Established in 1963, the Museum of the American Railroad is a living preservation of steam-era railroading and has one of the finest collections of historic railway equipment in the country. Rare and unique pieces have been rescued and assembled to illustrate the importance of the railroads in America's heritage. The museum also presents artifacts for interpretive display to the public. A selection of massive locomotives is featured along with freight and passenger cars.
Off the shores of White Rock Lake lies the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The 66 acres (26 hectares) of lush, perfectly manicured landscapes hold a treasure trove of trees, bushes, and flowers that are sure to make anyone green with envy. The DeGolyer House, a 1940s-style Spanish mansion, is also located on the grounds. Tours of the house and its sculpture garden are offered. The Jonsson Color Gardens, A Woman's Garden, and the Lay Ornamental Garden are all exquisite features of the picturesque grounds.
White Rock Lake sprawls over 1,015 acres (410.75 hectares). It boasts picturesque picnic spots and recreational areas that provide great respite from city life. Numerous waterfront trails are popular among local hikers and bikers as well as those visiting Dallas. A complete loop around the lake takes about three hours. The adventurous can indulge in an array of outdoor activities on offer like fishing, sailing and, horseback riding. Bird enthusiasts have reason to rejoice, as the area attracts beautiful, exotic species. The panorama of verdant landscapes that enclose calm waters is the very definition of tranquility.
A visit to the Dallas Children's Theater is entertainment for the entire family. Introduce your little ones to the world of live theater by involving them in activities here. Classes are offered here, and are conducted by established artists. A number of excellent plays including Rumpelstiltskin, The True Story of the Three Little Pigs and several musicals have been shown here.
If you're looking for fun outdoor activities in Dallas, head over to Klyde Warren Park. Built over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway, this park gives city-dwellers a much needed green space. Dogs can run free through the water fountains in the dog park to keep cool. Concerts and other events open to the public are held here often. Bask in the sun, play some chess or ping pong, or take the kids over to the playground - make a day of it!
Your family will enjoy the great outdoors at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. It provides a tranquil place to escape the hectic city life for an afternoon. You will find untainted woods, meadows, a collection of native Texas trees, and a habitat for birds, fish, and wildlife. This preserve is connected through a series of bridges and ramps leading to a covered pavilion. You will find climbing structures and slides, plus a torpedo-shaped track ride, and a wonderful fake rock to climb.
David Dike Fine Art Gallery, in business since 1986, is located near the exclusive Quadrangle/Uptown shopping and dining area. David Dike has put together a delightful collection of 19th and early 20th century oil paintings. This includes an impressive group of Texas Regionalist and Texas landscape works, including those of Jerry Bywaters, Julian Onderdonk and Frank Reaugh. The gallery is housed in a ranch-style duplex.
If you are interested in tribal, Asian, pre-Columbian and ancient artworks, the Joel Cooner Gallery is a must-see. The gallery is located just west of downtown, near I-35 and Oak Lawn Avenue in the design district. Specialties include masks, sculptures, textiles, currency, weapons and jewelry from China, Japan, Africa and Asia. The art's authenticity is guaranteed and the staff is happy to update clients on current research regarding purchases.
While shopping the gallery district in Dallas, be sure to stop at Roughton Gallery and indulge your passion for fine 19th and 20th century paintings. Located just north of downtown Dallas, Roughton Gallery offers a wide selection of quality paintings including the works of Louis Aston Knight and Hovsep Pushman. The gallery was founded more than 60 years ago and has a satellite showroom in Los Angeles. Other services include appraisals, framing and installation.
Opened in the year 1965, Texas Hall is set in the University of Texas at Arlington’s campus. This 76000-square feet (7060.6 square meter) theater can comfortably seat thousands of guests. This state-of-the-art theater is perfect for hosting events like lectures, meetings, music concerts, theatrical plays and more. Some of the celerities that have visited here are Rihanna, Benazir Bhutto, Aerosmith and Pat Boone amongst many others.
Take a cruise on Lake Grapevine and watch as your cares float away. You'll board the Black Watch, a wooden ship with a sail that has a timeless elegance. Chart the ship and relax as you experience a trip like no other. The Romantic Dinner Cruise is the perfect cruise if you want to enjoy amazing food while watching the sunset with your loved one.
Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce exhibits a unique combination of business and community growth. The chamber is the initiative of a few businessmen who contribute to the growth of the society and also promotes educational activities. They provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to start on their own.