Dallas is a booming, bustling city packed with life. It's easy to get overwhelmed as a tourist to the metropolis as you try to narrow down the best places in Dallas to check out.
From art galleries to fascinating museums and scrumptious meals to gorgeous green spaces, the city has something for everyone.
More than 1.3 million people live in Dallas, and it's the 9th biggest city in all of the United States. It's no wonder that there are so many different things to do in Dallas!
Its production of cotton and oil started it out on the path to greatness, and now it's a hub of finance, real estate, education, transportation, and telecommunication.
And, of course, it's packed with Dallas attractions that showcase the very best of what the city has to offer in terms of history, art, and culture.
How can you choose between them? Here are the 50 top tourist attractions in Dallas that you need to add to your vacation list.
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The Dallas Zoo is one of the coolest things to do in Dallas for animal lovers. With 106 acres to its name, it is home to over 406 different species of animals and more than 2,000 unique fauna. The zoo was created in 1888 and is among the oldest zoos in the country.
The Dallas Zoo concentrates on two regions specifically: the Wilds of Africa and ZooNorth. Highlights include the Endangered Tiger Habitat, Wildlife Amphitheater, and Otter Outpost.
The Giants of the Savanna exhibit, unveiled in its refurbished form in 2011, is home to reticulated guinea fowl, giraffes, impala, zebras, and ostriches.
For something more involved, hop on the Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari to view animals from places like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
The Dallas Zoo also houses the Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park, which has lots of free-falling rides and bungee jumping experiences for people of all ages.
Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203
Website: www.dallaszoo.com
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in Dallas.
It spans a whopping 66 acres, with 19 named gardens and tens upon thousands of gorgeous flora to see. These gardens are interspersed by various beautiful sculptures, too.
One of the most famous gardens is the Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden. It spans 6.5 acres and boasts over 2,000 varieties of azaleas alongside many other types of flowers.
There's also the Palmer Fern Dell, which uses mist sprayers and a babbling brook to offer relief in the summer among mature trees and ferns.
If you have kids, there's the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, complete with a 17-gallery, 8-acre museum!
Don't forget to stop by the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden on Thursdays! Local musicians play in a concert series in the middle of a verdant, lush expanse of vibrant colors.
In February, an event called the Dallas Blooms takes place where over 100 kinds of flowers begin to bloom. This number includes a jaw-dropping 500,000 tulips!
Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
Website: www.dallasarboretum.org
The Dallas World Aquarium is among the most fun and interesting things to do around Dallas.
To be honest, it's more than just an aquarium. It's a non-profit organization packed with aquatic and land animals alike, aiming to preserve threatened and endangered fauna around the world.
There are 87,000 gallons or so of saltwater used in the Dallas World Aquarium and its exhibits.
Ten main aquatic tanks showcase marine animals like groupers, octopi, bonnethead sharks, fish, stingrays, jellyfish, turtles, eels, and seadragons galore.
There's a gorgeous 40-foot tunnel filled with continental aquatic life. Meanwhile, smaller tanks contain sea anemones and coral in countless colors, with smaller creatures darting about.
The Dallas World Aquarium also houses a unique Orinoco Rainforest exhibit. This living rainforest habitat houses toucans, crocodiles, free-flying birds, manatees, poison-dart frogs, three sloths, and vampire bats.
A Mayan exhibit is home to a stealthy ocelot and several Jabiru storks. You may also see flamingos and penguins in other exhibits.
A feeding schedule gives you the chance to watch different animals feed, and lectures and talks provide further education.
Address: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202
Website: www.dwazoo.com
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is an absolute must-see in Dallas. Once upon a time, the building it calls home was the notorious Texas School Book Depository.
Today, it's the site of a renowned institution that showcases various pieces of information on the legacy of President John F. Kennedy. You'll learn about his life and death in a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits.
The Sixth Floor Museum uses artifacts, photographs, and films to chronicle President Kennedy's life and times.
The main permanent exhibit discusses the social and political movements of the 1960s and his presidency throughout it. The timeline ends in 1963, on the day that he was shot.
Among the items you'll see at The Sixth Floor Museum are the Warren Commission's FBI model, a sniper's perch, items belonging to Lee Harvey Oswald, and a Mannlicher-Carcano rifle. There's also a large library and reading room.
Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202
The 561-foot-tall Reunion Tower is a famous and iconic part of Dallas. The glowing orb perched upon it, often called "The Ball" by locals, is a part of the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
It can be seen from a distance at night with its 259 illuminating LEDs. The tower, finished in 1978, is home to the GeO-Deck, a unique way to view the entire city from above!
