Top Attractions for Visitors in Addison
With a diverse array of attractions, events, and activities, you’ll never run out of things to experience in Addison. Here are some of the top spots and happenings that should be on every first-timer’s Addison bucket list:
The Addison Circle
This mixed-use district built around a roundabout is one of Addison’s most vibrant areas. By day, stroll through high-end shops and boutiques before stopping for a bite at one of the many restaurants with patios wrapping the circle. When the sun sets, the energy shifts to the district’s famous nightlife scene. Sip craft cocktails as you bar hop or catch live music at venues like the House of Blues.
Addison Oktoberfest
If your Addison trip happens to fall in September or October, time it right to experience one of the town’s biggest annual events. Addison Oktoberfest attracts over 200,000 attendees each year with German food, polka dancing, arts and crafts, carnival rides, and more. With many attendees dressing up in dirndls and lederhosen, it’s easy to feel transported straight to Munich!
Cavanaugh Flight Museum
Calling all aviation enthusiasts! The Cavanaugh Flight Museum houses an impressive collection of vintage aircraft from World Wars I & II, the Korean War, and the Golden Age of Flight. See a replica of the Wright brothers’ 1909 Military Flyer “Signal Corps No. 1,” the B-25 Bomber “Maid in the Shade,” and other rare finds. Virtual reality simulators let you experience flight first-hand.
Hallelujah Nights
During select summer weekends, the town comes alive with this street festival along Addison Road. Enjoy live concerts on multiple stages, a classic car show, carnival rides and games, food trucks with all your fair favorites, an arts market, and fireworks on Saturday nights. With so much going on, you’ll make memories to last all year.
Addison Improv Comedy Club
For non-stop laughs, head to this intimate club to see up-and-coming and nationally touring standup comedians and improv troupes. The full-service bar helps set the mood for an uproarious night out. Reservations are recommended as shows often sell out, especially on weekends. Expect a 21+ crowd.
The Courses at Watters Creek Golf Club
Duffers looking to get in some holes during their Addison visit should look no further than these two scenic 18-hole courses. The Creek Course features Scottish-links style play with undulating topography, while the Ridge Course takes golfers through a mix of prairie and woodlands. Rental clubs are available in the pro shop. Book your tee time online.
Addison After Dark
On select summer nights, Addison After Dark brings evening fun to town. From movies under the stars to live concerts and comedy shows, there’s always free entertainment. Many restaurants and bars offer specials. Stroll the streets and soak up the festive atmosphere.
National Videogame Museum
This museum chronicling the evolution of videogames has something for every gamer. Peruse decades of consoles and games, enjoy an arcade of retro cabinets, and test new VR technology. Special exhibits explore gaming’s impact on pop culture. Buy tickets online in advance.
Addison Summer Music Fest
Addison Circle Park comes alive on summer Saturday evenings for this family-friendly local tradition. Spread out blankets and folding chairs for an evening of free live music by popular tribute bands. Vendors sell food and drinks to complete the laid-back outdoor concert vibe.
Addison Kaboom Town!
For the 4th of July, Addison hosts one of the nation’s biggest Independence Day celebrations. Enjoy a patriotic parade, daytime festival, Star Spangled Symphony, and awe-inspiring fireworks choreographed to music. Get there early to stake out a spot.
Coyote Drive-In
Step back in time at one of the few remaining drive-in movie theaters in the Dallas area. Watch first-run movies from the comfort of your car or on the lawn. Arrive early to play vintage arcade games and grab classic concessions. A nostalgic night out!
Running Contests
Health-minded visitors should check the event calendars for two of the town’s biggest athletic events. The Hottest Half Marathon, held in July, challenges runners with a 13.1-mile course. The Addison Oktoberfeast 5K in September celebrates German heritage. Both draw competitive racers and costumed fun runners alike.
Celebrate Addison Fall Fest
In mid-October, this new fall festival invites visitors to ring in the autumn season Addison-style. Held lakeside at Addison Circle Park, enjoy pumpkin decorating, hayrides, pig races, beer tents, live music, tasty fall foods, and other harvest-themed fun for all ages.
How to Get Around Addison
Addison offers several transportation options for visitors exploring all it has to offer. Here’s a rundown of ways to get around:
Public Transportation
Addison is served by DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) which runs bus routes to central locations around town. The Addison Transit Center is a major station connecting several bus lines.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis are available for street hails or pre-arranged pickups by calling local companies like Cowboy Cab or Metro Taxi. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also operate throughout Addison. These options work well for shorter point-to-point trips around town.
Charter Buses
For group transportation or transit between Addison and DFW Airport or downtown Dallas, consider chartering a private bus. Charter buses accommodate anywhere from 18 to 56 passengers and come loaded with amenities like leather seats, WiFi, entertainment systems, and more. They take the hassle out of coordinating multiple cars and parking. Call 940-800-2023 at Addison Party Bus Company to receive a custom quote tailored for your group and travel needs in Addison.
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this intro guide gets you pumped to experience all the attractions, events, dining, and entertainment that make Addison such a beloved destination. With an efficient transportation plan through DART, taxis, or our charter buses, it’s easy to maximize your time exploring this Dallas suburb. For more tips or to book group transportation, give us a ring at Addison Party Bus Company. We look forward to helping you create amazing Addison memories on your upcoming getaway!