There are an array of museums throughout the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex that reflect the two cities’ love of art.
Within the Arts District, is just a few minutes’ walk, or a quick free trolley ride away from Rosewood Crescent Hotel, there are three great museums appealing to many tastes. Dallas Museum of Art is an eclectic mix of modern and classic art, historical furniture from various periods, Mexican and Mayan artifacts to name but a few. The large permanent collection is complemented by a series of large traveling exhibits such as Tutankhamun, Van Gogh and Jean Paul Gaultier. Next door is the sublime Nasher Sculpture Center and Gardens displaying works in the light-filled gallery and throughout the gardens. Opposite that is the Crow Collection of Asian Art, which is a small space filled with an exquisite of jade, Asian artifacts and art.
Another must-see museum in downtown Dallas is the Sixth Floor Museum celebrating the life of John F. Kennedy and his sad assassination. It covers his rise to power and his sad demise along with the conspiracy theories that swirl around the shooting. The audio guide for the museum is highly recommended.
Opposite is Old Red, a former county courthouse now converted into the Museum of Dallas County. It contains a fascinating look at the establishment of a settlement on a bluff overlooking the Trinity River, through to what it is today, a vibrant financial and business center and transport hub.
Appealing to families, the Museum of Nature and Science is situated in the Art Deco State Fairground. A huge range of exhibits are displayed at the museum and there is also an IMAX theatre. There is lots of programming for kids and interactive displays to help inspire learning. Also in Fair Park is the African American Museum features both African and African-American art collections, folk art and many educational programs.
The Dallas Heritage Village is also a great exhibit for children. It features a number of native Texan homes over the course of the last century that have been relocated into a park and a main street has been created. At weekends volunteers dressed for the period will guide you through some of the houses and farmsteads.
The Museums of Fort Worth are varied and interesting. The Modern is housed in an award-winning building with a beautiful reflecting pond. The Kimbell is a lovely collection with one from every famous artist! There is also Michelangelo’ first painting completed when he was 13, The Torment of St Anthony. The Amon Carter is a great collection of American Art, fabulous sweeping landscapes and a collection of Remington and Russell’s.