day trips from dallas ga

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Georgia

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

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Life is always busy, but hopefully, from time to time, you are able to plan some fun things to do in order to explore the great state of Georgia. Between waterfall hikes, swimming holes, and farmers markets, Georgia is always chock-full of fun things to do during the summer, or any other season, with the entire family. So, the next time you’re wondering to yourself, “Where are some of the best day trips near me?” we have 11 of the best day trips in Georgia listed below. You’ll want to experience each of them.

1. The Rock Ranch

2. Red Clay Resort

3. Gibbs Gardens

4. Magnolia Springs State Park

5. Panther Creek Falls

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6. the georgia ice cream trail.

7. Tybee Island Beach

8. Lake Lanier

9. The East Palisades Hiking Trail

10. Zipline Canopy Tours

11. Abernathy Greenway Park

How about that for one heck of an itinerary? Have you ever experienced any of these fun day trips in Georgia? If so, please feel free to share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Can you think of any other day trips in Georgia that are worth experiencing? If so, please feel free to share those with us as well. No matter where the road takes you, make sure you’re well-fueled for adventure. To help you do just so, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of road trip snacks .

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during a weekend in Georgia this summer, especially something on the romantic side, then check out this romantic waterside cottage .

The Romantic Waterside Cottage In Georgia That’s Just What You Need For A Weekend Away

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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27 Worthy Day Trips from Dallas: All Under 4 Hours!

So, you’ve finally got a day to spare in Dallas, and you’re itching to explore. No worries! 

There are tons of fun day trips from Dallas that are just a short drive away, like walking in real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park or literally stopping to smell the roses in the small town of Tyler. Texas is a big place, but all the spots on this list are less than 4 hours away and ranked by distance.

I understand how tricky it can be to choose the perfect spot when you’re short on time. I used to juggle corporate with weekend escapes that were always just a bit too far away.

Fortunately, adopting the van living lifestyle let me work full-time while going all over the West Coast. So, after exploring all the best of Dallas during my month+ Texas adventure, here are my top picks for places to visit near Dallas that are just a short drive away.

Easy Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 1 Hour

1. fort worth, texas.

Distance:  ~32 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Urban Best Time to Go to Fort Worth:  Spring or fall

Merging the nostalgia of the Old West with urban sophistication, Fort Worth is more than just cowboy boots and rodeos. The Stockyards National Historic District, with its cattle drives and Western saloons, is the heart of cowboy culture and the chance to two-step in Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk. I personally went just to see the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Fort Worth is worth visiting for its well-preserved history and art scene, and it is absolutely one of the quickest Dallas day trips to take. The city is a jewel for those wanting to experience the Texan bravado without straying too far from downtown Dallas. Also, if you’re an art aficionado, the Cultural District houses masterpieces by the likes of Warhol and Picasso.

2. Arlington, Texas

Distance:  ~20 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Entertainment Best Time to Go:  Year-round

Arlington is your go-to spot for thrills and spills. As the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers, you can catch a game and soak up the electric atmosphere at AT&T Stadium or Globe Life Park. The energy at the stadiums is contagious, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the hot dogs and halftime shows. 

Nearby, the Six Flags Over Texas offers roller coasters galore for those who dare to ride!

3. Denton, Texas

Distance:  ~40 miles/45 minutes  Type:  College Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring or fall

Feel the youthful energy and quirky vibes of Denton, a small town with a big personality that lies just north of Dallas. Known for its vibrant music scene, it’s often referred to as “Little Austin.” The town square is sprinkled with vintage shops, cool cafes, and upbeat music venues.

If you’re someone who delights in discovering local artistry and musical talent, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University always make sure there’s something happening. Don’t miss the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival if you’re around in the fall.

4. Canton (Canton Trade Days)

Distance:  ~60 miles/1 hour  Type:  Shopping & Cultural Best Time to Go:  First Monday of each month

Experience one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world! The First Monday Trade Days are a massive event that consumes the small town of Canton each month.

Canton Trade Days is worth it for its sheer scale and variety. You’ll find everything from unique home decor to farm animals for sale at this flea market. It’s a treasure hunter’s dream with the added bonus of hearty Texas food and live entertainment. Plus, the friendly Southern atmosphere makes it as much a social occasion as a shopping spree.

Best Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 2 Hours

5. athens, texas.

Distance:  ~73 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Nature & Adventure Best time to visit:  Spring or Fall

Affectionately labeled as the “Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World,” Athens, Texas, is set in the lush, green rolling hills of East Texas. 

Dive into freshwater fun at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center where fishing and interactive exhibits make a splash with the entire family. The East Texas Arboretum showcases nature trails and beautiful gardens.

Cultural curiosity is also satisfied with historical landmarks like the Henderson County Courthouse and the Athens Scuba Park for those up for underwater exploration. After working up an appetite, savor the local cuisine with down-home eateries that serve up more than just black-eyed peas. Think succulent barbecue and sweet slices of pie that taste like Southern hospitality.

6. Granbury, Texas

Distance:  ~70 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Historic Town & Lake Retreat  Best Time to Go:  Spring to fall

Stroll around the well-preserved 19th-century buildings of Granbury. It’s an attractive spot for those who appreciate history, architecture, and a slower pace of life.

With Lake Granbury at its doorstep, pull up for a day of boating, fishing, or chilling on a lakefront bench. Add to that a lineup of unique boutiques, wineries, and cozy eateries, and you’re in for a treat. 

Check out Granbury Opera House for a show, and the night-time Ghosts and Legends tour is a must for a spooky encounter with the town’s past residents. 

7. Waco, Texas

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Eclectic Attractions & Heritage Best Time to Go to Waco:  Late spring or early fall

Before going, I used to only know Waco from that miniseries, but it really is a hidden gem for those looking for an authentic slice of Texan life. 

Why should Waco be on your go-to list? For starters, it’s home to the renowned Magnolia Market at the Silos, birthed by the visionaries Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame. Here, shopping, dining, and leisure converge, all set in a rustic, beautifully landscaped space. Here, you can sample some of the best food trucks in the area.

Learn something from the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum or the Dr. Pepper Museum, which is all about the nation’s oldest major soft drink. The Cameron Park Zoo has exotic animals, while the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a jaw-dropping peek at the remains of mammoths that roamed the region thousands of years ago.

8. Tyler, Texas

Distance:  ~98 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Roses and Outdoor Activities Best Time to Go:  Spring for the Rose Festival or fall

Dubbed as the “Rose Capital of America,” Tyler, Texas is a city renowned for its enchanting rose gardens and charming historic district. Wander through the Tyler Rose Garden to experience one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S., home to thousands of rose bushes and myriad vibrant blooms. It is especially breathtaking during the annual Texas Rose Festival in October.

Other than roses, go visit the historic Carnegie Library, the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum, the contemporary exhibits at the Tyler Museum of Art, or go chill by Lake Tyler.

9. Lake Texoma, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Nature  Best Time to Go:  Early summer through fall

Straddling the border between Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is a massive reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, for fishing, boating, and windsurfing fun. It covers an impressive 89,000 acres.

Anglers from everywhere come to test their skills against this sought-after game, Striped Bass. But with over a hundred miles of shoreline dotted with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, Lake Texoma is a great spot to get into nature without venturing too far from the conveniences of the city.

10. Glen Rose (Dinosaur Valley State Park)

Distance:  ~80 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Travel back in time at  Dinosaur Valley State Park  in Glen Rose, Texas, where you’ll find real dinosaur footprints preserved in the riverbed. Take a dip in the Paluxy River while keeping an eye out for these ancient tracks, or walk along the park’s hiking and biking trails.

For even more dino fun, visit Dinosaur World to see life-size replicas of various species and take part in interactive exhibits. At the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, you can drive through and see over 1,000 animals, including bison and giraffes, in their natural habitats. 

Nearby, there is another park filled with unusually large rock formations creatively named Big Rocks Park.

11. Mineral Wells Fossil Park, Texas

Distance:  88 miles/1.5 hours Type:  Outdoor & Nature Best Time to Go : Year-round

For the young or young at heart,  Mineral Wells Fossil Park  is a great spot for fossil hunting and learning about Earth’s history.

The park is open to the public, and you can keep whatever fossils you find. The park is a treasure trove from the Pennsylvanian Period, meaning you can literally pick up fossils that are over 300 million years old. Just BYOT – bring your own tools.

12. Paris, Texas

Distance:  ~100 miles/1.75 hours  Type:  Quaint Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual Dogwood Festival

Just a short drive from Dallas is a charming town named after its French counterpart. Paris, Texas, boasts gorgeous architecture with a mix of Victorian and Art Deco styles. 

Take a tour of the Eiffel Tower with a replica built in Paris, or visit the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to those who have served our country. And there’s an annual Dogwood Festival in spring, where you can see thousands of blooming dogwood trees throughout the city. 

13. Dublin, Texas

Distance:  ~122 miles/2 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration

Dublin, Texas, may be a small town, but it is known as the birthplace of Dr. Pepper. You can actually go taste the original formula at the Dublin Bottling Works. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area to admire its collection of murals, or stop by the Ben Hogan Museum to learn about the legendary golfer’s roots.

Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a total highlight, complete with a parade and plenty of Irish-inspired activities. And for a dose of outdoor adventure, head to nearby Lake Proctor for fishing and boating.

14. Davis, Oklahoma (Turner Falls Park)

Distance:  ~130 miles/2 hours  Type:  Natural Landmark & Water Recreation Best Time to Go:   Summer for swimming

Turner Falls State Park  in Davis, Oklahoma, boasts the state’s highest waterfall, measuring at seventy-seven feet. This landscape set in the Arbuckle Mountains is filled with miles of trails, swimming, and photography. 

The waterfall isn’t the only attraction here; there are also caves, rock formations, and natural pools to explore. For those wanting to extend their stay, there are campsites and cabins available for rent. Plus, the nearby town of Davis offers a variety of restaurants and shops to complete your trip.

15. Texas State Railroad, Palestine & Rusk, Texas

Distance:  ~127 miles/2 hours Type:  Train ride and historical tour Best Time to Go : Spring through fall

Ride on the  Texas State Railroad , a historic train chugging through the piney woods of East Texas. The railroad has both vintage steam and diesel locomotives, with different themes for each car, such as the first-class First Lady or open-air coach Sunset Limited.

The trip includes a stop at an 1880s-style train depot where you can explore exhibits and watch a traditional train robbery reenactment. You can also opt for a themed ride, like the popular Polar Express during the holiday season or a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner train.

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 3 Hours

16. old zoo nature trails, cisco, texas.

Distance:  140 miles/2.5 hours Type:  Outdoor Adventure & Nature  Best Time to Go : Anytime except for during hunting season

Los Angeles isn’t the only place with an abandoned old zoo to wander around. If you’re up for some hikes in a unique spot, check out the Old Zoo Nature Trails in Cisco, Texas. 

Opened in the 1920s, the local residents were delighted to have some tourism come to their part of town. Despite its limited animal variety compared to today, people loved it. That is, until the zoo’s closure was triggered by a murder mystery involving a poisoned bear and suspicious deer deaths. 

Abandoned in the 1930s, a local nonprofit later transformed the site into a hiking trail. Visitors can still walk by the old enclosures, shelters, and staff offices, creating an eerie yet tranquil 1.5-mile track.

17. Austin, Texas

Distance:  ~200 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban & Foodie Adventures Best Time to Go to Austin:  Spring or Fall

Probably better for weekend trips than an Austin day trip, I was surprised by how much I loved this city! I’ve since gone back three more times, staying 2 weeks to a month each. It helps when one of your best buds just became a homeowner.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin is a young city filled with fun activities, music, and delicious food, especially Terry Black’s Texan BBQ. Stroll South Congress Avenue to see street art, boutique shops, and tasty food trucks. Watch the bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (best in summer months). 

And, of course, paddleboard Ladybird Lake or catch a live music show along Sixth Street (Dirty Six) or at one of the many music festivals throughout the year, such as South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits.

18. Caddo Lake State Park, Karnack, Texas

Distance:  168 miles/3 hours Type:  Water Recreation & Wildlife Watching Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Caddo Lake  is a hidden gem in Northeast Texas, bordering Louisiana. This magnificent bayou is created by a 25,400-acre mix of swamps and ponds. Spanish moss hangs over bald cypress trees, and in winter, the moss turns silver, resembling long gray hair on the trees. Birds chirp, frogs croak, and alligators swim through the water. 

The lake’s rich history dates back to the pearl rush of 1910 when freshwater pearls were found in the mussels. The rush lasted three years until rising water levels made it hard to reach the mussels. Though the pearl seekers are gone, Today, most visitors journey by boat through the sloughs and ponds to fish, observe the birds, or search the murky waters for signs of its reptilian inhabitants.

Travel Tip:  Beware the alligators here!

19. Colorado Bend State Park

Distance:  ~186 miles/3 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

 Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country,  Colorado Bend State Park  is over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, rivers, moss, and caves. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and investigating the many caves within its boundaries. 

One of the highlights of the park is Gorman Falls, a 60-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 

20. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~205 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Oklahoma City : Spring and Fall

Although it’s not in Texas, Oklahoma City is still a great option for a day trip from Dallas. The city has a rich history with the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, as well as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing.

For some family fun, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo or Frontier City amusement park. And Oklahoma is also quite famous for its barbecue joints. 

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 4 Hours

21. san marcos, texas.

Distance:  ~225 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to San Marcos : Spring to fall

Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is another great spot for river tubing on the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Although tubing here is a bit far from Dallas, I can attest to how fun this is, even if we got caught in a lightning storm the day we went. 

After a day of outdoor fun, head to one of the many local breweries or wineries for some craft drinks. 

22. Pedernales Falls State Park

Distance:  ~235 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go:  Spring and fall

Located just west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is a peaceful retreat. The highlight of the park is the beautiful Pedernales River, which flows over limestone ledges and large smooth rocks.

Dive into the cool waters at the limestone falls, a local favorite for swimming and tubing, or lace up your hiking boots to explore trails that lead you to sunset views atop white cliffs.

23. Houston, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Cultural & Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Houston : Spring and fall

As the largest city in Texas, there’s no shortage of things to do on a Houston itinerary. This is another city that shocked me. I spent three days running around trying to fit everything in and just couldn’t, so this city might be better left for a longer road trip.

If you don’t get to anything else, go see the Space Center Houston to learn about NASA’s space exploration missions, or go see the immersive art at Seismique or famous works at the Menil Collection. Although it’s just a centerpiece for a park, the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is pretty darn cool too.

If you really want to spend another hour driving, you can reach the coast of Galveston Island. 

24. Wimberley, Texas

Distance:  ~230 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

For a peaceful day trip with small-town charm, head to Wimberley. This Hill Country gem is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful scenery. Take a dip in the amazing-looking Blue Hole or hike to Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring that is actually a submerged cave system that divers have explored to depths of over 100 feet!

Try a new activity at the Wimberley Glassworks for a glass-blowing experience and some of the delicious local wines at one of the many wineries in town. 

25. New Braunfels, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to New Braunfels:  Summer for river tubing and water parks

Between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is a popular summer destination for its two main attractions: the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. These beautiful bodies of water are a fun and popular way to beat the Texas heat with river tubing, kayaking, and rafting. 

You’ll see hordes of groups tie tubes together and float down the river, with packed coolers of beer and snacks. There’s also a city tube chute in town for a more intense experience.

If you’re more into traditional water parks, check out Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort or Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

26. Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance:  ~249 miles/4 hours  Type:  Small Town & Wine Country Best Time to Go to Fredericksburg : Spring and fall for Oktoberfest celebrations 

Known as the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town with a German background. Although best known as the Napa of Texas for its many wineries and tastings, you can also explore the historic Main Street or take a scenic drive to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. And try some German cuisine while you’re in town! 

During the spring, check out the beautiful wildflower fields, and in the fall, don’t miss out on their annual Oktoberfest celebration. I love bat caves, so there’s also a deserted railroad tunnel 10 miles away that’s home to up to 3 million bats if that’s something you want to see up close. 

27. San Antonio, Texas

Distance:  ~275 miles/4 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go to San Antonio : Fall and spring

Now, this is starting to be a long drive, but San Antonio is a must-visit destination in Texas and a pretty small city good for one day . The city’s beloved River Walk is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its beautiful waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. You can also visit the historic Alamo for a lesson in Texas history.

 For some family fun, head to SeaWorld San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas for roller coasters and water rides. And eat delicious Tex-Mex food while you’re in town!

Final Thoughts: Best Mini Road Trips from Dallas

Isn’t it wild how much there is to see just outside of Dallas? This list should guide you to some surprisingly fun spots like Canton Trade Days or lead you to natural gems like Pedernales Falls State Park. 

And if you’re eager to explore other parts of Texas, don’t forget to check out our other guides on the Lone Star State.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Texas?

I’ve stayed with friends and vanlifed around, about, and through much of Texas. If you’re looking for more information on the Lone Star State, check out these other destination itineraries.

• One Day in Dallas Itinerary: Perfect First-Timers Day Trip
• One Day in Big Bend National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
• One Day In San Antonio Itinerary: What To Do In 24 Hours
• Perfect One Day In Houston Itinerary For First Timers

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

If you are looking for fabulous day trips from Dallas, Texas , you are in the right place!

It is no secret that Dallas, Texas, is a popular tourist destination.  

Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scen e. 

All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it, though; sometimes you want to get out of the city and explore other areas. 

There is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks !

That is why we put together this post of Dallas day trips !

We have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area our entire lives, so we know something about getting out of the city!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Luckily, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas, which makes for a fabulous day trip! 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor Mansion and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend.

The first Monday flea market takes place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop in Weatherford!

Read Next: 30 Awesome Facts About Texas (Know Before You Go)

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas , Texas, to Fort Worth. 

Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth. 

We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do.

Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city, and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and dancing for the evening.

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

There are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. 

Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas and a great place to spend Christmas in Texas as it comes alive during the holiday season!

Read Next: How We Travel With Only a Backpack

Located less than 1 hour (about 30 minutes) from Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas, the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area. 

Arlington has sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark.

Sports fanatics will be home here since the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly First Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States.

The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit.

The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry about missing the Trade Days; Canton has other attractions. 

You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

If you want to stay overnight, there is a fun place you can try covered wagon camping in Canton!

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Galveston, TX

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County, and in just under 1 hour (about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival every April. 

Here you can drive over 40 miles of trails riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado

Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant, Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30-minute getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games you would expect, but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel! 

Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas. 

Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently.

Denton Square has fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton also has a thriving art scene and great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

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Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3-Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas, and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas.

While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest comprises more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands.

This is a huge area of piney woods and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods.’

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to enjoy miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.

Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area.

Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river float trips, and more.

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are some of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is in North Texas, just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex.

Lake Texoma is situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma.

Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: 101 Travel Experiences For Your Couple’s Bucket List

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas.

Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls.

Be careful ; the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift .

Be sure and check the conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or relax!

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Read Next: 15 Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music. 

Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money. 

You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well.

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

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Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma, near the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips.

Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore. 

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night.

Just note that Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city. 

Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city, and make it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake.

The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas.

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

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The lovely little lake town of Granbury, Texas, is just under 2 (about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  There are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutiques, shops, and restaurants the Granbury Square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas. 

This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat located about 2 hours away from Dallas.

At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

Read Next : 26 Fabulous Things to do in Eureka Springs

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is about 2 hours away from Dallas. 

Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park.

At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hiking over 20 miles of trails, and seeing some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails, and you can find horseback riding there.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are many other things to do in Glen Rose, TX, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas, is like a day trip back into Texas’ past. 

This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really, it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville. 

Visitors can climb inside the silo walls and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  The area also has a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation.

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to do in Marble Falls

You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours. 

Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5-mile stretch of Main Street in Salado. 

Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. 

You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden and the historic Stagecoach Inn and watch a glass-blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas, and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park. 

This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities. 

You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake or hike and bike on the many trails you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper. 

While Fixer Upper has drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco has been popular far before. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas , Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.

Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth!

The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Consider taking a bus from Dallas to Waco to save someone else’s driving.

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory and heading to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop downtown Dublin’s fun and quirky shops, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not try it?

You know you are in for a treat if you visit a town with an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the boutique and specialty shops you will find downtown. 

While in this area, take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse and visit some East Texas wineries like Walker’s Mill and Enoch’s Stomp ! 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do. 

Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the riverboat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo. 

After touring the Alamo, we recommend you follow the San Antonio Mission Trail and visit the other national historic missions within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas, and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips to experience incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

You must visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, and the Downtown Aquarium and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy outside while visiting Houston.

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Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas, and you will find Colorado Bend State Park.

A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas.

Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves!

All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns outside San Antonio.

Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. 

One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX, is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas. 

Located near Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX ; deciding how to spend your day will be hard!

Wimberly has several swimming holes, including Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and Blue Hole.

You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery or an olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the town’s many art galleries and boutique stores and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is about 3 hours north of Dallas and packed with things to do. 

Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area has shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. 

If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

There is a State Firefighters Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Another fun Oklahoma attraction is the Oklahoma elephant sanctuary, the Endangered Ark Foundation, which can be found in Hugo, Oklahoma.

Fredericksburg

We love the small-town feel, German heritage, and many  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX , that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park. 

This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Note, though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping at the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas !

We hope we have inspired you to explore the great areas within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and tell us what to add to our trips from the Dallas list.

We still have lots of exploring in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Other Texas Posts:

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Monday 21st of November 2022

You didn't mention something cool about Murray Lake State Park. It has tons of buildings built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps. This weekend we climbed up the Turner Tower, which was built by CCC/WPA with the intention of providing a weekend retreat for Oklahoma governors. It wasn't ever used for that purpose, but instead was opened as a museum. Today there is a museum of the WPA/CCC work at Murray Lake, as well as a mastodon skull and tusks shown there. Next to Turner Tower is a Nature Museum showcasing local wildlife. We had a great visit.

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

Thank you for the this, Suzie. We will definitely check it out on our next visit.

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

I’m doing a little online research trying to find a quick holiday getaway , feeling quite nostalgic having visited many of these places as a child. When much to my surprise, I scroll down to read about the author and it’s an old friend! Good memories all around!

Saturday 4th of December 2021

Hi Lana!! Oh my gosh! It is so great to hear from you! I am so glad that you found our little piece of the internet. Please reach out if you have questions or just want to chat!!

Saturday 19th of June 2021

I lived in Dallas for a few months in 2018 for an internship, and I wish I had more time to explore the nearby cities. There's so much to see down south!

Monday 21st of June 2021

There really is. Maybe you can come back and visit!

I had no idea there were so many cool day trips from Dallas! The bluebonnet trail would be so amazing in full bloom.

Yes! They are so beautiful. It truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

48 Fun & Interesting Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Have a long layover in DFW and looking for nearby day trips from Dallas?

Live in Dallas and need a short break from routine?

Discover our favorite Dallas day trips in this epic guide.

Dallas is a bustling city with an impressive skyline in the Lone Star State.

From Six Flags over Texas and the Fort Worth Stockyards to Oklahoma City and Lake Texoma, there’s something for everyone near Dallas!

Explore a small town in North Texas or sip wine in the Texas Hill Country wineries.

The options are endless!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas

Best Texas cities & suburbs to visit on a day trip from Dallas

Looking for a way to escape Dallas but still want to enjoy urban attractions?

Plan a visit to one of these nearby Texan cities and suburbs to enjoy a relaxing day. 

Spend time in museums and art galleries and enjoy a fine meal on these urban day trips from Dallas.

Fort Worth is very close to Dallas, making it one of the perfect day trips from Dallas.

One of the major attractions in Fort Worth is the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.

The Fort Worth Stockyards are filled with historic buildings, cattle drives, and mock shootouts.

Fort Worth also has many museums including the Modern Art Museum of Worth Worth, Kimbell Art Museum as well as restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

Arlington is a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

It’s easily commutable from Dallas, and is one of our favorite day trips from Dallas for a variety of reasons.

Arlington is home to the University of Texas campus and the UTA Planetarium.

On a visit, kids can see a variety of interactive space themed exhibits and spot celestial objects through the telescope.

Watch a game at AT&T Stadium, visit one of the theme parks, go on a walking tour of the murals downtown, or see the Arlington Museum of Art.

If you’re looking for something outdoors, there’s plenty of fishing, boating, paddle boarding, and kayaking opportunities at River Legacy Parks, located on the banks of the Trinity River.

Denton is a great place to live because it’s so diverse.

The town is also one of the best trips from Dallas.

One of the best things about the city is that you can visit many different restaurants and find something for anyone’s taste.

The town has a lot of bike trails, parks, and festivals that happen throughout the year.

If you’re looking for arts and culture, there are many galleries in Denton, as well as an art museum.

You can also find historic homes in the Downtown area!

A highlight is the Old Alton Bridge, a historic iron truss bridge which makes for a charming photo op.

Frisco is a popular city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and there are so many things to do!

This is the perfect place for people who love nature and exploring.

There are a lot of hiking trails, parks and fishing opportunities at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

Downtown Frisco has plenty of history, charm, and activities to enjoy.

Museums such as the Frisco Heritage Museum and National Videogame Museum are great to spend the day.

The city also hosts festivals throughout the year, including a holiday lights festival in December.

Grapevine is one of the best day trips from Dallas for the entire family because it’s surrounded by kid-friendly attractions, wineries, shopping, and restaurants.

In the heart of Grapevine , you will find a walkable downtown district that features charming historic buildings, a vintage railroad, shopping, and restaurants.

The city also has plenty of outdoor attractions, including water activities such as fishing and boating.

Grapevine is famous all over Texas for its Christmas celebrations, making this one of the popular times to visit the city.

Also Read: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Texas

Highland Village

Located near Lewisville Lake, Highland Village suburb of Dallas has a lot of things to offer visitors.

One of the most popular attractions is shopping and the many lakeside parks.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing at Pilot Knoll Park or LLELA Nature Preserve.

Irving is a city just outside of Dallas, and has many fun things to do!

There are lots of museums to explore, such as the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, which includes interactive exhibits about the life and career of George W. Bush.

The Irving Convention Center is also located in the heart of downtown Irving, and it has hosted many different events over the years.

If you’re looking for something artsy, Irving is home to multiple galleries and museums including the Irving Arts Center.

For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of parks and fishing opportunities. 

Irving offers a variety of restaurants to try as well as shopping malls if you’re looking for something new.

Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie is one of the great day trips from Dallas if you’re looking for shopping and culture.

It is home to a variety of historic sites such as the Pioneer Museum, which is a favorite with kids.

Texas Motor Speedway, one of the most iconic race tracks in Texas is also located here.

Check out the Crockett Civic Center where you’ll find plenty of live music shows, games, and activities for people of all ages to enjoy.

Plano is one of the best day trips from Dallas.

The city is only a few miles from Dallas and it’s home to many fun things to see and do for both kids and adults.

Plano has a variety of attractions that will make you want to plan a whole day just for this city.

There are plenty of unique restaurants, theatres such as Arbor Theatre, as well as outdoor activities in Plano.

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Southlake has a lot of things to offer visitors.

There are family-friendly activities such as shopping and dining, nature, and outdoor recreation.

Shopping in Southlake includes rodeo shops, unique boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and more.

There are also many lakeside parks that provide fishing opportunities and hiking trails.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like camping, birding, photography, or biking.

Keller is a city in Tarrant County that offers visitors a variety of things to do.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, birding, hiking, and swimming.

Visitors will also come across many lakes and streams which provide fishing opportunities for the more adventurous travelers.

The town also has a lot of shopping and dining opportunities including Keller Farmers Market, Shannon Brewing Company, and art galleries.

There are also restaurants throughout the area that offer meals with an eclectic flare from burgers to pizzas to tacos.

The city of Glen Rose, Texas is one of the best day trips from Dallas for families with small kids.

Glen Rose has many family-friendly attractions and museums as well as a charming walkable downtown district.

The highlights are Dinosaur Valley State Park and Dinosaur World, which are beloved by dinosaur crazy kids.

The Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose offers more than 500 acres of natural beauty in four different areas.

Visitors can see all sorts of wildlife, including buffalo, bison, deer, prairie dogs, and more on a drive through safari visit.

Visitors also have the opportunity to meet with a variety of animals and learn about their adaptations.

Waco is located on the Brazos River and offers nature, outdoor recreation, and history.

The Brazos River winds through Waco creating a natural barrier between the city’s east and west sides.

Lively downtown Waco offers a variety of shopping opportunities as well as local art galleries.

Outdoor activities include tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and camping.

Take a cruise down the river or visit the famous Magnolia market at the Silos or…..

….see the mammoth skeletons at Waco Mammoth National Monument or,

tour the Dr Pepper Museum to spend a fantastic day in Waco.

The Dr. Pepper Museum is sure to be a hit with any fans of the popular soda!

The interactive museum explores the history and mystery of Dr. Pepper by telling its story in four parts: History, Mystery, Taste and Adventure.

Visitors can taste dozens of flavors at the “Taste Lab” and learn about the soda’s past at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Magnolia Market, from the show Fixer Uppers, is known for its homespun apparel, flea market treasures, and excellent food.

Waco makes one of the best day trips from Dallas for all types of travelers.

Best Dinosaur Attractions to visit on a day trip from Dallas with kids

Did you know that the Lone Star State has many dinosaur attractions for the littles?

Many of them are located close to Dallas, such as Glen Rose and Bastrop.

Take the kids out on one of these day trips to learn about the prehistoric beasts such as T-Rex and see the dinosaur skeletons, tracks, and fossils.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Attractions in Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is located in the town of Glen Rose, the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

The dinosaur tracks were formed in the Paluxy river bed several million years ago during Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

The fossil beds are considered some of the most significant of any kind in North America.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a national treasure and favorite with all dinosaur lovers, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas.

It’s the only park of its kind where visitors can actually follow the trails and touch the preserved dinosaur tracks.

The park terrain is wooded and hilly with steep limestone cliffs. Other activities include biking, camping, and swimming in the river.

