reasons to visit dallas texas

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14 Reasons You Should Visit Dallas

As one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., Dallas is starting to attract more and more visitors. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week vacation, here are 14 reasons to visit Dallas.

Differs from pop culture portrayals.

Mention Dallas in countries around the world and people can’t help but say, “Like the TV show Dallas ?” The answer is no; Dallas isn’t really like Dallas or any other pop culture film or TV show. Sure, there’s a small pocket of the Western culture seen in Dallas or Walker Texas Ranger and the upscale scene of The Real Housewives of Dallas , but visitors often find that Dallas is less stereotypical Texas than not. It’s a metropolitan city with a diverse population of people from all over the world, a large business and cultural sector, a thriving nightlife, and a growing arts and music scene.

Shopping galore

Shopping is no joke in Dallas. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has more shopping centers per capita than any other city in the U.S. Dallas alone is home to the Neiman Marcus flagship store, and the oldest shopping center, Highland Park. Whether it’s NorthPark Center, Galleria Dallas, or the West Village shopping center, Dallas has an abundance of shops and stores to meet all your fashion needs.

A strong food game

Texas is known for Tex-Mex and barbecue and the same can be said of Dallas. Barbecue joints like Pecan Lodge run out of barbecue nearly on a daily basis, while Taco Tuesdays are seriously adhered to with the complements of queso and frozen margaritas. Yet, Dallas is home to a big foodie scene beyond Tex-Mex, barbecue, Southern soul food and steaks. It’s visible in the popular Jamaican food joint, Elaine’s Kitchen, the thriving restaurant marketplace of Trinity Groves, and the Taste of Dallas food festival that draws tens of thousands each summer. Dallas is making waves in the food scene.

Sports are a big deal

Dallas-Fort Worth is home to five major professional sports teams – the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers, FC Dallas and Dallas Mavericks. It’s safe to say that sports are huge in Dallas. Add in the city’s college and high school teams and the Red River Showdown between OU and the University of Texas at Fair Park every year, and Dallas is arguably the epicenter of sports in Texas.

An interesting history

Dallas is often overshadowed in the realm of Texas history by places like San Antonio and the Alamo. Established in 1841, Dallas has been making waves in terms of history with inventions of things like the microchip and laser tag, the founding of 7-11, and the creation of the term “Super Bowl.” Figures like Bonnie and Clyde, Doc Holliday, and Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter all have a place in Dallas history. Perhaps, the most significant aspect of Dallas history is as the place where John F. Kennedy was shot. While Dallas’ history isn’t always pretty, there’s plenty to learn about Dallas and its history in the amazing museums throughout the city.

A bustling art scene

Dallas might not be known as a hip art destination, but that’s changing. Dallas is home to the Dallas Art District, the largest in the U.S. that spans 68 acres (27.51 hectares) and covers 19 blocks in downtown Dallas. Not to mention, Dallas has the Dallas Art Museum, one of the 10 largest art museums in the U.S. with 24,000 works of art. Neighborhoods like Deep Ellum, Oak Cliff and the Design District are alive with contemporary art galleries, rotating graffiti walls, pop up shops, and art festivals like the Deep Ellum Arts Festival.

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Plenty of outdoor fun

Dallasites love to be outdoors whether it’s having a coffee or a meal on the many (dog-friendly) patios, the numerous rooftop bars or in the green, bountiful parks that attract visitors every day. Klyde Warren Park and White Rock Lake are the two most popular green spaces in Dallas. Trinity River is being developed into a 10,000-acre (4,046-hectare) nature district that will be 12 times as large as Manhattan’s Central Park. Altogether there’s 22,000 acres of parks and 125 miles (201 kilometers) of hiking and biking trails, proving that Dallas is an outdoor-friendly city.

Bar hopping is easy

Bar-hopping isn’t just a term in Dallas, it’s a common nightlife practice. Many of the neighborhoods of Dallas have their own strip of bars that make it easy to bar hop between. McKinney Avenue in Uptown is lined on both sides with upscale or college-friendly bars. Lower Greenville plays host to a laid-back group of bars, while Oak Lawn or “the Gayborhood” caters to the LGBT bar scene. Perhaps the most popular scene right now is Deep Ellum, offering a mix of live-music, dive and upscale bars that are easy to bar-hop for free.

Latino influences

Dallas’ population is nearly 43% Latino , and in 2012, Dallas-Fort Worth was ranked as having the sixth-largest Hispanic population in the U.S. The heart of the Latino community has always resided in Oak Cliff but is apparent in other areas like East Dallas. It’s clear in the restaurants like Gonzalez Restaurant, the grocery stores like El Rio Grande Latin Market or Fiesta Mart, monthly literary events like Lucha Dallas, salsa nights at Gloria’s and in big celebrations for Dia De Los Muertos, Cinco De Mayo and #214Selena.

Kind locals

Dallas may be an amalgamation of people from all over the world, but like any good Texas city, Dallas locals are very kind to newcomers and visitors. Be prepared to have a genuine conversation with the clerk at Trader Joe’s or be welcomed by strangers at bars. Hotel receptionists will profusely apologize for making you wait for more than five minutes to check in and people walking on sidewalks will say hello and move over when you pass. Most neighborhoods have home associations that bring residents together for block parties and events throughout the year, often inviting outsiders to join in on the fun. Visit Dallas – it’ll be one of the kindest travel experiences you’ll have.

Live music scene

Austin may have South by Southwest , but Dallas has a long history of live music. Though concerts can be enjoyed at large venues like American Airlines and Starplex Pavilion, Deep Ellum has been the epicenter for live music since the ’20s. Blind Lemon Jefferson, Bessie Smith, Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter and other famous jazz and blues musicians put Deep Ellum on the music map. Later, venues like Trees, Club Dada, The Bomb Factory and Deep Ellum Live played integral parts in the early careers of greats such as The Flaming Lips, Nirvana, Toadies and Pearl Jam. The music scene is still thriving in Deep Ellum today, attracting diverse bands and music listeners each week for new, old and upcoming tunes.

It’s affordable

Traveling to Dallas is relatively cheap with a $103 average daily cost . Compare that to New York City at $229 or Austin’s average daily cost of $371, and Dallas is the perfect place for the budget traveler. A hotel can be booked for about $115 a night, a beer costs anywhere between $3 and $7 and meals range between $7 to $15 on average. Don’t forget all the free attractions that Dallas offers, and it’s clear that a buck goes a long way in D-town.

Home of the Texas State Fair

Dallas welcomed the Texas State Fair in 1887, and since then, it has become an integral aspect of the city’s tourism. In 2017, the fair welcomed 2.25 million visitors to a month-long extravaganza that offered trade shows, amusement rides, live concerts, agriculture exhibits, sports events and a famed-selection of food . Visitors to the Texas State Fair are often overwhelmed by highlights that include tastings of Fletcher’s Corny Dog (which boasts itself as the inventor of corn dogs), gigantic turkey legs and Fried Oreos, a ride on the Texas State Ferris Wheel, and a selfie with Big Tex, the de facto mascot that stands at 55 feet high and has made multiple movie cameos.

The skyline rules

Skyline lovers – eat your heart out in Dallas. The Dallas skyline gained international recognition thanks to Dallas and other hit TV series, but has since grown to include interesting architecture like the colorful rotating Reunion Tower, the green neon lighting of the Bank of America Plaza Building or the pointy top of the Fountain Place skyscraper. In 2014, it was even voted the Best Skyline in the World by readers of USA TODAY . Dallas’ skyline is real, it’s beautiful and it’ll be burned in your mind forever.

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• Dallas Top Attractions
• Things to Do in Dallas

Discover the very best things to do in Dallas and live it up!

What makes Dallas Dallas? What can you find here that you won’t be able to see anywhere else?

Here is an ultimate list with 15 top iconic and unique Dallas destinations and itineraries. Must-see attractions and must-visit places. Experiences you simply can’t miss out while in the DFW area and that will change your heart on the city.

Must-see attractions and must-visit places. Experiences you simply can’t miss out while in the DFW area and that will change your heart on the city.

Wander through Dallas’ best sightseeing spots. Explore top-rated tourist attractions and local favorites alike. Check it out bellow.

And when you’re ready to explore further, make sure to visit our Trips from Dallas page.

1. Forth Worth Stockyards

Where dallas meets the old west.

Get into the cowboy spirit and take a  train ride through the Trinity River, see a real cattle drive (yes, big longhorn cows!), get lost in a  maze  and stroll thru authentic  cowboy gear shops .

Watch the world’s only year-round rodeo on Fridays and Saturday’s night, the Stockyards Championship Rodeo .

Hit the dance floor at Billy Bob’s Texas , the world’s largest honky-tonk bar and music hall. Or have a beer at the White Elephant , a legendary old west saloon.

2. The Sixth Floor Museum & West End District

Relive the moment and context of the jfk assassination in a breathtaking way, right where it took place.  .

Built in the historic West End District around the exact spot from where the shot that killed JFK was fired, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza i s a must. A time-travel capsule that will take you to the moment of one of the most important incidents of American history.

After visiting the museum, stroll through the historic landmarks on surroundings . See the “Xs” marking the JFK assassination spot. Stop by the JFK Memorial Plaza . Taste authentic southern comfort food at locals favorite  Ellen’s Southern Kitchen .  

Nearby attractions include the Dallas World Aquarium and the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck .

3. Reunion Tower Sunset

Step on the top of the gigantic ball iconic to the dallas skyline..

Visit the Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck and get the best views of Dallas. Explore their interactive exhibition to learn more about the city.

Go up one floor and get baffled by watching a gorgeous 360 degrees view sunset from Cloud 9 Cafe – its floor rotates! Or head to the Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck restaurant at the very top of the tower for an upscale fine dining experience.

Nearby top attractions include the Sixty Floor Museum ,  Downtown Dallas  and the Dallas World Aquarium . Combine any of them with a visit to the Reunion Tower and make it a full day itinerary.

4. Uptown, Dallas Arts District & Klyde Warren Park

Enjoy great restaurants, state-of-art museums and the trendiest urban green area in dallas..

Explore the vibrant and walkable Uptown neighborhood and its top restaurants. The locals’ favorite Bread Winners , the trending  Sixty Vines and The Henr y and the laid-back over-the-counter Taqueria la Ventana are all solid restaurant options in the area, featuring charming outdoor patios. 

Burn out the extra calories walking down Mckinney Avenue or take the free M-Line vintage trolley . Hop off at the Dallas Arts District , the largest contiguous urban Arts District in the US. Stroll through state-of-art exhibitions including free-admission museums, such as the Dallas Museum of Arts and the Crow Museum of Asian Arts .

Lounge at Klyde Warren Park , a pleasant urban green space connecting Uptown to the Arts District. It offers activities for all ages, year-round events and has food trucks parked around daily.

5. The Rustic, M-Trolley & West Village

Live music, free vintage trolley rides, shops, restaurants and a historic landmark make this a must-visit destination in dallas..

Have brunch while listening to high-quality live music at one of the best outdoor patios in Dallas, The Rustic .

Head to the McKinney Avenue Trolley Uptown Station , just next door, and ride a vintage trolley for free. Hop off at the West Village and stroll around this lively area full of shops and restaurants. Indulge in a delicious and authentic Italian ice cream at Paciugo Gelato Caffé. 

Wrap up with a movie at the landmark’s Magnolia Theater . Or have a drink at the stylish Magnolia Bar or in one of the several pubs along the adjoining Mckinney Avenue.

6. Dallas Cowboys Stadium or Sports Match

Five times super bowl winners, the dallas cowboys is an american national institution..

Tour the Dallas Cowboys official home, AT&T Stadium , the largest dome structure of its kind in the world. Walk through the tunnel leading to the fields as an athlete. Throw a football at the ‘America’s Team’ official field. Visit the famous football players’ locker rooms and another behind the scenes areas. 

If you are lucky to be in town in season, watch an NFL, NBA or Major League Baseball live match , a once in a lifetime experience very true to the American culture. The NFL Football season goes from Sep-Dec. The NBA season from Oct-Apr. And the Major League Baseball season from Mar-Sept.

7. Lower Greenville & Texas Truck Yard

An unbeatable destination on a nice weather day and the place where locals hang out..

Listen to high-quality live music at one of the most unusual and authentic beer gardens in Dallas, the Texas Truck Yard .  Grab a bite in one of their food trucks, a beer and sit on their lounge chairs to enjoy the music. The eclectic decor and amazing vibe make this place pretty unique.

Walk then towards the liveliest part of Greenville Ave – the stretch between Bell and Alta Avenues. Check on shops, pubs, restaurants and roof patios that make the Lower Greenville one of the main Dallas destinations for entertainment, day and night.

8. Gospel Brunch House of Blues Dallas

One of the southernmost experiences you can have in dallas. .

Held once a month at The House of Blues Dallas, the Gospel Brunch combines the best of the southern culture. 

Watch a majestic and uplifting gospel concert, that will get you on your feet and make you dance and sing along, while sampling delicious southern and creole cuisine at the buffet style brunch. Pair that with a mimosa drink, another Dallas institution, and voila, you have the very best the south can offer in a fun and unforgettable morning.

The House of Blues Dallas is near the Perot Museum , Dallas Arts District and Klyde Warren Park , making those perfect places to visit after the show.

9. George W. Bush Presidential Center & Bushes' Home

Explore the grounds the 43rd american president’s presidential center and the bushes' neighborhood..

Feel like a President through interactive activities. Visit the Presidential Library and Museum, the George W. Bush Institute and a 15-acre Native Texas Park, all part of the George W. Bush Presidential Center . 

Step into a perfect replica of the oval office. See real World Trade Center beams from the September 11 events. Try Cafe 43 , a farm-to-table stylish restaurant on-site.

Taking advantage of the ‘presidential vibe’, head to Dallas’ Preston Hollow neighborhood after living the Presidential Center, to drive around and check on the Bushes and other famous billionaires mansions .

10. Dallas Farmer's Market & Main Street District

Must-visit dallas landmarks, a local-sourced farmers' market, great food and hi-end shopping meccas..

Visit the Dallas Farmers Market and try the best farm-to-table restaurant in Dallas, Mudhen Meat and Greens . On weekends, experience their vibrant brunch. Wander afterwards through the market for local-sourced produce and products.

Head to nearby Main Street District portion of Downtown Dallas and stroll down Main Street. Shop at the Neiman Marcus flagship store . Take a snapshot of one of the quirkiest Dallas landmarks: the Giant Eyeball sculpture. And maybe have a drink at The Woolworth restaurant terrace, overlooking it.

Last but not least, stop by Pioneer Plaza and walk through a larger-than-life sized cattle drive bronze sculpture. It is much cooler than it sounds and will make you feel as you were in the middle of real huge longhorn bulls!

11. Deep Ellum

The quirkiest and liveliest neighborhood in dallas and one of the city's top entertainment districts..

Deep Ellum is one of Dallas trendiest neighborhoods. A revitalized industrial area full of unique shops, pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, live music and spectacle venues, buoyant day and night.

Eat at the Pecan Lodge , one of the best barbecue joints in Dallas. Tour the Deep Ellum Brewing Company and taste local beer. Take a self-guided street art tour through the more than 40  Deep Ellum graffiti murals . Visit cool and unique shops .

Get bold at the famous Elm Street Tatoo Studio  – if you are spirited enough, you might consider checking on their ‘Friday the 13th’ deal. Once a month, on the 3rd Saturday, enjoy the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market .

At night, don’t miss out on one of the most authentic live music venues in Dallas, Adair’s Saloon , with Elvis Presley among its famous former customers.  Or stroll thru the best Deep Ellum nightlife spots and discover your own favorites.

12. Trinity Groves & Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge

Spoil your inner foodie, walk across the trinity river and breath in the best dallas skyline views..

Visit the  Trinity Groves , a former warehouse converted into a gastronomic destination with new restaurants from prominent chefs, selected by the innovative and unique Restaurant Concept Incubator Program . 

Savor a drink at their pleasant and laid-back outdoor patio, overlooking the Dallas Skyline and Trinity river. Have a gourmet burger at Off-Site Kitchen . Indulge yourself at Cake Bar .

Cross the street and take a leisure walk through the Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge – a.k.a Continental Bridge . Enjoy one of the several events offered year-round. Take in the views of the Dallas Skyline, Trinity River and Margaret’s Hunt Hill Bridge . The last one, a state-of-art Dallas landmark and award-wining bridge designed by the famous and controversial Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava .

13. Bishop Arts District

Independent vibe, street-art, unique shops and amazing restaurants make this walkable dallas area a must-visit destination..

Stroll through exclusive boutiques, antique shops and design stores. 

Take a self-guided tour through the Bishop Arts District’s graffiti murals – the Black and White Cactex, Love Equation, and Stevie Ray Vaughn murals are the most Insta-worthy ones and are not to be missed. 

Eat at iconic Dallas restaurants . Best options in the Bishop Arts Districts include Hattie’s , Lockhart Smokehouse and Eno’s Pizza Tavern , you can’t go wrong with any of them. For a treat, head to top-rated Emporium Pies . 

Top off touring the nearby Texas Theater , a historic landmark were the supposed JFK murderer, Lee Harvey Oswald, hid after the incident. 

14. Kate Trail, Kate Trail Ice House & Knox District

Explore the iconic kate trail surroundings, featuring one of the best beer gardens in dallas, shops and restaurants..

Once an historic abandoned railroad line now converted into one of the top-rated urban trails in Dallas, Kate Trail is a local’s fav for walking, jogging and cycling.

At the north end of the trail, you’ll find the Knox District , a walkable and pleasant area full of shops and restaurants – Taverna and Cafe Madrid are good options if you decide to eat there. 

About 2 miles into the trail, after a pleasant leisure walk, you’ll stumble upon one of Dallas most iconic beer gardens: the Katy Trail Ice House . Their lively patio overlooks the trail and is perfect for cooling off and people-watching.

If you have kids in tow, you might want to check the nearby  Reverchon Park , just off the trail, a pleasant green space where you can relax and kids can play before heading back.

15. Southfork Ranch: ‘Dallas’ TV show filming location

Featured in almost 100 countries, "dallas" became an icon for an entire generation..

‘Dallas’ , the most-watched TV show in the world of its time, aired for 13 seasons from the late 70’s to the early 90’s. The ranch where it was filmed, Southfork Ranch , became a pilgrimage destination for fans worldwide.

It is located about 40 minutes away from Downtown Dallas and it is currently opened to the public. Visiting the dude ranch grounds is free.

But if you are a big JR fan and wants a more immersive experience,  daily guided tours depart every 30-45 minutes from the Visitors’ Center. They take you inside the famous ranch house that is preserved exactly the way it could be seen on TV. Can be a neat experience for JR fans or for those looking to expand on the Texan culture. 

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If you had to recommend a single place to visit in Dallas, which it would be?  

Do you know of any must-visit attraction around that you think that deserve to be on this list and it’s not?

Comment bellow and help other Dallas Wanderer readers to make the most of Dallas and enjoy the city to the fullest!

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8 best festivals in dallas this fall, your ultimate dallas bucket list, there are 6 comments.

Wonderful list, and a great start even for this local. One quick edit suggestion. *Katy trail.

I am glad you enjoyed it! Means a lot coming from a local. And thank you for the edit!

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Is Dallas Worth Visiting? A Comprehensive Guide to the Pros and Cons of Texas’ Big D

If you’re planning a trip to Texas, you might be wondering if Dallas is worth visiting. As locals, we can confidently say that Dallas is definitely worth a visit. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Dallas has something to offer everyone.

One of the biggest draws of Dallas is its rich history. From the JFK assassination to the oil boom of the 1980s, Dallas has played a significant role in shaping American history. Visitors can explore these historical landmarks by visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza or the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. In addition, Dallas has a thriving arts and culture scene, with world-class museums like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center.

But Dallas isn’t just about history and culture. The city is also home to some of the best shopping and dining in the country. From high-end boutiques in Highland Park Village to trendy restaurants in the Bishop Arts District, Dallas has something to satisfy every taste and budget. And with its convenient location in the heart of Texas, Dallas makes a great home base for exploring the rest of the state. So if you’re planning a trip to Texas, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Dallas – it’s definitely worth it.

Why Visit Dallas?

Dallas is a city that offers a lot to its visitors. From its vibrant downtown area to its rich history and culture, there are plenty of reasons to visit this Texan metropolis. Here are some of the top reasons why we think Dallas is worth visiting:

Attractions

One of the main reasons to visit Dallas is the sheer number of attractions the city has to offer. From the iconic Reunion Tower to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is also a must-visit for science enthusiasts, with its interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.

For those seeking adventure, Dallas has plenty of options. The city is home to the Trinity River Audubon Center, a 120-acre nature reserve that offers hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities. Visitors can also try their hand at indoor skydiving at iFLY Dallas or go on a hot air balloon ride with Dallas Balloon Rides.

Downtown Dallas

Downtown Dallas is the heart of the city and offers plenty of things to see and do. Visitors can explore the historic West End district, which is home to many of Dallas’ oldest buildings and landmarks. The Dallas Arts District is also located downtown and is a hub for arts and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.

Dallas is often referred to as “Big D” and for good reason. The city is the third-largest in Texas and the ninth-largest in the United States. With its sprawling suburbs and vibrant downtown area, Dallas truly lives up to its nickname.

Dallas Attractions

In addition to the attractions mentioned above, there are many other things to see and do in Dallas. The Dallas World Aquarium is a popular attraction, with its diverse collection of marine life and exotic birds. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is also a must-visit for history buffs, as it chronicles the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.

Overall, we believe that Dallas is definitely worth a visit. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions, there is something for everyone in this Texas city.

Historical Significance

Dallas has a rich history that is worth exploring. From the assassination of President John F. Kennedy to its role in popular culture, Dallas has a lot to offer in terms of historical significance.

Kennedy’s Dallas

Perhaps the most significant event in Dallas history is the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Dealey Plaza, located in downtown Dallas, is the site where President Kennedy was shot on November 22, 1963. Today, Dealey Plaza is a National Historic Landmark District and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can learn more about the assassination and its aftermath at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which is located in the former Texas School Book Depository where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the fatal shots.

