Dallas Zoo
With over 2,000 animals and more than 400 species, the whole family will learn so much about animals and conservation here. Bring your walking shoes because the Dallas Zoo is 106 acres, and you want to be comfortable as you walk from the gorillas to the giraffe feeding area and everywhere in between. For a behind-the-scenes tour of the Dallas Zoo operations, sign the family up for a 90-minute guided tour called the Backstage Safari.
Legoland Discovery Center
When the summer gets hot, it's nice to have some indoor fun with kids. Check out the Legoland Discovery Center, where the whole family can play with LEGO Bricks or take photos with their favorite characters from LEGO films. Relax in the 4D cinema and watch some stellar short, action-packed films. Grab a quick snack at the cafe before letting the kids run wild on the playground.
Dallas World Aquarium
Dallas may not be anywhere near an ocean, but that doesn't mean the family can't learn about the fish and mammals that call it home. At the Dallas World Aquarium, which is housed in a couple of old storehouses in Downtown Dallas' West End Historic District, the family can admire colorful fish, sharks and sea animals while walking through the aquarium.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Walk through 66 acres of beautiful parkland, creative nature displays, and an ever-changing selection of art. Children will love exploring the Rory Meyer's Children's Adventure Garden. In addition to an adventure bridge, the garden has various interactive exhibits that teach kids about the science of nature and space. Families with older children might enjoy cooking classes or Thursday night concerts in the arboretum.