The GeO-Deck of Reunion Tower features three circular floors. Interactive displays provide more information about the city's landmarks.
There are tons of telescopes available for you to see even further. As you gaze out at the skyline of the city, you'll realize this may be one of the most beautiful places in the US.
The tower also has a rotating level where you can wine and dine at the romantic Five Sixty restaurant.
Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207
Website: www.reuniontower.com
The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the biggest art museums in America. As such, it goes without saying that it's among the top things to do in Dallas, especially for art aficionados.
It fittingly sits in the city's Arts District and in a gorgeous, award-winning building.
Over 24,000 pieces call the Dallas Museum of Art home, with some that date all the way back to the 3rd century.
Works are incredibly diverse, spanning mediums, genres, continents, and centuries. You'll see Asian, African, Mediterranean, European, American, and contemporary works alike.
The European collection is especially popular, with pieces by Renoir, Courbet, van Gogh, Cezanne, and Reeves on display.
The Dallas Museum of Art also has a large non-circulating library of research. The public can access more than 50,000 different volumes of books and journals here.
Regardless of what you plan to do at the museum, you can go on a docent-led tour, attend a gallery talk, or use the museum's smartphone app to navigate.
Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
Website: www.dma.org
White Rock Lake and Park is one of the most beautiful recreational Dallas attractions.
The location spans a whopping 1,250 acres and originally held an important job as a local reservoir.
When that was no longer needed, it was turned into a gorgeous paradise for water activities - like fishing and kayaking - and relaxation.
At White Rock Lake and Park, you can walk around the huge lake through its 9.33-mile loop trail.
You might even see some turtles relaxing on rocks as you stroll, jog, or bike through. Picnickers and birdwatchers love this haven, too!
Address: Dallas, TX
Also Read: 25 Most Beautiful Lakes in the US
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is located in University Park.
Whether you liked the late 43rd President of the United States or not, few can deny that he made a mark on history. This is a must-visit among Dallas attractions for those interested in that history.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum sit on 23 acres of land and boasts 14,000 square feet in its museum.
Admittedly, the library itself is more of a facility for research and less of a tourist attraction, so it's the museum you really want to check out.
Here, you'll learn all about the major events of the President's time in office, from 9/11 to the economic crisis and from education reform to a replica of the Oval Office. There's also a replica of the Decision Points Theater!
Address: 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205
Website: www.bushcenter.org
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is basically three different museums combined. It opened in its combined form in 2012, mixing natural history, science, and children's interests under one gorgeous roof.
With 180,000 square feet of space, 11 exhibition halls, and an eco-friendly, sustainable design, this is one of the best Dallas attractions!
There's a lot of variety in the exhibits at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. The modern building is well-organized, divided into areas by theme.
You can immerse yourself in topics like energy, earth science, engineering, evolution, innovation, and more, with high-tech showcases, games, and stations.
You'll get to feed animals, fly a bird you made yourself, and experience an earthquake simulation!
On top of all of that, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science boasts a 3D theater, a playground, and an overlook perched 54 feet in the area and enclosed in glass.
There are technically other parts of its campus elsewhere in the city, with a planetarium under its name.
Address: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201
Website: www.perotmuseum.org
The Nasher Sculpture Center sits in the bustling Dallas Arts District and is one of the most popular Dallas tourist attractions.
It is home to an impressive collection of various sculptures of contemporary fame, displaying different exhibits throughout the year.
The delightful location connects outdoor, natural garden spaces with the wonders of art. Indoor galleries, meanwhile, feature glazed walls, windows spanning from ceiling to floor, and skylights.
The museum that is the Nasher Sculpture Center opened its doors in 2003. Here, you'll witness works by famous creators like Serra, Matisse, Johns, and Miró in the permanent collection.
Gauguin, Giacometti, Rodin, Calder, Oldenburg, Hepworth, Picasso, and Moore have works showcased in the center.
Temporary, changing exhibits feature architecture, photography, drawings, and installations. There are also plenty of programs and events held on a regular basis, including some dedicated to children.
Address: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
Those who visit Dallas know just how important President John F. Kennedy is to the city. That's exactly why the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza exists.
The plaza is home to an understated but meaningful memorial dedicated to the late president. It was controversial throughout the process of its creation, but it's a beautiful dedication today.
The John F. Kennedy Memorial was inaugurated in 1970 next to the Dallas County Courthouse. It was constructed by Philip Johnson and designed to resemble an open-tomb cenotaph style.
It spans 50 feet in width and 30 feet in height, with big marble slabs and a pair of epitaphs at its entrance.
