10 At-Home Christmas Activities for the Best Season Ever!

Fun and cozy Christmas activities to bring Holiday cheer home

From the most beloved Christmas traditions to winter-themed cozy activities, here are some delightful ideas to enjoy Holiday season safely at home.

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.”
– Clark More

10 Christmas Activities to Try at Home this Holiday Season

‘Tis the season to build everlasting memories. And 2020 calls for an especially good one!

Opportunities to celebrate Christmas at home are endless, really. But here I share with you some of my favorite Holiday-themed activities to try this year.

From America’s most beloved Christmas traditions to winter-inspired inviting activities to enjoy with friends and family, discover 10 fun ideas to celebrate Holiday season at home.

Dig into this post, make your own Christmas bucket list and dive into the Christmas spirit from the comfort of your own living room!

Looking for safe and sound things to do outside as well? Check this post for social distancing approved Christmas things to do in Dallas and surroundings.

1. Start an Advent Calendar

Advent calendars are a great Christmas tradition and a sure way to make the Christmas joy present every day throughout December. You can make your own, or choose a beautiful reusable one to be added to your annual Christmas decor.

Here are some of my favorite options. You can personalize them all, adding daily Christmas-themed small gifts, actions and activities, and bring Holiday joy to every single day of the month!

2. Decorate Gingerbread Houses and Cookies

Kids go crazy with this one! (me too, I confess)

This is a fun way to spend a cold December afternoon doing something different and that screams Christmas to me.

If you are (really) talented in the kitchen, you can dive head first into this one and make your own gingerbread houses and cookies.

As cooking skills are not exactly one of my strengths, I usually (ok, always) go for the pre-made kits. These are my favorites:

3. Light a fire on the backyard and make s'mores under the stars listening to Christmas songs...

Making s’mores under the stars wintertime is a must. Pair it with Christmas songs (and a good glass of wine, I won’t tell anyone) and you have the best Holiday activity ever!

No firepit? No problem? This inexpensive portable firepit will do the trick. I’ve had it for about a year know and it more than does the job – great memories are being made around it!

I also recommend you getting extendable marshmallow sticks. I didn’t even know they existed until recently (shame on me) and they were a game changer in my s’mores skills .

4. ...or take the fun indoors and do the same in front of the fireplace!

If all you want for Christmas is to stay cozy and warm INSIDE the house, lit your firepit and make some s’mores in the comfort of your living room.

Go mess free with this electric s’mores maker from Nostalgia.

I also prefer to use ceramic logs indoors. They give you the look and the heat without the toxic fumes and are my newest Holiday season inversion – I would say it is a pretty good one!

5. Have the best Christmas decor ever

Because IMHO 2020 simply asks for that!

But no need to go bankrupt to do so. Being creative and doing a lot of research, you can find inexpensive ways to give your home a Holiday facelift on a budget.

You can find a lot of cool basic stuff on discount stores. For more elaborated – and usually expensive – items, Amazon offers some excellent Christmas decor deals.

Here are some of my favorite findings for this season:

6. Have a small fondue and wine gathering.

This is another winter favorite: fondue. If you have never tried it, it is time to fix this huge anomaly lol.

Here you can find some simple recipes (WARNING: don’t click on them if you are hungry . Just did. Big big mistake):

Classic Swiss Cheese Fondue Recipe
Coq Au Vin Meat Fondue Recipe
Chocolate Fondue Recipe

You can go mess-free and try an electric fondue set. What is a great option specially if you have little ones around. You cannot go wrong with this one from Cuisinart, I’ve actually worked with this brand eaons ago and it is super high quality:

But I really LOVE the traditional fondue sets. I love the cast iron look and there is something mesmerizing about the flame under the pan, it brings me some very good old memories:

Tip: we are in the era of small gatherings. But if you have more people coming, you can always buy inexpensive extra fondue forks to increase the capacity of your fondue set:

Invest in good wine tumblers for the perfect fondue and wine gathering. If you know a little about wine, Riedel is a brand that needs no introduction:

7. Welcome the Elf on the Shelf home.

This is one of my favorite American Christmas traditions. And one that I really make a point in doing every single year for my kiddos.

Because well, you are only a kid once, and the look in their faces when they wake up and see something silly “the Elf” did the night before truly pays off EVERY effort (yes, I eventually always run out of creative ideas and get sick of the poor little Elf by the end of the season lol).

You find the original Elf on the Self in many retail stores, and it comes with a book telling his whole story, prefect to read to the kids and get them into the fairytale vibe.

It usually sells out virtually every year before Christmas. So, if you cannot find it around, you mind consider this kit from Amazon that comes with some cute extras and, at least in the day I wrote this post, was the only one still available for next day delivery:

If the Elf on the Shelf tradition is something new to you, here is the whole story and how it works.

8. Write a letter to Santa and hang Christmas stockings

Here is the deal: Santa will need to know WHAT you want for Christmas to decide wether you deserve it or not according to the Elf reports…

And then he will need a PLACE to leave these presents on Christmas night!

Keep the magic going by writing Christmas letters with the little ones and leaving them by the Elf – without touching him or he will loose his magic – to be delivered to Santa.

Then get yourself some beautiful stockings and stocking holders to complete your already awesome Christmas decor.

9. Have a Christmas Movie Marathon in your xmas jammies

Watching Rudolph in your jammies, eating popcorn and drinking hot cocoa, is a must during Holiday season. And probably one of the easiest ways around to get into the Christmas spirits.

For all-time classics, make sure to include Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), A Christmas Carol (1938), It’s a Wonderful Life (1946), and Miracle on 34th Street (1947) in your list.

For the “new-classics”, A Christmas Story (1983), Home Alone (1990), The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), and Elf (2003) are musts.

I also absolutely love the much more recent Klaus (2019) and The Christmas Chronicles 1(2018) and 2 (2020).

And new titles abound and will be available in every stream platform starting right now!

10. Read Christmas stories to your kids every night in December

Have little ones who love to hear a story before going to bed? Transform it into a Christmas activity reading Holiday-inspired tales, sure to bring Christmas joy every night in December.

This is an easy yet meaningful Christmas activity, and a great way of assuring sweet dreams and keeping the spirits high from sunrise to dawn.

You can get one book with several short stories like this one:

Or invest in a small Christmas library. Here are some of the recommended Holiday-themed books to consider:

Summing Up

The Grinch will NOT steal Christmas!

This year things are a little different. But it doesn’t mean we cannot have fun and a heartwarming Holiday Season. It is actually quite the opposite: we need that now more than ever!

Being creative it is still absolutely possible to have the time of your life while keeping safe, by engaging in fun Christmas activities at home or in outdoor social-distancing approved activities.

Here you found 10 cheerful ideas on how to enjoy Christmas Season in your house and have a blast in the upcoming weeks.

Choose your favorites and go create memories with your loved ones to be cherished forever!

Do you have a favorite Christmas tradition not mentioned here? Share your fun ideas in the comments section below.

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Christmas in Dallas 2020: Social Distancing Approved Things to Do

Dive headfirst into the Holiday spirit and light up the year!

Discover 18 social distance approved Christmas things to do in Dallas Fort Worth in 2020 and warm up to the season.

“Peace on earth will come to stay,
When we live Christmas every day.”
― Helen Steiner Rice

Top things to do this Christmas in Dallas Fort Worth

The best time of the year is just around the corner. Time to put our Santa’s hats on and do some serious work to build everlasting and forever cherished memories!

This year has been a little “different” – to say the least – and the new normal requires a lot of creativity to enjoy Christmas season safely.

Luckily, Dallas offers super cool Holiday-themed outdoor attractions and social distance-friendly events. And knowing where to go you can still have the time of your life while keeping safe.

18 safe and sound Christmas events and activities in Dallas and surroundings

Ready for some – much-needed – Holiday cheer?

In this post you will find 18 ideas on how to safely enjoy Christmas in Dallas.

Superb drive-thru experiences to admire the best Christmas Lights Displays in Dallas Fort Worth. Cozy and heartwarming outdoor events. The best neighborhoods to drive around and see the Christmas lights for free. Drive-in theaters featuring Christmas movies. And even Christmas tree farms to choose and cut your own pine tree.

Chose below your favorites and have a holly jolly Christmas!

