Originally published on Patch.com
Face it, finding things to do in a metropolitan can be tricky if you are on a budget. Thankfully, Dallas has quite a bit to offer free of charge. Visiting any one or all five of the recommendations below will be kind to your pocketbook and get your body moving and grooving. Binging the latest TV show may be affordable, sure, but it won't do you any favors when it comes to burning calories and achieving a healthy lifestyle.
Dallas Art Museum
The Dallas Art Museum opens its doors to the public for free. Unless you want to see special exhibits, then there is a fee. But even without seeing a special exhibit, there is plenty of artistic wonder in the general admission exhibits. And if you get hungry, you can use the money you would have spent on tickets to grab a bite to eat in the museum's cafeteria, which serves food as artful as the rest of the art in the building.
Pioneer Plaza
Pioneer Plaza is a large public park situated in the convention center area of Dallas, displaying a huge bronze tribute to the Shawnee cattle drive trail, which features 49 bronze cattle sculptures and three cowboys. It also sits adjacent to the Pioneer Plaza Cemetery. Though it is a popular tourist destination, the park can easily be enjoyed by locals as well. It does not cost a thing to go snap pictures or exercise in this park.
Public Art Walk
The art walk is nearly a three-and-a-half-mile route throughout downtown Dallas. Those choosing to enjoy this scenic route can take a self-guided tour of some of the best sculptures and architecture Dallas has to offer. It is a way for participants to be more active while simultaneously appreciating the beauty around them. It's a win-win.
JFK Memorial
The JFK Memorial is a giant concrete square memorial located in the vicinity of the late president's shooting. The monument is meant to symbolize the free spirit Kenedy exuded; however, some locals feel that it is a poor tribute to the respected leader. Nonetheless, it is there for anyone choosing to see it.
The Galleria
Malls are always fun and free to visit, and the Galleria is no exception. The Galleria is one of the best malls in the Dallas area and provides numerous opportunities for window shopping. Within these walls, you will find many unique retailers to shop, an ice skating rink, and restaurants. There is even a hotel on site. It may cost you to shop, but the visiting experience itself will cost you nothing at all and will certainly help you meet your step goals on your fitness tracker.
Whether you are a tourist here or a local looking for something cost-effective to do one afternoon, these five things are sure to delight you. Visit any one of these places without feeling like you have to squeeze the life out of your pocketbook just to have a little fun. And if you enjoy it, go back for more.
About Eugenio Pallisco
Eugenio Pallisco is a local personal trainer who believes physical fitness can be achieved regardless of physical location or economic background. His distinct methodology promotes a varied active lifestyle, healthy eating, and mindfulness. When he's not sharing his passion for exercise, he can be found exploring Texas culture with his dog Leeroy.