Dallas is a wonderful place to visit, especially if you’re looking for a spot to explore by RV. The city is chock-full of things to do, and the surrounding area offers plenty of amazing camping spots and outdoor activities. On top of that, the place is welcoming, budget-friendly, and has plenty of attractions for kids, meaning the whole family can enjoy their time in this exciting Texas city.
Hoping to plan your own RV trip to Dallas? Wondering what to do once you get there? You’ve come to the right place. Below we will discuss all of the very best things to do in Dallas, so all you’ll have to do is pick and choose from our list and then go out and have a great time!
Things to Do in Dallas with Kids
Let’s start with things to do in Dallas with kids. Whether your kids prefer a theme park adventure or getting acquainted with animals, there is something for them in the great city of Dallas. If you have time, try to see every spot on the list below. You won’t regret it!
Dallas Zoo
Everyone loves a zoo day, especially kids. Lucky for you, the Dallas Zoo is one of the better ones out there, meaning you and your little travelers can enjoy a day out in an amazing zoo. Here you’ll get to wander 106 acres of well-manicured grounds while admiring incredible animals such as elephants, zebras, gorillas, lemurs, and adorable little otters.
Be sure to attend a keeper chat to learn something new, and make a point of attending one of the giraffe feedings that happen on a daily basis. Kids will enjoy riding the endangered animal carousel, and the whole family can enjoy the mini train and the VR theater together.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Another fantastic pick for the whole family? The Perot Museum of Science and Nature. This is an awesome place to get hands-on as you and your kids learn together about the world around us. It’s an ideal way to sneak some learning into your trip without your kids even noticing!
We really love Expanding Universe Hall, where guests can learn all about the incredible stars, planets, and galaxies around us. Tom Hunt Energy Hall is a great place to expand your knowledge about all things energy related, and Being Human Hall is the perfect place for young biologists.
For an extra special experience, consider attending a showing of a 3D film at The Hoglund Foundation Theater within the museum.
Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium is the perfect place for anyone who loves underwater creatures. Here, fascinating marine life is found around every corner, and one could easily spend hours staring into the watery worlds behind the aquarium glass.
Animals at the aquarium include fish, shrimp, seahorses, coral, anemone, starfish, sting rays, and octopi, of course. That said, the amazing animal-focused attraction also plays host to a number of land mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. It’s essentially a zoo, and yes, it is worth visiting this one as well as the Dallas Zoo mentioned above.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Want to take a peaceful stroll alongside some of the most beautiful plants in the world? Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is the spot you need to visit. This gorgeous place is ideal for viewing and learning about plants of all kinds, and surprisingly, kids love it just as much as adults.
Any and all of the gardens are worth walking through. That said, if you only have time for a few, we highly recommend the McCasland Sunken Garden, which is simply lovely, along with A Tasteful Place, where you can view all sorts of edible plants.
Of course, you also must visit the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which offers all kinds of engaging activities for the kids. Just be aware that you may have to drag the kids away!
Heard Natural Science Museum
Yet another fantastic educational attraction, the Heard Natural Science Museum is a wonderful place that kids and their parents are sure to appreciate. The museum is focused on bringing nature and people together, and we think it does an amazing job of doing just that.
There are plenty of trails to wander as a family as you soak up the sun. We also adore the Native Plant Garden, as well as the onsite butterfly house where you can get up close and personal with beautiful butterflies.
The Animal Encounters Trail sends guests on an adventure past a number of animals, including a ring-tailed lemur and screech owls. Meanwhile, the Dinosaurs Live exhibit puts you face-to-face with lifelike dinosaur animatronics that are sure to thrill little dino enthusiasts.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Have a LEGO loving kiddo on your hands? In that case, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center in nearby Grapevine is a must-see spot. Best for kids ages 3–10, this indoor amusement center is a great way to fill a few hours, and is particularly great when combined with the SEA LIFE Aquarium in the same building.
