We all love to get away and head out on a vacation but sometimes it’s not always easy or affordable. Thank goodness for staycations! A staycation is a vacation where you stay home. It sounds counterintuitive but it’s a great way to have fun without spending much money.
Here are five free things to do around Dallas-Fort Worth for your next staycation.
10 Free Things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth
Hit Little Elm Beach
That’s right! You don’t need to travel to Florida, California, or a tropical island to get a little sand in your toes. Little Elm Beach is located along Lewis Lake in Denton County and will help you forget you’re in north Texas. Pack a picnic, towels and your umbrella for a day of fun in the sun.
Drive up to Oklahoma
Two hours north of Dallas-Fort Worth is Turner Falls Park. It’s home to the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma and one of the state’s most popular travel destinations. The Park offers hiking trails, swimming, and zip-lining. Ticket prices vary by season but range from $12 to $20 per adult.
Taste the World in the Harwood District
Who says you have to leave Dallas-Fort Worth to experience the world? Clearly, they’ve never been to the Harwood District. It boasts restaurants of every type and cuisine imaginable. Take your tastebuds on an adventure they won’t forget.
Catch a Show (or two) in Deep Ellum
Deep Ellum is known as the epicenter of live music for Dallas and all of North Texas. It’s also home to vibrant street art, local restaurants, and performing arts centers. Spend a day wandering through this trendy neighborhood and you’re guaranteed not to get bored.
Have an Instagram-Worthy Photoshoot at Fair Park
Fair Park is Dallas-Fort Worth’s largest cultural center. Its 200 acres opened in 1880 and house numerous park facilities, museums, and exhibit facilities. There’s almost always an event going on. But, if you don’t want to spend any money, you can enjoy the picturesque fountains, architecture, landmarks, murals, memorials, and lagoon completely free!
Ride the McKinney Avenue Trolley
That’s right! New Orleans isn’t the only southern city with street cars. The McKinney Avenue Trolley is completely free to ride and operates 365 days a year. It’s stops include many of the city’s best sites and landmarks like Klyde Warren Park. Bonus Tip: Stop off at the Ritz Carlton after 6pm for FREE chips, guacamole, and mini margaritas!
Travel to Asia through Art
The Crow Collection of Asian Art is an admission-free art museum that’s home to over 4,000 pieces from multiple Asian cultures. Walk the halls and learn all about Asia’s diverse culture and history. Bonus Tip: Check out the events calendar for even more fun.
Take in a Free Festival
There’s always a festival going on in Dallas and most of them are free. Some of our favorites include the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, Dallas Cinco de Mayo, Asian Festival, and Chinese New Year in the Dallas Arts District. Visit the city’s website and check out the calendar and hit the next free festival. You won’t be disappointed.
Catch a Community Concert from the Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Every spring, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has hosted a free community concert series. Locations vary every week so be sure to check their website. In the fall and winter, the DSO hosts The Concert Truck Residency that presents collaborative community concerts throughout the city.
Learn about African American History at the Freedman’s Cemetery and Memorial
The Freedman’s Cemetery and Memorial is located about a mile north of downtown Dallas. The area was once known as the Freedman’s Town Area, one of the largest communities of freed slaves in the country. The pre-Civil War, African American cemetery and memorial features larger-than-life statues. Spend an afternoon learning about this amazing community.
Taking a vacation doesn’t have to require much travel, and exploring activities around your city is a great way to learn more about your home. These free Dallas-Fort Worth activities are a great way to have fun and save money in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
