Dallas is a sprawling metropolis bursting with fun and exciting things to do. It’s the ninth-largest city in the US and the birthplace of the frozen margarita, packed with world-class shopping, delicious dining, a diverse art scene, and plenty of history, outdoor activities, and pop-culture curiosities.
Come for the scream-worthy roller coasters, sports teams, and luxe malls. Stay for the barbecue, beer, and mural-strewn neighborhoods, filled with musicians playing everything from blues to hip-hop beats.
Explore Dallas’ Neighborhoods
Dallas is an amalgamation of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor of fun:
- Bishop Arts District: Shop and dine in this laid-back and artsy area.
- Deep Ellum: Known for live music, beautiful murals, art fairs, and great restaurants.
- Uptown: This area attracts visitors for its vibrant strip of restaurants and bars.
- Oak Lawn: A nationally recognized hotspot for the LGBTIQ+ community.
Don’t miss Pecan Lodge for barbecue in Deep Ellum or visit Mariano’s Hacienda, the birthplace of the frozen margarita. The original margarita machine is now part of the Smithsonian Institution’s collection in Washington, DC.
Get Cultured in the Arts District
Downtown Dallas is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States. Spend time exploring an impressive selection of sculptures at the renowned Nasher Sculpture Center and admire more than 24,000 art pieces at the Dallas Museum of Art.
Walk across to the Crow Museum of Asian Art, or enjoy the unique experience of Klyde Warren Park, which sits atop a highway. For evening entertainment, attend a concert at the Meyerson Symphony Center, or explore the new HALL Arts Hotel with its curated selection of art.
Root for the Home Team at an Athletic Event
With seven professional teams in the area, it’s a haven for sports lovers:
- Dallas Mavericks – NBA Basketball
- Dallas Stars – NHL Hockey
- Texas Rangers – MLB Baseball in Arlington
- Dallas Wings – WNBA Basketball
- FC Dallas – MLS Soccer in Frisco
For a different kind of thrill, experience NASCAR at the Texas Motor Speedway, or catch the Dallas Cowboys at their home field, located in nearby Arlington.
Learn About the John F. Kennedy Assassination
One of the darker moments in Dallas’ history is the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum to learn about his life and death, and see the “X” on Elm Street that marks the site of the shooting. The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza, nearby, features a statue commemorating the president.
Kayak on the Trinity River
Outdoor lovers will find a plethora of activities in Dallas, from running on the Katy Trail to sailing on White Rock Lake. However, one of the most unique experiences is kayaking on the Trinity River Paddling Trail, a National Recreation Trail with over 130 miles of river.
Experience nature up close with 21 different launch sites that lead you through wilderness areas or right beneath the city’s famous bridges. Various kayaking tours are available, including a stunning sunset tour.
Unwind at the Dallas Arboretum
Adjacent to White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a picturesque space, known for its phenomenal seasonal displays. Visitors can enjoy live concerts and art shows frequently hosted in the garden.
Spend a Day at the First-Ever Six Flags
Dallas is home to the original Six Flags park, offering an exhilarating day out with friends or family. With 14 roller coasters and numerous thrilling rides, guests can enjoy everything from high-speed coasters to family-friendly attractions.
Go Big at the State Fair of Texas
If you visit Dallas in September or October, experiencing the State Fair of Texas is a must. As one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the country, it features amusement-park rides, agricultural shows, live performances, and some of the most creative fair food around.
Museum-Hop Around the City
In addition to the prominent museums located in the Arts District, Dallas houses several others worth visiting:
- African American Museum: Celebrated for its extensive collection of historical and cultural displays.
- Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum: Focused on the Holocaust and civil rights movements.
- Perot Museum of Nature & Science: Engaging hands-on science experiences for families.
- Meadows Museum: Home to one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain.
Shop ‘Til You Drop All Over Town
Dallas is a shopper’s paradise, hosting the oldest shopping center in the U.S. and the original Neiman Marcus store. The city offers a diverse shopping experience ranging from world-class malls to local outdoor flea markets and farmers markets.
Camp at Cedar Hill State Park
If you want a break from the urban environment, Cedar Hill State Park provides an escape into nature, with overnight camping, hiking, and biking trails. Enjoy a day on Joe Pool Lake, where you can fish or swim to relax.
