Staycation in Dallas
If you’re looking for options for a staycation this summer, Dallas has plenty of free or low-cost options for you to enjoy. From theater to museums to water parks and beautiful green spaces, there’s something for everyone. While you’re about and about, don’t forget to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun’s rays by wearing sunblock, sunglasses, and hats.
Here are some of the many free or low-cost options of things to do in Dallas:
Culture Pass
One of the benefits of having a Dallas Public Library card is having access to entertainment venues, live concerts, museums, theater, and more for free. Some of those places include: Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Perot Museum of Science and Nature, the Majestic Theatre, House of Blues, Avant Chamber Ballet, Beckles Dance Company, Dallas Theater Center, and many more. Even if you don’t live in Dallas, but are a Dallas ISD team member, you can still get a Dallas Public Library card. The Dallas Public Library website offers instructions on how to reserve your tickets to events and/or venues at https://culturepass.dallasculture.org/. You can also watch this short tutorial to help you access your pass.
Trinity River Audubon Center 
Located just 10 miles south of downtown Dallas, TRAC is a part of the City of Dallas-Trinity River Corridor Project. The center’s 120 acres sit on a former illegal dump site and are home to an array of birds and other wildlife. TRAC is offering free entry for everyone until Dec. 31, 2024. You are encouraged to reserve a ticket online prior to your visit. For more information, you can reach the staff via email at trac@audubon.org or by phone at 214-309-5801,
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Dallas ISD team members can get a free ticket to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. If you’re needing a place to relax and connect with nature, this is the place for you. Show you Dallas ISD ID at the entrance. This offer is only valid for daytime admission and not valid for educational field trips or for paid educational programming. Parking fees apply. For more information, visit Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Swimming pools and aquatic centers
Looking for some relief from the summer heart? Some pool time might be the answer. From swimming classes for adults and children to water aerobics, the city’s public pools have something for everyone. To find the location nearest you, visit www.dallasaquatics.org
Teen All Access Pass
Looking for some free programming for your teen this summer? Beginning July 1, Dallas Park and Recreation and partners have teamed up to offer up to 10,000 teens ages 13-17 free activities during the month. Visit any Dallas Recreation Center to sign up and receive your free All Access Pass. For more information, visit here.
Fair Park
- Art in the Park: Get creative and learn new techniques with artist Karla Ceballos. All art supplies are provided free of charge. During her next class on June 29, attendees will learn to make a yarn bowl, weave a basket with cardboard and yarn, and make a circle loom weave. This program will take place at the Leonhardt Lagoon near the Band Shell. For a map of the campus, visit https://www.fairparkdallas.com/visit/map.
- Healing in My Hoops: Get ready to let loose, have fun, and experience the healing power of hula hooping. This in-person event will take place from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturdays at the Leonhardt Lagoon by the Band Shell.
- Bird watching: Enjoy an hour-long birding walk around Leonhardt Lagoon at Fair Park. Participants will meet in front of the Fair Park Visitor Center. Free
Klyde Warren Park
Located in downtown Dallas, Klyde Warren Park has free programming year round. There will be an Independence Day Celebration starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 29,
at the Pavilion and Great Lawn, located at 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway. For more information, visit here.
City of Dallas Cultural Centers
The city’s numerous cultural centers offer free exhibitions and performances. Check out each link for updates on upcoming events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and community workshops from art to dance. Pro tip: Sign up for their email newsletters to stay updated on upcoming events.
African American Museum
Located in Fair Park, the African American Museum is the only one in the southwest devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural, and historical materials. It is located at 3536 Grand Ave. For more information, visit aamdallas.org. Free.
Dallas Museum of Art
General admission to the DMA is free. You can reserve your general admission and special exhibition tickets online in advance or onsite at the guest services desk. Visitors are encouraged to reserve tickets online in advance. If you are planning to see a special exhibition, tickets must be purchased after your free general admission ticket has been reserved. To reserve tickets, visit here.
Southern Skates
Do you enjoy roller skating to music? From adult skate nights to open skating, there’s something for everyone at Southern Skates. For prices, hours, and schedule, visit Southern Skates, TX – Official Website.
Vitruvian Salsa Festival
If you are a dancer, or an aspiring dancer, the Vitruvian Salsa Festival is a great option. The free festival is happening from 6-10 p.m. the second Saturday of each month until September at Vitruvian Park. It includes live music, salsa dance lessons, food trucks, and vendors. Vitruvian Park is located at 3966 Vitruvian Way. For more information visit here.
