This exciting program featuring some of the most popular attractions in the Dallas area is available to guests/spouses for an additional fee. See the registration/fees section or the registration form for pricing.
Art and History in Dallas
Choose from two exciting tours
Tuesday, October 12
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Discover the world-class Arts District and two of its shining jewels. The stunning Dallas Museum of Art houses major works of Pre-Columbian, Old World, and modern art. Highlighting the museum's permanent collections are The Ten Treasures, each representing one key area of the museum. The Reves Collection is a unique assembly of works by Manet, Renoir, Cezanne, Pissaro, Gauguin, Van Gogh, and Monet, exquisite furniture, and decorative arts. Across the street at the newly opened Nasher Sculpture Center, this multi-million dollar museum and sculpture garden is dedicated to the understanding, exhibition, and enjoyment of modern and contemporary sculpture and is truly one of Dallas' most unique and utterly modern venues.
This tour begins at the infamous Dealey Plaza, where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. See the actual location of the tragedy and the motorcade route, including where the Zapruder film was made. Concluding the tour of Dealey Plaza, you will then be escorted inside the Sixth Floor Museum located in the former Texas School Book Depository (where Lee Harvey Oswald took the fatal shot). Through the interpretive exhibition and audio-guided tour, you will be transported back to the 1960s, through JFK's trip to Dallas, his assassination, and the investigations that followed. The exhibition finishes with a commentary on John F. Kennedy's impact on the nation and the world throughout his life and the legacy he left behind.
Home on the Range: North Texas Horse Ranches
Wednesday, October 13
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
North Texas or 'Horse Country USA' is home to one of the largest concentrations of horse farms (ranches) in the United States with over 300 horse ranches. From quarter horses to thoroughbreds, Paints to Appaloosas, a wide range of equestrian breeds, training facilities, and horse lovers call North Texas home.
Explore a few of these local ranches to learn more about the variety of breeds and disciplines produced in this area and gain an understanding of life on the ranch. You will be greeted by each ranch owner and/or manager for an official welcome before receiving a behind-the-scenes-tour of the ranch facilities, information on their selected breed focus and disciplines, along with a visit to the barn and breeding facilities. As time permits, you may view a short demonstration of the training discipline. Concluding the tour, enjoy a traditional Texas meal at a local restaurant. Once everyone has a chance to dine and relax, it's time to head back to the big city!
Cowboys and Culture: Fort Worth Stockyards
Thursday, October 14
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Experience history and modern culture all wrapped up into one fabulous city! Step back in time in Fort Worth's magnificent Sundance Square and its spectacular turn-of-the-century buildings amidst towering skyscrapers and learn the colorful history of Cowtown. Fort Worth was once home to legendary figures such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, cattle barons, and rugged cowboys. Enjoy a fun-filled day in the Fort Worth Stockyards filled with lively western saloons, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants. Cowtown Coliseum, home to the first indoor rodeo; Stockyards Station, a train station containing distinctive Texas shops; and Billy Bob's Texas, the world's largest honky-tonk, are favorite stops. You can also see the only daily cattle drive around. A visit to Forth Worth's National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame will conclude this inspiring tour.
Dallas in Bloom: The Dallas Arboretum and
Botanical Garden
Friday, October 15
8:30 am - 11:30 am
Discover Dallas' greatest natural resource - the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Arboretum features 66 acres superbly landscaped with towering trees, fragrant gardens, and lush lawns. From the more than 2,000 varieties of azaleas in the spring to the countless colors of chrysanthemums in the fall, the splendors of these gardens are a must-see when visiting Dallas. As you explore the grounds you'll discover sparkling fountains, sculptures, two historic mansions, and much more to delight the eye and refresh the spirit.
The historic DeGolyer House, once the magnificent home of petroleum geologist and oilman Everett Lee DeGolyer, is the focal point of the arboretum. Guided tours are offered of Mr. DeGoyler's study and other rooms filled with art and furniture, as well as the grounds. You can also explore seasonal plants, bulbs, gardening books, elegant stationary, and other gifts in the gift shop.
