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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.

Getty Images

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.

Strekoza2/Getty Images

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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The 14 Best Things to Do in Dallas

By Priya Krishna and Jonathan Thompson

You’ve heard the expression: Everything's bigger in Texas —and those who say it all over the state aren’t wrong. But few Texas cities embody that mantra more than the sprawling metropolis of Dallas, one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, already boasting the largest urban Arts District in the nation, and the country's second-busiest airport. With more than 20,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline (second only to New York City ), and preparations well underway for its upcoming spotlight as a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, there’s never been a better time to experience the Big D. Here are the best things to do in Dallas when you inevitably come to town.

Rad our complete Dallas travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Klyde Warren Park Arrow

This public park spans more than five acres across the busy Woodall Rogers Freeway. It acts as a bridge connecting uptown to downtown, but it also has abundant green space, a paved trail for joggers or walkers, fountains, a dog park, and daily free programming, ranging from yoga to movie screenings. In November 2022, its most recent addition saw an improved 6,000 square foot children’s park open, including a state-of-the-art kids’ climbing wall and a shaded pavilion for events.

Dallas Arboretum Arrow

Frequently named one of the top botanical gardens in the world, the fairytale-esque Dallas Arboretum sits resplendent on 66 glorious acres, overlooking majestic White Rock Lake. From the innovative Trial Gardens to the serene Woman’s Garden, this is the kind of Eden-like enclave where you’ll actively want to get lost amid the blooming beauty. The ‘Cool Thursdays Concert Series’ on the manicured lakeside lawn are also a major treat in the Spring and Fall—particularly when enjoyed with a picnic and a glass of bubbly in hand.

AT&T Discovery District Arrow

Located at the geographic heart of downtown, the new Discovery District was years in the making and is a great outdoor meeting, drinking, and dining spot for commuters and tourists alike. It's essentially an enormous courtyard, so it's easy to navigate—the only real choice is where to sit and order. Jaxon, with its large outdoor space, is a favorite, but there are also plenty of great options in the Food Hall, including Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine from Baboushi and delicious seafood options from The Dock. AT&T clearly put a lot of thought into the space's installations: the 104-foot-tall Media Wall is hard to miss, bringing digital art to life in incredible detail, while The Globe is a perspective-twisting multicolored tunnel containing an interactive light and sound experience. It's a perfect place for a weekday lunch or a relaxed evening, with excellent people-watching as all of Dallas flows by. 

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Arrow

Set in the infamous Texas School Book Depository building, the museum covers the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy and is one of the state’s most visited historic sites. Explore the story from every angle at the impressive Sixth Floor Museum, housed in the infamous book depository from where Lee Harvey Oswald’s shots ricocheted on November 22, 1963. Poke through 40,000 artifacts and stand at the exact window where Oswald fired from, then head down to the grassy knoll to make up your own mind about the existence of a ‘second shooter.’ Afterwards, board the JFK Trolley Tour to visit other key sites first hand, including the Texas Theatre, the art-deco cinema where Oswald was finally apprehended by police.

Shannon McMahon

Mark Ellwood

Chris Schalkx

Emily Saladino

Crown Block Arrow

Situated atop Dallas' iconic Reunion Tower, Crown Block boasts the best views in town—and also some of the best food. A rare steak and fine seafood restaurant, it's swiftly become a place for the big movers and shakers of the Big D to see and be seen since its opening in April 2023. As the elevator opens onto the 18th floor restaurant, it's hard not to be blown away by the sight of downtown Dallas in all its glory, unfurling beyond the floor to ceiling windows. There's a strict dress code, exceptional service, and an unbelievable sense of romance. It's the perfect place for an important date or a big birthday, basking in the undeniably sexy surroundings.

Dallas Museum of Art Arrow

Dallas boasts one of the largest urban arts districts in America, encompassing a mind-boggling 118 acres of museums, galleries, and theaters. Highlights include the AT&T Performing Arts Center, a four-venue complex centered on Sir Norman Foster’s striking drum-shaped Winspear Opera House, as well as I.M. Pei’s lavish Meyerson Symphony Center. But the headline act of them all is the Dallas Museum of Art, one of the largest institutions of its kind in the country, housing nearly 25,000 objects from the third century through present-day, across 159,000 square feet. The museum’s permanent collection (free to enter for all, every day) is particularly strong in African sculpture, decorative arts, and contemporary works, including paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.

Upstairs Circus Arrow

This is a completely different take on a regular bar, where you complete craft projects while drinking craft cocktails. It's a lot of fun, with people of all ages chatting and laughing while completing creations ranging from jewelry and leather wallets to homeware. Most people are either on dates (this is a genius date idea) or in bigger groups of friends. The location is great, the drinks are affordable, and you get to head home with a cool item you created yourself. It's a win-win-win. Because of the set-up, it's more about the creative projects than the creative juices on the menu, but the cocktails are genuinely tasty. (The trick is not to drink too many, so you don't mess up what you're working on.)

Sweet Tooth Hotel Arrow

Opened in October 2022, Sweet Tooth Hotel is not a hotel but an immersive art exhibit open to the public daily. A platform for emerging experiential artists, it's bright, dynamic, colorful, and an Instagrammer's dream—think edgy modern art gallery meets neon disco garden. The nine distinct gallery spaces are loosely linked by the "hotel" theme. Each one feels like you are entering a new, vibrant suite with something different to say. The staff are great—readily available to explain the thinking behind the exhibits (which is very helpful, as signage is limited). The bar staff at the Calirosa Cocktail Lounge are also awesome, and make a great selection of inventive cocktails, including Bubble Ducky—a pink tequila concoction served in a tiny bath with a miniature rubber duck floating in it.

Lee Harvey's Arrow

A "private social swim club", Lee Harvey's Dive In is like no other venue in Dallas. Essentially a sunny swim club across the street from a beloved 50-year-old dive bar, it's a brilliant, affordable option if you need to cool off from the intense summer heat of Texas, and fancy doing so with a delicious cocktail in hand, surrounded by beautiful people. There's a good selection of ice cold beer, both domestic and imported, but really this place is about colorful cocktails, which may or may not get spilled in the pool. The rum punch is surprisingly good and they serve a solid margarita too. For those feeling a bit more daring, try the Ocean Water: a party-starting fusion of malibu, vodka, and blue curacao.

Dallas Farmers Market Arrow

For years, the Dallas Farmers Market was mostly a wholesale market with purveyors primarily selling goods to restaurants. But a more recent emphasis on close-to-home farmers (and a major facelift of the site itself) has made it well worth a visit during any trip to the Big D. Check out The Shed—a breezy outdoor pavilion behind the main building where you can buy all kinds of fresh produce and delicious street food—before browsing everything from quirky housewares to artisanal jewelry in the main hall itself.

