Visiting Dallas- Best Free Things to Do in Dallas

Popular for its rich history, shopping malls, and internationally recognized architecture, the city of Dallas has developed into a major tourist destination. Dallas is also home to the nation’s largest urban districts. Not only is it famous for its rich culture and heritage, but the city also has several amusement parks and golf courses. 

While there are no free lunches in the world, there are definitely some free activities that are fun and don’t cost a penny. Some of the free things to do in Dallas are- 

Enjoy A Concert At Dallas Fine Arts Chamber Players

The chambers were built with a mission to enrich the entertainment experience of tourists and residents of Dallas. It is an ideal place to spend a fun-filled evening with family as the chambers regularly organize free musical concerts, dance performances, and educational activities. 

When to visit- 10 AM to 8 PM – Monday- Saturday 

Explore the Cedar Ridge Preserve 

Spread over 600 acres, the Cedar Ridge Preserve serves as an excellent respite from the daily conundrums. Natural scenery, dense forests, rolling hills, wildlife, and dotted meadows further add to the beauty of the reserve. It is situated at an elevation of 755 feet with 9 miles of unpaved but well-marked trails, which makes it one of the popular Dallas attractions. 

When to visit- 6 AM to 7 PM- All days

Take a Ride through Uptown 

A ride through uptown doesn’t require travelers to spend a dime. With McKinney Avenue Trolley operating around the year, tourists can see some of the city’s best sights. Furthermore, guests can get down at St Paul and Ross Station and explore the Nasher and also the Dallas Museum of Art. 

When to visit- 7 AM to 8 PM; Monday- Friday, 10 AM to 8 PM- Saturday-Sunday 

Learn About the City’s Architectural Heritage 

Klyde Warren Park and Main Street Garden host standing tours for participants. Wherein, guests can witness the spectacular view of the city’s most iconic architecture and the Dallas skyline. The tour lasts for 30 minutes and is free to the public.

When to visit- 6 AM to 11 PM – All days 

Watch Aircrafts Taking off at Founders Plaza Observation Station

A must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, visitors can see more than 2000 takeoffs and landings. The observation station also has speaker systems, picnic areas, binoculars, and a graph board which helps identify different aircraft. 

When to visit- 7 AM to 7 PM; All days

Watch Printing of Dollars at the Bureau of Engraving and Painting 

Those willing to see the note printing press must visit the Bureau of Engraving and Printing – Western Currency Facility. As a matter of fact, it is the only place other than Washington DC where the U.S currency is printed. Further, visitors can also have a behind the scenes look at the printed dollars before they are shipped off to the Federal Reserve.

When to visit- 8.30 AM to 4:30 PM; Tuesday through Friday. 

Explore The Samurai Collection at The Ann and Gabriel Barbier- Mueller Museum

Ensconced in the Harwood district, the museum has the largest and complete assemblage of samurai armor. Artifacts dating back to the 10th and 19th centuries can be found in the museum. Horse armor, helmets, masks, and weapons from other cultures are also present. Guests can visit the museum on days between Tuesday and Saturday. 

When to visit- 11 AM to 6 PM; Tuesday- Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM- Sunday

Best Things to Do In Dallas 

Enjoy the Scenic Beauty at Downtown’s Fountain Place

With water prancing and leaping skyward, Downtown’s Fountain Place is one of the world’s most complex fountains that has more than 200 jets. The establishment has received international recognition and is surrounded by waterfalls, an oasis of flowers, 172 bubbler fountains, and a central fountain. 

When to visit- 10 AM to 6 PM; All days

Enjoy boating at White Rock Lake Park 

The man-made lake is famous for its picturesque location and a 9.3-mile paved path around the lake. Adventure lovers can get onto the water and enjoy sailing, canoeing, rowing, and paddleboarding. Some of the other popular places of interest near the lake are Bath House Cultural Center, Big Thicket, and the White Rock Dog Park. 

When to visit- 5 AM to 11 PM; Monday to Friday

Learn about History of Money at Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

The exhibits and interactive displays organized by the Federal Reserve Bank help visitors learn about monetary policy, historical money, moving money, and the founding of the FED. 

When to visit- 10 AM to 4 PM; Monday to Friday 

Enjoy Musical performances at Latino Cultural Center 

The Latino Cultural Center showcases the Latino and Hispanic art and culture through its exhibitions, entertainment films, and musical performances. Most of the shows organized by the center are free of cost. 

When to visit- 8 AM-5 PM; Monday-Friday

Explore the extensive collection of Books at J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

Opened in 1982, J. Erik Jonsson Central Library is the first public library in the city of Dallas. The library has an extensive collection of books and also the original print of William Shakespeare’s first folio and the Declaration of Independence. 

When to visit- 10 AM to 6 PM- Monday, Thursday and Friday; 10 AM to 8 PM- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; Sunday 1 PM to 5 PM

Visit the Crow Museum of Asian Art

With more than 1000 works from all around the world, visitors can explore the collections which showcase the diversity of Asian art. The museum also has a vast collection of books, journals, and more than 12,000 catalogs. Moreover, the museum also has a center for Contemplative Leadership offering programs on mindfulness, yoga, and tai chi. 

When to Visit- 11 AM to 5 PM; Tuesday – Sunday. 

Whether you are visiting with family, friends or travelling solo, there is no dearth of free things to do in Dallas for the explorer in you. So, get your bags packing and plan your itinerary for the trip to remember.