Dallas is an upscale city known for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Dallas that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Dallas?
You should plan to spend around $166 per day on your vacation in Dallas. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $61 on meals
- $28 on local transportation
- $168 on hotels
A one week trip to Dallas for two people costs, on average, $2,324. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,162
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,324
-
One Month
Per person
$4,980
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,324
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,648
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,960
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Dallas cost?
A one week trip to Dallas usually costs around $1,162 for one person and $2,324 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Dallas on average costs around $2,324 for one person and $4,648 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Dallas will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Dallas on average costs around $4,980 for one person and $9,960 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Dallas expensive to visit?
Dallas is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
Dallas can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $73 per day, mid-range travelers spend $166 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $328 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Dallas.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Dallas is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Detroit or Austin.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Dallas Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Dallas?
The average Dallas trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Dallas travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Dallas cost?
Dallas on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$37
|
$84
|
$152
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$12
|
$28
|
$56
|
|
Food 2
|
$26
|
$61
|
$134
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$4.62
|
$13
|
$37
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-8
|
$6-18
|
$12-36
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Dallas on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.
Dallas on a Shoestring Budget?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $73 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
While food is an important aspect for all visitors in Dallas, budget travelers tend to favor street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which might keep them from experiencing the local cuisine.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Many visitors to Dallas are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $166 per person, per day.
Dallas offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Omni Dallas Hotel is an excellent option for kids, and The Adolphus Autograph Collection is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Dallas here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $328 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the city will require a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Dallas and JFK Tour with Local Guide - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Dallas
In Dallas, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $117, but during peak season they jump to an average of $218. You can find budget options starting at $77 up to luxury rates at $360. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Dallas for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $168. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $84 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Dallas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Dallas include:
- Hotel ZaZa Dallas starting at $270
- Omni Frisco Hotel starting at $227
- Omni Dallas Hotel starting at $221
- Lorenzo Hotel starting at $183
- The Adolphus Autograph Collection starting at $291
Dallas has a good public transit system, which means you could stay outside the city and commute in, but you'll have to balance cheaper accommodation with higher transport costs.
Dallas is family-friendly, so finding a larger apartment or more spacious accommodation is ideal when traveling with children.
By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Dallas
Dallas offers a decent public transit system that reaches many must-see spots. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service. For a cheaper and quicker way to explore, public transit is a solid option when it's nearby. Taxis and rideshares are also plentiful in the city.
Unfortunately, most of the city is not very walkable. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $28 per person, per day, on local transportation in Dallas. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Dallas is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$28
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) to Dallas - Arrival Private Transfer for $124 details
- Private Transfer Fort Worth Airport DFW to Downtown Dallas by Luxury Vehicle for $92 details
- Arrival Private Transfer Dallas Airport DAL to Fort Worth by Luxury Vehicle for $135 details
How much does it cost to go to Dallas? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Dallas will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Dallas
The food in Dallas is terrific, and you should make sure to take time to taste all of the local flavors. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Dallas can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Dallas is $61 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$61
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Dallas is around $61 ($61) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $134. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Dallas are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $24
- Dinner: $18 to $43
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Dallas has a good number of budget and fine dining restaurants for those looking to satiate their palates. There are a multitude of cuisines that range from Tex-Mex and American to South East Asian and Indian. Visitors will never be short of places to eat in Dallas. The Shinsei Restaurant located in the University Park neighborhood offers some of the best Asian cuisines, with huge portions of sushi and Thai food. The Grape located in Lower Greenville Avenue is a popular place with outdoor dining adding to its charm. From fried food to seafood, you can find anything here. Chamberlain’s Steak and Chop is the place to go, if you are craving juicy steak. Order the Kobe sirloin steak, smoked salmon with capers and onions or the prime rib eye and you won’t be disappointed. Dallas Fish Market located in the heart of downtown Dallas, is the perfect spot for any type of gathering. This restaurant flaunts a modern and comfortable decor. Hook Line & Slinker is one of the best places for seafood in town. Boasting a casual atmosphere, some of the most famous dishes include boiled shrimp, boiled crab legs, fried catfish basket, and raw oysters.
