When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Why Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament offers a unique and immersive experience that makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Set in a castle built to resemble the authentic Medieval era, guests are transported back in time to witness a theatrical show filled with thrilling sword-fighting, jousting, and spectacular horse riding. The atmosphere is vibrant and engaging, with lively music and colorful banners that invite guests to cheer for their favorite knight, intensifying the fun and camaraderie among friends. The dinner served is part of the immersive experience, featuring a hearty medieval-style feast including chicken, ribs, and potatoes, served 'hands-on' without utensils to truly capture the spirit of the time. Beyond just a meal, it is a shared festive event where friends can enjoy entertainment and delicious food simultaneously. Medieval Times also emphasizes hospitality, making every guest's visit memorable through attentive service and a lively environment. With multiple locations across the United States and Canada, it remains one of North America's most popular dinner attractions, having entertained millions since opening its first castle in Florida in 1983. This blend of history, spectacle, and communal dining creates a memorable setting for friendly gatherings or celebrations.
Here's what people think of Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
As of recent, Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament holds a 4.7-star rating based on 14801 reviews.
Users overwhelmingly praise Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament for its unique entertainment and engaging historical theme. Reviewers highlight the show's live action, including jousting and sword fights, as captivating and exciting, making it an especially fun experience for families and groups of friends. Many appreciate the well-choreographed performances, the impressive horse riding skills displayed, and the overall atmosphere of stepping back to the Medieval era. Positive reviews frequently commend the dinner as satisfying and fitting with the medieval theme, noting the quality of the food and the novelty of dining without utensils. Additionally, guests often mention the courteous and enthusiastic staff who enhance the overall experience by being attentive and friendly. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to issues such as the fixed menu offering limited food choices, occasional complaints about seating arrangements affecting visibility of the show, and price concerns relative to the dining and entertainment package. A few guests also mention that the 24/7 open status seen online may be confusing or inaccurate for some locations. Nonetheless, the consensus is that the remarkable spectacle and interactive nature of the show outweigh these drawbacks. In conclusion, Medieval Times remains a highly rated and popular venue for those looking to enjoy a lively, interactive dinner theater with friends and family, blending history, sport, and entertainment with a festive communal dining experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Trey
We visited this place for my sister-in-law’s 21st birthday, and it was an absolute blast! We had a party of 16 people, and we all dressed up, making it a great time. Each section has its own server who delivers food and drinks to the entire arena simultaneously. The dinner menu is predetermined, so you won’t have to worry about making a selection. You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. The show was fantastic! Each section has its own Knight and Horse. They interact with the crowd, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. I won't spoil it but YES there is a lot of action!
Miranda
We had a great time at the show. Tickets are about 70 bucks a person. Parking is free. Bar drinks and merchandise are extremely expensive. Like 40 dollars for a small light up wand. The cups you are able to keep but still 20 - 30 dollars a pop. The show is great. Small arena area so there isn’t issues with not being able to see the show. Lots of action and beautiful white horses 🐎 The food is pretty good. I was surprised at how tender the chicken is. Overall a great experience for an evening out in downtown Dallas ‼️
Ceres Brandenburg
What an Experience! From the moment we arrived, the gate and flowing water set the stage for the fun and whimsy waiting inside. Check-in was seamless—we received our badges and crowns quickly, and the staff handled photos with expertise and care. Inside, the atmosphere was lively and buzzing with excitement. A highlight was meeting Iris the falcon and her skilled handler for a photo opportunity. The gift shops were full of charm, and of course, we couldn’t resist bringing home a shirt. Then came the show! Our server was absolutely wonderful—kind, efficient, and impressively knowledgeable. Seated in the green section, we cheered with pride for our knight. Huzzah! The horsemanship on display was breathtaking, and the entire production left us with deep admiration for every actor and supporting role that brought the experience to life. Thank you for such an unforgettable visit!
