Area Attractions

Sit in a dining room filled with 60 chandeliers, a yellow submarine, and a ginormous fish tank – sounding a bit bizarre and random? Maybe, but it’s all a part of a warm and cozy vibe set by the chef, Nick Badovinus, who designed the slightly eclectic interior. Quirky or not, there’s no debate about the stellar food and good time you’ll have noshing on hearty, American steakhouse fare.

In Texas, there’s a dictum “Go big or go home,” which explains why another steakhouse finds itself on our list. Welcome to Al’s upscale version where Dallas’ big influencers pack the place. Find some of the area’s best steaks, ribeye, and prime rib here. Well-made lobster risotto and potatoes au gratin hit the mark too. Order Al's famous coconut cream pie and coffee to complete the experience.

Founded in 1999 by restauranteur Phil Romano, Nick & Sam’s Uptown Steakhouse has become one of Dallas’ most popular and attractive dining destinations. The universal appeal is a result of exceptional prime steaks, chops, seafood, and world class sushi, in addition to the best selections of Japanese Wagyu in the U.S. and paired with a wine list of 500 labels and outstanding customer service.

A must for anyone who enjoys an incredible sushi experience. The inventive menu will entice both sushi lovers and the “meh! It’s okay,” group with fish flown in daily from Tokyo. Located in the Arts District, make sure to try the machi cure, hot rock, and fried milk.

Pieces from Van Gogh and Monet are among the more than 24,000 works of wonder from around the globe at the DMA. The DMA is particularly strong in European art from the 19th and 20th centuries, and decorative arts and design. General admission is free every day.

Known for its collection of contemporary and modern sculptures, the Center is 55,000 square feet of architectural grandness with two acres of verdant gardens and theater-style open air terraces. The permanent collection is eclectic, showcasing classic Henri Matisse nudes alongside the abstract Joan Miró bronze and a Jasper Johns’ lead relief of a slice of bread.

Three museums in one, the exhibits are wide-ranging. From a tornado simulator to an enormous T-rex skeleton, there's a lot for the whole family to see at the museum. Even the building is unique, its trademark 150-foot glass-encased escalator extends diagonally outside the building.

Consistently tagged by travelers as a “must-see” destination, museum chronicles the life, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The Museum is in the former Texas School Book Depository building, where evidence was found directly linking to the assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Much of the exhibit space looks as it appeared in 1963.

The Dallas Arboretum offers a variety of events, educational programs with an emphasis on family-oriented activities. Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Arboretum’s 66 acres also includes a complete life science laboratory.

The Dallas Arts District is the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation, spanning 68 acres and 19 contiguous blocks. The iconic area has more buildings designed by award-winning architects than any other condensed district in the world. Dallas Arts District unifies culture, commerce, artistic efforts, culture and was awarded a maximum three-star rating by the prestigious Le Guide Vert – Michelin Green Guide. The neighborhood draws more than 50,000 visitors a year.

From food trucks, free yoga classes and outdoor concerts to kids’ activities and film screenings, even a paved trail for joggers, this 5.2-acre deck park is a comforting, green space gem in the city and the hub of Dallas’ outdoor culture. Few parks are as new and well-maintained as Klyde Warren.

Head to the new "Shed" complex and find a variety of vendors, artisans, merchants, and craftsmen selling their wares in this large public market. Only here can you find more than 25 kinds of local pumpkins, gourds, and squash, heritage pork and rabbit, arugula, radishes, and more.