Category: Things to Do in Dallas

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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

The Dallas Zoo Lights Christmas event goes100% drive-thru this year. An amazing and safe way to get into the Christmas vibe in DFW. Photo courtesy by the Dallas Zoo.

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)

Right by Lake Texoma, Eisenhower State Park is stunning and has an amazing beach area - among the most scenic in the DFW surroundings.

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)

Beautiful Dinosaur Valley, home to real dinosaur footprints and to crystal-clear Paluxy River.

State Parks West of Dallas

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

Lake Mineral Wells State Park, a top-rated State Park near Dallas, home to famous Penitentiary Hollow (photo by Texas Park & Wildlife).

State Parks East of Dallas

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

Beautiful Tyler State Park, in the Piney Woods region of Texas and only a short driving distance from Dallas. Fall foliage in autumn, water activities in summer and bald eagles in winter.

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?

Leave a comment below.

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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.

Bonnie Grave (Bonnie and Clyde) in Dallas, Texas. Photo by Jack Gray/ Flickr

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!

Brachiopod fossil, one of the over 20 type of fossils you can dig for at Mineral Wells Fossil Park.

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!

Scuba diving in Athens, Texas. Photo by Pixabay for illustrative purposes only.

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.

US Treasure's money printing and engraving facility in Fort Worth, Texas

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 track at Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas, 1h30 from Dallas.

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.

Lake Surf at Lake Ray Hubbard near Dallas, Texas

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.

Mammoth Fossil in Waco, Texas.

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.

Coyote Drive-In in Fort Worth, Texas. Old-style movie session and one of the cool things to do in Dallas off the beaten path.

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.

Beautiful Kalachandjis, a Hare Krishna Temple and Indian-vegetarian restaurant right in the middle of Dallas.

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.

Gas Monkey Garage in Dallas, Texas, the filming set of the famous 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.

Cattle drive and herding classes at Beaumont Ranch, near Dallas, Texas. Photo by skeeze from Pixabay

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

Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. Photo by Andreas Praefcke [Public domain]

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.

A unique sculpture in the heart of Dallas, the Giant Eyeball is a true Dallas hidden gem.

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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How to Keep Traveling Without Leaving Home

8 Safe and Sound Ways to Spoil Your Inner Traveler During the Coronavirus Outbreak.

The Ultimate Guide for the Quarantined Travel Addict

8 Safe and Sound Ways to Spoil Your Inner Traveler During the Coronavirus Outbreak.

“Life handed him a lemon,
As Life sometimes will do.
His friends looked on in pity,
Assuming he was through.
They came upon him later,
Reclining in the shade
In calm contentment, drinking
A glass of lemonade.”

Flynn, Clarence Edwin (November 1940), The Rotarian

Stuck at home? We all are (or should be).

Life will change for a while. It does not mean we have to put it on hold though – just make the needed adjustments to navigate safely through the storm.

Following the CDC recommendations, staying home and practicing social distance does not need to be a burden – even for explorers like you and me.

There are tons of fun ways to make your self-quarantine experience an enjoyable one, and here I share with you 8 ideas especially crafted for those who love traveling and uncovering this beautiful world of ours.

Sit on your comfy couch, fasten your seat belts and follow me!

And please tag your experiences with #dallaswanderer. I would love to hear that you found inspiration in these lines to have a smoother ride during self-isolation.

1. (Finally) print and organize the best pics from your amazing last trip (s)

This is the type of activity most of us keep postponing due to lack of time. So take advantage of the unexpected slower pace your life just assumed to revisit your best memories and eternalize them in a beautiful photo album or canvas. 

You don’t need to leave home for that – you can send the pics online for printing, and receive them at your front door. Just remind to proper sanitize any packages to avoid bringing unwanted guests home.

Amazing photo albums are sold online as well, there are tons of options to choose from. 

If you are a craft person, go for a scrapbook style photo album . If you are more of a practical type (me), a traditional yet inspiring photo album is your best bet.

2. Trace your steps around the globe

It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting your travel adventures or has been in the road for decades.

A wall world map, to register the places you’ve already visited (and others you soon will 💖), is the coolest and most inspiring visual reminder of your traveling adventures.

I love this scratch off world map version from Amazon, but you can find plenty other cool and inexpensive options there. This is a simple and fun project to do at home during your Coronavirus self-isolation days and doesn’t require a trip to the store.

3. Create - or review - your travel bucket list

Better times are yet to come. Life will eventually resume to normality – faster if we all do what it takes.

Yes, it’s prudential to stop traveling for a while. It does not mean we should stop dreaming though.

So roll up your sleeves and start planning your future vacations – yep, you’ll have plenty ahead. Make a bucket list or, if you already have one, revise it and have fun marking the places you’ve already visited and incorporating new ones.

At our Trips from Dallas page you find over 30 travel ideas in Texas and surrounding states. A totally free source to inspire you! 

To explore farther US States, my new obsession (and latest purchase) is 50 States, 5000 Ideas, from National Geographic.

For the rest of the world, the 100 Places to Visit Before you Die book is my favorite source, and has been my travel companion for over a decade now!

4. Take a virtual tour at the world's most famous museums

Some of the world’s most famous museums are offering virtual tours during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Here you find a comprehensive list with links to these places.

My favorite ones? The Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, in Amsterdam (which I had the pleasure to visit in person), the British Museum, in London, and Musée d’Orsay, in Paris. 

