Welcome to the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, where there’s always something exciting happening. From captivating historical sites to thrilling outdoor activities and a buzzing arts scene, Dallas offers many experiences for travellers of all ages and interests. This article explores the best things to do in Dallas.

So, whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or a food lover, get ready to embark on a memorable journey as we explore.

The best things to do in Dallas.

Explore Cultural Treasures:

Dallas is home to an array of world-class museums and cultural landmarks. Start your journey by visiting the Dallas Museum of Art, where you can admire an impressive collection of artworks from different eras and cultures.

Visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must for history enthusiasts. This poignant museum chronicles the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.

Immerse Yourself in Nature:

Escape the urban hustle and bustle by exploring Dallas’ scenic outdoor spaces. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a breathtaking oasis boasting meticulously manicured gardens and stunning waterfront views.

White Rock Lake Park offers a serene setting for boating, hiking, or cycling, while the Trinity River Audubon Center provides an opportunity for birdwatching and exploring nature trails.

Indulge in Culinary Delights:

Dallas is a paradise for food lovers, offering diverse culinary experiences. From mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine to savoury barbecues and innovative fusion dishes, the city’s dining scene will tantalise your taste buds.

Head to Deep Ellum, a trendy neighbourhood known for its vibrant food trucks, hipster cafes, and live music venues. Remember to try the iconic Texas steak and explore the city’s flourishing craft beer scene.

Engage in Thrilling Entertainment:

For an adrenaline rush, visit Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park, where you can experience exhilarating rides, including bungee jumping and freefalling.

Families with kids will enjoy a visit to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs. The Dallas World Aquarium showcases a stunning variety of marine life and tropical birds, creating a mesmerising experience for visitors of all ages.

Discover Vibrant Neighbourhoods:

Dallas is a city of diverse neighbourhoods with unique character and charm. Explore the historic Bishop Arts District, known for its eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

Visit Uptown, a bustling area with upscale shopping, vibrant nightlife, and trendy restaurants. As mentioned earlier, Deep Ellum is renowned for its vibrant street art scene and live music venues, offering a glimpse into Dallas’ artistic spirit.

Budget Travel Tips in Dallas

Consider these budget-friendly options to make the most of your Dallas adventure without breaking the bank. Look for cheap flights to Dallas by comparing fares across different airlines.

Popular airlines like American Flights, Spirit Flights, and Southwest Airlines often offer competitive prices and promotions. Use online airline reservations and ticket booking platforms to find the best deals.

Additionally, plan your visit during off-peak seasons and enjoy discounted attractions and accommodations. Getting around the city is easy after your ticket reservations and reaching Dallas.

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system provides a reliable and affordable way to explore the city, with buses and light rail lines connecting various neighbourhoods and attractions. Consider purchasing a day or multi-day pass to maximise your transportation budget.

Dallas is a captivating destination that promises a wealth of experiences and lots of fun things to do for every traveller. From exploring cultural treasures and immersing in nature to indulging in culinary delights and engaging in thrilling entertainment, Dallas offers diverse activities and attractions to satisfy every interest.

So complete your flight booking, pack your bags, step onto your destination flight, and get ready to uncover the wonders of Dallas—the city where adventure awaits at every corner.

Other things that you should know about Dallas

Are there any specific events or festivals that take place in Dallas throughout the year?

Yes, Dallas is known for its live event and festival scene. One notable event is the State Fair of Texas, held annually at Fair Park. It has many attractions, including live music, carnival rides, livestock shows, and unique food offerings.

Another popular festival is the Dallas Blooms, held at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden during spring, showcasing hundreds of thousands of blooming flowers.

Can you recommend any unique dining experiences or local food markets in Dallas?

Dallas is a food lover’s paradise, offering many unique dining experiences and local food markets. For authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, head to the historic El Ranchito or the renowned Mia’s Tex-Mex Restaurant.

Pecan Lodge is a must-visit for mouthwatering Texas barbecue, while Lockhart Smokehouse is known for its delicious smoked meats. For a blend of international flavours, explore the bustling Dallas Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and diverse culinary options.

Which is a must-visit place for sports enthusiasts in Dallas?

For sports enthusiasts visiting Dallas, a must-visit place is the AT&T Stadium. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic football teams in the United States, AT&T Stadium offers an unparalleled experience for sports fans. Located in Arlington, just a short drive from Dallas, this state-of-the-art stadium is a true marvel. 

