Discover Downtown Dallas' Best Kept Fun Secrets
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
At the 19th-floor of the Statler Hotel, a true Dallas icon, you find the exclusive indoor/outdoor urban oasis the Waterproof bar and pool. Here you can swim with an epic panoramic view of surrounding downtown Dallas and enjoy delicious cocktails and bites. Waterproof is open for everyone, but to access the pool you need to make a reservation for a cabana. As the sun sets the energy picks up with life DJ entertainment, bottle service and ever more impeccable views. There is also an outdoor resort-style pool on the 4th floor, called The Statler Pool, offering loungers, cabanas and a relaxing experience.
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Colorful New Indoor Playground in DFW: bb pinata in Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ BB Piñata is a super cute and colorful new indoor playground in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas! ❤️ Kids will love the soft play area, imaginative play houses, plus an area with coloring pages and toys! ❤️ This spot felt super clean and chill on a weekday morning. Good to know: -Admission is $18.99 for an all-day play pass that allows you to come and go! - Socks are required for kids and adults! If you or your kiddo forget them, they have socks available for purchase. - I’d say this spot is best for kids ages 2-7 who enjoy imaginative play and don’t need huge climbing structures to get their energy out. My 4 year old daughter LOVED it and was not ready to leave after two hours. - There was plenty of street parking here, but it is metered. On a weekday morning I only payed 85 cents for two hour parking, but it’s probably a bit more on weekends. - Hours are Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM, Saturday: 9 AM - 7 PM, Sunday: 9 AM - 6 PM
Paige
👀Enjoyed the lounge at Sweet Tooth and the art exhibit! 🎇 It's Showtime - Tropical citrus and pineapple combo that'll make sparks fly! 💜 My Whole Life is a Dark Room - Mescal base with some fruity notes and a shrunken head of course. 💚 The Beetlejuice - Our classic green cocktail with hints of melon, citrus, and pineapple (you'll wanna keep an eye out for this one 👁️). 🔥Headless Manhattan - Spooky twist on the espresso martini featuring pumpkin and flames!
The Dallas Morning News
Me Enloteces, Dallas’ all-pink elote stand, debuts new location in Bishop Arts. Me Enloteces, the Dallas elote stand that became a social media sensation by offering everything in pink, has debuted a new fixed location in Bishop Arts. With nearly 18,000 followers on Instagram, this small elote shop had offered its food in Dallas and other cities at a mobile stand for months. Now, they have an establishment with a patio. “It fills my heart so much to see our customers come in and sit down to enjoy their afternoon with friends or family,” said Aidee Del Villar, owner of Me Enloteces. “This achievement is not only ours, but also theirs because they always supported us, and now we can offer them a space where they can enjoy themselves.”
Dallas fun fam
DALLAS HARWOOD multi-use park has so much to offer! Kids will love the mammoth-themed playground. There’s also a splash pad for warmer days, a multi-use court, two gravel dog parks, picnic table area, and lots of green space. Community events like movie nights, yoga, and live music are hosted on the stage area!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
SLOW & STEADY COFFEE || DALLAS 🖤 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: I believe this place just opened up a few months ago. They are built from a small house in a quaint neighborhood. Literally so many cute spaces to sit at. 🍒 THE VIBE: friendliest baristas ever, they’re so chill and hospitable. The inside is mostly for talking and socializing not really many spots to sit to work from a laptop. 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! •••• Overall Rating: 10/10 - I’m so glad I discovered this place from my coffee passport and I really wish more people were talking about this place! They have almost 5 stars on google and Yelp! - The coffee I got had horchata as the milk and 2 shots of espresso and wow it was perfection. The coffee was roasted perfectly and it was not too sweet! Simply a great cup of iced coffee! - Baristas were great to mingle with and it was just a great vibe. - There’s 4 parking spots to the left of the building, but you would need to park in the neighborhood if there’s no parking which looked like what most people did anyways.
