Where to Stay in Dallas with Family? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas and neighborhoods to stay in Dallas with kids and best family-friendly hotels in Dallas for all budgets and preferences.
Dallas is a major city located in the state of Texas, USA. It is the third-largest city in Texas and the ninth-largest in the United States. It is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, often referred to as the DFW Metroplex.
Dallas is a great place for a family vacation, offering a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and age groups.
Dallas has a range of family-friendly attractions that can appeal to both children and adults. Some popular options include the Dallas Zoo, Dallas World Aquarium, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Families interested in history and culture can explore sites like the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which provides insights into the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
The nearby city of Arlington is home to several amusement and theme parks, including Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor, which can provide a day of excitement for the whole family.
Dallas offers various outdoor recreational opportunities, such as parks, trails, and gardens. Klyde Warren Park is a popular urban park with playgrounds, food trucks, and regular events.
Families can enjoy shopping and dining experiences in areas like the Dallas Farmers Market or the family-friendly Bishop Arts District, which offers a mix of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport is a major hub, making it relatively easy to access the city from various locations.
Dallas is centrally located, making it convenient to plan day trips to nearby destinations, such as Fort Worth, which offers its own set of kid-friendly attractions such as Fort Worth Zoo, Sundance Square, and Stockyards National Historic District.
Where to Stay in Dallas with Family?
The best areas to stay in Dallas with family are Downtown Dallas, Main Street District, Arts District, Uptown Dallas, and Bishop Arts District. These are popular neighborhoods for visitors, offering a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and attractions for children of all ages.
Downtown Dallas is the best overall area to stay in Dallas for families with kids, especially those visiting the city for the first time. Downtown offers central location, easy access to major attractions, as well as the highest range of hotels, restaurants, and shops.
When choosing accommodation, consider factors like proximity to the attractions you want to visit, room size, amenities (such as pools, family suites, and kitchenettes), and reviews from other families.
Overview of best neighborhoods to stay in Dallas for family
| Main Street District | is the heart of the city and offers a mix of business, entertainment, and cultural attractions. You’ll find iconic landmarks like Reunion Tower and Dealey Plaza (site of the Sixth Floor Museum). Downtown Dallas is great if you want to be close to museums, historical sites, and some nightlife. |
| Main Street District | is a part of downtown that’s known for its historic architecture, theaters, and cultural venues. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in the arts and want to be close to theaters, galleries, and cultural events. |
| Arts District | A part of downtown that is home to several world-class museums and performing arts venues, including the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, and AT&T Performing Arts Center. If your family loves art and cultural activities, this area might be ideal. |
| Uptown Dallas | offers a trendy and upscale atmosphere with a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and bars. It’s a more residential area compared to downtown, providing a balance between urban conveniences and a slightly quieter environment. The Katy Trail, a popular walking and biking path, runs through this area. |
| Bishop Arts District | is a charming and artsy area known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and diverse dining options. It has a more relaxed and community-oriented vibe, making it a suitable choice for families looking for a neighborhood feel. |
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Dallas with family:
5 Best areas to Stay in Dallas with Family are:
1. Downtown Dallas
Downtown Dallas is the best area to stay in Dallas for families with kids, especially for those visiting for the first time and those traveling without a car. Downtown is the heart of the city, encompassing smaller neighborhoods such as the Main Street District and the Arts District.
Downtown offers the convenience of being close to major business centers, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options. This can be especially beneficial for families who want to have a variety of activities within walking distance or a short drive away.
Downtown Dallas is home to numerous attractions that can appeal to both adults and children. Places like the Dallas World Aquarium, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and Klyde Warren Park offer educational and recreational opportunities for the whole family.
Klyde Warren Park offers a playground, green spaces, food trucks, and often hosts various family-friendly events, concerts, and movie nights.
Visit the Dallas Farmers Market for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts. There are often events and activities happening, making it a great place for a family outing.
For older children interested in history, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza provides insight into the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. It’s located at the site of the Kennedy assassination.
