Attractions
Dallas, United States, is a fantastic city with many tourist attractions. From modern attractions like the Dallas Aquarium and the Dallas World Aquarium to classic attractions like the Sixth Floor Museum and the Dallas Museum of Art, there is something for everyone in Dallas.
Let’s explore the attractions in Dallas and what there is to do:
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre public garden and a significant attraction in Dallas, Texas. Located on the south tip of White Rock Lake, the arboretum offers some of the most stunning views of downtown Dallas. The gardens feature various specialty gardens with over 66,000 ornamental plants and trees, including hybrid tea roses, specialty camellias, daylilies, a nutshell garden planted entirely with broadleaf evergreens, and annuals providing the requisite color for any flower-lover dream.
Various festivals are held throughout the year at The Dallas Arboretum, such as their famous Autumn at the Arboretum Festival, with 150,000 pumpkins covering 3.5 acres from mid to late October each year. During cooler months, they offer unique “Night Lights” lantern displays that choreograph a symphony of lights along pathways at various times throughout the calendar year.
In addition to its horticultural attractions, The Dallas Arboretum features two restaurants – “Garden Café” located near Texas Pollinator Prairie Garden & “Chisholm’s Café” in DeGolyer Library, where visitors can enjoy lunch or dinner after touring this natural wonderland. They also provide regular guided tours year-round, which include topics such as horticulture basics & botanical names; moonlight tours; children’s story time; art lectures; health and wellness classes; bird watching, zen stress reduction classes & more audio-visual collections in their DeGolyer library for students who need it!
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is one of the largest and most popular attractions in Dallas, Texas. Situated on 106 acres in scenic Fair Park, the Dallas Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around 400 species representing six continents. The Dallas Zoo’s easily navigable walking paths are filled with interactive exhibits and fun activities for visitors of all ages.
The zoo’s featured attractions include:
- The Wilds of Africa section houses an expansive array of African wildlife, including giraffes, lions, hippos, and ostriches.
- Wild Explorers area for kids to explore nature spaces featuring a giant tree climb.
- Cat Canyon with Oklahoma cougars, Bengal tigers, and jaguars.
- Simmons Hippo Outpost offers an up-close hippo experience.
- Parakeet Pointe is a lively habitat overflowing with colorful parakeets.
- DeGolyer Nature Boardwalk features meadows and wetlands teeming with local animal life.
As visitors explore this urban oasis set among historic buildings inspired by 12 world cultures – they’ll also find many opportunities to learn about animals and conservation through educational programs such as Conservation University offered by the Dallas Zoo Institute.
The Sixth Floor Museum
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza commemorates the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. It is located in the former Texas School Book Depository building on the corner of Elm and Houston Streets, overlooking Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas. The museum offers an interactive experience focusing on Kennedy’s presidency, assassination, and legacy.
The museum houses a permanent exhibition of archival materials such as photographs and film footage offering insight into the President’s life and death, historical artifacts related to his assassination, and a special exhibit dedicated to his legacy. Additionally, visitors explore the “sniper’s nest” where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly fired shots in November 1963.
Through audio-visual elements, photographs, artifacts, interviews with those who knew him, and archival documents, visitors learn about JFK’s life, vision for America, and death, which shocked the nation.
The Sixth Floor Museum provides an educational experience for anyone interested in the United States or world history or those seeking to commemorate a beloved president through preserving exhibits that offer insight into his life via multimedia elements like archival footage from historical events he was part of during his presidency such as visits to Berlin or Thanksgiving celebrations at Camp David with his family. The museum remains open seven days a week, and tickets must be purchased online ahead of time.
Shopping
Dallas has no shortage of shopping opportunities for visitors or locals. Many high-end boutiques, unique specialty shops, department stores, and discount outlets exist. So whether you’re looking for a gift, souvenir, or individual item for yourself, shopping in Dallas is sure to have something for everyone.