When you're on the road with kids, look for eateries that have a kids' menu. This can lead to considerable savings, as those meals are generally less expensive. Some restaurants might not highlight their kids' options, so don't hesitate to ask the waiter before you order.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Dallas. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Secret Food Tour of Dallas with Private Tour Option for $89 details
- Uptown Eats! Trolley Tour with Food Tours of America for $89 details
- Dallas Secret Food Tour for $89 details
Typical food prices in Dallas, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Dallas
It's no surprise that Dallas sees many visitors since it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Dallas typically cost an average of $13 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$13
The Dallas Arts District is located in the center of downtown Dallas. It consists of a large performing arts venue, award winning museums and art galleries. Some of the most prominent places include the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Crow Collection of Asian Art, and the newly opened Klyde Warren Park. Dallas has substantial art and sculpture collections for visitors.
In addition to thought provoking art, there are plenty of places worth visiting in Dallas, such as the Dallas Zoo, Reunion Tower, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas World Aquarium, Six Flags over Texas, and Dallas Arboretum. Most of these places are kid and family friendly. The Sixth Floor Museum is dedicated to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and is located in the same building where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots.
Dallas hosts an agglomeration of various events, such as the Chocolate Tour for roughly $40, a BBQ and Brewery for around $60, House of Blues Dallas for approximately $50, and many more.
There are plenty of free things to do in Dallas as well. You can go on a self-guided walking tour with Public ArtWalk Dallas or drive through historic neighborhoods like Swiss Avenue, Highland Park and Kessler Park. Dallas is a big city, so guided exploration is a convenient and informative way to see the city. Some of the best tour operators around town include the Dallas City Tours, Big D Fun Tours, Dallas Texas Tour Attractions and Autobuses Mares.
And being in the center of Texas, visitors can find plenty of day trips from Dallas, too. Why not visit nearby Fort Worth, or the quaint town of Waco?
Museums and Attractions:
Many people visit Dallas specifically to see its famous museums and landmarks. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.
Shopping:
Shopping here is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Dallas. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Dallas Original Food, Wine and History Walking Tour for $129 details
- 3-Hour Ropes Course & Zip Line Adventure for $60 details
- Smart Tour: Dallas Mural E-Bike Tour for $60 details
Nightlife Budget in Dallas
With its fun and active nightlife, Dallas attracts visitors eager to experience the local bars, clubs, and parties. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $12 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Dallas per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$12
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Be aware of your surrounding and stay safe if you're out at night and drinking. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes. Stay in groups and with people you trust.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Dallas. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- 1-Hour Distillery Tour & Tasting in Dallas for $38 details
- Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum and Downtown Dallas for $55 details
- Dallas Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum for $55 details
Traveling in Dallas
Dallas, Texas
Located in the north central part of the state, Dallas is a prominent city in Texas and is one of the most populated metropolitan areas in the United States of America. The business reputation of Dallas rose from its historical status as the center for cotton and oil industries. It was also positioned among numerous railroads.
As far as costs go, Dallas is relatively inexpensive compared to other huge cities in the U.S., but its not as cheap as many others, especially if you're in the downtown area. It's not hard to find affordable restaurants, hotels, or transportation if you look.
It is best to visit Dallas during the spring or autumn, because summer in this city can get uncomfortably hot. The mild spring temperatures give rise to vibrant and blooming wildflowers. The weather in Dallas is generally pleasant in autumn between late September and early December.
Neighborhoods & Around
Dealey Plaza in Dallas is worth visiting as it is the place where president John F Kennedy was fatally assassinated. Downtown Dallas has a growing nightlife scene. Uptown & Oak Lawn are located to the north of downtown Dallas and are worthwhile for shopping, eating and staying. McKinney Avenue boasts elegant old homes with upscale restaurants and eclectic shopping arcades. Greenville Avenue & East Dallas are well known for contributing to the Dallas nightlife scene –– with a multitude of bars, lounges, bohemian restaurants and nightclubs.
East Dallas is considered the "streetcar suburbs" and has many quaint bungalows, coffeehouses, and restaurants. Highland Park and University Park are some of the wealthiest parts of the city. The areas are mostly residential but there is also high end shopping, several museums, and the George W. Bush Presidential Library.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.