Things to do in Dallas: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
AT&T Stadium, Dallas
Overview: AT&T Stadium is a world-famous sports and entertainment venue, home to the Dallas Cowboys.
History: Opened in 2009, it was designed by architect Bryan Trubey and became an iconic stadium for sports and events.
Since When: Opened to the public in May 2009.
Review: A must-visit for sports fans, offering impressive architecture and a thrilling game-day atmosphere.
When to Go: Best during football season (September to January) or for major concerts and events.
How to Go: Accessible by car, taxi, or ride-share from downtown Dallas, about a 20-minute drive.
What to Do: Attend a football game, concert, stadium tour, or special event.
Free or Paid: Paid admission for events and tours.
The Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas
Overview: The Dallas World Aquarium is an indoor zoo and aquarium featuring a variety of marine and terrestrial animals.
History: Opened in 1992, it revitalized an old warehouse in downtown Dallas into a conservation-focused attraction.
Since When: Welcoming visitors since October 1992.
Review: A fantastic and family-friendly destination combining education and entertainment.
When to Go: Visit on weekdays or mornings to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, easily accessible by car, DART public transport, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore exotic animal exhibits, walk through rainforest and aquarium environments, and attend animal feedings.
Free or Paid: Paid admission.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas
Overview: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden offers 66 acres of stunning gardens and seasonal displays on White Rock Lake.
History: Developed on the DeGolyer Estate, it officially opened in 1984 as a premier garden space.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1984.
Review: A beautiful and peaceful place, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
When to Go: Spring (March-April) and fall (September-November) for the best flower displays and weather.
How to Go: Located about 15 minutes from downtown Dallas, accessible by car or taxi.
What to Do: Stroll through themed gardens, attend seasonal festivals, and enjoy outdoor concerts.
Free or Paid: Paid admission.
Dallas Zoo, Dallas
Overview: The Dallas Zoo is the largest zoo in Texas, featuring over 2,000 animals across 106 acres.
History: Founded in 1888, it is one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
Since When: Open to visitors since 1888.
Review: A family-favorite destination with diverse exhibits and engaging animal encounters.
When to Go: Best to visit in the cooler months (October to April) for comfortable weather.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car, DART Red Line (Dallas Zoo Station), or taxi from downtown.
What to Do: Visit the Giants of the Savanna exhibit, feed giraffes, ride the monorail, and attend animal shows.
Free or Paid: Paid admission.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas
Overview: The Perot Museum of Nature and Science offers engaging exhibits on natural history, science, and technology.
History: Opened in 2012, the museum was a gift to Dallas from the Perot family to inspire future innovators.
Since When: Open to the public since December 2012.
Review: A top-rated, interactive museum that’s fun for both children and adults.
When to Go: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
How to Go: Located in Victory Park, easily accessible by car, DART trains, or bus.
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, watch 3D films, and attend educational programs.
Free or Paid: Paid admission.
NorthPark Center, Dallas
Overview: NorthPark Center is a premier shopping mall featuring luxury retailers, art installations, and fine dining.
History: Opened in 1965 by developer Raymond Nasher, it blends shopping with high-end art.
Since When: Serving visitors since 1965.
Review: A beautifully designed mall offering both shopping and a cultural experience.
When to Go: Best to visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, public transit, or ride-share services from anywhere in Dallas.
What to Do: Shop at high-end stores, view art exhibits, and enjoy dining options.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; shopping and dining are paid.
Klyde Warren Park, Dallas
Overview: Klyde Warren Park is an urban green space built over a freeway, offering a central gathering place for the city.
History: Opened in 2012 as a unique project reconnecting downtown Dallas with uptown neighborhoods.
Since When: Open to the public since October 2012.
Review: A lively, beautifully maintained park that’s perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
When to Go: Visit year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather.
How to Go: Centrally located, easily accessible by foot, DART, car, or bike.
What to Do: Attend free events, visit food trucks, play at the playground, and enjoy outdoor fitness classes.
Free or Paid: Free.
Fair Park, Dallas
Overview: Fair Park is a historic 277-acre recreational and cultural complex home to museums, sports facilities, and the State Fair of Texas.
