When in Texas, you’ve got to think big—as in big fun. Grapevine is a charming little town situated between Dallas and Fort Worth and offers plenty to do.

Grapevine, Texas, is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering a wide range of activities and attractions to keep young ones entertained and excited. Start your adventure at Grapevine's historic Main Street, where charming shops and restaurants set the stage for a leisurely stroll. The Grapevine Vintage Railroad provides an opportunity to step back in time with a scenic ride on a vintage locomotive. With beautiful parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly events, Grapevine ensures a delightful and unforgettable visit for kids of all ages.

From big theme parks to rustic rural charm, there’s something for every family. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Grapevine to keep your family entertained. Go big or go home, right?

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Things To Do In Dallas, Texas

Entertainment

Dallas serves as the entertainment capital of North Texas, offering world-class attractions that blend thrilling experiences with family-friendly fun. From immersive art installations to unique aquatic adventures, the city provides diverse entertainment options that create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.

1. Great Wolf Lodge | Grapevine

Experience the ultimate family resort destination featuring an expansive 84,000-square-foot indoor water park that maintains a perfect temperature year-round.

The lodge offers thrilling water attractions including the Howlin' Tornado multi-level funnel, Wolf Tail body slide, and the relaxing Crooked Creek lazy river, ensuring excitement for all ages. Beyond the aquatic adventures, families can enjoy interactive experiences like MagiQuest wand adventure, mini golf, arcade games, and seasonal craft activities. The resort's themed family suites provide comfortable accommodations with convenient amenities like microwaves and mini-fridges, while on-site dining options cater to every taste.

Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine serves as the perfect home base for exploring the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, combining luxury accommodations with endless entertainment options. The resort's commitment to creating magical memories makes it the premier family destination in North Texas.

2. Dallas World Aquarium

Explore one of the world's most unique aquatic experiences, featuring immersive exhibits that recreate entire ecosystems from rainforests to coral reefs. This renowned attraction combines marine life with exotic birds, mammals, and reptiles in naturalistic habitats that transport visitors to different corners of the globe.

Sports

Dallas proudly hosts some of the most exciting professional sports venues in America, where world-class athletes compete in state-of-the-art facilities. The city's passionate sports culture creates electric atmospheres for baseball games that provide unforgettable experiences for families and sports enthusiasts alike.

1. American Airline Center

Home of the Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks, plus host to concerts, special events and more. Get a list of upcoming events here!

2. Globe Life Field

Experience America's pastime at this state-of-the-art stadium, home to the Texas Rangers and featuring a retractable roof for year-round comfort. The modern ballpark offers premium dining options, interactive fan experiences, and stunning views of the Dallas skyline from its upper levels.

Museums, History, & Memorials

Dallas proudly preserves its rich heritage through world-class museums and historic landmarks that tell the story of Texas and the American West. From pioneer history to presidential legacies, the city offers educational experiences that bring the past to life for visitors of all ages.

1. Pioneer Plaza

Witness the world's largest bronze monument featuring a dramatic cattle drive scene with 40 life-sized bronze steers and three cowboys. This impressive outdoor sculpture captures the spirit of the Old West and serves as a tribute to the cattle drives that helped build Dallas into a major city.

2. Old Red Museum

Discover Dallas County's fascinating history in this beautifully restored 1892 courthouse, now serving as a museum dedicated to local heritage. The stunning Romanesque Revival architecture houses interactive exhibits that chronicle the area's transformation from frontier settlement to modern metropolis.

Nature & Outdoor Attractions

Dallas surprises visitors with its abundance of green spaces and natural beauty, offering peaceful retreats from urban excitement. These carefully designed parks and gardens provide families with opportunities to explore native Texas landscapes and enjoy outdoor recreation in the heart of the city.

1. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Stroll through 66 acres of stunning seasonal displays featuring millions of flowers, themed gardens, and scenic views of White Rock Lake. This world-renowned botanical garden hosts seasonal festivals and offers educational programs that celebrate the beauty of horticulture and nature.

2. Klyde Warren Park

Enjoy this innovative 5.2-acre park built over a freeway, connecting downtown Dallas with the Arts District through green space and family activities. The park features food trucks, fitness classes, live music, and children's programming that creates a vibrant community gathering place.

Arts & Culture

Dallas stands as a premier cultural destination in the American South, boasting world-class museums and artistic venues that rival major international cities. The city's thriving arts scene encompasses everything from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, providing enriching experiences for culture enthusiasts.

