Deep in the heart of downtown Dallas, parents and children can embark on a zoological adventure spanning more than five continents, 14 countries, three oceans, and numerous seas and rivers. Several of the Dallas World Aquarium's exhibits are especially exciting for young visitors. Children will enjoy traversing the multi-story Orinoco-Secrets of the River exhibit, where numerous species of birds fly freely through the habitat. The outdoor Cape of Good Hope exhibit provides kids with an up-close look at the black-footed penguin. Children can walk into a 22,000-gallon tunnel aquarium, giving them a unique underwater view of ocean life.
The Dallas World Aquarium
1801 N. Griffin St.
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 720-2224
dwazoo.com
The Dallas Zoo offers children an exciting opportunity to experience wildlife. Children can spend the day visiting their favorite zoo animals, including tigers, lions, kangaroos and monkeys. Young children will enjoy the Lacerte Family Children's Zoo, which features interactive playscapes, exhibits and a petting zoo. Children can view zebras and other animals from the "Wilds of Africa" through a guided monorail adventure.
The Dallas Zoo
650 S. RL Thornton Freeway
Dallas, TX 75203
(214) 670-5656
dallaszoo.com
Children enter a world of discovery at the Museum of Nature & Science. Exhibits at the museum are kid-focused and provide children with interactive opportunities to discover the world around them. Highlights include exhibits on the human body, dinosaurs, farm life and digital communications. Young scientists will enjoy the Children's Museum, an exhibit designed to provide toddlers and preschoolers with a place to play and learn. The IMAX® Theater will entertain older kids with a thrilling and unique movie-watching experience.
Museum of Nature & Science
1318 S. Second Ave.
Dallas, TX 75210
(214) 428-5555
natureandscience.org
Kids will delight at the opportunity to explore the history of the railroad through unique and interpretive exhibits. Children can experience railroad life by climbing aboard Pullman sleeping cars, luxurious lounge cars and locomotives. The museum includes more than 30 pieces of railroad equipment including steam, diesel and electric locomotives, cabooses, historic railroad structures, and signals.
Museum of the American Railroad
1105 Washington St.
Dallas, TX 75315
(214) 428-0101
dallasrailwaymuseum.com
The Dallas Children's Theatre, a performing arts group focused on youth and family theater, is consistently ranked among the top theaters in the nation performing for youth. Its 58,000-square-foot facility, Rosewood Center for Family Arts, allows children to experience the excitement of live theater while enjoying kid-focused stories and themes. The theater presents a variety of performances based on beloved books and characters, as well as holiday-themed performances during November and December.
Dallas Children's Theatre
5938 Skillman St.
Dallas, TX 75231
(214) 978-0110
dct.org