Key Highlights
- Explore the Dallas Zoo to see over 2,000 animals and enjoy unique family programs.
- Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for hands-on, mind-blowing exhibits.
- Let your kids experience a world of their own at KidZania, an interactive city built for them.
- Create magical memories with your little ones at the Peppa Pig Theme Park.
- Discover exotic wildlife and aquatic life at the Dallas World Aquarium.
- Enjoy the great outdoors and seasonal events at the beautiful Dallas Arboretum.
Best Things to Do in Dallas With Kids: Activities for All Ages
Planning a family trip to Dallas? You’re in for a treat! This vibrant city is packed with exciting attractions for the entire family. Whether you’re interested in the great outdoors, a day at the zoo, or exploring a fun-filled theme park, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone entertained. From downtown Dallas to the greater Fort Worth area, every corner holds a new adventure.
Get ready to discover some of the top kid-friendly spots that make Dallas a fantastic destination for families. We’ll guide you through the best museums, parks, and unique experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s explore the activities that cater to all ages, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.
1. Dallas Zoo – Animal Encounters and Family Programs
A visit to the Dallas Zoo is a must-do for any family. This 106-acre park is home to more than 2,000 animals, offering endless opportunities for discovery and fun. You can make your zoo day even more special with a Wild Pass, giving you access to the most exciting attractions and experiences. Are you ready to walk on the wild side?
The zoo offers much more than just viewing animals. You can get up close with exclusive animal encounters and guided tours that show you how the staff cares for the residents. For a truly unique experience, consider the Animal Adventures Outreach program, which brings amazing animals to you in a live show featuring birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Becoming a Dallas Zoo member today unlocks amazing benefits and helps support the zoo’s conservation efforts. Members enjoy perks all year long.
- Free daily admission and parking
- Member-only hours and events
- Discounts throughout the zoo
- Special events like the festive Zoo Lights when Reliant returns to light up the wild
2. Perot Museum of Nature and Science – Hands-On Learning for Kids
For an indoor adventure that sparks curiosity, head to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This world-class museum features 11 exhibit halls filled with interactive experiences for all ages. You can race a virtual T. rex, feel the power of an earthquake, and even construct your own skyscraper. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day learning and playing.
The museum is designed to engage young minds. Little ones will love the mini version of downtown Dallas, where they can let their imaginations run wild. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts a variety of traveling exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to see. It’s a place where kids can discover amazing animals and the wonders of our world.
As one of the area’s key education partners, the museum also offers programs like summer camps to extend the learning. It’s a great alternative or addition to a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art, providing a full day of cultural and scientific exploration.
3. KidZania Dallas – Interactive City for Children
Have you ever wished your child could experience a city built just for them? At KidZania Dallas, they can! This unique, interactive city allows children to role-play in over 100 professions, from firefighters and doctors to chefs and artists. It’s an educational and empowering experience where kids learn about careers, financial literacy, and teamwork in a fun, realistic environment.
Every member of the family can find something to appreciate at KidZania. While kids are busy exploring their dream jobs, adults can observe and see their children’s creativity and independence flourish. This innovative concept is more than just a playground; it’s a place where children can be inspired and gain confidence in a world that is perfectly their size.
KidZania also focuses on being one of the education partners that truly support communities. A day here provides valuable life skills.
- Encourages independence and creativity
- Offers hands-on learning about real-world jobs
- Fosters a sense of community and collaboration
4. Peppa Pig Theme Park – Perfect for Toddlers and Preschoolers
If you have toddlers or preschoolers in your group, the Peppa Pig Theme Park is an absolute dream come true. Designed specifically for little ones, this charming park brings the world of Peppa Pig to life with gentle rides, interactive attractions, and colorful playscapes. The whole family can join in the fun and watch as their children’s faces light up with joy.