Dallas in Pop Culture

Dallas has also played a significant role in popular culture. The TV show “Dallas” was set in the city and ran from 1978 to 1991, becoming a cultural phenomenon. The show’s popularity helped put Dallas on the map as a global city. In addition to “Dallas,” the city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, and FC Dallas. Dallas has hosted several major sporting events, including the Super Bowl.

Southfork Ranch, located just outside of Dallas, is another popular tourist destination. The ranch was used as the filming location for the TV show “Dallas” and visitors can take a tour of the property and learn more about the show’s history. Additionally, Bonnie and Clyde, the notorious criminals, were killed in a police ambush just outside of Dallas in 1934.

Overall, Dallas has a rich history that is worth exploring. From its role in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy to its place in popular culture, there is something for everyone in Dallas.

Cultural Experiences

When it comes to cultural experiences, Dallas has a lot to offer. From world-class museums to vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone.

Arts and Museums

Dallas is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Arts District, which is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation. The district covers 68 acres and features museums, performance halls, and galleries. Some of the notable museums in the district include the Dallas Museum of Art, the Museum of Art, and the Nasher Sculpture Center. These museums house an extensive collection of art from around the world, including works by famous artists like Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.

If you’re interested in history, you won’t want to miss the Sixth Floor Museum. Located in the former Texas School Book Depository, the museum chronicles the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that provide a comprehensive look at one of the most significant events in American history.

For science enthusiasts, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a must-visit. The museum features interactive exhibits that explore everything from geology and paleontology to engineering and technology. With hands-on exhibits and immersive experiences, the Perot Museum is a great place for families and people of all ages.

Music and Nightlife

Dallas is also known for its vibrant nightlife, particularly in the Deep Ellum neighborhood. Deep Ellum is a historic district that’s home to a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. The neighborhood has a rich history of blues and jazz music, and you can still catch live performances at venues like the Blue Light, the Prophet Bar, and the Deep Ellum Art Co.

If you’re looking for a night out on the town, there are plenty of options in Dallas. From trendy rooftop bars to classic dive bars, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink with friends, Dallas has it all.

Overall, Dallas is definitely worth visiting for its cultural experiences. With world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and a rich history, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure in Dallas, you won’t be disappointed. Dallas has plenty of parks, gardens, zoos, and aquariums to keep you and your family entertained.

Parks and Gardens

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers. This 66-acre garden boasts 19 different gardens, including a children’s garden, a rose garden, and a Japanese garden. The garden is open year-round, and there are always different events and exhibits happening.

Another great park to visit is Klyde Warren Park. This park is located in the heart of downtown Dallas and offers a variety of activities, including yoga classes, live music, and food trucks. The park also has a playground, a dog park, and a reading and games area.

White Rock Lake is another great outdoor destination in Dallas. This lake offers a 9-mile paved trail for cycling, jogging, or walking. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the lake’s calm waters.

Zoos and Aquariums

Dallas World Aquarium is a unique attraction that combines a zoo and an aquarium. You can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans, as well as a variety of fish and marine life. The aquarium also has a rainforest exhibit, where you can see exotic birds and plants.

Dallas Zoo is another great place to visit. This zoo has over 2,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and tigers. The zoo also has a children’s zoo, where kids can pet and feed animals.

If you’re looking for a smaller aquarium, the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park is a great choice. This aquarium has a variety of fish and marine life, including sharks and stingrays. There are also interactive exhibits where kids can learn about marine life.

Overall, Dallas has plenty of outdoor adventures to offer. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful garden or an exciting zoo, there’s something for everyone.

Shopping in Dallas

When it comes to shopping, Dallas has a lot to offer for every budget and style. From high-end luxury brands to unique design and decor stores, there is something for everyone.

Luxury Shopping

Dallas is known for its luxury shopping scene, and one of the most iconic destinations is the Neiman Marcus flagship store. Founded in Dallas in 1907, Neiman Marcus is a luxury department store that offers designer fashion, accessories, and beauty products. The store is located in Downtown Dallas and features a stunning interior design that is worth a visit even if you’re not shopping.

Another must-visit destination for luxury shopping is the Northpark Center. This shopping mall is home to over 235 stores, including high-end fashion brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. The mall also features art installations and sculptures by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Claes Oldenburg.

Design and Decor

If you’re looking for unique design and decor stores, Dallas has plenty of options to explore. One of the most popular destinations is the West Village Shopping Center, which features a mix of national and local boutiques and restaurants. The center has a relaxed and trendy vibe, and you can find everything from fashion and accessories to home decor and gifts.

Another destination worth checking out is the Design District, which is home to a variety of design showrooms and galleries. You can find everything from furniture and lighting to art and textiles. The district is also home to the Dallas Design Center, which is a trade-only showroom that features over 1,500 luxury brands.

Galleria Dallas

If you’re looking for a one-stop shopping destination, the Galleria Dallas is a great option. This shopping mall features over 200 stores, including high-end fashion brands like Versace and Prada, as well as popular retailers like H&M and Zara. The mall also has a unique ice skating rink that is open year-round.

Overall, Dallas offers a diverse and exciting shopping scene that is worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for luxury fashion, unique design and decor, or a one-stop shopping destination, Dallas has something for everyone.

Culinary Delights

When it comes to food, Dallas has a lot to offer. From fine dining to local cuisine, the city has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite culinary delights in Dallas.

Fine Dining

If you’re looking for a fancy night out, Dallas has plenty of options for fine dining. Downtown Dallas is home to some of the city’s most upscale restaurants. One of our favorites is the French-inspired Bullion, which offers a luxurious dining experience with dishes like escargot and foie gras. Another great option is the Michelin-starred Flora Street Cafe, which serves modern Mexican cuisine.

Local Cuisine

When it comes to local cuisine, Tex-Mex and barbecue are two must-try dishes in Dallas. For Tex-Mex, head to Trinity Groves, a food and entertainment district with a variety of Tex-Mex options. One of our favorites is Beto & Son, which offers a modern twist on classic Tex-Mex dishes like tacos and fajitas. For barbecue, Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum is a popular spot with mouthwatering brisket and ribs.

In addition to Tex-Mex and barbecue, Dallas has a diverse food scene with options like Vietnamese, Korean, and Italian. Uptown Dallas is a great area to explore with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines.

Overall, Dallas is definitely worth visiting for its culinary scene alone. With a mix of fine dining and local cuisine, there’s something for every taste bud.

Sports in Dallas

When it comes to sports, Dallas has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top sports teams and venues in Dallas:

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most famous football teams in the world. They play their home games at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, which is just a short drive from Dallas. The stadium is massive, with a seating capacity of over 100,000, and features a retractable roof and a massive video screen that stretches from one end of the field to the other.

Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are the city’s NBA team, and they play their home games at the American Airlines Center in downtown Dallas. The arena is state-of-the-art, with comfortable seating, great sightlines, and plenty of food and drink options. If you’re a basketball fan, catching a Mavericks game is a must.

Dallas Stars

For hockey fans, the Dallas Stars are the team to watch. They also play their home games at the American Airlines Center, and the arena is transformed into a winter wonderland during hockey season. The Stars have a passionate fan base, and the atmosphere at their games is always electric.

Soccer is becoming increasingly popular in the US, and Dallas has its own MLS team: FC Dallas. They play their home games at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, which is about 30 minutes north of Dallas. The stadium is smaller than some of the others in the area, but it’s still a great place to catch a game.

Texas Rangers

If baseball is your thing, then you’ll want to check out the Texas Rangers. They play their home games at Globe Life Field in Arlington, which is also home to the Cowboys. The stadium is brand new, having opened in 2020, and features a retractable roof and plenty of amenities.

American Airlines Center

The American Airlines Center is one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the country. In addition to hosting the Mavericks and the Stars, it also hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other events throughout the year. If you’re looking for a fun night out, the AAC is a great place to start.

Overall, Dallas is a great city for sports fans. With so many teams and venues to choose from, there’s always something exciting happening. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to check out some of the great sports options that Dallas has to offer.

Where to Stay

When visiting Dallas, finding the right place to stay is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some options for luxury accommodations and budget-friendly options.

Luxury Accommodations

For those looking for a luxurious stay in Dallas, there are many options available. The Fairmont Dallas is a popular choice, located in the heart of the downtown area. This hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with stunning city views, as well as a rooftop pool and fitness center.

Another great option is Hotel Zaza Dallas, which is located in the trendy Uptown area. This boutique hotel offers unique and stylish rooms, as well as a spa and pool area. Guests can also enjoy dining at the hotel’s restaurant, Dragonfly.

Budget Options

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodations, there are still plenty of options in Dallas. The Deep Ellum Hostel is a great choice for those on a tight budget. This hostel offers dorm-style rooms and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge area.

Another option is to stay in the Market Center area, which offers many affordable hotels and motels. These accommodations are just a short drive from downtown Dallas and the city’s popular attractions.

No matter what your budget or preferences, Dallas has plenty of options for accommodations. Whether you’re looking for luxury or affordability, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Texas city.

When to Visit

Dallas is a year-round destination, but certain times of the year are better than others depending on your preferences and interests. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters can be chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 35 to 47 degrees Fahrenheit.

The best time to visit Dallas is in the fall, from October through November, or in the spring when average highs range from 68 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s many parks and attractions.

If you’re planning to attend a major event or festival, such as the State Fair of Texas or the Dallas International Film Festival, it’s best to check the dates and plan your trip accordingly. Hotel rates and airfare may be higher during these peak times, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Overall, the best time to visit Dallas depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural events, or simply a relaxing getaway, Dallas has something to offer year-round.

Getting Around

Getting around Dallas is easy and convenient with multiple public transit options available.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

If you’re flying into Dallas, you’ll likely arrive at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. This airport is one of the busiest in the United States and serves as a major hub for American Airlines. From the airport, you can easily get to downtown Dallas using the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Light Rail. The DART Rail Orange Line connects the airport to downtown Dallas in about 50 minutes.

If you’re coming to Dallas by train, you’ll arrive at the Union Station located in downtown Dallas. From there, you can easily connect to the DART Rail and explore the city. Additionally, the Trinity Railway Express (TRE) connects downtown Dallas Union Station and Fort Worth, as well as several towns in between and the DFW International Airport.

Public Transportation

Dallas has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and light rail trains. The DART Rail has over 60 stations and can take you to many popular destinations in the city. If you plan to use public transportation frequently during your stay, consider purchasing a Day Pass or a Go Pass. A Day Pass will run you $6 for local and $12 for regional, while a Go Pass can simplify your route and eliminate the need for cash. You can pick up or refill Go Passes at various locations in Dallas, including 7-Eleven and Tom Thumb convenience stores.

If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental options available in Dallas. However, keep in mind that parking in downtown Dallas can be expensive and difficult to find. If you’re staying in downtown Dallas, it may be more convenient and cost-effective to rely on public transportation instead of renting a car.

Overall, getting around Dallas is easy and convenient with multiple public transit options available. Whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or car, you can easily explore the city using the DART Rail and buses.

In conclusion, we believe that Dallas is definitely worth visiting for anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation or weekend getaway. With its wide range of tourist attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or entertainment, Dallas has it all. The city is home to numerous museums, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, where visitors can learn about important events and figures in history.

For families with children, Dallas offers plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the Dallas World Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Center. These places are not only fun for kids, but also provide educational opportunities.

The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and delicious food and drinks.

Overall, we highly recommend visiting Dallas for anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable vacation or weekend getaway.

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The 12 best things to do in Dallas 

Apr 18, 2022 • 6 min read

You can stop in at the Dallas Museum of Art (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works spanning some 5000 years © Alamy Stock Photo

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis that’s bursting with fun and exciting things to do. It's the ninth-largest city in the US and the birthplace of the frozen margarita, packed with world-class shopping, delicious dining, a diverse art scene and plenty of history, outdoor activities and pop-culture curiosities.

Come for the scream-worthy roller coasters, sports teams and luxe malls. Stay for the barbecue, beer and mural-strewn neighborhoods, filled with musicians playing everything from the blues to hip-hop beats.

Explore Dallas’ neighborhoods 

Dallas is an amalgamation of neighborhoods, each with their own flavor of fun. Shop and dine out in the laid-back and artsy  Bishop Arts  district. Deep Ellum is a great neighborhood for live music, beautiful murals, art fairs, and restaurants. Uptown attracts visitors for its strip of restaurants on McKinney Street that turn into bars at night, and Oak Lawn is a nationally known hot spot for the LGBTIQ+ community. 

Grab a bite at Allgood Cafe,  rooftop drinks at the Green Room,  or rub elbows with bikers at Renos Chop Shop Saloon.   Pecan Lodge  slings mean barbecue in Deep Ellum, while  Sonny Bryan's Smokehouse  is a beloved local favorite for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Near  White Rock Lake ,  Mariano's Hacienda  is where the frozen margarita  was invented in 1971 – though the original margarita machine is now part of the Smithsonian Institution's collection in Washington, DC. 

Get cultured in the Arts District 

Downtown Dallas is home to the largest contiguous arts district in the United States, the Dallas Arts District. Spend time exploring an impressive selection of larger-than-life sculptures at the  Nasher Sculpture Center  before stopping in the  Dallas Museum of Art  (for free!) to admire more than 24,000 works of art spanning some 5000 years.

Walk across the street to the  Crow Museum of Asian Art , or  Klyde Warren Park , which sits on top of a highway. For an evening activity, buy tickets to a  Dallas Symphony Orchestra  concert at the Meyerson Symphony Center. To be close to all the district offers, stay at the new HALL Arts Hotel – and be sure to check out its curated selection of art.  

Root for the home team at an athletic event 

With seven professional teams in the area, it’s easy to see why this is a sports-loving city. Fans of pro basketball and hockey can cheer on their teams – the Dallas Mavericks and the Dallas Stars – at the  American Airlines Center , while fans of WNBA and MLB can scoot over to Arlington, to take their loved ones out to the ball game at the new  Texas Rangers  stadium or watch the Dallas Wings hit the court at College Park Center. You can also make the short drive to Frisco to catch a soccer match with FC Dallas. 

Experience the thrill of race-car driving with NASCAR at Texas Motor Speedway , and of course, don’t miss a chance to watch America’s Team, the  Dallas Cowboys  – though their home field at Jerryworld is also technically in nearby Arlington.  

Learn about the John F Kennedy Assassination 

One of the darkest moments in Dallas’ past is the assassination of President John F Kennedy. Pay your respects by visiting the  Sixth Floor Museum  to learn about the president’s life and death, then go outside to see the “X” on Elm Street that marks where he was hit. Just a block from Dealey Plaza is the John F Kennedy Memorial Plaza, which features a statue commemorating the president. 

For more JFK history, drive to  Texas Theatre  to watch a film in the same spot where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested, or to the Hilton Fort Worth, where JFK spent his last night alive.  

Kayak on the Trinity River 

Outdoor lovers will find a plethora of activities in Dallas, from running on the Katy Trail to sailing on White Rock Lake. But the most unique experience one can have is kayaking on the Trinity River Paddling Trail, a National Recreation Trail with more than 130 miles of river.

Those with their own kayak or canoe can choose from 21 different launch sites, some of which lead through wilderness and others guide you under the city’s most notable bridges next to the skyline. Trinity River Kayak Co.  offers various kayaking tours, including one at sunset. 

Unwind at the Dallas Arboretum  

Set next to White Rock Lake, the  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden  is one of the most beautiful spaces in town. It’s known as one of the best arboretums in the world because of its phenomenal seasonal displays that celebrate Halloween, winter holidays and tulip season. Live concerts and art shows are also a common occurrence.  

Spend a day at the first-ever Six Flags  

Six Flags is a worldwide name in amusement parks, and Dallas just so happens to be the home of the brand's very first park.  Six Flags Over Texas  is a located in Arlington, a suburb of Dallas, and is a great place to spend the day with friends or family. Have a blast on 14 roller coasters and 45 thrilling rides across 212 acres. Mr Freeze, the Texas Giant and El Diablo are just a few of their most exciting roller-coasters.  

Go big at the State Fair of Texas 

If you visit Dallas between September and October, you must get a ticket to the  State Fair of Texas  and say "howdy" to Big Tex, a 52ft cowboy statue at the entrance of the fair.

As one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the country, the State Fair of Texas is a huge to-do in Dallas that draws millions of people state and nationwide, who love the thrill of amusement-park rides, agriculture shows and rodeos, live music, shopping and playing games. It's also known for having some of the most creative fair food in the nation, like cotton-candy burritos and waffles stuffed with fried chicken.  

Delve into Dallas fandom at Southfork Ranch 

Uncover the mysteries of who shot JR with a visit to  Southfork Ranch , home of the Ewing Mansion from the 1978-1991 TV show Dallas . Fans of the hit series can explore the ranch with a guided tour – you’ll see spots made famous on the show, as well as a selection of memorabilia like Lucy’s wedding dress. After your tour, shop at a themed retail store and grab a bite from the on-site deli.  

Museum-hop around the city  

Although there are quite a few museums in Dallas’ Arts District, we'd be remiss not to mention that there are other museums worth a visit.

In  Fair Park , the  African American Museum  is the largest such institution in the southwestern US and has a selection of historical and cultural displays, while steps away from Dealey Plaza, the  Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum  delves into the Holocaust and the development of human and civil rights movements that followed. 

Take your kids to the  Perot Museum of Nature & Science  to do hands-on science experiments, or explore the galleries of the  Meadows Museum , which houses one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain.  

Shop til you drop, all over town

Home not only to the oldest shopping center in the US,  Highland Park Village , but also to the first  Neiman Marcus  store, which still welcomes customers today, Dallas has definitely earned the right to be called a shopper’s paradise.

Experiences vary between world-class malls, like the  Galleria  and  NorthPark Center  (home to an Andy Warhol painting!), and localized spots like  Traders Village , the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and the  farmers market  on the weekend.  

Camp at Cedar Hill State Park 

If you grow tired of Dallas’ urban sprawl and want to reconnect with nature, visit Cedar Hill State Park, just a 25-minute drive from downtown Dallas. The 1826-acre park offers overnight camping, as well as trails for hiking, running or mountain biking. Boat owners can spend the day on Joe Pool Lake, fishing for bass, crappie and catfish, while those without a boat can just jump on in for a swim.  

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This article was first published Jun 14, 2021 and updated Apr 18, 2022.

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The 18 Best Things to Do in Dallas

Dallas boasts a unique cultural identity that distinguishes it from other Texan cities. Undeniably flashy and glitzy, with deep roots in global trade and business, the city indeed occupies a big part of the country's cultural imagination—but unlike the hit TV show "Dallas" would have you believe, it's not all oil barons and socialites with sky-high hair here (though, let's be honest, there's some of that). Dallas is also home to a world-class arts scene, a slew of lush urban green spaces, iconic cultural attractions, and pockets of walkable, cool neighborhoods dense with hip eateries, breweries, and shops. Look no further than this list if you're on the hunt for the all-time best things to do in Dallas.

Explore the Dallas Museum of Art

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

Established in 1903, the Dallas Museum of Art is home to over 24,000 diverse works that span 5,000 years of history, representing a range of global cultures. Their permanent international collection includes works by Pollock, Manet, Rothko, O’Keeffe, Cezanne, Monet, and Van Gogh. There are also weekly lectures, literary events, dramatic and dance presentations, concerts, and more. Best of all? General admission is free.

Walk Around Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park is the (newish) crown jewel of Dallas’s cityscape. Perched atop the freeway between St. Paul and Pearl streets, this sprawling, 5.2-acre green space has much to offer visitors. You’ll find vast swaths of lawn, areas for croquet and chess, a dog park, a children’s park, and putting green, plus two restaurants and a rotating selection of food trucks. Apart from being a much-needed dose of urban nature, Klyde Warren boasts a wide variety of daily programming, from yoga classes and outdoor concerts to movies and festivals. Parking is conveniently located around the Park; we recommend checking out the calendar before your visit.

Try Dallas's Signature Cocktail at Mi Cocina

Courtesy of Mi Cocina

Dallas’s signature drink is the frozen margarita; in fact, some say the frozen drink was invented here. The Mambo Taxi at Mi Cocina was recently named D Magazine’s Favorite Margarita, and most locals would agree. Despite its pretty basic ingredients (Sauza Silver tequila, lime juice, house-made sangria, brandy), there’s truly something special about the ever-popular, ever-refreshing Mambo Taxi.

Go to a Concert in Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is Dallas's live music , arts, and culture hub. This bustling, graffiti-splashed district is the perfect place to see all your fave touring musicians and discover local artists, thanks to the vibrant collection of homegrown clubs and renowned venues here. (For a list of upcoming shows, check out the neighborhood's calendar .)

Delve into Political History at Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza examines the life, assassination, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Prepare to be swept up in the history and political landscape of the early '60s—the museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, the spot where evidence of a sniper (Lee Harvey Oswald) was found following JFK's assassination—in addition to the sniper's perch, the permanent exhibits here include news reports, photos, and footage from the era.

Get a Fun Education at the Perot Museum

At the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, visitors can explore five floors of permanent exhibits that feature animals, gems and minerals, dinosaur bones, birds, a 3D animation lab, and more. With so much to choose from, plan your day carefully—you’ll need at least a whole morning or afternoon to experience the Perot fully. 

See Art at the Nasher Sculpture Center

Conveniently situated just across the street from the Dallas Museum of Art, in the booming heart of the Arts District, the Nasher Sculpture Center is home to the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection, one of the most stunning collections of modern and contemporary sculpture in the world. Visitors can marvel at over 300 masterworks by Picasso, Rodin, Ernst, Giacometti, Miro, Moore, and dozens of other world-renowned artists.

Hike or Bike Around White Rock Lake

Situated a few miles east of downtown, White Rock Lake Park is one of the city’s most popular green spaces, and for a good reason. There’s so much to do there; you’d need a whole weekend to discover it all. The park is more than twice the size of New York’s Central Park. White Rock Lake Park features a scenic, 9.33-mile hike-and-bike trail that circles the lake, numerous picnic areas, playgrounds, an Audubon Society-designated bird-watching area and wetlands site, fishing piers, a cultural center, and a dog park.

Go to a Texas Rangers Game

If you’ll be in Dallas between April and September, there’s a decent chance the Texas Rangers will be in town. Check the website for tickets to upcoming games, and get ready to cheer on the Rangers with a famous “Boomstick” hot dog in hand (we recommend sharing with a friend!) 