History: Originally established in 1886, it gained fame after hosting the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition.
Since When: Functioning as a major cultural site since 1886.
Review: A fascinating place full of history, art deco architecture, and lively events.
When to Go: Best during the State Fair of Texas in the fall or during special events.
How to Go: Accessible by car, DART Green Line, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore museums, attend the fair, or walk among historic buildings.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the park; individual events and attractions may require paid admission.
Reunion Tower, Dallas
Overview: Reunion Tower is a recognizable Dallas landmark offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
History: Opened in 1978, it quickly became an iconic part of the Dallas skyline.
Since When: Welcoming visitors since 1978.
Review: A must-see for first-time visitors, offering unbeatable city views.
When to Go: Visit around sunset or at night for the best views.
How to Go: Located downtown, accessible by car, DART trains, or walking.
What to Do: Enjoy 360-degree views, interactive displays, and special seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid admission.
Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas
Overview: The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) houses a world-class collection spanning 5,000 years of history.
History: Founded in 1903, it moved to its current downtown location in the Arts District in 1984.
Since When: Opened at its new location since 1984.
Review: A top cultural destination with diverse, well-curated exhibitions.
When to Go: Visit anytime, but weekdays are quieter.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, accessible by DART, car, or foot.
What to Do: Explore rotating and permanent art exhibits, attend lectures, and participate in family programs.
Free or Paid: General admission is free; special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas
Overview: This museum explores the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
History: It is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot JFK in 1963.
Since when: The museum opened to the public in 1989.
Review: Visitors praise its detailed exhibits and historical significance.
When to go: Weekday mornings are less crowded for a more immersive experience.
How to go: It’s easily accessible by car or DART light rail to West End Station.
What to do: Explore exhibits, view the sniper’s perch, and watch documentary films.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.
Sandbox VR, Dallas
Overview: Sandbox VR offers immersive, multiplayer virtual reality experiences.
History: Founded in 2016, it brings cutting-edge VR technology to entertainment.
Since when: The Dallas location opened in recent years as part of its global expansion.
Review: Users love the high-tech gameplay and interactive group adventures.
When to go: Evenings and weekends are popular, so booking ahead is recommended.
How to go: Located in The Colony, it’s best reached by car or rideshare.
What to do: Play VR games like “Curse of Davy Jones” or “Deadwood Valley.”
Free or paid: Paid experience, with pricing per person.
Dallas Farmers Market, Dallas
Overview: A vibrant marketplace offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local eats.
History: Established in 1941, it has evolved into a modern urban market.
Since when: The current revitalized format began in 2013.
Review: Visitors enjoy the variety of vendors and lively atmosphere.
When to go: Weekends are busiest, with more vendors and events.
How to go: Located near downtown, accessible by car or DART to Cedars Station.
What to do: Shop for fresh food, dine at local eateries, and explore handmade crafts.
Free or paid: Free entry, but purchases vary by vendor.
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, Dallas
Overview: A stunning 66-acre garden showcasing seasonal flowers and scenic views.
History: Opened in 1984, it has grown into one of the top botanical gardens in the U.S.
Since when: The gardens have been a Dallas attraction for nearly four decades.
Review: Guests rave about its beauty, especially during spring blooms.
When to go: Spring and fall offer the best weather and floral displays.
How to go: Located on White Rock Lake, best reached by car or rideshare.
What to do: Stroll through themed gardens, attend seasonal events, and enjoy picnics.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts for children and seniors.
Dealey Plaza, Dallas
Overview: A historic plaza infamous as the site of JFK’s assassination.
History: Built in the 1940s, it became a National Historic Landmark after 1963.
Since when: The plaza gained global attention following the events of November 22, 1963.
Review: Visitors find it a somber but essential historical site.
When to go: Early mornings or weekdays for a quieter visit.
How to go: Easily accessible by DART to West End Station or by car.
What to do: See the Grassy Knoll, the memorial, and the Sixth Floor Museum nearby.
Free or paid: Free to visit, though nearby attractions may charge.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth, Dallas
Overview: An interactive indoor LEGO playground featuring rides, building zones, and a 4D cinema.
