24 Things to Do in Dallas—The Ultimate Guide

From the moment you hear a friendly “y’all,” you’ll feel the unmistakable spirit of Dallas, a city where bold innovation meets deep-rooted Texas charm. Towering skylines, historic neighborhoods, buzzing arts scenes, and some of the best brisket you’ll ever taste all come together in one dynamic destination.

Whether you’re wandering through museums, catching a rooftop sunset, or cheering on the home team, Dallas offers a rich blend of culture, flavor, and fun for every kind of traveler.

This guide brings you the top experiences across the city, from iconic landmarks to lively neighborhoods and standout events, plus delightful Sonesta stays that make the perfect starting point for your Dallas getaway.

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Must-See Dallas Landmarks

Dallas wears its history and ambition on full display and nowhere is that more evident than in its most iconic landmarks. These cultural touchstones capture the city’s spirit, from pivotal moments in American history to bold architecture and world-class art collections.

1. Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Step into a defining moment in American history at the Sixth Floor Museum, located in the former Texas School Book Depository.

The museum offers a powerful tribute to President John F. Kennedy through multimedia exhibits, historic artifacts, and panoramic views of Dealey Plaza below.

• Tickets: Around $18 for adults and $14 for youth (ages 6–18)
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Book tickets in advance to skip the line. Visit midweek for fewer crowds, and plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours. Parking is available nearby for approximately $10–$15. Sonesta offers a range of comfortable stays near the Sixth Floor Museum.
• Map It: Sixth Floor Museum Location

2. Reunion Tower

Easily spotted on the Dallas skyline, Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck provides 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

Day or night, the observation deck is a favorite for first-time visitors and photographers alike.

• Tickets: Approximately $19 to $24 per person
• Hours: Daily from 12 PM to 8 PM (hours may vary slightly by season)
• Planning Tip: Book a timed entry online and visit just before sunset to enjoy both daytime and nighttime views. Combine your visit with the Sixth Floor Museum for a full morning in the area. Several Sonesta hotels are located just a short drive or train ride away.
• Map It: Reunion Tower Location

Reunion Tower glows above the Dallas skyline, offering 360° views and unforgettable photo ops day or night.

3. Dallas Museum of Art

A cornerstone of the Dallas Arts District, the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) houses over 24,000 works of art from across centuries and cultures.

From ancient artifacts to bold contemporary pieces, the museum offers something for every art lover.

• Tickets: Free general entry; special exhibitions typically $10 to $15
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM (until 9 PM on Thursdays)
• Planning Tip: Take DART to the St. Paul Station on the Red or Blue Line for easy access. Visit on Thursday evenings or First Sundays for extended hours and free programming. Discover a range of cozy Sonesta stays near the DMA.
• Map It: Dallas Museum of Art Location

Family-Friendly Fun for All Ages

In Dallas, family time is anything but ordinary. The city’s kid-friendly attractions blend fun and learning in ways that keep everyone, from toddlers to teens, engaged.

With hands-on science, exotic wildlife, and immersive environments, these spots make trip planning easy and exciting.

4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

A favorite among young explorers, the Perot Museum invites curiosity with towering dinosaur skeletons, interactive engineering challenges, and immersive space exhibits. The building itself is a modern marvel, with five floors of discovery.

• Tickets: Around $20 for adults and $13 for children (ages 2–11)
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Arrive early to beat the school groups and weekend crowds. The museum is stroller-friendly and has a dedicated children’s museum on the lower level. Explore a range of family-friendly Sonesta stays near the Perot Museum.
• Map It: Perot Museum Location

5. Dallas Zoo

Spanning 106 acres, the Dallas Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals. The Giants of the Savanna exhibit lets visitors see elephants, giraffes, and zebras share a sprawling habitat.

Kids especially love the chance to feed giraffes and ride the Wilds of Africa monorail.

• Tickets: Around $22 for adults and $18 for children (ages 3–11)
• Hours: Open daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Weekday mornings are best for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Bring sunscreen, wear comfy shoes, and check for animal encounter times when you arrive. Several Sonesta hotels are just a short drive away, offering convenient comfort after a day at the zoo.
• Map It: Dallas Zoo Location

Giraffes roam the Giants of the Savanna habitat at the Dallas Zoo, one of the largest and most immersive exhibits of its kind in the country.