Your families can visit Reunion Tower Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city. It’s especially beautiful during sunset or at night when the city lights up.
Downtown is well-connected through public transportation, including DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) rail and buses. This can make it easier for families to explore the city without worrying about parking or driving.
Downtown Dallas offers numerous family-friendly dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, barbecue, or international cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Many hotels in Downtown Dallas offer family-friendly amenities such as spacious suites, swimming pools, and play areas. Some hotels also provide special services for children, making the stay more comfortable for families.
Best places to stay in Downtown Dallas with family:
Luxury ($$$): Thompson Dallas, part of Hyatt, 5-star hotel, located in downtown, welcomes children of all ages. Children aged 18 years and above are considered adults at this hotel. It has an outdoor swimming pool and a 24-hour front desk. Easy access to major sights such as the Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas Holocaust Museum and Sixth Floor Museum.
Mid-range ($$): Hyatt Regency Dallas, popular 4-star hotel, featuring family rooms, great base for families with kids in Downtown Dallas. It has an on-site dining, seasonal outdoor splash pool. Short distance from Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station and Reunion Tower.
Budget ($): Mint House Dallas – Downtown, 3-star family-friendly hotels, one of the best places to stay in Dallas with family on a budget. Ideally situated in the center of Dallas, it offers luggage storage space and onsite Private parking.
BEST HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN2. Main Street District
The Main Street District is a great base in Dallas with your kids due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. It is a historic neighborhood located in downtown Dallas. It is known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
The Main Street District encompasses the area around Main Street itself, roughly between North Lamar Street to the west and South Harwood Street to the east.
The Main Street District is home to a mix of historic buildings that showcase a variety of architectural styles, including Art Deco, Beaux-Arts, and Renaissance Revival.
The district has been a commercial hub since its early days, with various shops, boutiques, restaurants, and businesses. Over time, the area has evolved to accommodate modern amenities while preserving its historic charm.
The Main Street District is known for its cultural offerings, including art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Dallas Arts District, which is located nearby, adds to the cultural vibrancy of the area.
The district features several parks and public spaces where residents and visitors can relax and enjoy the outdoors. These spaces often host events, festivals, and markets, contributing to the community’s sense of togetherness.
The Main Street District benefits from its central location in downtown Dallas, making it easily accessible by public transportation and providing convenient access to other parts of the city.
The district offers a diverse range of dining options, ranging from upscale restaurants to casual eateries. Additionally, the nightlife scene includes bars, lounges, and entertainment venues.
Best places to stay in Main Street District with family:
Luxury ($$$): The Joule, 5-star hotel, located in a central location, ideal base for families traveling without a car. It is within walking distance from numerous attractions including The Dallas Museum of Art and JFK Memorial. It has an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant.
Mid-range ($$): Renaissance Saint Elm, 4-star family-friendly hotel, located in the heart of Dallas, in the Main Street District. Short walk or Uber ride from major attractions including Sixth Floor Museum, John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial and AT&T Performing Arts Center.
Budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Dallas Downtown, great children-friendly 3-star hotel in downtown Dallas, easy stroll from Main Street Garden Park, restaurants and shops. It has a 24-hour front desk, a continental/ American breakfast, and an ATM.
BEST HOTELS IN MAIN STREET DISTRICT3. Arts District
The Arts District in Dallas is a fantastic area to consider for a family stay, especially if your family appreciates art, culture, and a vibrant urban atmosphere.
The Arts District is a vibrant and cultural hub known for its concentration of artistic and cultural institutions. It is located in the northeastern part of downtown Dallas and covers an area of about 68 acres.
This area is home to several major cultural institutions, such as the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
The Arts District is known for its walkable layout, allowing families to easily explore the various institutions on foot. It offers a rich array of experiences for art enthusiasts, theatergoers, and anyone interested in immersing themselves in the arts.
Additionally, the district often hosts events, exhibitions, and festivals that further contribute to its vibrant atmosphere.
