Summer is here! Whether you’re looking for things to do in Dallas with your kids, or you’re panicking because you don’t know what you’ll be doing all summer with kids coming home from school, I’ve got you covered.
Summer is the season, so it’s good to leave it the way it is. For example, our summer is not very structured. We move slower and don’t do things all day. We all go to bed a little later and everyone seems to be eating more ice cream. Summer is different from other seasons and we are here for that.
So if you’re looking for ideas to have fun this summer, take a look at this list of things to do in Dallas for kids this summer.
Summer Indoor Fun for Kids in Dallas
It gets very hot in Dallas during the summer. Playing in parks or being outside is not always possible. Internal options are always profitable.
Watermark Tree Fort
Watermark Church has a fabulous indoor play fort open to the public. You can order coffee in the main area after entering the building and then sit back and watch your kids run around. The wooden structure allows for a lot of climbing and moving around, all in an air-conditioned space. And the entrance is free!
Indoor public pools
On three-digit days, being in the water is the only way to stay cool. The city of Dallas has public swimming pools that can be accessed for as little as $1. There are even aquatic centers like the Tietze Aquatic Center, which have waterslides, climbing walls, separate toddler pools, refreshments, and all the water activities you need for a day at the pool.
Dallas Public Library
Dallas Public Libraries hosts a variety of events for you to choose from. Each department offers age-appropriate activities. There are stories, crafting or building classes, and even mobile zoos. Libraries usually have summer reading challenges and activities you can participate in at home.
Rough Riders baseball game
If you go north to the suburbs of Frisco, you can get to a minor league baseball game. Rough Riders is a fun sporting activity that the whole family can enjoy. And the idea that everything is bigger in Texas applies to the stadium as well.
The stadium has a lazy river, two playgrounds and a trampoline. So, even if your family members are not interested in watching the game, there is plenty of entertainment here. The stadium is located off Highway 121 and parking is easy to access.
Strong fitness
Do you need an outlet to burn off some energy? Strong Fitness is a great gym with obstacle courses, mats, climbing structures, and ninja-style activities that require a lot of energy.
There is a cafe where you can order coffee while you sit and watch your kids. This place is so popular that we signed up for spring break and hosted birthday parties here. The staff is attentive and trained to work with children.
Westlake Skate Center
Roller skating is another indoor activity that releases energy! If anyone grew up with rollerblading birthdays, you’ll love introducing your kids to Westlake Skate Center.
A useful option for young children is an ice skating buddy. You don’t have to break your back trying to support your new skater. Your child can hold on to a partner who will allow him to skate freely. Most outdoor skateboarding is in the evening, but check Facebook or call for all the options.
Fair Park Children’s Aquarium
Are you looking for something more educational? A trip to Fair Park and a visit to the Children’s Aquarium. It is smaller and more manageable than the Dallas Aquarium. When you have small children with you, this is the perfect environment. Skates are perhaps the highlight. You can feed, pet and interact with them in the sensory pool.
Northern Lake Highlands Recreation Center
Lake Highlands North Recreation Center is well equipped. Your kids can choose if they want to get wet on the mudguard. Or there is a playground with decent shade. Having options in our family is always a plus, so take advantage of a place that offers a variety of activities. Alternatively, you can go to the recreation center for an extra game.
Dallas Art Museum
Looking for some culture? The Dallas Museum of Art offers classes and workshops for the whole family. There are interactive art projects as well as art viewing opportunities. You can increase your imagination and curiosity through various classes.
Children’s indoor playground
The Kidz Indoor Playground is another great option if you want to stay cool on hot summer days. The play space is free for children under 10 years old. There is a cafe in the church if you want to have lunch there.
Perot Museum
You will probably need more than just a day to see the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. There is an entire lower level dedicated to younger children so they can climb and play. There is a blue truck that our kids have always wanted to ride in. Each level is filled with many exhibits and places for the whole family to explore and learn. Parking is directly across the road under Woodall Rogers and there is a clearly marked pedestrian crossing.
We Rock the Spectrum Indoor Gym
Another option to escape the heat is an indoor gym called We Rock the Spectrum. Their open play hours are for everyone, not just kids with special needs. A clean environment won’t make you cringe when your kids move around. If you check out their Facebook page, there are structured events as well as their open play.
Things to Do Outdoors in Dallas with Kids
When the weather really warms up, outdoor activities can be difficult for kids in Dallas. But sometimes you just need to take the kids outside to burn off some energy. If you enjoy the rare cool and cloudy day, here are some of the best summer outdoor activities in Dallas for kids.
Children’s Kingdom Park
If you want a park experience that doesn’t feel like your average park, head to Rowlett and check out Kids Kingdom.
This park has several important bonuses. First, the entire park is fenced. There is one entrance and one exit. When you’re trying to keep track of multiple kids, it’s a sigh of relief. In the park, if you can call it that, everyone will find something for themselves.
There is a zip line, there is a sand area, there is a wooden structure with slides and forts, and of course swings, monkey houses and equipment are expected in the parks.
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo has such a wide variety of exhibits. The giraffe feeding station and meerkats are favorite places to stop. And there is a monorail that will let you see six habitats and runs along the back of the zoo.
Flag of Pole Hill Park
Flag Pole Hill Park is still one of our favorite places in Dallas. It’s always nice to find a park with great shade, and there’s usually a breeze at the top of the hill. The playground is equipped with various age-appropriate equipment. And if the kids get tired of playing in the playground, there are fabulous climbing trees.
Clyde Warren Park
Klyde Warren Park is one of the most unique parks. This is a beautiful green area right in the middle of Dallas. This is the perfect combination with many offers. There is a dog park, a children’s playground, a green area for playing frisbee or ball, and an event calendar with a large selection of activities. In addition, the variety of food trucks offers something for everyone.
McKinney Avenue Trolley
The McKinney Avenue Tram Line, also known as the M-Line, is a historic trolley line that runs through McKinney Plaza, downtown, to the Dallas Arts District and into the residential area. Take advantage of air-conditioned trolleys while you and your kids take in the sights of downtown Dallas.
Six flags over Texas
Six Flags Over Texas is the perfect place to enjoy a Dallas summer day. If you need to add some adventure or thrill to your day, Six Flags delivers it. Be prepared to queue if you go on the weekend, but there are rides for everyone.
There is a special area for small children and, of course, rides for adults. The food is surprisingly good and you can easily spend a few hours in the park.
Dallas Arboretum
The Dallas Arboretum may not seem like the right place for kids. However, the kindergarten is where it is. This really big space has so many fun places for kids to play and explore. And whenever water is involved, there is always fun to be had.
Summarizing
Dallas has a lot to offer when it comes to family vacations in the summer. You don’t have to go far. The next time your kids complain about being bored, send them outside!! Or open this list and select an activity.
