Dallas' Charismatic Personality

A travel journal to Dallas by smileygirl Best of IgoUgo

Dallas SkylineMore Photos

I'm sitting here trying to conjure up some thoughts on Dallas -- a city where I have lived in or by all of my life. I want to create a journal that will be alive and meaningful. Needless to say, I will give it my best effort to bring Dallas to life.

  • 10 reviews
  • 14 photos
Dallas Skyline
Dallas is well known for its fashionable trends, million dollar businesses, magnificent skyscrapers, largest banking centers, magnificent symphony orchestras, masterful ballet, artistic theatre, exotic gourmet dining experiences, accomplished museums, and so much more. By now, I’m sure you are getting a fleeting taste of what Dallas is like.

SOME OF DALLAS ATTRACTIONS:

  • African American Museum
  • American Museum of the Minature Arts
  • Biblical Arts Center
  • Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
  • Dallas Firefighters Museum
  • Dallas Museum of Art
  • Dallas Symphony Orchestra
  • Dallas Theatre Center
  • Dallas World Aquarium
  • Dallas Zoo
  • Fair Park
  • Cotton Bowl Stadium
  • John F. Kennedy Memorial
  • McKinney Avenue Trolley
  • Mary Kay Museum
  • Meadows School of the Arts
  • Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
  • Old City Park
  • Pioneer Plaza
  • Reunion Tower
  • Thanks-Giving Square
  • Visitor Center
  • West End Historic District
  • Wilson Historic District Walking Tour
  • As you can see, there are innumerable of things to see and do in Dallas. Can you believe this is only a partial list!! Dallas is an enormous city with every conceivable amenity you can imagine. With all of the dazzling lights, towering buildings, expansive landscape, and yes, even its fair share of criminality, it is nevertheless still Dallas, one of the most famous metropolitan city.

    Quick Tips:

    Dallas is an enormous place with countless of things to do. My advice is to plan things accordingly and decide which attractions is of utmost importance. Don't worry if you run out of time. This will give you an excuse to visit Dallas again.

    I would also like to direct you to Dallas Vistors Center to help familarize yourself with this city.

    Best Way To Get Around:

    The best way to get around Dallas is to have your own vehicle. Or if you prefer not to drive (which might be a good idea), then I would take an underground shuttle system, if you are staying in the Downtown area.

    You could also summon up a taxi, but please be forewarned, it can be costly to do this. By the way, it might be in your best interest to bring a map with you.

    CONCLUSION:
    As I’ve said earlier, when one has lived here all of their life, you tend to take advantage of the things that envelop you. Never did I stop and think to appreciate Dallas’ charismatic personality, until doing this journal. I would like to take the time to thank you for bringing forth these feelings about my city, Dallas -- my home state, Texas. As we Texans like to say, "Ya’ll come back now, ya hear!!"

    Added note: Since there are plentiful attractions in Dallas, I’ve decided to create sub-journals for some of the topics mentioned above. Stay tuned!!

    Dealy Plaza
    INTRODUCTION:
    We had the opportunity to explore Dallas’ West End Historic District, West End Marketplace, and Wilson Historic District Walking Tour right before we went to The Sixth Floor.

    Once you set foot into this district, you will notice you have been transported back into the 1800’s. An admirable early-day business district that has been revived and restored with shops, push-cart traders, restaurants, nightlife clubs, museums and inspirational events all immersed with modern day technologies.

    BRIEF HISTORY:
    In the early 1800’s, the founder of Dallas, John Neely Bryan made a deal with the Caddo Indians for some land that was located near the Trinity River. As soon as John purchased this land from the Indians, he established a Trading Post, which is not far from where the West End Historic District now sits.

    In 1872, Houston & Texas Central Railroad brought many vested interests into this area. Because of its growing economy, it brought many various businesses, such as::

  • National Farm Implement
  • Clothing Manufacturing Companies
  • Packing Companies
  • Storage Companies
  • Ice Companies
  • And So Forth
  • Thus became the flourishing city of Dallas.

    MUST DO’S:
    One of the most fascinating things to set your sights on in this district is the 1892 red sandstone courthouse, which is commonly known as "Old Red." It is considered one of Dallas’ oldest buildings, which is located at Main and Houston Street. Back in the late 1800’s, the courthouse’s purpose served as the main center of government issues.

