Exploring Oklahoma with Children Dallas on a Dime Big city fun without breaking the bank + how local memberships turn into family adventures ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY ASHLEY GLASS . P lanning a family trip doesn’t have to mean long flights, big budgets or hours of “are we there yet?” from the backseat. For Oklahoma families, Dallas is just a short drive away, offering the perfect mix of new adventures and familiar comforts. It’s a city that feels big enough to explore but close enough to make a weekend getaway easy, even with little ones in tow. With a few budget tricks — like using Oklahoma memberships for discounted or free entries — Dallas becomes not only affordable, but the kind of trip that turns into a family tradition.
(LEFT) ASHLEY GLASS AND FAMILY. (ABOVE) DALLAS FARMERS MARKET
When creating our itinerary of things to do with kids in Dallas, we usually mix one or two “big” activities with plenty of free or low-cost stops that keep us entertained without blowing the budget. Our favorite budget-friendly stops • Klyde Warren Park sits above a freeway downtown, but you’d never know it. With food trucks, free concerts, splash pads and an imaginative children’s area, it’s where we love to let the kids stretch their legs. • Dallas Farmers Market is another family staple. It’s an easy place to grab lunch, pick up local treats and soak up a little Dallas flavor without spending much, plus there is plenty of open space for the kids. • The AT&T Discovery District and Victory Park (where the large eyeball installation is) are always buzzing with pop-up events, art installations and play zones, offering easy entertainment when pushing a stroller. • On nice days, we enjoy walking the Katy Trail . It’s stroller- friendly, lined with food stops and offers a dose of greenery in the middle of the city. It’s become one of my favorite ways to engage in a fun activity while spending intentional time in conversation on our walk.
A tradition that grew Every fall and winter, my family piles into the car and makes the familiar drive south to Dallas. What started years ago as a girls’ weekend with my mom and sister has become a family tradition with diaper bags, strollers and little ones in tow. Since my sister and I just welcomed new babies this year – including a set of twins for my sister – our next Dallas trip will be an even bigger adventure! I can already picture the chaos (& fun) of traveling with five little ones. Why Dallas works for families Over the years, we’ve learned a few tricks that make Dallas the perfect weekend getaway. It’s close enough for a leisurely drive but feels like a true change of scenery, and the city is full of budget-friendly ways to explore. There are plenty of wide-open green spaces where kids can run and play, plus budget-friendly attractions for families that make each trip feel unique.
58 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025
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