31 Fun Things to Do in Dallas with Kids (Updated) – 2024
If you’re sitting in Dallas and googling “Best spots near me” or “What to do in Dallas with kids?” You’ve landed on the right page.
We will be answering all the possible questions you might have about visiting Dallas with your children.
Dallas is a city that has grown in tremendous strides over the decades and may appeal to children of all ages.
It’s a diversified environment with something for individuals of all ages and preferences.
Recreation activities await your children, whether they are naturally curious, creative arts, food, culture, or other topics.
Visiting families may sense Dallas’s cowboy-rich rustic heritage, which pervades the whole city.
It’s a large city with a strong character; because of its variety, it resembles other cities like Chicago and Los Angeles.
Teenage people are bound to be enthusiastic about making the most of their visit. So here is a list of
Best things to do in Dallas with kids
1. Dallas World Aquarium
Dallas’ most popular family feature is the World aquarium, where children and grownups can get up close and personal with some of their beloved creatures.
It has hundreds of different displays which aren’t only about fish.
Why visit?
If it’s about the top activities to do in Dallas, this is one of the “can’t miss” spots.
For example, you may visit a synthetic recreation of the Orinoco Jungle on its top level.
Kids may wave to various creatures and visit large enclosures filled with exotic birds.
Also, there is a solid attempt to educate tourists about critically endangered wildlife and the need for preservation.
2. Dallas Arboretum
The Arboretum is the place to take your kids for fun
A stroll around this place is the most tranquil way to enjoy a beautiful day.
Why visit?
Here, you may learn about various plant life among apparently unending botanical richness.
You are urged to bring your children to one of the nation’s best floral festivals, where artisans take the main stage!
3. Hop on top of the trolley
The iconic McKinney Street Tram, which goes back to the early 1980s, is a terrific way to start your day in Dallas.
Kids may explore the city center and visit the intriguing Arts Center.
Why visit?
You may take it as often as you like for free, and it goes past a variety of delicious restaurants.
It also goes near Klyde Warren Park and a slew of hip Midtown shops.
4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum of Science and Nature is a fantastic location to take children to Dallas.
Why visit?
This globally renowned institution is excellent for youngsters since it has displays that cover a wide range of scientific topics.
This covers dinosaurs, planet and energy resources, games, and a variety of other topics.
It’s also entertaining for children, with a vast auditorium and an outdoor playroom that will keep the kids entertained for hours.
5. Klyde Warren Park
This is undoubtedly among the most popular destinations in Dallas, especially given its proximity to the famous Art Zones.
Why visit?
Children will have a great time wandering around its enormous playroom, which is augmented on many Sundays by live entertainment performances.
Families may have fun roller skating, enjoying sports, and enjoying thematic activities.
6. Highland Park Village
Shopping fans can plan in advance to see the various businesses available in Dallas.
In fact, it boasts the most significant number of retail malls per person.
Why visit?
Highland Park Village is the finest area to begin your retail expedition.
It is also the very first outdoor shopping mall and has an architecture inspired by old Spanish design.
7. The Arts District
If you’re searching for activities to do with the children in Dallas this weekend, The Arts District is a fantastic place to start.
Why visit?
This Dallas neighborhood has been nicknamed “the Brooklyn of Texas.”
Situated directly in Oak Cliff, alongside the river, it has evolved to cater to a wide range of sensitivities that children will enjoy.
This is an excellent location for specialist art and music stores and delicious munching and eating options.
8. Sightseeing Bus Tour
If this is your family’s initial trip to Dallas, a sightseeing road trip of the city’s history is a terrific way to begin your vacation.
Why visit?
Your children may imbibe the Texan flavor evident in the city’s vast environment from the top floor deck.
Spend the day enjoying and embracing some family-friendly sights.
9. The Music Scene in Deep Ellum
Texas as a state has a very rich musical and cultural heritage.
It’s also among the family-friendly sites which every group must visit.
Why visit?
If you want your children to know the soulful side of this cultural institution on your Dallas family trip, swing by lower Ellum or Elm Street.
Performances by foreign performers are held in this area of town.
10. Reunion Tower
To gain insight into the enormity that is Dallas, visitors can select to view it from a height of 470 ft.
Why visit?
Most Texans have gazed down from the viewing deck of the Reunion Building.