Over 72 columns of concrete were used to construct the interior walls, and the memorial was approved by Jacquline Kennedy directly.
Address: 646 Main, Dallas, TX 75202
Website: www.jfk.org
Klyde Warren Park is a gorgeous public park covering five acres of ground, spanning across the Woodall Rodgers Freeway.
It functions, to some degree, as a bridge that merges the downtown and uptown while also being one of the greenest sites in Dallas.
The park is beautifully manicured and is a delightful escape from the busy city.
The Klyde Warren Park boasts a paved trail, a dog park, and several fountains for visitors to enjoy. It is also a host to a schedule of daily free-to-attend programs.
These programs include movie screenings, yoga activities, outdoor concerts, boot camps, drumming classes, photography courses, and even book signings.
At lunchtime, food trucks set up shop here, and you can buy a few snacks and sit at some of the many chairs and tables in the park!
Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
Website: www.klydewarrenpark.org
The Dallas Farmers Market is among the best Dallas attractions for shopping enthusiasts.
The wholesale market sells all sorts of items brought in from Mexico, California, and Florida. This is alongside local produce and other vendors from the Dallas area.
At the Dallas Farmers Market, you'll see flowers, vegetables, fruit, farm-fresh produce, and farm-to-table meals and snacks.
An events calendar gives you the chance to sample peanuts, beer, and various other interest delights during special visits and programs.
Address: 920 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
Dallas Heritage Village is the home of the state's biggest collection of 19th-century Victorian and pioneer structures.
It's among the best places to visit in Dallas for history lovers. You'll feel like you're stepping back in time, right in the middle of the modern metropolis of the city!
With walkways covered by trees, Dallas Heritage Village hosts numerous buildings that come from the years between 1840 and 1910.
There are 21 structures here, each one restored impeccably and reflecting the life of Northern Texans at the time.
These buildings, set on 20 acres of land, include a church, hotel, bank, school, saloon, and general store.
Inside each structure, you'll get to view period-appropriate furniture, artifacts, and tools, with roleplaying staff truly bringing you to the past!
Address: 1515 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75215
The Hall of State is an Art Deco-style landmark that is among the best Dallas tourist attractions for architecture enthusiasts.
The regal and opulent building boasts a gorgeous semicircular recess flanked by 23-meter limestone pillars and blue tile bands.
These come together to evoke the bluebonnet, which is the flower of Texas.
The frieze of the Hall of State holds the names of 60 individuals who played a role in the history of Texas.
Inside the building, you'll be able to visit the Hall of Heroes, which has six statues in bronze depicting important parts of the state's past.
Address: 3939 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
The Texas Discovery Gardens, situated in Fair Park, is a 7.5-acre expanse of a botanical garden.
It is maintained throughout the year organically and uses sustainable methods to conserve water and protect the environment around it. For nature-lovers, add this to your list of things to do in Dallas!
The Texas Discovery Gardens are the first of their kind in the state to be 100% organically certified.
A mix of exotic and native plants grow here, carefully grown to withstand the climate of North Texas.
They also serve as habitats for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. A Snakes of Texas exhibit houses 20 different native snake species, too!
The themed gardens at the Texas Discovery Gardens are great for all ages to explore. There's the Faerie Blanton Kilgore Heirloom Rose Garden, which contains fragrant roses of antique origins.
There's the Shakespeare Garden, which has tons of plants that Shakespeare mentioned in his plays alongside a sundial.
And there's the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, a tropical rainforest habitat packed with butterflies!
Address: 3601 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Dallas, TX 75210
Website: www.txdg.org
Thanks-Giving Square is one of the downtown attractions in Dallas. It is an urban garden that is located 15 feet below the level of the street.
The tranquil environment was designed to showcase the giving, compassionate heart of the city and welcomes those of all faiths.
Throughout Thanks-Giving Square, you'll see various artworks and engravings depicting acts and expressions of gratitude and thanksgiving.
There are different locations within the square that each feature a different delightful theme and concept.
There's the Ring of Thanks, which is made with gold and aluminum and spans 14 feet, for example. There's the Court of All Nations to celebrate diversity and the Bell Tower where a bell is rung.
The central feature of Thanks-Giving Square is the Chapel of Thanksgiving, designed after Iraq's Great Mosque.
It is explicitly dedicated to celebrating the unity of different traditions and faiths. The chapel is also home to one of the world's biggest stained-glass windows mounted horizontally, called the Glory Window.
Address: 1627 Pacific Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
Website: www.thanksgiving.org
The Frontiers of Flight Museum is among the best places to visit in Dallas for aviation enthusiasts.