Christmas Lights Drive-Thru Displays in DFW

Dallas traditional drive-thru Christmas Lights Displays are trendier than ever. Guaranteed to wow you and 100% social distancing-approved, they are a sure way of getting into the Christmas vibe while keeping safe.

Dallas Zoo Lights, Gift of Lights, Radiance Christmas Lights, Prairie Lights and Magic of Lights are this year top pics.

Check their website below for detailed info to plan your visit and buy tickets online in advance (most places require that as part of the safety measures implemented to avoid the spread of COVID-19).

Take with you some inexpensive Magic Christmas Glasses for cool 3D effects while seeing the Christmas lights. I discovered those in a Thanksgiving trip to Arizona last year and fell in love with them!

Here are details on the 5 most amazing drive-thru Christmas Lights Displays to experience this Holiday season in Dallas Fort Worth:

1. Dallas Zoo Lights

When
Nov. 20th – Jan 3rd, 2021 │36 select nights: 6:30 – 9:30 pm

Where
Dallas Zoo – 650 S. R. L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, TX 75203

Prices
USD 65.00 per car (members USD 50.00 per car)

More Info and Tickets

2. Gift of Lights @ Texas Motor Speedway

When
Nov 26th – Jan 3rd, 2021 │ Friday & Saturday: 6pm-10pm / Sunday – Thursday 6pm-9pm

Where
Texas Motor Speedway – 3545 Lone Star Cir, Fort Worth, TX 76177

Prices
USD 30.00 to USD 60.00 per vehicle

More info and tickets

3. Radiance Christmas Lights @ Dr. Pepper Ballpark

When
Nov 11th – Jan 3rd, 2021 │ Every night from 5:30 pm (closes at 10pm or 11pm depending on the day, check their calendar)

Where
Dr. Pepper Ballpark – 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034
Locations also in Decatur and Weatherford, about one hour away from Dallas.

Prices
Regular Admission: USD 30.00 per vehicle/ VIP Admission: USD 50 per vehicle (includes hot chocolate, dedicated VIP line and magic glasses for kids).

More Info and Tickets

4. Prairie Lights

When
Thanksgiving Night through New Year’s Eve 2020 │ Every night: 6pm-10pm

Where
Lynn Creek Park – 5610 Lake Ridge Pkwy, Grand Prairie, TX 75052

Prices
USD 30.00 and up per vehicle/ Fast Pass: USD 99 and up per vehicle

More Info and Tickets

5. Magic of Lights

When
Nov 20th – Jan 2nd, 2021 │ 6pm – 10pm (closed on Dec. 31st)

Where
Little Elm Park – 701 West Eldorado Parkway, Little Elm, TX

Prices
USD 26.00 to USD 100.00 per vehicle

More Info and Tickets

Christmas Lights Walkthrough Outdoor Events in Dallas

Looking for something more active but still safe? Put your fancy winter coat on, grab a hot chocolate and walk-through Dallas most beautiful outdoor light displays!

Considered one of the best Christmas events in Texas, the Holiday at the Arboretum is a must-visit in Dallas. Beautiful Holiday-themed gazebos, an adorable Christmas Village and tons of lights transform the already gorgeous botanical garden into a Holiday wonderland and one of the most popular Christmas attractions in DFW.

The traditional Lone Star Christmas at Gaylord Texan features for the first time a 100% outdoor attraction, especially designed with social distance in mind. The Yuletide Bright is a light and lantern walkthrough event, that will take you through 50,000 square feet of pure Christmas magic!

And finally, for an outstanding free and pet-friendly alternative, try the famous Vitruvian Lights, a beautiful Christmas Lights display at Vitruvian Park, perfect for a winter leisure walk.

Be prepared for awesome photo-ops and create instant memories with family and friends.
👇👇👇

Here you find detailed information on the best outdoor Christmas events in Dallas to check on this Holiday season:

6. Holiday at the Arboretum

When
Daytime:
Nov. 7th – Dec. 31th, 2020 (Christmas Village opens on Nov. 27th) │ 9am – 5pm
12 Days of Christmas at Night:
Nov 11-25: Wed–Sun 6–9pm │ Nov 27-Dec 30: Sun–Wed 6–9pm; Thu–Sat 6–10pm

Where
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens – 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218

Prices
Daytime admission: USD 12.00 to USD 17.00 per person (members free)
Night admission: USD 10.00 to USD 25.00 per person

More Info and Tickets

7. Yuletide Bright @ Gaylord Texan

When
Nov. 13th – Jan. 3rd, 2021

Where
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center – 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, Texas 76051

Prices
$15.00 per Adult/ $10.00 per Child (4-11)

More Info and Tickets

8. Vitruvian Lights

When
Nov. 27th – Jan. 3rd, 2021│ At night

Where
Vitruvian Park in Addison – 3875 Ponte Ave, Addison, TX 75001

FREE EVENT

More Info

Best Dallas Neighborhoods for Holiday Light Displays

Most neighborhoods and home owners in Texas do an outstanding job decorating their houses and great Christmas lights displays can be found in virtually any neighborhood in Dallas and surroundings.

But if you want to go big, choose traditional Dallas locations, known for presenting jaw-dropping Christmas light displays year after year.

The best part? These are totally free Christmas lights displays! Simply choose the closest to you, grab your hot cocoa and go enjoy.
👇👇👇

Here are some of the best Dallas neighborhoods to drive during Holiday season for Christmas lights:

9. Highland Park Christmas Lights, Dallas

The most traditional and impressive neighborhood Christmas lights displays in Dallas.

Drive the area within Armstrong Pkwy, Preston Rd, Mockingbird Ln and surroundings to admire the awe-inspiring Christmas decor. Or go fancy and take a carriage ride.

10. Interlochen Christmas Lights Displays, Arlington

Beautiful lights, among the best in the Dallas area. Interlochen neighborhood homeowners do an outstanding job decorating their homes and keeping alive the Christmas magic.

Start your driving tour at 2001 Westwood Drive, in Arlington and just follow the flow. Prepare for some traffic, especially on weekends.

11. Deerfield Neighborhood Holiday Lights Display, Plano

In Northwest Plano between Preston Rd. and Coit Rd, Deerfield is another neighborhood offering a gorgeous Christmas light display.

A popular destination during the Holidays and free Christmas attraction in the Dallas surroundings, Deerfield can also be experienced through carriage tours. For more info check the Deerfield Homeowners Association page.

Outdoor Christmas Movies at Drive-in Theaters in DFW

If you’ve never watched a movie from the trunk of your car, ’tis the season’ to finally fix it!

Enjoying a movie outdoors under the stars in a local drive-in theater is an amazing experience year-round. But Christmas makes it even more special.

Head to the nearest drive-in movie theater to enjoy a Christmas movie. Use blankets and some pillows to turn your trunk into the coziest movie theater ever.
👇👇👇

Order popcorn and some treats and voila: you have the most amazing Christmas activity and a memory to treasure forever.

Here are some of the coolest drive-in theaters in DFW to try this Holiday season.

12. Drive-In at the Central

Where
2999 N Carroll Ave, Dallas, TX 75204

Prices
USD 28.00 to USD 35.00 per car

Movies Schedule and Tickets

13. Coyote Drive-In

Where
223 NE 4th Street, Fort Worth, TX 76164

Prices
$8 Adults (age 12+)/ $5 Kids (5 – 11)/ Ages 4 & under are Free

Movies Schedule and Tickets

"Choose and cut your own Christmas tree" pine tree farms near Dallas

It doesn’t matter if you are creating a new Holiday tradition or keeping one alive: cutting your own Christmas tree as a family is a neat experience and a sure way to bring Christmas bliss to you and your loved ones life.

Several Christmas tree farms in Dallas Fort Worth and surroundings offers this opportunity. Here you find some recommendations to try right after Thanksgiving.

Handsaw, assistance, hayrides to and from the field and tree wrap are usually provided without extra cost. Some of these places offer fun activities for the family besides the Christmas tree experience itself, click on the links for more information. And bring money! – some places will only take cash and check.

Plan ahead and make it a family Christmas day: have your ornaments ready for when you get back home carrying your beautiful pine tree, and spent the rest of the day decorating, it listening to Christmas carols and drinking hot cocoa.