Pecan Lodge Arrow

Whichever way you slice it, barbecue is king in Texas, and Dallas has one of the finest BBQ restaurants in the entire state: Pecan Lodge. Here, the pit-smoked food is so good that the lines snake around the block pretty much every day at lunchtime (tip: if you order more than five pounds of meat, you can skip straight to the front). The handmade jalapeño sausages and beef brisket with southwestern seasoning are particularly superb, while the “hot mess” (sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with barbacoa and chipotle cream) is deliriously good. If you’re really hungry, order “the trough,” a hot, sticky selection of everything from the menu. Just make sure you save room for dessert: Aunt Polly’s banana pudding is the stuff of a local legend.

Bishop Arts District Arrow

A hipster-pocket neighborhood just across the Trinity River from downtown, Bishop Arts is packed with more than 60 unconventional boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries, all within an easily walkable hub. Perennial favorites include homeware store Home on Bishop, cozy independent bookstore The Wild Detectives (which also serves a mean cocktail), and legendary confectionary store Dude, Sweet Chocolate. Meanwhile, recent additions include Ame, an exquisite French-Indian eaterie with a champagne bar, and Paradiso, a glamorous restaurant and cocktail bar built around a Mediterranean-style courtyard.

White Rock Lake Arrow

Located about five miles northeast of downtown, White Rock is a serene, 1,000-acre city lake surrounded by criss-crossing trails, picnic areas, and wildlife refuges. Looping the lake (about 9.3 miles on a well-maintained path) is a popular fitness pastime for both runners and cyclists, while the water sports on offer include rowing, sailing, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, with several local operators available. Meanwhile, at the old White Rock Municipal Fish Hatchery in the park’s southwest corner, you’ll find 50 acres of dense woodland to explore, with coyotes, red foxes, beavers, and pelicans among the wildlife in abundance here.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science Arrow

A sleek, futuristic masterpiece next to Klyde Warren Park, the Perot Museum was designed by superstar architect Thom Mayne to resemble a large cube hovering over the landscape. Its immersive, interactive interior is even more impressive, with 180,000 square feet of exhibition space covering everything from dinosaurs to distant galaxies. Kids will love the “Earthquake Shake” in the Dynamic Earth Hall, while dads will equally enjoy the Lamar Hunt Family Sports Hall, where they can “race” legendary NFL running back Jamaal Charles. The superb onsite café, by Wolfgang Puck, makes it easy to spend a whole day here.

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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 Jun 14, 2021 and updated Apr 18, 2022.

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Dallas   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Pgiam | Getty Images

Why Go To Dallas

All eyes were on Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963, when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated as his motorcade drove through Dealey Plaza . While a visit to this famous site, which also serves as the birthplace of Dallas, should be at the top of every traveler's must-see list, that's not all the Big D has to offer visitors. Those in search of family-friendly to-dos should add the Dallas World Aquarium , the Dallas Zoo and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to their itineraries, while culture hounds explore the Dallas Art Museum , Deep Ellum and the Crow Museum of Asian Art .

If you're looking for a quintessentially Texan experience, Dallas offers that too. Whether you're in town for a Dallas Cowboys home game at AT&T Stadium , the annual State Fair of Texas, or simply hoping to enjoy some tasty barbecue or Tex-Mex, you'll find it all in Dallas.

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• # 1 in Best Places to Visit in Texas
• # 11 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit

Best of Dallas

Best hotels in dallas.

• # 1 in Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
• # 2 in The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
• # 3 in HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton

Best Things to Do in Dallas

• # 1 in Klyde Warren Park
• # 2 in Dallas Museum of Art
• # 3 in The Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza

Popular Tours

JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House

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from $ 76.92

John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas

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from $ 22.00

Dallas and JFK Cruizer Tour

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from $ 34.99

Dallas Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Dallas is between September and November, when the temperatures aren't overwhelmingly hot, the tourist traffic has died down and the State Fair of Texas is in full swing. Keep in mind: The Cowboys football season can drive hotel prices up, especially in the Metroplex areas (neighborhoods around Dallas and Fort Worth). Avoid inflated prices by taking a look at the team's home game schedule. The months between March and May are equally comfortable temperature-wise, and blooming flowers further sweeten the season. Despite temperatures in the 90s and high humidity levels, summer marks the high season in Dallas, so expect hotel costs to climb. You will find deals between December and February, but don't expect exceptionally warm weather. The DFW area experiences all four seasons, with wintertime highs resting in the 50s.

Weather in Dallas

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Texas on display The  State Fair of Texas draws millions of attendees each year with the promise of the best barbecues, best rodeos and best displays of Texan pride. Plan your trip for late September or October to join in.

Beat the heat along the Margarita Mile Did you know the frozen margarita machine was invented in Dallas? Sample some of the city's best along the Margarita Mile, a seasonal, self-guided tour featuring a variety of margaritas at restaurants all over Dallas. Start your journey with this guide from Visit Dallas.

Shop till you drop Dallas is considered a shopper's paradise. Head to Highland Park Village , NorthPark Center or the Galleria Dallas if you're on the hunt for luxury goods. If you'd rather peruse small local shops, head to neighborhoods like the Design District or Deep Ellum .

How to Save Money in Dallas

Purchase a CityPASS Save some money on admission fees by investing in a Dallas CityPASS. For one price, you'll gain entrance to some of the city's top attractions , including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the George W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum , among others.

Make the most of the city's free activities Several of the top things to do in Dallas do not charge an entrance fee, including the Dallas Arts Museum , the Crow Museum of Asian Art , Pioneer Plaza and Klyde Warren Park , among others.

Take advantage of deals and discounts Visit Dallas compiles a list of deals and discounts on its website for everything from happy hour specials to admission tickets.

What to Eat

One thing is for sure: You definitely won't go hungry in Dallas. With big business comes big appetites, and this city knows how to satisfy them.

The DFW Metroplex is known for red meat and Tex-Mex. For a prime cut, head to  Al Biernat's  on the northeast edge of Dallas' Oak Lawn district. You'll spend a pretty penny to eat here, but avid foodies swear the steak is worth the price. Town Hearth , another popular steakhouse, also receives rave reviews. For authentic Mexican flavors, heed the advice of locals and head to Beto & Son , El Fenix or El Come Taco . For even more Tex-Mex, sign up for one of the best food tours in Dallas .

