Month: September 2019

The Ultimate Fall Bucket List in Dallas

Top things to do in Dallas during the second semester of the year. Fall and early winter attractions and events, including outdoor activities, Fall, Halloween and Holiday celebrations.

50 amazing things to do in and around Dallas this fall

Enjoy the best of Dallas in September, October and November,
including must-attend Halloween and Holiday Season Celebrations.

Fall is finally here, and the Texas heat is almost subsiding. Time to be outdoors and enjoy the most beloved American traditions!

Fall Festivals, Sports Seasons, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner – believe it or not. This is one of the liveliest seasons of the year! Find out what to do and where to go during fall in Dallas to make the most of it. This guide covers the best fall/ early winter activities in Dallas, so you don’t miss out on anything. 

In the 9 topics bellow you’ll find incredible 50 things to do in Dallas from Late September through December. Tons of ideas on how to have fun in Dallas and have the most fun fall season ever!

Check the suggestions bellow, pick your favorite ones and make your own Dallas bucket list for the upcoming months.

For more things to do in Dallas, take a look into these top 15 attractions in DFW, to be enjoyed year-round.

 

Hike the best Dallas trails

Hiking season is at its peak! The mild weather and beautiful fall colors make autumn the perfect time to explore the outdoors.

Home to preserves, lakes and state parks, the Dallas surroundings have some perfect spots for hiking. Here 9 places to find the best hiking trails near Dallas, within a short driving distance from the city: 

  1. Cedar Ridge Preserve (16 mi/ 20 min from Dallas)
  2. Marion Sansom Park (42 mi/ 40 min from Dallas) 
  3. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge (46 mi/ 50 min from Dallas)
  4. Eagle Mountain Park/ 3-mile loop trail (48 mi/ 50 min from Dallas)
  5. Ray Robert Lake State Park/ Isle du Bois: (56 mi/ 1h00 from Dallas)
  6. Mineral Wells State Park (79 mi/ 1h15 from Dallas)
  7. Dinosaur Valley State Park (80 miles/ 1h20 from Dallas)
  8. Tyler State Park (97 mi/ 1h30 from Dallas)
  9. Cross Timbers Hiking Trail, Lake Texoma (87 mi/ 1h35 from Dallas)

Have a beer - or two - at one of Dallas' top beer gardens

Now that the heat is almost over and that you can be outside without melting, make sure to chill out at one of the top beer gardens in Dallas. Just do that. Hanging out at an outdoor patio is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a beautiful – and mild weather – autumn day and I promise you’ll enjoy it too.

My all-time favorite beer gardens in Dallas are the Texas Truck Yard, The Rustic and Kate Trail Ice House, for different reasons. The Rustic is more upscale and perfect for weekend brunch with live music. The Texas Truck Yard is Dallas quirkiest and coolest beer garden, with quality high music at specific days and times. And the Kate Trail Ice House is a Dallas classic overlooking the also iconic Kate Trail.

In this post (destinations 5, 7 and 14) you find tips on how to best enjoy your visit to this superb beer gardens, with detailed info and things to do in the surroundings.

Visit the best places for fall foliage around Dallas

Image by Johannes Plenio from Pixabay

Autumn brings in the gorgeous fall colors. The landscaping dramatically changes into an incredible pallet of yellow, red and orange.

Fall foliage usually reach its peak in North Texas somewhere around November – although this is not an exact science. The Dallas surroundings are blessed with amazing natural areas, among the most beautiful places to see fall foliage in Texas. They are all within one to two hours driving from Dallas and make the perfect fall day trip from DFW.

Here are the 5 best places to breath in the amazing autumn colors near Dallas, Texas:

  1. Cooper Lake State Park (85 mi/ 1h25 from Dallas)
  2. Dinosaur Valley State Park (80 mi/ 1h20 from Dallas)
  3. Tyler State Park (97 mi/ 1h30 from Dallas)
  4. Lake Bob Sandlin State Park (114 mi/ 1h45 from Dallas)
  5. Daingerfield State Park (137 mi/ 2h00 from Dallas) 

Watch a Cowboys live match at the AT&T Stadium

Image by skeeze from Pixabay

Football season is here.  Time to watch the 5 times Super Bowl winners Dallas Cowboys – aka America’s team – playing at home in their official field, the AT&T Stadium!

Even if you’re not a football fan it is an unmissable spectacle and a once in a lifetime experience. It can’t get any more American than that.

The NFL season goes from early September to late February. Super Bowl 2020 is scheduled for February 2, 2020. Check here the official Dallas Cowboys schedule for this season to know when they will be playing at the AT&T Stadium, plan ahead and buy your tickets.

Get into the Holiday spirit in Dallas Holiday Season

ICE!™ exhibition at Gaylord Texas, Dallas

Everything is bigger in Texas. This is also true for the Holiday Season in Dallas! There are tons of events and amazing things to do around at this time of the year, starting in early November.

You’ll need a few years to cover everything Christmas related Dallas has to offer lol. 