Situated beside the Dallas Love Field Airport, the museum provides a glimpse into aviation history from the 1920s to now. It also pays special attention to the significant role of the local area in aviation.
There are over 30,000 different artifacts in this Smithsonian Affiliate museum, with 13 galleries to explore.
A vast collection of aircraft is displayed throughout this site, including the likes of a Bell 47 helicopter, a Boeing 737, and the Wright Flyer of 1903.
These are just a few of over 30 different vessels on display! If you're interested, you can even try out the Frontiers of Flight Museum's flight trainers.
Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209
Website: www.flightmuseum.com
If you need some vacation ideas in Dallas, you can get an overview of the city via the Katy Trail.
This scenic walk runs for approximately 3.5 miles and joins many different districts in Dallas together.
Away from traffic and almost completely shaded, it's a favorite way to get around the city as a pedestrian.
The Katy Trail is easy to navigate and is ideal for sightseeing. You can hike, jog, bike, or skate your way through it as it winds around different parks and attractions.
You'll get a good idea of some spots to visit and can easily get on and off the trail any time something catches your eye. Bring a dog on a leash if you'd like to.
Address: 3102 Maple Ave Suite 230, Dallas, TX 75201
Pioneer Plaza is one of the more interesting outdoor destinations in Dallas.
Next to the Dallas Convention Center, it is designed to look similar to a 19th-century cattle drive route called the Shawnee Trail.
The ample green space is open and relaxing, a great escape from the bustling business district of Dallas.
Pioneer Plaza has gorgeous limestone cliffs over which a stream falls, and yet that's not the most interesting thing about it.
In fact, the plaza is most known for its 49 bronze sculptures depicting Longhorn cattle of Texas.
These sculptures are barely under two meters in height and have three trail riders accompanying them via bronze statue horseback.
The cattle are shown riding across the plaza, along ridges, cliffs, and trees of North Texas.
Address: 1428 Young St, Dallas, TX 75202
Looking for more things to do in Dallas that revolve around food? You can get both sweet trees and a slice of history via a Dallas by Chocolate tour.
This food tour teaches you about the city's chocolate history and is led by experts in the field. You'll learn all about local chocolate, how it's made, and some fun bits of trivia.
Dallas by Chocolate brings you to many different parts of the city. There are various tours available, lasting for between three and four hours.
You'll ride minibusses to numerous venues, where you'll get to sample delicious chocolate delights!
Address: 4925 Greenville Ave Suite 255, Dallas, TX 75206
NorthPark Center is among the biggest shopping malls in the city and is one of the most popular Dallas attractions for shopaholics.
It sits inside a gorgeous climate-controlled building and has been the biggest of its kind since it opened in 1965.
It was refurbished and updated in the mid-2000s and boasts award-winning architecture. Gardens, artwork, and landscaping all add up to make it even more beautiful.
NorthPark Center hosts more than 235 different stores. There are cafes, bars, boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and more, including numerous luxury brands.
Whether you're there to spend or window shop, you'll have a blast and there's something for everyone.
Address: 8687 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75225
The African American Museum is one of the more intimate, quiet Dallas attractions. Located in Fair Park, it's the Southwest's only museum dedicated to its subject.
It was created in 1974 and is home to numerous historical, artistic, cultural, and traditional exhibits. The museum is relatively small and has its own theater onsite.
At the African American Museum, you'll see historical and political artifacts, traditional African motifs, modern 3D installations, decorative arts, information on cultural icons, photographs, and more.
Rotating exhibits touch on various important topics and intersectionality. You can also attend lectures and educational programs held periodically at the museum.
Address: 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210
Website: www.aamdallas.org
Fearing’s Restaurant is famous in Dallas for its delicious all-American cuisine and impeccable service.
It is a part of the Ritz-Carlton hotel and is run by The Texas Food Bible author Dean fearing.
The celebrity chef has seven different settings in the restaurant that all offer different dining experiences.
There's the glass pavilion of the Sendero, the outdoor fireplace of the Live Oak Bar, the artistry of The Gallery, the open kitchen of Dean's Kitchen, and much more.
Fearing’s Restaurant has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Lunch fare provides the chef's famous tortilla soup and barbecue shrimp tacos.
Dinner fare doesn't require fancy dress and comes with an extensive wine menu, aided by the restaurant's 6,000-bottle cellar. With a space for every occasion and mood, it's a unique, must-try experience.
Address: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
The Latino Cultural Center is one of the best non-profit attractions in Dallas and is stunning to the eye.