Dinosaur World, Glen Rose

The cool attraction of Dinosaur World in Glen Rose, Texas is not just for little kids.

The museum is one of the world’s largest indoor dinosaur attractions and features more than 40 life size dinosaurs in a natural environment.

Kids can learn more about the prehistoric creatures through interactive displays that teach them all they need to know about fossils and dinosaur life.

Visitors can also explore a museum onsite, view giant skeletons of some of the largest animals ever to walk the earth, and dig for dino bones!

Arlington Archosaur Site

The Arlington Archosaur Site is a fossil locality in the east Texas area.

It consists of a limestone outcrop containing the remains of terrestrial animals that lived about 195 million years ago during the early part of the Jurassic Period.

Visitors on this day trip can see fossils from some of the oldest mammals, crocodiles, and dinosaurs in North America.

Dinosaur Park, Bastrop

Dinosaur Park in Bastrop / Cedar Creek is the place where everyone in the family will have fun!

The kids can enjoy 2 miles of scenic nature trails, and the dinos will be waiting for them at the end.

Also Read: 21 Best Things to do in Bastrop, Texas

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, located in McKinney, Texas is one of the best Dallas day trips.

Located on several acres of forested land, the Heard Sanctuary is an excellent destination to spend time with friends and family while learning about nature and wildlife.

In the museum, kids can see dinosaur skeletons and fossils.

They can also see exhibits about ecosystems of North America, explore the Texas coastal area and more.

There are also picnic areas and boardwalk hiking trails through the sanctuary.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a fun-filled day trip from Dallas that can be enjoyed by all ages!

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is a national monument that is located in Waco, Texas.

The national park was created to preserve the remains of two American mastodons and Columbian mammoth.

The fossils were found around 60 years ago.

Visitors can view exhibits that show how these giants lived on earth.

Best Beach & Swimming Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Looking to cool off and soak up the sun?

These are some of the best beach day trips from Dallas.

Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area

Joe Pool Lake is located in southwest Dallas County and is the perfect place to go swimming.

This is one of the largest lakes in Texas.

There are 3 boat ramps for watercraft, fishing jetties, and a swimming beach that is supervised during the summer time.

Lakeside Park in White Rock Lake

Lakeside Park at White Rock Lake offers beautiful scenery and a wide variety of outdoor fun for everyone.

This urban park has picnic shelters, an outdoor eating area and a half mile walking trail around the shoreline.

The White Rock Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming.

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

One of Burger’s Lake’s highlights is its sandy beaches.

In the summer, they are a popular summer attraction with people who come to cool down and have fun in the water.

This lake has sparkling-clean water and is spring-fed.

The area has picnic tables, play areas, diving platforms, and more making it a must-visit place during the summer.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a scenic destination with a sprawling park and clean beach.

It has campsites and boat slips, too.

The park provides boating, swimming and fishing opportunities.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, is a fantastic day trip from Big D.

The main attraction of Lake Texoma is its vast size.

Lake Texoma has a lot to offer with 520,000 acres of water.

It also has 1,286 miles of shoreline, making it one of the largest lakes in Texas.

Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, trails for hiking and biking, bird watching, and ATV riding.

Lake Texoma State Park is full of opportunities for outdoor recreation and even makes a great weekend trip.

Cedar Hill State Park

Cedar Hill State Park is a large park with beach and water recreation.

The park has hiking trails, paddle boat rentals, canoe and kayak launches, picnic grounds and a playground.

Little Elm Park

Looking for a great place to swim and have fun in the sun?

Little Elm Park is on beautiful Lewisville Lake.

It is a popular swimming, water-skiing, and fishing spot.

Campers can enjoy camping by the lake, too!

Tyler State Park Beach

Tyler State Park is a popular destination for swimming, boating and fishing.

The park has a wide variety of activities available including camping, picnicking and hiking.

It is located in Tyler, Texas at the northern shoreline of Lake Palestine.

Rockwall & Lake Ray Hubbard

Rockwall is a great destination for visitors who love jet skiing, sailing, and watersports.

The lake covers several acres of water that are open to boat-racing, fishing and swimming in the summer.

There’s also beautiful Lakefront Park with picnic tables, playgrounds and walking trails.

Six Flags Theme Park, Arlington

Arlington is known for its Six Flags theme park.

It’s a fun place to spend the day with your family.

There are thrill rides, water parks and wave pools making it popular to beat the Texas heat.

Best Dallas Day Trips for nature lovers

Dallas is known as one of the most visited cities in America and has plenty of attractions.

But sometimes it’s nice to just get away from all that metropolitan noise and into nature where you can unwind with some peace and quiet.

Here are our favorite hiking, camping, biking, and birding destinations near Dallas.

Davis, Oklahoma

Davis, Oklahoma is a town that has a rich history.

It can be easily reached from Dallas via I-35.

In addition to exploring the rustic charm of this old Western town, visitors can enjoy some of the recreational opportunities Davis has to offer.

The most popular outdoor destinations here are Turner Falls Park and the stunning wilderness of Arbuckle mountains.

Located in Davis, Oklahoma, Turner Falls is one of the state’s most popular spots for family vacations.

The natural waterfall is 78 feet high and it is surrounded by several caves with trails that lead to different faces of the falls.

Turner Falls Park also has fishing opportunities, birding, wildlife viewing, and picnic areas.

The Turner Falls are especially beautiful during the spring when they’re at their peak flow rate.

During the summer, Turner Falls are popular for cooling off and splash fun.

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is great for hiking and all kinds of outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for a day trip or even a weekend trip close to Dallas, this is the perfect place!

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Caddo Lake State Park

This is a great day trip for people who love the outdoors and exploring. 

Caddo Lake State Park is located in Piney Woods region in East Texas, and it’s the perfect place for families.

The park includes walking trails, kayaking and paddling trails, fishing, and a lot of wildlife.

Kayaking on Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou is amongst the best kayaking trips in Texas .

The scenery of bald cypress trees and Spanish moss on the Big Cypress Bayou looks stunning at dusk or during fall.

If you want to extend the trip, you can enjoy camping facilities as well as cabins on the lakefront and spend time in nature.

Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

Beavers Bend State Park, located in Broken Bow, is a great place for family fun.

Kids will love the natural attractions, including scenic drives through the pine forests and wildlife encounters.

There are also horseback riding opportunities just outside of the park as well as opportunities to go birdwatching.

If you’re looking for something more serene, there are plenty of trails to explore in the park that are perfect for hiking.

The Fall colors at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow are spectacular.

The trees display a variety of colors: oranges, yellows, and reds, making Broken Bow one of our favorite fall day trips from Dallas .

Ennis, Texas is a small town just a few miles southwest of Dallas.

The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails are famous during the spring season when visitors can enjoy close-up views of the fields in bloom.

The city parks also have other scenic drives and trails, and are a favorite spot for fishing.

Downtown Ennis, you will find historic buildings, murals, charming shops, and more.

Visitors come from all over to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities that Ennis has to offer, and it’s a great place for groups with varying interests to have a good time together.

Also Read: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Texas

Davy Crockett National Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest is located in Rusk County, Texas.

The forest was named after the Texas hero Davy Crockett, who died defending the Alamo in San Antonio.

There are many opportunities for visitors to experience nature while at Davy Crockett National Forest.

There are great hikes that cover a variety of terrains and distances, as well as horseback riding and biking opportunities.

Visitors can see amazing wildlife including deer, coyotes, wild boar, raccoons, river otters and more in the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Visitors will also come across many lakes that provide fishing opportunities as well as primitive camp sites for outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp in an isolated environment. 

Best Small Towns to Visit on Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas is surrounded by several charming small towns that offer a glimpse into Texas’s history.

These adorable downtowns are a haven for cultural travelers.

Visitors can wander their historic streets, look for antiques, revel in the old-world charm, and have lunch at a delicious mom and pop restaurant. 

Here are our favorite small towns near Dallas.

Canton, Texas

Canton, Texas is a wonderful day trip from Dallas. 

The town is most famous for First Monday trade days. 

It’s the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and is amazing for hunting for one of a kind treasures.

Canton is also filled with historic buildings – several of them have been designated as historical landmarks. 

For a fun day trip from Dallas that allows you to learn a little about Texas history, Canton is one of the best places to visit.

Granbury, Texas

Another charming small town near Dallas is Granbury .

There are many historical buildings in the Historic Granbury Square such as the Hood County Courthouse, Jail Museum, Railroad Depot Museum and more. 

Visitors can stroll around and shop for antiques, or grab some barbecue at one of the local restaurants.

Terrell, Texas

Terrell, Texas is a wonderful small town in Hunt County.

This former railroad town prides itself on being a quaint and historic place

There are tons of year round events that celebrate the culture and welcome tourists every year. 

Visitors can dine at quaint restaurants or relax at one of the many bed and breakfasts that dot the small town.

Greenville, Texas

Greenville, Texas is a wonderful historic town filled with beautiful architecture and old time ambiance.

There are many great ways to experience Greenville such as the American Cotton Museum, the Greenville Farmers Market, and the Landon Winery.

Athens, Texas

Athens, Texas is a small town known for the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

Here you can see the large collection of different freshwater fish species in tanks and exhibits as well as alligators!

There are several great dining options as well as unique shops to explore when in Athens.

Looking for something fun to do outdoors? Try ziplining or visit the Athens Scuba park.

The town is filled with history and classic architecture and makes a fun day trip from Dallas.

Rusk, Texas

If you’d like to escape to a completely different part of Texas, Rusk is the perfect day trip!

The town is known for its rich history and unique architecture. 

The primary attraction in Rusk is the scenic tour on the vintage steam train at Texas State Railroad to adjacent Palestine, Texas.

Palestine, Texas

Palestine, Texas is a great small town on the outskirts of Dallas.

During the Holiday Season, the Texas State Railroad conducts the Polar Express Ride from Palestine which is a hit with kids.

It has many attractions besides the famous Texas State Railroad ride.

In Palestine, you can visit the Museum for East Texas culture located downtown or take a tour of the historic buildings adjacent to the Anderson County Courthouse.

There are several antique stores as well as craft shops to explore while you are in Palestine.

Rusk, Palestine, as well as the railroad can be combined to create one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Salado, Texas

If you want to experience a small town with a truly unique culture then you need to visit Salado, Texas. 

This quaint little town is known for its artsy residents and upscale shops.

Salado is a wonderful place to window shop because it has a vast collection of interesting boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and wine tasting.

Visitors to Salado can spend an afternoon discovering this unique little town.

Jefferson, Texas

If you’ve always wanted to explore the attractions in the Piney Woods Region of East Texas , then Historic Jefferson is your best bet.

This quaint little town has several great historical buildings and a local downtown district that is perfect for shopping or dining.

Each year there are many events such as the candlelight tour of historic homes and the Christmas Parade.

Jefferson is also a great place to explore the scenic Caddo Lake.

If you’re looking for a quiet day trip from Dallas with lots of nature, this is the perfect place!

Best Major Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Dallas

You can also visit major Texas cities on a day trip from Dallas including Houston, San Antonio and Austin.

Here are some of our favorite cities to visit on a day trip from Dallas.

Austin, Texas

Austin is the state capital of Texas and also one of the most popular cities in Texas.

You’ll find Austin has a unique “weird” culture that contrasts with Dallas’ corporate styled city.

There are tons of great things to see and do in Austin, ranging from visiting the sprawling University of Texas campus or checking out the funky live music scene.

San Antonio, Texas

If you’re looking for a big city feel in Texas then San Antonio is the place to be!

The Alamo and RiverWalk are two of the most famous attractions in this Texan city.

This city has a rich history and is also filled with unique cultural traditions.

There are many great hotels, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as live music entertainment in the city of San Antonio, making it one of the best Dallas day trips.

Houston, Texas

Houston is a vibrant modern city and a great day trip from Dallas.

You can visit the Houston Space Center or see some more modern attractions such as The Medical Center and Downtown District!

This city has several large museums, art galleries and performing arts venues.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Houston, Texas

Galveston Island, Texas

Looking for a true beach vacation near Dallas?

Galveston Island is your best bet!

Popular Galveston attractions include museums, beautiful beachfront resorts, and seafood restaurants.

Galveston also has an historic district with some great shopping opportunities!

If you’re looking to explore Galveston, be sure and take the historic Seawall Boulevard tour.

Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City makes an amazing trip from Dallas.  You can enjoy hiking, biking, camping or just sightseeing.

Popular attractions in Oklahoma City include  the Oklahoma City Zoo, The Myriad Botanical Gardens, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Frontier City Theme Park.

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a must visit for those who love arts and the rodeo.

Also Read: Best Road Trips from Dallas to explore attractions such as New Orleans, Denver, and even Big Bend!

The innumerable day trips from Dallas are a great way to relax and have a fun day within a short time.

Whether you like history and unique architecture or artsy shops and upscale boutiques, there is the perfect day trip destination waiting to capture your interest near Dallas.

From historic Jefferson to bustling Galveston Island, you can find great options for Dallas day trips if you’re seeking an escape from city life.

Which one would make a good day trip destination from Dallas for yourself? Let us know in the comments below!

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30 Best Day Trips From Dallas

If you live in Dallas or just visiting the Big D and want to get out of the city, a day trip is the perfect way to explore the surrounding country and see some real Texas.

Although there is a lot to see and do in Dallas , getting out of the city is a great way to explore the smaller towns around Texas, see spectacular nature and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

For those who want to go on a longer drive and explore places further away, check out our list of the best road trips you can go on from Dallas .

Our day trips from Dallas include charming small Texan towns, great cities to explore, National Forests and State Parks, quirky museums and even trips across the border into Oklahoma.

Here's our list of the 30 best day trips from Dallas in order of the time it takes to get there.

1. Visit the Cavanaugh Flight Museum

30 minutes from Dallas (16 miles)

A great museum for those who like flying is in Addison - only about half an hour up the Dallas North Tollway from downtown. The traffic here can be unpredictable so allow as much as an hour if you're coming during the morning rush hour.

The Cavanaugh Flight Museum has one of the best collection of military aircraft spanning time from World War I to World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and other conflicts.

Alongside the airplanes, there are some aircraft engines you can look at and a few random exhibits including military vehicles and some regular cars from the 30s and 40s.

For those who like adrenalin pumping through their veins, the museum offers flight experiences in classic fighter and bomber aircraft from different time periods. You have to book in advance but it's an awesome thing to do as part of your visit.

2. Stroll through the Stockyards National Historic District in Fort Worth

30 minutes from Dallas (32 miles)

Fort Worth and Dallas have basically merged into one city in all but name. The Dallas - Fort Worth metro area that also includes Arlington has a lot of great things to do, but given Fort Worth has a huge amount going for it in its own right, a day trip from Dallas is well worth it if you don't want to go too far.

A quick drive down the I-30 will take you from the 9th to the 13th largest city in the United States. Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District which is where you'll want to spend most of the day.

This neighborhood may feel a little touristy, but it is a genuine historic part of Fort Worth that comes with cattle going through it (yep!), cowboys and a rodeo that is worth timing your day trip for.

