With brilliant historic and cultural attractions, an amazing food scene, and endless entertainment options, Dallas is a captivating travel destination. Embark on an educational odyssey as you explore the fascinating family-friendly Perot Museum of Nature and Science or wander through underwater worlds at the Dallas World Aquarium. Fill up on history at remarkable museums, then fill your plate with a delicious meal at one of the city’s many amazing restaurants and eateries. From shopping until you drop to soaking up the city’s vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and explore.
Even the rainy weather can’t force you to stay inside the tiny Airbnb that you rented for this vacation. There are still discover magnificent attractions and cool things to do! To prove this statement to you, here’s a list of the best things to do indoors in Dallas, Texas when it rains.
1. Shop and dine at NorthPark Center
Add NorthPark Center to your itinerary if you’re looking for indoor activities in Dallas. It houses 200 shops, including luxury and high-end fashion brands, movie theatres, and eateries. This center is located 7.0 mi (11.2 km) from Downtown Dallas and 26.0 mi (41.8 km) from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. While you’re here, be sure to check out the gorgeous artwork and beautiful landscaping.
Other facilities include paid valet parking for 9 USD, concierge service available to assist in English and Spanish, and tax-free products.
NorthPark Center
Address: 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75225, United States
Website: NorthPark Center
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
Price: Free entry
2. Play arcade games and enjoy food and drinks at Dave & Buster's Dallas
Don’t let the rains spoil your mood, and head to Dave & Buster’s Dallas for some fun and delicious food. You can unlock and play thrilling games, including arcade, virtual reality, air hockey, billiards, and ping-pong with a simple power card. What’s more, it runs a special half-price game offer every Wednesday, which is unmissable. After that, order from their extensive menu, which includes mouthwatering entrée, desserts, sides, salads, and more.
You can also rent the space to organize parties and events for groups of every size.
Dave & Buster's Dallas
Address: 9450 North Central Expressway, Dallas, TX, United States
Website: Dave & Buster’s Dallas
Opening hours: Sun & Wed- Fri: 10am - 1am; Mon: 5pm - 12am; Tue: 10am - 12am; Sat: 10am - 2am
3. Catch a music show at The Kessler Theater
If it’s raining in Dallas during your vacation, you might be tempted to just stay inside, especially if you’re staying in a hotel with a fireplace. But no, don’t do that! Instead, why don’t you catch a music show at one of the many venues in the city? And as your luck would have it, The Kessler Theater is widely known for hosting concerts featuring countless talented artists.
So, with all of that said, if you’re in the mood to discover new musical acts to add to your playlist, you should catch a show in this theater. As if that doesn’t sound good enough, The Kessler Theater also has a full bar that offers Texas beer, wine, and spirits. So, when it’s raining cats and dogs outside, you’ll be enjoying a swig of liquor while enjoying some good music. Doesn’t that just sound like a grand time?
Prices and opening times depend on the shows, so check out the website to stay updated.
The Kessler Theater
Address: 1230 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208, United States
Website: The Kessler Theater
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4. Browse beautiful artworks at Dallas Art Fair
Are you an art lover? If yes, then attending the Dallas Art Fair this year should be included on your list of indoor activities to do in Dallas. An annual event, the Dallas Art Fair is an exhibition that features a rich array of modern and contemporary artworks presented by well-known galleries within the country and abroad.
Attending the fair will not only let you see numerous outstanding artworks, but you’ll also get the chance to engage with collectors, art professionals, and other fellow art enthusiasts. In other words, you can have lively discussions with other people, and you can find friends in the growing arts community. If this is your cup of tea, you should now buy your tickets for the 2022 schedule, which will be held from April 21 to 24.
Dallas Art Fair
Address: 1807 Ross Ave, Dallas, Texas
Website: Dallas Art Fair
Opening hours: this is an annual event, and for 2022, the fair will be held on April 21–24. April 21 (Thu): VIP Preview; April 22 (Fri) - April 23 (Sat): 11am - 7pm; April 24 (Sun): 11am - 5pm
Price: 25 USD (general admission), 20 USD (general admission for students and senior citizens), 55 USD (three-day general admission), 500 USD (pARTy Pass), 200 USD (Early Access Champagne Soirée)
5. Eat, bowl, and have a blast with your friends at Punch Bowl Social Dallas
Just because it’s raining outside doesn’t automatically mean you’re not allowed to have fun. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and have a blast, then you should visit Punch Bowl Social Dallas.