But to give you a head start, take a look into this post with the 16 best things to do in Dallas for Christmas. The must-dos during the Holiday Season in Dallas. Traditional Christmas activities and attractions in DFW to be experienced at least once in a lifetime and not to be missed.

My personal Christmas bucket list for this year includes watching the Dallas Holiday Parade – Dallas largest parade year-round!, give my kiddos the ‘golden ticket’ to ride the North Pole Express at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, visit the Vitruvian Lights display in Addison, the Peppermint Park at the Hilton Anatole  and watch at least one of the 4 most traditional Christmas spectacles in Dallas.

Read the post, choose your favorites and make your own bucket list to enjoy Christmas time in Dallas to the fullest! 

Run Forest, run: challenge yourself at Dallas' best fall races.

Image by Th G from Pixabay

As the excruciating hot weather finally subsides (eventually it will, I promise), some of the best races in DFW start popping around.

Even if you are not a runner, these events are a lot of fun and offer short distances, walks and even kids’ races. The best and most unique ones to be on the lookout for are the Monster Dash, a Halloween themed costume run and the Turkey Trot, a Thanksgiving tradition (the Monster Dash includes a pancake breakfast, if you need extra incentive). 

They are perfect to enjoy those festivities in a different way. Or even to prepare you for the  BMW Dallas Marathon, in December. The BMW Dallas Marathon is one of the largest run events around, Dallas’ oldest marathon and a Boston qualifier. But also offers much more modest options, such as 5K races, a short 2-mile walk and a kids’ race.

Lace your shoes up and hit the streets!

Harvest the perfect pumpkin at Dallas Top Pumpkin Patches

Nothing says fall like a trip to a pumpkin patch! A fun and unique American tradition worth experiencing.

Between late September and late October, go hunting your perfect pumpkin to carve your own Jack-O-Lantern for Halloween. Two great pumpkin patches in Dallas and surroundings are the Dallas Arboretum and Yesterland Farm. 

Dallas Arboretum’s Pumpkin Village is considered one of the 15 best pumpkin patches in the whole US. It is huge and gorgeous, framed by thousands of fall flowers. Visitors cannot really harvest pumpkins there – it is sort of an art structure – but pumpkins can be purchased on site. If you have kids in tow, make sure to visit the fun Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden inside the Arboretum as well.

Yesterland Farm is in Canton, about one hour away from Dallas. Besides the pumpkin patch, it offers tons of farm activities. Plan to spend the day there enjoying a day at the farm and harvesting your own pumpkin! This place is perfect for family fun!

Check here some other pumpkin patch options in Dallas and surroundings.

Attend the best fall festivals in Dallas

Image by grayartist from Pixabay

Fall also brings to Dallas amazing events and festivals.

The Texas State Fair is the top one, attracting people from all over the country. It offers tons of daily attractions from late September for about 3 weeks. Check their calendar tool and plan ahead.

The Dia de los Muertos Parade is a new event to keep an eye on. It is scheduled to have its first edition in October with the intention of becoming the largest Dia de los Muertos celebration in Texas.

There are also other cool and unique events scheduled in DFW for the upcoming months, such as the Sky Lantern Festival and Red Bull Soap Box Race. Discover here the best events to attend in Dallas this fall.

Get spooky at the top Halloween activities and events in Dallas

Image by Benjamin Balazs from Pixabay

Springtime is also Halloween time! 

Trick or treat and frightening house decorations are everywhere. But if you want to enjoy Halloween in Dallas to the fullest and take the celebration to the next level, make sure to try some of the most awesome Halloween attractions and events around.

For a free costume party head to the Oak Lawn Halloween Block Party, one of the largest Halloween celebrations in Dallas. 

If you are looking for family friendly Halloween things to do in Dallas, Friscovania, Grapevine Vintage Railroads’Trick’r Treat, Halloweekend at the Dallas Zoo, Boo at the Fort Worth Zoo and Stockyard’s Treat Street are some of the Halloween events in Dallas and surroundings that deserve your attention. 

To scream your head off, make sure to include Grapevine’s ghost tour, the Six Flags Fright Fest and a visit to a haunted house in your plans. Dallas is home to amazing haunted houses among the best in the nation. The Dark Hour, Moxley Manor and Cutting Edge are some great alternatives – this last one is a Guinness Record holder and appears frequently in several publications as one of the scariest attractions in the US.

Summing Up

Mission impossible: get bored in Dallas during fall.

With the best weather of the year and tons of celebrations ahead, the months of September, October and November bring to Dallas simply amazing entertainment opportunities you can’t miss out!

In this post you find my personal bucket list of things to do in the months to come. I hope it inspires you and gives some good ideas to make the most of the second semester of the year in Dallas.

My fave fall activities include taking advantage of the great weather and beautiful season to:

Hike trails near Dallas, admire the beautiful fall foliage in the DFW surroundings, run theme races, chill out at Dallas most amazing beer gardens, watch a live Cowboys’ match at the AT&T Stadium, go hunt the perfect pumpkin in one of Dallas’ top pumpkin patches, attend the very best Halloween and Holiday celebrations in Dallas and unique fall festivals.

