Free and cheap things to do in Dallas without a car
Explore Klyde Warren Park, Arts District museums, Dallas Farmers Market, and the M-LINE trolley — all nearly free.
Edited by Karen Johanson | December 11, 2025
Dallas makes it easy to fill your weekend with free activities, from world-class museums to lively parks and local markets, all without ever needing a car. Stroll the Dallas Arts District, explore the Dallas Museum of Art for free, catch outdoor programming at Klyde Warren Park, and hop on the M-LINE trolley for a breezy ride through Uptown. Throughout the week, the Dallas Farmers Market buzzes with local flavor and budget-friendly finds. This guide highlights the best free things to do in downtown Dallas and beyond, all mapped for easy access via public transit.
Experience culture for free in the Arts District
Spend an afternoon exploring the Dallas Arts District, where culture and creativity are always within reach. Start at the Dallas Museum of Art, which offers free general admission with a timed ticket, though special exhibitions may require a paid ticket. Next, stroll to the Crow Museum of Asian Art, which is always free and open to the public. Klyde Warren Park, built above the city’s freeway, is your green escape for outdoor workouts, food trucks, and performance, with schedules posted online. Most park programming is free, but activities and times can vary, so check the calendar before you go. You can easily fill a day there, moving from gallery to green space with no car required.
Stay steps from Klyde Warren Park and the heart of the Arts District at HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection, where art-inspired design and a rooftop pool make your downtime as memorable as your day out.
Ride and roam on the M-LINE trolley
The free M-LINE trolley loops through Uptown, connecting you to Klyde Warren Park, the Arts District, and the city’s DART light rail system. The trolley operates seven days a week, 365 days a year — check the online trip planner or TripShot app for schedules, alerts and updates before you ride. Hop on for a breezy ride past colorful murals, local shops, and shaded parks. Pause at Klyde Warren Park for daily programming, then head north toward Uptown’s galleries and cafes. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all appreciate the convenience of exploring without a car.
Looking for the perfect base for your daily adventures? Choose Canopy by Hilton Dallas Uptown, where locally inspired design, complimentary Canopy Bikes, and a craft cocktail bar await you.
Enjoy budget-friendly mornings at the Dallas Farmers Market
Start your day at the Dallas Farmers Market, where The Market building is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, and The Shed open-air market comes alive on weekends, from 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Sample fresh pastries, browse handmade goods, and enjoy budget-friendly bites from local vendors. Afterward, take a short walk to nearby murals or green spaces for a no-spend photo stroll. Vendor lineups can change, so plan ahead for the best experience.
Stay within walking distance of the market at Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown, where complimentary breakfast and easy access to downtown attractions make your visit seamless and affordable.
Consult local calendars for free quick picks
For free last-minute options, check local calendars for park programming, museum free days, and neighborhood pop-ups. A simple itinerary might include a morning yoga class at Klyde Warren Park, a midday stroll through a museum, and an afternoon exploring public art installations. For the best experience, verify hours and event details before you go. For maximum flexibility, base yourself downtown at Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Dallas, where you will find a rooftop pool, Southern cuisine on site, and a location that puts you within easy reach of Dallas’ top free activities.
Discover the Design District for free
The Dallas Design District is a haven for art lovers, with contemporary galleries and interior design showrooms open for browsing. Dallas Contemporary presents the forefront of contemporary artistic practice and production for free, Thursday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. Visit their site for information on current programming and special events, including Third Thursday After Hours, pop-ups and workshops. Make your art walk easy with a stay at Hilton Anatole, where you will enjoy an expansive art collection and convenient access to the Design District’s creative scene.
Cheap splurges to elevate your day
Treat yourself to a specialty coffee near the park, a market snack for under $10, or an upgraded museum exhibit for a small fee. Many attractions offer free general admission with optional paid add-ons, so you can tailor your day to your budget. Availability and pricing can vary, so check ahead for current deals. For a value-forward downtown base, Hampton Inn and Suites Dallas Downtown delivers comfortable rooms, free hot breakfast, and a location that makes every dollar stretch further.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
Explore more in Dallas
In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to the Dallas Arts District
Spanning 20 square blocks, downtown Dallas’ cultural hub is the largest arts district in the country, attracting visitors with its museums, live performances and dining hot spots.
In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to downtown Dallas
With new works of public art, a walkable historic district and top-notch museums, downtown Dallas draws travelers from across the country.
In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to Uptown Dallas
Young professionals and families flock to this pedestrian-friendly neighborhood to explore new dining, shopping and entertainment spots galore.
More than the rodeo: The Best Things To Do In Dallas
A trip to Dallas brings a wealth of surprises for first-time visitors. Beyond the cowboy hats and country music, there’s a dynamic arts scene, huge green spaces and hip foodie neighborhoods just waiting to be explored.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration