Travel guide · United States

Dallas Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Dallas is a big, confident city in north Texas, in the south-central United States. It pairs a gleaming skyline and one of the country's largest arts districts with Tex-Mex and barbecue, live music in Deep Ellum and cowboy heritage just down the road in Fort Worth. Book flights to Dallas with RwandAir and partner airlines.

Dallas

Top things to do in Dallas

Dallas's main attractions are concentrated downtown and in nearby districts, with Fort Worth an easy day trip.

  • The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza — A museum examining the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
  • Dallas Arts District — One of the largest urban arts districts in the US, including the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center.
  • Klyde Warren Park — A lively green deck built over a freeway, with food trucks and events.
  • Reunion Tower — An observation deck with 360-degree views of the skyline.
  • Deep Ellum — A historic entertainment district known for murals, live music and bars.
  • Bishop Arts District — Independent shops, galleries and restaurants in Oak Cliff.
  • Fort Worth Stockyards — Western heritage, rodeos and a daily cattle drive in neighbouring Fort Worth.

Best time to visit Dallas

Dallas has a humid subtropical climate with very hot summers. Spring (March to May) brings warm days and wildflowers, though it is also the season for strong thunderstorms, while autumn (October and November) is often sunny and pleasant.

From June to September temperatures are frequently very high, so plan outdoor sightseeing for mornings and evenings and enjoy the city's air-conditioned museums. Winters are mostly mild but can bring sudden cold spells. The State Fair of Texas, a long-running autumn tradition, takes place at Fair Park.

Getting from the airport

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport lies between the two cities, roughly 30 kilometres north-west of downtown Dallas. By road the journey usually takes 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

DART light rail runs from the airport to downtown Dallas, and the TEXRail commuter line connects to Fort Worth. Taxis, ride-hailing apps and shared shuttles are available at every terminal, and rental cars are collected from a consolidated centre reached by shuttle bus. The city is also served by Dallas Love Field, closer to downtown, mainly for domestic flights.

Where to stay

Dallas is spread out, so choosing a base near where you plan to spend time saves long drives.

  • Downtown — Close to the Arts District, Dealey Plaza and rail links, good for first-time visitors.
  • Uptown — Walkable, with restaurants, bars and the McKinney Avenue trolley, ideal for younger travellers.
  • Deep Ellum — Live music and nightlife, suited to those who want to be at the heart of the action.
  • Bishop Arts and Oak Cliff — A creative, neighbourhood feel with boutique stays and great food.

Travel tips

  • Money: Cards are accepted almost everywhere; tipping around 15 to 20 per cent is customary in restaurants.
  • Getting around: DART rail serves central areas, but Dallas is car-oriented, so ride-hailing or a rental car helps.
  • Weather: In summer stay hydrated and use sun protection; in spring, keep an eye on storm warnings.
  • Taxes: Sales tax is added at the till, so displayed prices usually exclude it.
  • Food: Try Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex, two local specialities found across the city.

Frequently asked questions

Which airport serves Dallas?

The main international gateway is Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), between Dallas and Fort Worth. Dallas Love Field mainly handles domestic flights.

How do I get from DFW to downtown Dallas?

Take DART light rail, a taxi, a ride-hailing car or a shared shuttle; by road the trip usually takes 25 to 45 minutes.

What currency is used in Dallas?

The US dollar (USD).

Do I need a visa to visit the United States?

Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check the latest requirements with RwandAir's travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.

When is the best time to visit Dallas?

Spring and autumn, when temperatures are warm but more comfortable than in summer.

Is Fort Worth worth visiting from Dallas?

Yes. Fort Worth is known for its Stockyards, cowboy culture and museums such as the Kimbell Art Museum, and it is easy to reach by car or TEXRail from the airport.

Updated:

More destinations