Things To Do
in Denton

Denton, located in North Texas, is a vibrant college town known for its eclectic music scene and historic downtown area. Home to the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University, it boasts a youthful energy and cultural richness. The city is also famous for its local breweries, art galleries, and festivals, making it a hub for creativity.

With a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities, Denton invites visitors to explore its unique attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown Denton
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Old West Cafe, known for its country-style dishes. Then, stroll around the historic courthouse square and visit the Denton County Courthouse.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bayless-Selby House Museum to learn about the local history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at one of the food trucks in the area or grab a coffee at Jupiter House.

evening
:

Catch a live music performance at the famous Dan's Silverleaf, followed by dinner at the popular Loco Cafe, known for its Tex-Mex offerings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a walk or bike ride at the Ray Roberts Lake State Park, where you can enjoy the natural beauty. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the lake.

afternoon
:

Head back to Denton and visit the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival if in season, or explore the various art galleries in the area. Grab lunch at the beloved Mean Green Pizza.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the local brewpub, such as the Denton County Brewing Company, and enjoy a craft beer while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🎟️Movie ticket$10
🏨Hotel night$100
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and musical scene
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Diverse food options and local breweries
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours
  • Limited public transportation options

Places to Visit in Denton

Visit one of these nice places.

Denton County Courthouse

This historic building offers stunning architecture and is a favorite backdrop for photos.

The Campus of UNT

With its beautiful green spaces and unique buildings, the University of North Texas provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Ray Roberts Lake

The serene waters and surrounding nature create a picturesque setting perfect for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Denton

Denton's culinary scene is as diverse as its culture, offering a mix of traditional Texan flavors and innovative dishes that cater to various tastes.

Denton Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tex-Mex Enchiladas

A local favorite, these enchiladas are filled with cheese, meat, or veggies and topped with a rich sauce.

Must-Try!

Chicken-Fried Steak

A Southern classic, this dish features a breaded and fried beef steak served with gravy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Denton Community Market

An open-air market featuring local produce, crafts, and food vendors every Saturday.

Food Trucks at the Square

A rotating selection of food trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Denton experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 30°F (-1°C). Spring and fall offer pleasant, mild weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with May often being the wettest month.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Southern Hospitality

Residents are known for their friendliness; greeting people and engaging in small talk is common.

Respect for Personal Space

While friendly, locals appreciate personal space, so maintain a respectful distance.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Denton is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it is essential to stay vigilant, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure while exploring. Familiarizing yourself with local emergency numbers and nearby hospitals is advisable.

Tipping in Denton

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places also accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is perfect for water activities at nearby lakes but be prepared for high temperatures.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage make this season great for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Winter

Winters are mild but can occasionally bring frost; it's a good time for indoor activities and cozy cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Denton at Night

Denton's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries. The historic downtown area comes alive after dark, with many places featuring live performances ranging from local bands to touring artists. Popular spots include Dan's Silverleaf and Harvest House, both known for their lively atmospheres and extensive drink menus. Whether you're looking for a quiet pub or a lively dance floor, Denton has something for everyone.

Hiking in Denton

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pilot Knoll Park

Located on Lake Lewisville, this park features trails that offer scenic views and opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Lake Ray Roberts Greenbelt

This trail system provides access to various hiking paths along the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and nature.

Airports

How to reach Denton by plane.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Located approximately 30 miles south of Denton, DFW is one of the largest airports in the U.S., offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Denton is quite walkable, particularly around the historic downtown area, where many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city is bike-friendly with several designated bike lanes and trails. However, some suburban areas may require a car for convenience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant portion of Denton's population consists of university students from UNT and TWU, contributing to the city's youthful vibe.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals are drawn to Denton for its vibrant culture and job opportunities, particularly in education and technology.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are immensely popular in Denton, with local teams generating strong community support.

Basketball

The University of North Texas has a competitive basketball program, and local residents often attend games to show their support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Denton can be moderate, especially during rush hours when students are commuting to and from the universities. Public transportation options include Denton County Transportation Authority buses, which offer limited service within the city and to neighboring areas. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Denton.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, particularly in cafes and food trucks.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several places provide gluten-free menu items, but it's advisable to check with staff for specific needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Denton has several healthcare facilities, including the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton and various urgent care centers. Emergency services are accessible, and the city is well-connected to larger medical centers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for specialized care. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers out-of-state medical services.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide