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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.

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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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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20 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas

Keep this list of museums, restaurants, and exciting activities in mind the next time you’re in Dallas.

Peeterv/Getty Images

Dallas is one of those cities that tends to be unfairly judged by travelers who have never been before — or by those who have only experienced a sliver of its offerings. If they look beyond the heat and traffic, though, they’ll discover a long list of reasons to visit this Texan metropolis. Lily Cabatu Weiss, the executive director of the Dallas Arts District Foundation , describes it as a destination that’s “diverse with an energy, synergy, and an economic engine,” partially fueled by its exciting arts scene, popular sports teams, and an extensive list of first-rate museums. In her words — and as evidenced below — there’s “so much to do, see, explore, and enjoy” in Dallas. 

That said, to gain a comprehensive understanding of all things Dallas, you’ll want to either rent a car or be open to using a rideshare service throughout your trip. “Travelers don’t realize how much of a big city Dallas is and how many different neighborhoods are within a 5-minute drive of the downtown core. You can visit these neighborhoods and get a genuinely different version of Dallas in each one,” says Gabe Sanchez, beverage consultant for Midnight Rambler , a cocktail bar at The Joule. 

Meet the Expert

Lily Cabatu Weiss is the executive director of the Dallas Arts District Foundation.

Gabe Sanchez is a beverage consultant for Midnight Rambler , a cocktail bar at luxury hotel The Joule.

Ready to plan a trip to the Lone Star State? Read on to discover the 20 best things to do in Dallas, with recommendations from local experts. 

Related: Travel + Leisure ’s Guide to Dallas

Explore the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Courtesy of VisitDallas.com

“The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is an exquisite, world-class botanical exhibition with rotating seasonal exhibits in east Dallas on White Rock Lake,” says Weiss. If you’re visiting between mid-February and mid-April, be sure to buy tickets for Dallas Blooms , ​​the Southwest’s largest annual floral festival. 

Don a pair of cowboy boots.

It’s not a trip to Texas without trying on — and maybe buying — at least one pair of cowboy boots. Wild Bill's Western Store , Cavender’s , or Boot Barn are great options for those who just want the experience (and might not wear their boots all that often). If your budget is on the higher end of the spectrum, though, head to one of the Lucchese locations or the Miron Crosby storefront in Highland Park Village.

Taste the flavors of a Thai street food market.

Dallas’ culinary options go further than tacos and barbecue, and Sanchez has the inside scoop on where to go. “You should visit the Thai food market on Sunday at the Buddhist Temple of North Dallas,” he says. “The food is amazing, and the prices are hard to beat.” Just remember to bring cash and sunscreen; the market is held outside.

Cheer on a local professional sports team.

Professional sports are king in Dallas, the home of the Cowboys, Stars, Mavericks, Wings, and FC Dallas, among others. Depending on the team and the season, you might be able to snag tickets for a game — if not, you can always root for the home team from one of the city’s sports bars.

Visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

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Weiss recommends spending some time at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , where the main exhibit, “John F. Kennedy and the Memory of a Nation,” explores the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Timed-entry tickets can be purchased online . 

Attend the State Fair of Texas.

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the annual state fair. The State Fair of Texas is held from late September through October, and you’ll want to come hungry. It’s an event known for its wide range of mouthwatering, deep-fried treats — from deep-fried Texas Oatmeal Pies and deep-fried praline cheesecake egg rolls to fried stuffed wings and fried mac and cheese.

Discover Dallas’ different neighborhoods.

When you come to Dallas, you can’t just stick to one neighborhood. “Go to Uptown, the Design District, Oak Cliff/Bishop Arts, and Henderson Avenue,” says Sanchez. This map is a great start for understanding what you may find in each part of the city. 

Related : This District in Dallas Is Full of Unknown Gems — Including a Brand-new Luxury Hotel

Stay at one of the city’s best hotels.

Courtesy of Mansion on Turtle Creek

You can certainly count on Dallas to excel in the luxury hospitality department. In the 2023 World’s Best Awards , T+L readers voted Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas , and The Joule as the top hotels in Dallas, a distinction earned based on their rooms, location, service, food, and value.

Spend a day in the Dallas Arts District.

Travelers interested in architecture and urban design have to spend at least an afternoon — if not a full day — in the Dallas Arts District, which reportedly houses “more buildings designed by Pritzker award-winning architects than any location in the world. “Standouts not to be missed are the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , an interactive experience; Klyde Warren Park , the game-changing deck park built over a freeway that connects Downtown Dallas to Uptown; and the Dallas Museum of Art , owning an impressive assortment of art,” explains Weiss.

Go shopping in Highland Park Village.

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Whether you’re on the hunt for something specific or just enjoy window shopping, you’ll be dazzled by the stores and brands inside Highland Park Village . The high-end roster includes the likes of Carolina Herrara, Dr. Barbara Sturm, Moncler, and Loewe. 

See a movie at the historic Texas Theatre.

In a world of on-demand movies, it can be refreshing to catch a film at a movie theater. “[ The Texas Theatre ] has been fully restored to its original glory. If you are a JFK buff, you can see the seat Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested in,” says Sanchez, who also says it’s a good idea to first “go to Bishop Arts District , grab a coffee, and make the short walk to Jefferson Blvd.”

Walk the Katy Trail.

Dallas might not be the most walkable city, but there are definitely places where you can get your daily steps in. Take the Katy Trail , for example. Built on an abandoned railroad line, the trail spans 3.5 miles, with markers at every quarter mile. Walkers, joggers, and bikers can take advantage of its paved, well-lit path through greenery and blooming flowers.

Eat some Texas barbecue.

If you’re in Texas, there’s a good chance barbecue is on the menu. “I always suggest trying two or three places and comparing apples to apples,” says Sanchez. “Go to Terry Black’s and Pecan Lodge (they’re a block from each other), get the brisket at each, then make your decision on who should have bragging rights.”

Bring the whole family to the Dallas Zoo.

The Dallas Zoo holds the title of the largest zoo in Texas, with more than 2,000 animals representing 406 species across 106 acres. It’s located just three miles south of downtown Dallas, and guests can see everything from a Galapagos tortoise to giraffes, elephants, and penguins.

Uncover the cultural sites and experiences in Fair Park.

It might be home to the State Fair of Texas, but the 277-acre Fair Park complex has reasons to visit all year round. Weiss recommends “experiencing the art deco architecture [and] seeing a Broadway show at the Music Hall ,” but there’s also the African American Museum of Dallas and The Women's Museum to discover.

Enjoy a sky-high meal at Monarch.

At the top of The National, the building that houses Thompson Dallas , sits Monarch , a culinary wonder from Michelin-recognized chef Danny Grant. The food — handmade pasta, steak, and seafood — may be the star of the show, but the breathtaking position on the 49th floor also plays a critical role in the overall experience, with skyline views for days.

Cross over the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge.

Thomas Faull/Getty Images

“The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge (designed by Santiago Calatrava), with a pedestrian bridge running parallel, is a must-do,” says Weiss. The 400-foot-tall bridge, one of the vehicular bridges in the Trinity River Corridor Project , connects downtown Dallas to West Dallas and traverses the Trinity River.

Treat yourself to a spa day.

Courtesy of The Joule

Sometimes a little TLC is necessary on a trip — and Dallas has several options for incredible facials, massages, and body treatments. Local favorites include The Spa at The Joule , The Spa at Thompson Dallas , and Spa Adolphus .

Step back in time at Old City Park.

If you have a large stretch of time to fill in your day, Sanchez suggests spending a few hours in Old City Park , Dallas’ first and oldest park. “[It] has a collection of fully restored homes and businesses from the founding of Dallas,” he says, and there are several guided tours you can book on weekends, including the Black History Tour and the Women’s History Tour.

Polish off a few tacos.

Last, but certainly not least, you have to find a good spot for tacos when you’re in town. Sanchez recommends Taco Y Vino , El Come Taco , and Pepe’s and Mito’s . At the latter, he specifically calls out the tacos nortenos.

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A first-timer's guide to dazzling Dallas, Texas

January 15, 2019 // By Ilene Jacobs

By Ilene Jacobs Dallas Local Expert January 15, 2019

Everything is bigger in Texas, and America's ninth most populous city (which locals refer to as Big D) is no exception. In fact, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex prides itself on doing things big. The state fair is big, the NFL football stadium is big and the international airport is larger than the island of Manhattan.

Oh, and the city is also home to the largest urban arts district in the country. But don't be too disappointed if Dallas doesn't fit the image portrayed in the eponymous TV show. Instead of oil rigs and ten-gallon Stetsons, you'll find a bustling metropolis on the verge of a major transformation, thanks to a host of ambitious revitalization projects.

Whether you want to explore world-class museums, hit some of the city's hippest hangs or gaze at the world's best skyline that lights up downtown, Dallas has something for everyone. Here's how to make the most out of your visit.

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Getting around

It's no secret that Dallas has a reputation for urban sprawl. The good news is that there's a pretty decent light-rail system (DART) operating throughout the area, as well as to DFW Airport. Additionally, there is a complimentary D-Link shuttle and M-Line Trolley that circulates around downtown.

That said, if you're looking to explore different neighborhoods, having a car is a must.

Where to stay

With over 77,000 hotel rooms up for grabs, visitors to Dallas are spoiled for choice. But if you want to be in the heart of the action, you can't beat The Joule , a chic boutique hotel based downtown in a renovated 1920's neo-Gothic building. The hotel features fabulous restaurants, a cool subterranean cocktail lounge and a cantilevered pool that extends over the walkway below.

Or for a fantastic mid-range option, check into the trendy loft-style apartments at The Guild in Victory Park and Uptown. Both locations are within stumbling distance to eateries, bars and downtown's Historic West End District.

What to see

As previously mentioned, Dallas has been undergoing a rebirth and nowhere is that more evident than downtown's Arts District , a 68-acre stretch of performance venues and world-class museums, some of which include the renowned Meyerson Symphony Center , the Dallas Museum of Art , the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Crow Collection of Asian Art . The District also showcases one of the world's largest collections of buildings designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects.

Other Arts District highlights include Klyde Warren Park , a 5-acre community green space featuring children's playscapes, lawn games, food trucks and daily public programming ranging from fitness classes to concerts and films. And just a few steps away from the park lies the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , an award-winning architectural gem filled with five floors of mind-blowing exhibits.

After you've conquered the Arts District, head over to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza in downtown's Historic West End for a comprehensive look into the life and death of John F. Kennedy. Then go check out the legendary grassy knoll to get an even better perspective of the tragic event that unfolded on that fateful day in 1963.

Tempting as it may be to spend all your time downtown, you'd be remiss not to visit the George W. Bush Presidential Center . Situated on the Southern Methodist University campus, the center contains everything from a full-scale walk-through replica of the Bush Oval Office to a 22-foot tall ravaged steel beam from the World Trade Center.

If you have some extra time on your hands, make your way over to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Set along the shores of White Rock Lake , this 66-acre oasis features stunning seasonal flowers and plant displays along with an interactive children's garden, including a treehouse and canopy walk.

Of course, a trip to Dallas isn't complete without a trek to the interactive observation deck (aka the GeO-Deck) at the city's most iconic landmark: Reunion Tower . Perched 470 feet up, the deck affords 360-degree views across Dallas and beyond.

Where to shop

Fancy a little retail therapy? Then you're in the right place; Dallas has more shopping centers per capita than any other city in the United States. And the cream of the crop is NorthPark Center , offering over 235 stores covering everything from Neiman Marcus to the Gap.