All at the top of the list of the best museums in the world.

5. Learn the local language of that dream travel destination of yours

International travel plans delayed?

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.  Take advantage of your quarantine to learn the basics of your dream destination local language. 

Then, when things resume to normality (they will!) and your amazing trip finally happens, make a hot entrance in your destination country communicating with locals in their mother tong, and enjoy your time overseas to hone your skills.

It’s enriching and it will make your experience abroad an even more especial one! 

You can learn basically any language from the comfort of your living room.

For a top-rated and inexpensive source, try Living Language courses, available for purchase at Amazon. They offer self-learning language courses in the most widely spoken languages, such as French, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin and German, among others.

Or, if you want to go really pro (and polyglot) about your language skills, invest in a multi-language learning software from Rosetta Stone, including 24 languages from around the world.

6. Unleash your inner international chef and take a culinary journey around the world.

You don’t necessarily need to go to India to eat a delicious curry. To Brazil taste a mouthwatering feijoada. To Spain to indulge in a delectable paella.

Put your chef hat on and travel through your senses without leaving home, cooking the most popular dishes of your dream vacation spots during your coronavirus quarantine. 

Just pick your destination, find out which the most typical dishes are and take a trip to the kitchen to enhance your chef skills and let your taste transport you abroad. 

Google is a huge free source to find recipes. If you prefer to go pro, Amazon has amazing recipe books, including this one with 450 recipes from around the world.

7. Go on a spiritual retreat in India - virtually

Retreat in India? I think everyone could use one now. The need of being centered in the present moment and spiritually and emotionally balanced is more urgent than ever.

Good thing is that quarantine caught humanity prepared as never before, and you can even experience a virtual retreat nowadays.

Touching the Eternal is a recorded weeklong retreat in India, by spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle, that you can listen for free with Amazon Audible free trial.

So put your headphones, find a calm corner in your house, breath in and transport yourself to a place of peace and calm.

8. Help a local organization from the travel destination you had to postpone visiting

Many communities around the globe rely heavily on tourism as they main income source.

While economic uncertainty is a reality for all of us at this moment, if you have the meanings consider donating to a local charity of the travel destinations you were planning to visit but had to skip for now.

The world is a huge place and providing a comprehensive list of institutions to help here would be a very hard task lol. 

But google can help you and, if you know of a serious travel non-profit which could benefit from donations, please send the info to howdy@dallaswanderer.com.

I’ll be more than happy to look into that and eventually publish a link here!

Summing Up

“In times of great stress or adversity, it’s always best to keep busy, to plow your anger and your energy into something positive.”

– Lee Iacocca

Health mind, health bodies.

Coronavirus can prevent us from traveling, not from dreaming – something very good for your health and that can be done under any conditions!

Use this list of travel related indoor activities to have fun at home and inspire you. Use your creativity to create new projects and make the most of your time self-quarantined at home.

This too shall pass. And we all possess the ability to find our inner strength, be resilient and get out of this better than we got in 🧡💙🧡

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

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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2019 Christmas Bucket List in Dallas

Best things do do in Dallas this Christmas

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16 Must-Try Holiday Season Activities in Dallas

(including 6 FREE things to do this Christmas)

Mark your calendars: these are the Holiday themed attractions you simply cannot miss in the upcoming months!

‘Tis the season of magic and fun! 

Christmas in Dallas is something truly special. Holiday events and activities pop up everywhere. Streets and houses light up with the most beautiful and inspiring Christmas decor – Texas folks definitively know how to do it right!

While to get into the Holiday spirit in the DFW area you really just need to step out of the door, some Christmas happenings are once in a lifetime experiences worth of being added to your Holiday Season bucket list!

Here you’ll find a personal selection of 16 must-try Holiday Season events in Dallas and surroundings. Top-rated Christmas activities to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year to the fullest!  

Discover the best places to see the Christmas lights in Dallas. The most impressive Christmas Parades in DFW. The top Holiday themed plays and shows. Acclaimed Christmas exhibitions and events taking place in and around the city.

And no need to break the bank! 
6 of the recommended Christmas activities and attractions below are free – look for activities marked with this symbol in the post:

It doesn’t matter if you are 4 or 40. Here you’ll find Christmas activities in Dallas suitable for all ages. So, check it out, choose your faves and dive into the Holiday season magic headfirst!  And start making your plans now: some of these attractions are very sought after and usually sell out.

If you have guests coming from out of town during the Holidays, take a look into this post for 15 ideas on how to entertain your visitors in Dallas. Dallas must-sees and must-try activities to make anyone fall in love with the city!

Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Dallas

Vitruvian Lights in Addison, one of the best places to see Christmas lights in the Dallas surroundings. Free attraction. Photo by Amer Khalid/ Flickr

You can find amazing Christmas lights displays almost everywhere in and around Dallas. Nearly every neighborhood or suburb has its own special street or area covered with tons of lights and amazing decor – just ask around your community to find the closest to you. 

However, some Christmas lights displays in DFW are especially splendid and deserving of your time.

The places recommended next are among the best to see Christmas lights in Dallas and surroundings:

1. Vitruvian Lights

When: Nov 29, 2019 - January 1, 2020 (5 to 11 pm)
Where: Vitruvian Park, Addison

Every Holiday season the Vitruvian Park in Addison is converted into a Christmas Wonderland, with tons of colored Christmas Lights. A free walk-thru attraction with an impressive and beautiful lighting display of trees.