Read above and find out where to find the best versions of each one of these activities. Give them a try and get back here to let me know how it went.

Do you have any other favorite things to do during fall in Dallas? Leave your comment bellow!

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Road Trip from Dallas to Colorado

Stunning Road Trip from Dallas to Colorado Springs and Breckenridge Ski Resort. Jaw-dropping nature wonders along the way!

Epic Road Trip Itinerary from Texas to Colorado

Explore Colorado Springs amazing outdoors.  Hit the slopes at Breckenridge Ski Resort.
Discover stunning Colorado’s must-sees and hidden gems along the way!

Why Colorado?

Colorado is an incredible State to explore year-round. Think snow in the winter and mild-weather in the summer – does someone else fell like escaping the heat during the excruciating Texas summers?

Colorado’s landscaping is stunning. A jaw-dropping scenery that will leave you breathless curve after curve. It is a travel destination that, if is still not, should be in your bucket list for sure!

I took a road trip from Dallas to Colorado last Spring Break. As one of the objectives of the trip was snowboarding, the route I choose was the one that takes you to the Ski Resorts near Denver through Colorado Springs. 

Breckenridge Ski Resort was my final destination. But of course, I took advantage to explore as many stops along the way as I could : ) And many of them were way above my expectations – it didn’t expect to find such stunning places within a driving distance from Dallas!

Here I share with you my favorite places to visit between Dallas, Colorado Springs and Breckenridge. The suggested itinerary bellow is not the one I took. But an improved version with only the places I loved the most. The route I would take if I ever did this trip again. 

How many days do I need for this road trip?

This road trip is perfect to be taken whenever you have at least one full week off (2 weekends + 1 week). I would consider roughly 4 days on the road exploring the stops mentioned in this post, 2 to 3 days in Colorado Springs and 2 to 3 days in Breckenridge. 

But you can adjust and adapt it to best suit your needs. Or even do it partially. 

Colorado Springs has enough amazing attractions to justify a road trip by itself, so if skiing is not a priority skip the Denver-Breckenridge stretch of this trip.

And skiing in Breckenridge is also reason enough to hit the road! If this is your top 1 priority, reduce the time spent in Colorado Springs to a single day – Garden of Gods and Pikes Peak are the must-sees there in this case. 

So, dig in! Explore the ideas bellow, make your own itinerary and embark on an epic road trip to be remembered years to come.

PART 1: Dallas to Trinidad, Colorado

Trinidad was my first destination in this road trip. I used this city only for lodging to recharge my batteries for the next day.

The 9-hour drive was a bit of a stretch, I admit. But I did take my time and made a lot of stops along the way to rest, refresh, stretch my legs and enjoy the journey, so it was not bad at all. 

And driving all the way to Trinidad left me pretty close to the places I wanted to visit the following day.

Alternative: take a break in Amarillo Instead.

Another very good possibility for lodging is spending the first night is Amarillo, about 5h 30m from Dallas (roughly the midpoint of the trip). The only reason why I didn’t do that was because I had already been to Amarillo twice – all roads take you to Amarillo lol. But you haven’t been there yet, go for it!

In this case, spare half a day to visit the main attractions in Amarillo – Historic Route 66, Cadillac Ranch and Big Texan Steak House – and half a day to hike the iconic Lighthouse Trail at the nearby Palo Duro Canyon.  Find here details on how to explore Amarillo and Palo Duro Canyon (destination # 1).

Things to do and see between Dallas and Trinidad, Colorado

No matter where you decide to stay, these are the stops I recommend between Dallas and Trinidad

1. Amarillo

(5h 20m from Dallas)

Leave Dallas early in the morning and stop by the Big Texan Steak Ranch for lunch. It is always special. Although it can be sometimes a little chaotic – it’s a well-known touristic destination – food is good, they have affordable lunch specials and all the times I went there I could witness some lost soul trying their 72 oz challenge – it is fun! 

If you want to explore Amarillo further, check here things to do in Amarillo (destination # 1). Top things to do include the iconic Cadillac Ranch and Historic Route 66.

2. US 87 Scenic Route and Capulin Volcano National Monument

(2h 50m from Amarillo)

From Amarillo take Hwy 87 towards Raton, NM. It is a more scenic old mountain country route and takes you through Capulin Volcano. 

You can see the volcano from the road and take a slight detour to get there. It used to be possible to drive up Capulin Volcano National Monument and then walk into the volcano crater, but the road is currently closed for repairs and is expected to reopen in 2020. Check here the current status before taking the detour.

Drive then into Colorado towards Trinidad through Raton Pass. Trinidad is about 50 minutes away from Capulin Volcano.

3. Trinidad

(0h 50m from Capulin Volcano)

Spend the night in Trinidad, Colorado, to gather some energy for the following day. This is what I did and, as I was short on time, I unfortunately I didn’t get to explore around. 

But if you have some extra days or energy left, a stroll through downtown Trinidad and its Victorian architecture and hiking Simpson’s Rest are the items I have on my bucket list for a future visit. Find here some more ideas on what to do in Trinidad. 