Speaking of Neiman Marcus , the historic flagship store on Main Street is also an ultimate place for a high-end shopping experience, as is Highland Park Village , which is renowned for haute couture boutiques such as Hermes, Dior and Chanel.

Where to eat

Dallas' diverse food scene goes way beyond barbecue, but you really can't come to town without a stop at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum , where the pit-smoked options are so good the line frequently snakes around the block.

Love Mexican? Then pop over to El Ranchito , a popular, decades-old institution in Oak Cliff , best known for its eclectic décor and terrific Tex-Mex fare.

Celebrity chef Dean Fearing's namesake restaurant in Uptown's Ritz-Carlton is another one not to miss. Fearing's Southwestern cuisine is fabulous, and the mesquite-grilled Texas Wagyu steaks are even better.

Though Dallas is a year-round destination, winters can be chilly (35– 47 degrees) and summers are always steamy with temperatures rising above 100 degrees. The best time to visit is during fall (from October through November) and in the spring when average highs range from 68 to 84 degrees.

About Ilene Jacobs

As a perpetual wanderer, foodie freak and wannabe chef, Ilene is always on the lookout for the best places to see, eat, drink and sleep. When she's not writing about the latest happenings in her hometown of Dallas, she's hanging out in Paris and road tripping around Europe. You can find Ilene's articles about her favorite hot spots and foodie finds at 10Best.com, CBSDFW.com and in TravelAge West magazine. You can also follow Ilene on Instagram , Twitter and Pinterest .

Read more about Ilene Jacobs here.

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Ilene Jacobs: Dallas Local Expert

Dallas has an amazing skyline and the best way to see it is 470-feet up in Reunion Tower's GeO-Deck.

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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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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.  

You may also like: The best neighborhoods in Dallas 16 free things to do in Dallas Wichita's magician of millinery helps put hats back on top

This article was first published June 2021 and updated April 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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How to Spend Three Days in Dallas, Texas

Featuring a storied past steeped in ranching, cowboys and oil farms, Dallas quickly rose to become one of the biggest cities in Texas. But with a reputation as a financial center, you may be surprised to know that Dallas is teeming with vibrant arts culture to match the many high-rise buildings.

Thanks to the city’s renowned arts district, Dallas is a great spot to enjoy a three-day vacation. Dallas has a glorious mix of museums, galleries, live events and a plethora of pro sport. Add in spacious parks, the cities of Arlington and Fort Worth and you’ll quickly find yourself with a packed itinerary.

That’s where we come in. Read on to discover the top attractions, hidden gems and delicious eats that will have you traveling around Dallas like a seasoned vet.

Where to Stay

Dallas is a spread out city with multiple hubs of activity and fun. However, within the expansive Historic and Arts Districts lays the vast majority of the top attractions in Dallas, Texas. 

Covering 19 blocks in downtown Dallas, the Arts District is home to a series of world-class museums and galleries plus the city’s iconic symphony orchestra. This part of the city features the strongest network of public transport, including connections to the airport. Staying within downtown and Deep Ellum is the perfect way to have all the action on your front door.

Given its location within Texas, it’s hardly surprising that Dallas features some scorching summer temperatures. While this may perturb some, the city comes with a lot of fascinating indoor attractions, museums, malls and, of course, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

But to experience the best of Dallas come during the shoulder seasons for milder temperatures. Make the most of the city’s parks and local hikes. Early fall especially comes with the perfect mix of indoor and outdoor fun. Thanks to a range of pro sports in action from baseball to football and the perfect weather for a day at the park.

Day 1: Parks, Museums, and Towers

Just out of downtown is the Dallas Arboretum, a top place to start your adventures in the Texan city. Sitting on over 60 acres on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden are a pristine display of manicured nature.

Despite the city being presented with the idea of a botanical garden some fifty years prior, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden opened. 

The arboretum has 14 impeccable displays that show off shrubs, trees, seasonal flowers and ornamental plant collections. Within these spaces are a series of festivals, shows, programs and tours that add a layer of atmosphere to the beautiful scenery. 

Beyond the flora are several public art pieces, statues and storybook fountains in parts of the park called Pecan Grove and Texas Town. Once you’ve explored the gardens, link up with the miles of hiking and biking trails that wind around White Rock Lake. 

After some sun and nature, visit one of the best attractions in Dallas, Texas. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is housed within an architectural marvel. The building itself will make your eyes pop as you walk towards the entrance. But such is the quality of the museum that the building is quickly forgotten.

The Perot Museum is split into several sections that provide interactive displays, hands-on games and high-tech exhibits. The dominant themes that the museum covers include technology and engineering, evolution and earth sciences, along with innovation. 

There is also a large 3D theater at the museum which captivates visitors with films about the world we live in. Families will appreciate the onsite Children’s Museum and ensuing playground. While after ticking off the museum, head up the 54-foot escalator that offers amazing views of Dallas and the architecture of the Perot Museum.

On any given day there are food trucks at Klyde Warren Park, the next destination on our Dallas itinerary. If the day is pleasant, walk down to the park and enjoy the beautiful urban space. Covering a large area between downtown Dallas and the Arts District, Klyde Warren Park is also a great launch point for activities all around the city.

But the park itself has a lot to offer visitors. After noshing on some local cuisine under the Texan sun, there are free daily programs such as yoga, boot camps along with outdoor concerts and film. To see what free events are on when you are in town, follow this link .

With some more sun under your belt, make your way to the Dallas Heritage Village. Within the village is the largest collection of 19 th century pioneer homes and old commercial buildings in Texas. It’s rare to find such an insight into life in the 1800s, especially so close to a major city.

For this reason alone, it’s worth the visit. However, Old City Park, with over 20 restored historic buildings built in the mid-to-late 1800s, lives up to expectations. The village does a wonderful job in replicating 19 th century life, in what feels like a functioning and sustainable township. Explore old schools, churches, banks and a wild west-style saloon. 

As the sun falls over Dallas, Texas, there’s no better time to take the journey to the top of Reunion Tower. The tower may not be the tallest landmark in Dallas, but it’s sure the most striking. The building, which opened in 1978, features a geodesic ball which comes to life at night. 

The ball, which stands upon five circular poles, like a golf ball on a tee, looks like a firework paused in time. While views of the tower are stunning, you can enjoy a spectacular sunset from the Geo-Deck Observation platform. The endless views of Dallas, the surrounding landscape and the dazzling horizon make for the perfect way to celebrate your first day in Dallas.

Although there are many ways to enjoy a night in Dallas, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is a top choice for many. The orchestra has been playing for over a century, growing into a world-renowned ensemble while performing in the inspiring Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. 

You may spot the building on your travels to the top of the Reunion Tower. The symphony center is an iconic landmark appropriately placed in the heart of the city’s Arts District. To see what concerts and events are on while you’re in Dallas, explore the symphony calendar .

Where to Eat

For lunch head to the local institution of Uncle Uber’s Sammich Shop. With cheap and delicious eats in a nostalgic decor, you’ll be enjoying the simple life before heading out to Klyde Warren Park.

For dinner, take your loved ones to The Woolworth. Featuring an upscale menu, craft cocktails and amazing share plates, The Woolworth is all about scratch made food and creativity.

Day 2: Markets, Art, and Cowboys

After a night of arts and culture, begin your second day in Dallas by experiencing one of the top local events. The Dallas Farmers Market is far from a pop-up collection of local vendors and farmers. The well-appointed public market is a permanent feature on the calendar selling fresh produce, fruit, veggies and farm-to-table cooking.

The market has a long history, having begun in the 19 th century with humble beginnings. What was once a local collective selling their wares from wagons is now a market spread over four sheds. Sheds one and three are specifically for fresh produce. Shed 2 is home to delis along with a selection of small restaurants to enjoy. While shed four is all about wholesale vegetables and fruit.

Couples, friends and family will love beginning their day wandering past the stalls in each shed and sampling the local eats. With many parks well-placed around Dallas, why not pick yourself up some food for a midday picnic?

After the farmers market, the Dallas Museum of Art awaits. Along with the Symphony Center, the Museum of Art has long been a major part of the Dallas Arts District. Since its doors opened to the public in 1903, the museum has grown to be one of the largest in the country.

Featuring a collection of almost 25,000 pieces from all around the world, the Museum of Art covers many eras and subjects. Major exhibits include the European Art Gallery, with paintings from such icons as Claude Monet. Visitors will also enjoy artifacts and works from ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. 

The Dallas Museum of Art has a series of rotating exhibits to complement what remains year-round. This provides fresh fun for returning visitors, keeping the art museum in its rightful place as one of the best in the United States.

Speaking of art, Dallas’ sprawling Arts District continues to grow with the addition of the Nasher Sculpture Center at the turn of the 21 st century. The center is a collection of contemporary sculptures just a brief walk from the Dallas Museum of Art.

Within the tree-lined garden are several outdoor displays to enjoy, with the option of a picnic among the art. There is also a spacious indoor area with more sculptures and creations from the likes of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and more. 

Football fan or not, AT&T Stadium, the home of the iconic Dallas Cowboys, is one of the top attractions in Dallas. Located half way between Dallas and Fort Worth, the stadium is a quick 20 minute drive from downtown. If you want to go see a football game while in town, nothing beats catching a Cowboys game. 

Tickets can sell out, especially for important games, so if you know you want to see the Cowboys, or your hometown team in action at AT&T then book ahead.

If you aren’t in Dallas when a game is on, then don’t fret, you can still take part in a memorable stadium tour . Explore the world-class arena, with the chance to throw a football on the famous turf, visit the Cowboys locker room, media areas and the Miller Lite Club!

After venturing to the stadium, continue on further until you reach Fort Worth for an evening of cowboy culture. The Fort Worth Stockyards are only 40 minutes from Dallas, and are packed with brick walkways featuring restaurants, clubs and boutique stores.

Depending on when you arrive, head to Exchange Avenue at 4pm to witness modern-day cowboys lead their massive longhorns down the road. Later, explore the Livestock Exchange. Once a live cattle auction site, it’s now a fascinating look in cowboy life and the local history.

When the night has truly arrived, wander into the largest honky-tonk on earth, Billy Bob’s Texas. Dance the night away with endless two-steppin’ fun and try your hand at the bar’s mechanical bull.

Found in the Dallas Arts District, Ellie’s Restaurant and Lounge is home to one of the best brunches in the city. Although within the HALL Arts Hotel, expect a lively atmosphere featuring southern eats and delicious pancakes.

Before venturing to Cowboys Stadium, pay a visit to Monkey King Noodle Company for lunch. Come here for noodles that will send you to heaven, and soup dumplings that will have you reconsidering your evening plans.

When at the Fort Worth Stockyards, you must do what the locals do and eat steak. At H3 Ranch, within the Stockyard Hotel, you can enjoy a top-notch steak within a cowboy atmosphere. 

Day 3: History, Rollercoasters, and Zoos

One of the top historical attractions in Dallas is the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. The infamous building is dedicated to telling the story of the assassination of President Kennedy, who was shot dead in 1963.

The building that was once a book depository was where Oswald stood when he fatally shot the leader of the United States. The museum does an incredible job of highlighting the political climate leading up to the assassination, including a thorough insight into the last days of John F. Kennedy. 

Afterwards, visitors will explore exhibits that focus on the days after the tragic event, including the ensuing investigations. Several artifacts like scale models used by the FBI and forensic evidence are on display.

To make the most of the experience, you can sign up for a guided tour that will go through the harrowing event in greater detail. 

As your time in Dallas winds down, there are two remaining activities that will add the cherry on top of your vacation. One option is the popular Six Flags, the first of its kind in Texas.

