15 Best Things to Do in Grand Prairie TX This Weekend for Couples and Family with Kids
Discover the vibrant charm of Grand Prairie, TX, where a delightful mix of attractions promises an unforgettable experience. Nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, this lively city offers something for everyone.
From thrilling amusement parks and serene nature reserves to a bustling arts scene and unique shopping venues, Grand Prairie is a treasure trove of activities waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind, our guide to the best things to do in Grand Prairie, TX, will help you plan the perfect visit.
Consider reading: 20 Best Things to Do in Dallas TX This Weekend
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in Grand Prairie, TX, is a year-round haven for water enthusiasts of all ages. This massive 80,000-square-foot park offers a mix of thrilling rides, relaxing pools, and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for both kids and adults.
The park operates on varied hours throughout the week, typically open from 4 PM to 8 PM on weekdays and extending from 10 AM to 9 PM on weekends.
Admission fees are reasonable, with day passes available online. Prices can vary, but children aged 3 and under enter for free, making it a cost-effective option for families.
Attractions at Epic Waters are diverse. For adrenaline junkies, rides like the Yellow Jacket Drop and Prairie Plunge offer heart-pounding thrills. Families can enjoy the Wave Pool, Rio Grand lazy river, and the expansive Kids Play Area. The FlowRider® is a hit for those wanting to surf indoors, while the arcade and cabana rentals add extra layers of fun and relaxation.
The best time to visit is on weekdays or during non-peak hours to avoid crowds. This ensures you get the most out of every ride without long waits. While the park is extremely kid-friendly, pets are not allowed inside, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with furry friends.
Overall, Epic Waters offers a splash-tastic adventure perfect for a day of fun, making it a top spot to visit in Grand Prairie.
Consider reading: Top 10 Best Water Parks in Dallas and Fort Worth TX
Grand Prairie Premium Outlets
Grand Prairie Premium Outlets is a top shopping destination in Grand Prairie, TX, offering over 100 stores with discounts ranging from 25% to 65%. It’s a shopper’s paradise featuring brands like Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Bloomingdale’s, and Michael Kors.
The outlets are open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 7 PM. There is no entry fee, so you can enjoy window shopping or dive right into the bargains.
Expect a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of stores selling everything from clothing and accessories to kitchenware. Food trucks are often parked nearby, adding a fun twist to your shopping day. Many visitors recommend bringing a good amount of cash or cards, as the deals are hard to resist.
The best time to visit is during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid the larger crowds. The outlets are very family-friendly, with ample space for strollers and activities to keep the kids entertained. However, pets are not allowed, so it’s best to leave your furry friends at home.
Trader’s Village
Trader’s Village in Grand Prairie, TX, is a must-visit spot for bargain hunters and families looking for a fun day out. This massive open-air market spans over 160 acres and hosts more than 3,500 vendors every weekend, offering a vast array of goods from clothing and electronics to unique collectibles and handmade items. It’s a true treasure trove where you never know what you might find.
The market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM, with amusement rides starting at 11 AM. Entry is free, but parking costs $6. For those who want to enjoy the rides, an all-day wristband is available for around $14.99, providing access to various attractions like the Fleafall, a 128-foot drop tower, and the Prairie Screamer, a thrilling roller coaster.
Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere filled with diverse food options ranging from state fair favorites to authentic street tacos and even Thai cuisine. Don’t miss out on the funnel cake stand for a sweet treat. Trader’s Village also features live music, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the day.
While the market is incredibly kid-friendly with its array of rides and activities, pets are not allowed on the premises, so plan accordingly. The best time to visit is early in the morning to beat the crowds and get the best deals. Whether you’re there to shop, eat, or just have fun, Trader’s Village offers a unique and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Louis Tussaud’s Palace of Wax & Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Louis Tussaud’s Palace of Wax and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Grand Prairie, TX, offers a blend of entertainment that’s hard to beat. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and extending to 7 PM on weekends, this spot is perfect for a family outing. Admission fees vary, with combo tickets available for those wanting to experience both attractions.
Visitors can expect to be wowed by over 200 lifelike wax figures at the Palace of Wax, where you can snap selfies with celebrities, historical figures, and superheroes. The interactive nature of the exhibits makes it engaging for all ages.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is an adventure through the bizarre and fascinating, featuring 12 themed galleries packed with oddities, rare artifacts, and pop-culture memorabilia. Highlights include a shrunken head and other peculiar items that are sure to amaze.
