Top Dallas Tourist Attractions
You will definitely want to take your time and enjoy all the attractions that the city of Dallas, TX has to offer. There are so many things to see and do that you will just be so happy. First, take a shopping spree and get everything you need for your stay in Dallas at the Grapevine Mills which has 200 of the best names in manufacturers and retail outlets and is about 30 minutes from Dallas. Now that you have everything that you need head on down to the Dallas Zoo which is Open Hours: 9am – 5pm daily; closed Christmas Day the Dallas Zoo has 95 acres of exotic and traditional zoo animals.
Next, you have to visit the Dallas White Rock Lake with Open Hours: 6am – midnight daily plus miles of waterfront trails. There are fishing, sailing and horseback riding. Now move on to The Swiss Avenue Historic District is Open Hours: 9am – 5pm daily. There are approximately 200 houses in Mediterranean, Spanish, Georgian, Prairie School, and English Tudor styles for you to take a look at.
Then, you will want to take a look at all the museums. The Dallas Museum of Art, Legends of the Game Baseball Museum, Palace of Wax/Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Oil City Park, and the Conspiracy Museum. Here are our Dallas Top 10 Attractions:
Grapevine Mills
3000 Grapevine Mills Parkway, Grapevine, TX 76051-2008; 972 724 4900
The Grapevine Mills 200 of the best names in manufacturers and retail outlets and is about 30 minutes from Dallas. Places like Rainforest Cafe and Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Grill are just some of the dining available and there is also entertainment there too.
Located in Grapevine, just north of downtown Dallas, this massive shopping mall offers a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. A popular attraction here is the Sea Life Aquarium, where visitors can observe more than 3,000 marine creatures in 11 living habitats. The LEGOLAND Discovery Center features more than six million LEGO bricks in 21 rides and attractions, while the AMC Theaters provide moviegoers with an interactive film-viewing experience. For those who prefer outdoor activities, there’s the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Adventure Park with its ziplines and mini golf course. And for bargain shoppers, Grapevine Mills has them covered with over 200 retail outlets, offering discounts of up to 65% off the regular price. With all these options, it’s no wonder that Grapevine Mills remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dallas.
Open Hours: 10am-9pm Mon-Sat; Noon-6pm Sun
Dallas Zoo
650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TX 75203-3013; 214 670 5656
The Dallas Zoo has 95 acres of exotic and traditional zoo animals. There are six natural habitats that are featured: forest, mountain, woodland, river, desert, and brush. There is also a 20-minute monorail ride. This is a great afternoon for the whole family.
The Dallas Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Dallas, and it’s easy to see why. From its world-class animal exhibits to its interactive educational experiences, the Dallas Zoo offers something for everyone. With over 2,000 animals from more than 400 species, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore and observe the diverse wildlife living in the zoo’s habitats. The zoo also offers a variety of fun activities, such as animal encounters, shows, and tours for an even more immersive experience. And on top of all of that, proceeds from admission tickets help fund conservation and education initiatives in the local area, making the Dallas Zoo a great place to visit while supporting a good cause.
Open Hours: 9am-5pm daily; closed Christmas Day
West End MarketPlace
603 Munger Ave, Dallas, TX 75202-1847; 214 748 4801
Retail shops, restaurants, and a movie theater and there is a Planet Hollywood too. The complex contains nightclubs and outdoor stages for entertainment. You will want to spend the whole day and night there because there is just so much to do.
Located downtown, this bustling hub captures the spirit of the city with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and attractions. Here you can find a selection of unique boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts, as well as plenty of dining options ranging from fast food to fine cuisine. The outdoor spaces are just as charming, featuring popular gathering spots such as the historic Reunion Tower and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. If that isn’t enough to keep you busy, West End Marketplace also offers guided walking tours and interactive exhibits that provide a closer look at the colorful history of the city.
Open Hours: 11am-10pm Mon-Thu; 11am-midnight Fri-Sat; noon-6pm Sun
White Rock Lake
8300 Garland Road, Dallas, TX 75218-4332; 214 670 4100
White Rock Lake 9 – plus miles of waterfront trails. There are fishing, sailing and horseback riding. There are several playgrounds and picnic areas are reservable and you will wish to spend the afternoon or evening on the grounds. Admission is free for all.
White Rock Lake is one of Dallas’ most popular attractions and has a lot to offer for eager visitors. Located in the northeast corner of the city, this lake boasts nearly 1,000 acres of land with more than nine miles of wooded shoreline. From its tranquil walking trails to its abundant wildlife, White Rock Lake is the perfect destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take part in activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, fishing and bird watching.