Featuring endless adrenalin-packed rides and just 20 minutes from downtown, Six Flags will enthrall the entire family. The most iconic ride in the park is The Titan. The rollercoaster comes with an immense 225 ft (70m) drop and reaches speeds of up to 85 miles (137km) per hour!

There is also Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, perfect on a hot Texan day. Cool off on the water slides, in the wave pools or by riding the lazy river.

Your second option is perfect for those with younger children. The Dallas Zoo is one of the best things to do in Dallas with kids. The Dallas Zoo is one of the oldest in the United States, having opened in 1888. With over 400 species of animals in a variety of habitats, there is so much to see.

The zoo is sectioned up to represent different regions and continents, including the Giants of the Savanna, Wilds of Africa, and the Wildlife Amphitheater. 

Grab a mix of the zoo and theme park experience thanks to the zoo’s Zero Gravity Thrill Amusement Park with bungee jumps and free-fall experiences.

For breakfast on day 3, make your way to Uptown Dallas to dine at the Mercat Bistro. Serving French-inspired morning treats, relax and enjoy your delectable eats among gorgeous decor and antiques.

If you didn’t grab some eats at Six Flags or the Zoo, then finish your time in Dallas with some classic barbeque. Pecan Lodge pairs their smoked meats with a great selection of beer and wine. Celebrate your 3 days in Dallas with some mouthwatering brisket!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, sports fan or art connoisseur, Dallas has something to offer every type of traveler. With Dallas-Fort Worth nearby, accessing the city is easy, with hundreds of flights a day. So there’s never a bad time to visit.

Come for the Peret Museum and discover a city of underrated architecture and public parks. Time your run to see your hometown team play the Cowboys, the Rangers or the Mavericks to round out your weekend. 

Better yet, bring the entire family to experience the Fort Worth Stockyards, Dallas Zoo or the Reunion Tower. Either way, keep this itinerary handy and have a memorable 3 days in Dallas!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Dallas   Travel Guide

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The 22 Most Fun Things to Do in Dallas, Chosen by a Local

There’s more to Dallas than meets the eye. Though that flashy skyline and cowboy reputation may be what initially draws you in, you can expect to find a city rich in the arts, fashion, culinary experiences and unique districts. After paying a visit

• All Things To Do

Klyde Warren Park Klyde Warren Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a fun way to get to the park, take the McKinney Avenue Trolley. This is Dallas’s last remaining streetcar line, running (free of charge) from downtown through Uptown. The trolley passes the city’s most popular attractions, including Klyde Warren. – Justine Harrington

With free Wi-Fi access, weekly events, a dog park, walking trails, a children's park, food trucks and a performance pavilion, Klyde Warren Park is not your typical green space. Built over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway and managed by the Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation, the urban space in the heart of Dallas hosts events ranging from yoga and concerts to outdoor films and holiday celebrations like tree lightings and trick-or-treating. The park, which sprawls across more than 5 acres, can also be reserved for public or private events – the skyline and location make it an ideal backdrop for weddings and concerts.

Dallas Museum of Art Dallas Museum of Art free

The Dallas Museum of Art houses a collection that spans artistic eras and continents: On gallery walls and behind glass display cases, art aficionados will find ancient works from Africa, Asia and Latin America; European art spanning the 14th to 21st centuries; and contemporary pieces by such artists as Mark Rothko and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum also plays host to various traveling exhibitions, which have in the past included works by Cindy Sherman and the fashions of Jean Paul Gaultier.

Reviewers said the Dallas Museum of Art is a must-see, praising the works on display and the knowledgeable staff. They also appreciate that admission is free and recommend pairing your visit to the museum with a stop at the Nasher Sculpture Center , which is also located in the Dallas Arts District .

The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza

On Nov. 22, 1963, shots from Lee Harvey Oswald's gun echoed through Dealey Plaza as President John F. Kennedy's motorcade turned off of Houston Street onto Elm. Today, this scenic green space in downtown Dallas is visited every year by thousands who gather to honor the 35th president.

This tragic day in United States history has been immortalized on the sixth floor of the former Texas School Book Depository, where Oswald pulled the trigger 60 years ago. The Sixth Floor Museum (which actually occupies the sixth and seventh floors of the building) houses exhibits detailing JFK's life, presidency and assassination, as well as the history of the 1960s.

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Reunion Tower Reunion Tower

Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from atop Reunion Tower, which stands 470 feet high in downtown. Referred to as "The Ball" by locals thanks to its spherical shape, Reunion Tower offers an indoor/outdoor GeO-Deck that's accessible via an elevator on the tower's ground floor. From the top of the tower, you'll spot some of the city's most famous landmarks and attractions, including Dealey Plaza .

Recent visitors raved about the view and the friendly staff. A few recommended going during the day and at night to enjoy both perspectives of the city.

Dallas Arts District Dallas Arts District free

Culture hounds will want to devote a day to exploring the Dallas Arts District, which is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States. Sprawling across more than 20 square blocks, the neighborhood features museums, performing arts venues, restaurants and bars. Popular attractions within the Dallas Arts District include the Crow Collection of Asian Art , Klyde Warren Park , the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , among others. Performance venues abound as well and include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, which houses the Winspear Opera House and the Wyly Theatre.

Recent visitors praised the amount of coffee shops and restaurants in the area, as well as the variety of things to see and do. Popular restaurants include Musume and Yolk. 

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Perot Museum of Nature and Science

If you've brought the kids to the Big D, set aside some time for a visit to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This 180,000-square-foot facility is jam-packed with hands-on exhibits and educational displays that address such topics as anatomy and energy. One particular highlight for recent visitors was the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, which features towering dinosaur skeletons and an educational scavenger hunt. The Rose Hall of Birds also captivated visitors: Here, interactive displays explain how birds fly and socialize.

Many travelers say that the Perot Museum makes an excellent respite from the hot and humid Texas weather and they were pleasantly surprised by the museum's excellent hands-on exhibits. Reviewers also said this is a great activity for the whole family, as its attractions appeal to a wide range of age groups.

Best Dallas Tours

Dallas Tours

The 8 Best Dallas Tours

April 23, 2020

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Visiting in spring or fall? Plan your trip to the arboretum around the Cool Thursdays Concert Series, which showcases some of the region’s best performers. Pack a picnic and a blanket or chair, as concerts take place on the lawn. – Justine Harrington

True, Dallas has plenty of towering skyscrapers and traffic-laden highways. But it's also rich in green space. For a respite from the big city, head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which occupies 66 acres in White Rock Lake Park about 7 miles northeast of downtown. Forget about the hustle and bustle with a stroll through the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, where more than 2,000 varieties of azaleas blossom in the spring and several acres of chrysanthemums come to life during the fall. Crepe Myrtle Allee is another must-see for the natural tunnel that's created by the arching crepe myrtle trees.

White Rock Lake and Park White Rock Lake and Park free

Travelers can embrace nature at White Rock Lake and Park, which is located approximately 5 miles northeast of downtown Dallas. Bird-watching, fishing, biking, rollerblading and picnicking by the lake are just a few of the activities people can enjoy. Keep in mind that swimming in the lake is prohibited. But with local attractions nearby like the White Rock Lake Museum, Bath House Cultural Center and  Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , and amenities like a picnic area, dog park and pavilions for rent, you can find entertainment rain or shine.

Visitors often report wildlife sightings, such as different kinds of birds throughout the year. Families note that it's a dog-friendly park as well, with plenty of space for kids and pets to run around. And many recommend visiting at off-peak times, like in the afternoon and evening, to enjoy fewer crowds and take in the colorful sunset. Active travelers also say it a great spot to run, hike or bike.

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Dallas Farmers Market Dallas Farmers Market free

What began in 1941 as a place for local farmers to sell their produce has morphed into a full-blown foodie and retail destination. Today, the Dallas Farmers Market is a 26,000-square-foot food hall and market with four restaurants and a variety of local food vendors. Of course, there are still plenty of farm-fresh vegetables, eggs and meat to be found, all of which are grown and raised in Texas or within 400 miles of Dallas. Peruse homegrown produce, pasture-raised meats, canned goods and regional specialties at The Shed, an open-air pavilion that’s almost always bustling with activity. 

In the Market Building (the main building), visitors can check out handmade crafts and sample all kinds of tasty eats, such as macarons, tacos, smoothies and more. If it’s nice out, one of the best things to do is grab a snack and a beverage and hang out at one of the seating areas outside – the views of the city skyline are lovely from here. While The Market Building is open seven days a week (from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.), it’s best to go anytime from Thursday through Saturday, when the atmosphere is at its most vibrant and you can enjoy live music, chef demonstrations and other special events. Note that The Shed is only open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.   

Bishop Arts District Bishop Arts District free

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy and looking to peruse local boutiques, head about 5 miles southwest of downtown Dallas to the Bishop Arts District. Along with antiques, home goods and gifts, the neighborhood is also home to one-of-a-kind clothing stores. Popular restaurants include Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ, Boulevardier and Lucia, among others.

Recent visitors said the neighborhood offers a great mix of indie shopping and tasty restaurants. Several said the area was perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Dallas World Aquarium Dallas World Aquarium

Perhaps "aquarium" isn't the right word to describe this attraction. Of course, there are fish, stingrays, eels and octopuses – you'll find these and a variety of other aquatic creatures occupying the facility's expansive tanks. But the Dallas World Aquarium also houses animals not commonly found in aquariums, including sloths, monkeys and toucans. Observe birds in free flight in the aquarium's vast rainforest and then marvel at the lizards, snakes and bats in the aquarium's Mundo Maya exhibit, which features a cenote.

Recent travelers said they were pleasantly surprised by the number of animals housed in the Dallas World Aquarium, and many say that a visit here makes a great alternative to the Dallas Zoo , especially during the hot summer months. However, some do warn that the space can feel crowded, especially when schools are on break. Another sticking point for some visitors was the high cost of admission, though others say they felt a visit here was well worth the money.

Nasher Sculpture Center Nasher Sculpture Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every third Friday of the month, from March through October, ‘til Midnight at the Nasher presents live music, film screenings, a special menu and bar services. This event also includes free admission to the museum, making it the perfect time to visit. – Justine Harrington

Sitting across the street from the  Dallas Museum of Art  in the Big D's lively Arts District , the Nasher Sculpture Garden repeatedly wows locals and visitors with its striking indoor and outdoor galleries (a particular highlight for past visitors). The center houses more than 300 works of art by modern and contemporary artists like Matisse, Picasso and Rodin. Pieces here range from small marble sculptures to massive installations.

African American Museum of Dallas African American Museum of Dallas free

The African American Museum of Dallas features one of the largest collections of African American folk art in the U.S. The museum displays African art, Black renaissance paintings, decorative arts, period rooms and contemporary art, some of which are centuries old.

Recent visitors recommended the museum for its collections and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Many described a visit here as moving.

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Crow Museum of Asian Art Crow Museum of Asian Art free

Tucked within the Dallas Arts District, the Crow Museum of Asian Art displays works hailing from China, Japan, India, Korea and Southeast Asia. Along with more than 1,000 artworks, there's also a library of more than 12,000 books, catalogs and journals. The space also shelters a sculpture garden with historical and contemporary pieces among a landscape of bamboo, maples, azaleas and pine trees.

The museum's permanent collection was originally owned by Trammell and Margaret Crow, a Dallas couple with a deep appreciation for Asian art and culture (they visited China more than a dozen times over the course of their lives). They opened the museum in 1998 with the hopes of sharing their love for Asian art and culture with locals and visitors.

