Looking to go off the beaten path? Red Roof has put together a list of hidden gems in Dallas that offer unique and memorable experiences. From tucked-away shops to lesser-known attractions, you'll find plenty of surprises waiting to be explored — all within easy reach of our budget-friendly hotels.
Everybody knows that Dallas, Texas, is one of the best cities to visit in the Lone Star State. It has an incredible skyline, the historic Dealey Plaza, and the iconic Dallas Cowboys football team (and cheerleaders!), and it can be a multicultural, vibrant, and artistic wonderland for those willing to step off the beaten path and explore.
From food to cultural experiences and out-of-the-ordinary experiences, there's something for every taste in "the big D."
920 S Harwood St. Dallas, TX 75201
Especially incredible in the summer, the Dallas Farmer's Market is a year-round attraction for locals and tourists alike, with local produce, goods, and crafts for sale. This market has been in operation since 1941 and is still in operation today, promoting healthy, sustainable living in North Texas.
The Market Building is open 7 days a week, with four anchor restaurants, along with a mix of coffee and food vendors, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the Dallas skyline. There is also the outdoor Farmer's Market at "the Shed", as well as the shops in Harvest Lofts and Taylor Lofts to explore. We recommend allotting at least a few hours to check out this expansive market area…and come with an empty stomach!
1520 Elm Street, STE 201 Dallas, TX 75201
Don't let the name fool you, as The Woolworth is a gorgeous fine dining establishment located in the old Woolworths location, where you can enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner in the heart of the city. Boasting modern cuisine and innovative cocktails, you're sure to enjoy your meal. Make sure to book your reservation at this popular establishment ahead of time to ensure you have a seat.
331 Singleton Blvd, 100, Dallas, TX 75212
This is a (leashed) dog-friendly, kid-friendly art gallery and beer garden where you can get delicious frozen drinks from an upcycled shipping container, along with local and imported beer and wine, or a mixed cocktail. The area features gorgeous graffiti artwork by local artists, views of the downtown skyline, open-air seating, and 30 outdoor TV sets so you don't miss your favorite game during sports night. If you're feeling fancy, you can even rent a private covered cabana, with couches, TVs, and fans inside.
Art Park is located near several top eateries in Dallas, with QR codes at every table, so you can order pickup online as you sip your drink. There are trivia nights, Latin nights, monthly vendor markets, and more. If you've got a vehicle, worry not, as there's free parking on-site, making it easy to get to one of Dallas' favorite community hotspots.
3500 Gaston Ave, Dallas, TX, 75246
Yes, you read that correctly, it's a collection of, well, hands, as represented in bronze. Adrian E. Flatt, M.D., was an orthopedic surgeon, specializing in hand surgery, and whenever he had the chance, he'd cast the hands of his patients, as well as fellow surgeons, first to plan his surgeries, but later to prove that there was no such thing as a "typical" pair of hands.
As the years progressed, Flatt began to chase the high of collecting the impressions of more famous people's appendages, including Mickey Mantle, Andre the Giant, Dr. Seuss, and Walt Disney, amongst others. If this strange collection interests you, you can find it in Dallas, Texas, in the lobby of the George W. Truett Memorial Hospital at the Baylor University Medical Center.
If you appreciate the stories, history, and care artists put into their works, you'll love the most popular public art installations in Dallas, like:
411 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75202
The patriotic among us will be enthralled when visiting the JFK exhibit at the former Texas School Book Depository. Chronicling President John F. Kennedy's legacy, this museum exhibit provides an in-depth look into personal stories and experiences surrounding the JFK presidency and assassination, with photography, news footage, artifacts, and even the original evidentiary areas, like the corner window where three spent cartridge shells were discovered. Immerse yourself in history as you discover more about US politics, social movements, and the JFK assassination itself.
Bonnie - Crown Hill Memorial Park, 9178 Webb Chapel Rd, Dallas, TX 75220
Clyde - Western Heights Cemetery, 1617 Fort Worth Ave, Dallas, TX 75208
Those interested in true crime will be interested to note that both Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow have their final resting places in Dallas, TX. Known for their spree of burglaries, bank robberies, and shoot-outs during the Great Depression, these two criminals became infamous, not only for their brazen crimes but also for having a strangely romantic story.