Its beautiful architecture was created by Ricardo Legorreta, a famous Mexican architect. Its fountain, tower, plaza, and more are inspired by the traditions of Latin America.
The Latino Cultural Center offers free tours spanning 45 minutes. You'll be wowed by its gallery, sculpture courtyards, 300-seat theater, and more.
Regular events, such as performances, workshops, and storytelling events, add to the variety of things to enjoy here!
Address: 2600 Live Oak St, Dallas, TX 75204
Pecan Lodge is among the most iconic places to go in Dallas when you want a good barbecue.
This restaurant began as nothing more than a humble Farmers Market stall with ridiculously long lines. Now, it's in a whole establishment of its own, with a simple style but a buzzing atmosphere.
Expect to wait for a little for your delicious meal at Pecan Lodge. Patience is rewarded delightfully.
Dishes like The Trough, which contains pork ribs, pulled pork, a beef rib, brisket, and sausage links, satisfy meat lovers quickly. Classic side dishes like collard greens, mac 'n' cheese, and fried okra add more color.
If you'd like something completely different, you can go for the Hot Mess. This is a large sweet potato, crusted with sea salt and topped with butter, chipotle cream, barbacoa, green onions, and cheese.
Desserts are delicious, too, especially iconic fare like peach cobbler and banana pudding. You can be serenaded by live music on some nights as you eat!
Address: 2702 Main, Dallas, TX 75226
The Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is among must-see Dallas attractions for music lovers.
Opened in 1989, it is the seat of the delightful Dallas Symphony Orchestra and is famous for its incredible, brilliant acoustics.
These acoustics are achieved via a shoebox-shaped hall with a reverse fan system in the back. No matter where you are in that hall, you get crystal clear sound and a direct line of sight!
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra's humble 40-member beginnings have led them to the world-renowned class they are today.
The orchestra plays in seasons, so check out their schedule to see what they have going on when you plan to visit.
Address: 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
The McKinney Avenue Trolley is one of the most unique Dallas tourist attractions. It's the city's last streetcar line that remains operational today.
The trolley line runs from the city's downtown to uptown and back again, passing numerous points of interest along the way.
The McKinney Avenue Trolley runs entirely free of charge, supported by local business improvement districts and the rapid-transit authority of Dallas.
You can get off at good spots or just ride the length and enjoy the sightseeing opportunity.
Address: 3153 Oak Grove Ave, Dallas, TX 75204
Meadows Museum is a part of Southern Methodist University. The on-campus location is particularly special among Dallas attractions.
This is because it holds one of the world's biggest Spanish art collections outside of Spain. The museum sits in a 2001 neo-Palladian structure and is often called the Prado on the Prairie.
The small but dramatically designed Meadows Museum hosts work by lesser-known artists and famous ones alike.
You'll see creations by El Greco, Goya, and Velázquez. There are even altarpieces from the Renaissance here, as well as rococo sketches and works by Picasso and Miró. Temporary exhibits add more variety.
Address: 5900 Bishop Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205
Website: www.meadowsmuseumdallas.org
The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum is one of the best free Dallas attractions. It is often referred to by the simpler name of the Samurai Collection.
Located in the Harwood District, this museum houses a wide range of items of Japanese craftsmanship from between the 600s and 1800s.
There are suits of armor, katanas, masks, helmets, horse armor, and weaponry displayed at The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum.
These items were collected by the titular individuals and are now on display for the public. More than 1.3 million visitors have come to view these incredible items since its official opening in 2011!
Address: 2501 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201
Website: www.samuraicollection.org
Foodies looking for things to do in Dallas should try out Gemma Restaurant. The California-inspired, casual establishment is highly popular, serving new American fare.
Its atmosphere is relaxed and its service is known to be excellent, with a good wine list, great cocktails, and a nice seasonal menu.
Gemma Restaurant can be found on Henderson Avenue and serves farm-to-table fare.
Sample grilled Texas quail, baked oysters, brick chicken, pappardelle, and other Napa Valley favorites.
There are also fancier options like grilled striped bass with toasted cashew gremolata and summer beans. Or, perhaps, a wild boar ragu or some braised veal cheeks with black pepper spaetzle and Japanese turnips.
Address: 2323 N Henderson Ave, Suite 109, Dallas, TX 75206
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum opened in 2019 and is a small but very educational institution.
It's one of the key Dallas attractions for history lovers. The original institute was founded in 1977 by Holocaust survivors in the area.
There are three permanent exhibits at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum.
The first is specifically focused on the Holocaust. The second discusses human rights issues framed in the years after the Holocaust. The third, finally, focuses on modern America and how it deals with various human rights issues now.
