Famed throughout the world during the 1980s as an oil tycoon’s playground where ten gallon hats, big shoulder pads and even bigger hair were just part of the scenery, the TV show ‘Dallas’ certainly rings true – albeit now with a slightly less outlandish sense of dress.
Whilst traditional industries oil and cotton are still important to the city, Dallas is also a very modern city and a major centre for finance and technology. What better place to experience the American South?
In keeping with the city’s status as North Texas’ cultural hub, the city of Dallas is home to countless entertainment and arts venues offering everything from experimental one man shows to grand musical productions. The Majestic Theatre in Downtown is one of the city’s most historic buildings, the final remnant of the city’s famous Theatre Row that has been extensively refurbished and in continual use.
Nowadays, those seeking culture and entertainment make their way the city’s Arts District in Downtown which boasts several venues, galleries and museums - the largest and newest of which is the AT&T Performing Arts Centre. Incorporating the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, City Performance Hall and Annette Strauss Square for outdoor performances, the AT&T is brought together as an enormous urban park by the Elaine D. and Charles A. Sammons Park – the most significant recreational space in the urban area, and a perfect place for people spotting.
Outside of the AT&T, the Arts District is also home to the superb Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Centre and the Trammel & Margaret Crow Collection of Asian Art which is rated by many as one of the finest collections of Asian art in the United States. With so much going on, the Arts District is an absolute must for visitors to Dallas.
Whilst Dallas is a city that enjoys culture, it is also a city that loves good old Southern hospitality – and in particular BBQ. For lovers of slabs soaked in sticky sauce with all the fixings, Dallas is a delight. Be sure to check out the pecan-smoked ribs at Off the Bone on South Lamar Street or brisket for the Peggy Sue BBQ on Snider Plaza.
For a real taste of the Lone Star State, a visit to the State Fair of Texas is an absolute must. Usually taking place from the last Friday in September and lasting for 24 days, the State Fair has been entertaining millions of guests since 1886. A gigantic celebration of everything Texas, the State Fair is a guaranteed good time. Why not cap the Texas experience by taking in the Fair’s centrepiece college football game between Texas and Oklahoma? It’s not called the Red River Rivalry for nothing!