Denton is a small town a few miles northwest of Dallas, Texas. Separated from the big city by Lake Lewisville and some small towns, Denton is a charming suburban town with a distinctive rural feel. Denton can be a good choice if you’re looking for a quiet and relaxed alternative to bustling Dallas. With a population of about 150,000 residents and the student population of the University of North Texas, the city may be small compared to the nearby metropolis, but it is full of life. You’ll find plenty to do in Denton. Whether you like music, art, outdoor activities or just exploring the local culture, here are 10 Best Things to Do in Denton.
1. Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum
The Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum is a historical museum located in Denton, Texas, USA. It is situated in the historic Denton County Courthouse, a beautiful building constructed in 1896 in Romanesque Revival architectural style. The museum’s primary focus is to preserve and showcase the history and heritage of Denton County and the surrounding area.
MISSION: The Denton County Office of History and Culture aims to educate and engage our visitors by collecting, preserving and interpreting the culture and history of Denton County.
PLACE OF LEARNING:We are a place of learning and discovery that provides educational opportunities and learning resources to the Denton County community as a public service of the local county government. Some of the ways we do this is by:
- Offering:
- Community programming
- Historical lectures
- In-school presentations
- Museum tours
- Maintaining a collection of artifacts and documents that have historical significance for preservation and posterity
Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum invite us to join the conversation about history and education in the county and explore the many benefits that are available at the Office of History and Culture. Their office is open to everyone whether you are interested in volunteering, donating, touring, or just simply want to drop by.
Address: 110 W Hickory St, Denton, TX 76201
Website: http://dentoncounty.gov/chos
2. Little Chapel in-the-Woods
The Little Chapel in-the-Woods is a historic and architecturally significant chapel located in Denton, on the campus of Texas Woman’s University (TWU). It is known for its unique design and historical importance.
The natural beauty surrounding the Little Chapel is harmonized by the beautiful stained-glass interiors. The rich symbolism of the Little Chapel in the Forest carefully portrays “Woman ministering to human needs” in the perforated and riveted brass lighting, wood executed in beech wood and hand-carved on the benches.
The chapel, 90 feet long by 24 feet wide, was designed by architect O’Neil Ford. It was built as a project of the National Youth Administration during the Depression, and dedicated by former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. The story surrounds the Little Chapel in the Forest, just as every element in the chapel is printed with an artistic touch of the young artists.
Religious and Non-Religious Events: While the chapel was originally built as a place of worship for the TWU community, it is also used for various events, including weddings, concerts, and other gatherings. Its serene and picturesque surroundings make it a popular venue for special occasions.
Address: 415 Chapel Dr, Denton, TX 76209
Website: http://twuspecialevents.com/
3. Campus Theatre, Denton
The Campus Theatre was originally built in 1949 as an Interstate Movie Theatre. In 1990, the theater was purchased by the Greater Denton Arts Council and re-opened as a performing arts venue. The theater has been host to a variety of productions, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance performances.
Location: The Campus Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Denton, at 214 W Hickory Street, Denton, TX 76201.
Architecture: The theater features an Art Deco architectural style, which is characterized by its sleek lines, geometric patterns, and decorative elements. The building’s exterior and interior reflect this iconic design.
Events: The Campus Theatre hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, live theater performances, musical concerts, lectures, and community gatherings. It has been used for a wide range of cultural and artistic activities.
Facilities: The Campus Theatre has a main auditorium with seating for an audience, a stage for performances, and the necessary equipment and facilities for live events. It also has a lobby area and a box office.
The Campus Theatre has a variety of amenities, including:
- 600-seat auditorium
- stage with a proscenium arch
- lobby with concessions and restrooms
- rehearsal space
- costume shop
Address: 214 W Hickory St, Denton, TX 76201
Website: https://theatredenton.com/
4. Bayless-Selby House Museum
Owned by Denton County citizens, Historic Park is a hub for residents and visitors to grow and learn together. It is located on Mulberry Street, just south of Denton Historic Square, a short walk from the 1896 Palace of Justice.
The park houses the Bayless-Selby House and the Quakertown House, as well as welcome center, which is also a historic structure of Denton. Future plans for the park include the renovation of Taylor’s log cabin and the forest house, a second house in Quakertown. The park has plenty of open space and regularly hosts community events such as the Farmers Market, Community Market, live music, storytelling and more. visit a bit of Denton County’s past here in the present.
