The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is one of the most important economic hubs for the state of Texas. For the many business travelers that visit the area multiple times each year, this list of the best things to do in Dallas and Fort Worth can help you make the most of your time away from the office. Work hard and play hard to find out why the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is one of the most sought-after destinations in Texas for business trips.

Welcome to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

With an estimated population of over seven and a half million, it is safe to say that the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is flourishing with one of the highest annual population growths in the nation. The cities of Dallas and Fort Worth are approximately thirty miles apart, with an average commute of about half an hour.

Business is big in the metroplex with a wide variety of industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, technology, commerce, banking, and medical research calling the area home. This part of Texas has one of the highest concentrations of Fortune 500 companies in the nation. Corporate and healthcare giants such as ExxonMobil, AT&T, McKesson, Baylor University Medical Center, and Children’s Medical Center of Dallas are located here.

With a booming economy and thriving business culture, the area sees millions of visitors and corporate travelers annually. With such a large metroplex, business travelers will have a wide variety of choices when it comes to finding corporate housing that suits their location preferences. Visitors should keep in mind that when the workday is done there will still be time for exploring the best things to do in Dallas and Fort Worth.

Best Things to Do in Dallas and Fort Worth

There is no shortage of culture, sports, or fun in Dallas and Fort Worth, and there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their interests. After putting in the hours at the office, reward yourself with a little leisure time and one or more of the following activities:

• Go to a professional sports game. As one of the largest cities in Texas, Dallas is home to five professional sports teams. Depending on the season, corporate travelers can spend their off hours catching a Texas Rangers baseball game, Dallas Mavericks basketball game, Dallas Cowboys football game, Dallas Stars hockey game, or an exciting FC soccer match.
• Walk on the wild side at the Dallas or Forth Worth Zoos. Just three miles south of downtown Dallas is the oldest zoo in Texas. The Dallas Zoo is open 364 days a year and features more than two thousand animals from four hundred species. This 106-acre animal kingdom is a delight for all ages. Do not miss the chance to feed the Galapagos tortoises and the giraffes at feeding time. Fort Worth also has a zoo featuring 542 species of animals and is one of five places in the world that houses two of five rhino species in captivity.
• Spend some time at the Fort Worth Water Gardens. This anomaly is located in downtown Fort Worth just next to the convention center. This architectural wonder is a beautiful oasis amidst the busy city. The water gardens are unique and gorgeous during the day or at night. Be sure to have your phone handy for some amazing Instagram-worthy photos.
• Go on adventure at Six Flags Over Texas. If you are looking for adventure and thrills, set some time aside to visit this fun filled amusement park. From roller coasters to the renowned El Sombrero ride to live entertainment, Six Flags has something for everyone. With dozens of rides, shows and dining options, plan to spend most of the day here getting your fun on.
• Visit the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. This sixty-six-acre jewel is recognized worldwide for promoting the knowledge and art of horticulture coupled with educational and research opportunities. The arboretum is home to hundreds of gorgeous blooms and plant life and is a stunning spot for a picnic or to simply escape the concrete of the city.
• Hang out at the Fort Worth Stockyards. This is a one-of-a-kind western experience with a twice a day cattle drive, dancing at Billy Bob’s Texas, and a guided walking tour. The wooden corrals and original brick walkways make visitors feel like they are stepping into the western world of yesteryear. Visiting the Stockyards may just be the most Texan thing you do while in Fort Worth.
• Indulge in some retail therapy. Dallas has some of the best shopping the state of Texas has to offer. The Galleria offers a luxurious indoor shopping experience that ranges from chain retail stores to boutique western wear to attire for the decidedly rich and famous. If the weather is beautiful, consider visiting the outdoor shopping mecca of Highland Park Village for a fabulous day of high-end shopping and dining.
• Attend the State Fair of Texas. Each year from late September to mid-October the State Fair of Texas comes to the area. Everything about this event is big, from the carnival rides to the unusual assortment of fried foods to the enormous Ferris wheel. You will know when you have arrived as fifty-five foot tall Big Tex will be waiting to greet you.
• Visit the George W. Bush Presidential Center at Southern Methodist University. Here visitors can tour the center to learn more about the events of the 43rd American Presidency and the policies and issues that defined it. From hands-on exhibits to engaging speakers to special events, there is no shortage of learning opportunities here. While visiting the library, take time to tour the beautiful campus of SMU located in the heart of Dallas.

Make the most of your next business trip to north Texas by making time to work and explore the best things to do in Dallas and Fort Worth, because everything is bigger in Texas, especially when it comes to fun!