Experiences in LEGOLAND Discovery Center include meet-and-greets with favorite LEGO characters, an awesome indoor play area, a VR experience, a 4-D Cinema, two rides, ninja training, and an outdoor water play area. Of course, there are also plenty of opportunities for building with LEGO bricks, something very few kids are going to pass up.
SEA LIFE Aquarium
As mentioned above, the SEA LIFE Aquarium is located in the same building as LEGOLAND Discovery Center. It is a smaller aquarium, so it is best to pair it with another attraction (like, well, LEGOLAND Discovery Center), but it’s still well worth seeing, especially if you have small children in tow.
This aquarium is home to thousands of underwater critters, including sharks, fish, and stingrays. Touch pools give kids a chance to interact with the animals, and the ocean tunnel allows guests to walk through an underwater world.
We also love that this attraction is home to a sea turtle rescue center, giving visitors a chance to learn all about how to care for these amazing creatures.
Six Flags Over Texas
Looking for a more thrilling Dallas adventure? Six Flags Over Texas in nearby Arlington might be just what you’re searching for. This awesome amusement park is chock-full of rides, including options for young children, families, and of course, thrill-seekers.
For the littles, we love the Looney Toons-themed area with rides such as Bugs Bunny Cloud Bouncer, Taz Tornado Swings, and Marvin the Martian Space Rockets. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies will appreciate the 14 world-class coasters scattered throughout the park, including BATMAN The Ride and MR. FREEZE.
Looking for things to do as a family? Hop on the steam train or the antique cars, or check out one of the many shows the park has to offer.
Epic Waters Indoor Water Park
Another excellent choice for those who want something exciting to do in Dallas, Epic Waters Indoor Water Park allows your family to have a splashing good time, even when the weather isn’t so great. This place has fun for little kids, grown adults, and everyone in between, meaning the entire family can enjoy the day together.
The Flowrider allows guests to try their hand at surfing. Meanwhile, the many different slides provide exciting entertainment for those who like to get their blood pumping. There is a swimming pool for those who just want to go for a dip, a lazy river for floating aimlessly, and a wave pool for those who enjoy riding the waves.
Rascals’ Round Up is the place for little ones, offering slides and splash areas for small children.
Dallas Cowboys Game at AT&T Stadium
Of course, there’s also the option of seeing a Dallas Cowboys game. If you happen to be in the area during football season, be sure to plan a trip to the AT&T Stadium for a game. Even if you aren’t a huge sports fan, seeing a game in-person is a ton of fun, especially when you’re with the people you love most.
If you do decide to catch a game, be sure to buy tickets in advance. It’s also a good idea to download the Dallas Cowboys app. This allows you to have food delivered directly to your seat, and it provides a ton of information that can make your day a little easier.
Free Things to Do in Dallas
Wondering about free things to do in Dallas? The city has plenty of those as well. If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll be happy to learn that you can fill your entire trip with fun adventures without spending a single dime! The options below are our favorites when it comes to fun things to do in Dallas for free.
Dallas Museum of Art
Amazingly, general admission to the Dallas Museum of Art is 100% free! (You do have to reserve tickets online though, so keep that in mind before going.) This is awesome because the museum is very well put together and the perfect place to spend several hours or even a whole day if you’re an art enthusiast.
Art at the museum includes everything from Islamic art to Picasso. There are exhibitions on fashion and exhibits that explore history through art. We love that the exhibitions are constantly rotating, meaning there is always something new to see at the museum. This means you can visit regularly and never get bored.
Dallas Farmers Market
There’s no better way to connect with a community than by heading to the local farmers market. The Dallas Farmers Market is no exception. This sprawling market is open daily from 10am–7pm and features all kinds of local vendors.
We especially enjoy The Market Building, which is full of food and artisanal vendors selling their wares. That said, the shops at the Harvest Lofts are also lovely and worth a look if you’re visiting. Want the full experience? Be sure to visit on the weekend when the produce vendors are set up in The Shed.
Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District
No visit to Dallas is complete without seeing the Dealey Plaza. This plaza has been an important gathering place for the residents of Dallas since the 1840s and has quite the history. Most notably, it’s where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.
Head to the Dealey Plaza to view and visit historically significant places. Use this map to pick out places that are of interest to you. We also recommend walking a block over to pay your respects at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza.
Pioneer Plaza
Another plaza that is important to the people of Dallas, Pioneer Plaza should also be added to your itinerary. This place was created in 1994 to commemorate nineteenth-century cattle drives, a big part of Texas history.
The plaza features sculptures of 49 bronze steers and 3 trail riders. Native landscaping, a flowing stream, a manmade cliff, and a waterfall help set the scene, giving guests an opportunity to place themselves in the shoes of the cowboys of old.
The plaza is adjacent to the Pioneer Park Cemetery, which is home to the Confederate War Memorial, something some visitors might want to see.
Klyde Warren Park
An interesting park for sure, Klyde Warren Park is built directly over an 8-lane freeway. Providing an absolutely beautiful green space for residents and visitors alike, this park is a haven in the middle of a bustling city and is a great place for an afternoon picnic or just a quick stroll.
The park features walking paths, a dog park, a playground, book and game lending spaces, performance spaces, and more. Events happen regularly in the park throughout the year, but you can always make your own fun as well.
Bishop Arts District
With adorable boutique shops, yummy local eateries, and beautiful art galleries, it’s no wonder the Bishop Arts District is such a popular place to hang out in Dallas.
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, looking for a bite to eat, or just hoping to see some awesome art, wandering the streets of Bishop Arts District is definitely a worthwhile activity. Be sure to keep an eye out for colorful murals as you walk!
Galleria Dallas
An enormous shopping mall, Galleria Dallas is a fun place to escape bad weather and do some browsing, even if you don’t have any money to spend. The iconic ice skating rink in the middle of the mall provides amazing people-watching, and there are plenty of wonderful dining options, many with a view of the rink.
We especially love visiting the American Girl Store and feel it’s a must-see if you have any doll-loving young girls with you.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Fort Worth
Okay, so technically this one is in Fort Worth rather than Dallas, but it is so worth the drive, especially since it’s totally free. There are only two Bureau of Engraving and Printing locations in the country, and Fort Worth is one of them!
When you visit the Fort Worth Bureau of Engraving and Printing location, you will enjoy a video and a small museum discussing the making of paper money. You’ll also be able to tour the actual paper money production floor from an enclosed walkway that looks down on the machines and individuals that create our bills.
You will want to be prepared to go through a security check when you arrive. It’s also important to note that photos and videos are not allowed in the facility.
Things to Do in Downtown Dallas
Hoping to explore all of downtown Dallas? We’ve already mentioned a lot of the best things to do in downtown Dallas, including the Dallas Museum of Art, the Dallas World Aquarium, Klyde Warren Park, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. That said, there are a few others we’d like you to consider.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
We talked about Dealey Plaza above, and we do recommend visiting the plaza itself, which is totally free. That said, those who are especially interested in the assasination of JFK should consider a visit to the Sixth Floor Museum as well.
This museum puts you on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository building, the very place where Lee Harvey Oswald perched as he pulled the trigger, committing a crime that would devastate many, rattle a nation, and change history forever.
In the museum, guests learn about the life and times of President John F. Kennedy, as well as the events leading up to the assasaination.
Reunion Tower Observation Deck
Want to see Dallas from a different perspective? There’s no better place to do so than from the Reunion Tower Observation Deck. Set 470 feet in the air, this observation deck gives you the opportunity to enjoy 360-degree views of the city, allowing you to see for miles upon miles in any direction you choose.
