How to Spend 48 Hours in Dallas? Absolutely Free!!

Dallas is a vibrant and diverse city that offers many attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re into art, history, nature, or entertainment, you’ll find something to enjoy in Dallas without spending a dime. Here’s how you can make the most of your time in Dallas with this itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Arts and Culture of Dallas

Start your day with a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art, one of the largest and most impressive art museums in the country. Admission is free, and you can admire over 24,000 works of art from various cultures and periods, ranging from ancient to contemporary. Don’t miss the European paintings, the African sculptures, and the American decorative arts collections.

Next, head to the Crow Collection of Asian Art, a small but exquisite museum that showcases the art and culture of China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. Admission is also free, and you can see beautiful paintings, ceramics, jade, textiles, and more. The museum also has a tranquil garden with a fountain and sculptures.
For lunch, you can either bring your own picnic or grab a bite from one of the many food trucks that park near Klyde Warren Park, a 5-acre green space that connects downtown Dallas with uptown. The park offers free activities and events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, live music, movie screenings, and children’s programs. You can also relax on the lawn, play games, or read a book from the park’s library.
After lunch, walk to the Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures, a stunning bronze installation that depicts a scene from the historic Shawnee Trail. The sculptures feature 70 steers and three cowboys on horseback, and are located in front of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. You can take some photos and learn more about the history of the cattle industry in Texas.
End your day with a visit to the Bishop Arts District, a trendy neighborhood that is home to over 60 independent boutiques, restaurants, bars, galleries, and theaters. You can stroll along the streets and window-shop, or catch a free show at one of the venues. The district also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as art walks, wine tastings, and holiday celebrations.

Day 2: Discover the History and Nature of Dallas

Start your day with a visit to Dealey Plaza, the site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963. You can see the grassy knoll, the Texas School Book Depository building, and the X marks on Elm Street that indicate where the shots were fired. You can also pay your respects at the John F. Kennedy Memorial, a simple but elegant monument designed by architect Philip Johnson.

Next, head to Pioneer Plaza, a park that commemorates Dallas’ pioneer past with a large bronze sculpture of a wagon train. The sculpture features 40 longhorn steers and three pioneer family groups, and is surrounded by native plants and a waterfall. You can walk around the plaza and admire the details of the sculpture.
For lunch, you can either bring your own picnic or grab a bite from one of the many restaurants nearby. You can also visit the Dallas Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, meat, flowers, and more.
After lunch, drive or take public transportation to White Rock Lake Park, a scenic oasis that offers many recreational opportunities for visitors. You can hike or bike along the 9-mile trail that circles the lake, or rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the vendors. You can also fish, birdwatch, or picnic at one of the many spots along the shore. The park also features a dog park, a botanical garden, and a museum.
End your day with a visit to Reunion Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Dallas. The tower has an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond. Admission is free for children under 3 years old and $19 for adults ($17 if you buy online). You can also enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the tower’s restaurants or bars.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many free things to do in Dallas that will keep you entertained and informed for 48 hours. Dallas is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re into art, history, nature, or entertainment. You’ll be amazed by how much you can see and do in Dallas without spending any money.

FAQs

How Can I Get Around Dallas For Free?

You can use the D-Link, a free bus service that connects downtown Dallas with various attractions and neighborhoods. The buses run every 15 minutes from 10:30 am to 9:30 pm, Monday through Saturday. You can also use the M-Line Trolley, a free vintage streetcar that runs from downtown to uptown, passing by many museums, restaurants, and shops. The trolley operates every 10 to 15 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm, Monday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday.

What Are Some Other Free Museums In Dallas?

Some other free museums in Dallas are the African American Museum, which showcases the art, history, and culture of African Americans in the South; the Meadows Museum, which houses one of the finest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain; and the Nasher Sculpture Center, which displays modern and contemporary sculptures by renowned artists.

What Are Some Free Events And Festivals In Dallas?

Some free events and festivals in Dallas are the Dallas Arts District Block Party, which features live music, art activities, food trucks, and more; the Dallas St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is one of the largest and most festive parades in the country; and the Dallas Pride, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, a festival, and other events.

What Are Some Free Outdoor Activities In Dallas?

Some free outdoor activities in Dallas are the Trinity River Audubon Center, which offers guided nature walks, birdwatching, and educational programs; the Cedar Ridge Preserve, which has over 9 miles of hiking trails through diverse habitats; and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which has free admission on Wednesdays from November to February.

What Are Some Free Things To Do In Dallas At Night?

Some free things to do in Dallas at night are the Vitruvian Lights, which illuminate a park with millions of colorful lights from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day; the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center, which offers free admission after 6 pm on Wednesdays (skate rental is $5); and the Deep Ellum, which is a lively neighborhood that hosts live music, comedy shows, art galleries, and more.