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If you’re looking to escape the busy city life of Dallas, Texas, there are actually a number of great day trips from Dallas that are worth a visit. From small towns to outdoor recreation options, there is a day trip on this list that is sure to please a variety of different travelers. You won’t regret leaving the city for the day when you take one of these top day trips from Dallas, Texas.
Turner Falls Park - Davis, Oklahoma
Escape the busy metropolitan area of Dallas to spend a day exploring caves, hiking through the woods or enjoying a 77-foot waterfall at Turner Falls Park. Turner Falls Park, found in Davis, Oklahoma, is only a two-hour drive from Dallas. This park is perfect for those needing an outdoor escape from city life. View wildlife, enjoy the natural swimming areas with sandy beaches, and take advantage of the picnic spots here too. A day trip is definitely enough time to see everything this park has to offer, however, campsites and cabins are available if you want to extend your day trip into a weekend getaway.
Dinosaur Valley State Park - Glen Rose, Texas
Found only an hour-and-a-half drive from Dallas, Dinosaur Valley State Park is a day trip that the whole family will enjoy. This top state park in Texas is located in Glen Rose, which is often referred to as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas.” Therefore at Dinosaur Valley State Park, you’ll get to view real dinosaur tracks. Along with hiking and biking trails too, this state park can be both an educational experience and an outdoor getaway.
Waco, Texas
This little Texas town has grown due to its celebrity residents, the stars of “Fixer Upper,” Chip and Joanna Gaines. If you’ve ever wanted your house to look like Joanna Gaines was the designer, then you’ll need to visit Magnolia Market while you’re in Waco. At Magnolia Market, you’ll find furniture, home goods, and food. Besides Magnolia Market, also check out the Dr. Pepper Museum, where you can learn about the history of one of the nation’s oldest soft drinks. Waco is only an hour and 40-minute drive from Dallas.
Fort Worth, Texas
The closest getaway from Dallas on this list is the city of Fort Worth. As the metropolitan giants of northern Texas, Dallas and Fort Worth are commonly referred to together as the DFW. Many people flock to Fort Worth for its fun attractions, which include great food, the zoo, and the Fort Worth Stockyards. At the Fort Worth Stockyards, you’ll feel like a real cowboy or cowgirl, as the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is home to cattle drives, honky tonks, western shops, Tex Mex eateries, and museums.
Lake Texoma - Pottsboro, Texas
Get out of the city this summer to explore Lake Texoma. This massive reservoir is the most popular inland destination for sailing. Although sailing is a popular activity on Lake Texoma, many visitors also fish, swim, camp, hike, horseback ride, and view wildlife here. With more than 50 parks surrounding the lake, you’ll be sure to find a spot to enjoy Lake Texoma for the day.
Austin, Texas
The drive to Austin from Dallas is a bit long at three hours, but a visit to this city is well worth the trip. This eclectic city is known for its live music, shopping, street art, great food, and outdoor recreation. No matter if you want to spend your day exploring Austin’s Greenbelt or the Texas State Capitol, you won’t be disappointed. There is a reason why Austin is a popular travel destination. Make sure to enjoy some great barbecue and live music while you’re here.
Fredericksburg, Texas
This quaint town in the Texas Hill Country is a true gem. Known for its wineries and antique shopping options, this getaway is perfect for a girl’s day or a romantic excursion. Although 4.5 hours away from Dallas, Fredericksburg can still be enjoyed in one day. The historic Main Street is dotted with local galleries and shops that will steal the heart of any shopaholic. However, the surrounding landscape near Fredericksburg draws a lot of attention during the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Jefferson, Texas
Found in northeastern Texas, Jefferson is a small town that offers a long list of things to do and see. Enjoy a day exploring Big Cypress Bayou, touring the historic homes, or browsing antique shops here. The museums in Jefferson will also please history buffs too. This Texas town is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dallas.
Canton, Texas
Antique hunters and shopaholics alike flock to Canton, Texas to attend the largest flea market in America during First Monday Trade Days. This market puts Canton on the map. Therefore check the date before you head to this small, Texas town, as the market only occurs once a month before the first Monday of every month. Since Canton is only an hour from Dallas, a trip to this Texas town makes a perfect day trip.
Athens, Texas
This small Texas town seems to have a lot going on. Athens, Texas boosted its downtown to cater to travelers and tourists, so here you’ll find shops, galleries and a number of eateries. After exploring downtown, you can also enjoy the three wineries found in the area or learn to scuba dive at Athens Scuba Park.
Davy Crockett National Forest - Kennard, Texas
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Dallas should head to Davy Crockett National Forest to escape city life. Spanning 160,000 acres, this multi-use national forest is home to the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, which has a beach, campsites and picnic areas. Besides enjoying the lake, visitors to Davy Crockett National Forest also enjoy the equestrian and hiking trails here too.
Choctaw Casino Resort - Durant, Oklahoma
If you’re looking for fun across the Texas border, then head to Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma. Only an hour and a half drive from Dallas, this casino resort offers more than just slot machines and card tables. Choctaw Casino Resort is also home to an on-site spa, arcade, golf course, movie theater, bowling alley, and laser tag arena.
