Are you trying to plan a fun and interesting weekend in Dallas, TX? Then you’ve come to the right place! You’ll find Dallas in Northern Texas, which is one of our favorite areas in Texas to explore. It’s a beautiful modern city and vibrant Texas city that is full of fun and interesting things to do. It’s also the cultural and commercial hub of Northern Texas!
Not only is it a vibrant city in Texas, but it’s also a very historical Texas city. It’s home to the first skyscraper west of the Mississippi, was a major manufacturing hub during WWII, and is probably best known for the site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Not all of Dallas’ history is pretty, but it is certainly unique. That’s one of the reasons people enjoy exploring Dallas in a weekend.
When you’re planning your fun weekend trip to Dallas, there are a few things to keep in mind. So, we’ve made it easier to plan by giving you some of our favorite Dallas tips. We’ve included the easiest ways to get to Dallas and travel around the city, an epic Dallas itinerary, and some great places to stay and eat in Dallas.
On this itinerary for Dallas, we’ve made sure that all the stops are easy to get to and within the city. That way you can make sure you get to see all the most popular Dallas highlights.
There are tons of day trip options near Dallas, but you probably won’t have time for them if you’re only spending 2 days in Dallas. However, if you want to plan an extra day in Dallas, we’ve included some really great day trip options that are just a little outside of the city as well.
Now that you know a little bit about Dallas, let’s help you figure out how to plan a trip to Dallas Texas that you won’t forget!
Getting To Dallas
It’s very easy to get to Dallas. Dallas is home to one of the largest international airports in the US. Dallas Fort Worth Airport has direct flights coming from all over the country almost hourly. The airport is in the suburbs of Dallas but is only a short drive away from the city center.
If you don’t want to fly into DFW Airport, there is a second airport in the city. Dallas Love Field Airport is much, much smaller. However, Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Southwest Airlines have daily flights that come into DLF Airport.
The city also has train stations and bus depots if you are coming from somewhere a bit closer. And of course, you can drive to Dallas. Dallas is connected to several major highways, which makes it super easy to get to if you’re planning to drive into the city.
Getting Around During Your Dallas Weekend Getaway
One of the easiest ways to get around Dallas, TX is by using public transit. Dallas’ public transit is called DART and includes trains and buses that snake their way around the city. Not only does DART connect you to all of the city, but some trains and buses even connect you to areas just outside of the city. You can also use DART to get from the airport to where you’re staying in the city.
If you are planning to drive, or just want to rent a car, you’re also in luck. Dallas has a pretty robust freeway system so that you can easily get from one area in the city to the other. You’ll also find plenty of parking options scattered around the city. When you’re in the heart of Dallas, you’ll also find it very easy to walk around and explore.
The Ultimate 2 Day Weekend In Dallas Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Dallas’ Cultural And Natural History
For your first of 2 days in Dallas, we suggest seeing some of the city’s cultural and natural history sites. You’ll need to use public transportation or a car for the first half of the day. However, the second half of the day is very walkable.
Stop 1: The Dallas Arboretum And Botanical Garden
Your first stop is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. It is a 66-acre botanical garden and arboretum just on the outskirts of the city. You’ll find it in East Dallas, and it’s a great place to explore during the day. That’s because it’s the stop on during your 48 hours in Dallas that is the furthest out from the city center.
At the arboretum and botanical garden, you’ll find plenty of places to explore. There are several themed gardens, like the Woman’s Garden and the Jonsson Color Garden. Scattered throughout the 66 acres you’ll find waterfalls, fountains, and places to sit and enjoy the foliage. There is a small entrance fee to explore the gardens, but it’s totally worth it.
Get The CityPass Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 2: George W. Bush Presidential Center
After exploring the gardens, take a short 15-minute drive to the George W. Bush Presidential Center. In recent years, once every President retires, they build a Presidential Center and Library, typically near a city they called home. While President Bush was raised in Midland and Houston Texas, he decided to open his Presidential Center in Dallas, TX. President Bush’s center is the 13th Presidential Center and Library to be built in the US.
Inside the museum, you’ll find extensive archives and artifacts detailing President Bush’s two consecutive terms. There is a replica Oval Office that has been designed to look like President Bush’s during his time in the White House. You’ll also see some of the 43,000 gifts he received during his Presidency on display. It’s a really unique piece of American cultural history and Dallas Cultural History.
