Day trips from Dallas, TX
From Dallas, Texas
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Embark on an exciting journey from Dallas, Texas, and discover a variety of day trip opportunities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of nature, the thrill of adventure sports, the charm of historic towns, or the vibrant energy of cultural sites, there's something for everyone within a 200-mile radius. From the scenic beauty of state parks to the rich history of small towns, and from the culinary delights of local dining to the adrenaline rush of adventure sports, these day trips promise unforgettable experiences for friends and groups alike.
1. Waco
Waco, located about 90 miles southwest of Dallas, is a charming city that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a popular destination for home decor and shopping enthusiasts. Explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument, a unique archaeological site featuring the remains of Columbian mammoths. For a taste of local history, visit the Dr. Pepper Museum, dedicated to the iconic soft drink.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Magnolia Market at the Silos
- ✓Waco Mammoth National Monument
- ✓Dr. Pepper Museum
- ✓Cameron Park Zoo
2. Fort Worth
Just a short drive from Dallas, Fort Worth is a city rich in history and culture. Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards, a historic district that offers a glimpse into the city's cowboy heritage. Explore the Kimbell Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of artworks. For a unique experience, visit the Fort Worth Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Fort Worth Stockyards
- ✓Kimbell Art Museum
- ✓Fort Worth Zoo
- ✓Sundance Square
3. Austin
Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and beautiful natural surroundings. Visit the Texas State Capitol, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Explore the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, a scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the city. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the famous Torchy's Tacos.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Texas State Capitol
- ✓Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
- ✓Torchy's Tacos
- ✓Zilker Park
4. Galveston
Galveston, located on the Gulf Coast, is a popular destination for beach lovers and history enthusiasts. Visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, a historic amusement park that offers a variety of rides and attractions. Explore the Moody Gardens, a complex of aquariums, a rainforest pyramid, and a 3D theater. For a taste of local history, visit the Galveston County Museum.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- ✓Moody Gardens
- ✓Galveston County Museum
- ✓Beachfront
5. San Antonio
San Antonio, located about 200 miles south of Dallas, is a city rich in history and culture. Visit the Alamo, a historic mission that played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution. Explore the San Antonio River Walk, a scenic waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and galleries. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the famous Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia.
What to See & Do:
- ✓The Alamo
- ✓San Antonio River Walk
- ✓Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia
- ✓San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
6. Tyler
Tyler, located about 100 miles east of Dallas, is a charming city known for its beautiful rose gardens and historic sites. Visit the Tyler Rose Garden, a 22-acre garden that features over 35,000 rose bushes. Explore the Tyler Museum of Art, a regional art museum that showcases a variety of exhibitions. For a taste of local history, visit the Goodwill Industries of East Texas.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Tyler Rose Garden
- ✓Tyler Museum of Art
- ✓Goodwill Industries of East Texas
- ✓Caldwell Zoo
7. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Located just a short drive from downtown Dallas, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre botanical garden that features a variety of themed gardens, including the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, the DeGolyer Estate, and the Japanese Garden. The garden also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and educational programs.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden
- ✓DeGolyer Estate
- ✓Japanese Garden
- ✓Special Events
8. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located about 150 miles west of Dallas, is a unique geological formation that offers stunning views of the surrounding hill country. The park features a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and camping facilities. For a taste of local history, visit the nearby town of Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage and wineries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Hiking Trails
- ✓Rock Climbing
- ✓Camping Facilities
- ✓Fredericksburg
Available Tours:
9. Dallas Museum of Art
The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the United States, featuring a collection of over 24,000 works of art from around the world. The museum's collection includes works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Georgia O'Keeffe. The museum also hosts a variety of special exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Vincent van Gogh
- ✓Pablo Picasso
- ✓Georgia O'Keeffe
- ✓Special Exhibitions
10. Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium is a unique aquarium and animal exhibit that features a variety of marine life, birds, and reptiles from around the world. The aquarium's exhibits include a 200,000-gallon aquarium that features a variety of sharks, rays, and other marine life. The aquarium also features a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs.
What to See & Do:
- ✓200,000-gallon Aquarium
- ✓Interactive Exhibits
- ✓Educational Programs
- ✓Marine Life
11. Dallas Arts District
The Dallas Arts District is the largest urban arts district in the United States, featuring a variety of cultural institutions, including the Dallas Museum of Art, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. The district also features a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Dallas Museum of Art
- ✓Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
- ✓AT&T Performing Arts Center
- ✓Restaurants and Shops
12. Dallas Farmers Market
The Dallas Farmers Market is a historic market that features a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods from local farmers and artisans. The market also features a variety of restaurants, shops, and specialty stores, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The market is open year-round and hosts a variety of special events throughout the year.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Fresh Produce
- ✓Local Artisans
- ✓Restaurants and Shops
- ✓Special Events
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