Embark on a fascinating historical excursion on the grounds of the first park in Dallas. The transformed 20-acre (8-hectare) Old City Park is home to dozens of historic buildings that were transported from across Texas during the 20th century. Their interiors have been lovingly restored to their original glory and offer a unique insight to the way 19th-century pioneers lived in Texas. Local characters in traditional attire grace the grounds and will tell you stories from the past. The Dallas Heritage Village is an entertaining journey for the whole family and also has an educational aspect to it.
Wander the tree-lined boulevards that cross the park to discover the various buildings and square with old fountain and shops. Take a stroll down Main Street to see the Citizen’s Bank, the Browder Springs Hall and the Law Office of Thompson & Knight.
Be sure to pay a visit to the Blum Bros. General Store to discover the types of food and goods that were common in pioneer times. Children will love weighing the produce on the traditional scales and having the chance to play shopkeeper. Next door, in the Main Street Saloon, you can sit down with a beer or soda and enjoy a card game or chat.
Elm Street and Fannin Avenue will lead you around the edges of the park, where you can see restored classrooms at the Renner School or the beautiful Pilot Grove Church. Explore the lavish Millermore House, a grand home built during the 1850s. Admire furniture, fittings and historic paintings from the 19th century.
The Dallas Heritage Village is located in central Dallas and can be easily reached by car or public transport. Free parking is available on site. An admission fee applies. The village is closed on Mondays, public holidays and in January and August. An audio tour is available if you brought a smartphone. Otherwise, set out on a self-guided tour with a map from the ticket office.
