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The best attractions in Dallas to add to your bucket list

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

Photograph: Courtesy Victory Park Dallas

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

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

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best attractions in Dallas

1.  reunion tower.

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

Book top attractions in Dallas with a CityPASS.

2.  Dallas Arts District

• Greater Dallas

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

Learn about the JFK assassination on a Dallas tour.

3.  The Sixth Floor Museum

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

4.  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

• Little Forest Hills

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

5.  Dallas Museum of Art

• City Center District

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

Go on a Dallas Arts District scavenger hunt.

6.  American Airlines Center

• Sports and fitness
• International Center

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

7.  Deep Ellum

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

See Deep Ellum on this tour.

8.  Perot Museum Of Nature and Science

• West End Historic District

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

Save with the Dallas CityPASS

9.  Mesquite Championship Rodeo

• Sherwood Forest

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

10.  McKinney Avenue Trolley

• State Thomas

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

11.  AT&T Stadium

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

12.  Klyde Warren Park

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

13.  Nasher Sculpture Center

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

14.  Pioneer Plaza

• Parks and gardens

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

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

15.  Dallas Farmers Market

• Markets and fairs
• Farmers Market District

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

Do a Dallas foodie tour.

16.  House of Blues

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

17.  Bishop Arts District

• Bishop Arts District

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

18.  Southfork Ranch

• Historic buildings and sites

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

19.  Historic Downtown McKinney

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

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

20.  Legacy West

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

21.  Dallas Zoo

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

22.  Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture

Note: This museum is temporarily closed.

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

23.  Dallas World Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums

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

You can also check out an aquarium in Grapevine.

Explore more of Dallas

13 museums in dallas everyone should visit.

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

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dallas, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 411 Elm Street, Dallas, Texas

Highlight: Seasonal festivals take place among the internationally renowned gardens

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

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

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

Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

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

Address: 1801 N. Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

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

Address: 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

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

Address: 1717 N Harwood Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, Texas

Highlights: Daily programs like animal feedings and keeper presentations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Location: North Bishop Ave, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Location: Young Street, Pioneer Plaza, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 2301 Flora Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 646 Main Street, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 4572 Claire Chennault Street, Addison, Texas

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

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

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

Address: 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 3700 Hogge Drive, Parker, Texas

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

Luxury Hotels :

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas)

55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas)

A well-rounded city growing out of the stark North Texas prairie, Dallas has a jumble of ultramodern skyscrapers, the largest arts district in the United States, museums of the highest quality and pulsating nightlife.

Whole swathes of the city have been reinvented in recent times, like the Design District breathing new life into an austere neighborhood of warehouses, or Klyde Warren Park, on the former route of a freeway.

But if you’re hunting for old-time Texas trademarks like big steaks, BBQ and honkytonks among the upscale restaurants and high-culture, you’ll find them with little trouble.

Dallas will also forever be tied to the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, and at Dealey Plaza you’ll discover how the city has come to terms with this tragedy.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Dallas:

1. Dealey Plaza

In Dallas you can visit a place where the course of history was changed forever.

The landmarks at Dealey Plaza, like the Texas School Book Depository, the Grassy Knoll and Elm Street as it bends down to the railroad tracks, would be unremarkable were it not for the assassination of John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.

The cityscape at Dealey Plaza is mostly unchanged, and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1993. It’s hard not to be moved looking up at the corner sixth floor window from which Lee Harvey Oswald fired his three shots, seeing the X that marks the spot where JFK was struck by the fatal second bullet and standing on the bank from which Abraham Zapruder took his famous footage.

Tip : start your visit with the Dallas City Highlights Tour

2. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

All the context you could want about the assassination of John F. Kennedy is available at this thorough and even-handed museum housed in the former Texas Schools Book Depository and opened in 1989. As you work your way up to Lee Harvey Oswald’s sixth-floor roost you’ll find out about JFK’s career and the landscape in the early-1960s, taking in the Civil Rights Movement and the Cold War.

The deed itself is covered in great detail, with hundreds of photographs from the scene and analysis of the Zapruder film (the Zapruder family donated the copyright to the museum in 1999). Inevitably there’s also background on the myriad conspiracy theories swirling around the assassination, to the point where even obsessives may pick up a new titbit.

Finally, Lee Harvey Oswald’s vantage point, preserved behind glass, is as cluttered as it was when he fired his shots in November 1963.

Recommended tour : JFK Assassination and Sixth Floor Museum Tour

3. Arts District

Dallas lays claim to the largest urban arts district in the United States, on 20 square blocks to the south-east of Uptown, and with a rare concentration of cultural attractions.

We’ll visit plenty of the attractions in this area, like the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Klyde Warren Park and the Winspear Opera House.

Respected venues and institutions are shoulder-to-shoulder in the Arts District, from the vaunted Dallas Black Dance Theatre in the east to the Dallas Museum of Art in the west.

There’s also tons of architectural interest, in monuments like the neo-Gothic Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe (1902), with a 68-meter spire and 100 stained glass windows.

If you really want to get to know the Arts District’s cityscape there are 90-minute walking tours on the first and third Saturdays of the month from 10:00.

Related tour : 1.5-Hour Dallas Sightseeing Tour by Segway

4. Dallas Museum of Art (DMA)

One of the top art museums in the country sends you on an international journey through 5,000 years of history, from antiquity to contemporary art.

Art-lovers can leap across time periods and civilizations, inspecting 1,700-year-old Buddhas, a Greek funerary relief from 300 BCE, ancient American art in gold and a Nok terracotta bust from Nigeria dating back 2,000 years.

The American and European art collections are as rich as you’d hope, with works by O’Keeffe, Hopper, Childe Hassam and masters like Canaletto, Courbet, Monet, van Gogh and Piet Mondrian.

Every post-war trend from Abstract Expressionism to Installation Art has a place in the comprehensive Contemporary galleries, featuring Sigmar Polke, Jasper Johns, Jackson Pollock, Franz Kline and many more.

Founded in 1903, this is one of the ten largest art museums in the United States, with ten concurrent exhibitions, and a program of talks, tours, concerts , film screenings and workshops.

Included in:   Dallas CityPASS

5. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

An exceptional attraction and head-turning new landmark for Dallas, the Perot Museum of Nature (2012) has 11 permanent exhibit halls on five floors.

This extraordinary building is designed as a large cube over a water garden, while the facade evokes the drought-tolerant grassland of North Texas.

It would be impossible to sum up this multifaceted museum in one paragraph, but as with any state-of-the-art science attraction, you can be sure that there’s lots of interactivity and hands-on activities.

You can experience an earthquake, make music in a sound studio, build your own robot, smell the beeswax of the Blackland Prairie, compete against world-class athletes and take a whirlwind trip around Dallas in miniature.

No natural history museum would be complete without dinosaur skeletons, and the “Life, Then and Now Hall” is ruled by gargantuan Alamosaurus and T. rex fossils, but also has a superb Paleo Lab where you can watch the museum’s cutting-edge dinosaur research on screens in real-time.

Included in : Dallas CityPASS

6. Klyde Warren Park

A patch of Downtown Dallas in the Arts District was completely transformed in the early 2010s when the Woodall Rodgers Freeway moved underground for three blocks to make way for this innovative public park on its route.

Dreamed up as a central public gathering space for Dallas, Klyde Warren Park has a big lawn fringed by a tree-lined pedestrian promenade, and comes with a restaurant, children’s park, botanical garden, reading room, dog park, performance pavilion and urban games area.

The park opened in 2012 and is named for the son of billionaire Kelcy Warren who donated $10 million for its development.

On a given day there will be ten or more licensed food trucks here, and the park’s website will tell you who they are and what they’re serving up.

Related tour : Full-Day Small Group Tour of Dallas & the JFK Assassination

7. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Dallas has many plus points, but verdure isn’t the first thing that comes to mind.

Even so, there’s a botanical garden to match the best, in 66 acres on the south-east shore of White Rock Lake, only 15 minutes from Downtown Dallas.

We’ll talk about this reservoir in more detail later.

There are 19 named gardens at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden, like the 6.5-acre Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden, with vibrant seasonal beds of more than 2,000 azalea varieties (one of the largest in the United States), as well as tulips and daffodils.

The Palmer Fern Dell, where a brook is edged by ferns, azaleas, camellias and mature trees, is a godsend in the searing summer months, when mist sprayers lower the ambient temperature by several degrees.

The big event on the calendar is Dallas Blooms, from the start of February to mid-April, with more than 100 varieties of spring-blooming bulbs including 500,000 individual tulips.

8. Reunion Tower

One of the towers that make Dallas, Dallas arrived to the south of Dealey Plaza in 1978. Also known as The Ball, the 171-meter Reunion Tower is four narrow shafts (one cylindrical and thee rectangular) crowned with an openwork geodesic dome illuminated at night by 259 LEDs.

The elevators are in the three rectangular shafts, and on the 68-second ride to the GeO-Deck you’ll get a stirring view of Dallas through shaft’s outer glass panel.

And once you reach the GeO-Deck you can brush up the city’s story and changing skyline on interactive screens, peer through telescopes and feel the breeze on the outdoor platform.

There are also two rotating eateries up here, at the Cloud Nine Cafe and Wolfgang Puck’s posh Five Sixty, with an Asian-infused menu.

Book online : Dallas’ Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket

9. AT&T Stadium

For many sports fans the name Dallas is almost always followed by “Cowboys”, 24-time division champions, five-time Superbowl champions and the most valued team in the NFL as of 2019. The Cowboys are tied in second with most Superbowl appearances in history and are currently on a run of sold-out regular and post-season games that has stretched since 2002. In 2009 the franchise moved to the 80,000-capacity (expandable to 105,000) At&T Stadium, located 20-minutes west in Arlington and claimed to be the largest domed building in the world.

One of many astounding things about the stadium is its public art program, which has left it with museum-quality pieces of contemporary art by the likes of Olafur Eliasson and Doug Aitken.

You don’t need game tickets to see the AT&T Stadium up close, as there’s a menu of tours, from self-guided visits to a special VIP Guided Tour with extra tour stop and field access, all with an expert guide.

Book online : Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour with Transport

10. Nasher Sculpture Center

Raymond Nasher (1921-2007), the developer behind the NorthPark Center mall, was a voracious art collector, and together with his wife Patsy assembled a jaw-dropping sculpture collection.

Much of this was put on display at the mall (some still is), until a more suitable permanent home could be built.

At the turn of the 21st century the Nasher Foundation put up the funds for a Renzo Piano-designed museum with a two-acre garden to make these riches available to the public.

The Nasher Sculpture Center is all the more extraordinary against the cityscape of downtown Dallas.

The center’s collection is a who’s who of modern sculpture, furnished with pieces by Alexander Calder, Giacometti, Hepworth, Henry Moore, Matisse, Gauguin, Joan Miró, Picasso, Claes Oldenburg, Richard Serra and Rodin.

Only a fraction of the foundation’s holdings can be displayed at one time, so the center’s exhibition is refreshed every few months.

Included in : Dallas Art District & Museum Of Art Walking Tour

11. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The understated John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza was inaugurated in June 1970, beside the red sandstone towers of the Dallas County Courthouse.

The monument at its core was designed by architect Philip Johnson, a friend of the Kennedy family, and was personally approved by Jacqueline Kennedy.

Conceived to represent the “freedom of John F. Kennedy’s spirit”, the memorial comprises a square room without a roof, with concrete walls 15 x 15 meters long and 9 meters high.

These walls are composed of 72 concrete columns, supported by two legs at each corner and so appearing to hover over the ground when illuminated at night.

In the room is a granite square carved with JFK’s name, painted in gold to catch the light from the walls.

Bestselling tour : JFK Assassination and Museum Tour (Includes Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House)

12. Meadows Museum

The oil baron Algur Meadows (1899–1978) made repeated trips to Madrid in the 1950s, and in that time he fell in love with Spanish art at the Museo del Prado, resolving to create his own “Prado on the prairie” back in Dallas.

This became the Meadows Museum at the Southern Methodist University campus, home to one of the largest assemblages of Spanish art outside of Spain.

The art here dates from the 900s to the present, comprising Renaissance altarpieces, massive Baroque canvases, liturgical polychrome images, graphic art, Impressionist landscapes, abstract painting, sketches and sculpture.

Among the many great artists featured are Velázquez, El Greco, Murillo, Ribera, Zurbarán, Goya (six works), Sorolla, Rodin, Picasso, Dalí, Miró, Henry Moore and Giacometti.

In 2019-20 there were fabulous short-term exhibitions for Sorolla and the great Spanish Renaissance sculptor Alonso Berruguete.

13. Deep Ellum

If you’re out for live music, great food, awesome bars or one-off shops then Deep Ellum is the place to go, just on the other side of the I-345 from Downtown Dallas.

This has been an entertainment district since the 1880s, and blues legends like Leadbelly, Bessie Smith and Blind Lemon Jefferson all entertained the crowds in the 1910s and 1920s.

The name comes from the neighborhood’s main artery, Elm Street and crops up in the old blues song Take a Whiff on Me, and the song “Deep Elm Blues”, made famous by the Grateful Dead.

The lineup of clubs and live venues is too long to list here, but features Trees Dallas, played by Radiohead, Nirvana, Arcade Fire and Pearl Jam.

For concept bars you’ve got a slew of craft breweries/distilleries, and the trailer park themed Double Wide.

By day you can check out the street art and pick from ramen (Oni), tacos (Tiki Loco), sushi (Nori) or southern comfort food (Brick & Bones, Get Fried) for lunch.

Recommended tour : Dallas Deep Ellum Beer & Cider Tour

14. Dallas Zoo

Across the Trinity River from Downtown Dallas, the Dallas Zoo would be a worthwhile family outing even without its greatest attraction.

But the Giants of the Savanna habitat is not something you’ll come across very often.

This $32.5-million habitat, unveiled in 2011 has reticulated giraffes, zebras, impala, ostriches and guinea fowl sharing the same large space.

In the same zone is the zoo’s herd of African elephants, as well as African lions, South African cheetahs, warthogs and African wild dogs.

The Gorilla Research Center, opened in 1990, is another feather in the Dallas Zoo’s cap, a lush recreation of the Congo Rainforest, with enough space for two troops of gorillas, each separated by a wall.

The Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari takes you on a 20-minute, mile-long narrated monorail ride past hippos, okapis, Grévy’s zebra, Thomson’s gazelle’s and some giant birds, from great white pelicans to Goliath herons.

Book online : Dallas Zoo – General Admission

15. Dallas World Aquarium

In the West End Historic District, this aquarium in a reworked warehouse from 1924 has more than just fish.

Mundo Maya keeps ocelots, American flamingos and a variety of colourful passerine birds and owls to go with its vibrant angelfish and axolotls.

The upper floor is taken over by a reproduction of the Orinoco Rainforest, inhabited by sloths, giant river otters and primates like pygmy marmosets and red howler monkeys, as well as dwarf caimans, poison dart frogs, toucans, mata mata turtles and electric eels.

The ten main tanks are on the lower level, where you’ll come within inches of aquatic life from all over the world from giant Japanese spider crabs to brilliant Percula clownfish, tangs, angelfish, butterflyfish and moon jellyfish.

Outside the South Africa exhibit keeps a playful colony of black-footed penguins, numbering only 50,000 in the wild.

16. Pioneer Plaza

The city’s rugged early days are remembered at this park laid out in 1994 in front of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, just south of downtown.

Rendered in bronze by artist Robert Summers is a marvellous sculpted ensemble – the largest bronze monument in the world – depicting an everyday scene on the old Shawnee Trail.

Crossing the plaza are 49 longhorn steers and three trail riders on horseback, all in an environment of ridges and cliffs, planted with trees and plants native to North Texas, a flowing stream and waterfall.

Each steer is a little larger than life, at just under two meters high.

Related tour : 75-Minute Small-Group City Highlights Tour

17. Fair Park

This 277-acre outdoor complex on the right shoulder of Downtown Dallas has a history as a fairground going back to 1886. The space was transformed to lift spirits in the Great Depression, when Dallas hosted the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936. Architects George Dahl and Paul Cret turned Fair Park into a magnificent exhibition of Art Deco design.

Plenty of the attractions on this list can be found right here, and the park holds more than 1,200 events a year, from concerts to sporting events.

For 24 days from the last Friday of September, this is the venue for the Texas State Fair, attended by over two million people each year and presided over by the iconic Big Tex.

One of the main events is the annual college football game between Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns, at the 92,100-capacity Cotton Bowl.

A centerpiece during the fair is the Texas Star, a Ferris wheel 65.8 meters tall, with 44 gondolas.

18. Hall of State

Fair Park’s mainstay is the Art Deco Hall of State, which is a formidable landmark, even if the exterior is showing its age.

There are few better examples of Art Deco architecture in Texas, and it’s bewildering to think that this regal edifice got built in the depths of the Great Depression.

What draws your eye outside is the semicircular recess at the entrance, with limestone pillars rising 23 meters dividing bands of blue tiles evoking the state flower, the bluebonnet.

On the frieze are the names of 60 historical figures with an important role in Texas history.

The monument has belonged to the Dallas Historical Society since 1938, and its radiant interior holds the Hall of Heroes, with six bronze statues representing Stephen F. Austin, Thomas Jefferson Rusk, Mirabeau B. Lamar, Sam Houston, James Fannin and William B. Travis.

During the Texas State Fair in 2019 there was a wonderful exhibition on the history of the state in cinema.

19. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

This compact but ever-popular aquarium opened with the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936, but was given a modern makeover in 2009. There are six main exhibits at the Children’s Aquarium: Freshwater Zone, with red-bellied piranhas and Australian rainbows; Intertidal Zone, for sea stars and sea urchins; Shore Zone, inhabited by seahorses, batfish and home to a Caribbean reef; Near Shore Zone, which has Moray eels, clownfish and porcupinefish, and the Offshore Zone, where you’ll see the ominous-looking Queensland groupers and zebra sharks.

Finally, the outdoor Stingray Bay is most people’s favorite part, where you can touch and feed cownose rays and watch black tip ref sharks in an ample outdoor tank.

20. Frontiers of Flight Museum

Head to Dallas Love Field Airport to be awed by this Smithsonian Affiliate museum in the airport’s south-east corner.

The Frontiers of Flight Museum has more than 30 aircraft and space vehicles on show, a portion of which were built in the North Texas area.

There are also 13 galleries and exhibits to ponder, including artifacts from the Hindenburg, lots of detail about aviators like Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart, and a full-size model of the Wright Brothers’ 1903 Wright Flyer.

