Summer is here and there’s plenty to do around Dallas with kids. From picnics in the park to days at the zoo, pack up a bag, some snacks and hit the town. Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen!
1. Take a dip at Bahama Beach
Where: 1895 Campfire Cir
Just 10 miles south of Downtown Dallas, Bahama Beach is the perfect spot to spend a hot summer day with the kids. Suit up and hit the water slide for a day of fun, or hang out in the lounge shallow end. The park features a 1,000 gallon dumping bucket, 45-foot tall slides and an interactive water playground. Dallas residents get a discount on admission, and kids under the age of two are free.
2. Check out the Play Street Museum
Where: Multiple locations
Visit this interactive kids museum for a day of exploration and creativity. The museum is designed for kids eight and younger and features a variety of activities and educational exhibits. Check out the website for summer events in McKinney, Plano, and Frisco, and additional information.
3. See the animals at the Dallas Zoo
Where: 650 R.L. Thornton Fwy
Located three miles from Downtown Dallas, the Dallas Zoo spans 106-acres and showcases animals from across the world, from cheetahs and lemurs to reptiles and amphibians. Summer admission for adults is $15 and admission for kids two and under is free. Hop on the DART and commute to the zoo to save money on admission. Your DART pass can save you $2 on Mondays and Tuesdays.
4. Get wet at the spray parks
Where: Multiple locations
Need to cool off from the summer heat? Grab the kids and hit one of Dallas’ many spray parks for a cool, refreshing splash. There are more than 61 different parks across DFW to explore. These parks are especially great for little ones.
5. Go rock climbing at Summit Rock Gym
Where: Multiple locations
Kids will love a day of rock climbing at Summit Rock Gym. With locations across DFW, climbers from all over can try their hand at the spot. The rock gym offers a special kid’s climb for kids over the age of five on Saturday afternoons from 11am to 1pm. And, kids can learn yoga at the kid’s yoga camp this summer. There will be two sessions, July 24 through 27 and July 31 through August 4.
6. Learn about livestock and Texas history at the Stockyards Museum
Where: 131 E Exchange #113
Showcasing the rich history of the Fort Worth Stockyards, this spot on the north side of Forth Worth is great for learning and exploring. Browse photos, articles, artifacts and exhibits that feature Texas history. Guests can also explore Cowtown while on site. Admission is $2 per person and kids under 12 are free.
7. Explore the Dallas World Aquarium
Where: 1801 N Griffin St
Explore the oceans right here in the city at the Dallas World Aquarium. Visit a number of exhibits and view sealife from around the world. Be sure to check out one of the day’s special events like Sloths are for Kids at 11am or the Jaguar Conservation Talk at 2:30pm. Admission for adults is 20.95, admission for kids is $14.95, and admission for children under the age of two is free.
8. Go cosmic bowling at USA Bowl
Where: 10920 Composite Dr
Take the family to USA Bowl for a night of cosmic bowling. It’s a fun way to ignite the competitive spirit in the entire family. Make sure to wear your best glow-in-the-dark clothes and accessories. Hour rates from Sunday through Thursday is just $4.
9. Pack a picnic
Where: Multiple locations
Pack up a picnic and spend a day outdoors with the kids this summer. Get the family involved and assign the kids tasks. Put together sandwiches, snacks and drinks. And remember to bring plenty of water and drinks to keep hydrated. Picnic at one of the many Dallas Parks. Whether its Arbor Hills or River Legacy, you’re sure to have a good time.
10. Visit the Moody Family Children’s Museum
Where: 2201 N Field St
School may be out for summer, but there’s still ample opportunity to learn. Take the little ones to the Moody Family Children’s Museum for a day of exploration, discovering and learning. Visit the Art Lab for art programs, dig for dinos in the outdoor dig area, or grab a field guide and explore the simulated forest. Purchase your tickets to the museum online and get two dollars off of admission.
