Best Time to Travel
Thanks to the sunny southern climate, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Dallas. If you’re around in the fall you can head to the Texas State Fair where you’ll be entertained by live shows and the all-important Red River Showdown – the annual college football game between the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas. In summer, meanwhile, Dallas’ parks and plazas come alive with music nights and atmospheric outdoor concerts.
Not to Miss
If you’ve never visited Dallas before you might be surprised by its array of green parks and gardens. The city’s tree-swathed trails and lakeside paths are perfect for cycling and inline skating. White Rock Lake’s especially picturesque, and brimming with leafy picnic spots. Tucked on the lake’s southeastern shore, Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a warren of shaded paths, colorful blooms, and lush plants. The Children’s Adventure Garden is a real delight, where cooling mist creates the illusion of a tropical oasis, and babbling brooks and fountains pop up alongside pretty flowers and plants.
Getting around
Approximately 20 miles northwest of the city center, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is the city’s major transit hub. It’s an easy drive to downtown, and there are plenty of car rental agencies on hand. You can also hop on the DART Orange Line train if you prefer to avoid the traffic. Dallas Love Field Airport is closer to the city center, although it’s smaller and handles fewer flights. The extensive light rail system is a great choice for getting around the area, as rush hour freeway traffic can be heavy and downtown parking charges expensive.
Cuisine
Dallas has its share of swanky, award-winning restaurants. If you prefer something more down to earth, head to a typical Texan restaurant where you can feast on seared barbecued steak. The city’s also home to some delicious Tex-Mex eateries where breakfast burritos and all-day tacos are just some of the tempting menu items that'll give you plenty of energy for a day's exploration.
Customs and etiquette
As with any big city it’s a good idea to keep hold of your bags and belongings to avoid pickpockets and purse snatchers. It’s generally safe to walk around the center at night, but you shouldn’t stray from main roads and busy areas. If in doubt call a cab. Despite having an efficient light rail and bus system, most Dallas residents still hop in their vehicles to get from A to B, so if you’re looking for public transport information you’re best to head to a tourist information or DART ticket office.Fast Facts
• Population: 1.2 million
• Spoken languages: English, Spanish
• Electrical: The USA runs on 120V, 60 Hz current
• Phone Calling Code: +1 214911