Sherry Seals
What a wonderful way to spend the evening. This place was great for families, and although we didn’t brings any kids with us, we all enjoyed the show. You should know that you don’t get utensils to eat. If that thought is difficult for you, just bring some with you. I’m sure they have some too, but we didn’t ask. The food was okay, but truthfully the focus is on the well orchestrated show. Being an equine professional, I found most of the performance to be entertaining and animal friendly, which was nice. I’m happy that I went to check it out. I would recommend the experience to anyone that’s in the area.
Virginia Zamora
It was great! Had to use your fingers to eat! It is cold inside so wear pants. Great for children . There was a ton of birthday parties for children and older persons like us, it’s a different experience they involve us so we get our own horseman to cheer on! I loved it around $220 for two people includes meal and drink Pepsi tea water and I think sprite . Alcoholic drinks are separate they come around and ask for orders. Please tip your waiter I loved mine I wish I knew his name! he was awesome on the yellow and red section! He did a great job keeping us informed ! We came in from San Antonio Texas! The traffic was horrible but it was worth it! Thank you guys keep up the good work!! I can see a lot of children and adults enjoyed the whole thing. And I can see the horses are part of your family and being taking care of them you can see them through their glass display thank you for this awesome wonderful experience I am so grateful 🥹😉😍 I love how they throw flowers too I won’t display a lot if you want to see come in but I took a lot photos it is an experience!!!! Oh oh you go home with a photo buy some swords make it a fighting picture maybe next time
How to reach Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
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Why Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament with your friends? Because it offers a unique, immersive experience that merges thrilling live entertainment with a communal feast, making it an ideal setting to bond with friends or family. Unlike conventional outings, this venue transports you back to the 11th century, where you become part of a medieval tournament filled with knights, horses, and dramatic storytelling. The atmosphere is electric, with audience members cheering for their chosen knight, creating a lively, interactive environment. Sharing this excitement with friends turns an ordinary night into a memorable adventure, replete with camaraderie, laughter, and shared moments of awe and suspense. The all-inclusive dinner served without silverware — just like in medieval times — further seals the experience, encouraging a casual, festive vibe conducive to socializing and fun. This blend of theatrical spectacle and dining not only entertains but also fosters connection, making Medieval Times an exceptional choice for group meetups looking for something beyond the usual meal or movie night.
What activities are available at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and why is it perfect for group meetups? At the heart of Medieval Times is a live medieval-style tournament, featuring highly skilled knights competing in jousting, sword fights, and other chivalric games. This action-packed main event captivates guests of all ages, as the knights’ colorful costumes and finely trained horses combine thrilling visuals with impressive athleticism. The show’s narrative invites the audience to rally behind their knight’s colors, encouraging group participation and friendly competition among tables. Alongside the tournament, there is a royal falconry demonstration showcasing majestic birds of prey, which adds an educational and awe-inspiring element to the evening. The entire experience is designed to engage groups by offering shared cheers, collective suspense, and multiplied delight as every small victory or dramatic moment is witnessed collectively. This makes it perfect for friends and families looking to deepen their bonds through shared excitement beyond what typical outings offer.
Why is Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament an ideal venue for group celebrations and meetups? The venue’s spacious medieval-style castle setting is designed to comfortably host large parties, providing ample room for groups to sit together and enjoy uninterrupted company. Tables are arranged so that everyone in the party has a clear view of the arena, fostering a united, inclusive experience. The staff enhances group hospitality by maintaining attentive and theatrical service; servers stay in character and engage with guests, which amplifies the immersive medieval ambiance. The rustic, communal dining style encourages interaction — eating with hands and sharing the excitement of the show creates a lively, unrestrained atmosphere that’s perfect for groups seeking fun and novelty together. Additionally, the venue offers VIP seating options that place groups right at the edge of the arena, maximizing visibility and adding an exclusive feel to special gatherings. This tailored environment ensures that meetups are not only joyous but also hassle-free, with the show and meal seamlessly coordinated to flow smoothly throughout the evening.
