There are so many fun things to do in Dallas with kids. From unique outdoor spaces to fun family day trips, there’s something for everyone. So if you’re planning a family vacation to Texas, read on!
Dallas wasn’t originally on our US bucket list, but when my husband had to travel here for work, we decided to turn it into a family trip, and I’m glad we did!
In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to do in Dallas, Texas, with kids, based on our experience. While not everything is designed specifically for children, everything included is family-friendly and works well when visiting Dallas with kids.
Before our trip, I read mixed reviews about whether Dallas was a good place to visit with kids. When I arrived in Downtown Dallas (just my toddler and I), the area was described to me as “sketchy”, and I was advised not to go out on my own at night.
While I didn’t feel unsafe walking around on my own, I think sketchy is a good word to describe parts of Dallas. Like in any big city, it’s sensible to stay alert and take usual safety precautions. That said, don’t let this put you off, there is so much to enjoy in Dallas as a family, and it made a really fun city break.
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DALLAS WITH KIDS QUICK PLANNING:
Best Time of Year to Visit:
Spring or Fall for pleasant weather.
Best area to stay:
Downtown Dallas (close to most attractions)
Ideal Trip Length:
2-3 full days are perfect, or 3-4 if you’d like to take a day trip to Fort Worth Stockyards (which we recommend!)
Family Hotel Recommendation:
Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown
Top Sights to See:
Pioneer Plaza
Murals at Deep Elum (my free map here!)
Dallas Farmers Market
Dealey Plaza
Activities to Book:
Reunion Tower
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
If you plan to visit lots of Dallas’s top attractions, you can save up to 56% with the Dallas CityPASS.
Is the Dallas CityPASS Worth It?
Before I jump into the best things to do in Dallas with kids, I wanted to mention the Dallas CityPASS. If you’re planning to visit a few of Dallas’s top attractions, it’s definitely worth checking out, as it can save up to 56%.
This multi-attraction ticket gives you discounted entry to some of the city’s most popular family-friendly spots. It includes places like the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Reunion Tower and the Dallas Zoo. You can check prices and see exactly what’s included here.
We always like to look at passes like this before a trip, as they make budgeting so much easier and remove the hassle of buying tickets on the day.
Map of the Best Things to Do in Dallas with Kids
Below is our interactive map of all the things to do in Dallas as a family. I will talk about all of these more in this post. The red stars are all the best things to do, and the purple ones are where to find the best murals in Deep Ellum.
Just click on the top right-hand corner to open it in Google Maps.
The Best Things to Do in Dallas with Kids
Below, I will share all the things to do in Dallas with kids, and then you can choose the options that your family will enjoy most!
PIN FOR LATER:
Visit the Famous Pioneer Plaza
Pioneer Plaza was the first place we visited and is a real must-see in Dallas with kids. It’s one of the most unique photo spots in the city. Filled with giant bronze longhorn sculptures that span dramatically down the hillside, creating an impressive and unexpected scene right in Downtown Dallas.
I had seen photos before visiting, but they honestly don’t quite do it justice. I wasn’t expecting there to be quite so many “charging” bulls, and their scale is even more impressive in person as they’re life-sized.
My three-year-old absolutely loved it here, especially when Daddy lifted him up to pretend he was riding one of the longhorns. It’s a simple stop, but one of those places that really sticks in your memory from a family trip.
Child exploring the Charging Bull Statues at Pioneer Plaza.
See Panoramic Views from The Reunion Tower
Going to the top of Reunion Tower is one of the most popular things to do in Dallas with kids, especially if you want to see skyline views. I did consider visiting, but in the end, I decided against it as I wasn’t sure the views would be quite different enough from other viewpoints around the city. Now I quite regret that decision!
So, that said, I know lots of families do enjoy it, and it’s a fun way to get a full 360-degree look at Dallas from above.
