20 Things To Do In Grapevine

As one of the smaller parts of the Dallas – Fort Worth – Arlington Metroplex, Grapevine isn’t a Texan city you will regularly hear on the lips of travellers. The vast majority of people that arrive here do so purely because it is the location of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Despite lower numbers of dedicated travellers than many of the surrounding areas, the Grapevine economy relies heavily on tourism, as it siphons off visitors who arrive at the airport. This has led to the city creating a fabulous yet underutilised infrastructure for visitors.

Add to that a more natural, scenic landscape than many of its neighbours, which makes Grapevine an ideal place for a relaxed yet entertaining trip to Texas. Here are the best things to do in Grapevine, covering a wide range of options to ensure visitors of all tastes and interests can find plenty to help them plan a vacation.

Grapevine, Texas

20 Things To Do In Grapevine, Texas

1- Watch The Planes Fly Over DFW Founders’ Plaza

DFW Founders’ Plaza is an observation point on the edge of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

As the second-busiest airport in the United States, this makes it a perfect destination for plane enthusiasts to sit back, relax, and watch the various aircraft soar overhead.

A collection of monuments and sculptures dedicated to the United States Armed Forces and the airport’s history makes it a great place for others to take in the sights as well.

DFW Founders’ Plaza is at 1700 North Airfield Drive, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

2- Go Hiking Along The Horseshoe Trail

Horseshoe Trail is a hiking trail that runs for roughly five and ½ miles (9 kilometres) around one of the southern points of Grapevine Lake.

An incredibly popular spot for hikers of all abilities, it offers some stunning views of the lake and its wildlife.

It also boasts several boat ramps and fishing and swimming points, making it a fabulous option for various forms of outdoor recreation.

The Horseshoe Trail is at Lake Grapevine Runners And Walkers, 2615 Dove Loop Road, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

3- See The Area’s Best Musicians At The Glass Cactus

The Glass Cactus is a spectacular events venue that sits on stilts at the southern point of Grapevine Lake.

Most frequently used to host live musical performances, particularly by country musicians, it is one of the best places in Grapevine for nightlife.

Also offering events like nightclubs and dances, it gives you the chance to unwind, catch a show, or have some fun while soaking in the incredible views it has to offer.

The Glass Cactus is at 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

4- Appreciate The Works In The Grapevine Museums & Galleries

Grapevine Museums & Galleries is a complex filled with exhibition spaces boasting a wide array of art pieces and historical artefacts.

With displays covering every aspect of the city’s culture, history, and style, it is the number one destination to visit for anyone wanting to truly get to know Grapevine during their stay.

Grapevine Museums & Galleries is at 636 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

5- Be Amazed By The Exhibits In The Grapevine Historical Museum

Adjacent to the main Grapevine Museums & Galleries complex, the Grapevine Historical Museum is a small art and history museum.

Dedicated to the settling of Grapevine, it houses a collection of pieces dating all the way back to the city’s founding.

Much quieter than many of its bigger neighbours, it creates the perfect atmosphere to learn about the area’s past without having to deal with large groups of other travellers.

Grapevine Historical Museum is at 206 West Hudgins Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

6- Explore Grapevine Recreational Area

Located on the south-eastern shore of Grapevine Lake, Grapevine Recreational Area is the largest park in the city.

It has sprawling fields, creeks, ponds, hiking and biking trails, kid’s play areas and equipment, a public golf course, and even a winery.

With easy access to the lake and various other amenities, it is a great way to enjoy some relaxing outdoor recreation, no matter what you may have in mind.

Grapevine Recreational Area is at 3800 Fairway Drive, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

7- Discover The History Of Texas Farming At Nash Farm

Located in the heart of Grapevine, Nash Farm is a historic 19th-century farm that provides an insight into life on a farm in the region throughout history.

From the original 1869 farmhouse and barn, as well as various other historic structures, to exhibits and tours, there are several ways to learn all about Texan farming traditions.

Even today, Nash Farm continues to raise animals, giving you a chance to see how the methods have evolved first-hand.

Nash Farm is at 626 Ball Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

8- Pay A Visit To LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth is an amusement park and entertainment centre that provides a perfect mix of fun and education for the whole family.

For many, the wild rides will be the top attraction, as they provide the opportunity to simply let your hair down and go wild.

The many displays in the centre show massive Lego models of iconic sites, as well as prominent local landmarks, such as nearby AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys.

It is then rounded off by showings of 4D films and a wonderful gift shop.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth is at Oak Grove Loop North, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

9- Examine The Historic Sites In The City

Also known as Historic Downtown Grapevine, the City Of Grapevine Historic Preservation is one of the city’s oldest sections and is filled with historic buildings boasting stunning architecture.

It is a wonderful place to go for a stroll, soak in the spirit and part of the city, and a must-visit area for any fans of art or history.

Historic Downtown Grapevine is at 636 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

10- Visit The Botanical Garden At Heritage Park

The Botanical Garden At Heritage Park is a stunning, tranquil location in the city centre, where visitors can unwind and embrace nature for a while.

