So, you’re planning a trip to Dallas, Texas—or maybe you live there and you’re wondering what else this big, bold city has to offer. Either way, buckle up, because Dallas is not just cowboy boots and football (though, yes, you’ll find plenty of that too). It’s a city packed with history, food that will have you rolling out of restaurants, and enough attractions to keep you busy for weeks. Ready to explore? Let’s talk about the 22 best things to do in Dallas, Texas—and trust me, you’ll want to hit at least half of them on your first trip.
1. Visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
This place hits different. Standing in the exact spot tied to one of the most infamous events in American history—the assassination of JFK—will give you chills. The museum walks you through the story with photos, videos, and artifacts. Even if you’re not a history buff, it’s worth seeing. Ever wondered how a single moment changed a nation? This is the place.
2. Explore the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Need a break from city noise? The Dallas Arboretum is basically 66 acres of flower therapy. In spring, it’s like Mother Nature’s fireworks show. Bring a picnic, stroll around, and prepare your Instagram feed for some serious action.
3. Admire Art at the Dallas Museum of Art
The DMA is free (yep, you read that right—free). You’ll see everything from ancient sculptures to modern art installations that make you go, “Hmm, is that really art or just a chair with paint on it?” Either way, it’s fun, and it’s right in the Arts District.
4. Check Out the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
This one’s for your inner nerd (no shame—we all have one). From dinosaurs to space exploration, the Perot Museum makes learning ridiculously fun. Pro tip: if you go with kids, you’ll lose them in the interactive exhibits for hours.
5. Walk Through the Dallas World Aquarium
Don’t let the name fool you—this place is more like a mini jungle. You’ll see monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and, of course, all the sea life you can handle. If you’ve ever wanted to walk under a glass tunnel while sharks swim overhead, here’s your shot.
6. Spend an Evening in Deep Ellum
If Dallas had a cool, artsy younger sibling, it’d be Deep Ellum. Murals, live music, funky bars—it’s got a little of everything. Ever had BBQ with a side of graffiti art? Exactly.
7. Tour AT&T Stadium (Home of the Dallas Cowboys)
Even if you don’t care about football, this place is impressive. It’s massive, high-tech, and honestly feels more like a spaceship than a stadium. Cowboys fans treat it like holy ground, and if you’re lucky, you can catch a game or concert.
8. Visit Klyde Warren Park
Imagine a park literally built over a freeway. That’s Klyde Warren Park for you. It’s got food trucks, free yoga classes, a playground, and even live performances sometimes. Perfect for chilling on a sunny day.
9. Explore Bishop Arts District
Small but mighty. Bishop Arts District is packed with indie shops, quirky coffee spots, and restaurants that will blow your mind. Ever wanted pie so good it makes you emotional? Emporium Pies has you covered.
10. Go to Reunion Tower
Want the best view of Dallas? Head up the Reunion Tower and check out the 360-degree observation deck. Bonus: the LED lights at night make it look like a giant glowing golf ball in the skyline.
11. Indulge in Tex-Mex (Because Duh)
If you come to Dallas and don’t eat Tex-Mex, did you even visit? From giant burritos to queso that tastes like happiness in a bowl, you’ll find it everywhere. Try Mi Cocina or El Fenix for classics.
12. Discover the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
Whatever your politics, this place is fascinating. It dives into U.S. history during his presidency and even lets you walk through a replica of the Oval Office. Ever wondered what it’s like to sit where the president sits? Well, now you’ll know.
13. Relax at White Rock Lake
Dallas gets hot—like “why did I wear jeans” hot. White Rock Lake is where locals escape. You can rent a kayak, bike around, or just chill by the water with some snacks.
14. Take a Stroll at Dallas Farmers Market
Hungry? Good. The Dallas Farmers Market has fresh produce, artisan goods, and local eats that’ll keep you coming back. Plus, supporting local farmers feels good, right?
15. Enjoy Live Performances at Winspear Opera House
If you want a fancy night out, the Winspear Opera House is the spot. Opera, ballet, Broadway—take your pick. Even if you’re not into opera, just dressing up and sipping champagne feels kind of epic.
16. Experience Dallas Zoo
One of the largest zoos in Texas, the Dallas Zoo is perfect if you want to see everything from elephants to lions. And yes, they have a monorail that makes you feel like you’re on a safari.
17. Shop Till You Drop at NorthPark Center
Calling all shopaholics. NorthPark Center isn’t just a mall—it’s also an art gallery. So if anyone asks, you weren’t shopping for hours… you were appreciating art. 😉
18. Step Back in Time at Old Red Museum
The Old Red Museum sits inside a historic courthouse and tells the story of Dallas from the early days to today. Spoiler: Dallas has always been bold and ambitious.
19. Experience Texas State Fair (If You’re Lucky With Timing)
If your trip lines up with the Texas State Fair in the fall, don’t miss it. Think fried food experiments (fried Oreos, fried butter—you name it), carnival rides, and Big Tex waving at you.
20. Check Out the Nasher Sculpture Center
If you like art but don’t want to spend the whole day indoors, the Nasher Sculpture Center is perfect. Outdoor sculptures + fresh air = classy and relaxing afternoon.
21. Catch a Mavericks or Stars Game at American Airlines Center
Basketball fan? Hockey fan? The American Airlines Center has both. Even if you don’t follow the teams, the energy of Dallas sports fans will get you hyped.
22. Take a Day Trip to Fort Worth
Okay, technically this isn’t Dallas, but hear me out. Fort Worth is only about 30 minutes away, and the Stockyards give you the full cowboy experience—cattle drives, rodeos, and honky-tonks. It’s like stepping into a Texas movie.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go—22 awesome things to do in Dallas, Texas. From history to art, food to football, this city has a little bit of everything. Honestly, the hardest part is figuring out what to do first. My advice? Start with food (always food), then balance it out with some history or outdoor fun.
Dallas is one of those cities that surprises people. It’s got that big-city energy, but it still feels down-to-earth. And once you get a taste of Tex-Mex or see the skyline from Reunion Tower, you’ll get why people fall in love with it.
Now tell me—are you hitting the Sixth Floor Museum, or are you more of a “feed me queso and let’s chill at Klyde Warren Park” type? 😉