This are the recommended Christmas tree farms in the Dallas surroundings to go cut your own pine tree:

14. Lone Star Pines

Where
10706 CR-350, Terrell, Texas 75161

When
Saturdays and Sundays – from Friday, Nov 27 through Dec 13th, 2020

Prices
$7.75 per foot

More Info

15. Elves Christmas Tree Farm

Where
601 Harvey Ln., Denison, Texas – 75020

When
From Nov 27, 2020
Weekdays 3pm-5pm (except the first day, open from 10 am-5pm)/ Sat 10am-5pm/ Sun 1pm-5pm

Prices
$8.00 per foot according to size and shape

More Info

16. Walls Family Farm

Where
11051 Co Rd 2312, Terrell, TX 75160

When
Open from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday after Thanksgiving and before Christmas

Prices
$8.00 per foot

More Info

17. 4D Farm

Where
3900 Upper Denton Rd, Weatherford, TX 76085

When
Open from November 28th, 9-4 on Saturdays and 1-4 on Sundays

Prices
Varies per type of tree. Check their website for more info.

More Info

18. Kadee Christmas Tree Farm

Where
5054 US-69, Greenville, TX 75402

When
Closed Thanksgiving Day
Open Saturday and Sunday, November 21-22, 2020 10AM – 7PM
Open Mon – Fri 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM/ Sat – Sun 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Prices
From $ 44.00 for a 6ft Scotch Pine Tree. Check their website for other varieties and sizes prices.

More Info

Summing Up

Holiday vibes in Dallas and surroundings

In this post I shared with you 18 places to enjoy Christmas season in Dallas and surroundings while keeping safe.

Holiday-themed things to do in DFW and its suburbs, including the best Christmas Lights Displays – paid and free, Christmas tree farms, and open-air drive-in theaters to watch Christmas movies without leaving your car.

I hope it helps you to have the time of your life in the upcoming weeks and create some much-needed good memories for 2020.

Merry Christmas and may 2021 bring us renewed hope and faith!

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14 Texas State Parks near Dallas Fort Worth

Stunning nature preserves up to 1h30 from DFW to enjoy the outdoors

Discover the closest Texas State Parks to Dallas for hiking, camping and everything in between!

“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.”
― Henry David Thoreau

Texas State Parks: the best places for a nature fix in the Lone Star State

Texas is home to over 80 State Parks!

Amazing natural preserves with unique landscapes and features, perfect to enjoy the outdoors and contemplate nature and wildlife.

Texas State Parks are protected areas managed by the government, with controlled access, and feel safe, clean, and well-maintained. They are my first choice whenever I feel like getting a breath of fresh air and using my hiking boots!

At Texas State Parks you can hike, camp, stargaze, fish, swim. And engage in more specific activities, such as rock climbing, paddling, cycling and even horseback riding.

Each Texas State Park offers a distinctive set of activities, and the best way to discover your favorite ones is by simply start exploring them!

Texas State Parks around Dallas

No need to travel far to enjoy Texas nature. The Dallas surroundings are home to 14 of the Texas State Parks, only a short drive away from the city.

Here I share with you all the State Parks within a 1h30 driving distance from Dallas. I’ve included the relative location to Dallas, as well as the driving distance, so you can find the ones closest to you and start exploring from there.

While each Texas State Park near Dallas has its own beauty and offers something different, I do have my favorites! So, if you’re looking for specific recommendations on the best State Parks in Dallas and surroundings, look for the ones marked with throughout this article. Or check the recommended ones (and the reasons why) at the end of it.

I’ve also included some insider tips below, so you can make the most of your visits and hopefully avoid some headaches – such as being turned away by lack of reservations , yep, you need them.

Read this post, click on the links to see what each State Park near Dallas offers, choose your favorites, and go enjoy the outdoors!

More outdoor things to do in and around Dallas?

Check this post, with 60 fun outdoor activities in Dallas and surroundings!

Texas State Parks up to 1h30 from Dallas

State Parks North of Dallas

Ray Roberts Lake State Park (1h00)
Eisenhower State Park (1h15)
Bonham State Park (1h15)

State Parks South of Dallas

📍Cedar Hill State Park (0h25)
📍Purtis Creek State Park (1h00)
📍Cleburne State Park (1h10)
📍Lake Whitney State Park (1h15)
📍Dinosaur Valley State Park (1h20)
📍Fort Parker State Park (1h25)
📍Fairfield Lake State Park (1h25)

State Parks West of Dallas

Lake Mineral Wells State Park (1h15)
Fort Richardson State Park (1h30)

State Parks East of Dallas

Lake Tawakoni State Park (1h00)
Tyler State Park (1h30)

Insider Tips

Make online reservations

Reservations to visit the Texas State Parks are required and should be made in advance through their online reservation system.

Plan ahead

For the most sought-after State Parks in Texas, reservations need to be made weeks in advance for day passes. And months in advance for camping spots.

Score last minute reservations

Getting last-minute reservations to visit Texas State Parks can be trick but is not impossible. Leave the “location” field blank in the Texas State Parks reservation system and search to see all State Parks with available passes for the date you wish to visit.

While you probably won’t find spots available in the most popular parks this way, you can end up scoring a last-minute reservation in a hidden gem soon to become your favorite camping or hiking spot in Texas! (I discovered some of my favorite State Parks around this way).

Check for current conditions before hitting the road

Trails, swimming areas and other State Parks facilities can close unexpectedly due to weather increment, water levels or other reasons. Other more specific limitations can be found – dinosaur footprints are not always visible at Dinosaur Valley, for example (it depends on the water levels).

It’s always a clever idea to check on current conditions before hitting the road to avoid disappointments. Along this post you find the links to each State Park website. Click on it and check the alerts in effect (at the top of the page) prior to your visit.

Get a Texas State Park Pass

If you are planning to visit State Parks frequently, getting a Texas State Park Pass just makes sense.

For USD 70.00 you (and whoever is in the car with you) gets free entrance in all Texas State Parks for one year. And you also get camping and State Park stores discounts.

Summing Up

Looking for the best places to camp, hike, and paddle around Dallas?

Try Texas State Parks!

You have 14 options to choose from up to 1h30 driving from Dallas. Each one of them with its own set of features and activities, and special in their own way.

Here we listed all of them, with the distances from the city and relative location to DFW. Use the links along to post to check what each of these amazing Texas State Parks offer and start exploring!

My favorite Texas State Parks near Dallas

Yes, they are all very cool and worth the drive. But I do have my favorite State Parks near Dallas lol! They are marked with starts along the post, but for a quick glimpse these are the ones I would highly recommend you visit and why:

Eisenhower State Park
Has a stunning lake beach (really, impressive) and an amazing camping area overlooking lake Texoma.

Dinosaur Valley State Park
Real dinosaur footprints along the riverbed! Oh, and a gorgeous crystal-clear river framed by sandy beaches. And a great trail system as well.

Lake Whitney State Park
Crystal-clear lake, with beautiful beach areas. The lake bottom is made of limestone, what prevents it from being muddy as other lakes – under the right weather conditions, of course.

Lake Mineral Wells State Parks
Top-rated trails, rock climbing and unique Penitentiary Hollow rock formation.

Tyler State Park
Tall pine trees! It’s a landscape you wouldn’t expect to find in Texas, specially so close to Dallas. The fall foliage reflecting in the lake there is beautiful. Shady trails and water activities, such as swimming and paddling, make Tyler a local favorite under the Texas heat as well.

Go enjoy the outdoors!

Enjoy nature to the fullest without going too far! In this post you discovered the 14 best places in the Dallas surroundings to do that.

Now go check them out and get back here to let me know how it was.

Have you been to any of these State Parks before? Has any of them surprised you? What are your favorite places to go for hiking, camping, swimming and other outdoor activities near Dallas?

Hidden Gems in Dallas and Surroundings

Out of ordinary things to do in Dallas and surroundings to include in your bucket list. Discover surprising hidden-gems you wouldn’t expect to find in Texas!

These 13 hidden gems and unique things to do in Dallas and surroundings will surprise you!

Discover amazing offbeat attractions to include NOW in your Texas bucket list.

Go beyond the preconceived ideas of Dallas Fort Worth and get amazed by cool and unique stuff you can experience around. Hidden gems in or near Dallas about to change your perception on the Big D.

