Making the most out of Big Days in Big D

Never one to be outdone easily, Dallas is home to some of the most spectacular events, festivals and showcase displays in Texas. If you love music, arts, crafts, food or cars, then you’re going to feel right at home. The calendar is chock-a-block with thrilling events, making sure that life here is an absolute joy. I guarantee you won’t die of boredom here!

Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase, October

A newcomer on the social scene, this family-friendly event returns to Park Place in October. This automotive event is quite the exhibition of luxury lifestyle, boasting fabulous supercars and classic motors at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas in the Las Colinas neighborhood. Grab your tickets online from $25, with $100 earning you VIP perks including complimentary food and drinks. Proceeds go to the Momentous Institute, which strives to improve emotional health of young kids.

Dallas International Guitar Festival, May

What began in a little meeting room in the late 70s has since boomed into the biggest annual guitar show on the planet. Now held at the Dallas Market Hall, this three-day show sprawls across some 140,00 square feet as thousands of guitar players, dealers and manufacturers mingle with collectors and celebrities, united in their passion for guitar music. Dallas has quite a few big music festivals, but there is none as quintessentially Texan as this.

Mallory Kaplan, Highland Park, March-June

Highland Park Village is internationally-renowned for its upscale shopping options. Visitors here between March and June can get a taste of local life at the seasonal markets, which take place every three weeks. Come along to check out the artisan crafts and enjoy the delicious food and live entertainment as almost 30 of the best vendors in Dallas come out for the event. In 2018, the market is on from 9am to 1pm on March 24, April 21, May 19 and June 16.

Uptown Foodie Walk, Year Round

If you’re keen to take a peek at the trendy West Village area of Dallas, I’d recommend the Uptown Foodie Walk. Getting a feel for the true vibe of the area couldn’t be easier as an expert guide will take you around the best that Uptown Dallas has to offer. From hip cafés and art galleries, to boutique shops and great restaurants, you’ll uncover secrets and fill your belly with some amazing cuisine along the way! Make sure you turn up with an appetite!

Frisco Education Foundation Fun Run, October

While the Irving Marathon is the highlight of the running events in Dallas, this annual fun run is one for the whole family to enjoy. Before passing in 1999, Gary Burns was somewhat of a local hero, from his work as an assistant fire chief to his good deeds for less fortunate children. Every year, there is a 5K race in his honor and a one-mile fun run that brings the community together at the Toyota Stadium. Alongside the running, there are plenty of other fun activities and the chance to see the famous City of Frisco Fire Clowns. Get registered now to take part this October.

Savor Dallas Food + Drink Festival, May

When it comes to food events, there is none bigger than Savor Dallas. This is the pinnacle of gourmet gratification, with wine and spirit tastings flowing for a full week amid incredible live entertainment and mouthwatering food. The best chefs from scores of restaurants break out their best in this annual celebration of the fantastic restaurant scene in Dallas, presenting an array of fascinating culinary clashes and exhibits. If you want to eat well, my friend, I suggest you get a ticket for this. Much of the festival happens in or around the Irving area, from May 14-20, 2018.

Deep Ellum Arts Festival, April

The huge arts scene in Dallas comes together every year, taking over six blocks of Main Street in Deep Ellum. This massive street festival features hundreds of artists, bands and songwriters, as well as unique foods and drinks for all who come. People can come to roam the artwork, crafts and sculptures, buying works or watching original work being created right before your eyes. If you ask me, this may be one of the coolest festivals to get to grips with life in Dallas, and to make it even better, admission is totally free! This year the festival is on from April 6-8, 2018.

State Fair Park, September-October

I could hardly discuss festivals in Dallas without mentioning the State Fair. The signature event of Dallas has been running since 1886, stretching 24 days from late September, making it the longest-running fair in the USA, and arguably the best. From the annual football match, chili cook-offs and auto shows, to a huge Ferris wheel and the massive mascot, Big Tex, the State Fair of Texas has it all. It starts on September 28 th, 2018.

Shop Til You Drop

Big D has shops for everyone and everything. From top to bottom, this city is full of opportunities for you to empty your pockets. Whether you have the cash to splurge or simply need to pick up a few essentials, going to a mall can turn into quite the experience. Whatever your taste or budget, you’ll find what you’re looking for…and more.

Highland Park Village
In the flashy Highland Park Village, just north of the downtown area, is Highland Park Village. Here you can find Dallas’s answer to Rodeo Drive. While this area is one of the best places to go shopping in the country, it is also great just to have a walk around. Don’t worry if the Chanel and Dior are out of your budget – there’s nothing wrong with a bit of window-shopping! If you’re like me, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained by stopping in one of the ubiquitous eateries within the village to do little more than a bit of people watching.

