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Top 7 Outdoor Activities for Dallas Families Right Now

Although summer heat still lingers in Dallas, families can enjoy safe, cooler outdoor adventures that maintain proper distance. Below are seven top picks to inspire your next outing.

Dallas Arboretum
From now until August 31, the Dallas Arboretum offers August Dollar Days: admission is only $2, but tickets must be reserved online ahead of time. Bring your mask for moments when distancing is difficult, and consider treating yourself to a $2 hot dog and a $1 soda. Parking is discounted to $5, making this a budget-friendly, picturesque escape for the whole family.

Texas Discovery Gardens
Head to Fair Park to explore the 7.5‑acre, organically maintained Texas Discovery Gardens. The site features an outdoor playground, daily butterfly releases, the Snakes of Texas House, and an art gallery. Picnic tables are available on‑site, so pack your own snacks for a relaxed al‑fresco meal.

Klyde Warren Park
Bring lawn chairs and a portable projector for a Saturday night Movie in the Park, or simply enjoy a brunch or lunch surrounded by food‑truck favorites like Yummy Pizza, Serious Salads, Liberation Coffee, and Chiave’s Italian Street Food. The park hosts free fitness classes each week and includes a dog park for your furry friends—just remember to stay hydrated while taking in Dallas’s skyline.

White Rock Lake
For active families, White Rock Lake’s nine‑mile trail offers hiking, biking, and scenic views. Pair the adventure with a take‑out pizza from Cane Rosso or barbecue from Smoky Rose, or try bird‑watching at sunset. Capture plenty of photos and memories along the way.

Bishop Arts District
Spend an afternoon strolling the walkable streets of the Bishop Arts District, Dallas’s trendiest neighborhood. Pop into Lula B’s for unique gifts or browse handmade items at local shops. Grab small plates from Oddfellows and pick‑up from Bishop Cider Co. to keep the experience quick and local.

Lakeside Park
Located in Highland Park, this lush enclave offers tranquil walking paths, benches, and photo‑opportunities with the park’s giant teddy bear statues—perfect for a family day out. Nearby Highland Park Village’s Royal Blue Grocery provides coffee and pastries, and fishing is permitted.

Nasher Sculpture Center
The Dallas Arts District welcomes visitors to the Nasher’s reopening on August 20. While indoor tours may still be limited, the outdoor galleries are open for exploration. Masks are required outside, and contactless reservations are mandatory. Although kids’ activities are currently paused, the center offers engaging online lessons for families.

Editors Note: Lakeside Park and Highland Park Village are located outside Dallas city limits. Highland Park Village is a VisitDallas member.

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