History: Part of the global LEGOLAND franchise, designed to inspire creativity through LEGO-based attractions.
Since when: Opened in Grapevine (near Dallas/Fort Worth) in 2011.
Review: Families love the hands-on exhibits, though some find it best for younger kids.
When to go: Weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
How to go: Located in Grapevine Mills Mall, accessible by car or rideshare.
What to do: Build LEGO creations, ride Merlin’s Apprentice, and watch 4D movies.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts for online bookings.
Cedar Ridge Preserve, Dallas
Overview: A scenic nature preserve with hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views.
History: Managed by the Audubon Society, it was established to protect native Texas ecosystems.
Since when: Opened to the public in the late 20th century.
Review: Hikers praise its peaceful trails and well-maintained paths.
When to go: Early mornings or weekdays for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
How to go: Best reached by car, located southwest of downtown Dallas.
What to do: Hike the trails, birdwatch, and enjoy panoramic views.
Free or paid: Free entry, donations appreciated.
Giant Eyeball, Dallas
Overview: A quirky 30-foot-tall public art installation of a giant eyeball.
History: Created by artist Tony Tasset, inspired by surrealist art.
Since when: Installed in 2013 as part of Dallas’ public art scene.
Review: Visitors find it bizarre yet amusing, making for a fun photo op.
When to go: Anytime, as it’s an outdoor sculpture visible 24/7.
How to go: Located near downtown, walkable or accessible by car.
What to do: Snap pictures and admire the unusual artwork.
Free or paid: Free to view.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Dallas
Overview: A museum showcasing oddities, bizarre artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
History: Part of the global Ripley’s franchise, known for its weird and fascinating collections.
Since when: The Dallas location has been entertaining visitors for years.
Review: Guests enjoy the strange exhibits but say it’s a quick visit.
When to go: Weekdays for shorter wait times.
How to go: Situated in Grand Prairie’s entertainment district, best reached by car.
What to do: Explore oddities, optical illusions, and hands-on displays.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with combo tickets for nearby attractions.
White Rock Lake Park, Dallas
Overview: A sprawling urban park with a lake, trails, and recreational activities.
History: Created in the early 1900s as a water reservoir, now a beloved outdoor space.
Since when: Developed into a park in the 1930s.
Review: Locals and visitors love its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
When to go: Sunrise or sunset for the best views and cooler weather.
How to go: Easily accessible by car, bike, or DART (nearest station: White Rock Station).
What to do: Hike, bike, kayak, birdwatch, or picnic by the lake.
Free or paid: Free entry, though some activities (like rentals) may have fees.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza, Dallas
Overview: A solemn monument honoring President John F. Kennedy, located near Dealey Plaza.
History: Designed by architect Philip Johnson and dedicated in 1970 as a tribute to JFK.
Since when: The memorial was opened to the public in 1970.
Review: Visitors find it a simple but powerful tribute to JFK’s legacy.
When to go: Mornings or weekdays for a quieter experience.
How to go: Easily accessible by foot from Dealey Plaza or via DART to West End Station.
What to do: Reflect at the memorial and read the inscriptions about JFK.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Pioneer Plaza, Dallas
Overview: A large public park featuring bronze sculptures of a cattle drive, celebrating Texas’ ranching history.
History: Created in 1994 by artist Robert Summers, depicting 19th-century cowboys herding longhorns.
Since when: The plaza was completed and opened in 1995.
Review: Visitors enjoy the lifelike sculptures and historical atmosphere.
When to go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better photos.
How to go: Located near the Dallas Convention Center, accessible by car or DART.
What to do: Admire the sculptures, take photos, and relax in the park.
Free or paid: Free to visit.
Bachman Lake Park, Dallas
Overview: A scenic urban park surrounding Bachman Lake, popular for walking, jogging, and picnics.
History: Developed in the early 20th century as a recreational area near Love Field Airport.
Since when: The park has been a local favorite for decades.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful trails and lake views.
When to go: Weekday mornings or evenings to avoid crowds.
How to go: Accessible by car, with parking available near the lake.