As for preserved aircraft, make sure to see Apollo VII, used for the first manned flight of the Apollo Space Program in 1968. Also indispensible is the last surviving Texas-Temple Sportsman monoplane (1928), a de Havilland Tiger Moth (1940), a Bell 47 (of M*A*S*H fame) and jet fighters and bombers including an F-16b (1977), an LTV A-7 Corsair II (1967), a Republic F-105D (1958) and a Lockheed T-33A Shooting Star (1950).

21. Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park

The tree-shaded sidewalks of the Dallas Heritage Village are lined with the largest ensemble of historic buildings in the city.

These properties, dated between 1840 and 1910, are arranged as an outdoor museum in 20 acres, where the only hint of the passage of time comes from the Downtown Dallas skyline over the trees.

City Park was the first public park in Dallas, plotted in the 1870s and the site of the first city zoo and weekly outdoor concerts in the 1880s and 1890s that would resemble the performances given here today.

The park was at risk of being redeveloped until the late-1960s when the Millermore plantation house became the first of 21 historic buildings to find a new home here.

Each building is decorated with period-specific furniture, tools and ephemera, and a team of role-playing interpreters helping the whole village to life.

22. Texas Discovery Gardens

Also at the historic Fair Park, the Texas Discovery Gardens is a botanical garden in 7.5 acres, growing native and exotic plants from around the world that have adapted to the difficult soils and climate of North Texas.

This is the first public garden that has been certified 100% organic by the Texas Organic Research Center, and is irrigated via sustainable water conservation methods.

The gardens’ plants have also been selected for their ability to provide habitats for wildlife, including birds and butterflies.

Outside you can saunter through the Native Butterfly Habitat, Shakespeare Garden (with plants mentioned in the Bard’s plays and sonnets) and the Master Gardener’s Garden, showing how you can get the most out of drought-tolerant plants.

Children will be wild for the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, where you can even watch butterflies shake out of their chrysalises at the Emergence Chamber on the lower level.

There are also 20 species of venomous and non-venomous native snakes at the Snakes of Texas exhibit.

23. American Airlines Center

Two big-time sports franchises share this multipurpose arena in the Victory Park neighborhood.

Most famous are the Dallas Mavericks, who clinched the NBA Championship in 2011, led by Dirk Nowitzki, who had just retired in 2019 after a 21-year spell.

The Mavericks are renowned for their passionate fans, and at the time of writing were going through a home-game sell-out streak that had continued since 2001. Owner Mark Cuban’s strategy is to sell off unsold tickets at big discounts or give them away to charity.

At roughly the same time of year, this is also home rink for the Dallas Stars, who last lifted the Stanley Cup in 1999. American Airlines Center has hosted up to 20 major concert dates a year since it opened in 2001. Elton John, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Eagles and Celine Dion were all on the program in 2019-20. Food-wise, there are lots of choices for Tex-Mex (Mesero), Southern-style cuisine (House of Blues), pizza (Olivella’s) and sushi (Imoto) within a five-minute walk of the arena, and ample concessions inside, from tacos to hot dogs.

24. Design District

North-west of Downtown Dallas, the Design District has taken root on the regenerated floodway of the Trinity River.

Where before there were old showrooms and warehouses from the 1950s, there’s now an eclectic but upmarket neighborhood of art galleries, men’s and women’s fashion boutiques, swish interior design shops, a slew of fine dining establishments and brand new high-end residences.

One of the many things to love about the Design District is that it has developed naturally, and the low, almost nondescript warehouses that had been here for decades remain, accompanied by dazzling new architecture.

No massive mixed-use developments, national chains or wholesale demolition has been allowed here.

Related tour : Dallas Design District Brewery Tour

25. Crow Museum of Asian Art

The real estate baron Trammell Crow (1914-2009) was a keen collector of East and Southeast Asian Art, and even put his son to use as an art purchaser in Tokyo to enhance his inventory which grew to 7,000 pieces.

In 1998 almost 600 pieces were donated as a gift to the people and visitors of Dallas, at this museum that opened in the Dallas Arts District.

The museum is organized into three main spaces: Gallery I featured Japanese works by master ceramic artists, marvellous prints and a samurai suit of armor.

Gallery II, for Chinese art, holds one of the largest collections of jade in the United States, as well Qing Dynasty snuff bottles, mostly from the 1700s.

Gallery III holds works from across India and Southeast Asia, comprising two Mughal baradari gazebos and highly ornate pieces like the gilded Nepalese Seated Manjushri Dharmadhatsuvajisvara buddha from 1823. Linking Gallery II with Gallery III is the glass Skybridge, commanding a privileged view of the Trammell Crow Center and the Nasher Sculpture Center.

26. African American Museum

The Hall of Negro Life at the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936 was thought to be the first recognition of African-American culture at a world’s fair.

Fair Park’s African American Museum was built on the exact same plot as that hall and opened in 1993, although its history as an institution goes back to 1974. The museum has amassed a vital collection of African and African-American art, historical artefacts and decorative arts, presented across four vaulted galleries.

In the collection are pieces by luminaries like Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden, Clementine Hunter and Larry D.

Alexander, but the museum is also engaged in a vibrant and enlightening program of music performances, dance, lectures and book fairs.

A thrilling ongoing exhibition, Facing the Rising Sun, investigates North Dallas (now Uptown), displaying found objects, historical documents, photographs and firsthand accounts at special interactive kiosks.

27. Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum

This educational museum recounting one of the pivotal events of the 20th century and its repercussions opened in 2019 in a high-impact modern building by Dealey Plaza in the West End Historic District.

The attraction’s origins lie in an organization founded by 125 Holocaust survivors in 1977. The Holocaust/Shoah Wing tells the 3,000-year story of the Jewish People, covering their persecution over many centuries before Hitler’s rise to power and the murder of six million Jews in the Second World War.

There are testimonies by survivors and liberators throughout this wing, and devastating artefacts like a genuine boxcar from a concentration camp train.

The Human Rights Wing goes into the progress made since the Holocaust, while the Pivot to America Wing is optimistic and highly interactive, celebrating diversity, encouraging people to confront their own biases and recreating a Civil Rights-era sit-in.

28. Welcome to Dallas 3-Hour Small Group Tour by Van

If you have limited time in Dallas or just want a comprehensive introduction to the city, this three-hour tour on GetYourGuide.com is just the ticket.

Even more so if you visit in summer, as you’ll travel in an air-conditioned van to see all the obligatory landmarks and areas.

This whistle-stop trip takes in Dealey Plaza, Old Red, Founder’s Plaza, Pioneer Plaza, the Dallas Arts District, Deep Ellum, Swiss Avenue, and Klyde Warren Park, all in the space of three short hours.

29. Magnolia Hotel

The Magnolia Petroleum Company (merged to form Mobil in 1959) built itself a majestic Beaux-Arts headquarters in the early-1920s.

Exceeding its neighbor, the Adolphus Hotel (1911), the Magnolia Building briefly became the tallest in the state at 122 meters.

The tower is 29 stories, with its two wings connected by an arch about three quarters of the way up.

In 1934 the Magnolia Building was given its most iconic feature: A rotating neon Pegasus, which became a symbol for Dallas even after the tower became crowded out on the skyline, and was re-made for the new millennium.

You’ll see it best approaching Downtown Dallas from the south.

Mobil moved out in the 1970s and the tower was sold off to the city, later becoming a luxury hotel.

30. Dallas County Courthouse

On the south-east side of Dealey Plaza is a formidable Romanesque Revival building, built from a warm, rusticated red sandstone with rusticated marble for its first floor and window openings.

Affectionately known as Old Red, the courthouse, impossible to miss for its turrets and soaring central tower, dates to 1892 and lost its governmental role when a new courthouse building was completed close-by in 1966. Since 2007 this grand building has held the Old Red Museum.

On the second floor the permanent exhibition walks you through the city’s past, from prehistory to the present, showing off fossils, items relating to 19th-century trade, war weapons, sports paraphernalia and the people who have put Dallas on the cultural map.

Included in : Dallas and Southfork Ranch Small-Group Combo Tour

31. Giant Eyeball

Heading along Main Street on the edge of the Dallas Arts District you’ll find yourself being stared down by a humungous blue eye.

This 9.1-meter fiberglass sculpture by multimedia artist Tony Tasset, was completed in 2007 for an installation in Chicago before finding a new home in Dallas.

The enclosing astro-turf lawn is owned by the arty Joule Hotel across the street, and is usually fenced off from the public, but there’s a clear line of sight to a work that has become a bit of a modern emblem for Dallas.

32. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

World-famous architect Santiago Calatrava’s contribution to the Dallas cityscape is this startling cable-stayed bridge spanning the Trinity River and named for the oil heiress and philanthropist Margaret Hunt Hill.

The bridge, easily recognized by its 120-meter central arch pylon, opened in 2012 and was part of a large-scale project to redevelop the Trinity River.

Connecting the underside of the arch to the roadway is a system of cables that seem to intersect in different ways depending on your perspective.

That arch is visible for miles and stands out on the riverbanks, that have been left mostly clear of development.

The Trinity Skyline Trail passes along the river below and you can get a great perspective not far south at the Trinity Overlook park off N Beckley Ave.

33. Trinity Groves

In the same program, a new 15-acre shopping, dining and entertainment destination has sprouted up by the bridge on the western bank of the Trinity River.

Trinity Groves has made a name for its cutting-edge dining, thanks to a Restaurant Concept Icubation Program, allowing entrepreneurs to test drive restaurant concepts to see if they are ready for an expansion.

Because of this constant process of trial and error, no two visits will be the same.

34. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Completely free to enter and more commonly known as the Samurai Collection, this museum in the Harwood District compiles hundreds of years of Japanese craftsmanship at the former St. Ann’s School.

The collection has been fastidiously amassed by real estate developer Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, his wife Ann and their children.

Objects on show date from the 600s to the 1800s, and include suits of armor, horse armor, masks, helmets and katanas.

The exhibition is reworked twice a year, and the museum has a traveling exhibition that has visited cities around the world.

35. Museum of Biblical Art

This attraction next to the immense NorthPark Center bounced back after a fire in 2005 destroyed its former building along with more than 2,500 works of art.

As the name may tell you, the Museum of Biblical Art collects works inspired by the bible, and the list of artists featured is prestigious.

There’s art by Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, John Singer Sargent and Ben Shahn, just by way of intro.

Since 2014 a whole wing of the building has been home to the National Center for Jewish Art, with a superb array of Judaica (Jewish ceremonial art).

36. Mia’s Tex-Mex

On Oak Lawn’s Lemmon Avenue (4334) is a revered Tex-Mex eatery that has been around since 1981, an eternity by Dallas standards.

It was founded by couple Butch and Mia (Mama Mia) Enriquez.

In these 40-odd years, Mia’s Tex-Mex has become an institution favored by movie and TV stars, Dallas Cowboys and almost anyone who calls the city home.

Specialities include Butch’s Original Brisket Tacos, which come with Monterrey Jack, poblano peppers and grilled onions, and comes with brisket gravy, rice and beans.

Also big are the Homemade Rellenos (stuffed poblano), Mama’s Quesadillas and Mama’s Chicken Lemon (breaded breast with a lemon butter sauce). Don’t forget chips and guacamole, or a round of Mia’s famous margaritas.

37. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

The seat of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) was completed in 1989 and has a reputation for its supreme acoustics.

The project was a collaboration between the Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei and the Artec Consultants, the firm of acoustical expert Russell Johnson, resulting in a shoebox shape with a “reverse fan” configuration at the back of the hall.

Even the most distant seats enjoy a clear line of sight and perfect sound.

Check the DSO’s program for something that might take your fancy, be it symphonies (Prokofiev’s sixth at the time of writing in Nov ’19), movie and musical soundtracks, reworked classic rock and pop, world-renowned soloists and lots of family-friendly performances around Christmas.

38. Wilson Building

Sharing the same block as the Giant Eyeball, wrapping around Main Street, N Ervay Street and Elm Street in an E-shape, is a handsome trace of old Dallas.

A Beaux-Arts office and commercial complex modelled on the Palais Garnier in Paris, the Wilson Building (1904) was constructed for the cattle magnate John B. Wilson.

The main tenant was the Titche-Goettinger Department Store, occupying the basement and first two levels.

At first the building was only on Main Street and Ervay Street, but it was such a success that a new wing was added on Elm Street in 1911. Among its conveniences were two telegraph offices and an artesian well more than 450 meters deep.

The Wilson Building is now residential, but as you pass by you can take a moment to behold its elegant curved corners and the rich carvings on the cornice and window arches on the fifth floor.

39. NorthPark Center

In the top 20 largest malls in the country, NorthPark Center is also praised as one of the top premium shopping destinations in the Southwest.

This was already the world’s largest climate-controlled building when it opened in 1965. But it more than doubled in size in the mid-2000s after an expansion that also gave rise to the CenterPark, a tapestry of lawns and mature trees on crushed granite paths.

Among more than 230 stores are luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Bulgari, Cartier and Versace, as well as more day-to-day retailers from Sephora to H&M, Gap, Macy’s Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

A branch of the wildly popular Eataly Italian market chain is slated to open at the NorthPark Center in 2020. World-class sculpture, by artists like Antony Gormley, Andy Warhol and Frank Stella, has been integrated into the NorthPark Center since it first opened, and you can pick up a complimentary map for a tour.

Included in : Dallas Shopping Tour

40. George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Whatever your opinion on the 43rd President of the United States, it’s a fact that he was in office for some of the country’s most crucial events since World War II.

After Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2009 George W. Bush settled in the Preston Hollow neighborhood of Dallas, and his Presidential Center opened on the campus of Southern Methodist University in 2013. One engrossing exhibit is a detailed replica of the Oval Office, but you’ll also see material recovered from Ground Zero, accompanied by Bush’s diary entry on 9/11 and the various gifts given to the president by foreign politicians.

The interactive Decisions Points Theater puts you in the hot seat, and you can see how your response to Katrina differs from what Bush actually did.

On the lighter side there’s a whole exhibit devoted to Bush’s sense of humor.

Outside is the Texas Rose Garden and 15 acres of native Texas prairie with wildflowers and grasses.

41. Trinity River Audubon Center

The project to revitalize the Trinity River also encompassed this National Audubon Society nature center down the Trinity River and barely 15 minutes out of Downtown Dallas.

The city will feel very distant here on the edge of the 6,000-acre Great Trinity Forest, the largest urban hardwood forest in the country.

The center is on what used to be illegal landfill, now a mosaic of habitats for species like scissor-tailed flycatchers, little blue herons and northern harriers.

The LEED certified nature center holds an informative natural history museum, and the Audubon Society arranges lots of programs like bird-watching, conservation treks, night hikes and activities for schools and scouts.

42. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

If a break from sightseeing is in order there’s good old family fun at this waterpark where you’ll never have to contend with sunburn.

One thing’s for sure: Epic Waters has not compromised on size, as these slides and pools are contained by a huge, retractable structure.

In fact at 80,000 square feet it’s the largest attraction of its kind in the state, with 11 rides attached to its lofty slide tower.

Three of these are “first in industry” rides, like the Lasso Loop, which is literally a body slide with the tallest loop in the country, or Aquanaut, the first indoor double rider inner tube slide in the country.

There are more sedate attractions like a lazy river, outdoor wavepool and a space for toddlers and smaller children.

There’s hunger-slaying fast food and a big video arcade area with new games and old-time amusements.

43. Cedar Hill State Park

Another open space surprisingly close to Downtown Dallas is this state park protecting a tract of old farmland, on rocky limestone slopes, parcels of prairie and the east shore of the 7,500-acre Joe Pool Lake.

You can get acquainted with this land’s past at the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center, touring reconstructed and original farm buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Dallas Off-Road Bike Association (DORBA) has drawn up a 12-mile trail through the park, made up of three concentric routes ranging from 3 to 12 miles long.

Joe Pool Lake is a major draw for swimmers at the gravel beach and fishers casting off for crappie, largemouth black bass and catfish.

And, if you want to make a weekend of it, there are 350 developed campsites, all with water, electricity and access to hot showers.

44. Globe Life Field

At the time of writing, in the 2019-20 off-season, the new home of MLB’s Texas Rangers was under construction, due to open with the 2020 season.

From 1994 to 2019 the Rangers had played just across the road at Globe Life Park, which was being repurposed for XFL’s Dallas Renegades and the FC Dallas affiliate, North Texas SC.

The brutal summer heat in Texas has always had an impact on Rangers’ attendances.

So, at a construction cost of more than $1.1bn, the new 40,000 ballpark has a retractable roof to protect fans from the glaring sun and also avoid rain delays.

This will be partially transparent, and able to open and close in record time.

If you happen to read this post before the work is completed in 2020, you can watch the progress from the Hilti Observation Deck on the upper right field concourse of Globe Life Park.

45. Dallas Farmers Market

Right next to the skyscrapers of Downtown Dallas is a big public market that has been trading since 1941. Safe to say that things have changed a lot in 80 years, and what started out as a horse-and-wagon wholesale business is now a testament to the changing relationship between North Texans and their food.

The Dallas Farmers Market’s guiding principles are Honesty, Responsibility and Transparency.

The main market is open seven days, and is a bountiful food hall and artisanal vendor market for fresh produce, meat, seafood, flowers, housewares, handmade gifts and a world of snacks, baked goods and delicious meals made on the spot, from tamales to banh mi.

The Shed meanwhile is an open-air pavilion where local ranchers gather on weekends to sell their seasonal fruits and vegetables, honey, eggs, farm-raised meats, cheese and all manner of specialty foods.

46. White Rock Lake Park

A mere 15 minutes in the car from Downtown Dallas will get you to a blissful slice of water and greenery at this 1,250-acre reservoir.

White Rock Lake came about by damming the namesake creek to bolster the city’s water supply at the start of the 20th century.

By the middle of the century the reservoir had lost its main role as a water source and had become a little paradise for recreation.

You can rent paddleboards, canoes and kayaks on the shore, and there are piers and launches for people hoping to land white crappie, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

You may just prefer to wander a piece of the 9.33 mile loop around the water, fixing your gaze on the Dallas skyline, which is all the prettier at sunset.

On your way you’ll be joined by lots of joggers and bike riders, and should see lots of turtles sunning themselves on the rocks.

47. Highland Park Village

Both an abiding piece of American retail history and a place to indulge in some luxury shopping, Highland Park Village became the first self-contained shopping center when it opened in 1931.

The plaza, designed as a shopping center that could also serve as a town square, took design cues from Spanish, Californian and Mexican towns, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000.

Today’s tenants cater to the top end of the market, and include names like Fendi, Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Cartier, Dior and Carolina Herrera.

The Village Theater was the first luxury movie theatre in the state when it opened in 1935. Much-changed, the theatre plays first-run movies at two state-of-the-art screening rooms with plush seating.

