The Best Parks in Dallas for Walks, Picnics, and Play

Dallas hasn’t always been known for its nature. But, with the development of several new parks downtown (with more on the way) and historic green spaces that have been around for decades, we’re starting to become a park city (beyond, well, the Park Cities). From walking trails and lakes to places to work well outdoors, these are the best parks to visit in Dallas.

Carpenter Park

2201 Pacific Avenue

In May 2022, this 5.6-acre downtown Dallas park debuted with tons of green space, a basketball court, a dog run, fountains, and artwork. Originally designated to be a park in 1981, the development was disrupted by roadway reconfigurations in 2011. Finally, 122 new trees were planted, walking paths were put in, and two featured sculptures are showcased at the entrance of the park.

West End Square

607 Corbin Street

The second to newest green destination in Dallas, this West End park opened in the historic area in 2021. The .78-acre space took over a former parking lot (a win!) and boasts swinging benches, ping pong, and foosball tables. You can also come work outside at the 50-foot-long table equipped with charging stations and Wi-Fi. Designed by landscape architect James Corner of Field Operations, the space includes a water feature and greenery as well.

Pacific Plaza

401 N. Harwood Street

Another relatively new spot downtown, this 3.7-acre park opened in 2019 and offers colorful swings, a large lawn area, and seating areas in the middle of the city. Designed by SWA, the space includes a pavilion created by the architects at HKS. It was the first of four new parks (including West End Square and Carpenter) that will open downtown. The fourth, Harwood Park is expected to open in 2023.

Klyde Warren Park

2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway

One of the most recognizable parks in Dallas, Klyde Warren is a 5.2-acre space in downtown over the freeway. Opened in 2012, this park is frequented for its many food trucks, massive lawn space (perfect for workout classes and live music), and family-friendly activities. The unique, glass-encased restaurant space (designed by architect Thomas Phifer) is now home to a Mi Cocina. The park just expanded and also features a brand new fountain called the Nancy Best Fountain that performs a water, music and lights show each night at sunset.

Griggs Park

2200 Hugo Street

Tucked away in Dallas’ Uptown neighborhood, Griggs is a 7.4-acre open-air reprieve. You’ll often find dog owners playing with their pups or shooting hoops on the half-court basketball court right by I-75. Since opening in 1915, the park has been renovated with benches, children’s playgrounds, and added greenery.

White Rock Lake Park

8300 E. Lawther Drive

One of the biggest parks in Dallas, White Rock includes almost 2,000 acres of space including the lake, walking and biking trails, picnic areas, a dog park, and Blackland prairie. You’ll always find tons of people at the East Dallas spot on the 9.33-mile trail or kayaking on the lake.

Lakeside Park

4601 Lakeside Drive

Home to the Instagram-worthy giant teddy bear statues, this Highland Park city park is a picturesque spot for walking around the creek or picnicking on the grass along Lakeside Drive. The 14-acre park is located along Turtle Creek between Beverly Drive and Armstrong Parkway. It’s very scenic with a bridge over the Turtle Creek Dam, views of Highland Park estates, and the Read Memorial — just be mindful not to step into the many photoshoots visitors set up in the park.

Flag Pole Hill Park

8015 Doran Circle

A 107-acre park just north of White Rock Lake, this spot is special as it includes an all-inclusive playground courtesy of pro-golfer Jordan Spieth. Dallas’ “first true all-abilities playground,” the space offers opportunities for cognitive development, as well as physical development. The park also includes picnic tables, trails, green space to explore, and the occasional concert.

Lake Cliff Park

300 E. Colorado Boulevard

Located just northeast of the Bishop Arts District, this 45-acre park offers tennis courts, architectural gems, and more surrounding a sunken lake. Opened in 1906 as a private amusement park, the city of Dallas eventually purchased the space in 1914. Local landscape architect Wynne B. Woodruff designed the rose garden that the park is so well known for.

Turtle Creek Park

3333 Turtle Creek Park

Nestled in between Hall Street/Cedar Springs and Lemmon, this quiet park is home to Arlington Hall, a beautiful wedding and events venue in the 20-acre park. The space includes a picturesque bridge, a pond, and walking trails as well.