Connect with Nature at the Cedar Ridge Preserve

Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown, the Cedar Ridge Preserve is a prime spot for dirt-path hiking and communing with nature. This 600-acre habitat has open meadows, vibrant wildflowers, sloping hills, butterfly gardens, wild grasses, and native trees galore. Bird-watching is a popular activity here, but hiking sets Cedar Ridge apart from many other trail systems in Dallas. Over 9 miles of trails wind through the hilly terrain and afford extraordinary views of the area.

Enjoy the View from Reunion Tower

If it’s a clear, sunny day, a visit to the Reunion Tower is a must-do. The view—a 360-degree look at Dallas’s glittering skyline and the surrounding area—is incredible. (Buy tickets in advance on their website .) 

Stroll Around the Bishop Arts District

In recent years, Dallas’s Bishop Arts District has undergone a lightning-fast transformation in the heart of Oak Cliff. It’s a fun place to explore on foot (this is one of the most walkable areas in the city). There are over 60 independent shops, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. Be sure to stop into The Wild Detectives, an indie bookstore deemed Dallas’s “literary heart,” where you can sip craft brews while you peruse books.  

Have a Picnic at the Arboretum

Situated along the shores of White Rock Lake, just minutes from downtown, the Dallas Arboretum, and Botanical Garden is considered one of the top arboretums in the world. That’s because this 66-acre urban oasis is brimming with colorful display gardens, spacious stretches of lawn, and thick groves of trees: in short, it’s beautiful. Spring and fall are excellent times to visit the Arboretum. Pack a picnic lunch or order food from one of the many cafes and restaurants scattered around the grounds.

Ride the McKinney Avenue Trolley

Riding on the McKinney Avenue Trolley is the best way to get around Uptown. This fleet of vintage streetcars runs on a hop-on, hop-off route 365 days per year. It’s a fantastic way to see the city: Get off at St. Paul and Ross station for easy access to the Crow Collection, the Nasher, and the Dallas Museum of Art. The Trolley also goes to Klyde Warren. Rides are free but consider dropping a donation.

Check Out Where the Cowboys Play

You don't have to be a sports fan to appreciate the Dallas Cowboys' cultural impact on the world. If you can't make it to a game, you can experience the AT&T Stadium, about 20 miles west of downtown, or check out The Star in Frisco, the team's 91-acre, state-of-the-art training facility and multi-use development (including dining, shopping, and a hotel). The Star offers VIP tours every day of the week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sample Texas Barbecue at Pecan Lodge

Courtesy of Pecan Lodge 

Eating at Pecan Lodge is a rite of passage for locals and out-of-towners alike. What started as a tiny stall at the Dallas Farmers Market has since morphed into an iconic restaurant that serves the best barbecue in the city (and possibly in the state, which is saying something!) Be prepared to wait in line, especially if it’s a weekend. For real-deal Texas barbecue, though, the wait is 100 percent worth it. 

Walk Along the Katy Trail

The 3.5-mile Katy Trail is one of the city’s most popular places to get outside and soak up the great outdoors. The trail was built over an old railroad line, and it extends from the SMU campus to the American Airlines Center, winding through parks and several of Dallas’s central districts. To access the trail from the north end, there’s a parking lot near Knox Street; on the southern end, you can park at Reverchon Park. (For further trail info, look at the trail's website .)

Go Two-Stepping at the Round-Up Saloon

For a true Texas-style treat, country-western dancing is a great way to experience the soul of Dallas—and at the Round-Up Saloon, Dallas’s premier gay western dance club, you can learn how to two-step with the best of them. This Cedar Springs institution hosts free line dance lessons every week (check their calendar for more info), in addition to karaoke nights, freestyle dance competitions, rowdy happy hours, and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties. Don a pair of cowboy boots and get ready to do-si-do around the dance floor; you’ve never experienced anything like the Round-Up. 

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10 Things To Do In Dallas, Texas For $25 Or Less

Discover the top 10 affordable activities in Dallas, Texas with our guide to fun things to do for under $25.

Quintessa Williams • Jun 18, 2024

Many people consider Dallas, Texas, an expensive city, but it actually offers a vibrant and diverse scene with many affordable activities. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Dallas boasts a dynamic arts scene, historic landmarks, and lively neighborhoods accessible on a budget.

The city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences for Black travelers, from the African American Museum to bustling local markets and soul food eateries. Despite misconceptions about its cost, Dallas is a welcoming and exciting destination worth exploring for its affordability, diversity, and cultural richness. Here are 10 things you can do in Dallas, Texas, for under $25.

Visit The African American Museum

Explore African Americans’ rich history and culture through extensive exhibits of art, historical artifacts, and cultural materials. Attend special events and educational programs highlighting African Americans’ contributions and achievements in Texas and beyond.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by African American Museum Dallas (@aamuseumdallas)

• Cost:  Free
• Website:  aamdallas.org
• Get more for your money:  The library hosts free lectures, readings, and performances. Visit the museum’s calendar for upcoming events.

Wake Up At Tre Stelle Coffee

Tre Stelle Coffee offers a cozy ambiance perfect for enjoying specialty coffee drinks crafted with care. Situated in the heart of the city, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing coffee break or catching up with friends.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tre Stelle Coffee Co. (@trestellecoffee)

• Cost:  $3 to $10
• Website:   trestellecoffeeco.com/shop
• Get more for your money:  Tre Stelle has products such as coffee blends, shirts, and teas under $25. Visit their online store for more. 

Check Out The Dallas Farmers Market

Shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods, and enjoy a variety of food vendors. The market is a vibrant community hub where you can taste local flavors, meet artisans, and participate in seasonal events.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dallas Farmers Market (@dallasfarmersmarket)

• Cost:  Free entry, many items under $25
• Website:  dallasfarmersmarket.org
• Get more for your money:  There’s always something fun to do at the Dallas Farmers Market. Come by for live music, chef demos, and other special events. Visit the  calendar of events  for more.

Have A Girls’ Night Out At Sweet Tooth Hotel

Immerse yourself in colorful, Instagram-worthy art installations. Each themed room offers interactive experiences that blend art and technology, perfect for creative photos and fun.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sweet Tooth Hotel (@sweettoothhotel)

• Cost:  Tickets start at $20
• Website:   sweettoothhotel.com
• Get more for your money:  Treat your loved one to a Sweet Tooth Hotel gift card, which can be redeemed online for tickets starting at $25.

Visit The South Dallas Cultural Center

Attend exhibitions, performances, and workshops highlighting the African diaspora’s cultural and artistic contributions. It’s a vibrant hub for community events and artistic expression.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Smart Project (@thesmartprojectprogram)

• Cost:  Free admission
• Website:  sdcc.dallasculture.org
• Get more for your money:  The Cultural Center also features a music lounge with local Dallas artists performing music from the African Diaspora culture. Visit the  Music Lounge  website for more information.

Join The Pan-African Connection

A cultural hub featuring books, art, and artifacts celebrating African heritage. Engage in community events and workshops, and explore Africa and its diaspora’s rich history and contributions.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pan African Connection Bookstore & Resource Center (@pac_dallas)

• Cost:  Free entry, many items under $25
• Website:  panafricanconnection.com
• Get more for your money:  The bookstore hosts free lectures, readings, and performances.

Have Lunch At Sankofa Kitchen

Enjoy authentic West African cuisine in a vibrant setting. Savor dishes like jollof rice and grilled meats while immersing yourself in the flavors and traditions of African culinary heritage.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sankofa Kitchen (@sankofa_kitchen)

• Cost:  $10 to $20 per meal
• Website  sankofakitchen.com/menu
• Get more for your money:  Sankofa offers vegan protein smoothies for under $10.

Have Dinner At Pecan Lodge

Indulge in mouth-watering Texas BBQ at this popular Deep Ellum spot. Known for its brisket and smoked meats, Pecan Lodge offers an authentic taste of Texas in a casual setting.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pecan Lodge (@pecanlodge)

• Cost:  $10 to $25 per meal
• Website:   pecanlodge.com
• Get more for your money:  Pecan Lodge also offers live music and entertainment. Check out the  complete list  of upcoming events.

Visit The Klyde Warren Park

Klyde Warren Park, centrally located in Dallas, Texas, spans 5.2 acres and bridges downtown with Uptown. It features lush green spaces, food trucks offering diverse cuisines, and daily free activities like yoga and concerts. It is ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the skyline views in a vibrant urban setting.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Klyde Warren Park (@klydewarrenpark)

• Website:  klydewarrenpark.org
• Get more for your money:  The park hosts free events and activities open to the public. Visit the  website  for upcoming events.

Visit The Oak Cliff Cultural Center

Participate in diverse cultural programs, art exhibitions, and performances. The center promotes the vibrant arts community of Oak Cliff, offering workshops and community events. The building contains an art gallery, a dance studio, and a multi-purpose studio for events and exhibits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oak Cliff Cultural Center (@oakcliffculturalcenter)

• Website:  occc.dallasculture.org
• Get more for your money:  The center also features free exhibits, readings, and visual art performances.

Despite common financial misconceptions, Dallas offers a wealth of accessible and affordable experiences. Its diverse neighborhoods, rich cultural institutions, vibrant music scene, and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent destination for Black travelers seeking enrichment and enjoyment. 

Whether exploring historical sites, indulging in soul food, or enjoying live music, Dallas has something for everyone, proving that a memorable trip doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

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• INTELLIGENT TRAVEL

10 Reasons to Love Downtown Dallas

Fifteen years ago, the initial in Dallas ’s nickname—the Big D—stood for “Deserted.” After   5 p.m.,   office workers fled the downtown   made famous by J.R. Ewing and his oil-pumping clan, leaving nary a soul among its high rises and freeways.

Today J.R.’s iconic Dallas Stetson rests in Downtown ‘s   Old Red Museum , while hundreds of   restaurants and a sparkling array of cultural institutions are luring locals   back to the city’s central business district   to live by the thousands—and inviting visitors to come explore.

“We’ve traded the ‘Big Hair, Big Cars’ [stereotype] for a real cosmopolitan flair,” observes Andrew Bottomley, chef concierge of the   Joule Hotel , a coolly elegant 160-room oasis that serves as canteen and watering hole for the neighborhood.

“[Dallasites] used to want to look at Downtown. Now they want to live in it,” says real estate broker Steve Shepherd ,   who lives on the 15th   floor of a repurposed mid-century bank building. “Downtown now gives you a real sense of community. It’s what people are looking for.”

Travelers can take in the sights as easily from the free,   pink-hued D-Link bus   as they can from on high in the   Reunion Tower ,   a 561-foot-tall cement-and-glass lollipop that explodes nightly into an LED-powered light show to commemorate everything from St. Patrick’s Day to gay pride. Today, when it comes to its downtown, the Big “D” stands for “Delightful.”

Here are ten reasons to visit:

• Opened in 2003   and designed by Renzo Piano, the   Nasher Sculpture Center   melds a garden full of contemporary art with warm interior galleries to form the nucleus of the   Dallas   Arts District , a section of Downtown that also includes the   Winspear Opera House   and   Wyly Theatre .
• Are you being watched? That would be a “yes,” if you’re walking past 1607 Main Street, where Chicago-based contemporary artist Tony Tasset rolled a gargantuan   eyeball, modeled after his   own baby blues, into a vest-pocket park. The three-story pop-art-inspired peeper, Eye , is a bit bloodshot, but it’s certainly a head turner.
• The   Dallas Farmers Market ,   located in a new residential area on the southeastern cusp   of Downtown, is bringing urban living to new heights with its focus on Texas-farmed and organic vegetables and fruits.
• The temple of Texas style, the flagship Neiman Marcus department store , has brought sleek haute couture to the American heartland since it   opened its doors   on Main Street in 1914. Even today, in an age of waning customer service, shoppers praise the store’s helpful staff and fashion-forward finds.
• If freeways encircle Downtown Dallas   like a moat,   Klyde Warren Park   acts as a bridge to the city’s outer core. The 5.2-acre “deck”   park built directly atop Woodall Rodgers Freeway connects Downtown to the posh Uptown neighborhood and features pop-up fountains, a children’s playground, hundreds of   trees, a lunchtime food truck roundup, and Sunday morning yoga. Plans are afoot for   four more downtown parks .
• The   Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza   delves into the events surrounding the assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Built on the same building floor from which Lee Harvey Oswald fired his rifle, the museum’s thoughtful and moving exhibits—accented by video, photographs, and timelines—put the   tragic day in context, ensuring its relevance for decades to come.
• The   Dallas Museum of Art , across from the Nasher Sculpture Center, has   the kind of exhibitions (in addition to the more than 23,000 works of art comprising its   permanent collection) and enthusiasm that wins   awards. Known for its American and European paintings, the DMA also possesses   impressive   decorative arts holdings. Tip: Make sure to check out the reproduction of a French villa designed   by the legendary Coco Chanel.
• If Dallas had a Brooklyn, it   might be the eastside Deep Ellum , whose   array of music venues, breweries, and barbecue joints lends a youthful, hipster patina to what was once scruffy warehouses and pool halls. A bonus: the neighborhood is accessed easily from Downtown by   DART , the city’s streetcar. Hungry? You can’t beat the $8 pulled-pork sandwich at   Pecan Lodge . The ambitious order the $9 “Hot Mess,” featuring shredded brisket, chipotle cream, cheese, and sea salt-crusted sweet potatoes.
• Downtown abounds with watering holes at the ready to   quench a late-night thirst, but none is as elegant as   Midnight   Rambler , an edgy cocktail bar in the Hotel Joule that features concoctions such as the “Cobra Snake Necktie” and   their signature “Cuffs & Buttons,” served with spiced bourbon and stone fruit.
• There are literally   hundreds of   Downtown restaurants, but one not to miss is   Lark on the Park , a new bistro adjoining Klyde Warren Park. Brunch highlights include slow-drip coffee (drinkers are provided with a small hourglass to perfectly time their first sip) and the shishito (sweet-pepper) omelet with caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, habanero-corn salsa, and lime crema.
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New Orleans-based writer   Andrew Nelson   is a contributing editor at   National Geographic Traveler . Follow him on Twitter   @andrewnelson   and on Instagram @andrewtyrrellnelson .

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10 reasons why you have to visit dallas (and for free).

Want to visit Dallas but don't know where to start? In this article I will tell you some of the best things to see in Dallas (Texas).

Located in North Texas, along the Trinity River, Dallas is the third largest city in the state behind Houston and San Antonio. Many of you will remember Dallas for the mythical cowboy series of the 80's and others for the assassination of one of the most charismatic presidents of the United States, John F. Kennedy.

Must-see in Dallas

1. deep ellum district.

Without a doubt, one of the essential things to see in Dallas is Deep Ellum . It is the artistic, musical and creative district of the city. If you like street art, you will be delighted to know that the streets of Deep Ellum are full of murals.

2. Walk around the downtown and take a look at the skyscrapers

On the opposite side of Deep Ellum are the Main Street District and the Dallas Downtown Historic District. A large number of hotels, cafes and restaurants are concentrated here. Stroll down Elm, Main, and Commerce streets and look up to find some of Big D's most iconic buildings like the Adolphus Tower, the Magnolia Building, or the Majestic Theater . Also here you will find the tallest building in Dallas, the Bank of America Plaza , with 280.7 meters high.

3. AT&T Discovery District

Hi-tech park with jazz concerts and restaurants. Nice area to chill and have a coffee.

4. Giant Eyeball

30-ft. tall, realistically rendered fiberglass sculpture of a human eyeball in a fenced garden. The place is private, so you won't be able to enter the area but you can have a good perspective from the outside.

5. Pioneer Plaza

An iconic park with 49 bronze steers and 3 horsemen, the work of Texas sculptor Robert Summers. The installation commemorates 19th-century cattle drives along the Shawnee Trail, the oldest and easternmost route by which Texas longhorn cattle were driven to the Northern Railroad Heads.

6. John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza

Of course, you can't pass through this city without giving yourself the opportunity to learn about the most shocking event that occurred in the history of Dallas , the assassination of former P resident John F. Kennedy that took place on November 22, 1963 on Elm Street.

7. Wild Bill’s Western Store

If you like the cowboy style you cannot miss a visit to the Wild Bill's Western Store . Located in the historic West End district of Downtown Dallas, you'll find hats, belt buckles, spurs, fringes, and thousands of styles of cowboy boots.

8. Farmer’s Market

Dallas Farmer's Market is a covered market, open every day, where you will find dozens of stands of fresh produce, such as artisan products, as well as gastronomic places to eat and taste Texas cuisine while enjoying the atmosphere of the market.

Hours: Daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

9. Bishop Art District

It is really worth going to see this district, since it offers many different plans and is full of restaurants and independent fashion stores. Through its streets you can appreciate different art murals. A neighborhood that is growing and worth checking it out.

10. Fortworth Stockyards

Not in Dallas, but a 45 mins drive. The city transmits a great energy that you will notice from the first moment. Without a doubt, it is one of the most visited cities in Texas, so the entertainment options are very varied.

It is one of the most popular entertainment areas of the city, it has restaurants, cafes, zoos, shops and museums. Stockyards is the place to go for some of the best barbecue in Fort Worth, so if you're hungry you can visit H3 ranch.

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Hi there, Welcome to all about 'meryca! I'm a Spanish girl living abroad who loves to travel and to discover new restaurants. I'm constantly searching for the best places to eat and drink. ​

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10 Best Things To Experience In Dallas, According To A Local

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Dallas sprawls across what was once prairie land, cotton fields, and cattle ranches, rising up like Oz seemingly out of nowhere. At night, the skyline is a spectacularly illuminated from almost every direction, but it wasn’t always like that. For visitors who want to learn something more about the city than what is depicted on TV shows like Dallas , there are multitudes of places that tell the story of the city through history, architecture, art, culture, and, of course, great dining and shopping experiences.

I’ve lived in Dallas, Texas most of my life. While things are constantly changing, some will always remain the same. Here’s my don’t-miss list of top local tips for Dallas. And make sure to check out our picks for the best hotels in Dallas .

Philip Lange / Shutterstock

1. Fair Park Esplanade And Art Deco Structures

Anyone who loves history and architecture will enjoy a walk through the grounds at Fair Park, the only intact pre-1950s world fair site in the United States. It also boasts the largest collection of art deco exhibition buildings and sculptures.

Fair Park was originally conceived as the site for the State Fair of Texas in 1886. It wasn’t until 1936 that it became the site for a world’s fair, commemorating the centennial of the Republic of Texas. Architects came from all over the world to help create the art and the exhibition buildings you see today. On each side of the Esplanade, there are sculptures depicting the six flags of Texas: Mexico, Spain, France, the Confederacy, the Republic of Texas, and the United States. Be sure to look for the murals painted inside the porticos and the very streamlined art deco sculptures on the south side of the reflecting pool. And don’t forget to visit the Hall of State, a gorgeous art deco building commemorating the history, agriculture, and social development of the state of Texas.

Local Tip: Go early in the morning and you’ll likely have the place to yourself, as long as there is not an event scheduled.

2. The Statler

The Statler is a mid-century architectural gem in downtown Dallas. At the time it was completed in 1956, it was recognized as one of the first modern hotels in the United States and the epitome of contemporary design. It became the top hotel in the Southwest for conventions and business travelers, and it had the first hotel heliport. The 2,200-square-foot ballroom hosted many entertainers, such as the Jackson 5, Tony Bennett, and Liberace.

In 2013, a developer began a multi-million dollar restoration to return the Statler to its original glory. In 2017, after several stalls, it finally reopened as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. Today it is both a hotel and a residential property with several restaurants, offices, and shops on site.

Local Tip: I take guests here for a drink at the rooftop bar with stunning views of downtown. One guest, who was visiting from Munich, confessed she thought it was an odd choice, but once there, she loved it and thanked me for the excellent suggestion.

Dfwcre8tive / Wikimedia Commons ( CC BY 3.0 )

3. Tea At The Adolphus Hotel

Maybe you’ve always wanted to experience a proper English tea but can’t travel to England. No problem! Come to Dallas and experience tea at The Adolphus Hotel . You don’t need to wait for a holiday to enjoy this mostly traditional English tea. In fact, this is an annual mother-daughter outing for many Dallasites. The tea is two courses and has one tea paired with each course. But first, you’re greeted with a glass of champagne. Everything is very white table cloth and proper, but relaxed at the same time. You do need to make a reservation, however, as this experience is regularly booked in advance by the locals.

Local Tip: Book dinner at the French Room in the Adolphus, as much a Dallas tradition as English tea!

Editor’s Note: Interestingly, The Adolphus is one of eight hotels the royals have stayed in while visiting the U.S. and Canada .

4. ATT Discovery District

A high-tech experience with things to see and do both indoors and out, the ATT Discovery District is a fun and welcome addition to downtown Dallas. You can sit outside with a coffee or order a meal at Jaxon Texas Kitchen and Beer Garden . The outdoor plaza also has a virtual reality media wall that will blow your mind. The themes and experiences change, but whatever it is, it’s always fun. The media wall is outdoors, but the experience store is open during regular business hours.

Chris Rubino / Shutterstock

5. The Sixth Floor Museum

On November 22, 1963, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas as his motorcade passed what was then the Texas School Book Depository Building. The shooter, Lee Harvey Oswald, was believed to have fired from a window on the 6th floor of the building. At The Sixth Floor Museum , print, video, and artifacts tell the story of the life, legacy, and assassination of President Kennedy.

I always take my history-loving visitors to the 6th Floor Museum. It never fails to get a great review. You can take a 90-minute self-guided audio tour, but there is no limit on how long you can spend in the museum.

Local Tips: Be sure to visit Dealey Plaza just outside the museum. Walk to the grassy knoll and you can see exactly where the motorcade was at the time the sniper fired. Then walk to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza just a block away.

6. Hyatt Reunion Tower Observation Deck

The Hyatt Reunion Hotel opened in 1978 and instantly became an iconic landmark. The Reunion Tower , shaped like a golf ball, featured a revolving restaurant. The restaurant is no longer there, but at 470 feet, there is an observation deck offering 360-degree views. In 2015, The Amazing Race TV-series filmed the season finale here.

Local Tip: This is a great place to watch the sunset.

