Best of 18 Kid-Friendly day trips in Dallas
"Kid-Friendly day trips in Dallas" offer fun-filled adventures for both parents and children. Dallas is a city with numerous family-friendly attractions that are both educational and entertaining. From exploring the beauty of nature at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden to discovering history at Pioneer Plaza, there's something for everyone. Other great spots include White Rock Lake Park, Bachman Lake Park, and The Dallas World Aquarium. Create lasting memories with your little ones through these fantastic day trips in Dallas.
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- 1. The Dallas World Aquarium
- 2. Dallas Zoo
- 3. Klyde Warren Park
- 4. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
- 5. Trinity Forest Adventure Park
- 6. Children's Aquarium Dallas at Fair Park
- 7. Dallas Arboretum
- 8. Dallas Museum of Art
- 9. Lake Cliff Park
- 10. Frontiers of Flight Museum
- 11. Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk
- 12. Adventure Landing Dallas
- 13. Pioneer Plaza
- 14. Bachman Lake Park
- 15. Old City Park
- 16. White Rock Lake Park
- 17. Main Street Garden Park
- 18. Texas Discovery Gardens
1. The Dallas World Aquarium
Combines education and entertainment
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Travelers have expressed their delight in the vast number of animals at the Dallas World Aquarium, with many noting that it serves as a convenient and enjoyable alternative to the Dallas Zoo, particularly in the summer. The aquarium offers an immersive experience, starting with a tropical rainforest complete with open aviaries, a waterfall, and even free-flying birds.
As visitors explore further, they encounter a variety of aquatic life. There's a walk-through tunnel filled with sharks, a penguin exhibit where visitors can watch these birds dive and swim, and numerous displays of brightly colored fish and rainforest frogs. This makes the Dallas World Aquarium an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
Travelers have expressed their delight in the vast number of animals at the Dallas World Aquarium, with many noting that it serves as a convenient and enjoyable alternative to the Dallas Zoo, particularly in the summer. The aquarium offers an immersive experience, starting with a tropical rainforest complete with open aviaries, a waterfall, and even free-flying birds.
As visitors explore further, they encounter a variety of aquatic life. There's a walk-through tunnel filled with sharks, a penguin exhibit where visitors can watch these birds dive and swim, and numerous displays of brightly colored fish and rainforest frogs. This makes the Dallas World Aquarium an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
2. Dallas Zoo
Over 2000 animals, 106 acres of habitats
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The experience of visiting a zoo can be greatly affected by the weather, and an 83-degree day proves to be ideal for viewing a wide variety of animals. The zoo is a great place for young children, but they may get tired quickly without a stroller or wagon.
This zoo has a great selection of animals and is also kid-friendly. It is recommended to go in the early morning to avoid crowds and to see more active animals, as most are fed before 11 am. The layout of the zoo can be confusing and some areas may seem unfinished, but it is still worth a visit. Fort Worth's zoo may be a better comparison in terms of completion.
The experience of visiting a zoo can be greatly affected by the weather, and an 83-degree day proves to be ideal for viewing a wide variety of animals. The zoo is a great place for young children, but they may get tired quickly without a stroller or wagon.
This zoo has a great selection of animals and is also kid-friendly. It is recommended to go in the early morning to avoid crowds and to see more active animals, as most are fed before 11 am. The layout of the zoo can be confusing and some areas may seem unfinished, but it is still worth a visit. Fort Worth's zoo may be a better comparison in terms of completion.
3. Klyde Warren Park
Dallas's only public park built over a highway
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The Sheila and Jody Grant Children's Park has recently undergone renovations, now featuring a variety of fun and engaging amenities for children. Notable attractions include a 35-foot climbing tower and slide, an interactive water feature, and a kid-friendly climbing wall. The park also offers a shaded pavilion for families to take a break and enjoy some shade.
During the visit, the music, lights, and food truck were enjoyed by all. However, the highlight of the experience was the splash fountain. The outdoor games were also a hit and contributed to an enjoyable and memorable experience at the park.
The Sheila and Jody Grant Children's Park has recently undergone renovations, now featuring a variety of fun and engaging amenities for children. Notable attractions include a 35-foot climbing tower and slide, an interactive water feature, and a kid-friendly climbing wall. The park also offers a shaded pavilion for families to take a break and enjoy some shade.
During the visit, the music, lights, and food truck were enjoyed by all. However, the highlight of the experience was the splash fountain. The outdoor games were also a hit and contributed to an enjoyable and memorable experience at the park.
4. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Scenic views, peaceful atmosphere, outdoor activities
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The Dallas Arboretum is an excellent destination for a family day out, particularly for children. One of the main attractions is the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, which offers a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Here, children can participate in daily activities such as exploring the Walne Family Discovery Lab, learning about the Earth's ecosystems through the OmniGlobe, engaging in imaginative play at Little Adventures, and taking part in STEM-based activities at STEMStops.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit location that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden is a particular highlight, featuring a range of daily activities that are both fun and educational. The Walne Family Discovery Lab provides a hands-on learning experience, while the OmniGlobe offers an immersive and interactive exploration of the Earth's ecosystems. Little Adventures is a perfect spot for imaginative play, while STEMStops provides opportunities for children to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-based activities.
The Dallas Arboretum is an excellent destination for a family day out, particularly for children. One of the main attractions is the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, which offers a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Here, children can participate in daily activities such as exploring the Walne Family Discovery Lab, learning about the Earth's ecosystems through the OmniGlobe, engaging in imaginative play at Little Adventures, and taking part in STEM-based activities at STEMStops.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit location that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden is a particular highlight, featuring a range of daily activities that are both fun and educational. The Walne Family Discovery Lab provides a hands-on learning experience, while the OmniGlobe offers an immersive and interactive exploration of the Earth's ecosystems. Little Adventures is a perfect spot for imaginative play, while STEMStops provides opportunities for children to engage in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-based activities.
5. Trinity Forest Adventure Park
Outdoor adventure for all ages and skill levels
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My 12-year-old son and I recently had a memorable experience despite the scorching heat, thanks to the shade provided by the trees along the zip line course. The staff, although they had to endure the heat, were friendly and attentive, making our time there even more enjoyable.
We tried the ropes course and had a fantastic time. The staff were extremely helpful and created a fun atmosphere. I would highly recommend this activity to anyone. The course was challenging, but the support and guidance from the staff made it an unforgettable experience.
My 12-year-old son and I recently had a memorable experience despite the scorching heat, thanks to the shade provided by the trees along the zip line course. The staff, although they had to endure the heat, were friendly and attentive, making our time there even more enjoyable.
We tried the ropes course and had a fantastic time. The staff were extremely helpful and created a fun atmosphere. I would highly recommend this activity to anyone. The course was challenging, but the support and guidance from the staff made it an unforgettable experience.
6. Children's Aquarium Dallas at Fair Park
Historic Art Deco architecture, Stingray Feeding
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The whole family enjoyed the stunning views of various underwater creatures at the aquarium. The tanks were well-maintained, providing a clear view of the beautiful marine life. My daughters, aged 6 and 9, were particularly thrilled with the touch tanks, fish, and the opportunity to feed the stingrays. For just $5, they had a great time feeding and 'petting' the stingrays, creating a memorable experience.
During our Spring Break, we visited a smaller but well-designed aquarium that was divided into different areas, including the freshwater zone, shore zones, and Stingray Bay. The albino alligator was a unique sight, and some of the sharks, stingrays, and turtles were also fascinating to look at. The aquarium was well-organized and offered a great viewing experience in a manageable layout.
The whole family enjoyed the stunning views of various underwater creatures at the aquarium. The tanks were well-maintained, providing a clear view of the beautiful marine life. My daughters, aged 6 and 9, were particularly thrilled with the touch tanks, fish, and the opportunity to feed the stingrays. For just $5, they had a great time feeding and 'petting' the stingrays, creating a memorable experience.
During our Spring Break, we visited a smaller but well-designed aquarium that was divided into different areas, including the freshwater zone, shore zones, and Stingray Bay. The albino alligator was a unique sight, and some of the sharks, stingrays, and turtles were also fascinating to look at. The aquarium was well-organized and offered a great viewing experience in a manageable layout.
7. Dallas Arboretum
Picturesque views of White Rock Lake
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The Dallas Arboretum offers a perfect outing for tweens, including a chaperoned day date. Guests are allowed to bring picnics and water bottles or canteens, with a half-gallon size providing enough hydration for a full day of exploration. There are also plenty of cool-down areas throughout the garden, making it a comfortable experience even in warmer months. The arboretum also features live music and an abundance of color and beauty, even after the scorching summer season. Fourteen-year-old children particularly enjoyed this experience.
