Volume 2 Article 2

What I Did In Dallas Last Year

Thursday March 7, 2024
lifestyle

Growing up outside of Dallas, I never went down to the city often and explored what it had to offer. Coming back after college I have had the chance to explore Dallas, which has been nice because there is more to the city than people think. It has been great doing fun activities, exploring and getting to know a city that has so much to offer. It was my mission after college to get to know Dallas better.

Here are the things I was able to do this past year in Dallas:

Katy Trail & Ice House

When thinking of Dallas, many people do not think of it as a nature city and I will give it to them. Although there are not a lot of nature activities in Dallas, there are some. The Katy Trail is one and probably the most popular one in my opinion especially during the warmer months.

People visit the trail daily whether that be to walk their dog, exercise, or catch up with friends. Groups have even used it as a place for social activity. Not to mention there is a restaurant on the trail called Katy Trail Ice House which is great to grab a bite and drink from after a walk or work. The trail has great vibes and is something fun to do when the weather is nice!

Dallas Farmers Market

If you are looking for something fun to do on the weekend that is lowkey, visiting the farmers market is perfect! Weekends are a plus because both The Shed and The Market are open. Both are great in that you can try food at different booths as well as look at different shops. My favorite thing is to look at all the handmade items such as candles and soaps. I find it fun to have around the house, adding something special then ordinary soap you buy from the store.

So if you are looking to branch out definitely try something from one of the vendors. Not only can you find handmade items, but there is local produce. Making it a great place to also get some grocery shopping in, but in a fun way!

Dallas Stars Game

Being back in Dallas has allowed me to be able to go to hockey games again. It has been great getting back into hockey, and having friends who love going to games too! Stars games are great anytime of the week whether you are looking for something fun during the week or weekend.

Not only are Stars games perfect for a week’s activity, but great way to do something fun for the holidays. Last year I was able to go to their New Year’s Eve game which was one of my favorite highlights from the year. It was great for me to bring back an old tradition and share it with my friends!

Go To A Concert

With Dallas being a big city so many artists come to the city which means there are non stop concerts to attend. Last year I went in July to see Shania Twain and it was an unreal experience. I used to grow up listening to her during car rides, singing word for word Party For Two. Which I would sing both parts!

There are so many different venues in Dallas, but Dos Equis Pavillon is one of my favorites. It is perfect when the weather is nice and has a covered and uncovered section. Even in July when the weather is unbearable you will still have a good time when seeing the right person in concert. Shania was definitely worth the heat!

Enjoy A New Fitness Class

One of my New Year’s goals was to find something new to incorporate into my workout routine so that I was doing more than running. I have never been someone that likes the gym or can put a workout routine together. Which eventually led me to running, it was simple and all I had to do was decide on how far I was running or what a training plan said. It was great and allowed for me to relax and destress, not having to think, but lacked diversity.

After trying a few different workout classes, I was able to find a pilates studio that I liked. The studio was great with friendly instructors who pushed and challenged you. It was great because it allowed me to branch out from running, and I was able to stick with it because it was low impact and enjoyable.

Try A New Restaurant

Looking for a new place to add to the rotation? Look no further than Dallas, there are so many restaurants that differ in cuisine. Meaning Dallas has a place for you regardless of what you are in the mood for. Plus the restaurants are designed amazingly so make sure you have your phone ready for photos! Plus everyone loves a great food photo!

A restaurant that I loved trying was Vidorra which is a modern Mexican restaurant located in Deep Ellum. The vibes in the restaurant are great to perfectly match the food and drinks. It was hard getting a table, but if you went you would know. If you can not get a table, try sitting at the bar because this place is definitely worth it!

Mini Golf Revived

Calling all those who are looking to relive some of the greatest and frustrating moments as a kid. Mini golf is no longer the mini golf we once knew and there are so many places out there that have taken the game to a new level. The days of a straightforward course are long behind us. Now, places have added in new obstacles and themes that put blocks and windmills to shame.

Do not get me wrong I love the old mini golf, but if you are looking to raise the stakes I would recommend checking out a new mini golf place. There is a location in Grandscape where there are different themed mini golf courses. Each course has about nine holes and every hole is different with a new challenge. Some of the holes have interesting objects to get around, extremely uneven surfaces and different paths the ball can take depending on where you hit it. Definitely not your average mini golf course!

Dallas was great last year and I enjoyed getting to explore the city more, especially as an adult. Although I was able to do a lot last year, there are still things that Dallas has to offer that I did not get to. This year my goal is to get to the rest of the list and continue to try new things. After exploring the city, I have come to love what it has to offer and see that it is a great city to call home!