Walking Tours in Dallas

Dallas is littered with fascinating landmarks, from 19th-century cabins that mark the founding of the city to monuments associated with the late John F. Kennedy.

Walking tours in Dallas allow you to dive into several areas of this buzzing destination, including its paranormal activity, Tex-Mex cuisine and assassinations.

Along the way, you’ll gain insider knowledge only a local would know and get an authentic feel of the Texan city.

Here's all you need to know about walking tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Dallas.

What are the best walking tours in Dallas?

Food, wine and history walking tour in Dallas

On this walking food tour of Dallas, you’ll experience the vibrant city at its best. You’ll amble through the historic neighborhood of Grapevine, which is home to numerous displays of 19th and 20th-century architecture, showcasing the history of the city, which was founded in 1841 by John Neeley Bryan.

As you continue on admiring the sights and sounds of the city, you’ll stop at several of the city’s most celebrated food, and wine venues where you’ll try authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, through dishes such as fried avocado.

Wash your treats down with a glass of local wine or a tangy margarita as your guide enlightens you on key monuments in the district.

Walking ghost and pub tour in Dallas

Alternatively, see the darker side of Dallas on an evening ghost walking tour in Dallas that explores the city’s paranormal activity. You’ll hop between historic pubs, learning about their mysterious pasts and downing some liquid courage with a number of frosty brews.

You’ll also pass by the Majestic Theater, which is thought to be haunted by the building’s former owner, Karl Hoblitzelle, as well as the Adolphus Hotel where the ghost of a jilted bride is said to wander freely.

John F. Kennedy assassination walking tour in Dallas

Those with an hour to spare can engage in a walking tour in Dallas that revisits one of the most pivotal moments in the history of Dallas — the assassination of the 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy.

You’ll visit the memorial erected in honor of the country’s leader and the spot where he was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald — a Marine veteran who was killed by a nightclub owner just 2 days later.

This shooting location has been turned into a museum, where you can see many artifacts related to the murder, including news footage from the aftermath.

Private John F. Kennedy assassination walking tour in Dallas

Those searching for greater personalization than a group excursion provides may instead opt for a private walking tour in Dallas that revolves around the notorious moment in 1963 when the U.S. president was shot down while cruising through the city.

Together with your guide, you’ll explore several sites associated with the assassination, including Dealey Plaza and the shooter’s location, discussing conspiracy theories, and the events of that fateful day. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions surrounding the topic in this one-to-one setting.

Audio-guided Downtown walking tour in Dallas

If, on the flip side, you prefer to take things at your own pace when exploring a new destination, consider an audio-guided tour of the downtown area of Dallas.

You’ll simply download an app and embark on a leisurely stroll through the city center, where you’ll see major highlights including the John F. Kennedy Memorial, John Neeley Bryan Cabin, and The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum.

As you admire these iconic locations, you’ll listen to an engaging commentary that will help you dive into their roots, providing you with an insightful introduction to the “Big D.”

What are the highlights on a Dallas walking tour?

John F. Kennedy Memorial

The John F. Kennedy Memorial was erected in 1970, just 7 years after the death of the beloved president. It was designed by Phillip Johnson, a celebrated architect who was considered a close personal friend of the Kennedy family and US$200,000 was raised by citizens to contribute to the cost of the memorial.

The monument itself is formed of two large granite blocks, which symbolize freedom of the president’s spirit, and is located just 180 meters east of where Kennedy was shot.

Sixth Floor Museum

What was originally the Texas School Book Depository building has been transformed into the Sixth Floor Museum, which details the events surrounding John F. Kennedy’s assassination, including media coverage and various artefacts related to the fallout of his death.

The museum is held in this location, as it was here that Lee Harvey Oswald fired his fatal shot at the president. After leaving the building, Oswald went on to murder a police officer before being arrested.

What are the prices of walking tours in Dallas?

Walking tours in Dallas vary in price according to the group size and their inclusions.

The most budget-friendly way to see the city is to opt for an audio-guided excursion, which you’ll complete at your own pace via an app. The cost for this is less than US$10 per person.

A group John F. Kennedy walking tour in Dallas costs between US$20 and US$30 per person of any age, while Dallas ghost tours cost between US$30, and US$40 each.

Food and wine tours in Dallas cost US$130 per person, and you’ll be part of a small group limited to 10 guests.

You’ll pay US$550 per group of up to 15 guests for a private hour-long John F. Kennedy assassination tour. With the maximum number of people in your party, you’ll each pay less than US$40 making this a great value option for those traveling with a large group of loved ones.

What is included?

Generally, walking tours in Dallas include the services of a knowledgeable local guide who will lead you through the city, showcasing its key monuments and providing you with tidbits of information about every location.

You may sometimes benefit from additional inclusions, such as food samples on tours that revolve around the gastronomic scene of Dallas, or a commemorative cup on haunted excursions.

Where does it start?

Walking excursions in Dallas begin at numerous destinations throughout the city, depending on the nature of your tour. A popular meeting place is the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza, which can be reached on foot from many other landmarks in Dallas. Other starting locations include Harvest Hall and the John Neeley Bryan Cabin.

How long does it last?

Typically, walking tours in Dallas last between 2 and 3 hours. The city is one of the largest in Texas and, as such, you won’t be able to explore all of its attractions in this short time slot. However, you will be able to discover a number of its highlights, gaining a feel for the city’s past and present.

If you opt for a John F. Kennedy tour, you can expect it to last just an hour, making it easy to slot into any itinerary.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

The majority of Dallas walking tours are wheelchair friendly meaning that everyone can get a feel for this iconic city. However, some excursions, such as private John. F Kennedy tours, are not suitable for those with reduced mobility.

You can see whether a tour is or isn’t appropriate for all members of your party by consulting the booking page.

When is the best time for a walking tour in Dallas?

The best time for a walking tour in Dallas is during the milder months, from late September to early May.

To avoid crowds, it's advisable to schedule tours on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, as this allows for a more intimate and relaxed exploration of the city's historical and cultural attractions.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes with good support. You'll be exploring on foot, so comfort is key.
• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring layers, an umbrella, or sunscreen as needed.
• Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour, especially in warmer months.
• Decide if you prefer a guided tour or self-guided exploration. Guided tours provide insights, while self-guided tours offer more flexibility.
• Familiarize yourself with the landmarks or places you'll visit on the tour. It enhances your understanding and appreciation of the city's history and culture.