Before visitors even reach the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, they can enjoy the wide-open spaces and natural beauty of the Dallas Arboretum. This makes for a perfect opportunity for families to relax and reconnect, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The garden's beauty is especially striking after the summer season, with plenty of color and life on display. Children, in particular, love the Dallas Arboretum and all it has to offer.
The Dallas Arboretum offers a perfect outing for tweens, including a chaperoned day date. Guests are allowed to bring picnics and water bottles or canteens, with a half-gallon size providing enough hydration for a full day of exploration. There are also plenty of cool-down areas throughout the garden, making it a comfortable experience even in warmer months. The arboretum also features live music and an abundance of color and beauty, even after the scorching summer season. Fourteen-year-old children particularly enjoyed this experience.
Before visitors even reach the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, they can enjoy the wide-open spaces and natural beauty of the Dallas Arboretum. This makes for a perfect opportunity for families to relax and reconnect, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The garden's beauty is especially striking after the summer season, with plenty of color and life on display. Children, in particular, love the Dallas Arboretum and all it has to offer.
8. Dallas Museum of Art
Free general admission
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The museum is an ideal spot for a family day trip with kids. It boasts free admission and a variety of engaging exhibits that are sure to capture children's imagination and attention. The museum is perfect for keeping kids entertained and educated in a fun and interactive way.
During my visit with my own kids, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves and didn't want to leave. The museum offers a range of activities tailored to children's interests and age groups. I highly recommend it as a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
The museum is an ideal spot for a family day trip with kids. It boasts free admission and a variety of engaging exhibits that are sure to capture children's imagination and attention. The museum is perfect for keeping kids entertained and educated in a fun and interactive way.
During my visit with my own kids, they thoroughly enjoyed themselves and didn't want to leave. The museum offers a range of activities tailored to children's interests and age groups. I highly recommend it as a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
9. Lake Cliff Park
Historic Dallas Landmark since 1906
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This place is great for a variety of activities, particularly barbecuing and hanging out with family and friends. After playing a game of soccer, it's perfect to enjoy a delicious barbecue. The park is spacious, providing plenty of room for children to play on the swings and other open land for various activities.
In addition to the recreational activities, this park is also a beautiful and clean spot for a peaceful walk. While it may not be advisable to venture too far into the surrounding neighborhood, sticking to the park is both enjoyable and fun. The park's large size provides ample space to explore and take in the scenery.
This place is great for a variety of activities, particularly barbecuing and hanging out with family and friends. After playing a game of soccer, it's perfect to enjoy a delicious barbecue. The park is spacious, providing plenty of room for children to play on the swings and other open land for various activities.
In addition to the recreational activities, this park is also a beautiful and clean spot for a peaceful walk. While it may not be advisable to venture too far into the surrounding neighborhood, sticking to the park is both enjoyable and fun. The park's large size provides ample space to explore and take in the scenery.
10. Frontiers of Flight Museum
Unique aviation history displays
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The museum offered a enjoyable experience, particularly for our one-year-old in the designated kids area. It is recommended for families to visit.
The museum featured impressive exhibits, including full-sized planes for close-up viewing and photography. My son and I spent an hour and a half exploring and taking in the information provided. The air-conditioned interior was an added bonus during our visit.
The museum offered a enjoyable experience, particularly for our one-year-old in the designated kids area. It is recommended for families to visit.
The museum featured impressive exhibits, including full-sized planes for close-up viewing and photography. My son and I spent an hour and a half exploring and taking in the information provided. The air-conditioned interior was an added bonus during our visit.
11. Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk
Free entry, dog-friendly park
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The Leonhardt Lagoon is a wonderful destination for families looking for an educational and enjoyable day out. It offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours that provide an opportunity for children to learn about the environment in a fun and interactive way. The park's family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place for kids to explore and discover the wonders of nature.
The Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk is a beautiful place to spend quality time with family while surrounded by natural beauty. The park's educational programs and guided tours make it an excellent choice for families who want to combine learning and fun. Children can enjoy exploring the park's many trails, observing wildlife, and discovering the different plants and trees that call the lagoon home. The park's commitment to sustainability and conservation provides a great opportunity for families to learn about the importance of protecting the environment.
The Leonhardt Lagoon is a wonderful destination for families looking for an educational and enjoyable day out. It offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours that provide an opportunity for children to learn about the environment in a fun and interactive way. The park's family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place for kids to explore and discover the wonders of nature.
The Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk is a beautiful place to spend quality time with family while surrounded by natural beauty. The park's educational programs and guided tours make it an excellent choice for families who want to combine learning and fun. Children can enjoy exploring the park's many trails, observing wildlife, and discovering the different plants and trees that call the lagoon home. The park's commitment to sustainability and conservation provides a great opportunity for families to learn about the importance of protecting the environment.
12. Adventure Landing Dallas
Family-friendly entertainment
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Arcades can be an enjoyable destination for young children, and often serve as a popular spot for families with young kids. One such arcade includes miniature golf courses in its offerings, providing a well-rounded entertainment experience for the whole family.
Despite some of the equipment appearing a bit outdated, the overall atmosphere of the arcade remains fun and engaging. The inexpensive pricing adds to the appeal of the arcade, making it an affordable option for families looking to have a good time without breaking the bank.
Arcades can be an enjoyable destination for young children, and often serve as a popular spot for families with young kids. One such arcade includes miniature golf courses in its offerings, providing a well-rounded entertainment experience for the whole family.
Despite some of the equipment appearing a bit outdated, the overall atmosphere of the arcade remains fun and engaging. The inexpensive pricing adds to the appeal of the arcade, making it an affordable option for families looking to have a good time without breaking the bank.
13. Pioneer Plaza
Spacious green area in the city center
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Pioneer Plaza is a must-visit destination for its impressive cattle drive sculptures and nearby cemetery. It's a great place for families, especially children, who will enjoy climbing and exploring the larger-than-life sculptures of cattle. The park also features a small waterfall and creek that add to its charm and offer fun exploration opportunities.
Visitors to Pioneer Plaza can climb and play on the sculptures, admire the surrounding landscape, and take memorable pictures. The park's life-size bronze longhorns are particularly popular photo spots. In addition to the sculptures, a nearby cemetery is worth visiting, offering a glimpse into the area's history and pioneer heritage. Whether you're looking to spend time outdoors, learn about local history, or simply take a refreshing break, Pioneer Plaza is the perfect spot.
Pioneer Plaza is a must-visit destination for its impressive cattle drive sculptures and nearby cemetery. It's a great place for families, especially children, who will enjoy climbing and exploring the larger-than-life sculptures of cattle. The park also features a small waterfall and creek that add to its charm and offer fun exploration opportunities.
Visitors to Pioneer Plaza can climb and play on the sculptures, admire the surrounding landscape, and take memorable pictures. The park's life-size bronze longhorns are particularly popular photo spots. In addition to the sculptures, a nearby cemetery is worth visiting, offering a glimpse into the area's history and pioneer heritage. Whether you're looking to spend time outdoors, learn about local history, or simply take a refreshing break, Pioneer Plaza is the perfect spot.
14. Bachman Lake Park
Scenic views, free admission
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A 3-mile walk through this location provides entertainment from both planes and local wildlife, with trees offering shade and opportunities for picnics and grilling. The presence of outdoor restrooms adds convenience to the park experience. The park is a hub for various activities, serving as a community space for the local Hispanic neighborhood, a popular spot for dog walking, and a destination for plane enthusiasts.
Plane-spotting is a significant attraction at this beautiful park, which caters to families and aviation fans alike. The park's appeal extends beyond local residents, drawing visitors from the surrounding area to enjoy its scenic trails, ideal for biking or walking. With a variety of offerings, this park successfully brings together diverse interests, promoting a sense of community within its picturesque surroundings.
A 3-mile walk through this location provides entertainment from both planes and local wildlife, with trees offering shade and opportunities for picnics and grilling. The presence of outdoor restrooms adds convenience to the park experience. The park is a hub for various activities, serving as a community space for the local Hispanic neighborhood, a popular spot for dog walking, and a destination for plane enthusiasts.
Plane-spotting is a significant attraction at this beautiful park, which caters to families and aviation fans alike. The park's appeal extends beyond local residents, drawing visitors from the surrounding area to enjoy its scenic trails, ideal for biking or walking. With a variety of offerings, this park successfully brings together diverse interests, promoting a sense of community within its picturesque surroundings.
15. Old City Park
Offers a unique glimpse into Dallas's history and culture
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Old City Park is a great destination for families, offering a variety of events that bring history to life for young visitors. The park features historic buildings and interactive exhibits that are both engaging and educational for children. Among the activities that children can enjoy is pretending to be a store clerk in the general store.
