Affordable Activities to Do in DFW this Summer
Family Health
May 31, 2023
Affordable Activities to Do in DFW this Summer
Family blowing bubbles outside

Summer is back around and you may be struggling to find activities to make the most of those extra hours of daylight without breaking the bank.

Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable activities to do in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex this summer.

Visit Local Parks

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is home to many parks, which offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and other outdoor activities. Some popular parks include Klyde Warren Park, White Rock Lake Park, and River Legacy Parks.

If you’re interested in exploring the Metroplex’s many parks, read our guide here.

Explore Museums

Museums can provide a great reprieve from the hot temperatures while providing hours of activity. Many museums in the area offer free or discounted admission on certain days.

For example, the Dallas Museum of Art has offered free general admission since 2013; just make sure you reserve your tickets in advance. The Kimbell Art Museum of Fort Worth also offers free admission to its permanent collection, as well as discounted tickets to special exhibitions.

The African American Museum in Dallas offers discounted admission for seniors, students, and military personnel. The museum is also free on Thursdays.

Additionally, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science has discounted admission, and in some circumstances, free admission. You can take advantage of these offers at the Perot box office.

Some other options include:

  • Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth: The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth offers half-price admission on Wednesdays, and free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Amon Carter Museum of American Art: The Amon Carter Museum of American Art offers free admission to its permanent collection, and discounted tickets to special exhibitions. The museum is also free on the first Sunday of each month.
  • National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame: The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame offers discounted admission for seniors, students, and military personnel. Children under 5 are also admitted free.
  • Fort Worth Museum of Science and History: The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History offers discounted admission on certain days, including half-price tickets on the first Sunday of each month.
  • The Heard Museum: An excellent place for nature lovers of all ages, the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is located in McKinney and general admission is low-cost.
  • Explorium Children’s Museum: Located in Denton, the Explorium Children’s Museum is perfect for kids 12 and under, and admission is only $5 per person.
  • Nasher Sculpture Center: The Nasher Sculpture Center offers free admission on the first Saturday of each month, as well as free admission for military personnel and their families.
  • Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum: The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum offers discounted admission for seniors, students, and military personnel. The museum also offers free admission on certain holidays.

Attend outdoor concerts and food festivals

There are many outdoor concerts and events happening in the DFW area throughout the summer.

  • Concerts in the Garden at Fort Worth Botanic Garden: This annual summer concert series offers a variety of musical performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. Tickets start at $10 for adults and children 10 and under are free.
  • Addison After Dark: An Addison favorite, Addison After Dark is being held three times this year, and their summer event (Aug. 19) is Pints & Pups to help you wind down the summer fun.
  • Taste of Addison: In early June, sample all that Addison has to offer at Taste Addison. Experience national music artists, top-notch Addison eateries, wine and spirits tastings, special performances, and activities for the whole family. Adult tickets are $15, children 6-12 are $5, and children 5 and under get in free.
  • Klyde Warren Park: Klyde Warren Park in downtown Dallas offers free outdoor concerts throughout the summer, including their Summer Concert Series and Jazz Under the Stars.
  • Concerts by the Creek:  The Concerts by the Creek series takes place at the Watters Creek at Montgomery Farm shopping center in Allen and features a variety of musical acts. Admission is free.
  • Legacy Live: The Shops at Legacy in Plano hosts the Legacy Live concert series on weekends throughout the summer. Admission is free.
  • Cool Thursdays Concert Series at Dallas Arboretum: This annual summer concert series runs through June 29 and features bands from all over the country. Grab your lawn chair, pack a picnic and enjoy the sunset and let the kiddos run free.

Check local event calendars for additional free or low-cost options.

Visit Local Farmers Markets

Many cities in the DFW area have weekly farmers markets, which offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and other local products. These markets can be a great way to explore the community and support local businesses and even fight inflation.

Some local farmers markets include:

Visit Your Local Arboretum

Did you know DFW is home to two botanical gardens? The Dallas Arboretum and the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.

The Dallas Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden with seasonal exhibits and events. Admission is affordable, and there are often special discounts available. Summer admission is typically cheaper than regular admission and you can even get tickets for $3 in August.  

Overall, there are many affordable activities to enjoy in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex this summer. With a little bit of research and planning, you can find fun and engaging options that fit your budget.

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