Dallas Love List
🦋THE ONLY BUTTERFLY GARDEN IN DALLAS We know it’s hot outside, but don’t worry this 2-story butterfly house complex is indoors!✨ Butterfly House + Garden is a non-profit organization featuring butterflies from all over the world as well as garden trains and replica historic buildings, the snake & reptile shack, the 1936 historic World’s Fair Centennial House, an outdoor children’s playscape featuring a rock climbing wall, a rope bridge, sandbox, ponds and fountains!🍃🦋 Open daily 10AM - 5PM
See also
Top Dining Spots in West Dallas: Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Places
Shania dfw.topsites
ANTOJIITOS MENTIIRAS is definitely a must-visit! They serve up mouthwatering “antojitos,” also known as tasty Mexican street food! Their corn in a cup (topped with hot cheeto, takis, or traditional toppings) is outstanding – the top pick in DFW! They also offer over-the-top shakes, fresas con crema, aguas frescas, prepared maruchan, mangonadas, and more! They prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients in all their dishes. 🌽🔥
Downtown Dallas
Join us on November 2nd at Harwood Park to celebrate Dia De Los Muertos in a VIP style. This event is open to everyone who wants to embrace the rich cultural traditions and vibrant spirit of this festive occasion. LIVE MUSIC 3pm-6pm 🌟 **Engage in Diverse Activities:** ✨ **Music:** Groove to the rhythm of traditional tunes. 🛍 **Local Shopping:** Discover unique artisanal goods. 🎨 **Artesanías:** Marvel at the exquisite handcrafted artworks. 🎉 **Fun Activities:** Engage in a variety of interactive and enjoyable activities. 👪 **Family and Pet Friendly:** Gather your loved ones for a day filled with joy and laughter.
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Family Friendly Italian Restaurant with Green Space in DFW: CiboDivino in Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ CiboDivino Marketplace is a delish, family friendly Italian restaurant in Dallas! ❤️ This specific location at Sylvan Thirty has a huge lawn area where kids are encouraged to run and play! It was inspired by the Mercati di piazza in Italy where family and friends can share food & drinks. ❤️ The menu features Italian staples like pasta, pizza, and salad. Good to know: - While there isn’t a kids menu, I ordered the butter noodles for my kid. Cheese pizza is another great option for picky eaters! - CiboDivino is open daily from 12-9pm
Dallas Magazine
Various Small Fires After establishing itself as a Los Angeles staple for the last 12 years, Various Small Fires opened its third location in Dallas in 2022. For owner Esther Kim Varet, a Trinity Christian Academy alum, this was a sort of homecoming. Varet, who is Korean, opened her second location in Seoul in 2019. That move proved to be savvy, as the international art fair, Frieze, now has an annual event there. The small downtown Dallas storefront brings a more global sensibility to the city’s curatorial makeup. This is a good place to take the pulse of the broader art market. A lot of the artists VSF has represented go on to be art stars.
STEPHANIE
The PERFECT spot to meet a friend on a nice day! ✨ Sugar & Sage Bakery is a beautiful bakery in Dallas with a gorgeous outdoor patio that’s a vibe when the weather is nice! This spot also sells some of the BEST pastries, and the menu changes daily, so there is always something new to enjoy! ☀️ They take the parties here very seriously and you can tell! The chef previous worked at the Ritz Carlton in Dallas, so now you can get high quality pastries at a great price and in an equally great environment! 💐 It’s WFH friendly and the people are inside are very nice. I just adore this spot. It’s really a wonderful shop that’s worth a visit! 🙌🏾
Dallas fun fam
Weekend at Klyde Warren Park 💲FREE 9/28 | 12 - 2 PM | Build Your City by AD EX: Unleash your inner architect in this interactive lesson! 🏙️✏️ 🌱 9/28 | 11 AM - 8 PM | Vegandale: Join us for a vibrant veganfest filled with delicious new foods to try! 🌮✨ ☕ 9/29 | 8 AM - 12 PM | Coffee & Cardio: Swing by The Salty for 50% off coffee for fitness goers! Don’t forget, we offer free fitness classes on the East Lawn every weekend! 🏋️♂️☕ 🎹 9/29 | 11 AM - 2 PM | Piano in the Park: Come play the piano and share your musical talent with us! 🎶🌳 🎷 9/29 | 2 - 3 PM | Jazz Becuzz: Relax and enjoy an afternoon of jazz and spoken word performances! 🎤🎷 See you in the Park!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
OISHI SUSHI & PAN-ASIAN🥢 •••• 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: very popular sushi restaurant. 🍒 THE VIBE: really small interior with patio seating. Recommend a reservation on weekends. 🍒 PRICE: varied per person but we honestly got way too much food LOL. Average should be $20-$50 per person based on cocktails and quantity. 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. •••• Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - Great sushi spot with TONS of choices for sushi lovers AND non-sushi lovers. There’s just so many options you really can’t go wrong. - Please get a lychee martini their martinis were absolutely phenomenal! - Space was limited, I had a reservation but it didn’t work out but they were accommodating setting another reservation but this place was extremely busy on the weekends which is good for them! - The thing that stood out to me was the service here! The hostesses were nice when I brought a birthday cake for my friend. The server was so friendly. They really made this casual restaurant such a beautiful experience! I love the employees here!