Location: The Bayless-Selby House Museum is situated at 317 W. Mulberry Street, Denton, TX 76201. It is conveniently located near the downtown area of Denton.
Architecture: The house is a fine example of Victorian architecture, featuring elements of the Queen Anne style. It is known for its elegant design, decorative details, and well-preserved period furnishings.
Museum Exhibits: The museum offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience life in late 19th-century Denton. It houses a collection of period-appropriate furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that provide insight into the history and lifestyle of the era.
Address: 317 W Mulberry St, Denton, TX 76201
Website: https://www.dentoncounty.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Denton-County-Historical-Park-12
5. Blagg-Huey Library
The Blagg-Huey Library is a public library located at Denton, Blagg-Huey Library offers a variety of services, including book lending, computer access, and printing and copying. It also has a variety of programs and events for all ages, including stories, reading clubs and author talks.
The Blagg-Huey Library is a valuable resource for the Denton community. It provides access to information and resources that can help people learn, grow, and connect with others. The library also plays an important role in promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
Location: The Blagg-Huey Library is located on the UNT campus in Denton, Texas.
The Blagg-Huey Library offers:
- Book lending: The library has a collection of over 100,000 books, audiobooks, and magazines. You can borrow up to 20 items at a time for a period of three weeks.
- Computer access: The library has a computer lab with 20 public-access computers. You can use the computers to browse the internet, check email, or work on documents.
- Printing and copying: The library offers printing and copying services for a fee.
- Story time: The library hosts story time for children ages 2-5 every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 AM.
- Book clubs: The library has a variety of book clubs for adults.
- Author talks: The library hosts author talks throughout the year.
The Blagg-Huey Library is a great place to find books, information, and resources. It is also a great place to connect with others and learn new things. I encourage you to visit the library and see all that it has to offer.
Address: 307 Administration Dr, Denton, TX 76201
Website: https://twu.edu/library
6. Denton Firefighters Museum
The Denton Fire Museum takes visitors on a journey to honor the brave firefighters, past and present. The Museum houses a collection of fascinating memories from the 19th century to the present day, allowing visitors to go back in time and experience the evolution of fires over the last 150 years.
Located within the lobby of the historic central fire station, the Denton Fire Museum features interesting historical collectibles, including a 1800’s hose truck, 1935 ladder truck equipment, fire extinguishers, Denton fire grenades, helmets, uniforms and fire records dating back to the 1920s. The Museum is also home to five realistic mannequins that show fire crews through the decades.
The Denton Fire Department would like to recognize and thank Millie Giles for her support and donation to the Denton Firefighters Museum.
Location: The Denton Firefighters Museum is located in the historic Denton Central Fire Station. The address is 332 E. Hickory Street, Denton, TX 76201.
Museum Exhibits: The museum features a collection of artifacts, equipment, photographs, and memorabilia related to the history of firefighting in Denton. Visitors can explore the rich history of the Denton Fire Department and learn about the evolution of firefighting technology and techniques over the years.
Antique Fire Engines: One of the highlights of the Denton Firefighters Museum is its collection of antique fire engines. These vintage fire apparatuses provide a glimpse into the past and the challenges firefighters faced in earlier times.
Address: 332 E Hickory St, Denton, TX 76201
Website: https://www.cityofdenton.com/317/Denton-Firefighters-Museum
7. Denton Community Market
Denton Community Market is a producer-only art and farmer’s market in downtown Denton. They feature live music, kids activities, local farms, local artists, food trucks, food vendors, and more!
Location: The Denton Community Market is typically located in the downtown area of Denton. It operates in the heart of the city, offering a central and easily accessible location for visitors.
Season and Schedule: The market is generally open during specific seasons and on scheduled days. It often operates on Saturdays, from April to November, providing residents and visitors with access to fresh, local and artisanal produce during this time.
Fresh produce: Visitors can find a variety of fresh produce, grown locally at the market, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even organic varieties and relics. This allows buyers to support local farming and enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients.
Handicrafts: The market is also a great place to discover unique and artisanal items. You can find unique crafts, homemade products and artistic creations of local artisans and artisans.
Food vendors: In addition to fresh produce and handicrafts, the market often features food vendors offering delicious meals and snacks. You can taste a variety of international dishes and local culinary delights.
