Top Rated Attractions in Dallas

This is a permanent exhibition of the tragic events leading up to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza opened in 1989 and is located in the Dallas County Administration Building (initially named Texas School Book Depository), the site from where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot the President. Displays include a moving overview of the time period and the life and accomplishments of the 35th President of the United States. Enlarged police photographs, news footage and audio tools allow visitors to learn about the tragic events of November 22, 1963.

As the cornerstone of the Arts District, the Dallas Museum Of Art holds a renowned collection of timeless exhibits. Permanent displays include ancient Mediterranean art, contemporary art, European paintings and more. A multitude of temporary exhibitions takes you on a thought-provoking journey. Previous displays have included everything from Degas to Picasso, the works of David Weisner, and myriad contemporary artists. Today the establishment is a highly-ranked American institution that lives up to its mission of showcasing human creativity and educating the community.

This fine collection of Asian art includes more than 300 paintings, sculptures and architectural items that were collected by real estate developer Trammell Crow and his wife over 30 years. Highlights include a 120-item exhibit from the Crows' 1,200 piece Chinese jade collection, the world's second-largest impeccable crystal ball (19th century Japanese), plus several Japanese paintings and antique Indian stone statues. Although some objects date from 3500 B.C, most are less than 400 years old. Adjacent to the museum you will find the Trammel Crow Center with its shaded sculpture garden. Admission to the museum is free.

The Nasher Sculpture Center on Flora Street is a significant landmark in Dallas. The gallery, designed by Renzo Plano, displays works by Rodin and Picasso. This monumental structure with glass ceilings is bordered by a beautiful garden. The works are just as striking as the building itself. Rodin's Eve is an excellent example of how a simple subject can be sculpted beautifully. Picasso's elegant sculpture, Fleurs dans un vase, uses a mix of materials and will mesmerize you.

One of the largest urban cultural districts nationwide, the Dallas Arts District is home to numerous performing and visual arts venues. Visitors will marvel at unique masterpieces on display in the district's museums and galleries. World-class culture abounds with ongoing art, music, drama and dance performances. The 17-block area also includes the Dallas Theater Center and the Cathedral Santuario de Guadalupe.

This museum, funded by the Perot family, explores both modern technology and natural history, from technical innovations at Texas Instruments to prehistoric Texan wildlife. Permanent exhibits include the Being Human Hall, the Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall, the Tom Hunt Energy Hall and the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall. The museum also includes a theater which features a rotating schedule of 3D documentaries. See their website for a list of theater show times and temporary exhibits. Be sure to stop and look at the Malawisaurus skeleton gracing the museum lobby.