48. Swiss Avenue Historic District

At the start of the 20th century the inventor of the system cotton gin, Robert S. Munger, turned his hand to real estate, developing a big tract of East Dallas for his deed-restricted Munger Place community.

This fifty-block neighborhood possesses America’s largest contingent of prairie-style homes, inspired by the great Frank Lloyd Wright.

For sightseers on foot or by car, the most picturesque part is the four-block, 57-acre Swiss Avenue Historic district, between Fitzhugh Street and a little way north of La Vista.

Along with Prairie School, preserved houses in the district include Colonial Revival and a variety of other opulent historicist styles like Tudor, Italian Renaissance, Spanish, Queen Anne and Craftsman.

Students of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work will notice a strong resemblance at the R. W. Higginbotham House (1913) at 5002 Swiss Avenue.

49. Winspear Opera House

The sophisticated stage for the Dallas Opera is a Foster + Partners building conceived as a traditional horseshoe opera house re-imagined for the 21st century.

The Winspear Opera House is one of four cultural venues at the AT&T Performing Arts Center and had its inaugural season in 2009/2010. Many agree that this is nation’s finest opera house, and its horseshoe configuration kindles a certain intimacy despite accommodating audiences of 2,200. When you arrive you’ll be met by the Annette and Harold Simmons Signature Glass Facade, more than 18 meters high, while the slatted Sky Canopy gives shade to more than three acres of Sammons Park.

French conductor Emmanuel Villaume has been director of the Dallas Opera since 2013, and in store for the 2019-2020 season were The Magic Flute, The Golden Cockerel, Don Carlo, The Barber of Seville and Pulcinella/La voix humaine.

50. Six Flags Over Texas

The first ever Six Flags theme park was established in Arlington about halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth.

In case you were wondering, the name “Six Flags” refers to the flags of the six nations that have governed Texas: Spain, France, Mexico, Republic of Texas, United States of America and the Confederate States of America.

This is a day trip not to pass up, especially if you’re in town with children or teenagers.

The littlest thrill-seekers will love the rides and entertainment at Bugs Bunny Boomtown, while bigger adrenaline fiends will have 13 rollercoasters and 3 water rides to take on.

One of the headlines is the New Texas Giant, converted from wood to steel in 2011, with a nerve-shredding 79° drop 45 meters long.

The outlandish Mr. Freeze: Reverse Blast, is a high-speed shuttle rollercoaster turned back to front and accelerating from 0-70 mph in 3.8 seconds.

51. Founders Plaza (Dallas County Historical Plaza)

Opposite the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza on Main Street is the unassuming Founders Plaza, which, along with a terrazzo map of Dallas County in the 1800s and a fountain, has a small wood cabin.

This looks much like the one built by John Neely Bryan (1810-1877), who in 1841 founded the settlement that became Dallas after first visiting the area two years before.

Bryan had a busy life, departing for the California Gold Rush in 1849, becoming a delegate to the Texas state Democratic convention in 1853 and shooting a man (non-fatally) for insulting his wife in 1855. In 1860 a fire wiped out most of the city’s original log cabins, but this example, made from cedar, is a rare survivor, dating to around 1850. It has been taken down and rebuilt several times over the last 170 years, and was placed at its current site in 1971.

Included in this tour : Full-Day Small Group Tour of Dallas & the JFK Assassination

52. Dallas City Hall

The current city hall is in the south of Downtown Dallas and was designed by I.M. Pei, also known for the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

This Brutalist, buff-colored concrete building held its first City Council in 1978 and is in the shape of an inverted pyramid, looking a little like a stadium grandstand from Young Street.

That was all a consequence of how much more space was needed above by the offices that ran the government, compared to the citizen services and public areas on the lower levels.

An interesting factoid about the building is that there’s a tunnel on the third level basement that was intended to be used by a future underground rail transit system that was never built.

To movie fans of a certain vintage, City Hall is better known as the Headquarters of the OCP company in the Robocop movies.

53. Bob’s Steak & Chop House

The original Bob’s Steak & Chop House is at 4300 Lemmon Avenue in Dallas.

In the 25+ years since this steakhouse opened its doors, the chain has gone nationwide, but time has stood still at the original location.

The decor has hardly changed, and, amazingly, you’ll still be greeted at the door by founder Bob Sambol . Bob’s Steak & Chop House is all about Texas-sized portions of high-quality cuts, full of flavor and hand-picked from the top 2% of USDA prime beef.

Whether you order prime steak, chops or seafood, every dish is accompanied by Bob’s signature, a single glazed carrot.

Most cuts are butchered at the restaurant, and all are given a five-minute rest before returning to the broiler for Bob’s hallmark hard sear.

54. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

This legendary BBQ joint frequented by George W. Bush, Larry Hagman (J.R. Ewing) and Jimmy Buffett has a fun backstory.

Sonny Bryan came from a line of Texas restaurateurs going back to his grandfather Elias in 1910. In 1958 he and his wife, a beauty pageant regular, sold their gun collection and staked all their money on a restaurant by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.

He ran this location for the next 30 years, selling it to an investor group in 1989. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse has spawned many more locations, although only seven survive today, and mostly in the Dallas area.

The original, on Inwood Road, has starred in all sorts of food/travel shows, like Man v. Food Nation and Rachael Ray’s Tasty Travels.

The interior is as basic as it gets, as Sonny Bryan resorted to reusing old school desks in the 50s.

Needless to say the real story is the brisket, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, pulled chicken and sides like BBQ beans, potato salad and mac & cheese.

55. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Anyone willing to travel a bit further for some natural beauty will be rewarded by this 200-acre park, 20 minutes away in Plano.

At Arbor Hills there’s a trail system adding up to about nine miles, including three miles that are paved.

The park is broken down into three main habitats: Blackland Prairie, Riparian Forest and Upland Forest, sustaining birds like woodpeckers, herons, owls and turkey vultures, as well as coyotes, deer, bobcats and several snake species.

There’s free Wi-Fi in the developed parts of the park, as well as a picnic pavilion and playground for wee ones.

Make for the observation platform for a pleasing view of the landscape and parts of Plano.

55 Best Things to Do in Dallas (Texas):

• Dealey Plaza
• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
• Arts District
• Dallas Museum of Art (DMA)
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Klyde Warren Park
• Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
• Reunion Tower
• AT&T Stadium
• Nasher Sculpture Center
• John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
• Meadows Museum
• Dallas World Aquarium
• Pioneer Plaza
• Hall of State
• Children's Aquarium at Fair Park
• Frontiers of Flight Museum
• Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park
• Texas Discovery Gardens
• American Airlines Center
• Design District
• Crow Museum of Asian Art
• African American Museum
• Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
• Welcome to Dallas 3-Hour Small Group Tour by Van
• Magnolia Hotel
• Dallas County Courthouse
• Giant Eyeball
• Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
• Trinity Groves
• The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum
• Museum of Biblical Art
• Mia's Tex-Mex
• Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
• Wilson Building
• NorthPark Center
• George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
• Trinity River Audubon Center
• Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
• Cedar Hill State Park
• Globe Life Field
• Dallas Farmers Market
• White Rock Lake Park
• Highland Park Village
• Swiss Avenue Historic District
• Winspear Opera House
• Six Flags Over Texas
• Founders Plaza (Dallas County Historical Plaza)
• Dallas City Hall
• Bob's Steak & Chop House
• Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse
• Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

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Dallas Travel Guide

If Dallas does one thing right, it’s the high-low. The cinderblock, eat-in-your-car taco and BBQ counters are just as good as the rightfully hyped, celebrity-chef run restaurants. The shiny, new over-the-highway park in the middle of downtown’s skyscrapers is as worth a visit as the thousand lakeside acres at White Rock. And the Lone Star-slinging, perfectly grime-y hole-in-the-wall is as important to Dallasites as the glamorous craft cocktail speakeasy. Speaking of glamour, this is home to the OG Neiman Marcus and shopping galore—which goes head to head with the artisan-driven boutiques cropping up all over town. Mix and match ‘em all, and you’ve got the perfect Texas experience. (Remember: the cowboys—the real ones—live next door in Fort Worth.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Indigo

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

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

The Guild Uptown

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

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

The Westin Galleria Dallas

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

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

The Hilton Anatole Hotel

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

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

Magnolia Hotel

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

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

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

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

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

Ritz-Carlton

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

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

Joule Hotel

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

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

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

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

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

Fearing's Restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mia's Tex-Mex

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

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

Lockhart Smokehouse

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

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

Pecan Lodge

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

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

Torchy's Tacos

Address: Multiple locations Website

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

Revolver Taco Lounge

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

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

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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

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

Reunion Tower

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

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

Dallas Museum of Art

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

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

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

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

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

Nasher Sculpture Center

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

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

Southfork Ranch

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

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

AT&T Stadium

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

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

Globe Life Field in Arlington

Address: 734 Stadium Drive, Arlington, TX 76011 Website

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

Frontiers of Flight Museum

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

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

Address: 1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Website

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

Galleria Dallas

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

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

Neiman Marcus

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

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

Highland Park Village

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

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

Allen Premium Outlets

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

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

Wild Bill's Western Store

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

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

Forty Five Ten

Address: 1615 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 Website

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

NorthPark Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Waze : Real-time traffic information iOs | Android

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

60 Best & Fun Things To Do In Dallas (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 29, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

If you’re looking for a city that makes you feel welcome whether you’re a lifelong resident or just making a pit stop, you should come to Dallas, Texas.

In a state that’s full of cities worth visiting, Dallas is especially wonderful.

In this list, we’ll tell you about the 60 best and fun things to do and see in Dallas, Texas.

Table of Contents

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

ShengYing Lin / Shutterstock

A part of the former Texas School Book Depository, this museum honors the life and legend of President John F. Kennedy, who lost his life in Dallas.

This is one of the best places for learning about an influential leader.

If you’re coming to Dallas this weekend, try to make some time for this museum.

At the Sixth Floor Museum , you’ll really get a primer on President Kennedy.

Exhibits cover important matters like what happened when he was assassinated and how this event shaped history.

It’s one of the most impactful tourist attractions in Dallas, Texas.

If you’re still rather shaky on Kennedy’s story beyond the basic details, this is definitely a good place to come to.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza offers an indispensable history.

It’s open on Mondays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and from Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is $1 for adult guests, $16 for seniors, $14 for youths, and free for children five and younger.

Address:  411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

2. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse

In Dallas, you’ll be spoiled for great BBQ.

However, one of the absolute best places for it is Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse .

This is one of the bigger culinary hot spots in the city.

Coming to Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse is something you have to do if you want to really lick your fingers.

Part of the fun of going to Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse is drooling over the menu.

You might be ready to go as soon as tomorrow when you hear about selections like their ribs, brisket, and pulled chicken.

It’s all made with so much care towards flavor and presentation.

There are four locations in the Dallas area.

Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse deserves to be considered one of the top BBQ joints in Texas.

We feel confident that you’ll have a satisfying experience there.

Check with the locations for their hours.

Address:  2202 Inwood Rd, Dallas, TX 75235, United States

3. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park

You don’t need to still be in grade school in order to enjoy this Dallas aquarium.

Going to the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park lets you see all sorts of unique things.

These are some of the best marine animals the world has to offer.

Giving you a glimpse at creatures you otherwise might not be able to see without deep-sea diving equipment, the Children’s Aquarium is great for both the young and the not-so-young.

It’s so much fun to be able to see colorful creatures like these.

You might also find out you have a future marine biologist in your midst.

It’s hard to blame them for being fascinated, as these species are just so compelling.

The Children’s Aquarium provides families in Dallas, Texas with a truly wonderful time.

Your kids will hopefully love seeing all of these creatures.

It’s open every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Address:  1462 1st Ave, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

4. Studio Movie Grill

Yelp Inc. / flickr

You can see a movie just about anywhere, but Studio Movie Grill in Dallas isn’t just anywhere.

This is one of the best places to check out for entertainment and food.

If you want to see a movie this weekend, do it at Studio Movie Grill.

The best thing about Studio Movie Grill is its variety.

That’s true not only of its movie selection, but also its menu.

Try things like gourmet popcorn, amazing sliders, and all kinds of burgers and pizza.

It’s also what to do if you want to have a great cocktail with your movie.

It’s definitely a lot better than just being stuck with low-rent popcorn and overpriced candy.

Going to the movies should be about more than just giving yourself something to distract you for a few hours.

It should also be losing yourself in the moment and having a good time.

At Studio Movie Grill, you can achieve that feeling.

Address:  11170 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75243, United States

5. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

David Kobuszewski / flickr

Located in Plano, Texas, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a wonderful display of natural beauty near Dallas.

If you’re looking for places to go that are beautiful and rewarding to experience, come here.

It’s one of the most gorgeous places in the Dallas area.

Not only can you get some great exercise hiking the trail, but you can also see some truly stunning wildlife.

There are birds, reptiles, and wildcats all around Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

Be careful to not disturb them, and they should show you the same respect in return.

It’s definitely one of the most appealing tourist attractions in Texas .

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is a knockout of an attraction.

It’s open from Thursdays to Tuesdays from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Admission is free.

Address:  6701 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75093, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Austin  & things to do in Waco !

6. Nasher Sculpture Center

Nasher Sculpture Center

If you’re an art lover, one of the best things to do in Dallas is to go to the Nasher Sculpture Center .

Some of the best works in Texas can be found here.

It’s also an especially great place for couples.

Going to the Nasher Sculpture Center is one of the best activities for igniting some creative passions.

Started in 2003 by late husband-and-wife Raymond and Patsy Nasher, it showcases the ingenuity in sculptures like you might’ve never seen.

There are also extraordinary things to be seen both inside and outside, such as their garden area.

If you’re not able to make it to the museum, it’s possible to view their collection online.

At the Nasher Sculpture Center, you’ll be able to see just how much nuance this kind of art style can have.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for students and teachers, and free for children younger than 12, as well as military members and first responders.

Address:  2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

7. Dallas County Courthouse

f11photo / Shutterstock

You don’t need to have any pressing legal matters to go to the Dallas County Courthouse .

One of the most interesting places to see in the state, it actually hasn’t been used as a courthouse for more than 50 years.

Instead, the Dallas County Courthouse is a celebration of Dallas and its history.

Called “Old Red” by Dallas locals, the Dallas County Courthouse is certainly one of the most important buildings in the city, even if its purpose has changed.

It also includes the Old Red Museum.

Here, you can have fun seeing all sorts of important pieces from Dallas’ story, which is being told to this day.

Whether you want to call it the Dallas County Courthouse or “Old Red,” you should find this to be a very rewarding place to visit.

You can come to the museum every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adult visitors, $8 for seniors, $7 for children, and free for children younger than three.

Address:  600 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

SOLUNA Festival

You’ll need to be careful with your trip planning if you hope to check out SOLUNA .

This is an annual festival and one of the best events in Dallas.

Artists from around the world come to Dallas and share their phenomenal music with anyone they can.

Entertainment is seldom as powerful as it is at SOLUNA.

In addition to the music, SOLUNA also incorporates thought-provoking scientific aspects.

For three weeks, a city flourishing with culture already hosts a one-of-a-kind experience.

The only bad part is that it, unfortunately, has to come to an eventual end.

Being in Dallas during SOLUNA can be like being in New Orleans during Mardi Gras in terms of vibrancy.

You should try to come for at least a few days of the festival.

It’s definitely a great showcase of how much Texas has to offer in terms of arts.

9. Winspear Opera House

Roberto Michel / Shutterstock

Performing arts lovers know the Winspear Opera House is one of the most incredible Dallas attractions.

Part of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, this venue has become one of the most renowned opera houses in barely more than a decade of existence.

If you’re seeking enriching things to do in downtown Dallas, you should come to the Winspear Opera House.

If you think an opera house is destined to be a stodgy venue, irrevocably stuck in the past, think again.

Winspear Opera House is incredible not only for the quality of performances but also for its modern design.

Aspects like the Annette and Harold Simmons Signature Glass Facade and the Sky Canopy are wonders of design that should have you enchanted even before you take your seat.

Once the show starts, the transportation process will be complete.

Venues matter more than people might realize when it comes to creating spectacular live shows.

At the Winspear Opera House, you can have a night out that won’t just fade away after a few days.

The entire complex is a wonderland that’s just waiting for you to come through.

Address:  2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

10. Spa Habitat Organic Spas

Spa Habitat

A vacation is a great way to unwind, but going to Spa Habitat Organic Spas is something you must do if you really want to relax.

These are some of the most satisfying places to go to in Dallas.

If you’re tired from sightseeing and need some rejuvenation, you should come here.

You could be having the time of your life in Dallas, Texas and still benefit from a trip to the spas.

After all, hours of entertainment can be exhausting.

Fortunately, you’ll have these spas to help you get rejuvenated with treatments like massages and facials.

Consider scheduling your appointment around the middle of your trip, as that might be when you’re in most need of some revitalization.

If you feel like you definitely need a spa day, you should come to Spa Habitat Organic Spas.

If you think you might need one, you should still come.

The beauty of going to a spa is that it can make you feel better when you’re feeling bad and even better when you’re already feeling good.

Address:  3699 McKinney Ave # 304, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

Traveling to other areas of Texas? Check out our lists of things to do in Galveston  & things to do in Fort Worth !

11. Deep Ellum

D Guest Smith / Shutterstock

One of the best Dallas attractions for live entertainment, Deep Ellum is a ridiculously cool district.

Come here at night, have a few drinks, and take the time to really enjoy the environment.

There might be something happening this weekend that you have to see.

The musical history of Dallas, Texas couldn’t be written without talking about Dallas Ellum.

Some of the best jazz and blues artists have played here.

Its legacy has not been thwarted, as it continues to offer wonders for visitors and locals alike.

If you’ve been looking to recapture your youth even just a little bit, Deep Ellum is where to go.

Deep Ellum isn’t a place to just cruise through.

While you won’t be able to see all of it in one visit, taking your time to really appreciate your experience is the way to go.

You’ll see why Dallas has so much love as a cultural city when you come to Deep Ellum.

Address: Main Street, Dallas, TX 75226, United States

12. Fearing’s Restaurant

Fearing’s Restaurant

Don’t be afraid to go to Fearing’s Restaurant , as it’s one of the best places to eat in Dallas.

Located inside the Ritz-Carlton, Fearing’s offers Texas dining at its finest.

A list of the top 10 restaurants in Dallas should definitely include Fearing’s.

Named for its founder, renowned chef Dear Fearing, Fearing’s Restaurant has earned so many plaudits that you should probably make your reservation tonight.

Open for lunch, dinner, and brunch, Fearing’s includes amazing offerings like Maple/Black Peppercorn Soaked Buffalo Tenderloin and Baltimore Style Crab Cakes.

