Dallas, a bustling city in the heart of Texas, offers endless entertainment, rich history, and renowned cuisine. While the city has abundant attractions, there are also many exciting day trip opportunities just a short drive away. These destinations allow residents and visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, fascinating history, and distinctive cultural events found throughout the Lone Star State.
Some of the most popular day trips from Dallas include picturesque destinations such as Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park, a short 2-hour drive from the city.
Similarly, Lake Texoma, situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma, provides a great escape with over 74,000 acres of lake reservoir for water enthusiasts. For families with young children, Glen Rose offers the fun and educational attractions of Dinosaur Valley State Park and Dinosaur World.
Whether you prefer the excitement of outdoor activities, the charm of small towns, or engaging museums, a day trip from Dallas will satisfy your interests. So pack up your car, grab your camera, and embark on an adventure in Texas’s expansive, diverse state.
Table of Contents
Nature Escapes
Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is a beautiful reservoir located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, approximately 90 miles from Dallas. It is an ideal destination for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and even take guided boat tours to explore the lake’s numerous coves and inlets.
Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake is a serene, natural lake about 180 miles east of Dallas. The lake spans approximately 26,800 acres and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it perfect for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The cypress trees and Spanish moss create an enchanting atmosphere, immersing visitors in nature’s beauty.
Big Cypress Bayou
Big Cypress Bayou is an iconic waterway in East Texas, around 150 miles from Dallas. It is well-known for its picturesque scenery and wildlife. You can navigate the bayou by paddling or embarking on a riverboat tour. Birdwatching, fishing, and hiking are other popular activities that visitors can enjoy along the bayou.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
About 75 miles southwest of Dallas, Dinosaur Valley State Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to explore dinosaur tracks along the Paluxy River. Additionally, the park provides various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park’s interpretive center educates visitors about the park’s prehistoric inhabitants, making for an exciting day trip for enthusiasts of all ages.
Beavers Bend State Park, OK
Located in Oklahoma, just 200 miles northeast of Dallas, Beavers Bend State Park is a picturesque escape into nature. The park features mountainous scenery, lush forests, and the crystal-clear waters of the Mountain Fork River. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The park also offers cabin rentals for those who wish to extend their stay.
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Lewisville Lake
A mere 25 miles north of Dallas, Lewisville Lake provides a convenient and enjoyable getaway for city dwellers. The 29,000-acre lake offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Various waterfront parks and marinas surround the lake, allowing easy access for visitors to the water and numerous amenities.
Enchanted Rock
Enchanted Rock, situated approximately 220 miles west of Dallas, is a massive pink granite dome that entices hikers and rock climbers. The park surrounding the rock offers miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to enjoy birdwatching, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country, making the climb an unforgettable experience.
Historic Destinations
Jefferson
Jefferson is a charming historic town located about 2.5 hours east of Dallas. This lovely destination is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll down the quaint streets and explore the unique shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfast inns.
Historic Downtown Terrell
Terrell is located just 35 miles east of Dallas and offers an authentic small-town experience. Although not as modern as other cities, Terrell’s historic downtown area showcases the town’s charm and character. Visitors can enjoy antique shopping, historic walking tours, and the Terrell Heritage Museum.
Courthouse-On-The-Square Museum
Within an hour’s drive from Dallas, the Courthouse-On-The-Square Museum in Denton offers a glimpse into the area’s history. Housed in a beautifully restored 1896 courthouse, the museum features exhibits on local history, culture, and art, providing visitors an enriching and informative experience.
Terrell Heritage Museum
The Terrell Heritage Museum, located in Terrell’s historic downtown district, offers visitors a collection of artifacts and exhibits highlighting the town’s history. Through these exhibits, the museum tells the story of Terrell’s past, including its railroad and cotton industry roots.
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Stockyards National Historic District, Fort Worth
Step back in time at the Stockyards National Historic District in Fort Worth, just 30 minutes from Dallas. This historic district features original brick streets, wooden corrals, and a variety of shops, dining, and nightlife options. Don’t miss the twice-daily cattle drives and the Fort Worth Herd, the world’s only year-round, twice-daily cattle drive.
Pioneer Museum, Grand Prairie
Experience the history of Grand Prairie at the Pioneer Museum, home to many artifacts showcasing the history of this city. The museum features exhibits on early settlers, Native American history, the railroad, and more. This engaging and interactive museum is ideal for visitors of all ages.
