Free things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth—what? Yup, you heard that right! When I moved to North Texas in 2013, I was blown away by the number of attractions, activities, tours, and events in DFW that cost absolutely nothing. Being a mom on a budget with two young kids meant I was constantly looking for ways to keep them engaged without putting stress on my wallet; I can say to this day, I haven't ever been disappointed when I look for affordable fun for my family in DFW. So save your cash for summer camps, theme parks, and Cowboys games, and take advantage of all the free things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth with kids. The metroplex definitely lives up to that whole “everything is bigger in Texas” thing; even if you’ve lived here your entire life, we’re betting there are some boxes you haven’t checked when it comes to family fun in Dallas-Fort Worth. So scroll through this list, make your plans, and have a blast, ya’ll! Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox. What Are the Best Free Things To Do in Dallas-Fort Worth with Kids? While there are always the go-to museums like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Kimbell Art Museum, some of the best affordable entertainment in DFW might be things you haven't tried yet.  1. McKinney Ave. Trolley - Dallas Hop on the iconic trolley and ride the rails in Uptown and the Arts District, two of Dallas’ most vibrant neighborhoods. 2. Crystal Canyon Natural Area - Arlington Do your kids love geology? This cool nature spot is the place for them. One of Arlington’s newest parks, marine shales, siltstones, mudstone containing inner beds of calcareous fossil clams, gypsum layers, and fine-grained sandstone have all found here. 3. Traders Village - Grand Prairie If you love flea markets, this is the place for you! While little kids might not have the patience to watch you haggle over prices, there’s a carnival with plenty of rides to use as bribes.  4. Klyde Warren Park - Dallas Dallas’ premiere open space connects the Arts District to Uptown, and there’s always something to do. Grab a bite from the daily food trucks, check out ongoing activities like story time or seasonal movie nights, or enjoy the splash grounds and kids’ play area. 5. Frisco Heritage Center - Frisco The 16,000-square-foot museum houses exhibits and objects connected to the development of Frisco and the North Texas region.  6. Dream Park Playground - Fort Worth Be prepared to stay at this park for hours. It’s got everything a kid wants: swings, climbing nets, ziplines, tunnels to wiggle through, and plenty of space to run. Free Outdoor Fun for Kids in Dallas-Fort Worth Get your longhorn cattle fix for free in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Photo courtesy The Stockyards.  7. Fort Worth Herd Cattle Drive - Fort Worth If you haven’t seen the cattle drive at the Stockyards, you haven’t experienced Fort Worth. There are two drives daily, one at 11:30am and 4pm. 8. Fair Park - Dallas While known as the home of the Texas State Fair and the Cotton Bowl, Fair Park is also one of the best places in the country to see Art Deco Architecture, as well as home to the Texas Discovery Gardens, the Children’s Aquarium of Fair Park, and the Leonhardt Lagoon Nature Walk. 9. White Rock Lake - Dallas Walk or ride bikes on the 9.4-mile trail around the lake, watch birds, or pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the views. 10. Historic Downtown Square - McKinney One of the best downtown squares in DFW, you can easily spend an afternoon people-watching, browsing stores, and listening to live music. 11. The Edge Skatepark - Allen Little shredders won’t be able to get enough of this skatepark, which is one of the largest in Texas. There’s a BMX track, two in-line hockey rinks, and an indoor rec space for kids ages 10-17 with foosball, pool tables, gaming systems, and a snack bar. 12. Fort Worth Water Gardens - Fort Worth Kids will love to wander through the three pools featured in this water attraction near Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth. 13. Freedmans Cemetary and Memorial - Dallas Established in 1861 as a burial ground for Dallas’ early Black population, this is one of the largest Freedman Cemeteries in the country. The memorial plaza was established in 1990 to honor the history and cultural contributions of the thriving North Dallas community. 14. Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve - Plano Plano’s largest park is over 800 acres of open space, paved and dirt trails, and creekbeds. You can kayak and paddleboard, or reserve the pavilion for outdoor events. 15. AT&T Discovery District - Dallas If the food hall doesn’t lure you in, the 8,700 square-foot media wall and the grassy area in this urban gathering center will. Check the calendar for events like performances from local artists, movie nights, and festivals. 16. Deep Ellum Murals - Dallas This historic Dallas neighborhood is home to tons of murals and street art, so take a tour and grab a bite to eat at one of the many family-friendly dining establishments along the way. 17. The Clearfork Farmers Market - Fort Worth Ideally located on the edge of the Trinity River, this year-round market offers local produce, locally made artisan crafts, and live music, and it’s the gateway to 60+ miles of biking and running trails. 