Dallas is a modern, urban metropolis known for its striking skyline. You won’t find many cowboys or ranch hands (that’s Fort Worth). Instead, you’ll find rich history, internationally recognized architecture, and signature cuisine. When traveling to Dallas, you have so many options and decisions to make. Here are just a few suggestions on how to spend your weekend.
If you’re ready to have an incredible weekend in Texas, you can purchase a Wild Bum guide. It will help you figure out how to spend a weekend in Dallas and make planning your trip easy. Lindsey’s guide is coming soon!
Bishop Arts District
You’ve arrived! How about some classic Texas barbeque? Lockhart Smokehouse is a casual counter-service joint, offering Central Texas-style smoked meats on butcher paper. While you’re in the neighborhood, explore the two-block Bishop Arts District. With over 60 restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and galleries – there are tons of hidden gems to explore in this artsy neighborhood. After your fill of barbeque, take a turn to Wild Detectives, a unique literary bar with craft cocktails open till midnight.
Downtown
The beating heart and soul of Dallas, Downtown has an alluring arts scene, urban green spaces, delish dining and cosmopolitan shopping. Experience aristocratic professionals by day, and dazzling nightlife after dark.
One of my favorite things to peruse Downtown is the Farmers Market. Located in the southeast corner of Downtown, the Farmers Market is made up of The Market Shops, a large indoor vendor market, and The Shed, an open-air pavilion with locally grown produce. Follow your nose to find lunch – you can’t go wrong here!
Next it’s time to explore Dallas’ Texas-sized arts scene. Spend an afternoon at one of the largest art museums in America, the Dallas Museum of Art, and Nasher Sculpture Center. Or, especially if you have little ones, discover the Perot Museum of Nature & Science.
If you’re less of an artist and more of a history buff, now might be a great time to see Dealey Plaza, the “birthplace of Dallas,” and the location of the assassination of United States President John F. Kennedy in 1963. I like to walk the main drag from Dealey Plaza to the Giant Eyeball and onward to the Chapel of Thanksgiving – to get a good feel of Downtown Dallas itself.
Deep Ellum
At least one night out in Deep Ellum is a must for any Dallas getaway. Formerly a warehouse district, Deep Ellum is now the nightlife hotspot for live music, fun-loving bars and eateries. Grab dinner at Pepe’s & Mito’s, Ichigoh Ramen Lounge, or Pecan Lodge (if you’re looking for more barbeque). Enjoy live music at Mama Tried, Adair’s Saloon, or Mama Tried. Discover hidden gems like Truth & Alibi, a below-ground password-required speakeasy offering cocktails behind a faux candy store facade.
Uptown
Don’t skip Uptown. The lifestyle district, Uptown is connected to Downtown by Kyle Warren Park. It is here in trendy Oak Lawn that you’ll find the city’s gay scene; known for it’s diverse homes, lively bars, DJ-driven clubs, kareoke, drag shows, and country-western dancing.
One of the most iconic destinations in Uptown is Katy Trail. Once an abandoned railroad line, this popular trail boasts beautiful scenery, and well-maintained paths. After a hike, grab lunch (and drinks) at the Katy Trail Ice House.
White Rock Lake
If you’re looking for more nature off the beaten path, adventure over to a local favorite: White Rock Lake. Hike, boat, picnic, bird-watch, and more at this relaxing oasis outside the hustle and bustle of the city. Tour the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden or grab a brew at White Rock Alehouse & Brewery.
Lower Greenville
For another fun night out, explore Lower Greenville. A quaint neighborhood meets robust nightlife in this high-energy East Dallas district. Check out the Truck Yard, an adult playground and beer garden with treehouse and trailer bars. Or something more my scene is Hg Sply Co., a rustic-chic rooftop patio with skyline views and craft cocktails.
If you’re able to cross all of these places off your list, you are sure to have a great time. This is how to spend a weekend in Dallas. This city has so much to offer. If you’re ready to get planning, be sure to check out the Dallas travel guide.
Lindsey’s guide is coming soon! Check back right here to get your hands on this fabulous guide to have a the best time on your weekend in Dallas.
About the Author:
Growing up in New Jersey, Lindsey Leardi never imagined she would fall in love with the midwest, move to Kansas City, and travel (frequently) to Dallas, Texas. She is an Architectural Associate with passion for blogging, travel and event planning.
