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Even if you've spent little time in Dallas, you know that the city is packed with things to do. If you are a Dallas or Fort Worth local, you've likely already checked out Dealey Plaza, the Dallas Arboretum, Reunion Tower, and the Dallas World Aquarium. However, once you've participated in all the standard touristy attractions, what's next?
There are actually plenty of hidden gems sprinkled throughout Dallas and the surrounding area. These are five destinations you should check out on your next outing.
Just northeast of Downtown Dallas, there is a gorgeous place to exercise with the family. White Rock Lake is quiet and relaxing, but it also has plenty to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, the area surrounding the lake offers nearly 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. It's also the perfect location for a picnic since it has over 1,000 acres of space to explore.
White Rock Lake offers rental facilities, boat ramps, and places to kayak. You can rent out the pavilions for birthday parties, family reunions, and other gatherings or simply enjoy the dog park with a furry friend. You'll also have easy access to the White Rock Lake Museum or the Dallas Arboretum.
Also nearby is the Bath House Cultural Center, which offers gorgeous art deco architecture. Today, the building is a museum, theater, and gallery offering free shows and events. Of course, it also has amazing views of the lake.
The Fort Worth Water Gardens offer gorgeous water structures just half a mile away from Sundance Square. At first, the view of the garden might be unassuming next to the Fort Worth convention center, but the urban park offers a relaxing destination away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Built-in 1974, the Fort Worth Water Gardens encompass over five acres. Philip Johnson designed the park, including the many different features. The best features include the quiet pool, wet wall, and aerated pool. While it's not a location fit for swimming, it is one worthy of exploration. The photos do not do this gem justice.
Have you been on the hunt for a new place to hang out with friends? The Wild Detectives should be your next stop. It's a literary gem in the middle of Dallas, hidden among other bars and local hang-outs. On the surface, this bar looks like a bookstore, and it does indeed offer a variety of cultural events. The menu looks tasty with its selection of snacks and drinks. Cocktails include an espresso old-fashioned and a tequila mimosa, and you can also enjoy a variety of coffee drinks.
The Wild Detectives also offers a variety of fun events for all ages. You'll find chess club meetings, storytelling for children, book presentations featuring local authors, poetry readings, backyard shows, and more. It is all around a great spot where you can enjoy the community and learn more about literature and local authors. The drinks might bring you in the first time, but you'll stay for the lovely atmosphere and new friends.
Have you been looking for a taste of England without the expenses of travel? Are you missing your British home? Dallas is actually a great place to be if you are looking for a taste of Britain. The British Emporium offers a variety of treats and souvenirs that you might find in London. The shop also hosts events, including giveaways. Come enjoy an authentic English scone or stock up on bangers and mash for your next British TV binge.
In fact, this shop has everything from teas and biscuits to frozen foods and souvenirs from the Platinum Jubilee. The shop has been here since 1992, offering tasty morsels and gifts that will satisfy any Anglophile. You'll find so many familiar brands, including Walkers', PG Tips, HP Sauce, and more. Yep, you can even find jammie dodgers, meat pies, and back bacon here. You are sure to make this shop part of your new routine when you shop for snacks and gifts.
This Dallas park will make you feel like you've stepped right out of the city and into a fairy tale. The Teddy Bear Park is nestled beyond trees, trails, and water features at Lakeside Park. Gorgeous hedges and waterfalls are just part of what the park has to offer. Amid all of the beautiful natural features, mansions, and expansive properties, sits a series of teddy bear statues.
The adorable statues were donated by Harlan Crow and his family one Christmas. The Dallas local was a real estate developer and philanthropist who helped bring this lovable photo op to life. The statues themselves are made of granite and were designed by an artist named J.T. Williams. They were inspired by the bear statues at FAO Schwartz, a toy store with a larger-than-life atmosphere. Today, the bears provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic.
As you can see from these hidden gems in the city, Dallas and its surroundings have a lot to offer. When you tread off the beaten path, you might find that there is more than meets the eye. Now that you know where to go, you need to know how to get there. A Ford is a great option for traveling to each of these destinations. Planet Ford Dallas can help you find the right vehicle for your family. Which hidden gem are you most excited to check out with your new car or truck?
Photo Credit: Fort Worth Water Gardens by Terry Robinson Robinson is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0