There’s also a great vegetarian menu, featuring things like Mesquite Grilled Cauliflower Steak.

All of these items are so delicious, it feels cruel to have to choose between them.

Places like Fearing’s Restaurant are as much about expanding your mind about what food can do as they are about filling your stomach.

Eating here is your opportunity to have one of the most incredible meals possible in Dallas, Texas.

Fearing’s is open for dinner from Thursdays to Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

13. Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum

Dorti / Shutterstock

When you’re touring around Dallas, you should also make time for educational experiences.

A lot can be learned at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum , which is a great place for adults and younger visitors who are mature enough to handle the intense subject matter.

It’s one of the most important places to visit for understanding a tragedy that changed the world forever.

At the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, you need to prepare yourself for a very emotionally intense experience.

Exhibitions include things like an authentic boxcar used to transport prisoners and video testimonials from Holocaust survivors.

It’s enough to leave you speechless for the rest of the day, if not longer.

However, it can hopefully help yourself to grow just a little bit in your empathy.

Visiting this museum might put a very big lump in your throat, but if you feel its too important to skip, make sure to go.

It’s open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $16 for adult guests, $12 for seniors, and $14 for seniors, military personnel, and first responders.

Address: 300 N. Houston, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

14. Dallas World Aquarium

jmanaugh3 / Shutterstock

Another fun place to see fish is the Dallas World Aquarium .

It’s also very cool for how much work is done in terms of conservation.

You can enjoy seeing all the sights and learning about the importance of preserving these species and their homes.

If you love fish, you’re sure to have a lot of fun at the Dallas World Aquarium.

Among its treasures are seahorses, jellyfish, and starfish, octopi, and eels.

There’s also a great recreation of the Orinoco Rainforest, featuring many non-aquatic species.

Some of these include sloths, parrots, and howler monkeys.

The Dallas World Aquarium is like a gateway to another world.

It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $26.95 for adult guests, $18.95 for children, $22.95 for seniors, and free for children two and younger.

Address:  1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202, United State

15. Cedar Hill State Park

aphotostory / Shutterstock

Close to Downtown Dallas is Cedar Hill State Park .

A former farm, Cedar Hill State Park provides activities on land and in the water.

It’s one of the top points of interest for fun for visitors of all ages.

Should you feel like roughing it, there are campsites available at Cedar Hill State Park.

Otherwise, it’s a great place to just spend a few hours, especially for things like fishing and bike-riding.

You can have fun and become quite refreshed in the process.

You might even want to visit multiple times on your trip.

Whether you’re spending most of your day at Cedar Hill State Park or just a few hours, you should get enjoyment out of the experience.

This is a truly wonderful place.

It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  1570 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, United States

Planning a road trip around Texas? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Houston  & things to do in Lubbock !

16. Dallas Museum of Art

Gilberto Mesquita / Shutterstock

Anyone putting together a travel guide for Dallas has to mention the Dallas Museum of Art .

There’s no question that this is one of the best art museums in the country.

At the Dallas Museum of Art, you can have so much fun seeing and learning about all the cool things on display.

The Dallas Museum of Art hosts works that go back thousands of years.

There are also works from around the world, including Texas.

Some awesome exhibitions have also been hosted here, such as “Wearable Raffia from Africa” and “Chagall: Beyond Color.”

Whenever you come, you can count on there being awesome things while you’re there.

You don’t have to be anything close to an art scholar to enjoy going to this museum.

The Dallas Museum of Art is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

There’s no charge for general admission.

Address:  1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

17. Mia’s Tex-Mex

Mia’s Tex-Mex

Much of what we know of as Mexican cuisine is actually a fusion with Texas cuisine known as “Tex-Mex.”

However, when it’s done right, like at Mia’s Tex-Mex in Dallas, it’s a total delight.

This is one of the best places to go in Dallas if you want to have some great tacos and more.

Come to Mia’s Tex-Mex today for items like brisket tacos, rellenos, and quesadillas.

Eating here is what to do if you want to have a meal that will fill you up in the best way possible.

One of their delicious margaritas is also one of the best ways to cap off your meal.

Just make sure you’re not going to be checked out for the rest of the day as a result.

You’ve had a taco before, but you’ve never had one quite like the ones at Mia’s Tex-Mex.

There’s a reason why this place has become such a Dallas institution.

Mia’s Tex-Mex is open on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Tuesdays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  4334 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

18. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Philip Lange / Shutterstock

Do you remember being a kid and how much fun you had by finding out how things worked and unraveling the general mysteries of life?

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in downtown Dallas, you can reignite those passions.

More importantly, you can share that excitement with your children.

One campus of the Perot Museum is located at Victory Park, while the other is located at Fair Park.

At the Fair Park location, you can encounter an awesome IMAX theater and planetarium.

Both are absolutely excellent places to visit, however.

If ever return to the city, you might try coming to the one you missed out on the first time.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science gives minds of all kinds a chance to really expand.

Your kids might have so much fun they may not even realize they’re learning.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

19. Texas Discovery Gardens

Texas Discovery Gardens

This is a discovery that’s going to be lots of fun.

Texas Discovery Gardens features some of the most beautiful sights in Dallas.

A part of Fair Park, it’s a fun place to see all kinds of unique things as well as to enjoy some solitude.

It helps to show why Dallas is one of the most beautiful places in USA .

Texas Discovery Gardens are fun and gorgeous.

Not only does it showcase amazing plants, but there are also plenty of butterflies fluttering about.

Plus, you can see some slithery wonders as part of the “Snakes of Wonder” attraction.

Texas Discovery Gardens lets you channel your connection with nature.

Admission for the Butterfly House and Gardens is $10 for adult visitors, $8 for seniors, $5 for children, and free for children two and younger.

Address:  3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

20. Garden Cafe

Garden Cafe

For some of the best flavor of Dallas and its people, you should come to the Garden Cafe .

This is one of the top places to visit for a quality meal and quality company.

At Garden Cafe, you’ll get to try food made and presented with true integrity.

Garden Cafe specializes in a farm-to-table approach.

It’s hard to miss freshness with ingredients this high-quality.

Some of our favorite dishes here include omelets and turkey melts.

They really know how to make familiar favorites feel new again.

For a dining experience that’s comforting but not completely predictable, you should come to Garden Cafe.

It’s got a great menu made with true pizzazz.

Garden Cafe is open from Saturdays to Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address:  5310 Junius St, Dallas, TX 75214, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Check out our lists of things to do in San Antonio & things to see in El Paso !

21. Bob’s Steak & Chop House

Bob’s Steak & Chop House

You might have been to a Bob’s Steak & Chop House in another city, but going to the original one in Dallas is something you must do.

For decades, this has been one of the best steakhouses around.

Anyone seeking out culinary tourist spots needs to come to Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

A fun day can be made even better by going to Bob’s Steak & Chop House.

There are locations around the country, but we really love the one in Dallas, Texas.

If you love steak, you’ll be in heaven.

Their ribeyes, T-bones, porterhouse, and other cuts are out of this world.

Should you be looking for something lighter, there are plenty of great seafood options available, such as crab cakes and shrimp scampi.

Be sure as well to save room for dessert options, such as bread pudding, creme brulee, and chocolate cake.

You can have a tremendous and filling meal at Bob’s Steak & Chophouse.

We hope you find the right evening to visit.

Call the location you’ll be visiting for information about hours.

Address:  4300 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

22. Reunion Tower

stock_photo_world / Shutterstock

What is Dallas famous for?

Well, quite a lot, but if you’re picturing their skyline, you’re probably seeing Reunion Tower .

This is a must see attraction, and not just from afar.

Going to Reunion Tower is lots of fun and also a very moving experience.

While it’s great to see Reunion Tower from the ground, you need to go up to really experience it.

Looking out from the observation deck is unbelievably fun.

Plus, you can get a meal at the rotating Five Sixty restaurant, founded by Wolfgang Puck.

Reunion Tower is a true achievement in a city that’s not lacking for such things.

It’s open on Mondays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Fridays to Sundays from 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Admission is $18 for adult visitors, $14 for seniors, and $9 for children, ages four to 12.

Address:  300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207, United States

23. Museum of Biblical Art

Daniel Lobo / flickr

One of the best places of interest for Christians and those who follow other paths, the Museum of Biblical Art showcases incredible works inspired by incredible stories.

Some of the best artists who ever lived have pieces on display here.

These are among the most beautiful things to see in Dallas.

Works at the Museum of Biblical Art use the text as a springboard for truly wonderful expression.

Some names you might not expect to see at such a museum have works here, including Andy Warhol.

It goes to show just how important the Bible is, even today.

Seeing the collection at the Museum of Biblical Art is a truly satisfying experience.

It’s open from Wednesdays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular admission is $15, $12 for seniors and students, and $10 for children, ages six to 12.

Admission is free for active military members and children five and younger.

Address:  7500 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75225, United States

24. The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Philip Armitage / Shutterstock

Former President George W. Bush is known for his connections to Texas, and his presidential library and museum lets you really learn about him.

Featuring all sorts of important pieces from his presidency and life, this is a very cool place to visit for those who are fascinated by the work of our Presidents.

In terms of design, it’s definitely one of the top Dallas attractions.

Not only is this an educational experience, but it’s also a very moving one.

You can learn more about the monumental moments in history that Bush presided over, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

This can really give you more appreciation for what leaders have to go through for the sake of their countries.

If you want to see a great facility with lots of learning opportunities, come to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum .

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $21 for adult guests, $18 for seniors, $19 for youths, ages 13 to 17, and $15 for children, ages 5 to 12.

College students also get in for $18.

Address:  2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

25. Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas

There are Six Flags parks throughout Texas, but this is the very first.

One of the best theme parks in any city or any state, Six Flags Over Texas provides truly magnificent thrills for adults and kids.

Located near Dallas in Arlington, Texas, there’s no doubt you’re going to have an exorbitant amount of fun here.

Fun is impossible to miss at Six Flags Over Texas.

The roller coasters are especially awesome.

Some of the ones you’ll have to check out if you love thrills include El Diabo and Judge Roy Scream.

It also includes rides for the younger and less thrill-inclined visitors.

Going to Six Flags Over Texas is a guaranteed way to have the time of your life.

Check the calendar to see when it’ll be operating while you’re in town.

You’ll also need to purchase your tickets in advance of your visit.

Address:  2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76011, United States

Planning to visit other areas of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in New Braunfels  & some of the places to visit in Corpus Christi ?

26. Dallas Heritage Village

While there’s plenty about Dallas that’s sleek and modern, they haven’t lost sight of where they came from.

Dallas Heritage Village is one of the loveliest points of interest in the city.

There are so many cool things to see and to learn about here.

Dallas Heritage Village is part of Old City Park.

It includes a magnificent collection of older homes with Victorian and pioneer designs.

There are also vintage buildings to explore, such as a school, bank, and church.

Put away your smartphone and let yourself enjoy the feeling like you’ve stepped into a time machine.

Going to Dallas Heritage Village is a way to learn about the history of this city in a really cool way.

During the summer, it’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., except for Thursdays, when it’s also open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Admission is $8 for adult guests and seniors.

Visitors under 13 get in for free.

Address:  1515 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75215, United States

27. AT&T Stadium

CK Foto / Shutterstock

If you’re a true football fanatic, you probably already have AT&T Stadium on your list of places to check out.

The home turf of the beloved Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is a great venue for a great team in a great city.

Even those with lower levels of sports fandom should include it on their sightseeing itinerary.

You don’t have to be going to a game to have fun at AT&T Stadium.

Going on a tour of this stadium can bring plenty of satisfaction.

If you go on the VIP Guided Tour, you can get a chance to go on the field.

Being in the stadium during these times lets you appreciate just how big it really is.

Just being inside the walls of AT&T Stadium can be enough to feel like a champion.

Whether you’re seeing a game or going on a tour, this is a truly great place.

We hope you’re able to experience its glory during your trip.

Address:  1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011, United States

28. Klyde Warren Park

Si Vo / Shutterstock

Just outside of the Dallas Arts District is Klyde Warren Park .

This is one of the top parks in all of Texas.

It’s an excellent place for having fun and really enjoying nature.

Whether you’re looking for something to really engage your senses or you just want to chill out, Klyde Warren Park is a fun time.

There are events like movie screenings and musical performances, as well as tons of great bites from food trucks.

It’s also just a great place to focus on nothing more than your breath and the air.

At Klyde Warren Park, love is in the air, and not just the romantic kind.

There’s so much adoration for the community here that you have to see it.

This park is open every day from 6 a.m to 11 p.m.

Address:  2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

29. Dallas City Hall

A city as great as Dallas doesn’t get that way by chance.

It needs to have people doing their best to make it run properly.

When you come to the Dallas City Hall , you can get a better idea of how the city government achieves this and have fun touring a very impressive and essential piece of Dallas.

With its inverted-pyramid design, Dallas City Hall is one of the most beautiful buildings in Texas.

Acclaimed architect I.M. Pei is behind its design.

If you can’t place why it looks so familiar, it played a role in the “Robocop” films.

The good news for you is that’s there’s going to be much less unwelcome excitement during your visit.

Dallas City Hall is a key part of a great city.

You can have a really good sense of how this city functions so well when you’re here.

It’s open Mondays and Wednesdays to Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Address:  1500 Marilla St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

30. Dallas by Chocolate

Dallas by Chocolate

For an experience that’s both fun and sweet, come on a tour with Dallas by Chocolate .

This is a very cool experience, especially if you want to look inside Dallas’ history with chocolate.

You’ll also get to try some of the top chocolate in the country.

As you go on this tour, you’ll have fun not only sampling all these scrumptious treats, but also getting the lowdown from your guide.

For three-and-a-half hours, you can be in total chocolate bliss.

We can sense you licking your lips as you read this.

Just make sure you don’t make yourself sick in the process.

Dallas by Chocolate tours put you in a world of truly wonderful sweetness that you can continue to look back on fondly.

The signature tour runs from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Prices start at $43.

Address:  4925 Greenville Ave Suite 255, Dallas, TX 75206, United States

31. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

All Stock Photos / Shutterstock

Close to downtown Dallas is the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden .

This is one of the top tourist places if you want to see incredible plant life.

It’s also great for couples who are looking for an affordable date activity while in Dallas.

The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is this city at its most lush.

With more than 60 acres to get lost in, you might find yourself achieving a new kind of calm.

The flowers can certainly do wonders for delighting your senses.

If you need a bit of a respite from overstimulation, the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is the perfect place to go.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Tuesdays, when it closes at 5 p.m.

Admission is $17 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for children, ages 2 to 12.

Address:  8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, United States

32. NorthPark Center

One of the most fun things to do in Dallas, Texas can be going to the mall.

NorthPark Center is a truly wonderful shopping complex with lots of cool stores.

If you’ve needed an excuse to pick up a great new outfit, NorthPark Center is where to go.

Some of the stores at NorthPark Center include Louis Vuitton, Macy’s, and Neiman Marcus.

If you’re looking for things beyond clothes, there’s Bath and Body Works and LEGO.

There are also quality places to eat, such as La Madeleine Country French Café and Seasons 52.

NorthParkCenter can truly feel like a paradise for shoppers.

Anyone in Texas who knows about retail therapy can attest to that.

It’s open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:  8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75225, United States

33. Trinity River Audubon Center

Trinity River Audubon Center is among the top sites in the whole country for bird lovers.

Here, you can have fun looking at all these unique species and really appreciate the beauty of biodiversity.

It’s a marvelous experience that makes Dallas one of the best vacation destinations around the world .

Birds you can see here include herons, sparrows, and woodpeckers.

Trinity River Audobon Center does an excellent job of respecting these species and their habitats.

As a visitor, you should follow their example.

Avoid any nuisance activities and follow any and all rules that are posted.

You may be surprised by how much you love coming to the Trinity River Audubon Center, even if you’re not particularly interested in birds.

It’s open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  6500 S Great Trinity Forest Way, Dallas, TX 75217, United States

34. Gemma Restaurant

Gemma Restaurant

You might not expect to get a taste of California whilst in Texas, but Gemma Restaurant provides it.

Owned by two former Californians, Gemma Restaurant has a menu that’s as inspired as it is delicious.

It’s one of the top Dallas attractions for anyone whos serious about new culinary experiences.

At their Dallas location, you’ll have great options, such as spaghetti lobster, halibut, and braised rabbit.

They also have awesome wine and cocktail options.

Gemma Restaurant lets you be lavish and unapologetic about it.

Vacations should be about treating yourself, and Gemma Restaurant is truly a treat.

Come here for a California meal in Texas.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Thursdays and Sundays from 5 p.m. to midnight and Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  2323 N Henderson Ave #109, Dallas, TX 75206, United States

35. Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village

One of the best places to shop in Dallas is also one of the most important places in the nation.

Highland Park Village started the wave of self-contained shopping centers when it first opened in 1931.

Since then, visiting it has been something you must do if you’re in town.

Put some money aside specifically for the fun you’ll have shopping all around Highland Park Village.

Among their amazing stores include Dior, Tom Ford, and Cartier. Of course, it wouldn’t be a great shopping center without great food.

Fortunately, Highland Park Village delivers in that regard as well.

Places like Bistro 31 and Café Pacific provide you with the perfect fuel after you’ve shopped your heart out.

When you’re at Highland Park Village, you’re not just picking up a few items.

You’re experiencing one of the most historically important parts of one of the finest cities in the country.

Highland Park Village is open from Mondays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  47 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

36. The Library Bar

The Library Bar

Bars are rarely points of interest, but bars also are rarely like the Library Bar .

This posh establishment is one of the best places to grab a drink in Dallas.

If you’re looking for one of the most fun tourist attractions, you should definitely come here.

The Library Bar is actually part of the Warwick Melrose Hotel, but if you’re thirsty and wanting to go somewhere that isn’t just run-of-the-mill when it comes to drinks, you need to come here.

If you come at night, you can have fun seeing the live entertainment they have available.

Sitting amongst the locals and other tourists at the Library Bar can be a really fun experience.

You never know what kind of stories you’ll get to hear, and the great drinks make things even better.

The Library Bar is open from Mondays to Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to midnight.

Address:  3015 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

37. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum

Tallmaple / Shutterstock

One of the top places for learning around Dallas is The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum .

Focused on Japanese works, going to this museum is what to do in Dallas if you really want to get a better understanding of another culture.

It’s also a lot of fun to check out all of these amazing exhibitions.

This museum has an incredible “Samurai Collection.”

This includes pieces that these revered Japanese military men wore and used in combat.

You may be astonished by how well they were able to preserve these pieces.

If you’ve ever been to Japan or are interested in joining, this museum may especially interest you.