If you want to expand your palette beyond steak and tacos, Dallas has you covered there, too. Thanks to the metro area's large immigrant population (the city estimates that about 25% of its residents are immigrants), Dallas offers a varied roster of dining styles reflective of its multicultural residents. You can find most everything your stomach desires, from Mediterranean cuisine (try Baboush ) to Jamaican favorites (locals recommend The Island Spot ). Armoury D.E. , which is known for its Hungarian menu and live music, and Boulevardier , a French spot in the Bishop Arts District that's serves a popular brunch, are also recommended by locals.

To sink your teeth into some authentic barbecue, try Pecan Lodge , Off the Bone Barbeque or Lockhart Smokehouse .

Although Dallas is a safe places for tourists, you should exercise caution as you would in any other large metro area. Don't walk alone at night and avoid dimly lit areas. Although gun control laws are less strict in Texas than they are in other parts of the country, tourists are generally not the targets of gun-related violence.

Those who are not used to Texas' climate should take precautions against heat stroke, the symptoms of which generally include headache, dizziness, fatigue and sometimes nausea. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly. A hat is another good idea.

Getting Around Dallas

The best way to get around Dallas is by car. Though many of the city's top things to do , such as The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , the Dallas Museum of Art and Reunion Tower , are located within the downtown area and easily accessible via public transit, a few attractions, such as the Dallas Arboretum , are best reached by car. Just be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour and limited parking no matter the hour.

There are two airports in Dallas: Dallas Love Field (DAL), which is located about 6 miles northwest of downtown Dallas, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which is about 20 miles northwest of downtown. Dallas Love Field only services three airlines: Alaska, Delta and Southwest, so you may find more flight options by flying into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, which welcomes flights from United, American, JetBlue and others. Taxi fares from Dallas Love Field cost between $18 and $21, while fares from DFW cost between $37 and $45. Both airports are also serviced by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).

Pioneer Plaza in Dallas depicts a cattle drive in bronze, with longhorn steers being driven by three cowboys on horses. 

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Dfw - dallas/fort worth international airport current conditions, current weather forecast, 10-may-2024.

Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 80s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

Mostly cloudy. Lows in the lower 60s. Northeast winds 5 to 10 mph.

Partly sunny in the morning, then becoming cloudy. Highs in the upper 70s. East winds 5 to 10 mph.

Mostly cloudy. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Lows in the lower 60s. East winds around 5 mph. Chance of rain 30 percent.

Cloudy. A chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning, then showers and thunderstorms likely in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 70s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph, increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Chance of rain 70 percent.

Mostly cloudy. Showers and thunderstorms likely in the evening, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Lows in the mid 60s. Chance of rain 70 percent.

Mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming mostly sunny. A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the lower 80s.

Mostly clear. A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening. Lows in the lower 60s.

Sunny. Highs in the mid 80s.

Partly cloudy. Lows in the mid 60s.

Partly sunny. A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 80s.

Mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms. A chance of showers. Lows in the mid 60s. Chance of rain 50 percent.

Partly sunny. A chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 80s. Chance of rain 30 percent.

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Dart light rail service through cbd reduced in may for power line work, eb u.s. 380 closed in prosper due to a low-hanging line, president george bush turnpike closed in irving after fiery 18-wheeler crash, trinity railway express opens a new station in fort worth, closes another, sb loop 12 reopens after a fiery crash involving multiple big rigs hurts 2.

Dallas Storm Disrupts Travel: Flights Delayed, Canceled As Flyers Complain

N umerous flights to and from Dallas, Texas, faced significant delays or cancellations due to severe thunderstorms in the region, impacting operations at both the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and the Dallas Love Field Airport.

In response to the disruptions, the Dallas Love Field Airport posted on X, "Storms are currently causing flight disruptions at DAL. Stay informed about flight delays and cancellations by contacting your airline directly."

Similarly, the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport alerted passengers to potential severe weather.

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"There's potential for severe weather in our area this evening! Make sure to check with your airline for any potential changes to your flight arrival or departure," a post on X said.

Expressing their frustrations, several passengers turned to social media to voice their concerns.

"American Airlines. 2 hour delay from Austin to Dallas. Missing our connection to Barcelona. What a joke. Better get some compensation in the form of a first class seat," one person wrote.

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"Ugh flight from Salt Lake to Dallas delayed which means I'm going to arrive in Dallas half an hour AFTER my flight from London is due to leave. Sick of everything today and if I have to spend an unplanned night in DALLAS I stg," another wrote.

A third person complained, "The plane that is scheduled to leave FROM Dallas at 7:15 isn't arriving IN Dallas until 7:59. @AmericanAir may be time to delay AA726 an hour or so."

Meanwhile, as of 6 p.m. EDT, Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Watches were in place for parts of North and Central Texas. The NWS Fort Worth issued a warning about flash flooding risks.

"The Flash Flooding threat is also increasing as the storms move into eastern portions of Central Texas. Saturated soils will lead to quick runoff. If you experience flooded roads, make sure to Turn Around, Don't Drown," the agency said.

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Check the status of your flight to Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) using the information on our departures page. The data on departures times and status is frequently updated in real time. To simplify your search, you have the option to filter results by Airline or Time period, or you can use the search box to find your flight directly. Once located, you can click on the flight number or the [+] symbol next to the flight status to view more details, such as scheduled/estimated times, delays, and gate number.

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Welcome to Dallas! If you're looking for free activities with the kids, or a fun night out on the town, Dallas has so many things to do for your next adventure.

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 , there are endless ways to fill a trip to Dallas. 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. Check out the nation's largest urban arts district , world-class shopping and accommodations , the mouth-watering cuisine from countless restaurants and eateries , beautiful green spaces , outdoor trails , and live entertainment in our distinct neighborhoods , each with their own compelling vibe.

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Record-setting summer schedule to test American Airlines’ improved reliability

The fort worth-based airline will be expecting over 72 million travelers this summer..

By Alexandra Skores

7:00 AM on May 9, 2024 CDT

For a little over five years, airlines have been plagued by challenges from staffing to a global pandemic and even operation difficulties with delivery delays.

But American Airlines operations chief David Seymour says the Fort Worth-based air carrier has taken in the lessons learned looking ahead to this summer.

In an interview with The Dallas Morning News, Seymour highlighted that during the summer season between May 17 and Sept. 3, American is expecting over 72 million travelers. The airline is flying more seats than any other summer, with 10% more departures than last summer. Seymour said the large schedule offers a lot of opportunity for North Texas travelers.

“DFW and North Texas, travelers that should have confidence flying through DFW (Airport),” Seymour said in an interview this week. “... It’s our largest operation and provides so much connectivity for our customers to be able to connect and go in just about anywhere they want.”

