A view of downtown Dallas
Dallas, Texas, the eighth largest city in the United States, plays host to more than 27 million tourists annually and 1.2 million residents. With average summer temperatures hovering around 80 degrees, the city features its fair share of outdoor attractions, many of which are appropriate for children and toddlers.
Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo covers 95 acres of land, making it the largest zoo in all of Texas. The zoo serves as the home to the thousands of animals, including endangered species. Guests can view animals from the Australian outback, a gorilla conservation research center and endangered tigers. A children's zoo resides on the premises, offering pony rides, a play zone, an interactive bird exhibit and the Discovery House filled with games and crafts. The zoo remains open daily, except Christmas Day.
Dallas Zoo
650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway
Dallas, TX 75203
214-670-5656
dallaszoo.com
The Children's Museum at the Museum of Nature & Science
Residing just south of downtown Dallas, the Children's Museum at the Museum of Nature & Science features exhibits appropriate for toddlers. Comprised of five galleries, children can learn about the science behind urban farms, water, backyards, homes and individual towns. The museum offers a Little Explorers program which promotes self-expression through art and exploration through scientific experiments. The program is geared towards children, ages six months to four years.
The Children's Museum at the Museum of Nature & Science
1318 S. 2nd Avenue
Dallas, TX 75210
214-428-5555
natureandscience.org/dcm
Sandy Lake Amusement Park
Located 20 minutes north of downtown Dallas, Sandy Lake Amusement Park offers a host of attractions for children. The park features more than 60 acres of picnic grounds, including shaded pavilions. Guests will also find carnival rides, an arcade and a miniature golf course located on the premises. Guests can also rent paddle boats for a ride out on Sandy Lake. During the warm summer months, Sandy Lake Amusement Park opens its two massive swimming pools, although it does require a fee.
Sandy Lake Amusement Park
1800 Sandy Lake Rd.
Carrollton, TX 75006
972-242-7449
sandylake.com
Tags: Sandy Lake, Amusement Park, Lake Amusement, Lake Amusement Park, Sandy Lake Amusement, Children Museum