A place like The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum can’t be found in just any city, and visiting it can teach you so much.

It’s a great place to go for anyone, not just history buffs.

Address:  2501 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

38. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra

Seeing a performance by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is one of the top things to do in Dallas.

Here, you’ll see a musical ensemble that’s part of a tradition that’s been in the city for more than a century.

It also helps to affirm Texas as a music lover’s state.

Performing at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, The Dallas Symphony Orchestra doesn’t limit itself in terms of music played.

Along with classical compositions, there are also performances of beloved rock songs.

Take a look at their schedule and see if there’s anything special coming while you’re in town.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra may be the pinnacle of culture in a city that has such a rich arts scene.

If you have any chance to see them perform, take advantage of it.

You’ll likely be moved in a very profound way.

Address:  2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

39. Dallas Farmers Market

On a gorgeous summer day in downtown Dallas, there’s no better place to be than the Dallas Farmers Market .

This is what to see if you really want a taste of Dallas and its community.

Carve out a few hours in your schedule and devote it to looking all around the Dallas Farmers Market.

Going to the Dallas Farmers Market is your chance to enjoy all sorts of great food from some very kind vendors.

Besides food, you can also pick up lots of excellent craft pieces.

You should make at least one trip to the Dallas Farmers Market.

The Dallas Farmers Market has so much activity and so much to enjoy.

Give yourself all the time you can to really experience it.

It’s open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  920 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

40. Latino Cultural Center

Photo: Andreas Praefcke / CC BY

Dallas wouldn’t be what it is without the profound influence of different cultures.

The Latino Cultural Center is something you must see.

It’s one of those tourist places that can help you to become a more well-rounded person.

With great attributes like a fountain and plaza, the Latino Cultural Center is fun for visitors of any background.

There are free tours available as well as movies and live performances.

It’s definitely one of the most meaningful places to visit in Dallas, especially if you have Latin heritage.

The Latino Cultural Center is a wonderful place for celebrating diversity.

There are also great events that are hosted here.

Some of these include dance classes and events for seniors and youths.

Address:  2600 Live Oak St, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

41. Design District

In a great city full of eye candy, the Design District is one of the most important parts of Dallas.

So many impressive sites can be visited here.

Come by this week if you’re itching to go someplace that will make you feel like royalty.

The Design District hosts some of the finest shops in all of Texas, especially if you’re looking to give your home a revamping.

We’re talking about places like Accent Decor Inc. and Farzin Rugs, Inc.

There are also outstanding places to get food and clothes.

There are so many ways to upgrade your way of life when you’re in the Design District.

When you care about how things look, going to the Design District can be a real treat.

Let your imagination go as far as it can as you look through all of these stores.

You could have an entirely new aesthetic taste on your horizon thanks to coming here.

Address: 1025 N. Stemmons, Dallas, TX 75207, United States

42. Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill

One of the top places to visit for a nourishing meal in Dallas is Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill .

It’s got a delectable menu and wonderful hospitality.

When you’re closing out a day of sightseeing, going to Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill can be a great way to treat yourself.

Your taste buds may go into overdrive just by you reading the menu at this restaurant.

Some of the finest options here include the steak sandwich, Chilean sea bass, and numerous cuts of steak.

It’s the ideal place to go when you have an appetite that absolutely needs to be addressed.

We advise you to savor every last bite.

Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill is a place for people with big appetites and discriminating palettes.

You can get a truly nourishing meal when you’re here.

It’s open from Sundays to Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  5000 Belt Line Rd #775, Dallas, TX 75254, United States

43. Giant Eyeball

When it comes to naming unique Dallas attractions, you have to include Giant Eyeball.

This aptly named sculpture was first in Chicago but is now a delightfully weird part of Dallas.

If you’re looking for unforgettable things to see, look no further.

Measuring 9.1 meters and made of fiberglass, Giant Eyeball is a giant beauty.

Although access is restricted for visitors by a fence, you should still be able to get a quality view of the eye.

It’s a sight for all eyes, not just sore ones.

Attractions like the Giant Eyeball are wonderful curiosities that should be embraced.

It adds so much flavor to a city already teeming with it.

Most importantly, it also just looks really cool.

Address:  1601 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

44. Le Bilboquet

Le Bilboquet Dallas

One of the top New York restaurants also has a location in Dallas.

Le Bilboquet is a place not only for a great meal but also for a nourishing experience for your mind overall.

Try to make a reservation tonight if you’re really looking for a great time.

At Le Bilboquet, you’ll get to try some of the finest French cuisine available in the United States.

We urge you to consider options like the Texas ribeye, the mushroom risotto, and the Dover sole.

Really though, it’s all great, especially when you’re taking in such a marvelous ambiance.

This is a restaurant that’s got every part of the fine dining experience covered.

You can feel so very refined when you’re eating at Le Bilboquet.

Put on your most dapper outfit and let yourself really appreciate just how good of a dining experience you’re giving yourself.

Le Bilboquet’s hours are below:

Wednesdays and Thursdays: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fridays: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sundays: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Address:  4514 Travis St Ste 124, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

45. Founders Plaza

BD Images / Shutterstock

If you just walked past Founders Plaza in Dallas, you might not think much of it.

After all, it can look just like a basic cabin, nothing particularly noteworthy.

However, what if we told you coming here is one of the best things to do in Dallas in terms of historical importance?

While this isn’t the original cabin that Dallas founder John Neely Bryan constructed, it’s quite a beautiful recreation.

A cedar cabin, it was constructed sometime around the mid-19th century, before Bryan had passed away.

Although it has seen different locations, its current one seems to have been good to it.

It’s been there since 1971.

Even a city as impressive as Dallas had to start somewhere.

Founders Plaza lets you see just how much pride this city takes in its backstory.

By coming here, you can really understand the importance of perseverance and how years of effort can result in something truly astounding.

Address:  1700 N Airfield Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States

46. Trinity Groves

Trinity Groves

Looking to experience many different activities in one place in Dallas?

Come to Trinity Groves , where you can shop, eat, and share many laughs with friends and family.

So many awesome sites can be explored at this Texas location.

The fun feels like it never stops when you’re at Trinity Groves.

There are lots of fine places to shop and splendid activities, such as free movies.

However, our favorite thing is their food.

They also do something really cool called “Restaurant Concept Incubation Program.”

This is a chance for new restaurant ideas to get tried-out to see just how much potential they would have.

For a great night out in Dallas, you should come to Trinity Groves.

It definitely offers something for everyone.

Trinity Groves is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  3011 Gulden Ln, Dallas, TX 75212, United States

47. Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

One of the coolest things in Dallas is the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge .

This bridge is gorgeous at any time of day, but especially at night.

It’s definitely one of the most inspiring sites in the whole city.

Going over the picturesque Trinity River, Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge has been a jewel in Dallas’ crown since it first opened in 2012.

Aside from its structural strength and convenience for commuters, it also looks beautiful.

Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this bridge has a jaw-dropping 400-foot arch as its arguable main highlight.

If you’re looking to come out to West Dallas, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is your beautiful gateway.

On a twilight evening, seeing it standing so powerfully can give your goosebumps.

This is a feat of engineering that this city should be very proud of.

Address: Spur 366 Over the Trinity River, Dallas, TX, United States

48. Dallas Zoo

The Travellers / Shutterstock

Going to the zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Dallas.

It’s a must see environment for anyone interested in animals.

If you’re looking for great things to do with your family, you absolutely have to come to this great Texas zoo.

If your kids have never been to the zoo before, we greatly recommend you take them to this one first.

At the Dallas Zoo , you’ll get to see so many exciting creatures.

Some of these include giraffes, tigers, elephants, and gorillas.

Come to the Dallas Zoo for a wildly good time seeing all of these animals.

It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets can be reserved online.

Address:  650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203, United States

49. Meadows Museum

A trip to the Meadows Museum is among the best things to do in Dallas if you’re truly into art.

This museum, founded by late oil magnate Algur Meadows, featuring an absolutely stunning collection of Spanish art.

See if you can come this weekend for a truly eye-opening experience.

This museum is a part of Southern Methodist University, and works go as far back as the 10th century.

If you can name a Spanish artist, there’s a chance you can see their work here.

Some with works on display include Goya, Dali, and Picasso.

At Meadows Museum, you can see just how many ideas can sprout out of just one country.

This Texas museum is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  5900 Bishop Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205, United States

50. African American Museum

Michael Barera / CC BY-SA

Located in Fair Park, the African American Museum is one of the top museums in Texas.

It’s one of the most important places to visit in Dallas if you want to better understand the importance of African American contributions to our country.

If you’re coming to Dallas next weekend, you definitely need to include a visit to the African American Museum.

So much of African American culture is highlighted at the African American Museum.

Exhibitions highlight some of the greatest visual artists and musicians the community has ever known.

There are also many important historical artifacts and photographs here.

The African American Museum is necessary to see for comprehending what a huge impact African Americans have had on society.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and seniors and $5 for children, ages four to 12.

Address:  3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

51. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Located in Grand Prairie, Texas, Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is an absolutely exhilarating experience.

So much watery wonder can be enjoyed here.

It’s fun for anyone who lives for thrills and who isn’t afraid of getting at least a little wet.

If you’ve never been to an indoor waterpark, you might think there’s no way it can be as fun as an outdoor one.

Well, think again, because Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark might be the most unbelievable waterpark you’ve ever experienced.

If you’re skeptical, tell us what you think after taking a ride on the Lasso Loop.

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is the place to be if you want to soak up some excitement.

It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For non-Grand Prairie residents, admission is $22 for guests over 48-inches tall, $17 for guests under 48-inches tall, and $20 for seniors.

Address:  2970 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, United States

52. Wilson Building

Steven Martin / flickr

A historic building that’s more than 100 years old, the Wilson Building is one of the best tourist attractions in Dallas, Texas.

Even if you’re only able to see it from the outside while doing other sightseeing, it’s still a great thing to witness.

Snapping a picture in front of it is worth putting on your list of Dallas activities.

If you’re already seeing the Giant Eyeball, you’ll be in the same vicinity as the Wilson Building.

Named after cattle giant John B. Wilson, this building was first used for retail purposes.

Now, it’s a residential building.

The Wilson Building is definitely one of the most special buildings in all of Texas.

The people who get to live here should hopefully recognize what a historic place they ‘re in.

Don’t let yourself pass up on any opportunity to see this amazing part of Dallas.

Address:  1623 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

53. Swiss Avenue Historic District

If you’re looking for stuff to do related to architecture and history in Dallas, you need to come to the Swiss Avenue Historic District .

Some of the most spellbinding homes Texas has ever known are here.

From their date of completion to today, they’ve been undeniably important parts of Dallas and its story.

Made up of four blocks, the Swiss Avenue Historic District showcases Dallas homes at their finest.

Every house you go by deserves your full attention.

Think about just how attractive these homes are and just how much effort went into constructing them.

The Swiss Avenue Historic District is so well-kept and gorgeous without losing its character.

It’s a testament to city planning that it continues to look so good.

We hope you’re able to find the time to visit it during your trip.

Address: Along Swiss Ave. between La Vista Dr. and Fitzhugh Ave Northeast of downtown, Dallas, TX 75204, United States

54. Crow Museum of Asian Art

EQRoy / Shutterstock

What is Dallas known for?

After finishing this guide, you might say that it’s respect for different cultures, and you wouldn’t be wrong for saying so.

The Crow Museum of Asian Art is another one of the greatest art museums in Texas, with an extraordinary collection available.

Some of the most captivating pieces from the Crow Museum of Asian Art are ones from Japan and China.

You can see pieces going back to eras like the Qing Dynasty.

If you want to further your knowledge of Asian countries and cultures, you ought to come to this museum.

Asian art is some of the most beautiful in the world.

At the Crow Museum, you can really see just how phenomenal it is.

This museum is open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission.

Address:  2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

55. Welcome to Dallas Tour

W. Scott McGill / Shutterstock

You might not have as much time to experience Dallas as you’d like but still want to see as many important points as you can.

If this is the case, you should go on a “ Welcome to Dallas Tour .”

You can get many Dallas activities knocked off your list through one of these tours.

Highlights of a “Welcome to Dallas” tour include Founders Plaza, the JFK memorial, and Deep Ellum.

Over three hours, you’ll be able to tick numerous items off your list.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about securing parking or transportation for all of these attractions.

You could also make friends with other passengers on the tour.

“Welcome to Dallas” tours don’t just fly through destinations without so much as a second thought.

They give you time to learn about and appreciate them in a much more compact amount of time.

These tours depart at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Tickets $55 per person.

Address: 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

56. Fair Park

Named due to its original purpose of hosting fairs, Fair Park in Dallas, Texas could also be called “Extraordinary Park.”

One of the most fun things to do in Dallas is to come to this park.

Lots of excellent activities and great memories can be had here.

Comprising of more than 250 acres, Fair Park shows that Dallas knows how to make the most of their land.

While it’s beautiful no matter when you come, the ideal time to visit is in the fall.

That’s when the Texas State Fair occurs.

Even if you’re not coming for the Texas State Fair, you can still have a truly excellent time at Fair Park.

It’s so very huge and so very awesome.

This city without Fair Park just wouldn’t be the same.

Address: 1300 Robert B Cullum Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210, United States

57. Pioneer Plaza

Dallas, Texas might have never become what it did without the efforts of pioneers.

Going to Pioneer Plaza is what to do if you want to have fun while also realizing just how much value Dallas places in their past.

Its also centered around some truly fantastic works of art.

The main attraction at Pioneer Plaza is the 49 bronze sculptures of steer and three of men on horseback.

These are done with such fine detail.

Look at it through the right lens, and you may feel like you’re back in settlement days.

We might be long past the pioneer days, but that doesn’t mean we have to stop appreciating their historical importance.

Pioneer Plaza is a fantastic tribute to them.

When you come here, you may feel like you’re being emboldened with the pioneer spirit.

Address:  1428 Young St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States

58. American Airlines Center

Petr Fryba / Shutterstock

Another excellent place to see sports and other events in Dallas is at the American Airlines Center .

Not only is it the home of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and the Dallas Stars hockey team, but it’s also where you can see some of the hottest musical acts perform.

Check the schedule today to see if there’s anything especially awesome coming to the American Airlines Center while you’re in Dallas.

Musical arts that have performed at the American Airlines Center include Justin Timberlake, Eagles, and Ariana Grande.

You can get a great view, experiencing these once-in-a-lifetime events.

At a sold-out concert, you could be one of 20,000 cheering fans.

The American Airlines Center is one of the most awesome venues in Texas.

We hope that you’re able to find a great event to attend here.

Consider putting some many aside specifically for big events and keep in touch with their calendar.

Address:  2500 Victory Ave, Dallas, TX 75219, United States

59. Magnolia Hotel

Magnolia Hotel

Even if you’re not specifically seeking out the Magnolia Hotel , this is one Dallas attraction that should quickly grab your attention.

Initially the home office of the Magnolia Petroleum Company, it’s now one of the finest hotels in Texas.

You don’t have to be staying there to have fun at the Magnolia Hotel.

It’ll be hard to miss the Magnolia Hotel, give that its a skyscraper.

With 29 stories, it provides even more great character to the downtown area.

Inside, it’s an absolutely beautiful place for rest and business.

The Magnolia Hotel is a great display of hospitality.

We greatly encourage you to reserve a room here if you can.

It’s definitely a way to make a great trip even greater.

Address:  1401 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

60. White Rock Lake Park

Sabrina Janelle / Shutterstock

To close out our guide, we wanted to highlight another great Dallas park.

White Rock Lake Park is a scenic and blissful piece of Texas.

There are fun activities galore at this beautiful park.

Activities are plentiful in the water and on the land.

You can take out a paddleboat, go fishing, bringing a bicycle, or simply go for a stroll.

Whatever the case, White Rock Lake Park is a haven.

Being in a city’s parks is a way to really experience its distinct character.

White Rock Lake Park is such a fine example of this.

This park is ideal for anyone who just needs a little time to themselves as well as those who want to share some great experience with others.

Address: 8300 E. Lawther Drive, Dallas, TX 75218, United States

Planning to explore other areas of Texas? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, TX  & some of the things to see in Amarillo ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Dallas

Before reading this, your main idea of Dallas might have been that it was a big city in Texas with some sports teams.

That kind of mindset is understandable, but we hope we’ve helped you to break through some of those barriers.

This is a city with so much going on and so much diversity.

These items should let you see why being a resident of Dallas, Texas is also so great.

Things like all of these parks and museums give inhabitants plenty to be proud of.

You might soon be thinking about how soon you can get a place there.

However, we don’t want to get ahead of ourselves.

Use this list as a guide for when you come to Dallas and see just how much you love the city.

You’ll hopefully also find plenty of other great places that aren’t on this list, such as other restaurants and shops.

Trust us, if we listed all the awesome things in this city, you might spend the whole day reading this article.

Four days in Dallas, Texas: the ultimate itinerary

May 15, 2022 • 12 min read

Dallas has multiple public transit options, including free streetcars, so there’s no need to rent a car if you stay downtown © Joseph Haubert / Visit Dallas

When I tell people I live in Dallas , I receive two responses. The most common is, “I’ve never really thought about visiting Dallas.” The other? “I’ve visited but I didn’t really know what to do or where to go.”

Here’s the thing: as someone who has lived in Dallas since 2015, I can totally understand why the city has flown under the radar as a travel destination. Beyond the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas State Fair, Dallas’ attractions are more low-key and focused on neighborhood exploration. It also doesn’t help that the city is a confusing mass of highways, and often misconstrued as a Western honky-tonk, thanks to the 1980s TV show Dallas  (it’s anything but that – trust me).

The Dallas I know is a metropolitan city with a stunning skyline, a rocking arts scene and creative restaurants that led to it being named the 2019 Restaurant City of the Year by Bon Appetit . But unless you have a local guide to lead the way, you might miss out on what makes D-town so special, so check out this Dallasite’s 4-day itinerary to experience the best of the city's culture, history, art and outdoor adventures.

Day 1 is for art and history in downtown Dallas

You don’t need to rent a car if you stay in downtown Dallas. From here, you can take advantage of a number of public-transit options : a free D-Link bus that serves the downtown and Deep Ellum areas, two free streetcars with routes to Uptown and Bishop Arts, multiple DART rail stations, and an underground-tunnel walking system. Plus, rideshares to the destinations on this itinerary won’t be too expensive.

Our top-choice hotel is the Thompson Dallas , for its mid-century modern luxury style and three of the best restaurants in town, Kessaku, Catbird, and Monarch.  You might also consider the HALL Arts Hotel Dallas , which combines art, elegance and a phenomenal location in the Arts District.