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As Dallas-Fort Worth begins another summer of travel, it comes with some industrywide challenges such as aircraft delivery delays, staffing shortages and even a looming Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill. Most of the post-pandemic effects on air travel, like taking trips to seek “revenge” for the missed time and restrictions, have come and gone. Now, passengers are looking for experiences.

In its latest quarterly earnings, American reported it “best-ever” first-quarter completion factor, or the percentage of schedule flights that arrived: 98.7%. In 2019, that number was 97.3% for the first-quarter.

In 2019, the Fort Worth-based airline celebrated a milestone of establishing over 9,000 one-stop destinations through DFW Airport, adding 100 flights in the summer of 2019. It began operating mainline flights in terminal B’s gates 5 to 12 and expanded to include 15 new gates at the Terminal E satellite. DFW International Airport serves as a connecting point to many domestic, but also international destinations.

But a lot has changed since then.

A global pandemic shook up the industry and halted travel at the tail end of 2019 and most of 2020. Airlines didn’t see a strong rebound until over a year later. Seymour said the pandemic introduced challenges that airlines still deal with today.

Dennis Tajer, spokesman for the Allied Pilots Association said that American is more prepared this summer than previous summers. He pointed to the pilot contract that American and the union landed last year .

“We just have to make sure that human beings don’t run out of gas,” Tajer said.

Seymour attributes a lot of the change from the pandemic to American’s very full planes. It used to be the case that summer and holidays saw these sorts of numbers. Now, he said, the airline is seeing full loads pretty much every day.

“It is easy to cancel flights, but ultimately our promise is to our customer,” Seymour said. “That’s where the center of our decisions are about the customers. [American] still needs to get customers where they asked to go, where they purchased a ticket, where they wanted to go. Our best bet is to keep those planes operating and get them to the destination.”

Tajer said the union has raised concerns over safety, especially as American heads into the summer. The airline is “flying older airplanes longer and they require higher frequency of maintenance,” he said.

“It’s not the errors of the aircraft,” Tajer said. “It’s the preventative checks on the airplanes that we’re concerned about.”

American has stated previously that safety is a “shared mission” and has a safety program guided by its safety management system, including a multitude of collaborative programs — and regular touchpoints — with the FAA and unions. According to American, its maintenance team has also taken its fleet through reliability checks during the off-season to reduce delays and is focusing on the systems that keep the aircraft cool.

Part of American’s plan for peak travel seasons includes thinking about things that could happen and making plans for how to navigate those obstacles, he said. Some of those tools include tweaking the schedule to ensure reliability. One of those focuses is departure times.

“The root of what we’ve done to run a safe and reliable airline is focusing on planning [and] executing the recovery,” Seymour said. “That’s the hallmark that [American] continues to stress for the team.”

While weather is always a stressor on airlines, American uses a tool called HEAT which helps rethink major disruptions, he said, providing alternatives to passengers. Henry Harteveldt, president and travel industry analyst at Atmosphere Research Group said there’s a nickname for DFW Airport: “Doesn’t Function Wet.”

“When bad weather hits the Metroplex, DFW always seems to have problems operating as it should,” Harteveldt said in an email. “Should consumers have faith in American? Yes, but it shouldn’t be blind faith. But consumers also need to recognize that there are times when American may be capable of operating, but the FAA inhibits the airline from doing so.”

Harteveldt pointed to the shortage of air traffic controllers, but the Federal Aviation Administration is understaffed across the country.

Another part is ensuring American has the correct number of crew members in place, whether that be pilots, flight attendants, grounds crew or any of the other individuals that are needed to orchestrate the operation. Harteveldt said labor tensions with American’s flight attendants “greatly concern” him. Flight attendants at American are still in negotiations, while Southwest’s flight attendants just recently approved a deal .

Another part of the operation includes having the right number of aircraft in place to get travelers off the ground.

Seymour said, and it’s been stressed among other executives at American during quarterly earnings calls, American is not as impacted by Boeing Co.’s delivery delays like its competitors. Take the other North Texas airline, Southwest Airlines , which lowered its expectations for aircraft deliveries from Boeing, where it now it expects 20 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft deliveries in 2024, when it previously anticipated 46. In March, a regulatory filing reported the airline had lowered its expectations to 46 from 79.

American is flying to eight destinations in summer 2024 that the airline had not served in summer 2023, including Albany, N.Y.; Appleton, Wisc.; Manhattan, Kan.; Redmond, Ore.; St. George, Utah; Tulum and Veracruz, Mexico; and Barcelona.

This year, DFW’s top five busiest days to travel will be July 8, July 25, July 29, Aug. 1 and July 7, based on the number of flights flown and the number of seats available, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

When it comes to competition, Seymour said he doesn’t spend a lot of time comparing American to other airlines. He said his focus has been on completion factor, on-time performance and other metrics for improving the airline.

“I don’t spend a lot of time worrying and trying to figure out what my competition is doing,” Seymour said. “I focus on what we can do to always get better.”

Alexandra Skores , Aviation Reporter . Alexandra Skores is the aviation writer for The Dallas Morning News, covering airlines, air travel and the aerospace industry. She's a graduate of the University of Iowa. Alexandra has previously worked at the Oregonian in Portland, Oregon and The Gazette in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

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Caitlin Clark makes WNBA debut: Recap, highlights as Arike Ogunbowale, Wings edge Fever

It was a sterling WNBA debut for Caitlin Clark , but in the end, it was Arike Ogunbowale’s night.

The sixth-year WNBA guard hit a crossover, step-back 3 with three seconds to go — Clark’s signature move for years at Iowa — to give Dallas a three-point lead, and Clark’s three at the buzzer fell short, giving the Wings the 79-76 win over the Indiana Fever in the preseason opener for each team.

Ogunbowale has a history of big-time shot making: She hit game-winning, buzzer-beating 3s in back-to-back games at the 2018 Final Four to lead Notre Dame to the NCAA championship.

Ogunbowale finished Friday night's contest with 19 points. The game-winner was her only made 3-pointer of the night.

It was maybe the most anticipated preseason game in the 28-year history of the WNBA, with people all over tuning into see what Clark would do at the next level. Early on, she put on a show.

Clark scored 21 points in her first-ever pro game, including 16 in the first half. Clark finished with a solid stat line with three rebounds, two assists and two steals, but there’s no question she’ll be kicking herself about her five turnovers.

Jaelyn Brown , a 2020 Cal grad who went undrafted and has spent the last few years playing overseas, led the Wings with 21 points on 7-of-15 shooting. For the Fever, NaLyssa Smith scored 20, and Erica Wheeler chipped in 16.