    We also enjoyed the taking a relaxing carriage ride in the West End District. This is a must do for someone who wants to see it all, yet not have to walk it all. If you’re lucky enough, you will get a very informative guide who will tell you some interesting sought after details about Dallas’ West End Historic District. Such a learning experience!

    IN CLOSING:
    All in all, our experience at Dallas’ West End Historic District was fascinatingly interesting, and unique. We spent about half of a day here at the West End District and the other half at The Sixth Floor. Please allow yourself a "full" day to enjoy all of Dallas’ wonderful historic sights-West End Historic District, West End Marketplace, Wilson Historic District Walking Tour, and the John F. Kennedy Memorial (The Sixth Floor). If I had to do it all over again, I would visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial first because of its somberness. It leaves you with such sad feelings. Not a good way to end your day with. Just my humble opinion, of course.

    For more information on the Dallas West End Historic District, please visit their Website.

    Enclosed pictures are from Dallas West End Historic District’s website.

    • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 27, 2003

    Dallas West End Historic District
    208 N. Market Street Dallas, Texas

    INTRODUCTION:
    The West End Marketplace is where we began our adventure at the Dallas’ West End Historic District. West End Marketplace is located at North End of Market Street at Munger Avenue.

    You will enter a festive outdoor atmosphere filled with exciting adventures just waiting for you. There are numerous of restaurants, nightclubs, boutiques, and bands that occupy three adjoining buildings to make up the West End Marketplace. Look out for street entertainers that will surely enthrall you with their lively music. You’ll be captivated and relaxed in this wonderful light hearted environment.

    BRIEF HISTORY:
    In 1911, the West End Marketplace Building was originally constructed for Brown Cracker and Candy Company, which remained in business until 1940. The Sunshine Biscuit Company took its residence in this building and was later bought out by Home Furniture Company

    This building still remains in one of the most popular places in this city, the Dallas’ West End Historic District.

    IN CLOSING:
    If you are in the mood for some shopping and festive activities, then West End Marketplace would suit your needs perfectly. We much rather prefer a more calmer atmosphere, but can see why this would entertain a variety of people from all over the world. I guess we’re what you would call, "fuddy duddies". :o)

    Nevertheless, it’s a great place to explore your shopping needs. Some of their shopping vendors remind me of what you would experience at the game showcase in carnivals. Some just didn’t want you to pass their "boutiques" by without stopping first. Of course, sometimes you come across some really good deals because "some" vendors are really wanting to make a sale -- any sale . . . Just some tidbit info.

    Overall, our experience at the West End Marketplace proved suitable and entertaining, but not quite what we are seeking. We much rather prefer the West End Historic District, Wilson Walking Tour, and of course, John F. Kennedy’s Museum. Maybe you’ll have a different opinion. Have fun!

    For more general information on the West End Marketplace, please visit: Dallas West End Historic website.

    Enclosed picture is from site mentioned above.

    • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 27, 2003

    West End MarketPlace
    603 Munger Ave Dallas, Texas 75202
    +1 214 748 4801

    Swiss Avenue: Historic Preservation LeagueBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction | "Wilson Historic District Walking Tour"

    A Victorian Home on Wilson Block
    INTRODUCTION:
    Walk the historic Wilson Block along the Swiss Avenue in Downtown Dallas. You’ll see many Victorian homes fashioned in early era style. A simple yet interesting walking tour that will only fascinate and charm you all the more.

    BRIEF HISTORY:
    In 1981, the Meadows Foundation recognized an opportunity to solve its needs of larger space, while at the same time, providing office space for other nonprofit organizations. The foundation purchased the Wilson Block and began the restoration project. The end results created this block into something magical and inspiring.

    KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
    Some of the things you should "know before you go" are:

  • Make sure you call Preservation Dallas to see if there is someone that can take you on a guided tour.
  • If there isn’t anyone available to take you on a guided tour, see if would be convenient to take a self guided tour.
  • If you are going in a big group, call in advance to schedule a walking tour. It’s much easier and convenient for everyone.
  • Lastly, but not least, make sure you are go on a nice breezy day for this tour. It will help keep you cool.
  • TOUR DESCRIPTION:
    Before you begin your tour, make sure you put on a nice pair of comfy walking shoes. This tour isn’t strenuous and is very slow paced. So, it can be for anyone who has a desire to see some beautiful Victorian homes at its best.

