9 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Dallas is a city often associated with Cowboys and southern charm. However, a traveler visiting the city would be pleasantly surprised by how well-rounded the city is in terms of culture, architecture, and attractions. From afternoon tea in ritzy hotels to museums centered on JFK’s assassination, there is a widely diverse mix of things to do in Dallas, Texas that can cater to even the most off-the-beaten-track interests. Below are the 9 best things to do while in the charming metropolis of Dallas for first-timers.

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1. The 6th Floor Museum

One of the most prolific events in American - and Dallas’s - history is the assassination of the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy. The 6th Floor Museum has memorialized this tragic moment with over 90,000 artifacts which you can peruse as well as chronicles of the life and presidential service of JFK before his life was cut short.

Location: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, United States - Get directions on Google Maps

2. Dealey Plaza

Just outside of the 6th Floor Museum is the Dealey Plaza, forever marked in history as the site of JFK’s assassination. Now a National Historic Landmark, visitors can see the very spot where JFK met his end – an important spot in not only America’s history but Dallas’s as well, making it a must-see spot while visiting the city.

Location: Get directions on Google Maps

3. Reunion Tower

An imposing tower standing over Dallas’s cityscape, the Reunion Tower is an observatory that hosts splendid activities year-round and offers stunning panoramic views of the entire city.

Location: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207, United States - Get directions on Google Maps

4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science

An extensive collection of interactive exhibits fills the five levels of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and can easily fill an entire day. The museum boasts a wide array of activities ranging from interesting to thrilling, and every one of them is fun for all ages.

Location: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States - Get directions on Google Maps

5. Deep Ellum

If you’re looking for some of that classic Texas charm in the form of live entertainment, barbecue, and bars, then look no further than Deep Ellum. You can find anything from contemporary art performances to twangy bands with cowboy boots – all while you sit at your table enjoying gourmet southern comfort food.

Location: Get directions on Google Maps

6. Stockyards Championship Rodeo

For watching the pinnacle of the southern sport, head to the Stockyards Championship Rodeo (actually in Fort Worth but worth the trek) where you’ll be captivated by the manure, cowboy hats, and explosive entertainment.

Location: 131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164, United States - Get directions on Google Maps

7. Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village, an open-air shopping center, is the first of its kind in the U.S.A. The shopping complex is perfect for a little high-end shopping and dining.

Location: 47 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205, United States - Get directions on Google Maps

8. Arts District

Perhaps one of the biggest attractions to Dallas for art-minded travelers is the mega Arts District which is brimming full of restaurants, bars, museums, and theatres just waiting to be explored and appreciated.

9. Hotel Crescent Court Afternoon Tea

Whether you’re looking to round out your visit to Dallas or you just want a taste of European lifestyles, then head to Hotel Crescent Court’s sunroom to enjoy a fine-dining experience unlike anything else as you mix England with Texan in an afternoon tea.

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