7 Holiday Attractions Worth Checking Out in DFW
If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly activities to do over the holidays, we’ve got you covered. Below is a list of seven spots worth taking the kids to in the DFW area.
The Trains at NorthPark
Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm Nov. 21 to Jan. 3
One of our favorite holiday events, the Trains at NorthPark will celebrate its 17th year at NorthPark Center. The trains roll across 1,600 feet of track on a journey across America, encompassing more than 4k SF of train-themed environments with holiday decor. By visiting, you can help The Trains at NorthPark raise money for the children and families served by the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.
Holidays at the George W. Bush Presidential Center
Thursday, Nov. 19 - Sunday, Jan. 3
In 2003, Mrs. Bush selected “A Season of Stories” as the White House holiday theme and this year, the Bush Center brings those stories to life. Characters including Clifford the Big Red Dog, Harry Potter, the Cat in the Hat and more are on display at the Bush Presidential Center. This Friday, the center is hosting a “Deck the Halls” Black Friday Event featuring musical performances, holiday arts and crafts, and photos with Santa Claus. Check their website for additional holiday events throughout the month.
Holiday at the Arboretum 12 Days of Christmas
Daily Sunday, Nov. 8 to Thursday, Jan. 3, 9am to 5pm
Bring the kids to enjoy an interactive display of the 12 Days of Christmas at the Arboretum. Elaborate, 25-foot-tall Victorian gazebos displayed in the 66-acre garden feature costumed characters, adorable animals and famous winter wonderland scenes. This year, the 12 Days of Christmas includes an additional 500,000 lights and special evening showings Sundays through Thursdays, Nov. 8 through Jan. 3 from 6pm to 9pm.
Gypsy Scoops Holiday Movie Nights
Fridays at 6:30pm through Dec. 18
Gypsy Scoops, a popular food truck, opened up a storefront in Fort Worth, just in time for the holidays. The store will be showing free family-friendly holiday movies inside the parlor Fridays through Dec. 18 and will be selling a variety of holiday treats. From hot cocoa floats to red velvet Belgian waffles with peppermint ice cream (shown above), Gypsy Scoops has something for everyone.
Downtown Wanderland Park
Thursday, Nov. 19 11am, to Thursday, Dec. 31 9pm
Downtown Wonderland provides a variety of holiday events centered around the adage, “Eat. Drink. Be Merry.” This Friday come enjoy extended hours at several stores, a complimentary sushi roll and drink at the Dallas Fish Market, and free sliders at Dallas Chop House. Celebrate Small Business Saturday by visiting local shops and enjoy $3 mimosas at Green Door Public House. On Sunday enjoy half-price bottles of wine during dinner at CBD Provisions, a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar at Frankie’s (until 3pm) or live music and brunch at Iron Cactus.
Perot Museum Jerusalem 3D & Creatures of Light
Daily through Thursday, Jan. 3
Receiving international accolades, Jerusalem 3D takes viewers on a tour of one of the world’s oldest cities. Film-goers follow three young Jerusalemites and their families in addition to noted archaeologist Dr. Jodi Magness. The 40-minute film is narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch. Additionally, the museum features a unique exhibit worth visiting, Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence (shown above).
Crockett Square
Friday, Nov. 20 - Wednesday, Jan. 6
West 7th in Fort Worth has activities throughout the holiday season, including free horse and carriage rides from Crockett Square every Friday and Saturday 7pm to 10pm. Other highlights include a holiday open house on Friday, Dec. 4, breakfast with Santa at Rafain Brazilian Steakhouse Dec. 12 and 13, and holiday caroling in Crockett Square every Friday and Saturday night in December.