18. Katy Trail - Dallas Winding its way from Uptown to the Design District, Katy Trail is one of Dallas’ best paved pathways. Ride bikes, walk, or run the path, but keep your kids close, this trail is a busy one! 19. Connemara Nature Preserve - Allen This 72-acre nature preserve is nestled right into the suburban sprawl of Plano and Allen. Look for butterflies in The Meadow, hike the three miles of trails, or go bird-watching! 20. Trinity River Audubon Center - Dallas A stunning nature preserve along the edge of Dallas, hike the five miles of trails, watch for birds, check out the hands-on exhibits inside the nature center, and don’t forget about their Sunday Science program! 21. Sweet Pass Sculpture Park - Dallas A hidden gem of an art space, kids will love to check out the various pieces of sculpture that call this park home. 22. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve - Plano This beautiful open space meanders along creek beds and fields of wildflowers and has plenty of places to stop for a picnic lunch. It’s a popular spot for good reason. 23. Village Green at Watters Creek Village - Allen One of the most popular shopping centers in the area, there’s a green space in the middle that’s perfect for meeting friends and watching the creek rush by. 24. Dealey Plaza and JFK Memorial - Dallas It would be hard to list all the free things to do in Dallas and not include Dealey Plaza and the JFK Memorial. While the Sixth Floor Museum requires an admission fee, you can check out the grassy knoll on your own. 25. iHeartFrisco Hearts - Frisco Go on a scavenger hunt to find the hearts located in various spots around town. 26. Veterans Park - Arlington Walk through the Wildscape nature area, throw discs, let the kids run wild on the playgrounds, or ride bikes on the paved trail in this vast city park. 27. Cedar Ridge Preserve - Dallas DFW isn’t necessarily known for hiking opportunities, but Cedar Ridge Preserve is one of the best open spaces in the metroplex. Creeks, well-marked trails, and incredible skyline views are just a few reasons to visit. 28. Grapevine Glockenspiel - Grapevine This is something you need to see! Every day at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm, two would-be train robbers exit the tower and have an O.K. corral-worthy standoff. This is the only glockenspiel in North America, so it’s absolutely worth checking out. 29. Southern Methodist University - University Park Stroll through this beautiful university located in the University Park neighborhood. If you want a little culture, take the kids to Meadows Museum, where admission is free for grades K-12. 30. Mandalay Canal Walk - Irving Walk this charming district with Venice-inspired canals. If you feel like getting on the water, you can take a gondola tour, paddleboard, or even kayak. This is also where you’ll find the annual Dragon Boat, Kite, and Lantern Festival. 31. Historic Water Station Trail & Old Stone Dam - Allen Enjoy the sunshine, and get moving on this historic trail. Kids will enjoy learning about the stone dam built in 1874 to power steam locomotives. 32. Bishop Arts District - Dallas One of Dallas’ most vibrant neighborhoods, browse the books at The Wild Detective, check out the street art, check out all the cool things in Urban Owl, and grab an ice cream at Melt as a treat on your way home. 33. Trinity Trails - Fort Worth Enjoy over 100 miles of trails along the Trinity River. It’s one of the best open spaces in the metroplex, and kids will love the geocaching adventures, Airfield Fallas, and Marine Creek. 34. Main Street Garden - Dallas Smack dab in the center of downtown Dallas, this new-ish park has a playground, amazing views of the buildings, and is a hub for fun year-round events. 35. Kids Country Playground - Coppell This fantastic all-abilities playground has plenty of shade, separate areas for little and big kids, sandboxes, mosaic animal sculptures, a pretend town, and much more. 36. Las Colinas Flower Clock - Irving This unique clock is made completely out of flowers and greenery. It’s a fun little outing for kids. 37. Dash’s Track Disc Golf Course - Frisco This award-winning course is one of the best disc golf courses in DFW! Kids will love practicing their “swing,” and the open space doesn’t hurt either. 38. Pioneer Plaza - Dallas A well-known Dallas landmark, Pioneer Plaza is worth a visit. A large open space with a manmade creek and waterfall, the Longhorn cattle statues created by a North Texan artist represent the first settlers of Dallas. 39. Keist Park - Dallas Kiest Park is one of the largest in Dallas, at over 250 acres. It contains baseball fields, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, soccer fields, and basketball courts. There’s also a second, smaller playground on the west side of the park. 40. Nash Farm - Grapevine This is the place to go if you want to see what farm life was like in the late 19th century. They have family-friendly programs throughout the year, but be aware that those usually have a small admission fee.  41. Joya at Oran Good Park - Farmer’s Branch This incredible park is one of the newest in DFW, and it’s worth a visit—especially at night. Once the sun goes down, the LED lights illuminate the entire playspace. There’s a climbing sphere, a zipline, and a tot playground. 42. Vitruvian Park - Addison 19 acres of green space and a spring-fed creek make up this open space in the heart of Addison. They have several free events throughout the year, including Vitruvian Lights, the Vitruvian Nights Live music series, and the Vitruvian Salsa Festival. 