Once you've explored the quirky shops in Stockyards, you can check out the Fort Worth Zoo or the Botanic Garden.

Finish off the day by going to Sundance Square which is where dozens of the city's best restaurants all sit right next to each other offering you the perfect dilemma for where to have dinner.

3. Try the best of local wine in Grapevine

35 minutes from Dallas (23 miles)

The historic city of Grapevine sits on the edge of its namesake lake and right next to the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport so if you're flying into the city, you are basically in Grapevine when you land!

It might not be as well known or popular as the cities of Dallas, Fort Worth or Arlington within the metro area, but this plays to its advantage - Grapevine is quieter and has more of a local feel about it.

The city's name gives away the main reason you should come here. Local wineries offer tours and tastings - make sure you draw lots for who will be the designated driver, or stay the night locally! There are some wine rooms in the town if you want to combine it with dinner.

An alternative dinner option is the Jazz Wine Train which is part of the 1920s Grapevine Vintage Railroad. If you're not sure what this is, the clue, again, is in the name. You get to have your dinner onboard the classic train while listening to local jazz!

4. Go ghost hunting in Terrell

35 minutes from Dallas (33 miles)

Terrell is a quiet and relaxed town just outside Dallas that is known for two things: its ghosts and the World War II era flying school.

If you love ghosts, the town has an official ghost walk that tells you all about the local spirits on Saturday nights as you walk through downtown Terrell.

For a more immersive experience, the Thrillvania Haunted House Park just outside Terrell runs themed events in haunted mansions at weekends.

Don't just turn up in the evening though, the historic downtown area is great for a daytime walk - some of the buildings have intricate murals and there are some interesting and unusual shops to pop into.

If classic military aircraft is your thing and you've already been to the Cavanaugh Flight Museum on the other side of Dallas, the famous World War II flying school has a small museum that is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

This is where the British pilots trained during the war before heading back and taking part and there is a lot of information about what it was like to go through the training program at the time.

5. See the historic Courthouse in Denton

45 minutes from Dallas (40 miles)

The I-35 will take you from Dallas to Denton, northwest of the city. It's a good idea to set off a little later in the morning to avoid the morning traffic - it can get heavy from around 7 a.m. adding half an hour or more onto your journey.

Get breakfast in Dallas and then set off at around 9:30 a.m. and you can be in Denton in as little as 40 minutes.

The center of Denton is designed around the Courthouse-on-the-Square. The courthouse was originally built in 1896 but today houses some Denton County offices as well as a museum about local history, culture and the background of different immigrant groups that settled in the area.

Denton Square is where everything that goes on in the city seems to happen. Expect to see locals meeting up, some social activists or performers and visit the local restaurants and shops to get some lunch and an ice cream.

The Clear Creek Heritage Center and Ray Roberts Lake State Park are both just outside the city and great places for a few hours relaxing in the nature.

Visit these in the afternoon before heading back to Dallas driving around Lewisville Lake on the way back.

6. Spend the day in historic McKinney

45 minutes from Dallas (33 miles)

The small town of McKinney may be just over 30 miles from downtown Dallas, but it is a massive difference between the two and McKinney has a real identity of its own rather than just being a commuter town.

The town was voted as the Best Place to Live in America by Money Magazine in 2014 and the city's lifestyle has led to it growing fast since then - in 2019 it was the 6th fastest growing city in the United States according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Take a stroll down Main Street and you'll see some great local independent shops, buildings that date back to the 19th century and small restaurants and bars that are perfect for sipping coffee sat at a table outside.

The Historic Downtown has more old buildings and piles on the charm and just a few blocks further south is the Chestnut Square Historic Village where 10 restored historic buildings going back as far as 1854 are open to the public and actors dressed in costume will give you a feel for what McKinney was like 150 years ago.

All of these areas are very walkable - your best option is to park the car for the day and explore the city on foot to make the most of the wide sidewalks and the many opportunities to pause to sit down for a drink or lunch.

7. Walk the streets of Greenville, Texas

50 minutes from Dallas (52 miles)

if you're looking to escape the busy streets of Dallas and want to spend the day somewhere where the pace of life is a little slower and the vibe is a bit more relaxed and local, then Greenville is less than an hour up the I-30 to the northeast of Dallas.

The main attraction in town is the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum. This unusual museum has two halves that cover very different topics - the first is dedicated to Audie Murphy who was the most decorated American soldier in World War II. There's a number of exhibits related to him and World War II in general.

The other half of the museum is all about the history of the local cotton industry which was the main earner for local settlers when Greenville was first established in 1852.

Although Greenville does not have as much of a historic status as other cities in the area such as McKinney (#7 above), there are plaques around the city telling you about the importance of some of the buildings and the history feels more intertwined with the everyday life today.

Having said that, the historic downtown area has a number of buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and this is the where will find some interesting the local shops and restaurants.

8. Go to the largest flea market in the world in Canton

55 minutes from Dallas (60 miles)

Canton has become famous for the First Monday Trade Days - a huge flea market that takes place over the weekend that comes before the first Monday of the month (which sometimes means it happens at the end of the previous month).

This 4-day market takes place from Thursday to Sunday and is the largest in the United States and quite possibly the world depending on your definition of what a flea market is!

The site is spread over 100 acres and there are pavilions where more established traders set up shop through to small stalls with over 6,000 traders turning up every month.

You can find anything from socks to bespoke car parts in the market and if you have a choice, Thursday and Friday are quieter and you're more likely to find stuff you want - a top tip is that if you do find something you want, buy it there and then because you will either forget where the stall was and never find it afterwards or the item will be sold by the time you come back.

9. Relax by the water in Lake Whitney State Park

1 hour 15 minutes from Dallas (77 miles)

Lake Whitney is a small State Park sitting on the edge of the lake it is named after and if you want a day out by the water, it's not far to come making for a great day trip.

The park has a number of different camping options and many visitors come and stay overnight - if you get here early on the Saturday, you may find less people about. A weekday would be even better if you have the time.

There are two short (1 mile) hiking trails that are more of a gentle walk than a hard hike. The roads that run through the park offer a lot more space to walk, especially along the lakefront.

The park is clean and the water is good for both fishing and swimming when the weather is good. Given how close it is to Dallas and the fact that not much goes on in the evening, you can easily enjoy everything the park has to offer in a day and get back in time for dinner.

10. Visit the quirky town of Sulphur Springs, Texas

1 hour 15 minutes from Dallas (79 miles)

Sulphur Springs is an 80-mile drive up the I-30 from Dallas. The road goes right past Greenville (see #7 above) which you can add to your itinerary if you want to stop along the way.

Not that you'll need to add more things to do - there is plenty to see in Sulphur Springs starting with the Hopkins County Courthouse building that is right in the center of the city on Celebration Plaza.

The amazing building that uses unusual materials like pink granite is a functioning courthouse hosting everything from court cases to passport applications and you are free to enter and walk around to see what it's like on the inside.

The square around it is where many of the city's events happen and also where you'll find one of the most odd public restrooms ever. There are two glass restrooms right on the square and if you use them, you can see everything around you through the glass walls.

Luckily enough, the glass is mirrored on the outside so nobody can see in, but it's a very odd and somewhat unsettling way of using restroom facilities.

The Southwest Dairy Museum and Education Center is about one and a half miles from the County Courthouse and is a really interesting museum about the dairy industry with interactive exhibits that go as far as milking a cow. You can grab an ice cream at the end of your visit in the museum's diner.

11. The Windmill Farm at Tolar

1 hour 20 minutes from Dallas (76 miles)

One of the more unusual day trip options from Dallas is the Windmill Farm near Tolar. Head down Highway 377 out of Dallas and the Windmill Farm is just off the Highway between the towns of Granbury and Tolar.

Follow the signs to the farm and you can drive in to have a look at the windmills - there is a road that takes you through them or you can park up and walk around to get a better view.

Entry to the farm is free and you even get a leaflet which tells you a bit about the individual windmills and their history. Donations for upkeep are welcomed and you should definitely contribute if you're visiting.

There are about 30 classic windmills which were all originally working for different farming and industrial purposes. The windmills have been meticulously restored and aggregated from across the local area and are all within a relatively small area.

The farm is open every day during daylight hours and has a well reviewed bed and breakfast on site if you want to spend the night.

12. Visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose

1 hour 25 minutes from Dallas (80 miles)

Glen Rose is a small town about 90 minutes' drive from Dallas that has a surprisingly large amount of things to do and see - perfect for a day trip out.

The town itself is worth stopping in - the Historic Courthouse Square is the focus of this small town with the Courthouse building dating back to 1893.

Outside Glen Rose, there are a number of different parks you can visit including the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center where some of the most endangered African animal species are preserved including cheetahs, red wolves and the black rhinoceros.

The Dinosaur Valley State Park is a must for your itinerary - the park has some of the best preserved animal footprint fossils in the world and you can see how big their footsteps are as mud they walked through in and around the Paluxy River has turned to stone.

The park has life-size dinosaurs to add to the experience but best of all there is a great selection of hiking trails which weave all the way through the park and are perfect for an hour or two of walking through nature.

13. Go antiques shopping in Waco

1 hour 30 minutes from Dallas (95 miles)

Waco is a located south of Dallas, about halfway along the I-35 to Austin.

The main thing to see in Waco is Magnolia Market which is a 2-block shopping complex including a large store in a converted historic grain barn.

You can't miss it as the infamous two large 1950s silos mark the spot and the silos have become something of an Instagram-worthy attraction in their own right in recent years.

Magnolia Market is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines who became famous for their Fixer Upper TV show - you might spot them around since they have stopped filming the show to focus on other ventures!

If you've watched their show, you'll know that Waco is a huge Mecca for antiques - there are dozens of amazing antique stores here so drive the truck if you want to bring back something for your home.

The Dr Pepper Museum is another amazing place to visit, especially if you are a fan of the soft drink.

Dr Pepper was invented and first produced in Waco and the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company building that houses the museum was the first purpose-built factory that manufactured Dr Pepper from 1906 to 1960.

There are 3 floors of amazing exhibits from the long history of the drink including amazing exhibits about the manufacturing process and classic advertisement posters.

14. Visit the Municipal Rose Garden in Tyler, Texas

1 hour 30 minutes from Dallas (98 miles)

If you like flowers, the Municipal Rose Garden in Tyler is an absolute must visit and given it's only 90 minutes away from Dallas, it's an easy day trip to see the biggest rose garden in the United States.

There are 14 acres of gardens that have some 40,000 rose bushes here with every type of rose plant imaginable somewhere in the area.

There's even experimental new types of rose bushes that have been specifically engineered that go through testing here - the local experts see how the plants behave over a 2-year window before releasing the new rose varieties to the public.

The Rose Garden has given Tyler the proud title of the Rose Capital of America and since it opened in 1952 has expanded its collection of roses year after year.

There are some rose bush varieties here that date back to the 1860s in the Heritage Rose and Sensory Garden. You can easily spend a few hours walking around here and seeing the great variety on display.

15. Try your luck at the casinos in southern Oklahoma

1 hour 35 minutes from Dallas (92 miles)

If you want to play cards or see whether it's your lucky day at the slot machine, but you don't fancy the 18 hour drive to Las Vegas, all you need to do is drive across the Oklahoma border.

There are two options that both take about an hour and a half to get to from Dallas. Given that gambling is unlikely to be legalized in Texas any time soon, both are in southern Oklahoma.

The WinStar World Resort Casino is in Thackerville, about 80 miles north of Dallas and with around 600,000 square feet of combined casino floor space it is not only the largest casino in the U.S., but the whole world. It is owned by the Chickasaw Nation which is a large Native American nation based in Oklahoma.

There are loads of restaurants and a huge hotel to boot if you want to stay the night. To give you an idea of the casino's size, just the poker room alone is 19,000 square feet and has 55 tables!

The Choctaw Casino is the other option - owned by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, it is a little bit further but is less busy as a result with most Texans heading for WinStar instead.

It is much smaller than WinStar, although at around 220,000 square feet of gaming space it is still in the top 10 biggest in the world and larger than most of the huge casinos along the Las Vegas Strip.

16. Go fishing on Lake Texoma

1 hour 40 minutes from Dallas (89 miles)

Lake Texoma is a large reservoir that was made by putting a dam across the Red River in 1944 and flooding several valleys in the area.

Today Texoma on the Texas-Oklahoma border is a popular place to come and relax for residents of both states - there are 2 state and 52 USACE-managed parks surrounding the lake as well as 26 resorts and endless campsites and golf courses.

Red River and the lake sit in an area that used to be the bed of a sea that lay on the border between Oklahoma and Texas thousands of years ago. As a result, the river is unusual in the fact that its water has a high salt content and is not fresh.

This has meant that fish that are normally only found in seawater thrive in the river and striped bass is the most prized of the over 70 different types of fish that are found in the lake.

You may find that some of the campgrounds and facilities in the area have seen better days. If you're just coming for the fishing or to have a picnic by the lake, Texoma is the perfect place to come but if you're looking to stay longer and camp overnight, you might want to opt for a different park area.

17. Learn history at the Fort Richardson State Park and Historic Site

1 hour 40 minutes from Dallas (93 miles)

If you love history and want to learn more about post-Civil War Texas, Fort Richardson is less than two hours away from Dallas and is the perfect day trip for you.

Fort Richardson was built in 1867 at the frontier of the territories occupied by the U.S. Army and played a key role in the defeat of the Comanche and Kiowa. After the Texas panhandle area was secured by the army, the fort was eventually abandoned in 1878.

Almost 100 years later, the disused fort was partially restored and reopened as the Fort Richardson State Historic Park in 1973.

Today a few of the over 50 original fort buildings have been restored - you can visit the hospital, morgue, officer's quarters, guard house, bakery, powder magazine and a commissary.

Tours run twice a day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays and you are free to walk around yourself at weekends. Entry to the park is just $3 per person so this is a budget friendly option!

To add to the experience, two replica barrack buildings were constructed as well.

Make sure you explore the State Park that surrounds the fort and the Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway - the trails here are great and usually very quiet.

18. Drive around the scenic Lake Murray State Park, Oklahoma

1 hour 45 minutes from Dallas (104 miles)

Getting to Lake Murray from Dallas is pretty straight-forward - hop onto the I-35 and keep on going for about 100 miles - the lake will be on your right!

Located in southern Oklahoma, Lake Murray State Park is the perfect place to unwind and get away from it all for a day.

Every kind of outdoor activity you might want to do, you can do here - from driving ATVs to fishing to hiking to horseback riding. The lake has a number of great swimming spots and there is a golf course. For the less serious players, there's even mini golf by the Lake Murray Resort.

Given there are few things I like more than a great drive, this lake has one great feature that not many others do - Highway 77S loops all the way around the lake and driving the 25 miles around is a great way to see different parts of the park.

There are small roads that dart off the route towards the lake so you'll have plenty of opportunities of getting closer to the water when you want to stop.

19. Ride the Texas State Railroad in Palestine, Texas

1 hour 50 minutes from Dallas (119 miles)

The 25-mile train track between Palestine and Rusk (both in Texas) sits on the site where a 19th century freight train railroad operated until 1921.

