Dallas Design District Map
Introduction
Welcome to the Dallas Design District, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that is home to some of the city’s most unique attractions, hidden gems, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive travel guide will help you navigate the district and discover all that it has to offer.
Top Attractions
The Dallas Contemporary
The Dallas Contemporary is a must-visit attraction for art lovers. This contemporary art museum features cutting-edge exhibitions by both established and up-and-coming artists from around the world. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
The Trinity River Audubon Center
The Trinity River Audubon Center is a nature lover’s paradise. Located just south of downtown Dallas, this 120-acre nature preserve features hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational exhibits about the local ecosystem.
Hidden Gems
The Fabric District
The Fabric District is a hidden gem that is perfect for fashion enthusiasts and DIYers. This area features a variety of fabric stores, sewing supply shops, and textile showrooms, making it a one-stop-shop for all your sewing needs.
The Dallas Farmers Market
The Dallas Farmers Market is a hidden gem that is worth seeking out. This indoor/outdoor market features a variety of local and regional vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. Be sure to check out the market’s events calendar, as it often hosts live music, cooking demonstrations, and other special events.
Food Scene
Emporium Pies
Emporium Pies is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. This local bakery specializes in handmade pies with creative flavors like Drunken Nut, Smooth Operator, and Lord of the Pies.
Bolsa
Bolsa is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s patio is a popular spot for brunch, while its intimate dining room is perfect for a romantic dinner.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The Dallas Museum of Art
The Dallas Museum of Art is a budget-friendly option for travelers. Admission is free, and the museum features a world-class collection of art from around the world.
Klyde Warren Park
Klyde Warren Park is a free public park that offers a variety of activities and events, including fitness classes, live music, and outdoor movies. Be sure to check the park’s events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Outdoor Adventures
White Rock Lake
White Rock Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, and its surrounding park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Cedar Ridge Preserve
Cedar Ridge Preserve is a nature preserve that offers hiking trails with stunning views of downtown Dallas. The preserve also features educational exhibits about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
Historical Landmarks
The Sixth Floor Museum
The Sixth Floor Museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot President John F. Kennedy in 1963. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the assassination and its aftermath.
The Old Red Museum
The Old Red Museum is housed in a historic courthouse building and offers exhibits about the history and culture of Dallas and North Texas. The building itself is a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a family-friendly attraction that offers interactive exhibits about science, technology, and natural history. The museum’s children’s museum is a popular spot for younger visitors.
The Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world. The zoo offers a variety of educational programs and animal encounters, making it a great destination for families.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Bishop Arts District
The Bishop Arts District is a trendy neighborhood that offers a variety of independent shops, restaurants, and bars. Be sure to check out the area’s street art and murals.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden features 66 acres of lush greenery, seasonal floral displays, and a variety of themed gardens.
Natural Wonders
The Trinity River Corridor
The Trinity River Corridor is a natural wonder that offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The area features a variety of wildlife and stunning views of the city skyline.
Cedar Hill State Park
Cedar Hill State Park is located just south of Dallas and offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing. The park’s overlook offers stunning views of Joe Pool Lake and the surrounding landscape.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Rustic
The Rustic is a popular spot for live music and outdoor dining. The restaurant’s patio features a large stage and a variety of seating options, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
The Katy Trail Ice House
The Katy Trail Ice House is a local favorite for beer and bar food. The restaurant’s large patio is a popular spot for happy hour and weekend brunch.
Local Markets
The Dallas Farmers Market
The Dallas Farmers Market is a local market that features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. Be sure to check out the market’s events calendar, as it often hosts live music, cooking demonstrations, and other special events.
The Shed
The Shed is an open-air pavilion at the Dallas Farmers Market that features a variety of vendors selling everything from clothing to home goods to vintage finds.
Beaches and Mountains
Possum Kingdom Lake
Possum Kingdom Lake is located about two hours west of Dallas and offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake’s rocky cliffs and clear blue waters make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Guadalupe Mountains
The Guadalupe Mountains are located about six hours west of Dallas and offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park’s stunning landscape includes canyons, mountains, and the highest peak in Texas.
Cultural Immersion
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Holocaust and its impact on human rights. The museum’s exhibits encourage visitors to explore issues of social justice and promote respect for all people.
The Latino Cultural Center
The Latino Cultural Center is a cultural institution that celebrates the contributions of Latino artists and performers. The center offers a variety of exhibits, performances, and educational programs.
Art and Music Scene
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra
The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is a world-class orchestra that performs a variety of classical and contemporary music. The orchestra’s home, the Meyerson Symphony Center, is a beautiful example of modern architecture.
The Nasher Sculpture Center
The Nasher Sculpture Center is a museum that features a collection of modern and contemporary sculpture. The center’s outdoor sculpture garden is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor concerts.
Walking Tours
The Dallas Arts District Walking Tour
The Dallas Arts District Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that explores the city’s vibrant arts district. The tour includes stops at some of the district’s top attractions, including the Dallas Museum of Art and the Winspear Opera House.
The JFK Assassination Walking Tour
The JFK Assassination Walking Tour is a guided tour that explores the sites and history of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The tour includes stops at Dealey Plaza, the Sixth Floor Museum, and other significant sites.
Architectural Marvels
The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge
The Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge is a stunning example of modern architecture that spans the Trinity River. The bridge’s unique design and sweeping views of downtown Dallas make it a popular spot for photography.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is housed in a beautiful building that features a modern design and sustainable features. The museum offers exhibits and interactive displays about the presidency of George W. Bush.
Historical Sites
The Dallas Heritage Village
The Dallas Heritage Village is