For added fun, consider dining at Crown Block, an upscale restaurant where you can enjoy tower views throughout your leisurely meal.
Nasher Sculpture Center
A gorgeous celebration of art, Nasher Sculpture Center allows you to admire incredible works in light-filled galleries and well-manicured outdoor spaces. Attend artist talks and guided walks, or wander on your own, taking in all the museum has to offer.
Sculptures include animals, people, and totally abstract pieces. Each and every work is beautiful, and you’re sure to find some creations that speak to you as you explore and enjoy.
Adventure in Dallas
No RV trip is complete without some outdoor adventures. Fortunately, a lot of the best things to do in Dallas and the surrounding area involve exploring the great outdoors, and the weather Dallas has to offer tends to be pretty lovely. There are lots of great places to get outside and soak up some sunshine while in this part of Texas, so make sure to leave some time for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching!
Kayaking and Canoeing
One of our absolute favorite outdoor activities in the Dallas area? Paddling. There are several great places to go kayaking or canoeing in the Dallas area, and one could easily spend an entire trip exploring all of the amazing waters. Some of our favorite places to go paddling include Trinity River, White Rock Lake, and Joe Pool Lake.
→ Learn more about kayaking and canoeing in Dallas here.
Hiking
Hiking is another great choice for those looking for outdoor adventures in and around Dallas. Many of the state parks in the area boast amazing hiking trails, as does the Great Trinity Forest. Katie Jackson Trail in Katie Jackson Park is fun for hiking with kids, and Boulder Park Trail offers a bit of challenge that many enjoy.
→ Find more amazing Dallas-area hikes in this article.
Wildlife Watching
While you’re out exploring nature in Dallas, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. There are a number of amazing animals that call this part of the country home, and if you head to the right parks, seeing them is often relatively easy. Places like Cedar Ridge Preserve and Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge offer amazing wildlife watching opportunities, especially if you remember to carry a pair of binoculars.
→ Learn more Dallas wildlife watching here.
Camping in Dallas
Obviously, you will need someplace to park the RV while you explore all of these amazing things to do in Dallas. Fortunately there are options, from full-hookup RV parks to gorgeous state parks, you’re sure to find a campsite that suits your needs so you can fully enjoy your time in the area.
The Best RV Parks in Dallas
Looking to stay in an RV park while in Dallas? There are several great Dallas RV parks and campgrounds to choose from. Some of our favorites include the following:
Dallas Northeast Campground
A beautiful campground with a five-acre lake, Dallas Northeast Campground is close enough to the city to be convenient, but far enough away to be relaxing. It features 105 full-hookup sites, friendly staff, and plenty of amenities.
Treetops RV Resort
For a well-shaded stay, head to Treetops RV Resort. This campground plays host to over 2,000 peak trees. Scheduled activities and well-kept amenities ensure the whole family has a great time, and the location really can’t be beat.
Plantation Place RV Park
With a lake for fishing, big-rig campsites, and a peaceful vibe, we really can’t say enough good things about Plantation Place RV Park. We love that the sites include water, sewer, electric, and cable, and the well-maintained facilities are also appreciated.
Dallas State Park Camping
Prefer state park camping? We can’t say we blame you, especially when in Texas. You see, Texas State Parks campgrounds are some of the best out there, and the ones surrounding Dallas are no exception.
Cedar Hill State Park is the closest option. Located just 20 minutes outside of downtown Dallas, this park sits on Joe Pool Lake and offers opportunities for fishing, paddling, boating, and swimming.
About an hour outside of Dallas, Ray Roberts Lake State Park is also reasonably close. This park is split into nine different sections, but every section offers water access, so water activities are an option. Hiking is also popular in this park and the geocaching is fantastic!
There you have it, a list of all the most amazing things to do in Dallas, Texas. Ready to book your Dallas RV trip? Find your perfect RV rental with RVshare, book one of the campsites listed above, and get ready for a trip you won’t soon forget!
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