48 Hours in Dallas: A Comprehensive Guide

Day 1

Exploring downtown

Start your day by biking along the Katy Trail through downtown Dallas. This scenic urban trail passes historic neighborhoods and parks along the Trinity River. Bike for a few hours before fueling up for your day ahead. Next, head to the original Neiman Marcus flagship store to experience high-end shopping in its iconic downtown location. Be sure to stop for lunch at the Zodiac Room cafe inside for classic Texan cuisine. After browsing the store, take the DART light rail west to Oak Cliff. Your destination? The Spiral Diner for an all-American breakfast. This retro diner is beloved by locals for its hearty dishes made from scratch. Once you’ve eaten, continue on the light rail to Deep Ellum, Dallas’ arts district. Spend the afternoon wandering the shops, galleries and street art scattered throughout the neighborhood. In the late afternoon, return to downtown on the light rail. Visit the impressive collection at the Dallas Museum of Art which houses works from around the world. As the sun starts to set, make your way to Reunion Tower to witness the city lights up from high above. Take in the panoramic views from the outdoor deck before heading to nearby Belmont Hotel to book a room for the night. After settling in, head over to Deep Ellum again. Catch some live music at a local venue like The Belmont or Club Dada. The area really comes alive at night - enjoy the hip neighborhood atmosphere.

Rejuvenation and art exploration

Start your morning with a peaceful yoga class at Cosmic Cafe, followed by a nourishing brunch. Then it’s time for an adventure - take an Uber to Dallas Equestrian Center in South Dallas to spend the morning horseback riding through scenic trails. Reconnect with nature before returning to the city sights. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history with visits to the Sixth Floor Museum documenting President Kennedy’s assassination and the Dallas Holocaust Museum. Learn about the profound impacts these events had on the world. Round out your day at the Crow Collection of Asian Art to appreciate works from Eastern cultures. For an unwinding dinner, head to Kalachandji’s Indian restaurant in East Dallas. Relax on their beautiful outdoor patio while savoring flavorful curries. Take a stroll around the charming East Dallas neighborhoods after your meal to walk off the delicious food. As night falls once more, it’s time for live music and drinks. Catch a local band’s set at the Bishop Arts Theater Center followed by drinks and dancing at a neighborhood watering hole like The Wild Detectives bookstore cafe. Crash for the night again at your hotel in downtown Dallas.

Day 2

Art, food and nightlife in Bishop Arts

On your final morning, grab breakfast sandwiches from The Mudsmith coffee shop in the Bishop Arts neighborhood. Fuel up before an afternoon of exploring charming shops and eateries. Browse antique stores, art galleries and boutiques along Bishop Avenue. Stop for lunch at a cherished local restaurant like Meddlesome Moth or Pepe & Mitos. Both offer innovative menus highlighting Texas flavors. After eating, your full day is available - check out an exhibit at the Dallas Contemporary or simply wander Bishop Arts’ charming streets. As evening falls, it’s time for your final Dallas experience. Have dinner at Henderson Tap House and listen to live music at their adjacent music venue, Kessler Theater. Catch a great local or touring band’s high-energy set. To round out your night, grab a drink at The Double Wide - a hip Deep Ellum bar with a unique indoor/outdoor space. Toast to your time exploring America’s ninth largest city before catching an early morning flight home. You’ll leave with fond memories of the Big D!