Dallas, Texas, beckons tourists with a rich tapestry of culture and history. The cityscape is punctuated by iconic landmarks like Dealey Plaza, forever etched in history as the site of President Kennedy’s assassination. Beyond its historic significance, Dallas boasts a vibrant arts scene, showcased in the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. For those seeking a unique stay, historic hotels, such as The Adolphus, offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past, combining elegance with nostalgia. On the other hand, themed hotels, such as The Joule, provide a contemporary twist with their innovative designs and curated experiences. Dallas, a city that seamlessly blends its heritage with modern allure, promises an enriching experience for every traveler. Additionally, tourists can venture out on excursions that promise diverse experiences beyond the city limits. Check out our list of the best day trips from Dallas, Texas!
Good to know:
- If you don't have your own vehicle, you can use Greyhound buses to get from Dallas to other cities. And for public transport options within Dallas, Dallas' government portal has options divided by type of transport on their website.
- For information about what you can do in Dallas, check out Visit Dallas, the city's official tourism portal.
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1. Athens, TX
For a small town experience that puts you in touch with the heart of Texas, visit Athens, Texas. When the people of Athens noticed that their town was dying due to a lack of traffic, the community came together to plan a better downtown experience, one that is known for today. With shops, galleries, theaters, and restaurants, Athens is the perfect place for a friendly small town experience. As well as fun shopping and dining, Athens is home to three wineries, an Arboretum and Botanical Society, zip lining, and scuba diving in Athens lake. All this, and so much more, is just waiting to be discovered in Athens, Texas.
Athens, TX
Website: Athens, TX
2. Mineral Wells, TX
Home of healing waters and ghosts alike, Mineral Wells is a unique city with both historic and healthy-living value. During your Mineral Wells visit, you can float peacefully down the Brazos river or see blooming flowers in the Clark Gardens Botanical Park. Dig for dinosaurs at Mineral Wells Fossil Park or fish and swim at Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Tramway.
For a spooky adventure, visit the Baker Hotel and take the Ghost Walk to learn about the history of the town and its dearly departed inhabitants. Who knows? You might even run into one. If you’re just wanting to relax, take a mineral bath at The Crazy Bath House, where the famous soothing water of the town will help you unwind.
Read our article to learn more about the best things to do in Mineral Wells.
Mineral Wells, TX
Website: Mineral Wells, TX
3. Dr. Pepper Museum
If you love soda and especially Dr. Pepper, you need to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas. This three-story building used to be the home of a Dr. Pepper bottling factory. Today, it is a museum perfect for the whole family. With exhibits about the product, free enterprise, and a demonstration of how the drink itself is made, you will be amazed at how much work goes into every bottle.
Dr. Pepper was created in 1885, at Morrison’s Old Corner Drug Store, right in Waco, Texas. Charles Alderton, a pharmacist, developed the combination of syrups that became the distinctive soda, and together he and Morrison began to manufacture and sell the drink.
At the Dr. Pepper museum, located steps from the Brazos River in Waco, you can walk through the original Old Corner Drug Store and sit at the counter where it all started. Early bottling equipment, along with samples of early bottles are everywhere. And for the kids, test your own mix of syrups in their Liquid Laboratory. Can you invent the next great soda? The museum is open daily, until 5:30 pm.
Dr. Pepper Museum
Address: 300 S 5th St, 76701 Waco, TX
Website: Dr. Pepper Museum
4. Dinosaur Valley State Park
At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can step back in time—literally! Ninety minutes outside of Dallas, this beautiful nature park is home to the fossilized footprints of dinosaurs. Formed long ago from dinosaurs taking a stroll alongside an ancient ocean, the steps have since hardened and withstood the test of time for you to see. During your visit, you will be able to walk in the giants’ tracks along the bed of the Paluxy River. Besides finding dinosaur tracks, the park offers camping, picnic areas, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, and horse riding.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Address: 1629 Park Rd 59, 76043 Glen Rose, TX
Website: Dinosaur Valley State Park
5. Lake Texoma
Amazing fishing awaits at Lake Texoma. On the border of Texas and Oklahoma, this lake is home to the Striped Bass. Two state parks and 54 other parks surround the lake, perfect for hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, four-wheeling, and more. Every year, hundreds of sea fossils are found preserved in the limestone walls bordering the lake, keeping visitors in touch with the past while enjoying the present day of play. Conveniently situated between Dallas and Oklahoma City, Lake Texoma is perfect for a day trip or a stop on the way from one big city to another.
Lake Texoma
Address: Lake Texoma, Texas, Oklahoma border
Website: Lake Texoma
6. Turner Falls, OK
Cool off during the summer and escape the Texas heat at Turner Falls, Oklahoma. Only two hours away from Dallas, the 23-meter (77-foot) waterfall and cold, refreshing streams are perfect for swimming. Hiking trails, caves ready to explore, cabins, and food are also at the park, perfect for a day of adventure or an overnight stay.