Renelibrary / Wikimedia Commons ( CC BY-SA 3.0 )

7. Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village is a Mediterranean-style outdoor shopping center built in 1931. It’s located in the Highland Park neighborhood, basically the Beverly Hills of Dallas. Luxury designer boutiques such as Prada and Chanel invite you to do some serious retail damage. However, you can also enjoy a walk around the shopping center and an alfresco lunch that won’t break the bank; window shopping is free.

Local Tip: Take a drive along Armstrong Parkway and admire the gorgeous homes and many parks. Armstrong Parkway crosses Preston Road and Turtle Creek, where there’s a lovely park perfect for a nice walk or a picnic.

8. Cafe Madrid

Craving Spanish tapas? Cafe Madrid is almost an institution in Dallas after 30 successful years. Located in the trendy Uptown neighborhood adjacent to Highland Park, it’s the perfect place to sit outside with a glass of Rioja and a classic Spanish paella or some fried calamari and people watch. Depending on when you go, it can be crowded, so plan accordingly. Friday night is flamenco night.

Local Tip: The house sangria is also a local favorite.

9. Botolino Gelato Artigianale

I’ve visited Italy enough, and eaten enough gelato, to know Botolino Gelato Artigianale is the real deal. Sometimes you can see the owner, Carlo, working in “the lab” at the Greenville Avenue location, so you know everything is fresh and made onsite.

Unusual flavors like Egyptian rose and black sesame are often changed for seasonal flavors. Traditional flavors like pistachio, gianduia, milk chocolate, vanilla, and mascarpone fig are always available.

When I tried the Egyptian rose, I really tasted roses, but it was light and fresh as if I was tasting the fragrance. Carlo said the flavor is infused into the milk cream. I don’t know how he does it — I just want to enjoy eating it. The black sesame reminded me of a small sesame and honey candy I used to eat as a kid, savory and sweet. If you like tahini, you’ll love this.

Botolino has two locations: the original location on Greenville Avenue and a location at Preston Royal shopping center. When I crave gelato, I give in and drive 20 minutes across town for Botolino.

Local Tip: The Greenville Avenue location has some family heirlooms, like Carlo’s grandmother’s gelato molds.

10. The Meadows Museum

For almost 30 years, Algur H. Meadows, founder of the Meadows Museum , collected and promoted Spanish art. Inspired by his visits to Spain, his collection is the core of the works on permanent exhibition at the museum often referred to as the Prado on the Prairie. Works range from the period of the Spanish Golden Age to more modern artists like Joan Miro and Pablo Picasso.

The Meadows Museum is located on the campus of Southern Methodist University. You’ll immediately know you’re there by the wonderful Santiago Calatrava sculpture called The Wave , which accents the front of the building.

This is a small, quiet museum that is somewhat unknown, which makes it a nice getaway from the bustle of the city.

Local Tip: The city of Dallas and the university have a long history with Calatrava, and depending on where you are downtown, you can observe the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, another work of art by Calatrava.

Related Reading:

• Best Dallas Restaurants Perfect For Outdoor Dining
• 10 Fantastic Hidden Gem Restaurants In Dallas
• 8 Reasons To Make Fort Worth, Texas Your Next Weekend Getaway

Penny Sadler is a freelance writer for travel, lifestyle, and food and wine publications. She holds a WSET (Wine Spirits Education Trust) Level 2 certification and is a member of the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFTWTA). She educates consumers about food and wine pairing and has taught travel writing for She's Wanderful, a women's travel conference and networking platform. When she's not writing, you can find her stomping grapes or getting lost in the cobblestone streets of a medieval village.

• Travel Planning Guide

Should You Visit Dallas?

• Is Dallas Worth Visiting?
• Reasons to Visit Dallas
• In the Summer?
• In the Autumn?
• In the Winter?
• In the Spring?

What is Dallas most famous for?

• What is Dallas most known for?

What is the most famous sight in Dallas?

• How touristy is Dallas?

How long should I spend in Dallas?

Is dallas worth visiting.

Yes, you'll find numerous reasons to visit Dallas, and it's a city that everyone should see. We had an amazing time here.

Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the fantastic museums and spectacular food.

Dallas is a sprawling city in north Texas. It's known for its business sector and is said to have a bit of a posh personality. There are many museums and cultural opportunities around town as well as great Texas food and countless shopping opportunities.

5 Reasons to Visit Dallas

Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

3. Nightlife

Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

4. Shopping

You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

5. Authenticity

Dallas has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Dallas worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 31°C (88°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 36°C (98°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Dallas, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

This is a great time of year to wander through the museums, enjoy the city's energy, and grab some drinks at a bar.

Is Dallas worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Dallas. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 21°C (69°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (80°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse through museums and discover the big city activities.

Is Dallas worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Dallas. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Dallas can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 8°C (46°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the nightlife scene. Also, you'll be able to soak up the big city atmosphere.

Is Dallas worth visiting in the Spring?

The warm weather in spring is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 20°C (68°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 26°C (79°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Dallas, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Dallas

Getting Around The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Dallas might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Dallas here or see if Dallas is expensive here .

Dallas is most famous for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture. It is often described as active, upscale, and chic.

The most popular sight in Dallas is the Sixth Floor Museum . You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Dallas on our travel costs page .

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Sixth Floor Museum and other attractions here .

How touristy is Dallas? Is it a popular city to visit?

Dallas is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Dallas Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour Viator $ 14
• Dallas Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour: $14
• 3-Hour Ropes Course & Zip Line Adventure: $60
• Smart Tour: Dallas JFK Assassination & History E-Bike Tour: $60
• Walking Tour of the Star District in Frisco with Brunch: $129
• Electric Bike Taco Tour in Dallas: $150
• Dallas Highlights Tour: $205
• 2 Hour Dallas Night Sightseeing E-Scooter Tour: $90
• Food Walking Tour in Dallas: $86

The ideal length of time for a trip to Dallas is two to four days. Since Dallas has activities such as museums, dining, nightlife, and shopping, many visit for up to four days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Dallas? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Dallas? .

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5 good reasons to visit Dallas

Culture, parks, architecture and lifestyle: Texas’s third-largest city has many surprises in store for travellers passing through. Here are a few good reasons to spend some time in the streets of the city nicknamed “Big D”.

Get lost in the Dallas Arts District

The greatest – and sometimes rather unconventional – architectural achievements are concentrated in this neighbourhood north of Downtown. All the major 20 th -century designers are represented, such as Renzo Piano with the Nasher Sculpture Center, and Ieoh Ming Pei and his Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. It is also home to one of the city’s iconic towers: Reunion Tower (171 m), built in 1978.

Educate yourself in world-class museums

Infamous for being the place where John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, the city of Dallas pays tribute to him in a museum: The Sixth Floor Museum. It looks back over the whole life of the 35 th  President of the United States through films and photographs from the time. The Dallas Arts District counts a dozen other museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art, which presents more than 20,000 works covering 5,000 years of art history.

Stroll through the new arty neighbourhoods

If you are looking to party, head for the Deep Ellum neighbourhood, which is now the haunt of artists and hip venues. Undergoing a real transformation, this former industrial district is seeing its warehouses transformed into bars, brasseries, concept stores or bicycle repair workshops. Many street art works also adorn the walls. An area to discover right away.

Go shopping in NorthPark Center

In Dallas, window shopping is a national sport! NorthPark Center is therefore an unmissable destination for fashionistas. It is one of the country’s largest shopping centres, bringing together both major brands and more niche designer stores. You can also pick up great bargains thanks to the many duty-free items.

Enjoy the many parks and gardens

• ville : Dallas
• pays : United States
• Nearest airport : Dallas-Fort Worth

With its 381 green spaces, Dallas is a green city with plenty of clean air! At the heart of the city, Klyde Warren Park is the perfect spot to attend a festival or do some sport, while Reverchon Park in Oak Lawn allows you to relax along Turtle Creek. Another charming park is the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and its 2,400 plant varieties.

Nasher Sculpture Center 2001 Flora Street Dallas, TX 75201 +1 214 242 5100 www.nashersculpturecenter.org

Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center 2301 Flora Street Dallas, TX 75201 +1 214 849 4376 www.dallassymphony.org

Reunion Tower 300 Reunion Boulevard East Dallas, TX 75207 +1 214 296 9950 reuniontower.com

The Sixth Floor Museum 411 Elm Street Dallas, TX 75202 +1 214 747 6660 www.jfk.org

Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) 1717 North Harwood Street Dallas, TX 75201 +1 214 922 1200 dma.org

NorthPark Center 8687 North Central Expressway Dallas, TX 75225 +1 214 363 7441 northparkcenter.com

Klyde Warren Park 1909 Woodall Rodgers Freeway Dallas, TX 75201 +1 214 7164500 www.klydewarrenpark.org

Reverchon Park 3505 Maple Avenue Dallas, TX 75219 +1 214 670 7720 www.dallasparks.org

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden 8525 Garland Road Dallas, TX 75218 +1 214 515 6615 www.dallasarboretum.org

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The Family Vacation Guide

Dallas Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting With Kids

posted by Charmaine Cortes on February 21, 2023 // last updated on March 13, 2023

With the famous parks, sports arenas, and celeb-owned restaurants, Dallas gives you the perfect representation of Texas . It may seem like just a busy city with a couple of noteworthy skyscrapers, but Dallas actually has plenty of sites for family fun activities. Whether you’re looking for indoor activities – like visiting wild bill’s western store – to keep the kids entertained or fun outdoor activities to enjoy a hot summer day, Dallas has several options that will undoubtedly meet your expectations. This travel guide will take you through the best attractions in Dallas and what you can expect when visiting with the kids.

Five Reasons Why Dallas Is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

When’s the best time to visit dallas with kids, what’s the weather in dallas across the year, what’s the perfect length of time to spend in dallas, the best things to do with kids in dallas, the best family hotels & resorts in dallas, the best places to eat with kids in dallas, the best day trips from dallas that the whole family will love, how to get around dallas during your vacation, the best ways to get to dallas for your vacation, top tips for staying safe in dallas when visiting with kids.

There are many reasons to visit Dallas, but we thought we’d give you the top five reasons that bring people to the third-largest city in Texas!

The History

Dallas is rich in history and so there are several museums that you can visit with the family including the Dallas Museum, The African American Museum, and the Flight Museum. In these historical museums, you can discover everything about the first oil discoveries, the railroad association, and aviation history. Dallas also boasts historical parks that you can explore and special events that celebrate the many historical moments of the city.

If your family loves sports, Dallas is definitely a place you can have a lot of fun in. This city takes sports seriously and its teams are its pride and joy. Who hasn’t heard of the Final Word Dallas Cowboys? However, if football is not your favorite sport, you can also catch the Dallas Mavericks playing basketball, the Dallas Stars playing hockey, or the Texas Rangers playing baseball. Catching any of these games will allow you to experience the exciting atmosphere of loyal and passionate Dallas sports fans.

You can’t go anywhere in Texas without having a traditional Texan barbecue or Tex-Mex feast. Dallas is no different. You can take your family out for a mouth-watering barbecue eating slow-cooked meats, smoked to perfection. There are several restaurants and food trucks that specialize in this and you will not be disappointed.

Cowboys and Rodeos

The Dallas Cowboys are not the only cowboys in Texas. Dallas often has rodeos to demonstrate their love of all things cowboy. The events differ in size and activities, but you and your family can get to experience what it means to be a cowboy. Rodeo events include bull-riding, calf-roping, and barrel racing to name a few. However, you can always enjoy the good food and live music or just shop for some authentic cowboy boots!

Fun Activities

Whether your family enjoys leisurely indoor activities or outdoor adventures, Dallas has many options for each of them. The city doesn’t just have one entertainment district either – it has several, including downtown Dallas, the Bishop Arts District, the Designer District, and the West End to name a few. Each of these areas has family-friendly attractions that will fascinate, educate, and excite your family. There are also plenty of places that offer free admission!

As much as there are fun things to do in Dallas all year round, the best time to visit with the kids is probably in the fall. It is not as hot as in the summer months, so the family won’t be too uncomfortable or cranky. This is especially true for those visitors who are not used to the Texan heat. It will also be less busy in the city than in the summer when everyone is on holiday. A trip in the fall will also help you avoid the peak prices of hotels in the vacation season.

That being said, you can still visit Dallas at any other time of the year as there is plenty to do no matter the weather. It just depends on your itinerary, budget, and what you want to do while you are there.

Dallas, like other states in the Southern US, has hot summers and mild winters. The average daily temperature in the city is 77.9 °F.

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Dallas is hot and humid. It is not uncommon that temperatures exceed 90°F during the day and stay well above 70°F in the evening. The high temperatures can be difficult to manage if you are not accustomed to humidity. Many people try to stay indoors in air-conditioned venues to make it through the heat of the day. Outdoor activities will also have to be planned for the early morning or late afternoon to escape the high temperatures and extreme humidity.

Fall (September – November)

Fall in Dallas offers warm and pleasant weather. The daytime highs range between 50 and 80°F but the temperatures drop off rapidly the closer you get to December. This is still a popular time to visit Dallas as people can enjoy the brilliant colors of fall and the more comfortable weather. The city is also less busy in the fall as compared to summer, but still has several events that will keep families busy.

Winter (December – February)

Winter temperatures are usually above 55°F during the day. However, during the evening it can plummet below 40°F. Snowfall is quite rare but has been known to occur around January. Dallas is usually very quiet in the winter months and it’s probably the cheapest time of year to visit. You can use this time to explore indoor venues like the Dallas Museum or enjoy one of the many shopping malls.

Spring (March-May)

Spring temperatures range between 70°F and 85°F. It is a beautiful time to visit Dallas and the seasonal flowers are a wonderful sight. The weather at this time of year can be a bit unpredictable and thunderstorms can disrupt your plans. This is also the most likely time of year that a tornado would hit Dallas, although they are few and far between with the last one being in 2019.

The perfect amount of time to stay in Dallas is for three to four days. This will give you enough time to see all the Dallas attractions. However, the amount of time you spend in Dallas ultimately depends on your budget and what you want to do. A lot of people also like to stay in Dallas and venture out on day trips to Fort Worth or Turner Falls. If making day trips are part of your plan, you might want to add an extra day or two so that your kids aren’t too tired from traveling.

Dallas has several activities for kids and adults alike to enjoy. The great thing is that there are amazing outdoor and indoor activities that ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do with your kids in Dallas.

Dallas Arts District

The Dallas Arts District lies in Downtown Dallas and covers approximately 118 acres. This makes it one of the largest arts districts in the country! There are three museums here. The first is the Dallas Museum of Art which is situated on North Harwood St. The museum features an incredible array of art that includes works of art from different cultures and periods in history. Exploring the museum will take up most of your day, so it is recommended you grab a big breakfast before because there is no food allowed inside.

The second is the Nasher Sculpture Center. It is just adjacent to the Dallas Museum of Art and has both indoor and outdoor galleries. The last museum is the Crow Museum of Asian Art which is associated with The University of Texas. You can purchase tickets online to avoid any queues when you visit these museums.

Reunion Tower GeO-Deck

The Reunion Tower GeO-Deck is the place to go if you want an exceptional view of the Dallas skyline. This is definitely a place to take your teenagers for some unforgettable photos as the GeO-Deck gives you a 360-degree view of Dallas. There are also several interactive touchscreens available that provide information and fun facts about the surrounding areas.

The Dallas Zoo is 106 acres of pure family fun. Home to over 2000 animals, the Dallas zoo is a fun place for your little ones as you can enjoy a walk through the zoo or take them to the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo for some fun activities. 

The Dallas Zoo also has some beautiful exotic birds at Travis and Zach’s Landing Aviary. In addition, kids and adults alike enjoy the Wild Encounters exhibition which gets you up close and personal with some of the animals at the zoo.

Dallas Arboretum

The Dallas Arboretum is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the state. It also attracts a lot of families because of the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. This garden has plenty of games and adventures for children to enjoy. The Dallas Arboretum also sometimes hosts live music events and provides an excellent backdrop for impromptu family photo shoots!

Klyde Warren Park

The Klyde Warren Park is perfect for a fun family day out. Not only is the park beautiful, but it also provides the ideal spot for a picnic lunch and the kids can enjoy the many activities they have available. This includes interactive fountains, a playground, and the famous storytelling tree. You can also explore the botanical gardens and have fun at The Dallas Morning News Reading and Games which are free of charge!

Texas Discovery Gardens and Butterfly House

The Texas Discovery Gardens and Butterfly House is a favorite among visitors to the Dallas area as it provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about nature. There are several activities you can enjoy at any time of the year, including nature trails, organic gardening, and botany workshops. The Texas Discovery Gardens is also home to the Snakes of Texas exhibit and a mini train garden with three trains for the kids to ride in.

Galleria Dallas Ice Rink

Galleria Dallas is a shopping mall with an ice rink at its center. The ice rink is open all year round and provides a wonderful escape from the Dallas Heat. You can rent skates at the venue and even join a class if you want to improve your skating skills whilst there!

Frontiers of Flight Museum

The Flight Museum celebrates decades of flight history. They have several replicas of planes. From the Wright brothers to space flight history, the Flight Museum has all the information for any budding aviator in your family. In fact, you can even have a birthday party in a special room at the Flight Museum, but you must make a booking in advance.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

If you have a science buff or two in the family, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is the ideal place to visit. There are five floors to this museum, and it features interactive exhibits that are fun and educational for the entire family. Whereas most museums have a no-touch policy, the Perot Museum encourages kids to interact with the displays to learn more. It is a wonderful place for kids to explore and learn more about exciting careers and possibilities in science.

Dallas World Aquarium

The Dallas World Aquarium is a wonderful experience for the entire family. They have interactive exhibits and special performances, and you can witness the feeding times of the various marine animals. The Dallas World Aquarium is also known for its amazing rainforest view that has some incredible animals, including sloths and vampire bats!

Medieval Times Dallas

The Medieval Times Dallas is a great break away from all things Texas. Families love the quirky and action-packed Medieval Times tournament that shows several knights partake in classic medieval games on horseback. You can sit back and cheer them on while you enjoy a memorable Medieval Times dinner!

The Sixth Floor Museum

The Sixth Floor Museum is for conspiracy theorists and history buffs. Housed in the Dealey Plaza, which is connected to the assassination of President John. F. Kennedy, The Sixth Floor Museum is a popular stop for tourists. You can book a two-hour tour through the museum and learn more about all the conspiracies regarding the assassination that they have preserved. It’s a great place to learn more about American history and see the place where the assassination occurred.

Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

You can find the largest waterpark in Texas in Grand Prairie. Epic Waters has everything you could ever want from a water park – a lazy river, water slides, and a wave pool. They cater to kids of all ages and adults will not be disappointed with all the fun things that they have available.

Hotels and resorts in Dallas are amazing destinations themselves. They have so much to offer and provide easy access to nearby Dallas attractions. Here are some of the best places to stay in Dallas, Texas.

The Westin Galleria Dallas

If your family loves shopping, what can make them happier than staying at a hotel that is part of a shopping mall? The Westin Galleria is a 4-star hotel in North Dallas that offers spa treatments, a video game room, restaurants, a fitness studio, and a rooftop pool. This is all just in the hotel – you can still easily access the mall for even more dining options.

Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine

Great Wolf Lodge is in Grapevine, a city between Dallas and Fort Worth. This resort has plenty of fun family activities, but it is an absolute favorite amongst the kids. The resort has laser tag, a lazy river, water slides, and scavenger hunts. There’s also an arcade, rock climbing wall, and organized games and contests throughout the year. To be honest, you might find it hard to get the family to leave the resort!

Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center

The Gaylord Texan resort is massive – the atrium alone spans 4.5 acres and features everything you could ever need while on vacation. There are restaurants, shops, an arcade, an indoor pool, a waterpark, and nature trails. You can also easily access the nearby family attractions by using the resort shuttle. The Gaylord also holds an annual event that features ice sculptures and slides that the entire resort can enjoy.

Magnolia Hotel

You can find the Magnolia Hotel in downtown Dallas. This historic hotel is in the building that was the first skyscraper in Dallas. It is more of a luxurious hotel that can offer you all the comforts and give you easy access to the surrounding areas. You also can never get lost if you’re staying at the Magnolia Hotel because all you have to do is search the Dallas skyline for the iconic red Pegasus.

What’s the Average Cost of a Hotel in Dallas?

It’s impossible to give you an accurate average cost of a hotel in Dallas because they are all so different and offer different amenities. In actuality, the cost will depend on the number of family members and the duration of your stay. Different hotels also charge differently depending on the ages of your kids. However, hotels will cost much more in summer than at other times of the year as this is the peak tourist season. Therefore, you should always aim to book your accommodation early to avoid paying more for last-minute bookings.

Dallas may be a bustling city but that does not mean it doesn’t have any family-friendly restaurants. There are several favorite eateries among locals and tourists that have excellent outdoor play areas to keep the kids entertained.

Hat Creek Burger Company

First up is the Hat Creek Burger Company, which is where you need to take the family if you are craving burgers, fries, and shakes. With an outdoor play area for the kids, the Hat Creek Burger Company is family-focused ensuring that everyone has a good time.

The Magic Time Machine

The Magic Time Machine is a themed restaurant that will thrill your kids. The staff are dressed in costumes and are completely in character throughout the evening. The eccentric decor will have everyone fascinated while the kids can enjoy their very own menus.

Norma’s Cafe

Norma’s Cafe in Dallas is a must if you want to try authentic Texas home cooking. Norma’s Cafe also runs community events throughout the year and has everyone feeling as if they belonged. They have five locations across Dallas, and you should prepare yourself for large portions!

Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market has been in existence since 1941. At the very heart of downtown Dallas, the Dallas Farmers Market offers everything from farm-fresh produce to delectable local meals. It provides a wonderful day out with the families and your kids can learn more about where food comes from.

Fireside Pies

Fireside Pies is the place to go if your family loves pizza. Kids will love the cheesy goodness of Fireside Pies. They are also a firm favorite because they cater to gluten-free customers as well.

Celebration

Celebration is another Dallas institution that your family will love. It has a homely feel and serves a variety of food that will satisfy the whole family. The best part about Celebration is that they have a store next door that sells their most popular meals already packed and ready to go. This is a wonderful option if you want to pack a picnic lunch for the family!

Traveling from Dallas to nearby family-friendly attractions is highly recommended. Some drives are longer than others, but they each give you a wonderful opportunity to make the best of your family vacation.