The museum's exhibits include a European box car, suitcases, and belongings of survivors, Nazi propaganda posters, and video testimonies.
Address: 300 N Houston St, Dallas, TX 75202
Website: www.dhhrm.org
The Museum of Biblical Art was founded in 1966 and was reopened in 2010 following a 2005 fire.
It sits beside the NorthPark Center and contains numerous works of art inspired by the bible.
For those interested in biblical works, this is one of the most exciting attractions in Dallas, welcoming more than 50,000 annual guests.
Despite losing over 2,500 artworks during the aforementioned fire, the Museum of Biblical Art is going strong and opened a new wing in 2014.
You'll find creations by Ben Shahn, Marc Chagall, John Singer Sargent, Andy Warhol, and more.
There are 11 galleries in total, including the European Art Treasury, National Center for Jewish Art, Va Dolorosa Sculpture Garden, and Museum of Holocaust Art.
There are plenty of events, programs, and classes for visitors to engage in too, as well as an Art Conservation Lab onsite.
Address: 7500 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75225
The Crow Museum of Asian Art is one of the best things to do in Dallas if you appreciate art.
Pulling about 80,000 annual visitors, it's home to approximately 4,000 individual items collected by local property tycoon Trammell Crow.
At this museum, you'll find works from India, Japan, China, and Southeast Asian nations.
A gorgeous glass sky bridge between galleries gazes out over a stunning fountain depicting a seated Daoist deity.
Temporary exhibits are set up every once in a while and there's a sculpture garden with 16 contemporary works among Asian flora to explore.
The Crow Museum of Asian Art has three galleries. The first features works from Japan, including prints, ceramics by master creators, and a genuine samurai armor suit.
The second gallery houses Chinese art, including one of the country's biggest jade collections and a number of snuff bottles from the Qing Dynasty.
Finally, the third gallery houses Southeast Asian and Indian works, most of them highly ornate, across two Mughal baradari gazebos.
Address: 2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
The Library Bar in Warwick Melrose Hotel on Oak Lawn Avenue is among the best places to go in Dallas for drinks.
It boasts a full-service bar, with a countertop made from lapis lazuli and romantically candlelit tables.
The Library Bar offers a pretty comprehensive drinks menu, with aperitifs, beers, wines, and cocktails.
Light meals and appetizers are also served, with live entertainment playing in the background on most evenings.
The bar is a favorite among many, earning many honors from different magazines and widely considered among the city's best piano bars.
Address: 3015 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
The Texas Woofus can be found in Fair Park, situated outside Livestock Building No. 2.
It depicts a mythological chimera with some local twists made up of Texas livestock. As such, it uses the head of a sheep, a pair of longhorns of Texas cattle, a pig body, a horse neck and mane, duck wings, and a pig's body.
The original Texas Woofus was made for the Texas Centennial Exposition in 1936. This one is a faithful recreation that doubles as a fountain.
It's one of the more casual Dallas attractions and is something to see for photo ops or as part of a longer sightseeing walk.
Address: 1403 Washington St, Dallas, TX 75210
Mia’s Tex-Mex is a casual eatery serving, as its name suggests, some great Tex-Mex fare.
It opened in 1981 on Lemmon Avenue at Oak Lawn and has since become a favorite of local celebrities and athletes. If you're looking for things to do in Dallas to sate your appetite, you should give it a try.
Mia’s Tex-Mex is a delightful slice of small-town Texas. It's most famous for its brisket tacos, but it's hard to go wrong with pretty much anything on the menu.
The establishment may be no-frills, but its food speaks for itself. There's stuffed poblano, breaded chicken breast with lemon butter sauce, delicious chimichangas, and stuffed quesadillas. Don't forget to order sopapillas, queso, and margaritas.
Address: 4334 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
Website: www.miastexmex.com
Petra and the Beast is among the great spots in Dallas for a unique dining experience.
Sitting in a historic service station in a quiet eastern part of the city, the establishment is quite unique in appearance and concept.
Petra and the Beast is run by an owner and chef who is a charcuterie master and nose-to-tail butcher.
You'll get to sample a delicious board with home-baked bread and a rotating, comforting pasta selection.
Things are low-key for most meals, but weekly tasting events are serious business and require reservations.
Address: 601 N Haskell Ave, Dallas, TX 75246
The Winspear Opera House is among the key spots in Dallas for entertainment and performance.
It's a cultural venue and is among the greatest of its kind in all of the United States.
It houses a whopping 2,200 audience members while maintaining an impressive intimacy thanks to a horseshoe configuration for acoustics and engagement.