What kind of food can groups expect at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, and how does it complement the experience? The menu reflects the medieval theme with hearty servings that are both satisfying and straightforward, designed for eating without silverware to replicate a genuine 11th-century banquet. Typically, guests receive generous portions of rotisserie-style chicken, spare ribs, corn on the cob, seasoned potatoes, savory tomato bisque, garlic bread, and a dessert like an éclair. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring inclusivity for all dietary preferences in your group. The food is praised for its flavor and simplicity, making it a crowd-pleaser that won’t overwhelm guests with complicated presentations or unfamiliar tastes. Drinking vessels resemble pewter, adding to the authenticity and charm, while the communal eating style encourages relaxed conversations and lively interactions amid the show’s brilliance. For groups, the feast reinforces the shared experience, as everyone dips into their meal simultaneously with the excitement of the tournament, strengthening the sense of occasion and togetherness.
How does the interactive and competitive nature of the show enhance group dynamics at Medieval Times? One of the most engaging features of the Medieval Times experience is the live competition between knights, where groups become invested in rooting for their knight’s color. This element of friendly rivalry creates natural conversation starters and keeps everyone energized throughout the evening. Group members cheer collectively, wave banners, and celebrate every successful joust or victory, which generates a communal energy that few entertainment venues can replicate. This ongoing competition also fosters playful bonding, as friends and family members join forces, strategize how to best support their knight, or debate the merits of different contenders. The interactive atmosphere with spontaneous audience participation, such as chanting and applauding, pulls groups into the action and forms shared memories based on collective excitement and enthusiasm. This makes the experience not just a show to watch but a social event to be actively part of, perfect for groups wanting to create lasting connections.
What makes Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament suitable for all ages in a group? Medieval Times is widely acclaimed for its family-friendly appeal, making it an excellent choice for groups with a mix of children, teenagers, and adults. The storyline is told through lively and entertaining performances that maintain a balance of drama, humor, and action without being overly complex or mature, keeping younger guests captivated. The inclusion of animals like horses and falcons adds an educational and fascinating aspect that appeals to kids and adults alike. The environment is engaging enough to keep even younger children interested, while the spirited competition and thrill of the jousting entertain adults and teens. Accommodations are made for younger attendees, including suitable seating and meal options, ensuring everyone in the group can participate comfortably. This broad appeal across generations allows families and friends to enjoy the same experience on equal footing, strengthening bonds across all ages in a shared adventure.
Why do guests repeatedly rate Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament so highly? Consistently, Medieval Times enjoys near five-star ratings from thousands of reviews, reflecting widespread satisfaction with the overall experience. Guests praise the high energy and talent of the performers, who expertly bring medieval stories and contests to life with authenticity and skill. The quality of the show’s choreography, horsemanship, and theatrical production impresses viewers, who often highlight the live jousting and swordplay as standout elements. Additionally, several reviews note the courteous, in-character service from staff, who enhance the fantasy and make guests feel like honored nobles in a medieval court. The food, while simple, is often cited as well-prepared and flavorful, complementing the entertainment without distraction. Altogether, the combination of immersive storytelling, interactive competition, excellent customer service, and a cohesive dining format generate a memorable night out, explaining why many guests choose to return and recommend it enthusiastically to others.
How can groups make the most out of their visit to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament? Planning ahead can elevate the experience significantly for groups. Reserving VIP seating offers the best proximity to the action, giving clearer views and a heightened sense of participation. Arriving early allows groups to explore the castle, purchase themed souvenirs, and soak in the medieval atmosphere before the show begins. Dressing up or bringing themed accessories such as flags or face paint in your knight’s color can amplify group spirit and make the night more festive. Engaging actively by cheering, chanting, and interacting with performers will increase the fun and deepen the sense of connection among friends. Lastly, coordinating with the staff for any special celebrations, such as birthdays or anniversaries, can add personalized touches that turn a great night into a truly unforgettable event.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament stands out as an extraordinary venue where live entertainment, dining, and group camaraderie converge. Whether you seek an unforgettable outing with friends or a lively family celebration, it offers an unparalleled blend of engaging activities, communal dining, and spirited competition within a striking medieval setting — all reasons why it remains a favored choice for social gatherings.