While you are in Dallas, why not take the opportunity to learn more about the history of the city as well as North Central Texas? Dallas Heritage Village, designed for visitors of all ages, is one of the most unique museums around.
The buildings at Heritage Village accurately recreate Dallas as it existed from 1840-1910, truly a trip back in time. Heritage Village has been called a “living museum “, a 13 acre park filled with at least three dozen historic buildings.
They are all located in Old City Park, also known for its noted history as the city’s original park, complete with the first zoo. Whether you decide to visit Heritage Village on your own or with your entire family, this is one tourist attraction that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
A revolving cast of actors play their roles as farmers, gunfighters, and others who lived in early Dallas with complete authenticity, keeping things lively. The focus shifts to a different theme monthly so you never know what you’ll find.
Past themes have included Domestic Arts from the 19th Century and the Christmas season is particularly festive. In July, an old fashioned 4th of July is always popular.
Insiders suggest that you visit the Heritage Village during the week if you want to see the actors and to call ahead to find out when they’ll be there during the week. Of course, you’ll want to bring along your camera since you are definitely allowed to take photos.
If you bring along a picnic lunch, you’ll be surrounded by the lovely village as well as an incredible view of the Dallas skyline. There are several picnic spots throughout the villege.
Since the Village’s collection includes more that 28,000 artifacts, displays of these rotate. Approximately 8,000 of them may be featured at one time. The actors, also known as “recreators” regularly portray the work done by potters, blacksmiths, farm wives, bankers, and others. Children who see the village are reminded of a time before iPods and computers, an era when work started by early morn and didn’t end till sundown.
Those who have been lucky enough to experience Heritage Village have been impressed by the recreation of an entire community, including a real log cabin from 1847 as well as a train depot, church, schoohouse and even a bank. Legend has it that the bank was even robbed by the notorious Bonnie and Clyde bandits.
All of the buildings are actual vintage structures, gathered from their original sites in or near Dallas. They were then completely restored before arriving in Heritage Village. There is even a realistic depiction North of a Texas farm from the 1860s, complete with crowing roosters and friendly sheep.
Dallas Heritage Village has received plenty of acclaim nationwide, too. It was even featured on the television show, Richard Ray’s Lone Star Adventures. One tip that is particularly helpful: as you enter the village, you’ll see scenes from the 1800s.
Be sure to notice, as you move along, that the time period keeps shifting until you reach the 1900s. In short, just by walking through the village you’ve been able to view more than 70 years of Dallas history. It is fascinating to see how events and activities change over time.
If you plan on visiting Heritage Village, make sure you arrange your day around the guided tours. They allow you to see the interiors of several buildings which may not be open to visitors at other times. If you happen to be in Dallas during the Christmas season, you’ll find the Candlelight ceremony at Old City Park an especially charming holiday experience, one with a Victorian atmosphere.
Attractions near Heritage Village include Millermore Mansion and the Dallas Farmer’s Market, only a block away. Heritage Village is located at 1515 S. Harwood and can be reached at (214) 421-5141. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children ages 3 through 12. Children under 3 are admitted free. Hours are Tuesday through Satruday from 10am to 4 pm and Sundays from noon to 4 pm.