Experience the epicenter of cultural and entertainment activities in the heart of downtown Dallas at Fair Park. Originally built for the 1936 Texas World's Fair, this 227-acre park is home to many of Dallas' most unique and highly-specialized museums, sports facilities, and educational programs. Whether you're interested in the African-American Museum, the Museum of the American Railroad, the Museum of Nature & Science, or TI Founders IMAX Theater, there's something for everyone to enjoy, and let's not forget about the Dallas Aquarium at Fair Park, The Hall of State, Texas Discovery Gardens, and South Dallas Cultural Center, all of which make Fair Park a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Learn about one of the most significant events in American history at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. This museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, as his motorcade drove through downtown Dallas and turned the fateful curve of Dealey Plaza at midday. Located on the sixth and seventh floors of the old Texas School Book Depository, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza opened on Presidents Day in 1989. The museum offers self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the exhibits at their own pace. The most famous amateur film of the Kennedy assassination, the Zapruder film, is one of the highlights. Visitors can also see the Orville Nix film, which depicts the assassination from a reverse angle, showing part of the grassy knoll in the background. Additionally, photography collections by Jay Skaggs are on display, with photos taken just before and after the assassination as he followed investigators around the plaza. Lastly, visitors can view artifacts from the Kennedy funeral, including funeral cards, notes by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, and other items.
Get ready for fun and excitement at Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie. This major league sports entertainment attraction offers two thrilling racing seasons each year and attracts over 700,000 guests annually. Whether you're a seasoned horse racing fan or just looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, you will want to take advantage of the chance to place a wager on live races or enjoy the excitement of simulcast action. You'll enjoy a beautiful view of the newest race track with a seven-level glass-enclosed Grandstand, a 1,200-seat Silks Dining Room, and 48 luxurious Penthouse Suites. And remember to check out the world-class Las Vegas-style Racebook and simulcast facility, Bar & Book, which offers wagering on horse racing from around the world, seven days a week, year-round.
Ready for something fun and festive to do with the whole family? Look no further than the Dallas Arboretum. The seasonal fest is filled with exciting opportunities for everyone. From capturing photos of Cinderella's carriage and thousands of pumpkins at Pumpkin Village to sampling tea and other goodies at Harvest Tea and treating children to face painting and petting zoos on select days, there's no shortage of fun to be had. Visit and immerse yourself in the beauty of the world-class gardens and exhibits. And if you're planning a wedding or corporate event, their luxurious private venues are the perfect choice. With 66 acres of lush gardens and gorgeous vistas on the banks of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum is the place to reconnect with beauty.