North Texas offers a dynamic blend of entertainment, nature, history, and culture, making it the ideal destination for families seeking fun and meaningful adventures. With the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex as its heart, the region boasts indoor attractions, sprawling parks, thrilling amusement venues, and educational experiences.
This guide brings together the most exciting and family-appropriate activities to enjoy together. Whether you're planning a staycation or visiting for the first time, North Texas is ready to welcome you with open arms and memorable experiences.
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
https://epicwatersgp.com/park-information/slidesinfo/
Epic Waters is not just a waterpark. It’s a year-round indoor aquatic experience that brings tropical fun to North Texas families, regardless of the season. Housed under a massive retractable roof, this 80,000-square-foot venue features many attractions, including towering water slides, a lazy river, and an expansive children's play area.
The waterpark's consistent 85-degree temperature provides a resort-like feel even in the colder months, making it a go-to destination throughout the year.
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Location - Grand Prairie, TX
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Size - 80,000 square feet, fully enclosed
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Key Attractions - 11 water slides, lazy river, arcade, children's play zone
You can get your tickets here!
Grapevine Vintage Railroad
https://www.expedia.com/Grapevine-Vintage-Railroad-Historic-Downtown-Grapevine.d6238309.Vacation-Attraction
All aboard for a nostalgic journey through the past aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Operating on restored 1920s-era coaches, this attraction offers a picturesque and engaging way to explore North Texas.
Families are treated to themed rides, such as “Day Out With Thomas” and “Dinos on the Tracks,” featuring live actors, props, and onboard entertainment tailored to both children and train enthusiasts.
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Departure Point - Grapevine Main Street Station
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Route - Grapevine to Fort Worth Stockyards
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Experience - Scenic countryside views, onboard entertainment, themed characters
You can buy your tickets here! Just click here.
Dallas Zoo
https://www.expedia.com/Dallas-Zoo-Cedar-Crest.d6081105.Vacation-Attraction
Spanning 106 acres, the Dallas Zoo is one of the nation’s most impressive urban zoos and a leading destination for families. Home to more than 2,000 animals across hundreds of species, the zoo emphasizes conservation, education, and immersive experiences.
Visitors will be delighted by new additions, such as the “I Spy Butterflies” walkthrough garden and the updated Giants of the Savanna habitat, where elephants and giraffes roam in a naturalistic setting.
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Location - South Dallas, near I-35
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Animals - Over 2,000 animals, 400+ species
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New for 2025 - I Spy Butterflies garden, upgraded habitats
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Bonus - Monorail safari, Backstage Safari tours, live keeper talks
Buy your tickets for the zoo visit here! Click here.
Dallas World Aquarium
https://dwazoo.com/
Located in downtown Dallas, the Dallas World Aquarium is a treasure trove of biodiversity presented in an immersive, educational format. When families step inside, they are transported through ecosystems like the Orinoco Rainforest and the South Pacific, encountering sloths, exotic birds, and reef species in thoughtfully designed habitats.
The multi-level facility encourages exploration, allowing children and adults to discover the connections between land and sea.
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Featured Ecosystems - Orinoco Rainforest, South Pacific, Borneo
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Species - Sloths, manatees, penguins, toucans, reef fish
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Educational Focus - Endangered species conservation, ecological diversity
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Accessibility - Stroller-friendly paths, multiple observation decks
What are you waiting for? Buy your tickets here!
Klyde Warren Park
https://www.klydewarrenpark.org/
Klyde Warren Park offers an incredible urban escape in the heart of downtown Dallas. Built above a freeway, this innovative 5.2-acre park blends nature with the city’s vibrant energy.
The park features multiple playgrounds, splash pads, shaded picnic spots, and a rotating food truck lineup that caters to families on the go. Kids can run free while parents relax and enjoy open-air performances or community yoga.
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Size - 5.2 acres of green space
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Family Features - Playground, splash pad, lawn games
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Highlights - Spring Break in the Park, Movie Nights, Cultural Festivals
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Food - On-site food trucks and adjacent restaurants
You can see the upcoming events here!
More Family Favorites to Explore
Families staying in the area for an extended period or looking to add to their itinerary should consider these additional gems. Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor in Arlington offer thrilling rides and water attractions, with new family-friendly coasters set to launch in 2025.
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas combines science and fun through hands-on exhibits, 3D films, and fossil digs that captivate curious minds.
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Six Flags Over Texas
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Hurricane Harbor
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Perot Museum
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Dallas Arboretum
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Fort Worth Stockyards
North Texas in 2025 is brimming with opportunities for families to connect, learn, and have fun together. From the adrenaline rush of a water slide to the quiet beauty of a garden path, these destinations offer something unique for every family.
With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, you’ll create lasting memories in one of the country's most diverse and welcoming regions. Start exploring today! North Texas is ready for you.
