Whether you’re an art lover, foodie or thrill seeker, there is something for everyone in Dallas. We’ve rounded up the best attractions, hidden gems and delicious eats for you to enjoy on your trip to this Texas city.
If you’re a fan of the arts, stay at the stylish HALL Arts Hotel, which is right in the heart of the Arts District! You’ll be close to world-class museums and galleries, plus all of the fun in downtown Dallas.
1. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is one of Dallas' best places to visit. Set in Victory Park, it's a great place to pass a day with your family.
The main building is an enormous cube set atop a plinth and was designed by American architect Thom Mayne from Morphosis.
The exhibitions explore topics such as evolution, energy and the Earth's dynamic landscape. They also feature child-size replicas of local architecture and a waterplay area.
2. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
Designed by influential postmodern architect Philip Johnson, the JFK Memorial Plaza commemorates the president who was assassinated in Dallas. It’s a profoundly moving site that you should visit when you come to the city.
It’s also worth taking a Dallas sightseeing tour that includes the JFK Memorial. You’ll get to see Dealey Plaza, the site where Kennedy was shot; Grassy Knoll; and Lee Harvey Oswald’s house.
3. Dealey Plaza
The iconic Dealey Plaza is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dallas. It commemorates the site where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.
It also has several museums and attractions that will delight visitors of all ages. For example, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza examines John F. Kennedy’s life and legacy, while the Crow Collection of Asian Art offers a wide variety of ancient and contemporary works.
4. Pioneer Plaza
If you’re a history buff, or just looking for a fun and quirky place to take photos, then Pioneer Plaza is the perfect spot. Located in downtown Dallas, the park features 49 bronze longhorn cattle sculptures set against a backdrop of native plant life and trees.
It’s also a great place to learn about Dallas’ history, from the original trails that brought settlers to the city to cattle drives that helped build its economy. This 4.2-acre park is also home to a waterfall, man-made cliffs and plenty of historic details on the cattle sculptures.
5. Winspear Opera House
The Winspear Opera House is one of the top tourist attractions in Dallas. Its grandiose structure has a rich red glass drum that acts as the main auditorium.
The building is also home to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and is a must-see attraction for all music lovers. It also offers a variety of other performances.
6. Dallas Heritage Village
The Dallas Heritage Village in Old City Park is an outdoor museum that lets you step back in time and explore how Texans lived a century ago. Strolling through the grounds, you'll see a variety of restored historic buildings, including a railroad complex, farmstead and church.
You'll also want to stop by the African American Museum in Dallas, a museum dedicated to showcasing African-American culture and history. You can sign up for a guided tour to learn more about this museum, which was founded in 1974.
7. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Located on the sixth floor of Dealey Plaza, the Sixth Floor Museum is a tourist attraction in Dallas. It documents the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and Lee Harvey Oswald.
Whether you're a history buff or just interested in the world around you, this museum is an amazing addition to your Dallas experience. There's plenty to learn about the past and a huge range of interactive displays.
8. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the most acclaimed botanical gardens in the world. The 66 acres of flora and flowers on the shores of White Rock Lake are a treat for all ages.
The gardens are renowned for their year-long floral display and breathtaking views of the city skyline. They also host a number of concerts, festivals and art shows throughout the year.
9. Dallas Arts District
Dallas' Arts District is the largest in the country and offers a wide variety of galleries, museums, and cultural attractions. From the Dallas Museum of Art to the Crow Museum, there's something for everyone!
Another must-see Dallas attraction is the Nasher Sculpture Center. This art gallery features more than 300 thought-provoking sculptures by some of the greatest artists of the 20th century.
