Fun Things to Do in DFW with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

The Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area is a treasure trove of exciting, educational, and unforgettable experiences for families. Whether you're a local parent looking for weekend ideas or visiting from out of town, DFW offers something for kids of all ages. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, here are some of the best things to do in DFW with kids.

1. Perot Museum of Nature and Science (Dallas)

A must-visit for curious minds! The Perot Museum is packed with hands-on exhibits, a dinosaur hall, a children's museum, and even a robot arena. Little ones can explore physics, space, and nature through interactive play that makes learning feel like a game.

🧠 Great for: Ages 3 and up
📍 Location: Victory Park, Downtown Dallas

2. Fort Worth Zoo

Consistently ranked among the top zoos in the U.S., the Fort Worth Zoo is home to over 7,000 animals. It features a petting zoo, an interactive splash pad during summer, and scenic train rides. Don’t miss the new African Savanna exhibit!

🦁 Great for: All ages
📍 Location: Fort Worth

3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center (Grapevine)

This indoor LEGO paradise is ideal for ages 3–10. It features rides, a 4D cinema, building zones, and a miniature replica of DFW built entirely from LEGO bricks. Bonus: it’s inside Grapevine Mills Mall, so there’s plenty more to explore.

🧱 Great for: Preschool to tween
📍 Location: Grapevine

4. Dallas Arboretum & Children’s Adventure Garden

With stunning seasonal displays and a dedicated Children’s Garden filled with science-based activities and water features, the Arboretum is a beautiful blend of education and outdoor fun.

🌼 Great for: Toddlers to elementary schoolers
📍 Location: White Rock Lake, Dallas

5. Crayola Experience (Plano)

Located in The Shops at Willow Bend, this creative wonderland offers over 20 hands-on activities where kids can create their own crayons, star in coloring pages, and more. It’s colorful, artsy fun with a creative twist!

🎨 Great for: Preschool to age 10
📍 Location: Plano

6. Stockyards Historic District (Fort Worth)

Step back in time with a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards. Watch a real cattle drive, explore a historic train station, and even catch a rodeo. Kids will love the cowboy vibe and old-timey charm.

🤠 Great for: All ages
📍 Location: Fort Worth

7. Dallas World Aquarium

This isn't just an aquarium—it’s a rainforest, zoo, and marine exhibit all in one. Kids can see everything from sloths and toucans to sharks and jellyfish. It’s an immersive and awe-inspiring experience.

🌊 Great for: All ages
📍 Location: Downtown Dallas

8. Hawaiian Falls Waterparks

Cool off in the summer at one of DFW’s Hawaiian Falls waterparks (locations in The Colony, Mansfield, and Roanoke). With kid-friendly slides, splash zones, and lazy rivers, it's a great place for families to beat the Texas heat.

💦 Great for: Ages 2 and up
📍 Multiple locations

9. Play Street Museum

Perfect for younger kids (ages 1–8), Play Street is a series of interactive indoor play areas designed like mini towns. Kids can explore themed play zones like a grocery store, firehouse, or construction site.

🏡 Great for: Toddlers and preschoolers
📍 Various locations in DFW

10. Trinity Forest Adventure Park (Dallas)

For older kids and tweens, this ropes course and zip-lining park offers tree-top fun and physical challenges. It’s a unique outdoor adventure where kids can climb, swing, and zip through the trees.

🌲 Great for: Ages 6+
📍 Location: South Dallas

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Final Tips:

• Plan ahead: Check opening hours and buy tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Pack accordingly: Texas weather can be unpredictable, so sunscreen and water bottles are a must.

• Mix it up: Balance indoor and outdoor activities for a full DFW experience.

Whether you're chasing dinosaurs, splashing in waterparks, or exploring cowboy country, DFW is full of kid-approved adventures. Happy exploring!

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