The following 13 out-of-ordinary ideas to enjoy your time in Dallas and surroundings are nothing short of mind-blowing!

From prehistoric sites you would guess to be thousands of miles away from Dallas to activities that wouldn’t even cross your mind when thinking of Texas, here you’ll find unexpected things to do in and around the city.

Check them out and make your plans to uncover these unique hidden gems in Dallas and neighboring towns. Enrich your Texas experience and prepare for a change of heart on the Lonely Star State.

Beyond the hidden gems in Dallas: must-visit popular attractions

If you are new to Dallas or a first-time visitor, and wants to go over DFW (outstanding) basics as well, check our post with the top 15 things to do in Dallas.

Popular but superb attractions you’ll only find in the Big D!

1. Bonnie and Clyde

Visit Bonnie and Clyde graves right in Dallas and follow the infamous couple footsteps.

Did you know the infamous criminal couple Bonnie & Clyde, glamorized in the 60’s movie classic of the same name, have Texan roots? That Bonnie was once a waitress in Dallas and both Bonnie and Clyde spent their teenager years in DFW? Accounts claim they first meet in the 30’s in a friend’s house at 105 Herbert Street, West Dallas.

The rest is a mix of history and legend, but the fact is that in Dallas you can follow Bonnie and Clyde footsteps. And visit their grave sites, currently historic landmarks. Bonnie (Bonnie Parker) is buried at Crown Hill Memorial Park. Clyde (Clyde Barrow) at Western Heights Cemetery. Have in mind these are not touristic spots at their core but resting places. So, don’t expect anything fancy or pristine. Go for the history and curiosity and you’ll enjoy it.

2. Fossil Park

Unleash your inner paleontologist and dig for over 300 million old fossils - for free!

And when you think Texas can’t surprise you anymore, you discover that only 1h30 driving from Dallas you can dig for real million years old fossils! Looking for something out of ordinary to do around DFW? Go fossil hunting at Mineral Wells Fossil Park.

The fossil park is open to the public year-round, with free admission. You can bring small tools and dig for the tons of well preserved ‘Pennsylvanian Period’ fossils around – and even find a prehistoric shark tooth if you’re lucky! It’s a primitive site with no facilities, so bring tons of water, pack a picnic and have fun.

Lake Mineral Wells State Park is only 15 minutes away from the fossil park and one of the best places around Dallas for hiking, in case you’re looking for more things to do in the area (if hiking is your thing, take a peek into this article and discover the 9 best hiking spots near Dallas – topic #2)

3. Scuba-Diving

Dive into a beautiful blue hole and explore a sunken airplane and bus!

And the Dallas surroundings keep surprising me! Not a long time ago I found out that one of Texas most impressive scuba-diving centers is only 90 minutes away from Dallas, the Athens Scuba Park. And no pool or tank: we are talking about an actual blue hole, with turquoise water and interesting sunken things to explore such an airplane and a bus!

I haven’t been there yet, but it’s definitively on my list of things to try in Dallas as soon as the weather cooperates LOL.

4. U.S. Treasury Money Factory

Tour one of the only two money printing facilities in the United States.

The U.S. Treasury has only 2 money printing and engraving facilities in the country and one of them is right in DFW!

The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing, in Fort Worth, is open to the public and can be toured for free (weekdays only). Take advantage of your visit and check on other Forth Worth must-see attractions (destination # 3).

5. Real Dinosaur Tracks

Step onto real fossilized dinosaur footprints along a crystal-clear riverbed.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a must for all ages. Only 1h30 from Dallas, it’s a beautiful nature setting where you can step onto real fossilized dinosaur tracks along the riverbed! – how cool is that?

Plan a day in the outdoors exploring Dinosaur Valley State Park trails. Or, for an amazing and easy weekend trip, spend the night camping in the park or in a lodge inside nearby Fossil Rim. Check details in this post, destination # 1 – Glen Rose.

6. Surf

Ride great waves year-round without paying a trip to the beach.

Who would imagine you could surf near Dallas? We are far from the ocean, it is -sadly – true. But it does not mean you have to wait until your next trip to the coast to ride some great waves!

You can do that as close as 30 minutes away from Dallas, in Lakes Grapevine and Lewisville. Head there, try wakesurfing and be wowed by the experience.

Or if you want things to get real, head to BSR Surf Resort, in Waco. A state-of-art surf facility only 1h30 from Dallas, which attracts attention from surfers all over the country (check here other things to do in Waco (destination # 6)

7. Real Mammoth Excavation Site

Only place in the world with an entire herd of Colombian Mammoth fossils on display.

How cool it is that we can drive 90 minutes and visit a real excavation site? And one of worldwide importance?

The Waco Mammoth National Monument is an under-the-radar must-see attraction for those in the Dallas area. Plan to make a stop there in a day trip to Waco (destination #6), a fun destination made famous by the HGTV Fixer Upper show, offering other interesting things to do.

8. Drive-In Theater

Enjoy an old-fashioned movie session under the stars from the comfort of your trunk.

If you haven’t watched a movie from the trunk of your car, you’re missing out. You can do it right in Fort Worth and it is SO cool!

Indulge in nostalgia at Coyote Drive-In. An old-style movie theater with cool old-fashioned vibe. Bring your chairs, blankets and park your car right in front of the screen to watch your favorite movie bundle – each entrance is valid for 2 different movie sessions, played in sequence with a 15-minute interval.

It is recommended that you arrive early (at least 90 minutes in advance) to avoid potential long lines and grab a good spot. But don’t worry: there is a super nice lounge area where you can grab a bite and have some beers while you wait. And, on selected weekend nights, you can even enjoy live music. All of that under the stars and with beautiful views of downtown Fort Worth. It’s one of DFW best-kept secrets hands down.

For other things to do in Fort Worth and make the most of your visit, check this post (destination # 3).

9. Hare Krishna and Buddhist Temples and Culinary

Immerse in other cultures without hoping on a plane.

Pay a trip to the orient without leaving Dallas. Kalachandji’s and the Buddhist Temple of Dallas are must-visit attractions off the beaten path for those in love with other cultures and looking for an immersive experience. True and authentic hidden gems in Dallas, not to be missed.

For a quick trip to India, go to Kalachandji’s. Right in the city, it’s a stunning Hare-Krishna temple and restaurant serving the best Indian-vegetarian food in Dallas. The temple is open to the public as well as the services, and they are really welcoming. You can even take cooking and Ayurveda classes for free in specific days of the week.

Or if you prefer Thailand as your destination for the day, head to the Buddhist Temple of Dallas, one of Dallas best kept secrets. Make sure to go on a Sunday, when they usually have a Thai Street Food Market behind the temple – check their Facebook page to confirm the dates and times.

10. Gas Monkey Garage

Visit the filming set of the famous Fast'n Loud TV Show.

Fast’n Loud fans cannot miss this one. Dallas in home to the Gas Monkey Garage, where the automotive relics hunter Richard Rawlings performs his miracles and restore decrepit classic cars back into glory, as seen in the Fast’n Loud TV show.

Visit the filming set and follow with a live concert at Gas Monkey Live! Music Venue, right next door.

11. Cattle Drive and Herd Lesson

Be a cowboy for one day in an authentic Dude Ranch.

Ok, the cowboy thing is something totally expected from Texas. But what about becoming a cowboy yourself and learning how to guide and lace those giant longhorn bulls?

If it sounds cool enough, take a short day trip to nearby Beaumont Ranch – 1h15 from Dallas – and unleash your inner cattleman.

Make sure to make reservations in advance. The Dude Ranch also offers other activities such as horseback riding, ATV tours and archery.

12. Kimbell Museum

Visit America's best small museum and check on Michelangelo's first painting

DFW is home to “America’s Best Small Museum”, Kimbell Art Museum, in the Fort Worth Cultural District. It has an impressive collection, including Michelangelo’s first known painting. A must-visit place for art buffs or anyone who appreciates fine arts and modern architecture.

Stop by as part of a cool day trip to Fort Worth. While the Stockyards is the city’s most famous attraction, there are other amazing underrated things to do in Fort Worth you should definitively check out. Read this post for must-sees and hidden gems in Fort Worth beyond the Stockyards (destination # 3)

13. Giant Eyeball Sculpture

"I'm watching you" - one of a kind art-installation in the heart of Downtown Dallas.