Spend the morning revisiting the past

Hop on the free D-Link bus that runs every 15 minutes through downtown Dallas and get off near Ellen’s Restaurant in the West End. Have a mimosa with shrimp and grits or a latte with southern breakfast favorites like biscuits and gravy. After breakfast, hit the pavement to experience Dallas’ notable history.

It’s just a few blocks to the John Neely Bryan Cabin, the first house ever built in Dallas (or at least a replica built in the 1930s). From there you can knock out the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture  (currently being renovated but just the building itself is beautiful), as well as Dealey Plaza and the Kennedy Memorial. The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is well worth visiting, as is the Sixth Floor Museum , where you can learn more about the assassination of John F Kennedy and see the room where gunman Lee Harvey Oswald watched the Presidential limo approach.

Spring for a sit-down lunch or grab a bite to go

Walk to Klyde Warren Park , which is located on top of a highway, and grab something to eat from the food trucks that line the park. Take a moment to relax in the 5.2 acres of green space under the shadow of the skyline.

If food trucks aren’t for you, hop on the free McKinney streetcar (there’s a stop on the side of the park) and ride into Uptown, where there are plenty of sit-down restaurants like San Martín Bakery  and Haywire . When you’re done, you can take the streetcar back to Klyde Warren Park.

Museum-hop through the afternoon

Did you know that Dallas is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States? It’s located across the street from Klyde Warren Park and features a mix of art museums and concert halls.

Start at the Dallas Museum of Art  before heading into the Nasher Sculpture Center  and the Crow Collection of Asian Art. The first is free, with super engaging exhibits and 24,000 works of art in its permanent collection. Find calmness and larger-than-life sculptures in the Nasher's exhibits and gardens, and a compact and compelling collection of Asian works at the Crow Collection of Asian Art.

Have a night out in Deep Ellum

After a refreshing afternoon rest, turn east into Deep Ellum, a hip district with all sorts of entertainment for the evening. This is the heart of Dallas' live music scene and has been since singers like Blind Lemon Jefferson were busking on Elm Street.

Fuel up with Texas-style barbecue from the Pecan Lodge , Mexican bites from Yellow Rosa Cocktaileria , pizza from Cane Rosso , or Cajun cuisine from the  Free Man Cajun Cafe & Lounge .

Iconic venues like the  Bomb Factory , Three Links  and Trees book the latest bands and musicians, but if you want to hear local acts, try your hand at Twilite Lounge or Double Wide . There's endless street art and murals upon which to feast your eyes as you barhop through Deep Ellum: head to Ruins for a night of dancing, or merely enjoy the laid-back courtyard setting at Dot's Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard . And if you get hungry again, Serious Pizza is a favorite for when the late-night drunchies hit.

Day 2 is all about Oak Cliff and the Bishop Arts District

Go for a restorative morning hike.

Sleep in a bit before hiking off last night’s debauchery at Cedar Ridge Preserve. This 600-acre nature preserve has 9 miles of hiking trails, some of which reach an elevation of 755ft.

Then drive into Oak Cliff, the city’s historically Hispanic area, for a hearty, traditional Mexican breakfast at Gonzalez Restaurant on Jefferson Blvd. Order some chilaquiles or a bowl of menudo (tripe stew, a cure for hangovers) and a side of the best tortillas in town.

While away the afternoon wandering the city streets

After breakfast, stroll along Jefferson Blvd, the historic heart of Dallas' Hispanic community. There are some classic buildings here that reveal the district's nearly century-old history, like the  Texas Theatre , where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested.

But the real charms are the long strips of brick storefronts full of vintage Tejano albums, botanica cures and quinceañera dresses. Look for mural art that celebrates Latino heritage and icons such as Tejana singer Selena. Next, pay a visit to the Oak Cliff Cultural Center to learn more about the neighborhood that gave the world T-Bone Walker, Dennis Rodman and Stevie Ray Vaughn. They offer gallery space to local artists and put on events and exhibitions.

A stroll through Kessler Park or Winnetka Heights Historic District with a coffee from Xamán Café  is a pleasant way to check out Dallas' historic homes and get a feel for Oak Cliff, a neighborhood with a long and varied history that's run the gamut from upscale Victorian to mid-century den of the Ku Klux Klan to today's blue-collar and Hispanic community with an artsy side.

As you walk, pop in your headphones and listen to De Colores Radio , an award-winning podcast that arose from the Oak Cliff neighborhood. Host Eva Arreguin and her sister and producer, Pat Arreguin, discuss historical, cultural and political life in Dallas and the South, and also recommend Oak Cliff events, businesses, restaurants and artists.

Grab snacks in the Bishop Arts District

Proceed to the  Bishop Arts District , which is home to tons of cute little shops and galleries, including spots for antiques, homewares, apparel, Mercado369  (a must-shop destination for Latino art) and the lovely Wild Detectives indie bookstore and coffee shop. If you've got kiddos, Dallas Zoo is in this part of town and is  definitely worth visiting .

After all that walking, grab a snack. For something sweet, go to Cretia’s Eatery and Bake Shoppe or Emporium Pies . Tribal All Day Cafe  is a great stop for healthy bites, while Dallas Grilled Cheese Co  is the perfect place for cheesy delights.

Have an easy evening in the Design District

Head west to the Design District for dinner and a low-key evening. Before going to eat, stop at the Sweet Pass Sculpture Park and Dallas’ graffiti and mural art park, called the Fabrication Yard , for Insta-worthy photos of sculptures, graffiti and mural art.

Enjoy dinner at Trinity Groves, a 15-acre foodie hotspot with 14 dining options, sitting at the base of the glowing spirals of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. As you eat, you can enjoy incredible views of the Dallas skyline, including the famous Bank of America Plaza outlined in green lights (locals call it the Jolly Green Giant) and the glittery lollipop that is Reunion Tower.

For more views of downtown, plus a close-up of the Trinity River and Dallas' flood plain, the Trinity Skyline Trail stretches 4 miles and leads to the Trinity Overlook, a short walk from Trinity Groves.

If you’re still up for some fun, see how good your aim is at Lone Star Axe Throwing . For a little nostalgia, have a bowling night at Bowlounge  or play 170 vintage arcade games and pinball machines at Cidercade , which serves cider and wine.

Day 3 is for food tours, culture and entertainment

Spend the morning taking a bite out of black history.

Rise and shine for a cultural adventure in Dallas. Bypass a big breakfast for a cup of coffee and a pastry from a Deep Ellum coffee shop like Fiction Coffee , Merit Coffee Co.  or Noble Coyote Coffee Roasters , then drive to Fair Park , a 277-acre campus that opened in 1886 with the first Texas State Fair.

Today this art deco haven is a center of entertainment and cultural and historic institutions, such as the African American Museum of Dallas , which houses a comprehensive collection that traces the history of Black Americans from Africa through enslavement and Jim Crow and on to the present. The museum also boasts one of the largest collections of African-American folk art in the country, and regularly partners with organizations like Remembering Black Dallas for lectures and other educational events.

It's at the museum where Soul of DFW Bus Tours launches its four-hour Food and Black History bus tour. Starting at 10am, you’ll visit local African-American landmarks and stop in Black-owned restaurants for soul food and dessert tastings.

In the afternoon, see historic documents and immersive art

Before you leave Fair Park, stop by the Hall of State to see where the Dallas Historical Society holds the original Juneteenth document that freed the last remaining enslaved peoples in Texas and the South on June 19, 1866. Return to downtown Dallas to experience a stunning immersive exhibit at Lighthouse Immersive , which has featured the works of Frida Kahlo   and Van Gogh. You can check their website to see what's currently on display.

If you have time, stop downtown at the J Erik Jonsson Central Library . On the 7th floor, you’ll discover a copy of Shakespeare’s First Folio, one of 250 in the world, and a copy of the Declaration of Independence, one of 25 in the world.

Hit the town for dinner and a show

Dinner options are endless in downtown Dallas, especially on Main and Elm Streets. You could have an upscale meal at the subterranean restaurant  Dakota’s Steakhouse , or at the French Room in the Adolphus  hotel. For something more relaxed, Campisi’s , Jaxon Beer Garden  and CBD Provisions are always good choices.

End the evening with a concert, play, opera , musical or show at one of Dallas’ premiere venues, like the  Moody Performance Hall ,  Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center , the Winspear Opera House and the Wyly Theatre (both at the AT&T Performing Arts Center ).

For something more upbeat, consider Latin dancing to a live salsa band at Gloria’s in Addison, or a night out on the strip in Oak Lawn, Dallas’ LGBTIQ+ neighborhood. Lovingly referred to as “the Gayborhood,” Oak Lawn was home to the first gay bar and the first Gay Pride Parade in Texas, and continues to be an important destination for queer culture. At night, the neighborhood’s bars and clubs come to life on Cedar Springs Road. Favorites include two-stepping at the Round-Up Saloon , late-night drag shows at Station 4  and Texas’ oldest lesbian bar, Sue Ellen’s .   

Day 4 is all about the outdoors

Spend the morning at the dallas farmer's market.

Dallas isn’t just barbecue and Mexican food – the healthy heart of the city can be found at the Dallas Farmers Market . The market began as a place for local farmers to sell their produce, but like with everything in Texas, it’s gotten bigger and better.

Start at the Shed, an outdoor pavilion with produce for sale and food stalls serving up breakfast and lunch. Cool off inside the Market Shops, a 26,000-sq-ft food hall and market with artisans selling local wares and specialty foods.

Fuel up with brunch in Lower Greenville

Lower Greenville is a beloved Dallas neighborhood for good reason – it's full of shops, restaurants with patios, and the Granada Theater , which has been alive and kicking since 1946 and is now one of the city's best live music venues, hosting touring acts like the Avett Brothers, ZZ Top, Graham Nash, Adele and TV On The Radio. On Sundays, the neighborhood is also home to  the Underground Market , which has stalls selling home décor, art, and trinkets.

Start the day off right with brunch at Company Café and Bar , Halcyon , the  Libertine  or HG Sply Co . Libertine has hefty burgers and hollandaise, and HG Sply Co offers healthier bites and one of the best rooftops in Dallas. Then again, Company Café serves up Southern breakfast favorites, and Halcyon, bottomless mimosas and fried chicken and waffles.

Get active at the arboretum and White Rock Lake

Next up, head to the nearby Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens , where millions of plants and several Chihuly sculptures add up to one of the best botanical gardens in the south, according to Southern Living magazine.

Then soak up some sun at White Rock Lake. You can hit the 9.4-mile loop trail on foot or bike, get out on the lake in a kayak or canoe (rentals available on-site) or set sail on an adventure with the  Spirit of Dallas .

Wrap up the trip with an alfresco evening

After spending time at White Rock Lake, head back to Lower Greenville for dinner on a patio – enjoy ramen at Wabi House , Tex-Mex bites at Desert Racer , or sliders and shakes at Son of a Butcher .

Don’t leave without grabbing a glass of wine at Leela’s Wine Bar , a tiki cocktail at Swizzle  or a drink at the Truck Yard , a magnet for locals who gather in a large, open beer garden that sometimes hosts live music. Try local brews like Oak Cliff Black Lightning or By the Horns' Helles Lager. The Truck Yard also serves draft cocktails and frozen drinks, such as bourbon lemonade and salted watermelon margaritas.

This article was first published February 2016 and updated May 2022

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Dallas Ft. Worth

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

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

State Fair of Texas

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

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

Dallas Museum of Art

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

The Fort Worth Stockyards

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

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

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

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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

Cedar Ridge Preserve

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

Kimbell Art Museum

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

Six Flags Over Texas

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

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

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

Dallas Cowboy Stadium

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

Texas Theatre

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

Reunion Tower

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

Klyde Warren Park

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

Toyota Music Factory

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

White Rock Lake

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

Pioneer Plaza

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

Trinity River Audubon Center

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

Lone Star Park

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

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Spend Three Days in Dallas, Texas

Featuring a storied past steeped in ranching, cowboys and oil farms, Dallas quickly rose to become one of the biggest cities in Texas. But with a reputation as a financial center, you may be surprised to know that Dallas is teeming with vibrant arts culture to match the many high-rise buildings.

Thanks to the city’s renowned arts district, Dallas is a great spot to enjoy a three-day vacation. Dallas has a glorious mix of museums, galleries, live events and a plethora of pro sport. Add in spacious parks, the cities of Arlington and Fort Worth and you’ll quickly find yourself with a packed itinerary.

That’s where we come in. Read on to discover the top attractions, hidden gems and delicious eats that will have you traveling around Dallas like a seasoned vet.

Where to Stay

Dallas is a spread out city with multiple hubs of activity and fun. However, within the expansive Historic and Arts Districts lays the vast majority of the top attractions in Dallas, Texas. 

Covering 19 blocks in downtown Dallas, the Arts District is home to a series of world-class museums and galleries plus the city’s iconic symphony orchestra. This part of the city features the strongest network of public transport, including connections to the airport. Staying within downtown and Deep Ellum is the perfect way to have all the action on your front door.

Given its location within Texas, it’s hardly surprising that Dallas features some scorching summer temperatures. While this may perturb some, the city comes with a lot of fascinating indoor attractions, museums, malls and, of course, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

But to experience the best of Dallas come during the shoulder seasons for milder temperatures. Make the most of the city’s parks and local hikes. Early fall especially comes with the perfect mix of indoor and outdoor fun. Thanks to a range of pro sports in action from baseball to football and the perfect weather for a day at the park.

Day 1: Parks, Museums, and Towers

Just out of downtown is the Dallas Arboretum, a top place to start your adventures in the Texan city. Sitting on over 60 acres on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden are a pristine display of manicured nature.

Despite the city being presented with the idea of a botanical garden some fifty years prior, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden opened. 

The arboretum has 14 impeccable displays that show off shrubs, trees, seasonal flowers and ornamental plant collections. Within these spaces are a series of festivals, shows, programs and tours that add a layer of atmosphere to the beautiful scenery. 

Beyond the flora are several public art pieces, statues and storybook fountains in parts of the park called Pecan Grove and Texas Town. Once you’ve explored the gardens, link up with the miles of hiking and biking trails that wind around White Rock Lake. 

After some sun and nature, visit one of the best attractions in Dallas, Texas. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is housed within an architectural marvel. The building itself will make your eyes pop as you walk towards the entrance. But such is the quality of the museum that the building is quickly forgotten.

The Perot Museum is split into several sections that provide interactive displays, hands-on games and high-tech exhibits. The dominant themes that the museum covers include technology and engineering, evolution and earth sciences, along with innovation. 

There is also a large 3D theater at the museum which captivates visitors with films about the world we live in. Families will appreciate the onsite Children’s Museum and ensuing playground. While after ticking off the museum, head up the 54-foot escalator that offers amazing views of Dallas and the architecture of the Perot Museum.

On any given day there are food trucks at Klyde Warren Park, the next destination on our Dallas itinerary. If the day is pleasant, walk down to the park and enjoy the beautiful urban space. Covering a large area between downtown Dallas and the Arts District, Klyde Warren Park is also a great launch point for activities all around the city.

But the park itself has a lot to offer visitors. After noshing on some local cuisine under the Texan sun, there are free daily programs such as yoga, boot camps along with outdoor concerts and film. To see what free events are on when you are in town, follow this link .

With some more sun under your belt, make your way to the Dallas Heritage Village. Within the village is the largest collection of 19 th century pioneer homes and old commercial buildings in Texas. It’s rare to find such an insight into life in the 1800s, especially so close to a major city.

For this reason alone, it’s worth the visit. However, Old City Park, with over 20 restored historic buildings built in the mid-to-late 1800s, lives up to expectations. The village does a wonderful job in replicating 19 th century life, in what feels like a functioning and sustainable township. Explore old schools, churches, banks and a wild west-style saloon. 

As the sun falls over Dallas, Texas, there’s no better time to take the journey to the top of Reunion Tower. The tower may not be the tallest landmark in Dallas, but it’s sure the most striking. The building, which opened in 1978, features a geodesic ball which comes to life at night. 

The ball, which stands upon five circular poles, like a golf ball on a tee, looks like a firework paused in time. While views of the tower are stunning, you can enjoy a spectacular sunset from the Geo-Deck Observation platform. The endless views of Dallas, the surrounding landscape and the dazzling horizon make for the perfect way to celebrate your first day in Dallas.

Although there are many ways to enjoy a night in Dallas, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is a top choice for many. The orchestra has been playing for over a century, growing into a world-renowned ensemble while performing in the inspiring Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. 

You may spot the building on your travels to the top of the Reunion Tower. The symphony center is an iconic landmark appropriately placed in the heart of the city’s Arts District. To see what concerts and events are on while you’re in Dallas, explore the symphony calendar .

Where to Eat

For lunch head to the local institution of Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop. With cheap and delicious eats in a nostalgic decor, you’ll be enjoying the simple life before heading out to Klyde Warren Park.

For dinner, take your loved ones to The Woolworth. Featuring an upscale menu, craft cocktails and amazing share plates, The Woolworth is all about scratch made food and creativity.

Day 2: Markets, Art, and Cowboys

After a night of arts and culture, begin your second day in Dallas by experiencing one of the top local events. The Dallas Farmers Market is far from a pop-up collection of local vendors and farmers. The well-appointed public market is a permanent feature on the calendar selling fresh produce, fruit, veggies and farm-to-table cooking.

The market has a long history, having begun in the 19 th century with humble beginnings. What was once a local collective selling their wares from wagons is now a market spread over four sheds. Sheds one and three are specifically for fresh produce. Shed 2 is home to delis along with a selection of small restaurants to enjoy. While shed four is all about wholesale vegetables and fruit.

Couples, friends and family will love beginning their day wandering past the stalls in each shed and sampling the local eats. With many parks well-placed around Dallas, why not pick yourself up some food for a midday picnic?

After the farmers market, the Dallas Museum of Art awaits. Along with the Symphony Center, the Museum of Art has long been a major part of the Dallas Arts District. Since its doors opened to the public in 1903, the museum has grown to be one of the largest in the country.

Featuring a collection of almost 25,000 pieces from all around the world, the Museum of Art covers many eras and subjects. Major exhibits include the European Art Gallery, with paintings from such icons as Claude Monet. Visitors will also enjoy artifacts and works from ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. 

The Dallas Museum of Art has a series of rotating exhibits to complement what remains year-round. This provides fresh fun for returning visitors, keeping the art museum in its rightful place as one of the best in the United States.

Speaking of art, Dallas’ sprawling Arts District continues to grow with the addition of the Nasher Sculpture Center at the turn of the 21 st century. The center is a collection of contemporary sculptures just a brief walk from the Dallas Museum of Art.