This establishment aims to take “fun” to a whole new level, and it seems like they’re able to achieve this ambitious goal. After all, bowling isn’t the only thing they’re offering — they also have three bars, a scratch kitchen, and a multitude of entertainment options, such as karaoke, table tennis, wall scrabble, and old-school arcade games.
Long story short, you will have the time of your life if you visit Punch Bowl Social Dallas. You’ll have an even better time if you’re playing with other people as well. So, use this time to socialize with others!
Punch Bowl Social Dallas
Address: 2600 Main St., Dallas, Texas
Website: Punch Bowl Social Dallas
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 12am; Fri: 11am - 2am; Sat: 10am - 2am; Sun: 10am - 12am
Price: 10 USD per hour until 5pm and 12 USD per hour after that (bowling); 12 USD per hour (table tennis, bonzini); 10 USD (wall scrabble)
6. Find the vinyl records of your favorite musicians at Spinster Records
Catching a concert isn’t the only thing you can do in Dallas as a music lover. You can also browse record stores and find the vinyl records of your favorite musicians that you don’t have yet. If this sounds like something you’ll want to do, then Spinster Records should be one of your stops in Dallas.
Situated in the heart of the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, Spinster Records features a wide array of new and vintage vinyl records, turntables, and other audio hardware. You can also find other products, such as books, pieces of jewelry, apparel, and many more. There are so many options for you in this store.
To make things even better, Spinster Records also hosts performances, book signings, and panels with music industry professionals every week. So, if you’re lucky, you might be able to witness a performance by your favorite artist. That sounds exciting, indeed!
Spinster Records
Address: 408 N Bishop Ave Suite 102, Dallas, Texas
Website: Spinster Records
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm (closed on Thu & Fri)
7. Explore the Perot Museum of Nature and Science (from USD 55.0)
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a brilliant institution that features remarkable exhibits, fascinating special events, intriguing movies, and tours to discover. This extraordinary family-friendly establishment covers everything from earthquakes to evolution across the building’s five floors. With educational games, hands-on learning experiences, life-like simulations, and towering dinosaur skeletons, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is an exceptional educational experience that children of all ages will love.
Dallas CityPASS: Admission To Four Top Dallas Attractions
Duration 9 days
8. Visit the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture
Delve into Dallas’ heritage at the Old Red Museum. This interesting establishment brims with fascinating facts and educational exhibits, and it includes interactive touch-screen computers, an educational learning center, and four theaters. The beautiful sandstone building was built in 1892, and it is filled with unique Texas artifacts like the handcuffs worn by Lee Harvey Oswald and the Stetson hat worn by “Dallas” character J.R. Ewing.
Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture
Address: 100 S Houston St, Dallas, TX 75202, USA
Website: Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD
9. Take a walk in the George W. Bush Presidential Center
The George W. Bush Presidential Center provides a fascinating glimpse into the administration of the U.S’s 43rd president. Covering topics from the global war on terror to the gowns of the First Lady, this museum and library looks into both the everyday life of the president and the First Family and large events that shaped American history. Walk around a replica of the Oval Office, view artifacts like the steel from the World Trade Center, and listen to speakers present on a variety of fascinating topics. You can also grab a meal at the on-site café and shop for mementos in the souvenir store.
George W. Bush Presidential Center
Address: 2943 SMU Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75205, USA
Website: George W. Bush Presidential Center
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm
Price: 21 USD
10. Let your imagination soar at the Frontiers of Flight Museum
Aviation and space history comes to life at this magnificent museum where you can walk under the shadow of full-scale planes and test your skills in flight trainers. With over 35,000 historical artifacts and hundreds of small-scale models on display, the museum details the technological advances throughout aviation and it shares the stories of flying legends like Charles Lindbergh, Amelia Earhart, and Bessie Coleman. From a full-size model of the 1903 Wright Flyer plane to an Apollo VII spacecraft, this museum is a fascinating way to experience the legendary frontlines of flight.
Frontiers of Flight Museum
Address: 6911 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75209, USA
Website: Frontiers of Flight Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD
11. Taste Oaxaca- and Puebla-inspired recipes at Meso Maya Comida Y Copas
What to do in Dallas when it rains? Well, you can always enjoy some good food, and one of the best places to eat in Dallas is Meso Maya Comida Y Copas.
