City Spotlight: Dallas
Dallas is known worldwide for its beloved pro football team and the famous 1980s TV drama that solidified its reputation for big hair and even bigger personalities. However, fewer know it as a city of contradictions and unexpected surprises. Long known as the fashion and financial capital of Texas, Dallas also boasts a bustling and diverse cultural scene, a thriving food culture, and some often-overlooked natural beauty. Here’s a guide to what makes this Texan metropolis so special.
A Cultural Hub
The Dallas Arts District, which includes the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center, is one of the largest in the country. It is also home to the Dallas Opera and Dallas Theater Center, as well as performance spaces that host a range of local and touring groups. During the day, you can wander the museums and book a seat for an evening show in one of the magnificent theater spaces designed by some of the world’s most famous architects.
A Foodie’s Paradise
The culinary scene in Dallas goes far beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue. You can spend years exploring the vast and endlessly evolving restaurant scene. But if you only have a few days, stick close to the Bishop Arts District, where you can try some of the best Italian cuisine in Texas at Lucia, explore inventive Mexico City-inspired flavors at the underrated Ayahuasca Cantina, or relax on the patio outside local favorite Oddfellows.
Shopping Galore
From the luxury boutiques at Highland Park Village to vintage treasures in Deep Ellum, Dallas offers something for every shopper. NorthPark Center, an elegantly designed shopping mall that interrupts the browsing of recognizable stores and brands with a magnificent collection of modern and contemporary art pieces, is a must-visit for any shopping enthusiast.
Outdoor Escapes
Natural beauty may not be the first thing that pops to mind when outsiders think of Dallas, but locals know where to find inspiring outdoor spaces. For a breath of fresh air, head to the Katy Trail, a local favorite for walking, jogging, and biking. Or explore the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, where seasonal festivals and events bring vibrant colors and activities to the beautiful fall gardens. If you really want to explore Dallas’ natural world, head to the Trinity River Audubon Center and wander the paths through the Great Trinity Forest, the largest urban hardwood forest in the nation.
While you’re in the area, make it a weekend trip and take the roughly 45-minute drive west to explore Fort Worth.
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