Adult tickets start from $19, children aged 4-10 are $10 and toddlers aged 3 and under visit for free. It’s a good idea to book your Reunion Tower tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially at weekends and during school holidays. Or Reunion Tower is part of the Dallas City Pass.
👉 You can check availability and book tickets here.
View of the Reunion Tower from Ferris Plaza.
Ride the Free M-Line Trolley
The Dallas M-Line Trolley is a charming, old-fashioned streetcar that runs between Downtown and Uptown Dallas. Not only is it a fun way to get around the city, but it’s also completely free, which makes it one of the best budget-friendly things to do in Dallas with kids.
If you have a toddler who loves trains or anything on wheels, this will likely be a highlight of your trip. It has that novelty factor that makes even a short ride feel exciting.
It’s also a really practical way to travel between Downtown and Uptown if you’re exploring both areas during your visit. See the route and schedule here.
Just a note for families with babies or toddlers: strollers (or pushchairs to my UK readers) do need to be folded and stored at the front of the trolley before boarding. It was a bit of a rush for me to empty everything out of the basket and fold it in time!
Riding on the M-Line Trolley.
Visit the Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium is one of the most popular things to do in Dallas with kids, and it’s easy to see why. It’s much more than a typical aquarium, with rainforest-style habitats, exotic birds, and animals to spot as you explore.
It’s all indoors, which makes it a great option for very hot days or rainy days. There’s plenty to keep little ones entertained, and it will feel like a real adventure as you move through different environments.
It’s definitely one of the busier attractions in the city, so visiting earlier in the day can help avoid the crowds.
Adult tickets cost $34.95, children aged 3-12 are $24.95 and kids 2 and under visit for free. Click here to reserve your tickets in advance.
WE ALSO HAVE GUIDES ON:
– ATLANTA – NASHVILLE – NEW ORLEANS – NEW YORK – CHARLESTON – CALIFORNIA –
Explore the AT&T Discovery District
The AT&T Discovery District is a modern, vibrant space in the heart of downtown Dallas and a great stop for families exploring the city. It has a mix of restaurants, open green space, and interactive digital installations that make it feel very different from a typical city plaza.
It’s a nice place to pause during a busy sightseeing day, and there’s plenty of space for kids to run around. You’ll also often find large screens and immersive displays that both parents and kids will love to watch.
Find out the latest things happening at AT&T here.
The AT&T Discovery District.
Learn at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a fantastic stop for families, especially if you have curious kids who love to learn through play.
Inside, you’ll find a wide range of interactive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs and space to engineering and the human body. It’s very hands-on, which makes it engaging for younger children as well as older kids.
This is another great option for a rainy day, and it’s easily one of the best educational things to do in Dallas with kids.
Tickets start from $27 for adults, $17 for kids, and under-2s get free entry. Click here to book your tickets, or the Perot Museum is included in the Dallas City Pass.
Enjoy the Murals at Deep Ellum
Exploring the murals in Deep Ellum was one of our favourite things to do in Dallas with kids. We enjoyed it so much, I’ve written a full guide on where to find all the best murals, plus a free map, linked here.
The Deep Ellum mural project originally began with 42 large-scale murals created by Texan artists as part of an effort to revitalise the neighbourhood. Since then, it has grown significantly, and there are now over 100 murals scattered throughout the area.
The Heard of Elephants Mural at Deep Ellum.
You’ll find most of them as you wander between Commerce and Elm Streets, and half the fun is spotting them as you go. Our toddler loved pointing them out, and it turned into a bit of a game trying to find our favourites.
This is a really easy, free activity that both adults and children can enjoy, and it adds a fun, creative break to sightseeing in the city.
READ MORE: WHERE TO FIND THE BEST MURALS IN DALLAS DEEP ELLUM
Pretty Pink rainbow mural at Deep Ellum, Dallas.
Ride the Red Tractor Outside Dallas Farmers Market
The Dallas Farmers Market is a great family-friendly stop in the city, but if you’re visiting Dallas with a toddler or young child, the real highlight is the big red tractor parked out front!