Get The CityPass Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 3: Perot Museum Of Nature And Science
The next stop on our weekend guide to Dallas is the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. It’s the last stop on this Dallas itinerary that you’ll need a car for. However, it’s only a short 5-minute drive away from the George W. Bush Presidential Center. The museum was named for Margaret and Ross Perot, two influential Texans who called Dallas Texas home.
The museum is located in Victory Park, which brings you closer to Dallas’ city center. Perot museum has public parking, which is perfect if you drive there. It also has a cafe that you can visit for lunch or a light snack. Inside the museum, you’ll find a variety of exhibits. You’ll learn about pre-historic life in Dallas, see beautiful gems and minerals, and learn about space. Those are just some of the fun exhibits awaiting you at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.
Get The CityPass Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 4: Klyde Warren Park
From the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, you’ll be able to walk to your next stop. That’s because Klyde Warren Park is just 10 minutes away. The park is a little over 5 acres in size in the heart of Downtown Dallas. It’s a fairly new park in the city that opened in 2012.
In fact, Klyde Warren Park is easily one of the most unique things to do in Dallas on a weekend. One of the things that makes it so unique is that it sits over the Woodall Rogers Freeway.
You’ll find tons of things to do in the park, no matter when you visit. It’s actually where a lot of Dallas holiday events take place. From the 4th of July Celebration, summer movies, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, and trick-or-treating. Even if there isn’t an event happening, it’s a beautiful park. There is a walking trail, a splash pad, and areas to sit and enjoy the views of Downtown Dallas TX.
Book Your City Highlights Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 5: Dallas Museum Of Art
Right around the corner from Klyde Warren Park, you’ll find the Dallas Museum of Art. The Dallas Museum of Art is a really great activity if you’re on a couple’s trip to Dallas Texas. It’s one of the best Dallas date night ideas too. It’s just a short 3-minute walk away from Klyde Warren Park, so you’ll be able to find it pretty easily.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, but they stay open until 9 pm on Fridays. It is free to visit, however, they do require you to book your entry time before arriving. But it’s really easy to do and you don’t have to do it far in advance.
On display in the museum, you’ll find art from some very famous artists. In their collection, they have pieces by van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe, Rembrandt, Andy Warhol, and more. They also have an extensive collection of early Asian art, the art of the Americas, Islamic art, and more. The Dallas Museum of Art has a very large collection with a piece from just about every culture and time period.
Book Your Dallas Art District Scavenger Hunt Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 6: Tex Mex Food And Culture Walking Tour
If it’s your first time in Dallas, you’ll want to go on a Tex Mex Food and Culture Walking Tour. It’s a really great way to end your first of 2 days in Dallas. Plus, you can choose to do the tour instead of a more traditional dinner. The tour takes just over 2 hours and is only $40 per person.
On the guided walking tour, you’ll be exploring the West End Historic District of Dallas, TX. There are four stops along the tour. At each stop, you’ll get to sample the best Tex Mex in Dallas. These restaurants are local favorites, so you’ll get to eat like a Dallas local too.
Book Your Tex Mex Food And Culture Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Day 2: Dallas’ Historic City Center
For your second of the 2 days in Dallas Texas, you’ll be exploring the city’s historic City Center. You won’t need a car or any transportation to get to each stop on this day. The farthest you’ll have to walk is 10 minutes!
Stop 1: Dealey Plaza
Start the day in Dealey Plaza. Dealey Plaza is a historic city park in the West End Historic District of Dallas. It’s often called ‘the birthplace of Dallas’, but that’s not what it’s best known for. It became famous around the world in November of 1963 when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while driving through the plaza.
Today, that’s often the major focus when discussing the history of Dealey Plaza. However, you’ll learn about all of its histories when you visit. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers several interactive guides that you can view on their website for free. You can do one of them, or all of them, as you walk the plaza.
Book Your Guided Dealey Plaza Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 2: The Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza
Once you’ve explored the plaza, head to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. The museum is housed in the former Texas School Book Depository Building. That is where Lee Harvey Oswald hid and fired the shot that changed American history. Most of the museum’s exhibits are on the sixth floor, but there are often special exhibits on the seventh floor.
It is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm. There is a small admission fee to enter, and you’ll want to book your tickets in advance. But this is a really unique thing to do in Dallas in a weekend, so we absolutely recommend visiting if you can.
The main exhibit is of course focused on JFK and the day of his assassination. You’ll learn about the historical context of his assassination, the aftermath of the shocking event, and more. There are artifacts from the day, exhibits detailing the investigation, and more. It’s a must-see museum on this weekend’s guide to Dallas!
