Deep Ellum: Where Art and History Intersect

We start in Deep Ellum, an area defined by three main streets: Commerce, Main, and Elm. This neighborhood is a feast for the eyes, known for its historic, old red-brick buildings and a massive concentration of street art—boasting over 150 murals.

• Dining Scene: Deep Ellum is home to iconic barbecue spots like Terry Blacks Barbecue and the fan-favorite Pecan Lodge.
• Nightlife History: While it was the place to be for clubs in the 90s, today, it's a trendy, vibrant spot that's great to visit both during the week and on weekends.

Downtown's Hidden Secrets

Moving toward the central business district, you pass through the evolving East Quarter, a growing hub for corporate development that even houses a massive Uber office.

As you head into Downtown proper, you'll find the stunning Statler Hotel and the unusual, privately-owned Giant Eyeball statue. Interestingly, Dallas's Downtown can feel "sleepy" during the day. This isn't due to a lack of people, but rather an extensive, miles-long underground tunnel system that connects many of the office buildings, restaurants, and shops, allowing people to avoid the notorious Texas heat.

This part of the city is also home to significant historical sites:

• Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum (in the Old Book Depository) are critical stops, marking the location of the JFK assassination.

Bishop Arts: The Historic Hipster Haven

Just across the river, Bishop Arts is one of Dallas’s most charming and historic districts. It offers a New Orleans-like vibe with a mix of trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and old homes.

You'll find excellent local gems like Paradiso and Emporium Pies. The area is a blend of historic Craftsman and Bungalow homes alongside new, modern apartment complexes.

An Epic Skyline Drive and Uptown’s Energy

Leaving Bishop Arts, the drive over the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge from Trinity Groves offers one of the absolute best views of the Dallas skyline. The city is also finally looking to develop the underused Trinity River area into a park—a welcome addition that will maximize green space.

Next, we arrive in Uptown, a major haven for young professionals.

• Clyde Warren Park: This incredible green space was built over the highway, cleverly maximizing park area in the heart of the city.
• McKinney Avenue: This vibrant street is lined with condos, bars, and popular dining spots like the beloved brunch spot, Breadwinners, and is served by a free trolley!

Highland Park: Dallas's Beverly Hills

Finally, no tour is complete without a look at Highland Park, often referred to as the "Beverly Hills of Dallas." This neighborhood is characterized by some of the most expensive and beautiful homes in the state. Expect to see historic, massive estates, new luxury construction, and tree-lined streets where homes easily start in the multi-million dollar range.

Conclusion

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a big move, the core neighborhoods of Dallas offer incredible depth and variety. From the artistic energy of Deep Ellum to the historic charm of Bishop Arts and the upscale luxury of Highland Park, there is truly something for everyone to explore and love.

Planning your own Dallas adventure? What neighborhood are you most excited to check out first?