NorthPark Center
The most famous shopping mall in Dallas is NorthPark Center, which houses huge brand names such as Versace, Gucci and Louis Vuitton among some 200+ stores. If you want something a little different, it’s here too. How about some champagne-flavored gummy bears? Check out Sugarfina for that! The uber-impressive NorthPark Center may only be two stories high, but it sprawls far and wide, circling around a beautiful garden of oak trees, offering a shopping experience quite unlike any other.

Irving Mall
Slap bang in the middle of Irving is the enclosed Irving Mall. Comprising over 120 stores such as Macy’s, Victoria’s Secret, and American Eagle Outfitters, this is a great spot for all the family to enjoy. One of the newest additions is an indoor trampoline park, Sky Zone. So, if you’re burnt out on shopping and struggling to find the deals you wish for, head there and bounce your frustrations away. Kids may also enjoy this.

Stonebriar Centre, Frisco
From Nordstrom to Macy’s, Michael Kors to Dillard’s, Stonebriar Centre packs everything and more inside its huge mall in Frisco. Inside the 1.6 million square foot property (yes, it’s massive!), you can find a huge play area for the kids plus a 24-screen IMAX theatre and an impressive food court including The Cheesecake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen. Safe to say, it’s not short of entertainment options here if the shopping isn’t doing it for you!

Sundance Square
What does a famous cowboy have to do with shopping, you ask? I’m not sure if the Sundance Kid was big into perusing the bargains and pumpkin spiced lattes, but this area of Dallas sure guarantees a rootin’ tootin’ good time! With shops, restaurants, hotels, bars and clubs dominating the 35-block area, there is no shortage of options for things to do here, day or night.Sundance Square is on Main Street, about 40 minutes’ drive from Irving.

Mill No.3, Turtle Creek
When a couple of college friends got together to form Mill No.3, Turtle Creek residents have been on edge, waiting to see what is available next. Brilliant in its simplicity, the store supports local brands and emerging fashion designers in Texas by providing a stage for companies without shops. The boutique store hosts pop-ups every month, from classy watches to sleek shoes.

Forty-Five Ten, Uptown Dallas
Selling clothes just isn’t enough these days. Having the threads is one thing, but to really get people talking, your store needs more. The Uptown Dallas branch of Forty Five Ten certainly has it. Housed in a historic building with a courtyard, fountain and chic café, this hipster haven prides itself on its partnerships with local charities. With celebs like Laura Bush and Gwyneth Paltrow wearing their clothes, this boutique is one I think we’d all like to be friends with.

Munch Until Your Heart Is Content

We know how to eat in the South. That might not be much of a surprise. However, I can tell you something that you might not know. Dallas isn’t just about barbecues. This city has gone from strength-to-strength in recent times, with multicultural, cosmopolitan options popping up all over the city. The upshot is that it is rapidly turning into one of the culinary capitals in the U.S. Here are a few of the best in regions near our homes.

The Ranch at Las Colinas
I don’t know about you, but when I go to a new place, I like to get stuck into the local fare. The Ranch at Las Colinas allows you to do that in a stylish setting, which blends true Texan origins and a great atmosphere. Staying true to their roots, The Ranch lives by the motto, ‘born, bred and fed in Texas’, dishing up mouthwatering meals with unique twists, such as the South Texas wild boar stroganoff with wild mushrooms, parmesan cheese, spinach and fettuccine.

Andalous Mediterranean Grill, Las Colinas
Twin brothers, Sam and Wassim Merched, both decided to become chefs, and Texas couldn’t be happier about it. Stealing their mother’s secret recipes, the boys have done Mum proud by mastering the culinary arts of their Mediterranean heritage, serving up traditional dishes from the region in an authentic cafeteria-style atmosphere. Putting their own twist on the old classics, Andalous is thriving with its menu of healthy, tasty treats.

LA Burger
In the Irving neighborhood, you can find another fantastic feeding ground by yet another pair of brothers. Jon and Ben Lee have taken the hamburger – that classic American meal that was created in Germany – and loaded it with Korean zest. From bulgogi beef to spicy kimchi, the menu in LA Burger is a fabulous fusion, which also includes some Asian tacos and a unique twist on our beloved hot dog. I dare you not to like it.