The various plants on offer create beautiful views and an incredible collection of aromas for you to enjoy.

With walking paths and bridges going in and out of them, seats for you to relax on, and even a fishpond and fountain, it is a perfect spot to enjoy some natural beauty without leaving the city.

The Botanical Garden At Heritage Park is at 411 Ball Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

11- Embrace The Great Outdoors In Oak Grove Park

Oak Grove Park is a great city park and garden that juts out into the south section of Grapevine Lake.

Those who want to stay active will find baseball and soccer fields, as well as paved hiking and biking trails, while those seeking a more relaxing time can enjoy the beaches, picnic tables, or fishing pond.

It even boasts a marina, boat club, and boat ramps for those who want to get out and explore the lake, while Trawick Pavilion regularly hosts terrific shows.

This ensures there is always something for everyone to enjoy, without even mentioning the breathtaking views on offer.

Oak Grove Park is at 2520 Oak Grove Loop South, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

12- Cycle Along The Shore Of Grapevine Lake From The North Shore Trailhead

The North Shore Trail is a 9.5-mile (15 km) biking trail along the north-eastern corner of Grapevine Lake.

One of the best biking routes in north Texas, it offers stunning views, incredible landscapes, and beautiful wildlife along its entire length.

It’s an absolute must-do for cycling enthusiasts.

North Shore Trailhead, Rockledge Park, Mountain Bike Trail, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

13- Set Sail Across Grapevine Lake From The Silver Lake Marina

Located in the southeast corner of Grapevine Lake, Silver Lake Marina is a fabulous marina offering places to dock and launch private boats and plenty of opportunities to rent them.

With easy access and friendly staff, it may be the best place to set off on an adventure across the water.

Silver Lake Marina is at 2500 Fairway Drive #1, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

14- Make A Trip To The Ted R Ware Plaza

Ted R Ware Plaza is home to the oldest structures in Grapevine, the 1888 J. E. & Sarah Foreman Keeling House, 1900 Donald Schoolhouse, and 1910 Cotton Ginners House.

All three are now used as museums detailing Grapevine’s settling, its education system, and its legacy in the cotton industry.

Add in a unique art installation known as “Prairie Water” and the fact that it was named after one of the most respected people in Grapevine’s history.

The Ted R Ware Plaza is a great stop for anyone interested in learning about the city’s roots.

Ted R Ware Plaza is at 206 West Hudgins Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

15- Examine The Torian Pioneer Cabin

A registered Texas Historic Landmark, the Torian Pioneer Cabin was built by hand in 1845, near what is now Grapevine Cemetery, before being moved to its current location in 1976.

Able to be viewed both inside and out and completely decorated with traditional furniture and artefacts from the time of its building, it allows you to experience what life in the area may have been like before the city was founded, or Texas was even a state.

Torian Pioneer Cabin is at 201 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

16- Spend A Day At Paradise Springs

Paradise Springs is a fabulous outdoor waterpark with a range of attractions to please visitors of all ages.

With slides, ziplines, a lazy river, and even a poolside restaurant and cabanas, it is an ideal spot to relax and cool off from the Texas heat while the more active members of your group go wild.

Paradise Springs is at 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

17- Catch A Ride On The Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Grapevine Vintage Railroad is a fantastic attraction where you can travel along a stretch of historic railroad in vintage cars from the 1920s.

It gives you a chance to see some of the city’s top sights in a unique way, while experiencing and learning more about one of its earliest forms of transportation.

There is even a range of different themed journeys run regularly, such as wine tasting and jazz music rides, so you have plenty of ways to tailor your trip to your personal tastes.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad is at 707 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

18- Learn How To Shoot At The Texas Gun Experience

With firearms being a synonymous part of Texas culture, the Texas Gun Experience ensures you can better understand them during your visit.

With a shooting range with knowledgeable staff and a wide range of lessons and weapons, you can get to grips with guns in the safest way possible.

Texas Gun Experience is at 1901 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

19- Support The Arts At The International Porcelain Artist Museum

A small, privately run museum, the International Porcelain Artist houses a collection of porcelain art that dates back to the 19th century.

A unique attraction, it offers the chance to see a beautiful style of art and a side of the city’s culture in a more relaxed way than most museums offer.

International Porcelain Artist Museum is at 204 East Franklin Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.

20- Sample The Best Local Wine At The Messina Hof Grapevine Winery

You simply can’t come to a city called Grapevine and not visit one of the many wineries within its boundaries.

One of the official stops on the North Texas Wine Country Trail, the Messina Hof Grapevine Winery, is one of the best establishments of its kind in the region.

Offering a selection of fabulous wines in beautiful tasting rooms, it is an ideal destination to sit and relax while sampling some of the best vintages the Lone Star State has to offer.

Messina Hof Grapevine Winery is at 201 South Main Street, Grapevine, Texas, 76051.