The Vitruvian park Christmas event also offers other activities such as free photos with Santa, elves, food trucks and live music on selected weekends (check their calendar).

There is free parking on site and no entrance fees!

2. Highland Park Christmas Lights Tour

When: Throughout December
Where: Highland Park, Dallas

Highland Park is one of Dallas’ neighborhoods with the best Christmas lights display. Homeowners go big for Christmas and the Holiday themed decor is pretty impressive!   

You can just drive or walk around and experience it for free – check here a suggested self-guided route. Or make it extra magical taking a Christmas Light Tour in a horse-drawn a carriage through Highland Park.

3. The 12 Days of Christmas at Night @ Dallas Arboretum

When: Nov 13 - Dec 29, 2019. (Wed - Sun, 6-9 pm)
Where: Dallas Arboretum

During Holiday Season the Arboretum Converts into a Christmas Wonderland, with themed gazebos and a Christmas Village. At night, over 1 million lights make it even more magical. The 12 Days of Christmas at Night at the Dallas Arboretum is one of Dallas best Christmas lights display.

Although the Christmas lights can be enjoyed from mid-November, the best time to visit is after Thanksgiving.  

That’s because from November 29 the Holiday at the Arboretum will also feature a Christmas Village. If you have kids in tow consider going on a Wednesday evening, when Santa is around! 

4. Christmas in the Square - Frisco

When: Nov 29 - Dec 31, 2019 (daily from 6 -10 pm)
Where: Frisco, TX - Downtown Square

Tune into the local radio frequency and watch thousands of Christmas lights dancing to the rhythm of your favorite Holiday songs. Frisco’s Christmas in the Square is the largest choreographed lights and music display in North Texas and one of the most famous suburban light displays in the DFW area.

Walk around, sip some hot cocoa and, for an extra fee, enjoy ice-skating and carriage rides, among other Holiday themed activities. 

Best Christmas Shows, Concerts and Plays in Dallas

Nutcracker Ballet, a Christmas tradition at the Dallas Winspear Opera House. Photo by Roman Boldyrev/ Flickr (for illustrative purposes only).

Dallas cultural scene is filled with amazing Christmas spectacles during the Holiday Season. With tons of options to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed! Which are the ones that worth your attention?

Check on 4 essential and traditional Christmas cultural events in the Dallas area. 
The top contenders of each of their own categories that, year after year, enchant and attract the crowds.

Choose your favorites, plan ahead (tickets usually sell out!) and fill your heart with Christmas joy!

5. The Nutcracker

Best Holiday Season Ballet in Dallas

When: Nov 29 - Dec 29, 2019
Where: Dallas Winspear Opera House (Nov 29 - Dec 8)/ Fort Worth Bass Performance Hall (Dec 13 - 29)

A Holiday classic, The Nutcracker ballet is an American Christmas institution with productions all over the country. A fairy-tale romance that has been enchanting audiences since the 60’s and the most prominent ballet musical in the U.S.

The Nutcracker performance by the Dallas Ballet Theater is the most famous in DFW and a must during the Christmas Season. Tickets usually sell out, so plan in advance.

CLICK HERE to check dates, times and purchase tickets.

6. A Christmas Carol

Best Christmas Play in Dallas

When: Nov 22 - Dec 29, 2019
Where: Wyly Theater, Dallas

Famous play based on one of the most memorable Christmas stories ever, written over 15o years ago by Charles Dickens.

A Christmas Carol is a meaningful and beautiful story that takes place on Christmas Eve. It revolves around the transformation of a cranky and greed man into a kind and generous soul under the light of the Christmas spirit. A holiday tradition to be enjoyed by the whole family.  

CLICK HERE to check dates, times and purchase tickets.

7. Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops

Best Christmas Concert in Dallas

When: Dec 6 - Dec 15, 2019.
Where: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas

Dive into the Holiday spirit singing along your favorite Christmas songs with the Dallas Symphony Chorus and Children Chorus of Greater Dallas.

Christmas carols, holiday classics and even Santa himself. It doesn’t get any more Christmas than that!

CLICK HERE to check dates, times and purchase tickets.

8. The Gift of Christmas

Best Christmas Show in Dallas

When: Dec 7 - Dec 15, 2019
Where: Worship Center of Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano

A jaw-dropping multimedia Christmas show! Featuring live choir and orchestra, flying angels, camels (!) and a living Nativity, among other attractions and special effects, Prestonwood’s The Gift of Christmas show is a sure way to warm your heart and immerse you into the Christmas real meaning.

An essential Christmas spectacle that will fascinate the whole family.

CLICK HERE to check dates, times and purchase tickets.

Best Holiday Parades in Dallas and Surroundings

Dallas Christmas Parade, in Texas. Photo by Bart Fields/ Flickr

Make merry and rejoice into the Holidays spirit at DFW area most amazing Christmas free events!

Mark your calendars: these are the 3 most traditional Christmas parades in Dallas and surroundings that should be on your radar this Holiday season:

9. Dallas Holiday Parade

When: Saturday, Dec 7, 2019 - 10:00 am
Where: Downtown Dallas

In the first Saturday of December, Downtown Dallas streets get filled with crowds and everything Christmas!

Dallas Holiday Parade is the largest outdoor event of the year in Dallas, with over 450.000 people attending and more than 30 years of history. 