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in West Dallas: Local Insights, Events, and Anonymous Discussions
Dallas Magazine
In 2017, Army veterans Brandon Friedman and Terrence “TK” Kamauf made it their mission to source tea only from lands torn apart by war. Their leaves come from 10 countries, from Colombia to Bangladesh and many in between, an effort to help promote economic mobility. Noble, sure, but it helps that they’re damn good. So the Best Tea Shop in Dallas: Rakkasan Tea Company
The Dallas Morning News
Bread Winners Café & Bakery 30th Anniversary Party Grab your coffee mug or mimosa and raise a toast to Bread Winners Café & Bakery, a dining staple within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, in celebration of its 30th anniversary this July. Whether you've enjoyed a boozy brunch and its infamous Chicken & Waffles on the sunny patio, treated yourself to fresh baked goods and pastries, or enjoyed a glass of wine and intimate dinner in the inviting, New Orleans-inspired interiors, Bread Winners has been a go-to spot serving generations of Dallasites delicious food and beverages. Mark your calendars for Sunday, July 28! To celebrate the big 3-0, Bread Winners is hosting anniversary celebrations across all locations with fun activations for every guest to enjoy: photo booths, face painting, live music, and, of course, beverage specials.
Dallas fun fam
Klyde Warren Park in Downtown Dallas offers a variety of outdoor activities the whole family will love! There an awesome playground for kids, an interactive splash pad with a light show, food trucks, and lots of open space for yard games. This park also hosts special events like community concerts and outdoor move nights!
Albert Rosales
just getting off work just wanna roll up and run tha game
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
WEEKEND COFFEE || DALLAS 🌞 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: if you’re staying at The Joule hotel near the famous Dallas eyeball or visiting that area, Weekend Coffee is one of the closest and most convenient coffee shops in the area. Street parking! Go in the morning or early afternoon. 🍒 THE VIBE: clean, artsy, colorful. It was a great vibe. We just grabbed and go but it was hotel lobby vibes. 🍒 PRICE: ~$7 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. Overall Rating: 10/10 - I’ve been wanting to stop by Weekend Coffee for the longest and it did not disappoint! - Their hot Spanish latte was impeccable! It was the perfect temperature and the perfect amount of sweetness. Coffee was robust and the condensed milk added a depth to the drink that was enjoyable. - The baristas were really helpful and nice. I’m not sure I would study here but definitely a good place to sit and chat over a cup of coffee. They do close at 3pm just FYI!
Just Dallas Things
Come for the aesthetic, stay for the dessert☕️ Walking into Sadelle’s Highland Park feels like you’ve stepped into a sea of Tiffany Blue💍 Everything is beautiful! You can tell so much time & effort was put into every single detail ~ the florals, lamps, wallpaper, mosaic tile, beautiful plates, and the long leather menus✨ When it comes to the food, I wanted to wait and only post when I had found my absolute favorites! After many lunch visits, I can confidently say there is one thing you MUST order ~ their sticky bun (warmed up) & a latte for dessert! I will continue to come weekly just for this combo. It has me excited for Fall🍂 Take a peek at what I ordered below to see all my other lunch favorites! #justdallasthings Ordered: Pellegrino & Lime, Crispy Latkes with Lemon Zest Sour Cream, Bloody Mary with Horseradish Vodka, The Triple Decker, Fries, and of course my Latte & Sticky Bun! Want to Try Next: Lavender Lemonade, Smoked Salmon Tower, Traditional Caviar Service, Signature Grapefruit Cocktail
Dallas Magazine
HENOSIS This weekend, the HighArt Foundation is hosting HENOSIS, a show centered on classical vocal performance. The show title means “unity” in Greek, symbolizing the group performance of art, opera, classical, and spiritual music. The proceeds from the show will be donated to the foundation, which will use them to provide scholarships to young, aspiring musicians. HAF founder, NaGuanda Nobles, an internationally acclaimed lyric soprano, along with a wondrous assemblage of artists, will edify the souls of the listeners with operatic, classical, and gospel genres. The concert title, HENOSIS, is a Greek word that means “unity” and this concert is sure to please the musical palates of fans of the fine arts and introduce new listeners to these timeless art forms. August 18, 7 p.m.
