Dallas offers a diverse landscape of attractions that makes it an excellent choice for big families with varied interests. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a prime example. With nearly two dozen gardens to choose from, this attraction has something to suit any mood. Relax with a stroll through the peaceful Nancy Rutchik Red Maple Rill featuring over 80 Japanese Maple varieties and several waterfalls. The Margaret Elisabeth Jonsson Color Garden is a riot of lively hues that's sure to energize your afternoon. At the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, kids will find engaging activities like the Texas Skywalk and Walk in the Clouds.
If you're looking for a stunning cultural destination, head to the Dallas Museum of Art. The museum's permanent collection features more than 23,000 pieces covering 5,000 years of human history. Rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to explore. Make a day of it and plan to stop for lunch at the DMA Café where you'll find locally grown products and farm-fresh produce in an assortment of filling sandwiches and salads.
Take a peek under the sea at the Dallas World Aquarium. The facility's massive walk-through aquariums take you around the world to destinations like the shark-filled waters of the Yucatan Peninsula and colorful reefs of the Indo-Pacific. Above water, you'll meet creatures like the Matschie's tree kangaroo, rock hyrax, black-footed penguin, pied tamarin, and two-toed sloth. Several denizens of the air reside here as well, including colorful parrots and toucans, majestic hawk-eagles, and bright flamingos.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must-see for history buffs. This museum chronicles the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy. You'll find period videos, images, and artifacts throughout the exhibit. One of the most sobering features of the museum is the corner window where you'll find a recreation of the crime scene surrounding the very window where the shots were fired.