheimajökull glacier on an exhilarating five-day tour of Iceland. Hosted by Regent Holidays , this is a great option for solo travellers aiming to tick off a range of Iceland activities.

India was one of the first countries I ever travelled around alone (talk about throwing myself in at the deep end!) and while it was challenging in parts, it was also rewarding and transformative.

Whether you're looking to hike the Himalayas, 'find yourself' through yoga and meditation on a retreat or marvel at the Taj Mahal, India's unique culture and vibrancy is bucket list-worthy.

One of the easiest ways to explore India on your own is on an escorted tour. Solos Holidays itineraries are made specifically for the single traveller, and their Splendour's of Rajasthan tour explores the Golden Triangle of Jodhpur, Jaipur and Agra. Highlights include seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise (pictured) and visiting the Amber Fort in the Aravalli Hills.

Gorgeous white beaches, rugged national parks and perhaps the prettiest medieval walled city in the world (hello, Dubrovnik ), Croatia is one of my favourite places in Europe to explore by myself.

Croatia is an easy country to get around, whether you want to go island hopping by ferry, catch a coach along the Adriatic Coast or hire a car to explore the country’s rugged interior.

If you want to see Croatia with a some like-minded folk, consider booking an escorted tour with Just You , a solo holidays specialist. Their Croatia and the Markarska Riviera trip focuses on the Dalmatian Coast and is bookended by stays in Zadar and Dubrovnik. It also includes a brilliant boat trip to Hvar and Brac (pictured), and a visit to Krka National Park.

More travel ideas:

- The best cruises for 2024

- Venice's hidden gems

- The 2025 holidays worth booking in advance

- The best mother-daughter holiday ideas

- Amazing holidays with celebrity guests

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