Odd, to say the least. The Giant Eyeball sculpture, an authentic hidden gem in Dallas, stands in the heart of Downtown and is one of the cool landmarks you can see exploring the area. It’s in a private garden visible from the street, and part of The Joule Hotel’s impressive art-collection.

Find here a complete one-day itinerary to explore Downtown Dallas like a pro, including a stop at this curious offbeat attraction and things not to be missed in its surroundings.

Summing Up

Dallas rocks! While the city offers amazing well-known things to do, the wow factor lies on the hidden gems awaiting to be discovered by you.

Go beyond the obvious and experience the astonishing things to do in and around the Big D explored in this post.

Must uncover hidden gems in Dallas Fort Worth

Unleash your inner Indiana Jones at Mineral Wells Fossil Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park and Waco Mammoth National Monument – where else in the world can you see a real mammoth excavation site, step onto real dinosaur tracks and dig for 3+ million years old fossils in a 1h30 radius?

Go quirk. Follow Bonnie and Clyde steps and visit their graves. Pay a visit to the only Giant Eyeball sculpture in the world. Be cowboy for a day at Beaumont Ranch.

Save some miles. Surf without the long drive to the beach at Grapevine and Lewisville lakes or Waco’s BSR Cable Park. Get scuba-diving certified in an amazing blue hole less than 90 minutes away from Dallas. Immerse into oriental culture and cuisine without hoping on a plane at Kalachandji’s Hare Krishna Temple and Buddhist Temple of Dallas.

And as if this list wasn’t already long and exciting enough, why not adding to it the opportunity of seeing first Michelangelo’s known painting at the Kimbell Museum and American dollars being printed in one of the only two facilities of this kind in the whole country?

Now go explore Dallas in a new and unique way!

Add some spicy to your Dallas experience.

Choose your favorite ideas throughout this post and go try something unique in DFW. Then get back here and share your impressions.

Do you know any other offbeat thing to do and hidden gems in Dallas and surroundings? Leave a comment below!

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DFW Fall Travel and Leisure Guide

Your Ultimate Fall Travel and Leisure Guide in Dallas and Surroundings

Discover the best things to do this fall in and near Dallas-Fort Worth, and the top autumn road travel destinations in Texas and neighboring states.

Best Road Travel Destinations in Texas & Surroundings

Top Outdoor Things to Do in Dallas & Surroundings

Fall is the best time to explore Texas and surroundings

Fall in Texas is simply amazing!

Think mild temperatures. Tons of outdoor travel destinations. Beautiful fall foliage as well. It is hands down one of the best times of the year to explore the Lone Star State and its neighbors.

Fall also brings Thanksgiving break. Therefore, the opportunity to explore even further.

This is your chance to hit the dreaming road travel destinations you can reach driving from Dallas, such as the Grand Canyon and Colorado’s ski resorts, for example.

Fall fun in Dallas, Fort Worth and surroundings

Dallas itself also presents us with amazing opportunities to enjoy autumn.

Fun things to do in DFW and surroundings abound from September through early December and knowing where to go you can have a blast even without actually traveling during fall.

What to do and where to go?

Looking for ideas on how to make the most of fall season in Dallas and surroundings? We got you covered!

Dig into our fall related posts above. Discover the best places to visit and top things to do this season and enjoy fall in Texas to the fullest.

Do you have an awesome recommendation or a cool fall experience to share? Leave a comment below then. I’ll love to hear from you and uncover new places.

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Best Family Travel Destinations in Texas and Surroundings

10 kid-friendly family travel destinations to visit in Texas and surroundings, perfect for all ages!

10 kid-friendly vacations from Dallas, fun for the whole family!

These top family-friendly trips in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma will wow kids and grown-ups alike.

“The Greatest Legacy We Can Leave Our Children Is Happy Memories.”
– Og Mandino.

The (not that) hard task of pleasing the whole family

Traveling has always been my passion.

It didn’t change when I had kids – in fact, hitting the road with my kiddos to discover new destinations is one of my favorite ways of building family memories. And, oh, what beautiful memories!

Wherever I go, I take my kids in tow. Whenever I plan a trip, I try to mix activities for both kids and adults or, even better, find the perfect cool things to do that all age groups can enjoy.

The win-win attractions.

Those that keep kids engaged, so they don’t start annoying the parents (making it impossible for us to enjoy our time, let’s face it).

Nor are solely focused on the children, to the point of boring us adults and killing our will of traveling with kids for good, lol.

My personal favorite family travel destinations in Texas and surroundings

During the past few years, I’ve been traveling around Dallas, Texas, and the surrounding States, exploring and testing different destinations with my family.

While all the trips were somehow worth the experience, some were especially remarkable for my little ones.

Here I share the ones that, to date, best did the job of wowing everybody in the family (as well as some items at the top of my bucket list).

Travel destinations my kids keep asking me to visit again and that I would totally repeat.

Explore!

Find below the 10 top travel destinations for families within a driving distance from Dallas, according to my and my children’s totally biased opinions – no scientific method here.

Choose the ones that speak the most to you, make your own family-friendly trips wish list, and hit the road to make wonderful memories with your favorite people!

For more trip ideas from Dallas, check this page.

1. Glen Rose, TX

Dinosaur Valley State Park and Fossil Rim

Distance: 75 miles/ 1 h 20 min from Dallas

Glen Rose is a no-brainer for families with kids of all ages.

It’s super close to Dallas, home to a beautiful state park with real dinosaur tracks, and Texas’ best safari drive-thru, Fossil Rim. You can even sleep in a cabin inside the wildlife center surrounded by animals!

Find in this post the details and a complete itinerary to Glen Rose (destination # 1).

It’s a year-round destination. But before heading there, check with Dinosaur Valley State Park if dinosaur tracks are visible – subject to weather conditions and water level.

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2. Davis, OK

Turner Falls, Arbuckle Wilderness Park and Chickasaw Tribe

Distance: 130 miles/ 2 h 00 min from Dallas

Another must-visit destination for families, Davis is a small town in Oklahoma surrounded by amazing attractions: the largest waterfall in Oklahoma, a rustic safari-style zoo, and a native American tribe cultural center.

A travel destination only 2 hours away from Dallas, where you can, among other things, hike into small caves, dive into a waterfall, feed wild animals, and watch a Chickasaw native dance.

Tons of fun and culture and a superb place to create family memories!

Find in this post a complete itinerary to Davis (destination # 2), with all the info you need to plan your trip.

My favorite times of the year to visit Turner Falls are spring and fall to enjoy the amazing colors that make this natural setting even more stunning.

Even if it’s too cold to swim, you can still enjoy nature and hiking.

Plan to arrive at Arbuckle Wilderness Park early.

On our visit we were the first ones to enter the park and OMG, animals were corralling our car to be fed! So cool!

I imagine it wouldn’t have been the same if we had arrived after a lot of people had fed them, and they had their stomachs full, lol.

Avoid visiting the area during summer and holidays. It can get really crowded and spoil the experience.

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3. Austin

Barton Springs Swimming Hole, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddling, and Bat-Watching

Distance: 195 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas

This is an amazing family trip to take from May through September. Austin is one of the coolest Texas travel destinations and offers things to do for all ages.

The must-sees and dos when you’re traveling with kids to Austin are splashing into Barton Springs at Zilker Park, kayaking, or stand-up paddling through crystal-clear Barton Creek and Colorado River.

And watching millions of bats leaving from under Congress Bridge at dusk (trust me on this one, it’s impressive and a one-of-a-kind experience you will never forget).

But Austin offers much more than that!

Here you’ll find a complete post dedicated to this must-visit Texas travel destination, with the top things to do in Austin and tips on how to make the most of your trip.

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4. Llano, TX

Enchanted Rock, Longhorn Caverns, and Colorado River Canyon Cruise

Distance: 229 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas

If your family enjoys the outdoors, you’ll love this trip.

Llano is only a place to spend the night – the fun lies in its surroundings! From there, you are 30 minutes away from both Enchanted Rock and the Longhorn Caverns, two very cool destinations for all ages.