Longview is a two-hour drive from Dallas but it is definitely worth the trip. There are several exciting events to attend in Longview including The Great Texas Balloon Race. The kids can enjoy the trampoline parks, go ziplining or go for a ride in a hot air balloon.

Fort Worth is just a 40-minute drive from Dallas but the vibe is completely different. The pace of the city is slower than in Dallas and there is plenty of activities to enjoy with the family. You can visit museums, the Fort Worth zoo, and the Texas Motor Speedway. A day trip to Fort Worth feels like a vacation within a vacation!

Arbuckle Wilderness Park

A two-hour drive from Dallas, Arbuckle Wilderness Park provides 200 acres of wilderness to explore. You will have to drive your own vehicle through the park, but you will get to see several animals. The park also has special times at which they will allow you to feed some of the animals and you can visit the reptile house and petting zoo.

Six Flags Over Texas

The first ever Six Flags built, Six FlagsOver Texas is just a 20 min drive from downtown Dallas. It is listed as a day trip just because it is a whole-day affair. There is no shortage of entertainment at Six Flags from the roller coaster rides to the themed events.

Dallas may seem too big a city at first, but it is actually quite walkable. That being said, it might be difficult to walk around with kids so it’s better to know what the alternatives are.

A rental car is a good idea if you don’t want to worry about how you’re going to get around the city and head out on your planned day trips. However, you must brace yourself for Dallas traffic, especially during rush hours. It can get quite hectic and in the extreme heat of summer, you may get a bit irritable. 

Parking spaces in the downtown area are available but you will have to pay. It is recommended that you do some research beforehand to find parking garages that are affordable and near your destination.

Buses in Dallas are reliable and cheap. You can even purchase a day pass prior to your trip. It is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the bus system as it can get confusing. However, it is possible to use Google Transit and DART’s travel planning tools to help you with this. You will also need the exact amount of cash if you plan on purchasing your tickets on the bus.

The DART light rail system in Dallas is extremely popular. The rail runs all through the week and is efficient and affordable. During the peak season, you can expect a train every 15 minutes. The lines are identified by different colors and you can also take a train to Fort Worth.

There are taxis available all over Dallas. However, they are not a popular choice as they can get expensive and you may have to wait a while for a rideshare taxi to get through the Dallas traffic.

Getting to Dallas will depend on where you’re coming from. There are several transportation options available including air, bus, rail, and road. Dallas has three airports – Dallas/Fort Worth International, Dallas Love Field, and Addison Airport.

You can also travel to Dallas by train or bus. These are cheaper options but it also depends on your kids’ comfort levels as this will be a longer trip than flying.

Whenever you travel with your kids, safety is probably the first thing that you consider. This is why we thought it’s best to have some top tips for staying safe in Dallas.

You have to plan ahead when you have kids. Even if you want to surprise them, it is always worthwhile doing a bit of research about where you are going and what you should look out for. Therefore, even if they are distracted by their surroundings, you can be a bit more alert and know what to look out for. Even things like knowing where to park and the quickest way to your destination are important.

Be Prepared for the Heat

The Dallas heat can be brutal if you are not used to extreme heat and humidity. Ensure that you pack sunscreen and stay hydrated. It is best to plan outdoor activities early to avoid the peak heat experienced from midday onwards.

Carry a First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit can come in handy, especially when traveling with kids. You can deal with scrapes and small cuts quickly which will allow them to get back to their activities.

Stay In Busy Areas

It is always best to stick to busy areas and not venture into quiet streets, especially at night. While pickpocketing and muggings are not common, they do occur. During the tourist season, there will be more people around, but it is always best to remain alert and aware of your surroundings.

Have a Family Plan

Traveling as a family always requires a plan. If your children are old enough, give them the basics of what they should do if you are separated for any reason. Always ensure that they are within sight. If you are traveling with toddlers, it is always recommended that you write your details down somewhere on their clothing or bags. This is just a precaution, but it is best to have it done.

Dallas has many fun places to explore with your family. Whether you enjoy art, waterparks, the zoo, or being in nature, there are several family-friendly attractions for you to enjoy. You can even plan ahead and purchase tickets or a Dallas CityPass online to avoid long queues at the venues. So, what are you waiting for? Dallas has everything you need for a great family vacation!

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Reasons To Visit Dallas Texas

Imagine stepping into a city where the wild west seamlessly merges with urban sophistication. A place where football is not just a game, but a revered institution, and TexMex is more than just a cuisine, it’s a way of life. Welcome to Dallas, Texas, where the spirit of the Cowboys thrives and sports are not just a pastime, but a vital part of the city’s identity. However, Dallas is much more than its cowboy culture. It’s a melting pot of arts, history, and sports, a city that offers an experience like no other. With a vibrant Arts District boasting over 20 museums and galleries, showcasing the rich history and diverse artistic talent of the city, Dallas invites you to delve into its captivating cultural scene. And let’s not forget about the food! Dallas delights with its expansive culinary scene that encompasses everything from authentic TexMex to mouthwatering, award-winning barbecue. Next time you’re planning a trip, consider Dallas – it’s not just a city, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Iconic Sports Experience

The dallas cowboys and football culture.

When it comes to sports, Dallas is a city that takes pride in its iconic Dallas Cowboys football team. The Cowboys have a rich history and are deeply embedded in the culture of the city. From the moment you step foot in Dallas, you can feel the excitement and passion that surrounds this beloved team. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual observer, attending a Cowboys game at the AT&T Stadium is an experience like no other. The stadium itself is a sight to behold, with its massive size and impressive architecture. As you cheer alongside thousands of other fans, you’ll understand why football is not just a pastime in Dallas, but a way of life.

Rodeo Events

In addition to football, Dallas also embraces its cowboy heritage through rodeo events. For those who want to experience the thrill and excitement of a rodeo, Dallas offers a variety of events throughout the year. From bull riding to roping and barrel racing, these events showcase the skills and bravery of the participants. Attending a rodeo in Dallas allows you to immerse yourself in the rich tradition of the Wild West and witness firsthand the incredible talent of the cowboys and cowgirls who participate. So, dust off your cowboy boots and get ready for an unforgettable rodeo experience in Dallas.

Diverse Sports Activities

Sports enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities to engage in while visiting Dallas. The city offers a wide range of sports, catering to all interests and skill levels. Whether you’re looking to play a round of golf on one of the city’s many golf courses, go for a run in the local parks, or join a pickup game of basketball, Dallas has it all. With its warm climate and abundance of outdoor spaces, Dallas is the perfect destination for those who enjoy an active and diverse sports scene. So, pack your athletic gear and get ready to explore the myriad of sports activities that Dallas has to offer.

Rich Historical Attractions

Historical landmarks.

Dallas is a city steeped in history, with numerous landmarks that tell the story of its past. From the iconic Dealey Plaza, where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, to the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture, which showcases the city’s history, there are countless historical landmarks to explore. These landmarks allow visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the events and people that shaped Dallas into what it is today. So, put on your historian hat and embark on a journey through Dallas’s rich historical attractions.

Significant Events and Background

Dallas has been the backdrop for many significant events throughout history. From the oil boom of the early 20th century to the civil rights movement of the 1960s, the city has played a crucial role in shaping the nation. Learning about the background and context of these events provides a deeper appreciation for the city’s historical significance. Whether it’s visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the life and death of JFK, or exploring the African American Museum, which highlights the contributions of African Americans in Dallas, there are numerous opportunities to delve into the city’s past and gain a greater understanding of its historical significance.

Famous Historical Sites

In addition to landmarks and events, Dallas is also home to famous historical sites that attract visitors from all over the world. The Dallas Heritage Village , for example, is a living history museum that transports visitors back in time to the 19th century. With its preserved historic buildings and costumed interpreters, the village provides an immersive experience of what life was like in Dallas during that era. Another famous historical site is the Dallas County Courthouse, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Exploring these sites allows you to not only appreciate the beauty of the past but also gain a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage.

Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

The vibrant arts district.

Dallas is a city that celebrates and nurtures creativity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant Arts District. Spanning 19 blocks in downtown, the Arts District is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States. It is home to renowned institutions such as the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Crow Museum of Asian Art. These institutions offer a diverse range of artistic experiences, from classic masterpieces to contemporary installations. Taking a stroll through the Arts District allows you to immerse yourself in a hub of creativity and experience firsthand the immense talent that Dallas has to offer.

Host of Various Art Galleries and Museums

In addition to the institutions in the Arts District, Dallas is also home to numerous art galleries and museums scattered throughout the city. From small, independent galleries to larger, more established institutions, there is something for every art lover in Dallas. These galleries and museums showcase a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse artistic talents that call Dallas home. So, whether you’re a fan of contemporary art, photography, or sculpture, Dallas has a gallery or museum that will capture your imagination and leave you feeling inspired.

The Rich Diverse Artistic Talents

Dallas is a city that boasts a rich and diverse pool of artistic talents. From painters to dancers, actors to musicians, the city is teeming with individuals who have dedicated their lives to their craft. The local artistic community is vibrant and supportive, with numerous opportunities for artists to showcase their work and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether it’s attending a local theater production, visiting a gallery opening, or catching a live music performance, Dallas offers a wealth of opportunities to experience the incredible talents of its artists. So, prepare to be amazed by the creativity and passion that emanates from the artistic community in Dallas.

Unique Food and Culinary Scene

Authentic texmex delights.

When it comes to food, Dallas is known for its mouthwatering TexMex cuisine. TexMex is a fusion of Mexican and Texan flavors, resulting in dishes that are bold, flavorful, and satisfying. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas, every bite is a celebration of the unique culinary heritage of the region. Sample some of the best TexMex in the city at iconic establishments such as Mi Cocina or Torchy’s Tacos, where you can indulge in classics like queso, guacamole, and margaritas. So, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure and get ready to experience the authentic TexMex delights that Dallas has to offer.

Award-Winning Barbecue Spots

In addition to TexMex, Dallas is also home to award-winning barbecue spots that are a must-visit for any food lover. Dallas takes its barbecue seriously, and the result is tender, smoky, and flavorful meats that will leave you craving for more. Whether you prefer brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, you’ll find no shortage of barbecue joints in Dallas that serve up mouthwatering dishes. Places like Pecan Lodge and Lockhart Smokehouse have garnered national acclaim for their exceptional barbecue, attracting both locals and tourists alike. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in some finger-licking-good barbecue in the heart of Texas.

Eclectic Mix of Cuisines

Dallas is a melting pot of cultures and this diversity is reflected in its culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai, Indian, Italian, or Vietnamese, Dallas has a wide range of international cuisines to satisfy any craving. The city is home to countless restaurants that serve up authentic dishes from around the world, allowing you to embark on a culinary journey without leaving the city. From trendy fusion restaurants in Uptown to family-owned eateries in Deep Ellum, there is an eclectic mix of cuisines waiting to be explored in every corner of Dallas. So, bring your appetite and prepare to indulge in a world of flavors.

Sense of Urban Sophistication

Modern infrastructure.

One of the defining characteristics of Dallas is its sense of urban sophistication. The city boasts modern infrastructure that is designed to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. From its efficient public transportation system to its well-maintained roads and highways, getting around Dallas is a breeze. The city’s modern infrastructure also extends to its airports, making it easily accessible to travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re exploring the downtown area or venturing out to the suburbs, you can expect to find modern amenities and conveniences that enhance your overall experience.

Building Architectures

Dallas is a city that showcases a stunning array of architectural styles, ranging from sleek and modern to historic and ornate. The downtown skyline is dominated by skyscrapers that reflect the city’s status as a major business and financial hub. From the iconic Reunion Tower to the stunning Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, the cityscape of Dallas is a testament to the creativity and innovation of its architects. Even older buildings, such as the historic Adolphus Hotel or the Majestic Theatre, exude charm and elegance that transport you back in time. Exploring the diverse architectural landscape of Dallas is a visual feast that appeals to both history buffs and lovers of modern design.

Uptown and Downtown Experiences

Dallas offers a unique combination of both uptown and downtown experiences. Downtown Dallas is the heart of the city, where you can find a bustling business district, vibrant entertainment venues, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Uptown, on the other hand, offers a more upscale and trendy atmosphere, with its boutique shops, high-end restaurants, and luxury residences. Whether you’re looking to explore the cultural attractions of downtown or enjoy a night out in uptown, Dallas offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests and preferences. So, whether you’re in the mood for a night on the town or a leisurely stroll through charming neighborhoods, Dallas has it all.

Great Outdoor Activities

Local green spaces.

Despite being a bustling urban center, Dallas is home to numerous green spaces that allow residents and visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. From the picturesque White Rock Lake Park to the expansive Katy Trail, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature in Dallas. These green spaces offer a wide range of activities, from hiking and biking to picnicking and bird-watching. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Dallas’s local green spaces provide a tranquil oasis within the city.

Outdoor Events

In addition to its green spaces, Dallas is also known for its vibrant outdoor events. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations that take place outdoors. From the colorful blooms of the Dallas Blooms festival at the Dallas Arboretum to the lively music performances at the Klyde Warren Park, there is always something happening in Dallas’s outdoor spaces. Attending these events allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the lively and festive atmosphere that permeates the city.

Outdoor Sports

For those who enjoy outdoor sports, Dallas offers a range of activities to suit every interest. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at one of the city’s many pristine golf courses, while cyclists can explore the city on its extensive network of bike trails. If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding on the Trinity River. Dallas’s warm climate and abundance of outdoor spaces make it an ideal destination for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. So, bring your gear and get ready to embrace the great outdoors in Dallas.

Warm and Welcoming People

Friendly locals.

One of the things that sets Dallas apart is its warm and welcoming community. The locals in Dallas are known for their friendliness and hospitality, always ready to lend a helping hand or strike up a conversation. Whether you’re exploring the city’s cultural attractions, dining at a local restaurant, or attending a sporting event, you can expect to encounter friendly locals who are proud to share their city with visitors. The sense of community and camaraderie in Dallas is palpable, making it easy to feel at home in this bustling metropolis.

Southern Hospitality

Dallas is located in the heart of the South, a region known for its traditions of southern hospitality. This tradition is very much alive in Dallas, with locals going out of their way to make visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Whether it’s a warm smile, a friendly conversation, or a genuine gesture of kindness, you’ll be greeted with southern hospitality wherever you go in Dallas. This sense of warmth and hospitality adds an extra layer of charm to the city and ensures that your visit is not just memorable but also incredibly pleasant.

Diversity of the Community

Dallas is a city that prides itself on its diversity. With a rich blend of cultures and backgrounds, the city’s community is a tapestry of different experiences and perspectives. This diversity is evident in the city’s vibrant arts scene, culinary offerings, and cultural celebrations. Exploring Dallas allows you to engage with people from different walks of life and gain a deeper appreciation for the wealth of cultures that coexist within the city. Whether it’s attending a cultural festival or dining at an international restaurant, embracing the diversity of the community adds a unique and enriching dimension to your visit.

Exciting Nightlife and Entertainment

Wide variety of bars and clubs.

When the sun sets, Dallas comes alive with a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene. The city offers a wide variety of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for craft cocktails at a chic rooftop bar, live music at a local dive, or dancing the night away at a high-energy nightclub, Dallas has it all. The nightlife in Dallas is known for its infectious energy and welcoming atmosphere, with locals and visitors coming together to create unforgettable memories. So, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to experience the electric nightlife that Dallas has to offer.

Local Music Scene

Dallas has a thriving music scene that showcases a diverse range of musical genres and talents. From blues and country to rock and hip-hop, there is something for everyone in the city’s vibrant music landscape. Whether you’re catching an intimate live performance at a local bar or attending a concert at one of the city’s larger venues, you’ll be treated to the incredible talents of both established and up-and-coming musicians. Exploring the local music scene allows you to discover new sounds, support local artists, and experience the dynamic energy that permeates the city.

Performing Arts and Theatre

In addition to its music scene, Dallas is also home to a vibrant performing arts and theatre community. The city boasts numerous theaters, ranging from small independent venues to grand opera houses. Whether you’re a fan of Broadway shows, ballet, or contemporary plays, you’ll find a diverse range of performances to choose from in Dallas. Attending a live performance allows you to immerse yourself in the magic of the performing arts and witness the incredible talent of the city’s actors, dancers, and musicians. So, step into the spotlight and prepare to be captivated by the world-class performances that Dallas has to offer.

Proximity to Other Texas Attractions

Easy access to nearby cities.

One of the advantages of visiting Dallas is its central location in Texas, making it a great starting point for exploring the rest of the state. With its well-connected transportation infrastructure, Dallas offers easy access to nearby cities such as Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston. Whether you’re looking to experience the charm of Fort Worth’s Stockyards or indulge in the vibrant music scene in Austin, Dallas serves as a convenient base for day trips and adventures in other Texas destinations. So, take advantage of Dallas’s prime location and embark on a journey to discover the diverse and captivating attractions that Texas has to offer.

Day Trips Options

In addition to nearby cities, Dallas also offers a plethora of day trip options within driving distance. From picturesque small towns to natural wonders, there is something for every traveler’s taste. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the stunning landscapes of the Texas Hill Country or the breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon provides a welcome escape from the city. History buffs can explore the heritage-rich town of Grapevine or venture to the legendary Southfork Ranch, made famous by the TV series “Dallas.” Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Dallas provides ample day trip options that allow you to explore the beauty and diversity of the surrounding areas.

Opportunities for Exploration Outside Dallas

While Dallas itself has a wealth of attractions, the city also serves as a gateway to other exploration opportunities in the region. From breathtaking national parks to charming small towns, there is no shortage of destinations for those looking to extend their journey beyond Dallas. For outdoor enthusiasts, the majestic landscapes of Big Bend National Park or the enchanting beauty of Padre Island National Seashore offer unforgettable adventures. History lovers can venture to the historic city of San Antonio, while wine connoisseurs can indulge in the wineries of the Texas Hill Country. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey of exploration that extends far beyond the boundaries of Dallas.

Recap of Reasons to Visit Dallas

Dallas, Texas offers a unique and diverse experience that goes beyond the stereotypical cowboy culture. From the iconic Dallas Cowboys to the vibrant arts scene, the city is a melting pot of sports, history, and creativity. The culinary scene in Dallas is a delight for food lovers, with its authentic TexMex and award-winning barbecue spots. The city’s sense of urban sophistication is reflected in its modern infrastructure and stunning architectural landscapes. Dallas also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and celebrates the warm and welcoming nature of its people. The nightlife and entertainment options, as well as its proximity to other Texas attractions, make Dallas an ideal destination for any traveler.

Enhancing Your Travel Experience

When planning a trip to Dallas, it’s essential to research and explore the various attractions and activities the city has to offer. Consider attending a Dallas Cowboys game or experiencing the thrill of a rodeo event. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by visiting its landmarks and famous historical sites. Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene through the museums, galleries, and artistic talents that Dallas proudly showcases. Indulge in the unique food and culinary scene, from TexMex to barbecue and an eclectic mix of cuisines. Take in the urban sophistication of the city through its modern infrastructure and diverse architectural landscapes. Engage in the great outdoor activities and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. Experience the exciting nightlife and entertainment options that Dallas has in store. And don’t forget to take advantage of the city’s proximity to other Texas attractions, making day trips and exploration outside Dallas a must-do.

Creating Unforgettable Memories in Dallas

A trip to Dallas is not just a visit to a city; it’s an experience that offers a combination of sports, history, culture, food, and entertainment. Whether you’re cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, exploring the vibrant arts scene, indulging in delicious cuisines, experiencing the sense of urban sophistication, engaging in outdoor activities, embracing the warm and welcoming nature of the locals, enjoying the nightlife and entertainment, or embarking on adventures outside Dallas, every moment in Dallas is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. So, plan your trip to Dallas and get ready for an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

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The Ultimate Guide To Dallas, Texas and Things To Do When You Visit

You'll Love Dallas!

Dallas is a city that has something for everyone. Sports fans can root for the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic football teams in the country. Food lovers can enjoy Dallas's renowned cuisine, which draws influences from all over the world. And those looking for a place to relax can find plenty of green space to enjoy, as well as a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Dallas is also a great place to visit, with plenty of hotels and attractions to keep visitors entertained. So whether you're looking for a place to live, work, or play, Dallas is sure to have what you need. Come see why Dallas is one of the best cities in the country!

What Is Dallas Best Known For?

Dallas is a large city in North Texas, with a population of over 1 million people, best known for its professional sports teams, delicious food, and rich history. The Dallas Cowboys NFL team, "America's team," is one of the most popular and successful teams in the league, and fans love to tailgate at their home games in AT&T Stadium. Another beloved Dallas institution is Tex-Mex cuisine, and there are countless food places around the town serving up enchiladas, tacos, and margaritas. Visitors can also learn about Dallas' past at the Sixth Floor Museum, which chronicles the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Whether you're looking for good food, a fun night out, or a dose of history, Dallas has something for everyone.

Dallas is a city with a big personality. From its iconic skyline to its bustling downtown, "The Big D" has something to offer everyone. But where did the nickname come from? There are a few theories. One is that local newspapers coined it in the early 20th century as a way to promote the city's growing economy. Another is that it was given to Dallas by visitors from out of town, who were impressed by the city's size and scale. Whatever the origins of the nickname, there's no denying that Dallas lives up to it. With its flourishing businesses, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful culture, "The Big D" truly is a big deal.

Dallas is a city with a rich history and culture, and it has produced some of the most iconic celebrities in the world. From film and tv show stars to music legends, Dallas has been home to many famous faces. Some of the most famous people from Dallas include musicians Erykah Badu and Demi Lovato, actor Owen Wilson, and billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban. Each of these celebrities has made a lasting impact in their respective fields, and they all help to represent the city of Dallas in a positive light. These celebrities have all helped to put Dallas on the map, and they are proud to represent their city. Overall, the stars from Dallas are just as diverse as the city itself and help to make it a truly special place.

It's not just football and the Dallas Cowboys, there's also the rodeo! The rodeo in Dallas, Texas is one of the biggest and most popular rodeos in the country. Drawing in visitors from all over, this annual event features a variety of traditional rodeo competitions, as well as live music, dance performances, and more.

Summers in the Dallas area are devoted to the Rodeo season. Between March and October, visitors may visit Mesquite championship rodeos or plan Midnight rodeos in search of the best cowboy catch steers or ride Bucking Bronco. One of the highlights of the rodeo is the bull riding competition, where riders attempt to stay atop a bucking bull for eight seconds.