Fish in the trout-stocked streams and look for the wildlife that is often seen roaming the area. Perfect for the whole family, Turner Falls is a natural resort just waiting to be explored.
Turner Falls
Address: US-77, 73030 Davis, OK
Website: Turner Falls
7. Possum Kingdom State Park
Spend a day on the water at Possum Kingdom State Park. With clear, blue water, and striking scenery, Possum Kingdom is perfect for multiple outdoor activities. Boat across the water or dive in to escape the summer heat.
Hike the surrounding trails in search for native flora and fauna or camp under the stars. Looking for a place to dive? The park allows for scuba diving and snorkeling to explore the lake’s depths. With over 500 kilometers (300 miles) of shoreline, the lake is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway when visiting Texas.
Possum Kingdom State Park
Address: 3901 St Park Rd 33, 76429 Caddo, TX
Website: Possum Kingdom State Park
8. Hamilton Pool Preserve
Since its discovery in the 1800s, the Hamilton Pool Preserve has been a popular destination for families from all over the country. The pool occurs three-quarters of a mile upstream from Pedernales River where Hamilton Creek spills over limestone outcroppings and becomes a gorgeous 15-meter (50-foot) waterfall. The water takes a dive into a steep box canyon forming the famous pool.
Don’t worry about water levels during your visit; while dry weather can cause the waterfall to barely trickle, the pool’s water level stays consistent. Diverse species of birds and vegetation make the preserve a perfect place for pictures and exploration. Because of the pool’s popularity, reservations are required during the summer. So plan your day ahead, and enjoy this escape from the Texas heat.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, 78620 Dripping Springs, TX
Website: Hamilton Pool Preserve
9. Enchanted Rock State Park
As the backdrop of many a local myth and legend, Enchanted Rock has been a campsite, mine, and disputed territory for thousands of years. Today, the large granite rock is perfect for hiking and mountain climbing. From the top, you will see Texas’ beautiful plains and admire the reddish-pink shade of the mountain itself. At night, the park becomes one of the best public stargazing locations in Texas, so pick a spot anywhere in the park and enjoy the view.
Enchanted Rock State Park
Address: 16710 Ranch Road 965, 78624 Fredericksburg, TX
Website: Enchanted Rock State Park
10. Gruene, TX
Since the 1970s, Gruene, Texas has been growing into a lively haven for Southwest culture and history. At the heart of Gruene is Texas’ oldest dance hall where many celebrities got their start and thousands flock to dance each year. Minimal rebuilding has been done to the dance hall since its construction in the 1800s, adding to the integrity and antiquity of the structure.
Several other buildings in Gruene have been similarly updated, making many businesses look like they have stepped out of the past. Running alongside the charming town is the Guadalupe River where many tourists and locals alike gather each summer for kayaking and tubing in the water. Visit in November to reconnect with the town’s German heritage and enjoy Wurstfest, a festival full of food, games, carnival rides, music, dancing, and especially, German and Texas beer!
Gruene, TX
Website: Gruene, TX
Wurstfest
Address: 178 Landa Park Dr, 78130 New Braunfels, TX
Website: Wurstfest
11. Arbuckle Mountains, Oklahoma
The Arbuckle Mountains, nestled in southern Oklahoma, is an excellent day trip destination from Dallas for families. This ancient range offers a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and serene lakes. Adventure seekers can explore Turner Falls Park, known for the mesmerizing 77-foot (23.47 meter) waterfall and natural swimming pools. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area offers hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
History buffs can visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center to learn about the Native American heritage of the region. The Arbuckle Mountains promise a refreshing break from city life, with natural beauty and recreational activities galore, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dallas.
Turner Falls Park
Address: I-35 &, US-77, Davis, OK 73030, United States
Website: Turner Falls Park
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 8am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 7am - 10pm
Price: from 16 USD in summer and 9 USD in winter (adults)
12. Granbury, Texas
Granbury, a Texan city exuding old-world charm, is perfect for a romantic day trip from Dallas. Nestled on the shores of Lake Granbury, this historic city is known for its well-preserved downtown square and Victorian houses. Visitors can explore boutiques, dine in delightful eateries, and catch a show at the historic Granbury Opera House.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy water activities on the lake or hike on the scenic trails in nearby parks. Don’t miss the captivating Hood County Jail with a museum. Granbury offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it a delightful day trip from Dallas for couples.
Hood County Jail Museum
Address: 208 N Crockett St, Granbury, TX 76048, United States
Website: Hood County Jail Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 1pm - 4pm
Price: 5 USD (adults), 2.50 USD (kids below 12), free entry for kids below 6
13. Weatherford, Texas
Weatherford, Texas, beckons as an inviting day trip destination near Dallas. This charming city, known as the “Cutting Horse Capital of the World,” offers a blend of Western heritage and small-town allure.