Enchanted Rock is a unique formation, a pink granite dome in the Texas Hill Country’s heart.

The hike to the top is doable with kids under the right conditions (read this post, destination # 11) and rewards you with amazing views. Unforgettable, I would say – or at least it was for my kids, who keep me asking me when we’re going to go up the “Giant Rock” again!

The Longhorn Caverns are stunning. And one of the only places in the world where you can experience complete darkness.

The guided tour through the cavern requires you to lower your head in some stretches. And my kids found it hilarious that mom had to move like a ninja carrying a 3-years old in a baby carrier, lol.

Near Longhorn Caverns, you’ll find Buchanan Lake and can take a scenic cruise along the Colorado River Canyon there.

This trip is best suited for cooler weather months, between late October and early April.

Hiking Enchanted Rock under the heat makes it 10 times harder (it’s all the way up, and there are absolutely no shades along the way).

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5. Murfreesboro, AR

Crater of Diamonds State Park and Diamond Old West Cabins

Distance: 234 miles/ 3 h 45 min from Dallas

A low-profile lodge with Old West-themed cabins and tons of family activities – including tepees with firepits to make s’mores! And a nearby place to become a miner for a day and dig in the dirt for diamonds and other stones.

Do I need to say anything else?

Oh, and my own kids loved it so much that they recently even offered to trade their birthday parties for a weekend there.

I would say that it’s probably their favorite quick getaway from Dallas to date!

For full details, check this post (destination # 9 – Crater of Diamonds State Park).

The best time to visit is any time of the year but summer – the crater of diamonds is an open area, with no shades, and digging under the excruciating heat is not advisable or fun!

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6. Gruene

Natural Bridge Caverns, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, and River Tubing.

Distance: 240 miles/ 3 h 40 min from Dallas

Gruene makes everyone happy!

Parents can enjoy the amazing and lively historic town square, with the oldest dance hall in Texas, lots of live music, wineries, good shops, and restaurants.

Kids will have a blast exploring a cavern, feeding the animals at Natural Bridge Wildlife Center – did you notice a pattern here? Lol – and tubing the Guadalupe River.

For more things to do in Gruene and further details, check this post (destination # 10).

Another year-round destination – go during warmer months if you want to do the river float thing, though.

But have in mind that Gruene and its surroundings get really crowded during holidays (which place doesn’t?), and river tubing cannot be as pleasant during these times.

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7. Houston and Galveston

NASA, Kemah Boardwalk, and Moody Gardens

Distance: 240 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas

The Houston-Galveston combo makes a remarkable family trip, I swear!

They are not exactly the most celebrated travel destinations in Texas, I know.

But knowing where to go and focusing on the best things to do, Houston and Galveston can be awesome places to visit and are only 40 minutes apart.

In one shot, you can visit the NASA mission control center and astronaut facility training. Indulge in old-fashioned fun at the Kemah Boardwalk.

And visit Moody Gardens, a themed amusement park and non-profit. It offers, among other attractions, an aquarium, a rain forest exhibition, and a seasonal water park featuring a white-sand beach and a lazy river.

Check here a complete itinerary to Houston, including a side trip to Galveston.

The best time to visit to do the whole thing is summer, but you can enjoy the NASA area attractions year-round if you decide to skip the Galveston part – Houston has enough cool attractions to keep you entertained for a weekend.

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8. Port Aransas, TX

Beaches, Pirate Cruise, and Dolphin Watch Tour

Distance: 389 miles/ 6 h 20 min from Dallas

Hitting the beach is one of the best ways to ensure fun for everybody in the family.

At least in my humble opinion, as I love being by the beach and my kids do not need much more than sand and water to have the time of their lives!

The beaches near Port Aransas are the best ones to visit from Dallas – magnificent beaches, a reasonable driving distance so, if you’re feeling like burying your feet in the sand and building sandcastles, head there!

Port Aransas is a small coastal town with a cool beach vibe, good restaurants, and entertainment options.

From there, you can embark on a Dolphin Watch Tour and a Pirate Cruise.

The beach right at Port Aransas is not the best. Still, within a short driving distance, you can reach Mustang Island and South Padre Island National Seashore (aka North Padre Island), with amazing beaches you wouldn’t expect to find on the Texas coast.

No need to say this is an ideal trip for warmer weather months! I would say anytime between April and October.

The cool thing is that you can avoid the crowds even during holidays knowing the right spots to go.

Check this post to know the beaches to visit and avoid in the Port Aransas coastline – it’s based on a trip to Port Aransas right on Labor Day.

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9. Malaquite Beach, TX

Camping ON the beach!

Distance: 442 miles/ 6 h 30 min from Dallas

Malaquite is a jaw-dropping beach. Think white sand, deep blue ocean, and lots of pelicans – it’s a bird sanctuary.

It’s my favorite beach to visit from Dallas when I have a short time frame.

The distance, 6h30 driving, is doable on a long weekend.

And it’s a must-visit place to fix for good the mistaken idea many people have that there are no good beaches in Texas – so untrue!

Malaquite Beach is part of the South Padre Island Seashore and the only beach in the preserve accessible without a 4-wheel drive.

You can easily visit it as part of a trip to Port Aransas. But for a unique and unforgettable experience, camp right at the Padre Island National Seashore by the beach.

Honestly, I don’t know of any better way to build family memories than sleeping under the stars and having a stunning beach as your backyard!

The best time for visiting is late April through early October, to enjoy the summerish weather. I would avoid August, though, as sleeping in a tent under the Texas heat does not sound very appealing to me.

10. South Padre Island, TX

Dunes, white sand beaches, dolphins, sea turtles, and (enclosed) alligators!

Distance: 560 miles/ 8 h 00 min from Dallas

I confess it took me a while to visit South Padre Island. More precisely, 5 years.

Why would I drive eight hours to hit a Texas beach when I could drive two hours more and get to Florida?

But then life gave me a puppy. And while looking for summer dog-friendly vacations, I stumbled again upon South Padre Island.

I thought, “why not give it a try?”. And I’m SO glad I did!

This was by far my favorite family vacation in Texas to date.

The beaches beautiful, with white sand and clear water (forget about Galveston’s brown water). The town was charming and full of great waterfront restaurants. And the natural environment and activities jaw-dropping and inspiring.

We walked on white dunes – you can ride a horse on them as well!

I visited Sea Turtle Inc, where we saw gorgeous sea turtle rescues and learned about the importance of recycling (seeing my 5 years old collecting plastic from the beach the next morning and saying “because now I care about the world” was worth the trip by itself).

My kids got to hold an alligator and a snake at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center!

And much more.

Find in this post my recommendations on the 10 top things to do in South Padre Island, including tons of family-friendly activities to engage in there.

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Summing Up

"Oh, the places you'll go." - Dr. Seuss.

If you read this post till this point, chances are you’re a travel lover yourself, just like me. Instill this passion in your kids, too – they will thank you someday.

Show them the world beyond our own backyards. Teach them to appreciate nature’s gifts. To live life to the fullest – it goes by really fast!

Pick your favorites and hit the road

In this post, you found 10 ideas to be used whenever your family needs a break from routine.

Glen Rose, Davis, Austin, Llano, Murfreesboro, Gruene, Houston, Port Aransas, Malaquite Beach, and South Padre Island are all awesome places to travel with children from Dallas.

They are within a driving distance from the Big D and offer interesting activities for the whole family.

Dig into the content above, choose your favorite trip ideas, gather your kiddos and explore.

Get out of the routine, spend some deserved quality time with your family, and create wonderful memories to be treasured for life!

Share your experiences and help to spread the word!

Remember to get back here and tell me your experience. I will love to hear from you.

And if you know of an amazing place to travel with kids from Dallas I’m missing in this post, please leave a comment!

This is a work in progress, and I’ll love to check it out and help to spread the word.

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Heads up: my posts may contain affiliate links.
If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more. But I’ll earn a small commission that will help the Dallas Wanderer to keep the lights on as a free travel and leisure resource for our community.
Thanks 🧡💙🧡

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10 Top Things to do In South Padre Island, Texas

Discover all must-sees and must-dos in South Padre Island, one of the best beach vacation destinations in Texas.

