4 Day Trips From Dallas on a Tank of Gas

Nov 2, 2015

You have a day off and a full tank of gas. Where can you drive to make the most of it? Luckily, Dallas is near several points of interest that make it easy to squeeze in a day trip here and there. If you’re ready to get in the car and drive, consider adding one of these great destinations to your itinerary.

1. Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas

Located just under four hours from Dallas, Crater of Diamonds State Park is a popular geological destination for good reason. Where else can you dig in the dirt for diamonds – and get to keep what you find?

This state park features an on-site water park, camping sites, a restaurant, and the Diamond Discovery Center, which teaches you about the 37.5-acre plowed diamond field before you set out to discover your own gems. This is one excursion you’ll want to set aside an entire day for.

2. First Monday Trade Days, Canton

Canton, Texas, might have that laid-back, small-town charm, but its open-air mega flea market is renowned across the region. First Monday Trade Days are held on the Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before the first Monday of every month, so you’ll have to plan accordingly. For flea market lovers, though, there’s simply no better road trip than this.

First Monday has the claim to fame of being the oldest and largest continually operated outdoor flea market in the United States. Expect to browse the wares of more than 6,000 vendors, who sell everything from antiques and handcrafts to jewelry and furnishings.

3. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

Located just an hour and a half southwest of Dallas, Dinosaur Valley State Park is a great getaway for the entire family. Walk beside ancient dinosaur tracks along the Paluxy River, swim in the water, go geocaching, explore the trails, or shop for souvenirs at the park store. If you’re coming just to spy the dinosaur tracks, though, be sure to check the park’s conditions as the tracks might not always be visible.

To get the most of your day here, sign up for one of the park’s ranger programs. These programs allow you to learn a new skill in one of the workshops, including archery, geocaching, and fishing.

4. Municipal Rose Garden, Tyler

Less than 100 miles from Dallas lies Tyler, Texas, the Rose Capitol of the United States. This city is steeped in the rose-growing tradition, holding the Tyler Rose Festival every October at the Tyler Rose Museum. Even if you miss the festival, the 14-acre Municipal Rose Garden is a must-see. This impressive garden is home to 38,000 rosebushes of 500 varieties. Peak rose bloom occurs in the springtime and mid-October, but the garden is open year-round and is free to the public.

While here, be sure to visit the Rose Museum, which chronicles the history of Tyler’s long-standing rose industry.

You don’t have to drive far from Dallas to find some of the best destinations a day tripper could ask for, so fill up the tank and start driving!

Image via Pixabay