Things to Do in Dallas During FIFA World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will bring the world to Dallas for over five weeks. But with matches only every few days, you'll have plenty of time to explore one of America's most dynamic metropolitan areas. From authentic Texas BBQ to world-class museums, rodeos to rooftop bars, here's everything you need to do between matches.

Texas BBQ Trail

No visit to Texas is complete without BBQ. The DFW area has some of the best in the state:

Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum): Consistently ranked among the best BBQ in Texas. The beef rib is legendary. Arrive early—the line is worth it.
Terry Black's BBQ (Dallas): A Austin transplant that's taken Dallas by storm. Outstanding brisket and sides.
Hutchins BBQ (McKinney): Just 20 minutes from our estate. Known for their all-you-can-eat option and exceptional ribs.
Cattleack Barbeque (Farmers Branch): Open only Thursday-Saturday, this hidden gem is worth planning around.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Dallas has a thriving nightlife scene that will be supercharged during the World Cup:

Deep Ellum: Dallas's arts and entertainment district. Live music venues, craft breweries, street art, and eclectic restaurants. This will be the unofficial World Cup party district.
Uptown Dallas: Upscale bars, rooftop lounges, and restaurants along McKinney Avenue. The Harwood District's "World of Soccer" activation will be here.
Texas Live! (Arlington): Right next to AT&T Stadium. The pre- and post-match gathering spot with massive screens and multiple restaurants.
Billy Bob's Texas (Fort Worth): The world's largest honky-tonk. Live bull riding, country music, and an authentically Texan experience.

Cultural Attractions

Dallas Arts District: The largest urban arts district in the US. Visit the Dallas Museum of Art (free admission), the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.
Fort Worth Stockyards: Daily cattle drives, Western heritage, and some of the best steakhouses in Texas. A must-visit for the authentic cowboy experience.
Southfork Ranch: Just 5 minutes from our estate. Tour the iconic filming location of the TV show "Dallas."
The Sixth Floor Museum: The JFK assassination museum in Dealey Plaza. A sobering and important piece of American history.

Shopping

Allen Premium Outlets: 15 minutes from our estate. 100+ stores with 25-65% off retail.
Legacy West (Plano): Upscale outdoor shopping with restaurants. 15 minutes away.
NorthPark Center: One of the top shopping malls in the US. Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and 200+ stores.
Highland Park Village: America's first planned shopping center. Chanel, Hermès, Dior, and more.

Outdoor Activities

Texas summers are hot, but there's still plenty to do outdoors if you time it right (early morning or evening):

Horseback Riding: Several ranches near Parker offer guided trail rides through genuine Texas countryside.
Lake Lavon: Just 15 minutes east. Kayaking, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
Topgolf (The Colony): High-tech driving range with food and drinks. Great for groups.
Hawaiian Falls (The Colony): Water park perfect for cooling off on hot days.

Your Home Base Matters

With so much to see and do, where you stay matters. Southfork Stays puts you in Parker, TX—centrally located between Dallas, Frisco, McKinney, and Allen. You're 15-20 minutes from shopping and dining, 50 minutes from AT&T Stadium, and 5 minutes from Southfork Ranch. After a full day of exploring, come home to your private pool, outdoor TV, and 2 acres of peaceful Texas countryside.