Dallas is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, but sometimes it’s nice to get out and explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, Dallas is surrounded by a wealth of towns, parks, and natural areas that make for perfect day trips. In this guide, we will explore 18 of the best day trips from Dallas, including popular destinations, things to do, and travel resources to make the most of your trip.
The Best Day Trips from Dallas
Fort Worth
Just a short drive from Dallas, Fort Worth is a great option for a day trip. Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” Fort Worth is home to the Fort Worth Stockyards, where you can see real cowboys in action during the twice-daily cattle drive. The Stockyards also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
Another must-see in Fort Worth is the Kimbell Art Museum, which features a collection of art from around the world, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Michelangelo. If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, which has interactive exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to space.
Granbury
Located about an hour and a half southwest of Dallas, Granbury is a charming small town with a rich history. One of the highlights of Granbury is the Granbury Square, which features a variety of shops and restaurants. The square is also home to the Granbury Opera House, where you can catch a play or musical.
Another must-see in Granbury is the Hood County Jail and Museum, which is housed in the town’s original jail and provides a glimpse into the town’s history. If you’re interested in nature, be sure to check out Lake Granbury, which is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Tyler
Located about two hours east of Dallas, Tyler is known for its beautiful gardens and parks. One of the highlights of Tyler is the Tyler Rose Garden, which is home to thousands of rose bushes and is particularly beautiful in the spring when the roses are in bloom. The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is another must-see in Tyler, which features a variety of rose bushes and other flowers.
Another great spot in Tyler is the Tyler State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. The park also features a lake, where you can rent boats and kayaks.
Waco
Located about two hours south of Dallas, Waco is a city with a rich history. One of the highlights of Waco is the Dr. Pepper Museum, which tells the story of the famous soda and also features a working bottling plant. Another must-see in Waco is the Baylor University, which is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. The university is home to a variety of museums and other cultural attractions.
If you’re interested in history, be sure to check out the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, which tells the story of the famous law enforcement agency. If you’re interested in nature, be sure to check out the Cameron Park, which is a beautiful spot for hiking and picnicking.
Greenville, TX
Located about an hour and a half northeast of Dallas, Greenville is a charming small town with a rich history. One of the highlights of Greenville is the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum, which tells the story of the famous war hero and actor and also features a collection of artifacts related to the history of cotton. Another must-see in Greenville is the L3 Harris Technologies Aviation Museum, which features a collection of aircrafts and artifacts related to the history of aviation.
Canton, TX
Located about an hour east of Dallas, Canton is known for its charming downtown area and annual First Monday Trade Days event, which is one of the largest outdoor flea markets in the country. If you’re interested in history, be sure to check out the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial, which honors the veterans of the county. If you’re interested in nature, be sure to check out the Canton Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Oklahoma City, OK
Located about four hours northwest of Dallas, Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and is home to a variety of attractions. One of the highlights of Oklahoma City is the Oklahoma City National Memorial, which honors the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Another must-see in Oklahoma City is the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which features a collection of art from around the world.
Beavers Bend State Park, OK
Located about four hours north of Dallas, Beavers Bend State Park is a beautiful spot for hiking, fishing, and camping. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, which give the park its name. The park also features a lake, where you can rent boats and kayaks.
Jefferson, TX
Located about two and a half hours east of Dallas, Jefferson is a charming small town with a rich history. One of the highlights of Jefferson is the Jefferson Historical Museum, which tells the story of the town’s history and also features a collection of artifacts. Another must-see in Jefferson is the Jefferson Carnegie Library, which is a beautiful historic building and now serves as a museum.
Grapevine, TX
Located about 20 minutes northwest of Dallas, Grapevine is a charming small town with a variety of attractions. One of the highlights of Grapevine is the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, which takes you on a scenic ride through the countryside. Another must-see in Grapevine is the Nash Farm, which is a living history farm that gives you a glimpse into the past.
Fredericksburg, TX
Located about two and a half hours west of Dallas, Fredericksburg is a charming small town with a rich history. One of the highlights of Fredericksburg is the National Museum of the Pacific War, which tells the story of the Pacific Theater of World War II. Another must-see in Fredericksburg is the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, which features a variety of herbs and other plants.
Turner Falls Park, OK
Located about three and a half hours north of Dallas, Turner Falls Park is a beautiful spot for hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The park is home to Turner Falls, which is the largest waterfall in Oklahoma. The park also features a variety of other natural attractions, including caves and rock formations.
Lake Texoma State Park, OK
Located about three hours north of Dallas, Lake Texoma State Park is a beautiful spot for camping, fishing, and boating. The park is home to Lake Texoma, which is one of the largest lakes in Oklahoma. The park also features a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Austin, TX
Located about three hours south of Dallas, Austin is the capital of Texas and is known for its vibrant music and arts scene. One of the highlights of Austin is the State Capitol, which is a beautiful historic building and offers tours. Another must-see in Austin is the Zilker Park, which is a beautiful spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying live music.
San Antonio, TX
Located about three and a half hours south of Dallas, San Antonio is home to a variety of attractions. One of the highlights of San Antonio is the Alamo, which is a historic mission and the site of a famous battle. Another must-see in San Antonio is the Riverwalk, which is a scenic walkway along the San Antonio River and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions.
Houston, TX
Located about four and a half hours southeast of Dallas, Houston is the largest city in Texas and is home to a variety of attractions. One of the highlights of Houston is the Space Center Houston, which is the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center and features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays. Another must-see in Houston is the Museum of Fine Arts, which features a collection of art from around the world.
Davy Crockett National Forest, TX
Located about two and a half hours southeast of Dallas, Davy Crockett National Forest is a beautiful spot for camping, hiking, and fishing. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and squirrels. The forest also features a variety of recreational activities, including boating and picnicking.
In conclusion, there are many great day trips options from Dallas, Texas, whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just a quick escape from the city. From Fort Worth and Granbury to Oklahoma City, Austin, and San Antonio, there’s something for everyone. So, next time you’re in Dallas, be sure to check out one of these great destinations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many great day trip options from Dallas, Texas, whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just a quick escape from the city. From Fort Worth and Granbury to Oklahoma City, Austin, and San Antonio, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the rich history of Texas or enjoy the great outdoors, there are plenty of options to choose from.
One of the great things about Dallas is its proximity to so many different destinations. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, you’ll find something that suits your interests and budget. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of all that the surrounding area has to offer.
In addition to the destinations mentioned above, there are many other great options such as Greenville, Canton, Jefferson, Grapevine, Fredericksburg, Turner Falls Park, Lake Texoma State Park, Houston, Granbury, Waco, and Davy Crockett National Forest. Each of these destinations offers its own unique experiences and attractions, and all of them are worth visiting.
In summary, Dallas and its surrounding area is a great place to explore with many options to choose from. So, next time you’re in Dallas, be sure to check out one of these great destinations and make the most of your trip.