The Palestine depot is just past the town of Palestine along U.S. Highway 84, about 2 hours southeast of Dallas.

Everything about the State Railroad screams history - the depot building has storyboards and information about the history of the railroad and make sure you get out at the other end to see the Rusk depot. Both have small shops where you can get interesting period clothes or a souvenir.

The train ride itself takes 4 hours for a round trip through Piney Woods and you can choose anything from an open air wooden bench carriage through to the Presidential Car - obviously for a different price!

If you really want to get the ultimate experience, $250 buys you the Engine Ride Along where you can go in the steam engine cab. You'll need to book in advance and pass background checks and as there's only one space, it might not be the most sociable way to spend the day with your family or friends!

The trains usually depart at 11 a.m. but there are a lot of special events, additional times and some evening train rides if you want to spend the night or get back to Dallas very late! Check the full schedule at the official Texas State Railroad website .

20. See the waterfall at Turner Falls Park, Oklahoma

2 hours 5 minutes from Dallas (128 miles)

Turner Falls in Oklahoma is 77 feet tall and shares the title of the tallest in Oklahoma with a waterfall in the Natural Falls State Park. It'll take you over 2 hours to get here from Dallas - the I-35 runs all the way.

The park has been a popular weekend getaway destination for some time and as a result, I wouldn't recommend staying the night. There have been repeated reports of trash being left uncollected, loud music and a disorganized campsite.

However, if you're just coming for the day - the falls are a great sight and you can climb up to the overlook to get a better view down as well.

You can swim and walk through the creek area but beware that you'll definitely need water shoes and life jackets are compulsory for children.

Take a lot of care in and around the park - the water can be very cold and deep and swimming here can be dangerous if you're not careful. Some of the hiking trails have sharp rocks and steep drops as well - don't rush things on your way around.

Coming in the middle of the week and getting here early is one way of avoiding the crowds and getting a decent parking spot - it can get pretty busy later on and at weekends so set off nice and early from Dallas.

21. Go on a safari at the Arbuckle Wilderness Park

2 hours 5 minutes from Dallas (130 miles)

If you want to see deer, bison, donkeys, llamas, giraffes and even a rhino right up close and without having to get out of the car, head to the Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Oklahoma.

This is a safari park type of location - you drive along the roads through the park and the different areas are home to different animals that the park contains.

There are hundreds of animals spread throughout the park but to get around, you'll have to drive along gravel and unpaved roads. It can be pretty bumpy - I wouldn't recommend you bring your sports car to look at the exotic animals. An SUV will work a lot better with navigating potholes.

Remember to stay in the car at all times and be careful not to get too close to the animals or annoy them. A donkey kick can make for an expensive panel replacement if you provoke the animal.

If you're making the 2-hour drive up, note that Turner Falls (right above at #20) is a 3-mile drive down the road, so you may well want to combine the two into one big day trip from Dallas!

22. Spend a day in the water at Possum Kingdom State Park

2 hours 15 minutes from Dallas (134 miles)

The time to come to Possum Kingdom State Park is when the weather gets hot from late spring onwards - the park sits along the edge of Possum Kingdom Lake and the best way to spend the day is get out on the water.

Fishing for bass, swimming, boating, canoeing, snorkeling and even scuba diving are available so take your pick!

Although the State Park only covers a small part of it, Lake Possum Kingdom has over 300 miles of coastline and the jagged shape means there are lots of rocky coves and scenic spots to stop and relax.

In the afternoon you can have a go on water skis or go tubing - the fresh clean water in the lake make it an absolute blast!

There isn't quite as much to do on dry land - there is a grand total of 2 trails with one being half a mile and a 1.4 mile Lakeview Trail that has a shortcut for those who don't want to walk the whole way round (which is officially the third trail).

That doesn't matter though, because you can still enjoy the scenery walking along the lakefront roads and there is so much to do on the lake for the whole day.

23. Dive into Texan culture in Marshall

2 hours 15 minutes from Dallas (151 miles)

Marshall is a 150 mile trek east from Dallas and is the place to come if you're looking for small town charm.

The locals have self proclaimed Marshall to be the Cultural Capital of East Texas and there are a few cultural sights to explore. The Harrison County Historical Museum is inside the huge County Courthouse building in the middle of town.

A major transport hub in the 19th century, Marshall is also home to the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum and you can visit the Michelson Museum of Art and the Starr Family Home State Historic Site.

But ticking off the museums is not the only reason to come to Marshall. The Wonderland of Lights is a Christmas-themed lights festival that starts in late November and runs through December. It's one of the biggest light festivals in the United States and well worth coming for during the festive season.

Along with the lights, the town gets decorations all over, Christmas horse-drawn carriages and an ice rink!

24. Slow down time in Jefferson

2 hours 30 minutes from Dallas (167 miles)

Jefferson is a historic city where life is a little slower and relaxed than in the Big D. The best way to explore the city is to take a stroll through the historic downtown area or go on a short boat ride along the Big Cypress Bayou that runs through.

There are a few interesting museums to pop into - the Jefferson Historical Museum tells the town's story, Gone With The Wind Museum is dedicated to the famous book and the stories it tells and you should go to the Museum of Measurement and Time for a quirky exhibition of clock mechanisms and other things that measure anything and everything.

The Historic Jefferson Railway is fun if you have kids - you get to go on a short railway ride with a stop at the Diamond Don's Gator Pit where you can see alligators being fed.

Jefferson is famously called the Bed and Breakfast Capital of the U.S. If you want to spend more than a day and combine it with a trip to Caddo Lake and maybe a stop in Marshall (which is a very good itinerary for a weekend!), then you are spoiled for choice with local lodging options.

Some of the boutique hotels have very creative and unique rooms - amazing for a 1 or 2 night break.

25. Discover beautiful swamps and bayous at Caddo Lake

2 hours 35 minutes from Dallas (168 miles)

Louisiana bayous and swamps may feel like a different world when you are in the middle of Texas, but you can go and see a real Southern marsh at Caddo Lake on a day trip from Dallas!

Caddo Lake sits on the border between Texas and Louisiana, a few miles further than Marshall (#23 above). Take the I-20 all the way to Marshall and the Caddo Lake State Park is just a little further towards the State line.

For $4 per adult entry fee, you get the opportunity to see the natural beauty of the swamp with tall bald cypress trees growing straight out of the water and the fluid mix of land and water everywhere you look.

The appropriately named Big Cypress Bayou flows right past the State Park and into the lake and you can hire anything from a small kayak to a boat to go around the lake.

There are steamboat tours that can add to the experience - these stop at little lakeside towns and can make for a relaxed afternoon on the water.

Both, Marshall and Jefferson (#24 above) are very close to Caddo Lake and you could combine your visit with a stop in one of the historic towns for brunch or dinner before heading back to Dallas.

26. Go to the Texas capital - Austin

2 hours 45 minutes from Dallas (195 miles)

Austin is a long drive down the I-35 from Dallas - the drive will take about 3 hours if you stop once along the way and it's a pretty long way to come for a day trip, although I've done this exact drive myself before and it wasn't all that bad.

Some other recommendations for day trips from Dallas recommend going to the Texas Hill Country, see the cowboy towns of Bandera and Fredericksburg and go to some of the local wineries or even tell you to go to San Antonio.

While all of these are great places to go to and I heartily recommend them as a road trip destination, they are just too far to go to and come back from in one day, so Austin is as far south as this list goes. Check the link in the intro for longer road trip routes from Dallas.

Austin is the capital of Texas and is a very different city to the other major hubs in the State. Austin has a large student population and with that comes a rich and vibrant night life and music scene and great food options.

Austin is a very liberal city within a highly conservative State - to get a sense for its culture you can start by visiting the very impressive State Capitol building and then stop by one of the many great museums. The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a very good option and is only 3 blocks from the Capitol building.

Zilker Park on the south bank of the Colorado River is a perfect place to chill in the afternoon in a natural pool filled with perfectly clear (and cold!) spring water.

27. Davy Crockett National Forest

2 hours 45 minutes from Dallas (180 miles)

Davy Crockett National Forest is part of the Piney Woods part of Texas which is quite different to the rest of the State. There's no hills, deserts or dusty plains and instead you get lush pine forests, ponds and lakes.

If relaxing in the wild forest and hiking along trails through it for a day sounds like a good idea, then you can get down to the National Forest in under 3 hours if you beat the rush hour traffic in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.

The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is the best place to come if you're just here for the day - there's plenty of things to do, good parking and easy trails through the woods with benches and places to stop along the way.

Being over 2 hours from all the major cities, Davy Crockett National Forest is quieter than other parks in and around Dallas and so you can switch off the phone and lie on the grass underneath a tall pine tree without crowds of visitors next to you.

28. Angelina National Forest

2 hours 50 minutes from Dallas (169 miles)

The Angelina National Forest stretches along the length of the Angelina River, Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Neches River in east Texas and is a large protected area where you can do almost every outdoor activity you want.

As with much of this part of Texas, most of the forests are pine and although the forest starts further north, you may want to drive down to the area around Sam Rayburn Reservoir as this is where a lot of the things to do can be found and the nature is richer.

Boykin Springs are another 40 minutes further south between the southern end of the reservoir and Neches River and great hikes along the natural springs that cascade down the rocks.

The Sawmill Hiking Trail is the most popular in the forest - it's over 5 miles long but is relatively easy and has great views of springs and the National Forest along the way.

It's definitely a long drive to get here, but the driving through the forest is part of the experience which makes it worthwhile despite the distance.

29. Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

3 hours from Dallas (180 miles)

Beavers Bend is a state park in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma near the border with Arkansas and centered around the Broken Bow Lake.

I mentioned that Davy Crockett National Forest and Angelina National Forests are far from major cities and Beavers Bend takes it one step further with a solid 3 hour drive from Dallas, 3 and a half hours from Tulsa and 4 hours from Oklahoma City.

Given the distances, not too many city dwellers make it out to Beavers Bend for a day trip so the park remains relatively quiet even during weekends with perfect weather so if you want to go hiking away from it all and enjoy some beautiful scenery, the 3-hour drive up to Oklahoma is definitely worth it.

There are some beautiful driving roads through the park and if you like a great driving road, take a few random turns and see where you get to!

All the usual water-based activities are here on the Broken Bow Lake from fishing (remember you need an Oklahoma license!) to water skiing.

30. A day trip to Oklahoma City

3 hours from Dallas (206 miles)

Oklahoma City is the capital of the State of Oklahoma and its largest city. You can get here from Dallas in about 3 hours - the I-35 runs from one downtown to the other so there's not many turns you'll have to remember to take!

The city has traditionally had associations with cowboys and oil rigs, but today Oklahoma City is developing a funky vibe that goes much further than that.

The Bricktown neighborhood is right at the heart of Oklahoma City and is a vibrant mixture of converted brick wharehouse buildings, beautiful canals and the Bricktown River Walk Park.

Bricktown has seen a large number of restaurants and bars spring up in recent years and this is where you should grab lunch and an early dinner before heading back - otherwise you'll be eating very late back in Dallas.

Make sure you stop at the Oklahoma City National Memorial which pays tribute to those who perished and those whose lives were affected in the 1995 bombing.

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Day Trips From Dallas

The Best Day Trips From Dallas

For those looking for a fun day trip from Dallas, this guide has several options for you to choose from. Dallas is within a few hours of stunningly pretty state parks, charming cities, and a string of postcard-worthy small Texan towns just waiting to be explored.

Fort Worth: World-Class Art and Cowboy Culture

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

First up, the most logical day trip from Dallas is Fort Worth. The true flavor and history of Texas are embodied in this vibrant city, which became famous during the open-range cattle drives of the 19th century. Today, the main draw is the Stockyards National Historic District, where cowboys, cattlemen, and outlaws used to roam. The city is also home to several world-class art museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum , the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth , and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art .

Getting There: Just 30 minutes west of Dallas, Fort Worth is easily accessible by car or bus .

Travel Tip: In addition to soaking up art and exploring the Stockyards, take a moment to walk around the Water Gardens if you’re downtown—this modernist, urban oasis of pools and water features is a marvel.

Beavers Bend State Park: Enjoy a Weekend in the Great Outdoors

Nestled in the scenic mountainous region of southeast Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park is a wonderful weekend getaway if you’re craving a dose of nature. Crystal-clear waters and lush, hilly terrain make this state park a nature lover’s dream. There’s plenty to do here, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, water skiing, canoeing, horseback riding, and more. Spend the night at Lakeview Lodge , one of the park’s many cabins, or at a tent or RV campsite. 

Getting There: Take Highway 75 north to exit 45; the journey takes about three hours. 

Travel Tip: Make time for a glass of wine at Girls Gone Wine , an adorable winery in Broken Bow. After a long day at the lake, there’s no better way to unwind.

Denton: Explore a Culturally-Rich Texas Town

Less than an hour from Dallas, Denton boasts a spectacular live music scene and a lively culture all its own. Home to two major universities (the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University), this bustling college town is loaded with cool boutiques, breweries, bars, galleries, and restaurants, along with a plethora of up-and-coming musicians who perform around town.   

Getting There: You can take the DART to get to Denton if you’re not up for the drive: Take the Green Line to the Trinity Mills station in Carrollton, transfer to the A-train, and take the A-train to the Downtown Denton Transit Center.

Travel Tip: For a real treat, head here for either the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival or the Denton Blues Festival .

Caddo Lake State Park: A Maze of Natural Wonders

Caddo Lake State Park is located roughly two and a half hours from Dallas, but the drive is well worth it. This is one of the state’s most popular parks, for good reason. With its thick bald cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss, alligators (yep!), and maze of sloughs and pools, Caddo Lake has an eerie, gothic beauty that’s unlike other parts of Texas. Caddo Lake, the largest naturally formed lake in Texas, has over 50 miles of paddling trails that can be explored by canoe or kayak. Visitors can also experience the Pineywoods on more than 13 miles of trails. 

Getting There: Caddo Lake State Park is about three hours east of Dallas, via I-20.  

Travel Tip: Apart from getting out on the water (which is a must), don’t miss the Whispering Pines Nature Trail, a historic trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938 that passes through mixed hardwood-pine woodland.

Dinosaur Valley State Park: Follow the Footsteps of Ancient Beasts

It may be tough to believe, but dinosaurs used to roam just west of the Dallas metroplex. At Dinosaur Valley State Park, visitors can follow the real-life, fossilized dinosaur tracks along the banks of the park’s Paluxy River. The prints are preserved in stone and are visible at five different locations along the river. 

Getting There: Drive along I-35 S towards Waco and continue on US-67; the park is about an hour and a half from the Metroplex. 

Travel Tip: Hikers will rejoice at the 20-mile network of interconnected, mixed-use trails in the park, the longest of which, the Cedar Brake Outer Loop, takes you on a looping tour of the terrain atop limestone ridges.

Canton: A Small Town With Substantial Charm

Charming Canton has a slew of small-town treasures—like America's largest flea market—just waiting to be discovered. The incredibly walkable city is perfect to explore on a quick trip from Dallas.

