If you’re looking for kid friendly things to do in Dallas in July, you have plenty of incredible, Texas-tastic options that will keep your crew entertained and maybe even wear them out by bedtime.
These are the 28 most kid-friendly things to do in Dallas in July:
The Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is a must-visit, with over 2,000 animals to see and lots of shaded areas to escape the heat.
Stop by the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo for hands-on fun. The zoo also offers a splash area to cool off and seasonal programming that changes throughout the summer.
Read our Guide to the Dallas Zoo
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum is a parent favorite because it’s both fun and educational.
Your kids can race a T. rex, dig for fossils, or build robots. It’s a great way to keep brains and bodies active indoors, where it’s nice and cool.
Attend a 4th of July Event
There are lots of family-friendly Independence Day celebrations around DFW.
Check out Kaboom Town in Addison, Red White & Boom in Frisco, or Fair Park Fourth in Dallas. Many include music, food, and fireworks.
Pack snacks and lawn chairs and arrive early to get a good spot.
Read: The Best 4th of July Events in DFW
Klyde Warren Park
Klyde Warren sits right in the middle of downtown and offers something for every age. Kids love the splash pad and playground, while parents appreciate the food trucks and shaded seating.
In July, look out for Summer Storytime and the Imagination Playground. Always check the park’s event calendar before heading out.
Crayola Experience
Located in Plano, The Crayola Experience is a North Dallas gem.
Kids can melt crayons, name their own shades, and create digital art. It’s colorful, cool inside, and completely hands-on. If you need something that combines art and air conditioning, this place is a win!
Reunion Tower
Reunion Tower might not be at the top of your list for the most kid friendly things to do in Dallas this July, BUT hear us out: This Dallas icon is more than just a view! Kids will love using the interactive screens inside the GeO-Deck, and you’ll get some great photos of the skyline.
Kids Summer STEM Days
Looking to sneak in some learning this July?
STEM camps around Dallas keep kids thinking while having fun. These camps usually fill up fast, but many offer single-day or weeklong options that fit around your summer schedule.
Read: The Best STEM Camps in Dallas
Trinity Forest Adventure Park
Families love Trinity Forest Adventure Park!
This outdoor ropes course is tucked into the trees just south of Dallas. Kids ages 6 and up can climb, zip, and balance through a series of challenges. It’s a great choice for adventurous kids, offering beginner to advanced levels.
Read our full guide to Trinity Forest Adventure Park
Dallas World Aquarium
From jaguars to jellyfish, the Dallas World Aquarium delivers more than sea life. The rainforest section is a hit with younger kids, and the feeding schedules help time your visit around the coolest animals.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth
Located in Grapevine Mills Mall, this indoor LEGO playground is packed with rides, a 4D theater, and build zones.
Best for kids under 10, it’s a great place to visit when the weather outside isn’t friendly.
Dallas Arboretum
This East Dallas favorite offers gardens, shady paths, and a children’s area with hands-on learning and splash zones. Look for special summer events like family concerts or themed programming at the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden.
KidZania
This kid-sized city in Frisco lets children try out real jobs and earn “money” to spend inside. Great for kids ages 6–12, KidZania offers over 100 role-playing activities in a clean, indoor space.
Parents can relax in the lounge or walk through the city with younger kids.
Go to an Arcade
Sometimes, the best way to beat the heat is with a good old-fashioned arcade.
From retro games to prize machines, there’s something for every skill level and age. Arcades are one of the best kid friendly things to do in Dallas in July that adults can also enjoy!
Check out our full list of the best Arcades in Dallas
Activate Dallas
If your kids are into video games and obstacle courses, Activate Dallas in Plano will be a hit. It combines real-life challenges with gaming for a unique indoor experience. Kids love the fast-paced environment and teamwork aspect.
Read our Guide to Activate Dallas
Visit a Nearby State Park
You can find cooler temperatures and lots of nature with just a short drive from Dallas. Check out Ray Roberts Lake, Cedar Hill, or Dinosaur Valley State Park for swimming, hiking, and shady picnic spots.
Read: 7 Best State Parks to Visit Near DFW
Splash Pads
Sometimes, you just need simple water fun. Great splash pads in DFW include Klyde Warren Park, Al Ruschhaupt in McKinney, and Altitude H2O in Little Elm. Pack towels, sunscreen, and snacks. Many are free and near playgrounds, too.
Read: 10 Tips & Tricks for Visiting Splash Pads in DFW
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Medieval Times is dinner and a show wrapped into one. MT is one of the most unique kid friendly things to do in Dallas in July.
Kids get to cheer on knights while eating with their hands. There’s action, horses, and a castle atmosphere they’ll talk about for days. Great for a special treat or group outing.
Dallas Children’s Theater
The Dallas Children’s Theater offers kid-friendly performances year-round. July often includes fun shows like musicals or fairy tales. It’s a great introduction to live theater and usually runs shorter than adult productions.
Plus, affordable ticket prices make it easy to take the whole family!
Frontiers of Flight Museum
Located near Love Field, The Frontiers of Flight Museum offers hands-on activities and over 30 aircraft on display. Summer is a great time to explore their camps and storytimes.
Read our Guide to the Frontiers of Flight Museum
Celebrate National Water Park Day
Did you know that National Water Park Day is July 28?
Celebrate at one of the many DFW waterparks. From packing to picking the best spots, here’s the best way to celebrate National Water Park Day in DFW!
The Dallas Farmers Market
Yes, it’s kid-friendly too. Saturdays and Sundays bring live music, food vendors, and open space for strollers and play.
Kids can sample treats or help choose fruits and vegetables. Some weekends at the Farmers’ Market include family-focused activities, such as crafts or petting zoos.
Galleria Dallas
The Galleria is more of a gathering place than a mall. In July, they often host Kids Club events, and the ice skating rink is open year-round. It’s a nice break from the heat and lets kids burn off some energy indoors.
Indoor Water Parks
Escape the sun but keep the splash. Indoor water parks like Epic Waters in Grand Prairie offer full days of fun. Some offer day passes and cabana rentals. It’s a smart option if the weather looks iffy.
Check out all of the Best Indoor Water Parks in DFW
Swimming Lessons
One of the best kid friendly things to do with kids in Dallas in July is learning a skill they will use for life!
If your child is still learning to swim, July is the perfect time to schedule lessons. Most places in DFW offer flexible summer schedules and indoor pools. Check out our full list of swim schools around Dallas for more options.
Here’s Where to Take Swimming Lessons in DFW
View our latest tips on Drowning Prevention
Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park
Explore the butterfly house, shaded gardens, and native plants at Texas Discovery Gardens. The gardens are a calmer spot for younger kids or a quiet afternoon. Look for storytime or special events like “Bug Days” that add even more fun.
Alamo Drafthouse
This movie theater makes family outings easy. They offer kids’ movies during the summer with discounted prices and special menus. You’ll love the comfortable seating and table service. Look for their summer kids’ programming schedule online.
Pro-tip: Really love films? Buy their monthly pass for unlimited movies!
One Last Thing To Do
When you’re trying to find the best kid-friendly things to do in Dallas in July, you don’t have to look far. Whether it’s splashing at a local pad or climbing high in the trees, Dallas has you and your kids covered all summer long.
Which of these have you been to? Comment below and let us know!