Unwind at Design District's Hidden Retreats
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 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
Local Tap And Table is a Cajun restaurant in Dallas that sits on the Katy Trail. Most people know it for brunch, but they also have a really great dinner menu and a good vibe during the week! 🥂 They also launched new food items, and as always, everything was spot on. Some of my favorites were: 🦞 Fried Crawfish Ravioli 🍝 Pontchartrain Pasta 🥖 Crawfish Bread 🍜 Birria Ramen 🍹 Bacardi Mango Chile Fever Parking is free during the week! There’s a run club called runitup that meets here on Tuesdays! It’s free to join, but it does get packed, so if you want a more chill vibe, come any other day during the week! ✨
Dallas Magazine
Muchacho The finishes are so polished at this University Park spot, you would be justified in worrying about the food. With a longhorn mounted on the wall, furry throws, and branded leather placemats, Muchacho looks too fancy to be proper Tex-Mex. But it is. The chips are big, vivid yellow, and clearly fresh-fried. The salsa verde has a soft touch of heat. And dishes like brisket flautas are very good indeed. (Those flautas come with guacamole, sour cream, morita salsa, and a scene-stealing radish salad. The salad’s on top of the flautas, so move it before they get soggy.) Much of the menu is given over to taco plates and family-style fajitas rather than more traditional Tex-Mex combos.
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
DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD || DALLAS 🍸 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: the coldest martinis, steaks, and pastas! They have a such a unique menu to choose from. 🍒 THE VIBE: old Hollywood vibes. They do have a dress code they would like you to adhere to but I find that they’re not actually strict about it. 🍒 PRICE: ~$90 + $20 tip 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! Second time here. •••• Overall Rating: 11/10 - This is probably my favorite special occasion restaurant of all time because every time I come here I’m just obsessed with the food and ambiance! The service is always a 10/10 too. - They have the best martinis- my personal favorite are the French 75 (tastes like a light sparkling lemon drop) and the espresso martini WITH reposado tequila (you gotta ask for the tequila!). - Omg…. YOU HAVE TO TRY THE OZZY PIZZA. It’s absolutely delicious. The steak on it was cooked perfectly and this is the perfect size for two people or to share amongst a larger group so you can enjoy the other dishes. - The salmon crispy rice was pretty average but honestly I love any sushi and I was craving it so it satisfied my craving! - Overall, DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD you’ll see me again!!! A classic old Dallas staple.
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
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Hidden Teddy Bear Park in DFW at Lakeside Park in Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ Lakeside Park along Turtle Creek is home to a secret garden with adorable teddy bear sculptures! ❤️ Teddy Bear Park has one 10 foot bear statues, and three smaller ones about 4 feet tall. ❤️ There is also a beautiful, shaded trail that feels like it’s straight from a fairytale! Just note that the trail is short and dead ends at a residence. Good to know: - You’ll need to cross a bridge to get to Teddy Bear Park! Just route to the address above and park on Lakeside Drive. You should see the bridge on your immediate left. - There are plenty of shaded areas at Lakeside Park for a picnic! Just bring a blanket or find an open bench. - This park is free and open to the public.
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!
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.
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
I feel like good service & quality food has been a little hard to find in Dallas these days! One of my favorite spots for lunch & brunch is definitely an exception🍝 James at Al Biernat's Oak Lawn took excellent care of us today and the food was amazing as always👏🏼 Most people think of Al Biernat’s as a fancy dinner spot, but you should definitely give it a try during the day! The prices are great and the food will have you coming back week after week☕️✨ Ordered: Bread Basket with Whipped Herb Butter, Brad’s Grilled Pear Salad, Tortilla Soup, Wild Boar Bolognese, Latte with House-Made Biscotti Want to Try Next: Escargots & Tortellini, Herb Roasted Chicken, Lump Crab Angel Hair Pasta
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
The Dallas Morning News
Food From Galilee Nestled in University Park’s Snider Plaza, this humble Mediterranean spot serves loaded gyros, shawarma sandwiches and a plethora of appetizers that allow for variety on a budget, such as kibbeh, hummus and cabbage rolls. At lunchtime, meals are served on styrofoam plates; dinnertime gets an upgrade to something sturdier. The zingy chicken and rice soup is part of my order on every visit. Platters are generously portioned and come with rice or cucumber yogurt and a choice of soup or salad.
White Monkey
thinking
1
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 the Best Local Relaxation Spots in the Design District Near Dallas
When it comes to unwinding, the Design District in Dallas offers an array of hidden retreats that offer both locals and travelers an upscale yet tranquil experience. This trendy neighborhood is brimming with chic boutiques, art galleries, and the perfect places to relax and rejuvenate. Dive into some of the local secrets that will help you find the ultimate relaxation spots in the Design District.
Chic and Secluded Spas
Immerse yourself in the luxurious spa experiences that the Design District has to offer. One of the local favorites is Flourish Spa, tucked away in an unassuming building. Here, the serene atmosphere and expert massage therapists provide a retreat from the hustle and bustle. Opt for their signature aromatherapy massage to melt your stress away.
Another gem is The Relaxation Studio, a trending relaxation spot known for its personalized spa treatments. Locals rave about their hot stone massages and customizable facials. The studio maintains a low profile, making it a perfect escape for those in the know.
Unwind with Art and Ambiance
Art lovers find our neighborhood a sanctuary within Dallas. The Dallas Contemporary Museum, a cultural cornerstone of the area, not only showcases revolving contemporary art exhibits but also provides a calm and reflective environment. Spending time here offers a unique form of relaxation—immersing yourself in the world of art.
For a more intimate setting, visit the Erin Cluley Gallery. This gallery often features local artists and provides a quiet refuge where you can lose yourself in inspiring artwork. The serene ambiance of galleries in the district offers an undisturbed setting conducive to mental relaxation.
Exclusive Cafe Oasis
Finding a cozy cafe to unwind is an essential part of any relaxation routine. One of the best hidden retreats is Ascension Coffee, known for its artisanal brews and calming environment. Locals love gathering here for a quiet morning sip or a soothing afternoon break amid the charming decor.
Petra and the Beast is another trending relaxation spot. Though primarily known for its exceptional cuisine, the outdoor garden seating provides an idealized setting for a laid-back brunch or afternoon tea. The unique garden ambiance sets this place apart from other cafes in the city.
Parks and Outdoor Escapes
If outdoor relaxation is what you seek, the Design District has several options that are perfect for you. Trinity River Greenbelt Park offers well-maintained trails that meander along the scenic river, making it a top spot for a peaceful walk or an afternoon of quiet reflection surrounded by nature.
Riverfront Boulevard’s stretch of green spaces allows for tranquil picnics and lazy afternoons in the grass. A favorite amongst locals, it's an excellent location for a short escape from the urban environment without having to leave the city.
Yoga and Wellness Centers
For those who find relaxation through physical activity, local yoga studios like Yoga Tree offer sessions that blend physical wellness with mental calm. The community atmosphere and skilled instructors make it a go-to for many Dallas residents seeking relaxation.
The Meditative Room is another hidden gem in the Design District, providing guided meditation sessions that help you center and calm your mind. Offering both group and private sessions, it's a space designed to cultivate inner peace and relaxation.
Tips for the Ultimate Relaxation
No matter which local relaxation spots you choose to visit in the Design District, a few tips can help you make the most of them. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the quiet. Keep your phone on silent to fully immerse yourself in relaxation. Speak to locals through Kikihub's anonymous chats to get real opinions and secrets that can enhance your experience.
The Design District near Dallas is full of hidden retreats and local favorites that cater to a variety of relaxation needs. Whether through a luxurious spa treatment, a stroll in one of its verdant parks, or settling into a cozy cafe, the area offers endless options to unwind and rejuvenate. Make sure to explore these local secrets for a relaxing and fulfilling experience.