Address: 317 W Mulberry St, Denton, TX 76201
Website: http://dentonmarket.org/
8. LONE STAR EVENTS & SPORTS
LONE STAR EVENTS & SPORTS 27,000 square feet of year-round fun! Lone Star Rink can be booked for private events such as wedding receptions, birthday parties, sports practices, and much more. LONE STAR EVENTS & SPORTS open 7 days a week for events, roller hockey, roller derby and practices. Come enjoy a place where the weather is always perfect.
Multi-Purpose Activity Facility Roller Derby Practices – Mondays & Wednesdays Roller Hockey League Games – Tuesdays & Sundays Soccer Pickup/Practices – Thursdays Public Skate – Fridays & Saturdays Party Rooms & Private Rentals Available.
They can accommodate group skating, hockey league skating, competitive skating and public skating, all at a reasonable price and a convenient location in North Texas. They have skates to rent or you can bring yours. There is an office to answer all your questions and help guide you along the way, an arcade center and a place to grab snacks when all the skating makes you hungry. Lone Star is open 7 days a week, rain or shine! Take a break and head to this skating show for fun and exercise at the same time.
Address: 222 S Mayhill Rd Ste 101, Denton, TX 76208
Website: http://lonestarrink.com/
9. Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center
Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center (CCNHC) is a gateway to more than 2,900 acres of lowland hardwood forests, highland meadows and various aquatic habitats.
Located within the upper flood plain of Lake Lewisville and managed by the city of Denton, it offers residents and visitors unparalleled ecological, educational and recreational opportunities. The Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area includes the confluence of Clear Creek and the Elm Fork of the Trinity River and was originally established to protect and restore the rare highland grassland and seabed ecosystems. The City leases land from the US Army Corps of Engineers. and is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area.
Location: The Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center is situated on 2,300 acres of land at 3310 Collins Road, Denton, TX 76208. It’s located just a short drive from the city of Denton and offers a natural escape from urban life.
Mission: CCNHC’s mission is to inspire environmental citizenship through understanding the natural heritage of North Central Texas, providing nature experiences, education and research programs, and conservation and restoration projects.
Walk the trails in Clear Creek: Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center has over 10 miles of family-friendly hiking trails through various habitats. The Fisherman’s Trail meanders along Clear Creek to the confluence of Elm Fork. Wetlands Trail allows visitors to see wetlands built with inhabitants such as waterfowl, herons and beavers. Old Wetlands Road and High Trail meander through a thick, majestic forest. The outer loop of the trail system totals 3.2 miles – perfect for 5K runners.
Address: 3310 Collins Rd, Denton, TX 76208
Website: http://www.clearcreekdenton.com/
10. North Texas Fair and Rodeo
The North Texas Fair and Rodeo is an annual event held in Denton, Texas, that celebrates the rich agricultural and rodeo heritage of the North Texas region.
Location: The North Texas Fair and Rodeo takes place at the North Texas Fairgrounds, located at 2217 N. Carroll Boulevard, Denton, TX 76201.
Annual event: The fair and rodeo is a multi-day event held each year, usually in late summer or early autumn. It usually lasts about 9 days and has a wide range of entertainment, activities and competitions.
Rodeo: The event includes a professional rodeo competition that showcases various rodeo events, such as bull riding, barrel racing, rope equipment, and more. The rodeo is a highlight of the fair and attracts professional rodeo participants.
Livestock Shows: The fair features livestock shows and exhibitions, where participants show their animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and poultry. These shows are often part of the agricultural and educational aspects of the fair.
Entertainment: The North Texas Rodeo and Fair offers a wide range of entertainment, including live music performances, carnival rides, games and food vendors, and a variety of family activities.
Food & Vendors: Attendees can enjoy a wide selection of food options from vendors who offer traditional foods such as corn dogs, funnel cakes and more.
Competitions and exhibitions: The fair often includes competitions for various talents, from cooking competitions to art exhibitions. It is a showcase of local talent and creativity.
Educational programs: The event may include educational programs for visitors interested in learning about agriculture, livestock and rural life.
Address: 2217 N Carroll Blvd, Denton, TX 76201
Website: http://www.ntfair.com/
Among 10 Best Things to Do in Denton, 2023 I Like Little Chapel in-the-Woods very much…
These are just the tip’s of 10 Best Things to Do in Denton, 2023 What other places would you add to the list, and which have you been to? Tell us about your experiences in the comments….
