Fun things to do in Dallas, TX

Bring the Kids in Dallas

70 results

George W. Bush Presidential Center

Explore the George W. Bush Presidential Center on the campus of Southern Methodist University and discover exhibits covering the presidency, major historical events, and life in the White House. Tour a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, view presidential artifacts, and learn about American leadership, public policy, and global affairs through interactive displays. It's a fascinating destination for history buffs, students, and anyone interested in modern U.S. history.

Parks & Trails

Turtle Creek Park

Escape to the peaceful surroundings of Turtle Creek Park, a scenic green space nestled in the heart of Dallas. Stroll shaded walking paths, relax beside Turtle Creek, admire beautiful landscaping, and enjoy picturesque bridges and mature trees. Popular for morning walks, picnics, photography, and quiet moments outdoors, the park offers a refreshing retreat just minutes from downtown.

Attractions

Autumn at the Arboretum 2026

Welcome fall with an astonishing landscape of more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash arranged throughout the Dallas Arboretum. Elaborate seasonal scenes, changing garden color, photo-ready pathways, and family programming turn the lakeside grounds into one of North Texas's signature autumn outings. Visit in the morning for gentler light and cooler paths, return for special activities, or simply wander until you find a quiet corner framed by harvest color and White Rock Lake views.

Arts & Culture

The Nasher Sculpture Center

Discover world-class modern and contemporary art at the Nasher Sculpture Center in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. Explore an impressive collection of sculptures by renowned artists, including Picasso, Rodin, Matisse, and Calder, displayed throughout elegant indoor galleries and a beautifully landscaped sculpture garden. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful cultural experience, the Nasher offers a unique blend of creativity, architecture, and outdoor beauty.

Attractions

The Escape Game The Colony

The Escape Game at Grandscape places your team inside cinematic missions where every drawer, pattern, prop, and sound might hold the next breakthrough. Choose a story, search the environment, connect clues, and race the clock while a game guide helps if momentum stalls. The rooms emphasize cooperation over trivia knowledge, so first-timers can contribute alongside experienced puzzle hunters. Pair it with nearby dinner for a family outing, double date, birthday, or team challenge.

Attractions

AT&T Discovery District

Discover one of downtown Dallas's most dynamic gathering places at the AT&T Discovery District. Enjoy giant digital art displays, live music, interactive installations, outdoor games, and a variety of restaurants and bars surrounding the vibrant public plaza. Whether you're grabbing lunch, watching a sporting event on the 104-foot Media Wall, attending a free community event, or relaxing with friends, there's always something happening.

Arts & Culture

Disney's Hocus Pocus in Concert

Watch the Halloween favorite Hocus Pocus on a giant screen while the Dallas Symphony Orchestra performs John Debney's lively score in perfect synchronization. Comedy, spooky-season nostalgia, and the power of a live orchestra transform the Sanderson sisters' adventure into something far richer than a standard movie night. With evening and Sunday matinee performances at the Meyerson, families, film fans, and first-time symphony visitors can choose the showtime that fits their fall plans.

Parks & Trails

Klyde Warren Park

Relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors at Klyde Warren Park, a vibrant urban green space built over a downtown freeway. The park features food trucks, live music, fitness classes, games, playgrounds, shaded lawns, and a full calendar of free events throughout the year. Whether you're grabbing lunch, attending a festival, or simply unwinding with skyline views, Klyde Warren Park is one of Dallas's most popular gathering places.

Arts & Culture

Meadows Museum

Explore one of the world's leading collections of Spanish art at the Meadows Museum on the Southern Methodist University campus. Discover masterpieces by renowned artists including El Greco, Velázquez, Goya, Miró, Dalí, and Picasso, along with rotating exhibitions spanning centuries of Spanish culture and creativity. Often called the "Prado on the Prairie," the museum offers an exceptional cultural experience in Dallas.

Attractions

Nerfies

Nerfies turns the living-room foam-dart battle into a full indoor arena with barriers, forts, open lanes, and room for dramatic teamwork. Players gear up, learn the rules, and dive into organized games where quick movement and clever cover matter as much as aim. Because the equipment is built around foam blasters, the action feels lively without the mess of paintball. It is an easy win for energetic kids, playful adults, birthday crews, and families searching for a rainy-day activity together.

Attractions

McKinney Avenue Trolley

Hop aboard the McKinney Avenue Trolley, a free historic streetcar that travels through Uptown and the Dallas Arts District. Ride beautifully restored vintage trolleys while exploring popular neighborhoods, restaurants, museums, parks, and shopping destinations. Whether you're sightseeing or simply enjoying a nostalgic ride, the trolley offers a fun and convenient way to experience some of Dallas's most vibrant areas.