PART 2: Trinidad to Colorado Springs

Plan to spend the day on the road exploring amazing spots between Trinidad and Colorado Springs. If you are departing from Amarillo instead, make sure to come through US 87 scenic drive.

Things to do and see between Trinidad and Colorado Springs

This stretch of the trip is simply amazing. The attractions you’ll find bellow are not to be missed:

1. Highway of Legends

If you enjoy slow paced road trips and scenic roads, take the road less traveled in your way to the next stop.

Instead of taking I-25 towards the Bishop Castle, drive through the scenic Highway of Legends, bordering the Spanish Peaks. 

To do so, put the town of Stonewall as your destination in the GPS (and from there add the Bishop Castle as the final destination). It will take you through Hwy 12 and the towns of Stonewall, Cuchara and La Veta. For a detailed map with recommended stops along the way, click here.

Beware that this route adds 1h 30m to your trip (excluding the eventual stops along the way). So, skip it if you are on a tight schedule or if driving around is just not your thing.

2. Bishop Castle and Lake Isabel Forest

(1h 20m from Trinidad through I-25/ 2h 40m through the Highway of Legends

Photo by Hustvedt [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

From Trinidad head to Bishop Castle, an unique structure built stone by stone by one man. 

It is an interesting stop in your way to the Royal Gorge Bridge Park and takes you there through Lake Isabel Forest. It’s a more scenic drive than the route on Interstate 25, through Pueblo, and adds only about 15-20 minutes to your trip. 

3. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

(1h 20m from Bishop Castle)

The Royal Gorge Bridge is a must stop in Colorado. Don’t skip it under any circumstances! It is the tallest Suspension Bridge in America. It crosses over a canyon and the views are breathtaking.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge walking and riding the gondola are awe-inspiring adventures. Park admission includes unlimited gondola rides and there are also extra activities – such as the zipline and SkyCoaster – to be considered by the brave of heart.

4. Skyline Drive

(0h 20m from Royal Gorge Bridge Park)

Photo by Jeffrey Beall [CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)]

Ready for some more adrenaline? Head to nearby Skyline Drive and take the scariest drive of your life. 

It is a one-way very narrow road with cliffs on both sides. It has 2.6 miles, no turning backs – you got to be sure you want to do it – and gives you amazing panoramic views of its surroundings.

Be careful, drive slowly, follow the signs and you should be good – I’m here to tell the story, so chances are you’ll survive too. Go if you love adventures and exploring unique places – this is a true Colorado hidden gem and a one of a kind road! Stay away if you are afraid of heights though. 

Afterwards hit the road and drive about one hour to reach your destination for the night and upcoming days, Colorado Springs.

PART 3: Colorado Springs

(1h 00m from Skyline Drive)

How many days in Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs is the ultimate outdoors’ lover paradise. It offers enough amazing things to do to keep you awed and entertained for quite a while. Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 days there to cover all the must-see places bellow.

Where to stay in Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs is sort of a large city surrounded by nature.

For lodging, try to stay in the neighboring Manitou Springs, a charming mountain town right by most of the nature spots recommended in this post. Or at Old Colorado City, a lively historic district not far from Manitou Springs.

Things to do In Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers tons of incredible things to do. The following attractions are the must-visit places in the city surroundings.

If you don’t have enough time to cover them all and need to make choices, my personal faves in Colorado Springs are the Garden of Gods and Pikes Peak Drive. 

1. Garden of Gods

If you only have time to do one thing in Colorado Springs, visit the Garden of Gods. Don’t miss it.

The Garden of Gods is a jaw-dropping designated National Natural Landmark. The landscaping is magical, with Colorado’s iconic red rocks contrasting with the mountains in the background. And, if you are lucky, with some snow during winter. And it is surprisingly a free attraction!

It’s a place to just stroll around – think paved trails – hike or climbing (proper gear and permit required for climbing).

For a leisure walk, take the Central Garden Trail, a 1.5-mile easy trail, wheelchair accessible, that takes you through the main rock formations. If you love a challenge, take the Garden of the Gods Loop Trail, a 3.7-mile trail circling all Garden of Gods formations. Check here other trail options.

2. Pikes Peak

Drive up Pikes Peak. The drive is breathtaking and takes you to the top of Pikes Peak, the highest summit in the southern portion of the Rocky Mountains. The views are stunning.

Pikes Peak is opened year-round, weather permitting (check conditions before heading there). Pikes Peak Highway takes you to the summit. In high season – May through September – a shuttle is offered from mile 16 due to limited parking at the top.

There used to be a Railway going up Pikes Peak, currently not operating. It is expected to get back on track on 2020 – fingers crossed!

3. Manitou Incline Trail

Photo by Ixbrian [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]

Are you up for a challenge? Are you (really really) fit? Climb up Manitou Incline, right by Pikes Peak.

An old cable car track with 2,744 steps and a 2000 feet elevation gain, Manitou Incline is a 1-mile extreme trail which attracts advanced hikers from all over the country. 

To hike it, make sure to adjust to the high altitude of Colorado Springs first. And bring plenty of water and energy snacks. Beware that there is a “false summit” at the intersection with Barr Trail, about 300 steps before the real one! 

