It took seven years for world-renowned wildlife sculptor Robert Glen to complete this larger-than-life sized herd of wild mustangs. Since its installation in 1984, the Mustangs of Las Colinas have been among the most photographed and visited sites in North Texas. Known as the largest equestrian sculpture in the world, the mustangs are a breathtaking sight honoring both the heritage and spirit of Texas. Informative films on actual mustangs as well as the creation of the sculpture are available for viewing. Admission is free.

Without a doubt, art exhibits and performances at the University of Texas at Dallas have doubled in the recent past. The on-site classrooms and bulletin boards have even been incorporated for exhibits by guests like Victoria Corcoran. Other artists have included those from Continental Gin Studios in Deep Ellum. Rolling Stone Magazine's Greil Marcus has been among the notable guest lecturers. UTD has also staged numerous performances by musicians such as Moscow pianist Dmitri Ratser, the Huaxia Ensemble of China, Mexico's Los Tiempos Pasados and Dallas' own Cafe Noir. Art shows are free. However, admission is usually charged for lectures, concerts, and theater events.

This historically correct museum is dedicated to safeguarding the history of farm life on the Texas prairie from 1890 to 1920. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this four-acre site is accredited by the American Association of Museums. You will be able to view a restored 14-bedroom Victorian farmhouse with its original outbuildings, gardens and smokehouse along with a blacksmith's shop and farm animals. Period-dressed volunteers give guided tours. Among the many programs available are birthday party plans for children up to age 12.

Your family will enjoy the great outdoors at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. It provides a tranquil place to escape the hectic city life for an afternoon. You will find untainted woods, meadows, a collection of native Texas trees and a habitat for birds, fish and wildlife. The two miles provide a great escape for families needing to stretch their legs and explore nature. This preserve is connected through a series of bridges and ramps leading to a covered pavilion. You will find climbing structures and slides, plus a torpedo-shaped track ride and a wonderful fake rock to climb. Admission is free.

This spot offers a wonderful family opportunity for hiking and picnicking. Surrounded by residential developments, this piece of undeveloped land often holds programs in the meadow, including fund raisers and artist exhibitions. The Spring Sculpture Show is an annual event, which highlights the work of 10-12 local artists. At this event they show works that reflect the natural beauty of the land. Funding comes through the Texas Commission of the Arts as well as the cities of Allen and Plano. Imagine picnicking among stunning sculptures on an unsullied spring afternoon. Admission is always free.

Enjoy seeing wax replicas of some of your favorite celebrities at this combined Wax/Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum. The Ripley's Believe It or Not! portion of the museum holds such unusual wonders as a seven-foot Leaning Tower of Pisa. This site truly has something for every taste. There are movie scenes from Gone with the Wind and The Wizard of Oz and a beautiful exhibit on the Life of Christ. The horror section may make you jump it's so lifelike. House sculptor Peter Carsillo is a former makeup artist who does a wonderful job creating the wax characters.

Lone Star Park is a 36,000-square-foot pavilion featuring quarter horse racing annually from April through July. Off-season simulcast races are presented on over 175 television monitors and video walls. The facilities include a large, supervised playground, restaurant, abundant parking and an outdoor patio. Drive-through para mutual betting windows are available for those who don't want to leave their cars. Special family events are often held on weekends.

Take a trip back in time on this steam engine built in 1896. The round-trip train ride lasts around five hours with two stops in Fort Worth at Eighth Street and the Stockyards. The fully-stocked bar includes a few snacks to satisfy your hunger on this great turn-of-the-century adventure. All ages are delighted by this unique way of touring Tarrant County. This is a great place for children to celebrate a birthday or special event.

Located in a historic church in downtown Grapevine, the visual experience is almost as good as the wine. The premises of La Buena Vida are surrounded by arbors dripping with vines and greenery. La Buena Vida's tasting room features six wines from the vineyard located in Springtown, Texas. Other wine offerings are from the Alamo Farms Winery and there is champagne from the Smith Estate. There is also a small museum with wine making paraphernalia from as far back as 1869. In addition, La Vida offers farming tours, and visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch, which can be eaten in the gorgeous garden area.

Nestled in the heart of historical downtown Grapevine, Homestead Winery is a cozy place to enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting. The wines come from Gabe and Barbara Parker's winery located in Ivanhoe. There are a multitude of wines to sample from. For groups, Homestead Winery offers tastings for minimal fees per person. You can host an event in their tasting room or outdoors. When you are finished, take a stroll and try one of the many great restaurants in the surrounding area.