See alsoNetworking Events & Socializing in West Dallas: Trending Community Gatherings & Local Insights
Just Dallas Things
Welcome to the neighborhood, D.L. Mack’s🍸 This cozy Chicago-style tavern does not disappoint👏🏼 Everything was delicious, but the cracker crust honey truffle chicken pizza really did it for me. They also use Banana Hazelnut Infused Cold Brew in their Espresso Martinis and o.m.g. IT’S SO GOOD. Cheers to many more nights at Mack’s🥂✨ Ordered: Garlic Knots, Lemon Drop Martini, Bee’s Knees Cocktail, The McCarthy Salad, Honey Truffle Chicken Pizza, Cheeseburger, Espresso Martinis Want to Try Next: Mozzarella Sticks, Pesto Rotini, Harry Caray Special Pizza, Southside Cocktail
White Monkey
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Paige
☕️Started my morning with a walk to San Martin Restaurant & Bakery 🇺🇸 to get an iced chai latte 🤍 🥯 San Martin Bakery has multiple bread and pastry options including Nutella pastry, banana loaf, cupcakes, brownies, bread crumbs, and more!! 🍕You should check the restaurant portion for pizza, salads, steak, pasta, and other dishes!!
The Dallas Morning News
To Be Seen Not Heard: Art Exhibition Desireé Vaniecia's exhibition, "To Be Seen, Not Heard," offers a powerful exploration of vulnerability and resilience, inviting viewers to engage deeply with the emotional landscape of anxiety and life's overwhelming moments. Through a series of evocative works, Vaniecia captures the tension between being visible and voiceless, creating a raw, unfiltered narrative that resonates personally. In a unique twist, viewers can become part of the exhibition, further blurring the lines between the observer and the observed. Vaniecia's distinctive style and intimate approach ensure that "To Be Seen, Not Heard" is not just seen but felt—leaving a lasting impression that challenges and inspires all who participate. Sep 15, 2024 - Oct 24, 2024
White Koala
come get me
Just Dallas Things
Is there anything more Texas than the State Fair? As a Dallas native, I’ve been going ever since I was a little girl🎡 There is something about the smell of corn dogs frying and Big Tex waving “Howdy, Folks!” that makes me feel at home💕 My first stop is always Fletcher’s to get the best corny dog on the planet. I know it’s controversial, but I’m team mustard AND ketchup💛❤️ Next I tried some 2022 food winners ~ if you’re a pickle lover, the pickle pizza is to die for! I loved every bite. If you have a sweet tooth, the fried rocky road + bluebell is 10/10 for me! I usually end with a Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Leg from Hans Mueller (IYKYK). My other all-time favorites include fried oreos, fried PB&J, Funnel Cakes, and a swig of Pepto Bismol🤪 Try some new foods, ride the Ferris Wheel, play games & win big at the Midway, and end your night with the beautiful Illumination Sensation performance🎆🎉
Dallas Magazine
Chicken burger, Ookuma Japanese Burger Crispy breaded chicken, a fistful of pickles, and a blanket of tartar sauce are all this burger needs. As I wrote previously, you can’t eat the burger without a mountain of napkins, thanks to the housemade tartar sauce loaded with chopped egg. Miraculously, the fried chicken stays crisp underneath. It’s a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
See alsoCocktails in West Dallas: Top Local Cocktail Bars, Trending Rooftop Bars, and Nightlife Insights on Kikihub
The Dallas Morning News
Kawaii Club at Dallas Public Library Lakewood Branch Library welcomes everyone to our Kawaii Club. There will be snacks, anime, and crafts! The first 30 minutes will be for everyone to grab snacks and get craft materials and instruction. The second will be for us to watch an anime episode together complete the craft and enjoy our refreshing Japanese Snacks. Here are the craft details for each date: September 18th- Corner Paper Bookmarks October 2nd- Paper Squishes October 16th- Lucky Stars November 6th- Kawaii Cloud November 20th- Kawaii Watercoloring December 4th- Shrinky Dink This program series is brought to you through the support of the Lakewood Branch Friends.