The trail is free and open to the public. There is a free parking and free shuttle departing from 10 Old Mans Trail.

4. Cave of the Winds

Go underground and embark on a cave tour at Cave of the Winds. 

There are 3 tours to choose from ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours. The most basic tour – Discovery Tour – is family friendly, lasts about one hour and take you through 15 cave chambers. For more adrenaline, some mud and crawling, take the Lantern Tour or Cave 101.

The Cave of the Winds also offers climbing, a zip line and a virtual reality theater. 

5. Seven Falls

Beautiful place nestled in a canyon, with 7 waterfalls and a steep staircase with 224 steps. Walk it up and have gorgeous views from the falls (play the video here).

There is also an elevator to go up to the overlooking area in case you don’t want to or can’t climb up the stairs. The Broadmoor Seven Falls also offers a restaurant on-site, if you plan to eat there make reservations in advance specially during high season. Broadmoor Seven Falls also offers hiking trails and a zip-line. 

Parking is free and far from the attraction. There is a free shuttle that takes you to the base of the waterfalls from there.

6. Manitou Springs

David Shankbone [CC BY 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)]

Manitou Springs is a tiny and lovely town by the Rocky Mountains foothills. It’s very close to most of the places suggested in this article and can be your prefect hub to explore the area.

Whether you decide to stay in Manitou Springs or not, make sure to spare sometime to wander through the town. 

Take a leisure walk through Manitou Springs shops and galleries. Visit the Miramont Castle and Museum and maybe have lunch – or a Victorian Tea – at the Queen’s Parlour Tearoom on site. Have fondue at the charming Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant. Or a bite and wine at the fun Swirl. For a beer – or even dinner – try Manitou Brewing Co.

The nearby Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a one-of-a-kind museum of Native American culture with relocated Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, is another interesting thing to do in Manitou Springs. 

7. Old Colorado City

Old Colorado City is a designated National Historic District full of shops, art galleries and restaurants. Also located close to the outdoor attractions of Colorado Springs, is another good option for lodging.

It is also a foodie’s paradise, with excellent no-chain dining options. For amazing pies, try Pizzeria Rustica. If you like Mediterranean food, you’ll love Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna. Or go for something different and taste Ethiopian food at Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant.

PART 4: Breckenridge

(2h 00m from Colorado Springs)

From Colorado Springs, head to Breckenridge, a charming old-mining town at the base of the Rocky Mountains. 

You have two options to get there from Colorado Springs: through the mountains or through the Denver. The route through the mountains is more scenic. The one that goes through Denver allows a quick stop at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue with an amazing natural backdrop and trails. 

I would suggest you take both, one in your way to Breckenridge and one in your way back.

Things to do in Breckenridge

Year-round enjoy the historic and lively Main Street. Take in the upscale vibe and jaw-dropping mountainous background. Stroll through Victorian buildings, shops, galleries and eateries. Walk it up and down or use the free trolley.

Taste local crafted-beer and spirits Breckenridge Brewery, Après Handcrafted Libations and Breckenridge Distillery’s downtown tasting room. 

For dinner, try the Twist, Relish and Hearthstone, all top-rated restaurants offering amazing mountains views. 

Check next the best things to to in winter and summertime in Breckenridge:

Winter in Breckenridge, CO

In wintertime, Breckenridge it is the skier’s paradise:  it is home to the world-class Breckenridge Ski Resort, accessible from Breckenridge through a free gondola. If you love skiing or snowboard, this is your place.

For a free and fun family activity in Breckenridge, go sledding at Carter Park (bring your own sled). At the nearby Frisco Adventure Park, try snowtubing.

Another winter activities in and around Breckenridge include snowshoeing, snowmobile and dog sledding.

Summer in Breckenridge, CO

Photo by Dave Dugdale/ Flickr

During summer, hiking, mountain biking and water sports are popular things to do in Breckenridge. 

Hike McCullough Gulch Trail, one of the most popular hiking trails with lakes and waterfalls along the way. For easy family friends hike leaving right from downtown Breckenridge, try Carter Park, Burro Trail and Sawmill Trail.

Rent a stand-up paddle board and head to Maggie Pond, at the end of the Blue River, to cruise it with the majestic mountains as your backdrop. Embark on a white water rafting adventure.

From late June to early September, hop on the free gondola and head to Epic Discover, a seasonal adventure park offering everything from zip lines to alpine slides.

Summing Up

A road trip to Colorado is a bucket list style trip you should take at least once in your lifetime. The state’s landscaping is superb, making the journey as jaw-dropping as the destinations themselves.

It is the perfect destination year-round and you can take it from Dallas whenever you have 1+ week available.

The itinerary detailed in this post has Colorado Springs and Breckenridge as final destinations. You can do it all or adjust according to your needs – and even skip the last part and make it a road trip between Dallas and Colorado Springs.

In your way between Dallas and Colorado Springs, enjoy amazing stops along the way: Amarillo, Capulin Volcano, Highway of Legends, Bishop Castle, Royal Gorge Bridge and Skyline Drive.

