Explore
You're in for a treat — DFW has something for everyone. Here are our favorite picks to help you make the most of your trip.
Happening Wedding Weekend
State Fair of Texas — at Fair Park
The 2026 State Fair runs September 25 – October 18, which means Big Tex is in town the same weekend as our wedding! If you're flying in early or staying a few extra days, this is a bucket-list Texas experience: fried food competitions, live music, carnival rides, and the iconic auto show.
bigtex.com — Plan Your VisitTip: Take the DART Green Line to Fair Park Station — parking gets wild on weekends.
Arts & Culture
- Dallas Arts District
Free museums, sculpture garden, world-class performances — all within a few walkable blocks.
- Dallas Museum of Art
Free general admission. One of the largest art museums in the US.
- Nasher Sculpture Center
Stunning indoor/outdoor sculpture garden. Closed Mon–Tue.
- Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Hands-on science museum — great for families and the curious alike.
- The Sixth Floor Museum
The JFK museum at Dealey Plaza. Timed entry — book ahead.
Food & Neighborhoods
- Deep Ellum
Live music, murals, legendary BBQ. Hit Terry Black's or Pecan Lodge for brisket.
- Bishop Arts District
Oak Cliff's walkable boutique-and-brunch neighborhood. Great for a relaxed afternoon.
- Klyde Warren Park
The beloved deck park connecting Uptown to downtown. Food trucks + open lawn daily 6 AM–11 PM.
- Legacy Hall
Massive food hall in Plano — dozens of choices, bars, and live programming. Great for groups.
- Katy Trail Ice House
Enormous patio beer garden right off the Katy Trail in Uptown. Pet-friendly.
Day Trips Worth the Drive
- Fort Worth Stockyards
Free twice-daily longhorn cattle drive at 11:30 AM & 4:00 PM. Pure Texas. Pair with Sundance Square for dinner.
- Fort Worth Museum Triangle
Kimbell (free permanent collection) + Modern Art Museum + Amon Carter Museum — all walkable in the Cultural District.
- Meow Wolf Grapevine
Immersive walk-through art world — adults and kids both love it. Book tickets ahead for weekends.
- Dallas Arboretum
Gorgeous botanical gardens on White Rock Lake. Pairs perfectly with a walk on the lake trail next door.
McKinney Local Guide
~38 miles from the venue · Recommended hotel hub
- Historic Downtown McKinney
Charming walkable square with 120+ shops, restaurants, and a free trolley Thu–Sat.
- Adriatica Village
Croatian-inspired waterfront village with dining and scenic architecture. Great for dinner photos.
- Heard Natural Science Museum
289-acre wildlife sanctuary and nature trails. Tue–Sat hours; free parking.
- Chestnut Square Farmers Market
Saturday mornings (8–12 Apr–Dec). Regional producers and a lovely square setting.
Visiting from out of town? The Visit Dallas and Visit McKinney tourism sites have full event calendars and more local tips.