Remember, if you're considering stopping at these sites, remain respectful. Clyde's grave is in a gated area and is typically locked, but you may contact the caretakers to request permission to visit.
2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
Klyde Warren Park is known as the "Town Square of Dallas." It is 5.2 acres of fun, with free programs, educational opportunities, and outdoor space that the community can enjoy together. There are food trucks, fitness programs, and incredible outdoor events that are mostly free to enjoy. Come hang out at Klyde Warren, and enjoy some of Andy's Frozen Custard, eat one of Fletcher's Original Corny Dogs, or an egg-based sandwich from Egg Stand, and get to know the local community.
3609 Parry Ave, Dallas, TX 75226
While the emetic moniker may not appeal to all, this incredible art experience is a must-see if you're into the weird and obscure or simply want a new location for your next social media photo shoot. It's colorful, fantastical, and fun! You can even book the entire location for a private event, giving you even more time with each surreal setting. Let loose and enjoy some whimsy in this artistic wonderland.
2022 Elm Street, Dallas, TX 75226
Named for the local pronunciation of the historic Deep Elm railroad crossing where it's located, Deep Ellum has evolved over the decades to become a community center, an arts hub, and a local hotspot. Whether you're looking for a place to get drinks from local brewers, enjoy historical tours, check out artist makers and recording spaces, or purchase local goods, Deep Ellum is the place to be.
You can also find some of the top hidden gem restaurants in Dallas in this spot, like Cafe Brazil or Cheba Hut. Don't sleep on this killer cultural hub, it's a multicultural banger with something for everybody.
2700 Ann Williams Way, Dallas, TX 75201
While it may be the oldest continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas, this theater still often flies under the radar. If you're looking to enjoy an internationally renowned performance filled with multi-ethnic, diverse dancers, check out their production of Encore! Or see their calendar for more dates and performances. You'll be glad you took the time to witness the strength, agility, and grace of these professional dancers in their prime.
Level Six, 1618 Main St., Dallas, TX 75201
Located on the 6th floor of the Neiman Marcus store, the Zodiac Room is the epitome of all hidden gem restaurants in Dallas. This high-end luncheon locale is an elegant dining destination that has been in operation for over 70 years. From light bites to sandwiches and entrees, you'll enjoy exquisite gustations of all kinds. Join the upper crust of Dallas and do some celebrity spotting. You never know who will be dining at the Zodiac Room.
1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX, 75202
So much more than an aquarium, this incredible attraction features aquatic animals of all shapes and sizes, as well as integrative display technology on a 25' high, 52-foot-wide LED screen in the Cloud Forest Trek rainforest attraction for an immersive experience you have to see to believe.
There's a zoo in which you can see exotic species such as an Ocelot, a sloth, a multitude of birds and monkeys, the viral Shoebill Stork, and so much more in this exciting educational escape. The aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling with children and nature lovers of all ages.
1825 Abrams Rd, Suite B, Dallas, TX 75214
Looking for a new way to spend an evening out? Try this small jazz club in the space above the Lakewood Theater, where live Jazz, Blues, and R&B can be heard, as played by local and traveling musicians alike. Tap your toes to the rhythm as you enjoy a stiff drink in this decades-old intimate venue.
3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Suite 253, Grapevine, TX 76051
While not technically in Dallas, this is an exhibition worth traveling to. The Real Unreal is run by the world-famous Meow Wolf art collective and can be found in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Described as a "cosmic adventure, this place must be experienced to be understood. Bring the whole family along for an interactive, immersive art experience created by local Texas and Santa Fe-based artists.
Along with Meow Wolf's The Real Unreal, Grapevine also includes 34 public art installations, galleries, studios, interactive educational shows, murals, pop-up shows, wine events, and more.
While not technically one destination, the area surrounding Greenville Avenue has some of the best nightlife in the city, with busy restaurants, exciting nightclubs, and a casual college-town vibe that'll keep you going until the wee hours of the morning. Some of the popular spots in Greenville include:
Traveling to Dallas? Book a room at one of our affordable, pet-friendly hotels.