Uncovering the Past in Dallas: 8 Historical Sites You Must Visit

Dallas is a city with an incredibly rich history. From its roots as a small farming town, to its boom in oil production, and finally to its rise as a major metropolis, Dallas has seen it all over the years. If you love history and are looking for some great places to explore, then check out this list of eigt spots you must visit in Dallas if you love history. 
 

Dealey Plaza 

This plaza is located in the West End Historic District and is best known as the location where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22nd, 1963. It includes the famous “Grassy Knoll”—the spot where many believe Kennedy was shot from. Dealey Plaza has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1993.  

Old Red Museum

Located in downtown Dallas, this two-story red sandstone building was built in 1892 and served as the first courthouse in Dallas County. Today, it houses artifacts from early life in Texas as well as exhibits about famous people who have lived or visited here such as Presidents George Washington, Theodore Roosevelt, and Dwight D. Eisenhower; William Jennings Bryan; Sam Houston; Andrew Carnegie; Thomas Edison; Houdini; Walt Disney; Gandhi; Martin Luther King Jr.; Sarah Bernhardt; Babe Ruth; Elvis Presley; Sammy Davis Jr.; Judy Garland; Lucille Ball; Marilyn Monroe, and many more!

The Hall of State at Fair Park

Built for the 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition held at Fair Park (which was built for the event), this building is one of the most impressive examples of Art Deco architecture in Texas. Today it serves as a museum showcasing artworks related to early Texas history such as sculptures by Pompeo Coppini and paintings by Frank Reaugh. It also houses an impressive library filled with rare books about local history. 

The Majestic Theatre

Located in downtown Dallas since 1921, this theater is an iconic landmark known for showcasing classic films like “Gone With The Wind” and hosting performances by some of the greatest stars of stage and screen such as Bob Hope, Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly. Visitors can take tours through this historic venue every Saturday which include access to backstage areas not open to public before or after performances. 

Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park

This living history museum invites visitors to step back in time and experience life as it was in North Texas during the 19th century. The village features over 40 historic structures that have been carefully preserved and restored, including homes, churches, schools, stores, and other buildings. Visitors can take guided tours or wander around the grounds on their own.

John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

The JFK Memorial Plaza is a peaceful oasis located in downtown Dallas near Dealey Plaza—the infamous site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1963. The plaza consists of two rectangular towers constructed from white concrete that symbolize the “open tomb” of JFK’s grave at Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors can pay their respects by leaving flowers or writing messages on one of the memorial’s many walls.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum provides an in-depth look into one of America's most tragic moments—President John F. Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963—from both a historical and cultural perspective. Housed inside the former Texas School Book Depository building (where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the fatal shots), visitors will find exhibits featuring audio recordings, photographs, artifacts and multimedia presentations that tell the story of JFK's life and death.

Texas Civil War Museum

Dallas played an important role during the American Civil War as it served as a supply depot for Confederate forces throughout much of the conflict. Today, visitors can learn all about this tumultuous period in U.S history with a visit to the Texas Civil War Museum which houses one of the largest collections of artifacts related to this era in all of America! Highlights include cannons from both sides as well as uniforms worn by soldiers from various regiments throughout Texas who fought for both Union and Confederate armies.

Where to stay during the trip to Dallas?

When you’re planning a trip to Dallas, Texas, the first thing on your mind is likely hotels and accommodations. After all, this is where you’ll be staying during your stay! To make it easier for you to find the perfect place for a visit, we’ve rounded up five of our top recommended hotels in the city. These five hotels will have something to offer everyone.
 

Sonesta Select Dallas Central Expressway

Sonesta Select Dallas Central Expressway is a great option if you’re looking for luxury accommodations at an affordable price. Not only does the hotel offer luxurious suites with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, but it also provides guests with a daily breakfast buffet each morning and an evening reception with snacks and drinks every Tuesday through Thursday. The hotel also has an on-site fitness center and outdoor pool for those who want to stay active during their stay. 

Dallas Marriott Suites Medical/Market Center

Dallas Marriott Suites Medical/Market Center is perfect for business travelers or those who need easy access to local hospitals and medical centers. This all-suite hotel offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, microwaves, mini-fridges, and plenty of other amenities that make your stay feel like home. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning as well as drinks and snacks at the evening reception Monday through Wednesday. Plus, there are two on-site restaurants that serve delicious food throughout the day! 

Hops And Hens Dallas

Hops And Hens Dallas is ideal for those looking for something out of the ordinary during their stay in Dallas. This unique hotel combines Southern charm with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access in each room. Plus, there’s a chic lounge area where guests can hang out and enjoy craft beers from local breweries or munch on tasty appetizers from the restaurant menu. There’s even an outdoor patio area that overlooks downtown Dallas! 

Cambria Dallas

Cambria Dallas makes it easy to explore all that downtown Dallas has to offer during your visit. This chic hotel offers bright and spacious rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access as well as an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals throughout the day! Guests can also take advantage of the 24/7 fitness center or relax by the outdoor pool area after a long day of sightseeing around town. 

Baymont By Wyndham Dallas Love Field

Baymont By Wyndham Dallas Love Field is another great option when it comes to finding accommodation near Love Field Airport in Dallas. This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access plus many other convenient amenities such as a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning! The property also features an onsite fitness center so that guests can keep up their workout routine while they’re away from home as well as an outdoor pool area perfect for relaxing before or after flights into or out of Love Field Airport!  

When it comes to exploring Dallas' amazing past, these 8 spots are must-see destinations for any history buff! From Dealey Plaza to Old City Park, each place offers something unique that will give you insight into our city's incredible past. So don't wait — come discover how our amazing city has evolved over time!