The parade is free to the public, but premium tickets (with reserved seats and Meet’N Greet with Santa) can be purchased. Check here the Dallas Holiday Parade route for this year.

10. Grapevine Parade of Lights

When: Thursday, Dec 5, 2019 - 7:00 pm
Where: Historic Downtown Grapevine

The self-proclaimed ‘Christmas Capital of Texas’ does it in the Texas way: big! It offers over 1400 Christmas related events in the course of 40 days, and the Grapevine Parade of Lights in one of the highlights.

In its 40th edition this year, the Grapevine Parade of Lights is the largest lighted Christmas parade in North Texas. It takes place at Historic Main Street and features marching bands, Santa and over 100 Christmas floats.

The Grapevine Parade of Lights is a free event open to the public. Check the parade route here.

11. Fort Worth Parade of Lights

When: Sunday, Nov 24, 2019 - 6:00 pm
Where: Downtown Fort Worth

Featuring music, lights and over 100 Christmas themed floats including Santa’s, Fort Worth Parade of Lights is a must-attend Christmas event in the DFW area.

The event takes place nearby beautiful Sundance Square. Plan to arrive early to take in the Christmas vibe, do some Christmas shopping and sip a hot chocolate there. And maybe ice skate at nearby Panther Island Ice.

This is a free event, but street seats are available for purchase. Check the complete parade route and best viewing areas here. 

Best Christmas Exhibitions and Events in Dallas

ICE!™ exhibition at Gaylord Texas, Dallas

The quantity and quality of Christmas themed events in and around Dallas during the Holiday season is extraordinary. Tons of fun things to do! 

Here are the local favorites. The most notable and traditional Holiday exhibitions and events you can experience in DFW:

12. ICE!™ at Gaylord Texan's Lone Star Christmas

When: Nov 15, 2019 - Jan 05, 2020
Where: Christmas Village at Gaylord Texan Resort - 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX

ICE! ™ is the highlight of the Lone Star Christmas, one of the most renowned Holiday Season celebrations in the DFW area, which takes place every year at the Gaylord Texan.

It’s a walk-through art display kept at 9°F/ -12°C, featuring large than life ice carved sculptures. 

Put your best winter accessories on (parkas are provided, but don’t forget your gloves, hats and scarfs – it is COLD!) and be amazed by this one-of-a-kind experience.  

You can also enjoy other Christmas attractions on site for an extra fee, such as snow tubing, ice skating and gingerbread decorating corner. See activities packages offered here. 

The Lone Star Christmas is open to the public – you don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy it. But there are special overnight packages available, in case you’re coming from out of town or looking for a staycation in December.

13. Peppermint Park at Hilton Anatole

When: Nov 29 - Dec 23, 2019
Where: Hilton Anatole - 2201 N Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX

Put your best winter clothes on, head to the Peppermint Park at Hilton Anatole and enjoy a gourmet hot cocoa and s’more while kids rejoice on Christmas magic!

Peppermint Park is the perfect Holiday destination for families with little kids. An outdoor Holiday festival featuring everything Christmas – Christmas lights and shows, Holiday train and games, Elves workshops and more.

For more info and tickets purchase visit Hilton’s Anatole Peppermint Park official page.

INSIDER TIP: the Hilton Anatole is only 15 minutes away from Highland Park. After leaving the Peppermint Park, consider driving around to see the famous Highland Park Christmas Lights.

14. The Trains at NorthPark

When: Nov 16, 2019 - Jan 05, 2020 (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)
Where: NorthPark Center - 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX

The Trains at North Park is the perfect Christmas attraction in Dallas for little ones and train aficionados. A local Christmas tradition that has been going on for over 30 years and benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.

Travel America and its gorgeous landscapes from coast to coast through over 1600 feet of train tracks, displayed in a beautiful U.S. themed exhibition. 

There are also several other Christmas related events and activities going on at the NorthPark mall during the Holiday Season. Check their calendar here. Some highlights are the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concert (Wednesday, December 18 at 7:00 pm) and Breakfast with Santa Spectacular (Sunday, Dec 8 at 9:30 am). 

15. North Pole Express at Grapevine Vintage Railroad

When: Nov 29 - Dec 23, 2019
Where: Grapevine Vintage Railroad - 707 S Main St, Grapevine, TX

This Holiday thematic train ride is a unique way to experience the magic of Christmas.

With the ‘golden tickets’ in hands and pajamas on, little ones embark on a dreamy train ride to the North Pole, to visit Santa’s workshop and get to know the Old Man and his elves. 

The North Pole Express is a sought after Christmas experience in Dallas.  Tickets sell out fast and months in advance, grab yours before they are gone…. (and mark your calendars for future reference: sales usually start late September).

…and if you don’t have kids in tow or needs a break for parenthood, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad also offers adults-only Holiday train rides, the Christmas Wine Train, where grown-ups wishes also come true lol – they serve complimentary wine and appetizers during the ride!

16. Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus

When: Dec 8, 21 & 22, 2019
Where: Neiman Marcus Zodiac Room - 1618 Main Street, 6th Floor, Downtown Dallas, TX

Last but not least, a Christmas bucket list wouldn’t be complete without a face to face activity with the Christmas Old Man himself!

There are several places you can take the kids to see Santa – think almost every mall, Christmas related event or downtown square around. But if you want to give your child a once in a lifetime experience, treat them with a breakfast with Santa.

This is a popular Christmas tradition offered in several places in Dallas and surrounding suburbs. But if you want to go really fancy, book your kiddos the Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus. Unforgettable!

