Find the Best Things to Do in Oak Cliff
By Ilene Jacobs
Dallas Local Expert
About Oak Cliff
Photo courtesy of Go Oak Cliff
Bedecked with rolling hills, lush landscapes and an array of significantly historic architecture, Oak Cliff— specifically the northern quadrant— is fast becoming one of Dallas' most popular destinations for visitors and locals alike. Located directly southwest of downtown, this vibrant neighborhood offers everything from art, culture and entertainment to indie restaurants, eclectic shops and a host of spectacular annual events. Best of all, visitors can easily access North Oak Cliff by hopping on the new Union Station to Oak Cliff Dallas Streetcar or by taking DART's free D-Link bus from downtown Dallas.
See & Do
Along with hot spots like the Bishop Arts District, Tyler Davis Art District, Kessler X+ District and Sylvan Thirty mixed-use complex, visitors to the O.C. can take in a musical performance at the Kessler Theater or catch one of the productions at The Bishop Arts Theatre Center. Not-to-be-missed is the iconic Texas Theatre, best known as the place where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested after the assassination of President Kennedy. Also be sure to check out the wild and wonderful animals at the Dallas Zoo, the oldest and largest zoological park in the state.
Eat
Sure, there's plenty to do in the O.C., but what attracts people the most to this 'hood are the restaurants. Whether you're looking to slurp up the best steaming bowl of noodles and broth you've ever had at TEN Ramen, tuck into a rustic bowl of pasta at Lucia, dig into regional Mexican cuisine at Mesa— or sink your teeth into luscious barbecue at Smoke, there are more than enough options to whet your appetite. The only obstacle will be deciding what you're in the mood for.
Party
The O.C. may not be rife with swanky cocktail bars and over-the-top dance clubs, but what this laid back 'hood really excels at are gastropubs, wine bars and cool dives where everybody really does know your name. Crafty bar grub, homemade brews and live music are on tap at Small Brewpub, more suds and grub can be had at Ten Bells Tavern, and an extensive selection of wine and gourmet fare set the scene at Bouchon 1314. And be sure to stop in at The Tradewinds Social Club, a popular dive bar offering cheap booze and drunken karaoke.
Stay
While the majority of nearby accommodations are going to be found in Downtown Dallas, one place to keep on your short list is the historic Belmont Hotel, a mid-century modern stunner designed by Dallas architect Charles Dilbeck in 1947. This hilltop retreat sports a fabulous lobby lounge and spectacular views of the downtown skyline. Smoke, one of the city's best restaurants, is also located here.
Shop
When it comes to scooping up locally crafted goods, trendy apparel, cool antiquities and eclectic artwork that you won't see anywhere else, O.C. is the place to go. For foodies, there's Coco Andre Chocolatier and Dude, Sweet Chocolate peddling handcrafted confections. Or CiboDivino Marketplace is Dallas' version of Dean & Deluca in NYC. Fashion savvy shoppers head to Indigo 1745 for all their apparel needs. Retro ware and collectibles can be had at Lula B's Antique Mall (relocating from Deep Ellum) and M'Antiques. And for art and jewelry, be sure to stop by Artisan's Collective.