43. Parr Park Rock Art Trail - Grapevine Kids will love to discover the dozens of beautifully painted rocks that can be found between the trailhead of Wall-Farrar Nature Trail and the trail connection from Parr Park along Big Bear Creek. 44. Frisco PGA District - Frisco This bustling spot has plenty of restaurants and shopping, but the free Friday night movies, live music events, and other fun events will keep you coming back. 45. Sculpture Trail at Richard Greene Linear Park - Arlington If you’re in town for a Cowboys or Rangers game and have some time, head to this spot to see up to 40 pieces of sculpture and walk the paved trail perfect for letting the kids burn off energy. 46. Thanksgiving Square - Dallas Come to gawk at the interfaith Chapel of Thanksgiving, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Philip Johnson, and stay for the self-guided tour of the square itself. Set 15 feet below street level, you’ll see stunning stained glass windows, the Golden Rule Mosaic, and stand in the 14-foot high Ring of Thanks while expressing gratitude for your loved ones. 47. Spring Creek Forest Preserve Trail - Garland There are 14 miles of looped trail perfect for bikers, hikers, and walkers. Admire wildflowers and rushing creeks in the spring, shade trees in the summer, and playgrounds and fishing ponds all year. 48. Highland Park Village - Highland Park There’s a reason Dallas is known for shopping, and this high-end center is a big factor. It was built in 1931 and is considered the first shopping center in the United States, and is now a historic landmark. The ambiance alone is worth hanging around here for the day, and the people-watching does not disappoint. 49. Botanical Garden at Heritage Park - Grapevine This free botanical garden might be smaller than others in DFW, but it’s just as stunning. Let the kids enjoy Botanical Garden Creek, have quiet reflection time in Julie’s Garden, pay your respects at Memorial Knoll, and enjoy two art installations: New Season and Transition to Beauty Free Indoor Fun for Kids in Dallas-Fort Worth Spend time in the LEGO store at NorthPark Center. Photo by Gabby Cullen 50. NorthPark Center - Dallas This iconic mall is filled with high-end shopping (including a LEGO store), a fun courtyard perfect for running and playing, great food, Bookmarks public library, free kids’ programs, and of course—the ducks and turtles. 51. Dallas Museum of Art - Dallas Stroll through galleries filled with art from all over the world, stop by the various kid-centric programs, or come for live music later in the evening. 52. Kimbell Art Museum - Fort Worth Located in the heart of the Cultural District, this impressive museum offers free admission to everyone and has an impressive collection of 375 permanent pieces of art in its galleries. 53. Dallas Stars - Frisco Watch the Dallas Stars during their practices for free at the Comerica Center. 54. Interurban Railway Museum - Plano This is the perfect place to take little ones for the morning or afternoon! They have free story time on Fridays, and kids will love touring Historic Car 360. 55. Crow Museum of Asian Art - Dallas This museum in the heart of the Arts District offers free admission, so wander through the collections, make your way to Klyde Warren Park, and enjoy the vibrant neighborhood. 56. J. Erik Jonnson Central Library - Dallas Check out the new creative spaces, and see an original print of the Declaration of Independence and Shakespeare’s first folio at Dallas’ first public library. 57. African American Museum of Dallas - Dallas  This museum doesn’t get nearly enough hype as some of Dallas’ other cultural institutions. It has one of the largest African American folk art collections in the United States and offers free programs like the bi-monthly Sankofa Youth Theatre. 58. Latino Cultural Center - Dallas You can wander through and check out the exhibits, and make sure to check the calendar, as many family-friendly programs occur throughout the year. 59. Watermark Tree Fort - Dallas This spot is perfect when you’re looking for an indoor playspace when the weather isn’t cooperating. Get there early—it gets busy! 60. Amon Carter Museum of American Art - Fort Worth This museum has plenty of fun and free family programs for kids of all ages, and it’s in the heart of the Fort Worth Cultural District, so it’s easy to spend a whole day in the area. 61. Bath House Cultural Center - Dallas Located on the eastern shore of White Rock Lake, this historical cultural center hosts multiple exhibits a year and has a black box and a lake-level stage for theater shows. 62. Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas - Dallas View historical currency, engage with interactive exhibits, and learn about the Federal Reserve during a self-guided tour Monday-Friday. No reservation is required! 63. Historic Fielder House - Arlington This two-story house, built in 1914, features galleries filled with exhibits relating to the history of Arlington and its surrounding communities. 64. Dallas Contemporary - Dallas This free museum in the Design District is best for older kids, but they occasionally offer family programs! 65. Torian Cabin Museum - Grapevine Made of hand-hewn logs, this piece of Grapevine history now resides on Main Street. It’s open for tours all year, and the decor changes with the seasons. 66. Oak Cliff Cultural Center - Dallas With both an art gallery and a multi-purpose studio, this non-profit center aims to enrich the Dallas community through enriching and equitable programming. It’s an absolute must-visit. 