    Your tour begins with a short film at the Wilson Carriage House behind 2922 Swiss Avenue. After your film is over (which is about 30 minutes later), you are on your way to see some alluring homes in Downtown Dallas. Even with our slow paced group, we were able to do this tour in about an hour. It was never rushed nor exhausting.

    HOURS AND DAYS OF OPERATION:

  • Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday:

  • -- Noon till ?
  • Monday, Friday and Sunday
  • -- Closed
  • Call Preservation Dallas before you go, just to be on the safe side.
  • IN CLOSING:
    Overall, we found this walking tour enjoyable. In all honesty, this walking tour should be experienced at least once. Once you’ve had the opportunity to explore the Wilson Block, you really don’t need to do it again. But- you never know if you’ll like it if you never do it, right?

    Should you need more information on the Wilson Historic District Walking Tour, please visit Preservation Dallas Website.

    Please note: Enclosed picture is from the website mentioned above.

    • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 27, 2003

    Swiss Avenue: Historic Preservation League
    2922 Swiss Ave Dallas, Texas 75204
    (214) 821-3290

    Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy PlazaBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction | "The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza"

    INTRODUCTION:
    The Sixth Floor Museum represents an educational exhibition on the life, death and the legacy of John F. Kennedy. You’ll encounter numerous of photographs, artifacts, displays, 30-minute audio tour (which is available in seven different languages) and six films about a person who was trying to make a difference in the world.

    The Dealy Plaza is a National Historic Landmark for John F. Kennedy, cherishing the everlasting moments of John F. Kennedy’s fateful life. I encourage you to visit The Sixth Floor Museum to grasp a hint of understanding of something that truly shocked the world into numbness.

    There are several different types of exhibits that you should view.
    EXHIBITS:

  • The Dealy Plaza: The Front Door Of Dallas
  • Loss and Renewal: Transforming Tragic Sites
  • Unfinished Business: Kennedy and Cuba
  • Jackie Kennedy: The First Lady
  • Preserving Presidential History
  • The History of 411 Elm Street
  • You will also have the opportunity to visit their "Research Center" area,

    RESEARCH CENTER

  • Collections
  • Oral Histories
  • Zapruder Film
  • Orville Nix Film
  • John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
  • GENERAL ADMISSION

  • Adults: $10
  • Seniors (65 and over): $9
  • Children (6-18): $9
  • Children under 6: FREE
  • Admission Costs are for the entire Museum, plus two exhibits:
  • -- Permanent Exhibit on Sixth Floor
  • -- Temporary Exhibit on Seventh Floor
  • OPERATING HOURS:

  • Open daily from 9am-6pm
  • Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
  • OUR OVERALL VIEWS:
    After acquiring and consuming all of the invaluable information on John F. Kennedy, it left me with such a heavy heart. You truly don’t realize what all a person has done for the world until you see all these things put together in a museum remembering and acknowledging them of their life history. John F. Kennedy has done so much and could have done so much more. Yet, his life was drastically ended on November 22, 1963. All I know is, he was truly a wonderful soul. May he rest in peace.

    For pictures or more information on The Sixth Floor Museum, please visit their Website.

    The Enclosed Portrait of John F. Kennedy is from this Website. Let's give credit where it's due.

    • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 26, 2003

    Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza
    411 Elm St. Dallas, Texas 75202
    (214) 747-6660

    American Museum of the Miniature ArtsBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction | "American Museum of Miniature Arts"

    Miniature Dollhouse
    INTRODUCTION:
    The most fascinating thing about this museum is acknowledging all of the small things that surround you. So many talented people who have volunteered their time and efforts were the ones who made this museum possible. A work of art that depicts flawless beauty.

    BRIEF HISTORY:
    American Museum of the Miniature Arts, also known as AMMA was founded in the mid-1980’s. It all began in a 19th-century cottage that was located on Routh Street, which later became the AMMA’s home.

    AMMA’s EXHIBITS:
    Some of the exhibits you will find on display are:

  • Biehl House
  • Mt. Pleasant
  • Early Texas Rooms
  • The Music Room
  • Amish Scene
  • Edwardian Millinery Vignette
  • Miniature Sterling Silver Collection
  • HOURS OF OPERATION:

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Tuesdays through Saturdays 9am-5pm
  • Sundays 1pm-5pm
  • For more information on this museum, please visit American Museum of the Minature Arts’ website.

    Overall, our experience at this museum proved very interesting. However, next time, we wouldn’t bring my son with us. Hopefully, one day when he is older, he will learn to appreciate the true beauty of people’s artistic talents.