For thrill-seekers, the 7D Moving Theater provides an immersive movie experience, complete with high-impact 3D films where you can compete against others for the highest score. The Mirror Maze is another fun challenge, with its LED lights and infinity mirrors creating a disorienting but exciting journey.
While the attractions are incredibly kid-friendly, pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly. The best time to visit is during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience.
Consider reading: Best Things to Do in Fort Worth Texas
Lone Star Park
Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, TX, is a prime destination for horse racing fans and families alike. The park hosts thrilling Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races throughout the year. General admission is $10, with free parking available for general and handicap spots. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, reserved seating and suites can be booked for an additional fee.
The park opens at 5 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, with races starting at 6:35 PM. On weekends and special holidays, gates open at 12 PM, with the first race kicking off at 1:35 PM. A special treat is the Triple Crown Days when gates open at 10:30 AM.
Expect a vibrant atmosphere with over 700,000 visitors annually. The seven-level Grandstand features the Silks Dining Room and luxurious Penthouse Suites. Bar & Book offers a Las Vegas-style racebook and simulcast wagering on horse races worldwide, available seven days a week.
While the park is kid-friendly, with ample seating and exciting views of the races, pets are not allowed, except for service animals. The best time to visit is during live race days to fully enjoy the energy and excitement of the events. Whether you’re placing a bet, enjoying a meal at Silks, or just soaking in the atmosphere, Lone Star Park promises a memorable outing.
Loyd Park on Joe Pool Lake
Loyd Park on Joe Pool Lake in Grand Prairie, TX, is a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a serene getaway. The park is open 24/7 and offers a wide range of amenities, including over 220 campsites, furnished cabins, picnic areas, and a four-lane boat ramp. The entry fee is $10 per vehicle per day, with options for annual passes.
Visitors can expect well-maintained facilities with access to restrooms, showers, and changing houses. The park features a swimming beach, hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, making it perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. You can also rent canoes and kayaks to explore the Walnut Creek Paddling Trail, a 4.9-mile trail offering beautiful views and a peaceful paddling experience.
Loyd Park is extremely family-friendly with large campsites and plenty of space for kids to play. However, pets are not allowed, so plan to leave your furry friends at home. The best time to visit is during weekdays or off-peak times to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and the best spots on the beach or trails.
Overall, Loyd Park is an ideal destination for camping, boating, and enjoying the great outdoors. With its extensive facilities and beautiful setting, it’s a top choice for a weekend escape.
The Historic Uptown Theater
The Historic Uptown Theater in Grand Prairie, TX, is a charming venue that offers a mix of live performances, including concerts, plays, and musicals. This beautifully restored 1950s theater, located on Main Street, is a hub of cultural activity and home to the Grand Prairie Arts Council.
The theater’s schedule varies with a range of events throughout the year, from theatrical productions to music concerts. Ticket prices typically range from $15 to $25, depending on the event and seating choice. The best time to visit is during one of their evening shows or weekend performances to fully enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and professional productions.
Expect a nostalgic ambiance with modern comforts. The theater seats about 400 people, ensuring an intimate experience where every seat offers a great view of the stage. The venue is kid-friendly, making it a perfect spot for family outings. However, pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
Main Event
Main Event in Grand Prairie, TX, is the go-to spot for an action-packed day of fun and games. This state-of-the-art entertainment center is open every day, with hours extending from 10 AM to midnight most days and even later on weekends. There’s no entry fee; you just pay for the activities you choose.
Expect an array of activities under one roof, including 22 luxury bowling lanes, a multi-level laser tag arena, gravity ropes, and a vast arcade with over 100 games. They also offer virtual reality experiences and billiards. If you’re looking to relax, a full-service bar and a restaurant is offering delicious food and handcrafted cocktails.
The best time to visit is during weekdays or early weekends to avoid the crowds and get the most out of your experience. Main Event is incredibly kid-friendly, making it perfect for family outings or birthday parties. They have specific packages that include dedicated party hosts to ensure a hassle-free celebration. Pets, however, are not allowed, so make plans accordingly.
Alliance Skate Park
Alliance Skate Park in Grand Prairie, TX, is a top spot for skateboarding, BMX, and inline skating enthusiasts. Located at 1002 Lone Star Parkway, this park offers a first-class competitive environment with both an outdoor section and a covered area. It features manual pads, rails, funboxes, and eurogaps, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders.
