If you’re a Dallas native, you’ve probably had your fill of the city’s museums and botanical gardens. Here’s our list of top spots to get out of Dallas for the weekend.
Davis, Oklahoma – 2 hours from Dallas
A short 2-hour drive from Dallas and you’ll find yourself in Davis, Oklahoma. Just across the Texas state line you’ll find an outdoorsy mecca. Davis is home to Turner Falls, Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall. These 77-feet-high falls pool into a large swimming hole at the bottom – a great way to get cool after a long summer day. At Turner Falls State Park, go tent camping or stake a claim on a cabin. Turner Falls State Park is filled with 1500 acres worth of things to do. You can explore the cave systems or the eccentric stone buildings built in the 30s, Collings Castle. Before you start your drive home, spend some time at Cross Bar Ranch and do some off-road, two-tracking on your ATV, or rent one at the ranch.
Round Top, Texas – 3 hours from Dallas
If you prefer to stay in-state, Round Top, Texas is a quirky town just a 3-hour drive south of Dallas. Every spring, Round Top is an antiquing oasis – over 200,000 antique hunters descend to browse the offerings. You’ll find all sorts of shopping no matter what time of year you visit, though. Townsend Provisions is a cute shop located inside a farmhouse built in the 1920s. Stay at the bohemian flavored Hotel Rancho Pillow, an assortment of various accommodations on Sheila Youngblood’s 20-acre ranch. There’s a sheet-rocked teepee and even a mechanical bull – ride if you dare!
Palo Duro – 6 hours from Dallas
Finally, about 6 hours outside Dallas, you’ll find the epic panhandle destination of Palo Duro. It’s the nation’s largest canyon (after the Grand one in Arizona) and the drive won’t feel so bad once you’re standing in awe of a 120-mile-long canyon that plunges nearly 1,000 feet down below you. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are just a few of the activities you’ll find, and with nearly 90 miles of state trails within the park, you could spend a few days exploring. Some of Palo Duro’s most popular trails are along the canyon floor. For a restful sleep after your adventures, check out the luxury cabins located at Dove’s Rest and be spoiled by the lovely canyon view.
If you are looking for outdoor adventures or a short escape from the city, visit these top spots to get out of Dallas for the weekend.
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