Deep Ellum Deep Ellum free

This neighborhood just east of downtown Dallas is a nightlife hot spot that brims with live music, performing arts, eye-catching murals, unique shops and bustling bars. Its status as a live music hub dates back to the early 20th century, when jazz and blues performers like Bessie Smith, Huddie William "Lead Belly" Ledbetter and Lemon Henry "Blind Lemon" Jefferson frequented its stages. If you're hoping to catch a show in Deep Ellum, venues like Trees, The Factory in Deep Ellum and Club Dada are popular spots. Many of the neighborhood's bars also host live music, including Sons of Hermann Hall and Three Links.

In addition to its live music venues, Deep Ellum is also home to a burgeoning dining scene. Popular restaurants include Pecan Lodge (famous for its barbecue), Ichigoh Ramen Lounge, Adair's Saloon (come here for the burgers), Serious Pizza and Nori Handroll Bar.

George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum

Set on 23 acres in northern Dallas' University Park, The George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum houses extensive textual, audiovisual and electronic records from the 43rd presidency. As you can imagine, the library is more of a research facility than it is a tourist attraction. Instead, casual visitors should make their way to the adjacent 14,000-square-foot museum, where detailed displays explore events of Bush's time in office such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, as well as the themes of education reform and the economic crisis. Inside the museum, you'll find interactive exhibits that put you in the former president's shoes: You can walk around a replica of the Oval Office, and in the Decision Points Theater, you can experience the Bush administration's decision- and policy-making process.

According to recent visitors, the highlight of a visit to the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum is the 9/11 exhibit, which they describe as extensive and well-organized. Other travelers appreciated the special exhibits, which rotate frequently. 

Dallas Contemporary Dallas Contemporary free

Modern art lovers will enjoy the Dallas Contemporary, a non-collecting museum displaying cutting-edge works created by Texan artists, as well as national and international artists. The museum was founded by Patricia Meadows in the late 1970s as a nonprofit space before transitioning into the contemporary art hub that it is today. Located in a former metal fabrication plant in the Design District, the Contemporary has ample space to accommodate multiple large-scale exhibitions at a time. 

Because the Contemporary does not have a permanent collection, the focus here is on showing art as opposed to amassing a collection of artworks. Exhibitions rotate regularly, so visitors can expect to rarely, if ever, see the same thing twice. In general, the museum tends to show work from boundary-pushing artists engaged in relevant social and political conversation. Mediums run the gamut from sculpture to installation to painting, among others. 

AT&T Stadium AT&T Stadium

If there's one thing the people of Dallas love, it's football. So, a stop by the home of the Dallas Cowboys is necessary for a glimpse into the area's culture. The Cowboys' former kingdom in Irving was demolished in 2010 to make way for a bigger, better venue. Now you can visit "America's Team" at AT&T Stadium. The largest domed stadium in the country with a capacity for 80,000 screaming fans is located in Arlington, Texas – approximately halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth.

Even if you're not interested in seeing a game, you might still want to take a tour of this venue, which also houses an extensive collection of art. In fact, there's a guided tour specifically devoted to the stadium's artwork. But recent visitors say that avid sports fans should tag along on the VIP tour, which leads attendees through the private suites, the press box, the locker rooms and even out onto the field.

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Pioneer Plaza Pioneer Plaza free

Part history lesson, part public art display, Pioneer Plaza attracts visitors looking for a prime photo-op. This 4.2-acre park in downtown Dallas features a re-creation of a cattle drive with bronze longhorn steers being driven by three cowboys on horses. The bronze statues celebrate the trails that originally attracted settlers to Dallas centuries ago. In addition to the statues, the park also features native plants and trees and a stream.

Recent travelers described Pioneer Plaza as a great place for photo-ops thanks to the skyline views. They also say the bronze statues are beautiful. According to reviewers, a quick visit is all you need.

Thanks-Giving Square Thanks-Giving Square free

Plan a visit to Thanks-Giving Square for an escape from the bustle of downtown Dallas. Constructed in the 1970s, the park is significant not only for its peaceful atmosphere, but also for its architecture. It was designed by famed architect Philip Johnson, who incorporated fountains and walkways to encourage visitors to pause and meditate. The square is also set 15 feet below ground level, with a 4-foot wall that blocks the sight of cars on surrounding streets to create a serene escape for visitors. The highlight of the square is undoubtedly the Chapel of Thanksgiving, which has a spiral-shaped façade that rises 90 feet above street level. If you step into the chapel, you'll see the impressive Glory Window by Gabriel Loire, which contains 73 panels of faceted glass that follow the spiral shape of the ceiling.

Recent visitors use words like "beautiful" and "peaceful" to describe Thanks-Giving Square. Reviewers were particularly fond of the mosaics, the fountains and the stained-glass ceiling in the chapel.

Dallas Zoo Dallas Zoo

When the Dallas Zoo was founded in 1888, it housed two deer and two mountain lions. More than a century later, the zoo – which is the oldest and largest in Texas – has grown to shelter more than 2,000 animals representing more than 400 species. Across its 106 acres, you'll find large animals like elephants, giraffes, lions and gorillas, alongside smaller creatures like penguins, toucans, frogs and snakes. There are also animal encounters and experiences, such as giraffe feedings and keeper chats, and attractions like a carousel and a miniature train.

Previous visitors were complimentary of the zoo, praising its manageable size, variety of animals and affordable pricing. Reviewers suggested spending between two and four hours exploring all of the zoo's offerings, and recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the midday crowds. Others described it as small and not particularly impressive, but a worthwhile stop if you're traveling with kids.

Highland Park Village Highland Park Village free

This Mediterranean-style shopping center is home to upscale stores in an open-air setting where visitors can wander for a few hours. The shopping center, which was one of the first of its kind, houses restaurants and shops that reflect the wealthy neighborhood where it is located (such as Jimmy Choo and Rolex). Some refer to it as the "Beverly Hills of Dallas," which should be an indicator of just how high-end the stores are, and locals say it's one of the  top shopping spots in Dallas . The architecture of the longstanding shopping center is also a draw, and shoppers recommend checking out Highland Park Village around Christmastime when lights and decorations transform the outdoor mall.

The shopping center offers concierge services, personal shoppers and complimentary valet parking at multiple stores throughout the village. International shoppers can acquire Texas sales tax refunds from select retail stores by presenting receipts and identification and flight information at the on-site TaxFree Shopping, Ltd.

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• May 4, 2021

Travel Guide for First Visit to Dallas / Fort Worth [2023]

Updated: Mar 30, 2023

Why Visit Dallas /Fort Worth?

Visiting the Dallas / Fort Worth metroplex is like getting a vacation twofer - you get the laid back, charming Fort Worth including its sometimes kitschy feel of the old West, coupled with the glitz and glamour of Dallas. Like any first-time visit to a new city, there are the must-dos so that you feel like you have seen the major sites, but then there are also the places that the locals frequent.

It is easy to go to TripAdvisor and get the list of places to go, but it's harder to find an itinerary that makes sense. Some of the places that don't make the Top 15 of Trip Advisor perhaps should be higher on the list and/or they are so close geographically that it allows you to see even more of the city without having to constantly drive long distances. Since Dallas is my adopted city, I thought sure that this would be an easy article to write. It wasn't.

But rest assured, this is the itinerary that I would take you on if you were staying at my house.

Quick Links:

Day 1: dallas, six floor museum, grassy knoll, klyde warren park, dallas farmer's market, e-bar tex mex, pecan lodge or terry blacks, day 2: fort worth, sundance square, longhorn drive at fort worth stockyards, drink at the white elephant saloon, lunch at joe t. garcia's.

Alas, we have achieved notoriety for being the city where JFK was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald. We are also the town where Lee Harvey Oswald was assassinated - and the act caught on camera - by Jack Ruby, a local nightclub owner with ties to the mob. The Sixth Floor Museum is the infamous book depository and it has been converted into a small, but very worthwhile, museum. Learn about the players, the facts, the questions, and the conspiracies. Then walk over to the...

The day that JFK was murdered, he was sitting in the back of a convertible as it drove down Elm St. en route to the Dallas Market Center for a luncheon. It is a surprisingly small piece of lawn that today is full of conspiracy theorists. In the street in front of the grassy knoll is an "X" that is often painted over and then re-painted. It isn't official and the city doesn't want it there, but all of the rest of us curious folks do. It marks the alleged exact spot where JFK was killed.

Whether or not any of the theories are true remains to be seen, but it is a fascinating way to spend some time. The theorists that keep vigil along the lawn are certainly passionate and often convincing. Books and videos are for sale and you may just be curious enough to buy one and surprise yourself by the purchase.

Lunch at Klyde Warren park or Farmer's Market

There are a lot of restaurants downtown, but I would drive or take a long walk to either Klyde Warren park or Farmer's Market. They are in opposite directions but relatively close to the Sixth Floor and grassy knoll area but map it out and decide if you want to hoof it or drive it.

Dallas' downtown and uptown are divided by a connector highway called Woodall Rogers Freeway. Several years ago, Klyde Warren was built as a way to reunify the two areas of town via a park that goes over the highway. If you build it, they will come and that is what has happened here. It is a lovely park that includes a performance pavilion, food trucks, water sprays for the kids, a children's closed off play area and library facilities to rent games and read books or magazines while you relax. A large lawn encourages picnics and ball games. It is centered perfectly around our Arts District so it is also a good rest spot if you are interested in seeing our fantastic Arts district.

Several years ago, our Farmer's Market was re-imagined and it now houses a food hall, an outdoor area and shops below apartments. It is filled with local vendors selling produce, clothing, beauty / spa products, jewelry and food. There are some great home decor places and there is a fabulous winery that sells their local wines from their vineyard in Celina, Texas using their own grapes. I consider myself a wine snob and have historically not been a fan of Texas wines but I am finding that I need to revisit this, as I have had several wines made from Texas grapes and have been pleasantly surprised on each of those occasions. On a recent girl's weekend, we visited the Market. Our wine connoisseur, Chad, got distracted as a voluptuous woman walked by wearing a string bikini. "Folks, that bikini is being held up by hope," he said off-the-cuff in his distinctly Southern accent.

Tex-Mex or BBQ Dinner

Again, it would be so easy to just give a list of places to go and restaurants to try. Food-wise, we excel in Tex-Mex, BBQ and steakhouses. We have lots of great international food as well, but you probably didn't come here for that.

E-Bar is well known in East Dallas and in the past couple of years has gotten widespread recognition as being one of the best Tex Mex places in Dallas. You can order anything on this menu and it's amazing. Doesn't matter. I find it admirable, but I'm pretty far from being a vegetarian and I could even eat vegetarian food here (at least if it was Lent:). Otherwise, I recommend Jorge's tacos which are street tacos that can be served with the meat of your choice. Do half brisket or carnitas and the other half ground beef. You don't get rice or beans so add a side of their beans because they are good. Want something that you won't get at all restaurants? Try their fresh elotes . Their margaritas are always on point so make sure you get one of those as well. Their salsa is so good that I would recommend asking for a pint to go with chips so that you can late night binge wherever you are staying.

Both of these BBQ places are popular in Dallas and both are delicious. If you go to Pecan Lodge , lines are long and food can sell out. I put this down for dinner but if this place is important to you, go at lunch so you can ensure nothing sells out. You can skip the long line out front by ordering a trough which is 5 lbs of meat. If there are more than 2 adults eating, go for it. BBQ heats up well and it's worth your time not to stand in line. Plus it's fun to feel naughty and skip lines even though it's perfectly legit. People that don't know this rule will think you are famous. Next door is Emporium Pies. Make sure that you leave room and go get a slice (or two) of pie

Terry Black's BBQ is delicious Central Texas BBQ. If you haven't been down there to try the original place, check out Terry Black's in Dallas and get a great taste of Texas BBQ. Note that both of these places are in Deep Ellum , which was a major blues spot in the 1930s and is now a thriving restaurant and bar district. Spend the rest of the evening walking around Deep Ellum and enjoying the music and stores.

