Looking for a diverse, family-friendly city near Dallas? Head to Carrollton! Located in the heart of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Carrollton offers international cuisine, scenic parks, and easy access to big-city attractions. Whether you’re exploring local trails, discovering global eats, or enjoying cultural festivals, Carrollton is a welcoming destination with a small-town feel and big-city access.
Carrollton, TX Highlights:
- For Nature Lovers: Stroll or bike the trails at Nob Hill Greenbelt – Enjoy shaded paths, ponds, and peaceful escapes just minutes from downtown.
- For Foodies: Sample global cuisine at Koreatown Carrollton – From Korean BBQ to bubble tea and K-pop shops, this plaza is a local favorite.
- For Families: Cool off at Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex – Family water park with slides, splash zones, and fun for all ages.
- For History Buffs: Visit the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum – Step into 1900s North Texas farm life in a beautifully preserved Victorian home.
- For Golfers: Hit the links at Indian Creek Golf Club – Championship courses with rolling fairways and scenic water features.
When I like to visit Carrollton, TX
The best time to visit Carrollton is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are ideal. Summer brings heat but also pools, splash pads, and festivals. Winters are mild with fewer crowds.
Tips for getting to Carrollton, TX
- By Plane: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is just 20–25 minutes away and offers nonstop flights across the globe.
- By Car: Carrollton is accessible via major highways including I-35E, President George Bush Turnpike, and the Dallas North Tollway.
- By Rail: The DART Green Line provides light rail service between Carrollton and downtown Dallas.
Where I like to stay in Carrollton, TX
- Recommended for Families: Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Carrollton – Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and a central location.
- For Business Travelers: Hilton Garden Inn Dallas/Lewisville – A short drive from Carrollton with business center, meeting rooms, and nearby shopping.
- For Budget Travelers: Rodeway Inn Carrollton – Clean, affordable option with free breakfast and easy highway access.
Best Things to Do in Carrollton, TX
1. A.W. Perry Homestead Museum
The A.W. Perry Homestead Museum offers visitors a chance to get a glimpse of what life was like in Carrollton, Texas and the surrounding area during a bygone era. The authentic Texan homestead now serves as a museum that preserves and presents daily life during the nineteenth century. Designated in 1977 as a historic landmark, the homestead once belonged to Sarah and A.W. Perry, pioneer homesteaders who came to Carrollton in 1844. They claimed approximately 640 acres of land and built their house on the farm in the year 1857. Their son built the present day house in 1909.
1509 Perry Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006, Phone: 972-466-6380
2. Historic Downtown Carrollton
Historic Downtown Carrollton is an award-winning downtown square that provides seasonal events like the Paws on the Square, Christmas festivities with plenty of decorations, the Chocolate Walk, and TEXFest; great restaurants and unique shops, and entertainment opportunities in abundance, such as movies on the square and concerts. Visitors and locals alike can experience the atmosphere of Carrollton, Texas at its best in Historic Downtown Carrollton. Cute antique shops, cafes, and non-chain restaurants line the streets and a gazebo sits at the heart of the charming square, featuring American flags around it that give the area a patriotic vibe.
1100 S Elm St, Carrollton, TX 75006, Phone: 972-880-9855
Where to Eat:
3. Mena's Grill Tex Mex Cantina
Mena's Grill Tex Mex Cantina offers some of the best in TexMex cuisine in the area at locations in both Carrollton, Richardson, and Flower Mound. Mario Leal, owner of Mena’s Grill, has been providing North Texas with some of the state’s best TexMex fare since the 1970’s. The menu features soups and salads, savory enchiladas, great tasting fajitas, tasty tacos, homemade tortillas, and much more. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of lunch specials during the week. Mena's Grill Tex Mex Cantina is open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00am until 9:30pm and until 10:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
2810 E Trinity Mills Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006, Phone: 972-478-5750
4. Cane Rosso
Cane Rosso offers visitors and locals alike in Carrollton some of the most authentic Neapolitan wood-fired pizza in the state of Texas. Originally starting out as just a mobile pizza business, Can Rosso has expanded to include multiple locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. With locations also in Austin and Houston, the pizza restaurant provides an authentic dining experience and uses the highest quality ingredients in its food, such as fresh pasta, mozzarella cheese made in-house every day, and handmade pizza dough. Cane Rosso also aims to serve a unique take on modern and traditional Italian dishes.
1301 S Broadway St, Carrollton, TX 75006, Phone: 214-731-6402
My favorite local events:
- For Music & Food: Festival at the Switchyard (November) – Family-friendly street fest with national music acts and dozens of vendors.
- For Culture: Korean Festival Dallas (Fall) – Celebrate Korean food, music, and traditions with performances and community fun.
- For the Holidays: Santa on the Square (December) – Tree lighting, carols, and visits with Santa in Historic Downtown Carrollton.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Carrollton, Texas:
- For Art Lovers: Dallas Arts District (25–30 min) – Explore the DMA, Nasher Sculpture Center, and contemporary galleries downtown.
- For Adventure: Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (Plano) (20 min) – Hike or bike scenic trails through woodlands and creeks.
- For Shopping: Legacy West or The Shops at Willow Bend (20–30 min) – Upscale boutiques, eateries, and entertainment.
- For Kids: Crayola Experience Plano (30 min) – Interactive, colorful fun for the whole family just a short drive away.
- For Big Sports Fans: Toyota Stadium or American Airlines Center (30 min) – Catch an FC Dallas soccer match or a Dallas Mavericks or Stars game.
Plan Your Trip