Best places to stay in Downtown Arts District with children:
Luxury ($$$): HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton, 5-star hotel, located on Leonard Street, Arts District in central Dallas, offering easy access to numerous museums, theathes, opera houses such as Dallas Museum of Art and Crow Museum of Asian Art.
Mid-range ($$): Dallas Marriott Downtown, 4-star hotel located in downtown Dallas and within walking distance to the Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas World Aquarium, and Klyde Warren Park.
Budget ($): Homewood Suites Dallas Downtown, 3-star hotel, located in Downtown Dallas within short distance from the Arts District, featuring a heated indoor pool, games room with a golf simulator, Xbox game station and a billiards table is featured on site.
BEST HOTELS IN ARTS DISTRICT4. Uptown Dallas
Uptown is a great place to stay in Dallas for families looking for a more upscale and energetic atmosphere. It is a vibrant and upscale district located just north of downtown Dallas.
It is bordered by the Turtle Creek area to the west, the Cityplace neighborhood to the east, and the Arts District to the south.
Uptown is a sought-after residential area for young professionals and urban dwellers due to its proximity to downtown, entertainment options, and walkability.
One of the defining features of Uptown Dallas is its walkability. The area features tree-lined streets, wide sidewalks, and pedestrian-friendly environments that encourage residents to explore the neighborhood on foot.
Uptown boasts an array of boutiques, shops, and upscale dining establishments. The area’s streets are lined with restaurants offering diverse cuisine options, from trendy cafes to fine dining experiences.
Uptown is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. There are numerous bars, clubs, and lounges that cater to a diverse range of tastes.
The Katy Trail is a popular recreational area in Uptown Dallas. It’s a 5.6 km walking, jogging, and biking trail built on a former railroad line. The trail provides a scenic route through the city and is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Uptown Dallas benefits from its proximity to major thoroughfares and public transportation options. The McKinney Avenue Trolley, a vintage streetcar line, runs through the area and connects it to downtown Dallas.
Uptown Dallas is generally considered a safe and well-maintained area, making it a comfortable choice for families concerned about safety.
Best places to stay in Uptown Dallas for family with kids:
Luxury ($$$): Hotel Crescent Court, 5-star hotel located in Uptown Dallas, short distance from American Airlines Center, Victory Station, and easy access to Downtown Dallas, featuring a year-round outdoor pool and spa center.
Luxury ($$$): Locale Victory Park – Dallas, 5-star family-friendly accommodation, located a short stroll from American Airlines Center. It features air-conditioned rooms, outdoor fireplace.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel ZaZa Dallas, 4-star hotel located in Uptown Dallas, featuring a full-service spa, the state-of-the-art fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Budget ($): Canopy By Hilton Dallas Uptown, great hotel in Uptown Dallas, featuring rooms with a desk, private bathroom, and a seating area.
BEST HOTELS IN UPTOWN DALLAS5. Bishop Arts District
The Bishop Arts District is a unique and artsy neighborhood with a lively atmosphere, located just southwest of downtown. It’s known for its independent boutiques, art galleries, and diverse dining options, making it a charming spot for families to explore.
Bishop Arts District is also close to the Dallas Zoo, offers a wide array of animals and exhibits that can provide an enjoyable day for the whole family.
Best places to stay in Bishop Arts District with family:
- Mid-range ($$): Bishop Arts Hotel
- Budget ($): The Bishop Arts Hotel By Bluelofts
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Summary – Where to Stay in Dallas with kids?
In conclusion, Downtown Dallas, Main Street District, Arts District, Uptown Dallas, and Bishop Arts District are the best places to stay in Dallas for families with kids. Each area has its own charm and offerings, so consider what aligns best with your family’s preferences.
If you’re looking for convenience and easy access to major attractions, staying in downtown Dallas might be best. If you prefer a more artistic and cultural experience, the Arts District could be a great fit.
Uptown Dallas offers a mix of urban and residential vibes, while the Bishop Arts District provides a more bohemian atmosphere.
Regardless of where you choose to stay, Dallas has a well-connected transportation system, making it relatively easy to explore various neighborhoods even if you’re not staying right in the heart of them.