Stroll down its historic streets lined with boutique shops and enjoy a meal at one of its cozy eateries. The Chandor Gardens provide a tranquil escape with lush flora and picturesque landscapes. Doss Heritage and Culture Center offers fascinating exhibits for history buffs. Weatherford’s relaxed ambiance and cultural offerings make it a delightful destination for a one-day trip from Dallas.
Chandor Gardens
Address: 711 W Lee Ave, Weatherford, TX 76086, United States
Website: Chandor Gardens
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 3pm; Sun - 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD (adults)
14. Fort Worth Stock Yards
Are you attending RFD-TV's The American Semi-Finals at Cowtown Coliseum next week? The cattle drive will still occur daily at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Come out and see us!
Posted by Fort Worth Herd on Thursday, 9 February 2017
In Texas, the West begins at the Fort Worth Stock Yards. The original Union Stockyards were built in 1887, by the city of Forth Worth, as a market for the thousands of heads of cattle being driven through the area, every day, from the Indian territory, further west. Now, this area serves as a reminder of Texas’s cattle history.
You can witness history twice daily, as cowboys on horseback drive a herd of cattle through the stockyards and into holding pens. There, you can see (and smell) what life might have been like, 125 years ago, when this same process took place dozens of times throughout the day.
Fort Worth Stock Yards
Address: 130 East Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76164
Website: Fort Worth Stock Yards
The Herd Cattle Drive: Daily at 11:30 am and 4 pm
Address: 130 East Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76164
Website: Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive
15. Lake Park on Lewisville Lake
North Texas is far from any beach, but Lewisville Lake offers visitors the next best thing, only a short drive from Dallas. Lake Park, on the southern shoreline, is a huge recreation area - over 650 acres (263 hectares). Operated by the city of Lewisville, the park offers something for the whole family, from golfing and disc golf to boating, fishing, tenting, and RV camping.
Soccer and baseball fields are lit for play, well into the night. The highlight of the park is swimming from the shoreline beach. It doesn’t have much sand but it does have several picnic tables and shallow water for safe swimming. If you’re looking to enjoy a dog-friendly day trip from Dallas, Lake Park on Lewisville Lake is the place to go.
Lake Park on Lewisville Lake
Address: 600 Sandy Beach Road, Lewisville, TX 75057
Website: Lake Park on Lewisville Lake
16. Terrel, Texas
Northeast of Dallas, in the small town of Terrell, Texas, lies a surprising remnant of World War II. In June 1941, the British descended upon this small Texas town and established the British Flying Training Program, designed to instruct British Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots. Terrell was the first, and largest, of the schools, which were located across the southern United States.
More than 2,000 Royal Air Force and American Air Force pilots earned their wings here, flying over the skies of North Texas, before they tested their mettle in the European theater. The No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum, located at Terrell Municipal Airport, highlights this little-known chapter in World War II history, with log books, training materials, uniforms, and other memorabilia. Take a step back in time with a visit to this unique small Texas town.
No. 1 British Flying Training Program
Address: 119 Silent Wings Blvd, Terrell, TX 75160
17. Jefferson, Texas
Jefferson, Texas, located 2.5 hours east of Dallas, is a city almost as old as the state itself. Founded in 1841, on land ceded from the Caddo Indians, Jefferson became a booming town in its first 25 years. A log jam called the Great Raft raised the level of Caddo Lake and the Red River allowing the water to be navigable by boat. By 1870, this was the fourth largest town in Texas. But in 1872, the Army Corps of Engineers blew up the raft, allowing the river to flow freely. Water in the river and the lake became too shallow to navigate by boat and Jefferson’s time as a commercial district dried up. Still, it is one of the most historic towns in the state, where almost every commercial structure on the main road through town, has a historic marker, from the courthouse to the Jefferson Theater.
Come in February for Mardi Gras Upriver. In May the local historical society presents the Diamond Bessie Murder Trial, a play commemorating one of Jefferson’s most infamous murders. For a trip to find out what Texas history is really about, Jefferson is a town not to be missed.
Jefferson
Website: Jefferson
18. Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is just three hours up Interstate 35, and it is one of the highly recommended weekend getaways from Dallas. It presents loads of interesting things to see and do, appealing to persons of all ages. You can start your weekend at Museum of Art, where you will come face-to-face with a gigantic 55-foot (16.7 m) blown-glass installation—a masterpiece by the legendary artist Dale Chihuly. Once you are done with the interactive learning experiences at the museum, have a trip to Bricktown for a sample of the city’s plentiful watering holes, where you will find more than 100 varieties of bottled beers to choose from.