6. Dallas World Aquarium

This walk-through rainforest and aquarium is a hit with families for its mix of sloths, toucans, manatees, sharks, and jellyfish, all under one roof.

The multi-level layout makes it feel like an urban jungle, packed with surprises around every corner.

• Tickets: Around $27 for adults and $19 for children (ages 2–12)
• Hours: Open daily, 8:30 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Purchase tickets online for timed entry and avoid peak mid-afternoon crowds. Allow 1–2 hours for your visit, and keep in mind that weekends can get tight for strollers. For easy access to the aquarium, explore Sonesta accommodations nearby.
• Map It: Dallas World Aquarium Location

Giraffes roam the Giants of the Savanna habitat at the Dallas Zoo, one of the largest and most immersive exhibits of its kind in the country.

Discovering Dallas’s Unique Neighborhoods

Dallas is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm, flavor, and personality. From creative enclaves and historic districts to sleek urban corridors, these areas reflect the city’s diversity and evolving energy.

7. Deep Ellum

One of Dallas’s most iconic creative hubs, Deep Ellum is packed with live music venues, colorful murals, and buzzing breweries.

The area’s industrial roots now fuel its indie energy, making it a magnet for night owls and art lovers alike.

• Planning Tip: Head over in the evening for live shows at venues like The Bomb Factory or Three Links. Street parking runs about $5–$10, or take DART’s Green Line to the Baylor University Medical Center station. Discover Sonesta stays near Deep Ellum.
• Map It: Deep Ellum Location

The iconic Deep Ellum sign marks the entrance to one of Dallas’s most creative and music-filled neighborhoods, known for its street art, live venues, and local flavor.

8. Bishop Arts District

Charming and walkable, Bishop Arts blends small-town vibe with a trendy twist. The district is lined with indie boutiques, art galleries, and beloved spots like Emporium Pies and Wild Detectives bookstore bar.

• Planning Tip: Visit during the Oak Cliff Art Crawl or weekend markets for the most vibrant atmosphere. Free street parking is limited, so plan to arrive early or use rideshare.
• Map It: Bishop Arts District Location

9. Uptown

Uptown Dallas is polished, energetic, and effortlessly stylish. McKinney Avenue is the heart of it all, lined with upscale restaurants, rooftop lounges, and boutiques. The free M-Line Trolley adds a touch of vintage charm to your evening out.

• Planning Tip: Ideal for dinner and a walk, especially in the cooler months. Take the DART Green Line to Cityplace/Uptown station, or park in nearby garages ($8–$12).
• Map It: Uptown Dallas Location

Savoring Dallas’s Food and Nightlife Scene

The Dallas dining scene is bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in both tradition and trend. As day turns to night, the city hums with the energy of packed patios, smoky barbecue pits, rooftop lounges, and cocktail spots that carry conversations well into the evening.

10. Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum)

This award-winning smokehouse has earned a cult following for its melt-in-your-mouth brisket, dry-rub ribs, and Southern sides served in generous portions. It is one of Dallas’s most beloved barbecue joints, and the line out the door proves it.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 9 PM
• Planning Tip: Arrive before 11:30 AM to beat the lunch rush. If visiting with a group, try “The Trough,” a sampler built for sharing. Note that they do not take reservations.
• Map It: Pecan Lodge Location

 

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11. HG Sply Co. (Lower Greenville)

With a buzzy rooftop and panoramic views of the Dallas skyline, HG Sply Co. is a local favorite for cocktails, seasonal plates, and vibrant energy. It blends clean-eating with comfort food and is known for its lively weekend crowd.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 10 PM (later on weekends)
• Planning Tip: Rooftop tables fill up fast on Fridays and Saturdays. Make a reservation if you’re arriving after 7 PM and consider rideshare to avoid the tight parking scene on Greenville Avenue.
• Map It: HG Sply Co. Location

12. The Original El Fenix (Downtown)

A Dallas staple since 1918, El Fenix is widely considered the birthplace of Tex-Mex.