This ended up being my son’s favourite thing in Dallas, and he insisted on coming back to see it every day. Luckily, it’s a simple and free activity, which makes it an easy win for families visiting Dallas with young kids.
The market itself is open seven days a week and has a mix of shops and restaurants, making it a good place to grab lunch or take a break while exploring the city.
At weekends, you can also browse fresh produce at “The Shed,” located just behind the main market building, which adds a nice local touch if you’re visiting Dallas as a family.
Find out more about the Dallas Farmers Market on their website here.
Riding the red tractor is one of the best things to do in Dallas with kids.
Visit the Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is one of the largest and most popular family attractions in the city, making it a great addition to any Dallas itinerary with kids. Personally, I don’t love a zoo visit, but I know lots of families do, so I thought I would still mention it.
There is a wide variety of animals to see, along with shaded walking paths, play areas, and opportunities to get closer to wildlife. It’s a good option if you’re looking to spend a slower-paced day outdoors.
Because of its size, it’s worth planning ahead and focusing on a few key areas rather than trying to see everything in one visit — especially if you’re visiting with younger children.
Tickets start from $20 for adults, $17 for kids aged 3-12 years, and children under 2 years visit for free. The Dallas Zoo is also included in the Dallas City Pass.
Visit Ferris Plaza and Union Station
Ferris Plaza is a small but very pretty courtyard space in downtown Dallas, and a nice little stop if you’re exploring the city on foot. Small children will love the fountain, just be careful not to let them fall in!
It also offers great views of both Union Station and the nearby skyline, including Reunion Tower in the distance.
Union Station itself is a beautiful historic building and worth a quick look if you’re in the area. It still feels like a grand old travel hub and adds a bit of character to this part of downtown Dallas.
View of the fountain in Ferris Plaza, with Union Station in the background.
Discover History at Dealey Plaza
Dealey Plaza is one of the most historic sites in Dallas and is often referred to as the “birthplace of the city.” It’s a scenic area with fountains, open green spaces, and memorials, making it an easy stop as you explore downtown.
It’s also famously known as the location of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. As you walk down the hill, you’ll notice a white “X” marked on the road, indicating the exact spot where the event took place.
While this stop is more focused on history than family fun, we found it was still worth including as part of our trip. It was something my husband was particularly interested in, and we like to balance activities when we travel so there’s something for everyone.
Dealey Plaza – the white X on the road marks the spot where John F Kennedy was assassinated.
Relax at Klyde Warren Park
I’m going to be honest, we were quite disappointed by this park. I’d read quite a few other blog posts that raved about Klyde Warren. One even described it as Dallas’ Central Park; I’m pretty sure the person who wrote that had never been to Central Park. (We live in New York, so know Central Park really well!)
It’s pretty much just a field of dry grass with a cafe underneath a highway.
When we visited, there want even a playground, however, it did look like they were in the process of building a great new children’s play area and splash pad which, will be a major improvement!
The disappointing grass area at Klyde Warren Park.
Walk Across Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge for Skyline Views
The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is one of Dallas’s most recognisable landmarks and is often recommended as a great spot for skyline views.
While you can’t actually walk directly across the bridge itself, you can follow the nearby Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge. This runs alongside it and offers similar views of the structure and the Dallas skyline.
We got this a little wrong and ended up walking the Trinity Skyline Trail, which ended up being a long walk. We found it tricky to get to without a car, so it may be best suited to those who are driving. That said, if you do make the trip, it’s a nice spot for a walk and some great photo opportunities.
View from the Trinity Trail from the Margaret Hunt Bridge.
Take a Day Trip to the Fort Worth Stockyards
If you have time during your trip, I highly recommend a family day trip from Dallas to the Fort Worth Stockyards. We have a full guide on visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards, linked here.
It feels like stepping back in time into a traditional Texan town, complete with wooden boardwalks, cowboy culture, and a real daily cattle drive through the streets, which is a big hit with kids.