67. Tot's Town & Kid's Club - Frisco This incredible free play space is located inside the Frisco Public Library. Tot's Town is for kids ages birth-5 and offers fun activities that encourage reading, writing, and vocab skills, all through the magic of play! Kid's Club is for older siblings ages Kinder-5th grade and offers STEM-driven activities like a Race Zone, Ball Wall, and a robotics area. This is an extremely popular spot, so be prepared to get there early or be on the waitlist for a bit.  Free Events, Festivals, and Fairs in Dallas-Fort Worth  68. Cottonwood Arts Festival - Richardson This semi-annual arts festival has a whole area dedicated to kid-centric craft stations. The ArtStop includes fun activities like clay play, throwing mud, making puppets, and painting pictures on canvases. There’s also the Chalk the Walk competition, where kids ages 12 and up can use their skills to create chalk masterpieces. 69. AT&T Performing Arts Center Family Weekends - Dallas Throughout the year, you can head to Sammons Park for free family activities in the Dallas Arts District. There might be anything from petting zoos, face painting, and balloon artists to seasonal fun, including AAPI Heritage Month performances and spooky Halloween activities. As the weather gets warmer, kids can splash around in the ankle-deep Donor Pool.  70. Good Local Markets - Dallas With locations in Lakewood and White Rock Lake, it’s easy to spend a Saturday or Sunday morning in one of these year-round farmers markets. Not only will you find local food products, but also toys, clothes, soaps, and other goodies—all made by North Texans. 71. Frisco Rotary Farmers Market - Frisco From March through December, come to Kaleidoscope Park for produce, meats, and other goodies made by local farmers and artisans. 72. Dallas Farmers Market - Dallas Wander through The Shed and check out what’s in season, or head to The Market to check out local artisan shops and specialty food vendors. 73. Frisco Starfest - Frisco This monthly stargazing event is the perfect way to spend an evening with the kids. Pack a picnic dinner and don’t forget to bring your telescope (they have some on-site, too)! 74. Basically Beethoven Hallam Concerts - Dallas Enjoy free monthly concerts on Saturdays at 3pm, October through May, at the Central Commons in Dallas. 75. South Street Art Festival - Arlington It’s a full weekend of fine art and live music in the heart of Arlington. Bring your lawn chair, leave the cooler at home, and bring your furry friends! 76. Dallas Symphony Community Concert Series - Dallas Starting in early spring, the Dallas Symphony hosts free concerts through May in the Arts District. Sometimes, there’s an instrument “petting zoo!” 77. Dallas Arts Month - Dallas In April, dozens of cultural and artistic events happen throughout Dallas, especially in the Arts District. Check out the Deep Ellum Community Arts Fair in early April, the D’JAM Jazz Stroll and the end of the month, and tons of things in between. 78. Home for the Holidays: A McKinney Christmas - McKinney This holiday festival happens right after Thanksgiving, and it's one of the best ways to get pumped for the season in DFW. Enjoy fair rides, visits from Santa, rock climbing walls, live music, and holiday treats.  79. KidFilm Festival - Dallas This is the oldest and largest children's film festival in the U.S. Every January, you and your family can enjoy new releases, independent films, short films, visits from authors, and more at the Anjelika in Dallas.  Free Fun for Kids in Dallas-Fort Worth FAQ Q: What are the best free family activities in Dallas-Fort Worth? A: Klyde Warren Park, NorthPark Center, the Kimbell Museum in Fort Worth, and Kaliedoscope Park in Frisco are some of the best places to enjoy free family fun in DFW. There are seasonal family days, indoor concerts and dance performances, creative art pop-ups, and more! When the weather gets warmer, free outdoor concerts and family movie nights are some of the most budget-friendly ways to have fun in DFW!   Q: What can kids do for free on weekends in Dallas-Fort Worth? A. Lots of libraries around the metroplex have free events on the weekends. Be sure to check the Dallas Public Library website to see if there are any featured events. Community calendars like VisitDallas.com or VisitFrisco.com are great resources, and of course, our own calendar has tons of free events for families!    Q: Are there free museums or attractions for kids in DFW? A: Yes! The Dallas Museum of Art and the Crowe Museum of Asian Art in the Dallas Arts District are always free, as well as the Kimbell Art Museum and the Amon Cart Museum of American Art in the Fort Worth Cultural District, and the Arlington Museum of Art. The Frisco Heritage Center is also free to guests.    Q: What are some free things to do in DFW with toddlers? A: Storytimes at libraries, especially Bookmarks in NorthPark Center and the Frisco Public Library, and places like the Arlington Museum of Art.   Q: What’s the best time to visit free attractions in Dallas-Fort Worth? A: If you homeschool or if you have toddlers and preschoolers who don't go to school all day, weekday mornings are the best times to hit up these free spots in North Texas. If you're looking to visit one of the free splashpads and water playgrounds in the metroplex, the earlier in the day you arrive, the better. Not only does it get crowded, but the summer heat is no joke! 