Within the tree-lined garden are several outdoor displays to enjoy, with the option of a picnic among the art. There is also a spacious indoor area with more sculptures and creations from the likes of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and more. 

Football fan or not, AT&T Stadium, the home of the iconic Dallas Cowboys, is one of the top attractions in Dallas. Located half way between Dallas and Fort Worth, the stadium is a quick 20 minute drive from downtown. If you want to go see a football game while in town, nothing beats catching a Cowboys game. 

Tickets can sell out, especially for important games, so if you know you want to see the Cowboys, or your hometown team in action at AT&T then book ahead.

If you aren’t in Dallas when a game is on, then don’t fret, you can still take part in a memorable stadium tour . Explore the world-class arena, with the chance to throw a football on the famous turf, visit the Cowboys locker room, media areas and the Miller Lite Club!

After venturing to the stadium, continue on further until you reach Fort Worth for an evening of cowboy culture. The Fort Worth Stockyards are only 40 minutes from Dallas, and are packed with brick walkways featuring restaurants, clubs and boutique stores.

Depending on when you arrive, head to Exchange Avenue at 4pm to witness modern-day cowboys lead their massive longhorns down the road. Later, explore the Livestock Exchange. Once a live cattle auction site, it’s now a fascinating look in cowboy life and the local history.

When the night has truly arrived, wander into the largest honky-tonk on earth, Billy Bob’s Texas. Dance the night away with endless two-steppin’ fun and try your hand at the bar’s mechanical bull.

Found in the Dallas Arts District, Ellie’s Restaurant and Lounge is home to one of the best brunches in the city. Although within the HALL Arts Hotel, expect a lively atmosphere featuring southern eats and delicious pancakes.

Before venturing to Cowboys Stadium, pay a visit to Monkey King Noodle Company for lunch. Come here for noodles that will send you to heaven, and soup dumplings that will have you reconsidering your evening plans.

When at the Fort Worth Stockyards, you must do what the locals do and eat steak. At H3 Ranch, within the Stockyard Hotel, you can enjoy a top-notch steak within a cowboy atmosphere. 

Day 3: History, Rollercoasters, and Zoos

One of the top historical attractions in Dallas is the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. The infamous building is dedicated to telling the story of the assassination of President Kennedy, who was shot dead in 1963.

The building that was once a book depository was where Oswald stood when he fatally shot the leader of the United States. The museum does an incredible job of highlighting the political climate leading up to the assassination, including a thorough insight into the last days of John F. Kennedy. 

Afterwards, visitors will explore exhibits that focus on the days after the tragic event, including the ensuing investigations. Several artifacts like scale models used by the FBI and forensic evidence are on display.

To make the most of the experience, you can sign up for a guided tour that will go through the harrowing event in greater detail. 

As your time in Dallas winds down, there are two remaining activities that will add the cherry on top of your vacation. One option is the popular Six Flags, the first of its kind in Texas.

Featuring endless adrenalin-packed rides and just 20 minutes from downtown, Six Flags will enthrall the entire family. The most iconic ride in the park is The Titan. The rollercoaster comes with an immense 225 ft (70m) drop and reaches speeds of up to 85 miles (137km) per hour!

There is also Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, perfect on a hot Texan day. Cool off on the water slides, in the wave pools or by riding the lazy river.

Your second option is perfect for those with younger children. The Dallas Zoo is one of the best things to do in Dallas with kids. The Dallas Zoo is one of the oldest in the United States, having opened in 1888. With over 400 species of animals in a variety of habitats, there is so much to see.

The zoo is sectioned up to represent different regions and continents, including the Giants of the Savanna, Wilds of Africa, and the Wildlife Amphitheater. 

Grab a mix of the zoo and theme park experience thanks to the zoo’s Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park with bungee jumps and free-fall experiences.

For breakfast on day 3, make your way to Uptown Dallas to dine at the Mercat Bistro. Serving French-inspired morning treats, relax and enjoy your delectable eats among gorgeous decor and antiques.

If you didn’t grab some eats at Six Flags or the Zoo, then finish your time in Dallas with some classic barbeque. Pecan Lodge pairs their smoked meats with a great selection of beer and wine. Celebrate your 3 days in Dallas with some mouthwatering brisket!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, sports fan or art connoisseur, Dallas has something to offer every type of traveler. With Dallas-Fort Worth nearby, accessing the city is easy, with hundreds of flights a day. So there’s never a bad time to visit.

Come for the Peret Museum and discover a city of underrated architecture and public parks. Time your run to see your hometown team play the Cowboys, the Rangers or the Mavericks to round out your weekend. 

Better yet, bring the entire family to experience the Fort Worth Stockyards, Dallas Zoo or the Reunion Tower. Either way, keep this itinerary handy and have a memorable 3 days in Dallas!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Dallas’s 12 most gorgeous restaurants for Mother’s Day celebrations

Dallasites are known for getting dressed to the nines, so naturally, the city is packed with stunning, larger-than-life restaurants to go all-out in. 

A 16-foot crystal horse sculpture dazzles at a steak and seafood favorite. Faux lemon trees and ocean-inspired interiors bring the Amalfi Coast to Uptown Dallas. Steel-paneled columns etched with cherry blossoms complement the Japanese-Peruvian food at an acclaimed hotel hotspot. 

Dallas’s dining scene serves up grandeur alongside impressive menus. It’s near-impossible to pick just a dozen gorgeous restaurants, but here is a guide to the 12 most beautiful restaurants in Dallas.

Fearing’s (Uptown)

At local celebrity chef Dean Fearing’s namesake restaurant in the Ritz-Carlton, every design detail is carefully considered. The vibe is swanky Southwestern and achieved with onyx art frames, a chandelier with tangled steel antlers, and a copper-hooded open kitchen. Choose from three dining rooms for your surf-and-turf feast (don’t miss the famous tortilla soup), plus a glamorous bar and an outdoor patio with sweet city views. 

Carbone (Design District)

Whatever designer Ken Fulk touches turns to gold, and this Dallas hotspot—an Italian American import from NYC—is no exception. From the neon sign out front to the granite in the bathroom to the golden booths carved right into the wall, Carbone drips with mid-century Venetian glam. A 1950s-flavored playlist matches the retro digs, and when the weather permits, there’s a sceney terrace with a red carpet, rattan chairs, and jewel-toned banquettes. Don’t skip the world-famous meatballs.

Trick Rider (Frisco)

At this sexy steakhouse, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the 16-foot horse, made from over 4,075 crystal beads. That shiny statement piece is most definitely the main event at Trick Rider, but its cowgirl-chic setting also includes a giant horseshoe-shaped bar, walls adorned with vintage rodeo photos, and a ceiling mural of the Texas sky. Take in the opulent backdrop at the bar over oysters and a martini, or go all out with a Wagyu strip feast in the dining room. 

Nobu (Uptown)

There’s a reason this icon thrives in over 50 locations around the world. OK, that  reason is world-class sushi, but Nobu Dallas is also downright beautiful. From the clustered lanterns to the steel-paneled columns etched with cherry blossoms, this Japanese Peruvian hideaway drips with elegance. Dishes are presented just as thoughtfully: The crispy rice and tuna appetizer is served with tiny spoons that recall caviar service, and the cappuccino dessert is topped with a miso brûlée. 

Crown Block (Downtown)

Whether you’re a local or tourist, you should check out this steak-and-seafood destination for 360-degree Dallas views. Crown Block is set inside the iconic twinkling ball at Reunion Tower and wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows. But it’s not only about the view, thanks to sumptuous decor that also includes unique made-in-Texas art, a sprawling wine-display wall, and an open dessert station.

Kessaku (Downtown)

If you want to see Dallas at its prettiest, head up to the 50th floor of The National skyscraper and grab a seat in this sultry sushi and sake lounge. Velvet banquettes and colorful throw rugs complement the bird’s-eye view of downtown. Once you’ve had enough of your scenic surroundings, shift your attention to the menu, full of creative spins on rolls, like the truffle-topped King crab. Even diners who know their way around a sake menu will be impressed by Kessaku’s extensive selection.

The Mexican (Design District)

This award-winning northern Mexican restaurant wows with jewel-toned furniture, Day of the Dead imagery, and one spectacular tequila display wall. It also carries an air of exclusivity, underscored by its members-only cigar lounge and private dining room displaying Oaxacan art. Expect elevated Mexican street food featuring elote mixed with lobster, bone-marrow tacos, and a show-stopping margarita sprinkled with citrus gold salt. 

RH Rooftop Restaurant (Knox/Henderson)

Ascend a curved staircase from RH’s furniture display room, and you’ll step into the lush garden oasis that is RH Rooftop Restaurant. Heritage olive trees stretch up to the skylight, shrubbery lines the banquettes, and fountains and chandeliers fuel one of the most lavish indoor-outdoor atmospheres in town. The menu is just as ritzy, featuring artisanal prosciutto platters, perfectly charred ribeye steaks, and a knockout lobster roll—hard to find in Dallas. 

Dragonfly at Hotel ZaZa (Uptown)

Dragonfly at the award-winning Hotel ZaZa leans into maximalist decor like clustered drop lights, a mirrored bar, and funky artwork, which includes a wall papered with faces. But you might be here for a coveted outdoor seat with views of the hotel pool, marble fountain, and greenery. The snacky menu is as eclectic as the setting, featuring lamb lollipops with pistachio-mint pesto and a spicy crispy chicken sandwich on a grilled brioche bun. 

Commons Club at Virgin Hotels Dallas (West Dallas)

Minimalist furniture, tamboured wood walls, and whimsical Instagrammable touches—like an oversized swing and a neon “you are welcome” sign—distinguish this Virgin Hotels restaurant. Even the ingredients are pretty here: Decor includes a charcuterie case lined with housemade pâtés and fermented vegetables; an on-site garden supplies garnishes and produce in the French-meets-Texan dishes like a Comté cheese tartlet with wild herb salad and day boat fish with asparagus and garden peas. 

The Mansion Restaurant at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (Turtle Creek/Oak Lawn)

This French restaurant is celebration central. For starters, it’s housed in an estate-turned-hotel with grand pillars, intricate crown molding, and white marble. But its restaurant is the property’s undeniable crown jewel: The main dining area is set under a dramatic arched passageway featuring a stained-glass wall and another with sweeping terrace-facing windows. Its seven-course tasting menu, complete with wine pairings, was made for special occasions.

Dolce Riviera (Uptown)

Take a trip to the Italian Riviera at this transportive restaurant, which features ocean-inspired blue and white interiors, hardwood floors, and dainty drop lights. Dolce Riviera’s MVP is a spacious patio with spectacular faux lemon trees that form a canopy, plus a retractable roof. Naturally, the menu is a tribute to the Amalfi Coast and filled with housemade pastas like paccheri with rock shrimp and Calabrian chile and a can’t-miss gnocchi with black truffle cream. 

Diana Spechler is a novelist and essayist whose work appears in The Washington Post , The New York Times , The Guardian , Harper’s , and elsewhere. She writes a Substack about travel called Dispatches From The Road.

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Texas Map Shows Where High Speed Rail Route Would Travel

Plans for a 240 mile-per-hour high-speed railway between Dallas and Houston received a major boost on April 15 when President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida both expressed support for the plan in a list of understandings released by the White House.

The proposal, which would be based around Japanese Shinkansen technology, would cut journey times between Texas's two biggest cities to 90 minutes according to developers, making it quicker than flying once time spent at airports is factored in.

According to figures produced by Amtrak and Texas Central, the proposed high-speed rail link would reduce the number of cars traveling on Interstate 45 per day by 12,500 and slash annual greenhouse gas emissions by over 100,000 tons.

Earlier this month construction began on a 218-mile high-speed rail line between southern California and Las Vegas.

Texas Central, a Dallas based company, has been pushing for a high-speed rail line between Houston and Dallas for several years, though it faced opposition from some landowners along the proposed route and suffered a blow when CEO Carlos Aguilar resigned at the end of 2023.

The proposed route largely runs along an electrical utility corridor between a site situated on the southern outskirts of downtown Dallas and the now-defunct Northwest Mall in northwest Houston.

In August 2023, Amtrak, America's national passenger railroad company, and Texas Central announced they were exploring developing the plan as a partnership.

In the press release, Texas Central CEO Michael Bui commented: "This high-speed train, using advanced, proven Shinkansen technology (from Japan), has the opportunity to revolutionize rail travel in the southern U.S., and we believe Amtrak could be the perfect partner to help us achieve that.

"We appreciate Amtrak's continued collaboration and look forward to continuing to explore how we can partner in the development of this important project."

According to Houston Public Media Amtrack senior vice president Andy Byford said: "This is very much a project that Amtrak is now leading.

"I have to make sure that in any recommendation I give to my CEO and to my board, that it is a project that is worthwhile pursuing. And right now, having looked at the revenue forecasts and done our due diligence to date, I still think that is the case. That again, though, does not mean that it's a done deal."

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Speaking at Fort Worth on April 7 Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg gave his backing to the outline proposal commenting: "We believe in this.

"Obviously, it has to turn into a more specific design and vision, but everything I've seen makes me very excited."

Newsweek has contacted Texas Governor Greg Abbott for comment by email.

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About the writer

James Bickerton is a Newsweek U.S. News reporter based in London, U.K. His focus is covering U.S. politics and world politics. He has covered the intersection between politics and emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence. James joined Newsweek in July 2022 from LBC, and previously worked for the Daily Express. He is a graduate of Oxford University. Languages: English. Twitter: @JBickertonUK.

You can get in touch with James by emailing [email protected]

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The many world-class attractions of Dallas are just what you expect: big, immersive and breathtaking! There's so much to see in Dallas - you'll need these guides to help you pick the best ones for your visit.

Take an overhead look at the city from the GeO-Deck of Reunion Tower , the iconic landmark of Dallas. Or take a tour of the AT&T Stadium , a modern marvel in itself and also home of the nation's most well known team, the Dallas Cowboys .

Take advantage of the nation's largest arts district, as well as the rest of the vibrant art scene throughout the city, and visit some of the world's best exhibits of modern and ancient art. Check out Klyde Warren Park for immediate green space in the city, with events and programs happening all the time, including fun for kids . Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden to wander through lush floral colors, in bloom all year round.

To get the family outside, plan a visit to the Dallas Zoo , the largest and oldest zoo in Texas. And don't miss the Children's Aquarium Dallas where it's hands-on, hands-wet fun.

If you're planning a trip soon, check our list of Kids & Family Events to see what's happening now. Need a ride? Take DART - here's a glance at just a few of the Attractions that are DARTable. And don't forget the deals and discounts available through the Dallas CityPASS , an admissions ticket that can save you up to 50% on top Dallas attractions.

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The Dallas dining scene has something for every palate. Whether you want the bold Texas flavor of smoked brisket or perhaps a crisp summer salad, Dallas chefs and restaurateurs make your dining decision one you won't regret.

Ready for a family trip to Dallas? From nature and science excursions to one-of-a-kind experiences, there’s something for every member of the family. Grab the camera and make your way to your next adventure.

Experience Dallas’ vibrant and immersive art scene. From critically acclaimed performing arts centers to funky street art and public works, Dallas offers a world of inspiration.

Once the sun sets, there’s no shortage of adventures in Dallas. From live music to cocktails on the rooftops, make sure your Dallas plans include a night out.

Shopping is a sport in Dallas! Whether it's luxury brands you long for or a family- and budget-friendly spree, there's no shortage of retail adventures.

Looking to get outdoors during your next visit to Dallas? Use these fun events, activities, and happenings to create your next outdoor adventure!

Dallas is home to seven professional sports teams including, the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, Dallas Jackals, Dallas Wings and FC Dallas. We're also host to several major sporting events like the Mexico National Team, college football games, e-sports competitions and more!

Treat yourself to a day of self care at some of the best spas the city has to offer. More than just pampering, a trip to a day spa is about making your wellness a priority. Here are some of the best places to relax, unwind and soothe your senses in Dallas.

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The 13 best resorts in Texas for a Lone Star State getaway

As a native Texan, I can tell you firsthand that the old phrase "everything is bigger in Texas" is true. The skies are vast and blue, the mouthwatering barbecue is limitless and the best resorts in Texas span from the Gulf of Mexico, across the Hill Country and beyond.

Whether you're a Texan like me looking for a great in-state vacation or you're from elsewhere heading down to experience Tex-Mex and two-stepping, the resorts in Texas have something for everyone. Options include everything from luxurious, high-end properties to working ranches where you can get your hands dirty with the whole family.

In the Texas Hill Country, you can fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and experience a taste of Texas cool. Or, you can head to San Antonio International Airport (SAT) for the Mexican- and Spanish-infused spirit that permeates the culture before heading off to a spa resort. Both the Houston and Dallas areas have multiple airports, making it pretty easy to get to two world-class cities and the regions beyond.

The majority of the best resorts in Texas are classic (think: wide open spaces, pools and activities). Others emphasize spa services or offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of a major city like San Antonio .

Either way, you can't go wrong with any of these fabulous Texas resorts.

Austin may be an oasis for music, technology and tacos, but it also offers plenty of places to get outside in nature and relax, including the all-inclusive Lake Austin Spa Resort , found 30 minutes from downtown by car or via water taxi.

Forty rooms with private porches, tall ceilings and soaking tubs await guests looking for a tranquil escape; all of your meals are included in the rate, plus snacks, juices and smoothies.

Outside of the airy rooms, activities abound. Take advantage of the included lake equipment like stand-up paddleboards, kick it in a hammock by the water with a book or splash around the resort's two pools.

Related: The best hotels in Austin, Texas

But the real star of the show here is the 25,000-square-foot spa that includes treatments (for an additional cost) like signature facials or deep-tissue massages, plus saunas, whirlpools and steam rooms. Sure, it's on the pricey side, but after a full day of hiking, a few hours in the spa and an order of room service will be worth it.

Rates at Lake Austin Spa Resort start at $1,100 per night, based on double occupancy.

There are many reasons to love Lost Pines , a TPG favorite resort and one that offers something for the whole family — seriously. You can spend your days lounging along on the 1,000-foot lazy river , learn the art of archery, go horseback riding or play a round of golf on the resort's 18-hole course. Parents can rest easy knowing there's a kids club (open for ages 3 to 12) where you can drop off the little ones and then spend a few leisurely hours at the on-site spa.

It's just 20 minutes from the Austin airport, and the food is as diverse as the Texas capital. Start the day with a classic buffet breakfast (biscuits are a must), grab a wood-fired pizza and a patio seat for lunch; then, look forward to a range of dinner options, including a Texas-style roadhouse with chicken fried steaks (also a must), an upscale steakhouse and a 10-seat sushi restaurant.