Book Your Museum Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 3: John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
Now that you have a better understanding of the events of November 22, 1963, take a short walk to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. The John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza was dedicated in June of 1970, 7 years after his death. It was designed by renowned American architect, Philip Johnson. Johnson created the memorial to resemble an open tomb.
It’s a beautiful and peaceful plaza in the heart of Downtown Dallas, TX. You probably won’t spend a lot of time there unless you want to. There isn’t much to see besides the sculptural monument. But, it marks a sort of end to the story of JFK’s tragic death in Dallas. After you’ve spent the first part of the day learning about his assassination, it’s a powerful monument that represents a country in mourning.
Book Your JFK Assassination Walk Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 4: Pioneer Plaza
Your next stop on your second of 2 days in Dallas Texas is not as sad. Pioneer Plaza is just an 8-minute walk away from the JFK Memorial Plaza. It is a large public park and a pretty popular tourist area. So, you should expect some crowds when you’re there.
The plaza was originally a railroad and warehouse property but was bought in the 1960s. It was originally going to be the site of a 913-foot building, however, the project failed and was never built. So the land sat empty for a few decades until the 1990s. That’s when a local real estate developer came up with the idea to place a massive sculpture on the land. The project ended up costing 9 million dollars and two years to complete.
In the end, the 4.2-acre Pioneer Plaza was created, and it quickly became a popular tourist destination. It’s an iconic thing to do in Dallas in a weekend, and you can take your time exploring. You’ll definitely want to see the huge sculpture depicting 19th-century cattle drivers! But there are also historical sites scattered throughout the plaza too, like John Neely Bryan Cabin.
Book Your City Highlights Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 5: Reunion Tower
Once you’re done exploring Pioneer Plaza, walk 10 minutes to Reunion Tower. Reunion Tower is a huge observation deck in Dallas. If it’s your first time in Dallas TX, you’ll definitely want to check it out. The tower is 561-feet tall and is the 15th tallest building in Dallas! You’ll need tickets to reach the top of the tower, or you can use the Dallas CityPass.
It’s a very family-friendly thing to do in Dallas on a weekend. However, it also makes a great Dallas date night activity if you’re on a couple’s trip to Dallas. They offer a package where you can go to the top of the tower at night. When you’re up there, you’ll get to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine, take a picture with your partner, and admire the view. Plus, you’ll get to take home a picture frame and Reunion Tower flute glasses as mementos of your romantic night.
Get The CityPass Here: Getyourguide.com
Stop 6: Haunted Dallas Walking Tour
We suggest ending your 48 hours in Dallas with a Haunted Dallas Walking Tour. The Haunted Dallas Walking Tour is about an hour long. You’ll explore some of the most haunted areas in the city according to locals. Stops on the tour include Dealey Plaza, the Grassy Knoll, the Old Red Museum, and the John Neely Bryan Cabin.
This is truly one of the best things to do in Dallas at night!
As you stop at each haunted location, you’ll learn a brief history of the site. So not only is it a fun and spooky thing to do in Dallas, but it’s also informative. The Haunted Dallas Walking Tour is a great way to end a fun weekend trip to Dallas, Texas!
Book Your Haunted Dallas Walking Tour Here: Getyourguide.com
What To Do With 3 days In Dallas Or More
If you have a few more days free to explore Dallas, TX, then we suggest taking a day trip from Dallas. There are plenty of unique things to do in Dallas that are actually just outside of the city. So, you won’t have to drive far. If you’re traveling with kids, you may want to check out Legoland or the Hawaiian Falls Waterpark.
Another thing to do in Dallas is a tour of the Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium. You’ll spend about 3 hours exploring every part of the huge NFL Stadium. Lovers of pop culture may want to visit the Southfork Ranch. The Southfork Ranch is just outside of Dallas and was a filming location for the tv show from the 1980s, Dallas. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll enjoy seeing Dallas in a weekend or more.
Where To Stay For A Weekend In Dallas
Fairmont Dallas
For those wanting to stay in the heart of Dallas, the Fairmont Dallas is perfect. The Fairmont Dallas is located in the Dallas Art District, which is one of the best places to explore during a weekend in Dallas. So, you’ll be close to some amazing Dallas attractions.
It is a slightly more upscale option, but it’s still pretty budget-friendly. Especially considering it’s in the perfect location for spending 2 days in Dallas. This is truly one of the best places to stay in Dallas!
