24 Things to Do in Dallas—The Ultimate Guide

You’ll sense Dallas’s distinct character as soon as you hear the warm “y’all.” This is a city where audacious innovation blends with traditional Texas charm. One vibrant location combines towering skylines, historic neighborhoods, colorful arts scenes, and some of the greatest brisket you’ll ever taste.

Dallas has a diverse range of culture, cuisine, and entertainment for all types of tourists, whether they are exploring museums, watching a rooftop sunset, or supporting their hometown team.

From famous sites to lesser-known nooks and noteworthy events, this guide offers you the best experiences throughout the city, including the Sonesta stays that are the ideal place to start your Dallas vacation.

🛎️ Start Your Dallas Adventure with Sonesta Hotels

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

The Sixth Floor Museum, which used to be the Texas School Book Depository, is where you can step into a defining moment in American history.

The museum pays a moving tribute to President John F. Kennedy with multimedia displays, historical artifacts, and views of Dealey Plaza from above.

• Tickets: Adults pay about $18 for a ticket, and kids (ages 6 to 18) pay about $14.
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Tip for Planning: 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

You can see Reunion Tower from a long way away in Dallas. Its GeO-Deck gives you 360-degree views of the city.

The observation deck is a popular spot for both first-time visitors and photographers, day or night.

• Tickets: About $19 to $24 per person for tickets
• Hours: Every day from 12 PM to 8 PM (hours may change a little depending on the season)
• Tip for Planning: Make a timed reservation online and go just before sunset to see both day and night views. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum as well to spend a whole morning in the area. There are a few Sonesta hotels that are only 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

The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) is a key part of the Dallas Arts District. It has more than 24,000 works of art from different cultures and time periods.

The museum has something for every art lover, from ancient artifacts to modern works of art.

• Tickets: Entry is free for everyone, but special exhibitions usually cost $10 to $15.
• Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM (until 9 PM on Thursdays)
• Tip for Planning: It’s easy to get to the St. Paul Station on the Red or Blue Line by DART. On Thursday nights and the first Sunday of every month, you can come for longer 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 attractions for kids are fun and educational, so kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens, will enjoy them.

4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Young explorers love the Perot Museum because it has huge dinosaur skeletons, interactive engineering challenges, and space exhibits that make you feel like you’re in space. There are five floors of discovery in the building itself, which is a modern marvel.

• Tickets: Adults pay about $20, and kids (ages 2 to 11) pay about $13.
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM; Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM
• Tip for Planning: Get there early to avoid the school groups and weekend crowds. The museum is easy to get around with a stroller, and there is a 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

The Dallas Zoo spans 106 acres and has more than 2,000 animals living there. The Giants of the Savanna exhibit shows how elephants, giraffes, and zebras all live together in a large area.

Kids love being able to feed giraffes and ride the Wilds of Africa monorail.

• Tickets cost about $22 for adults and $18 for kids ages 3 to 11.
• Hours: Open daily, 9 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Weekday mornings are best because the weather is cooler and there aren’t as many people. When you get there, check for animal encounter times, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen. There are several Sonesta hotels just a short drive away, offering convenience and 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

Families love this walk-through rainforest and aquarium because it has sloths, toucans, manatees, sharks, and jellyfish all in one place.

The multi-level design makes it feel like a city jungle, with surprises around every corner.

• Tickets cost about $27 for adults and $19 for kids (ages 2–12).
• Hours: Open daily, 8:30 AM to 5 PM
• Planning Tip: Buy tickets online to get in at a set time and avoid the crowds in the middle of the afternoon. Plan on spending one to two hours there, and remember that weekends can be busy for strollers. Look into Sonesta hotels near the aquarium for easy access.
• 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

Each neighborhood in Dallas has its own rhythm and personality. Here, you’ll find creative enclaves, historic districts, and sleek urban corridors, each reflecting the city’s diversity and evolving energy.

7. Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is one of Dallas’s most famous creative neighborhoods. It has a lot of live music venues, colorful murals, and busy breweries.

The area’s industrial past is what gives it its indie energy now, which draws in both night owls and art lovers.

• Tip for Planning: Go in the evening to see live shows at places like The Bomb Factory or Three Links. You can park on the street for $5 to $10, or you can 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

Bishop Arts is a charming, walkable neighborhood that combines a small-town feel with a modern twist. There are indie boutiques, art galleries, and popular places like Emporium Pies and the Wild Detectives bookstore bar all over the district.

• Tip for Planning: Go during the Oak Cliff Art Crawl or on the weekend when there are markets for the most lively atmosphere. There isn’t much free street parking, so plan to get there early or use a ride-sharing service.
• Map It: Bishop Arts District Location

9. Uptown

Uptown Dallas is polished, lively, and always looks good. The center of it all is McKinney Avenue, which is home to high-end restaurants, rooftop lounges, and shops. The free M-Line Trolley gives your night out a vintage feel.

• Tip for Planning: It’s great for dinner and a walk, especially in the winter. You can take the DART Green Line to Cityplace/Uptown station or park in nearby garages for $8 to $12.
• Map It: Uptown Dallas Location

Savoring Dallas’s Food and Nightlife Scene

The restaurants in Dallas are bold and deeply rooted in both tradition and fashion. When the sun goes down, the city is alive with the sounds of crowded patios, smoky barbecue pits, rooftop lounges, and cocktail bars that keep people talking late into the night.

10. Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum)

This award-winning smokehouse has a huge fan base because its brisket, dry-rub ribs, and Southern sides are so good and served in big portions. The line out the door shows that this is one of Dallas’s most popular barbecue places.