Rooms are airy and modern with a just touch of Texas twang (think: western posters on clean white walls and the occasional sliding barn door). For larger groups, consider booking a family suite or even the 2,600 Littleton House, which has a living room, kitchen and two bedrooms.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa start around $349 per night or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

San Antonio is one of Texas' most vibrant cities, and it's full of good food, great attractions and an impressive resort called La Cantera. The resort puts you close enough to all the action, yet it has so much to offer that you might not want to ever step foot off the property.

At La Cantera, rooms have an elegant but rustic feel with highback leather armchairs, huge leather headboards and a muted sensibility that makes relaxing easy. While the resort is totally family-friendly, it also happens to offer an exclusive adults-only floor and experience called "Seven" that offers a private check-in area and lounge.

While at the resort, activities abound. Kids can enjoy activities at the kids club while the adults hit up the spa. Guests can also lounge by the pool in a cabana, roast s'mores as a family around a fire pit, play a round of golf on the 18-hole course or take the free shuttle to Six Flags Fiesta Texas for some scream-worthy thrill rides.

Just don't forget to eat: Food options range from casual Tex-Mex to a high-end restaurant for dinner and everything in between.

Rates at La Cantera Resort & Spa start around $280 per night.

For a wellness-centered retreat, there's nowhere in Texas better than Miraval Austin . It's an adults-only resort — and TPG favorite — that offers an all-inclusive-like experience with all meals and many activities included in the nightly rate. Even better, the resort is mostly "unplugged," meaning that you can feel good about disconnecting for a bit while you're there.

During the day, hit the Life in Balance Spa for healing spa treatments, take wellness classes like Rise and Shine Yoga or Cardio Drumming, then spend the afternoon conquering the challenge course or taking a cooking class. Or, simply relax by the pool and bask in the warm Texas sun. (Just note that spa treatments and some activities are an additional fee.)

At the resort, guests are invited to enjoy three daily health-conscious meals at The Hilltop Crossings Kitchen; they can also learn about their gut health or healthy eating habits through sessions with nutritionists or classes.

Rates at Miraval Austin Resort and Spa start around $1,200 per night or 65,000 points, based on double occupancy.

Luxury knows no bounds with Auberge, and that's exemplified at the Commodore Perry Estate — a resort spread over 10 acres in Austin that'll have you wondering if you're in Texas or actually somewhere in Europe.

At Commodore Perry, rooms are grand and chic and can be found in the resort's historic mansion or the Inn. In either location, expect beautiful spaces full of art, four-poster beds and a cheeky in-room shopping experience called "The Estate Sell."

Days at this Auberge can be as relaxed as you want. Soak up the sun by the pool and then learn the ins and outs of tequila during a tasting. Or, opt for an experience that'll keep your mind and body active (think: yoga, hiking or joining a HIIT class). For something extra special, you can even set up an experience where you shop for custom boots with a glass of Champagne in hand.

Fresh meals full of ingredients from local farmers and Texas ranchers are on offer at Lutie's Garden Restaurant — a Ken Fulk-designed space that pays tribute to the woman originally behind the former estate.

Rates at Commodore Perry, Auberge Resorts Collection start around $520 per night.

A member of Preferred Hotels and its I Prefer program , the Houstonian is a classy and classic city resort. It's near all the fabulous shopping of Houston's Galleria area, lush parks full of hiking trails and the arts, culture and diversity of America's fourth-largest city .

Set on 27 acres and decked out in a swanky Texas style, the property actually used to be home to former president George H.W. Bush. Now, the resort has 284 rooms and suites; a Trellis spa with a new outdoor soaking pool and a garden; tennis courts; and three different climate-controlled pools, including one with a waterslide and one perfect for swimming laps. In fact, the resort actually doubles as a sports club, so don't be shocked if you see high-performance athletes training.

Houston has no shortage of incredible dining, and the Houstonian is absolutely part of the scene. It offers a handful of restaurants, including an upscale option serving up flavors of Texas, Louisiana and Mexico; a patio bar and grill; a poolside dining area; and a coffee and juice shop.

Rates at the Houstonian start around $469 per night. Or, members of I Prefer can book with points or cash and receive elitelike perks, including potential room upgrades, early check-in or late checkout and more.

Slightly west of Austin in the rolling hills, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is an oasis of relaxation and fun that serves up a side of gorgeous Texas sunsets. Here, you'll wake up in a room with huge windows that provide natural light and views of the surrounding hills; then, you can set off for all the adventures the resort has in store.

For starters, head to the Mokara Spa for a rejuvenating treatment then relax on your favorite level of a tiered pool deck. (It offers three different pools, including an adults-only option for people without kids.) The rest of the day is whatever you decide to make of it: Play a round at one of four golf courses, join in on one of 30 weekly fitness classes or take a private tennis lesson. You can also see what the seasonal activities schedule offers; it normally includes things like bounce houses for kids, arts and crafts and miniature golf.

Eight restaurants, bars and dining experiences — including a true Texas-style steakhouse, a Latin restaurant, an in-room dining option and poolside bites — round out the resort.

Rates at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa start around $343 per night.

North of sprawling Houston, Hilton Honors fanatics can book a vacation with points at The Woodlands Resort, a Curio Collection property that makes for a great trip, whether you want to stay for a weekend or an entire week.

There, 402 rooms and suites offer comfort for all. Some rooms open right up to a patio or balcony, and club-level rooms offer access to the Canopy Lounge. For even more fun, book a room that opens up directly to the pool.

Other on-site activities include golfing on 36 holes; a water park with a 30-foot waterslide and lazy river stretching over 1,000 feet; biking and jogging pathways; and even access to water sports equipment like pedal boats, kayaks and standup paddleboards. Feeling sore after all that activity? Book an in-room massage.

Food options include the Back Table Kitchen & Bar overlooking the golf course, a poolside grill, breakfast and lunch at Harrison's, and a lobby bar serving Texas classics until midnight.

Rates at The Woodlands Resort start around $230 per night or 60,000 Hilton Honors points.

Down in Galveston on the Gulf of Mexico, there's no hotel more iconic than the pink-hued Grand Galvez, aptly called "the Queen of the Gulf." Dating back to 1911, this resort has seen it all: It has hosted presidents, served as a wartime command center for the U.S. Coast Guard and managed a handful of brands before landing as a Marriott Autograph Collection property in 2023.

Now, it has been restored to its century-old splendor, featuring stunning and stately public spaces. Founders Bar has massive red chandeliers and a specialty cocktail called the Ghost Bride, named after a ghost that allegedly still calls the resort home. (If you're curious about the otherworldly, sign up for a ghost tour around the property.)

Guests can enjoy a luxurious spa, a popular Sunday brunch, an Instagram-worthy pink cabana at the pool and even soon-to-open private beach access. There's also an on-site boutique with stylish resort wear, an espresso bar and a restaurant serving seafood and steak.

Rates at The Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection start around $184 per night or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Marfa, Texas, is a haven for art lovers and a great entry point into rugged West Texas. About 30 miles away, Cibolo Creek Ranch offers a homey way to experience life in the west — Texas style — on a 30,000-acre ranch that dates back to the late 1800s.

At Cibolo Creek, guests get an immersive experience that starts in accommodations. Options range from poolside rooms to haciendas and forts full of rustic furniture, many rooms with fireplaces and included breakfast. Plus, guests to the ranch can enjoy an outdoor pool, pickleball courts, dining on Mexican food inside an adobe fort and more.

While at the ranch, newbie cowboys and cowgirls can enjoy activities like horseback riding, ATV tours, birding, mountain-view yoga, spa treatments, shooting sport clays or learning about the area's history.

Rates at Cibolo Creek Ranch start around $408 per night.

In San Antonio, you definitely won't forget to "remember the Alamo," and you're sure to enjoy a rush of excitement at Six Flags Fiesta Texas or SeaWorld. After days packed with activity, if you're looking for a relaxing resort that packs a powerful punch, don't pass up a stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country. It has more than enough to keep your crew entertained.

At the 600-acre resort, you don't even have to leave for a full-on water park experience thanks to the resort's on-property water park, River Bluff Water Experience. It features 9 acres of fun, multiple pools (including one strictly for adults), a 1,100-foot lazy river, waterslides and cabanas you can rent.

For a more relaxing day, a spa offers a wide menu of treatments, or guests can enjoy an 18-hole championship golf course. Afterward, retreat to the upscale steakhouse 18 Oaks for a true Texas-style dinner or indulge in Mexican food at Cibolo Moon. When it's time for bed, rest easy in one of more than 1,000 rooms and suites designed to fit any traveler's need.

Rates at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country start around $280 per night or 41,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

As it turns out, big resorts in Texas love to have an on-property water park, and the Hyatt Regency Hill Country is no different. It features a 5-acre park with a 950-foot lazy river, an activity pool, a zero-entry beach, a baby pool and a waterslide.

Come for the water park but stay for everything else, including some great dining ranging from casual bar snacks to upscale lodge food. Other amenities include a 27-hole championship golf course, a spa and a calendar full of activities to keep the young and young-at-heart busy.

As for the rooms, expect fresh and modern design with a little Texas flair tossed in (think: dark wood and rich leather combined with framed art depicting cowboys and ranch life); there are also large suites so that families in need of more space can spread out.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa start around $230 per night or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

While some resorts in Texas are sprawling, Loews' latest major project in the Lone Star State is a massive convention hotel that might as well be a resort. It is smack in the middle of Six Flags Over Texas, Hurricane Harbor, Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium, making it the perfect place to stay for concerts and sporting events.

At the 800-plus room property, guests can take in stadium views from floor-to-ceiling windows or spread out in a large suite loaded with amenities like bathrobes, smart TVs, coffee makers and more.

While there's plenty to experience outside Lowes Arlington, be sure to block off plenty of time to take advantage of the hotel's pool complex, which features two decks. One deck is heated and open year-round, and one is seasonal; plus, there are cabana rentals and a bar to grab a drink.

No good resort is complete without a spa: The Spa at Loews Arlington has six treatment rooms and a 24-hour fitness center.

Food comes in many shapes and sizes here, from pan-Asian cuisine at the chic Soy Cowboy restaurant to Farena, an Italian restaurant with service three times daily. If you're still hungry, grab poolside cocktails and Mexican snacks at Tomar El Sol or order room service for a meal in bed.

Rates at the Lowes Arlington Hotel start around $229 per night.

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FY 2024 Per Diem Rates for dallas, Texas

Daily lodging rates (excluding taxes) | october 2023 - september 2024.

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Meals & Incidentals (M&IE) rates and breakdown Footnotes

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Breakfast, lunch, dinner, incidentals - Separate amounts for meals and incidentals. M&IE Total = Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner + Incidentals. Sometimes meal amounts must be deducted from trip voucher. See More Information

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Entertainment, 5 family friendly travel destinations in texas to visit this spring, a mom’s guide to exploring the outdoors in the lone star state.

Krisna Menier , Membership Director

HOUSTON – Hey there, fellow adventurers! As winter fades away and the flowers begin to bloom, spring in Texas is the perfect time for families to venture out and explore. As a mom on a mission to ensure maximum fun during our travels, here’s my round-up of the coolest spring nature destinations in the Lone Star State.

Santa Ana National Refuge

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Lush trails, chasing after colorful birds, and crossing a tree bridge for the ultimate bird’s eye view awaits you at the Santa Ana National Refuge ! It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary, and trust me, your little adventurers will be buzzing with excitement.

• Distance from Houston: 5 hours
• Admission: Daily passes are $5 per vehicle and yearly passes are $10 per vehicle. The first Sunday of every month is FREE!

Llano River State Park

Who’s up for a splash-tastic adventure? Head on over to the Llano River , where the water’s cool and the vibes are even cooler! Head to the visitor center and pick your kids up a FREE junior ranger explorer pack, packed with goodies to conquer the great outdoors. From floating down the river to casting a line for the catch of the day, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

• Admission: Adults are $5 daily. Children 12 years and under are free. Camping is between $10 - $20.

Rockport Beach

Rockport Beach is your ticket to sun-soaked bliss and sandy shenanigans. Managed by Blue Wave Beaches, this slice of paradise boasts squeaky-clean sands and low tide waters for every swimmer to enjoy.

• Distance from Houston: 3 hours
• Admission: $10 daily or $40 annual vehicle parking fee.

Comal River

Grab your tubes , slap on some sunscreen, and prepare for a tubing adventure like no other. With gentle currents and heart-pounding tube chutes, it’s the perfect blend of chill vibes and adrenaline rushes. The Comal River is known for its shorter float and calmer waters making it perfect for families.

• Admission: Expect to spend $15-22 per person, including shuttle, tube rental, and parking fees.

RELATED: Play in New Braunfels: Grab your inner tube, sunblock and beach towels!

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a haven of adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, you are transported to a world where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Through hands-on activities like nature walks, guided photography grotto hikes and star gazing , there is something for everyone to relax and enjoy the serenity of the environment.

• Admission: Varies based on tours between $5 - $50.

So, grab your crew, pack your sense of adventure (and some sunscreen), and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime. When it comes to family fun in Texas, the sky’s the limit!

Have other spots your family loves to visit in the spring in Texas? Share your favorites in the comments section below!

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

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Krisna menier.

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arts entertainment Travel

This type of vacation rental cancellation is on the rise. Are you next?

Here’s what you can do if you arrive to find out your accommodations have been sold..

By Christopher Elliott

6:00 PM on Apr 24, 2024 CDT

A few days before flying to Bali, Indonesia, I received an unexpected email from Airbnb: My host had sold my vacation home.

“We’re reaching out with the unfortunate news that your reservation was canceled,” it said. “Your refund is on its way.”

But wait — I didn’t want my money back. I needed a place to stay while I was in Indonesia. Airbnb assured me I had nothing to worry about. It would find a new rental and cover my extra expenses. But, as always, some restrictions applied.

Sales cancellations are on the rise

Selling a vacation rental out from under a guest is becoming a big problem, say insiders. There are no statistics on the number of vacation rentals with active reservations that are currently for sale. But Justin Gordon, who runs the rental price comparison site HiChee , says more hosts are putting their rentals on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo while they wait to sell their properties. He’s seen the disruption it causes guests who are about to leave for vacation.

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“I felt so sorry for the guests,” he says.

Did I mention the Indonesia rental? That wasn’t my first cancellation. I rented a condo in Oahu a few years ago through Vrbo. A week before I checked in, I got an email saying my stay had been canceled because the property was sold.

“Many homeowners are investors, buying properties low and selling high or holding them for a set number of years as a part of their financial strategy,” explains Matthew Deal, managing director of Element Vacation Homes , a central Florida vacation rental company.

A cancellation can have consequences for the seller. For example, if you list your home on Vrbo, you might have to pay the platform a cancellation fee, which gets higher as your arrival day approaches.

“In addition to financial penalties, repeat offenders may see limited search visibility on the Vrbo app and site, temporary suspension or revocation of their Premier Host status,” says Tim Rosolio, a vice president at Vrbo.

Airbnb has similar restrictions. “We expect hosts to honor accepted reservations,” says spokesman Aaron Swor.

What are your rights when your vacation rental is sold?

If your vacation rental is sold before you arrive, you have some rights, though not as many as you’d assume.

• For rentals booked directly through the owner, your rental contract will outline your right to a refund. If you’re dealing with a host who has only one rental or can’t accommodate you at a different property, you’ll get a full refund but you’ll have to start over and find a new vacation rental. Pro tip: Use a credit card to book. If the owner flakes out and tries to keep your money, you can always dispute the charges.
• For rentals booked through a popular vacation rental platform such as Airbnb or Vrbo, the platform will offer a full refund or or accommodate you at a different rental property. If there’s a price difference — and there usually is — then the platform may offer to cover the extra cost.
• If you booked through a property management company, your rights may not be spelled out in your contract, but chances are the company will have a Plan B ready. For example, Element Vacation Rentals has a policy to promptly present multiple options to displaced guests, including comparable properties from its portfolio and those of its competitors. Ask about the policy before you make a reservation.

At least, that is what’s supposed to happen if there’s a cancellation. But let’s talk about what actually does happen.

What if an owner sells a vacation rental?

When an owner sells your vacation rental from under you, you’ll probably feel confused and upset. And even as you’re processing the loss of your rental, your host may ask you for a favor.

When the owners of Gerri Detweiler’s Airbnb rental sold their place, her host asked her to cancel the rental. The reason? The host didn’t want to incur a fee from Airbnb. So Detweiler, a personal finance expert from Sarasota, Fla., canceled the stay.

“I didn’t bother booking another rental with Airbnb,” she says.

For both of my cancellations, I had no choice. I was only days away from checking in.

To their credit, both Airbnb and Vrbo helped me. Vrbo found a new rental in Hawaii and covered the price difference. Airbnb offered a coupon and sent me a few options for a replacement rental in Bali. The only one available on such short notice was thousands of dollars more than my original rental, so Airbnb increased the amount of the coupon to cover the extra cost.

The difference between the platforms was in their approach to the situation. Vrbo transferred me to a special team that took care of everything quickly. With Airbnb, it felt like more of a negotiation. But in the end, I was grateful to have the protection of both vacation rental platforms.

This could happen to you

This isn’t an abstract issue. Two of this year’s hottest housing markets — Orlando and Tampa, Fla. — are popular with vacation renters and likely to have lots of homes that are also on the market.

But that’s not the real problem. It’s that most vacation rental customers don’t know their rights when they rent. They either assume they have no choice but to take the refund and that they’re on their own. Or they believe the vacation rental company must find them a comparable rental and cover any price difference.

But you’re not on your own unless you rented directly through an individual — and even then, the previous owner may be able to refer you to another rental. And your vacation rental platform won’t automatically find you a new place and pay for it. You may have to negotiate.

The best solution is disclosure. Vacation rental owners should tell you if their property is for sale. Then you can make an informed decision about whether you still want to rent the place — and take your chances.

Elliott’s tips for avoiding a vacation rental cancellation

Getting surprised by a vacation rental sale is preventable. Here are a few strategies:

Talk to the owner. Before you rent a vacation home, ask if the place is for sale. If it is, ask what would happen if the unit were to be sold. If it’s sold, talk to the new owners,” says hospitality consultant Steve Turk. “See if they’ll honor your reservation.”

Read the reviews — all of them. If you’re renting on a popular platform, don’t just skim the reviews. Read them. Sometimes, hosts will stop caring about their rental unit if they know they’re going to sell. “Check to see if recent guests have posted any negative reviews,” advises Pete Evering, a business development manager at Utopia Property Management , a rental management company.

Do your research. If you have the address of the rental, run a quick online search. If it shows up on Zillow or Realtor.com , you know you have a problem.

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at [email protected] .

Christopher Elliott , Special Contributor . Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service.

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