When visiting cities, it's fun to do some shopping and letting part of the group decide if they want to do that or if they'd rather just sit outside and enjoy a nice, cold drink. Sundance Square is several blocks of stores, entertainment, and dining. And parking is free! It's fun just to lollygag around and then enjoy a margarita and lunch on a patio.

Every day at 11:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., there is a longhorn drive down East Exchange Drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards . Blink and you will miss it so make sure that you are on time. Cowboys and cowgirls herd the longhorn herd down the street for photo ops. There are also lots of shops and restaurants. Take a look around at the shops and also go into the colosseum to see what the rodeo ground look like. There is a shop there that is a lot of fun to look around and buy good gifts. I also recommend paying the small entrance fee and walking into Billy Bob's dance hall. You can have a drink, play some games, shop and get a feel for what the weekend must be like. There is also a small rodeo space in there as well. It's fun to look at the autographs of the music and rodeo legends that have graced the halls of this historic building.

Get a snack because it's gonna be a late lunch.

The White Elephant Saloon has been around since the 1890s. It is inhabited by the ghost of former Sheriff Jim Courtright, one of the city's most corrupt lawmen. In the city's alleged last gunfight, the bar's owner Luke Short outdrew Courtright and killed him. The saloon is now owned by restauranteur Tim Love of the famous Lonesome Dove steakhouse.

I've never been there without a band playing and it's fun to look at all of the elephant decorations and cowboy hats that adorn the wall and ceiling as you sip your beer. I've also never been where we haven't ended up striking up a conversation with someone at the bar or a table next to us and it always makes for a good memory.

While you are just across the street, take a look inside the Stockyards Hotel . This hotel dates back to 1907 and is still a popular place for locals looking for a staycation.

Joe T. Garcia's is legendary. If you say that you've been to Fort Worth, you will be asked if you went there. It is a Tex-Mex restaurant that has a very simple menu that is served in abundant portions. The outside grounds are beautiful with plants and waterfalls throughout the grounds. Often, you have to wait in line but you can walk around to the bar, grab a drink and stand in line with it. You probably won't mind. Enjoy the afternoon, take some pictures and check Joe T.'s off of your list.

If you have time and energy, stop by the Fort Worth Water Gardens . If it's getting to be beyond 3 p.m., head back to Dallas for the night. Dallas traffic is something serious ya'll. We drive fast, erratically and we manage to drive crazy even in rush hour traffic. When we got back from our trip around the world, the only thing that I was scared about was my reintroduction to driving in Dallas.

I've got a few suggestions on places to stay and one last note - if you are leaving out of Dallas Love Field, save time to stop by Mia's and get one last taste of Tex-Mex on your way out. Order the brisket tacos which comes with a delightful au jus and of course, get a margarita. Consider asking for to-go of anything; they will package you up so that you can safely take it home with you on the plane.

Places to Stay: There are no shortage of hotel rooms, but these are my personal favorites.

Hilton Anatole - this is a great mid-price hotel. It has nice rooms and a good view of the city. If it's summertime and you have kids, you can't miss the pool area complete with water slides and a lazy river. Locals flock here from Memorial Day until Labor Day.

Warwick Melrose Hotel - This is a gorgeous historic hotel in the Dallas Uptown area. The bar features live music and they have an amazing buffet.

The Adolphus - this is an elegant hotel in downtown Dallas that has hosted many dignitaries. It is easily one of the most beautiful hotels in the city.

The Joule - Bill and I lived across the street from this historic building when they were renovating it to become a hotel. I'll never forget looking up every day and wondering what the heck they were building on the roof. Infinity pool hanging over Main St? Why not?

Hotel ZaZa - if there's a rock star in town or a bachelorette party, there's a good chance they are poolside at Hotel ZaZa.

If you are doing a bigger trip around Texas, check out the links to these related articles:

Texas Bucket List: 10 Places That You Must Visit

Spring Break Ideas within 4 Hours of Dallas (that aren't Austin or the Hill Country)

Also, please subscribe below to get updates each week when new articles come out.

Happy travels,

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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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The essential guide to visiting Texas

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the Lone Star State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Texas

Big skies and bigger parks. Barbecue and Tex-Mex food (don’t miss the breakfast tacos). A vibrant live music scene in   Austin and world-class birding in South Texas. Plus, cowboys .

Best time to visit Texas

Spring:   March and April bring colorful wildflowers (indigo-hued bluebonnets , red-and-yellow Indian blankets) to the highways and backroads in Central Texas. In Austin,   the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center has 284 acres of native plants inspired by the   Texas-born first lady . Outdoor festivals crowd the calendar. Austin’s South by Southwest Festival offers films and concerts each March; San Antonio ’s ebullient Fiesta   celebrates the city’s Hispanic heritage with parades, a stuff-your-face food festival , and concerts in April. And midway between Austin and Houston , the March Round Top Antiques Fair fills tents, barns, and hayfields with French furniture, vintage cowboy boots, and more.

Summer:   Y’all, it’s hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat the heat at one of the state’s Gulf of Mexico beaches , including South Padre Island , where you can watch hatchling releases of baby Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles . Or do as the locals do and go tubing in the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels or in the Frio River in Garner State Park .

Autumn:   Cooler temps lure Texans outdoors to events such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival , with bands in Zilker Park,   or the State Fair of Texas   in Dallas where you can eat a corn dog and wave to Big Tex ,   the 55-foot-tall animatronic greeter.   Lost Maples State Natural Area ,   northwest of San Antonio, has the state’s best fall colors. Celebrate New Braunfels ’ German heritage at Wurstfest .

Winter:   Mild weather makes outdoor activities pleasant around the holidays. In San Antonio, stroll the Riverwalk, where the bald cypress trees are draped with twinkling lights. Amid the Victorian downtown of Galveston , Dickens on the Strand brings costumed revelers and roving musicians.  

Four of America’s largest cities are in Texas.

In the south, San Antonio was once a part of Spain and later Mexico, a history that shows up at the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions . Houston has high culture (art museums, the acclaimed Alley Theatre ) and the NASA Johnson Space Center , where tram tours take in Mission Control and other sites.  

Sister cities Dallas and Fort Worth are just 30 miles apart in North Texas. In “Big D,” catch home games from the Dallas Cowboys football team or hear live music in funky Deep Ellum . A good art museum scene and cowboy culture rule in neighboring Fort Worth, where hatted herders lead longhorn cattle through the Stockyards District every day.

The capital city of Austin is known for live music, barbecue, and Barton Springs Pool , a natural, spring-fed watering hole and the soul of the city.

In the Rio Grande Valley,   an agricultural region bordering Mexico, there are cities such as McAllen and Brownsville plus the varied wildlife habitats (wetlands, thorn forests) of the World Birding Center .

In West Texas, El Paso   offers Tex-Mex bordertown culture amid the stark beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert and the foothills of the Franklin Mountains , best explored via mountain bike or hiking trails.

Parks and smaller cities

The Hill Country

The rolling terrain of the Hill Country in Central Texas is home to Fredericksburg , with its throwback main street full of indie boutiques and German restaurants plus 60-plus wineries in and around town. You’ll also find cowboy culture in Bandera and the beer-drinking enclave made famous in Waylon Jennings’   song “ Luckenbach , Texas .”

The Big Bend  

Two of the state’s largest parks— Big Bend National Park and the adjacent Big Bend Ranch State Park —lure hikers, bikers, and campers to the desert and mountain landscapes of West Texas. Stargaze at the University of Texas’ McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, or check out the Donald Judd art installations in funky Marfa .  

Texas Coast  

The longest barrier island in the world, Padre Island stretches for 113 miles from the tip of South Texas to Corpus Christi .   Farther north, Galveston Island is the birthplace of Juneteenth and home to Victorian mansions.  

Panhandle  

Palo Duro Canyon , the second largest canyon in the U.S. and a state park, carves through the Panhandle for 120 miles.  

Getting in and around Texas

By plane: Dallas-Fort Worth International, George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, and Austin-Bergstrom International offer domestic and international service; San Antonio International serves Mexico and other cities in the U.S.

By bus: Vonlane   and RedCoach   have luxury bus service between Austin, Dallas/Forth Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Valley Metro serves the Rio Grande Valley.

By train: Amtrak operates two train routes through Texas—the Texas Eagle   and Sunset Limited .

By car: Texas is easily accessible via major interstates including I-10, I-20, I-35, I-45, and I-37. One of the most scenic drives is FM 170, or the River Road, which hugs the Rio Grande and cuts through Big Bend Ranch State Park between Presidio and Lajitas.

In town: Major cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso have bus service and bike share systems. DART rail in Dallas serves 65 stations. Austin’s CapMetro rail operates a single line from downtown to the northern suburbs. Houston’s three METRORail   lines connect tourist destinations. The Streetcar in El Paso loops through uptown and downtown.

Know before you go

Cultural history: Native Americans have occupied Texas for more than 14,000 years. Coastal tribes like the Karankawa were semi-nomadic, the Caddos in East Texas and Jumanos in the West farmed and traded. Comanches and Apaches hunted bison and raided villages in the north and west. Enslaved Africans helped the Spanish settle parts of Texas in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The flags of France, Spain, and Mexico once flew over the state, which declared its independence from Mexico in 1836 and joined the U.S in 1846. Texas seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States of America in 1861. The end of enslavement was announced in Galveston at the end of the Civil War, leading to the Juneteenth holiday .   Immigrants from around the world, including Germany and Czechia,   arrived during the 18th   and 19th centuries, making their marks on places such as New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, and Kerrville .

LGBTQ+ : Texas ranked 27th in a 2020 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. Despite Texas’ conservative politics, cities such as Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio get high marks on the Human Rights Campaign 2022 Municipal Equality Index scorecard.

How to visit Texas sustainably

Help preserve habitat by sticking to designated trails and roads. Support businesses that promote dark night skies. It’s legal to drive on public beaches, but watch for wildlife, including nesting sea turtles, and use reef-safe sunscreen. The Love Fredericksburg and Port A Way stewardship   campaigns encourage visitors to keep an eye out for wildlife and pick up litter. Look for LEED-certified hotels and restaurants committed to selling locally grown food.

What to read  

Empire of the Summer Moon , by S.C. Gwynne. This sweeping historic account follows four decades of fighting with the Comanches, Spanish colonialism, the decimation of the American bison and the arrival of railroads.

Forget the Alamo ,   by Bryan Burrough, Chris Tomlinson and Jason Stanford. The myths surrounding the Texas “cradle of liberty” get debunked and explored in this fascinating look at the evolution of the Lone Star State, its legends, and its prejudices. Valley of Shadows ,   by Rudy Ruiz. In this novel set in 19th-century West Texas, tensions along the Mexican border bubble up in dramatic, dark style—with a dash of magical realism.  

( For more tips on what to do in Texas, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• STATE PARKS
• DARK-SKY PRESERVES
• CITY GUIDES

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Plan Your Trip

Dallas has so many things to do for your next getaway.

From the classics like Reunion Tower and Perot Museum of Nature and Science , to new experiences in must-see spots like Trinity Groves and the Design District . Throughout Dallas, you'll find plenty of ways to fill a one, two, or even three-day trip to Dallas with performances, restaurants, and adventures.

Start planning now! Find out how to get anywhere in town, enjoying the nation's longest light rail system, and the free trolley system, among other things. Check our calendar of events for fun activities happening during your stay. And always take a look at our Dallas Now blog for the latest on new places to explore, the best new restaurants to check out and all the fun stuff happening in the city every season!

