Dallas on a Budget

Dallas may have a reputation for glitz and glamour, but there's plenty to experience without breaking the bank.

Exploring Dallas doesn't have to break the bank! Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide will show you how to experience the best of Dallas without blowing your budget. From free attractions to wallet-friendly dining spots, we've got all the tips and tricks to help you enjoy the city's vibrant culture and exciting activities. Get ready to explore without spending a fortune.

If you're torn between heading north or south, why not do both? Spend the first day exploring the north, then head south on day two for a balanced adventure.

Updated: May 2025

Day 1

1Breakfast at Cindi’s

You can never go wrong with Cindi’s New York Deli and Bakery. Cyndi’s is a favorite among Dallasites who looking for the authentic flavors of New York. You can start the day Downtown with breakfast at Cindi's N.Y. Delicatessen and Bakery where breakfast is served all day! Splurge (in calories only) on the warm and buttery cheese Danish, or feast on your choice of pancakes, waffles or omelets – the options are endless here.

NORTH

2Celebrating Dallas Hidden Legacy

Freedman's Cemetery, established in 1861, served as a burial ground for Dallas' early African-American community and is one of the largest Freedman Cemeteries in the U.S. It marks the remnants of a once- thriving, segregated North Dallas community that flourished from the Civil War era until the 1970s. The memorial, built in the late 1990s, honors the significant contributions African Americans made to the growth and development of Dallas.

3Take a Tour, But Don’t Ask for Free Samples

The *Economy in Action* exhibit at the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank offers an in-depth look at how the U.S. financial system operates, with tours led by knowledgeable Fed employees who volunteer their time. Guided tours are available Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., while self-guided tours run Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure to pack a lunch, as the exhibit covers a broad range of important economic topics.

4Where Highways Meet Hangouts at the Coolest Deck Park in Town

Just a few steps away from the Federal Reserve Bank, you'll find Klyde Warren Park, a bustling hub of activities and entertainment. The park has expanded to offer a wide variety of things to do, ensuring you can easily spend hours there. Whether you're grabbing lunch from a food truck, joining a Saturday morning stretch or yoga class, enjoying story time in the park, or learning salsa at a dance party, there's always something happening. With a packed schedule of events, you might have a hard time choosing what to do first!

5Where History and Art Come Alive

Next, head over to the Dallas Museum of Art,a treasure trove of creativity and one of the largest art museums in the country, and the best part? Admission is free! With over 24,000 works spanning 5,000 years of history from various cultures, the DMA serves as a vibrant hub for community creativity, offering a diverse range of programs including exhibitions, lectures, concerts, literary events, and dramatic performances that resonate with individuals of all backgrounds and ages.

After exploring the DMA, immerse yourself in the serenity of the Crow Museum of Asian Art, also free to enter, and take a moment to enjoy its contemplative sculpture garden. The Crow Museum, part of The University of Texas at Dallas, is an ideal venue for exploring and discussing Asian arts and cultures through its dynamic exhibitions, research and preservation initiatives, and captivating artistic and educational programs.

7GO Where Tradition Meets Comfort

As you continue heading north, it's the perfect opportunity to indulge in some delicious food. A long-standing favorite in Dallas, Bubba's Cooks Country, located in Snider Plaza across from SMU, is renowned for its mouthwatering fried chicken. Housed in a former 1920s gas station, this Dallas staple has evolved over the years and boasts a consistently long drive-thru line, serving up comforting classics like bone-in chicken, fluffy yeast rolls, and creamy mashed potatoes. While you’re in the area, don’t forget to take a stroll around the George W. Bush Presidential Library for a touch of history!

8Unlock the Stories of History, Legacy, and Leadership

If you're want to explore one of Dallas' most significant historical sites, be sure to add the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to your list. This remarkable museum offers a deep dive into U.S. history through the lens of the 43rd president's time in office, featuring interactive exhibits and insightful displays on key events from his presidency. Pairing a visit to the Freedman’s Cemetery with the Bush Library allows for a rich exploration of both local and national history, offering a comprehensive look at the people, events, and decisions that have shaped Dallas and the country.