We found it to be one of the most fun family days out of our entire trip, and it’s a great way to experience a different side of Texas beyond Dallas itself.
To get there, we took a TRE train from Union Station to Fort Worth Central Station. This takes about an hour. Check the current train schedule and book tickets here. Then, a 5-minute walk away, you’ll find “FWCS – Bay – E” and take the orange line bus to “Main & Exchange – 24th”. This was roughly another half an hour. The bus cost $4, and you pay via contactless payment.
READ MORE: A Family Day at the Fort Worth Stockyards
Watching the famous Cattle Drive on a family day trip to Fort Worth Stockyards.
Where to Stay in Dallas with Kids
Choosing the right area to stay in Dallas can make a huge difference when travelling with kids. I always advise families that it is better to stay centrally during a city break. It saves a lot of travel time and is kinder to little legs.
Most of the main attractions are located in Downtown Dallas, which makes it the most convenient base, especially if you’re only visiting for a couple of days.
Budget-Friendly Options ($)
If you’re travelling on a budget or want more space for your family, these options are great value:
- Dallas Farmers Market Apartment – A great central location (just steps away from our favourite red tractor!) within walking distance of attractions, with plenty of space for families.
- Snappy Loft Style 2BR – Ideal if you want a bit more room (and separation at bedtime!) With a stylish, yet affordable, home-from-home feel.
👉 Check availability and latest prices here
Mid-Range Hotels ($$)
For families who want a hotel experience with good amenities and a central location:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown – A fantastic family-friendly hotel right in the heart of Downtown, with spacious rooms and an indoor pool.
👉 View rooms and current deals here
Luxury Stays ($$$)
If you’re looking to make your trip feel a little more special:
- Hyatt Regency Dallas – Perfect for families who want apartment-style living with hotel-quality design. This hotel has incredible views and an outdoor pool!
- The Joule – A beautiful luxury hotel in the heart of downtown, ideal if you want something stylish and memorable.
👉 Check prices and book your stay here
Getting to Dallas, Texas
We flew from New York to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. As I mentioned, the best area of Dallas to stay is Downtown, and getting there was very easy.
Just hop on a straightforward train from outside Terminal A. The train takes just under an hour and only costs $3.
FAQ’s on Visiting Dallas with Kids
Yes, Dallas is a great destination for families with kids. There’s a mix of outdoor spaces, interactive museums, and fun attractions that cater to all ages.
There are so many fun things to do in Dallas with kids. Highlights include visiting Pioneer Plaza to see the giant longhorn sculptures, riding the free M-Line Trolley, exploring the AT&T Discovery District, and spotting murals in Deep Ellum. For more interactive experiences, families will also love the Dallas World Aquarium, Perot Museum, and Dallas Zoo.
Downtown Dallas is one of the best areas for families to stay, especially if it’s your first visit. It’s close to many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and transport links, which makes getting around with kids much easier.
Around three full days is the perfect amount of time to explore Dallas with kids. This gives you enough time to see the main attractions, enjoy a few slower-paced activities, and even take a day trip, such as visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you could easily extend your stay to four days.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Dallas with Kids
While Dallas might not be the first destination that comes to mind for a family trip, it completely surprised us. From free activities like Pioneer Plaza and the M-Line Trolley to interactive museums and unique neighbourhoods, there are plenty of things to do in Dallas with kids to fill a fun and varied itinerary.
What I loved most was that Dallas offers a mix of experiences. You can explore history, enjoy outdoor spaces, and still find plenty of family-friendly activities.
If you’re planning a family trip to Texas, Dallas is definitely worth adding to your itinerary for a few days. With the right planning, it’s an easy and enjoyable city to explore with kids.
Thank you so much for reading our post on the best things to do in Dallas with kids. I hope it has given you some inspiration on what to see and do on your family vacation!
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Happy Travelling,
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