Other popular events include bronc riding, calf roping, and steer wrestling. In addition to the rodeo competitions, there are also several other attractions at the event, such as a carnival, a petting zoo, and a variety of food and drink vendors. Whether you're a rodeo fan or not, the Dallas Rodeo is an event that's not to be missed!

Dallas, Texas is a city with a rich history that dates back to the early days of the republic. Founded in 1841, Dallas was originally settled by a group of pioneer families from Tennessee looking for a new start in the American West. The city quickly grew into an important trading center for the region, and by the time of the Civil War, it was one of the largest cities in Texas. During the war, Dallas served as an important supply base for the Confederate army, and it was also the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the conflict.

In the years following the war, Dallas became a major transportation hub, thanks to its location on several major railroad lines. The city continued to grow throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and today, Dallas is a leading financial and cultural center, with a diverse population and a vibrant economy. Some people come just to see the Dallas skyline. The city is also home to some of the most iconic buildings and landmarks in Texas, making it an essential stop on any trip to the Lone Star State.

The JFK assassination is one of the most infamous moments in American history. On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was gunned down in his car while riding in a motorcade through Dallas. The shots rang out as the motorcade passed through Dealey Plaza, and Kennedy was struck by two bullets. He died shortly thereafter. The shooters were never found, and the exact circumstances surrounding the assassination remain a mystery to this day. The JFK assassination had a profound impact on American politics, society, and the history of the Dallas area, and it continues to resonate more than 50 years later.

Dallas, Texas is widely known as a modern, bustling metropolis. Cowboys have long been a part of the history of Dallas, Texas. The first cowboys in Dallas were actually Mexican vaqueros, or cattle herders, who arrived in the area in the early 1800s. They helped to drive herds of Longhorn cattle from Texas to markets in Louisiana and beyond. Over time, the vaqueros settled in Dallas and began to establish their own ranches. By the mid-1800s, there was a thriving cowboy culture in Dallas, with rodeos, horseback riding, and even a cowboy newspaper. 

In the late 19th century, Dallas became known as the "City of Cowboys and Culture," due to its large population of cowboys and its growing reputation as a center for arts and culture. These rugged individualists helped to shape the city's character, and their legacy can still be seen today in the many cowboy-themed bars, restaurants, rodeos, cowboy festivals, and its famous football team. Visitors can get a taste of the city's frontier past by taking a walk through one of its historic neighborhoods or by visiting one of the many museums that pay homage to the cowboy way of life. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, taking some time to learn about Dallas' storied past is sure to add some flavor to your visit.

Shopping Malls

Dallas is a shopper's paradise, with dozens of malls and retail centers to choose from. Whether you're looking for designer labels or the best deals on affordable fashion, you're sure to find what you're looking for in Dallas. The Northpark Center is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Dallas. With over 235 stores and high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, it's easy to spend a day exploring the Northpark Center. The mall is also home to a variety of restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a bite after a long day of shopping. For bargain shoppers, there are also the Outlets at Hillsboro, where visitors can find great deals on name-brand clothing and accessories.

If you're looking for upscale shopping, Highland Park Village is worth a visit. This historic outdoor mall features high-end retailers like Hermès and Jimmy Choo, as well as trendy stores like Warby Parker. For a more unique shopping experience, check out Preston Center. This multi-level shopping center is home to a variety of local boutiques and specialty shops, as well as some of the best happy hour deals in Dallas.

Meanwhile, Galleria Dallas is popular among tourists and locals alike, featuring an ice rink, a rainforest café, a SeaLife Aquarium, and a wide range of shops and restaurants. Whatever your budget or taste, you're sure to find a mall in Dallas that suits your needs. No matter what your budget or style, there's a shopping mall in Dallas that's perfect for you.

Dallas Cowboys

There's no doubt that the Dallas Cowboys are one of the most iconic and beloved sports teams in America. The Dallas Cowboys are a professional American football team based in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. The Cowboys compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league's National Football Conference (NFC) East division. Dating back to its formation in 1960, "America's team" has been playing its home games at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas since 2009. Over the years, the Dallas Cowboys have earned a reputation for being one of the most successful teams in the NFL, winning five Super Bowl championships.

It's not just their on-field accomplishments that have made them so popular - the Cowboys are also known for their passionate fans, who show their support for the team in many different ways. From attending games at AT&T Stadium to buying merchandise to wearing team jerseys to decorating sports bars, the people of Dallas love their Cowboys. And that love and support are reciprocated by the team, who regularly give back to the community through initiatives like the Dallas Cowboys Foundation. So whether you're a long-time fan or just looking to experience some good old-fashioned Texas hospitality, make sure to catch "America's team" the next time you're in town.

Tex-Mex Food

The city has some of the best Tex-Mex restaurants in the country, serving up delicious dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas. Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Mexican food and American flavors, and it was developed in the state of Texas. Today, tex-mex food is enjoyed by people all over the world, and it is an essential part of Dallas culture. If you're looking for a taste of tex-mex, there's no better place to be than Dallas. This cuisine has a long and rich history in the city, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from.

You can find everything from traditional dishes to modern fusion fare, and there's something to suit every taste. Whether you're in the mood for a fresh and flavorful salad or a hearty plate of enchiladas, you'll be able to find it in Dallas. And of course, no meal is complete without a frozen margarita! Dallas is also home to the frozen margarita, which was invented at a local restaurant in 1971. Be sure to check out the great restaurants in Dallas. You won't be disappointed.

Downtown Dallas

Downtown Dallas is the vibrant heart of the city, home to a bustling central business district, world-class museums and attractions, and lively nightlife. Located just north of the Trinity River, Downtown Dallas is a great place to explore on foot or by public transportation. The area is home to a variety of businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy shopping at one of the many malls or department stores, grabbing a bite to eat at a delicious eatery, or exploring the many art galleries and museums.

There is always something to do in Downtown Dallas, making it the perfect place to visit for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation. Take a stroll through the Arts District, catch a show at the Performing Arts Center, or explore one of the many restaurants and bars. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, Downtown Dallas has something for everyone. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about!

Bishop Arts District

Nestled in the North Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, the Bishop Arts District is a vibrant community full of art, culture, and history. The district is home to a variety of art galleries, shops, eateries, and theater companies. It is also a popular destination for nightlife, with many bars and clubs located within its boundaries. The district is home to a diverse array of businesses, including art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of art, from paintings and sculptures to photography and installations.

The Bishop Arts District is also home to several performing arts venues, making it a great place to catch a live show. In addition to its art and culture scene, the Bishop Arts District is also known for its food. The district is home to some of Dallas' best restaurants, serving everything from Mexican and Italian cuisine to barbecue and burgers. With its unique blend of art, culture, and food, the Bishop Arts District is a must-visit destination for any Dallas visitor.

Dallas Museum of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the world-class museums located in Downtown Dallas. It is an art museum that specializes in contemporary art and culture. The museum was founded in 1903 by a group of citizens who were passionate about the arts. Today, the museum is home to a wide collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations.

The museum also hosts a variety of events and programs that are open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the museum's café or take a stroll through the museum's gardens. The museum is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is free for all visitors and wheelchair accessible. The Dallas Museum is a wonderful place to learn about contemporary art and culture.

Things To Know

Dallas forms a vast metropolis called the Dallas – Fort Worth metroplex. Dallas is located in Dallas-Fort Worth and encompasses 13 county boundaries including Dallas-Fort Worth and nearby Arlington. The region is sometimes called DFW. The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area is the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the United States, with a population of over 7 million people. It covers over 9,000 square miles and includes two major cities - Dallas and Fort Worth - as well as numerous suburbs and smaller towns.

The area is crisscrossed by a grid of freeways and highways, making it easy to get around. The streets in the area are laid out in a grid pattern, with numbered streets running east-west and named streets running north-south. Several major arteries run through the area, such as Interstate 35, which runs from Dallas to Fort Worth.

How To Get Around Dallas – Fort Worth

The best way to travel around Dallas is by car. The city is well-connected to nearby Arlington and is served by major highways. In addition, there are plenty of parking options within the city limits. If you're planning on driving around Dallas, it's important to be aware of the rush hour traffic. The city is notorious for its traffic jams, so you'll want to avoid driving during rush hour times if possible. Of course, sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and deal with the traffic.

When that's the case, there are a few things you can do to make your journey a little easier. First, try to avoid the major highways if possible. The side streets may be slower, but they'll be much less congested than the highways. Second, download a traffic app such as Waze or Google Maps . These apps will help you navigate around Dallas and find the quickest route to your destination. Finally, be patient. Rush hour traffic can be frustrating, but if you stay calm and take your time, you'll eventually make it to your destination.

Dallas Public Transit

Another great option for getting around Dallas is by public transit. Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is the public transportation system in the Dallas area. It includes buses, trains, and light rail, and provides service to over 13 million people within the city limits. The rail system consists of four lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green.

The Red Line is the longest, at over 40 miles, and runs from downtown Dallas to Plano. The Orange Line runs from downtown Dallas to DFW Airport. The Blue Line runs from downtown Dallas to Garland, and the Green Line runs from downtown Dallas to Carrollton. Each line has several stops, and there is a station in downtown Dallas that connects all four lines. DART also offers a variety of discounts and passes for riders who use the system frequently. It's quick, efficient, and easy to use. Plus, public transit is a great way to avoid traffic congestion. 

If you're thinking of taking a bus trip through Dallas, here's what you can expect. The city has an extensive public transit system, so getting around by bus is easy. You'll find plenty of route options to choose from, and the fares are very reasonable. The buses are clean and comfortable, and the drivers are friendly and informative. Any way that you choose to travel, you're sure to have a great time in this vibrant city.

The Trinity Railway Express

When traveling between Dallas and Fort Worth, there's another form of public transit: The Trinity Railway Express . The Trinity Railway Express (TRE) is a commuter rail service that connects the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. The TRE began operations in 1996 and is currently operated by both the Fort Worth Transportation Authority and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Authority. The TRE offers service on weekdays and weekends, with trains running every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour during off-peak hours.

The TRE makes stops at both downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth, as well as several other stations in between. The Trinity Railroad Express runs through a total of 12 stations, including downtown Dallas and Fort Worth, and makes stops at major destinations such as downtown Fort Worth, the Dallas Medical District, Love Field Airport, and Union Station in downtown Dallas.

The TRE provides travelers with an opportunity to avoid traffic congestion on I-35E, the freeway that connects Dallas and Fort Worth. In addition to providing commuter rail service, the Trinity Railroad Express also offers special event service for Dallas Cowboys home games and other sporting events, concerts, and festivals. For passengers looking for a convenient and affordable way to travel between Dallas- Fort Worth, the Trinity Railway Express is the perfect solution.

How To Save Money In Dallas – Fort Worth?

The Dallas CityPASS is a great way to save money while visiting some of the best attractions the Dallas area has to offer. For one low price, you'll get tickets to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck, the Dallas Zoo, and either the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum or the Frontiers of Flight Museum. You'll also get to skip most ticket lines, which means you'll have more time to enjoy your visit. The Dallas CityPASS is valid for 9 days, so you'll have plenty of time to use it. And, if you're traveling with family or friends, the Dallas CityPASS can save you money on your overall travel budget. With so much to see and do, the Dallas CityPASS is a great value for anyone looking to explore everything that Dallas has to offer.

Culture & Customs

Dallas is a city rich in culture and tradition. From the city's early days as a hub of the cattle industry to its present-day status as a major metropolitan area, Dallas has always been a place where people from all walks of life come together. The result is a unique blend of cultures and customs that make the city one of the most vibrant and exciting places to live. From the city's famous Tex-Mex cuisine to its world-renowned art scene, Dallas has something to offer everyone. And with its rich history and diverse population, it's no wonder that Dallas is often referred to as the "melting pot" of Texas.

Despite its large size, Dallas still retains its small-town feel in many ways. The city is home to a vibrant arts scene, including the world-renowned Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and is known for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Dallas is also home to two professional sports teams, the Cowboys and the Mavericks, and is host to the annual State Fair of Texas. The city is also home to a variety of ethnicities and religions, which are represented in its food, art, and music. Dallas is a vibrant and welcoming place, where visitors can experience a taste of the Texan way of life.

When Is The Best Time To Go?

Dallas is a city with something for everyone, and the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you're looking for an action-packed vacation, summer is the perfect time to explore all that Dallas has to offer, from rodeos and festivals to water parks and outdoor concerts. Dallas is a strong LGBTQ community that hosts an exceptional Celebration of Pride in June. If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, however, fall or spring may be a better choice. The weather is milder during these seasons, making it ideal for strolling through art galleries and museums or enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the city's many top-rated restaurants. Plus, fall is when many of the city's festivals take place, including Oktoberfest and the Texas State Fair, where you will find Big Tex, a 55-foot cattle boy who has since become an icon of Texas. March has a pinball festival while April and May are filled with arts festivals in all of Dallas. And although winter can be cold, it's also a beautiful time of year to experience the city's Christmas lights and holiday celebrations.

Weather In Dallas – Fort Worth

The Dallas - Fort Worth area experiences all four seasons, and the temperature generally remains mild throughout the year. In the winter, temperatures averaging in the low 50s make for perfect conditions to enjoy some outdoor activities. The spring brings warmer temperatures and the occasional thunderstorm, making it a beautiful time to visit Dallas. The summers are hot, with temperatures often reaching over 100 degrees. However, this is offset by the low humidity levels, making it a bearable heat. And then there's fall, which many consider to be the best time of year in Dallas - Fort Worth. Around late September, the temperatures cool down, making it ideal for spending time outdoors, and the leaves change color, providing a stunning backdrop for walks and hikes.

Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but Dallas does tend to be drier than other parts of the country. However, the city does see its fair share of severe weather. Dallas - Fort Worth is located in Tornado Alley, so tornadoes are a real threat. The city also experiences thunderstorms, hail, and high winds regularly. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Dallas is a beautiful place to live. The city comes alive in the springtime when the flowers are in bloom and the trees are green. And in the fall, the leaves change color and provide a stunning backdrop for the state fair. According to the weather, the best time to visit would be late September.

While Dallas - Fort Worth are very safe destinations for visitors, you need to be cautious like most people in the larger metropolitan regions. Visitors should exercise caution when walking alone at night and should avoid isolated areas or neighborhoods that are known to be unsafe. While Texas gun control legislation is less strict than elsewhere, tourist destinations generally do not face gun violence. Overall, Dallas is a welcoming and hospitable city, and visitors can feel safe enjoying all that the city has to offer.

If a person is unsure about Texas climate conditions, they need to avoid heat stroke which shows signs of headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and occasionally nausea. Bring light, loose-fitting clothes for the summer months. It's also a good idea to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you'll be outdoors for extended periods, try to take breaks in the shade or air conditioning when possible. The winters in Dallas are relatively mild, with average temperatures in the 50s. However, it can occasionally dip into the 40s or below. Plan on bringing a jacket or sweater for the cooler days. You may also want a hat and scarf if you'll be spending time outside. If you're visiting during the rainy season, be sure to pack an umbrella. And finally, don't forget your sunglasses! The bright Texas sun can be blinding. By following these simple tips, you'll be prepared for anything the Dallas weather throws your way.

Top Activities & Attractions In Dallas

Some of the top activities and attractions in Dallas include the following:

The Dallas World Aquarium

The Dallas World Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The Dallas World Aquarium is a world-class facility that is home to over 18,000 aquatic animals from all over the globe. The Aquarium is home to a wide variety of aquatic creatures, including sharks, rays, fish, and turtles. Visitors can view the animals in their natural habitats, as well as learn about their ecology and behavior. Visitors can explore different ecosystems, including the Amazon Rainforest, Africa, and the reefs of the Caribbean. The Aquarium also features an educational exhibit on the importance of conserving our oceans and their inhabitants and hosts many special events throughout the year, such as educational workshops and behind-the-scenes tours. In addition to its impressive collection of fish, the Dallas World Aquarium is also home to exotic birds, reptiles, and mammals.

The Aquarium's mission is to educate and inspire people to care for our planet's oceans and wildlife. With its state-of-the-art exhibits and commitment to conservation, the Dallas World Aquarium is a must-see for anyone interested in the natural world. The Dallas World Aquarium is an educational and enjoyable experience for people of all ages.

The Nasher Sculpture Center

The Nasher Sculpture Center is a must-see destination for art lovers visiting Dallas. The Nasher Sculpture Center is an art museum in Dallas, Texas, that is dedicated to the exhibition and study of modern and contemporary sculpture. The center was founded in 2003 by the late businessman and philanthropist Raymond Nasher and his wife, Patsy. The Dallas museum is located on a 2.4-acre site in the heart of the city's arts district. Home to one of the world's finest collections of modern and contemporary sculpture, the Center also features a variety of exhibitions, public programs, and educational opportunities.

Some of the most acclaimed artists in history are displayed, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Auguste Rodin. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also features rotating exhibitions of both modern and contemporary art. The heart of the Center is the outdoor sculpture garden, which showcases both well-known masterpieces and emerging artists. Indoors, the galleries feature both rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of compelling works by artists such as Joan Miró, and Alberto Giacometti. Be sure to add the Nasher Sculpture Center to your Dallas itinerary!

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a world-class facility housing eleven permanent exhibit halls, including the freshly renovated southwestern jewel, The Hoglund Foundation Gem and Mineral Hall. This Dallas museum offers a wide variety of exhibits and programs for all ages, making it a great destination for a family outing. Visitors can learn about the Texas climate, see live animals, and explore the universe in the museum's planetarium. Exhibits explore the past, present, and future of Earth and its inhabitants through immersive experiences, captivating displays, and exciting interactive activities. Visitors can see real fossils, touch a moon rock, sit in a life-size replica of a T-Rex skull, get hands-on with robotics, experience an earthquake, stand in a tornado, dig for dinosaurs in the paleontology lab—and so much more!

Visitors can explore the universe in the Robert H. Lurie Unified Universe Gallery, discover the wonders of the natural world in the Lyda Bunker Hunt Foundation Wild Place Gallery, or learn about the science of sport in the (AT&T) Texaco Wing. The Perot Museum is also home to the state-of-the-art Kinetic Garden, where children can experiment with forces and motion. Through dynamic exhibits and engaging programming for all ages, the Perot Museum of Nature strives to empower all to become passionate about our planet and make informed decisions about its future. So come on in—the adventure awaits!

The Texas State Fair

The Texas State Fair is one of the largest and most popular fairs in the United States. It is a 24-day event that features over 70 rides, dozens of food vendors, live music, and a wide variety of other attractions. The fair also hosts the world's largest Ferris wheel, the Texas Star. Held annually in Dallas, the fair attracts over two million visitors each year. The fairgrounds cover over 200 acres and feature a wide variety of attractions, including rides, games, food, concerts, and more. One of the highlights of the fair is the food. From traditional Mexican food with a Texas twist to exotic international cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The thing people remember the most is Big Tex. Standing at an impressive 52 feet tall, he is difficult to miss! Big Tex greets fair-goers with a friendly "Howdy, folks!" and is known for his deep, booming voice. He has become an iconic symbol of the state fair, and countless visitors take photos with him each year. The fair also features a wide variety of rides and attractions, ranging from mild to extreme. For those looking for a thrill, the Texas State Fair has many adrenaline-pumping rides. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, there are several gentle rides and activities available. In addition to the rides and attractions, the State Fair of Texas also features a wide variety of educational exhibits. These exhibits include displays on Texas history, agriculture, and science. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone at the Texas State Fair.

Highland Park Village

Highland Park Village is a historic shopping center in Dallas, that opened in 1931. Highland Park Village is home to more than 70 high-end stores and restaurants, including Barney's New York, Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, and Tom Ford. Highland Park Village is also home to the Highland Park Theatre, which hosts movies, live performances, and special events, along with its hotel, and a private school. Highland Park Village is known for its architectural style, which combines elements of Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco design. The center is also notable for its landscaping, which includes fountains, statues, and manicured gardens. Highland Park Village is considered to be one of the first planned shopping centers in the United States, and it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. Today, the center remains one of Dallas's most popular destinations for shopping and dining. Highland Park Village is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, and it's easy to see why.

Dallas Convention Center

The Dallas Convention Center is one of the largest convention centers in the United States. It covers over two million square feet and contains hundreds of meeting rooms, exhibition halls, and a theater. The center is located in downtown Dallas and is within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. The Dallas Convention Center is a popular choice for conventions, trade shows, and other large events. It is known for its spacious facilities and state-of-the-art technology. The convention center also has a variety of services and amenities that can help to make your event a success. If you're looking for a place to host your next event or simply want to explore Dallas, the Dallas Convention Center is the perfect destination.

Cowboys Stadium

"Cowboys Stadium," the AT&T Stadium , is a sight to behold. Cowboys Stadium in Dallas is one of the most iconic sports venues in the United States. From the outside, the massive structure looms large, its façade adorned with giant video screens that broadcast live game footage and other content. Inside, the stadium is just as impressive, with a seating capacity of over 100,000. On game days, the stands are filled with enthusiastic fans clad in their team's colors, and the air is electric with excitement. The stadium also features a retractable roof, ensuring that fans can enjoy the game regardless of the weather conditions. It is also host to a variety of other events, including concerts, basketball games, and rodeos. If you're ever in Dallas, put your cowboy boots on because Cowboys Stadium is definitely worth a visit!

Reunion Tower

Reunion Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dallas. Standing 561 feet tall, the tower offers stunning panoramic views of the cityscape from its observation deck and rotating restaurant. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of Reunion Tower, where they can enjoy the 360-degree observation deck. On clear days, visitors can see up to 50 miles away. Reunion Tower is also home to a fine dining restaurant, Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck.

The restaurant features innovative cuisine and an extensive wine list. Reunion Tower also houses the Hyatt Regency Dallas Hotel, making it a perfect place to stay for those looking to explore all that Dallas has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits about the Tower's history, plus a gift shop and café. Built-in 1978, Reunion Tower was originally designed to be a "structural stunner" as a way to bring people back to the Dallas downtown area. Today, Reunion Tower remains an important part of the Dallas skyline and a popular tourist destination.

Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge

The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is a beautiful sight in the Dallas skyline. At night, the bridge is lit up with LED lights that change colors, making it a truly spectacular sight. The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge bridge spans the Trinity River and is one of the largest bridges in Texas. It was designed by world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and opened to the public in 2012. The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is also well-known for its sculpture by artist Rodney McMillian, which hangs from the underside of the bridge. The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge has become an iconic symbol of Dallas and a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can walk or ride bikes across Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, enjoy the views of the river, and even take a ride on the glass-enclosed elevators to the top of the bridge. The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting Dallas.

Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is dedicated to preserving the history of President John F. Kennedy's assassination. The museum is located on the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository in the historic Dealey Plaza, where Lee Harvey Oswald is believed to have fired the shots that killed Kennedy. The museum features exhibits on Kennedy's life and presidency, as well as the events of November 22, 1963.

The museum also houses a research center that contains thousands of documents, photographs, and other artifacts related to JFK and his assassination. Visitors can see Oswald's rifle, the limousine in which Kennedy was riding when he was shot, and other artifacts from that fateful day. The Dealey Plaza museum also offers a variety of educational programs, including tours and lectures. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about what happened that day, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is definitely worth a visit.

Northpark Center

Northpark Center is one of Dallas' most popular shopping destinations, offering an upscale selection of stores and restaurants. The mall is anchored by Neiman Marcus, Macy's, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue, and also features a range of high-end retailers such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes. In addition to shopping, Northpark Center also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. And for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the shopping mall, there are plenty of places to sit and relax, including several art installations, a sculpture garden, and an outdoor amphitheater. Northpark Center frequently hosts events and activities, such as live music and fashion shows. The Northpark Center is a great place to visit and shop!

Galleria Dallas

Galleria Dallas is one of the largest and most popular shopping destinations in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Galleria Dallas is more than just a shopping mall. It's a destination in its own right, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The mall is anchored by four department stores: Lord & Taylor, Macy's, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue. In addition, there are more than 200 specialty stores, ranging from high-end boutiques to budget-friendly retailers.

When it comes to dining, Galleria Dallas has something for everyone. For a quick bite, there are fast food options like Chick-fil-A and McDonald's. For something a little fancier, visitors can enjoy restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory or P.F. Chang's. And for those who want to relax with a drink in hand, there are plenty of bars and lounges to choose from. There's also an ice skating rink, a movie theater, and many art galleries. In short, Galleria Dallas is the perfect place to spend a day (or two) shopping.

Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market is a shopper's paradise. The Dallas Farmers Market is the perfect place to find fresh, locally-sourced produce. The market features over 150 vendors of different vendors, all of whom are eager to chat with customers about their products. In addition to fruits and vegetables, the market also offers a variety of handmade goods, such as soaps and pottery. Stretching almost two city blocks, the Dallas Farmers Market is a historic marketplace located in the heart of downtown Dallas. 

The market is open seven days a week, and there is always something new to see and taste. During the week, the downtown market bustles with activity as locals come out to stock up on groceries. On weekends, the market transforms into a vibrant marketplace, with live music and food trucks lining the streets. The Dallas Farmers Market is sure to fulfill your shopping needs. The Dallas Farmers Market is more than just a place to buy food – it's a community gathering place where people can come together to enjoy good food and good company.

Wild Bill's Western Store

If you're looking for a taste of the wild west, there's no better place to go than Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas . This unique store offers a wide selection of cowboy boots, hats, and other western wear, all with a Texas twist. They offer a wide selection of cowboy boots in all different colors and styles, including some with intricate designs. They also carry a wide variety of cowboy hats, including both straw and felt options. And for those who really want to get into the cowboy spirit, they even offer head-to-toe cowboy outfits. Wild Bill's Western Store is definitely worth checking out. So whether you're a cowboy at heart or just looking for a unique shopping experience, be sure to visit Wild Bill's Western Store in Dallas.

Allen Premium Outlets

Looking for a bargain? You'll find it at Allen Premium Outlets , located just north of Dallas. With more than 125 stores, there's something for everyone at this premier shopping destination. You'll find all your favorite brands, including Nike, Under Armour, Ann Taylor, and J.Crew. And if you're looking for a unique gift, you'll love the selections from Coach, Kate Spade New York, and Pandora. Plus, with convenient amenities like ATMs, and complimentary Wi-Fi, you'll enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience. You'll find discounts of up to 65% off on top brand names. Allen Premium Outlets has a food court with a variety of dining options as well as a children's play area and plenty of parking.

Trinity Groves

Trinity Groves is a collection of restaurants, shops, and art galleries in Dallas. The area is located on the west bank of the Trinity River, just south of downtown. Trinity Groves was founded in 2012 by developer Phil Romano, who also played a role in the development of nearby Victory Park. The area is home to a variety of businesses, including casual eateries, fine dining establishments, and bars. Trinity Groves is also home to an events space and a weekly farmers market. Visitors can find plenty to do in the area, whether they're looking to grab a bite to eat or explore the local arts scene. Trinity Groves is just one of many reasons to visit Dallas.

Trinity Groves is home to some of Dallas's best restaurants, so if you're looking for a great meal, you've come to the right place. For fine dining, head to LUCK at Trinity Groves, where you can enjoy seasonal American cuisine in a beautiful setting. Or, if you're in the mood for something casual, stop by Bankhead Brewing Company for a delicious craft beer. No matter what your taste buds are craving, you'll find it at Trinity Groves. The area also offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options, including the Dallas Farmers Market, the Texas Theatre, and Kuby's Sausage House.

Deep Ellum is a historic neighborhood in Dallas with a vibrant arts and culture scene. The area is home to dozens of art galleries, music venues, and restaurants, as well as the Deep Ellum Brewing Company. The neighborhood is also known for its street art, which can be seen on buildings and sidewalks throughout the neighborhood. Deep Ellum's history dates back to the late 19th century when it was founded as a commercial and industrial center.

In recent years, the neighborhood has undergone a renaissance, becoming one of the most popular destinations in Dallas. Thanks to its dynamic atmosphere and eclectic mix of businesses, visitors can enjoy live music at one of the many music venues, explore the local art scene, or simply enjoy a night out on the town. Deep Ellum is also conveniently located near several major freeways, making it easy to get to and from. Whether you're looking for a night of fun or a day of exploration, Deep Ellum has something to offer everyone.

Oak Lawn is a bustling neighborhood in the heart of Dallas that is known for its nightlife and its diversity. The neighborhood is home to several bars and nightclubs, as well as restaurants and shopping. Oak Lawn is also home to many medical facilities, including Baylor University Medical Center. Dallas Area Rapid Transit provides public transportation to and from Oak Lawn. The neighborhood is served by several schools, including Highland Park High School. If you're looking for an energetic and diverse place to live, work or play, Oak Lawn is a perfect choice. Come check it out!

Design District

The Design District in Dallas is a well-known district full of high-end stores, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The Design District is filled with creativity and style, located just north of downtown Dallas and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The district is also home to several interior design studios, making it the perfect place to find unique home furnishings and décor. In recent years, the district has undergone major regeneration, with new businesses and developments springing up all over. Even if you're not in the market for anything, in particular, it's always enjoyable to explore the Design District and see what's on offer.

Dallas is a top business destination for business travelers and offers Texan taxes, allowing the company to make a good impression on a global business community, from small mom-and-pop shops to large multinational corporations. Small businesses are the backbone of the city's economy, and they provide products and services that are essential to the community. The Dallas-Fort Worth region contains 25 Fortune 500 companies. Some of the biggest businesses in Dallas include American Airlines, AT&T, Energy Transfer Partners, ExxonMobil, and J.P. Morgan Chase. These companies are headquartered in the city, and they provide thousands of jobs for Dallas residents. The Dallas Convention Center is among the most widely-expanded facilities of its type in terms of the business destinations and the high number of visitors.

There's no question that Dallas is a steak town. Some of the best steakhouses in the country are located here, and the city has a rich history when it comes to this beloved dish. It all started back in the late 19th century when cattle drives brought herds of Longhorns through Dallas en route to market. The cowboys who herded these cows were known for their hearty appetites, and they quickly developed a reputation for loving steak. As the city grew and prospered, so did its appetite for steak. Today, Dallas is home to dozens of steakhouses, each with its own unique twist on this classic dish. Whether you're looking for a traditional steakhouse experience or something a little more adventurous, you're sure to find the perfect spot in Dallas.

Dallas is a great city for sports fans, and there are plenty of sports bars where you can catch a game and enjoy a cold beer. If you're looking for something a little more unique, Dallas is also home to many craft breweries where craft beer is their specialty. If it's a hot day, you can't go wrong with a frozen margarita. Dallas is so fond of frozen margaritas that you can even buy a frozen margarita machine! For those looking for something non-alcoholic, there are plenty of great coffee shops and smoothie bars around the city. No matter what your tastes, you'll find a delicious drink in Dallas.

Dallas is home to two major airports, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) . DFW is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over 1,800 flights per day. The airport is also a major hub for American Airlines, which has its headquarters nearby and offers direct flights to destinations all over the world. It is located about 30 minutes from downtown Dallas and has over 170 gates.

DAL is a smaller airport, but it's well connected to the city center and offers service to many domestic and international destinations. Dallas Love Field is located in the heart of the city, just minutes from downtown. It is a smaller airport, with just over 20 gates and 60 plane parking spots. The airport mainly services domestic flights, although there are a few international routes as well. Upon arrival in town, the orange train line DART is available. Trinity Express offers a free shuttle bus to the airport terminal in the Centreport Airport. A better option is a rideshare service at the Terminal, which takes you to most hotels in City for $20-30 per day.

Looking to travel from Dallas in style? Then take the Amtrak train! Dallas has an Amtrak train that runs from Dallas. This luxurious train offers travelers a comfortable and convenient way to see the sights. The train features spacious seats, plenty of legroom, and large windows that offer views of the scenery. There is also a dining car where passengers can enjoy delicious meals and drinks. And if you need to work or stay connected, the Amtrak train offers free Wi-Fi throughout the journey. The Dallas Amtrak train is a great way to see the country. The train runs from Dallas to Los Angeles, with stops in between. The trip takes about two days, and the scenery is beautiful. Amtrak terminals are located at Union Station 400 Houston Street.

Dallas is home to many beautiful parks that offer a variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. From the serene White Rock Lake Park to the bustling Klyde Warren Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city's parks are well-maintained and offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. In addition to pristine walking trails and ample picnicking areas, many of the parks also feature playgrounds, sports facilities, and even dog parks. Dallas is also home to several large city parks, such as Fair Park, which features a museum, an aquarium, and a zoo. And of course, no visit to Dallas would be complete without a trip to Six Flags Over Texas! Whether you're looking for a place to relax or an adventure, you'll find it in one of Dallas's many parks .

The art scene in Dallas is vibrant and diverse, with something to suit every taste. Dallas Arts District is a particularly popular spot for art lovers, with its array of galleries, studios, and shops. The Dallas Arts District is also home to the largest collection of Asian art at the Crow Collection of Asian Art. This museum offers free admission and provides a fascinating window into the art and culture of Asia. If you're looking for something different, be sure to check out the art scene in Deep Ellum. This neighborhood is known for its street art, and you'll find everything from graffiti to murals to sculptures. Whatever your taste in art, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Dallas.

If you're looking for live music in Dallas, you won't be disappointed. From live music at venues like the Granada Theater to world-class performances at the Meyerson Symphony Center and Winspear Opera House , two of the most prestigious live music venues in the country, there's always something going on. You can find everything from classical concerts to rock shows at these venues, and there is always something new to see and hear.

For classical music lovers, the Meyerson Symphony Center is an iconic venue that regularly hosts world-renowned orchestras and soloists. The Winspear Opera House is another top choice for those seeking a cultured musical experience, hosting both operas and ballets throughout the year. Meanwhile, those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere can find live music in bars and restaurants across the city. These intimate places are perfect for catching up-and-coming artists or seeing your favorite band in a more intimate setting.

What Should I Eat?

In Dallas, you certainly don't have to be hungry. The city can satisfy all appetites. Dallas is known for its BBQ, and there are plenty of excellent places to get it. But that's not all the city has to offer. Visitors can also find great Tex-Mex, steak, and seafood. And no matter what you're in the mood for, you're sure to find it downtown. For a quick bite, try one of the many food trucks that line the streets. Or if you're looking for a more leisurely meal, there are plenty of restaurants and sports bars with patio seating where you can enjoy the Texas sun. Here are some we recommend:

Location: 2323 N Henderson Ave #109, Dallas, TX 75206 | Telephone: (214) 370-9426 | Web Site | Gemma is an elegant oasis, filled with warmth, friendliness, and comfort. Gemma is a Modern American Bistro with influences from around the world that. Gemma has an extensive cocktail list as well as an affordable international wine list.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

Location: 10477 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, TX 75220 | Telephone: (214) 366-2000 | Web Site | Pappas is a family-owned steakhouse serving Texas' best steak since 1976. Here's where to get the finest and most delicious steaks from Texas. The restaurant employs more full-time chefs than a typical steakhouse and is a perfectionist in its food. The restaurant only uses corned beef and USDA prime cut meat. Meats are dried and aged on-site. Several sommeliers are available in each restaurant to help you choose an optimal pairing for each meal.

Fearing's Restaurant

Location: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 | Telephone: (214) 922-4848 | Web Site | Fearing's was founded by celebrity chef, country singer, and cookbook author Dean Fearing. Located inside the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the restaurant specializes in providing the perfect mix between sweet and savory. The city is known for its tortilla soups, Southwestern barbecue shrimp, ice-cold margaritas, and Mexican barbecue. Do not miss Rattlesnake Bar which serves East Texas smoked rattlesnake and corn fries with venom sauce.

Mia's Tex-Mex

Location: 4334 Lemmon Ave, Dallas, TX 75219 | Telephone: (214) 526-1020 | Web Site | Mia's serves celebrities, athletes, and many other hungry people, Texas- Mexican food. The menu consists of a family recipe. Mia's specialties include chicken quesadilla, beef rib-eye, house-made rellenos, and brisket tacos. Don't miss this huge red-rita. Its margaritas are unlike any other you can drink.

Smokey John's Bar-B-Que and Home Cooking

Location: 1820 W Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75235 | Telephone: (214) 352-2752 | Web Site | Smokey John's serves barbecue in Texas from 1976 through today in southwestern Texas. When it became known as Big John's, the smell became so widespread in the area that they named it John Smokey John. Most meals cost around $15. The rib sandwich is a 1/2 pound of ribs. Please make sure you get the grilled cheese and collard green grilled cheese on the side!

Lockhart Smokehouse

Location: 400 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208 | Telephone: (214) 944-5521 | Web Site | Lockhart Smokehouse brings Central Texas barbecue north to Dallas. Lockhart has smoked brisket, sausage ribs, and other meat over Texas post oak and serves it with traditional southern side dishes including smoked baked beans, salad potatoes, and mac and cheese. You can have your BBQ shipped anywhere across the US so you can always give it a try!

Where To Stay In Dallas?

If you're looking for a place to stay in Dallas, you have plenty of options to choose from. Downtown Dallas is a great choice for travelers who want to be in the heart of the city. Here you'll find popular attractions like the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza, as well as plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops, surrounding great hotels. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, consider staying in one of Dallas' many suburbs. Plano and Irving are both located close to downtown and offer a variety of hotels and restaurants. For travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds, there are also several hotels located near both Dallas Love Field Airport and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

Depending on your budget and preferences, there are some great options available. For those on a tight budget, there are many affordable hotels near Love Field Airport. If you're looking for hotels that are a little more luxurious, downtown Dallas is home to several upscale hotels, including the Adolphus and the Omni Dallas. If you're looking for a more unique experience, there are also many bed and breakfast inns scattered throughout the city. And if you're traveling with family or friends, there are plenty of vacation rentals available. No matter where you choose to stay, you're sure to have a memorable trip to Dallas. Here are some hotels we recommend:

Joule Hotel

Location: 1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 | Telephone: (214) 748-1300 | Web Site | The hotel is located in one of Texas' historic buildings in the 20th Century Neo Goth style. In a short walk, you reach Dallas Arts District as well as Neiman Marcus' flagship store. Since 2008, the Joule has blossomed into a cultural, shopping, and dining destination—a harbinger of the resurgence of downtown Dallas. $200-700/night.

Magnolia Hotel

Location: 1401 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201 | Telephone: (214) 915-6500 | Web Site | Magnolia Hotel is an elegant historical hotel located in Dallas's central district. The hotel was built in the former Magnolia Petroleum Company Building, the first American high-rise in which air conditioning abounds. It also houses Dallas's first skyscraper. This hotel should not be difficult to find. Pegasus flying red horse remains on the building's 29th floor, with beauty and grace. $189-214/night.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Location: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219 | Telephone: (214) 559-2100 | Web Site | Originally an opulent private house, the hotel is still considered a luxurious hotel in Dallas. Transformed into a hotel in 1979, the residence had been constructed in the 1920s, and has hosted guests notably Franklin Roosevelt and author Tennessee Williams. Each room has an excellent size, you'll be feeling right at home when you head in and out. $625-4,725/night.

The Guild Uptown

Location: 3111 N Houston St, Dallas, TX 75219 | Telephone: (512) 623-7480 | Web Site | The Guild is an independent hotel offering upscale suites with fully equipped kitchens located in Uptown Dallas, an easy-to-reach neighborhood with dozens of restaurants and bars. Grocery deliveries are offered. The long-standing, well-kept hotel is situated close to the head of The Katy Trail and is only a short walk from the American Airlines Center. $179-369/night.

The Westin Galleria Dallas

Location: 13340 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75240 | Telephone: (972) 934-9494 | Web Site | The Westin Galleria offers swanky accommodations in a quiet and relaxing environment in Dallas and the Dallas Metro. The award-winning hotel is within the shopping mall which allows for easy transportation of bags between the shops. Private spa treatments are offered, art can be seen from hotel galleries and the rooms feature a West In Heavenly bed. $218-304/night.

Cambria Hotel

Location: 3605 Shire Blvd, Richardson, TX 75082 | Telephone: (469) 906-7100 | Web Site | The hotel is smoking-free and designed for business travelers. It is a large, spacious hotel with upscale furnishings. There is also a comfortable workspace with flat-screen televisions and a fridge. Outside of Dallas but only 30 minutes away with a full-service restaurant and bar. $123-161/night.

Hilton Anatole Hotel

Location: 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207 | Telephone: (214) 748-1200 | Web Site | The Hilton Anatole is a beautiful art destination. It has comfy rooms with a large outdoor area and an Asian art collection that rivals museums. A spacious and inviting lobby, ideal for meetings or celebrations, will greet you as you arrive. The hotel is conveniently located near the Dallas Convention Center and airports, making it easy to explore the city's numerous cultural offerings. It is home to a special fireworks display throughout summer and an outdoor pool, cabanas, a swimming complex, and tubing. $277-629/night.

Hotel Indigo

Location: 1933 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201 | Telephone: (214) 741-7700 | Web Site | Indigo Hotel is an upscale, pet-friendly hotel in downtown Dallas, which is considered a historic monument. Modern design rooms feature historic quotes attributed to Fitzgerald. The boutique hotel offers complimentary shuttle services to Downtown Dallas. The hotel houses a restaurant and bar serving the best Texan food and drinks. So much of the hotel has a connection to the life and culture of Dallas. $198-208/night.

Ritz Carlton

Location: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201 | Telephone: (214) 922-0200 | Web Site | The Ritz-Carlton is situated on McKinney Street in downtown Dallas. This hotel is all luxurious with an elegant twist. Rooms and suites with city views and modern décor are always available. It is also known as the only five star hotels in Texas. The restaurant is named for Texas celebrity chef Dean Fearing, Fearing's Restaurant. The event space, including the biggest luxury ballroom in Uptown, is open to all interested guests. $659-929/night.

How Can I Spend A Day In Dallas?

There's plenty to do in Dallas, whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident. To make the most of your trip, it's helpful to plan. Start by deciding what kind of activities you're interested in. Are you looking to explore the city's shopping, museums and historical sites? Dallas Arts District? Perot Museum of Nature? Reunion Plaza? Allen Premium Outlets? Northpark Center? The Sixth Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza?Or are you more interested in experiencing its nightlife and restaurant scene? Deep Ellum? Downtown? Nearby Arlington?

Once you've got a general idea of what you'd like to do, you can start narrowing down your options. This guide is a great resource for finding attractions, events, and activities for your trip to Dallas. You can also check out online event calendars and visitor guides from local newspapers and magazines. Decide if you want a Dallas CityPASS!

Once you've compiled a list of potential activities, it's time to start planning your trip itinerary. Make sure to allow yourself enough time to enjoy each activity, taking into account travel time between locations. And don't forget to factor in some downtime—after all, even the most well-planned day can be exhausting!

For example: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the many local eateries. Then, explore some of Dallas' renowned museums, such as the Nasher Sculpture Center or the Sixth Floor Museum. For lunch, head to one of the city's many food trucks for a bite to eat. In the afternoon, take a stroll through one of Dallas' beautiful parks, such as White Rock Lake Park or Klyde Warren Park. In the evening, enjoy a tasty dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a show at the Dallas Theater Center. Finally, end your day with a nightcap at one of the city's trendy sports bars.

As you can see, Dallas is an amazing city! Whether you're looking to explore the rich culture and past, taste some of the best food in the country, or just have some fun, Dallas has it all. You can find world-renowned museums, delicious eateries, beautiful parks and gardens, and exciting nightlife. With this guide in hand, nothing can stop you from conquering Dallas and having a great time while doing so! So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore everything the "Big D" has to offer. Start planning your trip today!

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Why Experience Gifts Are the Best Way to Explore Dallas

Do you ever just hear a song and remember where you were when you first heard it? Or look at wild pictures from your teenage years and smile? What you have in those moments is a core memory birthed from experience. So why not give experiences as a gift? Experience gifts  are in vogue at the moment, and for good reason.  If you live in North Texas and are debating between going with that pair of socks or an experience, allow us to sway you towards experiencing the gift of Dallas, winner of last year’s Best Day Trip in the Weekly’s annual Best Of edition!

Shows Dallas Hidden Gems

Gift experiences are more than just something to do; they are an exploration of the true hidden gems in Dallas. From hidden speakeasies to underground art installations, a gifted experience could introduce you to something you never knew existed. Picture gifting your friend a guided food tour of Deep Ellum. Guided by local experts, they will be able to taste some of the top local cuisine and learn about the area’s deep history. With every bite, they are diving more into the rich tapestry of Dallas life.