'You couldn’t ask for a better game': Caitlin Clark revels in her WNBA debut

Caitlin Clark has been anticipating Friday night for a long, long time.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft put on a show in her WNBA debut, scoring 21 points, 15 of which came from her signature long 3s. The fans loved it — and they were ready for it. College Park Center, which holds just over 6,500 and is located on the campus of UT-Arlington, sold out for the game – unusual for a preseason contest. Tons of fans were in Clark jerseys and t-shirts, sporting both Fever and Iowa gear. And Clark loved it.

Asked what she would remember most from her debut, Clark didn’t hesitate.

“The atmosphere,” Clark said. “I remember my first game in college really well, too … this is a big milestone for me, I’ve always dreamed of playing in the WNBA.”

The frenzy around women’s hoops right now is unmatched, Clark said. Besides the Dallas-Indiana game Friday night, the Chicago Sky, featuring two first-round draft picks, was also in action, playing a preseason game at the Minnesota Lynx . That game wasn’t available on WNBA League Pass, though a fan attending in Minneapolis live streamed the game on their Twitter account, drawing more than 170,000 viewers.

In Dallas, fans were treated to a terrific back-and-forth contest that went down to the wire.

“You couldn’t ask for a better game, really, for women’s basketball,” Clark said.

Fever head coach:  Christie Sides says Indiana is still ‘learning’ Clark

Despite Caitlin Clark’s 21 points in her WNBA debut, the Indiana Fever dropped their first preseason game of the season against the Dallas Wings on Friday. Head coach Christie Sides, however, looks at the loss as experience for her team.  

“It’s just a learning process,” Sides said. “Learning (Clark) and learning the rest of our team. And finding out who’s playing well and which rotation.”

Sides acknowledged that Clark was “gassed” at one point of the game, so much so that she called for a sub. Sides said “we can’t let her get to that point” and have to “do what we can to protect her” so she’s “able to go in the fourth.” (Clark had five fourth-quarter points.)

“We’re just five days in with a point guard with Caitlin (Clark),” Sides said. “We’re able to put some really good players around her that she doesn’t have to work as hard." — Cydney Henderson

Caitlin Clark highlights from WNBA debut

Minnesota lynx prevail as angel reese makes chicago sky debut.

In the WNBA's other preseason game Friday night , the Minnesota Lynx pulled away from the Chicago Sky 92-81.

The game marked the professional debuts of Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso for the Sky, and Reese nearly had a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Cardoso had six points and four rebounds.

But it was the Lynx veterans that stole the show. Napheesa Collier and Courtney Williams scored 17 points apiece for Minnesota, and Bridget Carleton added 12.

Lindsay Allen led Chicago with 17 points. — Ellen J. Horrow

How many points did Caitlin Clark have today?

Caitlin Clark scored 21 points in her WNBA debut with the Indiana Fever, but the Dallas Wings prevailed 79-76 in the preseason opener for both teams.

Clark shot 6-for-15 from the field, including 5-of-13 on 3-pointers. She also tallied three rebounds, two assists and two steals but also recorded a team-high five turnovers.

See below for a full recap of the game.

Final: Dallas Wings 79, Indiana Fever 76

Arike Ogunbowale hit a crossover, step-back 3 with three seconds to go to give Dallas a 79-76 lead, and Caitlin Clark missed a tough game-tying shot from the corner at the buzzer as the Wings edged the Indiana Fever in the preseason openers for each team.

Caitlin Clark effect: NBA playoffs take backseat to Fever-Wings preseason match on X

All eyes are on Caitlin Clark’s WNBA debut.

The Indiana Fever’s preseason matchup against the Dallas Wings coincides with the first-round NBA playoff game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic, but the NBA’s official X account is still filled with Clark highlights. Prior to this landmark season, where the likes of Clark, Cameron Brink, Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese were drafted into the league in front of a record 2.45 million viewers , the WNBA preseason hardly got any fanfare. The same can’t be said about this year as the interest in Clark and the women’s game continues to soar.

“I’m literally watching a WNBA preseason game over the NBA playoffs,” X user @StockTalks21 posted . “If that doesn’t tell you the impact Caitlin Clark is having on women’s basketball."

Jaelyn Brown shining for Wings; Fever lead 62-60 after three quarters

The WNBA, with just 144 roster spots across the country, is widely considered the toughest league in the world to make.

Realistically, because of salary caps, many teams only carry 11 players instead of 12. Just a few weeks ago, the W held its draft where 36 players were selected. Most of those players won’t make a final roster.

We always think it’s because of established veterans who have been in the W forever, but in truth, those roster spots can also be gobbled up by players who have been out of college a couple years. Jaelyn Brown is a great example of that.

Brown, who has 19 points through three quarters and has helped Dallas pull within two, 62-60, wasn’t drafted out of Cal following her senior season, 2019-20. So she went overseas and honed her craft, and now she’s fighting for a roster spot with the Wings. (WNBA teams must trim their rosters to 12 or less by May 13.)

We won’t know for awhile if Brown will make the final cut or keep up this type of play. But one thing’s for sure: this league just got harder to make.

Wings ramp up defense on Clark in third quarter

I think I’ve figured out what the Dallas Wings’ halftime song was: Physical, by Olivia Newton John.

I’m kidding — kind of. But it’s clear the message in the locker room was to get up in Caitlin Clark’s personal bubble. Clark has only got one shot off midway through the third and has been hit hard a few times on screens, too. She also picked up two quick fouls, and had to head to the bench with just under five minutes to play. She’s still sitting at 16 points.

Halftime: Indiana Fever 48, Dallas Wings 40

Caitlin Clark might only have one assist so far — a very low number for her — but Indiana’s 13-3 edge in fast break points is directly related to Clark. She’s pushing in transition and putting the ball in the right places — including through the net on more than one occasion.

At halftime, with Indiana leading 48-40, Clark leads all scorers with 16 on 4-of-8 shooting. Teammate NaLyssa Smith has 10, Erica Wheeler nine and Aliyah Boston six.

Meanwhile, Jaelyn Brown is putting on a show for Dallas, scoring 10 points on 4-of-8 shooting. Arike Ogunbowale has chipped in eight and rookie Jacy Sheldon, the No. 5 overall pick out of Ohio State, has six for the Wings.

A 9-0 Indiana run late in the second quarter elped the Fever take the lead back. Indiana has also scored 13 points off seven Dallas turnovers.

Caitlin Clark hits 3 over one of WNBA's best defenders

Back in January, former Iowa All-American Megan Gustafson told me that WNBA veterans would be excited to make Caitlin Clark look bad because she’s coming into the league with so much hype.

So far, that’s not exactly how it’s going. Clark just hit one of her signature step-back 3s over Natasha Howard, a lanky 6-foot-2 veteran who was the 2019 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. Clark might be good going to her left, but that was a very tough shot against a very experienced defender. Wow.

