Dallas Holidays
For most visitors to this dynamic city, downtown Dallas is where it’s at.
Boasting the largest urban arts district in the United States, the Dallas Arts District is a must for anyone interested in exploring the city’s cultural landmarks. Absorb the architectural wealth of the area on a guided tour before making your way to the award-winning Dallas Museum of Art (DMA). While in the neighbourhood, it would be a crime not visit the Nasher Sculpture Center too; exhibiting over 300 exceptional pieces of modern and contemporary sculpture, including works from the 19th-century doyen, Henri Matisse, as well as the ground-breaking Richard Serra – this is not to be missed.
In 1963, the West End Historic District of Dallas gained grim notoriety as the location of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. In memory of this, the iconic Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza was established in order to bring clarity to a unique historical event. Located in the former Book Depository, this memorable museum uses audio and film footage as well as eye-witness accounts to paint a picture of Kennedy’s last moments – creepy, chilling yet utterly fascinating.
Perhaps the most recognisable landmark in the city is the awe-inspiring and futuristic Reunion Tower. The observation deck at the top of the tower is currently under renovation and is due to re-open in Autumn 2013. If you are lucky enough to be in Dallas when the renovations have been completed, and if you have a head for heights, make sure you pencil it in, as the panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
With endless options for evening entertainment, downtown Dallas is a trendy hotspot packed with top-class eateries, über-cool bars and quirky theatres. After a long day of sightseeing, why not treat yourself to a great night out at the Majestic Theatre on Elm Street, where you can enjoy a range of diverse shows from performance art to opera?
Dallas is a city brimming with a host of varied and exciting family attractions including excellent theme parks, zoos and aquariums. Visit the Orinoco Secrets of the River exhibition in the Dallas World Aquarium and learn about biodiversity and conservation in the South American Rainforest. Alternatively, Dallas Zoo is easily one of the most popular family attractions in the city. Ride the Monorail Safari through forest, desert and rivers, and explore six African habitats before making your way to the thrilling Festival of Flight in the Wildlife Amphitheater, where over 20 species of birds swoop and soar – best of all, it’s free! If you really want to treat the kids, then take them to Six Flags Over Texas. With over fifty rides spread across 85 hectares, there is something to suit everyone.
If all that action has finally worn you out, take advantage of an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Sitting serenely on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a visual and olfactory feast of seasonal flowers and ornamental shrubs – this blooming paradise is the perfect place to sit back and smell the roses.
Finally, if you are looking to escape the city for a while, why not head north and visit the legendary Southfork Ranch. This famous Texan ranch is where the popular television show Dallas was filmed and, as such, is a huge draw for visitors from all over the world. Not just for die-hard fans, visitors of all persuasions can enjoy the guided tour of the ranch grounds and the mansion before grabbing some dinner at the Chuckwagon Diner. Southern charm at its finest!
