The trek has arrived in
Dallas
The Big D — Where Texas tradition meets modern ambition.
Dallas is a city of bold contrasts. You'll find gleaming skyscrapers and a thriving arts district just minutes away from historic saloons and barbecue joints. From its roots in the cotton and oil trades to its modern status as a cultural and economic powerhouse, The Big D always does things in a big way.
A Skyline Like No Other
Reunion Tower
Locals lovingly call it "God's Microphone" or "The Dandelion." Opened in 1978, this 561-foot observation tower is the most recognizable silhouette in the Dallas skyline. The geodesic dome at the top features 259 LED fixtures that light up the night with dynamic shows.
Ride the elevator up to the GeO-Deck for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. It's the perfect place to get your bearings before diving into the streets below.
A Heavy History
Dealey Plaza & The Sixth Floor Museum
Dallas will forever be tied to one of the most tragic days in American history. On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while his motorcade passed through Dealey Plaza.
Today, the plaza remains largely unchanged from that day. The former Texas School Book Depository building now houses The Sixth Floor Museum, which chronicles the life, death, and legacy of JFK. It is a sobering, profoundly moving experience that is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to Dallas.
The Arts District & The Perot Connection
Dallas Museum of Art & Nasher Sculpture Center
The largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation is anchored by the DMA (which offers free general admission) and the Nasher's incredible indoor/outdoor collection of modern sculpture.
Perot Museum of Nature & Science
Just a short walk away sits the architectural marvel of the Perot Museum. If the name sounds familiar, it should! The museum is named in honor of Margot and Ross Perot—tying directly back to Ross Perot's upbringing in Texarkana.
Parks & Landmarks
Fair Park & The Cotton Bowl
A sprawling 277-acre historic site that famously hosts the massive State Fair of Texas every fall. It's home to the iconic Texas Star Ferris wheel and the legendary Cotton Bowl Stadium, where college football history has been written for decades.
Dallas Arboretum & White Rock Lake
If you need a peaceful retreat from the concrete jungle, head to the shores of White Rock Lake. The 66-acre botanical garden is a stunning oasis of color, featuring seasonal festivals (like their famous pumpkin village in autumn) and sweeping views of the lake.
Exploring the City
Deep Ellum
Established in 1873, Deep Ellum originally grew as an industrial area, but by the 1920s, it had transformed into a mecca for jazz and blues musicians. Today, it's the cultural heartbeat of Dallas.
Wander the streets to take in the incredible street art, pop into quirky independent boutiques, and stick around after dark for some of the best live music venues in Texas.
Klyde Warren Park
A marvel of urban engineering, Klyde Warren Park is a 5.2-acre public park built completely over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway. It seamlessly connects the vibrant Uptown neighborhood with the Dallas Arts District.
It's always buzzing with activity: food trucks line the perimeter, while the great lawn hosts everything from morning yoga classes to evening concerts. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite and people-watch.
Pioneer Plaza
Located right in the convention district downtown, Pioneer Plaza commemorates Dallas's beginnings by celebrating the trails that brought cattle to market. It features a massive, larger-than-life bronze sculpture of a cattle drive complete with 40 longhorn steers.
Bishop Arts District
Located in the heart of North Oak Cliff, this is Dallas’s most fiercely independent neighborhood. It is home to over 60 independent boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and art galleries. It’s the perfect walkable district for a relaxed afternoon.
Where to eat
Tex-Mex and True Texas BBQ
You can't leave Dallas without having Tex-Mex. Legend has it that the frozen margarita machine was invented here in 1971 by Mariano Martinez. Head to Mia's Tex-Mex or El Fenix for the classic enchiladas and a strong, frosty drink.
If you're craving smoke and meat, Dallas has entered the upper echelon of Texas barbecue. Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum draws massive lines for their brisket and beef ribs, while Terry Black's BBQ offers an authentic Central Texas experience right in the city.
A Massive Sports Culture
Titans of the Turf & Court
Dallas is synonymous with its sports teams. It is home to "America's Team," the Dallas Cowboys (who play at the massive AT&T Stadium in nearby Arlington). Hoops fans pack the American Airlines Center to watch the Dallas Mavericks, who share the arena with the NHL's Dallas Stars.
Famous Natives
Dallas has produced a staggering number of cultural icons. Just a few of the famous faces born here:
If you've got a spare day
🤠 Fort Worth Stockyards (~45 mins) — Head "Where the West Begins" to see the twice-daily cattle drive, historic saloons, and authentic rodeo action.
🏈 Arlington Entertainment District (~30 mins) — Catch a Dallas Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium or watch the Texas Rangers swing for the fences at Globe Life Field.
Watch
Sources. Dallas Historical Society; Visit Dallas; Wikipedia. Population figures: 2020 U.S. Census.
MobTreks · a stop on the Southern trek.