The Best Cultural & Historical Sites in Dallas
We’ve pulled together a list of our favorite historical places in Dallas to inspire your next local adventure. We hope it can highlight a little something for everyone, from intriguing museums and popular landmarks to famous attractions in Dallas. Use this list of historical things to do in Dallas to discover new destinations to explore or perhaps serve as a reminder to revisit some of the city’s significant places. Either way, we hope you enjoy tapping into Dallas’ historical significance.
George W. Bush Presidential Center
2943 SMU Blvd., Dallas, TX 75205
First on our list of Dallas historical sites is actually a bit of a newcomer — opening its doors in early 2013. Located on the Southern Methodist University campus, the center is right in Edgemere’s neck of the woods. It features a museum showcasing the life and presidency of our nation’s 43rd president, plus a beautifully curated native garden, park and restaurant.
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
300 N. Houston, Dallas, TX 75202
This museum, founded in 1984 by a group of Dallas area Holocaust survivors, resides in Dallas’ historic West End. Since its opening, the museum’s mission has been to shine a light on the history of the Holocaust and promote human rights education as a means to combat prejudice, hatred and indifference. The museum has been continually recognized for its compelling and creative approach as well as its programming and exhibitions.
Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park
1515 S. Harwood St., Dallas, TX 75215
Just south of downtown, the Dallas Heritage Village is a truly unique and immersive experience. With nearly 30 fully restored historical architectural treasures spread across the 20-acre grounds, you’ll feel as though you’re stepping back in time — getting an up-close look at the way 19th-century Texans lived.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
411 Elm St., Dallas, TX 75202
One of the most popular historical things to do in Dallas is to visit the Sixth Floor Museum, which pays tribute to the legacy of John F. Kennedy and chronicles his 1963 assasination. Located within the former Texas School Book Depository building inside National Historic Landmark Dealey Plaza, the museum plays frequent host to special live events and exhibits in addition to its core collection.
The Old Red Museum
100 South Houston St., Dallas, TX 75202
Another must-see destination in the West End Dallas Historic District, The Old Red Museum celebrates the rich history and culture of the Dallas County area. Set in the now-restored Old Red Courthouse building that was originally constructed in 1892, this museum features an amazing range of artifacts throughout its various galleries and exhibits.
The Texas Theater
231 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas, TX 75208
This treasured movie house first opened its doors on April 21, 1931, and made history with its grand architectural detail and groundbreaking features. In fact, it was the first air-conditioned theater in Dallas. There’s also a certain allure attached to the property thanks to being owned, for a period of time, by Howard Hughes, and being the place where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested. Reopened in 2010, the theater shows films both new and old while its ongoing restoration continues.
Fair Park
3809 Grand Ave., Dallas, TX 75210
This National Historic Landmark has a bevvy of interesting sites to see and places to visit. Only 2 miles from downtown, Fair Park’s 277 acres serves as the site for the Texas State Fair. It’s also home to the Cotton Bowl Stadium, Hall of State, various museums, and a number of breathtaking art deco buildings designed and built for the 1936 state centennial celebration. Fair Park is truly one of the most treasured historical places in Dallas and the state of Texas.
Dallas Arts District
North of Ross Ave. and N. St. Paul St., South of Woodall Rodgers Freeway and N. Central Expressway
Set in the northeast corner of downtown, the Dallas Arts District spans 68 acres and 19 blocks, making it the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation. Within the district there are three museums — The Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Crow Collection of Asian Art, plus 10 different performing arts venues, multiple community spaces, restaurants and a full calendar of events.
Proud to Be a Dallas Original
As the first and finest Life Care community in Dallas, Edgemere has long supported the vibrant history of our hometown. Nestled perfectly between the Park Cities and Preston Hollow, our location makes it easy to get out and continue exploring the forever-captivating historical attractions around Dallas, Texas.