Looking for indoor playgrounds and play spaces? Take your pick from this list of the metroplex's very best.  Indoor playgrounds and play spaces are North Texas parents’ secret weapon. Between the hot summer days and the random winter weather, you never know when you’ll need things to do indoors. Colorful rooms, ball pits, slides, and tons of pretend play opens up a world of possibilities for little kids, and luckily, DFW is filled with unique spots waiting for you and your family. Even better, these places have perks for parents too—free Wi-Fi, coffee nearby (a must), and in some cases, frozen yogurt for when playtime is over. From Dallas and Plano to Grapevine and beyond, these are some of the best indoor playgrounds and play spaces in DFW. For more fun things to do, check out 75 free things to do with kids in Dallas, or take a peek at the calendar for family-centric events you don’t want to miss. Best Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in Dallas  1. Play Street Museum - Various Locations There are several Playstreet Museum locations in DFW, including Lake Highlands, Fort Worth, Murphy, Allen, Frisco, McKinney, and Plano. Each has endless play opportunities: think little firehouses, homes, veterinary offices, markets, train tables, crafts, and more. 2. We Rock the Spectrum - Northwest Dallas The ultimate indoor sensory playground for kids of all abilities, We Rock the Spectrum has suspended equipment with swings, crash mats, a zip line, a trampoline, an indoor play structure, and sensory-based toys that complete the play experience. If your child wants to take it down a notch, an arts and crafts area perfect for developing fine motor skills is at the ready. 3. The Play Place at Galleria Dallas - North Dallas This popular mall playground is usually pretty busy, but if your busy toddler needs to blow off steam while shopping, this is the place! 4. BB Pinata - Oak Cliff This is one of the newest indoor play spaces in Dallas, and it might be one of the cutest! Decked out in pastel hues, this open-ended playground is ideal for toddlers and young kids. They have events like bilingual storytime, sleep-unders, dad nights, and much more. 5. Cheeky Monkeys - Various Locations There are several Cheeky Monkey indoor play spaces in DFW, including Casa Linda, Plano, Fairview, The Colony, Highland Village, and Fort Worth. Designed for babies and kids ages 10 months to eight years, little guests can play in the clubhouse, tackle the 3,000-square-foot play structure, engage in organized crafts and activities, and climb on soft structures. 6. Watermark Tree Fort - Dallas Watermark Community Church’s two-level indoor playground in Dallas is open Mon-Fri from 8am-5pm. As a bonus, there’s no admission fee, but you can’t reserve a time, and the staff doesn’t monitor the kids, so get in early! However, Watermark Coffee is adjacent to the playground, so grab a cup and let the kids roam! 7. Monster Yogurt - Lakewood/Casa Linda and Richardson Quite possibly one of our favorite indoor playgrounds in the Dallas area, this spot is a dream-come-true collab between a kids’ play space and a frozen yogurt shop. Let the kids run, slide, and jump in the Monster Cave while you enjoy free Wi-Fi. Don’t forget to treat everyone to a yummy frozen yogurt sundae from the 80 rotating flavors and 75 toppings available when playtime is over. 8. Kids Empire - Dallas and Garland There are three gigantic indoor play spaces in DFW for families to enjoy: one in Garland and two in Dallas. Climb structures, figure out the maze, create structures with giant blocks, play soccer, or bust a move on the dance floor. It’s all in good fun! 9. Spark! - South Dallas This non-profit organization is one of a kind. Their mission is to spark creativity in kids ages 7-17, and alongside the indoor underground playground, kids can let their imaginations run wild during the numerous staff-guided daily activities. Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces North of Dallas  10. Safari Run - Plano Kids will run, slide, and play to their heart's content at this indoor playground. There’s a special spot for younger kids, plenty of room for parents to sit and watch or visit with friends, and an arcade and a basketball hoop for older kids in tow. Be sure to say hi to the (pretend) mommy and baby giraffe hanging out by the slides! 11. Kidz Indoor Playground at Prestonwood Baptist Church - Plano This two-story indoor playground is ideal for kids ages 10 and under. There are “underground” tunnels, slides, stairs, and other fun equipment. It gets busy, so mornings are usually best, and you’ll need to check in at the desk before heading to the playground. If you want to grab a bite, head to the other end of the atrium, where the on-site cafe serves snacks, pizza, salads, and more. 12. Kid Mania - Plano KidMania’s play space spans five floors and has everything from bungee walls to caves, climbing nets, and a toddler area. And when your kiddo is ready to move on, head for the arcade for an impressive selection of video games and entertainment. 13. The Shops at Willow Bend - Plano Inspired by historic Haggard Park, this new 1,960-square-foot indoor playground near Crate & Barrel features soft climbing structures like a slide, a fire truck, a teeter-totter, and a merry-go-round. Rock and ride on local mascots like the Plano East High School’s Panther and Plano Senior High’s Wildcat. There’s an interactive game, a scavenger hunt, and a multi-sensory area with sound chip technology. 14. KidZania - Frisco You’ve never seen anything quite like it. This kid-sized city is run completely by, well, kids! They get money to spend, can go to college to become a doctor, put out fires, help rescue natural disaster victims, scale walls, and so much more. 15. PeeknPlay - Various Locations Between locations in Frisco, McKinney, Grapevine, and Arlington, there’s bound to be one of these adorable indoor play spaces near you. Once you enter the mini city, kids can take up a “profession” like veterinarians, firefighters, and restaurateurs, dress up, play with blocks and LEGO, or slide down into a ball pit to their heart’s content. Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in the Mid-Cities  16. The Tubes at Irving Bible Church - Irving This indoor playground is open to the community Monday - Friday, 9am-7pm. There’s a multi-level climbing structure for older kids, a tube slide, climbing ropes and nets, and smaller climbing structures for toddlers. The cafe is just down the hall if you want to grab a coffee or snack. This indoor playground is designed for kids ages 3-10. 17. Peppa Pig World of Play - Grapevine If Peppa’s involved, we want in on the fun! This indoor play space has plenty of exhibits that'll keep toddlers and preschoolers entertained, like Meet Peppa, crawl through tunnels in Rebecca Rabbit’s underground adventure, sing along on Madame Gazelle’s bus trip, and much more. You can make a day of it and stop by LEGOLAND Discovery Center as well. Indoor Playgrounds Near Fort Worth  18. White’s Chapel Methodist Church Playground - Southlake Designed for kids ages 11 and under, grab a cup of coffee from Wesley’s Cafe before your kids hit the ground running. This is a no-shoe, soft playground perfect for little kids and is open Mon-Thurs. from 8am-5pm, Fridays from 8am-1pm, Saturdays from 5-7pm, and Sundays from 8am-1pm. 19. Imagination Station FTW - Benbrook This Montessori-inspired indoor play space is the vision of an early childhood educator and mom, and the love and thought put into it shines bright. It provides a safe place for kids to engage in imagination-based play with thoughtful toys like a garden station, wooden trains, balance boards, activity stations for babies and toddlers, and the occasional music classes. . You can bring snacks, but they must be kept out of the play area, they have free Wi-Fi, and you must reserve a spot for their Open Play times.