First quarter: Dallas Wings 26, Indiana Fever 23

It’s debatable if the WNBA is going to be able to rise to this moment — but it certainly seems that Caitlin Clark is ready to.

At the end of the first quarter, with Dallas leading 26-23, Clark already has 11 points on 3-of-4 shooting from beyond the arc. At least through the first period, she doesn’t look like a rookie so much as a seasoned veteran.

Meanwhile, Dallas guard Jaelyn Brown, a 2020 graduate from Cal, has scored eight early points for the Wings, while Arike Ogunbowale has hit some crazy shots (what else is new?) to score six quick points. The Wings ended the quarter on a 23-9 run.

Clark helps Fever jump out to early lead

Behind two made 3-pointers from Clark, the Fever have jumped out a 14-3 lead with 6:23 to play. Clark is 2-for-2 from distance and has already threaded some nice passes through transition. Five Fever players have already scored.

Caitlin Clark is 'not afraid of this moment'

Clark is letting us into her head ahead of her WNBA debut. Moments before the Fever tip-off the preseason against the Dallas Wings on Friday, the rookie said she’s “very excited” to play despite the “quick turnaround” from the end of her college season. 

Clark said she’s going to prepare the same way and have the same belief in herself that she had at Iowa. 

"I think just soak in the environment and enjoy it, but more than anything, continue to be me,” she said. “I think the biggest thing I’m telling myself going into this game is don’t be afraid of this moment, you’re ready for this, you worked for this and go get after it."  — Cydney Henderson

Sheryl Swoopes calling Caitlin Clark's WNBA debut

Sheryl Swoopes, who’s calling the Indiana-Dallas game tonight, said it best as we get ready for tip off: “Women’s basketball has always been exciting but where we are today, this movement is something we’ve always wanted.”

Swoopes, who was unanimously voted one of the 25 best WNBA players of all time when the league celebrated its 25th anniversary a few seasons ago, certainly knows what she’s talking about. Swoopes was the first-ever player signed to the WNBA and a three-time league MVP.

Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings starting lineups

INDIANA FEVER

• Nalyssa Smith
• Caitlin Clark
• Erica Wheeler
• Aliyah Boston

DALLAS WINGS

• Veronica Burton
• Arika Ogunbowale
• Jaelyn Brown
• Natasha Howard
• Tierra McCowan 

When she was in college at Northwestern, Burton was considered one of the top defenders in the Big Ten. She'll be familiar with Clark's game, and I fully expect her to guard the rookie.

How to stream Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings

Fans can watch on the WNBA’s League Pass by downloading the WNBA app. Preseason games are free. The game also is available for streaming on Fubo here (regional restrictions apply).

Caitlin Clark ready for WNBA debut tonight: 'This is the pros. This is my job.'

DALLAS — It’s officially the day many fans have been waiting for. The day Caitlin Clark, one of the most-hyped picks in WNBA history, makes her professional debut as the Indiana Fever take on the Dallas Wings in the first preseason game of the 2024 season.

"I would’ve liked to start at home, but just throw me out into the fire, why not," Clark joked.

This first preseason game will also be crucial for Clark, who will be seeing live action in the WNBA for the first time.

"Obviously, there’s so much you can do in practice, but you become very familiar with what other teams are doing," Clark said. "I want to step on the court, then I want to leave the court tonight feeling that I played like Caitlin Clark, I played like I have my entire life."

This game will be crucial for the Fever, who are experimenting with new lineups both in the first and second teams. The first team Indiana will potentially run with is Clark, guard Erica Wheeler, small forward Katie Lou Samuelson, forward NaLyssa Smith and center Aliyah Boston.

Kelsey Mitchell, the Fever’s longest-tenured player, is doubtful with an ankle injury. Mitchell will likely slot back into the starting lineup once she returns, and Sides said she was day-to-day. — Chloe Peterson, Indianapolis Star

Read the full story here .

How 10 seconds with Maya Moore changed Caitlin Clark’s life 

Caitlin Clark likes to think of it as 10 seconds that changed her life.  

Maybe that’s an exaggeration. Clark, who went  No. 1 in the WNBA draft  and will  start her career  with the Indiana Fever on Friday when she plays in her first preseason game, at Dallas, probably would have grown up to be a transcendent basketball star even if Maya Moore, the 2014 WNBA MVP, hadn’t hugged her 10 years ago after a Minnesota Lynx game.  

Clark probably would have still  rewritten the record books , earned an eight-figure  shoe deal  and drawn  millions of new fans  to the women’s game.  

But that 10 seconds made an impression.  

Read Lindsay Schnell’s story here . 

WNBA preseason power rankings 

Las Vegas is the dominant team in the league, with the  reigning champion Aces  looking to three-peat. The New York Liberty and Connecticut Sun are right on their heels. The Seattle Storm, Dallas Wings and Phoenix Mercury had productive offseasons to close the gap. 

The exciting rookie class is led by  Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark , the No. 1 overall pick in the  2024 draft  who is trying to lead the franchise back to the playoffs for the first time since 2016. So where do the 12 teams rank?  

Scooby Axson provides his WNBA preseason power rankings. Read his analysis here . 

Aliyah Boston returns to Fever stronger than ever 

INDIANAPOLIS — When  Fever  center Aliyah Boston wasn’t working as an analyst for women’s college basketball games on  Peacock , she was hitting the gym.  

Between 22 in-studio shows throughout the regular season, then on-location at the Final Four in Cleveland, Boston made sure to put her strength training at the forefront. 

“Her body looks amazing,” Fever coach Christie Sides told reporters on the first day of training camp. “She spent the offseason, as busy as she was doing what you guys do — and she was awesome at it, by the way — she was getting in the work.” 

Enough so that she didn’t want to publicly say what her new deadlift max is. 

Boston, standing at 6-5, was one of the taller centers in the SEC when she played for South Carolina. When she came over to the WNBA, she faced players like Brittney Griner, Jonquel Jones and Teaira McCowan — all of whom are not only taller than her, but stronger, too, with multiple years of experience in the league. 

So, the unanimous Rookie of the Year knew she needed to get stronger to be able to contend with the league’s tallest players. — Chloe Peterson, Indianapolis Star  

What makes Caitlin Clark so good? 

We asked some hoops legends for their thoughts on the generational talent. Steph Curry, Maya Moore, Kelsey Mitchell and others broke down her game, explaining what makes her so special.  

When does Caitlin Clark play again? 

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever will host the Atlanta Dream on Thursday, May 9, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Fever’s final preseason game is scheduled to tip at 7 p.m. ET. 