1. Dallas Museum of Art

Explore one of the largest art museums in the United States, featuring an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years of human creativity from around the globe. The museum's diverse exhibitions include ancient artifacts, contemporary masterpieces, and interactive galleries that engage visitors of all ages.

2. Dallas Contemporary

Experience cutting-edge contemporary art in this dynamic, non-collecting institution that showcases emerging and established artists through rotating exhibitions. The museum focuses on experimental and thought-provoking works that challenge traditional artistic boundaries and spark meaningful conversations.

3. Nasher Sculpture Center

Discover an extraordinary collection of modern and contemporary sculptures displayed in both intimate indoor galleries and a stunning outdoor garden. This architectural gem houses works by renowned artists like Picasso, Rodin, and Calder in a serene setting designed by Renzo Piano.

Things To Do In Grapevine, TX

Grapevine offers an incredible blend of family entertainment and historic charm, making it the perfect destination for guests staying at Great Wolf Lodge. This vibrant Texas city features world-class attractions, unique shopping experiences, and year-round festivals that celebrate everything from wine to local culture.

1. SEALIFE

Once you've gotten a taste of Great Wolf Lodge, we suggest you check out the next destination on our list.

At SEALIFE your family can feed live stingrays and see thousands of sea creatures. They can also join the Sea Turtle Rescue Team through the all new Sea Turtle Rescue Center, where guests can experience the process of successfully rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles.

It’s a trip everyone will love, no matter their age. Tip: Book online for the best deals.

2. Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Ever wanted to step back in time? Look no further than the Grapevine Vintage Railroad!

This family-oriented attraction is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Grapevine. There, you'll be invited aboard an authentic 1920's Victorian coach. Take note of historical sites and other interesting places you'll pass along the way!

Check out the official site to keep up to date on special events happening throughout the year. Around Christmas, you'll find the North Pole Express -- an annual favorite presented by Great Wolf Lodge! The Jazz Wine Trains are also worth checking out.

One this adults-only railroad ride, you'll be able to sample eight selections of wine from Grapevine winery tasting rooms.

3. Grapevine Historic Main St.

If we're talking about Grapevine's historic downtown then we definitely need to talk about its more central, standout feature -- Main Street!

This area is not only incredibly walkable, but filled with things to do. Check out some of Grapevine's original boutiques, live entertainment venues, restaurants, art galleries and more.

4. Lake Grapevine

Beautiful Lake Grapevine is your go-to place for boating (pontoon, canoe, and kayak rentals are available), waterskiing, windsurfing, fishing, hiking, biking, and camping.

If your kids need to burn off some energy, take a hike on the more than 19 miles of wilderness trails!

5. Peppa Pig World of Play

If you're planning on traveling with young kids, you'll want to fit this stop into the vacation. Peppa Pig World of Play is a new indoor play attraction for pre-school children and their families.

There are 14 different themed areas created from the hit animation series to help bring things to life.

6. Palace Arts Center

Located in Grapevine's historic downtown, this theater has been around since the 1940's! Here, you'll find feature performances, movies, visual arts and more.

Parties and receptions are also held at the location, so keep that in mind if you need a place to host a special occasion!

7. LEGOLAND

Inside the LEGOLAND^® Discovery Center, Dallas Fort Worth, you’ll enjoy incredible driving adventures in an off-road LEGO vehicle, ride into the unknown on dragons, construct intricate buildings and vehicles, see the local area in astonishing miniature detail in LEGO^® MINILAND^®, experience an extra dimension of entertainment in the LEGO Studios 4D cinema and, most of all, discover the power of your own imagination!

8. Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center

If you haven't booked your hotel yet, think about spending a night or two of vacation at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center. Celebrated for offering guests a "true taste of Texas," the hotel provides an amazing view of downtown Grapevine.

It also boasts four and a half acres of indoor gardens, indoor-outdoor pools, a spa and salon as well as 52-foot television at the Texas Station's barbecue joint!

9. Vetro Gasblowing

Looking for more things to do in Grapevine, Texas? Reserve ahead of time for this totally unique experience where your whole family can learn about glassblowing and make their own art.

All ages are welcome, but visitors must be 14 to assist in glassblowing.

10. Grapevine Botanical Gardens

Grapevine Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem that’s beautiful no matter the season -- plus it’s free, and open from dawn to dusk 365 days a year.

The park has walking trails, a butterfly sanctuary, koi ponds, and of course, hundreds of plants and flowers to delight your senses.

It’s a great place to take family photos, too, so go and check that holiday card photo off your to-do list!

