Experience Dallas: A 4-Day Itinerary
When I tell people I live in Dallas, I often hear two responses. The most common is, “I’ve never really thought about visiting Dallas.” The other? “I’ve visited but I didn’t really know what to do or where to go.”
As someone who has lived in Dallas since 2015, I can understand why the city has flown under the radar as a travel destination. Beyond the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas State Fair, Dallas has attractions more focused on neighborhood exploration. Moreover, the city’s highways can be confusing, and it is often misunderstood due to its portrayal in the 1980s TV show Dallas.
The Dallas I know is a metropolitan gem with a stunning skyline, a thriving arts scene, and creative restaurants that earned it the title of Restaurant City of the Year in 2019 by Bon Appetit. However, unless you have a local guide to lead the way, you might miss out on what makes this city so special. Here’s a 4-day itinerary to help you experience the best of Dallas’ culture, history, art, and outdoor adventures.
Day 1: Art and History in Downtown Dallas
You don’t need to rent a car if you stay in downtown Dallas. From here, you can take advantage of various public transit options, including a free D-Link bus serving the downtown and Deep Ellum areas, two free streetcars to Uptown and Bishop Arts, multiple DART rail stations, and an underground tunnel walking system.
Morning: Revisiting the Past
Start your day with breakfast at Ellen’s Restaurant in the West End, where you can indulge in delicious southern favorites like shrimp and grits or biscuits and gravy. After breakfast, embark on a historical journey through Dallas.
Don’t miss the John Neely Bryan Cabin, the first house ever built in Dallas, and visit significant sites like the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture, Dealey Plaza, and the Kennedy Memorial. The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum is a noteworthy stop, as is the Sixth Floor Museum, dedicated to the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Afternoon: Lunch and Museum-Hopping
Head to Klyde Warren Park for a bite from the food trucks lining the area. This 5.2-acre green space offers a relaxing atmosphere beneath the city’s skyline. If you prefer a sit-down meal, take the McKinney streetcar to Uptown, where there are several fantastic restaurants.
For the afternoon, dive into the largest contiguous arts district in the U.S. Start at the Dallas Museum of Art before exploring the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Crow Collection of Asian Art. These venues offer engaging exhibits and beautiful gardens.
Evening: Night Out in Deep Ellum
After an afternoon rest, venture into Deep Ellum, known for its live music scene. Enjoy Texas-style barbecue at Pecan Lodge or try local favorites like pizza from Cane Rosso. The area is rich with entertainment options, from iconic venues like the Bomb Factory to local acts at spots like Twilite Lounge.
Day 2: Oak Cliff and the Bishop Arts District
Morning: Hike at Cedar Ridge Preserve
Start your day with a restorative hike in Cedar Ridge Preserve, where you can explore 600 acres of trails. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Mexican breakfast at Gonzalez Restaurant in Oak Cliff, known for its authentic cuisine.
Afternoon: Explore Oak Cliff
Wander along Jefferson Blvd, the heart of Dallas’ Hispanic community, and discover historic buildings and vibrant murals. Visit the Oak Cliff Cultural Center for an insight into the area’s rich heritage.
Evening: Discover the Bishop Arts District
Stroll through the Bishop Arts District, home to unique shops and galleries. Grab a snack at Cretia’s Eatery and Bake Shoppe or try Dallas Grilled Cheese Co. for delicious cheesy treats.
Day 3: Food Tours, Culture, and Entertainment
Morning: A Taste of Black History
Start with coffee and pastries in Deep Ellum before heading to Fair Park, where you can explore the African American Museum of Dallas, dedicated to chronicling Black history.
Afternoon: More Culture and Art
Visit the Hall of State to view important historical documents, then experience immersive art exhibits at Lighthouse Immersive. If time permits, drop by the J Erik Jonsson Central Library to see rare historical texts.
Evening: Dinner and a Show
Dinner options abound in downtown Dallas, from upscale dining to casual eateries. Conclude your evening with a concert or show at one of Dallas’s premiere venues.
Day 4: Enjoying the Outdoors
Morning: Dallas Farmer’s Market
Visit the Dallas Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and enjoy breakfast at various food stalls. The market features artisans selling unique wares and food products.
Brunch in Lower Greenville
Savor brunch in the vibrant Lower Greenville neighborhood, known for its shops and lively atmosphere. Choose from various restaurants catering to all tastes.
Afternoon: Arboretum and White Rock Lake
After brunch, head to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to admire beautiful flora and art installations. Then, enjoy outdoor activities at White Rock Lake, where you can walk, bike, or even kayak.
Evening: Alfresco Dining
Wrap up your trip in Lower Greenville, dining outdoors at local favorites. Make sure to enjoy a drink at the Truck Yard, a popular spot known for its communal atmosphere and delicious local brews.
This itinerary offers a diverse taste of what Dallas has to offer, from its rich history to its vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy your exploration of this dynamic city!