3 Stacks Smoke and Tap House Frisco
In Texas, finding a spot for good barbecue is never too hard. Bringing brisket and beer to the people of Frisco is the 3 Stacks Smoke and Tap House. Interestingly, the owner’s father brought Hooters to Texas, helping them open over 40 locations in the state. However, this family line of foodies is not just style without substance. Smoking up meats with big flavor, they help you match your brew to your meal. With over 30 beers on tap, it’s hard to get sick of this place.

The Mansion Restaurant, Turtle Creek
The decadent Rosewood Mansion in Turtle Creek is home to one of the best restaurants in Texas. Once a private estate, The Mansion Restaurant has been using many local ingredients and vintage wines from the surrounding areas to delight Texans for over three decades. While a change of chefs in recent years has led some to pine for the old days, there is no doubt that this continues to be a fine dining gem in Dallas.

Uchi Sushi Uptown
The newest addition to Tyson Cole’s sushi train opened in 2015, drawing the masses upon its Uptown Dallas location to see if he could replicate the success of the Austin branch. With such hype and anticipation preceding the launch, it could have easily underwhelmed. Let me tell you this: Uchi Sushi does anything but underwhelm. If you want a seat during prime times or have a sushi party in mind for Friday night, then its best to book a few weeks in advance. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Hit the Town When the Sun Goes Down

Bars, clubs, sports, dancing, movies…you name it, Dallas has it. You could be out with a group of friends or enjoying a romantic evening with your loved one. Perhaps it’s a first date or you’re on the market, looking to meet someone special. This city has you covered. With wonderful, wacky and weird options available, you’ll never be stuck for choice for something interesting or exciting to make your dates more memorable.

Galleria Ice Skating Center

Heading to a mall for a night out might not sound like the most obvious choice, especially if you’re with a date. However, the Galleria Mall is quite unlike any other in Dallas. While it has all the usual shopping and eating options, right on the bottom floor you’ll find an ice-skating rink, which is open all-year round! Get your skates on, and head over to the coolest Mall in town! (See what I did there?)

Nightly Spirits Pub Crawl, Uptown Dallas

If you want a fright in your night, try the Nightly Spirits Pub Crawl in Uptown Dallas. You and your beau can join the guided tour of some creepy spots, learning a little about the history of the city through a series of ghost stories, folklore and fun times as you pass through haunted bars and spooky buildings in the area. If you need a good excuse to cuddle close, this is perfect.

Indoor Skydiving, Frisco

Diving out of an airplane to tumble from the clouds may sound like some kind of hell for some people. If you fancy a slightly cheaper, much safer version, Frisco has the answer. The Austin-based company iFly has turned wind tunnels into a toy for the Texan public to enjoy. The flight simulator allows you to enjoy the experience of skydiving, without the all-consuming fear of falling to your doom. It’s easy to blow your date away with a fun time here.

Bowlounge, Turtle Creek

There’s something about bowling that just makes it pretty perfect for date nights. Whether you’re good or bad, there’s fun to be had and a learning curve that will keep newbies engaged and tempt perfectionists back. Bowlounge have taken what works, and then put their own spin on it. Quite literally, in fact, as they shipped the remains of an old alley to Turtle Creek and polished it up. The 12 lanes here are equipped with a cool, vintage appearance and visitors can also enjoy pool tables and arcade games. Throw in some great food and you have all the ingredients to strike lucky.

Bowen House, Uptown Dallas

Cocktail bars ooze class, especially when they’re as unique as Bowen House. Impressing a date can be a nervy mission, but with the help of the staff here, you won’t have much trouble. Not limiting themselves with a menu, the bartenders here aim to please by getting to know you a little before crafting a personalized cocktail, tailored to your taste buds. This spin and a slick décor regularly leads to a full house in this old building. Well, that is until the ghost starts to flicker the lights…

Cowboys Dance Hall, Las Colinas

It’s impossible to live in Texas and not have a go at line-dancing. Every night of the week at Cowboys Dance Hall, live honky-tonk music blasts out, bringing in the crowds to have fun on the dancefloor or to tackle the mechanical bull. Whether you’re with friends or a special someone, you’re sure to have fun acting the cowboy here.

Eight11 Place Frisco

Converting a home into a bar sounds like the dream of many men. In the middle of suburban Frisco, there are two men and their wives living that dream. Eight 11 Place has built a loyal clientele with their cozy wine and craft beer bar. The addition of live music on the back patio has taken this unique bar with a family feel and cemented their place as one of the best spots in Dallas.

