Texas Travel :: Cedar Hill

Looking for some great outdoor fun for the kids that’s close to home? No worries! Travel a few miles south of DFW for a small day trip to the charming city of Cedar Hill. Camp overnight and you’ve got yourself a weekend!

Cedar Hill is known as home to some of the most beautiful open spaces in Texas. The state park is a treasure and a trip to Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center is worth every minute.

My visits to Cedar Hill usually consist of coffee and outside time at one of the beautiful parks. It’s always a perfect playdate when we meet up with friends in Cedar Hill. However, I must say, my best mommy time is the downtown shopping. I always find something new.

Things to Do in Cedar Hill

---

A NATURE LOVER’S DELIGHT

Being a momma of 4 very active individuals, I’m often at a park! When the sun is shining there’s nothing like grabbing a picnic basket, bikes, wagons, and/or skates before heading out to our favorite spots. Cedar Hill has a list of 33 parks and outdoor spaces to choose from, but my kids always choose between the ones mentioned below.

Cedar Hill State Park

Camp, explore, swim, bike, hike, or simply fish in this beautiful oasis at the heart of Texas. The state park is known for the fishing on Joe Pool Lake and the 1200 acres of Texas countryside to explore. Plan the perfect camping trip and take the kids on a hike they will never forget. 

Calf Pasture Park

This place is the perfect stop after a busy lunch. Take some time to walk the dog or work out on the National Fitness Campaign Court located right beside the park. You work out while the kids play! 

Crawford Park

Did someone say outside BBQ? Crawford Park is the perfect park to have a family cookout and enjoy the natural shade of the pecan trees. Bring your soccer ball and enjoy the open field.

Virginia Weaver Park

My kids LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this playground! This park was recently renovated with a newer design made from recycled plastic. There are two sides, giving your toddlers their own personal play experience. Heads up, there is minimal covering so take on this park early before it gets too hot.

UNIQUE SHOPPING ON THE HILL

1846 Coffee

I must say, I’ve fallen head over hills for this place. This building has a whimsical charm that is almost aristocratic with its red brick and gold trim in the ceiling. Take in the cozy environment, and might I suggest the Lavender Lemonade. It’s a little sip of sunshine. 

After you have enjoyed your coffee, take a stroll down to the shops to see what you can find. The historic downtown square is full of goodies.

Decor on the Hill

Need a gift that is unique and special, maybe something to capture the very essence of a relationship? Look no further than this little shop. From home decor to handmade truffles from Sweet Shop USA, this place is THE gift shop! Oh, and if you need a card that speaks louder than words? Browse through the quilling card section. These handcrafted cards are made with a special technique of rolling, coiling, and shaping strips of paper into works of art. Some people buy them to simply frame them!

Cedar Hill Market

In addition to the downtown shopping, check out Cedar Hill Market for sweet treats, country favorites, and even some Cajun country goodies. They are currently carrying the Frog Bone seasonings that will jazz up any dish.

Shea Sage and Salt 

I created my own personal home spa for my mommy “ME” time after I learned so much about the calming agent in shea butter and how it could rescue my dry irritated skin. These hand-crafted natural products will restore you inside out. My favorite soap is lavender for when I need a little soothing sleep after a hard day. 

Sly Cat Gallery

Take a walk outside the norm and enjoy local art at this sly little gallery. Plan your appointment with a call, text, or even email. They often have many great pieces to view. Currently, they have a display called “Pathways.”

Hillside Village

The village is a perfect outdoor social spot, complete with seating areas, a splash pad for the littles, as well as a small rock-climbing park. Your kids will love Hillside Village, it’s like a mini water park. 

Here’s a complete list of shopping options in Cedar Hill. 

FOR THE FOODIES

Finally, the FOOD!!!! I must say, I absolutely love to eat. From BBQ to pizza, I am your taste tester! Sometimes, I take a trip to Cedar Hill just to eat.

For pizza, we love to hit up Sam’s Pizza for that hometown, Italian feel. You must try the lasagna.

Chicken salad, ribs, banana pudding, and a whole lot of soul! That is what you will find at Phat Girlz BBQ and Catering. 

Need some Cajun deep-fried goodness? Check out Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe; you will thank me!

My favorite Tex-Mex has to be Restaurante La Tosca Tex Mex. It’s homestyle and family-friendly. You will feel a little of Mexico here.

For a local brew, check out Ash & Ember, “founded on the ideals of friendship, community, and tradition”. A welcomed newcomer, indeed.

Need more than my favorite spots? Here’s a complete list of dining in Cedar Hill. 

Find more great posts from our Texas Travel Series here!