The modern metropolis of Dallas in north Texas is a major commercial and cultural hub – and brimming with great things to see and do that won’t cost a fortune.
An eye-catching exhibit at the Dallas Museum of Art (Photo: Dallas Museum of Art)
World-class museums, historic architecture, a vibrant arts scene and famous sports teams draw huge numbers of visitors to Dallas each year; the city’s distinctive blend of old and new lends it true character and charm. If you’re coming to this iconic Texan city and would like to pack your itinerary with unique activities and attractions that won’t blow your budget, here are 10 ideas to get you up and running.
Dallas Museum of Art
One of the largest and most prestigious art museums anywhere in America, the free-to-enter Dallas Museum of Art houses more than 25,000 works of modern and contemporary art spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. Situated in the Dallas Arts District, the museum is spread over multiple floors and numerous galleries, where both permanent and temporary exhibitions are found. Artists on display range from local names to international masters, including Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and Vincent Van Gogh.
1717 North Harwood Street / Weds-Sun 11am-5pm Closed Mon-Tues
The Samurai Collection
Warrior attire on display as part of The Samurai Collection (Photo: Mary Harrsch via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
The hereditary military nobility and officer caste of medieval and early-modern Japan known as Samurai has gained almost mythical status in modern culture. Positioned a short walk from the Dallas Museum of Art, The Samurai Collection showcases centuries of craftsmanship relating to Samurai heritage through an assortment of objects dating from the seventh to the nineteenth centuries. Highlights include suits of armour, helmets, masks, horse armour, and weaponry. The collection is free to the public for visits.
2501 North Harwood Street Suite 225 / Weds-Sun 11am-5pm Closed Mon-Tues
Dallas Cinco de Mayo
The largest and longest-running parade in North Texas, Dallas Cinco de Mayo attracts huge numbers of spectators every year who assemble on historic Jefferson Boulevard to watch the mile-long Fiesta. Originally held to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire in 1862, the free event has grown to become a truly sensory experience. The sights, sounds, and aromas are something to behold as hundreds of storefronts take part in the occasion by offering Hispanic products and performances. As night falls after the parade, an evening block party kicks into gear, complete with live music and performances, a Kid Zone with activities, arts & crafts, games, rides and food vendors.
Historic Jefferson Boulevard / May each year
John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
The vast white concrete expanse of the John F. Kennedy Memorial (Photo: traveljunction via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)
Located in the Dallas County Historical Plaza, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year who come to see the site of one of the most famous political assassinations in history. The brainchild of acclaimed architect Phillip Johnson, a family friend of the eponymous former president, the memorial was created to mark the notorious shooting of JFK while he rode in a presidential motorcade through the area on 22 November 1963. Open to the sky and comprised of white pre-cast concrete, the sparse monument features just Kennedy’s name inscribed in gold along one inside wall. It is free to visit.
646 Main Street
Klyde Warren Park
The scenic environs of Klyde Warren Park (Photo: Daniel Lobo via Flickr / CC0 1.0 DEED)
The perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city, Klyde Warren Park is a 5.2-acre public park in downtown featuring play areas, a grass field, water fountains and an endless choice of recreational activities. The beautifully manicured urban space is a haven for locals and visitors who come here to be as active or as leisurely as they fancy. Adding to the appeal is a busy year-long programme of concerts, theatre and dance performances, plus summer movie screenings. Within the park there’s also a renowned Mexican restaurant.
2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway / Mon-Sun 6am-11pm
Dallas Farmers Market
A stall-holder at Dallas Farmer’s Market (Photo: Dallas Farmers Market)
There are a few better ways of getting to know a place’s character than by taking in the sights, sounds and aromas of a local market. Nestled among the skyscrapers of downtown , the historic Dallas Farmers Market is a sprawling daily market where vendors congregate to sell seasonal, wholesome produce, along with meats, honey, flowers and plenty more. If the weather’s nice, grab some food-to-go and head to nearby Klyde Warren Park (see above) for an impromptu picnic.
920 South Harwood Street / Mon-Sun 10am-7pm
Dallas Holiday Parade
Featuring elaborate, larger-than-life floats, marching bands and giant balloons, the Dallas Holiday Parade has been among the most eagerly awaited events on the city’s festive calendar since its inaugural edition more than three decades ago. Held on the first Saturday of December each year, the event attracts over 700,000 revellers who flock here from far and wide to throng the streets, soak up the atmosphere and kick-off the holiday season in style. The parade is free to attend, but if you want a guaranteed seat, there is fixed-bench seating available for purchase.
Downtown Dallas / December each year