EXPLORE DALLAS, FAMILY FUN, AND MUST-SEE THINGS TO DO AT FAIR PARK WITH CHILDREN’S AQUARIUM, ART DECO, AND TEXAS TRADITIONS
Fair Park in Dallas is one of the city’s top destinations for visitors, offering family fun, cultural experiences, and historic landmarks all in one location. Families visiting Dallas can enjoy hundreds of activities, including the world-famous State Fair of Texas and the interactive exhibits at Children’s Aquarium Dallas. The wide variety of things to do in Dallas makes it a destination for everyone, and equally ideal for both residents and visitors seeking memorable family fun.
From exploring museums, gardens, and performance venues to the iconic Art Deco architecture, Fair Park in Dallas offers endless opportunities for family fun. Walking tours, hands-on educational exhibits, and the best of Dallas culture await families looking to enjoy the top things to do at the Fair Park.
1. Explore Children’s Aquarium Dallas
Family fun is guaranteed at Children’s Aquarium Dallas, located in the heart of Fair Park. This interactive aquarium features more than 50 exhibits and 256 species, including stingrays, axolotls, tropical fish, and a new octopus exhibit. Kids can enjoy feeding opportunities, hands-on experiences, and immersive tanks. It is one of the most exciting things to do in Dallas for families seeking aquatic discovery and educational family fun.
2. Experience the State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas is a Dallas tradition that delivers family fun for all ages. Running from September 26 to October 19, 2025, the fair features rides, games, live music, local foods, and competitions such as the Big Tex Choice Awards. Families in Dallas can attend the Starlight Parade, the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, and numerous exhibits that make the fair one of the top things to do in Dallas for family fun enthusiasts.
3. Stroll the Esplanade and Admire Art Deco Architecture
Fair Park is home to one of the world’s largest collections of 1930s Art Deco buildings. Walking along the Esplanade provides family fun for architecture lovers and photographers. Visitors in Dallas can admire historic buildings while discovering one of the most scenic things to do in Dallas.
4. Visit Texas Discovery Gardens
Texas Discovery Gardens is a 7.5-acre urban oasis offering family fun for nature enthusiasts. Dallas families can explore butterfly houses, gardens, and insect exhibits. Educational programs provide kids with interactive learning opportunities. This is one of the top things to do in Dallas for families looking to combine learning and outdoor family fun while experiencing nature in a city setting.
5. Discover the African American Museum of Dallas
The African American Museum is a celebration of Dallas’s culture and history, making it a top destination for family fun education. Families can explore one of the nation’s largest collections of African American folk art and participate in educational programs. This museum ranks among the most engaging things to do in Dallas for families seeking cultural enrichment for a meaningful family fun experience.
6. Walk Through the Hall of State
The Hall of State is a Dallas landmark showcasing Texas history through the Great Hall and Hall of Heroes. Families can experience unique family fun while exploring Art Deco architecture and Dallas heritage. Visiting the Hall of State is one of the most historically significant things to do in Dallas for families seeking educational entertainment and interactive learning opportunities.
7. Catch a Show at Music Hall and Dos Equis Pavilion
The Music Hall at Fair Park hosts Broadway shows and live performances in Dallas. Dos Equis Pavilion brings over 30 concerts every year, featuring artists such as Elton John, Coldplay, and Zac Brown Band. Both venues provide family fun for all ages. Attending performances at these locations is one of the top things to do in Dallas for families and music lovers alike.
8. Take a Tour of Fair Park
Open-air guided tours of Fair Park allow families to discover hidden Dallas gems while learning about history and culture. Visitors experience family fun exploring historic landmarks, museums, and gardens. These tours are among the most recommended things to do in Dallas for families interested in interactive learning opportunities.
9. Visit Cotton Bowl Stadium
Cotton Bowl Stadium is a Dallas sports and events landmark, seating over 92,000 visitors. Exploring this stadium is an iconic thing to do for families looking to combine sports, music, and community entertainment while visiting Fair Park.
10. Explore Dining and Nightlife Near Fair Park
Dallas offers dining and nightlife near Fair Park for additional family fun. Families can enjoy BBQ and southern cuisine at Elaine’s Kitchen or Two Podner’s, or live jazz and blues entertainment at Sandaga 813. These experiences create more things to do in Dallas, offering families memorable outings beyond daytime attractions.
Additional Tips for Family Fun at Fair Park
Fair Park in Dallas offers plenty of outdoor spaces, walking trails, gardens, and seasonal events that provide ongoing family fun. Museums, cultural exhibits, and interactive programs ensure there are endless things to do in Dallas for all ages. Families can plan multiple visits to enjoy family fun throughout the year.
From Children’s Aquarium Dallas to Texas Discovery Gardens and the State Fair of Texas, Fair Park offers families in Dallas countless things to do, ensuring every visit to Dallas is as unforgettable as the last.