With over 800 species of birds living around the lake, it’s no surprise that it’s been designated as an Audubon Society Bird Sanctuary. For those wanting a dose of culture, nearby is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, one of the most impressive gardens in Texas. The area also includes several restaurants, marinas, and art galleries sure to enchant anyone looking to experience the beauty of Dallas.
Open Hours: 6am-midnight daily
Swiss Avenue Historic District
Swiss Avenue and Fitzhugh, Dallas, TX 75204; 214 821 3290
There are approximately 200 houses in Mediterranean, Spanish, Georgian, Prairie School, and English Tudor styles for you to take a look at. The Dallas Museum of Art offers a guided audio tour. You will just love the houses.
Located just north of downtown, this area features a charming mix of restored homes from the early twentieth century that are perfect for exploring on a leisurely stroll. These homes include historic bungalows, prairie-style homes, and other architectural styles from the period. Additionally, this neighborhood has become known as a vibrant cultural, entertainment, and shopping district, offering a wide variety of boutique shop to explore, galleries to browse, and restaurants serving up delicious cuisine.
The Swiss Avenue Historic District is Open Hours: 9am – 5pm daily.
Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza
411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202-3317; 214 747 6660
Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza is an exhibit that leads up to the events that killed President John F. Kennedy. You will definitely want to go and see this museum. There are also listings of all the accomplishments of the 35th President of the United States.
Located in the former Texas School Book Depository building, the museum offers an immersive experience into the tumultuous events of November 22, 1963 when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. The museum features six floors of interactive exhibits and artifacts from the time period, as well as rare footage that documents the tragic event. Visitors can also tour the infamous sniper’s nest where Lee Harvey Oswald took aim at the presidential motorcade. The museum offers a solemn yet ultimately uplifting experience as it pays homage to JFK and to the city of Dallas More than ever before, the Sixth Floor Museum stands as a beacon of hope and understanding amidst a chaotic and often violent world.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza is open hours: 9am-6pm daily
Dallas Museum of Art
1717 North Harwood, Dallas, TX 75201-2330; 214 922 1200
Dallas Museum of Art is a feature of the Arts District. It houses timeless pieces of art. There are a restaurant and a café for your dining pleasure and a gift shop for souvenirs and gifts. You will spend hours mesmerized by art.
Boasting a collection of over 23,000 works, the museum showcases art from around the world, from ancient to contemporary pieces. The museum is home to some of the most famous artworks in the world, including Vincent van Gogh’s Irises and Rembrandt’s Portrait of A Woman. In addition, the museum offers interactive programs such as lectures, tours, classes, and family activities. With its ever-expanding collection and diverse programming, the Dallas Museum of Art is sure to impress visitors of all ages.
Dallas Museum of Art is open hours: 11am-5pm Tue-Sun; 11am-9pm Thu
Legends of the Game Baseball Museum
1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, TX 76011-5168; 817 273 5600
The Legends of the Game Baseball Museum displays include bats, jerseys, and trophies of the nation’s baseball legends. There is also a learning center to teach aspects of science, history, and more. A great day will be had here.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of baseball artifacts and memorabilia from the early days of the game up to the modern era. The museum allows visitors to explore the history of baseball through interactive displays and over two hundred rare artifacts such as bats used by legendary players, autographed balls, and jerseys from historic teams. There are even special exhibits dedicated to Negro League baseball, women’s sports, and international baseball.
Open Hours: 9am – 5:30pm Tue – Sat; 11am – 4pm Sun
Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks – Ripley’s Grand Prairie
601 East Safari Parkway, Grand Prairie, TX 75050; 972 263 2391
A 7-foot Leaning Tower of Pisa, Gone with the Wind and The Wizard of Oz are just some of the very interesting pieces in this museum. There are also wax replicas of your favorite celebrities. This combination museum allows visitors to explore two very different worlds: one full of oddities and surprises, while the other provides a look into over 500 lifelike, wax figures of famous figures.
At the Palace of Wax, guests can marvel at displays depicting celebrities like Elvis Presley, Justin Bieber, and Bruce Lee. They can take their time admiring the incredible detail and accuracy of each figure, as they learn about their favorite stars. Meanwhile, at Ripley’s Believe It or Not exhibits, visitors can explore oddities from around the world, such as shrunken heads, a sci-fi maze, and a zombie apocalypse zone.
The Palace of Wax/Ripley’s Believe It or Not is open the hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Fri; 10 am-6pm Sat-Sun.
