10 Best Things To Do In Dallas, Texas – Hand Luggage Only

Dallas is one of the incredible places in Texas you can’t miss. And, just like Houston, Austin and San Antonio, there’s a treasure trove of experiences, foodie spots and live music places to enjoy. In fact, you’re gonna be spoilt for choice with all the best things to do in Dallas… so make sure to plan ahead!

After road-tripping through Texas, we got to see so many epic spots across the state. We loved and, and Dallas is no exception! It’s a perfect city for a few days jaunt, a long-weekend getaway or a visit as part of a Texan road trip. Plus, you’ve got Fort Worth right next door.

So, to help you get the most out of your time in Dallas, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Dallas that I’m sure you’ll love.

Have the best time exploring Dallas.

1.) Deep Hell

With quirky galleries, cool live-music bars and shed loads of street art; visiting Deep Ellum is one of the best things to do in Dallas if you want an evening out on the town!

Make sure to see what music is going on at Trees; visit AllGood Cafe for its live music evenings and gorge at Terry Black’s Barbecue. their brisket is so good and their mac and cheese are mouthwatering.

Oh, and for an evening of tipples, hop over to Double Wide. It’s something of a quirky bar in Deep Ellum and totally cool.

2.) Dallas Arts District

Nestled within downtown Dallas, the Arts District is an area that’s filled with venues, concert halls and exhibitions to explore. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Dallas that’s great for an evening out.

Bes sure to explore the Crow Museum of Asian Art, the Perot Museum and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Just be sure to check out the Dallas Arts District website to find out seasonal shows and events. You’ll have a great time.

Afterwards, pop over to Meso Maya (Comida y Copas) on McKinney Avenue. They make some of the best smoked-chicken taquitos and enchiladas in all of Dallas.

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3.) Reunion Tower

For some of the best views across Dallas, you’ll want to get yourself to the top of Reunion Tower. Historically, the tower itself is around 40-years old and, in my opinion, one of the most recognisable buildings in the city.

Make sure to grab your tickets and head up to the GeO-Deck observation. The views are lovely, especially at sunset. Just be aware, although the observation deck is ticketed, it can get really busy. Plan your trip on a weekday if you want to miss the majority of the crowds.

Oh, and you can easily partner a trip up Reunion Tower with a visit to the nearby John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. They’re both within walking distance of each other.

Getting peckish? Stroll over to Ellen’s which is a totally kitsch and homely Southern diner that’s perfect for brunch. Their pancake pot pie is everything!

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4.) Southfork Ranch

Around a 25-mile drive from the city centre, Southfork Ranch is one of the best things to do in Dallas if, well, you love Dallas. You see, it;s the ranch from the Dallas TV show.

If you’re a fan of the TV series, you’ll even get the opportunity to explore inside, too. Though be warned, guided tours don’t happen on a Monday – so make sure to avoid this day. It’s a totally fun day out if you’re a fan of the show; though, you can easily give it a miss if you’ve never watched Dallas.

After driving back to Dallas, reserve a table at Kitchen + Kocktails (by Kevin Kelley), their lobster tails and peach cobbler are amazing. Plus, their cocktails are just divine.

5.) John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

A tribute to the awful assassination of John F. Kennedy, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza is one place you have to visit when visiting Dallas. Dedicated back in 1970, it’s an incredibly important site that remembers the President.

Designed by Philip Johnson, it’s a cenotaph that’s been designed to show the openness and freedom that Kennedy had. You’ll also be able to explore the Sixth Floor Museum (at Dealey Plaza) whilst you’re here. It chronicles the dark day when John F. Kennedy was killed.

Although sombre, it’s a place to remember and an integral part of the history of Dallas.

Afterwards, take a stroll to visit the nearby Holocaust and Human Rights Museum that’s right within the historic Westend district of Dallas.

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6.) Fair Park

First up, slip on those comfy walking shoes and head over to Fair Park. It’s a massively expansive site that can fill days of fun.

Aside from strolling through the park grounds, take time to admire the art sculptures and the statues at the Hall of State and pop over to Leonhardt Lagoon, too.

If you fancy an indoor explore; head inside the African American Museum of Dallas which is so incredible to visit. Oh, and don’t forget to spot Big Tex, too! He’s totally charming and stands proudly in Fair Park.

Getting peckish? Get yourself over to Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ, their brisket is so tender and their portions are huge. Trust me, you’ll love it.

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7.) Arboretum and Botanical Garden

On the banks of White Rock Lake, visiting the arboretum and garden is one of the best things to do in Dallas if you want a more relaxing day.

Hosting everything for art shows, seasonal festivals, and 500,000 blooming flowers – it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. Be sure to stop by the McCasland Sunken Garden, Orchid Hollow and Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden if travelling with the wider family.

Plus, during the festive period, they host “Holiday at the Arboretum” a picture-perfect festive time to embrace everything Christmassy.

8.) Fort Worth

Yeah yeah! I know, technically Fort Worth is a totally different city but it feels totally connected to Dallas. Especially as the urban sprawl encompasses both cities (and Arlington, in between).

After arriving, head over to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, which is all about the old west. It’s a great place to learn more about “the west”, cowboys and the historic cattle drives that used to dominate the region Plus, if you visit on the weekend, you’ll catch the Stockyards Championship Rodeo.

If that’s not your thing, visit the Museum of Modern Art and Kimbell Art Museum, too. Also, if you’ve got time, check out the Water Gardens that are perched right within the city centre.

Finally, don’t forget to grab some tickets to the AT&T Stadium (in Arlington) between Fort Worth and Dallas. It’s the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the perfect place to catch a game.

It’s totally worth visiting Fort Worth when exploring the best things to do in Dallas as they’re just so close to each other.

9.) Pioneer Plaza

Dallas is known for its historic trails that brought many incoming settlers to Dallas along with cattle drives that were so integral to how the city flourished.

Nowadays, you can visit Pioneer Plaza and spot the 49 bronze cattle created by Robert Summers. Their spread over the site, along with native trees, flowers and plants that call this area of Texas home.

Afterwards, take a stroll to the nearby Dallas Farmers Market (a 15-minute walk) which is great for some local treats. Rex’s Seafood is a must-stop spot… their dishes and market are just too good to miss.

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10.) Trammell Crow Park

Looking for a stroll in Dallas? Then follow the Trinity River banks through Trammell Crow Park. It’s a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the streets, especially on the Trinity Skyline Trail, too. Plus, you’ll get to see Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, too.

Oh, and just off the park itself is Cake Bar, a yummy pudding spot to grab a key lime cake and gooey cookies that are just so good. It’s the most important spot to visit if you’ve got something of a sweet tooth like me!

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