The thriving commercial and cultural hub of Texas, Dallas is a vibrant and exciting city for locals and visitors alike. A modern metropolis, it's busy and bustling with plenty of unique things to do and quintessentially Texan experiences.
Extensive domestic and international connections from Dallas Fort Worth International and Love Field airports make it an ideal destination to start your US and Texas adventures. I spent several nights in June 2024 exploring the city as part of a bigger Texas trip (check out my West Texas road trip itinerary).
I've put together a guide of some of the best things to do in Dallas featuring some of my favourite experiences from the trip, from bucket list sightseeing to can't-miss meals.
(ad press trip with Travel Texas, however all words and opinions are my own)
Dallas 101
Currency: The currency in Texas is US$. Card is widely accepted, however I'd always recommend carrying a little cash for emergencies. For the Europeans reading this, keep in mind that tipping culture is strong in the States. Expect to tip around 20% on meals.
Getting to Dallas: Dallas is served by international airport Dallas Fort Worth, and regional Dallas Love Field Airport. The former is a major hub for international flights, making it a great destination to fly to in Texas.
Getting around Dallas: Dallas is very much a city designed for cars. Therefore I'd recommend hiring a car to get around the city, particularly if you're looking to take any day trips into Hill Country. Alternatively Uber and Lyft are readily available, or Dallas's public transport system DART runs across trains, buses and trams throughout the city.
Day Trips from Dallas: Neighbouring city Fort Worth is a short drive away - I'd recommend checking out the Stockyards to experience cowboy culture. Waco is around an hours drive away, and an hour further will take you to Austin (although seeing Austin in just a day would be an impossible task!). For the wine conossiours, Texas's burgeoning wine scene can be discovered along the Piney Woods Wine Trail. Adventure lovers should head to Dinosaur Valley State Park for activities such as hiking and cycling.
How long to spend in Dallas: I'd recommend at least a couple of nights to see Dallas. If you'd like to explore nearby Fort Worth or any other days trips, plan for 4-5 nights.
Weather in Dallas: Dallas is generally hot and humid, with mild winters. Summer sees temperatures of 30+ degrees centigrade, so keep this in mind if you're planning on visiting then. Generally shoulder season (Spring and Autumn) are the most temperate.
Where to Stay in Dallas
Thompson Dallas Hotel
In the heart of Downtown Dallas, Thompson Dallas is a laidback yet luxurious experience that encapsulates the vibe of the city. A vast lobby flanked by impeccably styled bookshelves and oversized artworks sets the stage for a stylish stay. Everything is bigger in Texas and the Thompson Dallas is an ample space, with all the amenities of a top hotel including four different bar and restaurant spaces, a spa and pool. We only stayed a night here so I sadly didn't get to experience all of these, but you could easily never leave the hotel! The rooms themselves are beautiful and equally spacious, with elegant yet comfortable furnishings.
The Best Things To Do in Dallas
01. Reunion Tower
Every city has its icon, and in Dallas, it's the Reunion Tower. The 561ft observation tower stands tall overlooking the city, its unique globe shape making it one of the most distinctive sights on the city skyline. The tower is home to the GeO-Deck, and fine dining steak restaurant Crown Block, offering visitors some of the best views of Dallas. We headed up to the GeO-Deck to get our bearings and take in the architecture of the city, and were pleasantly surprised to find it fairly quiet at 7pm.
General admission tickets to the deck start at $19 for adults. I'd recommend visiting the deck at golden hour, before heading to Crown Block for sunset.
02. Explore Deep Ellum
One of my very favourite things to do when in a new city is to seek out the coolest neighbourhoods. A quick google search told me to head to the lively district of Deep Ellum, a hub of arts, entertainment, and eateries in the heart of the city. The majority of things to do are spread along Main Street, including a number of great restaurants, vintage and boutique stores, and bars. We got our barbecue fix at Terry Black's, discovered the area's live music heritage at the many music bars, and belly laughed at improv at Dallas Comedy Club.
03. Eat Barbecue
When in Texas! I'm pretty sure it's a law that they don't let you leave until you've tried some of the famous barbecue the state is known for. If it's not, it should be! I've eaten my fair share of barbecue over the years, but it's a completely unique experience in Texas.
Dallas is unsurprisingly an excellent city for barbecue, and you're truly spoilt for choice. We tucked into a heaving barbecue platter at Smoky Rose (imo the best bbq we had on the trip!), as well as casual Texas institution Terry Black's. I've also heard good things about Pecan Lodge, although sadly we didn't quite make it on this trip.
04. Dallas Arboretum
On a hot Dallas day, you'd be forgiven for looking to escape the glistening tower blocks of Downtown. Enter Dallas Arboretum, a true oasis from the city just a 15 minute drive from the centre. A lovely 66 acre botanical garden, it's a peaceful spot to take a break from the bustle and wander amongst the different themed gardens. The Arboretum also plays host to a number of events and exhibitions - keep an eye on the website for latest listings. Alternatively, grab a hammock, pull out a good book, and lean into taking it slow.
05. Sweet Tooth Hotel
Nope, its not a hotel! The Sweet Tooth Hotel in Downtown Dallas is an immersive art museum and cocktail bar. Behind different "hotel rooms" lie a number of unique art installations. One room feels like stepping into an Alice in Wonderland-esque tea party, overflowing with knitted cakes, teacups, and floral foliage. Another is a surreal 1970s era living room filled with clashing prints. It's overwhelming, but a lot of fun. Don't forget your camera!
06. Fine Dining at Crown Block Dallas
Dallas might be better known for it's Tex-Mex and barbecue, but it does fine dining pretty darn well too. Crown Block is a sky high steak restaurant at the aforementioned Reunion Tower. Where the geo-deck is fairly stripped back, Crown Block is all luxury, pairing breathtaking Dallas views with sophisticated interiors and a refined food menu. The latter ranges from brunch to sushi and dinner, with a focus on seafood and steaks. We tucked into a selection of small plates and starters - standouts included the yellowtail crudo and tempura rock shrimp. However I definitely want to go back to try the steaks, they looked incredible! Keep in mind there's a dress code, and reservations are recommended.
07. Highland Park Village
Stylish Highland Park Village is a shopping and entertainment venue in north Dallas. It houses all the biggest designer names, as well as upscale dining options. I'm generally not a big shopper when travelling, however I was enticed to visit to check out the beautiful Sadelle's. A New York export, it's a famous all-day dining spot, known for its elevated deli-style offering. As an interiors lover, I was drawn to the Dallas branch for aesthetic reasons. Sleek pink and blue booths paired with Art Deco gold accents give the space a storied feel, despite being a relatively recent addition to the Dallas dining scene. Oh, and it has an excellent breakfast menu. It's on the pricier side, but well worth it for a bougie girls' brunch.
We only had a couple of days in Dallas so this list is far from comprehensive, but hopefully will provide you with a decent starting point for planning your Texas adventures. I'd love to know what other activities and things to do in Dallas you'd recommend? Let me know in the comments!