11. Just For Fun

Just For Fun offers a variety of watercraft rentals including late model wave runners, ski boats and pontoon boats. Just for Fun also specializes in Party Barges for groups up to 100 people.

Perfect for any occasion.

12. Grapevine Glockenspiel Clock Tower

This unique clock tower, located in The Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau Headquarters, might be your first stop. And if you happen to visit on any day at 10am, noon, 2pm, 4pm, or 6pm, you’ll spot two larger-than-life, 9-foot tall Glockenspiel characters.

Known as the Would-Be Train Robbers, they perform what might just be the perfect heist!

13. Messina Hof

If you want to check out this popular winery, you'll have to head back into the city's downtown historic district.

Located inside the Wallis Hotel (which was originally built back in 1891), the urban winery features multiple tasting rooms with 40 different wines, tastings and premium flights.

Don't forget to take a photo with the "Sidewalk Judge" statue, who sits on the park bench outside, before you go!

14. Grapevine Mills

The largest outlet shopping destination in all of North Texas just so happens to be located right off the Grapevine Mills Pkwy. Here you'll find amazing deals across over 180 stores.

This outlet is also home to Sea Life Aquarium, Legoland, Peppa Pig World of Play and other amazing attractions.

15. Nash Farm

A free and fun family favorite, Nash Farm brings the past to life through its historic farmhouse, barn, and cemetery, plus ongoing seasonal hands-on activities presented by Nash Farm staff and volunteers.

Their lively presentation will help your family learn about farming as well as local sources of food and water. Check for special events before you go, pack a picnic, and enjoy!

16. Settlement to City Museums

Have you ever wondered what life in a small town in Texas was like over 100 years ago? Map out some of the city's oldest standing buildings.

Take a tour of the Keeling House, originally built in 1888. Inside the building you'll see nostalgic items from Grapevine's police and fire departments alongside other sentimental artifacts from the city of Grapevine.

From there you can head over to the Grapevine Historical Museum, where you can explore the cultural and family life of early Grapevine residents.

Exhibits include a trip through Grandmas attic, restored wedding gowns, farm and dairy life and much more. Of all the destinations on our list, this is one you won't want to miss!

17. Meow Wolf Grapevine's The Real Unreal

Step into an otherworldly immersive art experience at Meow Wolf's newest permanent installation, featuring mind-bending interactive exhibits and surreal environments. This 26,000-square-foot space combines cutting-edge technology with imaginative storytelling, offering visitors the chance to explore mysterious portals, solve puzzles, and discover hidden secrets throughout multiple interconnected rooms that challenge reality itself.

Things To Do In Fort Worth, TX

Fort Worth seamlessly blends authentic cowboy culture with modern attractions, offering families an exciting day trip just 30 minutes from Great Wolf Lodge. Known as "Where the West Begins," this dynamic city features world-renowned museums, historic stockyards, and entertainment venues that showcase both Texas heritage and contemporary arts.

1. Texas Motor Speedway

Texas Motor Speedway has evolved into one of the key tracks on the NASCAR circuit. The one and a half mile tri-oval in Fort Worth is famous for the cowboy hats it gives to its winners.

Winners include: Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tony Stewart, Matt Kenseth, Mark Martin, Dale Jarrett, Jeff Burton and Carl Edwards.

2. Bear Creek Golf Club

Bear Creek Golf Club is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's favorite classic golf courses.

Designed by the distinguished Ted Robinson and now proudly managed by Billy Casper Golf, Bear Creek is a great place to learn, practice and play golf.

3. Fort Worth Zoo

Discover one of the top-rated zoos in the nation, home to over 7,000 animals representing more than 540 species from around the world. This award-winning zoo features innovative exhibits like the acclaimed African Savanna and interactive experiences that provide educational entertainment for families visiting the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Things To Do In Arlington, TX

Arlington serves as the entertainment capital of North Texas, hosting major sporting events and thrilling theme park adventures within 45 minutes of Great Wolf Lodge. This exciting city sits perfectly between Dallas and Fort Worth, offering families access to professional sports venues, world-class amusement parks, and diverse dining experiences.

1. AT&T Stadium

Home to the Dallas Cowboys, this architectural marvel features a retractable roof and the world's largest high-definition video screen. The stadium offers guided tours year-round, allowing visitors to explore the field, locker rooms, and premium spaces while learning about America's Team.

2. Six Flags Over Texas

Experience heart-pounding thrills at the original Six Flags theme park, featuring over 45 rides and attractions including world-class roller coasters and family-friendly adventures. The park offers seasonal events, live entertainment, and dining options that make it a perfect full-day destination for families seeking excitement.