Beyond the Home, the Wild May Roam

Although it is more built up than many other nearby regions, Dallas has a surprising wealth of outdoor options. From parks and plazas, to hiking and biking trails, you, your kids and your pets will be spoiled for choice, regardless of what part of the city you live in.

Cole Park Tennis, Uptown Dallas
Tennis is a great sport for keeping in shape and having fun at the same time. In Uptown Dallas, Cole Park Tennis provides eight courts for public use, all of which are lighted, allowing you to play late at night. They also provide a match-making service – for tennis games, not dates. However, who knows who you may meet at the courts?

Katy Trail, Uptown
While Dallas may be the biggest metropolitan area in the Southern U.S., it is easier than you might imagine getting some outdoor exercise. Possibly one of the most popular spots to do that is on the famous Katy Trail. Built on an old railway line, this privately maintained park snakes through the heart of the city for 3.5 miles, joining other parks and plazas all the way from Uptown Dallas to Highland Park.

Frisco Commons
One of the best parks in Dallas can be found in Frisco. They have a few, in fact, but Frisco Commons is easily the best. With facilities for fishing, BBQ grills and picnics, as well as a large playground area and beautiful trails for both bikes and walking, this place really does have something for all the family. The kids can have fun in the playground, while Grandpa fishes and Dad tries to get the BBQ started. Meanwhile Mom can have a peaceful stroll away from all the madness before dinner is served up!

Frisco Mountain Bike Park
There may be only one mountain bike trail in Frisco, but it’s a good one. The track runs for eight miles, offering a smooth ride that is perfect for beginners, yet also throwing in a few twists and turns to keep the more experienced riders entertained. Right next to the park is a BMX pump track, which is great for all riders to hone their skills on.

Lakeside Park, Turtle Creek
As far as beautiful parks go, Lakeside Park is easily one of the top contenders in Dallas. Stretching 14 acres through Turtle Creek to Highland Park, this fabulous landscape is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll. Hidden amid the bright and beautiful gardens are some tennis courts and a pool. The highlight, however, is walking over the bridge of Turtle Creek Dam to soak up the scenic views. Also, if you have kids in tow, make sure you find the Teddy Bear statues!

Mutts, Uptown
Do you love dogs? Isn’t it great to be able to take them out to play around with other dogs? I just love the excitement on their furry little faces. In Uptown Dallas, you can meet fellow dog lovers in a place set up for both you and your four-pawed buds to enjoy. Blending a chill café with an outdoor dog park, Mutts welcomes well-behaved pooches and their owners to hang out and have fun. Grab a coffee or glass of wine while the mutts mingle in the open space.

White Rock Lake Park
I’ve got an interesting bit of pub ammo for you. Do you know where the most-endangered large ecosystem in North America is? That’s right, you guessed it. It’s right here in Dallas. White Rock Lake Park is home to the Blackland Prairies, of which less than 1% remain. With a huge lake dominating most of the 2,000-acre expanse, White Rock is the best place to see wildlife in Dallas with turtles, foxes, raccoons and even bobcats living here. There are plenty of fun trails and watersports opportunities here. Just don’t hit any ducks!

Rich History and Artistic Flair in Dallas

When it comes to history and culture, Big D delivers the goods in a big way. With recent developments in the Botanical Gardens bolstering their image, Dallas is a fascinating city serving education and entertainment on a deep and rich history across a wide array of interests. The thriving arts scene is backed by some great festivals and events, which make this an exciting and enriching place to live.

Nasher Sculpture Center

Located directly across the road from the famous Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) is the Nasher. This urban oasis combines indoor and outdoor galleries in a modern design, including a courtyard and gardens, which are also used for nighttime events. This museum is one of the most unique and one you should definitely make a trip to, day or night.

The Mustangs of Las Colinas

One of the most iconic art sculptures in Texas can be found in Williams Square Plaza. The sight of large, bronze, wild mustangs running through the water feature is one you’ll want a good photo of, I’m sure. Don’t miss out on the museum in the East tower of the Plaza to learn more about the artist, Robert Glen, and also discover the story of the Mustangs design.

Irving Art Center

They say bigger is better. In Texas, arts centers don’t come much bigger than the Irving Arts Center. With a property spanning over 90,000 square feet, there is all sorts of visual delights on display, ranging from galleries to the sculpture garden. As one of the nation’s Smithsonian Affiliates, I don’t need to tell you that this is one of the best places to check out the fantastic art of Dallas. There are four galleries open to the public for free admission. You’ve got nothing to lose!