Art and Culture
Denton
Denton, a charming college town, offers a diverse art and culture scene. The city’s historic downtown square features art galleries, independent shops, and live music venues. You can attend fantastic theater productions and view impressive art collections at the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University.
Grapevine
Grapevine, located near the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, is known for its wineries and its beautiful Main Street. Here, you can find the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, local art galleries, and unique boutiques. The city hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, like the Main Street Fest and GrapeFest.
Kimbell Art Museum
The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth houses a world-renowned collection of European, Asian, and American art. The museum’s architecture is a masterpiece designed by famed architect Louis Kahn. The permanent collection is free to visit and includes masterpieces by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Monet, and more.
Athens
Athens, a small town in East Texas, offers various cultural attractions, including the Henderson County Historical Museum and Texan Theater. The town is also home to several art galleries and studios, where you can view and purchase locally produced art.
Arlington
Arlington, situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and museums. The Arlington Museum of Art and Gallery 76102 showcase contemporary and historic art pieces. Arlington is also home to the University of Texas at Arlington, which hosts various cultural and artistic events throughout the year.
Tyler
Tyler, the “Rose Capital of America,” is famous for its beautiful rose gardens and the annual Texas Rose Festival. The city also boasts a thriving cultural scene with the Tyler Museum of Art, the Goodman-LeGrand Museum, and Camp Ford, a historic Civil War site. Art enthusiasts can explore the city’s many galleries and studios featuring local artists.
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Rose Capital of America
As mentioned earlier, Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of America. The title is not just because of the city’s beautiful gardens but also due to its history in rose cultivation and a significant contribution to the rose industry. The annual Texas Rose Festival showcases gorgeous rose displays, a parade, and various artistic and cultural events showcasing the city’s heritage and love for their beautiful blooms.
Outdoor Activities
Athens Scuba Park
Athens Scuba Park is a unique spot located approximately 75 miles southeast of Dallas. This park offers scuba diving for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers. The park’s underwater attractions include sunken boats, planes, and even a bus, all waiting for you to explore. Clear, spring-fed waters and professional instructors make Athens Scuba Park an excellent day trip for water enthusiasts.
Courthouse-On-The-Square
Courthouse-On-The-Square is located in Denton, Texas, just under an hour from Dallas. This historic courthouse, now a museum, is rich in architecture and history. Outside the courthouse, residents and visitors can enjoy various events and festivals held throughout the year on the courthouse lawn, including music concerts and arts and crafts fairs. It’s a great day trip that combines culture, history, and outdoor fun.
Texas Motor Speedway
Motor racing fans can indulge in high-octane outdoor activities at Texas Motor Speedway, located in Fort Worth, about 40 miles from Dallas. With various events such as NASCAR and IndyCar races and driving experiences, this speedway provides adrenaline-pumping excitement, making it a perfect day trip for speed enthusiasts.
Fort Worth Water Gardens
The Fort Worth Water Gardens near the city’s convention center provide a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. The renowned urban park features fountains, pools, and terraced waterfalls, as well as serene sitting areas surrounded by lush vegetation. Ideal for a relaxing day trip, the Water Gardens offer a tranquil oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Fort Worth.
Tyler Rose Garden
Located about 100 miles east of Dallas, the Tyler Rose Garden is home to over 38,000 rose bushes of 600 different varieties. Spread across 14 acres, this stunning garden is one of the largest public collections of roses in the United States. The garden’s peak blooming season is from mid-April to mid-October, making it an outstanding day trip destination during those months.
Fort Worth Zoo
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Fort Worth Zoo offers a fantastic day trip experience. Ranked among the top zoos in the country, it houses over 7,000 animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and more. Interactive exhibits, such as Texas Wild! and Parrot Paradise, engage visitors to learn about the species both native and non-native to Texas. The zoo also includes a carousel, miniature train, and splash pad, making it an ideal destination for families.
Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Located in Athens, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center combines outdoor adventure with educational experiences. This facility offers a wide variety of activities, including fishing, hatchery tours, and nature trail exploration. Visitors can also enjoy the aquarium exhibits and learn about the various fish species found in Texas’s freshwaters. This well-rounded day trip is ideal for those interested in wildlife, marine biology, and conservation.
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Entertainment and Attractions
Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City, just over 3 hours away from Dallas, offers a variety of attractions to entertain all interests. Some highlights include the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, the Science Museum Oklahoma, and the vibrant Bricktown district for dining and shopping.