When considering a list of the best hotels in Dallas and Fort Worth for families, it’s important to consider ALL the perks for kids. The pools, the food, the decor—you name it, we want it. From the ever-popular Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine to unique spots like Hotel Drover and two Omni Hotels, these family-friendly hotels in Dallas and the rest of DFW are perfect for traveling with littles in tow or if you need a staycation like yesterday.

If you're looking for other great vacation ideas in Texas, check out the best family resorts in Texas, the best road trips in Texas for families, and all the things you need to do in Texas Hill Country with kids. 

Discover an outdoor pool complex with slides, a lazy river, and dining options kids will love at the Hilton Anatole.

The Best Hotels in Dallas for Families 

1. Hilton Anatole — Dallas Design District

This hotel in Dallas’ Design District is a favorite staycation spot for many in DFW. During the warm months, JadeWaters, the on-site water park is open and ready for action. It includes a 7,000 sq. ft. beach entry pool, an activity pool with play areas, two winding water slides, and a 630 ft. lazy river. You can purchase the JadeWaters fun package which includes access to the park and a $50 food and beverage credit.

The vast open area between the hotel and the water park has lawn games, chairs, and plenty of room for kids to run and play. There’s a TopGolf swing suite where you can practice your skills virtually, and during the holidays the hotel is buzzing with excitement and activities like writing letters to Santa, breakfast with Santa, movies, and more.

The tower has been renovated, and they have larger suites for big families. Kids ages nine and under eat breakfast for free, and if you’re there during the colder months, there is an indoor pool!

2. The Beeman Hotel — Dallas

This boutique hotel in the Park Cities neighborhood has an incredible lounge with plenty of space to spread out. Seely’s Mills is where you’ll find chicken & waffles, egg sandwiches for breakfast, slow-smoked brisket, street tacos, burgers, salads, and flat breads for lunch and dinner. Kids will get a kick out of ordering the Boot Scoot Sundae or banana pudding for dessert.

The Rhapsody Room is where the fun happens. Nestled on the bottom floor next to Seely’s Mill, kids can play shuffleboard, try their hand at the arcade games, and watch TV on the big screen. You can enjoy live music on the weekends and kids will love events like hot chocolate bars, Each room comes with a vintage-inspired mini fridge, there’s a quick-grab snack corner, and the Beeman has an indoor heated pool adjacent to a beautiful outdoor patio, which means you can enjoy it all year.

3. Omni Hotel — Dallas

If the rooftop heated pool or the location of this downtown Dallas hotel doesn’t win you over, the Omni Junior Chefs program is sure to do the trick. Upon arrival, kids receive a tote bag with healthy snacks, a to-go cup, crayons, an activity book, and a Say Goodnight to Hunger postcard they can color and turn in to the front desk to donate a meal to Feeding America. There’s also a menu for kids with french toast, egg-in-a-hole, grilled cheese, salmon, and smash burgers.

The Best Hotels in Fort Worth for Families 

4. Hotel Drover — Fort Worth

This place is hands-down one of the best hotels in Fort Worth for families. Located near the legendary Stockyards, Hotel Drover is inspired by the Western vibe and historical cattle drives for which the city is famous. There’s a huge lawn with games and fire pits, a pool with views of Marine Creek, cabanas, and outdoor dining options.

But what makes this hotel in Fort Worth stand out from the crowd are the amenities for ‘lil ropers. There’s a family concierge on staff to help guests plan their adventures, kids can get a pint-sized robe and stool in their room upon request, there’s a library filled with books and games, a children’s menu at 97 West Kitchen & Bar, and possibly the cutest perk—a little horse plush animal for kids to take home.

5. Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Fort Worth — Fort Worth

This hotel is within walking distance of Sundance Square, Bass Performance Hall, and the Fort Worth Water Gardens, which makes getting out and about a breeze. FunkyTown Donuts is practically next door, and the kids will love trying their unique offerings that rotate monthly. Think maple bacon, red velvet cake, straw dizzle, and more.

