There’s so much to do in Dallas – Fort Worth, but not everything that is interesting (and often free) is found on tourist brochures. Sometimes the best part of exploring an area is finding the treasures that are hiding in plain sight! Here are some that are definitely worth your time to check out.
- Foucault Pendulum in Hunt Oil Building (1900 N. Akard St., Dallas)
OIYS Staff Photo This incredibly beautiful pendulum balances science and art as it swings over an intricate mosaic consisting of 2,600 stone pieces. The lobby where it is displayed is open to the public. Be sure to refresh your memory on how the pendulum works beforehand!
- Texas Trail of Fame Markers (throughout historic Fort Worth areas)
Texas Trail of Fame The Texas Trail of Fame was established to honor individuals who have made a significant contribution to our Western way of life. Throughout the walkways of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, bronze inlaid markers have been placed in recognition of their achievements. These markers are patterned after a Frontier Marshal badge and inscribed with the honoree’s name. Country music pioneer Ernest Tubb was inducted in 2000.
3 Jubilee Theatre (506 Main St., Fort Worth)
Cheryl Coward/Flickr Founded in 1981, the Jubilee is the original home of African-American Theater in North Texas. Its mission is to create and produce theatrical works that give voice to the African-American experience.
- Glass Pyramid at base of Renaissance Tower (1201 Elm St., Dallas)
Lance Evans/Flickr Find this entrance for some food and other nearby structures through the rarely-used underground tunnel systems downtown.
- Coyote Drive-In Theater & Canteen (223 N.E. 4th St., Fort Worth)
Fort Worth Coyote Drive-In This hidden, four-screen outdoor theatre also features a full restaurant with a beer and wine bar. It even has ice skating in the winter!
- Bowlounge in the Design District (167 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas)
Dennis J./Foursquare This 12-lane, retro bowling lounge features vintage bowling equipment that was rescued from an older center in East Texas, refinished, and is now back in service. It also displays some fantastic retro art as well.
- The Samurai Collection (2nd floor of St. Ann’s School building - 2501 N. Harwood St., Dallas)
Craig K/Trip Advisor The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum opened in 2012 to house a collection of samurai objects. Its is one of the largest of its type in the world and is the only museum outside of Japan focused on samurai armor. The exhibit is free!
What secret spots would you add to this list of places to go or things to do in Dallas – Fort Worth that aren’t top touristy destinations? We’d love for you to share your hidden places in the comments below!
OIYS Staff Photo
This incredibly beautiful pendulum balances science and art as it swings over an intricate mosaic consisting of 2,600 stone pieces. The lobby where it is displayed is open to the public. Be sure to refresh your memory on how the pendulum works beforehand!
Texas Trail of Fame
The Texas Trail of Fame was established to honor individuals who have made a significant contribution to our Western way of life. Throughout the walkways of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, bronze inlaid markers have been placed in recognition of their achievements. These markers are patterned after a Frontier Marshal badge and inscribed with the honoree’s name. Country music pioneer Ernest Tubb was inducted in 2000.
Cheryl Coward/Flickr
Founded in 1981, the Jubilee is the original home of African-American Theater in North Texas. Its mission is to create and produce theatrical works that give voice to the African-American experience.
Lance Evans/Flickr
Find this entrance for some food and other nearby structures through the rarely-used underground tunnel systems downtown.
Fort Worth Coyote Drive-In
This hidden, four-screen outdoor theatre also features a full restaurant with a beer and wine bar. It even has ice skating in the winter!
Dennis J./Foursquare
This 12-lane, retro bowling lounge features vintage bowling equipment that was rescued from an older center in East Texas, refinished, and is now back in service. It also displays some fantastic retro art as well.
Craig K/Trip Advisor
The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum opened in 2012 to house a collection of samurai objects. Its is one of the largest of its type in the world and is the only museum outside of Japan focused on samurai armor. The exhibit is free!
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