Dallas is more than cowboy boots and Tex-Mex (though we love both!). Whether you’re new in town or a longtime local, the city is packed with family-friendly adventures that please tots, teens, and parents alike. Saddle up for our roundup of the best spots to make memories together!
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
A splashy, floral paradise on White Rock Lake, the Arboretum offers 66 acres of themed gardens, scenic trails and hands-on kids’ areas. Highlights include the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden—complete with treehouses, water features, and interactive science exhibits. Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the on-site cafés, then explore the seasonal art installations and colorful blooms.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
If your crew loves dinosaurs, outer space or anything science-y, the Perot Museum is a can’t-miss. With engaging exhibits on paleontology, engineering, gems and minerals, and even an earthquake simulator, this modern marvel keeps youngsters curious (and parents entertained). Check the schedule for live demos and 3D IMAX shows for an all-around immersive experience.
Dallas Zoo
As Texas’s largest zoological park, the Dallas Zoo spans 106 acres and houses over 2,000 animals. Stroll through the Giants of the Savanna habitat, wave at curious giraffes, or let little ones cool off at the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo splash pad. Seasoned zookeepers lead fun demonstrations, and stroller rentals make this sprawling site easy to navigate.
Klyde Warren Park
Built over a freeway (yes, really!), Klyde Warren Park is a 5.2-acre green oasis downtown. Weekday offerings range from free yoga and storytime to food-truck lunches, while weekends bring live music and kid-friendly festivals. The playground, splash fountain and ping-pong tables guarantee hours of fun—plus, the view of the Dallas skyline is Instagram gold.
Cidercade Dallas
Looking for an arcade adventure that adults can enjoy too? Cidercade Dallas in Deep Ellum pairs over 300 classic and modern arcade games with more than 100 craft ciders (and a happy hour menu for the parents!). One flat fee covers unlimited play, so kids and teens can challenge each other to Pac-Man, pinball or air hockey while mom and dad unwind with a flight of local ciders. It’s a winning combo of nostalgic gaming and grown-up refreshments—fun for the whole clan.
Planning Tips
- Buy tickets online for museums and the zoo to skip lines.
- Check each venue’s calendar for seasonal events (pumpkin patches, winter lights, summer camps).
- Arrive early on weekends to snag parking and beat crowds.
- Dress in layers—Dallas weather can flip from bright sunshine to a surprise shower.
Wrap-Up
From rolling hills of flowers at the Arboretum to high-energy gaming at Cidercade, Dallas offers family fun of every flavor. Gather the crew, put on your walking shoes (or dancing boots), and create memories that’ll last long after the last fairy-light sparkles fade. Happy exploring!