15 Best Things to do in Dallas with Kids!
Dallas is a city full of energy, culture, and family‑friendly attractions. The city blends fun, learning, and adventure in ways that make family trips easy and enjoyable. From interactive museums to outdoor parks, zoos, and unique experiences, Dallas has something for every age group. In this guide, we’ll take you through 15 best things to do in Dallas with kids, explain each spot in detail, and give tips to make your family trip smooth and memorable.
- 1. Reunion Tower
- 2. Dallas Zoo
- 3. Dallas World Aquarium
- 4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
- 5. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park
- 6. Legoland Discovery Center
- 7. Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- 8. Museum of Illusions
- 9. Heritage Farmstead Museum
- 10. Six Flags Over Texas
- 11. Lone Star Park
- 12. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
- 13. ICR Discovery Center
- 14. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- 15. Play Street Museum – Lake Highlands
1. Reunion Tower
Built in 1978, Reunion Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Dallas, standing tall with its round “ball” design that lights up the skyline at night. From its GeO‑Deck, visitors can enjoy wide views of the city, both indoors through large windows and outdoors on the open platform. The tower has interactive screens that help guests learn about Dallas and spot major landmarks. Families often come here to take photos, especially at sunset or after dark when the city lights shine brightly. The tower also has a revolving restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while the view slowly changes around you.
2. Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo covers more than 100 acres and is home to thousands of animals from around the world. One of the highlights is the Giants of the Savanna, where giraffes and zebras share the same space. Kids enjoy the Children’s Zoo, which has a petting area, splash zone, and play spaces made just for them. The Wilds of Africa section offers a monorail ride that gives a unique view of animals like hippos and crocodiles. Seasonal exhibits, such as animatronic dinosaurs, add extra fun during certain times of the year. The zoo also hosts educational programs and animal encounters that make learning exciting.
3. Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium is one of the most popular family attractions in downtown Dallas. Visitors start from a recreated rainforest environment, where they can see monkeys and exotic birds living among lush plants and waterfalls. As you move through the exhibits, the focus shifts to marine life, with tanks filled with colorful fish, stingrays, and sharks. One of the highlights is the walk‑through tunnel, where guests can watch large sea creatures swim overhead. Educational displays explain the importance of conservation and protecting endangered species, making the visit both fun and engaging.
4. Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Opened in 2012, Perot Museum of Nature and Science is one of the most exciting places for families and kids to explore. Visitors can see giant dinosaur skeletons, learn about space and the solar system, and explore hands‑on displays about energy, engineering, and human biology. The children’s area is designed with interactive play zones that encourage learning through touch and movement. Families spend time here because there is so much to see, from fossils and gems to robotics and virtual reality experiences. The museum also hosts exhibits, so repeat visits always feel fresh and different.
5. Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park
The Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park is a small but very family‑friendly place that focuses on making marine life easy for kids to enjoy. Opened in 1936, visitors can see colorful fish, turtles, and reptiles in displays that are easy to follow. One of the highlights is the stingray touch tank, where kids can safely feel the rays as they swim by. There are also exhibits with sharks, jellyfish, and other ocean animals that keep children curious and engaged. Families spend a couple of hours here, and size of the aquarium makes it less overwhelming compared to larger aquariums, which is perfect for children.
6. Legoland Discovery Center
Located in Grapevine Mills Mall, Legoland Discovery Center is a fun indoor attraction designed mainly for kids, but parents often enjoy it too. Families can explore themed play zones where children build with LEGO bricks, ride small attractions, and watch short films in a 4D cinema. One of the highlights is Miniland, a miniature city built entirely from LEGO pieces, showing famous Dallas landmarks. Kids enjoy the interactive building areas, where they can test their creations on tracks or in wind tunnels. The center has a café and gift shop, making it easy to spend a few hours without leaving the building.
7. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a fun and unusual attraction that mixes entertainment with curiosity. Located in Grand Prairie, it is part of a larger complex that also includes Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks and other themed experiences. Inside, families can explore galleries filled with odd artifacts, strange art, and interactive exhibits that highlight the weird and wonderful side of the world. Kids enjoy seeing shrunken heads, rare animal skeletons, and creative displays that challenge what seems possible. The museum also has hands‑on activities and illusions that make the visit more fun and engaging.
8. Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is a fun and interactive place that focuses on visual tricks and playful learning, offering exhibits that challenge how we see and understand the world. Families can walk through rooms with tilted floors, mirrors, and rotating patterns that make everyday spaces feel unusual. Kids enjoy the holograms, puzzles, and optical illusions that encourage them to think in new ways. The museum is designed to be hands‑on, so visitors can take part in the exhibits instead of just looking at them. Inside, many of the exhibits are set up in ways that let visitors have fun and take photos together.
9. Heritage Farmstead Museum
The Heritage Farmstead Museum is a living historic site that shows what farm life was like in Texas more than a hundred years ago. The museum covers four acres and includes the 1891 Wilson House along with barns, a schoolhouse, and other historic buildings. Visitors can walk through the grounds, spend time with farm animals, and holds thousands of artifacts such as tools, clothing, and furniture that reflect everyday life from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Guided tours of the Wilson House are available, and wagon rides are offered on certain days, making the visit more interactive for children.
