A large public park, Pioneer Plaza is located in the Convention Center District of downtown Dallas, Texas. It features a large sculpture and is a heavily visited tourist site. It also adjoins the Pioneer Park Cemetery which features the Confederate War Memorial. Together, the plaza and cemetery are the largest public open space in the Dallas central business district. Learn more in Dallas, TX.

Part history lesson, part public art display, the 4.2-acre Pioneer Plaza celebrates the trails that originally attracted settlers to Dallas centuries ago. The centerpiece of the park is a larger-than-life bronze cattle drive sculpture by Robert Summers that commemorates the epic 19th-century cattle drives on the Shawnee Trail.

The longhorn steers carved by artist Summers are crafted from bronze, so each one is unique. Each statue stands 6 feet tall and carries a historic brand from a Texas ranch. The sculptures are surrounded by a waterfall, man-made cliffs and native plant life.

This attraction is free to visit and is open 24 hours a day. It is located on the corner of Young and Griffin streets, just a short walk from Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas and the Adolphus, Autograph Collection hotel.

A great place for a family photo stop, Pioneer Plaza is also a worthwhile stop on any downtown Dallas itinerary. Recent travelers describe it as a must-see for visitors looking to capture a classic Dallas photo backdrop with the city skyline behind them.

Getting There

The park is easily accessible by car, less than one-half mile (0.8 kilometers) north of Interstate 30. It is also a short walk from such major attractions as the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza.

It is accessible by bicycle, as well. The DART bus lines run frequently to the plaza from various stops across town.

Parking is available at a number of paid parking lots around the area. However, there are plenty of spots available at the plaza, especially in the morning and during the afternoon.

During the summer, there are often live music events at the plaza and the adjacent Pioneer Park Cemetery. You can also find restaurants and shops at the plaza.

You can even get a taste of Dallas history with a guided tour. This small-group excursion offers a glimpse at the city’s iconic landmarks and a visit to Southfork Ranch, where J.R. Ewing and family reside on the popular American TV show “Dallas.”

This is a wonderful way to experience Dallas’ history and culture, as you will see the city from the eyes of the people who live here. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with locals.

A must-see for tourists to this beautiful city, Pioneer Plaza is a great spot for a photo op or a quick stop before heading off to the next part of your journey.

Visiting the park is free to do and it’s located on a 4.2-acre lot at Young and Griffin streets in downtown Dallas. The park is close to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, and it’s just a short walk from Pioneer Cemetery. Learn more information about Crow Museum of Asian Art of The University of Texas at Dallas.