Summing Up

May your Holiday season be full of love and joy!

Dallas at Christmas is simply AMAZING. There are tons of incredible Christmas related activities to enjoy around. In this post you found a selection of the ones you cannot miss.

For the best Christmas Lights, try the Vitruvian Lights, Highland Park Christmas Lights Tour, the 12 Days of Christmas at Night in the Dallas Arboretum or Christmas on the Square in Frisco.

For the most traditional and unforgettable Christmas spectacles in the DFW area, choose among The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol, Dallas Symphony Christmas Pops and The Gift of Christmas.

The Holiday Parades not to be missed this Christmas season are the huge Dallas Holiday Parade, the Fort Worth Parade of Lights and the Grapevine Parade of Lights.

And make sure to include in your Christmas bucket list also this unique exhibitions and events: ICE™ at Gaylord Texan, the Trains at NorthPark, Peppermint Park at Hilton Anatole, Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s North Pole Express and Neiman Marcus’ Breakfast with Santa.

Christmas on a budget? 6 of the activities recommended here are totally free, look for this symbol throughout the post:

Now make your plans and have fun. Have in mind that the most popular Christmas activities and attractions in Dallas usually sell out, so buy your tickets now (links in the post) and have a blast this Holiday season!

Which Christmas activities in Dallas are you planning to try in 2019? Which are your favorites to date? Does your family have any Dallas Christmas tradition that has been going on for years? Leave a comment bellow.

Holiday cheers and may you be surrounded by ho’s this Christmas season!

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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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8 Best Festivals in Dallas this Fall

Discover the best events to attend in the Dallas area in the upcoming months.
8 amazing experiences you can’t miss out. Make the most of this fall season!

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Must-attend unique fall events in and around DFW

Check on 8 amazing upcoming festivals to put on your calendar

Fall season – aka as the best season to be outdoors in Dallas – is just around the corner. And it brings to Dallas an amazing festival season!

Discover the 8 top events you must attend this fall and don’t miss out on the superb things happening around.

From yearly festivals to once in a lifetime experiences, here I share with you my personal bucket list for the upcoming months.

For other ideas on things to do in Dallas, check out these top 15 attractions in DFW. And if you need a break from the city, visit our trips from Dallas page.

1. GrapeFest - A Texas Wine Experience

September 12 - 15, 2019
@ Grapevine, TX

Grapevine Grapefest is one of the top festivals happening in the Dallas surroundings this fall. Photo by Alex Butterfield/ Flickr

Sip some wine and champagne at GrapeFest, the largest wine festival in southwest USA. It’s a popular and lively annual event, that’s been going on for 33 years in Grapevine, a short drive away from Downtown Dallas. 

Sample wines from Texas, Michigan and Italy while listening to live music. Enjoy traditional and gourmet food and check on local artisans.

Become a judge at the “People’s Choice Wine Tasting Classic”, the largest wine competition in the U.S, featuring 160 Texas varietals from 44 Texas wineries. Smash 18 pounds of grape at the “GrapeStomp competition”!

GrapeFest is a family friendly festival. It also features a kids zone – which includes the SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium Touch Tank and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center this year – and rides to keep the little ones entertained.

Admission is free on Thursday all day and on Friday until 5pm. For other days and times, purchase your tickets here.

2. 40th Plano Balloon Festival

September 20 - 22, 2019
@ Oak Point Park - Plano, TX

Over 40 Air Baloons color the Plano skies every fall. Only 30 minutes from Dallas.

Watch air balloons coloring the sky at the 40th Plano Balloon Festival, a popular annual event in Plano, Texas.

This edition features 40 air balloons, including some with special shapes. Make sure to attend the festival on Friday or Saturday night, to see them beautifully glowing.

The balloons are the highlight of the event but there is much more to it! 

Stick around to see parachute teams performing every afternoon at 5:30 pm. Enjoy local bands every night. Have fun with the little ones at the Kids Fun Zone. Be wowed by fireworks.

The Plano Balloon festival also features a half-marathon, 10K, 5K and 1K races.

Check the complete Plano Balloon Festival schedule here and plan your visit.

3. Red Bull® Soap Box Race 2019

September 28, 2019 - 10 am to 4 pm
@ Austin Ranch, The Colony - Dallas, TX

World-famous Red Bull Soapbox Race is coming to Dallas this fall.

Held yearly since 2000 in multiple countries around the world, this year’s Red Bull® Soap Box Race will be in Dallas! It’s the second time Dallas hosts the event, which is returning to the city after 7 years.

So, seize the moment and attend this fun and unique event!

Watch amateurs competing in a downhill race with obstacles on homemade soapbox cars, human powered – no engines or pedals allowed. A total of 50 teams participate and will be judged by speed, creativity and showmanship.

Come and see the amazing crafts, talk to the competitors and cheer for your favorite ones. Watch inevitable and funny failures – sorry – and human creativity at its best. 

The event is free and opened to the public. There will be food vendors on site. Bring water, a small umbrella to protect from the sun and enjoy!

4. Texas State Fair

September 27 through October 20, 2019
@ Fair Park - Dallas, TX

The Texas State Fair is Dallas most beloved and traditional event.

Texas State Fair is Dallas most traditional and beloved festival. It has been going on for over a century, celebrating all things Texan. It’s an event as big as Texas that attracts yearly over 3 million people.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Texas Creativity”. Expect tons of entertainment options, crowds and fun.