In Colorado Springs, make sure to explore the Garden of Gods, Pikes Peak, Manitou Incline, Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls, Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City.

In Breckenridge, enjoy snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing and dog sledding in the winter. And outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and water sports during summer.

I hope the ideas you’ll find in this post help you to make the most of your trip from Dallas to Colorado!

Now go, make your plans and remember to get back here to share your experience. 

Have you ever done this route before? Are you planning to do it soon? What are your thoughts about this road trip itinerary? Please leave a comment bellow! 

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Long Road Trips from Dallas

Best long road trips to take from Dallas when you have 7+ days available. Trips of a lifetime to add now to your bucket list!

Best long road trips to take from Dallas

Road trips of a lifetime you must take from Dallas, with stunning stops along the way. 
Hit the road and reach unbelievable destinations that will simply blow your mind!

Dallas to Grand Canyon
ARIZONA

Everything you need to know to make the most of a road trip to the Grand Canyon and surroundings.

 Dallas to Breckenridge
COLORADO

Explore Colorado Springs, Breckenridge and jaw-dropping nature wonders along the way.

 Dallas to Taos
NEW MEXICO

Visit Santa Fe, Taos and the Enchanted Circle in an amazing adventure through one of most unique American States. 

 Dallas to Florida 30A
FLORIDA

Have the time of your life at Florida Emerald Coast most stunning and exclusive stretch.

Dallas to Nashville
TENNESSEE

Hit America’s Music Route and have the time of your life at Memphis and Nashville.

Dallas to Gulf Shores
ALABAMA

Explore  beautiful Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, popular beach destinations among Dallasites – for a reason.

More trip and leisure ideas coming soon. Subscribe for free and get inspiration right to your inbox!

If you love the idea of road trips, I’m happy to announce that you are in an amazing place to do that!

Expanding your horizons – and your car mileage – you can reach places you would not believe that are within a driving distance from DFW. They are far far away, that’s right. But isn’t it all about the journey?

Road trips are fun and memorable! Especially when you have stops as stunning as the final destination along the way. And this is what you will find here: travel ideas that will keep your mouth opened from the beginning till the end.

These road trips are ideal to be taken whenever you have at least 5 to 7 days available, so plan them to your next Summer Break, Winter Break, Spring Break, Thanksgiving or long vacation.

Take your wanderer game to a whole new level. Hit the American roads, embark on unforgettable adventures and create memories to be treasured forever! 

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Road Trip from Dallas to Taos, New Mexico

Complete road trip itinerary from Dallas to Taos, New Mexico, with amazing stops along the way. Find out the must-sees in Amarillo, Santa Fe and Taos and have the time of your life!

Discover the best things to do and see between Dallas and Taos

A jaw-dropping winter road trip from Dallas to northeast New Mexico, with stunning stops along the way.

I think I might be in love with New Mexico. 

I don’t know if it’s the dramatic landscape, the uniqueness of the place in comparison to the rest of the U.S., the architecture, the food, the colors, all of it together… But it somehow grew on me to the point I keep coming back again and again and again : )

New Mexico does not get half of the attention it deserves. It’s a mind-blowing under the radar destination, with places you wouldn’t expect to be able to visit within a driving distance from Dallas. The northeast portion of the state is specially amazing and make the top of my personal “trips of a lifetime” list. 

The road trip from Dallas to Taos is perfect to be taken during the winter months, so you can combine New Mexico’s superb landscape, culture and culinary with snow fun – Taos is one of the closest Ski Resorts to Dallas, and definitively the best one among those.

The road trip from Dallas to Taos requires ideally at least a 5 to 7 days’ time frame (I’ve already done it in 4 days, but I’m a little nuts). So, plan to take it whenever you have a longer break – think Thanksgiving, Winter Break and Spring Break.

In the next lines you’ll find my favorite itinerary there. Explore it, make your own plans and hit the road! I hope you enjoy northeast New Mexico it as much as I did!

If you have a shorter time frame or don’t want to drive that much, dig into our Trips from Dallas page. Discover surprising destinations as close as 30 minutes from DFW!

Road Trip Itinerary from Dallas to Taos, New Mexico

I’ve done the Dallas – Taos route before twice, and I’m planning to do it again this winter. So, there is no need to ask me if it is worth the trip lol.

Here I share with you my favorite stops along the way. This itinerary includes Amarillo, Santa Fe and Taos. Check bellow what to do and see in this towns and how to better explore its amazing surroundings.

1. Amarillo, TX

364 miles/ 5h 20m from Dallas

Amarillo is your first stop in this road trip from Dallas to Northeast New Mexico. It can be perfect the place to take a break from the road and stretch your legs. 

If you plan to reach New Mexico the same day, spend only a couple hours there to cover the city highlights: Big Texan Steakhouse, Route 66 and Cadillac Ranch. 

But if you can, spend one night there and spare half a day to explore the nearby Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second largest canyon in the U.S. – only behind the Grand Canyon.