Have the time of your life this summer in one of the most beautiful portions of the Texas Gulf Coast

Ask any Texan about the best beaches to visit in the state and they will not hesitate in pointing out South Padre Island.

South Padre Island is a popular beach travel destination year-round, and especially during the excruciating Texas summer months – ocean breeze, water, and few clothes on are hands down one of the best ways to beat the Texas heat!

And the place lives up to all the hype about it: there you can expect to find white sand beaches, dunes, wildlife, beach vibe and great weather.

But which are the best beaches to hit in South Padre Island? What to do there besides hanging out on the beach? Which are the main local attractions you can’t miss and that will make you experience the best of this amazing portion of the Texas Gulf Coast?

Find here 10 amazing things to do in South Padre Island and hit the road to uncover one of the best beaches to visit in Texas within a reasonable distance from Dallas – 8h30 driving from the city.

If you’re looking for a beach closer to Dallas, check this blog post as well, covering the best beaches to visit in the Port Aransas and Corpus Christi surroundings.

Check our ideas below, make your reservations and embark on an amazing trip through the Texas Coast!

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Isla Blanca Park - Beach Access # 16

So, you’re here for the beach, right? And Isla Blanca Park happens to be one of the best places to bury your feet on the sand in the heart of South Padre Island, near hotels, condos, and eateries.

Beach Access # 16, at Isla Blanca Park, is a top-rated beach access in South Padre Island and a safe bet if you’re looking for your perfect spot under the sun without driving any further. Expect a clean beach with soft sand, easily accessible through a beautiful wooden walkaway.

Isla Blanca Park has a small public parking, as well as abounding public street park. Go there early in the morning to watch the sunrise.

Edwin K. Atwood Park

Looking for something more private and scenic? Drive about 7 miles/ 15 minutes east and spend the day at Edwin K. Atwood Park instead.

It’s a scenic beachfront park with several amenities – such as beachfront covered pavilion, picnic tables and restrooms – and 20 miles of undeveloped and drivable beaches.

For the utmost adventure, drive on the beach (4-wheel drive recommended) and find your own private slice of paradise.

Sea Turtle Inc. is on your way to Edwin K. Atwood Park and combining them both is an outstanding way to spend your day in South Padre Island (keep reading for more info on that).

South Padre Sand Dunes

Continue driving east on Ocean Boulevard for about 6 miles past Edwin K. Atwood Park and you’ll reach one of the most beautiful – and maybe least visited – areas in South Padre Island.

The South Padre Sand Dunes are a must-visit protected area, with gorgeous dunes and a peaceful beach.

Its entrance marks the end of the road. You’re not allowed to drive on the dunes, so plan to hike them (bring plenty water!) and then set up your tent by the beach to enjoy solitude and stunning views.

the South Padre Sand Dunes are near South Padre Island Adventure Park, where you can experience horseback riding on the beach (more info in the next topics).

Sea Turtle Inc

Sea Turtle Inc. is a conservation center and animal protection organization.

They perform an amazing job rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured sea turtles and they work can be seen firsthand – including the beautiful turtles they care for – at their rehabilitation center.

Visiting the center is an educative and inspiring experience. Witnessing their hatchling releases – currently suspended due to COVID-19 – an unforgettable moment. A must-stop in a summer trip from Dallas to South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is right next door and visiting them both together is highly recommended (see next topics).

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Looking for once in lifetime experiences? Try horseback riding on the beach at South Padre Island.

Horseback riding with dunes and the ocean as a backdrop is a hard to beat summer activity, and a sure way to build everlasting memories.

South Padre Island Adventure Park, near the South Padre Island Sand Dunes, is one of the providers offering this type of adventure on the Texas Coast.

Make sure to schedule your horseback riding tour to the end of the day and top off the already amazing experience with a stunning sunset over the dunes.

Dolphin Watching Tour

Dolphins in Texas? You bet! And you can spot them right at the South Padre Island.

There are several operators offering Dolphin Watching tours in the area, at different times of the day.

Fins to Feathers is a great option and operates with small groups. The Original Dolphin Watch offers one of the most popular dolphin tours in South Padre Island.

Dolphin Docks is another interesting alternative. It departs from Port Isabel and you can take advantage of your day trip there to visit the Lighthouse (next topic) to cross both activities off your bucket list in a single day.

Make sure to bring your camera and if possible, schedule the sunset tour, for amazing photo ops.

Lighthouse at Port Isabel

Port Isabel is right across the bridge from South Padre Island and a beautiful place for an afternoon stroll.

Head there to explore Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site, the only lighthouse in the Texas Coast open to the public. If you’re into historic spots and amazing views, you’ll love it.

The idyllic lighthouse offers great photo ops, has an informative visitors’ center telling its history and is surrounded by cute shops and restaurants. Make sure to climb the stairs to the top for amazing views of the bridge connecting the continent to South Padre Island.

Dolphin Docks is only a few steps from there and offers Dolphin Watching tours. Combining both activities can be a great way to spend an afternoon in the South Padre Island surroundings.

**NOTE:
Port Isabel Lighthouse Historic Site is currently closed due to COVID-19 as per Jul 21, 2020.
Check their website before heading there for current status.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is an amazing spot for a leisure nature walk and spot birds, turtles, and alligators!

Learn about nature. Stroll through their amazing suspended wooden boardwalk to breath in the beautiful wetland surroundings. Climb up the tower for stunning views. Feed gators and tortoises.

The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is right next door from Sea Turtle Inc., so take advantage of your visit to the area to check on both places.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a local gem almost untouched by man.

Things to do in this nature preserve include hiking, cycling, and fishing. The area is known for coyotes, falcons, and ocelots. Alligators, deer, roadrunners, and other birds can also be spotted.

The pavilion offers amazing bay views from the top.

It’s the place to be if you love nature, wildlife, solitude, and photography.

Waterfront Restaurants

A visit to the beach is not complete without enjoying a delicious meal or some drinks overlooking the ocean.

South Padre Island offers a handful selection of waterfront restaurants, both overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Laguna Madre.

To watch the sunset over Laguna Madre, head to Lobo Del Mar Cafe, Laguna BOB or Long Board Bar and Grill. For amazing ocean views, Clayton’s Beach Bar and WannaWanna are your best bet.

Summing Up

South Padre Island, 8h30 driving from Dallas, is an amazing beach destination in Texas and a sure way to get your deserved beach fix without leaving the state.

One of the best beaches to visit driving from Dallas, South Padre Island is home to amazing white sand beaches, nature preserves, dolphins, turtles and more.

In this post you discovered the 10 top things to do on a trip to South Padre Island, including the best beaches to visit, top local attractions and a handful of waterfront restaurants to include in your itinerary.

Read it through, select your favorite attractions and make your reservations to enjoy the best the Texas Gulf Coast has to offer.

Have you been to South Padre Island? Do you know of any other local attractions that should be included in a travel itinerary to South Padre Island? Leave a comment below!

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Best Texas Beaches

Texas Coast hidden-gems that are totally worth the drive.

Discover the best beaches to visit in Texas and hit white sand beaches without crossing state lines.

Port Aransas & Surroundings

In need of a beach fix but not in the mood for a too long drive?

Head to Port Aransas and explore amazing Mustang Island and Malaquite Beach, among other stunning beaches in the area.

South Padre Island

Discover the best things to do in the most popular beach destination in Texas – for very good reasons!

From white sand beaches to dolphins and sea turtles, South Padre Island will steal your heart with this amazing mini-guide to the area best attractions.

Discover the most amazing beaches in Texas to visit from Dallas.

Texas is home to amazing white sand beaches off the beaten path, that will surprise you in a very good way.

Dunes, sea turtles and dolphins are all realities waiting to be discovered by you in the Lone Star State. So, peek on our posts, choose your faves and make plans to have the time of your life at gorgeous beaches without having to hop on a plane or even cross state lines!

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Content to be released in the upcoming days.

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10 Best Things to Do in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Your essential mini guide with the best beaches, restaurants and attractions in the Alabama Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and surroundings.

Your essential mini guide for a superb summer road trip from Dallas to the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Best beaches, restaurants, and attractions in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surroundings.

Alabama is a popular beach destination among Dallasites, with some people even claiming they prefer it over the Florida Gulf Coast as a summer road travel destination from Dallas.

