Dallas has a wealth of architecture and design to admire, from Reunion Tower’s LED-illuminated globe to the sleek showcase of artworks at the Nasher Sculpture Center to the gorgeous greenery at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. If you’re visiting the Texas town, it’s easy to become absorbed in the bounty of art and history found in the world-renowned museums and exhibits. Here, we’ve combed the city to find some of Dallas’s very best destinations for design lovers. With our list of chic hotels, trendy eateries, and can’t-miss attractions, we’ve got you covered when it comes to experiencing the city’s most memorable monuments.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Zaza One of Dallas’s upscale boutique accommodations, Hotel Zaza is walking distance from notable attractions like the Dallas Museum of Art and the bustling Uptown District. The 169 rooms decked in Mediterranean-inspired decor and contemporary furnishings make this hip hangout the perfect excuse for a glamorous stopover. From $249/night; hotelzaza.com
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek The onetime estate of a cotton baron, this Dallas landmark, built in the 1920s, was meticulously restored to preserve its eclectic European-inspired architecture. Hand-carved fireplaces, marble floors, and stained-glass windows decorate the elegant interiors. From $330/night; rosewoodhotels.com
The Joule You may not want to leave this neo-Gothic gem in the city’s business district, which features a world-class spa, luxury boutiques, and renowned cuisine and entertainment. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, suites, and penthouses, all with sumptuous linens and modern Art Deco–style decor. From $359/night; thejouledallas.com
Hotel Adolphus Built in 1912, this Baroque masterpiece in downtown Dallas is the city’s quintessential luxury hotel. Impeccable service, plush accommodations, and undeniable Texas hospitality make guests staying at this regal spot feel like royalty. From $329/night; hoteladolphus.com
Where to Eat:
Gemma Blending cutting-edge techniques with traditional southern dishes, this husband-and-wife collaboration is one of Dallas’s most celebrated restaurants. Reserving one of the 65 seats in the whitewashed-brick dining room is as exclusive as the guests seen dining here. 2323 N. Henderson Ave.; gemmadallas.com
Filament A culinary adventure created by chef Matt McCallister, this Deep Ellum eatery is known for quality presentation, service, and design. With a seasonal menu providing a modern spin to comfort food, this industrial-style space continues to be a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 262 Main St.; filamentdallas.com
Mesa Incorporating the influence of the Spanish, French, and African cultures found in Alvarado, Mexico—the hometown of chef-owners Raul and Olga Reyes—Mesa is known for its fresh take on coastal cuisine. Frequented by a catalogue of celebrities, the upscale restaurant, located in the hip borough of Oak Cliff, is one of the city’s top eateries. 118 W. Jefferson Blvd.; messadallas.com
Where to Shop:
Ceylon et Cie An avid collector, jet-setter, and interior designer, Michelle Nussbaumer uses her Dallas Design District showroom to display a rotating inventory of eclectic global decor. Whether you’re looking for textiles from Turkey or authentic African Tonga stools, this treasure trove won’t disappoint. 1319 Dragon St.; ceylonetcie.com
Nest A haven for unique gifts and home accents, this Knox neighborhood boutique has been a favorite among local design lovers for over a decade. Housing everything from handmade trinkets to one-of-a-kind artwork, this shop offers hours of shopping entertainment. 4524 McKinney Ave.; nestdallas.com
Mecox The high-design furnishings of this home and garden emporium are nothing short of inspirational. From antique furniture to modern Mecox designs, like eclectic pillows, this vibrant shop is definitely one to explore. 4532 Cole Ave.; mecox.com
What to See:
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science Known among Dallas residents as one of Victory Park’s main developers, H. Ross Perot Jr.has overseen numerous projects that have helped shape the city’s architectural influence. The innovative building features feats of modern design from architect Thom Mayne, deep in the heart of downtown Dallas. 2201 N Field St.; perotmuseum.org
Nasher Sculpture Center This Renzo Piano–designed sculpture center in Dallas’s Art District displays rotating exhibits of works obtained by the Nasher family and various private collectors. Calder, de Kooning, Giacometti, Matisse, and Picasso are just a few of the celebrated artists whose pieces are on display here. 2001 Flora St.; nashersculpturecenter.org
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden This 66-acre oasis boasts an abundance of flourishing plants and flowers as well as 19 manicured gardens with breathtaking views. Thanks to a 2006 renovation by landscape architect Warren Johnson, the arboretum now includes tiered fountains and an outdoor concert venue. 8525 Garland Road; dallasarboretum.org
Reunion Tower One of the most distinguishable landmarks in Dallas’s skyline, this spherical observation tower was designed by the architectural firm Welton Becket & Associates. Completed in 1978, this monument now includes a restaurant by Wolfgang Puck, an observation deck, and more than 250 LED fixtures that illuminate the tower’s globe at night. 300 Reunion Blvd. E.; reuniontower.com