The Winspear Opera House is a 21st-century marvel with classic concepts. It boasts a gorgeous 18-meter glass facade and old-fashioned elegance, mixed with all the wonders of modern technology.
The location is designed specifically to elevate musical theatre and opera performances, though stages are also equipped for dance events.
The main performance hall of the Winspear Opera House is called the Margaret McDermott Performance Hall.
It is lavish with balconies draped in gold leaf, a three-square stage with generous rear and side spaces, retractable screens, and over 300 LED rods in a stunning chandelier.
Another hall in the opera house is the 200-seat performance space of the Nancy B. Hamon Hall, home to many different smaller programs.
Address: 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201
Wondering what to do in Dallas for some really good craft beer? Check out Peticolas Brewing Company and its 18-beer, three-level taproom.
Housed inside former warehouses, this is an amazing spot in the Design District of Dallas that mixes industrial style and house-made sumptuous brews.
This includes the incredibly famous Golden Opportunity session beer and the near-legendary Velvet Hammer.
Peticolas Brewing Company has won many awards for its brews. The taproom is known for being awesome for sports fans who watch soccer here regularly.
There are also board games, foosball, shuffleboard tables, and ping pong equipment for those who want to while away some time.
There are some food trucks that stop by outside and staff at Peticolas Brewing Company are happy to order pizza on your behalf. You can also bring your own snacks!
Address: 1301 Pace St, Dallas, TX 75207
Looking for more bizarre attractions in Dallas? You can't go wrong with the Adrian E. Flatt, M.D., Hand Collection.
Housed in the Baylor University Medical Center, you have to give a hand - pun intended - to this unique personal assemblage of bronze casts.
This hand collection was gathered by Dr. Adrian Flatt, an orthopedic surgeon with a specialization in hand surgery.
His interest in hands grew from a purely medical place. He performed his practice by making molds of his patients, allowing him to better plan his surgeries.
But his fixation on hands would slowly grow, and he began making increasingly detailed casts of his fellow surgeon's hands.
In the 1960s, Dr. Flatt began trying to cast celebrities and icons from 20th-century figures. Before long, the likes of Doctor Seuss, Walt Disney, Mickey Mantle, and Dwight Eisenhower had lent their hands (literally) to the collection of bronze models.
Flatt was deeply fascinated by the unique shapes, sizes, and features of different hands and how he could preserve them in his castings.
Over 100 pairs of bronze casts are now a part of the hand collection and can be viewed at their exhibit.
Address: 3500 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, TX 75246
Those who visit Dallas often take day trips out of the city. If that's your plan and you love football, pay a visit to The Star in Frisco!
This impressive 91-acre facility is a landmark and the home of the Dallas Cowboys. It is in this huge indoor 510,000 square-foot stadium that the team practices and trains.
It's also the site of boxing matches, high school football, and hit musical acts.
Tours around The Star in Frisco are led by guides and last about 75 minutes. They're simple, light walking tours that give you a glimpse into the world behind the scenes of the team and sport.
Address: 1 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 7503
Website: www.thestarinfrisco.com
Kenny's Wood Fired Grill is one of the most welcoming places to visit in Dallas for New England cuisine.
Designed like a Chicago-style steakhouse straight out of the 1940s, this great location featured prime-cut meats and seafood that are wood-grilled to perfection.
Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill is in Addison Walk Shopping Center. It's famous for its Steak and Cake, which is a crab cake on top of an 8 oz steak.
Other good courses are homemade mac-n-cheese, clam chowder, and chilled lobster. The restaurant also has a really nice vintage wine list to accompany its fare.
Address: 5000 Belt Line Rd, Suite 775, Dallas, TX 75254
If you're looking for really weird places to go in Dallas, pay a visit to some eccentric sculptures.
The bowler hat sculpture was created by Keith Turman and sits on an empty block between Browder Street and Ervay Street.
The hat was originally commissioned by the owner of a hat shop, meant to sit on top of it. The shop eventually closed down, and the sculpture was moved to where it is now.
It measures 20 feet in width and 10 feet in height and is made from foam, steel, epoxy, fiberglass, and wood.
A few blocks away amid Akard Street, there's an umbrella designed to match it but made by a different artist.
It's across from the Lorenzo Hotel and was actually commissioned by its owner. Measuring 42 feet in height, it's made from fiberglass and is widely considered a bit of an eyesore. That doesn't change the fact that it's iconic, though!
Address: 1506 Griffin St W, Dallas, TX 75215
The National Videogame Museum isn't exactly in Dallas, but it's worth a visit if you've exhausted Dallas attractions and are willing to travel to Frisco.