Greet the Big Texan, world’s tallest cowboy – a Kerens native and former world’s largest Santa Claus in the 50’s just out of curiosity (some Texan culture, folks!). Enjoy over 70 rides, free daily live music, exhibitions, competitions, shows, local and gourmet food and fireworks every night, just to name a few things you can experience there.

Use the Texas State Fair schedule tool to plan your visit and make the most of it. The quantity of daily events can be overwhelming, so you are better off knowing what you want to do and see before getting there.  

You can also combine your visit to the Texas State Fair with a football game at the historic Cotton Ball Stadium, nestled in the fair grounds. There are three College Football Games happening during the Texas State Fair, including the traditional Red River Showdown. Learn more and get your tickets here.

5. 14th Autumn at the Arboretum

September 21 through October 31, 2019
@ Dallas, TX

Autumn at the Arboretum is one of the top nationwide pumpkin patches.

Enjoy the cherished American pumpkin patch tradition at the Dallas Arboretum.

Featuring over 90.000 pumpkins in one acre, Arboretum’s Pumpkin Village is one of the largest pumpkin patches around Dallas and considered one of the 15 best pumpkin patches in the nation by Travel Chanel. It’s framed by 150,000 autumn flowers, creating a breathtaking fall setting.

This year festival’s theme is “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”. So, expect to spot Charlie Brown, Lucy, Snoopy, Woodstock and other characters around. 

Take amazing pics, get into the autumn vibe and then take a pumpkin home to be carved for Halloween! – pumpkins can be purchased at the Tom Thumb Pumpkin Patch inside.

6. Bonnie and Clyde Day

October 12, 2019
@ Pilot Point, TX

Infamous Texan outlaws Bonnie & Clyde are the theme of one of the quirkiest fall events in the Dallas surroundings.

In its 10th edition, the annual Bonnie & Clyde Day is a curious event to say the least. It takes place in historic Pilot Point, a small town one hour away from downtown Dallas.

Pilot Point was part of Bone and Clyde’s trajectory, both in the real life and movie. 

The town and surroundings were once Bonnie and Clyde hidey-hole – as well as a place were other famous outlaws used to hang out. Pilot Point streets were also the filming location of the robbery scene from the Bonnie and Clyde movie. A popular movie from the 60’s, starring Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty.

Every year the streets are taken by actors and production staff to reenact the scene. The event also includes a car show, local vendors and family fun.

If you’re into history or a movie buff, the Bonnie and Clyde Day event will fit you like a glove!

7. Nights Light - Sky Lantern Festival

October 12, 2019
@ Texas Motorplex - Ennis, TX

Inspiring Lantern Festival happens in the Dallas surroundings this fall.

Watching thousands of glowing lanterns going up the sky with messages of love is something quite special I can’t wait to repeat! It’s an uplifting and unforgettable bucket list style experience.

Inspired by the traditional event in Thailand, the Nights Light – Sky Lantern Festival happens only in a few places in the US and we are lucky enough to have one right in our backyard, a short drive away from Dallas. 

Come and join thousands of people. Bring your chairs and blankets. Sip some wine, cook s’mores at the firepit. Then as night unveils, write your best wishes in your lantern and prepare for the amazing moment when all the lit lanterns are released at once.

The result is breathless, peaceful and joyful. Buy your tickets here to the upcoming Sky Lantern Festival in Dallas and see it for yourself! 

8. Dia de los Muertos Parade

October 26, 2019
@ Downtown Dallas

Dallas' Dia de Los Muertos Parade first edition looks promising.

This year Dallas is scheduled to host what intends to be the biggest Dia de los Muertos Parade in Texas, if not in the country. 30.000 people are expected to attend the event

The Dallas Dia de los  Muertos  will take place in Downtown Dallas. The event will run from 4 – 7 pm. The colorful parade is scheduled to start at 5:00 pm at the Dallas City Hall and will be followed by a party with Mexican food, live music and fireworks. 

Summing Up

Mark your calendars! 

The next two months will be filled with amazing outdoor events in and around Dallas that you simply can’t miss out.

Enjoy wine and have tons of fun at the GrapeFest. Get wowed by air balloons at the Plano Balloon Festival. Experience the free and worldwide renowned Red Bull® Soap Box Race.

Celebrate Texan culture at Texas State Fair. Visit one of the 15 best pumpkin patches in the whole country at the Autumn at the Arboretum. Step back in time at the Bonnie and Clyde Day.

Light up the season with Days and Nights Light – Sky Lantern Festival. Write your wishes on your lantern, lit it up and release into the skies being thankful for the amazing season and inhaling good vibes for the next one! 

Dallas will also host this fall the first edition of what intends to be the largest Dia de los Muertos Parade in the country. 

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You might also like:
The Ultimate Fall Bucket List in Dallas
The Best Places in Texas to Travel This Fall
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Dallas 1, 2 and 3 days Itineraries

Best things to do and see in Dallas in 1, 2 and 3 days. Make the most of your short stay and cover all of the Big D must-sees!

How to make the most of a Dallas short stay.

What should someone that has only a few days- or hours – in Dallas see?
Find out the best way to spend 24, 48 or 72 hours in the city.

1 day in Dallas

2 days in Dallas

3 days in Dallas

Planning a short visit to Dallas or hosting guests from out of town and feeling a little lost? You’re not alone. Dallas can be hard figure out! But also super fun and interesting if you explore it the right way.