Highland Park Village
Highland Park Village is one of the oldest and most renowned shopping centers in Dallas, United States. Located in the affluent community of Highland Park, this shopping center caters to a wide variety of shoppers seeking luxury and leading-edge fashion. It was built in 1931; Highland Park Village has always been a cornerstone of luxury Dallas shopping.
The village features a mix of renowned international luxury retailers, including Francesca’s, Tory Burch, and Hermès, to name but a few. Additionally, there are plenty of amenities for visitors, such as quick bite spots like Arcington’s Pizza Lounge or full-service restaurants like The Honor Bar. Shoppers can enjoy many seasonally driven events throughout the year, including art installations and holiday happenings like snowfalls or outdoor movie screenings.
Highland Park Village also offers private events and professionally staffed VIP lounges, providing an upscaled twist to any gathering, whether you’re just passing through or are a local looking for luxurious retail therapy. Highland Park Village should not be missed when visiting Dallas!
NorthPark Center
NorthPark Center, located in Dallas, Texas, is one of the premier shopping destinations in the United States. Shopping at NorthPark Center is an absolute must for those looking for quality brands, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and trendy items. NorthPark features everything from leading designers to hometown favorites. Whether you’re looking for fashion, accessories, jewelry, home décor, or electronics, NorthPark Center has over 240 unique stores and restaurants.
For those looking for a more personalized shopping experience visiting a Nordstrom store (located directly on-site) may be most suitable for finding exactly what you need while also taking advantage of their sales staff’s expertise. Additionally, on-site guest services are available to help you plan your shopping trip to make it a memorable experience.
Suppose you’d prefer an outing consisting of both shopping and dining. Then, why not take advantage of the food offered by the mall’s vast selection of eateries, including names such as Olive Garden, BurgerFi, Kona Grill, Pei Wei Asian Diner, and Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill? Just come hungry because these tantalizing restaurant selections will make it hard to pick just one!
Galleria Dallas
Galleria Dallas is one of the premiere shopping destinations in Dallas-Fort Worth. It opened its doors near North Park Center in 1982, replacing an aging mall and adding more than 500,000 square feet of retail space. It is home to hundreds of stores offering everything from top fashion labels to specialty items, various dining options, a full-size ice rink, and many entertainment options.
The Galleria has four levels with anchor stores such as Neiman Marcus, Macy’s, and Nordstrom. Other popular retailers include Banana Republic, H&M, Apple Store, Madewell, and Xbox One. The mall also features high-end shops such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Fendi, providing a luxury shopping experience. In addition, there are countless shops to explore, plenty of eateries like Bahama Breeze Island Grille or Kona Grill for delicious American fare, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen for succulent seafood creations, and more.
Shoppers are also invited to enjoy a wide range of entertainment, including the world’s tallest indoor Christmas tree each holiday season at Galleria Dallas’s “Magical Winter Lights” show and outdoor plaza, where outdoor movie shows and live performances take place during the summer months. Galleria Dallas offers something for everyone with their varied selection of quality retailers, dining options, and entertainment features, among many others, all available under one roof!
Restaurants
Dallas, United States, offers a wide variety of restaurants for everyone. From trendy cafes to BBQ restaurants, Dallas has it all. So whether you are looking for a romantic date night spot or a casual dinner with friends, you’ll find something delicious in Dallas.
Let’s explore some of the restaurants that the city has to offer:
Pecan Lodge
Pecan Lodge is a classic, down-home favorite in the heart of Dallas’ Deep Ellum neighborhood. This barbecue hot spot has been featured in various media outlets, including Food & Wine Magazine, Thrillist, and Texas Monthly’s list of the Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas. Serving up some of the city’s best-smoked meats and sides, Pecan Lodge is always packed with locals and tourists looking for an authentic taste of Dallas.
