Southfork Ranch

Made world-famous by the television series Dallas, Southfork Ranch is a slice of pop-culture history sitting on picturesque Texas ranch land just northeast of the city in Parker. Today it runs daily guided tours of the mansion and grounds, and while the show is the reason adults recognize the name, kids tend to latch onto the longhorns, the wide-open lawns, and the simple novelty of walking around a real ranch.

What the Tour Covers

Guided tours take visitors through the famous Ewing Mansion and the surrounding grounds, with behind-the-scenes stories and memorabilia from the series, including props and displays that fans will recognize. The grounds themselves are the other half of the visit: longhorn cattle, sprawling lawns, and classic Texas ranch scenery that photograph beautifully. Beyond tours, Southfork operates as a working event venue and hosts seasonal activities through the year.

Is It Right for Kids?

Worth setting expectations here. The nostalgia hook is squarely aimed at adults who watched Dallas, so the mansion tour resonates most with grown-ups. That said, younger kids usually enjoy the ranch itself, spotting the longhorns, roaming the open space, and poking around the gift shop, even without knowing the show. If your family loves animals and open-air settings more than a house tour, plan to spend your time on the grounds. It works best as a relaxed, scenic stop rather than a full day of activity.

Hours, Tours, and Tickets

• Hours: open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Tours: guided tours start at 10:15 a.m. and run about every hour, with the last tour of the day beginning at 4:15 p.m. Plan to be in the gift shop about 15 minutes before your tour time.
• Tickets: admission starts around $27, with pricing that varies by tour and season. Buy online in advance or at the guard shack on arrival.
• Location: 3700 Hogge Road, Parker, TX, northeast of Dallas.

Planning Your Visit

Much of the experience is outdoors across the grounds, so dress for the weather and bring water, sunscreen, and hats in the warmer months. Parking is available on site. Because tours run on a set hourly schedule, aim your arrival at a tour time, and bring a camera, since the mansion and ranch land are genuinely photogenic.

Nearby Activities

Southfork Ranch is in the northern Dallas suburbs, close to plenty of family fun. Nature lovers can visit the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, while families looking for more to do can explore Historic Downtown Plano or the inclusive Hope Park at Frisco Commons.

Planning a day in the northern suburbs? Browse our full directory of family-friendly attractions across DFW to round out your trip.