The park operates Monday to Friday from 12 PM to 10 PM, Saturdays from 11 AM to 10 PM, and Sundays from 11 AM to 6 PM. Entry is free for residents, while non-residents pay a $10 day pass. First-time visitors must sign a waiver, which can be conveniently done online.
Visitors can expect a well-maintained facility with ample space to practice tricks and enjoy the sport. The park is kid-friendly, making it an ideal place for young skaters to learn and practice. However, pets are not allowed, so plan to leave your furry friends at home. The best time to visit is during weekdays or early weekends to avoid the rush and get the most out of your time on the ramps.
Tangle Ridge Golf Club
Tangle Ridge Golf Club in Grand Prairie, TX, is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. This 18-hole championship course is known for its stunning elevation changes, tree-lined fairways, and well-maintained greens. It’s open seven days a week, from sunup to sundown, offering ample opportunity for both early birds and those who prefer a late tee time.
Green fees vary, with weekday rates starting at $55 and weekend rates at $75. Seniors and juniors can play for $40, while twilight rates drop to $35. The course also offers discounts for military personnel and first responders.
Visitors can expect a challenging yet enjoyable experience, with each hole designed to test different aspects of your game. The course features Bermuda grass greens and numerous water and sand hazards. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice, you’ll find Tangle Ridge both inviting and demanding.
The best time to visit is during the weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid the crowds. While the course is not specifically tailored for kids, it’s suitable for older children who play golf. However, pets are not allowed on the course, so plan to leave your furry friends at home.
With its beautiful setting and top-notch facilities, Tangle Ridge Golf Club offers a fantastic golfing experience that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Grand Prairie.
Prairie Lakes Golf Course
Prairie Lakes Golf Course in Grand Prairie, TX, is a fantastic spot for golfers of all skill levels. Located at 3202 SE 14th Street, this course offers 27 holes divided into three 9-hole courses: Red, White, and Blue. Each course provides a unique challenge, with wide open fairways and plenty of water hazards, ensuring a fun and engaging experience.
The course is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Green fees are quite reasonable, with weekday rates at $20 and weekend rates at $30. Seniors can enjoy weekday rates of $12, and juniors play for just $10 during the week. For those needing a cart, it’s $15 for 18 holes.
Expect top-notch facilities including Texas’ largest practice area, which features eight target greens, a spacious putting green, and a chipping area complete with a sand bunker. The course also boasts a fully-stocked pro shop and the Crown’s BBQ & Sports Grill, where you can relax with a meal after your round.
Prairie Lakes is kid-friendly, with junior tees on every hole to make the game accessible for young players. However, pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly. The best time to visit is during the weekdays to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a more leisurely game.
Splash Factory Outdoor Waterpark Playground
Splash Factory Outdoor Waterpark Playground in Grand Prairie, TX, is the perfect place for families to cool off and have fun during the summer. Located at 601 E. Grand Prairie Road, behind Charley Taylor Recreation Center, this interactive water park is designed with kids in mind. It features age-specific play areas including a water wall, ground sprays, play structures, a magic touch water gun, spray cannons, and power geysers.
The park is open daily from 1 PM to 6 PM starting May 25th, and the entry fee is just $2 per person, cash only. Visitors can expect a safe, clean environment with plenty of lifeguards on duty to ensure everyone’s safety. The water park is perfect for younger kids, providing hours of entertainment with its engaging and interactive water features.
The best time to visit Splash Factory is during weekdays to avoid the weekend rush and have a more relaxed experience. While the park is extremely kid-friendly, pets are not allowed, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Splash Factory offers a fun, affordable way to beat the heat and create lasting memories with your family in Grand Prairie.
Consider reading: 20 Best Things to Do in Frisco TX this Weekend with Kids
Asia Times Square
Asia Times Square in Grand Prairie, TX, is a vibrant cultural and shopping destination, offering a rich blend of Asian cuisines, shops, and events. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, this bustling marketplace provides free entry and parking, making it a convenient spot for a day out.
Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere filled with diverse dining options, including Vietnamese pho, Japanese sushi, Thai street food, and more. Highlights include the Hong Kong Market, where you can find unique groceries and fresh produce, and the bustling food court featuring a variety of Asian delights. From authentic dim sum at the Pearl Restaurant to sweet treats from Beard Papa’s, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Beyond food, Asia Times Square hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, such as the annual Lunar New Year celebration and the Asian Heritage Fest. These events showcase traditional music, dance, and art, providing an immersive cultural experience.