Children should not be denied the opportunity to wonder about what the city is becoming.
Perhaps your toddlers will be enthralled by the scenery.
11. Trinity Groves
The city embraces all cuisines and has developed a cuisine culture that rivals several other places.
Why visit?
Trinity Groves serves international cuisine as well as traditional Texan favorites.
If your family likes barbeque, they’ll love the delicacies of superb Tex-Mex and chain restaurants that are Dallas’s passion and delight.
There’s also a Cake Bar for those with a sugar craving!
12. Cedar Ridge Reserve
Most people assume Texas as a prairie, yet Dallas is lively and offers a variety of excellent camping and trekking opportunities.
Why visit?
The Cedar Ridge Reserve, located in the great Texas Countryside, is among the top sites for these purposes.
This is spread over an area of 600-acre. It is an animal sanctuary and a short distance from the city center and ideal for bringing your dog.
13. Texas Horse Park
Most Texas fans will accept that there is no more elegant way to experience this part of the country than on the back of a horse.
There is no better location for riding instruction, irrespective of skill set, than the Great Trinity Woods.
Why visit?
It runs through this trail-riddled park, which Davy Crockett and his family previously acquired.
You may admire the lovely antique oaks and the enormous Native American Historical site from here.
Equestrian history might also be taught to the children.
14. Six Flags Over Texas
Those looking for adventures should not pass up this amusement park find.
Why visit?
It’s located in Arlington, Texas, bordering Dallas and Fort Worth, and it has more than enough attractions to keep you entertained for the whole day!
It’s really kid-friendly, so ask about family deals and extraordinary activities.
This is without a doubt one of the most outstanding family outings to do with your children.
15. Dallas Museum of Art
If you’ve been to this city before, you’re likely familiar that it’s a cultural mecca.
Why visit?
The Dallas Museum of Art, that’s always free, is a terrific place to begin.
It will help you discover local art and crafts from all across the globe.
Children can view art like nothing they’ve ever seen before, especially at the highlighted special displays.
16. Nasher Sculpture Center
Going through this monument assortment for outdoor activities, one can’t go wrong.
Why visit?
A variety of items are available, including works by world-renowned painters such as Picasso, Rodin, and Matisse, to mention some.
The entire structure was constructed by famous Italian designer Renzo Piano and resembles something out of a fairy tale.
17. The Home of Bonnie and Clyde
You may like this location if your children are of a certain age.
Why visit?
When Bonnie and Clyde took a vacation from their nefarious exploits, they lived in Dallas.
These two criminals really met at a townhouse on Herbert Street, only a few blocks from where Clyde lived.
18. White Rock Lake
People like riding their rental bikes around the 9-mile ring which circles this reservoir.
Why visit?
You can kayak, paddle, watch the birds, and catch this huge lake’s bass, minnows, and goldfish. Why not preserve the beautiful magnificence of the Southwest, which attracts over a million people each year?
19. Dallas Heritage Village
Texan culture is highly engaging, and this history town welcomes tourists in the same spirit.
Why visit?
Children may learn about a variety of regional cultures and beliefs that have been passed on from generations through centuries.
By traversing 13 beautiful acres, they’ll gain a true sense of what lifestyle was like in prior ages.
Its old-world design is complemented by historical furniture.
Children can participate in a range of academic activities here.
20. The Wild Detectives
Many people presently do not consider bookshops to be excellent locations to hang around, enjoy live music, or get a beer.
Why visit?
This substantial wooden gem is unusual, offering a tranquil haven for you to replenish your energy.
The store has a friendly kid’s area and is conveniently located in the arts neighborhood.
21. Wild Bill’s Western Store
It wouldn’t be Dallas, Texas, without experiencing one of the top things to do in Dallas with kids: dress up like a Texan from top to foot.
Why visit?
This boutique, located in the ancient West End, is a great place to look for traditional, high-quality cowboy apparel and accessories.
It’s a beautiful location to wander about and channel your inner wild west youngster.
Children may try on bamboo ties, leather jackets, and other cowboy boots.
22. Tour of Dallas Cowboys Stadium
A private tour of Dallas Cowboys Stadium will appeal to football lovers of all ages.
Why visit?
