Things To Do and See In Denton, Texas
Wondering what to do in Denton, TX? There are so many wonderful, interesting things to do and see in Denton, TX that it can be overwhelming picking just one event or attraction to start with! Luckily for you, we went ahead and picked some of our favorites to inspire you. This charming small city, which is located about forty miles north of Dallas, is known as the location of the University of North Texas, and also for its independent music scene, historic sites, recreational opportunities, quirky personality, and for being home to the largest community garden in the United States.
Things to Do in Denton, TX
Tucked away in this northern Texas town is a hub of arts and culture as well as a place steeped in its own rich history. When looking for stuff to do in Denton, you have many choices including galleries, museums, quirky shops, live music venues, and much more!
Live Music
Denton has a thriving live music scene, thanks in large part to the excellent music program at the nearby University of North Texas which is nationally recognized for its excellent music school. Among the top free Denton events you won’t want to miss include the weekly lab band and jazz ensemble concerts at UNT. Check the free concert schedule and contact the University for more information.
Denton’s lively nightlife boasts a wide assortment of restaurants, bars, pubs, and live music venues. Music lovers looking for fun things to do in Denton can head to one of the many venues for live performances on Oak Street, McKinney Street or Hickory Street.
Outdoor Recreation
If you love the outdoors, there are plenty of fun places to go in Denton to partake in recreational activities and enjoy the area’s pleasant scenery. The Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center has more than 2,900 acres of hardwood forest, prairie and aquatic habitats to explore.
Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the fact that Denton is just 15 miles from Lewisville Lake. Hidden Cove Park & Marina offers boat charters, standup paddleboards, bike rentals, and kayaking. You can also rent boats, hire a fishing guide, take wake boarding lessons, camp, hike, and play golf. Oh, and if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Denton, TX, be sure to enjoy the sunset from the outdoor deck at one of the restaurants bordering the lake.
Museums & Historical Sites
If you’re looking for historic places to see in Denton, TX, the downtown square is home to one of the state’s most beautiful old courthouses. The Courthouse Museum showcases the area’s local history through its special collections and rotating exhibits.
The County Historical Park is one of the best things to do with kids in Denton, TX. The park is a great place to see and learn the history of the area. The park houses several historical buildings that are open for tours and an African American museum at the Quakertown House, which was built in 1904. Quakertown was a bustling African American community in the early 20th century that was displaced when the Denton City Council circulated a petition to purchase the area for a city park. A bond election passed, and the Quakertown residents were forced to move. Some moved their homes but many of them were destroyed in the process.
One of the top Denton events to experience is the Denton Community Market, which is held at the historical park on Saturday mornings. Artists, farmers, vendors and entrepreneurs sell a wide assortment of locally made items at this thriving outdoor market. Enjoy the live music and free samples!
Attractions in Denton
Denton is known for quirky, entertaining, and worthwhile attractions that you won’t find anywhere else. Here are few to explore:
The Chairy Orchard
If you’re still looking for fun things to do in Denton, the Chairy Orchard is a must see. It should be on everyone’s list of the top 10 places to see in Denton, TX. Two women who live across the street from each other created “The Chairy Orchard” in 2013 and what started out as a bad pun quickly grew into the avant-garde attraction it is today! Chairs are scattered everywhere from the trees to the ground to create a visceral art experience you can walk through and even add to! Yes, all who enter are welcome to leave their mark by simply placing a chair in the collection. Bring your cameras and be selfie-ready for a truly one-of-a-kind photographic event you can only get here in Denton, TX.
Denton Arts and Jazz Festival
When looking for things to do in Denton, TX with your kids, look no further than the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival. And if you want affordable, cool things to do in Denton, you’ll be glad to know this amazing yearly festival is free of charge. The event is one of the largest attractions in the whole state of Texas. Jazz musicians from around the world come to play at the festival. This year, it won’t be in April as usual due to the pandemic, but it is planned for October 2021.
Shiloh Fields Community Garden
Did you know that Denton, TX is home to the largest community garden in the United States? Shiloh Field Community Garden has been a part of Denton’s history since 2009 and has been a favorite staple of the community ever since. It was recognized in 2020 for helping local non-profits and food banks during the COVID-19 pandemic, donating a staggering 40,000 pounds of produce to help those hit hardest. Shiloh Field Community Garden offers tours and opportunities to volunteer to help grow and distribute produce to those in need.
Homes in Denton, TX
We here at Pecan Square by Hillwood want you to enjoy your stay and explore all that Denton, TX has to offer. Check out our virtual tours online and feel free to contact us with any questions.