Dallas, home of the eponymous show that left everyone asking, “Who shot J. R.?,” is one of America’s grandest cities. It’s larger than life, truly sprawling, and home to more neighborhoods, cultures, and things to do than anyone can ever possibly experience on one, three, or thirty visits to the Big D. The sort of place where cowboy boots and designer handbags go hand in hand, Texas’ third-largest city — yes Texas is that big — is cosmopolitan, western, and everything in between. 

Again, it’s impossible to tell you everything you need to see, eat, and experience in the sprawling metropolis — but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some standout experiences you need to add to your bucket list. 

Home to plenty of world-class cultural institutions, Dallas is the perfect place for history buffs and cultural connoisseurs. Learn about the city’s complicated history with JFK, the president who was assassinated in Dallas, at The Six Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza. Head to the George W. Bush Presidential Library to explore the 43rd president’s legacy. Or dive into natural history and science at The Perot Museum before checking out stunning art at the Dallas Art Museum.

Adventure lovers and thrill-seekers can head to Arlington, a short drive away, to ride roller coasters a Six Flags Over Texas, the original Six Flags park, and then spend a night catching a Texas Rangers or Dallas Cowboys game to cheer on the city’s hometown teams. 

As far as food goes, Dallas is in no short supply of some of the best restaurants in the world, from high-end steak houses to hole-in-the-wall diners featured on national TV shows. For the latter, head to Mama’s Daughters where twice-fried pork chops and chicken fried steak will fill you up. No stranger to Mexican food, El Come Taco serves up some of the best in the city. Luxurious Italian food is served best at The Charles, and don’t miss a mouthwatering burger at Rodeo Goat in the Design District. 

For a trendy night on the town, head to the Deep Ellum neighborhood, the live music capital of North Texas. Here, grab a seat wherever you can find one but be sure to stop at the iconic Deep Ellum Brewery for a rotating selection of in-house brews, including the very popular Deep Ellum IPA. Wherever you end up in this lively neighborhood, be prepared to make new friends to visit on your next trip to Dallas.

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