Affectionately known as the Big D by local residents, glitzy Dallas is one of the largest and most important cities in Texas, a state known for doing things big. Situated in the northwestern corner of this western state, Dallas is widely considered one of the least Texan cities in Texas. Tourists may be disappointed by the lack of cowboys wandering the streets, but there’s still plenty to see and do.
Many Americans know Dallas as one of the country’s main financial hubs or as the home of the infamous television drama of the same name. However, this city has seen its fair share of real history, after all, JFK was assassinated here - and has some excellent museums and cultural venues to showcase it.
On a more entertaining note, Dallas is the home of several massive amusement parks as well as a handful of professional sports teams. A wealth of public parks, a decent zoo and an aquarium add a touch of nature to the otherwise urban environment. If you want some real drama however, visit Southfork Ranch, the site where they filmed the soap opera Dallas, or Deep Ellum, a nightlife hotspot.
Dallas attractions
Dallas Museum of Art: it doesn’t dazzle compared to the world’s premier art galleries, but this museum does have a respectable collection of international art in many genres.
Dallas Zoo: like most things in Texas, the zoo in Dallas is huge. All the usual big game animals can be found within the hilly 96 acre facility.
Dallas World Aquarium: both freshwater and saltwater creatures are on display at this recently renovated venue, where Mundo Maya is the newest attraction with its 400,000 gallon shark tank.
Nasher Sculpture Center: one of the world’s foremost collections of contemporary sculpture is on display in this privately-owned gallery, which is a major highlight in Dallas.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: a mere 15-minute drive from downtown brings you to this 70-acre green oasis around White Rock Lake.
The Sixth Floor Museum: explore the conspiracy theories surrounding Kennedy’s assassination in Dallas at this moving museum.
Deep Ellum: the hippest hub of the city reached fame in the 1920s for its blues and jazz venues. The old warehouses are now decidedly trendier.