The park's staff does an excellent job of making history interesting and accessible to young visitors. They guide families through the historic buildings and exhibits, providing information and context that help bring the past to life. Parents can feel good about taking their kids to Old City Park, knowing that they will be learning while having fun.
Old City Park is a great destination for families, offering a variety of events that bring history to life for young visitors. The park features historic buildings and interactive exhibits that are both engaging and educational for children. Among the activities that children can enjoy is pretending to be a store clerk in the general store.
The park's staff does an excellent job of making history interesting and accessible to young visitors. They guide families through the historic buildings and exhibits, providing information and context that help bring the past to life. Parents can feel good about taking their kids to Old City Park, knowing that they will be learning while having fun.
16. White Rock Lake Park
Popular spot for dog owners, kayakers
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White Rock Lake Park is a recreational destination in Texas, offering a 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail around the lake, picturesque picnic areas, an Audubon Society-designated bird-watching area and wetlands site, fishing piers, a cultural center, a dog park, and playgrounds. The park has something for everyone to enjoy. However, swimming is not permitted in the lake, so if visitors wish to engage in water activities, they can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards.
Families with children can especially enjoy White Rock Lake Park, which boasts several picnic spots and a playground. While swimming is prohibited, there are opportunities for water activities. Visitors can bring their children for a day of fun and outdoor activities, including picnics and playtime at the park's playground. To experience the lake's beauty, they can consider renting a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
White Rock Lake Park is a recreational destination in Texas, offering a 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail around the lake, picturesque picnic areas, an Audubon Society-designated bird-watching area and wetlands site, fishing piers, a cultural center, a dog park, and playgrounds. The park has something for everyone to enjoy. However, swimming is not permitted in the lake, so if visitors wish to engage in water activities, they can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards.
Families with children can especially enjoy White Rock Lake Park, which boasts several picnic spots and a playground. While swimming is prohibited, there are opportunities for water activities. Visitors can bring their children for a day of fun and outdoor activities, including picnics and playtime at the park's playground. To experience the lake's beauty, they can consider renting a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
17. Main Street Garden Park
Historic location, dog-friendly
Name and Location: Main Street Garden Park spans an entire block in the heart of downtown Dallas, bordered by Main, St. Paul, Commerce and Harwood streets. History and significance: Opened in 2009, the 2-acre urban park transformed an unused parking lot into a contemporary public space with artwork, a café, fountains, programs and a lawn for downtown workers and residents to enjoy and relax. . What to expect: Visitors eat lunch under the shade of trees, enjoy free WiFi and entertainment, let the kids play in the fountains, explore public art installations or walk along brick paths lined with shrubs, flowers and views of nestled skyscrapers in the middle of the bustling central business district. Visitor information: Open daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. m. at midnight. Some paid parking nearby; otherwise free entry and access. Cafeteria and security on site. Event listings at mainstreetgardenpark.org. Offering an elegant place to sit among skyscrapers, the contemporary Main Street Garden Park in downtown offers colorful modern architecture and public art installations along with ample lawn space for events. Children flock to the elaborate playground that encompasses a tree house and water fountains, while families and co-workers picnic under the whimsical hat-shaped pavilions that dot the long linear green space of the blocks. Food trucks frequently arrive, while weekends also host free concerts, yoga and Zumba classes, all of which invite visitors to connect daily within the urban forest escape.
18. Texas Discovery Gardens
Certified Earth-Friendly Park
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This destination is an excellent choice for a kid-friendly day trip. The butterfly house is a major attraction, where children can enjoy observing various butterfly species. The outdoor playscape offers a space for physical activity and play, encouraging children to connect with nature. The gardens are expansive, providing ample opportunities to learn about different plants and insects.
Families will find this location appealing for a group outing. Children are drawn to the educational exhibits, such as the snakes and butterflies. An added bonus is the garden trains, which are a major hit among young visitors. Overall, this destination promises a fun and educational day trip suitable for children and families seeking an engaging outdoor experience.
This destination is an excellent choice for a kid-friendly day trip. The butterfly house is a major attraction, where children can enjoy observing various butterfly species. The outdoor playscape offers a space for physical activity and play, encouraging children to connect with nature. The gardens are expansive, providing ample opportunities to learn about different plants and insects.
Families will find this location appealing for a group outing. Children are drawn to the educational exhibits, such as the snakes and butterflies. An added bonus is the garden trains, which are a major hit among young visitors. Overall, this destination promises a fun and educational day trip suitable for children and families seeking an engaging outdoor experience.