The hotel has a terrace-level outdoor pool, a large fitness center, and even massage services. On-site, you’ll find the Pyramid Restaurant and Bar, which is known for upscale American fare. The Fairmont Dallas even has its own Starbucks! The rooms are beautiful with king-sized or queen-sized beds, or you can book a one-bedroom king-bed suite.
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
The Beeman Hotel
If you’re flying into Dallas Love Field Airport, you may want to consider staying at The Beeman Hotel. The Beeman Hotel is just a short 6-minute drive away from DLF Airport.
It’s also close to tons of other Dallas attractions like the Dallas Museum of Art, the George W. Bush Presidential Library, and the Dallas Arboretum. It’s a really great option if you want to be close to the airport and some of the best things to do in Dallas in a weekend.
Inside the hotel, you’ll find beautiful decor, modern furnishings, and a welcoming environment. There is a beautiful indoor swimming pool, a full-service gym, and there is even a restaurant on site. The rooms have either one or two queen-sized beds, or a king-sized bed. Each room is full of modern decor and views of the Dallas cityscape.
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
Canvas Hotel Dallas
The Canvas Hotel Dallas is a boutique hotel in Dallas less than one mile away from the Dallas city center. You’ll be just feet away from popular Dallas sites like the Reunion Tower Lookout, Pegasus Plaza, and the Main Street Garden. On the rooftop of the hotel is a beautiful and luxurious pool with views of the city.
Another one of the amazing amenities at the hotel is the Chef’s Pallete. The Chef’s Pallete is a full-service restaurant that is open to guests of the Canvas Hotel Dallas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With so many wonderful amenities, the Canvas Hotel Dallas is a little pricey. However, it’s absolutely worth it.
Inside the Canvas Hotel Dallas, you’ll find a variety of room styles available. Each room is decorated with urban modern decor. All of them have exposed brick walls, views of the city, and unique art pieces. They have rooms with queen-sized beds and king-sized beds, and you can choose a regular room or a suite.
Check Rates Here: Booking.com
Where to Eat During Your 2 Days In Dallas
Maple Leaf Diner
One of the best places for breakfast in Dallas is the Maple Leaf Diner. The Maple Leaf Diner is known for serving breakfast all day. So, no matter when you’re craving pancakes and waffles, you can head to Maple Leaf Diner. The diner get’s it’s unique name because it specializes in Canadian dishes with Texas portion sizes.
On their menu, you’ll find a variety of classic American and Canadian breakfast dishes. Whether you are craving something sweet or savory, the Maple Leaf Diner has it. You can try Canadian poutine, chicken bacon and waffles, the fried steak breakfast platter, and more. It’s a must-stop breakfast restaurant when you’re spending 2 days in Dallas.
Petra & The Beast
For a unique dining experience while you’re enjoying your fun weekend trip in Dallas, head to Petra & the Beast. Petra & the Beast specializes in farm-to-fork menu items. So, everything you eat is fresh and locally sourced. Wednesday through Sunday, they are open for dinner with their A La Carte menu which changes seasonally. Every Saturday, they host a 6-course tasting dinner, but you need reservations.
On their A La Carte menu, you’ll find a variety of incredible dishes. You can start your meal off with a charcuterie board, before trying the turkey wonton pasta, tea braised pigtails, or marosa potato & chive culurgiones. Finish this decadent and one-of-a-kind dining experience with dessert, like their fig frangipane tart or the chocolate custard cake.
Rodeo Goat
Rodeo Goat is a great casual restaurant that is open daily for lunch and dinner. This Dallas restaurant has over 6,000 positive Google reviews. So, you know it’s good! Rodeo Goat is known for their menu full of inventive hamburgers and an extensive tap list. All of the burgers have fun names and come with toppings like herb goat cheese, candied jalapenos, and hydroponic sprouts. So, not your typical burger toppings.
Along with their beef burger patties, you can also substitute vegan patties, impossible burgers, turkey patties, or chicken patties with any burger on the menu. So, everyone can enjoy lunch or dinner at Rodeo Goat. While you enjoy your burger, pair it with one of their many beers on tap. They have a huge selection of over 50 beers on tap or bottled available. Rodeo Goat also makes sure to have a wide variety of Texas beers available on tap too.
We hope these Dallas tips have helped you figure out how to plan a trip to Dallas that you’ll love. If you don’t have a ton of time to explore the city, a Dallas weekend trip is totally doable! Of course, you can change the stops on our Dallas itinerary and add things or take off things you’re not interested in. There’s so much to do, but we think this is a great starting point if you’re wondering what to do in Dallas for a weekend!
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