Known for its legendary enchiladas and signature margaritas, it remains a favorite for locals and visitors craving a classic experience.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 10 PM
• Planning Tip: The flagship location on McKinney Avenue is a quick walk from the Arts District and ideal for a casual lunch or dinner before a show.
• Map It: El Fenix Location

13. Knife (Uptown)

Helmed by celebrity chef John Tesar, Knife reimagines the traditional steakhouse with dry-aged cuts, bold sides, and a sleek, modern vibe. It is a go-to for special occasions or a splurge-worthy night out.

• Hours: Open daily, 5 PM to 10 PM (later on weekends)
• Planning Tip: Book in advance for dinner and ask about the dry-aged tasting. The restaurant is located inside The Highland Dallas, making it a convenient pick for Uptown and Park Cities guests.
• Map It: Knife Location

14. Midnight Rambler (Downtown Dallas)

Located beneath The Joule Hotel, this underground cocktail lounge blends vintage sophistication with a downtown edge.

Expect creative drinks, ambient lighting, and an evolving playlist that transitions from chill to lively as the night progresses.

• Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 5 PM to 2 AM
• Planning Tip: Arrive before 9 PM for easier seating. Great for a nightcap after dinner or to start an upscale evening downtown.
• Map It: Midnight Rambler Location

15. The Rustic (Uptown)

Equal parts backyard bar, restaurant, and live music venue, The Rustic is where locals go to unwind under the stars.

Expect Southern-style eats, Texas beers, and nightly performances on the open-air stage.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to midnight or later
• Planning Tip: Check the event calendar for free concerts. Arrive early for seating on the patio and come hungry, portions are generous.
• Map It: The Rustic Location

Outdoor Adventures and Green Spaces

Step outside and you’ll see a different side of Dallas, one where locals picnic under skyline views, jog along leafy trails, and wander through gardens that change with the seasons.

The city’s outdoor spaces are just as lively as its streets, offering room to move, explore, and slow down.

16. Klyde Warren Park

Built above a freeway and in the heart of downtown, this 5.2-acre green space is a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It hosts food trucks, yoga sessions, movie nights, and free public events nearly every week.

• Hours: Open daily, 7 AM to 11 PM
• Planning Tip: Ideal for a midday break or an early evening visit. Parking can be tight, so check nearby garages or walk from Arts District venues. Sonesta operates several hotels near Klyde Warren Park.
• Map It: Klyde Warren Park Location

 

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17. Katy Trail

Winding through Uptown and Knox-Henderson, this 3.5-mile paved trail is a go-to for joggers, cyclists, and casual walkers. It’s surrounded by shaded areas, skyline views, and quick detours to nearby cafes and patios.

• Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Planning Tip: Visit in the morning for cooler temps and fewer crowds. Bike rentals are available nearby, usually starting at around $15 per hour. For convenient access to Katy Trail, explore Sonesta hotels nearby.
• Map It: Katy Trail Location

18. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

With 66 acres of manicured gardens overlooking White Rock Lake, the Arboretum is a standout for nature lovers.

Seasonal events like Dallas Blooms and Autumn at the Arboretum turn the landscape into a living work of art.

• Tickets: Around $20 for adults and $12 for children
• Hours: Open daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Book tickets in advance during spring and fall festivals. The grounds are expansive, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
• Map It: Dallas Arboretum Location

 

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Quirky and Instagram-Worthy Experiences

Dallas has its share of head-turning surprises. Between oversized sculptures, neon-lit art rooms, and dinner with knights in armor, these offbeat attractions deliver unexpected moments and scroll-stopping photo ops.

19. Giant Eyeball Sculpture (Downtown)

This towering 30-foot eyeball sculpture peers out from a private garden near Main Street and has become one of the city’s most recognizable art installations. It is free to view and easy to spot while exploring downtown.

• Planning Tip: Best viewed in daylight and easy to pair with nearby coffee shops or a museum visit. There is no admission, but it is for outside viewing only.
• Map It: Giant Eyeball Location

The “Eye” sculpture in downtown Dallas is a 30-foot-tall fiberglass installation that has become one of the city’s most surreal and photographed landmarks.