10. Six Flags Over Texas
Opened in 1961, Six Flags Over Texas is the first Six Flags park, covering more than 200 acres and offers over 100 rides, shows, and attractions. Thrill seekers enjoy roller coasters like Titan and New Texas Giant, while younger kids have their own play areas in Bugs Bunny Boomtown. The park also hosts seasonal events such as Fright Fest in the fall and Holiday in the Park during winter, making each visit different. Families can watch live shows, meet characters, and enjoy fireworks in summer. Dining options are spread across the park, with simple meals like burgers, pizza, and Tex‑Mex available.
11. Lone Star Park
Opened in 1997, Lone Star Park is a popular horse racing track and has become a favorite spot for fans of live racing and family entertainment. The park hosts two main racing seasons each year, with thoroughbred races in spring and quarter horse races in fall. Visitors can enjoy the large grandstand, private suites, and outdoor areas that make it easy to watch the races. The venue also has simulcast racing year‑round, so guests can follow events from other tracks across the country. Families come for special events, concerts, and food festivals held at the park, which add to the experience beyond racing.
12. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
The Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark is one of the largest indoor waterparks in Texas and a favorite spot for families year‑round. Covering 80,000 square feet and has a retractable roof, which means visitors can enjoy the rides and pools in any weather. It features more than ten waterslides, including thrill rides like the Lasso Loop and Yellowjacket Drop, as well as family‑friendly attractions such as the longest indoor lazy river in North Texas. Kids enjoy the splash pad and the FlowRider surf simulator, while the park also has an arcade, outdoor wave pool, and spaces for birthday parties and group events.
13. ICR Discovery Center
The ICR Discovery Center is a museum and science center that focuses on creation science and biblical history. Inside, guests can walk through galleries that highlight topics like the origin of the universe, design of life, and history of Earth from a biblical perspective. The center uses interactive displays, 3D films, and life‑size models to make learning simple and engaging for both kids and adults. Visitors can see exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and astronomy, all explained in a way that supports creation science. The planetarium is one of the main highlights, offering shows about stars, galaxies, and space exploration.
14. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Located near White Rock Lake, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is one of the most visited outdoor attractions in Dallas, covering 66 acres and features themed gardens, seasonal flower displays, and shaded walking paths that make it easy for families to enjoy nature. Visitors can explore highlights like the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which has interactive exhibits designed for kids, and Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, known for its bright seasonal blooms. The arboretum hosts events throughout the year, including spring and fall festivals, concerts, and holiday light shows.
15. Play Street Museum – Lake Highlands
The Play Street Museum – Lake Highlands is a small indoor children’s museum designed mainly for kids ages one to eight. It offers a safe and simple play space where children can explore themed areas like a pretend grocery store, doctor’s office, and construction zone. The museum focuses on hands‑on learning through imaginative play, giving kids the chance to role‑play everyday activities in a fun way. Special events, art activities, and birthday party packages are also available, making it more than just a play area. Admission is affordable, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the top kid-friendly museums in Dallas?
Dallas has many museums that welcome children with hands‑on exhibits and easy learning spaces. Places like the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park, and Play Street Museum are designed to keep kids curious and active. These museums focus on simple displays, interactive play, and family‑friendly programs. Parents can enjoy them too because they mix fun with education, and visit to these museums gives kids a chance to learn while playing.
2. Are there indoor activities for kids in Dallas?
There are plenty of indoor options for families when the weather is too hot or rainy. Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, Legoland Discovery Center, and the Museum of Illusions are popular choices. These places offer safe play areas, creative exhibits, and fun rides that keep children busy. Parents like them because they are easy to reach and have food and seating inside. Indoor attractions are also good for short visits, usually lasting two to three hours.
3. What are the best outdoor attractions for kids in Dallas?
Families who enjoy being outside can visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Heritage Farmstead Museum, or Market Square Park. These places give kids space to run, explore, and learn about nature and history. Outdoor attractions often have picnic areas, walking paths, and seasonal displays. They are good for longer visits, especially during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant. Parents often bring snacks or lunches to make the day more relaxed.
4. Are there seasonal events for families in Dallas?
Dallas hosts many family‑friendly events throughout the year. Six Flags Over Texas has Fright Fest in fall and Holiday in the Park in winter. The Dallas Arboretum runs seasonal flower shows and holiday light displays. Local museums and parks also organize summer camps, festivals, and concerts. These events give families new reasons to visit the same places again. They are usually affordable and offer discounts for children and seniors.
5. What sports experiences can kids enjoy in Dallas?
Kids in Dallas can enjoy sports both as fans and as players. Lone Star Park offers horse racing events that families can watch together. Local stadiums host baseball, basketball, and football games where children can see professional teams in action. Many community centers and parks also run youth sports programs. These experiences help kids learn teamwork and enjoy physical activity. Parents often combine sports outings with family meals or short trips nearby.
6. Are there any unique experiences for kids to enjoy in Dallas?
Dallas has attractions that stand out from regular play areas. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers strange exhibits that spark curiosity. The ICR Discovery Center mixes science with faith in a way that is different from other museums. The Museum of Illusions lets families take creative photos while exploring visual tricks. These places are not very large, so visits are simple and easy to manage. They give children memorable experiences that feel different from everyday outings.