What are some family-friendly attractions or activities in Dallas that cater to children?

Dallas offers numerous family-friendly attractions and activities to entertain children of all ages. The Dallas World Aquarium is popular, where kids can explore vibrant exhibits featuring marine life, birds, and exotic animals.

For hands-on learning, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science provides engaging exhibits and interactive displays that spark curiosity. The Dallas Zoo, Klyde Warren Park, and Dallas Children’s Theater are other fantastic places for children.

Are there any budget-friendly extended-stay hotels in Dallas?

Yes, there are budget-friendly extended-stay hotels in Dallas that cater to travellers needing accommodations for an extended period. Examples include Extended Stay America – Dallas – Coit Road, WoodSpring Suites Dallas Plano Central Legacy Drive, and Candlewood Suites Dallas – By the Galleria.

These hotels offer affordable rates for longer stays and provide amenities like fully equipped kitchens, on-site laundry facilities, and spacious rooms to accommodate guests for an extended duration.

Airport Transfers

To get from Dallas International Airport to downtown, there are several transportation options available, each varying in terms of distance, time, and cost. Let’s explore the most common methods.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport’s designated taxi stands. The distance between Dallas International Airport and downtown is approximately 20 miles or 32km, and the journey by taxi typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The cost ranges between $40 to $50, including a base fare plus additional charges per mile.

Ride-Sharing Services: Popular ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are commonly used for transportation in Dallas.

The estimated cost and time for a ride from the airport to downtown are similar to taxis, depending on traffic conditions. These services often have designated pick-up zones at the airport for convenient access. Or, for those wanting something a little more special, why not try a limousine service?

Airport Shuttle: Another option is to utilize an airport shuttle service, which provides shared transportation to multiple destinations. The cost for a shuttle ride from Dallas International Airport to downtown is around $20 per person. The travel time can vary depending on the number of stops and traffic conditions, typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour.

Public Transportation: Dallas has a comprehensive public transportation system, including DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit). From the airport, travellers can take the DART’s Orange Line, marked by “DART” signs, to reach downtown.

The closest DART station to the airport is conveniently located approximately 2 miles away, accessible via a free shuttle service provided by the airport. The Orange Line trip to downtown Dallas takes around 45-50 minutes, costing approximately $3.

Hotel Recommendations

Family Friendly –Best Western Dallas Inn & Suites

Best Western Dallas Inn & Suites is located at 250 Orchard Dr, Dallas, 97338-1148, just 750 metres from Sgt. Ian M. Tawney Memorial Park.

Although there is no parking on-site, rooms are a decent size and have the convenience of a kitchen, with some rooms even having a hot tub. There is also a pool, fitness centre and buffet-style breakfast.

Perfect location –Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Dallas

The Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Dallas is located at 1600 Pacific Avenue, Main Street District, Dallas, TX 75201, just 150 metres from Pegasus Plaza.

This hotel is perfectly located in downtown Dallas, with an outdoor rooftop swimming pool, a gorgeous bar, a great restaurant, parking and laundry facilities and a gymnasium.

Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the necessary information before visiting Dallas. If you have any recommendations, tips or travel advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.

Check out my Instagram page or join my Facebook group.

Pin It for Later

Would you like to see other places to visit in North America?

Important Information

Visa – If you looking for an easy way to get a visa, or if you aren’t sure if you really need one in the first place.  Ivisa makes the process easy, with a click of a button and few simple steps you will be able to sort out your visa requirements in a flash!

Insurance -We all know how important travel insurance is when you are abroad, but we also know how expensive it can be as well, right? Well, I am here to help solve both those problems. Safetywings is both affordable and reliable and better still easy to purchase. There are no hidden agendas, just choose the dates you will be away and check the coverage you need. It is that simple.

Car Hire– If you are planning to hire a car on your next trip, DiscoverCars is the perfect solution, why? Because you will find it in most countries around the world and all mandatory fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden surprises.

E-sim– If you want to know the most affordable way to be connected when travelling, it is with an e-sim. I have to admit I have come late to the party on this one, and I wish I had known earlier as it would have saved me hundreds of dollars in the past. I have been using Airalo for the past few months now and it has been so easy to set up and use while I am away. 

Airline Tickets– CheapOair is a leading provider of airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars and vacation packages with top travel brands to choose from globally. The CheapOair brand provides diversified travel services, however I highly recommend checking out their airline ticket options for best prices.