3. Choctaw Stadium

This multi-purpose venue hosts concerts, sporting events, and special attractions throughout the year, providing diverse entertainment options for visitors. Originally built as a baseball stadium, the facility now offers flexible event spaces and has become a premier destination for live music and community celebrations.

Things To Do In Plano, TX

Plano combines suburban charm with sophisticated attractions, offering families peaceful outdoor recreation and upscale shopping experiences just 45 minutes from Great Wolf Lodge. This thriving city features beautiful parks, interactive entertainment venues, and premium retail destinations that cater to all ages.

1. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve

Explore 200 acres of pristine North Texas landscape featuring hiking trails, observation towers, and diverse wildlife habitats. This family-friendly preserve offers paved walkways, natural surface trails, and educational opportunities that connect visitors with the region's native ecosystems.

2. Activate Games

Challenge your family to high-tech interactive adventures combining physical activity with digital gaming technology. This innovative entertainment venue features motion-activated challenges, team-based competitions, and immersive experiences that blend real-world movement with virtual reality elements.

3. The Shops at Legacy East

Discover upscale shopping and dining in this open-air lifestyle center featuring premium retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The beautifully designed complex offers family-friendly dining options, regular events, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for leisurely exploration.

Things To Do In Irving, TX

Irving provides a perfect blend of cultural attractions and modern entertainment, featuring unique experiences within 30 minutes of Great Wolf Lodge. This diverse city offers waterfront dining, world-class music venues, and artistic destinations that showcase the best of contemporary Texas culture.

1. Mandalay Canal Walk at Las Colinas

Stroll along this scenic waterway featuring beautiful landscaping, public art installations, and waterfront dining options. The canal system offers boat tours, walking paths, and regular events that create a European-inspired atmosphere in the heart of Texas.

2. Toyota Music Factory

Experience live entertainment at this state-of-the-art venue hosting major concerts, festivals, and special events throughout the year. The complex features multiple performance spaces, restaurants, and bars that create a vibrant entertainment district perfect for date nights or family outings.

3. Irving Arts Center

Discover diverse cultural programming including theater performances, art exhibitions, and educational workshops for all ages. This premier arts facility features multiple galleries, performance spaces, and hands-on activities that celebrate creativity and provide enriching experiences for families.

Other Things To Do In Texas Near Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine

The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex offers endless entertainment possibilities within easy driving distance of Great Wolf Lodge, from world-famous museums to outdoor adventures. This diverse region provides families with opportunities to explore everything from cutting-edge science centers to historic cultural districts, ensuring every day of your stay offers new discoveries and memorable experiences.

1. Southlake Town Square

Town Square has established itself as an activity hub for the City of Southlake as well as its surrounding communities.

With so many places to shop, work and receive services, it was only natural that Town Square would evolve into a community-gathering place for events and entertainment.

2. Lake Lewisville

Lewisville Lake is a Corps of Engineers reservoir popular for water sports and outdoor recreation featuring picnic areas, pavilions, and 24-hour fishing barges.

Marinas, boat rentals, launch ramps and angler's supplies are also available.

3. Lone Star Park

Lewisville Lake is a Corps of Engineers reservoir popular for water sports and outdoor recreation featuring picnic areas, pavilions, and 24-hour Lone Star Park's Post Time Pavilion is open seven-days-per week, year-round, offering exciting simulcast horse racing action from across the country.

Looking for more things to do in Grapevine? Be sure to look out for seasonal events like Grapefest (September), Main Street Fest (May) and more at Grapevine’s tourism site.

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With our massive indoor water park, amazing attractions, complimentary daily events and activities, and delicious dining options, there’s no shortage of ways to play.

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Water Park Access

Sliding and splashing fun for the whole pack

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Exciting attractions for everyone

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Wiley the wolf and a boy during a dance party

Entertainment

Free and fun daily family events

Water Park Access

Sliding and splashing fun for the whole pack

Various Attractions

Exciting attractions for everyone

Delicious Dining Options

Fresh food for every appetite

Entertainment

Free and fun daily family events

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is Grapevine, TX known for?

There are so many things to do in Grapevine, TX. Located just minutes from Dallas, Grapevine is host to numerous tourist destinations and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. From a historic downtown, to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, to dozens of live entertainment options, the fun doesn’t stop. Visitors to the city of Grapevine will find more than 200 restaurants and bars, many serving up delicacies native to the region. With the seemingly endless bounty of history, culture, and natural beauty of Lake Grapevine, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Grapevine.