The trip provides fans the rare chance to learn more about the spectacular edifice and see the on-site art museum, which is the headquarters of the world-famous football association. Children will enjoy hitting a ball on the pitch in which the team performs for thousands of spectators.
23. Dallas Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions contains fascinating, mind-bending holograms that will captivate both children and grownups.
Why visit?
From classic tricks like participatory spiral spinners and kaleidoscopes to a high-tech swirling trench, there’s much to choose from. Children will absolutely adore seeing their own heads on a plate and pretending to be cosmonauts in the anti-gravity chamber.
24. National Soccer Hall of Fame
Soccer aficionados will have lots to do at the Major League Soccer Hall of Fame in Dallas (about half an hour north of the city center).
Why visit?
When children and adults first visit the facility, they establish their unique profile utilizing facial-recognition software, personalizing the spectacular visual exhibitions specifically for them.
25. Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo is an excellent place to see a wide range of wildlife from across the globe and experience more about their lifespans and environments.
Why visit?
The live animal presentations and a Yellow Rose Commuter train trip throughout the park will appeal to children. The play farm, climbing rock, and 60-foot bridge are great places to try new things and burn off some steam.
26. National Cowgirl Hall of Fame
The Cowgirl Hall of Fame & Gallery in Fort Worth is a must-see for equestrian and culture enthusiasts. Notable exhibitions include memorabilia from cowgirls who appeared in Wild West performances in the early 1900s.
Why visit?
Another of the best elements is the narrative of Annie Oakley, which is exhibited using the Pepper Spirit technique and looks to be talking. The Western Design area, where kids may design their own shoes, pony, or clothing and display it on the wall, is a hit with kids.
It’s an excellent resource for learning about the heritage of cowgirls in the U.s!
27. Water parks – Epic Waters, Hawaiian Falls, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
If your children enjoy water activities, you’re fortunate since Dallas is home to some fantastic water slides! Epic Pools in Grand Prairie is an indoor water park where you may swim throughout the year. There are spectacular slides, playgrounds, and even a hot tub.
Why visit?
Hawaiian Falls in Roanoke is one of the most significant water attractions in the city; it has become famous for being kids’ favorite. Breaker Bay has insanely fast slides, massive waves, and even a massive underwater play platform. Book a cabana and expect to stay the entire day!
Hurricane Harbor is located next to Six Flags Theme Park and has 47 acres of fun, including free-fall attractions, a lazy river, and a splashing area. If you’re going to the amusement park, get a pass that includes access to the water park to chill off afterward.
28. Glass Blowing
Consider enrolling the kids in a glass-making lesson for anything out of the ordinary.
Why visit?
Vetro Glassblowing Workshop in Grapevine offers a range of workshops that teach children how to make everything from paperweights to Holiday decorations.
Children of all ages are welcome to join, provided a parent accompanies them.
29. Crayola Experience
Crayola Experience, situated close to Plano, is an excellent place for children to express their imagination.
Why visit?
This interactive exhibit has hundreds of programs that enable both children and adults to explore color in a whole new manner! There’s a craft workshop, a technological creation studio, and even a Pastel Factory Show. It’s likely to be a hit with the kids!
Dallas events change seasonally, so there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover!
30. Grandscape
Grandscape, situated in The Colony, has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the Andretti Indoor Kart racing and Sports, the Electric Gamebox, Jurassic World: The Museum, and the great stores and eateries.
Why visit?
There’s also an outside stage with free music all year. Teens enjoy this area, although there are plenty of other exciting places to explore if you’re traveling to Dallas with adolescents!
31. WhoaZone on Grapevine Lake
WhoaZone is a floating pneumatic endurance test that is sure to keep visitors of all ages entertained for long.
Why visit?
Book ahead of schedule online and be prepared for a journey unlike any other! This is an excellent method to stay cool on warm days!
If you do have some additional time, don’t miss out on the exciting Grapevine activities!
Conclusion
It’s only a limited time we get to spend with our children before they grow up and separate their ways, so we better make sure it’s damn good!
Keeping that in mind, we prepared this article about the best things you can do in Dallas with kids so that when you relish these memories years later, you do it with the conviction that you had the time of your life here.
We’ve taken care of everything from food to adventure. You just have to go out and enjoy yourself with the kids. Happy Vacation!