10 bold predictions for WNBA season 

The 28th WNBA season doesn’t tip until May 14, but with preseason games starting Friday, it’s time to start thinking about what’s in store for women’s professional basketball the next few months.  

There’s  never been more excitement  around the women’s game. With a  star-studded draft class , a team going for its third consecutive championship and a summer Olympics that will help drum up interest in women’s basketball, the WNBA is headed into its  most anticipated season  since the league debuted almost three decades ago.  

So what can we expect this summer? For starters, Caitlin Clark will lead the WNBA in assists and make the Olympic team.  

Read Lindsay Schnell’s WNBA bold predictions here . 

10 best regular-season WNBA games to watch in 2024

If the 2023-24 women's college basketball season is any indication, the WNBA is primed for its most exciting and most watched season yet.

College stars like Caitlin Clark, the top overall pick in the 2024 draft by the Indiana Fever who broke all sorts of records during her career at Iowa, and Chicago Sky rookies Angel Reese and   Kamilla Cardoso , who led LSU and South Carolina, respectively, to NCAA championships, captivated the nation with their skills and personality and now embark on their professional careers.

The rookies enter a league that already features the best pro basketball players in the world, players who are hungry to show off their talents to new viewers who might be checking out the  WNBA  for the first time. There are some regular-season games you will want to circle on your calendar and carve out time to watch on TV or attend.

Click here for 10 regular-season games to watch in the 2024 WNBA season.

What time is Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings?

Indiana vs. Dallas tips off at 8 p.m. ET today.

How to watch Indiana Fever vs. Dallas Wings

The game is not televised.

Fever move home exhibition to accommodate Pacers 

INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis basketball fans will have to wait one fewer day to see rookie Caitlin Clark make her home debut with the Fever. 

With the NBA scheduling the Pacers to host the New York Knicks in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series, Friday, May 10, the Fever's originally scheduled exhibition finale for the same date in the same building something had to give. 

The Fever announced Friday its lone home preseason game will move up one day to Thursday, May 9, at 7 p.m. to accommodate the Pacers' playoff schedule. The change will give the Fever six days between their exhibition opener in Dallas tonight and the Dream. — Chloe Peterson, Indianapolis Star  

When does the Indiana Fever open the regular season? 

Caitlin Clark and the Fever will open the regular season on the road against the Connecticut Sun on May 14. Their home opener is May 16, against the New York Liberty. 

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Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever embrace notion of using charter flights for WNBA travel

CORRECTS FROM CAITLYN TO CAITLIN - Pailynn Amos, center, holds a sign for Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark in front of her mother Rebecca Amos, of Ennis, Texas, prior to an WNBA basketball game against the Dallas Wings in Arlington, Texas, Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark, left, gives autographs as she arrives on the Red Carpet before the world premiere and screening of Episode 1 of the upcoming ESPN+ Original Series Full Court Press, Monday, May 6, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) and head coach Christine Sides, center right, react after a play during the second half of an WNBA basketball game against the Dallas Wings in Arlington, Texas, Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

Young fans wait for Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark to arrive on the Red Carpet before the world premiere and screening of Episode 1 of the upcoming ESPN+ Original Series Full Court Press, Monday, May 6, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

CORRECTS FROM CAITLYN TO CAITLIN - Indiana Fever head coach Christine Sides, left, talks to Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) as they play the Dallas Wings during the first half of an WNBA basketball game in Arlington, Texas, Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

CORRECTS FROM CAITLYN TO CAITLIN - Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark reacts after making a basket during the first half of an WNBA basketball game against the Dallas Wings in Arlington, Texas, Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark already is one of the WNBA’s most recognizable players.

So when she made her first road trip last week, the league’s top overall draft pick had to adapt. Instead of loading her bag directly onto a plane and boarding, Clark found herself traversing the same lines and waits as everyone else at the Dallas airport — just like most of the league’s players.

It’s a hassle she wouldn’t mind avoiding on future trips and now league commissioner Cathy Engelbert is working on a solution.

One day after Engelbert told a group of sports editors that she’s trying to find regular charter flights for all 12 WNBA teams, Clark and her new teammates embraced the move.

“I think you just have to be aware of where you are,” Clark said after Wednesday’s practice. “You travel with security, which is nice. It’s just different from college where you put your bag on the plane, hop on the plane and then you’re off. But like (here) you’re waiting at baggage claim, you’ve got to go through the normal security with everybody else. For me, it was my first time doing it. It wasn’t terrible. I just went about my business and kept my head down.”

Clark went on to score 21 points in her pro debut , a 79-76 loss.

But her star power has only fueled a debate that took center stage last season when Phoenix Suns star Brittney Griner was confronted by a man who started asking questions as she walked through an airport. The incident became so heated that the man was tackled and law enforcement was called.

League officials called the man’s actions “inappropriate” and “unfortunate.”

It spurred a leaguewide debate over player safety with some veteran stars asking that league officials do more, including charter flights. And now, with one of the most heralded rookie classes entering the league, Engelbert wants to take action even if she doesn’t have a defined timetable for when it could happen.

Fever coach Christie Sides also remembered sleeping in an airport while working with the Chicago Sky because of several delays before the flight was eventually canceled. She said the team took a 6 a.m. flight and played later that night.

For those reasons, it can’t start soon enough for those who have been around the league for years — or for Clark, who has been driving WNBA ticket sales upward after spending her last two seasons at Iowa driving a substantial increase in television ratings.

“I’m thankful at whatever point that happens, that would be great for us. It will make recovery easier, it will make travel easier,” Clark said. “It just makes life a lot easier for a lot of people, but also it’s just something a lot of people have deserved for years and years.”

AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

Students get a ‘Jumpstart’ on their careers in Dallas

Uc blue ash students experience transformative travel on their path to lindner.

Students from Carl H. Lindner College of Business’ Jumpstart program — a pipeline between UC Blue Ash and the business college that provides students with additional support toward transitioning into a bachelor’s degree program — experienced a whirlwind visit to Dallas during spring break 2024.

The group of 12 students balanced a packed schedule of professional development and networking with cultural and tourist experiences. Sponsored by Deloitte, students connected with Lindner alumni and employer partners throughout the four-day trip.

Arun Murthy, BBA '95, (center) offered students advice on actions they can take now that will create positive impact for their futures.

Day one: Diving right in

Day one brought a visit to the Charles Schwab corporate campus where students met with Lindner alumnus  Arun Murthy , BBA ’95.

After a tour of the campus, students engaged in a Q&A session with Murthy to gain his insights on what they should be doing right now to prepare them for the next phase of their educational and career journeys. 

Murthy encouraged the young professionals to “keep your eyes open” and pay attention to what piques their interest. But Murthy’s greatest advice to students was to get involved and be open to meeting and getting to know new people.

