20 BEST Things to do in Dallas Texas [2023 UPDATED]

So, you have decided to take a trip to Dallas Texas, but a quick search shows that there are so many things to do in Dallas that you don’t know where to start. Dallas Texas indeed has some of the best locations in culture, art, music, food, touring, historical landmarks, and shopping destinations. Although you know that there are many things you can do, how do you narrow it down?

This list of things to do in Dallas will provide you with the best-reviewed destinations for fun things, free things, romantic things, cheap things, and fun weekend destinations in Dallas Texas. This list contains a mix of historical, outdoor, and dining tours that are great for a restful getaway with your partner or an educational and entertaining trip filled with fun family-oriented outings. So, relax and let this list show you all of the wonderful things that you can explore in downtown Dallas Texas.

See Also:

• Dallas Christmas Light Shows
• Areas to Avoid in Dallas

1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Starting the list of things to do in Dallas Texas is the Sixth Floor Museum. This location is a traveler favorite that commemorates the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Walk the solemn halls of this museum and explore the many pictures and artifacts as you experience the memory of this tragic, historic event that shocked the nation. Open seven days a week, this destination is a great way to learn about some of the nation’s history.  

2. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

This next entry on the list is a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors while experiencing some artfully crafted gardens featuring exotic plant species and seasonal displays. Regardless of the time of year, this location has many fun activities, like Trick or Treating in the Children’s Garden or Harvest Tea, that make this a welcome addition to the list of things to do in Dallas with the kids. 

3. Reunion Tower

If scenic views and local architecture are your passions, then this next destination is perfect. Located in the heart of Dallas, the Reunion Tower provides a sweeping view of the many impressive skyscrapers and historic landmarks of the city. When you finish taking in the sites, enjoy a unique dining experience at the Cloud Nine Cafe overlooking the city. For a thrilling experience, this location tops the list of romantic things to do in downtown Dallas.

4. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

For an arts and culture experience, visit the historic symphony center located, featuring nightly events like The Sea Symphony, Arts District Showcase, and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. With so many events, this destination tops the list of things to do in downtown Dallas. Tickets for these events sell out fast so don’t wait to plan your next visit to the symphony center. 

5. Curiosities

This next entry on the list is a unique option for anyone shopping in Dallas Texas. Curiosities offer antique goods including old signs, yard furniture, gardening supplies, and vintage Christmas decor. With so many great events that help you to get ready for the holidays as you rediscover old treasures, this antique store is sure to provide an entertaining shopping experience.

6. Dallas Food and Culture Tour

If you are looking for an experience that shows you the best in food and cultural Dallas experiences and things to do in downtown Dallas, then look no further than this two-hour food tour of downtown Dallas. You will walk through downtown Dallas with a local guide who will show you the best restaurant destinations featuring locally crafted pizza, chili, steak, tacos, and smoothies. All while exploring historical landmarks like the John F Kennedy Memorial.

7. Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Dallas, then a medieval festival is sure to thrill the whole family. Experience authentic foods and drinks from medieval times while you enjoy jousting and a show, just like the nobleman of olde. This two-hour event is located close to downtown Dallas, provides wheelchair-accessible accommodations, and vegetarian options, and is great for children as your as three. Enjoy a four-course dinner with vegetarian options (upon request), this is an experience your family will be talking about for years to come.

8. Uncommon Market

At Uncommon Market, you will find everything from Waterloo Serving Platters, garden decorations and benches to porcelain eggs and small statues of your favorite historical architecture. With new merchandise arriving daily, this location is sure to provide an interesting purchase experience and a memorable keepsake from shopping in Dallas Texas, making Uncommon Market a welcome addition to the list of things to do in Dallas Texas.

9. Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures

When traveling, sometimes the cost of admission can become overwhelming and with so many great things to do in downtown Dallas, your wallet might need a break. This next entry on the list is a fun and free thing to do this weekend in Dallas. Built and dedicated in 1997, Pioneer Plaza offers a piece of history and scenic views. Enjoy the Cattle Drive Sculptures featuring lifesize depictions of running cattle. This display reminds visitors of the industry that made Dallas Texas.

10. Dallas by Chocolate Tours

If you are looking for romantic things to do around Dallas, this next option features some great food and drinks for you and your partner. With options like a five-hour food, wine, and jazz tour of Dallas, you will learn about the best in local cuisine, wineries, and nightlife. The Winery tour includes transportation, great beverages, and a diverse menu of unique meal options like cheese boards, gourmet pizzas, and decadent chocolate desserts.

11. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

For great food and drinks, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse has a classic steakhouse experience for you and your partner, granting this location a spot on the list of romantic things to do in Dallas Texas. With private dining and weekly events, there is something for every couple looking to experience some of downtown Dallas’s nightlife. Try some of the flavorful housemade menu items like Lobster & Brioche, Three Peppercorn Steak, and Jumbo Lump Crab Mac & Cheese.

12. White Rock Lake Park

This next entry on the list of things to do in Dallas will get the whole family outdoors as you explore the natural surroundings of Dallas Texas. White Rock Lake Park features 1,015 acres of pristine parklands encircled by multiple walking paths, bicycle trails, dog parks, rental facilities, and concession stands. If you’re looking for fun and free things to do this weekend in Dallas, then this outdoor experience is a must.

13. Uchi Dallas 

If you are looking for an authentic Japanese flavor as you explore the nightlife of downtown Dallas, then Uchi Dallas has some unique creations with artful presentations sure to delight the Japanese cuisine enthusiast. Serving sustainably sourced entree items like Pork Rib, Green Tomato Katsu and offering an exclusively vegetarian menu, you will enjoy great flavors in a fine dining atmosphere.

14. Dallas World Aquarium

When you have finished shopping and taking in the historic architecture, why not explore some exotic animals at the Dallas World Aquarium? This location features some of the most colorful and interesting animal species on the planet. Open seven days a week, this destination will provide hours of entertainment for the whole family as you learn about the many animal species they house making this a fun thing to do in Dallas on the weekend with kids.

15. American Airlines Center

This next entry offers great music and sports events in one location. At the American Airlines Center, you will get an up-close and personal view of some of the best sports teams like the NBA Dallas Mavericks and the NHL Dallas Stars. In the off-season, experience some of the brightest stars in the music industry making this a necessary addition to the list of things to do in downtown Dallas.

16. Cafe 43 

This next location on the list of things to do in Dallas combines an educational experience as you tour the George W. Bush Presidential Library and end your trip with the delicious flavors of Cafe 43. This relaxed atmosphere is complemented by the many American-style cuisine staples like Southern Benedict, Pan Fried Chicken, and Mrs. Bush’s Favorite Banana Pecan Ice Cream.

17. Dallas Zoo

Featuring an exotic animal experience and a variety of fun events, the Dallas Zoo is an educational addition to the list of things to do in Dallas. Enjoy limited run events like Dinos, Up-Close Tiger Experience, Halloweekend, and the Dallas Symphony at the Zoo. With so many interesting experiences and a chance to interact with some of the rarest animals in the world, this destination is an opportunity to learn with the whole family. 

18. Frontiers of Flight Museum 

This next destination on the list of things to do in Dallas wants you to experience the most exciting and innovative times in the history of flight and space exploration. You and your family will learn about the most influential people in history who contributed to the advancement of aviation. With frequent exhibits like War of the Stars: Where Heroes and Villains Unite and Art of the Airport Tower, this location offers a memorable Dallas experience. 

19. Nasher Sculpture Center

Another great experience for the whole family is also a cheap thing to do in Dallas. The Nasher Sculpture Center offers a great opportunity to spend time with your family while giving your wallet a break. With low admission rates of just $10, your family can experience programs and events like Free-First Saturdays, Nasher Prize Student Festival, and the Art and Health Series.

20. True Food Kitchen 

This last entry on the list of things to do in Dallas is a flavorful food option for diners looking for alternative menu items and healthy meal options. True Food Kitchen offers a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options including many child-friendly options and locally crafted beers and wines. Enjoy house-made soups, salads, burgers, and wraps crafted with fresh, locally grown ingredients.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned about the many diverse experiences that Dallas Texas has to offer, you are sure to create a unique travel experience that provides the best in culture, art, music, food, touring, historical landmarks, and shopping destinations. With this list, you can relax knowing that you have found the best destinations that Dallas has to offer. With so many free and affordable locations, you can spend time with your family and even experience a budget-friendly romantic getaway. Now that you know what you will do in Dallas Texas, all that’s left is to explore some of the best hotels and resorts that Dallas has to offer travelers from all over the globe.