The warmer temperatures of summer make Dallas a wonderful place to explore and soak up some vitamin D — between all that indoor air conditioning and those frozen beverages. The city hosts dozens, if not hundreds, of events each weekend. Discover ways to experience Dallas' outdoor treasures (including the Great Trinity Forest and White Rock Lake), sample our incredible cuisine, and immerse yourself in some awe-inspiring art and history. Many of these activities are free, too, so put on your comfy shoes and hit the streets of our world-class metropolis — while observing all coronavirus suggestions and requirements, of course.

1. Visit a farm, have lunch then take a hike

Bonton Farms has been one of our city's somewhat hidden gems since its founding. Its mission? To “restore lives, create jobs and ignite hope in a once forgotten and neglected neighborhood.” Today, you can volunteer your time and talents at the working farm, support their programs by dining at the on-site cafe or coffee shop or gathering some of the freshest fruits and vegetables at their farmers market. When you're done fueling up, walk over the levee and onto the wooded trails that lead to Trinity River overlooks. A few miles away, the Trinity River Audubon Center offers more ways to get in touch with nature. (Note: The farm and its venues are all closed on Sundays, but you can still park outside and hike the trail.)

2. Study one of history's most significant moments

The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas on November 22, 1963, will be forever intertwined in Dallas history, so great effort and care have been taken to educate people on one of the most significant events of the 20th century. Start at the Sixth Floor Museum, then go on a self-guided tour of Dealey Plaza, the JFK Memorial and other key sites within walking distance of the famous former book-depository building.

3. Toast to the world's first margarita machine

There's quite the dispute over who invented the margarita, but as for the frozen-margarita machine, the verdict is clear. Created by Mariano Martinez in Dallas in 1971, the original margarita machine now resides in the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History. Gather on the patio at Mariano's Hacienda in East Dallas and give a toast to the invention by sipping on one of the original recipes for frozen margaritas — or try one of the many new creations invented in the last five decades. 

4. Make some mural selfies in Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum has a long and storied history in Dallas and has changed dramatically over the years. In its current incarnation, the district welcomes visitors daily to its numerous restaurants, bars, live-music venues, galleries and breweries. But as you wander along the sidewalks between eating, drinking and shopping, you'll notice dozens of colorful murals on nearly every building, as well as several public art pieces. They all make great backgrounds for social media profile pics or simply as colorful reminders of a great day on the town.

5. Go sky-high and change your perspective 

Take the elevator up 470 feet inside Reunion Tower at the edge of downtown and explore the GeO-Deck, which offers 360-degree views of the city from both indoor and outdoor observation decks. Schedule your visit 30 minutes or so before sunset and see the city transform from day to night. Book a romantic Love Is in the Air package and receive VIP elevator service, a free digital photo in a silver frame and two glasses of sparkling wine in souvenir glasses. Yoga and other events take place in the space at various times throughout the year, too.

6. Sample some of the most savory treats in town

Trinity Groves boasts spectacular views of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and the downtown Dallas skyline from its massive patio, but it is most famous as the home to more than a dozen delicious food concepts, from cake by the slice and artisan chocolates to Tex-Mex favorites, classic Italian and even an eatery devoted to all things avocado. Create your own progressive meal by ordering a dish or two at one restaurant before moving on to the next, then burn some calories walking over to the bridge for photos of the iconic cityscape.

7. Admire multiple masterpieces in one artful area

Whether you're looking for sculptures, paintings, photographs or a live performance, the country's largest contiguous urban arts district has plenty to tantalize the senses. The Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Crow Museum of Asian Art all have weekend hours, but it's equally enjoyable to walk around and admire the architecture of all the buildings that make up the district. Plus, you'll be right across the street from the unique Klyde Warren Park — our next suggestion.

8. Pass the time (or pump it up) in one unusual park

The urban deck park that connects Uptown and downtown Dallas offers a variety of free programming daily, from morning exercise classes to nighttime movie screenings, as well as a collection of food trucks to satisfy nearly any craving. Spread out on the grass for an impromptu picnic or grab one of the tables in the shade for a relaxing break from the day.

9. Count the colors at the loveliest lake in town

Head to White Rock Lake for one of the most beautiful ways to end a day in Dallas. Park near Winfrey Point and relax on a bench on the hill or take the short hike to the shore. If you're facing downtown Dallas in the west, you know you're in the right place. Sunsets here can be spectacular, especially if the sky's a little cloudy, but the tranquil sounds of the gently lapping waves and the gentle breeze through the trees make for an enjoyable respite no matter what time of day you visit.