Things To Do
in Carrollton
Carrollton is a family-friendly city in Dallas County, part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area. It blends residential neighborhoods with growing commercial corridors and parks. The city is known for its diverse dining scene, cultural events, and easy access to Dallas and Plano.
It's a convenient base for day trips to nature reserves, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods north of Dallas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and unique boutiques. Stop by the Carrollton Museum to learn about the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
For lunch, indulge in some Southern cuisine at a popular local restaurant, where you can try dishes like fried chicken or shrimp and grits. Post-lunch, explore the beautiful parks in the area, such as the serene Carrollton Greenbelt, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or a bike ride. Discover the local art scene by visiting galleries featuring works by regional artists.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy wine bar for a relaxed evening with friends or loved ones. Enjoy a curated selection of local wines paired with artisanal cheeses while discussing the day’s highlights. Conclude your night with a casual stroll through the town square, where you might catch a live music performance or a community event.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. After fueling up, head to the nearby John Thomas Scenic Drive, where you can take in stunning views of the natural landscape and spot local wildlife. Enjoy a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna native to the area.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the scenic overlooks along the drive, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon at the nearby nature reserve, where you can hike various trails, observe birds, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of deer. Engage in activities like bird watching or photography to capture the beauty of the surroundings.
Return to Carrollton and treat yourself to a laid-back dinner at a local grill, where you can sample barbecue specialties. As night falls, consider a visit to a local brewery to taste craft beers brewed on-site. Enjoy the lively atmosphere while mingling with locals and sharing stories about your day in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $1,100-1,500 |
| 🛒Groceries for a month (single person) | $250-400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse dining and cultural experiences
- Good access to parks and outdoor spaces
- Strategic location within the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area
- Variety of family-friendly activities
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- Nightlife tends to be quieter compared with central Dallas
- Limited high-rise or big-city nightlife within Carrollton itself
Places to Visit in Carrollton
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick-paved Main Street, preserved storefronts, and classic street lamps provide a charming backdrop for daytime and golden-hour photography.
Open green space with mature trees and tranquil paths, ideal for nature and portrait shots.
Scenic trails, hilltop views, and woodland scenery offering wide-angle and nature photography opportunities near Carrollton.
Food in Carrollton
Carrollton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Simple, flavorful tacos often featuring grilled meat, cilantro, onions, and salsa; commonly found at taquerias around Old Town Carrollton.
Must-Try!
Texas-style barbecue brisket with smoky, tender slices; look for it at local BBQ joints and smokehouses.
Creamy tomato-based curry served with fluffy basmati rice; staple at Indian restaurants in the Carrollton area.
Vietnamese noodle soup with aromatic broth, rice noodles, and herbs; common at Vietnamese eateries in and around Carrollton.
Popular Indian dishes featuring spiced rice or tandoori-cooked chicken; widely available at local Indian restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh produce, specialty foods, and occasional street-food stalls; a great day-trip stop from Carrollton.
Indian, Middle Eastern and Hispanic grocery stores in the broader Dallas–Fort Worth area where you can stock up on spices, sauces, fresh produce, and street-food snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a simple hello; please and thank you are appreciated in everyday interactions.
People line up for service; maintain courtesy and allow others to finish before stepping ahead.
Casual, comfortable attire is typical in most venues; avoid loud behavior in family-friendly spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Carrollton
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard 15-20% gratuity is customary for dine-in service. For counter service, $1-2 per order or 10-15% if service is integral. Tips are commonly given by card or cash, and delivery typically 10-15%.
Cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted; many places also support mobile wallets and tap-to-pay options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with potential afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for outdoor photography and park visits, though watch for allergy season.
Pleasant weather and colorful foliage in parks and historic streets; ideal for walking tours and sunset photography.
Cool to mild temperatures with occasional cold snaps; layering is key and indoor attractions are good options on chilly days.
Carrollton at Night
Hiking in Carrollton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Plano-based preserve with well-marked trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for daytime nature walks.
Coppell-based natural area with forested trails and gentle terrain suitable for casual hikes.
Several suburban parks within a short drive offer additional looping trails and lakeside photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Carrollton by plane.
Major international hub; about 15-25 miles from Carrollton depending on route and traffic; accessible by car, rideshare, or public transit connections via the DART/rail network.
Domestic-focused airport closer to central Dallas; roughly 20-25 miles from Carrollton with convenient domestic flight options and rental car access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the community, especially in suburban neighborhoods.
A large and growing portion of Carrollton’s population, reflected in diverse dining options and cultural events.
A vibrant and growing community contributing to the area’s varied cuisine and markets.
An important part of the local demographic fabric, with community organizations and activities.
Includes multiracial and international residents contributing to the city’s diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central part of local culture during high school and college seasons, with community games and events in the metro area.
Popular in schools and community leagues; local gyms and recreation centers host games and pickup sessions.
Growing youth and adult leagues; parks and fields in the area support regular games and training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Carrollton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Carrollton offers many vegetarian options across cuisines; look for dal and sabzi in Indian places, veggie curries, tofu and vegetable stir-fries, and clearly labeled dishes at most casual eateries. When dining out, ask for no ghee or cream if preferred and request cross-contamination precautions if needed.