Things to Do in Richardson, Texas
This is one of North Texas’s most dynamic suburban cities! I discovered it offered the best of both worlds: a welcoming, neighborhood feel paired with the energy of a major economic and cultural hub. Known as the “Telecom Corridor,” Richardson is home to hundreds of tech companies, yet it also has leafy parks, diverse dining, and a strong sense of community. I was also very taken with its blend of innovation, culture, and Texan hospitality!
I drove up from Austin (about 3.5 hours north on I-35 and US-75) for a long weekend, and checked into Aloft Richardson, a boutique-style modern hotel with loft-inspired rooms and a lively bar ($165).
I strolled through the Cottonwood Art Festival, sampled diverse foods along Greenville Avenue, walked along the scenic Spring Creek Trail, toured the UT Dallas campus, and enjoyed live music. With Dallas so close, I also took a short trip into the city for museums and nightlife, returning to Richardson’s quieter, community-centered vibe each evening. I’m a huge fan and here are my favorite spots I’d love to share with you.
Breckenridge Park: Trails, Trees & Morning Calm
The gravel crunched softly underfoot as we followed a path beside a quiet stream. Birds darted between branches, and the wind carried the scent of wildflowers and cut grass. “This is the pause I didn’t know I needed,” I thought. Breckenridge Park is one of those green spaces that doesn’t try too hard, it just lets you breathe. With more than 400 acres of trails, creeks, and open fields, it’s where Richardson stretches wide and lets nature in.
What I Loved Most: Sitting on a bench near the pond just after sunrise. The light was soft, the water still, and for a moment, everything felt perfectly in place.
Eisemann Center: Art That Lights Up the Stage
We stepped into the lobby and were met with glass, light, and quiet energy. “This feels like a promise,” I thought as we looked around the soaring space. The Eisemann Center doesn’t just host performances, it elevates them. Whether it's symphonies, plays, or ballet, every seat feels close enough to feel it. The design is modern, but the experience is warm and grounded, with local talent often sharing the same stage as world-class acts.
What I Loved Most: Seeing the crowd lean in as the lights dimmed, shared anticipation in the hush before a story begins.
Visual Arts Building: Creativity Around Every Corner
I didn’t expect to linger, but each room pulled me in. Student ceramics lined one hallway, vibrant canvases another. “This place celebrates process,” I thought, walking slowly through a corridor of natural light and color. Tucked within the University of Texas at Dallas campus, the Visual Arts Building is a quiet, inspiring spot to witness work in motion, where art isn’t just displayed, but discovered.
What I Loved Most: Watching an artist sketch beside an open studio door, jazz playing faintly from inside, graphite smudges on their fingertips. It felt honest, unfinished in the best way.
Four Bullets Brewery: Backyard Vibes & British Ales
We followed the sound of laughter and music past an unassuming industrial building, and there it was: picnic tables, string lights, and the scent of hops in the air. “This feels like someone’s backyard party,” I thought, sipping a cold ginger beer while friends played cornhole nearby. Four Bullets Brewery leans casual, with small-batch brews, friendly locals, and live music that doesn’t need a stage to feel like a show.
What I Loved Most: Sitting under the lights at golden hour, the breeze just right, and the sense that no one was in a hurry to leave.
AMF Richardson Lanes: Classic Fun, No Frills Needed
The air smelled like popcorn and nostalgia, and the echo of bowling balls was oddly comforting. “This is what Saturday used to feel like,” I thought, lacing up my shoes. AMF Bowling Center hasn’t changed much, and that’s part of the charm. Neon lights, clattering pins, arcade games in the corner. Whether you’re actually good or just here for the snacks, everyone’s in it for the laughs.
What I Loved Most: That one frame where I actually bowled a strike, arms in the air, teammates yelling, and the perfect excuse to grab a slice of pepperoni pizza afterward.
Jeng Chi: Soup Dumplings & So Much More
We slid into our booth and watched bamboo baskets float from the kitchen like little treasure chests. “This is going to be good,” I thought, just from the smell. Jeng Chi has been a staple in Richardson’s Chinatown for years, for good reason. The xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are delicate, savory, and just the right kind of messy. The menu stretches far beyond, but it’s those first bites that make you lean back, smile, and reach for another.
What I Loved Most: That first dumpling, warm broth bursting with flavor, thin dough just strong enough to hold it all. You never forget your first bite at Jeng Chi.
Haystack Burgers & Barley: Comfort Food, Elevated
We grabbed a table near the window, the hum of lunchtime filling the room. “This is what a burger should feel like, familiar, but special,” I thought as my tray arrived. Haystack Burgers & Barley does the classics right, melty cheese, crispy edges, hand-cut fries with just enough salt, but it also adds little touches that make you slow down and notice. The buns are toasted just right. The sauces are house-made. And the milkshakes? Definitely worth sharing.
What I Loved Most: The first bite of the Haystack Burger, cheddar, haystack onions, BBQ sauce, and pickles all coming together in a messy, perfect mouthful.
CityLine: Where the Day Unwinds
The lights came on slowly as the sky faded, restaurants filling with clinking silverware and soft music. “This feels like a choose-your-own evening,” I thought as we wandered past patios and fountains. CityLine blends workday hustle with after-hours ease. Whether it’s tacos and gelato, yoga on the lawn, or window shopping under string lights, this little pocket of Richardson invites you to stay awhile.
What I Loved Most: Sitting outside after dinner, just people-watching with a coffee in hand, the hum of the city settling into its weekend pace.
Conclusion: Slow Surprises & Everyday Joy
Whether I’m walking through Prairie Creek Park, discovering the art and music scene, or trying an underrated café that ends up becoming one of my new favorites, Richardson always gives me that perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. For me, it’s one of the best spots in Texas to enjoy a getaway without the crowds of bigger cities.
Richardson doesn’t overwhelm, it invites. One moment you’re walking trails beneath towering trees, the next you’re ordering dumplings or browsing local art. “This is a city that’s easy to overlook, but better to explore,” I kept thinking. What makes it special isn’t flash. It’s balance. Space to stretch out. Food that hits home. Places that let you slow down and stay connected to what really matters: good friends, good food, and a weekend that feels just right.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