So make use of the above suggested itineraries and spend more time enjoying and less time planning and driving from one place to another!

These Dallas itineraries include the must-see and most authentic attractions and things to do in the city. They are crafted in a way that you don’t need to move crazily around to see stuff. And are perfect for first-time visitors or for those new to Dallas.

For second-time visitors or if you’re living here and looking for more ideas on things to do in Dallas, take a peek into the 15 Top Dallas Attractions post for more ideas.

Where should I start from?

As you will read, I suggest you to start exploring Dallas with Downtown, adding the Forth Worth Stockyards and then the Uptown/ Arts District area if you have a few more days. 

There is a reason for that, as you’ll discover in the 24-hour itinerary post. This is my personal favorite way to show the city when I have guests from elsewhere – and the way that has worked best after a lot of trial and error.

But there is no account to taste : ), so even if you have only one day in Dallas, make sure to take a look into the 3-day itinerary. It is basically a compilation of  3 one-days itinerary, so check it out and decide for yourself which one attracts you the most.

Now go and enjoy. Wander wisely and experience the best of Dallas – or make a heck of a first impression!

And please leave your comment bellow to let me know your thoughts. Do you have a favorite Dallas itinerary you would like to share?

You might also like:

Trips from Dallas

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3 Days in Dallas for Beginners

Complete 3-day itinerary in Dallas, showcasing DFW must-sees and best things to do.

Things to do in Dallas when you have just 3 days.

Your ultimate Dallas itinerary, covering the city’s must-see destinations and essential things to do. 
Discover attractions you can’t miss out and spend three amazing days in the Big D.

Dallas 72-Hour Itinerary

Day 1: Downtown Dallas - Main District, Dallas Landmarks, Sixth Floor Museum and Reunion Tower
Day 2: Forth Worth Stockyards
Day 3: Uptown & Klyde Warren Park

Looking for the perfect itinerary to visit Dallas in three days? Look no further! This post will guide you through Dallas’ top attractions in intensive and fun-packed 3 days. 

It covers all the following city’s must-dos and sees in a smart way, as well as must-try foods, so you can combine close by attractions and restaurants and make the most of your short stay: 

Day 1
Downtown Dallas

  • Giant Eyeball 
  • Neiman Marcus Flagship Store
  • Pioneer Plaza
  • Red Flying Horse
  • JFK Memorial
  • Southern Kitchen Cuisine 
  • Dealey Plaza
  • 6th Floor Museum or Dallas Worldwide Aquarium
  • Reunion Tower

Day 2
Stockyards

  • Tex-Mex Cuisine
  • Trinity River Train Excursion
  • Stockyards Cattle Drive
  • Texas Cowboys Hall of Fame
  • Cowboy gear shopping & kids’ activities 
  • The Stockyards Championship Rodeo
  • Billy Bob’s or White Elephant Saloon

Day 3
Uptown & Arts District

  • The Rustic beer garden, brunch and live music
  • Free vintage trolley ride
  • Dallas Arts District
  • Klyde Warren Park
  • West Village District
  • Landmark’s Magnolia Theater & Magnolia Bar
  • Uptown Nightlife – bars and restaurants

Find bellow the detailed itineraries and enjoy!

This 3-days guide to Dallas can be explored all at once or broken into one-day visits. 

It includes the best things to do in Dallas as well as restaurants along the way where you can taste some staples of the Dallas culinary scene: Southern comfort kitchen, tex-mex and brunch.

And if you have more time around, take a peek into the 15 Top Dallas Attractions post to add other top-rated places and activities in Dallas to your self-guided tour.

Day 1: Downtown Dallas

At Downtown Dallas you will find several of the Dallas must see attractions concentrated in a relatively small area that can be covered by foot if you wish to do so – otherwise just drive around, grab a motorized scooter or use Uber.

Discover bellow the best way to explore the area and for more details take a peek into our in depth post about Downtown Dallas, my top recommended destination if you need to see or show the city in a single day: 

1. Main Street District

Have breakfast at CDB Provisions or at the Commissary. Check on Giant Eyeball Sculpture, Dallas quirkiest landmark. Visit the Neiman Marcus flagship store and historic building. Have a drink at The Zodiac at Neiman Marcus.

Already hungry? Craving Texas BBQ?

Skip the next tip and take a slight detour to Pecan Lodge, one of the best barbecue joints in Dallas, right on Main St. Go for the brisket, a local staple.

2. Dallas' Landmarks Walking Tour & Southern Cuisine

Take a self-guided walking tour through the Dallas’ most famous Landmarks: Pioneer Plaza, Red Flying Horse, JFK Memorial Plaza. Have lunch at Ellen’s Southern Kitchen to taste authentic Southern comfort food.  Attractions mentioned are within 5 to 10 minutes walking from each other.

3. Sixth Floor Museum OR Dallas Worldwide Aquarium

Explore Dallas’ most iconic museum, the Sixth Floor Museum. A tribute to the life and death of JFK, murdered in Dallas in 1963. The museum was built on the site of the incident and preserves it as it was over 50 years ago. 

Or head to the Dallas Worldwide Aquarium, a family-friendly attraction and world-class aquarium.

4. Reunion Tower

Go up the Reunion Tower to watch the sunset and the Dallas skyline transitioning from day to night. On weekends, watch it while you have a snack at the connected Cloud 9 Cafe, featuring a super cool rotating floor. Have a quick bite at the cafe or if you’re feeling fancy top  off with dinner at the on-site Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck.

