Location: Dallas
Top Things to do in Dallas
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Top 10 Things to do in Dallas, Texas (TX)
You may have all heard that everything is bigger in Texas. Well, Dallas does its best to fulfill that promise. You'll find several museums with vast art collections and fascinating specialty museums like The Sixth Floor Museum/Texas School Book Depository, which, though small in size, offers an immense amount of information about the assassination of John F. Kennedy. And of course, visit a local steakhouse for a terrific (and enormous) meal.
Restaurants in Dallas
1. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,127 reviews
One of Texas’ most visited historic sites, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicles the life, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The Museum is in the former Texas School Book Depository building, where evidence of a sniper was found after the assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Much of the exhibit space looks as it appeared in the 1960s. Highlights include a sniper’s perch, the FBI model used by the Warren Commission, an original teletype machine that first transmitted news of the president’s death, Oswald’s wedding ring, historic films, photos and more. An interactive display overlooks Dealey Plaza. Admission includes an audio guide, available in eight languages including ASL. The museum is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. RECOMMENDED: Buy timed-entry tickets in advance at jfk.org. The most convenient paid parking is adjacent to the building; stay in the far right lane of Elm Street to enter the parking lot.
Reviewed By jennlovesfood - San Diego, United States
I have always, always wanted to visit Dealey Plaza. I was not alive when President Kennedy was assassinated, but I am a history teacher and I have studied the Kennedy Assassination extensively because it is one of the most fascinating turning points in American history. We arrived in Dealey Plaza very early (about 8:30am) which was absolutely fabulous because we had time to explore the ground before the crowds of visitors arrived and before our Sixth Floor Museum entrance time. As a matter of fact, we pretty much had the place to ourselves for awhile so we could explore every inch of this fascinating historical landmark. We had the first time slot into the museum that morning so we met our tour group ahead of time. The audio tour and visual historical accounts on the displays were phenomenal. It was creepy to walk through this building but also incredibly interesting. The spot where Oswald fired the fatal shots that killed JFK is behind glass but you can stand at the windows next to it and see what the shot looked like. Not much has changed in Dealey Plaza except for the trees growing taller so it was a good representation of what the area looked like in 1963. Standing in that spot answered the question I always wondered - could Oswald have made the shots from that window. Just BEING in Dealey Plaza and standing on the 6th floor of the former Texas School Book Depository answered all the questions I ever had about this mystery. The other coolest thing EVER was seeing the actual suit worn by the police officer who was handcuffed to Oswald when Jack Ruby shot him. And there was Jack Ruby's hat on display - gave me chills. I had seen the pictures so many times but to see the actual artifacts in person was just awesome. I highly recommend this spot to ANYONE - not just history teachers or die hard history buffs. American history changed in this spot back in 1963 and it is worth exploring.
2. Dallas Museum of Art
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,025 reviews
Established in 1903, this prestigious art venue features a wide selection of art exhibits, from Ancient Mediterranean to Contemporary Art and Design.
Reviewed By vanessaindallas - Dallas, United States
My husband and I recently attended the Dior Late Night event which was from 7pm-9(ish). It was our first time attending one of their Late Night showings. They have these often when great exhibitions are displayed. It was such a great Date Night, roaming the museum after hours. Before the museum we listened to jazz music in the lobby and sipped on some wine. You can definitely make an evening here at the museum with your loved one (or group of friends). Dress code for Late Night is up to you! I went semi-dressed while there was a mix of casual and dressed.
3. The Dallas World Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,706 reviews
The adventure at The Dallas World Aquarium begins at the top of the rainforest exhibit, where exotic birds, such as Cocks-of-the-rock and many species of toucans, can be seen. Lounging around are Two-toed and Three-toed sloths. Endangered animals, such as Orinoco crocodiles, Giant river otters, Antillean manatees and several species of monkeys are part of the many conservation projects. The aquarium portion displays interesting marine life, including Japanese crabs, jellyfish, Leafy, Weedy and Ribbon seadragons. Black-footed and Blue penguins can be seen swimming as guests enjoy the outdoor South Africa exhibit. Sharks, rays and sawfish are only a few of the fish living in the Mundo Maya cenote. Safe from Neotropical eagles, are euphonias, tanagers and hummingbirds. Reptiles and amphibians, both of significance to the Maya culture, can be seen throughout the exhibit.
