Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and tips for a safe and enjoyable trip to Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.


Introduction to Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is the largest metropolitan area in Texas and the fourth-largest in the United States, with an estimated population of more than 7 million people. The region boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and a vast array of attractions and activities that will entice and engage visitors of all ages. From world-class museums and galleries to breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor adventures, there is truly something for everyone in Dallas-Fort Worth.

List of Places to Visit in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dallas-Fort Worth is home to many museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the life, death, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
  • Dallas Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country, with a vast collection of more than 24,000 works of art from around the world.
  • Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Texas, with daily cattle drives, shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • Kimbell Art Museum, a world-renowned museum featuring art from ancient times to the 20th century, including works by Michelangelo, Monet, and Picasso.

Natural Attractions of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dallas-Fort Worth is also known for its natural attractions that offer outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the top natural attractions include:

  • The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which boasts 66 acres of lush gardens and scenic vistas.
  • Cedar Ridge Preserve, a 600-acre natural habitat that offers hiking trails, wildlife watching, and bird watching.
  • Dallas Zoo, one of the largest and oldest zoos in Texas, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world.
  • Grapevine Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, hiking, biking, and picnics.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth has many well-developed hiking and biking trails that offer a unique perspective of the city’s scenic beauty. Some of the best trails include:

  • Katy Trail, a 3.5-mile urban trail that runs through the heart of Dallas.
  • Trinity River Trail, a 10-mile scenic trail that runs along the Trinity River in the heart of Fort Worth.
  • Cedar Hill State Park, a 1,826-acre park located southwest of Dallas, with over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Activities and Tours

Dallas-Fort Worth offers a wide variety of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and interests. Some of the best things to do include:

  • AT&T Stadium Tour, a behind-the-scenes tour of the home of the Dallas Cowboys.
  • Reunion Tower Observation Deck, an iconic 560-foot tower that offers stunning views of the city.
  • Fort Worth Food Tours, a guided culinary tour that introduces visitors to the city’s diverse cuisine.
  • Dallas Sightseeing Tour, a comprehensive tour that showcases the city’s history, architecture, and landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Dallas-Fort Worth, here’s a sample itinerary that includes some of the best attractions and activities:

  • Day 1: Downtown Dallas tour, Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, and Dallas Museum of Art.
  • Day 2: Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, Kimbell Art Museum, and Fort Worth Zoo.
  • Day 3: Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas World Aquarium, and Dallas Arboretum.
  • Day 4: AT&T Stadium Tour, Globe Life Park, and Six Flags Over Texas.
  • Day 5: Southfork Ranch, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Studio, and Nasher Sculpture Center.
  • Day 6: Sundance Square, Bass Performance Hall, and Amon Carter Museum of American Art.
  • Day 7: Independent options for shopping, dining, or visiting additional attractions from previous days.

Food and Drink Scene of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Must-Try Dishes

The food scene in Dallas-Fort Worth is diverse, with cuisines ranging from traditional Texan barbecue to international fusion. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Tex-Mex cuisine, including tacos, burritos, and fajitas from local favorites such as Torchy’s Tacos and Mia’s Tex-Mex.
  • Barbecue, including brisket, ribs, and sausage from legendary barbecue joints like Pecan Lodge and Lockhart Smokehouse.
  • Southern comfort food, including chicken and waffles, fried chicken, and biscuits and gravy from popular restaurants like Babe’s Chicken Dinner House and Ellen’s Southern Kitchen.
  • Craft beer and local brews from breweries like Deep Ellum Brewing Company and Community Beer Company.

Local Beverages

One of the best ways to experience the local culture of Dallas-Fort Worth is by trying its signature drinks. Some of the most popular local beverages include:

  • Dr. Pepper, a soft drink invented in Waco, Texas, in 1885.
  • Margaritas, a classic Tex-Mex cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served at local restaurants and bars.
  • Local craft beer and spirits from breweries and distilleries like Fort Worth Distillery and Four Corners Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dallas-Fort Worth has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and resorts. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • The Joule, a stylish hotel in downtown Dallas, featuring a rooftop pool and spa.
  • The Ashton Hotel, a historic boutique hotel located in the heart of Fort Worth.
  • Hyatt Regency Dallas, a modern hotel situated next to the Reunion Tower.
  • The Lumen Hotel, a trendy boutique hotel located near Southern Methodist University.

What to Buy in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some of the best places to shop:

  • The Dallas Farmers Market, a vibrant indoor and outdoor market that offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
  • Bishop Arts District, a trendy neighborhood in Dallas that features independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
  • The Shops at Clearfork, a high-end shopping center in Fort Worth that features luxury brands, boutiques, and restaurants.
  • Galleria Dallas, an upscale shopping mall in Dallas that features over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Local Culture and Customs of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Texan hospitality is renowned for its friendliness and warmth, and the locals in Dallas-Fort Worth are no exception. Some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind include:

  • Dressing appropriately, depending on the occasion and the weather.
  • Being polite and respectful to others, including tipping generously at restaurants and bars.
  • Enjoying Texan cuisine and trying new foods and flavors.
  • Experiencing live music and performances in local venues and theaters.

Best Time to Visit Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth experiences hot summers and mild winters, with occasional storms and precipitation. The best time to visit is in the spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant, and the city is not too crowded. However, if you’re a fan of festivals and events, the summer and winter months offer plenty of entertainment options, including the State Fair of Texas in the fall and the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo in the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Visit museums, galleries, and historical sites.
  • Attend live music and entertainment events.
  • Explore the outdoors and scenic attractions.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to others.
  • Go out alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
  • Underestimate the unpredictable Texas weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth is a relatively safe city, but like any urban area, it’s important to take precautions to avoid crime and stay safe. Some safety tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
  • Keep your valuables hidden and secure.
  • Lock doors and windows at night and when leaving your accommodation.

Health in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. For emergencies, call 911, which provides immediate access to police, fire, and ambulance services.

Getting to Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth is served by two major airports:

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
  • Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)

Both airports offer domestic and international flights, and are well-connected to the city center by public transportation, shuttles, and taxis.

Bus Stations Near Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Greyhound and Megabus operate several bus stations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including:

  • Dallas Greyhound Bus Station, located at 205 S Lamar St in Dallas.
  • Fort Worth Greyhound Bus Station, located at 1001 Jones St in Fort Worth.

Other Options

Dallas-Fort Worth is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the metroplex to other parts of Texas and the United States. Local transportation options include buses, trains, and taxis.

How to Get Around in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Dallas-Fort Worth is a large and spread out city, but it’s easy to get around by car or public transportation. Some of the best transportation options include:

  • Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), which operates buses, light rail, and commuter rail services in Dallas and surrounding areas.
  • Trinity Railway Express (TRE), which connects downtown Dallas with downtown Fort Worth.
  • Taxis and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, which are widely available.
  • Renting a car, which gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve explored everything that Dallas-Fort Worth has to offer, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Austin, the capital city of Texas, known for its live music, craft beer scene, and outdoor attractions.
  • San Antonio, home to the Alamo, River Walk, and a vibrant cultural scene.
  • Houston, the largest city in Texas, known for its museums, theaters, and NASA’s Space Center Houston.
  • Grand Prairie, a family-friendly destination with amusement parks, water parks, and sports venues.

Conclusion

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is a dynamic, diverse, and exciting destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or sports fan, you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained and engaged. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan a safe and enjoyable trip to Dallas-Fort Worth that will leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.

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