Greenville
Greenville, located around an hour east of Dallas, offers the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum, showcasing the region’s cotton industry history. In addition, the Cowleech Prairie Nature Preserve is a great spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Canton
Canton is a charming small town about 60 miles east of Dallas, famous for its First Monday Trade Days, an enormous open-air flea market that attracts visitors from all over Texas. Apart from shopping, visitors can explore the nearby East Texas Gator & Wildlife Park or the picturesque Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial Plaza.
Sundance Square
Sundance Square, located in Fort Worth, around 35 minutes from Dallas, offers a lively mix of shops, restaurants, galleries, and theaters. This vibrant downtown area is named after the notorious Sundance Kid and is known for hosting various events, including live music performances and outdoor movie nights.
Six Flags Over Texas
For thrill-seekers, Six Flags Over Texas is an amusement park in Arlington, about 20 miles from Dallas. With over 40 rides and attractions, it’s a perfect destination for those looking for an adrenaline-filled day trip.
| Ride | Type |
|---|---|
| Batman: The Ride | Roller coaster |
| Pandemonium | Spinning ride |
| Titan | Roller coaster |
| Superman: Tower of Power | Drop tower |
Antique Stores
If you’re interested in finding unique and vintage items, many towns near Dallas offer a variety of antique shops to explore:
- McKinney: Home to dozens of antique stores and vintage boutiques in a charming historic downtown district.
- Grapevine: An antique lover’s paradise, hosting Main Street’s charming stores that specialize in vintage pieces, memorabilia, and collectibles.
- Forney: The city’s Antique Capital of Texas title says it all – a perfect day trip destination for antique shopping and strolling in historic downtown Forney.
Cowboy Culture
Fort Worth Stockyards
Experience genuine cowboy culture with a day trip to the Fort Worth Stockyards. This historic district showcases the rich history of the livestock industry in Texas. Here, you can find numerous attractions for visitors, such as the Texas Cowboys Hall of Fame and the iconic rodeo which takes place on Fridays and Saturdays, offering year-round rodeo action.
Forth Worth, TX
Located just over 30 miles from Dallas, Fort Worth is known for its strong cowboy culture against a modern backdrop. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic Texan experience. In addition to the Stockyards area, visitors will find plenty of Western-themed museums, art galleries, and shopping opportunities.
Cowtown
Cowtown, a nickname for Fort Worth, is an ideal day trip for history buffs and cowboy enthusiasts alike. It’s home to various museums and historic districts, including the Stockyards, that showcase the Western heritage of Texas. Not to be missed is the daily cattle drive, where you can witness cowhands on horseback managing a herd of longhorn cattle.
Cattle Drives
As part of the unique experience Fort Worth Stockyards offers, cattle drives occur twice daily at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm. Visitors can watch real-life cowhands clad in traditional attire lead longhorn cattle down the streets, creating an unforgettable spectacle. This event serves as a reminder of Fort Worth’s pivotal role in the cattle industry and its lasting cowboy legacy.
Remember to plan your visit around these timings to make the most of your day trip to Fort Worth and fully immerse yourself in the cowboy culture it has to offer.
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Local Flavor
East Texas
East Texas is an excellent choice for a day trip from the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. This region offers a variety of unique experiences, from outdoor activities to cultural attractions. Some of the top destinations in East Texas include:
- Tyler, known for its beautiful rose gardens, offers the Tyler State Park for hiking and picnicking
- Jefferson, a historic town with charming architecture, antique shops, and steamboat rides on Caddo Lake
- Kilgore, home to the East Texas Oil Museum, showcasing the region’s oil history
Granbury
Granbury, located less than 70 miles southwest of Dallas, is another fascinating destination for those seeking a taste of Texas history and charm. The town is nestled around the picturesque Lake Granbury and features various attractions, such as:
- Granbury Opera House, hosting musicals and theatre productions
- Hood County Jail and Historical Museum, offering a glimpse of the town’s past
- Shops and restaurants scattered along the historic Granbury Square
Local Wine
For wine enthusiasts, several day trips from Dallas provide an opportunity to explore the thriving North Texas wine scene. Some popular wine destinations include:
- Grapevine: A family-friendly town with wineries, shopping, and restaurants in its walkable downtown district. Don’t miss visiting Messina Hof Grapevine Winery or Umbra Winery for tastings and tours.
- Fredericksburg: About 4 hours from Dallas, this charming town is home to Texas Wine Country. Wineries such as Grape Creek Vineyards and Becker Vineyards offer delightful experiences.
Enjoy your Dallas day trips to these unique and engaging destinations, and savor the superb local flavors that East Texas, Granbury, and North Texas wineries have to offer.
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