The Big D is definitely an apt nickname for Dallas, a glittering metropolis in the heart of Texas where everything is done on a grand scale. Texans wouldn't have it any other way, so visitors who want the full Lone Star experience should make a point of spending a few days immersing themselves in the boots, hats, and honky-tonks of Dallas. Its Arts District is as impressive as anything in the West, showcasing art by day and performances after dark. Ditch the diet because Dallas excels at mouth-watering meat, cold beer, and boot-kicking live country music.
Key attractions
Dallas is a city that revolves around the mythology of the cowboy. Nearly every visitor makes a pilgrimage to Western Warehouse or Wild Bill's for new digs, or plans an evening at Gilley's honky-tonk. The Arts District features two stellar venues: the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Meadows Museum of Art. On a sunny day, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden provide a 70-acre oasis of historic buildings, water, and woodlands to explore. The city's Wild West roots are recreated at the Dallas Heritage Village, a perfect 19th-century Texas town with all the trimmings.
Having fun
Between Dallas and its Siamese twin Fort Worth, there are more places to drink, dance, and listen to live music than you can shake your boots at. A night out at a Texan honky-tonk like Gilley's or Billy Bob's never fails to entertain if you like two-stepping and country music. The Uptown district is where the trendy side of Dallas goes to play, while the cultural performances are top-drawer at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center and the Dallas Center for Performing Arts. There are a dozen excellent theater troupes here along with watering holes ranging from Deep Ellum dives to cocktail bars 50 stories up, like the Dome.
Shopping
Dallas virtually invented the sport of retail shopping so expect a complete subculture of socializing and consumption based around this city's vibrant malls. Shopping venues range from the Euro-flavored outdoor West Village to a whole neighborhood called Uptown that features a trolley running its length for easy travel. Massive shopping malls run rampant here, including the Galleria and the high-end Highland Park Village. For classic Western wear, nothing can touch Wild Bill's or the Western Warehouse.
Nearby
The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area is so vast that most daytrips never even breach its perimeter. But there is plenty to see and do within an hour's drive. Kick back at Lake Texoma for a day of sunning and swimming or stroll the historic town of Denton for a glimpse into the Texas of old. You can play a round of golf at a stunning course like Bear Creek Golf Club or visit the actual Southfork Ranch where the television show Dallas was filmed.
Our recommendations in Dallas

Canvas Hotel Dallas
Located in Dallas's Cedars neighborhood, Canvas Hotel Dallas is in the business district and near a metro station. Sixth Floor Museum and Majestic Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Dallas World Aquarium and Dallas Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at American Airlines Center, or consider Starplex Pavilion for a night out. Our guests appreciate the hotel's central location.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Located in Dallas, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is in the city center and near the airport. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Klyde Warren Park and Dealey Plaza, while Sixth Floor Museum and Perot Museum of Nature and Science are cultural highlights. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Dallas World Aquarium, or check out an event or a game at American Airlines Center.