Dallas Seasonal Fun

Sunny days galore! Plan ahead for family activities, solo adventures and annual events for your next Dallas getaway, no matter the season.

Dallas - the Official Home of the Frozen Margarita - invites you to explore the Margarita Mile, the city's collection of the most colorful margaritas.

Planning Essentials

Get started on planning your Dallas getaway!

Getting Here & Getting Around

With two major airports providing daily direct flights from 250 destinations, Dallas is four hours by air from almost anywhere in the country. Plus, the robust number of non-stop flights originating in…

Weather & Average Temperatures

Year-round sunny weather in Dallas offers predictably pleasant experiences! Come fall or spring, summer or winter - an outdoor adventure is waiting for you in Dallas no matter when you arrive.

Once the sun sets, there’s no shortage of adventures in Dallas. From live music to cocktails on the rooftops, make sure your Dallas plans include a night out.

Sports & Recreation

Dallas is home to seven professional sports teams including, the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, Dallas Jackals, Dallas Wings and FC Dallas. We're also host to several major sporting events like…

Welcome to the official Dallas calendar of events! Thanks to our partners across the city, we’ve included everything happening in town now and in the coming months, including concerts, festivals, fairs, sports…

Travel Accessibility and Inclusion

Dallas is happy to welcome visitors of all abilities. We believe all visitors should explore our city confidently knowing they are welcomed by the local community.

First Time Guides

First Timer’s Guide to the Dallas Museum of Art

The Ultimate Guide to the State Fair of Texas

The First Timer’s Guide to Visiting George W. Bush Library

First Timer’s Guide to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Crow Museum of Asian Art

Selfie Guide

Where to Stay

Dallas has more than 35,000 hotel rooms, ranging from budget and boutique to luxurious, and you'll find one that's perfect for your stay in town, no matter which neighborhood you settle in.

FAQs About Dallas

Contrary to popular belief, we're not all cowboy hats and horses. We're a cosmopolitan city boasting the diverse and distinct neighborhoods and the largest contiguous arts district in the nation. What else is there to know about this great city? Find out with our most frequently asked questions.

Where is Dallas located?

Dallas, Texas is located in North Texas and is the ninth most populated city in the United States.

What's the weather like?

The spring and fall seasons bring great weather to Dallas - expect warm days and some chilly nights. Summer (June - August) brings the warmest days to the area, and 100+ degree days are common. November through February brings mild to cold weather. Snow is not likely, but we get lucky sometimes!

How do I get to Dallas?

Thanks to its central location, getting to Dallas is easy! We have two major airports (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field Airport) and more domestic nonstop flights than any other U.S. city.

Do I need a car to get around Dallas?

While it’s not a requirement, having a car will certainly help. Rideshare programs are available everywhere, and free transportation options like the McKinney Avenue Trolley help get you around the city center. You can also take advantage of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), the city’s bus and light rail service that will transport you all over the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

What is Dallas famous for?

Contrary to popular belief, we’re not all Cowboy boots, hats and horses. We’re the city where Texan meets modern and legacy meets luxury - and we like to say it’s the most Texas city in Texas. It’s also the birthplace of the frozen margarita machine, so the Margarita Mile, a colorful collection of the city’s best margaritas, is a must during your visit.

What should I see and do in Dallas?

You can do it all in Dallas. From world class arts and cultural experiences to spectacular dining - there’s something for everyone. Take advantage of the Dallas CityPASS to visit must-see attractions or wander on your own into our best neighborhoods.

What sort of events does Dallas host?

The big ones include the State Fair of Texas in the fall, Dallas Pride in June, and various cultural festivities throughout the year. Of course, many people visit each year for Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Cowboys games - some of the biggest events Dallas hosts each year! Check out our list of annual events for more ideas.

What kind of food is there in Dallas?

Taste the unique culture of Dallas firsthand, with incredible dining options spread throughout the city. Sample the finest in chef-driven cuisine - from internationally-inspired dishes like Laotian boat noodles, ceviche and sashimi, to Texan mainstays like tacos, steak and barbecue. No matter your tastes, or your budget, there's an unforgettable meal waiting for you in Dallas.

Is Downtown Dallas walkable?

Yes! You can easily explore Downtown Dallas’ restaurants, museums and parks on foot. You can also rent bikes or scooters to get around, or jump on a Segway for a guided tour!

What can I do in Dallas for free?

There’s plenty to do when you’re on a budget! Check out our events calendar for free activities, and check out our collection of guides to free things to see and do in Dallas.

Is Dallas a good city for a solo trip?

Absolutely. That Texas hospitality will welcome you right in and make you feel at home. Check out our list of solo activities, as well as this list of restaurants best suited for a solo meal in the city.

Where is the best place to stay in Dallas?

There’s no wrong answer here, but we’ll give it a shot: most hotels are in the Downtown area, and that’s a good fit for those without their own transportation so you can easily get to your next stop. If you have a car and want a more budget-friendly option, hotels in the North Dallas area near NorthPark Center and Galleria Dallas are fantastic options - and you’re closer to some great shopping options too!

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Dallas?

You can’t visit Dallas without spending at least a few hours in Deep Ellum. It’s one of the city’s oldest and historic neighborhoods and is the bedrock for the area’s live music scene. Today, the neighborhood is full of bars and restaurants, live music venues and plenty of other activities. Uptown and Downtown are both extremely walkable and are great family-friendly options. Get to know other neighborhoods like Lower Greenville, Oak Lawn and the Bishop Arts District for a distinctively local vibe. Check out our neighborhoods list for more ideas!

More Local Culture

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Dallas vs Houston: Which City Should You Visit?

The Big D and H-Town have a rivalry going for generations. They’re both proud of their Texan culture and whether you choose to visit Dallas or Houston, you’ll find a city bursting with interesting things to do. Both cities have a great sports culture as well no matter what you want to watch from football to baseball to basketball.

However, there is a unique feel to each area.

Here’s what to know about Houston vs Dallas if you’re still on the fence about where to trek for a trip!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Choose Houston if…

You want to experience rodeo season..

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a colossal event every year.

It attracts millions of people from all corners of the world. In fact, it is the largest livestock exhibition in the entire world. If you want to steep yourself in the soul of Western culture this is the spot to be.

This event carries on for more than 3 weeks and you can see all of the heavy hitters in the rodeo world perform here. The economic impact has been likened to the equivalent to hosting the Super Bowl every year.

Lots of great musicians are also invited to perform every year, so if barrel riding isn’t your thing you might also be able to catch some great artists instead!

You’re a museum buff.

The Museum District is extremely popular for tourists and locals alike, and the network of museums is incredible in Houston. The main attraction is the NASA Space Center, of course. NASA has left such an imprint on this city that you will find dedications to flight, outer space, and mechanical engineering all over town.

There is a great gallery of exhibits for whatever you’re interested in. A wide array of these museums have free admission or time slots available for free admission which makes it a really great, inexpensive way to see the city.

You want a more photogenic location.

If your travels aren’t on the ‘gram, were you really even there?! (Just kidding. Sort of.) Houston has so many great Instagram-worthy spots filled with colorful street art, picturesque skylines, and rooftop views. There are so many great spots to get dressed up to take pictures and document your travels.

Whether it’s the WaterWall or a spot off the Houston Mural Map you’re bound to get some great snapshots of the city!

Choose Dallas if…

You want more parks and greenery..

Dallas has one of the largest municipal park systems in the country and is the clear winner on this front in the Dallas vs Houston debate.

In fact, Dallas has the benefit of having a state park situated near the city center. Additionally, parks and green spaces can be found in abundance.

One of the best Dallas attractions, Klyde Warren Park, is a small park built quite literally on top of a freeway! It feels that the city is very conscious of having greenery implemented throughout the city.

There are tons of hiking trails that are beginner-friendly, so you’ll have a chance to get outside regardless of skill level.

You want to experience fair season at the Texas State Fair.

The Texas State Fair is a massive, month-long party at Fair Park. It is the largest State Fair in the country with over 2 million attendees flocking to get in on all of the fun.

I’d definitely make a trip to Dallas just for the fair. They have all sorts of great events, food, and rides. It feels like being a kid again when you walk in!

You want more of a “small-town” feel.

Because the city is so spread out, and neighboring Ft. Worth has done such a good job of preserving its community feel, most of the city feels very cozy and close-knit. There are neighborhoods like Lower Greenville and Deep Ellum that are so great for walking around and bar hopping.

So many attractions are spread out so it never feels claustrophobic in one area, the city just feels so open and free.

Visit Dallas or Houston if…

You love sports..

Houston and Dallas both have a crazy sports culture. Whether it’s cheering on Cowboy Country or screaming the lyrics to “Deep in the Heart of Texas” at NRG Stadium, the feeling is so exhilarating. There is just something special about watching live sports in a place where everyone is so passionate.

College sports are also huge in Texas, the tailgates are always amazing. If you’re looking for an action-packed sports weekend, either Houston or Dallas will have you covered.

You want a family-friendly vacation spot.

Both cities have so many accommodations for families, whether it be free admission in museums for kids, or the youth ranger programs in the state parks.

There are several activities dedicated just to children in both cities, so it really can please even the pickiest of kids. There are great odes to western culture through rodeos, stables, and farms that are unique to Texas.

You can visit and even stay at working ranches, or go to a local stable and ride horses on the trails, it is a great way to experience a slower-paced vacation with the family!

You want a budget-friendly option.

Traveling to major cities can often rack up quite the bill. Whether you choose Dallas or Houston to visit, you’ll find many free or low-cost attractions.

Everything from museums to free festivals and events in the parks makes it a great option if you are on a budget. Both cities also have options like CityPass which bundle multiple attractions in one at a discounted price.

Houston vs Dallas: Should You Visit Both?

Both cities are definitely worth the visit for their unique traits. They have so much to offer in terms of art, history, and most importantly: food! I think for the food alone you should visit both spots. 

Houston has the NASA Space Center whereas Dallas has The Museum of Art.

Both are great options so why choose? If you have the time and capacity, definitely visit both.

Dallas vs Houston: The Final Decision

Most people in Texas rep their city hard. I am no exception. Despite the beauties of both cities I definitely prefer Dallas more as a vacation spot and as a place to set down roots!

Dallas has so many cool events happening and because several of them aren’t as mainstream yet you don’t get swallowed by a crowd. The smaller festivals and attractions are more digestible because there aren’t huge lines and photo ops everywhere. You can simply enjoy it and feel like you’re a part of the larger community.

You’ll definitely find Houston fans everywhere (it is the land of Beyoncé after all!).

Whichever city you choose to visit, or even if you choose both, you’ll have a great time! Have a good time…deep in the heart of Texas!….. (clap, clap, clap).

3 thoughts on “Dallas vs Houston: Which City Should You Visit?”

Dallas Museum of Art? I guess in Houston Museum District you missed the giant mult-block Houston Art Museum. As for greener Houston has many giant oak trees and tall pine trees. I was born in Dallas and moved to Houston. Oh, also, Houston’s Theatre District is second behind Broadway in size. Houston is also far more culturally diverse and is the most diverse city in the USA. Nothing like real Chinese food in China-town or Korean food in Little Korea or real Indian food in Little India or any real European foods in any of of the little areas. I prefer Houston as a destination. But, I’d also add in a trip to San Antonio while here.