Creates Lasting Memories

Experience gifts are ones that can last a lifetime in your mind’s eye, rather than collecting dust and becoming obsolete. A spa day at one of Dallas’s top wellness centers is something that not only provides instant happiness, but also has lasting effects of tranquility and happiness. Experience gifts can become memories that people press to their hearts for many years to come, a mental and emotional bookmark in the story of their lives.

Perfect for Every Occasion

The best part about experience gifts is that they are appropriate for any occasion. Birthdays, anniversaries, dates, and any other reason are all incredible opportunities to give the gift of an experience. For adrenaline junkies, a Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime set of experiences. The bungee jumping and the free-fall rides will certainly get the adrenaline pumping in even the most hardcore adventurer.

Fosters Connection and Bonding

Experience gifts are often more about engagement and fun, which also makes them one of the best means to spend quality time and create precious memories with your partner, friends, and loved ones. A class at one of the established Dallas culinary schools is an ideal gift that you all can enjoy together. When you start cooking (bonding) with one another as a team, through the ups and downs of producing a ready-to-eat gourmet meal, you are using your teamwork and communication skills to build your relationship as a whole — plus the luscious meal is an extra cherry on top!

Supporting Local Businesses

A high point of experience gifts is that you get to extend help to your local community’s locally-owned and homegrown businesses. Great things to do in Dallas, for instance, come from small businesses who go out of their way to share one-time ride experiences within the local area. An artist-led painting class is one of those example experiences. Your simple gesture of giving and sharing an experience contributes to nurturing a vibrant Dallas community.

Environmental Benefits

Experience gifts often are considered the more environmentally friendly option compared to material gifts. They create way less waste everywhere and indirectly reduce the carbon emission and ecological footprint that is emitted in the production, shipping, packaging, and disposal of consumer goods. If you decide that you want to head out for a guided walk around nature and look forward to exploring activities at the beautiful and tranquil Trinity River Audubon Center, not only are you providing someone an unforgettably evergreen experience gift but also providing an opportunity to advocate for eco-conservation and nature preservation.

Enhancing Personal Growth

What makes experience gifts the best way to see Dallas is that they give you the chance to learn and mature, both personally and as a whole. Things like conquering wall climbing challenges at the nearest indoor gym or sharing peace and harmony at a meditation retreat may be outside your comfort zone but make you adaptable and resilient at the end of the day. And by taking up these new experiences in your back pocket, you are sure to build more success and self-awareness down the line.

A Different Way To Celebrate

Imagine giving your loved one something they can never lose or replace–something that will live on, maybe even after you are gone–something wrapped in sentiment and all within Dallas. Dallas has so much to offer, and it is practically begging its inhabitants to explore it. So why not take up the call and explore Dallas and take it a step further by giving the experience as a gift?

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Fort Worth Is More Than Just Cowboys — With Great Modern Art, Cool Hotels, and a Vegan Dining Scene

World-class museums, a new luxury hotel, and, of course, great barbecue make this Texas city one of the best places to visit in 2024.

Best Hotels

Best restaurants, best things to do, best shopping, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

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Fort Worth is a city of contrasts: Roughly 30 miles west of Dallas, with an international airport named for the two cities, it’s a rare place that proudly channels the spirit of the American West. Visitors can tap into it at the annual Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, which kicks off each January, or any day at the Stockyards National Historic District, where the late 19th-century cattle and livestock market was born.

But a century and a half later, Cowtown has grown into so much more: Fort Worth was the fastest-growing big city in the country between 2021 and 2022. In the Cultural District, you’ll find new hotels, including the city’s first luxury property , and a cache of world-class museums collectively housing a staggering collection of art and antiquities. (One of the world’s most important photography collections lives here, as does the country’s only Michelangelo painting.) In the Near Southside neighborhood, a vegan scene that took root nearly two decades ago is blooming, with the city’s first plant-based fine dining restaurant and a new ice cream and donut shop. But plenty of barbecue can be found from traditional joints and an innovative new guard. These are just a few reasons Fort Worth is on our list of Best Places to Go in 2024 , and its star is still rising.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The new art-filled Bowie House is the city's first true luxury hotel — a much-needed addition.
• Maiden Vegan serves vegan tasting menus that will satisfy herbivores and carnivores alike.
• Tadao Ando's stunning Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth is home to more than 3,000 world-class works.
• Get fitted for a custom, hand-made pair of cowboy boots at Lucchese.
• Billy Bob's, the world's largest honky tonk, spans more than three acres — get your feet wet on a mechanical bull or watch top country acts perform.

Courtesy of Bowie House

The Bowie House

Opened in late 2023, the Bowie House (pronounced ‘BOO-ey’) is touted as Fort Worth’s first luxury hotel, underscored by the plush Ash spa, a cabana-trimmed heated outdoor pool, and a stylish lobby bar that’s drawn a well-heeled local crowd for agave-based cocktails and freshly-shucked oysters. A contemporary Western aesthetic touches every room, from the cowhide-covered club chairs and equine-themed art and antiques in the sprawling lobby to the silver, saddle-shaped napkin rings at the Bricks and Horses steakhouse. Located in the city’s Cultural District, steps away from world-class museums, the property is also filled with art. Pieces are from hotel owner Jo Ellard’s own collection, and guests can learn about them on regularly held tours led by the resident gallery director.

The Crescent Hotel

With its glass facade and bright, art-filled lobby, the Crescent Hotel, which opened in the city’s Cultural District in November 2023, takes cues from its art institution neighbors. The property’s 212 plush rooms and suites are as inviting as the staff, who will help arrange a restaurant reservation, a tour of one of the nearby museums, and a ride there with the house car. The hotel’s all-day restaurant, Emilia’s, is an ode to Fort Worth’s sister city, Emilia-Romagna, with pastas and other Mediterranean fare. For the health-minded, the hotel is also home to a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club, the first stand-alone from the health spa and retreat brand, and guests have access to a slate of cutting-edge fitness equipment.

Hotel Dryce

Housed in a former dry ice warehouse, the 21-room Hotel Dryce is the perfect home base for those wanting to feel immersed in the city. Guest rooms have a minimalist, modern aesthetic and come stocked with thoughtful amenities like mini-fridges and soft robes, and locally-made art is on display throughout the boutique property. At night, Bar Dryce buzzes with hip city-dwellers and, on weekends, DJ sets.

Hotel Drover

Located in the heart of the Stockyards, Hotel Drover, an Autograph Collection hotel, is in prime position for soaking up the city’s Old West spirit in the form of cattle drives, honky tonks, and historic shops peddling all manner of western gear. When you’re ready for a respite, the Drover is a modern oasis, particularly in its enclosed Backyard with an outdoor pool, covered patios, firepits, and outdoor games. For a signature souvenir, visit the on-site Lucchese Boots , an outpost of the longstanding institution. There, you can have a pair custom-made with your pick of leather, design, and stitching.

Courtesy of Hatsuyuki Hand Roll

Goldee’s BBQ

To sample some of Texas’s best barbecue, head about 12 miles south of downtown Fort Worth to Goldee’s, where you’ll find housemade sausage, tender brisket, and what Texas Monthly called “the best spare ribs” in the state. Besides stand-out smoked meats, the young group of friends behind Goldee’s also churns out memorable sides like jalapeno cheesy grits and, for dessert, a platonically perfect bread pudding. Plan accordingly because they’re only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Sarah Castillo started Taco Heads in 2008, first as a trailer and then as a food truck. These days, the Fort Worth native has expanded her empire with two brick-and-mortar locations plus Sidesaddle Saloon in the Stockyards and Tinies , serving Mexican fare. At Taco Heads find signature crispy beef and shredded chicken tacos alongside heaping bowls of loaded queso and a menu of agave spirit-based cocktails. Try the Mango Paleta, made with Castillo’s La Pulga tequila , and stay for the dulce de leche-filled churros for dessert.

Maiden Vegan

With a nickname like Cowtown, it might come as a surprise that Fort Worth is home to a small but mighty vegan scene. Thank Amy McNutt, who opened the plant-based haven Spiral Diner more than two decades ago and unveiled Dreamboat Donuts & Scoops in May 2023 and Maiden a month later. Maiden is the city’s first vegan fine dining restaurant, serving a four- or eight-course tasting menu, small plates at the bar, a Sunday roast, and a kid-friendly tea service.

Hatsuyuki Handroll Bar

“A lot of the Fort Worth locals were torn about sharing this social media because we didn’t want it to be hard to get a seat, but the word got out,” says restaurateur Sarah Castillo. The 25-seat sushi bar has indeed gone from hidden gem to hotspot thanks to chef Jun Mo Yeon’s meticulously sourced seafood and ever-changing menu. They don’t take reservations, but Castillo recommends adding your name to the list and waiting for your turn at one of the neighboring bars.

Housed in a charming 1920s-era cottage with an outdoor patio illuminated by twinkly lights, Piola’s Italian dishes are made from old family recipes. “It’s owned by a local couple who actually are onsite to run the restaurant,” says Gary Kurtz, concierge at the Crescent Hotel. The Cultural District institution is a go-to for date nights.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Fort Worth Stockyards

A visit to the Stockyards is a must for an authentic taste of Fort Worth. On the heels of a multi-million dollar update, the one-time livestock market dating back to the 19th century is now a historic district where you can experience the city’s cowboy culture legacy — and browse shops like Maverick and Lucchese to outfit yourself in western gear from hat to boots. These days, visitors can see the region’s legendary longhorn steers during the twice-daily drives down East Exchange Avenue, which only takes about 10 minutes.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

"I'm obsessed with every square foot of The Modern ,” says Jonathan Morris, owner of Hotel Dryce . “It makes me so proud that one of the best contemporary art collections on the planet is right in our backyard.” The Tadao Ando-designed building houses a collection of more than 3,000 works by artists like Picasso, Mark Rothko, and Jenny Holzer. And don’t skip the Modern Shop, selling a range of Japanese gifts inspired by the architect. “Inside and out, it's a stunning environment and my absolute favorite place to spend time solo and or with friends in Fort Worth,” says Morris.

Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell is known as much for the iconic structures housing its art than it is for its small-by-mighty gem of a collection. Around 350 thoughtfully curated works are exhibited across two buildings. The first, a series of elegant arches, was designed by architect Louis Kahn to softly illuminate the art with natural light while protecting it from the Texas sun. More recently, the Renzo Piano pavilion was envisioned by the renowned Italian architect. Spend time soaking up the one-of-a-kind collection, and don’t miss Michelangelo’s "The Torment of St. Anthony" — the only painting by the renowned artist in the U.S., made when he was just 12 years old.

Amon Carter Museum of American Art

In 1961, newspaper publisher Amon Carter opened his free-to-enter museum, which, at the time, was dedicated to Western art. More than six decades later, there’s still no charge to see the collection that’s grown to include a trove of American art, with thousands of works on paper, including pieces by Winslow Homer and Georgia O’Keefe, and one of the most comprehensive photography collections in the country. By advanced request, pieces not currently on display can be brought into the museum’s library for a more intimate viewing. The Kimbell, Modern, and Amon Carter museums are all within short walking distance, and Sarah Castillo recommends museum hopping, then breaking to picnic on the museum lawns. “We would go as a kid, and I still go,” she says. “It’s a great view of downtown.”

Billy Bob’s Texas

Sprawled over three full acres, Billy Bob’s is the world’s largest honky tonk. Music legends like Willie Nelson and Travis Tritt have graced its stages, and any time of day or night, you’ll find a mashup of neon signs, bull riding (mechanical or, on weekends, the IRL version), pool tables, barbecue, and bars pouring shots of tequila and slinging bottles of beer. (The record is 16,800 in one night during the Ryan Bingham show.)

Sid Richardson Museum

Given Fort Worth’s bounty of art, it could be easy to overlook the Sid Richardson Museum, says the Crescent’s Gary Kurtz, but that would be a mistake. Located in Sundance Square, the collection is anchored mainly with paintings by Western artists Charles M. Russell and Frederic Remington but includes some of Remington’s famed bronze sculptures. The permanent collection and rotating exhibitions aim to illuminate the American West, both its romantic and realistic legacies — something that adds context to a visit to the city and that you can’t see anywhere else.

Lucchese Boots

Founded by Italian brothers who immigrated to Texas in the 19th century, Lucchese has been the go-to shop for cowboy boots since. Nowadays, the brand sells boots in all manner of heights, stitching, and leathers, from ostrich and crocodile to Pirarucu fish. Try on a pair of the 17-inch Priscillas, the most popular women’s boots, still handmade in Texas.

Record Town

"I could spend an entire weekend digging the crates at one of the many record stores around town, but my fave is Record Town for their well-curated collection of rare vinyl finds,” says Jonathan Morris of Hotel Dryce. Part record shop, part cultural landmark, music lovers can find many genres and artists inside the longstanding institution.

Ephemera Plant Shop

What started as a stall at the Brooklyn Flea is now a beloved Fort Worth brick-and-mortar, bursting with leafy greens and plenty of character. Find potted tropical plants and an expertly-curated selection of comic books, cacti, succulents, and all the required gear for making your own terrarium, which you can do at one of their daily classes or DIY.

Morgan Mercantile

Sarah Castillo recommends Morgan Mercantile in the city’s Near Southside neighborhood for its collection of excellent Panther City (one of Fort Worth’s nicknames) branded tees, hats, and hoodies. The friendly shop, run by husband-and-wife creatives, also carries gifts like prints, bags, and bandanas.

benedek/Getty Images

The best times to visit Fort Worth are from March to May and September to November, avoiding the soaring summertime temperatures and the school break crowds. Weather in the spring and fall is more pleasant for outdoor activities and a host of annual festivals and events. In the spring, come for the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival or the Main St. Fort Worth Arts Festival , and in the fall, there’s Fort Worth Oktoberfest and the Lone Star Film Festival . In January and February, the weather can dip into the 30s or 40s, but there are plenty of inside attractions, like the Cultural District art museums and events like the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo .

Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW) is one of the world’s busiest airports, with flights connecting to destinations worldwide. From DFW, downtown Fort Worth is only about 20 miles west. You can get there via taxi or a rideshare service like Uber, but getting around the city is easier with a car, so consider renting one at the airport. Another option is the Trinity Railway Express (TRE), a commuter rail service that connects Fort Worth to Dallas, with a stop at DFW in between. The ride from DFW to Fort Worth takes about 30 minutes and costs $2.50.

JPratt/Getty Images

Near Southside

Situated about a mile south of the city center, Fort Worth's vibrant and eclectic Near Southside neighborhood was revitalized in the early 2000s. On Magnolia Avenue, the neighborhood’s main corridor, you’ll find art galleries, vintage shops, cafes, and restaurants, including chef and restaurateur Amy McNutt’s vegan Spiral Diner & Bakery.

Cultural District

Home to a dense concentration of museums, Fort Worth's Cultural District is a haven for art enthusiasts. In one stretch, find the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Nearby, see the Cowgirl Hall of Fame & Museum and Will Rogers Memorial Center , which hosts equestrian events and the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.

Downtown Fort Worth

Downtown Fort Worth centers around Sundance Square, the walkable, 37-block stretch of restaurants, shops, galleries, and venues like Bass Performance Hall . The area is home to well-preserved architecture, and its popular public plaza is called the "living room of Fort Worth.”

Driving is the transportation of choice in the sprawling city, but ride-share services like Uber have a strong presence if you aren’t planning to rent a car. Fort Worth also has a bus system operated by Trinity Metro , with routes connecting neighborhoods and major attractions.

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5 Reasons Why People Are Moving To Dallas, TX

When you think of Dallas, TX, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the Cowboys, the towering skyline, or the rich history interwoven with cowboy culture and modern vibrancy. 

Dallas is more than just its iconic images; it’s a dynamic city that offers a unique blend of old and new, tradition and innovation. 

Beyond the clichés, there’s a growing trend of people packing their bags and heading to this Texan metropolis. The city’s allure is evident as more people discover the numerous benefits of moving to Dallas, TX. 

From its booming job market and affordable living to its vibrant culture and welcoming communities, Dallas has something for everyone. 

Whether you’re drawn by the career opportunities, the cultural richness, or the family-friendly neighborhoods, there’s a palpable excitement among those who have made the move. 

Many people who are moving to Dallas, TX, often find themselves working with a reliable moving company in Dallas, TX , to facilitate their transition smoothly. 

Whether you’re contemplating a move or simply curious, here are five compelling reasons why moving to Dallas, TX, might just be the best decision you ever make. Dallas’s diverse attractions and growing population make it a city worth considering for your next home.

A Booming Job Market

Opportunities abound.

One of the primary reasons people are moving to Dallas, TX is its booming job market. The city is a magnet for professionals across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and energy. 

Major corporations like AT&T, American Airlines, and ExxonMobil have their headquarters here, creating a plethora of job opportunities. But it’s not just the presence of these giants; it’s also the myriad of small to mid-sized businesses that contribute to a dynamic job landscape.

Thriving Tech Scene

Dallas has emerged as a tech hub, often referred to as the “Silicon Prairie.” The tech sector is flourishing with numerous startups and established tech companies, offering competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment. 

For tech enthusiasts, moving to Dallas, TX could mean being at the forefront of innovation and growth. Companies like Texas Instruments and Dell Services call Dallas home, making it a hotbed for tech talent. 

The city also hosts several tech conferences and events, providing ample networking opportunities and keeping professionals connected to the latest industry trends.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, Dallas offers a supportive ecosystem. The city’s vibrant economy, coupled with business-friendly policies, makes it an ideal place for startups and small businesses to thrive. 

Resources such as co-working spaces, networking events, and investment opportunities are readily available, fostering a community of innovators and business leaders. The Dallas Entrepreneur Center (DEC) and Tech Wildcatters are just two of the many organizations that provide support and mentorship to budding entrepreneurs. 

The collaborative spirit in Dallas ensures that if you have a business idea, you’ll find the resources and community to help it flourish.

Affordable Living

Cost of housing.

Compared to other major cities like New York, San Francisco, or even nearby Austin, the cost of living in Dallas is relatively affordable. Housing options are diverse, ranging from modern downtown apartments to spacious suburban homes. 

This affordability makes moving to Dallas, TX particularly attractive for young professionals and families looking to buy their first home. 

Whether you’re interested in the bustling atmosphere of Uptown or the serene suburban life in Plano or Frisco, there’s a neighborhood that suits every preference and budget.

Everyday Expenses

Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Dallas are manageable. Groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are lower than in many other big cities. 

Food prices in Dallas are slightly above the national average, with a gallon of milk costing around $4.65 and a dozen eggs priced at $4.05. 

Dining out also varies, with a basic lunchtime menu in the business district averaging $24 and a fast-food combo meal costing about $12. Transportation costs are relatively stable, with gasoline priced at around $3.09 per gallon. Public transportation is also accessible, with a monthly pass costing approximately $101. 

Lifestyle Perks

Affordable living doesn’t mean compromising on lifestyle. Dallas offers an array of amenities, from world-class restaurants and shopping to recreational activities and cultural events. 

Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or someone who loves outdoor adventures, moving to Dallas, TX ensures that you can enjoy a rich and fulfilling lifestyle without breaking the bank. 

The city’s extensive park system, including the famous Klyde Warren Park, provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, while its vibrant nightlife offers entertainment for every taste.

Vibrant Culture and Entertainment

Arts and music scene.

Dallas is a cultural melting pot with a rich tapestry of arts and entertainment. The city boasts an impressive arts district, home to the Dallas Museum of Art, the Winspear Opera House, and the Meyerson Symphony Center. 

Music lovers will find everything from country and blues to jazz and indie rock, with live performances happening almost every night. Festivals like the Dallas International Film Festival and the Deep Ellum Arts Festival add to the city’s cultural vibrancy, making it a haven for arts enthusiasts.

Sports Enthusiasts’ Paradise

For sports fans, moving to Dallas, TX is a dream come true. The city is home to iconic sports teams like the Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Dallas Mavericks (NBA), and Texas Rangers (MLB). 

Whether you’re catching a game at AT&T Stadium or cheering from a local sports bar, the energy and passion for sports in Dallas are infectious. The city’s sports culture is a unifying force, bringing together residents from all walks of life to celebrate their teams.

Food and Dining

Dallas’s culinary scene is nothing short of spectacular. The city offers a diverse range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to beloved food trucks. Texas BBQ is legendary, and Dallas does not disappoint with its mouth-watering briskets and ribs. 

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There's so much to see here in the Big D, but how do you get to it all? Don't worry - Dallas has everything you need to get where you're going, and we're here to help you reach your destination!

Air Transportation

Visitors to the Dallas Metroplex have access to more than 15 airports from award-winning international and national airports (DFW & Love Field) to regional and private jet facilities including Addison Airport.

DFW International Airport

With a central North American location that puts you within 4 hours of any major city in the U.S., Mexico and Canada, it's no surprise that DFW International Airport is one of the world's busiest and fastest growing. With 2,300 flights daily to more than 160 destinations world-wide, DFW is one of the world's most convenient airports.

DFW Airport

Dallas Love Field Airport

Dallas Love Field provides the best that can be offered in a convenient, efficient airport, serving both commercial airline and corporate user needs. With the business traveler in mind, the Love Field Conference Center represents state of the art business amenities and meeting rooms.

Getting Around Dallas

Hop on the mckinney avenue trolley.

Hop on the McKinney Avenue Trolley that takes you through Downtown, The Dallas Arts District and Uptown. Look for the “M-Line” maroon sign that’s located at all the stops along the route, and track the trolley to see when its near.

DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT (DART) LIGHT RAIL

Daily 4 - 12 a.m. | $3 half-day pass/$6 day pass

DART is the longest light rail system in the country with over 90 miles of rail lines.

Where can you go? DART connects you to most of Dallas' entertainment districts, Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, American Airlines Center, DFW International and Love Field airports, as well as Trinity Railway Express (TRE).

DALLAS STREETCAR

Daily 5:30 - 12 a.m. | $1 Rides

Dallas Streetcar connects Oak Cliff and Bishop Arts to Dallas Union Station in Downtown Dallas Streetcar runs every 20 minutes

Where can you go? Reunion District, Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, Oak Cliff, Bishop Arts District.