The restaurant offers a classic selection of Texas-style favorites like beef brisket, smoked chicken thighs, pork ribs, pulled pork, rib tips, and freshly made side dishes like mac ‘n’ cheese and creamed corn, and coleslaw. With their signature home-style atmosphere and delicious smoked barbecue delicacies all on one plate, Pecan Lodge is an authentic slice of Lone Star State culture that will delight any barbecue fan.
Cane Rosso
Cane Rosso is a Neapolitan-style pizzeria with multiple locations throughout the Dallas metro. A creation from award-winning pizzaiolo Jay Jerrier, Cane Rosso serves up amazing wood-fired pizzas in classic and creative flavors.
Along with the signature red (Rosso) pies, Cane Rosso also offers mouthwatering starters and salads, desserts for sweet tooths, wine, and local craft beer to pair. So for an authentic Italian experience, check out Cane Rosso in Dallas.
Meso Maya
Meso Maya is an upscale Mexican restaurant serving authentic and flavorful cuisine from the region of Mayan Mexico. The menu features dishes from recipes passed down through generations and creative and modern interpretations of traditional recipes. Diners enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere characterized by rustic wood furnishings and soft music, plus a full bar with some of Dallas’s most flavorful Margaritas and Margarita-style drinks.
Start your visit with freshly made Guacamole or Ceviche in colorful handmade bowls, and end with a decadent dessert like Tres Leches. Meso Maya also hosts special events throughout the year to give customers plenty of chances to enjoy the exquisite flavors of Mayan Mexico.
Entertainment
Dallas is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, from world-renowned events and performances to more intimate local experiences. So whether it’s a night out on the town or a low-key day of exploration, Dallas has something to suit everyone’s tastes and needs.
Let’s explore some of the options available in the Dallas area when it comes to entertainment:
AT&T Stadium
AT&T Stadium, formerly Cowboy Stadium, is a sight in North Texas. This state-of-the-art stadium is home to the Dallas Cowboys, an entertainment destination offering something for everyone. AT&T Stadium features professional and amateur sporting competitions, world-class concerts featuring international artists, live theater offerings, and unique tours that put visitors on the playing field.
No visit to AT&T Stadium would be complete without a tour of this fantastic facility; visitors can wander around the concourses or explore up close. The guided tours offer visitors access to places they’d never be able to study independently, from the field to a private suite and even behind-the-scenes areas like press boxes and game day preparation facilities.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of interactive experiences such as Virtual Reality Football or throwing targets at the ultimate NFL combined virtual reality experience where you’ll feel you’re in action. Fans can also take home some memorabilia from Cowboys Pro Shops at each end of the stadium and get souvenirs from concession stands sprinkled throughout for additional fan enjoyment!
Visit AT&T Stadium for an unforgettable experience!
The Kessler Theater
The historic Kessler Theater on North Bishop Avenue in Oak Cliff, Dallas, is a non-profit music venue offering an intimate space to see local, regional, and national acts in jazz, blues, folk, rockabilly, and other genres. The theater was originally built in 1941 as a movie house. In 2006, the owners updated the theater by installing state-of-the-art lighting and audio equipment.
The Kessler Theater allows music fans to soak up outstanding performers in a relaxed atmosphere for more than 350 shows each year. Its tickets are reasonably priced, and parking is free. Music icons such as LeAnn Rimes, Tim McGraw, and Lucinda Williams have taken the stage here. Patrons can look forward to living entertainment six nights a week from talented musicians of various genres. This intimate venue has 400 seats and serves beer from five local craft breweries.
The theater also hosts stand-up comedy shows by nationally acclaimed acts and art series for children of all ages with free admission during school holidays throughout the year. Additionally, The Kessler Theater supports various non-profit organizations by hosting benefit concerts throughout the season – fundraisers that feature renowned artists like Robert Plant with Patty Griffin or James McMurtry with Chris Smithers, to name just a few recent performances supporting worthy causes close to home.
Whether you’re looking for entertainment for your family or want to experience something completely new, you’ll find it at The Kessler Theater!
