Whether you’re looking to run around in the great outdoors or let the kids play with some truly magical exhibits, there is something for everyone here. We’ve rounded up the best parks, museums, attractions, and more to explore with little ones.
Read more below for our list of Things to Do in Dallas-Fort Worth with Kids and Toddlers:
MAJOR ATTRACTIONS
Texas Discovery Gardens– These public gardens feature butterflies, snake exhibits, a gallery, and more. Adults are $10, kids 3- 11 are $5, and kids 2 and under are free, but with this Groupon deal, you can get admission for two for just $13 plus taxes and fees total. That’s almost half off, making it a cheap and unique thing to do with kids in Dallas!
Dallas Zoo– The largest zoo in Texas is the best place for kids and toddlers in Dallas! Check out their seasonal experiences, the mini-train, and the animal encounters. Admission is free for kids 2 & under, $14 for kids ages 3-11, and $17 for everyone else.
Legoland Discovery Center– This really is the ultimate indoor playground! There are 3 rides, 10 Lego Build& Play Zones, a 4D cinema, and more. Admission starts at $19.99 when you purchase online.
Six Flags Over Texas– Take the little ones to the theme park for thrilling rides and roller-coasters. There are family-friendly rides as well as thrill rides for older kids. Don’t miss the live entertainment and character appearances! Entry packages begin at $64.99 online or $6.99 monthly memberships.
Dallas World Aquarium– This place is cool and I don’t mean the temperature. You’ll find animals from the Mayan Jungle, the Brazilian Rain Forest, the amphibians of Madagascar, the 20,000 gallon aquarium, and more. Tickets are free for kids under 2, $14.95 for kids 2- 12 years old, and $20.95 for everyone else.
LOCAL GEMS
Denton Planetarium– Also known as the Sky Theater has all kinds of programming. Their HD projection system will have you and the kids wow’d. Best of all, admission is just $3 per person!!
Stockyards National Historic District– Here, you can see a real, live cattle-drive twice a day! Every Friday and Saturday features a rodeo and there are plenty of places to shop, eat, and hang out.
Dallas Children’s Theater– What better way to take a child to the theater than to take them to a show by kids, for kids!? Ticket prices vary. This activity is best for kids aged 4 and up.
Crayola Experience– This experience is great for kids of all ages. There are dozens of hands-on activities like an adventure lab, playground, crayon factory shows, and more. Tickets start at $20.
Free Play Arcade– This arcade is great for kids aged 8 and up. Entrance is $10 and you can play all day! They also have food and drinks. There are two locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area.
McKinley Trolley– No fanfare here, just an awesome experience for kids of all ages. Take the McKinley Trolley around downtown for free!
Play Street Museum– This children’s play place is like an interactive museum. Pretend to be a fireman, build a train station, or cook in the kitchen. There are several locations in and around Dallas-Fort Worth. Admission for kids 1- 8 years old is $11.50. Admission for kids older or younger are free when accompanied by a paid sibling. They also offer free wifi and outside drinks are allowed.
PARKS & RECREATION
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden– One of the most beautiful places in Dallas-Fort Worth, here you’ll find a children’s garden, a color garden, a reflection pool, waterfalls, and much more.
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary– There are all kinds of nature programming here but the real star is their ropes course. They also have a zipline, art workshops, garden talks, night hikes, story time, and more. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for kids aged 3- 12, and free for kids 2 and under.
Yesterland Farm– Take a step back in time at this nostalgic farm with fun for all ages. Kids, teens, and adults will all enjoy themselves with the games, campfires, playgrounds, zombie paintball, and dozens more activities. Admission is just $11.95 when you purchase online.
Twelve Hills Nature Center– Visit this park for birds, butterflies, and beautiful flowers. Frolic among the rolling hills, prairie, and walking trails. Entrance is free!
Epic Waters– This indoor water park is perfect for your little fishies. Admission ranges from $15 to $34 and there are special rates and days for residents of Grand Prairie, Dallas, and Fort Worth.
Bahama Beach– Float the lazy river, hang out in the wave pool, or ride the slides. Admission is $15 for adults, $11 for kids, and $5 to bring your own cooler!
MUSEUMS
Frontiers of Flight Museum– Learn about missiles, the history of aviation, Apollo VII, and more. You can also tour flight trainers and aircraft. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for kids aged 3- 17, and free for kids under 3, but with this Groupon deal, you’ll get admission for two for just $12- that’s almost half- off!
Heritage Farmstead Museum– This museum is dedicated to prairie life in North Texas. Tour the Victorian homes, see the tools used at the time, and sit in the school house. Admission is $3 and they’re closed on Mondays.
National Video Game Museum– This is one museum kids of all ages will love. Single day passes are $12 for kids 11 and older, $10 for kids 10 and younger, and free for kids 3 and under.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science– General admission starts at $13 for kids and $20 for adults but you’ll want to spring for The Art of the Brick exhibit featuring mind-bending Lego creations. Don’t forget to stop by the 3D Theater!
African American Museum of Dallas– It’s never too early- or too late- to teach children about history and culture. This one-of-a-kind museum is the largest collection of African American Folk Art in the United States. Adults are $10, kids 4- 12 are $5, and younger ones are free!
Dallas Museum of Art– This awesome art museum is always free and they have fun, interactive exhibits for kids! Right now, you can design your own chair and display it in the museum. Admission to the general collection is always free.
Fort Worth Museum of Science & History– Dinosaurs, tornado alley, and a children’s museum? Count us in! Admission is $16 for adults, $12 for kids. Under two years old are free!
Did we miss your favorite local things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth with kids? Tell us in the comments:
Also check out Things to Do with Kids in San Antonio, Things to Do with Kids in Austin, Things to Do with Kids in Houston, and Things to Do with Kids in Boston!