20. Sweet Tooth Hotel (Victory Park)

Part museum, part immersive playground, Sweet Tooth Hotel features rotating art installations designed for photos, interaction, and whimsy.

Think candy-colored rooms, LED tunnels, and surreal backdrops you can step right into.

• Tickets: Around $25 per person
• Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11 AM to 9 PM
• Planning Tip: Book timed-entry tickets online to secure your preferred slot. Allow about an hour to explore. Tripods and large cameras are not permitted, but smartphones are welcome.
• Map It: Sweet Tooth Hotel Location

 

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21. Medieval Times (Northwest Dallas)

At this immersive dinner show, guests cheer on armored knights as they battle on horseback, complete with falconry, swordplay, and a four-course feast served without utensils. It is dramatic, nostalgic, and surprisingly fun for all ages.

• Tickets: Around $65 for adults, $45 for children
• Hours: Shows typically start at 7 PM
• Planning Tip: Book early for weekend shows and check for group or seasonal discounts. Costumes are encouraged but optional.
• Map It: Medieval Times Dallas Location

Dallas’s Can’t-Miss Events and Festivals

Dallas knows how to throw a party. The city’s events calendar is packed with color, music, tradition, and over-the-top flair.

Whether you are visiting for spring blooms, a neighborhood arts fest, or classic Texas fairground fun, these seasonal highlights are worth building your trip around.

22. State Fair of Texas (September-October)

Held at Fair Park, this legendary fair is one of the largest in the country.

Expect towering corndogs, carnival rides, nightly concerts, and of course, a giant Big Tex waving you in.

• Tickets: Around $25 for adults
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 9 PM
• Planning Tip: Book your tickets and parking online to avoid lines. Fair Park is served by the DART Green Line, and nearby accommodations help you skip traffic altogether.
• Map It: State Fair of Texas Venue

23. Dallas Blooms (February-April)

Each spring, the Dallas Arboretum transforms into a living tapestry with over 500,000 blooming flowers.

Themed displays, garden tours, and weekend activities make this a seasonal favorite for families and photographers.

• Tickets: Around $20 per person
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds. Pack a picnic or grab lunch from the on-site café to enjoy on the lawn.
• Map It: Dallas Blooms Venue

24. Deep Ellum Arts Festival (April)

This free weekend event turns Deep Ellum into an open-air gallery with hundreds of local artists, live bands, and food vendors lining the streets. It celebrates the neighborhood’s creative energy and community vibe.

• Admission: Free
• Hours: Friday through Sunday, exact hours vary by day
• Planning Tip: Parking fills up quickly, so take DART or use a rideshare. Check the official lineup for stage schedules and artist booths worth seeing.
• Map It: Deep Ellum Arts Festival Venue

Practical Tips for Your Dallas Getaway

Smart planning makes all the difference in a city as spread out and sunny as Dallas. These quick reminders can help you stay comfortable and avoid common snags.

• Expect strong sun year-round: Even in cooler months, Dallas skies are often clear. Pack sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Plan for temperature swings: Indoor spaces are heavily air-conditioned, especially in summer. Bring a light layer.
• Use rideshare for nightlife: Parking can be tight near bars and restaurants, and some areas are easier to reach without a car.
• Make a dinner plan: Dallas locals love to eat out. Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
• Know your airport routes: DFW and Love Field are on opposite sides of the metroplex. Factor in extra time if you’re crossing the city.
• Hydrate often: Dallas weather can be drier than expected, especially in warmer months. Keep a refillable water bottle on hand.
• Tipping is standard: In restaurants and bars, 18–20% is customary for good service.

Where to Stay in Dallas

Sonesta offers a range of delightful stays in Dallas, whether you’re here for a weekend of concerts and culture, catching a game, or mixing business with a little leisure.

From upscale retreats to homelike, all-suite properties, Sonesta accommodations are designed to delight every kind of traveler.

Plus, with the Sonesta Travel Pass, our award-winning loyalty program, you can earn points, unlock perks, and make every stay go further.