Dallas Arboretum: A Family Friendly Summer Getaway

One of our family's favorite summertime getaways in North Texas is the Dallas Arboretum. Situated on the east shore of White Rock Lake, It is the perfect spot for a day trip with the kids. The Arboretum has a unique blend of giant native trees and rare imported species growing together with magnificent displays of flowering plants from around the world. The beautifully landscaped grounds include pools, streams, fountains, water walls and reflection ponds. Facilities include food services, such as the seasonal restaurants, and the year-round dining terrace. As a premier venue for weddings, many parties rent facilities for the ceremony and reception. There are numerous seasonal events and cultural activities, such as concerts, street musicians and art shows. We make full use of our annual membership, returning frequently year-round.

Our typical day at the Arboretum starts with packing a picnic lunch and arriving about 10 AM. We stock a cooler with plenty of cold drinks and often start our visit relaxing with a few munchy snacks in the shade. Then, we head off to Texas Town where the boys explore and play with other kids in the miniature rustic buildings of a re-created pioneer town. On the grounds are a covered wagon, a Native American tipi and a sod house. In the summer you can observe corn growing in a small plot and there is a vacant lot where people can try their hand at plowing and hoeing the soil which, for some reason, my boys find irresistible. They also enjoy the hands-on nature and craft activities provided by staff and volunteers at the pavilion there. While I supervise the kids and do some art sketches, my wife, Jennifer roams the garden paths shooting photos of the plant and animal life. The trees and flowers are labeled with common and scientific names, and many have fascinating, informative plaques with notes on the plant's properties and uses.