5 Fun Things To Do in Dallas With 1–2 Year Olds
- Emily Kreiss
- Nov 17
- 3 min read
Easy, stress-free outings for toddlers and parents around DFW
Finding the right place to take a 1–2 year old can be tricky. You want something fun, safe, engaging and short enough to fit around naps, snacks, and toddler moods. Luckily, Dallas has some of the best toddler-friendly activities in Texas. Whether you’re a local parent or a family visiting DFW, here are five great places your little one will love.
Location: Downtown Dallas
The Perot Museum is a favorite for parents of toddlers, thanks to its Moody Family Children’s Museum space. This section includes a toddler-specific zone filled with soft play areas, hands-on sensory activities, and even an outdoor naturescape perfect for early walkers.
Why toddlers love it:
Soft, safe, low-to-the-ground play
Bright colors and easy sensory exploration
Why parents love it:
Air-conditioned
Easy stroller access
Clean restrooms with changing tables
Plenty of benches and seating
Best time to visit: Right when the museum opens for a quieter, calmer experience.
Location: Downtown Dallas
This urban green space is a dream for toddlers. The Children’s Park area includes toddler-sized slides, water features during warm months, climbing areas and plenty of flat, safe space for wobbly walkers.
Why toddlers love it:
Wide open space to run
Shaded play areas
Grass, trees and natural textures
Why parents love it:
Stroller-friendly walkways
Close to food trucks and restrooms
Free, easy, and flexible
Pro tip: Bring a blanket for your toddler to sit on for snack time or a sensory break.
3. Safari Run
Location: Plano (just north of Dallas)
Safari Run is an indoor playground that is ideal for toddlers. It offers designated toddler areas with soft climbing structures, little slides and safe zones where big kids don’t overwhelm the little ones.
Why toddlers love it:
Bright, animal-themed play areas
Safe areas to crawl and climb
Fun environment that is not too overstimulating
Why parents love it:
Indoors and weather-proof
Seating available
Clean restrooms and easy parking
Pro tip: Bring grip socks. Many indoor play places require them.
Location: Grand Prairie
Playgrand Adventures is one of the best inclusive playgrounds in North Texas. Even though it has areas for older kids, it also has fantastic toddler-friendly zones with soft surfaces, mini climbing features, gentle slides and room to explore without worry.
Why toddlers love it:
Colorful and interactive structures
Toddler-safe play pods
The perfect size for little explorers
Why parents love it:
Free
Spacious and well-maintained
Easy parking and stroller space
Best time to visit: Mornings or early afternoons before the bigger crowds arrive.
Location: South Dallas
The Dallas Zoo is surprisingly toddler-friendly when planned right. You do not need to see the full zoo. Instead, stick to one or two areas, enjoy the stroller-friendly paths and let your toddler enjoy the animals at their pace.
Why toddlers love it:
Animal movement catches their attention
Wide paths for walking and exploring
Plenty of shade and breaks
Why parents love it:
Stroller rentals available
Shaded areas and rest stops
Easy food and snack access
Pro tip: Visit right when the zoo opens. Toddlers enjoy it most before nap time.
Exploring Dallas with a toddler is not as hard as it seems. With the right locations and a flexible mindset, you can create fun, low-stress outings that introduce your little one to the world in a safe and exciting way.
Pack snacks, bring the stroller, keep the visit short and sweet and enjoy watching your child take in new experiences.
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