Everywhere you turn in Dallas, it seems like you can find a park. Whether it is right in your own backyard or a little distance away, there are several options for parks and trails. We have rounded up a handful of resident favorites in different areas of the city for those who may be interested in walking, running, hiking, finding a new playground spot for families, or simply exploring the scenery.
Trinity River Audubon Center
A best kept secret tucked in Southeast Dallas, the Trinity River Audubon Center is a paid-entry park packed with various ponds and five miles of nature-viewing trails. If you don’t want to pay a fee, don’t worry! There’s an open and public trail with parking available before arriving at the Audubon Center.
The Trinity River Audubon Center is also the home of plants and various animal species, so don’t be surprised if you see beautiful red cardinals and other wildlife skirting around.
During the months of July and August, the center is scheduled to host $1 admission days; however, regularly entry is $6 for adults. The Trinity River Audubon Center is open on weekends from 9AM to 4PM, on Saturdays from 7AM-3PM and Sundays from 11AM-5PM.
Katy Trail
For many residents of Uptown, Katy Trail is a very popular trail option. The trail is built on an old railroad line, so it holds plenty of history and extends for three-and-a-half miles. Although Katy Trail is free and open to the public as a city park, it is maintained with membership contributions which offer some pretty sweet perks!
Katy Trail is open daily from 5AM to midnight.
Twitter: @KatyTrail
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Klyde Warren Park
No matter if you’re looking for a park as a resident of the neighboring cities or you live in the heart of Dallas, Klyde Warren Park is a must-visit park for the entire family. There is something for everyone to do and there are often fun events or classes scheduled. Enjoy morning yoga, evening zumba, or just a brisk walk around the park. Kids can play on the playground while parents grab a bite at the various food trucks stationed daily.
Visit Klyde Warren Park’s website for a full and updated list of free events and food trucks. The park is open from 6AM to 11PM daily.
Twitter: @KlydeWarrenPark
Dallas Arboretum
You will find vibrant flowers and lush foliage galore at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. While this park offers admission tickets for entry, if you’re looking for something unique and a change of scenery, this 66-acre park is a fantastic option. With 19 regularly manicured gardens, you’re sure to forget that you’re exercising and get lost in the beauty of nature and art.
Non-member admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $12 for children ages $3-12; however, if you’d like to visit often for walks, there are various affordable membership levels that fit any family size that allow for free year-round admission and parking. Membership prices also include Early Morning Member Walks from March 1-October 31 from 7-9AM. The park is currently hosting their August Dollar Days for $1 admission.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is open daily from 9AM-5PM and until 8PM on Wednesdays.
Twitter: @DallasArboretum
Lakeside Park
Also along Turtle Creek is the lush, green 14 acres of Lakeside Park. Perfect for quiet strolls or morning walks with a tranquil atmosphere, this is a excellent and accessible option for those who live in the Highland Park or surrounding areas. There are several walking paths, bridges that overlook streams and ponds, and whimsical teddy bear statues that are very popular with the little ones.
Lakeside Park is a city park of Dallas that residents may enjoy daily from 6AM-11AM.
If your park or trail adventure is part of an adventurous date, take a look at these additional, unique date ideas for the Dallas area!