Dallas Comedy House
The Dallas Comedy House (DCH) is in downtown Dallas, Texas, an entertainment center. Founded in 2009, the Dallas Comedy House offers classes, open mics, and corporate training in all forms of comedy, including improv, sketch, and stand-up. Its main theater provides professional live shows twice weekly and also hosts a variety of special events such as Bachelor Parties, Date Nights, and Live Music Concerts. Whether you have never tried comedy before or have been working on it professionally for years, the Dallas Comedy House has something to offer everyone.
Experience exceptional performing arts with some of their most renowned professionals at their main stage theater. Then, take your skills to the next level with one of their popular introduction courses featuring topics such as improvisation basics and stand-up basics. The DCH also offers private classes for groups and corporate training tailored to specific businesses to help employees work on their soft skills. Frequent workshops are also held at the venue covering everything from scene work to storytelling techniques to enhance overall comedic skills.
The friendly staff at DCH are always keen to welcome new patrons with a night filled with laughter, learning, and enlightenment. So visit them today for an evening full of laughter that you won’t soon forget!
Outdoor Activities
Dallas, United States, is a vibrant city with plenty of outdoor activities to explore. From scenic hikes to kayaking down the Trinity river, there are activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for something to do with the family or a solo adventure, there is something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the top outdoor activities in Dallas:
White Rock Lake
White Rock Lake is a man-made lake located in Dallas, Texas. It’s a popular recreational spot, offering many outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes to appreciate. Activities include boating, sailing, kayaking, fishing, hiking trails, and water sports. For more minor children, the Little Lake Playground offers an exciting play area filled with colorful outdoor equipment for learning and fun.
White Rock Lake Park has plenty to do if you want something more relaxed. Visitors can take picturesque strolls along fantastic lake views from Sunset Bay or Winfrey Point, easily accessible from the Dallas Loop trail. Picnic areas line the lake’s east side for those wishing to enjoy a picnic lunch or shelter from the rain under Calypso Cove’s pavilions. The scenic hike around White Rock Lake on its winding 10-mile track is also popular among locals and visitors.
Whether you sit still or take in some activity at White Rock Lake Park, it will surely provide an enjoyable experience, making it one of Dallas’s best outdoor activities!
Klyde Warren Park
Klyde Warren Park is a 5.2-acre public park in downtown Dallas, Texas, United States, which opened on October 27, 2012. Located over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway between Pearl and St. Paul Streets, the park is a central gathering space for Dallas and its visitors to enjoy the city’s heart.
Activities offered include:
- Yoga classes
- Outdoor games such as chess, table tennis, bocce ball, and more
- Live music performances
Eight restaurants in Klyde Warren Park offer casual to gourmet American cuisine, emphasizing locally sourced foods whenever possible. The park also boasts a small dog park with artificial turf for visitors who wish to bring their four-legged friends along for family fun.
For those looking for something more educational, several informative tours and lectures are offered at different times throughout the day. In addition, during special events, one can find art vendors showcasing local talent and food trucks from all over Dallas serving delicious treats of all kinds.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax with family or friends or want to take part in exciting activities like yoga or golf putting, Klyde Warren Park offers something for everyone!
Trinity River Audubon Center
The Trinity River Audubon Center, located in the Great Trinity Forest, is a wildlife observation, education, and conservation center. It offers numerous nature-based activities such as birdwatching, wildlife photography, guided hikes, kayak tours, and educational programs. The center also organizes unique canoe trips that allow outdoor enthusiasts to explore the river differently.
In addition to discovering its abundant wildlife and natural resources, visitors can stroll along the trails around the sanctuary or rent a fishing boat and try to catch one of the many species of fish in the Trinity River. In addition, kids can join in on some fun activities, such as geocaching, while they explore their environment. The center strives to encourage visitors to become stewards of nature by helping preserve its habitats through mindful outdoor recreation.