Why should my family make a visit to Texas?

Any list of “Things To Do In Texas” will contains many sights and experiences that can only be found in a visit to the Lone Star State. Sure, there’s the culture and entertainment to be found in the city of Grapevine itself—there are so many things to do in Grapevine—and no visit to the region should miss them. But any visitor making the trip is in close proximity to the Dallas/Forth Worth area, with its sprawling array of tourist-friendly attractions. Plus, the abundance of family-friendly options makes it easy to combine cultural experiences with activities appealing to kids. Of course, anyone looking for things to do in Dallas-Forth Worth should include a stay at our Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine—click here to learn more.

Where can I take my kids in Grapevine, TX?

Those looking for fun things to do in Grapevine with kids outside of Great Wolf Lodge will have no shortage of options. These include popular attractions, historical landmarks, famous tourist stops, and more. There are also plenty of family-friendly choices right here: See our list, “Things To Do In Grapevine” for a longer list of options.

What are the top attractions and things to do in Grapevine?

A number of the most fun things to do in Grapevine can be found on our list above. From a visit to Lake Grapevine, to the historic downtown, to the numerous other travel destinations in surrounding regions of Dallas and Forth Worth, Northern Texas contains many popular attractions for tourists and families.

What restaurants and dining options are near Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine?

Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine is surrounded by excellent dining choices that cater to every taste and budget. Within walking distance, families can enjoy casual favorites like Olive Garden, Chili's, and Red Lobster, while Grapevine Mills offers a food court with quick options perfect for families with young children. For authentic Texas flavors, visit nearby barbecue joints and Tex-Mex restaurants that showcase regional specialties, or explore the historic downtown Grapevine area featuring upscale steakhouses, wine bars, and family-owned eateries that highlight local ingredients and Southern hospitality.

What are the best free things to do in Grapevine this weekend?

Grapevine offers numerous complimentary activities perfect for weekend family outings without breaking the budget. Explore the scenic Grapevine Botanical Gardens with its walking trails, butterfly sanctuary, and seasonal flower displays, or visit Nash Farm for hands-on educational experiences about local farming history. Downtown Grapevine provides free entertainment with street performances, window shopping along Historic Main Street, and seasonal festivals that celebrate the city's culture, while Lake Grapevine offers public access areas for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying waterfront views.

How far is Great Wolf Lodge from Dallas attractions and what's the drive time?

Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine sits in an ideal location just 30 minutes from downtown Dallas, making it convenient for exploring major metropolitan attractions during your stay. Popular destinations like the Dallas World Aquarium, Dallas Museum of Art, and American Airlines Center are typically 25-35 minutes away depending on traffic, while Arlington's entertainment district featuring AT&T Stadium and Six Flags Over Texas requires approximately 45 minutes of driving. This strategic positioning allows families to experience both the excitement of big-city attractions and the comfortable accommodations of Great Wolf Lodge.

What activities does Grapevine offer for adults while kids enjoy Great Wolf Lodge?

Adult guests can discover sophisticated experiences throughout Grapevine while children enjoy supervised activities at the resort. The city boasts over a dozen wineries and tasting rooms, including the renowned Messina Hof urban winery housed in a historic 1891 hotel, plus craft breweries offering local flavors and live music venues. Adults can explore antique shopping in the historic district, enjoy spa services at area resorts, or experience the Jazz Wine Train featuring curated wine selections from local vineyards, all while knowing their families have endless entertainment options nearby.

Is Grapevine good for a weekend getaway with the family?

Grapevine serves as an exceptional weekend destination that perfectly balances relaxation with adventure for families of all sizes. The compact city layout means most attractions are within minutes of each other, maximizing your time while minimizing travel stress between activities. With Great Wolf Lodge providing comfortable accommodations and on-site entertainment, plus easy access to shopping at Grapevine Mills, outdoor recreation at Lake Grapevine, and cultural experiences in the historic downtown area, families can create memorable weekends filled with diverse experiences that satisfy everyone's interests.

What seasonal events and festivals happen in Grapevine throughout the year?

Grapevine hosts an impressive calendar of seasonal celebrations that add special magic to any visit, with many events designed specifically for families staying at area resorts. Spring brings the Main Street Fest with live entertainment and local vendors, while summer features outdoor concerts and lake activities perfect for warm weather enjoyment. Fall showcases the famous GrapeFest wine festival alongside harvest celebrations, and winter transforms the city with holiday lights, the beloved North Pole Express train ride, and Christmas markets that create enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages.

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