Explore Hidden Gems: East Dallas Travel Secrets
Dallas Magazine
Trek to the African American Museum The museum has several permanent exhibits, like the Billy Folk Art Collection, plus visiting and temporary exhibitions that highlight African American history and culture across the U.S. The African American Museum is the only one of its kind in the Southwestern Region devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. It has one of the largest African American Folk Art collections in the U.S. The institution hosts a number of lectures and specialty events throughout the year—don’t miss the Summer Music Under the Dome concert series. Free.
Dallas Magazine
Best Donuts in Dallas: Ferguson Donut Shop North Texas’s nouveau shops have gotten so distracted by cream-filled this and topped with that, they seem to have forgotten how to make a basic melt-in-your-mouth, glazed old-fashioned. We’re over the theatrics (and prices, my goodness) and suggest finding your local, satisfying ring-slinger whose signage simply reads “Donuts.” Ferguson is our fave.
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.
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!
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Perched on top of the classic hotel The Statler in downtown Dallas, the beautiful Waterproof is a pool bar by day and a rooftop lounge by night. Both stylish indoor lounge and open-air terrace, where the outside part offers both a refreshing rooftop pool and panoramic views over the Dallas skyline. Visit for sunny and relaxing afternoon cocktails, or come for the nightly, more swanky and vibrant atompshere. During the colder months, the terrace turns into Winterproof, with some really cool and cosy rooftop igloos.
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
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 also
Discover Top Dining Experiences in East Dallas: Foodie Favorites and Trending Spots
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! 💕
Local Travel Tips for an Unforgettable East Dallas Adventure
Explore Historic Neighborhoods
If you’re seeking an authentic East Dallas experience, start by exploring its historic neighborhoods such as Junius Heights and Munger Place. These areas are filled with beautifully restored early 20th-century homes and charming tree-lined streets. As you wander, keep an eye out for quaint local cafes and boutique shops that often become community hubs. This part of town offers a unique blend of past and present, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a more in-depth architectural tour.
Hidden Gems in Nature
One of the lesser-known escapes in East Dallas is the serene White Rock Lake. With its 9.33-mile trail that welcomes joggers, cyclists, and walkers alike, it’s perfect for a morning of relaxation or adventure. Don’t miss the chance to kayak or paddleboard on the lake's calm waters. Additionally, the Sunset Bay area offers breathtaking views that rival any urban park. For a quieter alternative, head to the Harry Moss Park, where you can explore wooded trails and enjoy bird-watching away from the bustling city life.
Discover Eclectic Food and Drink
East Dallas is a food lover’s paradise, teeming with local favorites that even the most seasoned traveler might overlook. Dive into the mouth-watering BBQ at Smoky Rose, or savor authentic Tex-Mex cuisine at Tacos Mariachi. For a local brew, visit Peticolas Brewing Company which is renowned for its craft beers. If cocktails are more your speed, the hidden gem that is Louie’s is a must-visit, offering a laid-back atmosphere with some of the best drinks in town.
Art and Culture
The Bishop Arts District, though known, holds anonymous insights for those willing to dig deeper. Beyond the main streets, the district features trendy galleries, indie shops, and intimate performance spaces that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of East Dallas. Visit the whimsical shops like The Wild Detectives, a bookstore-café offering literary events and live music. For a dose of local art, don’t miss the small yet impactful exhibits at the Bath House Cultural Center along White Rock Lake, which often showcase works by local artists.
Handcrafted Shopping
For those who love discovering unique keepsakes, East Dallas provides numerous boutique shopping options that stray off the beaten path. Browse through Curiosities, a vintage shop filled with rare finds and antiques, or venture into the lively Trader's Village, an enormous flea market known for its diverse selection of handcrafted items and local produce. This journey through local markets not only supports small businesses but also gives you a genuine sense of the community’s flair.
Anonymous Insights from Locals
As a visitor seeking to uncover the best of East Dallas, engaging with locals can enhance your travel experience multifold. Platforms like Kikihub are invaluable for gaining real opinions and secret tips. Locals might point you towards off-the-radar eateries or little-known jazz clubs that offer unforgettable nights of live music. Advice from residents can also reveal quiet spots in bustling locales where you can unwind and take in the area’s unique character. By interacting with East Dallas residents, you uncover nuances of the locale that guidebooks often miss.