Texas Sculpture Garden, Frisco

Texas isn’t short on talented artists. To see the best homegrown talent, take a stroll through the Texas Sculpture Garden in Frisco. This is the largest private art collection of Texan sculptures, and you can enjoy it all in a beautiful setting. Set among lakes and fountains, the winding trails through these fascinating masterpieces really are a walk to remember.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

I’m sure you know a bit about the assassination of JFK. However, even the most learned scholar may find something new and exciting in this fascinating history museum near downtown Dallas. With an incredible collection of over 35,000 items relating to the 1963 killing, this museum will give you everything you could ever imagine wanting to know about the life and death of the former president.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Irving

The Perot Museum does something to really shake up the preconceptions of most people. Some believe that museums are all about history and the past. For a lot of people, this is dull and irrelevant. Perot turns an eye to the future and makes their museum more interactive, with National Geographic films, art programs and lots of great initiatives aimed at young kids. This museum in Irving really is a fantastic place for your kids to learn more about the world and where we are heading.

National Video Game Museum

Speaking of fun museums for kids, the National Video Game Museum in Frisco is one they’ll love. My parents warned about the dangers of getting square eyes from playing too many video games. If you’re willing to take the risk, you can take your little gamers here on a birthday trip to learn all about the history of video games. As the love of games dies hard, you might be glad to hear that it’s not just for kids. In fact, older people can even look for scholarships or volunteer opportunities here. Feel free to spin by Frisco to geek out over giant Mario figurines and play retro consoles.

Adventures for All the Fam

Having kids is a full-time job. The constant need for fun and entertainment is exhausting for many parents. In Dallas, it doesn’t have to be like that. This city has a plethora of great family fun options, that are great fun for the kids and parents alike. Get some family bonding time at any of these places and you’ll soon be planning the next adventure!

American Airlines Center

Sports fans will surely know this one. Even if your family aren’t die-hard fans, it’s impossible not to enjoy a night out at the American Airlines Center. The arena is home to the city’s NBA team, the Dallas Mavericks and the NHL team, Dallas Stars. Aside from hosting their games, the AA center also welcomes WWE events and frequent concerts by major international artists, including Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake and Shakira, to name a few of those in store for 2018.

Dallas World Aquarium

Don’t be fooled by the title – this place has a LOT more than fish. In true Texan style, the Dallas World Aquarium goes above and beyond, with huge catfish, monstrous sharks and cute penguins only being the tip of the iceberg. As you walk around, your kids will be overcome with joy at the fascinating creatures that appear, from the exotic birds overhead to the wild crocodiles and cheeky monkeys. You’ll have no problem getting around with a stroller and can enjoy a Mayan dance performance and ogle at the huge waterfall with all the family. It really is a step into the wild.

Cimarron Family Aquatic Park, Irving

When it comes to having family fun in the hot summer, is there anything better than a water park? I don’t think so! With awesome slides for the bigger kids (and mom and dad), Cimarron Family Aquatic Park is perfectly set up for everyone to enjoy. The little ones also have slides, too, plus a zero-depth entry pool to help them learn the basics of staying afloat. When the Texan sun gets too much, simply slip into the shaded lounge areas to cool off!

Trinity Forest Adventure Park, Frisco

Have a kid who thinks he’s a bit of an action hero? Whether your little tykes are mad for adventure or need to conquer some fears, they can have the best of both worlds in Trinity Forest Adventure Park. Get strapped up with them and tackle this thrilling course of bridges, ladders and zip lines. This one-of-a-kind park has multiple levels, enabling people of all shapes, sizes and skills to have a go. It’s perfect for birthday parties or a memorable weekend of family adventure.

Klyde Warren Park

This relatively new addition to Dallas has rose to national acclaim since its opening in 2012. While there are plenty of other parks around the city, few can offer such diverse activities and children’s entertainment options as Klyde Warren Park. With musical performances and film screenings among the frequent programs, it’s always easy to find something for all the family here, including your beloved dogs. Once you’ve all worked up an appetite, the food trucks aren’t far away!

Reunion Tower, Uptown Dallas

Lots of big cities have sky towers with impressive views over the city. However, the Reunion Tower in Uptown Dallas takes the basic and makes it better with their Geo-Deck. Here, you don’t just get the stunning skyline views. Unleash your inner creepy detective or let your kids pretend they are a sniper as you use the amazing telescopes and HD zoom cameras to spy on the people on the streets below. It doesn’t stop there, though, as the interactive digital display allows you to add your name and information to a star. All the family can create their own personal avatar and “own” the star. Next time you go back, you can add to the star, building up your own family constellation!