Whether you’re looking for a spot to decompress after your 9-to-5 or you’ve just adopted a new pup and need a place to run around, Dallas is home to plenty of recreational spots and parks to enjoy. Ready to plan your trip to the park? Grab your shades and supportive footwear — these are some of the best parks in Dallas.
Downtown parks
Among the high rises and bustling activity of the city, you can enjoy plenty of what nature has to offer in the middle of downtown Dallas. Here are some of our favorite spots for finding some peace.
Klyde Warren Park, 2012 Woodall Rogers Fwy.
Built over the eight-lane Woodall Rogers Freeway, Klyde Warren Park is one of Dallas’ most popular green spaces. This 5.2-acre space includes something for everyone in the family, furry or not, including a full-size dog park, fountains, a children’s park, and plenty of walking space with abundant plants and trees. It’s easy to spend an entire day at this downtown oasis, as there are food trucks and a few restaurants. The park also holds events, such as concerts, movies, and fitness classes.
Civic Garden Park, 1014 Main St.
Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Civic Garden Park is meant to give you a respite from the constant activity of the city. You’ll find wide walking paths, benches, and plenty of seasonal flowers, shrubs, and grass to enjoy.
Main Street Garden Park, 1902 Main St.
Also located in downtown Dallas, Main Street Garden Park is a gathering place for residents and visitors to the city. Make a wish in one of the many fountains, take your toddler to the play area, or grab an iced latte at the City Park Cafe. Main Street Garden Park is a great way to spend an afternoon — with kids or without.
Pacific Plaza, 401 N. Harwood St.
Previously a surface parking lot, Pacific Plaza has transformed this portion of downtown Dallas into a true urban neighborhood park. Its 3.74 acres provide plenty of space for kids to play or for enjoying a peaceful morning. Cool down under the trees for a picnic, or take your dog for a walk through the park and enjoy the scenery.
Carpenter Park, 2201 Pacific Ave.
Dallas is a dog-friendly city, and Carpenter Park has its own dog play area where your four-legged friend can socialize with other dogs. Located on the eastern edge of downtown Dallas, Carpenter Park has a wide granite walkway with low lighting at nighttime, a food truck plaza for getting some yummy eats, and even a splash pad for cooling off. Feel like shooting hoops? Check out the park’s basketball court.
Nature parks
When you want to escape from the bustling city, nature parks and preserves offer a great local escape. Check out some of these nature parks.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, 8525 Garland Rd.
Dallas Arboretum is considered one of the most beautiful arboretums in the world, and it’s a must-do if you live in or are visiting Dallas. It has multiple permanent gardens to tour, including a Rose Garden with more than 200 hybrid tea roses of 16 different varieties. The park also hosts seasonal events, such as summer concerts, a fall festival, and holiday celebrations. Feel awash in color and beauty as you explore the grounds, and then grab a bite to eat at one of several dining options within the arboretum. It truly is an area of tranquil serenity.
Trinity River Audubon Center, 6500 S. Great Trinity Forest Way
Hiking enthusiasts will love visiting the Trinity River Audubon Center, located 10 minutes from downtown Dallas. It features five miles of hiking trails through the Great Trinity Forest, marvelous prairie views, and plenty of wildlife. Be sure to plan ahead, as advanced tickets are required to visit.
Cedar Ridge Preserve, 7171 Mountain Creek Pkwy.
If you’re in the mood for a hike, Cedar Ridge Preserve is a fantastic place for nature treks. Since it’s a preserve and not a park, certain activities are limited to preserve its natural beauty. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash, so it’s a great place to take your pet for a stroll.
Dog parks
Many of the parks mentioned above, especially the downtown parks, have dedicated dog parks within their grounds, but the options listed below are also great for exercising your four-legged friend.
Barry Annino Dog Park, 2445 Canton St.
Let your pup run around off their leash in this downtown Dallas dog park that features eclectic local art. Your dog can play in a fenced area with other pups and cool off in a dog shower. Barry Annino Dog Park is also within walking distance of several dog-friendly restaurants.
Wagging Tail Dog Park, 5841 Keller Springs Rd.
Enjoy stunning waterfall views at this large 6.9-acre dog park in north Dallas. You’ll find plenty of amenities, including a dog drinking bowl, picnic areas, and a large area for dogs to run and play with others. It also features a loop walking trail for taking a relaxing stroll after plenty of play.
Fall at the NorthBark Dog Park.
Photo via Chadriden
NorthBark Dog Park, 4899 Gramercy Oaks
NorthBark Dog Park is a pooch’s paradise and features everything your furry family member could ever want. An expansive lawn area provides plenty of room to play fetch and socialize, the doggy shower cools them off, and the pavilion with picnic tables lets you enjoy lunch together. This 22.3-acre park is off-leash, so pups can roam free.
Parks for sports
Samuell-Grand Park, 6200 E. Grand Ave.
One of the oldest parks in Dallas, Samuell-Grand is an 80-acre community park equipped with plenty of space for sports. Baseball and softball fields, a soccer field, and a driving range make up its grounds. It also has a playground, pool, and walking trails.
Lake Cliff Park, 300 E. Colorado Blvd.
This community park spans 44.5 acres and features a tennis court, basketball court, and baseball field for sports. A grilling area and a lake for swimming make it a fun gathering spot for families.
Your park grab bag
Picked your perfect park? Make the most out of your experience with our favorite items for a relaxing day outside:
- The Kindle Paperwhite is a lightweight e-reader option that stands up to bright sunlight.
- A good water bottle keeps you hydrated — we’re big fans of the best-selling Owala FreeSip.
- Heading to the park with kids? Check out the Owala FreeSip for kids.
- Don’t forget the travel-size bug spray and sunscreen.
- These sunglasses from Nordstrom Rack are available at discount prices + have a style for everyone.
