Find the Best Things to Do in Downtown
By Ilene Jacobs
Dallas Local Expert
About Downtown
Photo courtesy of Dillon Diers
Along with one of the nation's most spectacular skylines, Dallas' downtown area offers a vibrant mix of attractions, shopping and activities. From world-class museums and premier performance venues to foodie hotspots, eclectic bars and unique shops, you'll find it all within the various thriving districts that make up downtown Dallas.
See & Do
Downtown Dallas boasts some of Texas' biggest and best attractions. For performing arts, head over to the Dallas Arts District, home to the Meyerson Symphony Center and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. For visual arts, history and science, there's the Dallas Museum of Art, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. And for a birds-eye view of the nation's most dazzling skyline, nothing beats the GeO-Deck atop Reunion Tower .
Eat
Downtown Dallas has become an enclave for some of the city's top culinary hotspots. From gourmet southwestern cuisine at Fearing's and delicious Latin inspired fare at San Salvaje to sophisticated Asian food at Tei An and sizzling steaks at Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille. Whether it's for a special occasion, a business dinner or a foodies' night on the town, you're bound to find plenty of gastronomic gems to satisfy both your appetite and budget.
Party
Downtown Dallas sizzles with a bevy of nightlife options to suit any mood. From handcrafted libations at the subterranean speakeasy Midnight Rambler and roof-top sips at NYLO's SODA Bar to two-stepping at Gilley’s and dancing the night away at Plush, there's no shortage of after-dark activities to choose from. And if it's live music that you're after, The House of Blues and City Tavern are just a few of the places to get you started.
Stay
Not only will staying in downtown Dallas put you in the middle of the action, but it's here where you'll find some of the most glamorous hotels in the city. When it comes to luxury, the Ritz-Carlton, the Omni and the legendary Adolphus Hotel reign supreme. Or for something unique, the Joule and NYLO South Side offer hip, chic retreats. Whatever your style or budget may be, Dallas has a variety of hotels to suit your needs.
Shop
In need of a little retail therapy? Downtown Dallas has you covered. For the latest fashions, check out TenOverSix and the Kettledrum Allie Boutique. If you want western attire and souvenirs, visit Wild Bill's Western Store in the Historic West End. Fresh veggies and artisanal goods can be had at the Dallas Farmers Market. And a trip to Dallas wouldn't be complete without visiting the flagship Neiman Marcus store, a Dallas icon dating back to 1914.