• 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 (though policies may change).
• Map It: Pecan Lodge Location

 

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11. HG Sply Co. (Lower Greenville)

HG Sply Co. is a local favorite for cocktails, seasonal dishes, and a lively atmosphere. It has a buzzing rooftop and great views of the Dallas skyline. It combines healthy eating with comfort food, and on weekends it gets a lot of people.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to 10 PM (later on weekends)
• Tip for Planning: 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)

El Fenix is thought to be the birthplace of Tex-Mex. It has been a Dallas staple since 1918.

Visitors love it for its famous enchiladas and signature margaritas. It’s still a favorite for locals and tourists who want a classic experience.

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

13. Knife (Uptown)

Celebrity chef John Tesar runs Knife, which is a modern take on the classic steakhouse with dry-aged cuts, bold sides, and a sleek, modern look.

It’s a great place to go for special events or a night out that you can really enjoy.

• Hours: Open daily, 5 PM to 10 PM (later on weekends)
• Tip for Planning: 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)

This underground cocktail lounge is under The Joule Hotel. It mixes old-school style with a downtown edge.

Expect drinks that are creative, lighting that changes, and a playlist that goes from relaxing to lively as the night goes on.

• Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 5 PM to 2 AM
• Tip for Planning: 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)

The Rustic is a backyard bar, restaurant, and live music venue all in one. It’s where locals go to relax under the stars.

Expect Southern food, Texas beers, and performances every night on the open-air stage.

• Hours: Open daily, 11 AM to midnight or later
• Tip for Planning: 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

If you go outside, you’ll see a different side of Dallas, where people have picnics with views of the skyline, jog along leafy trails, and walk through gardens that change with the seasons.

The city’s parks and other outdoor areas are just as busy as its streets, giving you space to move around, explore, and relax.

16. Klyde Warren Park

This 5.2-acre green space is a popular place for both locals and tourists to hang out. It’s located above a freeway and in the middle of downtown. It has food trucks, yoga classes, movie nights, and free public events almost every week.

• Hours: Open daily, 7 AM to 11 PM
• Planning Tip: This is a great place to take a break in the middle of the day or visit in the early evening. There may not be enough parking, so look for garages nearby or walk to Arts District venues. Sonesta operates several hotels near Klyde Warren Park.
• Map It: Klyde Warren Park Location

 

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17. Katy Trail

This paved trail is 3.5 miles long and goes through Uptown and Knox-Henderson. It’s a popular place for joggers, cyclists, and casual walkers. There are shaded areas, views of the skyline, and quick trips to nearby cafes and patios all around it.

• Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Planning Tip: Go in the morning when it’s cooler and there are fewer people. You can rent bikes nearby, and they usually cost about $15 an hour. Check out Sonesta hotels nearby for easy access to Katy Trail.
• Map It: Katy Trail Location

18. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The Arboretum is a great place for nature lovers because it has 66 acres of beautifully manicured gardens that look out over White Rock Lake.

Dallas Blooms and Autumn at the Arboretum are two seasonal events that make the landscape look like a living work of art.

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

 

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Quirky and Instagram-Worthy Experiences

There are some surprising things in Dallas that will make you look twice.

These unusual attractions have huge sculptures, art rooms with neon lights, and dinner with knights in armor. They also have unexpected moments and Instagrammable opportunities that will make your followers stop scrolling.

19. Giant Eyeball Sculpture (Downtown)

This 30-foot-tall eyeball sculpture looks out from a private garden near Main Street and is now one of the city’s most famous pieces of art. You can easily see it while walking around downtown, and it’s free to look at.

• Planning Tip: It’s best to see it during the day, and it’s easy to combine with a trip to a nearby coffee shop or museum. You can’t go inside, but you can look at it from the outside.
• 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)

Sweet Tooth Hotel is part museum and part immersive playground. It has rotating art installations that are meant for photos, interaction, and fun.

Imagine rooms painted in bright colors, LED tunnels, and strange backgrounds that you can walk right into.

• Tickets: Around $25 per person
• Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11 AM to 9 PM
• Planning Tip: Buy timed-entry tickets online to make sure you get the time you want. Take about an hour to look around. You can’t bring tripods or big cameras, but you can bring your phone.
• Map It: Sweet Tooth Hotel Location

 

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21. Medieval Times (Northwest Dallas)

At this interactive dinner show, guests cheer on armored knights as they fight on horseback. There is falconry, swordplay, and a four-course meal served without utensils. It has a lot of drama, makes you feel nostalgic, and is surprisingly fun for everyone.

• 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 have a good time. The city’s calendar of events is full of color, music, tradition, and over-the-top style.

These seasonal highlights are worth planning your trip around, whether you’re going to see the spring flowers, an arts festival in the neighborhood, or classic Texas fairground fun.

22. State Fair of Texas (September-October)

This famous fair, which takes place at Fair Park, is one of the biggest in the country.

You can expect huge corndogs, carnival rides, concerts every night, 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)

The Dallas Arboretum becomes a living tapestry with over 500,000 blooming flowers every spring.

Families and photographers love this place in the summer because of its themed displays, garden tours, and weekend events.

• 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 honors the neighborhood’s creative spirit and sense of community.

• Admission: Free to get in
• 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 a lot of sun year-round: Even in cooler months, Dallas skies are often clear. Pack sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Plan for temperature swings: Indoor spaces are very air-conditioned, especially in the summer. Put on a light layer.
• Use rideshare for nightlife: It can be hard to find parking near bars and restaurants, and some places are easier to get to 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 city. If you’re going across the city, give yourself more time.
• 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.