Things to do in Dallas
Dallas, Texas, is a city with a little of everything, from world-class museums and sprawling parks to barbecue joints and late-night music venues.
Dallas, Texas, is a city with a little of everything, from world-class museums and sprawling parks to barbecue joints and late-night music venues. You can spend a day at the Dallas Arboretum, explore history at Dealey Plaza, or catch a show in Deep Ellum. Here’s a look at what stands out.
Start with the big attractions: the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium are great for families, while the Dallas Museum of Art covers centuries of work. For outdoor time, Klyde Warren Park sits right downtown with food trucks and lawns, and White Rock Lake Park offers trails and water views. Food is a highlight—Terry Black's Barbecue serves pit-smoked meats, and Kitchen + Kocktails brings soul food with a modern twist. At night, the House of Blues and Trees keep live music going, and spots like It'll Do Club offer dancing. Shopping ranges from NorthPark Center to the Dallas Farmers Market, so there’s plenty to fill a weekend.
Frequently asked questions about Dallas
What are the best outdoor places to visit in Dallas?▾
Klyde Warren Park is a popular urban park with food trucks and events, while White Rock Lake Park offers trails, boating, and bird-watching. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre space with seasonal exhibits, and Fair Park is a large complex with gardens and cultural sites. All are open to the public.
What can families do with kids in Dallas?▾
The Dallas Zoo houses 2,000 animals and has a children's area, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science has hands-on exhibits. The Dallas World Aquarium and Children's Aquarium Dallas at Fair Park both offer aquatic life. For a different kind of fun, Cidercade Dallas has over 170 arcade games, and escape rooms like Escapology are good for older kids.
Where can I get good barbecue in Dallas?▾
Terry Black's Barbecue is a well-known spot for pit-smoked meats and homemade sides. It's an Austin import run by fourth-generation pitmasters, and it serves lunch and dinner. For other options, many local restaurants in Dallas offer Texas-style barbecue, but Terry Black's is a solid choice.
What are some notable attractions in Dallas?▾
Dealey Plaza is a National Historic Landmark tied to President Kennedy, and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza covers that history. The Giant Eyeball is a 30-foot sculpture that's a fun photo stop, and Thanks-Giving Square is an all-faiths park with a garden and chapel. Pioneer Plaza features large bronze longhorn sculptures.
Where can I hear live music in Dallas?▾
Deep Ellum is the main neighborhood for live music, with venues like Trees and Three Links Deep Ellum hosting a range of bands. House of Blues has a larger stage with rock and blues acts, and the Granada Theater is a historic art deco venue. For a bigger concert experience, Stereo Live has a 1,400-seat hall.
Things to do in Dallas
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via Google MapsMariano's Hacienda Ranch
Longtime cantina favored for homestyle Mexican fare & margaritas in bright, festive surroundings.
via Google MapsOriginal Market Diner
Breakfast staples, comfort classics & homemade desserts are offered at this old-timey establishment.
via Google MapsCelebration Restaurant & Catering
Homestyle pot roast, fried chicken, cobbler & more in a relaxed, family-oriented setting.
via Google MapsBalloon Museum | Let's Fly Dallas
Rainbow Vomit
via Google MapsSmoky Rose
Rustic-chic spot for meats cooked in wood-burning smoker, plus chefy sides, local beer & cocktails.
via Google MapsOddfellows
Bustling, rustic-hip coffeehouse/diner offers American fare morning till night, plus cocktails.
via Google MapsKiest Park
Public 263-acre park offering a mix of nature & sports facilities, including tennis & swimming.
Cidercade Dallas
Huge arcade bar with over 170 traditional arcades & pinball machines, plus house-made hard cider.
via Google MapsChet's Dallas
via Google MapsAT&T Discovery District
Interactive installations in a hi-tech park with jazz concerts, live streaming & global restaurants.
via Google MapsMoak's Family Texas BBQ
via Google MapsBeto & Son
Father-son Mexican joint for stacked enchiladas, tater tot nachos & liquid nitro margaritas.
via Google MapsTexas de Brazil - Dallas
Upscale Brazilian eatery featuring all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside & a salad bar.
via Google MapsTopgolf Dallas
Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.
via Google MapsCampuzano Mexican Food
Easygoing outfit offering big portions of Tex-Mex favorites & margaritas in a vibrant atmosphere.
via Google MapsMama's Daughters' Diner
Longtime flagship of a Southern truck-stop chain serving hearty home cooking for breakfast & lunch.
West Village
Laid-back retail complex with fashion boutiques, fitness studios, restaurants & a movie theater.
via Google MapsMoxies Dallas Uptown Restaurant
Canadian-based chain with a patio, serving crowd-pleasing New American dishes and cocktails.
Village on the Parkway
Shopping center offering retail outlets, dining, a movie theater, a spa & fitness outposts.