This bustling Texas metropolis is the perfect getaway for the whole family. You’ll find modern art museums, impressive parks, manicured gardens, and even football games. There are tons of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for a family outing. Here are some of the fun things to do in Dallas with kids.
1. Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo has been in existence since 1888 when it had only two mountain lions and two deer. It is now the largest zoo in Texas with over 2000 animals on 106 acres. Some of the outstanding exhibits include the Simmons Hippo Outpost, the Giants of the Savanna habitat, The Koala Walkabout, and the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo. Here you can see lions, warthogs, hippos, zebras, giraffes, elephants, and all sorts of birds.
2. Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The world-class Arboretum and Botanical Garden is located on White Rock Lake not too far from downtown. It is ideal for those days you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Set of 66 acres of lush gardens, it features an 8-acre Adventure Garden where kids can take part in all sorts of activities including science labs, crafts and story time. This is both fun and educational. The Family Overnight experience program allows families to take part in a night hike and spend the night at the Exploration Center.
3. Dallas World Aquarium
Want to have an adventure in saltwater and freshwater ecosystems? The Dallas World Aquarium is the perfect destination. It is located in the West End Historic District. You’ll be taken through the rainforest by a tour guide where you will see toucans, crocodiles, and monkeys. You’ll also see the mantees, freshwater fish, and turtles in the river. At the salt water aquarium, you will see sea dragons, crabs, and other marine life. You’ll walk through the 22000-gallon tunnel. Make sure to check out the outdoor South African lagoon, the Mundo Maya exhibit and the walk-through cenote that’s filled with sharks. This is one of the things to do in Dallas with kids.
4. Museums
Dallas has a variety of world class museums that are a perfect getaway for the whole family. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a great option. It is a five-floor library of mathematical concepts, scientific evidences, and natural history. It’s a great way to pique the curiosity of your kids and stimulate their brains. If you have toddlers, make sure to visit the Moody Family Children’s museum meant for kids under the age of 5. The Dallas Museum of Art is another excellent option. The institution has been hosting global exhibits from artists such as Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot and Frida Kahlo for over 100 years now. You can also visit the Nasher Sculpture Center. Here, you’ll find all sorts of sculptures that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. There’s plenty of room for the kids to run around as they explore the pieces on their own. At the Sixth Floor Museum, older kids can learn about the assassination of John F. Kennedy. The exhibits here try to put the shooting into cultural and historical context.
5. Klyde Warren Park
The park is set in a 5-acre green space that’s built over one of the busiest freeways in Dallas. The park, which was built in 2012, is lively and fun. It features a Children’s Park with playgrounds, fountains, a story telling tree, and an amphitheater. The whole family can play games such as chess, checkers, and backgammon together or read books from the lending library. Adults can also attend a concert at the pavilion as the kids play. There’s plenty to do for everyone.
6. Heritage Village
Situated at the Old City Park, this is the perfect spot for taking a step back in time. The whole family can immerse itself into the lives of Texans during the Victorian and Pioneer eras. All the buildings are part of the rich history of North Texas. Here, you’ll get a clear picture of what it was like living in the 19th century. You will get a glimpse into how crops were grown, how animals were reared, and how family life was like. The Dallas Heritage Village hosts a number of family events every calendar year.
7. Dallas Summer Musicals
Summer in Dallas brings with it a plethora of fun activities. The Dallas Summer Musicals is one of such events. It features diverse Broadway shows at the Fair Park music hall. If your kids have a taste for musical theater, they will enjoy their time at the musicals.
8. IMAX
How about watching a movie with the kids? They will finally be quiet and you can take the time to wind down or even take a nap. Check out the Dallas IMAX theaters for the latest blockbuster movies suitable for your kids.