Day 2

South

1It’s All Good at this Cafe

You will want to start your day off with a hearty breakfast at a Dallas staple All Good Cafe in Deep Ellum. It opened in the 2000’s by owner Mike Snider, who was deeply involved in the Deep Ellum music scene, so it’s no surprise upon walking in that you’ll see music posters all around the restaurant.

2Vibrant Voices and Colorful Cultures

The Dallas Latino Cultural Center Art Gallery is a vital hub for the preservation and promotion of Latino and Hispanic arts and culture in the region. Opened in 2003, this vibrant 27,000-square-foot facility showcases a variety of rotating exhibits, including photography, painting, and mixed media, along with performing arts events and community workshops. With over 300 events held annually—some in the gallery and outdoor plaza, and others in its 300-seat theater—there's always something exciting happening. Popular annual highlights include the Hecho en Dallas exhibit, which celebrates the city's rich arts scene, and the Posada, a cherished Latin American tradition that takes place just before Christmas.

3Stroll South for a Cultural Journey

The African American Museum at Fair Park is the only museum in the Southwestern region dedicated to preserving and showcasing African American artistic, cultural, and historical materials. This free museum boasts one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the United States. Visitors can delve into a vast and diverse permanent collection, featuring everything from contemporary art to inspiring folk art down to centuries-old masterpieces to African art, Black Renaissance paintings, decorative arts, and period rooms.

4Wild Adventures Await at the Dallas Zoo

Just a few miles from Downtown, the Dallas Zoo is Texas' oldest and largest zoo, home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 400 species. Spanning 106 acres, visitors can see everything from elephants and giraffes to penguins and snakes. For a budget-friendly outing, plan your visit on the first Tuesday of the month when tickets are only $8 per person, making it an affordable adventure for the whole family!

5Unleashed Creativity in Oak Cliff

For a fun and enriching experience in Dallas, check out the Oak Cliff Cultural Center (OC3). The center offers a vibrant mix of art exhibitions, music and dance classes, workshops, and cultural festivals for all ages. With 8-10 exhibitions annually and artist-led workshops, OC3 provides a diverse and dynamic space for creativity, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the city's arts and culture scene.

6NOTHING ODD ABOUT ODDFELLOWS

After exploring the Dallas Zoo, head to Oddfellows in the nearby Bishop Arts District for a casual, comfortable dining experience. Located on a premier corner of the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff, Oddfellows offers a casual, comfortable dining experience with a chef-driven menu. Known for blending classic American fare with seasonal dishes, Oddfellows also boasts a specialty coffee and tea program, as well as a full cocktail selection. If you’re a breakfast-all-day person, their signature **O.G.**— two eggs, toast, and your choice of sausage, bacon, ham, or veggie sausage—won't disappoint. For dinner, try the **chicken fried steak** served with mashed potatoes, braised green beans, or poblano gravy, all while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere that makes Oddfellows a cornerstone in the neighborhood.

7Wind down your day at The Wild Detectives

A cool and budget-friendly spot in the Bishop Arts District is The Wild Detectives. This unique bookstore-bar venue offers an eclectic mix of culture with book readings, live music shows, tastings, and film screenings, all designed to spark conversation and creativity. It's the perfect place to wind down your day with a good book, a drink, and great company. Grab a drink, settle in, and engage with others in thought- provoking discussions that open up new perspectives and ideas—it’s the perfect place to hang out smartly and feed your mind.

Free Things to Do in Dallas

Traverse across Dallas without spending a dollar.

Need a Ride?

Check the schedule for Dallas’ light rail system DART and the free M-Line Trolley for convenient rides through the Downtown Dallas and surrounding areas.

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