Check bellow Amarillo’s main attractions and for further details on things to do in Amarillo and Palo Duro Canyon, read this article (destination #1, Amarillo, TX):

Big Texan Steak Ranch

Have lunch at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, part of the old Route 66 and famous for its 72oz steak challenge (eat it all plus side dishes in less than one hour and you don’t pay the bill!).

Route 66

Head to the Route 66 Historic District to drive by the portion of the legendary Route 66 that crosses Amarillo. There are a few shops and restaurants here and there, but what really makes the slight detour interesting is crossing “driving Route 66” from your bucket list (and taking a quick snapshot to register the moment for posterity, of course!)

Cadillac Ranch

Stop by the world-famous Cadillac Ranch. Bring your own spray cans and spray paint real antique Cadillacs. You won’t go to jail for that, I promise – spray painting at the Cadillac Ranch is not only allowed but encouraged as part of this unusual art installation.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is about 30 minutes away from Amarillo. Watch Palo Duro Canyon opening right in front of your eyes as you approach the area, in the middle of the otherwise flat Texas Panhandle, is something special.

The canyon is a destination by itself and you could easily spend a few nights there.  But as your final destination – Taos – lies many miles ahead, I would recommend you spend half a day there instead. A good option to make the most of your short visit is to take in the views from the overlook area and then hike the iconic Lighthouse Trail. 

2. Santa Fe, NM

279 miles/ 4h 00m from Amarillo

Santa Fe is an amazing and charming small town with a unique artsy vibe, surrounded by incredible nature and cultural wonders. It scored #2 in the 2019 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award and it was considered one of the 14 Best Places to Travel in 2019 by Forbes.

Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 days there. Here is what to do and the must-sees in Santa Fe and surroundings:

Santa Fe

In Santa Fe, explore the Santa Fe Plaza surroundings. Stroll through its shops and galleries. Visit San Miguel Chapel, the oldest church in the US. Stop by the Palace of the Governors to check on Native American artisans selling authentic art, pottery and jewelry. Try The Shed restaurant just down the street (reservations recommended). 

Head then to the Canyon Road area. Wander through the art galleries. Geronimo and The Compound are both great restaurant options on Canyon Road. For a quick meal or a treat, try The Teahouse or Cafe des Artistes. 

Bandelier National Monument and Santuario de Chimayo

Visit the amazing Bandelier National Monument, an incredible spot nestled in a canyon, with petroglyphs and dwellings on rocks dating over 11.000 years. The Bandelier National Monument is about 50 minutes away from Santa Fe. It offers several trails. If you only have time to take one, choose the Main Loop Trail, which takes you to the stairs from where you can access the cavates, small human-carved alcoves.

On your way in or out the Bandelier National Monument, take a slight detour and stop by Santuario de Chimayo, a National Historic Landmark and most important Catholic pilgrimage site in the United States.  It is a small and adorable church said to have healing powers through its “holy dirt”. Whether you believe in miracles or not, it is a magical place that totally deserves the attention that it gets.

For lunch, head to the nearby Rancho de Chimayo, a pueblo-style traditional New Mexican restaurant. 

Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

Oh my. I LOVE this place. When planning my trip, I was in doubt if I should choose to explore Tent Rocks National Monument or Bandelier National Monument. I ended up doing both, but If I had to pick only one, I would definitively go with Tent Rocks. 

Both are amazing, but Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks is something out of this world. It’s stunning. A unique landscaping different from anything I’d ever seen.

Once there, hike through the slop canyons up to the top. It is not a difficult hike, but it includes some climbing. I did it with 2 kids, including a 3-year-old, and we were fine.

The Tent Rocks National Monument is about 50 minutes away from Santa Fe, making it a perfect day trip to explore the town surroundings. 

3. Taos, NM

70 miles/ 1h 20m from Santa Fe

Taos town is a more laid-back version of Santa Fe and can be used as your base to reach the ski resorts of the Enchanted Circle. Plan to spend at least 2 days there (more if you plan on skiing or snowboarding). 

I like using Taos as a base and driving up and down the mountain every day for snowboarding. It allows me to enjoy what the town has to offer and to explore more the surroundings, instead of spending the whole time in the ski resort.

But it’s a personal preference. Staying in a ski resort is another great option (sometimes they offer packages including the ski lift). Do your research, weigh the possibilities and decide what suits you better.

But Taos is not only about snow sports. It is a charming small town with a handful of good restaurants, shops and art galleries, offering amazing experiences in its surroundings. It is the perfect winter destination even if you don’t intend to hit the snow slopes. 

Check bellow the best things to do and see in and around Taos: 

High Road to Taos

Make sure to reach Taos using the Scenic High Road Byway. The views are gorgeous. 

The High Road Scenic Byway passes through Chimayo, so if you didn’t visit the Santuario de Chimayo in your way to the Bandelier National Monument, here is your chance to redeem.

There are also another possible stops along the way. I haven’t checked them myself yet, but the waterfalls at Pueblo of Nambe are definitely something I’ll explore next time I take this route.

San Francisco de Asis Mission Church

Photo by Liveon001 © Travis K. Witt [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

On your way to Taos, stop by the neighboring Rancho de Taos. 