Old City Park
1717 Gano St, Dallas, TX 75215-1273; 214 421 5141
Inside small buildings, visitors will see volunteers weaving, cooking, blacksmithing and other historic crafts of the era. There is a Candlelight Country Fair and an Old Fashioned Fourth of July and there are other special events too.
Other attractions at Old City Park include an outdoor amphitheater, an old-fashioned bandstand, sports fields, playgrounds, and plenty of areas for exploration. The park also boasts numerous trails where you can take in the sights and sounds of nature while enjoying a peaceful walk or run. Old City Park is the ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening relaxing and reconnecting with nature.
Open Hours: Buildings: 10am-4pm Tue-Sat, noon-4pm Sun; Park Grounds: dawn-sunset daily at the Old City Park.
Conspiracy Museum
110 South Market St, Dallas, TX 75202-3614; 214 741 3040
The Conspiracy Museum has exhibits and likes you to test your own theories on who killed President John F. Kennedy. There is also another assassination attempt information that is on display involving past American presidents. All say it is a very interesting museum and an afternoon of learning.
Located in the historic Deep Ellum neighborhood, this museum features an array of displays and exhibits related to conspiracies throughout history. Discover everything from UFO coverups to government mind control experiments to unsolved mysteries. Step into the “Conspiracy Zone” and explore interactive games and multimedia displays about some of the world’s most notorious conspiracy theories. With knowledgeable guides and fascinating artifacts on display, the Conspiracy Museum will give you an immersive experience that will leave you questioning what you thought you knew about the world around you.
Open Hours: 10am-6pm daily
Off-the-beaten-path Dallas Things to do
Exploring beyond the usual tourist attractions can provide a more authentic and unique experience of Dallas, Texas. Here’s a list of things to do in Dallas that are off the beaten path:
- Bishop Arts District: This trendy neighborhood in Oak Cliff is known for its independent boutiques, art galleries, and local restaurants. It’s a great place to explore unique shops and enjoy a meal at a local eatery.
- Dallas Farmers Market: While it’s not entirely off the tourist radar, the Dallas Farmers Market offers a taste of local culture and cuisine. Visit the Shed for fresh produce, artisanal products, and international foods.
- Deep Ellum: This historic district is known for its vibrant street art, live music venues, and alternative culture. Explore the murals, catch a live show, and check out the eclectic shops and bars.
- Trinity Groves: Located near the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, Trinity Groves is an up-and-coming area with a focus on culinary innovation. Sample a variety of international cuisines in this culinary incubator.
- White Rock Lake: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle with a visit to White Rock Lake. You can walk or bike around the lake, go birdwatching, or even rent a kayak or paddleboard.
- Klyde Warren Park: This urban green space in the Arts District offers a place to relax, play games, enjoy food truck fare, and participate in various events and activities.
- M-Line Trolley: Take a ride on the M-Line Trolley, a free vintage trolley that runs through Uptown Dallas. It’s a fun and nostalgic way to explore the area.
- Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: While not entirely off the tourist path, the Dallas Arboretum is often less crowded than some of the city’s other attractions. It’s a beautiful place to enjoy nature and gardens.
- Nasher Sculpture Center: This hidden gem in the Arts District features a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary sculptures in a serene setting.
- Tenison Park Golf Course: Play a round of golf at Tenison Park, an affordable and scenic golf course located near White Rock Lake.
- Santuario de Guadalupe: Visit this historic Catholic church in the heart of downtown Dallas, known for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
- The Goss-Michael Foundation: Art enthusiasts can explore this contemporary art gallery founded by the late musician George Michael and his partner Kenny Goss.
- Pioneer Park Cemetery: Explore the historic Pioneer Park Cemetery in downtown Dallas, which features gravestones dating back to the 19th century and a glimpse into the city’s past.
- Texas Horse Park: Located in southern Dallas, the Texas Horse Park offers guided horseback riding and a chance to learn about equestrian culture in Texas.
- Cedar Ridge Preserve: Go hiking or birdwatching in this nature preserve located just southwest of Dallas, offering scenic trails and lovely views.
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Final Word
Whether you’re a local looking for something to do or a tourist in the Dallas area, there are plenty of attractions to choose from. From the stunning landmarks of Downtown Dallas to the scenic parks and nature trails located throughout the city, Dallas is home to some truly remarkable attractions. If you’re a fan of the arts, don’t forget to check out the various museums and galleries that offer an array of cultural experiences. And if shopping is your passion, then Dallas has plenty of stores and markets that cater to all tastes.