Where Southern Charm Meets Modern Flair
Dallas, the third-largest city in Texas, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and booming business scene. From world-class museums and lush parks to a thriving food scene and iconic sports teams, the city offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan sophistication that captivates visitors from around the globe.
Essential Dallas Information
- Language: English (Spanish widely spoken)
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Timezone: Central Time Zone (CT) UTC-6 (UTC-5 from second Sunday in March to first Sunday in November)
- Tipping: 15-20% is customary in restaurants and for services
Where to Stay in Dallas: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Downtown Dallas
The heart of the city, Downtown is perfect for first-time visitors. It’s home to iconic landmarks like Reunion Tower and the Sixth Floor Museum, as well as a vibrant arts district and bustling nightlife scene.
Uptown
Known for its upscale restaurants, chic boutiques, and lively bar scene, Uptown is popular among young professionals and visitors seeking a more cosmopolitan experience. The historic McKinney Avenue Trolley offers a charming way to explore the area.
Deep Ellum
A historic entertainment district east of downtown, Deep Ellum is famous for its vibrant street art, live music venues, and eclectic dining scene. It’s the perfect spot for night owls and culture enthusiasts.
Bishop Arts District
This charming, walkable neighborhood in North Oak Cliff is home to independent boutiques, quirky art galleries, and some of the city’s best restaurants. It offers a more laid-back, local vibe compared to the bustling city center.
Park Cities
Comprising the upscale towns of Highland Park and University Park, this area offers a quieter, more residential feel. It’s known for its beautiful homes, high-end shopping at Highland Park Village, and proximity to Southern Methodist University.
Must-See Sights in Dallas
- The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza: Chronicling the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
- Dallas Museum of Art: One of the largest art museums in America, with a vast collection spanning 5,000 years.
- Perot Museum of Nature and Science: An architectural marvel housing interactive exhibits on natural history and science.
- Reunion Tower: Offering 360-degree views of the city from its iconic observation deck.
- Klyde Warren Park: A unique urban green space built over a freeway, featuring food trucks and regular events.
- Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: 66 acres of beautiful gardens on the shores of White Rock Lake.
- AT&T Stadium: Home of the Dallas Cowboys, offering tours even on non-game days.
Discover Dallas’s Hidden Gems
- Dallas Farmers Market: A bustling market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and eateries.
- Cedar Ridge Preserve: A hidden nature oasis with hiking trails and stunning views, just southwest of Dallas.
- Cosmic Cafe: A quirky vegetarian restaurant with eclectic decor and occasional yoga classes.
- Dragon Park: A small, whimsical park filled with statues and sculptures in the Oak Lawn neighborhood.
- Cidercade: An arcade bar featuring over 150 games and house-made ciders.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Dallas Dishes
- Texas BBQ: Slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausages are Dallas staples.
- Tex-Mex: Try local favorites like queso, fajitas, and frozen margaritas.
- Pecan Pie: A sweet Southern dessert, often with a Texas twist.
- Fletcher’s Corny Dogs: A State Fair of Texas classic, available year-round at select locations.
- Chicken Fried Steak: A breaded, fried steak typically served with cream gravy.
6 Essential Tips for Visiting Dallas
- Use DART: Dallas Area Rapid Transit offers convenient and affordable transportation around the city.
- Visit During Spring or Fall: Avoid the intense summer heat by planning your trip during milder seasons.
- Explore Beyond Downtown: Venture into neighborhoods like Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts for a local experience.
- Check for Events: Dallas hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, like the State Fair of Texas.
- Take Advantage of Free Museums: Many Dallas museums offer free admission on certain days or times.
- Experience Cowboy Culture: Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of Texas’s cowboy heritage, just a short drive away
How to Get to Dallas
Air: The city is served by two major airports:
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): One of the busiest airports in the world, located about 20 miles northwest of downtown Dallas. It handles both domestic and international flights.
- Dallas Love Field (DAL): A smaller airport located closer to downtown, primarily serving domestic flights.
Rail:
- Amtrak: The Texas Eagle route connects to Chicago, San Antonio, and Los Angeles.
- Trinity Railway Express (TRE): Commuter rail service between Dallas and Fort Worth.
Within the city, the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) light rail system provides extensive coverage, including direct connections from DFW Airport to downtown Dallas.
