We all know Texas does things in a big way, especially in Dallas, where its convention center contains one million square feet of exhibit space – one of the largest in the world. Well, that kind of thinking – doing things in a big way – is also evident throughout the surrounding community, where planners will find a long list of world-class attractions to recommend to their group members with free time to spend. These activities range from the normal, like shopping at Neiman Marcus (top on my list), to the extraordinary – like visiting a three-level rainforest, feeding a group of friendly elephants, or spying on a colony of penguins. Here, there are all sorts of options that will turn an ordinary afternoon into something special and create everlasting memories as well. To make it easy for you, our friends at Visit Dallas, the city’s destination management organization, have created an extensive list of 30 such things to see and do and, to get you started, here are 10 of them. You’ll find the complete list at www.visitdallas.com.
10 Texas-Size Things To Do in Dallas
Art aficionados will love exploring this walkable, vibrant cultural enclave, which spans 20 city blocks and is filled with a diverse mix of acclaimed museums, theaters, and galleries — many of which are also listed below. Not to be missed are the restaurants and food trucks serving up international culinary creations that are artistic in their own right.
Ignite your curiosity through hands-on exhibits and immersive displays at this family-friendly museum that invites visitors to explore natural wonders, prehistoric beasts, scientific breakthroughs, and technological innovations throughout world history. Catch a show in their 3D theater to experience otherworldly experiences, like walking among dinosaurs and swimming through the depths of the ocean. TIP: For a complete museum experience, ride their exterior “T. Rexcalator” to the top floor, then work your way down to street level, passing through each exhibit along the way.
Concert venues, cocktail bars, boutique shops, and some of Dallas’ most popular restaurants call this hip neighborhood home. Once a warehouse district, this cultural corridor now beckons with colorful murals as live music reverberates into the streets from bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, creating one of the city’s most lively and diverse communities.
This popular, family-friendly attraction has been educating visitors on global wildlife and the world’s precious ecosystems for over three decades. Travel the world as you pass through distinct habitats buzzing, chirping, and squawking with wildly diverse animal species, including a rainforest that spans three levels and a South African exhibit home to frogs, chameleons, and the fan-favorite penguins.
Immerse yourself in a journey spanning 5,000 years of art as you wander through the captivating collections of this museum. Traverse several floors and galleries, discovering the art pieces of legendary artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, and Georgia O’Keefe. Delight in the creativity of local artists, showcasing their creativity alongside renowned names. Revel in the museum’s cutting-edge and interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the chance to take Instagram-worthy pictures of the museum’s modernist architecture, capturing the expansiveness of its atmosphere.
Step into an Alice-in-Wonderland retreat away from city life, where you’ll picnic in a tranquil sanctuary that gives way to the embrace of lush greenery. The 66-acre grounds boast vivid floral displays and bright waterfront vistas, making a serene ambiance that creates a soothing experience for every visitor. Enjoy the arboretum’s diverse plant collections and themed gardens, which showcase native Texas plants and extraordinary species from around the globe.
Embark on a sweeping and grand shopping experience across nine stories in this historic department store. Discover renowned designer brands and find stylish luxuries that are boasted on every floor of the building. Find items from world-famous designers such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. Feeling peckish between shopping trips? Head over to the Zodiac, a refined lunch spot that’s famous for its rich flavors and its scrumptious dessert, the Mandarin Orange Soufflé.
Watch the Dallas Cowboys play at this stadium which is famous for experiences such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, world-class soccer matches, and live music concerts. You don’t want to miss hearing the roar of the crowd during a thrilling game at this stadium. Get tickets and don your sports jersey while walking through this spacious, modern marvel. See the modern art that lives inside the walls of the stadium, displaying geometric and innovative works that capture the eye.
Hockey and basketball fans will love catching a game at this arena which is home to the NHL’s Dallas Stars and NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. Sporting events and live entertainment concerts offer thrilling memories in this arena. Grab a comfortable seat that gives sweeping views of a game or concert. Groove to a song with immersive and state-of-the-art audio systems. Discover why this arena attracts concerts from performers such as Bruce Springsteen, Post Malone, and Kevin Hart, and enjoy an energetic atmosphere during a sporting game.
Discover an array of animal species from around the globe and capture family memories from the zoo’s attractions. The zoo is home to hundreds of animals, including elephants, gorillas, penguins, and other wildlife. Feed the giraffes and meet a diverse range of critters up close. Walk through engaging exhibits and interactives about wildlife conservation. Feeling hungry while strolling through the zoo’s grounds? Grab a bite to eat at multiple dining locations with mouthwatering meal options.
Reminder: Log onto www.visitdallas.com for the complete list and start planning your next expedition.