For unbelievably delectable Mexican food, look no further than Meso Maya Comida Y Copas. This remarkable restaurant focuses on cuisine from the regions of Yucatan, Vera Cruz, and Chiapas, and it has been serving delicious food to Dallas for the past 75 years. Under the skillful hand of head chef Nico Sanchez, every dish is crafted from scratch using fresh ingredients and the menu is filled with creative takes on traditional Oaxaca and Puebla recipes. Whether you stop by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, you can expect a delicious meal no matter the time of day.
Meso Maya
Address: 1611 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, TX 75202
Website: Meso Maya
Opening hours: Sunday - Thursday: 11am - 10pm; Friday - Saturday: 11am - 11pm
12. Watch a movie at the Magnolia Theatre
No matter your movie tastes, there is always something of interest playing at the Magnolia Theatre. With wondrous independent films and special events from organizations like the Royal Opera House on the calendar, this theatre is the perfect place to escape dreary weather. In addition to the latest lineup of independent and Hollywood films, the Magnolia Theatre also hosts midnight movie screenings on Friday and Saturday nights and presents classic film viewings on Tuesdays. No matter what you plan on seeing, make sure to stop by the sleek Magnolia Bar first and pick up a refreshing cocktail or grab a snack from the gourmet concessions stand before you settle in for your show!
The Magnolia Theatre
Address: 3699 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75204, USA
Website: The Magnolia Theatre
13. Relax and unwind at King Spa & Sauna
After a busy day of sightseeing, King Spa and Sauna is one of the best ways to pamper yourself in Dallas. This unique Korean-inspired spa offers nine sauna rooms, acupressure massage service, and even includes a water park and a movie theater! This beautiful facility is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate, and it is family-friendly as well.
King Spa & Sauna
Address: 2154 Royal Ln, Dallas, TX 75229, USA
Website: King Spa & Sauna
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
Price: 45 USD
14. Discover the marine life at the Dallas World Aquarium (from USD 27.0)
Dive into a good time at the Dallas World Aquarium! This brilliant, family-friendly attraction is home to a wild assortment of fresh- and saltwater aquatic life, small mammals, and plenty of colorful birds throughout its unique and creative exhibits. Traverse a South American rainforest ecosystem where river stingrays drift quietly, watch blue penguins wander through the Borneo exhibit, or admire sharks and sea turtles in the 400,000-gallon walk-through Mayan-inspired Cenote exhibit! The aquarium also offers wonderfully educational experiences like the River Dive, the Ocelot Conservation Talk, and penguin feedings.
SEA LIFE Aquarium Grapevine Admission Ticket
Duration 2 hours
15. Hit the dance floor at Medusa Dallas
One of the best Dallas rainy day activities is dancing and socializing with other people. If this is your jam as well, then you should check out Medusa Dallas.
With brilliant music in both English and Spanish and great bar options, Medusa Dallas is the best place to dance the night away in the city. This superb venue is open until 2:30 in the morning every Friday and Saturday, and features amazing DJs and live performers that will keep you on the spacious dance floors. The club also has five bars available, plenty of booths where you can relax and watch the stage, and bottle service.
Medusa Dallas
Address: 1930 Pacific Ave, Dallas, TX 75201, USA
Website: Medusa Dallas
Opening hours: Friday and Saturday 10pm - 2:30am
16. Buy souvenirs at Galleria Dallas (from USD 56.0)
Scout out the best souvenirs and shop until you drop at the beautiful Galleria Dallas. This delightful shopping mall is filled with stunning boutiques, delectable restaurants, and cool experiences. With over 200 stores and restaurants and an ice skating rink, the Galleria Dallas can provide hours of entertainment on a rainy day. Whether you’re looking for a new chic outfit or a cool addition to your home décor, the Galleria Dallas brims with brilliant shopping experiences.
Dallas Shopping Tour
Duration 4 to 6 hours
Rainy day delights in Dallas
Even when it rains, there is so much to discover in Dallas. With its plethora of amazing entry-free museums, lively downtown area, family-friendly attractions, and casual restaurants, Dallas is a dazzling destination. Start planning your getaway today and add these activities to your itinerary!