In This Article

Want to explore without spending big? These activities in Dallas, Texas deliver great experiences—from culture to nature—without breaking the bank.

Highlights:

  • Stroll through the Dallas Arts District and outdoor installations.
  • Relax at Klyde Warren Park with food trucks and free events.
  • Explore the scenic trails at White Rock Lake.
  • Visit the Dallas Museum of Art with free general admission.
  • Catch live music or markets in Deep Ellum without a cover charge.

Unique Affordable Activities in Dallas:

1. See the Edge of Expression at The Dallas Contemporary


I like: "A dynamic space for bold, global art that challenges the eye and mind"

See the Edge of Expression at The Dallas Contemporary

© The Dallas Contemporary

The Dallas Contemporary strives to engage visitors through a presentation of challenging ideas from international, national, and regional artists through a variety of exhibitions of present day artwork and learning programs. The art facility is a non-collecting art institution. The Dallas Contemporary maintains a commitment to providing all of its visitors with a seamless museum-going experience. Each one of the galleries at the art museum is wheelchair accessible, and no drinks or food are permitted. Accessible parking is available at the main entrance of The Dallas Contemporary, next to the entrance ramp. The institution is registered as a not-for-profit charity.

Address: The Dallas Contemporary, 161 Glass St, Dallas, TX 75207

2. Reflect on Legacy at The John F. Kennedy Memorial


I recommend: "A minimalist tribute to a moment in history that still echoes across the nation"

Reflect on Legacy at The John F. Kennedy Memorial

© Courtesy of f11photo - Fotolia.com

The John F. Kennedy Memorial features an “open tomb” style, symbolizing the freedom of John F. Kennedy’s spirit. It offers visitors a place for remembrance and reflection. A short distance away is The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the site of JFK’s assassination. The museum, which has a small fee, features various exhibits that explore, the legacy, life, and assassination of John F. Kennedy within the context of the culture and history of the 1960’s. The multimedia experience is designed to encourage cross-generation communication. The permanent exhibit at the museum is the “John F. Kennedy and the Memory of a Nation” exhibit.

Address: The John F. Kennedy Memorial, 646 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202, Phone: 214-747-6660

3. Honor Heritage at the African American Museum of Dallas


I love: "Powerful exhibits and cultural programs celebrating Black history, art, and resilience"

Honor Heritage at the African American Museum of Dallas

© Courtesy of dallaspaparazzo - Fotolia.com

The main goal of the African American Museum is providing meaningful experience for both adults and children who ordinarily would not visit a museum. The museum consists of four vaulted galleries that house the rich history and heritage of African American art, as well as a research library. The permanent collections at the African American Museum in Dallas include the Folk Art Collection, African Art, and African American Fine Art. The museum is also home to the Sepia Magazine Archives and the Royce and Carol West Library. Admission to the regular exhibitions is free, some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Address: African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210, Phone: 214-565-9026

4. Explore Serenity and Detail at the Crow Collection of Asian Art


I enjoy: "A peaceful retreat into intricate sculptures, paintings, and spiritual tradition from across Asia"

Explore Serenity and Detail at the Crow Collection of Asian Art

© Crow Collection of Asian Art

Visitors can explore the Crow Collection of Asian Art from 10:00am until 5:00pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The art museum is also open on Thursdays, from 10:00am until 9:00pm. The Crow Collections of Asian Art honors the vision and collecting tradition of Margaret and Trammell Crow. The couple purchased their first work of Asian art in the 1960’s/ From that purchase, their collection grew into a distinguished Asian art collection, featuring works from Southeast Asia, Korea, India, Japan, and China spanning from contemporary to historical works of art.

Address: Crow Collection of Asian Art, 2010 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, Phone: 214-979-6440

5. Dive into Creativity at the Dallas Museum of Art


I like: "Spanning centuries and continents, this downtown landmark is a celebration of global vision"

Dive into Creativity at the Dallas Museum of Art

© Dallas Museum of Art

General admission to the Dallas Museum of Art is free for visitors every day. General Admission includes access to view the collection galleries at the museum, along with the majority of the art exhibitions. More than twenty-four thousands pieces of artwork make up the collection of art at the Dallas Museum of Art. This collection features works from a wide variety of time periods and cultures, spanning across five thousand years of the creativity of mankind. Visitors can also explore the Dallas Museum of Art during one of the Spotlight Tours.

Address: Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood St, Dallas TX 75201, Phone: 214-922-1200

Romantic Affordable Activities in Dallas:

6. Step Into Masterpieces at the Kimbell Art Museum


I Recommend: "World-renowned architecture and an exceptional permanent collection set this Fort Worth icon apart"

Step Into Masterpieces at the Kimbell Art Museum

© Kimbell Art Museum

Visitors can join a tour of the Kimbell Art Museum’s permanent collection on Wednesdays at 2:00pm and Sundays at 3:00pm. The museum is open every day except for Monday. The permanent collection is free to visit, but special exhibitions charge a fee for those who aren’t Kimbell Members. Free parking is available in the Kimbell East Parking area and the Underground Parking Garage in the Piano Pavilion, off of Van Cliburn Way. While the permanent collection of the Kimbell Art Museum is small, it boasts a very high level of importance and quality, focusing quality over quantity.

Address: Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, Phone: 817-332-8451

I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

  • Q: What types of free activities are available in Dallas, Texas?
  • A: Dallas, Texas offers a wide variety of free things to do, including many of the area’s best cultural attractions.
  • Q: Are there free museums in Dallas?
  • A: There are numerous museums in Dallas that offer free admission.
  • Q: What other free attractions can be found in Dallas?
  • A: In addition to museums, Dallas features free parks and other attractions.
  • Q: Are some free attractions in Dallas limited to specific days?
  • A: Some attractions are free only on certain days – please check before you go.

Map:


How did I do?

Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!

Plan Your Trip