The best time to visit is during one of these festivals to fully enjoy the vibrant displays and performances. The marketplace is very family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. However, pets are not allowed inside the premises, so plan accordingly.
Consider reading: 21 Best Things to Do in Arlington TX
Bolder Adventure Park
Bolder Adventure Park in Grand Prairie, TX, is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and families. This 66,000-square-foot indoor park offers a range of activities under one roof, making it a perfect destination for a day packed with fun and excitement.
The park operates from 5 PM to 9 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3 PM to 11 PM on Fridays, 10 AM to 11 PM on Saturdays, and 11 AM to 8 PM on Sundays. Entry requires a ticket and a completed waiver. Tickets start at $14.99 for the Beginner Pass, which includes attractions like synthetic ice skating and the treehouse adventure nets.
More adventurous visitors can opt for the Intermediate Blue Pass at $24.99 or the Advanced Black Diamond Pass at $44.99, which grants access to high-adrenaline activities like zip lines and the via ferrata course.
Visitors can expect a variety of activities, including rock climbing, bumper cars, tubing slides, laser tag, and even a six-story free fall experience. The park also features an arcade with over 50 games and the Alpine Cafe, where you can grab a bite to eat after a day of adventure.
The best time to visit Bolder Adventure Park is during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds. The park is extremely kid-friendly, but pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly. Whether you’re climbing to new heights or enjoying a game of laser tag, Bolder Adventure Park promises a memorable experience for everyone.
Riverside Golf Club
Riverside Golf Club in Grand Prairie, TX, is a premier golfing destination that promises a memorable experience for players of all skill levels. Located at 3000 Riverside Parkway, the course is conveniently situated just south of the DFW Airport. It features a blend of links-style and parkland design elements with tree-lined fairways, numerous water hazards, and strategically placed sand traps, making it a challenging yet enjoyable course.
The club is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Green fees are quite reasonable, with weekday rates starting at $49, including a shared cart. On weekends and holidays, the rate is $62. Twilight rates are available at $38 on weekdays and $47 on weekends, with super twilight rates dropping to $28 and $31, respectively.
Golfers can expect top-notch facilities, including a spacious driving range with 32 tees, practice greens, and a pro shop stocked with the latest gear. The 18-hole course, designed by Roger Packard, measures 7,025 yards from the longest tees and has a par of 72. Each hole offers unique challenges, particularly the par 3s, which are considered some of the best in Texas.
The best time to visit is during the weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more leisurely game. While the course is not specifically designed for young children, older kids who play golf can certainly enjoy it. Pets are not allowed on the course, so make sure to leave your furry friends at home.
Consider reading: 15 Best Things to Do in Irving Texas
Final Thoughts on Best Things to Do in Grand Prairie TX
In conclusion, Grand Prairie, TX, is a destination brimming with diverse activities and attractions that cater to all interests. Whether you’ve spent your day enjoying the excitement of local amusement parks, exploring the beauty of its parks and nature reserves, or immersing yourself in the cultural offerings and unique shopping experiences, Grand Prairie leaves every visitor with lasting memories.
We hope this guide has inspired your itinerary and highlighted the must-visit spots that make this city a true Texan gem. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the best that Grand Prairie has to offer!
FAQS on Best Things to Do in Grand Prairie TX
What is Grand Prairie, Texas famous for?
Grand Prairie, Texas, is renowned for being the site of one of the largest industrial districts in the United States. Its central location and proximity to air and highway transportation infrastructure have made it a well-established distribution center. A significant portion of the Great Southwest Industrial District, which spans approximately 80 million square feet, is located in Grand Prairie.
Is Grand Prairie, TX expensive?
Grand Prairie is moderately priced compared to other U.S. cities, ranking 73rd out of 273 cities in terms of cost of living. The overall cost of living in Grand Prairie is about 103% of the national average.
Is Grand Prairie cheap to live?
Living in Grand Prairie can be quite affordable. Housing expenses are 9% lower than the national average, and transportation costs, including bus fares and gas prices, are 14% lower than the national average. However, utility prices are 14% higher than the national average, while grocery prices are 5% lower.
Is Grand Prairie a nice area?
Grand Prairie, Texas, is a fantastic place to live, work, and play. It boasts a strategic location near major cities, an affordable cost of living, a thriving economy, a diverse population, and an excellent quality of life. These factors contribute to its growing popularity as a desirable place to call home.
