Must-Visit Museums in Dallas

Aerial view of a historic red brick building with a clock tower, surrounded by modern buildings and streets in an urban setting.

Museums are truly a societal gem. They enable us to connect with history, with artifacts, with abstract concepts that might otherwise feel boring in a very real way. Museums help bring history and concepts to life with challenges, hands-on activities, life demonstrations and so much more. Museums are certainly a way to enhance a visit to a city and connect more with the community and people around you.

Dallas, Texas, is home to an exciting number of museums covering a wide range of topics. The downtown area alone has a handful of great museums that educate, enlighten and entertain visitors who are seeking to enrich their Dallas getaway. If your travels are taking you to the Big D, here are five museums you’re going to want to experience for yourself.

Five must-visit museums in downtown Dallas

  • Museum of Illusions. Recently relaunched with expanded illusions and interactive components, the Museum of Illusions is a great spot for anyone who has ever been fascinated by magic. See and experience some mind-bending illusions, capture some great photos and feel like an absolute magician at this magical spot. 
  • Museum of Money. Get to know your dough at this brand-new Dallas spot. Visitors of all ages can spend time learning all about the Benjamins and then some. You won’t want to miss the dazzling photo ops, interactive challenges, unique and interesting facts and more at this museum that teaches you all about what’s in your wallet. 
  • Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Take a sombering look at a devastating chapter in world history at this poignant museum in downtown Dallas. Learn about the survivors, the victims and the atrocities committed against humanity in a way that gives us hope of a better tomorrow. Though heavy, this museum is an important space for everyone to learn from and grow. 
  • The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Learn about JFK’s legacy and assassination at this museum set right near the spot where JFK left the nation too soon. Exploring the day that it happened as well as the culture of the time, this museum seeks to educate visitors on this terrible tragedy and the events surrounding it as well as the legacy JFK left behind when he left us too soon. 
  • Perot Museum of Nature and Science. A true gem in downtown Dallas, the Perot Museum is a space for all ages with floors and floors of endless fascinating exhibits, artifacts and interactive fun. From dinosaurs to robots, this museum has it all. Young kids will love the recently redone kids’ museum on the ground level and guests of all ages will appreciate the onsite cafeteria and gift shop after they’ve explored all the galleries. 

Dallas-area lodging

Headed to the Dallas area for these museums and more Texas-sized fun in the Big D, Cowtown and beyond? Book a stay at The Vineyards at Grapevine Lake for relaxing fun like you’ve never experienced. Located on the Fort Worth side of the Metroplex, The Vineyards is located on picturesque Grapevine Lake, giving you access to all kinds of waterfront fun. Rent a cabin or pull up an RV and plan to stay a while. Texas and Grapevine are glad to have you. Happy trails!