Attractions

Velocity Sim Racing Lounge

Get behind the wheel at Velocity Sim Racing Lounge, an immersive racing venue where high-end simulators let you experience the thrill of motorsports without leaving Dallas. Race legendary tracks from around the world, compete with friends, or sharpen your driving skills using realistic force-feedback steering, pedals, and professional-grade racing rigs. Whether you're a lifelong racing fan or just looking for a unique group activity, Velocity delivers an adrenaline-filled experience for all skil

Attractions

AT&T Stadium Tour

Go behind the scenes at AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, on a guided tour of one of the world's most impressive sports venues. Visit the field, locker rooms, luxury suites, and post-game interview areas while learning about the stadium's architecture, history, and memorable events. Whether you're a football fan or simply curious about this iconic landmark, the tour offers an unforgettable experience.

Sports & Fitness

2026 SMU Home Football Games

Feel the Hilltop come alive as the SMU Mustangs charge through seven home games at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. The 2026 Dallas dates are Sept. 12 vs. UC Davis, Sept. 26 vs. Missouri State, Oct. 3 vs. Boston College, Oct. 17 vs. Virginia, Oct. 24 vs. Cal, Nov. 6 vs. Virginia Tech, and Nov. 14 vs. Wake Forest for Homecoming. Expect Boulevard tailgating, school spirit, the Mustang Band, and a lively mix of afternoon and evening kickoffs.

Arts & Culture

Dallas Firefighters Museum

Dallas Firefighters Museum brings Dallas history to life inside a former fire station, where active and retired firefighters help guide visitors through equipment, uniforms, photographs, and engines from different eras. Highlights include an 1884 steam engine known as Old Tige and apparatus from the 1920s, plus hands-on touches that make fire-safety lessons fun for children. The limited Wednesday-through-Saturday schedule keeps this museum off many itineraries, but the personal stories and.

Attractions

Pioneer Plaza

Step back into Texas history at Pioneer Plaza, home to one of the world's largest bronze monuments. Wander among 49 life-sized longhorn cattle sculptures and three trail riders that recreate a dramatic cattle drive through native landscaping, flowing streams, and limestone cliffs. Located near the Dallas Convention Center, this free outdoor attraction is a favorite for photography, sightseeing, and learning about Texas's ranching heritage.

Arts & Culture

Harambee Dallas Festival 2026

Celebrate unity, heritage, and neighborhood pride at the 52nd Harambee Dallas Festival, a cherished, long-running Texas tradition. The South Dallas gathering brings live entertainment, youth activities, cultural learning, community resources, local vendors, food, and the welcoming Watoto Village into a shared day of connection. Its name means coming together, and the festival lives that promise by honoring Black culture while creating space for families, elders, artists, and future leaders.

Parks & Trails

Trinity River Audubon Center

Discover miles of scenic hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and wetlands at the Trinity River Audubon Center, one of Dallas's best spots for birdwatching and nature exploration.

Sports & Fitness

Active Arena

Try an entire sampler platter of sports without worrying about weather at Active Arena in Frisco. A single session can send you from a paragliding simulator to a robot soccer goalie, virtual skiing, boxing, baseball, clay shooting, and motion-powered challenges. The playful technology makes unfamiliar sports approachable while still giving competitive guests a reason to keep score. Wear athletic clothes and bring a friend; many stations are especially fun as a head-to-head challenge.

Attractions

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Escape the city and wander through 66 acres of stunning gardens overlooking White Rock Lake. The Dallas Arboretum features colorful flower displays, peaceful walking paths, seasonal festivals, and picture-perfect views year-round, making it a favorite spot for dates, family outings, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Attractions

Southern Methodist University

Explore the beautiful campus of Southern Methodist University, one of Dallas's most prestigious universities. Stroll tree-lined walkways, admire historic Georgian architecture, visit museums like the Meadows Museum and the George W. Bush Presidential Center, or catch an NCAA sporting event. Whether you're touring the campus, attending an event, or enjoying the nearby shops and restaurants, SMU offers a scenic and vibrant experience.

Attractions

Fountain Place

Visit Fountain Place, one of downtown Dallas's most iconic landmarks, known for its striking modern architecture, cascading fountains, and beautifully landscaped plaza. Designed by renowned architect I. M. Pei, the space offers a peaceful retreat amid the city's skyscrapers, making it a great spot to relax, take photos, enjoy lunch outdoors, or admire one of Dallas's most recognizable buildings.

Sports & Fitness

TopGolf Dallas

Take your swing at Topgolf Dallas, where high-tech golf games, great food, and a lively social atmosphere come together for an unforgettable outing. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or picking up a club for the first time, enjoy climate-controlled hitting bays, interactive games, handcrafted cocktails, and a full-service menu. It's the perfect destination for friends, families, date nights, and group celebrations.

Shopping & Markets

Dallas Farmers Market

Explore the Dallas Farmers Market, a lively destination featuring fresh produce, local vendors, artisan goods, restaurants, and specialty food shops in the heart of downtown. Browse handmade products, sample local flavors, enjoy international cuisine, and shop for everything from flowers to gourmet treats. With year-round events, live music, and family-friendly activities, it's a great place to spend a morning or afternoon.