This theme park is all about creating magical memories. You can ride on Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster, splash in the “muddy puddles,” and meet Peppa and her friends. The park is manageable in size, making it easy for little legs to navigate without getting overwhelmed. It’s the perfect setting for a day of playful adventure.
Throughout the year, the park hosts special events that add an extra layer of excitement, offering festive fun for every season. Visiting with your young children is an experience that promises laughter, imagination, and unforgettable moments for the whole family.
5. The Dallas Arboretum – Outdoor Adventures and Seasonal Events
For a day spent in the great outdoors, look no further than The Dallas Arboretum. Situated on the serene shores of White Rock Lake, this 66-acre garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in the city. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular display gardens that showcase seasonal flowers, shrubs, and trees. Just be sure to wear your comfy shoes to explore it all!
The Arboretum is a fantastic place for kids to run, play, and connect with nature. With plenty of open space and incredible plant collections, there’s always something new to discover around every corner. The gardens transform throughout the year with stunning seasonal events, from pumpkin patches in the fall to dazzling light displays during the holiday season.
Whether you’re visiting in the spring to see the tulips or in winter for the festive decorations, the Arboretum offers a peaceful yet engaging escape. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the family to enjoy fresh air and the beauty of nature right in the heart of Dallas.
6. Dallas World Aquarium – Exotic Wildlife and Aquatic Exhibits
Prepare for an adventure at the Dallas World Aquarium, where you can explore ecosystems from around the globe. Your journey begins at the top of the rainforest exhibit, where exotic birds fly freely and sloths lounge in the trees. This unique attraction is home to a fascinating array of animals, making it a standout destination for families.
As you wander through the aquarium, you’ll encounter a variety of reptiles, mammals, and aquatic life. The aquarium is heavily involved in conservation projects, protecting endangered species like Orinoco crocodiles, giant river otters, and Antillean manatees. It’s a place where you can learn about the importance of protecting our planet’s wildlife while seeing incredible creatures up close.
The exhibits are designed to immerse you in different habitats. What can you expect to see?
| Animal Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Exotic Birds | Cocks-of-the-rock, various species of toucans |
| Mammals | Two-toed and Three-toed sloths, monkeys, giant river otters |
| Reptiles | Orinoco crocodiles |
| Aquatic Life | Antillean manatees and numerous fish species |
7. Indoor Fun: LEGOLAND Discovery Center & Play Street Museum
When you need some indoor fun activities, North Texas has you covered with exciting attractions like the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and the Play Street Museum. At LEGOLAND in Grapevine, you’ll find the ultimate indoor playground filled with LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, and massive building areas. It’s a world of creativity and imagination for LEGO fans of all ages.
For a different kind of indoor adventure, the Play Street Museum offers a unique experience. These small-format children’s museums are designed to encourage pretend play and independence. Each location has a different theme, allowing kids to explore a world that is just their size, from a town square to a farm.
Both venues offer fantastic options for a day of family fun, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Perfect for LEGO enthusiasts with rides, a 4D cinema, and building stations.
- Play Street Museum: Ideal for younger children who love imaginative and interactive play.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique family-friendly things to do in Dallas?
Beyond the typical zoo or museum visit, Dallas offers unique experiences like exploring the artistic shops and eateries in the Bishop Arts District or seeing the larger-than-life cattle drive sculptures at Pioneer Plaza. These spots provide a different taste of the city’s culture and history, making your family trip even more memorable.
Are there any free activities for families with kids in Dallas?
Yes, Dallas has several free fun activities for families! The Dallas Museum of Art offers free general admission, allowing you to explore its vast collection without cost. For outdoor fun, you can walk, bike, or jog along the Katy Trail, a popular urban path that provides great views of the city.
Which Dallas attractions are best for young children under 8?
For children under 8, the Peppa Pig Theme Park and Play Street Museum are specifically designed for their age group. The Dallas Zoo, the children’s area at the Perot Museum of Nature, and the splash-tastic Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark are also excellent choices that offer plenty of engaging activities for younger kids.