Being from Boston I wanted a Texas Adventure! Spent a week in Dallas & a week in Houston! Should have spent the whole time in Dallas! Dallas was alive & vibrant! Houston was boring & depressing! Dallas has so many venues to see & go to plus so many wonderful suburbs, {Arlington, {hosting a Six Flags}, Irving, Ft Worth, Grapevine, Frisco & Plano just to name a few}, whereas Houston is quite limited! Dallas has the Dallas Arboretum & The Galleria Dallas every day & the world’s largest state fair for a month in the fall! Dallas is a very clean & beautiful city, whereas Houston dark & dirty!

Being from Houston, I might be a bit biased…but still, I’ve spent a bunch of time in both cities, and I gotta give it to Houston for sure. Yea, Dallas is more organized and a bit cleaner…but Houston is just a much better experience. The main difference is that Houston never tries to be anything that it isn’t, whereas Dallas tries far too hard to please everyone, mostly the well-to-do’s.

You’ll have a decent time in both cities, but Dallas’ pretentiousness is sure to turn a lot of folks off.

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Here's a look at the Dallas Cowboys 2024 NFL Draft picks

By Bill Jones

Updated on: April 27, 2024 / 8:28 PM CDT / CBS Texas

FRISCO — The 2024 NFL Draft has come to an end! The Dallas Cowboys made eight picks this year:

• First round (No. 29) 
• Second round (No. 56)
• Third round (No. 73)
• Third round (No. 87)
• Fifth round (No. 174)
• Sixth round (No. 216)
• Seventh round (No. 233)
• Seventh round (No. 244)

Here's who received a phone call from Jerry Jones:

Tyler Guyton Round 1 - No. 29

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones clearly had two goals in mind on Thursday night. First and foremost, Jones wanted to acquire an extra draft pick, so he hoped to trade down from the 24th spot in the first round.

Second, and just as importantly, he needed to draft an offensive lineman (preferably a tackle) to make up for the loss of future Hall of Famer Tyron Smith, who signed with the New York Jets this spring.

Jones accomplished both via a trade with the Buffalo Bills and the selection of Oklahoma tackle Tyler Guyton with the 29th pick in the first round. The Cowboys also get Buffalo's third-round (No. 73) pick Friday night.

At 6-foot-7.75, 322 pounds with 34-inch arms, Guyton possesses the traits NFL teams look for in a left tackle.

Read more about Guyton here . 

Marshawn Kneeland Round 2 - No. 56

The Cowboys are looking to fill some big needs in this 2024 NFL Draft, and they hope they have found a mainstay at defensive end with the selection of Western Michigan's 6-3, 267 pound Marshawn Kneeland with the 56th overall pick in the 2nd round. 

Kneeland describes himself as a "violent, physical, high motor, high effort" player who is always looking to find a way to get to the football. 

A three-year starter, Kneeland had 4.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss in 10 games in 2023. He measured well at the combine with a 7.02 cone drill, 4.18 short shuttle, 35.5 vertical, and 21 bench reps. 

After losing defending ends Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler to the rival Washington Commanders in free agency, the Cowboys have a definite need at the position. 

Long term, Kneeland projects as the heir apparent to 11-year veteran Demarcus Lawrence at the strong-side end position in Mike Zimmer's base defense. 

Read more about the day two draft picks  here .  

Cooper Beebe Round 3 - No. 73

The first of two third-round picks was used to beef up the offensive line. 6-foot-3, 322-pound Kansas State guard Cooper Beebe was named Big 12 Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year each of the last two seasons.

Beebe is a four-year starter who may convert to center and contend for a starting role as a rookie. The center position is up for grabs after Tyler Biadasz signed with Washington last month.

Marist Liufau Round 3 - No. 87

6-foot-2, 234-pound Notre Dame linebacker Marist Liufau, a native of Hawaii, started the last two seasons and has been described as the most energetic player on the field.

Liufau is the cousin of Los Angeles Rams Rookie of the Year receiver Puka Nacua and will help restore some depth to a depleted linebacking corps that lost Leighton Vander Esch, who retired due to chronic injury issues.

This second third round selection provides more help for Mike Zimmer's defense.

Read more about the day two draft picks here .

Caelen Carson Round 5 - No. 174

Carson is a cornerback out of Wake Forest.                                                            

Ryan Flournoy Round 6 - No. 216

Flournoy is a wide receiver from Southeast Missouri State University.

Nathan Thomas Round 7 - No. 233

Thomas is an OT from Louisiana-Lafayette.

Justin Rogers Round 7 - No. 244

Rogers is a DT from Auburn.

Find more NFL Draft coverage from Bill Jones  here .

• Jerry Jones
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Having grown up in Irving, Bill Jones has deep roots in the DFW area. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, he has spent his entire sportscasting career in the state of Texas, working in Lubbock, San Antonio, and Dallas-Fort Worth.

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Storms bring heavy rain, flooding to North Texas

At least 5 people, including infant, dead after night of tornadoes, storms in the Midwest

Dawn broke over scenes of devastation in several counties across Oklahoma on Sunday, with reports of severe structural damage, closed highways, blackouts, injuries and at least five deaths. There have been 35 reports of tornadoes overnight so far.

Twenty-seven million people remained at risk of severe weather into Sunday, including wind gusts, hail, flood risk and potentially more tornadoes.

Saturday's severe weather came less than 36 hours after more than 100 tornadoes leveled homes and buildings in six states Friday, with Nebraska and Iowa being hit hardest, officials said.

The National Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, confirmed late Saturday that multiple tornadoes were in its area, including one near Davenport and more than one in the area of Sulphur, a small town of about 5,000 people 80 miles south of Oklahoma City, which appeared to have taken the biggest hit.

On Sunday, the weather service's Norman office said that, based on preliminary damage survey results, tornadoes with ratings of at least EF3 tore through Sulphur and Marietta in Oklahoma. The service said more investigation would be necessary to determine whether the rating will go higher.

The Murray County Emergency Management reported “significant damage” in Sulphur. In Love County, patients had to shelter during storms that damaged Marietta Hospital, though no injuries were reported, the county emergency management office said.

Also in Marietta, four semitrucks overturned, killing one person, after a tornado ripped through Interstate 35 on Saturday night, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol said.

Oklahoma’s Office of Emergency Management confirmed three deaths, one near Marietta on I-35 and two others in Holdenville. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt arrived Sunday afternoon in Sulphur, where he said a fourth person died in the downtown area.

One of the Holdenville victims was 4 months old, Stitt's press secretary said, citing Holdenville officials.

More than 170 storms were reported Saturday after days of severe weather. Storms were still expected through southern Missouri to southeast Texas on Sunday.

Flash flooding is also a concern for 18 million people from Kansas City to Lake Charles, Louisiana. Some flood warnings will continue into Monday.Video emerging on social media early Sunday showed heavy damage across Sulphur, including toppled trees and scattered bricks and wooden beams. Buildings in the downtown area sustained significant structural damage, including blown-out windows and missing walls. Others appeared to have been leveled and reduced to rubble.

The Oklahoma Health Department reported 100 injuries at area hospitals, according to the state Emergency Management Department. Of the injured, 25 were cut or had been pierced, 30 fell, 16 were hit by or struck against objects, 17 sustained transportation-related injuries, and 12 others were hurt by other means, the emergency services department said. The extent of each of the injuries was unclear.

Red Cross Oklahoma said early Sunday that it was opening a shelter in Sulphur and was in contact with officials in more than a dozen counties to help with the immediate needs of affected residents.

Stitt signed an executive order Sunday declaring a disaster emergency.

In neighboring Hughes County, officials reported four people injured, as well as several structures either damaged or destroyed, after a tornado ripped through its western part late Saturday.

On Sunday, Hughes County Emergency Management reported 14 homes were damaged or destroyed in Holdenville. In addition, officials said four properties were damaged in Okfuskee County, and Pottawatomie County Emergency Management reported seven damaged structures in Dale and unincorporated areas of Shawnee.

There were also "numerous injuries" and damaged structures in Wagoner County, officials said.

Homes and other structures were also damaged in communities in Garfield, Grant, Kay, Payne and several other counties in Oklahoma, officials said.

The National Weather Service in Norman said that as of 1:25 a.m. local time Sunday, some tornado warnings had passed but that flash flooding remained a threat.

Bruce Thoren, meteorologist for the agency's Norman branch, said teams will go out to the Marietta and Sulphur areas while others may be sent elsewhere through the week.

"We are aware of other places that received damage, but based on travel time and other factors they will be looked at in days to come, probably not today," Thoren said. "The area that we cover is pretty large compared to other forecast offices, so to travel down and back could be up to four hours. So we’ll for sure get there, and we know there’s damage — just trying to figure out where we go today."Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. said early Sunday about 28,000 customers were without service as a result of the storms, primarily in southern Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Transportation Department warned early Sunday that I-35 was closed in both directions in Love County because of storm damage cleanup.

More than 30 million people in Oklahoma City; Dallas; Wichita, Kansas; Omaha, Nebraska; Milwaukee; and Madison, Wisconsin, were in the path of severe weather Saturday.

This round of severe weather arrived even as parts of Nebraska and Iowa were still reeling from the damage caused by two tornadoes that struck the region.

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said Saturday that no deaths had been reported and that there were relatively few minor injuries.

Despite heavy damage to some residents' homes, including those belonging to three Omaha firefighters and two police commanders, officials Saturday were grateful it wasn't worse.Speaking at an afternoon news conference, Stothert said she planned to sign an emergency declaration, which would allow residents to tap state and federal recovery aid.

She credited the National Weather Service and local news media for warning the public about the tornadoes.

"I do want to thank our local forecasters for the clear and accurate warnings that they gave," she said. "I absolutely feel that this early warning, because of all of you, you prevented a lot of injury and probably death."

Lindsay Huse, health director for Douglas County, where Omaha is located, said by email that fewer than two dozen people suffered minor injuries. They were treated at medical facilities and have been released, she said.

"That's just miraculous," Huse said earlier at the news conference.

The National Weather Service assessed two tornadoes that struck the Omaha area Friday afternoon. One started in the area of Lincoln and ended up in western Douglas County, NWS meteorologist Chris Franks said at the news conference.It was preliminarily assessed at a "solid" EF3 on the 0-5 scale used by federal forecasters, he said. An EF3 tornado can produce sustained winds of 136-165 mph and shift homes off their foundations while peeling away exterior walls.

At Omaha Eppley Airfield, a tornado preliminarily assessed at EF2 struck Friday afternoon, Franks said. An EF2 tornado can produce sustained winds of 111-135 mph that can partly peel away rooftops and breach window glass.

Tornado activity was also reported in neighboring Iowa. Franks estimated that 80 tornadoes were reported in Douglas County and adjacent communities in Nebraska and Iowa on Friday.

In Lancaster County, Nebraska, a tornado was blamed for a train derailment and a semitruck rollover, according to National Weather Service notes on Friday's vortexes.

Omaha Police Lt. Neal Bonacci said hundreds of homes were damaged, most of them in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city.

“You definitely see the path of the tornado,” Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters went door to door to help residents and search areas where people could be trapped, Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said.

"We’ll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we’ll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance," Bossman said.

Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn, told The Associated Press that he and his wife took shelter but could hear the tornado "coming through."

"When we came up, our fence was gone, and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood’s gone," he said.

His wife, Kim Woods, said the neighborhood to the north of them was "pretty flattened."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds declared a disaster emergency for Pottawattamie County after video on social media showed parts of Minden, about 30 miles northeast of Omaha, completely flattened.Jeff Theulen, the chief deputy of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, said at a news conference Friday evening that 40 or 50 homes were "completely destroyed." There have been two reports of injuries, one "fairly severe but not life-threatening," he told reporters.

By Sunday, officials estimated that the storms had damaged 300 homes and businesses in the county, Pottawattamie County said in a release. In the city of Minden, 48 homes were "completely destroyed."