What to do: Walk or bike the trails, fish, or have a lakeside picnic.
Free or paid: Free entry.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Dallas
Overview: A museum and research center dedicated to the presidency of George W. Bush.
History: Opened in 2013 on the SMU campus, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from his administration.
Since when: The library officially opened to the public in 2013.
Review: Guests find the exhibits informative, with interactive displays and historical documents.
When to go: Weekdays for fewer visitors and a more relaxed experience.
How to go: Located on the SMU campus, accessible by car or DART light rail.
What to do: Explore presidential artifacts, a replica Oval Office, and 9/11 exhibits.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts for students and seniors.
Vitruvian Park, Dallas
Overview: A beautifully landscaped park known for its walking trails, seasonal lights, and scenic bridges.
History: Developed as part of the Vitruvian mixed-use community in Addison.
Since when: The park became a popular attraction in the 2010s.
Review: Visitors love its peaceful ambiance and stunning holiday light displays.
When to go: Evenings for the best views, especially during holiday light shows.
How to go: Best reached by car, located in Addison near Dallas.
What to do: Walk the trails, enjoy the lights, and relax by the creek.
Free or paid: Free entry, though some seasonal events may have fees.
Museum of Illusions, Dallas
Overview: An interactive museum featuring mind-bending optical illusions and immersive exhibits.
History: Part of a global chain of illusion museums designed to challenge perception through visual tricks.
Since when: Opened in Dallas in recent years as part of the museum’s expansion.
Review: Visitors rave about the fun, photo-worthy exhibits perfect for all ages.
When to go: Weekday afternoons for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.
How to go: Located in downtown Dallas, easily accessible by DART or car.
What to do: Explore holograms, infinity rooms, and perspective-bending installations.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts available online.
Frontiers of Flight Museum, Dallas
Overview: A fascinating aviation museum showcasing aircraft, space exploration, and flight history.
History: Founded in 1988 to preserve and display aviation artifacts, especially from Southwest Airlines.
Since when: Has been operating near Love Field Airport since the late 1980s.
Review: Aviation enthusiasts praise its extensive collection and well-curated exhibits.
When to go: Weekends for special events, or weekdays for a quieter visit.
How to go: Conveniently located near Love Field, accessible by car or bus.
What to do: See vintage planes, space capsules, and interactive flight simulators.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with discounts for children and seniors.
Kiest Park, Dallas
Overview: A peaceful urban park offering walking trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas.
History: Established in the 1930s as one of Dallas’ early recreational green spaces.
Since when: Has served the Oak Cliff community for nearly a century.
Review: Locals love its well-maintained grounds and family-friendly atmosphere.
When to go: Early mornings or evenings for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How to go: Located in Oak Cliff, best reached by car or bus.
What to do: Play tennis, walk the trails, or enjoy a picnic under the trees.
Free or paid: Free entry, with some sports facilities requiring reservations.
AT&T Discovery District, Dallas
Overview: A high-tech entertainment and dining hub featuring LED screens, live events, and modern architecture.
History: Developed by AT&T as part of their downtown Dallas headquarters revitalization.
Since when: Opened in 2020 as a cutting-edge urban gathering space.
Review: Visitors enjoy its vibrant atmosphere, though some find it crowded at peak times.
When to go: Evenings for light shows and live performances.
How to go: Centrally located downtown, walkable from DART or by car.
What to do: Dine outdoors, watch digital art displays, and attend concerts.
Free or paid: Free to enter, with paid food/drink options.
Rainbow Vomit, Dallas
Overview: An immersive, Instagram-friendly art experience filled with bright colors and surreal installations.
History: Created by local artists as a pop-up exhibit that became a permanent attraction.
Since when: Gained popularity in the late 2010s before establishing a fixed location.
Review: Guests love its playful, photo-centric vibe and ever-changing exhibits.
When to go: Weekday afternoons for unlimited photo opportunities without crowds.
How to go: Located in the Design District, best reached by car or rideshare.
What to do: Explore vibrant rooms, take creative photos, and interact with art.
Free or paid: Paid admission, with timed tickets required.