I recently had the pleasure to go there and finally understood why all the hype about it.

The Alabama Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach is indeed an amazing beach area to visit from Dallas. Not too far from the city – a roughly 9h30 drive – and with an absolutely outstanding beach vibe.

As in any place in the world, whether you will love your trip to the Alabama beaches or not will depend a lot on your itinerary and stops along the way.

So, check below the 10 most incredible beaches, restaurants, activities, and places to visit on the Alabama Gulf Coast and plan the perfect summer vacation there.

Trust me: follow the suggestions you find here, and you’ll have a tough time not loving your summer vacation in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach areas!

Looking for more options on beaches to visit from Dallas? Click here to discover the best beaches on the Texas and Florida Gulf Coast.

Ready to hit the road? Make your reservations and check on the following 10 recommendations to start planning your summer escape.

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Best Beaches in the Alabama Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach Area

I’ve loved loved loved the Alabama Gulf Coast beaches.

Well, not all of them, of course.

But knowing where to go, you can spend the day burying your feet in white sands at uncrowded beaches with crystal-clear water.

Beaches that you certainly wouldn’t expect to find within a driving distance from Dallas.

Here I share the beaches I liked the most in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surroundings.

The ones I will certainly be visiting again when I return to the Alabama Gulf Coast (something I’m planning to do soon!):

Gulf State Park

Gulf State Park is an outstanding natural area.

There you’ll find amazing campgrounds, beautiful trails, and one of the best beaches in the Gulf Shores.

Head to the Gulf State Park Pier area to enjoy an amazing day by the beach.

The perks there are great facilities (public parking, showers, clean bathrooms, and concessions), beautiful views, and nature surroundings – I prefer that over Orange beach and its tall hotel buildings.

Walk the pier (USD 3.00 pp) for amazing sunset views.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins playing in the ocean.

West Beach

West Beach is another amazing beach area, considered by many to be Alabama’s best beach. A 6-mile beach stretch, quieter and more residential than the other beaches on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Offering beachfront rentals, a laid-back vibe, and an absolutely gorgeous landscape, it is the place to be if you’re not much into Orange Beach’s touristic vibe.

Don’t take me wrong: Orange Beach is great, with beautiful white sand and crystal-clear water. But I prefer to run away from more crowded areas. And West Beach proved to be way more my style.

Fort Morgan

Historic sightseeing and vast undeveloped beaches make Fort Morgan an amazing place to spend the day in the Alabama Gulf Shores.

Pack a picnic and head to Fort Morgan State Historic Site. Take a self-guided tour through the over two-centuries-old Civil War fort and breath in the amazing views.

Then head to the virtually private beach and enjoy your picnic, nature, and solitude overlooking the ocean.

On your way back to Orange Beach, stop by The V illage Creamery, a top-rated local ice cream shop.

Perdido Key State Park

Ok, technically not in the Alabama Gulf Coast. But pretty close to it – 15 minutes away – and totally worth the drive.

Perdido Key State Park is in Florida, only a few miles away from the Alabama border and a simply stunning area to enjoy a day by the beach. The beach is jaw-dropping, and it has amenities such as parking, showers, and restrooms.

Less than 5 minutes driving from there, on your way back to Orange Beach, you’ll find Flora-Bama. A laid-back waterfront oyster-bar and live music lounge between the state lines, perfect to finish the day watching the sunset.

Best Waterfront Restaurants in the Alabama Gulf Coast

If you’re looking for an unbiased review of the absolute best restaurants to try in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you’ve stumbled on the right page.

These were the places that did the best job wowing me during my visit, and that I highly recommend you trying not only for the food but especially for the uniqueness and amazing beach vibe of each one of them.

Here are the must-try restaurants in the Alabama Gulf Coast:

The Gulf

If you go to the Alabama Gulf Shores and don’t stop to have a meal by The Gulf, you’ll be missing out.

The Gulf’s vibe is pretty amazing, with tables, lounge chairs, and palapas on the sand overlooking the ocean.

Gulf Shores is an over-the-counter-style restaurant and entertainment complex featuring a pub and a cute store with amazing and unique branded items and souvenirs. Grab your food, choose one of the lounge seats and soak in the vibe and ocean breeze.

This is the place that made me fall in love with Orange Beach and realize I was somewhere really, really special. I won’t say more, lol.

Fisher's at Orange Beach Marina

Picture yourself in a boat taking a Dolphin Tour. You cruise the ocean watching dolphins playing around you with the sunset as a background.

Then you come down the clouds – or disembark – and drive exactly one minute to reach one of the most beautiful restaurants in town, Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina.

There you take a stroll through a gorgeous marina and shop high-end branded souvenirs while you wait for your table. When the hostess calls your group, you’re guided to a comfy table in a unique chic-coastal setting and have the best meal of your trip.

Nothing more to add. Just try it.

Lulu's

Lulu’s Gulf Shores is a super cool waterfront restaurant and entertainment complex. A must-visit in the Alabama Gulf Coast, especially – but not only – if you have kids in tow.

It’s more touristic than the other two restaurants mentioned here, but still highly recommended.

The restaurant area is large and overlooks a beautiful canal. Kids can have fun at the sandy playground, amusement park, and arcades.

You can buy cool souvenirs in their branded store. I did buy a pack of local beers with honey as a gift, and they were so good I ended up drinking all of them myself – not at once, lol.

Lulu’s is not far from the Gulf State Park, and combining both can be an amazing way to spend a day at the Alabama Gulf Shores.

Best Fun Activities in Orange Beach and Surroundings

Come for the beach, stay for the fun. The Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area offers amazing entertainment options.

Dolphins? Yep. Alligators? They got it. First-class entertainment? You bet!

Here are some superb add-ons to spice up your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast and build everlasting summer memories:

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

Yep, you can see dolphins in Orange Beach.

More specifically, you can take a boat ride and be followed by them, what I don’t know about you but to me sounds pretty incredible.

I took the Dolphin Tour with Southern Rose Dolphin Cruises and had a great experience.

They promise you dolphins, and they work hard to deliver the promise – we took a long time to find dolphins, but the crew persevered, and when we did find them, oh boy, it was AMAZING.

What I did – and recommend – was to take the sunset tour.

It allowed me to enjoy the day by the beach, watch the most amazing sunset ever from the boat surrounded by dolphins (!!!) and top off with dinner at Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina, right next door.

The Wharf

If you need a break from the beach and want to feel a little more urban, head to The Wharf, a high-end shopping and entertainment center.

With over 60 stores and restaurants, and an iconic Ferris Wheel – the largest in the southeast – The Wharf is Orange’s Beach official entertainment district and a great place for an evening stroll after spending the day on the beach.

You can also take a boat tour from there – the Wharf is home to a large marina – and engage in fun activities such as zip-lining and mini-golf.

Alligator Alley

Not for the faint of heart, this top-rated attraction is surely unique. If you’re looking for an exotic experience, make sure to include Alligator Alley in your itinerary.

It is a family-friendly attraction and a great place to experience the outdoors and interact with reptiles and other animals – they also have snakes, turtles, and other creatures there.

Stroll through the raised boardwalk over a beautiful swamp for wildlife viewing in their habitat. Feed the alligators. It’s an unforgettable experience and one that keeps people in awe and coming back.

Summing Up

Superb white sand beaches. Outstanding waterfront restaurants. Dolphins. Swamps. The Alabama Gulf Coast has it all and more and is an amazing summer vacation destination from Dallas.

You discovered 10 amazing things to do in the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach areas in this post. Including 4 top beaches, 3 must-try restaurants, and 3 must-visit attractions.

Add these places to your itinerary, and you will certainly love your trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Best things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores

For the best beaches and a perfect day by the ocean, head to Gulf State Park, West Beach, Fort Morgan, and Perdido Key State Park.

For unforgettable dining experiences, try The Gulf, Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina, and Lulu’s.

For summer fun at its finest, a Dolphin Cruise, The Wharf, and Alligator Alley are your best bet!

Ready to hit the road?

Make your reservations, pack your suitcase, and bookmark this page to make sure you don’t miss out on the best the Alabama Gulf Coast has to offer. Enjoy!

Have you been to the Alabama Gulf Shores and Orange Beach? What are your favorite things to do there? Share in the comments below.

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