Getting There: Canton is just an hour’s drive from Dallas, along US-80 and I-20.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit around First Monday Trade Days, the biggest continually operating flea market in the country, which takes place Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month.

Austin: Experience the Weirdest City in Texas

Austin may be located just three hours from Dallas, but the city’s cultural landscape is vastly different from that of the Big D. Come here to experience the food, the music, the culture, and the weirdness—see the bats on Congress Avenue, take a dip in Barton Springs, hike along the Greenbelt, and peruse galleries on the East Side. 

Getting There: Austin is about four hours south of Dallas, via I-35.

Travel Tip: Avoid visiting during any of the major festivals (like South by Southwest or Austin City Limits) when the city is swarming with tourists.

Possum Kingdom State Park: Scenic Nature and Aquatic Beauty

Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 4.0

Another mega-steamy Texas summer got you down? Possum Kingdom State Park is the perfect place to cool off. Located roughly one hour northwest of the Metroplex, the park caters to those who love the water, though there are also plenty of hiking trails. Scenically situated in the rugged canyon country of the Brazos River Valley and the Palo Pinto Mountains, this 1500-acre state park is on the west side of Possum Kingdom Lake. Visitors to the park can scuba dive, swim, snorkel, and go boating or fishing in the cool, clear waters. 

Getting There: It’s a scenic jaunt along I-30 to Possum Kingdom Lake; the journey should take you around three hours. 

Travel Tip: Aside from water sports, the rolling hills that surround the lake are home to several great trails, including the popular Lakeview Trail, the Longhorn Trail, and the Chaparral Ridge Trail, all of which offer magnificent views of the park

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30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

Posted on Published: August 8, 2020 Categories Texas

By: Author thattexascouple

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It is no secret that Dallas, Texas is a popular tourist destination.  Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scene.  All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it though, there are times when you want to get out of the city and explore other areas.  I mean, there is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Lucky for you, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and head out to explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas. 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor mansion, and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend. The first Monday flea market has been taking place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab some homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop while in Weatherford!

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas, Texas to Fort Worth.  Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth.  We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do. Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and to go dancing for the evening. Now that’s the honky-tonk life! Really, there are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas .

Arlington-One of the Easy Day Trips

Located less than 1 hour (really about 30 minutes) from both Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area.  Arlington is home to sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark and sports fanatics will be right at home here since both the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is located just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly first Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States. The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit. The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry if you miss the Trade Days, Canton has other attractions as well.  You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas, or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County and in just under 1 hour (really, about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival that takes place every April.  Here you can drive over 40-miles of trails that are riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30 minutes getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games that you would expect but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel!  Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes, will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas.  Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently Denton square has some fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton is also home to a thriving art scene and some great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3 Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas. While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest is comprised of more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands. This is a huge area of piney woods, and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods’.

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to spend the day enjoying miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma-One of the Best Day Trips

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma. Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area. Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river floating trips, and more.

Honestly, Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are one of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is located in North Texas just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex. You will find Lake Texoma situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma. Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise. While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all of the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing. In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas. Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls. Just be careful, the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift. Be sure and check conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or just spend the day relaxing! This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Austin-Music Capital of U.S.

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music.  Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money if you wanted.  You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well. Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

Davis Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma not far from the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips. Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore.  A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages.  Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night. Just take note, Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city.  Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city and you have the making it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area, or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake. The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas. People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

The lovely little lake town known as Granbury, Texas is just under 2 (really about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  I mean, there are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutique, shops, and restaurants the Granbury square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas.  This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Located about 2 hours away from Dallas, Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat for sure. At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your own vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres, and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is located about 2 hours away from Dallas.  Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park. At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hike over 20 miles of trails, and see some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails and you can find horseback riding in the area. Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are lots of other things to do in Glen Rose, TX as well, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas is like taking a day trip back into Texas’ past.  This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really its about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville.  Here visitors can climb the inside of the silo walls, and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  There is also a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation in the area also.

You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours.  Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5 mile stretch of Main Street in Salado.  Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden, the historic Stagecoach Inn, and watch a glass blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park.  This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities.  You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake, or hike and bike on the many trails that you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple, Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper.  While Fixer Upper has certainly drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco was been popular far before that. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas, Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.  Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth! The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory before heading over to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop the fun and quirky shops in downtown Dublin, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is located about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not give it a try? I mean, you know you are in for a treat if you are visiting a town that has an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the many boutiques and specialty shops that you will find around the downtown area.  While in this area, be sure to take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse. 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little as you like when visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do.  Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the river boat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo.  After touring the Alamo, we recommend you following the  San Antonio Mission Trail  and visiting the other national historic missions also, all of which are within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips if you want to experience the incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

Make sure that you visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, the Downtown Aquarium, and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy some time outside while visiting Houston as well.

Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas and you will find Colorado Bend State Park. A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas. Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is also home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves! All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns located just outside of San Antonio. Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas.  Located not far from Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX  it will be hard for you to decide how to spend your day!

Wimberly is home to several swimming holes, including the famous Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and the Blue Hole. You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery, or olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the many art galleries and boutique stores throughout the town and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is located about 3 hours north of Dallas, and is packed full of things to do.  Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area is full of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.  If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums.  There is a State Firefighters Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum , and, one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Fredericksburg-One of Our Favorite Day Trips

We love the small town feel, German heritage, and the plethora of  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX  that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park.  This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Take note though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas ! We hope that we have inspired you to explore the great areas that are located within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and let us know what to add to our trips from Dallas list.

I know that we still have lots of exploring to do in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Other Texas Posts:

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

7 Fredericksburg Wineries Not to Miss

The Ultimate Guide to Fredericksburg, TX

20 Fun and Easy Day Trips from Austin

50 Free Things To Do In Dallas-Ft. Worth

Romantic Getaways in Texas

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Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

These Posts Are Now Trending! Be Sure Not To Miss Them!

Like this post?  Please Pin It or share to your favorite social media!

About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures.  While she is a professional educator by day, her passion for travel has her jet-setting all over the world during her free time. 

Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

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Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

thattexascouple

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

Sunday 21st of March 2021

Did not know there were so many day trips you can take from Dallas. I would love to visit Texas to do a few of these activities.

You really should. Texas is such a great state with so many great things to do!

Sunday 23rd of August 2020

I would love to do all of these day trips! I have not been to Dallas or most of these spots so there are tons of great road trip ideas on this list. Hope to get back to the states once COVID sanctions are lifted :)

I had nooooo idea there were this many amazing road trips from Dallas!! I've only really been to Austin, the hill country & some of the surrounding springs, but every time I see a Tx blog, I realize more & more I need to spend more time in Texas... the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival is definitely on my list now.

You really should visit and explore Texas. I am so glad to hear that we have sparked your interest in our great state!

So many options in this place! I'll be honest, I've never had a huge desire to travel to Texas, but now that I know there are so many things to do, I'm sorry I wrote it off! I would love to see the Bluebells or go to Austin someday.

I am so glad we could change your mind. Texas is a fabulous place that is full of diversity. Give it a try :)

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Texas Travel 365

14 Best Day Trips From Dallas Worth The Effort

August 29, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

If you are looking for ideas for day trips from Dallas, then you’ll want to check out this list. Dallas is in North Texas and conveniently located to plenty of cool things to do. Whether you are looking to escape the city and explore nature or simply enjoy another city, there is something for you on this list.

We’ve broken up the trips into three categories. There are day trips near Dallas that are less than an hour away, between an hour and two hours away, and then over two hours away. With a few options under each category, you’re sure to find a Dallas day trip to perfectly fit your needs.

Texas is a very large state with tons of culture and a pretty unique history. All near Dallas you’ll find small towns, large cities, and state parks that are full of interesting attractions. You don’t have to travel far to experience completely different cultural experiences and traditions. That’s what makes Dallas one of the best ‘home bases’ for your day trip adventures. So, let’s take a look at 14 best day trips from Dallas that are absolutely worth the effort.

Dallas Day Trips Between 0-1 Hours

Oak cliff nature preserve.

The Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is actually located right in the middle of Dallas. So this is one of the best day trips from Dallas if you don’t actually want to travel too far.

You won’t have far to travel at all. The nature preserve is 121 acres of beautiful and lush green space. This is one of the best things to put on your Weekend In Dallas Itinerary!

It’s hard to believe that it is right in the middle of Dallas’ urban area. At the preserve, there are plenty of hiking trails. They total over 8 miles, so you’ll have plenty of space to explore. Like most parks it is open from dawn until dusk, so you can easily spend all day there.

The hours also allow you to explore the park outside of the Texas heat if you’d like. While you’ll hike you can bird watch as well as admire the local plants and other wildlife. It is a getaway from Dallas when you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Plano is just 25 miles North of Dallas and is one of the best places to visit close to Dallas. It is especially awesome for history lovers. There are plenty of things to do there if you have an interest in learning about Texas history.

One of the most visited spots in Plano is The Heritage Farmstead Museum. At the museum, you’ll be able to walk through what is essentially a living history museum. A living history museum is one where a large area has been restored and there are often people in period clothes walking around and explaining different parts of the area.

At the Heritage Farmstead Museum, there is a restored 19th-century farm. You can see original tools and farm equipment as well as a recently restored schoolroom. Plano also has a Railroad History Museum, and the Southfork Ranch. The Southfork Ranch is a fun part of Texas history as it is where many scenes from the hit series ‘Dallas’ were filmed. For a little bit of history and a lot of fun, consider Plano for your next Dallas day trip.

Cedar Hill State Park

About 24 miles south of Dallas is the Cedar Hill, State Park. There is an entry fee of $7 for adults to enter the park. It is a daily fee and kids under 12 get in the park for free. Cedar Hill Park is a perfect day trip from Dallas if you want some outdoor adventure.

The park is over 1,800 acres of beautiful Texas landscape. You’ll find plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Cedar Hill is also located on the shores of Joe Pool Lake, which is a 7,500 lake in Texas. On the lake, you can enjoy swimming, boating, and there is even a trail around the lake.

It is also a great place for a picnic with you and your family. Another popular activity at the park is geocaching. You can find several fun little treasures and leave your own while geocaching in Cedar Hill. The park also is home to the Penn Farm Agricultural Center where you can learn more about Texas farming practices.

Just 35 minutes West of Dallas is its ‘sister city, Fort Worth. The city began to thrive in the late 19th century. That is when it became a trading post for cowboys on the Chisholm Trail. Fort Worth was a very important trading post that was on the end of the trail at the time. Since then, it has only grown and continues to be an important Texas city.

What makes it such a fun day trip from Dallas is that it is full of things to do. It’s so close to Dallas but so different in terms of things to do and just the atmosphere in general. One of the things visitors to the city enjoy most is the Cowboy heritage in the city.

At the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can see traditionally rodeos which is something very unique to the American South and South West. The Stockyards are also home to the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame and Museum, which celebrates the women who were just as integral to the expansion of the West.

If that isn’t your speed, Forth Worth is also a vibrant city where you can explore the Kimbell Art Museum. There are also boutique shops, a varying selection of restaurants, and more. It’s one of the best places to visit close to Dallas.

Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

The Arbor Hills Nature Preserve is located in Plano. The 200-acre park is a great place to escape and get to enjoy the beautiful Northern Texas landscape. The park is open most days from 5 am to 11 pm, but the hours can change depending on if maintenance is needed in the park. So before you plan your trip, make sure the park is open.

There are of course extensive hiking and biking trails where you can explore the natural wildlife of Texas. If you want to bring a picnic, there are several pavilions you can either rent or use if they are vacant. One of the best parts of the park is the observation tower. When you climb up the observation tower you’ll get to experience stunning views of the city of Plano. It is one of the best day trips from Dallas if you want to enjoy the area’s natural landscape.

Day Trips Between 1-2 Hours From Dallas

At just under an hour and a half outside of Dallas, Waco is a city on the rise thanks in part to the popular HGTV show ‘Fixer Upper’. Chip and Joanna Gaines have helped make a name for Waco and while there you can check out the space they call ‘The Silos’. But there are plenty of other things to do in Waco that make it one of the best day trips near Dallas.

The Waco Mammoth National Site is home to some of the biggest Mammoth fossils that have been found in the US. Or you can walk across the oldest bridge in Texas that is still standing, the Waco Suspension Bridge, or take a walk in beautiful Cameron Park.

The city also has several museums including the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum and the Mayborn Museum Complex. There are tons of fun and unique things to do in Waco and that’s what makes it such a fun getaway from Dallas.

Longview is 2 hours away from Dallas, but you need to take I-20 to get there. Because I-20 is a major highway, there is occasional traffic, so keep that in mind when planning your Dallas day trip. In Longview, you’ll find plenty of unique activities to enjoy.

If you’re traveling with the family, consider heading to Thomas Falls Outdoor Adventure and Event Center. There are lots of fun things to do like zip-lining, a waterfall slide, and fun adventure challenges in the water or in the mud. It’s an activity your family is sure to remember. The town itself also has some wonderful restaurants, a winery where you can sample wine, and a growing art scene.

In the Summer, there is also a Hot Air Balloon Festival that takes place right outside of Longview. You can participate and take a ride in a hot air balloon. If you don’t want to do that, you can also just admire the hundreds of colorful hot air balloons as they rise and float in the Texas sky. It is a really cool thing to see and experience, even if you aren’t in one of the floating balloons.

At just over an hour and a half outside of Dallas, Tyler is a fun day trip from Dallas. Tyler is known as the center for rose cultivation in the country and during blooming season, you can easily see why. The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is bursting with color when the roses start to bloom. Peak blooming season is typically October, so plan your Dallas day trip then if you want to see them in full bloom.

If you aren’t able to visit Tyler during the peak season, you can still learn about its rose history. At the Tyler Rose Museum, you’ll learn about the city’s annual Texas Rose Festival. The Texas Rose Festival takes place in Tyler on the third weekend of October every year. It is three days of nothing but beautiful rose blooms and festival activities. It’s one of the best times to plan a getaway from Dallas to Tyler.

Dr. Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute

The Dr. Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute is about an hour and a half south of Dallas in Waco. The museum is one of the most fun day trips from Dallas for many reasons. While you’re there you’ll get an opportunity to sample sodas that are either in testing or are a part of the weird and wonderful family of wacky sodas. You can also make your own unique soda in a bottle that is bottled and signed with your name on it.

You’ll also be able to tour the museum where you can learn about the history of Dr. Pepper. The museum itself is in the original 1906 Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Company building. It is where Dr. Pepper was first created and bottled. There is also the Free Enterprise Institute Museum that teaches school children how to develop, produce, and then market their own ideas. Both are very unique ways to explore and learn about the history of the soda industry.

Day Trips From Dallas Over 2+ Hours

Dripping springs.

Dripping Springs is a little over 3 hours south of Dallas. It is a really popular stop on Texas road trips because of the Dripping Springs Falls. The Dripping Springs is located in the Texas Hill Country and is known for its beautiful natural wonders, like the falls. The town of Drippings Springs is near the state capital, Austin, and is a very charming small town in Texas to explore.

