Curator’s statement
The Big'D is known for its wealth, sports teams, museums, Tex-Mex, steakhouses and well… what about those Cowboys! I have lived in Dallas for quite a few years and would love to share some of my favorite locations and experiences. Let me show you how to spend three days in “The Triple D.”
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Where to stay
The Adolphus, Autograph Collection
An iconic Dallas hotel with a relaxing poolside and unbeatable downtown panorama — excellent for solo travelers, romantic trips, and group travel.
Fora Perks
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel ZaZa Dallas
This eclectic uptown stay shares artful guest rooms, a hotspot restaurant and an after-dark pool scene with weekly DJ sets.
Fora Perks
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$25 food / beverage credit.
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Welcome treat in room on arrival.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
The Joule, Dallas
A hotel that locals love in downtown Dallas, with a statement swimming pool, award-winning brasserie and fun bar.
Fora Perks
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Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
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Full breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom
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$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit utilized during stay
The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Immerse yourself in refined luxury and southern hospitality in the heart of the Lone Star State.
Fora Perks
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Complimentary breakfast for two.
Virgin Hotels Dallas
In downtown Dallas, this kitsch and colorful new addition attracts a cool crowd to its light-filled rooms, glamorous lounge restaurant and rooftop pool and bar.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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Day 1: Afternoon tea & retail therapy
I recommend staying at the Adolphus in downtown Dallas. This historic hotel exudes European craftsmen and is the heartfelt project of Anheuser-Busch co-founder Adolphus Busch. The 22-story Adolphus was Dallas’ first proper luxury hotel and opened in 1912. The Adolphus remained the tallest building in Texas for a decade until the 29-story Magnolia Hotel was built in 1922, also in downtown Dallas. While enjoying your stay at the Adolphus, you can mosey downstairs to the French room and have afternoon tea. After tea, you can burn a few calories while shopping and take a five-minute walk to the flagship Neiman Marcus in downtown Dallas on Main Street. The company was founded in 1907, but a fire destroyed the original location. The headquarters and flagship location were rebuilt in 1914 and are now on Main Street.
Once you have completed your retail therapy, you can spend the evening exploring the AT&T Discovery District. It might be helpful to check the schedule in advance. You can conclude your first day at The Wicked Butcher Steakhouse, which is recognized for its dry-aging techniques. Bon Appétit!
• Afternoon Tea at the French Room
• Neiman Marcus Flagship Store
• Dinner at Wicked Butcher Dallas
Day 2: Museum tour
Day two has to start with a little Tex-Mex flavor by enjoying a savory breakfast taco. I would recommend Salsa Limón in downtown Dallas. After breakfast, you can spend the morning at the Dallas Museum of Art. The Impressionist Exhibit will be displayed there until November. If traveling after November, you can check the schedule for current exhibits.
You can grab a quick bite to eat at the museum café and then check out the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. It's an excellent museum for families or forever learners.
If you are looking to explore the location of one of the darkest moments in American History, where the assassination of the 35th president of the United States of America, John F. Kennedy took place. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is also located in downtown Dallas. You can wind down the evening with dinner at the charming and delectable La Stella Cucina Verace on Flora St in Downtown Dallas.
• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Day 3: Nature & gardens
Day three begins with a burst of flavor at Twisted Trompo Tacos, where you can savor Mexican street-style tacos, tortas, burritos and more. Dallas' culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering a variety of options to suit every palate.
Your final day in Dallas should be a bit of a pick-your-own adventure. If you are burned out by museums, you can visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Arboretum is 66 acres of nature in the heart of a sprawling metroplex. You can enjoy the seasonal themes that convincingly align with the calendar, even if the Texas weather is telling a different story.
If you still crave more museum ambiance, visiting the Meadows Museum Art Museum in University Park will transport you from the downtown area. The Meadows Museum at SMU houses one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Spanish art outside of Spain. While in University Park, you can also take a tour of The George W. Bush Presidential Museum. You can conclude the final day with dinner at Monarch Restaurant, nestled on the 49th floor of the Thompson Dallas by Hyatt. The service, food and views are impeccable at the newly added gem to the Dallas Downtown Scene. Before returning home, you can relax and enjoy one final view of the Big'D.
• Monarch Restaurant Thompson Dallas, by Hyatt 49thfloor
• The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Need to know
*Tani Travel Tip — I love museums and tours and recommend The Dallas City Pass. You can Save 50% on one-time admission to four Top Dallas Attractions.
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Tani Lamb
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Dallas. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Maddie Bragg’s guide, A Local’s Guide to Dallas, TX