After finishing their day with a visit to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum for reflection and remembrance, and an evening in the Discovery District of Dallas for dinner and exploration, students looked to a second day packed with adventure. 

Day two: A non-stop adventure

I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with. It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.

Kasey Beiting Campus recruiting specialist, Deloitte

Day two’s itinerary featured visits to the American Airlines corporate campus, Deloitte University and AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, to learn about sales and sports marketing.

First on the list: American Airlines.

Led by Scott Mallory, a campus recruiter for the company, students toured the expansive headquarters asking questions along the way about everything from employee benefits to navigating career changes.

“One of the most significant lessons I learned was the unpredictability of your professional career,” said Manuel Chacon Molina, who is interested in studying international business upon transferring to Lindner. “Observing individuals like Scott Mallory at American Airlines, who began in human resources and progressed across various departments, has reinforced the notion that while academic foundations are crucial, practical experience is fundamental for professional growth.”

Jumpstart students enjoyed their tour of the American Airlines' corporate headquarters.

For Abybatou Diop, a first-year  Jumpstart  student interested in supply chains and international business, the experience was transformative.

“The American Airlines company tour profoundly changed my perspective on the business world, igniting a passion within me," Diop said. "This experience was life-altering, pushing me to think beyond my previous limits. I am forever grateful for the inspiration it has given.” 

Still in awe from their first tour of the day, students had even more in store as they headed to Deloitte University, the training grounds for all Deloitte employees.

Students were welcomed by a committee of Deloitte representatives, including several from Cincinnati who made the trip to Dallas to connect with the Jumpstart students. 

Jeff Suttle, director, client relations, led students on a facility tour and provided an overview of the purpose of Deloitte University and how it helps the organization to continuously grow and invest in its employees.

Students enjoyed lunch alongside company representatives Jim Sowar, managing partner, Kasey Beiting, campus recruiting specialist, and Zach Wall, audit senior manager. Afterward, Sowar, Beiting and Wall engaged with students in a more formalized Q&A session, providing advice for how to prepare for their future careers, identifying their ideal career path and challenges they may face along their journey.  

“In the first couple of years, I wasn't sure what my path to take, but it was really diving in and owning the fact that, if I'm going to be successful, I'm going to have to work hard, I'm going have to put my head down at times that I might not want to,” Wall told students. “But ultimately, that's the way to meeting that goal on that path.”

Deloitte representatives Kasey Beiting (left), campus recruiting specialist, Zach Wall (center), audit senior manager, and Jim Sower (right), managing partner, engaged in a Q&A session with students at Deloitte University.

As an active leader in the campus recruitment process for Deloitte, Beiting was able to offer the students an insider’s point of view on how to approach the interview process.

“I think one of the reasons that I probably succeeded in this type of environment was my ability to connect and the relationships that I made with the people I interviewed with,” said Beiting. “It wasn't just transactional. It's very relational in nature.”

With nearly 40 years of experience in the tax industry, and more than 20 years with Deloitte, Sowar hammered home this point for students.

“Is this candidate going to be able to not only maintain relationships but grow relationships and create new relationships that will lead to new business?” Sowar said of what Deloitte is looking for in its employees. “And that gets into what kind of personal skills do you have? Can you carry out a conversation? Are you asking interesting questions? How do you interact with people in a group setting and so forth? We do notice those things, and I think they really stand up.”  

The themes of leadership and relationships expressed by Wall, Beiting and Sowar resonated heavily with students as they thought about their own career trajectories.

“Deloitte's emphasis on nurturing leadership qualities and continuous improvement resonated deeply with me,” said Chacon Molina. “The immersive experience at Deloitte University, allied to a rigorous training program, helps individuals not just with job-specific skills but also with the mindset and capabilities to lead effectively.”

Students took in city views at the Reunion Tower Observation Deck.

Students’ attention then turned to a more light-hearted adventure: a tour of AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. But, before the fun began, the group stopped to connect with Bohn Crain, account executive with the AT&T Stadium sales team.

Crain’s energy and passion for his career path radiated over the students as they took in his message and holy grail advice: network, network, network.

Crain discussed his mission to meet one new person per day and encouraged students to take on the same challenge, as you never know where that connection may lead. Students were able to put this advice into immediate use as they connected with members of the Lindner Career Services team over dinner at Kitchen & Kocktails, a Black-owned business in the heart of Dallas.

Day three: Making connections

The final day of the trip allowed students to continue bonding with one another as they explored all Dallas has to offer, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Reunion Tower Observation Deck. Through these experiences, students were able to form new bonds and identify new ways that they may support each other into the future, both personally and professionally.

“I thought Dallas was a great experience for the students. They were able to see what their futures could look like, the places that their degree could take them,” said Abbey Wulf, academic adviser to the Jumpstart program. “It was rewarding to see them engaging with different companies and asking them questions. I think they also bonded with one another over this experience and their time together. I personally hope that the bonds created during this trip remain. That they now have people they can lean on at UC Blue Ash and in Lindner once they transition and after graduation.”

Lasting impact and looking forward 

The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow. By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.

Arielle Betts Program coordinator, Office of Inclusive Excellence

Top of mind for both students and employers throughout the company visits: diversity, a topic near and dear to many Jumpstart participants’ experiences.

“The most important thing that I learned from our experience in Dallas was how much businesses are in search of diversity and how important it is for them to have as much diversity as possible. Diversity can help them reach their highest peak of success,” said marketing major Cris Mejia-Sanchez.

According to Arielle Betts , the program coordinator behind Jumpstart from Lindner’s Office of Inclusive Excellence , this experience represents another cornerstone of the foundation of the program and what she hopes to achieve with it.

“The idea behind the Jumpstart program is to plant seeds and watch them grow," Betts said. "By encouraging our students to constantly show up and just do it, no matter how hard it is — a course, a test, a project — we help to push them further so they can thrive.”

Featured image at top: Jumpstart students pose with company representatives from Deloitte at the Deloitte University campus. Photos/Haley Fite.

Building a pipeline from UC Blue Ash to Lindner

The University of Cincinnati Jumpstart program helps students enrolled in the UC Blue Ash Pre-Business Administration program transition into the Bachelor in Business Administration program at the Carl H. Lindner College of Business . This program builds students’confidence as they transition to UC’s Clifton Campus through a variety of resources, including academic support, staff guidance, informative and impactful workshops, and opportunities to connect with other students and build community.

• Lindner Diversity & Inclusion
• Blue Ash College
• Lindner College of Business
• Career-Services
• Undergraduate-Programs
• Experience-based Learning
• Student Experience

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