Presidential and pioneer histories are big in the West End Historic District of Downtown Dallas. Delve into significant historical events of the United States at the museums and memorials of the West End District. Find family-friendly fun at a superb aquarium. Discover varied shops, restaurants and live entertainment venues set inside century-old brick warehouse buildings.

Get an overview of the evolution of Dallas County from prehistoric times to the present day at the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture. The museum occupies the striking Richardsonian Romanesque-style former county courthouse, characterized by terra-cotta sculptures, spires and lunettes. Walk to the nearby Founders Plaza to see the John Neely Bryan Cabin. This is a reconstruction of the log home of an early colonist settler, who built a hut in Dallas in 1841.

Embark on a tour of sights related to a popular U.S. president at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. A stark cenotaph designed by architect and Kennedy family friend Philip Johnson honors the freedom of the late president’s spirit. Pause for thought at The Grassy Knoll, near where Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald in 1963. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza has multimedia and interactive exhibits about the life, untimely death and legacy of JFK from the actual shooting spot.

For a great activity for the entire family, head to the Dallas World Aquarium. It features numerous tanks with aquatic creatures from all parts of the world in addition to birds, monkeys and sloths. Learn about the tragedies of the World War II genocide at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Marvel at the panoramic city views from the observation deck at Reunion Tower.

Travel to the West End Historic District via the city’s light rail system and the train to Union Station. Opposite the station, Ferris Plaza is an ideal spot to find relief from the sun and take a break from sightseeing activities.