Pottawattamie County added in the release that four people sustained storm-related injuries. Three were treated and released Friday evening. The fourth, who was previously listed as stable in critical condition, died overnight Saturday.

"It's very dangerous right now. We've shut off entrance to the city except for the people that live here," he said, noting that "50% of the town is damaged badly and then there’s light damage everywhere else."

In nearby Shelby County, about 40 homes were damaged, county emergency coordinator Alex Londo said. Officials were assessing the destruction, he said, noting there have been no reports of deaths.

National Weather Service offices surveyed damage ahead of more severe weather expected Saturday.

The service reported 106 tornadoes Friday in Nebraska, Iowa, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Another tornado was reported Friday morning in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma.Oklahoma was also affected by the unstable air and thunderstorms that marched eastward Friday, but the weather service listed no confirmed tornadoes in the state.

Among Friday's tornadoes getting a preliminary assessment by the weather service were two near Waco, Texas — one believed to be at EF2 strength — and the other assessed at EF1 (86-110 mph).

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Kathryn Prociv is a senior meteorologist and producer for NBC News. 

Christine Rapp is a meteorologist for NBC News.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

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Texas' Jonathon Brooks becomes first RB chosen after Cowboys' Jerry Jones' called him 'outstanding'

Cowboys owner's words may have helped lead to them losing a top target, but jones doesn't think his words had an effect.

FRISCO, Texas --  It's never been more clear that the present day NFL is all about offense than it was Thursday night for the opening round of the 2024 NFL Draft .

Twenty-three of the first round's 32 picks were offensive players, the most ever in an NFL Draft's first round, and that figure included 14 consecutive picks used on offensive players to begin the draft, the most picks in a row on one side of the ball at any point in a single NFL Draft all time. 

However, none of those picks were running backs, a position in which the Dallas Cowboys have a gaping hole thanks to 2023 starter Tony Pollard departing for the Tennessee Titans in free agency this offseason after signing a three-year, $21.8 million contract. Rico Dowdle , a 2020 undrafted free agent, and 2023 sixth-round pick Deuce Vaughn are currently the Cowboys' one-two punch at the position on their running back depth chart. Dallas' desperation at the position is so high they reconnected with former running back Ezekiel Elliott , who had the worst year of his career in 2023 with the New England Patriots .  

The Cowboys also clearly had a draft crush on Texas Longhorns running back Jonathon Brooks, a prospect CBS Sports HQ NFL analyst Rick Spielman, the Minnesota Vikings general manager from 2006-2021 (16 seasons), also identified as the 2024 NFL Draft's top running back . 

"In my 30 years, I thought it was the best interview that I've ever interviewed with a player," Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones said late Thursday at the team's post-Round 1 press conference. "He's [Brooks] outstanding. He's just outstanding. He's a great football player. We've got him high, high, high. And he's a good player." 

His son Stephen, the Cowboys COO and executive vice president, then elbowed him, saying "you're showing the [draft] board!"

Dallas never had the chance to select Brooks at pick No. 56 since the Carolina traded up six spots from 52nd overall to 46th overall to select the Texas Longhorn. Brooks being the first running back off the board at 46th overall makes the 2024 draft the second-latest the first running back had ever come off the board, ahead of only the 2014 draft (Bishop Sankey 56th overall). 

The 2023 Second Team All-Big 12 running back averaged 129.5 scrimmage yards per game in 2023, the second-most in the Big 12, thanks to the six-foot, 216-pound back's combination of speed, agility and acceleration. Brooks' ability to make a single cut and then float to the outside before accelerating into the open field appears to be magical. Last November at TCU, he was on fire with 104 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns on 21 carries, but his final collegiate season was cut short by a torn ACL injury he suffered in the fourth quarter that night. 

No team possessed more information about Brooks' rehabilitation process than the Cowboys because Dallas' team doctor Dan Cooper performed the running back's ACL surgery. 

"I would echo Jerry's thoughts," Stephen said. "I got to sit with him as well. He's outstanding and certainly I think he's working his tail off to get that knee [right]. He's good friends with our guy [2023 third-round pick out of Texas, linebacker DeMarvion] Overshown [who tore his ACL in Cowboys training camp last year], so I think they're taking notes on each other's knees and how they're coming along. They're competitive like that. But like Jerry said, he's one hell of a football player and was having a great year for Texas, and it's unfortunate that he had the knee injury but after visiting with him, you're betting on him."

Brooks is also dealing with the death of his father, who died in 2022 at age 49 after complications with kidney failure. 

"A tough year," Jerry said. "He lost his dad and of course hurt his knee, and that's obviously one of the roughest times being in athletics, is coming off an injury. He's a good player." 

After all the gushing about Brooks, Cowboys vice president of player personnel Will McClay curtly ended the conversation about Brooks, which also put a wrap on Thursday night's late night media session. 

"And one of several great players that are still left in this draft," McClay said dryly.

Dallas possesses four picks on Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft:  a fifth (No. 174), a sixth (No. 216) and two sevenths (No. 233 and No. 244) . After the public love fest about Brooks and him being taken 10 picks before them, Jones remained steadfast about his love for Brooks. 

"Well, I have such an appreciation for him [Brooks], and like I said last night, I think he is going to be an outstanding, outstanding player," Jones said. "I'm going to tell you something: 'The Cowboys can't get all the outstanding players.' I'm being trite when I say that, but that's when you're looking at them from a little bit afar. The day they put the Star on their helmet through the draft like I said, then that's a different look. These guys really in general represent themselves really well. He was outstanding."

While some believe Jones was inflating Brooks' stock to trick teams into reaching for him, he maintained everything he has said about Brooks is genuine. 

"No, I really mean it," Jones said when asked if he was smoke-screening on Thursday or artificially inflating Brooks' value. "I didn't realize talking about a player like that that was still on the board and hadn't been drafted. I didn't have a problem. I don't think it hurts our chances or helps theirs for me to talk about what a great interview we had. There are some good running backs out there I would like to have on the Dallas Cowboys."

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Dallas Cowboys Have Three Picks in Today's Rounds 2 and 3 of NFL Draft. Updated Draft Pick List For The Cowboys

Cowboys traded back on day one of the NFL Draft and picked up an additional selection

• Author: Chris Pirrone

In this story:

The Cowboys were slated to pick 24th in the first round of the NFL Draft. They instead worked a trade with the Detroit Lions to move to 29th while picking up an extra third-round pick, 73rd overall from the Lions.

Who did the Cowboys draft in Round 1?

After moving back to slot 29, the Cowboys selected Oklahoma OT Tyler Guyton, who played at TCU in 2020 and 2021 and Oklahoma in 2023. SI's NFL Draft Tracker Grade: A+ The Dallas Cowboys got their offensive lineman and they found a way to get a third round pick out of the deal. At 29th overall, the Cowboys take Tyler Guyton and he can play both on the right and left sides. With Tyler Smith being so successful at left guard, Guyton will be able to thrive at left tackle long term. Guyton is a prototypical tackle, but he will need to add strength for success the next level.

Updated Cowboys Draft Picks

Related: Grading Each Cowboys Picks in the 2024 NFL Draft

• Round 1 • Pick 29 (29) • OT Tyler Guyton Related: OT Tyler Guyton Will Be The Next Pro Bowl Lineman For The Cowboys
• Round 2 • Pick 24 (56) • EDGE Marshawn Kneeland Related Analysis: Dallas Cowboys Second Round Pick DE Marshawn Kneeland Is 'Explosive' 'Athletic'
• Round 3 • Pick 9 (73) • G Cooper Beebe Related: Here's what the Cowboys are getting in versatile OL Cooper Beebe
• Round 3 • Pick 24 (87) • LB Marist Liufau Related: Cowboys DC Mike Zimmer tells Marist Liufau exact moment he knew he wanted to draft him
• Round 5 • Pick 39 (174) • CB Caelen Carson Related: Cowboys Carson selectin raised some eyebrows among NFL draft analysts
• Round 6 • Pick 40 (216) • WR Ryan Flournoy
• Round 7 • Pick 13 (233) • OT Nathan Thomas
• Round 7 • Pick 24 (244) • DT Justin Rogers

Jerry Jones Praises Texas RB Jonathon Brooks: The Best Interview in 30 Years

Cowboys should be looking for running back help at pick 56. Jerry Jones seems very high on Jonathan Brooks from Texas, stating, "In 30 years, I thought it was the best interview I’ve ever had with a player. He (Brooks) is outstanding. We got him high, high, high (on our board). He’s a good player."

Related: 2024 NFL Draft: Updated Day 2 draft order after flurry of trades in Round 1

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NFL Draft 2024 Round 1 selections, Round 2 start time: Here's what we know

Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft ended Thursday, and the second round is quickly approaching.

Here's what we know about the first round results, when Round 2 begins and which Texas Longhorns have made the cut.

More: What time does the NFL Draft start? TV channels, how to watch, stream 2024 draft picks

2024 NFL Draft first-round results

Here is a list of the NFL Draft 2024 results from Round 1:

• Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers): QB Caleb Williams, USC
• Washington Commanders: QB Jayden Daniels, LSU
• New England Patriots: QB Drake Maye, North Carolina
• Arizona Cardinals: WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
• Los Angeles Chargers: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
• New York Giants: WR Malik Nabers, LSU
• Tennessee Titans: OT JC Latham, Alabama
• Atlanta Falcons: QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
• Chicago Bears: WR Rome Odunze, Washington
• Minnesota Vikings (from New York Jets): QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
• New York Jets (from Vikings): OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
• Denver Broncos: QB Bo Nix, Oregon
• Las Vegas Raiders: TE Brock Bowers, Georgia
• New Orleans Saints: OL Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
• Indianapolis Colts: DE Laiatu Latu, UCLA
• Seattle Seahawks: DT Byron Murphy II, Texas
• Vikings (from Jacksonville Jaguars): DE/OLB Dallas Turner, Alabama
• Cincinnati Bengals: OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
• Los Angeles Rams: DE Jared Verse, Florida State
• Pittsburgh Steelers: OL Troy Fautanu, Washington
• Miami Dolphins: OLB/DE Chop Robinson, Penn State
• Philadelphia Eagles: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
• Jacksonville Jaguars (from Cleveland Browns via Houston Texans and Vikings): WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
• Detroit Lions (from Dallas Cowboys): CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama
• Green Bay Packers: OT Jordan Morgan, Arizona
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: OL Graham Barton, Duke
• Arizona Cardinals (from Texans): DL Darius Robinson, Missouri
• Kansas City Chiefs (from Buffalo Bills): WR Xavier Worthy, Texas
• Dallas Cowboys (from Lions) : OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma
• Baltimore Ravens: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
• San Francisco 49ers: WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida
• Carolina Panthers (from Chiefs via Bills): WR Xavier Legette, South Carolina

2024 NFL Draft Round 2 start time

The second round of the NFL Draft 2024 begins Friday at 7 p.m. CT.

• Thursday, April 25: 7 p.m. CT. First round.
• Friday, April 26: 6 p.m. CT. Second and third rounds.
• Saturday, April 27: 11 a.m. CT. Fourth through seventh rounds.

Draft tracker: Who did the Dallas Cowboys draft? See NFL draft tracker for round-by-round picks

Texas Longhorns NFL Draft 2024

Two Texas football players were picked in Round 1:

• Seattle Seahawks, Round 1, Pick No. 16 overall:  Byron Murphy II, DT
• Kansas City Chiefs, Round 1, Pick No. 28 overall:  Xavier Worthy, WR

People are also reading: How many Texas football players were picked in 2024 NFL draft? Every Longhorn taken after Day 1