Reviewed By 80emiw - Beitun, Taiwan
The Dallas world aquarium is essentially an indoor rainforest. With 3 floors spanning two warehouses you're transported to a whole different ecosystem. As you stroll along the path immersed in the jungle, free flight birds of all descriptions are playing, building their nests and calling out. All seats and floors are built to disappear into the background. Giant river otters have a multi floored home right at the center, flamingos and storks surround the shark tank and a big square glass temple houses 1 floor of a jaguar exhibit. If you can't see him here he's probably upstairs lounging in the sun, away from the bustle, so find the big screen showing a live feed of another floor of his home. During the height of summer or spring break it can get very, very crowded. It is in the middle of downtown after all. I would suggest going during the week, avoiding spring break and feel free to call them if you wish to avoid school tours! While the cost is higher than some zoological facilities bear in mind that this is a large facility, in the middle of downtown, filled with floor after floor of aquatic, birds, mammals, herps and insects. They have a little taste of everything all airconditioned! Ooh and they serve frozen alcoholic drinks... Get there early for parking or better yet ride the train! It is a quick 2-3minute walk from the dart. I love this place and I hope you do too
4. Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,484 reviews
The site includes the former Texas School Book Depository and Dealey Plaza, two of the sights forever associated with the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Reviewed By FresnoTravelers - Fresno, United States
Easily walkable, and just across the street from the 6th Street Depository museum, this area has the grassy knoll, information on the origins of Dallas, and tribute to history.
5. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,787 reviews
A nationally acclaimed 66 acre display garden features breathtaking floral displays all year long. Nestled on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum was named "One of the Most Breathtaking Gardens in the World" by Architectural Digest. Dallas Blooms festival boasts of over 500,000 spring blooming bulbs, 3,000 azaleas and hundreds of Cherry Blooms-February-April. Summer in the garden includes an outdoor concert series on Thursday evenings and numerous water features with breathtaking floral displays. Autumn at the Arboretum-September-November features a nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village featuring over 90,000 pumpkins/gourds/squash and named one of America's Best Pumpkin festivals by Fodor's Travel. The 8 acre Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden was designed to connect children with nature. Education is a central focus the gardens mission, which teach life and Earth science with 17 indoor/outdoor galleries and 150 interactive activities - Where science and fun become one. Open seven days a week and Wednesday nights until 8pm from March-October. Seasonal weekday discounts are available. The garden is closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Reviewed By jbwhitehouse - Dallas, United States
The Dallas Arboretum is a retreat within the City of Dallas. It is a big open expanse complete with varied and beautiful flowers, waterfalls, sculptures, picnic areas, and even koi fish. It offers a wonderful view of White Rock Lake. Dallas blooms in March-April is lovely time to visit with sunshine and thousands of tulips of every variety.
6. Reunion Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,794 reviews
Reunion Tower, an iconic Dallas landmark, offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Dallas skyline. Located next to the Hyatt Regency Dallas, the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck offers an indoor/outdoor observation deck and unique entertaining spaces. Visit with family, friends, a group or your sweetheart to create unforgettable memories at 470 feet in the air! * Restaurants are currently closed for renovations.
Reviewed By TDB_12 - Bristol, United Kingdom
Bought a City Pass which saves you money on all the places of interest. No queues on the day we visited, handbags checked on entry. Can take as long as you like viewing the sites, and sitting in the geo-deck, where you can buy refreshments, the floor moves around very gently/slowly so you can see full circle view as you relax. Need to wait to be taken up/down in the lift. Busy times will mean lots of queuing/waiting no doubt.
7. Klyde Warren Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,986 reviews
Reviewed By fsgucum - Istanbul, Turkey
* A park built on the highway separating downtown and uptown Dallas * A green space between high buildings * A public park, a meeting place of cultures, races, and religions * Social programs, cultural events are organized on the park by supporters and sponsors * Children playground is attractive * Must see in Dallas
8. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,546 reviews
Inspiring minds through nature and science.
Reviewed By JulieLoganClaudia - Minneapolis, United States
A huge thank you to the Dallas chapter of NACE for hosting the progressive happy hour at the museum. We enjoyed dinosaurs, cocktails, minerals and gems and living statues, great appetizers, dazzling DJs and did I mention the cocktails?!? Interactive exhibits, good signage and plenty of open spaces for your event combine to offer you THE perfect venue for your next Tyrannosaurus-sized party in Dallas!
9. The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,797 reviews
Get an in-depth, interactive look at eight years of presidential history at America's 13th presidential library and museum. Explore important issues and events of the administration of President George W. Bush as framed by four themes: freedom, opportunity, compassion and responsibility. NEW FOR 2016: Step into the candidates' shoes in "PATH TO THE PRESIDENCY," a special exhibit on the history of campaigns and elections in the United States. Extend your visit with a stroll through the 15-acre Native Texas Park, enjoy a meal at Café 43, and take home a piece of the presidency from the Museum Store.
Reviewed By elbrujo_ve
We have been visiting a bunch of Presidential Libraries and compare to others, this is a small one. However, it is located on an amazing building, the collection and exhibition is well curated and beautifully presented, the staff is polite, courteous and friendly, and the replica of the Oval Office is fantastic. It does not matter weather you like GWB or not, this should be a must to visit to better understand that period of our US history.
10. Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,018 reviews
Reviewed By kennyhall1944 - Tamworth, Australia
We made a visit here as part of a Dallas Fort Worth tour and the sculptures depicting the drive of the longhorn cattle from Dallas to Fort Worth were well worth seeing. The intricate detail and the number of the sculptures was most impressive. Easily found down from Main Dallas station near the Cinvention centre
