Dallas Travel Tips - Tours and Attractions the Family Can't Miss

Pro Travel Tip: Visiting Dallas in the summer months? It can get scorching hot here. If you are visiting the DFW metroplex during June/July/August and sometimes September, be prepared with plenty of sunscreen, water, and your favorite cowboy hat.

Family Friendly Attractions and Tours:

Dallas Museum of Art - General Admission to this museum is FREE. It is recommended to reserve your tickets in advance. DMA offers diverse art forms showcasing an extensive collection spanning thousands of years. With engaging interactive exhibits, family-friendly workshops, and educational programs tailored for all ages, the DMA provides an enriching experience that inspires creativity and fosters a deeper appreciation for art among families.

Klyde Warren Park - Nestled in the heart of downtown Dallas, is a urban oasis offering numerous family-friendly activities. From spacious lawns for picnics and playgrounds for kids to splash pads and a variety of food trucks, the park provides a lively and inclusive environment where families can relax, play, and connect with the community amidst the bustling cityscape.

Perot Museum - Ignite your curiosity at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, where interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, and fascinating artifacts await. From dinosaur fossils to cutting-edge technology, this museum offers something for visitors of all ages.

Dallas Arboretum - This is by far my favorite Dallas attraction. Explore 66 acres of lush gardens, scenic trails, and stunning floral displays overlooking White Rock Lake. Pro Tip-Their spring Dallas Blooms, Autumn at the Arboretum, and Holiday at the Arboretum are must-sees. Within the Arboretum, kids have their own special place: The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden. It offers a dynamic exploration of nature through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Check out the schedule online for engaging programming designed for young learners, the Discovery Garden provides an immersive and educational experience that sparks curiosity and fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Texas Discovery Garden at State Fair Park - A lush botanical oasis dedicated to showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of Texas ecosystems. With themed gardens, butterfly exhibits, and educational programs, it offers visitors of all ages a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainable gardening practices. If you have a train lover in your family, don't miss the Model Train Display run Saturday-Sunday 10:30am-5pm. Call ahead to confirm hours.

Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza - Due to the topic, it is recommended for ages six and up. This museum provides a poignant and immersive exploration of the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Through exhibits, artifacts, and firsthand accounts, visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal moment in American history and its enduring impact on the nation.

Secret food Tour of Dallas in Deep Ellum - appropriate for all ages. Ready for some Southern Hospitality? You will explore the rich culinary fusion of our cuisine, influenced by various cultures. Join our guides as they take you on a vibrant journey through the artistic and musical streets of Deep Ellum, where you'll savor iconic dishes like BBQ brisket, award-winning Texas chili, homemade buttery biscuits, and a tantalizing Secret Dish that's simply irresistible!

AT&T/Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour - They try to make Cowboy fans out of every kid in Dallas...and that's through a very common elementary school fieldtrip to Dallas Cowboys Stadium! You and your family can also take a tour of the word's largest domed structure.

Dallas' Black-owned Businesses, History and Bites Tour - This is done by one of my favorite tour companies in Dallas. Discover fabulous local food finds and unique landmarks, including an award-winning dessert haven, one of the country's best-preserved post Civil War Freedman's towns and an acclaimed African American bookstore/arts gallery. If you come back to Dallas without kids, try their Dallas' Best Tacos and Margaritas Tour!

Two-Hour Historic Dallas Segway Tour - Good for older kids, age 14 and up- You'll discover historic sites in Downtown Dallas with a guide after instructions and practice on the Segway. Pro tip: If you are here in warmer months book the earlier time slots so it's not as hot! Your feet and your head with the helmet will get very toasty.

America Airlines Center - Catch a thrilling sporting event or live concert at the American Airlines Center, home to the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars. With its state-of-the-art facilities and dynamic atmosphere, this venue promises an unforgettable entertainment experience.

Day trips

This Dallas Travel Tips collection wouldn't be complete without mentioning The FW in DFW! A great day trip if time allows is The Fort Worth Stockyards. Every good and dutiful Texan will tell you that your "Lone Star resident card" can be revoked if you don't visit this historic attraction at least once in your life. Step back in time to the Wild West...be sure to see the cattle drive and get your photo with a longhorn or get the full cowboy experience at the Stockyards Championship Rodeo on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm.
Don't limit yourself to the Stockyards if you visit Fort Worth. The Fort Worth Zoo is great as well as the Botanic Gardens. Catch a family friendly show at Bass Performance Hall, or a race at Texas Motor Speedway. DFW has carved out some of the best family offerings in the whole state! I hope you bring your family soon!

Pecan Lodge - Known for its mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausage, Pecan Lodge is a beloved BBQ joint located in the Deep Ellum neighborhood of Dallas. The restaurant often has long lines, but the delicious smoked meats and Southern sides are well worth the wait.

Lockhart Smokehouse - Inspired by the legendary barbecue traditions of Lockhart, Texas, Lockhart Smokehouse serves up a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, and sausage, with a focus on authenticity and flavor. Located in the Bishop Arts District, it's a favorite spot for BBQ enthusiasts in Dallas. Once you finish here, you'll want to do a bit of walking. The Bishop Arts District has great boutiques and you can cap off your meal with a slice of pie at Emporium Pies.

El Fenix - A Dallas institution since 1918, El Fenix is a family-friendly Tex-Mex restaurant offering classic dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and tacos. With a kids' menu and colorful decor, it's a favorite among families looking for traditional Mexican cuisine

Truck Yard - For a more casual and eclectic dining experience, visitors can head to Truck Yard, a popular food truck park and beer garden in Dallas. With a rotating selection of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, as well as a lively atmosphere with live music and outdoor seating, Truck Yard provides a fun and memorable dining experience for visitors looking to sample Dallas's culinary scene.

Biscuit Bar - With multiple DFW locations is famous for its inventive biscuit sandwiches. They serve a variety of savory and sweet options, making it a popular spot for breakfast or brunch among locals and tourists alike.

The Rustic - is a laid-back spot in Uptown Dallas that offers a casual atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, live music, and a menu featuring Texas-inspired dishes like BBQ, burgers, and tacos. With its spacious patio and kids' menu, The Rustic is a great choice for families looking for a relaxed dining experience in Uptown.

Dallas Farmer's Market - Can't decide on one place or cuisine to try? This spot offers it all! You can explore a variety of food stalls, eateries, and restaurants offering everything from farm-fresh produce to international cuisines. Whether you're in the mood for freshly prepared meals using local ingredients, artisanal snacks, or gourmet delicacies. I like to grab a table outside and then stroll over to shop for plants and flowers at Ruibal's Plant Center.

Legacy Hall - Another place to visit if you can't agree on a restaurant. This is located in a nice shopping district and has 20 locally curated food and beverage vendors. It also has table side ordering and live music. My kids love it for the selection.