10 Things You Must Do When You Visit Dallas, TX

Founded over 160 years ago, the city of Dallas has had a long time to expand and grow. Now covering an area of over 350 square miles and home to 1.2 million people, it is a sprawling metropolis in eastern Texas. Being so large, there are numerous things to do and sites to see. Here are 10 sites that visitors to Dallas, TX must take the time to see.

Old Red Museum


To start their visit of Dallas, it would be beneficial for tourists to know the history of this giant city. The Old Red Museum is the perfect place to learn about Dallas’ past. This old building originally served as the courthouse for Dallas County but was converted into a museum in 1966. Besides containing artifacts from Dallas’ history, such as ‘Dalla’ J.R. Ewing’s Stetson hat and the handcuffs worn by Lee Harvey Oswald (who, according to five government investigations, killed JFK), this museum also houses some prehistoric items, including teeth from ancient sharks and a mammoth tusk. The Old Red Courthouse is located at 100 South Houston, Dallas, TX.

Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park

For those seeking more of a thrill, the Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park is a must-see. Attractions here include bungee jumping off of a 7-story building, an opportunity to glide 100 feet in the air, a 16 story free fall, and the chance to ride a rocket that travels at 70 miles per hour. For individuals worried about safety in such an environment, there is no need. Even after 25 years of operating, the park maintains a perfect safety record. The Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park is located at 11131 Malibu Dr., Dallas, TX. 
If you are at the park and want to check out a selection of doors you are only 3 minutes away, Driving directions 

The Escape Game

Another location popular with thrill seekers is The Escape Game. At this attraction, visitors are put in one of several scenarios and are given an hour to escape. These scenarios include a prison escape, which is exactly what is sounds like, and a museum heist, where the players must steal a painting and escape. Groups of two to twelve players must work together to escape the puzzles locking them in the room. The Escape Game is located at the Grapevine Mills Mall, which in turn is located at 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy., Suite #604, Grapevine, TX.

Sixth Floor Museum

A more somber location to visit in Dallas is the Sixth Floor Museum. For those unfamiliar with the specifics, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while visiting Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963. This museum is located at the place where the assassin took the fateful shot. Visitors to the museum are given a free audio tour and the copyright to the Zapruder film, a live recording of the assassination, was donated to the museum in 1999. The video was shown in public for the first time in 2007. Those wishing to learn about the assassination and legacy of John F. Kennedy should visit the Sixth Floor Museum, located at 411 Elm Street, Dallas, TX.

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament

If visitors are still seeking more history, the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is a very unique experience. At this dinner theater, guests are treated to jousting matches, horse-riding competitions, and other medieval forms of entertainment. Guests will enjoy a four course meal while watching the performers act out a story of heroism and honor. There is even a small chance that audience members will be chosen to aid the actors in their performance. The Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is located at 2021 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX.

AT&T Stadium

If history does not interest a visitor to Dallas, perhaps sports will. Dallas is home to several sports arenas, the most famous probably being AT&T Stadium. Home to the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium was built in 2009 and has hosted many other sporting events besides football. The 2010 NBA All-Star Game was held here (setting record attendance for a basketball game at over 108K fans), as well as several boxing and wrestling matches. Tours of the stadium are also available. AT&T Stadium is located just outside of Dallas, at 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX.

House of Blues

For any musicians travelling to Dallas, the House of Blues will be a fantastic stop. This restaurant and bar offers live music and some of the most delicious and authentic southern dishes in the country. The main auditorium houses over 1,500 guests. After the show, visitors can head to the Foundation Room VIP Club and experience some of the finest service available. While there are other locations in the United States, the House of Blues in Dallas, located at 2200 N. Lamar St., Dallas, TX, is one of the best. 

Dallas Museum of Art

After experiencing the music of Dallas, tourists can view the art of the city at the Dallas Museum of Art. Founded in 1903 and housing over 20,000 pieces of artwork, this museum shows off work done by artists from all over the world and throughout history. Mediterranean artifacts, 18th century European paintings, and American artworks are just some of the categories that visitors can view while visiting this museum. In addition, there are many programs and events for the community to enjoy, ranging from lecture series with artists and authors to children’s activities to live jazz concerts. The Dallas Museum of Art is located at 1717 North Harwood Street, Dallas, TX

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

If visitors are looking for a calmer place to unwind while in Dallas, the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens are an excellent spot to relax. This 66 acre garden house a variety of flowers, trees, and many other types of flora. Walking paths wind their way through the gardens, and tourists can visit the Trial Gardens to see the growth of experimental plants. The gardens offer children’s activities as well, including Rory Children’s Adventure Garden and the Children’s Garden Café. If visiting family wants a change from restaurant eating, there are several picnic areas scattered throughout the gardens as well. The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens are located at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, TX.

Dallas World Aquarium

One more place that tourists in Dallas must visit is the Dallas World Aquarium. Opened in 1992 and hosting a variety of animal life, visitors to the aquarium are able to see many land animals in addition to the sea life kept here. From exotic rainforest birds to endangered jungle animals to the rarest forms of marine life in the ocean, there is plenty to see in the aquarium. In addition to the animals, the aquarium has an option to rent out space to anyone who wishes to host an event among the aquatic life. The Dallas World Aquarium is located at 1801 North Griffin, Dallas, TX.