There are famous Vodka Distilleries, wonderful restaurants, and a thriving downtown area. If you want to see the Dripping Springs Falls, then you’ll want to go to the Hamilton Pool Preserve. The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a really cool spot to go swimming and get a break from the Texas heat. With so much to do and see, Dripping Springs is a fun day trip from Dallas.

Austin is the Texas state capital, so it naturally has plenty to do. It is three and a half hours south of Dallas, so but it’s worth the longer drive. You’ll quickly find that you wish you had a few days to spend in Austin , but you can easily see a lot of the city in just one day.

While there, there are a few things you’ll definitely want to try to see. You can take a tour of the State Capitol and learn more about Texas and Austin’s history. There is also the Mexic-Arte Museum which has a large collection of Latin art that you can explore. If you want to learn more about Texas, head to the Bullock Texas State Museum.

Austin is also becoming known for its thriving art scene and downtown district. You’ll definitely want to take a stroll down Sixth Street. There are a ton of entertainment venues, restaurants, and art galleries all in one fun area. Depending on what portion of the street you are in, you’ll get to experience a totally different Austin ‘vibe’. It is truly a fun place to visit close to Dallas.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is 4 miles southwest of Dallas. The State Natural Area is easily one of the best-hidden gems of Texas . The park is full of large and small and totally unique rock formations. One of the best parts of the park is the massive and ancient pink dome.

At the park, you can hike, bike, and even camp if you want to make it an overnight trip. If you do, you’ll most likely have an amazing opportunity for stargazing if it is a clear night. The unique rock formations are the source of a lot of local legends as well, so make sure you learn about those while you’re there. The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is also a photographer’s dream, so make sure you pack extra batteries or a charger for your camera or phone.

Jefferson is a quaint small town in Texas that is about two and a half hours outside of Dallas. The town of Jefferson was built before the Civil War and still has a lot of the original architecture in the city. It is also important to remember that a lot of these pre-Civil War homes would have been built by enslaved people. They are beautiful to look at, but please keep that in mind when visiting the town. ‘Old-world’ charm looks beautiful and lovely, but it often comes with a dark and not lovely past.

You can take a walking history tour and see historic buildings, churches, and homes. Many of them were built in the years before and after the Civil War. So you’ll get a unique insight into how the area changed during that time. Many of the historic homes you can also tour inside and see what they would have looked like when they were originally built and lived in. The town has over 100 historic landmarks, and many of them are also on the National Registry of Historic Places.

The town itself also has a lot to offer besides historic buildings. There are unique shops, restaurants, and some scenic streets that are postcard-worthy. If you are looking for a small town to explore, Jefferson is a perfect option for your next getaway from Dallas.

Houston is another one of Texas’ major cities and is just over 3 hours outside of Dallas. If you love museums, you’ll love Houston. There is a Museum District where you’ll find some of the most interesting museums in the state, and maybe even the country. Houston also has a large historic district with 19th-century homes and buildings as well as a thriving theater district.

For day trips from Dallas that focus on history and culture, Houston is a perfect spot. You can learn all about the area and its local history. Stop at any of the museums, the Houston Grand Opera, or take a guided audio tour of the city’s Downtown District. Houston is also home to the Space Center Houston, one of the most interesting museums in Texas.

The Space Center Houston is a museum dedicated to the extensive history of space travel. There you’ll learn all about the United State’s space program, NASA. You can touch a real moon rock, step inside a replica space shuttle, and learn about the future of the space program. It is also where real-life astronauts train for future missions in space. Some days if you go to the Astronaut Training Facilities on the grounds you can even see real astronauts doing various training activities. Houston is without a doubt one of the best day trips from Dallas.

As you can see, Dallas is perfectly situated for some really awesome day trips and even weekend getaways. If you need a break from the city or simply want to explore a different kind of city, there are definitely fun day trips from Dallas you can find. Each place or activity has a unique history that makes it absolutely worth the drive, whether it’s a 20-minute drive or a 4-hour drive.

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• Day Trips from Dallas
• Trips From Dallas

28 Day Trip Destinations Up to 2 Hours Driving from Dallas

Get a break from the city and spend a different day in the amazing Dallas surroundings. Discover 14 small towns and 14 State Parks near Dallas ideal for a day trip!

Looking for a change of air but not in the mood for a sleepover? Browsing side trips within a short driving distance from Dallas? 

These 28 top day trip destinations near the city will do the job!

Say goodbye to boredom and enjoy a different scene exploring the rich and diverse Dallas surroundings. Discover surprising travel destinations as close as 30 minutes from Dallas, ideal for a quick day trip. 

Looking for things to do in Dallas as well? Check 52 ideas to enjoy a leisure day in DFW here . 

Planning to spend the weekend away? Explore the 16 weekend travel destinations up to 4h30 from Dallas .

Peek at our ideas below and start exploring DFW suburbs, neighboring towns and nearby nature preserves.

1. Glen Rose, TX

Distance: 75 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Start your day exploring Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , Texas’ finest zoo safari and only a short driving-distance from Dallas.

Enjoy the 7.2-mile Gosdin Scenic Drive and stop along the way to admire wildlife and feed the animals. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Head to  Dinosaur Valley State Park to enjoy the rest of your day. Bring a picnic, hiking gear and a good camera – be prepared for great photo ops. And swimming suits and water shoes on summer.

Spend the day exploring the several and beautiful hiking trails and looking for real Dinosaur footprints along Paluxy’s river riverbed. During the excruciating Texas summer, cool off at beautiful swimming holes and river beaches.

Nestled in an area once part of an ancient ocean, Dinosaur Valley features real dinosaur tracks left millions of years ago, making this place incredibly unique and a must-visit destination from Dallas year-round.

Insider’s tip: dinosaur tracks are not always visible – it depends on the water levels – so check the State Park Facebook page in advance for current trails status and dinosaur tracks visibility.

Big Rocks Park

Have some extra time left? Pay a visit to Big Rocks Park , a beautiful and unique natural area featuring Big Rocks along the Paluxy River.

A cool place to contemplate nature, have fun climbing the rocks and cool off on summer. Best part? The access is completely free!

2. Piney Woods Wine Trail, TX

Distance: starting 70 miles/ 1h00 min from dallas.

With locations as close as one hour driving from Dallas, the Pine Woods Wine Trail features 19 Texan Wineries and Vineyards, offering experiences ranging from wine tours to wine tastings and onsite restaurants.

Visiting some of them is an amazing way of enjoying a different day in the Dallas surroundings, and one of the best ways to soak in beautiful East Texas.

Here you can find all wineries part of the Piney Woods Wine Trail, as well as the trail map. Click on each one of the wineries to check the activities offered, make reservations and plan your self-guided tour

3. Davis, OK

Distance: 130 miles/ 2h00 min from dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness

Start off your day at Arbuckle Wilderness . Drive through the beautiful rustic zoo safari and feed the animals from your car.

Allow about one hour to fully experience it. Head then to your next stop, Turner Falls.

Turner Falls Park

On your way to Turner Falls stop by Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies to grab some delicious pies for a picnic.

At Turner Falls hike, visit the castle, explore the caves, go zip-lining and, weather-permitting, swim in the falls and adjacent swimming areas.

Turner Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma and specially gorgeous low-season – you usually cannot swim during the colder months, but you get to skip the crowds and enjoy this stunning nature setting at its best.

4. Island View Park - Pottsboro, TX

Distance: 85 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Scenic Beach near Dallas

Life is better at the beach. And your best bet to bury your feet in the sand without driving long hours, is to head to gorgeous Island View Park, a little over one hour driving from Dallas.

By Lake Texoma shores, Island View features two beach areas. One with infra-structure including covered shelters and picnic tables, and another wilder – and more beautiful – with nothing more than white sand and the crystal-clear lake.

Bring a picnic, an umbrella, water shoes (the bottom is rocky) and enjoy a day by the beach right at the Dallas outskirts.

5. Waco, TX

Magnolia Market

Visit the town made famous by HGTV Fixer Upper show stars Chip and Joanna Gaines.

Start by exploring the couple’s Magnolia Market at the Silos , a shopping, entertainment and gastronomy complex. Have a cupcake at Magnolia Bakery, chill out playing lawn games and grab a bite at one of the local gourmet food trucks. Stroll through the store to check Joanna Gaines home goods selection.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Head then to the nearby Waco Mammoth National Monument and tour a real excavation site featuring Columbian mammoth fossils. 

It is the only place in the world with an entire herd of Colombian Mammoths on display.

Cameron Park

For some outdoor fun, climb the short but steep Jacob’s Ladder at the beautiful Cameron Park.

The park is a gorgeous nature setting right in the middle of Waco, crossed by the Brazos River, with cliffs, picnic areas and trails.

6. Burger's Lake - Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 39 miles/ 0 h 45 min from dallas.

Not an Ordinary Waterpark

Memorial Day through Labor Day, this is the place to cool off and have a summer blast in the Dallas surroundings!

Burgers Lake is beautiful and sparkling clean spring-fed lake with sandy bottom, surrounded by two white sand beaches, lounge areas and picnic tables. It features slides, diving boards, trapezes and more.

A popular summer destination in DFW and a must for those looking for summer fun at its best.

Distance: 145 miles/ 2 h 00 min from Dallas

Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Only 10 minutes away from Downtown Salado, Chalk Ridge Falls is a beautiful nature area featuring a gorgeous waterfall, trails, swimming holes and even a small suspended bridge!

A must visit for nature lovers year-round, and an amazing way to kick off a leisure day in Salado.

Barrow Brewing Company

Head to Barrow Brewing Company for beer tasting. Grab a wood fired pizza from the onsite food truck and, on select days, listen to live music while enjoying it.

Salado Glassworks

Salado is known by its vibrant artsy community. And Salado Glassworks , right next door to Barrow Brewing, is one of the best places in town to enjoy it.

Stop by to watch artists blowing amazing glass pieces. Or dive headfirst into the experience and create your own masterpiece in one of the blowing events offered in the studio.

Main Street

Stroll down historic Main Street.

Explore its shops and art galleries. Stop by rustic and charming Salado Winery Co tasting room.

Prepare to head back home or, if you still have some energy left, have dinner at Barton House , an over 150 year old historic restaurant.

8. Tyler, TX

Distance: 98 miles/ 1 h 30 min from dallas.

Tyler State Park

Tyler is a home to the gorgeous   Tyler State Park .  

With a beautiful lake ideal for paddling and swimming and more than 13 miles of trails, Tyler State Park is a nature lover’s paradise any time of the year.

Nestled in the Pine Woods region of Texas, it is the closest place to Dallas to experience this unique environment and find yourself in the middle of the woods only a short drive away from the city.

Head to Tyler early in the morning and enjoy the day at Tyler State Park.

Bring a picnic or, summer-only, stop by Ham Orchards and grab a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich and a pint of homemade peach ice cream to be enjoyed surrounded by tall trees.

Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary

Top off your day with a tour at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary . Learn more about their rescue and rehabilitation programs and see the beautiful wild cats.

A wildlife preserve home to over 40 rescued big cats and other endangered species, Tiger Creek offers an inspiring and educational experience, only a few miles away from Tyler State Park.

9. Rockwall, TX

Distance: 25 miles/ 0 h 30 min from dallas.

Lake Ray Hubbard

Enjoy the day at Lake Ray Hubbard, one of the largest lakes in north Texas. 

Head to the  Chandler’s Landing Marina to rent a boat or jet ski and explore the lake. For a more modest budget, drive 10 minutes to Paddle Point Park on the neighboring town Rowlett and rent a kayak or a stand up paddle board to take an amazing leisure trip through Lake Ray Hubbard.

Later on, on a clear sky day, breath in an amazing sunset from The Harbor , a lakefront dining and entertainment district. Watch it from Gloria’s or Rodeo Goat’s patios while you have a margarita, a beer or enjoy a delicious meal at one of these top restaurants. 

Or on summer, for privileged views from the water, take a sunset cruise instead through Sail with Scott , and watch the sun going down while you sip a glass of wine and enjoy some snacks (BYOBF).

San Jacinto Plaza

At night, head downtown. 

On summer, listen to live music at San Jacinto Plaza while you enjoy a beer from Beer Geeks .

Any other time of the year, enjoy a few drinks or dinner at locals favorites’ Zanata or Bin 303

Distance: 35 miles/ 0 h 40 min from Dallas

Bluebonnet and Sunflower Fields

Flowers, flowers, and more flowers. If you are looking for beautiful Bluebonnet Fields on Spring and inspiring Sunflower fields on summer, Ennis is your destination.

Throughout April, the small town is home to the ‘Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas’, an over 40-mile long drive. It is one of the best places in Texas – and the closest one to Dallas among those – to spot these beautiful wildflowers protected by law and take that perfect Spring snapshot. 

On early summer, you can find beautiful Sunflower fields (check US 287 from Ennis to Wax late June for some beautiful photo ops).

Drive-In Movie Theater

A perfect spring or summer day trip to Ennis?

After driving through the beautiful Bluebonnet or Sunflower fields – depending on the time of the year you’re visiting – head to  Galaxy Drive-In Movie Theater  for an old-fashioned movie session under the stars.

11. Grapevine, TX

Distance: 22 miles/ 0 h 25 min from dallas.

Wineries and Wine Tastings

Explore local wineries, embark on a vintage train and stroll through unique shops and boutiques at Historic Main Street, in this charming small town less than half an hour away from Dallas.

For wine lovers, try Homestead Winery, Messina Hof Winery or Cross Timbers, all part of the Texas’ Grapevine Wine Trail  and located on or right off Main Street. Texas is – surprisingly for most – the 5th largest wine producer in the U.S, so if you love wine and have not tasted the Texas’ varieties yet, you are missing out.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

To step back in time, hop on an authentic Victorian-era train from the 1920’s at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad .

Embark on a short 1-hour excursion – ideal for families with small kids – or take the long Cotton Belt Route ride instead, including a stop at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Stroll along Main Street and explore quaint and unique shops. 

Stop by the Grapevine Olive Oil Co and Vetro Glass Blowing Studio and Art Gallery, to name a few.  For a quick – and delicious – bite, head to the Main Street Bistro & Bakery. For a treat, Dr Sue’s Chocolate. 

Christmas Capital of Texas

Grapevine is also the self-proclaimed Christmas Capital of Texas with over 1400 events happening in 40 days during this time of the year.

Some of the most famous not to be missed include the Ice! exhibition at the Gaylord Texan Resort , the Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s  North Pole Express® and the Carol of Lights street event.

12. Canton, TX

Distance: 60 miles/ 1 h 00 min from dallas.

The World's Largest Flea Market

Visit the largest outdoor flea market in the world and the oldest in the US at Canton, about one hour away from Dallas.

The First Monday Trade Days takes place from Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday of each month ( check the dates here ). It features over 5,000 vendors sprawled over 700,000 sq. ft. It is huge and a destination by itself. Plan to spend the whole day there. 

Spring and fall are the best times of the year to visit it – avoid summer at all costs, the heat can be excruciating! If possible, go on a Thursday to skip the crowds.  Wear comfy shoes and bring cash – there are tons of good food options on site and many vendors do not accept credit cards.

