Dallas, Texas, is a dynamic city that seamlessly blends rich history, modern attractions, and southern hospitality. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, there are always exciting things to do in Dallas that cater to every taste. From cultural landmarks and lush parks to sports and entertainment, this city offers a wide range of experiences. If you’re wondering about good things to do in Dallas or what to see in Dallas, this guide will help you uncover some of the best activities the city has to offer.
JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy remains one of the most significant and controversial events in American history. On November 22, 1963, JFK was shot while riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza in Dallas, Texas. This tragic event has been the subject of countless investigations, books, documentaries, and tours. One of the most immersive ways to delve into the history and mystery surrounding the assassination is through a JFK Assassination and Museum Tour, which includes a visit to the Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House, the residence of the man accused of the murder.
The JFK Assassination Museum
Visitors can explore exhibits that feature:
Historical Context: Learn about the social and political climate of the 1960s and JFK’s presidency. The exhibits include news footage, photographs, and artifacts from the era.
The Assassination: A detailed overview of the assassination itself, including a reconstruction of the sniper’s perch where Oswald allegedly fired the fatal shots.
The Investigation: Displays that chronicle the Warren Commission’s investigation, conspiracy theories, and the various controversies that surround the case to this day.
Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House
Visitors can tour:
Oswald’s Room: The small, simple room where Oswald stayed, which has been preserved much as it was in 1963. The room provides a fascinating contrast to the grand historical significance of the events Oswald would allegedly go on to influence.
Historical Artifacts: The rooming house features several items that belonged to Oswald, as well as period-accurate furnishings that recreate the atmosphere of the time.
Personal Stories: Hear personal accounts from the owner of the house, who witnessed Oswald’s comings and goings in the days leading up to the assassination. These personal narratives add a human element to the cold facts of history.
Sightseeing Tour of Dallas
Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum
A significant stop on any Dallas sightseeing tour is Dealey Plaza, where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. Visitors can explore the Sixth Floor Museum, located in the former Texas School Book Depository, which offers a comprehensive look at the events surrounding the JFK assassination. This site provides a sobering reflection on a pivotal moment in American history and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Reunion Tower
For breathtaking views of the city, head to Reunion Tower, one of Dallas’ most recognizable landmarks. The tower features a 360-degree observation deck that provides panoramic views of the Dallas skyline, making it a perfect spot for photography. The GeO-Deck also offers interactive displays that provide insights into the city’s landmarks and history.
Pioneer Plaza
Pioneer Plaza is a public park that pays homage to Dallas’ history and its role in the cattle industry. Here, you’ll find a magnificent bronze sculpture of a cattle drive, featuring 49 longhorn steers being herded by three cowboys on horseback. This impressive sculpture is one of the largest of its kind in the world and is a tribute to the Texas cowboy heritage.
Dallas Arts District
Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Dallas Arts District, the largest urban arts district in the United States because it is one of the best things to do in Dallas. This area is home to world-class museums such as the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Crow Museum of Asian Art. The district is also home to stunning modern architecture, with buildings designed by renowned architects like I.M. Pei and Renzo Piano.
Deep Ellum
If you want to do a good thing in Dallas, especially for a taste of Dallas’ vibrant music and arts scene, a visit to Deep Ellum is a must. This historic neighborhood is known for its live music venues, street art, and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and shops. Deep Ellum is the heart of Dallas’ alternative culture, offering everything from blues and jazz clubs to modern street murals that bring the area to life.
Half-Day Best of Fort Worth Historical Tour with Transportation from Dallas
Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District
No trip to Fort Worth is complete without a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, the heart of the city’s Western heritage. This former livestock market, established in the late 19th century, now serves as a lively hub for all things cowboy. On the tour, you’ll witness a live cattle drive, a spectacle that brings to life the history of cattle herding in Texas. Stroll along the brick-paved streets, explore historic saloons, and take in the rich cowboy culture that still thrives today.
Sundance Square
Next, you’ll explore Sundance Square, Fort Worth’s lively downtown area, where modern entertainment meets historical charm. This 35-block district is filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and theaters, all housed in beautifully preserved buildings. The square is named after the infamous outlaw, the Sundance Kid, and offers a fascinating glimpse into Fort Worth’s Wild West past while showcasing its modern-day vibrancy.
Fort Worth Water Gardens
A serene and unique stop on the tour is the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a peaceful urban park designed by architect Philip Johnson. The park features cascading waterfalls, reflecting pools, and futuristic architectural designs. It’s a perfect place to relax and admire the contrast between nature and man-made structures. The Water Gardens offer a tranquil break from the bustling city while still reflecting Fort Worth’s progressive architectural history.
Dallas Terrors Ghost Tour by US Ghost Adventures
The Adolphus Hotel
One of the most haunted spots in Dallas is the Adolphus Hotel, a luxurious historic hotel that has long been the subject of ghost stories. Guests and staff have reported strange occurrences, including flickering lights, unexplained noises, and sightings of a woman in white who roams the halls. The story of a bride who died tragically in the hotel is one of the most famous legends linked to this location.
The Old Red Museum
Formerly the Dallas County Courthouse, the Old Red Museum is another stop on the tour, known for its eerie atmosphere. This iconic building, with its striking red sandstone exterior, has a dark history tied to the city’s legal and criminal past. Many believe the spirits of prisoners from its days as a courthouse still linger, and visitors have reported unsettling experiences, including ghostly apparitions and unexplained cold spots.
The Majestic Theatre
The Majestic Theatre is another stop on the ghost tour, where tales of spectral sightings and supernatural occurrences are frequent. This historic theater, built in 1921, has hosted many performances and events over the decades. However, some claim that certain spirits never left. Flickering lights, ghostly figures, and the sound of disembodied voices are just some of the eerie phenomena reported by both patrons and employees.
