Families visiting Dallas will not be at a loss for exciting activities. The M-Line trolley offers easy accessibility to popular destinations such as the Dallas World Aquarium, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Dallas Zoo. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, renowned for its unique seasonal exhibits, is another must-see destination for families.
History enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy exploring the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, followed by a visit to the African American Museum of Dallas, Pioneer Plaza, the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum, or Deep Ellum, an iconic district offering a plethora of art, dining, and live entertainment experiences, many of which are free.
Art connoisseurs ought to make a point of visiting the renowned Dallas Arts District, home to top attractions such as the Crow Collection of Asian Art, Klyde Warren Park, and the Nasher Sculpture Center. For those seeking to enjoy the outdoors, Highland Park Village boasts excellent shopping opportunities, while White Rock Lake offers scenic hiking and biking trails. Visitors may also explore Fort Worth for mouth-watering Tex-Mex dining and a glimpse into the larger-than-life attractions, including the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District and Billy Bob’s Texas honky-tonk.
Dallas Botanical Garden
Although Dallas is notorious for its towering skyscrapers and congested highways, it is also abundantly blessed with ample green space. When seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, one can find solace at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. This serene escape spans over 66 acres in White Rock Lake Park, just 7 miles northeast of downtown. A visit to the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden offers a chance to lose oneself amidst over 2,000 varieties of azaleas in full bloom during springtime and acres of vibrant chrysanthemums come fall. While at the gardens, one cannot miss Crepe Myrtle Allee’s natural tunnel, formed by a beautiful arching of Crepe Myrtle trees. Indeed, Dallas’ green spaces are an oasis of calm amidst the cityscape.
For an exceptional family-friendly experience, venture over to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden – a sprawling 8-acre haven bursting with 17 engaging exhibition spaces brimming with interactive showcases, enthralling games, and guided educational programs all centered around environmental science. The Garden boasts 150 cutting-edge attractions, including shaded footbridges, and a remarkable 9,100-square-foot Exploration Center housing myriad plant and soil labs, among other incredible features. It’s an enthralling way for children to learn while having a blast!
Reunion Tower
Experience 360-degree panoramic vistas of the city from the apex of the 470 feet high Reunion Tower located in the heart of downtown. The residents fondly call it “The Ball” due to its remarkable spherical structure. The indoor/outdoor GeO-Deck, accessible through an elevator from the tower’s base, offers the most enthralling view of the beautiful city. You can sightsee some of the renowned landmarks and attractions of the city, including the Dealey Plaza. The customers couldn’t stop raving about the welcoming staff and the astounding view. Some of them suggested visiting both during the day and night to experience the city’s dual perspectives.
Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, adjacent to the fashionable Hyatt Regency, stands the iconic Reunion Tower. Its opening hours may vary according to the season, but generally it welcomes visitors from 1 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Nevertheless, for the latest updates, please refer to the official website’s calendar. A fee of $10 per car applies for parking. Admission tickets for adults start at $19, while children aged 4 to 12 years old pay only $9. Kids aged 3 and under enter free of charge. For a more immersive experience, the “Day and Night Ticket” is highly recommended. This option allows access to the Tower twice – once during the day and once at night – for as little as $24 for adults and $14 for children. Please note that you must select a specific day and time when purchasing your ticket. Visit Reunion Tower and savor the best views of Dallas with unmatched elegance and style – an experience to cherish for a lifetime.
Deep Ellum
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Deep Ellum, located just east of downtown Dallas. This bustling neighborhood is a hub for live music, performing arts, striking murals and unique shops. Deep Ellum’s legacy as a live music destination can be traced back to the early 20th century, where jazz and blues legends such as Bessie Smith, Lead Belly, and Blind Lemon Jefferson graced its stages. Popular venues for catching a show include Trees, The Factory in Deep Ellum and Club Dada, while bars like Sons of Hermann Hall and Three Links offer their own live music experiences. Don’t miss out on the electric energy that Deep Ellum has to offer.
In addition to its thriving live music scene, Deep Ellum boasts an up-and-coming culinary landscape, featuring a variety of popular hotspots. Pecan Lodge, renowned for its expertly smoked meats, reigns supreme as a top destination for barbecue enthusiasts. Ichigoh Ramen Lounge satisfies hearty appetites with its rich, savory noodle soups, while Adair’s Saloon attracts visitors with its juicy burgers. Serious Pizza and Nori Handroll Bar also top the list of must-try eateries. For a daytime excursion, embark on a self-guided mural tour of the area, as expertly laid out by Visit Dallas. Don’t forget to indulge in some retail therapy at popular boutiques like Jade & Clover, Flea Style, and Deep Vellum. Past visitors highly recommend paying a visit to the Deep Ellum Brewing Company for its delectable beer and cuisine.