5 Places to Go with Kids in Dallas

With a zoo, interactive science museum, aquarium, flight museum and acres of parkland, Dallas is ready to welcome family travelers. You’ll find something here for children of any age, from toddlers to teens.

Dallas World Aquarium

More than 80,000 gallons of saltwater in Dallas World Aquarium provides a home to ocean life, ranging from sea turtles and sharks to jellyfish. The tank encloses a habitat of natural reef, where dozens of sea creatures make their homes. It’s not all about underwater life: The Orinoco Rainforest exhibit is alive with free-flying toucans, lounging tree sloths and crocodiles. Kids can watch as various zoo residents are fed. Check ahead of your visit for feeding schedules.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

The extensive grounds of Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden stretch along the shore of White Rock Lake, showcasing flowers and trees providing almost year-round splashes of color. Paths are easy for strollers and there’s almost always some special event or festival. The surrounding park also offers miles of trails for hiking and biking.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Before they even step inside, kids will be fascinated by Perot Museum. The huge, modern building seems to defy gravity with its suspended cubist shapes, and the interactive exhibits and activities inside are just as exciting. Arranged by theme, the museum encourages children to get curious about earth and other sciences, with engaging games, a separate Children’s Museum and playground.

Dallas Zoo
Meet animals up close in daily programs on the Wild Encounters Stage, watch as giraffes are fed and ride on the T-Rex Express electric train at Dallas Zoo. An interactive aviary allows kids to walk among free-flying birds, and they can see exotic animals (more than 2,000 live in the park) in naturalized environments.

Frontiers of Flight Museum
Follow the development of aviation from Leonardo da Vinci to outer space at Frontiers of Flight Museum, where the more than 30 aircraft include a biplane, planes used in both world wars and a full-sized replica of the Wright Brothers’ plane. This museum is especially suited to teens.