The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is a sprawling region that boasts a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it the perfect destination for those seeking fun and excitement with a large group of people. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the DFW offers an abundance of options to cater to various interests. In this blog, we'll explore a curated list of things to do in the DFW, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Museums
The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is home to a wide variety of reputable art and science museums, so you’re bound to find something that piques the interest of every curious mind in your group!
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Sitting in the heart of the Dallas Arts District, this museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. On top of eleven permanent exhibits, the Perot also hosts a traveling exhibit that changes a few times of year. Currently, the traveling exhibit is called T Rex: The Ultimate Predator, and you can learn more here. True patrons of this museum know the best way to experience everything is to start at Level 4 and work your way through each floor from top to bottom!
Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
For almost 80 years, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History has strived to be a place “where geological, biological, and zoological collections may be housed”, and their goal has been “to increase and diffuse knowledge and appreciation of history, art, and science.” Explore the museum’s plethora of permanent exhibits, visit the Noble Planetarium for a free show, or let your children learn through play at the Children's Museum Exhibit or the Dino Dig site! No matter the age range of your group, there’s something for everyone to learn here!
Kimbell Art Museum
The Kimbell Art Museum presents history through art, showcasing works from as far back as 3300 B.C. to the 1980s. General admission to the museum is free, and you can also pay to view the museum’s special exhibition if one is currently installed. These exhibitions typically run for about three months at a time, so even if you visit multiple times a year, you’re bound to see something new every time. Starting on June 16th and running until September 15th, the museum’s special exhibition is titled Art and War in the Renaissance: The Battle of Pavia Tapestries, and you can find more information on their website.
Dallas Museum of Art
Located in the Bishop Arts District of Dallas, this museum displays the creativity and ingenuity of artists from many time periods and cultures. Although general admission is free, be sure to reserve a time slot online. You can also purchase special exhibition tickets online or in-person at the front desk. For groups of 10 or more, the museum requests that you reach out to the museum about your visit at least three weeks in advance.
Zoos
When you’re traveling with a big group, the zoo is a wonderful way to give everyone a chance to stretch their legs and spend some quality time together. Additionally, if you’re looking for a great place to take a group of students on a field trip, the zoo is fun AND educational! The DFW has three wonderful experiences for you to choose from!
Fort Worth Zoo
Did you know that the Fort Worth Zoo has been ranked the “No. 5 zoo in the nation by USA Travel Guide” and “the No. 1 attraction in the DFW Metroplex by Zagat survey”? Not only does this zoo participate in a plethora of conservation efforts, but it is also accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Zoological Association of America (ZAA) and American Humane Association (AHA), so you can rest assured knowing these animals are taken care of. The Fort Worth Zoo is home to over 500 different species of animals- come check them out!
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is both the oldest and largest zoo in Texas! This zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is home to over 400 species of animals. With four sprawling regions to explore, the Dallas Zoo is a wonderful excursion for children and adults alike! If you are specifically planning a school field trip, check out this form on their website for discounted rates.
The Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium’s mission is to inspire the general public to appreciate the world around them in new ways. With six different exhibits, observe and learn about aquatic species from all over the world! The Dallas World Aquarium is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). The DWA is also involved in conservation efforts in Peru, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Venezuela. Spend some time learning about aquatic life with the knowledge that you’re supporting a good cause!
Parks and Gardens
Maybe your party needs some time outdoors, but the zoo is too crowded or overwhelming for their taste. No need to fret! The DFW is home to many parks and gardens that are perfect for members of large groups to explore together or on their own. Here are some of our favorites!
Fort Worth Water Gardens
Located adjacent to the Fort Worth Convention Center, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is a wonderful place for a relaxing stroll. Despite being located in the middle of Downtown Fort Worth, the park’s design creates a tranquil atmosphere that allows patrons to take a quick break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Not only are the park’s multiple water features relaxing to look at, they’re beautiful and perfect for a quick photo op! If your group is attending an event at the Fort Worth Convention Center and you have some time in between sessions, take a quick walk to the Fort Worth Water Gardens to stretch your legs!
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Want to relax, take in the beauty of nature, and get in your steps all at the same time? Check out the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden! This arboretum has been ranked one of the top arboretums in the nation by USA Today’s 10Best, and they even have a list of accolades and praises on their website! Stroll through 66 acres of gorgeous local flora, tranquil water features, and more. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden also boasts a plethora of educational opportunities, so be sure to check those out for students!
Klyde Warren Park
In the heart of Dallas’ Arts District is Klyde Warren Park! This park boasts food trucks, a playground, plenty of seating, and the expansive Ginsburg Family Great Lawn! If your group needs to kill some time and stretch their legs, Klyde Warren Park is the place to do it. The park often hosts events as well, so check out their website and find something fun for you and your crew!
Activities
Looking for some good, old-fashioned fun? The Metroplex has tons of hubs for activities all around, and there’s no way we could list every fun activity here. However, if your group needs to let loose and do something fun together, these options are a great place to start!
Grandscape
Looking for a variety of fun activities for everyone of all ages? Grandscape in The Colony is a lively, vibrant shopping center with tons of fun activities to choose from! Take a ride around the Grandscape Wheel, play a few rounds of mini-golf at Puttery, enjoy dinner and a film at Galaxy Theater, and more! In 2024, Grandscape will introduce a ton of new attractions to the area, including a family-friendly adventure course and mineral pools. There are tons of opportunities for group activities- big or small- at Grandscape, so make sure to add it to your trip itinerary!
State Fair of Texas
You’ve heard that everything is bigger in Texas- visit the State Fair of Texas and see for yourself! The State Fair of Texas is known for its unique (and often deep fried) eats, various performances from artists of multiple genres at the Chevrolet Main Stage, and tons of fun rides! Make sure you plan a ride on the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the country! In 2024, the State Fair of Texas will be open from September 27 to October 20. Start planning your trip today!
Meow Wolf
Meow Wolf is one of the most creative, immersive story-telling experiences you could dream of. The team at Meow Wolf employs a team of artists who construct an interactive world full of color, light, and sound to tell a story, and their latest exhibition came to Grapevine, TX in July 2023. You can simply explore the exhibition and it’s twists and turns, or you can search for clues that allow you to piece together an elaborate story. You can purchase tickets online anytime!
Legacy Hall
When dinner time comes around, it can be hard to pick one place that everyone in your group will love. Legacy Hall offers the perfect solution! This food hall in Plano, Texas boasts over 20 different restaurants and breweries, so there’s something for everyone’s palette! Legacy Hall also frequently hosts live bands, so check their website to see what fun events are happening during your trip!
Sporting Events
Dallas is home to multiple sports teams, including the following teams:
Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
Dallas Wings (WNBA)
Texas Rangers (MBA)
Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
Dallas Stars (NHL)
FC Dallas (MLS)
Dallas Jackals (MLR)
If you are traveling with a group of athletes or sports fanatics, a Dallas game might need to be added to your itinerary! Dallas proudly boasts multiple state-of-the-art facilities, including the American Airlines Center, Globe Life Field, AT&T Stadium, and more!
The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex offers a plethora of activities for everyone, from art and science enthusiasts to sports fanatics to nature lovers. With its expansive and diverse offerings, you can navigate the metroplex hassle-free by chartering a bus with Roadrunner Charters, ensuring your group can focus on creating lasting memories. Whether you're a local resident exploring your backyard or a visitor discovering the charms of the DFW, this comprehensive guide guarantees a memorable and fulfilling experience for all.