19. Houston
If you can spare about five hours to cover the 240 miles (386 km) standing between Houston and Dallas, then behold, you will be standing on another great destination for a weekend getaway from Dallas. Houston has its share of attractions, and it is not possible to exhaust all of them within just a single weekend. However, if that’s all the time you have, then you should prioritize visits to Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural Science, Space Center Houston, and Downtown Aquarium. If you are an adrenaline junky, then a visit to Speedy’s Fast Track shouldn’t be missed as well.
20. Fredericksburg
If your idea of a weekend trip encompasses things such as lots of German food, learning more about military history, and sprawling hundreds of acres of vineyards, with endless possibilities of wine tasting, then Fredericksburg will be a perfect destination for you. If you won’t mind driving for about four and a half hours to cover the approximately 250 miles (402 km), you can expect to spend a splendid weekend scouring all the goodies and attractions that Fredericksburg has in store for you. These include a visit to National Museum of Pacific War, touring the plethora of shops and galleries on Main Street, enjoying thrilling performances and shows at Rock Box Theatre, and exploring the nearby wineries while you sample some of the region’s best wines.
21. San Antonio
San Antonio is a mere 300 miles (482km) from Dallas—another destination within striking distance for those who want to spend the weekend away. San Antoni has incredible attractions that will appeal to people of all age groups, and it is an ideal destination for the entire family. Some of the notable attractions here include the famed River Walk, The Alamo, River Mill Store, King William Historic District, Witte Museum, and the numerous dining joints where you will have a chance to enjoy tasty French, Spanish, Mexican, and German cuisines.
22. Pittsburg
Pittsburg and Dallas are separated by a distance of about 12,205 miles (19,642 km). If you were to go by road, then you will need about 18 hours of non-stop driving, but by air, you will be in Pittsburg in less than 3 hours. As an ideal weekend getaway from Dallas, Pittsburg offers a lot of cool things worth spending time on, including defying gravity on an optical illusion hill at North Park, dining in the oldest restaurant in Pittsburg downtown, strolling along the market square, exploring the Asian forests, having fun at Pittsburg Zoo and Aquarium, seeing mummies at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and enjoying a panoramic view of the city from Mount Washington.
23. McKinney
McKinney is only 35 miles (56 km) north of Dallas and is a great destination for those looking for a nice weekend getaway but don’t want to spend more than one hour on the road. This nearby city has lots of attractions that will appeal to both indoor and outdoor lovers, with some of the notable mentions being Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, Main Street for an exciting shopping experience, Landon Winery to sample some of the region’s best wines, Lockhart Smokehouse for some tasty barbeques, and McKinney Performing Arts Center for some thrilling entertainment.
24. Austin
Dallas and Austin are 195 miles (313 km) apart, and you can easily reach the state capital under four hours by road. A weekend trip to Austin will expose you to a myriad of fun and interesting activities, including but not limited to visiting Texas State Capitol, enjoying yummy bites at Franklin Barbecue, walking down memory lane at Austin’s Blanton Museum of Art, appreciating nature at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and enjoying relaxing swimming sessions at the famous Barton Springs Pool.
25. Ennis
Ennis is less than an hour’s drive from Dallas. It has an exciting array of historical and cultural attractions that will delight the hearts and souls of every history and culture buff. This is where you find the famous Burren, Ennis Friary that has been gracing the landscape since the mid-13th century, Dysert O’Dea Castle that was constructed toward the end of the 15th century, and Clare Abbey that is a very rare find amid ruins believed to be more than 500 years old.
26. Waco
To close this list of the best weekend trips from Dallas is Waco—a town located less than 100 miles (160 km) from Dallas. This popular college town is well-known for its world-class zoos and a myriad of museums that will appease the curiosity of both children and adults. Some of the activities that should dominate your itinerary when coming for a weekend to Waco are a visit to Cameron Park Zoo, a tour of Waco Mammoth Museum, a visit to Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, a tour of Homestead Craft Village, and strolling around Carleen Bright Arboretum to unwind and reconnect with nature.
27. Winstar World Resort and Casino
Posted by WinStar World Casino and Resort on Sunday, 12 July 2015
About an hour north of Dallas, just over the Oklahoma border, lies a gaming experience like no other. From Casino 360˚, where every winner is a star, to the more than 88 tables, offering blackjack, poker, baccarat, and others, Winstar World Resort and Casino has something to appeal to everyone. And if you’re up for a bigger challenge, high limit tables are available, seven days a week.
Winstar World Resort and Casino
Address: 777 Casino Ave., Thackerville, OK 73459
Website: Winstar World Resort and Casino
Explore Texas!
With everything from diving to hiking to pop-culture museums to historic towns, Texas will keep you entertained for your entire vacation. So load ‘em up, move ‘em out, and experience Texas.
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