It's a part of the larger Frisco Discovery Center and hosts a niche collection of more than a hundred thousand different items.
You'll be filled with nostalgia as you wander the National Videogame Museum. There are artifacts, consoles, games, and more, with interactive displays divided into 16 sections.
Each section details a different stage in the development and evolution of video games. Some notable displays are an 80s-themed living room, a mom-and-pop shop set during the video game crash, and a retro arcade where you can play classic games.
Throughout the National Videogame Museum, your eyes will be blessed by beautiful, vibrant murals made by Texan artists.
These murals depict various icons of video game history. The gift shop has a not-for-sale wall of vintage t-shirts with numerous logos and characters.
Address: 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034
A must-see in Dallas and Fort Worth is the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
This is one of the best day trip options from Dallas and is a living museum, paying homage to the Wild West era.
Stagecoaches, walking tours, and Segways all give you different ways to explore this step back into the past.
The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District begins at Stockyard Station. From here, you can go to an old Livestock Exchange building where the Stockyards Museum is held.
The museum is home to countless artifacts and documents from the region's Old West times. Then, there are the Texas Trail of Fame and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Both give you the chance to learn about the icons of Fort Worth's past.
Other notable spots are the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, which is great for children, and the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for a fun ride through history.
You'll also get to watch daily cattle drives, eat at restaurants serving period cowboy fare with modern twists, and watch races and roping at the Cowtown Coliseum.
Address: 131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164
The Texas Theatre is a decent place for some good entertainment, but that's not the main reason it's among Dallas attractions.
It is here that Lee Harvey Oswald was caught after he assassinated President Kennedy.
In the aftermath of Oswald's capture, the theatre tried very hard to separate itself from the event.
It embarked on a series of ill-advised changes, covering its beautiful Venetian architecture with Spanish-style mid-century stucco.
The Texas Theatre was placed on the National Register of Historic Places two years after the Oak Cliff Foundation bought it in 2001.
Its top floor is now the home of showings for art galleries. It's an interesting trip and really gets you thinking about the effects of one incidental impact on the theatre's legacy and direction.
Address: 231 Jefferson Blvd, Dallas, TX 75208
Garden Cafe is located in Old East Dallas and is one of the cozier things to do around Dallas for brunch or breakfast.
It's a great spot for turkey melts, chicken salad sandwiches, meatloaf, and of course, eggs, bacon, and pancakes. Locals love the spot and its relaxing patio and garden.
Garden Cafe uses a farm-to-table model and has been doing so since way before that became the fad.
They grow a lot of their own produce and you can see the very chickens that popped out your eggs waddling around. Daily specials allow you to pick the best day to visit for the meal you want.
Address: 5310 Junius St, Dallas, TX 75214
It's not one of the destinations in Dallas, but the Kimbell Art Museum is worth a day trip to Fort Worth if you're an art aficionado.
It's one of the world's best small museums housed in a building that makes jaws drop. The structure has skylights and vaults as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
The permanent collection of the Kimbell Art Museum features all sorts of masterpieces from across history and genre.
There are works by Rembrandt, El Greco, Picasso, Monet, and others that call it home. For a museum of such modest size, it indeed does have a lot to offer.
A new section of the museum opened at the end of 2013 and called the Piano Pavilion, houses traveling exhibits, European art, and Asian art collections.
Address: 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Website: www.kimbellart.org
If you've exhausted your list of what to do in Dallas, take a trip out to Frisco and visit the beautiful Texas Sculpture Garden.
It spans four acres and is home to more than 40 contemporary artistic sculptures by various renowned local artists.
A free audio tour, self-guided, is available via the OtoCast smartphone application. A lot of the tour narration is done by the artists of each work!
The Texas Sculpture Garden offers three different routes to take. Each one runs for just about less than 2 miles.
The yellow route is the most scenic, bringing you through fountains, wooded portions, and ponds.
The blue and red routes are enjoyable too, of course, and all of the walkways are nicely shaded and easy to navigate. You can stop at picnic tables to eat a snack or two, too!
Address: 6801 Gaylord Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034
Website: www.texassculpturegarden.org
There are countless things to do in Dallas, each one promising an excellent learning experience with lots of fun thrown into the mix.
No matter which Dallas attractions pique your curiosity, you're sure to have a great time.
Museums, art galleries, sports stadiums, performance spaces, parks, and restaurants come together into a truly incredible travel experience!
With its rich legacy, vibrant culture, and friendly hospitality, Dallas is a fantastic city for guests and tourists from across the world.