Canton’s First Monday is not your ordinary shopping experience. There you will find almost anything you can imagine and interact with vendors like in the old times. Prepare to treasure hunt, bargain, and walk a lot. If you like vintage stuff, collectibles, and antiques, you will love this place. 

13. Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 32 miles/ 0 h 35 min from dallas.

Sundance Square and Fort Worth Water Gardens

Home to the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards and to one of the best small museums in the US, Fort Worth is a perfect destination for a short day trip from Dallas – or even a staycation.

Start off the day with a brunch at the Sundance Square . Reata and Bird Cafe are some good restaurant options in the area.  Afterwards take a short walk towards the Sundance Square Plaza and head then to the beautiful Fort Worth Water Gardens .

Kimbell Art Museum

Visit the nearby  Kimbell Art Museum , a master piece of modern architecture. It is considered one of the best small museums in the USA.

There you will find world-class exhibitions as well as premium art pieces from the permanent collection, including Michelangelo’s first known painting as well as works from Miro, Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt

Fort Worth Stockyards

Top off with a r eal rodeo championship , held every Friday and Saturday night year-round at the Fort Worth Stockyards. 

Or hit the floor at an authentic Honky Tonk instead – the Stockyards is home to Billy Bob’s Texas , the world largest honky tonk, and to the legendary White Elephant Saloon .

Coyote Drive-In

Or watch a movie under the stars from the comfort of your trunk – or lawn chairs – at Coyote Drive-In , an old fashioned movie theater offering live music on Fridays and Saturdays night.

A seasonal i ce rink is also available on site late November through mid-January.

14. Granbury, TX

Distance: 70 miles/ 1 h 15 min from dallas.

Historic Granbury Square

Explore Historic Granbury Square, considered one of the most beautiful in Texas. Stroll through unique shops, boutiques, cafes and visit the nearby museums.

Have lunch at Ketzler’s Schnitzel Haus & Biergarten or Christina’s Bistro – you cannot go wrong with any of them.

Local Goat Distillery and Barking Rocks Winery

Walk a few blocks from Granbury square and go tour or spirits tasting at Local Goat Distillery . 

Or hop in the car and drive a few minutes to Barking Rocks , a quaint winery and vineyard with beautiful grounds, offering wine tastings.

Granbury Beach City Park

Finish your day with a sunset at Granbury Beach City Park.

A well-kept white sand beach by lake Granbury and popular destination summertime, but also enjoyable any time of the year.

14 Texas State Parks up to 1h30 from Dallas

Distance: 0h25 to 1h30 min from dallas.

14 State Parks up to 1h30 driving from Dallas

In need of a nature fix? The Dallas surroundings are home to 14 State Parks, up to 1h30 from the city.

Gorgeous nature preserves, maintained by the government, featuring everything from hiking, horseback riding and cycling trails to swimming holes, lake beaches, rock-climbing areas and more.

Here you find all of the 14 State Parks you can visit in a day trip from Dallas , with distance and relative location to the city, links for reservations and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

My favorites? Tyler, Dinosaur Valley, Eisenhower, Lake Whitney, and Lake Mineral Wells.

The Dallas surroundings offer amazing day trip opportunities. And here you discovered great ideas to spice up your weekends and make you enjoy the experience of living in Dallas to the fullest!

Glen Rose, the Piney Woods Wine Trail, Davis, Island View Park, Waco, Burgers Lake, Salado, Tyler, Rockwall, Ennis, Grapevine, Canton, Fort Worth and Granbury are all amazing destinations up to 2 hours from the city.

Add the 14 State Parks up to 1h30 listed here to the equation and you got yourself 28 travel ideas to choose from whenever you feel like taking a break from routine!

What is your favorite day trip from Dallas? Share in the comments section below.

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19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas is no doubt right for you.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in all of the country, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Dallas is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: NOLA is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

Consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular road trips from Dallas in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall), to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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Day Trips & Excursions from Dallas

Discover new adventures with day trips and excursions from Dallas. Explore nearby attractions, scenic landscapes, and cultural sites with expert guides. A day of exploration and discovery, perfect for travellers wanting to uncover the best of the region.

• This weekend

Uptown Dallas Mystery Picnic: Self-Guided Foodie Adventure

Fort worth mystery picnic: self-guided foodie adventure, downtown grapevine mystery picnic: self-guided foodie adventure, dallas highlights: experiences to remember, neon brush: sip & paint workshop in the dark, sinatra under the stars at sky blu rooftop bar, dining in the dark: a unique blindfolded dining experience at virgin hotels dallas, dining in the dark - a unique blindfolded experience at the fairmont dallas, piano men: an elton john & billy joel tribute at sky blu rooftop, abba under the stars at sky blu rooftop bar, the empire strips back: a burlesque parody - waitlist, dining in the dark with wine service: a blindfolded dining experience at the tower club dallas, rainbow vomit art exhibition.

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Places to visit about 3 hours from Dallas, GA

Pigeon Forge

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Great Smoky Mountains

Cherokee (North Carolina)

Waynesville (North Carolina)

Greenville (South Carolina)

Decatur (Alabama)

Jack Daniel Distillery

Cities 3 hours from Dallas, GA

3 hours :   Warwick, GA

3 hours :   Highlands, NC

3 hours :   Plains, GA

2 hr 59 min :   Greenville, SC

2 hr 59 min :   Americus, GA

2 hr 59 min :   Harriman, TN

2 hr 59 min :   Montgomery, AL

2 hr 59 min :   Blythe, GA

2 hr 59 min :   Davisboro, GA

2 hr 58 min :   Eufaula, AL

2 hr 58 min :   Hartselle, AL

2 hr 57 min :   Eastman, GA

2 hr 57 min :   Northport, AL

2 hr 56 min :   Sparta, TN

2 hr 55 min :   Easley, SC

These are approximate driving times in a radius from Dallas, Georgia. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius like 2½ hours . If you're willing to drive farther, try 3½ hours .

Not sure where to go? Take a day trip from Dallas , or if you have more time you can explore weekend trips from Dallas , but make sure you also check road conditions around Dallas . Looking for small towns or communities around Dallas, Georgia? Get a full list of up to 500 cities nearby Dallas .

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RV campgrounds 3 hours from Dallas, GA

Bean Pot Campground

Spring Lake RV Resort

Smokemont Campground - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Moonshine Creek Campground

Lazy J Campground

Adventure Village and Lodgings

Main - Table Rock State Park

April Valley RV Park

Parsons Mountain Lake

Campground 2 - Baker Creek State Park

Mistletoe State Park

Gunter Hill

Corinth Recreation Area

Mallard Creek Campground

Wheeler Lake KOA at Mallard Creek

State parks 3 hours from Dallas, GA

Rock Island State Park

Cumberland Mountain State Park

Table Rock State Park

Sumter National Forest

Baker Creek State Park

Hickory Knob State Park And Resort

Elijah Clark State Park

Keg Creek Wildlife Management Area

Georgia Veterans State Park

Barbour County State Wildlife Management Area

Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park

Bankhead National Forest

Elk River Lodge State Park

More cities around 3 hours away by plane

Here are more cities based on a flight circle radius of 3 hours. These cities are much further than the ones above since now we're looking at a 3 hour flight.

3 hr 4 min :   Tepatepec, Mexico

2 hr 54 min :   Cheyenne, WY

3 hr 3 min :   Cordoba, Mexico

3 hr 3 min :   Plaisance-du-Sud, Haiti

3 hr 3 min :   Verrettes, Haiti

3 hr 4 min :   Delicias, Mexico

2 hr 54 min :   Fort Collins, CO

3 hr 3 min :   Anse-a-Galets, Haiti

3 hr 2 min :   Camp-Perrin, Haiti

3 hr 3 min :   Tequixquitla, Mexico

3 hr 3 min :   Zacatepec, Mexico

3 hr 3 min :   Mombin-Crochu, Haiti

3 hr 2 min :   Juarez, Mexico

3 hr 2 min :   Petit-Trou-de-Nippes, Haiti

3 hr 3 min :   Dajabon, Dominican Republic

Cities at a radius of

Travel time from Dallas, GA

cities within 1 hour of Dallas, GA 1½ hours from Dallas, GA places within 2 hours of me in Dallas, GA explore 2½ hours from Dallas, GA 3 hr radius map from Dallas, GA 3½ hr drive from Dallas, GA places within 4 hours of me in Dallas, GA within 4½ hours of me in Dallas, GA 5 hour drive from me in Dallas, GA 5½ hour drive from Dallas, GA within 6 hours of Dallas, GA 7 hour drive from Dallas, GA driving 8 hours from Dallas, GA 9 hours from Dallas, GA

Distance from Dallas, GA

cities within 10 miles of me in Dallas, GA within 20 miles of me in Dallas, GA 30 mile radius of Dallas, GA 40 mile drive from Dallas, GA located 50 miles from Dallas, GA 100 mile radius from Dallas, GA within 150 miles of Dallas, GA 200 mile road trip from Dallas, GA distance of 250 miles from Dallas, GA driving 300 miles from Dallas, GA 350 mile trip starting from Dallas, GA 400 mile drive from Dallas, GA drive for 450 miles from Dallas, GA 500 miles from Dallas, GA day trips from Dallas, GA

Dallas, Georgia is located at latitude/longitude coordinates 33° 55' 28" N  /  84° 50' 28" W

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Relocating to DFW

11 drivable day trips from dallas.

Summer is in full swing and we’ve rounded up some fun day trips just outside Dallas! No road trip is complete without starting and ending with a clean car so make sure to go to Carnation Auto Spa to get your car road trip ready!

Updated June 2024

DAY TRIPS FROM DALLAS

Ham orchards.

This peach paradise has been open since 1979 and features five orchards with over 10,000 peach trees, two blackberry patches, and an adorable Market Store. Stop by to grab some juicy peaches to take home, and don't forget to try their famous peach-flavored ice cream and peach pulled pork BBQ! Learn more.

45 minutes from Dallas

Terrell, TX | Directions

FIRST MONDAY TRADE DAYS

Explore the world’s largest and oldest flea market featuring over 5,000 vendors! This place is truly a vintage lovers haven with 45 acres of shopping including jewelry, furniture, clothing, and so much more. The market is only open for a few days each month, so check their calendar before you go!

1 hour from Dallas

Canton, TX | Directions

TX TURE FARM

This family-owned 23-acre farm offers fun activities like alpaca yoga, candle making, and even a Walk-A-Paca experience! Plus, you can shop homemade products using ingredients grown on the farm including lavender, honey, and more! Temporarily closed as of June 2024, check their website for updates .

Aubrey, TX |  Directions

CHOCTAW CASINO & RESORT

If you're looking for a fun weekend getaway, Choctaw Casino and Resort is a perfect escape. Enjoy thousands of slot machines, a variety of table games, a resort-style pool, multiple dining options, entertainment venues, a spa, and more!

1.5 hours from Dallas

Durant, OK | Directions

DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK

Did you know dinosaurs used to roam around Dallas-Fort Worth, along an ancient ocean?! Head to this incredible state park to walk in real-life dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed! Spend the day hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, biking, or even horseback riding.

Glen Rose, TX | Directions

This 1,800-acre ranch houses over 1,000 animals in a free-range setting for visitors to observe exotic and endangered animals! Visitors can see giraffes, zebra, goats, antelope, and more on the 7-mile drive-through safari. Check out our recent experience .  (Featured header image)

MAGNOLIA MARKET

This Texas favorite was founded by the iconic Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the HGTV show Fixer Upper! Enjoy the market, bakery, garden, and adorable food trucks, and restaurant. Don't forget to snap a few Instagram pics!

Waco, TX | Directions

LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK

Experience healing mineral water, explore historic sites, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing! We recommend the Penitentiary Hollow hike , which has amazing scenery and unique rock formations. Be sure to make a reservation, the park often reaches capacity fairly quickly!

Mineral Wells, TX | Directions

This premier surf destination has a state-of-the-art artificial wave system, and you can even take surf lessons! There are also massive waterslides, a cable park, and a lazy river. Our go-to is to hit the beach bar and spend the day chilling at their private beach!

TURNER FALLS PARK

This 1,500-acre park is home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall, standing at 77 feet tall! Plus, visitors can explore miles of trails, caves, campsites, and more. Pro tip: get there early, as they only let a certain number of people in the park each day!

2 hours from Dallas

Davis, OK | Directions

Situated on the border of Texas and Louisiana, Caddo Lake is one of Texas’s only natural lakes! The State Park offers 25,000 acres of beautiful bayous, with a fishing pier, boat ramps, cabins, and more.

3 hours from Dallas

Karnak, TX | Directions

Carnation Auto Spa

One of the most important parts of a road trip is cleaning your car before and after! Carnation can help you get your car road trip ready with their team of experts! They do such an amazing job plus they offer great deals on their monthly wash plans!

Get unlimited washes FREE for one month when using our code DALLASITES101 after signing up for a wash plan!

Multiple DFW locations | Find a location

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• Serve customers by appointment only who have urgent travel to a foreign country in the next 14 calendar days, or need a foreign visa in the next 28 calendar days

The U.S. Department of State runs each passport agency and center. An agency and center is different than acceptance facilities which may include post offices, libraries, and local government offices.

Avoid the stress of needing to visit a passport agency or center for urgent travel. Apply early at an  acceptance facility  or  renew by mail .

Steps to Make an Appointment for Urgent Travel

I have not yet applied.

Follow these steps to make an appointment:

• Go to our  Online Passport Appointment System .
• Enter information about your travel plans to see if you qualify for an appointment. You may make an appointment for up to seven members of your household.
• Enter your email address. We will email you a code which you must enter to continue making an appointment. Check your junk or spam folder if you do not see the code in your inbox.
• Enter your mobile phone number. We will send you a text message with another code you must enter to continue making an appointment.
• Complete the process of scheduling your appointment. 
• Check your email for a message confirming the details of your appointment. The system will hold your appointment for 15 minutes. If you do not confirm your appointment within 15 minutes, you will need to start over.
• If you need to cancel or change the appointment, click the link in the confirmation email to get information about your appointment. 

I have already applied

• Call  1-877-487-2778  from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Mondays through Fridays, or on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Se habla español. 

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services. 

• We will provide you unique information that we will check on the day of your appointment to confirm your appointment is legitimate. If you are not the appointment holder, the passport agency or center will not be able to see you.
• If you need to cancel or change your appointment, please call us. We will give your appointment to a new customer calling to make an appointment. You cannot transfer your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i know which location is processing my application and has my documents.

The first two digits of your nine-digit passport application locator number allow you to know which agency or center is working on your application. You can find your application locator number by checking our Online Passport Status System . 

How and when should I contact a passport agency or center by mail?

You can find an agency or center's mailing address on each agency or center webpage. You can contact our locations by mail if:

We sent you a letter : If we need more information to process your application , we will send you a letter in the mail. Send the information to the full mailing address in Sterling, VA listed on your letter. Do not send information to the agency’s physical address.

Map of Passport Office Locations

Make an appointment at a passport agency or center.

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service . You cannot walk-in. 

Not Yet Applied : Make an appointment online

Already Applied : Call  1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español.

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