Figure:
Watch the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.
Sports and outdoors
Energized by big games, scenic trails and the thrill of competition? In Dallas, college life is amplified by access to iconic sports leagues, stunning lakes and over 400 public parks.
Dallas has it all – amazing art galleries, museums and live performances, plus top sports teams like the Cowboys, Mavericks and Rangers. There’s always something exciting to do in the city.
KK Wachtell ’26
Dallas is a sports city
- Dallas-Fort Worth is home to seven professional franchises including the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars, FC Dallas, Dallas Wings and the Dallas Renegades.
- Dallas-Fort Worth can also claim world-class venues in AT&T Stadium, home of the Cowboys, and American Airlines Center, home of the Mavericks and Stars.
- The area is a hub for global events, like hosting nine matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Dallas pro teams
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MUSTANGS SAY:
I serve as a brand ambassador for Rangers-driven campaigns. Additionally, I take part in professional development workshops and utilize creative content creation to drive ticket sales and event attendance. This experience has allowed me to build valuable skills in sports marketing, fan engagement and brand promotion. I found out about this opportunity through my connections with the SMU Athletics marketing department.
Tori Hogan ’25, Texas Rangers College Brand Ambassador
Figure:
Sophia Walker ’27 explores the outdoors through her Trinity River Audubon Center internship.
Outdoor activities
Want the best of both worlds – a thriving metropolis and easy access to nature? Come to Dallas. The city is home to hundreds of parks, over 200 miles of urban trails, and plenty of lakes for water sports such as sailing and kayaking. Getting outside is part of the social fabric of Dallas, where 81% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, and run clubs, bike clubs, and nature societies such as Audubon Dallas and Sierra Club are always looking for new members. Click on the outdoor hotspots below to see how accessible they are from SMU’s campus.
Outdoor Adventures start at SMU. Grow as a leader and outdoorsman through rock climbing, mountain biking and backpacking trips organized by Campus Recreation.
Laura Bush Native Texas Park
East side of campus
A 15-acre nature trail on the George W. Bush Presidential Center grounds where you can explore Texas native plants.
Katy Trail
0.4 mi. to Katy Trail trailhead
One of Dallas' most popular outdoor escapes is near SMU’s campus. Bike, run or walk through Dallas neighborhood and entertainment areas on this 3.5-mile trail.
Great Trinity Forest
10.3 mi. south of campus
Immerse yourself in nature south of downtown Dallas. Explore miles of trails and observe birds, butterflies, turtles and other wildlife. At 6,000 acres, this is the largest urban hardwood forest in the United States.
Trinity Skyline Trail
5.5 mi. from campus
Bike or hike this 4.6-mile paved trail to see amazing views of the city.
White Rock Lake
4.3 mi. from campus
The Dallas area is home to several lakes, including iconic White Rock Lake just east of campus, where you can kayak, go for a run along the shoreline, rent bikes with friends, enjoy a picnic and more.
MUSTANGS SAY:
I could not live without the Katy Trail! It starts near SMU and heads into downtown Dallas. I love to take a nice run or walk with my friends and enjoy the scenery along the trail. I get to stay active and enjoy the outdoors in a big city!
Malanie Jackson ’26
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