Check on the San Francisco de Asis Mission Church, a World Heritage site over 250 years old and one of the most photographed churches in North America.

Taos

In Taos, explore the Taos Plaza shops and galleries. Visit the Kit Carson and Millicent Rogers museums. Check on the art galleries along the historic Kit Carson Road.

If you have kids in tow, check on the Twirl, a quaint toy store by Taos plaza, with a great play area attached open to the public.

For dinner, try Doc Martin’s, Lambert’s or Love Apple. 

Taos Pueblo

An ancient Native American village over 2000 years old, Taos Pueblo is a National Landmark listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The village, located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, is jaw-dropping.  The ancient houses, strong colors and Sangre de Cristo mountain range background make the visual just amazing. 

Taos Pueblo is opened to visitation through guided tours and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Taos.

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

A huge iron bridge crossing a spectacular canyon over the Rio Grande. The visual is superb. 

The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a short drive away from Taos (about 15 minutes) and totally worth the stop. You can just drive by to take in the views, park and cross the bridge walking or even take the trails bordering the canyon if you have spare time. 

Enchanted Circle Drive and Stagecoach Hot Springs

The Enchanted Circle is a beautiful scenic drive which connects Taos, Red River, Eagle Nest and Angel Fire.

The 84-mile trip takes you through the mountains and New Mexico’s history. It’s a breathtaking scenery which offers interesting stops along the way, such as the charming skiing town of Red River and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, 

Consider taking a small detour and soaking in the Stagecoach Hot Springs (aka Manby Hot Springs) , in Arroyo Hondo. Full disclosure: I haven’t been there yet. But sounds promising and it’s in my bucket list for the next time I visit Taos, so I’m sharing with you (if you go before I do please come back here and let me know if it was worth the trip!). 

Taos Ski Valley, Sipapu Ski Resort and Arroyo Seco

I’ve been to 2 ski resorts near Taos town: Taos Ski Valley and Sipapu, both within 30 minutes from the town. They are basically two whole different worlds. I’ve enjoyed both for different reasons. 

Taos Ski Valley is a world-class ski resort for more advanced skiers and snowboarders – but there are beginner slopes as well. If you are looking for a top-notch ski resort, go for it. 

In case you decide to do so, make sure to stop by the picturesque village of Arroyo Seco on your way back from Taos Ski Valley. Check on the artisans and try one of the top local restaurants – ACEQ, Sabroso’s and Abe’s Cantina and Cocina (make reservations, especially in high season). Or, for a quick meal, try Taos Cow.

Sipapu Ski Resort, in the other hand, is a local small ski resort without all the hype of Taos but offering way more affordable prices. If all you want is to enjoy some snow fun without breaking the bank, can be a great option. Just have in mind that there are way less lifts and trails, amenities and “fanciness” there and you’ll be good.

Another (not tested) ski resort options around are the Red River Ski Area, about one hour away from Taos, and Angel Fire, about 40 minutes away from Taos. Both in the Enchanted Circle.

But can I ski or snowboard in New Mexico in Thanksgiving or Spring Break?

A word of wisdom: check on snow conditions before heading to New Mexico with the sole purpose of skiing, especially if you plan to go on Thanksgiving or Spring Break. Those two dates usually mark the beginning and end of the season and, depending on the year’s snow fall, the season can be shorter. 

I’ve been there both in Thanksgiving and Spring Break and was able to snowboard in both occasions. But in Spring Break snow conditions were already not the best and the last time I went down the slope was remarkable: I fell and landed in a small pond formed by melting snow. Getting soaked under freezing temperatures was NOT cool lol.

Summing Up

Go to northeast New Mexico. Now! If you haven’t been there yet, you’re missing out.

Santa Fe and Taos are real American hidden gems. They are not in everyone’s radar such as Colorado, Grand Canyon or New York. But they are definitely travel destinations that will surprise you in a (very) good way. Taking the Dallas to Taos road trip is an out of this world experience guaranteed to build unforgettable memories. 

The itinerary explored in this post includes 3 main stops: Amarillo, Santa Fe and Taos.

In Amarillo, visit Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the U.S., and iconic places such as Route 66, Cadillac Ranch and Big Texan Steak House.

In Santa Fe, explore this charming New Mexico’s artsy town and get astonished by the Bandelier, Tent Rocks and Santuario de Chimayo, in its surroundings.

Take then the high road to Taos to enjoy the best this laid-back mountain village has to offer. Experience the town unique vibe and culinary. Visit the ancient Taos Pueblo and San Francisco de Assissi Mission Church. Cross the inspiring Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Drive the beautiful Enchanted Circle. Soak up in the Stagecoach Hot Springs. Hit the slopes at Taos Ski Valley, Sipapu Ski Resort, Angel Fire or Red River. 

Then get back here and let me know how it was. I hope you have the time of your life and like it as much as I did!

Have you taken this road trip before? If so, do you know of any must-see places or attractions not mentioned in this post? Leave a comment! I’ll love to gather new ideas to check on my next trip to Taos.

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