COVID-19 shut down most of Texas for months, and we’re only now seeing some businesses reopening in limited capacity. Governor Abbott paused the phased reopening of the economy, so options for a much-needed escape from the confines of your home are few. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options for fun and safe things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth this weekend to get you out of the house. Here are six great ideas to keep you entertained in Dallas this weekend:
1) Go See a Drive-In Movie
Drive-in movies are making comeback! With a mix of new releases and old favorites, drive-ins and pop-up cinemas allow you to watch a movie from the comfort of your own vehicle and remain socially distant. There’s more than few drive-in movie venues in Dallas and Fort Worth, where you can bring a date or the whole family for a safe night out. Galaxy Drive-In is about a half hour south of downtown Dallas, and open seven days a week. Coyote Drive-In in downtown Fort Worth also shows a mix of old films and new releases, and has food and drinks available. They’re even pet-friendly.
2) Plenty To Do at the Park
Klyde Warren Park is much more than a green space to walk around in. Weekend fitness programs are starting up again, like Yoga with Dallas Yoga Center, Body Mountain Boot Camp, and Mindfulness Meditation. There’s even a Dog Park to let dogs run around and and socialize. Along with additional cleaning and disinfecting procedures, class sizes are limited, participants are checked for symptoms, and social distancing is enforced to keep everyone healthy.
3) Solve an Escape Room
If you’re looking for an exciting option that’s also COVID-friendly, an escape room is the perfect night out with friends, family, or a date. Escape the Room has two locations in Dallas and Fort Worth, each with a variety of themed escape room experiences. With strict coronavirus protocols in place for cleaning and social distancing, you won’t be in contact with anyone but the group you bring. Find clues, solve puzzles, and escape in 60 minutes!
4) Walk Among the Flowers
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden was listed at USA Today’s “Top Botanical Garden”, and they’re now reopen to the public. There are many individual gardens to explore, each with its own signature theme, and all of them breathtaking. They have modified their paths to allow for social distancing while enjoying the grounds. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, or you can even visit virtually via their website.
5) Try some BBQ
BBQ is huge in Texas, and there are some BBQ restaurants in Dallas-Fort Worth that have famously long lines to get in. There’s no safer place to eat than at home, so why not order some BBQ for pickup or delivery this weekend and skip the lines? Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum is open every day until they sell out of meat (and don’t forget the green chili mac & cheese). Check out Blu’s Barbeque up in North Dallas for brisket jalapeno poppers and Wagyu beef ribs. And if you’re in Fort Worth don’t miss Helm BBQ, called the “Gold Standard of Fort Worth BBQ” by Texas Monthly BBQ.
6) Hit the Trail
There are plenty of gorgeous hiking and biking trails in and around the DFW. Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is located right in the middle of Dallas, and has over 8 miles of trails through forests and fields, with some water crossings as well. White Rock Lake Park Trail is located on the shore of White Rock Lake, and is the area’s most popular trail. With hundreds of bird species, plants, animals, and amazing lake views, good luck not being distracted. And if you’re serious about getting out, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve has over 200 acres of beautiful grounds with both paved and off-road trails, while only being close to the North Tollway.