Day 2: Fort Worth Stockyards

Head to the cowboy capital of Texas and home to the world’s only year-round championship rodeo.

Explore Dallas old west roots at the Forth Worth Stockyards, 40 minutes away from Downtown Dallas. Plan to spend a whole day there and go on a Saturday if possible, to make the most of your visit – it is the only day of the week that offers both the train ride and the rodeo experiences.

Here is a brief of the suggested smart itinerary to explore the Stockyards and enjoy it to the fullest. For detailed information, check the post on how to spend 2 days in Dallas, including in depth information about the Forth Worth Stockyards:

1. Tex-Mex Cuisine

Have a brunch or lunch at Joe T. Garcia’s, one of the most traditional Tex-Mex restaurants in the DFW area. 

2. Vintage Train Ride

Take the one hour Trinity River Train Excursion, through the historic Cotton Bell Route (departing from the Stockyards Station on Saturdays and Sundays at 2:45 pm).

3. Stockyards Cattle Drive

Watch the 4:00 pm Forth Worth Herd. See real Texas’ cowboys herding huge Longhorns bulls through the Stockyards main street.

4. Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, cowboy gear shops and kids' activities

Visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Browse authentic cowboy gear at the Stockyards shops.

If you have kids in tow, head the Stockyards Petting Zoo (usually opened till 5:00 pm). Or get lost in the Cowtown Cattle Pen Maze.

5. Stockyards Championship Rodeo

Every Friday and Saturday nights, watch a real rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum, the Stockyards Championship Rodeo.

6. Billy Bob's and White Elephant Saloon

Experience an authentic honky tonk and listen to high-quality live country music. Choose between two iconic Stockyards country music bars and dance halls –  White Elephant Saloon and Billy Bob’s – and hit the floor!

Day 3: Uptown and Arts District

Get a glimpse of the more authentic and less touristy side of Dallas. This one-day itinerary will take you through amazing places and make you experience the city like a local.

Enjoy one of the best beer gardens and live music venues in Dallas. Ride a vintage trolley for free. Check on world-class art collections. Lounge at one of the city’s main green areas. Shop, have dinner and a drink or two at one of Dallas’ liveliest areas.

Check on the detailed itinerary bellow and have fun!

1. The Rustic

Start off your day with brunch and high-quality live music at The Rustic Dallas. An upscale Uptown restaurant with cool decor and a vibrant and laid-back outdoor patio, among the best in Dallas.

Every Saturdays and Sundays, you can enjoy live music while you taste their sample-style brunch – or a burger made from scratch – and drink local craft beer or a mimosa (orange juice with sparkling wine, for the uninitiated).

The Rustic offers free live music every day, check their schedule here.

2. M- Line Trolley

Head next door to explore Uptown using a vintage trolley. Rides are free and trolleys depart every 20-30 min from the McKinney Avenue Trolley Uptown Station.

It takes you to both the Dallas Arts District and Klyde Warren Park and has several stops along the way. Hop on and off as many times as you wish to explore the surroundings. You can track the trolley here.

3. Dallas Arts District

Hop off at the Dallas Arts District, the largest contiguous urban Arts District in the US.

Visit the  Dallas Museum of Art or the Crow Museum of Asian Art. Both offer free admission to their permanent collections. The Nasher Sculpture Center is another popular attraction in the area.

 If you have kids in tow, head to the Perot Museum, a nature and science amazing museum with interactive exhibitions.

4. Klyde Warren Park

Enjoy the outdoors at Klyde Warren Park, just across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art.

Grab a bite at one of the food-trucks parked around daily. Borrow a magazine or game for free at their Reading & Games Room and lounge by the lawn.  Take the little ones to enjoy the Children’s Park or cool off at the splash pads. 

Check their calendar for public events that take place year-round at Klyde Warren Park and enjoy your visit.

5. West Village

Take the trolley back and get off at the West Village – McKinney & Lemmon East stop.

Stroll around this lively area full of shops and restaurants. Indulge in a delicious Italian ice cream or coffee at Paciugo Gelato Caffe.

Wrap up with an independent or Hollywood movie at landmark’s Magnolia Theater, just next door – or have a drink at their stylish Magnolia Bar.

Or, if you prefer, head to one of the local bars and restaurants. For drinks check on CRU Food & Wine Bar and Cork.  For dinner, Baboush and Grimaldi’s.

Wrapping Up

Dallas offers tons of things to do, but if you have a short time to explore the city you might want to focus on the best of the best. 

Combining Downtown Dallas, the Forth Worth Stockyards, Uptown and the Arts District is the perfect bet for first-time visitors. It will allow you to experience most of the Dallas’ top-rated things to do and experience all facets of the city.

This 3-days Dallas guide will help you to navigate wisely through the attractions, combining them by geographic proximity. Make use of it to spend less time moving from one place to another and more time enjoying.

I hope it helps you or your guest to love Dallas and make the best of it!

And when you’re done exploring the things to do mentioned in this post, go ahead and check out the top 15 things to do in Dallas. There you will find more ideas on must-sees and authentic activities that make Dallas so unique.

Your feedback is precious, so leave your comment bellow letting me know your thoughts about this itinerary. Have you tried it? How did it go? Do you know of any other place that someone visiting Dallas shouldn’t miss?

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