The indoor pool is one of the reasons why we recommend staying at this Fort Worth hotel. It’s indoors and has splash pad features perfect for little ones. Older kids will love the pool table in the lobby, and everyone will love the free hot breakfast and the grab-and-go snack shop.

The Best Hotels in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex for Families 

6. Great Wolf Lodge — Grapevine

One of the best hotels in DFW for families is, without a doubt, Great Wolf Lodge. Currently undergoing a resort transformation, prepare for a completely new Grand Lobby, an entirely new evening entertainment spectacular called the Legend of Luna, a new laser tag game, a mini bowling alley, a completely revamped MagiQuest adventure, a new virtual reality experience, an expanded arcade, and much more.

The popular buffet restaurant will be vastly expanded, and a new full-service restaurant and enhanced fast-service options are also in the works. The outdoor pool area is also getting a facelift with expanded deck space and a new outdoor bar area. Renovations are expected to be completed in early 2025.

Of course, the indoor water park is still the gem of the resort with the lazy river, stories-high waterslides, splash pads, and kids’ play area.

7. Homewood Suites at Epic Central — Grand Prairie

This brand-new hotel is located in the heart of EpicCentral, an entertainment district in Grand Prairie that includes the Epic Waters indoor water park, Bolder Adventure Park, Andretti Indoor Racing, an all-abilities playground, a huge green space that often hosts movie nights and other activities, and the Jambox music stage, where live music happens regularly.

You can enjoy pickleball, shuffleboard, outdoor games, and ping-pong at Chicken N Pickle, tacos at Vidorra, specialty shakes at Serious Eats, and brunch at The Finch.

Homewood Suites has several suites that sleep from four to six people and range from being equipped with microwaves and fridges to full kitchens, it offers free breakfast, has connecting rooms if you choose to book for a large group, and boasts an outdoor pool.

8. Westin Stonebriar Resort & Golf Club — Frisco

This impressive resort got a 30-million-dollar renovation a few years back and was worth every penny. Included in that glow-up was more green space and a kids’ club for ages 4-12 ($35 for a half-day/$60 for a full day) with plenty of fun and games, as well as two to three staff members in attendance at all times. There’s also an impressive poolside vibe with a two-story waterslide and a splash pad, cabanas with TVs, lawn games like Giant Connect Four, corn hole, and put-put golf. There’s also a Top Golf Swing Suite available for up to 12 guests and the public for $25 an hour on a weekday and $50 an hour on the weekends.

As for dining, you’ll have plenty of options. You can eat all day at the lobby restaurant and bar, Beans & Barrel, which also has a grab-n-go section with ice cream and Starbucks products, and it also serves menu items from the soon-to-open Heard & Hearth, which specializes in modern Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. 

The Gaylord Texan Resort brings the magic of a winter wonderland indoors with its annual ICE! exhibit,

9. Gaylord Texan — Grapevine

The Gaylord Texan has plenty to do whether you come in the warmer or colder months. Hit up Paradise Springs Water Park & Resort Pools, a 10-acre water wonderland complete with a lazy river, slides, and pool in the summer, or experience the wonder of the resort's year-round activities, like an Escape Room, the Adventure Kids' Club, a virtual safari, and more. One of the best times to visit is during the holiday season when the Gaylord goes full Christmas. You can ice skate, go snow tubing, build a snowman, decorate gingerbread houses, get photos with Santa, experience ICE!, and much more.

10. Omni PGA Frisco Resort — Frisco

This Omni resort in the PGA District has four pools, a splash pad, spacious ranch houses with chef’s kitchens, fire pits, and outdoor patios situated along the golf course, fun activities like roasting s’mores, build-a-bear workshops, movie nights, and more. The Omni Jr. Chef program is also available for kids here, so they'll get their tote bags, snacks, postcards, and activity books. 

The PGA District has 13 dining establishments, some at the resort and some in the PGA district, so feeding everyone in your crew is never an issue. The Apron serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual environment, the Leisure Pool Bar is ideal for when everyone is having too much fun in the sun to dry off and sit down inside, the Lounge by TopGolf has a ton of virtual games and serves kid-friendly items like wings, pizza, chips and queso, and smash burgers, and Margaret’s Cups & Cones is THE spot for a sweet treat.