Discover Highland Park's Hidden Gems: Insider Tips
STEPHANIE
10/10! This was such a fun experience! 🙌🏾💐 Pur Noire is a black owned urban winery that just opened its second location in Dallas! The first location is in Houston, so this is a great activity if you’re in either city! ✨ The vibe is elevated but still relaxed, so it’s a great spot to unwind or meet a friend! You can grab a glass to sip or do a customized tasting to try a few different wines! They also have a free wine club for true wine lovers! This gets you exclusive perks, like access to the members only tasting room, and discounts on bottles, events, etc! I definitely recommend! 💕
See alsoTop Dining Spots in West Dallas: Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Places
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Just steps away from the American Airlines Center, Happiest Hour is a vibrant and spacious venue. In fact, it is the largest patio bar and lounge in Dallas. Offering 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor lounge, the prime spot for alfresco vibes is the stylish second floor rooftop, surrounded with impeccable views over Victory Park and the Dallas skyline. Packed with plenty of atmosphere, from the casual post-work and pre-game sessions, to more upscale late night vibes, the large rooftop menu comes filled with signature cocktails, wines on tap and more than 50 different beer selections.
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in West Dallas: Local Insights, Events, and Anonymous Discussions
Dallas fun fam
Riding the M-Line Trolley is a great way to explore Uptown Dallas with kids! There are 39 stops for the M-Line Trolley, but our favorite is at Klyde Warren! You’ll find this trolley stop just north of the intersection at Olive and Woodall Rogers Freeway. You’ll head north through Uptown, do a loop of almost the entire route, and eventually head back south to Klyde Warren. Trolley stops and schedules are available on Google Maps using the public transit feature. You can even download the Dallas Trolley app to track the trolleys along the route.
See alsoNetworking Events & Socializing in West Dallas: Trending Community Gatherings & Local Insights
Dallas Love List
🐈⬛THERE’S A CAT CAFE IN DALLAS Whiskers and Soda is a casual cafe where you can mix and mingle with cats and kittens while you relax and work. Located in the heart of Dallas with cats ready to find a permanent home! It’s $16 an hour to walk in and pet them, plus can enjoy a little treat from the cafe while you’re there!☕️ Whiskers and Soda also boards cats on the other side of the cafe, so if you need someone to take care of your cat while you’re away, they’ve got you covered!
See alsoCocktails in West Dallas: Top Local Cocktail Bars, Trending Rooftop Bars, and Nightlife Insights on Kikihub
Discover Highland Park's Hidden Gems with Local Insights
When it comes to local exploration in Highland Park, near Dallas, there's more than meets the eye. Boasting both historical significance and modern attractions, this neighborhood is rife with both well-known and lesser-known sites. Whether you're an avid traveler or a curious local, tapping into the local secrets of Highland Park can offer an enriching experience that goes beyond the usual tourist traps. With Kikihub’s local anonymous chat, you can uncover the true essence of this vibrant community through real opinions and insider tips.
The Serene Beauty of Lakeside Park
Start your journey of exploration with a visit to Lakeside Park, a prime example of Highland Park's natural beauty. Although it’s a popular spot among residents, many tourists overlook this gem. Nestled along Turtle Creek, the park is adorned with scenic walking trails and picturesque footbridges. The Teddy Bear statues, created by the sculptor Allie Tennant in the 1930s, are a unique feature you shouldn’t miss. Locals often gather here for picnics, making it a perfect place to soak up some sunshine and enjoy the harmonious blend of nature and art.
Highland Park Village: A Shopper's Paradise
For those keen on retail therapy, Highland Park Village is a must-visit. Known as the first self-contained shopping center in America, this upscale locale features a variety of luxury brands, from Chanel to Hermes. Originally constructed in 1931, the village maintains its Spanish Mediterranean architecture, offering a visually stunning backdrop for your shopping spree. Even if high-end shopping isn’t your thing, the outdoor setting, complete with cozy seating and charming cafes, provides an ideal atmosphere for people-watching.
Exploring Historical Residences on Swiss Avenue
Swiss Avenue Historic District offers a fascinating peek into the architectural history of Highland Park. With homes dating back to the early 20th century, this area showcases styles from Colonial Revival to Prairie School. While most of these houses are privately owned, a self-guided walking tour can offer a wonderful way to appreciate their intricate designs. Locals recommend visiting during holiday seasons when homeowners often go all-out with decorations, adding an extra layer of charm to this already picturesque neighborhood.
Treat Your Taste Buds: Local Dining Hotspots
Highland Park’s culinary scene is a blend of sophistication and comfort, embodying the neighborhood’s diverse character. Bistro 31 offers a European-inspired menu in an elegant setting, perfect for an upscale dining experience. For a more laid-back vibe, locals suggest trying out Mi Cocina, a popular spot for Tex-Mex favorites. Don't miss the "Mambo Taxi," a signature frozen margarita that'll give you a taste of local flavor. If you're an early riser, locals rave about the breakfast croissants at the Royal Blue Grocery, a quaint market offering both grocery items and ready-to-eat meals.
Parks and Recreation: A Local's Guide
Beyond Lakeside Park, Highland Park boasts several lesser-known green spaces that are perfect for some quiet downtime. Flippen Park, though smaller, offers a beautiful fountain and gazebo that provides a peaceful sanctuary. There’s also Fairfax Park, a hidden gem frequented by local dog walkers and those seeking a serene escape. For a more active outing, the Katy Trail provides a scenic route for jogging, biking, or just taking a leisurely stroll. Connecting with locals through Kikihub can yield recommendations for the best times and less crowded spots along the trail.
Local Arts and Culture: Must-Visit Spots
Highland Park may be best known for its affluence, but it also has a thriving arts scene. Highland Park Library, though small, holds a collection of local historical archives and often hosts art exhibitions that showcase local talent. For an immersive cultural experience, the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum is just a short drive away on the Southern Methodist University campus. Not just focusing on politics, the museum offers rotating exhibits on various topics and an extensive public program calendar. Engaging with locals on Kikihub can help you find exclusive events and exhibitions that are often missed by outsiders.
Unique Local Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Highland Park hosts several community events that give you a taste of local traditions. Events such as the annual Fourth of July Parade or the festive Christmas Tree Lighting in Armstrong Park bring the community together in celebration. Highland Park also offers several smaller, more intimate gatherings like farmer's markets and art fairs. With Kikihub, locals can clue you in on upcoming events and offer tips for making the most of these experiences.
Practical Travel Tips for Exploring Highland Park
While wandering through Highland Park, getting around efficiently can elevate your experience. The area is best explored on foot or by bike, given its pedestrian-friendly layout. Parking can be a bit challenging near major attractions like Highland Park Village, so arriving early or using ride-sharing services can save you time. If you're planning a longer stay, consider booking accommodations within walking distance of key sites, such as near Mockingbird Station or along Knox-Henderson for easy access to both dining and shopping options. Local chats on Kikihub can offer the inside scoop on the best places to stay and travel tips tailored to your preferences.