Dallas fun fam
Allen Shivers Park in Dallas What makes it noteworthy: Whether your kids are crawling, walking or have limited mobility, this playground will keep them entertained. The rubber-padded, wheelchair-accessible park has many interactive structures to explore, including music and dancing games, miniature rock climbing walls and a playhouse. Extras: Shade cover over play structures and benched areas ensures this park will stay fun even in Texas' summer heat. The perimeter gate keeps curious kids inside the park. Benches and picnic tables scattered around the playground allow adults and tired kids plenty of places to sit. Safety: Allan Shivers Park scored an A* on the Safety Report Card. The newly renovated playground offers well-maintained structures for all abilities. Plus + Lots of shade + Restrooms and water fountains + Perimeter gate
Discover Local Fun Spots in Downtown Dallas
When it comes to enjoying local fun spots, Downtown Dallas boasts a plethora of options. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, there’s always something exciting happening. With its vibrant mix of activities and events, you can easily find an entertaining experience that suits your taste. From hidden gems to trendy hotspots, let's delve into the secrets of Downtown Dallas.
Trending Activities: Must-Try Experiences
Downtown Dallas is known for its array of trending activities that draw people from all over the city. One such place is The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, which is not only educational but also incredibly engaging. Families and individuals alike can spend hours exploring its interactive exhibits. For a more adventurous experience, consider the Trinity Forest Adventure Park where you can indulge in zip-lining and obstacle courses amidst the lush green landscape.
If you are someone who loves to dance or enjoys live music, be sure to check out The Factory in Deep Ellum. This concert venue hosts a wide variety of performances, from indie bands to world-renowned artists, making it a prime spot for anyone looking to experience the local music scene. The high-energy atmosphere ensures a night to remember.
Entertainment Venues: Plays, Films, and More
Entertainment in Downtown Dallas is not just about large concert venues; it’s also about finding those special spots for film, theater, and performing arts. The Majestic Theatre is an iconic venue where you can catch Broadway shows and local performances in a historic setting. Film buffs should not miss The Texas Theatre—a unique cinema experience where you can watch indie films, classics, and even enjoy live performances or film discussions.
For those who appreciate art, Dallas Museum of Art offers free general admission and features an extensive collection that spans various cultures and time periods. Art lovers flock here for regular exhibitions and community events, making it a cultural hub in the heart of the city.
Bustling Nightlife: Bars, Clubs, and Socializing
Nightlife in Downtown Dallas is unparalleled, offering a mix of sophisticated lounges, bustling bars, and dynamic clubs. Head over to Parliament, a stylish bar that’s famous for its expertly crafted cocktails. Another popular spot is The Rustic, where you can enjoy local beer, farm-to-table eats, and live music under the stars.
If dancing is more your style, It'll Do Club is where you want to be. Known for its eclectic music mix and vibrant atmosphere, this club is a favorite among night owls. For a more laid-back experience, consider The Foundry, an outdoor bar with live music and a relaxed vibe, perfect for socializing and making new friends.
Community Events: Engaging Activities for Everyone
Downtown Dallas is a community-centric area that frequently hosts events to engage its residents and visitors. The Dallas Farmers Market is a hotspot on weekends, featuring local produce, artisan goods, and a lively community atmosphere. You can often find cooking demonstrations, live music, and seasonal festivals happening here.
Another significant event location is Klyde Warren Park, a unique urban park built over a freeway. The park offers free community events, including yoga sessions, outdoor concerts, and food truck festivals. It’s an ideal place for family outings or a relaxed afternoon with friends.
Local Insights: Hidden Gems and Insider Tips
One of the hidden gems of Downtown Dallas is The Giant Eyeball, a quirky art installation located in a private lawn area but visible to the public. It's a great place for selfies and a bit of fun. Another lesser-known spot is The Joule Hotel’s Underground Pool, which is architecturally stunning and offers a luxurious swimming experience.
For a unique socializing experience, try one of the Rooftop Bar Events at places like Waterproof or The Woolworth. These locations offer incredible skyline views and a chance to meet new people in a relaxed yet chic setting. Locals often share their tips and secrets on platforms like Kikihub, where you can gain real insights and opinions directly from residents.
Your Local Guide to Fun in Downtown Dallas
Whether you’re into art, music, food, or simply enjoying a night out, Downtown Dallas is bursting with options for fun and entertainment. With its dynamic range of things to do and places to go, it's a destination that promises excitement and discovery every time you visit. Use these local secrets and insider tips to make the most of your time in this vibrant part of Dallas.