    Please note: Enclosed pictures were taken from American Museum of the Miniature Arts, which website is indicated above.

    • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 22, 2003

    American Museum of the Miniature Arts
    2001 North Lamar St Dallas, Texas 75202
    +1 214 969 5502

    Dallas Arboretum & Botanical GardenBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction | "Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens"

    Historic DeGoyler House
    INTRODUCTION
    Only minutes from Downtown Dallas, we decided to tour Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Once we stepped foot on this lovely historic ground, we knew we had been transformed back into time. There were bright colorful flowers everywhere we turned, surrounded by beautiful green lawns and elegant historic homes. We knew we were ready to continue our adventure in the past.

    BRIEF HISTORY:
    In 1938, a 66-acre of haven beauty located in Camp Estate, which was designed and created by James Staub, a famous residential architect. Also on the grounds is the famous historic DeGolyer House, a magnificent Spanish Colonial style mansion built in 1940 by a Texas oil man, Everett DeGolyer. This vast mansion occupies 21,000 square feet and has 13 rooms, seven baths, and 16th and 17th Century antiques and artwork. This beautiful mansion is surrounded by Old English Garden, pathways, rolling green lawns, and woodlands on White Rock Lake.

    Twenty-five acres of ornamental gardens and forty-one acres of natural woodlands create a beautiful haven from the outside world. The Arboretum initiates a rotating display of seasonal colors. Simply breathtakingly beautiful.

    ADMISSION AND HOURS OF OPERATION:

    HOURS:

  • Open seven days a week from 10am thru 5pm, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.


  • ADMISSION PRICES:
  • Adults:
  • -- $7


  • Children (3-12 years of age):
  • -- $4


  • Children 2 and Under:
  • -- Free Admission


  • Members:
  • -- Free Admission
  • For more information on this exquisite attraction, please visit The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s website.

    CLOSING:
    In closing, I would like to say this was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had in the city of Dallas. I haven’t been here in a long while and I truly miss it. By writing this particular journal, it has brought back fond memories of our "adventure" in the past. We hope you are fond of it as much as we are.

    Enclosed pictures are from the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s website as mentioned above.

    • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 22, 2003

    Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
    8525 Garland Road Dallas, Texas 75218
    +1 214 515 6500

    Dallas World Aquarium & Zoological GardensBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction | "The Dallas World Aquarium"

    Dallas World Aquarium
    INTRODUCTION:
    Imagine yourself being surrounded by sea life from all around the world. Imagine a place that brings all this conveniently to you in one location. No need to let your imagination run wild. Look no farther; there is such a place. May I introduce you to the Dallas World Aquarium.

    Dallas World Aquarium offers a place where you can view many splendors of the ocean, tropical rainforest, and exotic outdoor exhibits representing numerous of both plants and animals. Such things are:

  • Bahamian Acropora Corals
  • Giant Tridacna Clams
  • Bonnet-Head Sharks and Stingrays
  • Squirrels
  • Monkeys
  • Jaguars
  • Snakes
  • Don’t forget to behold their alluring waterfalls that was inspired by the Orinoco River Basin in Venezuela. This is a must see.

    Now -- let’s begin our journey through the Dallas World Aquarium!
    AQUARIUM:

  • Lord Howe Island
  • British Columbia
  • Southern Australia
  • Solomon Islands
  • Bahamas
  • Fiji
  • Indonesia
  • Sri Lanka
  • Palau
  • Japan
  • Predators
  • Continental Shelf


  • BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE AQUARIUM:
    Here you will find ten 2,000 aquariums that holds a total of 85,000 gallons of saltwater. Now, that’s a lot of sea life floating around!! Venture into this sea world and be fascinated by many things before you. It’s positively an unforgettable experience.

    Our next adventure is at:
    RAINFOREST:

    CANOPY TOUR:

  • -- Howler Junction
  • -- Lobo Del Rio
  • -- Howler Heights
  • -- Sloth Forest
  • -- Monkey Island
  • -- Free Flight Aviary


  • UNDERSTORY TOUR:
  • -- Crocodile Cove
  • -- The Cave
  • -- Rivers Edge
  • -- Flooded Forest
  • -- Rainforest Trail


  • THE RIVER TOUR:
  • -- The River’s Edge


  • BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE RAINFOREST:
    Here is an exhibit where you will find the replica of the Orinoco River (originally in Venezuela) featuring the beauty of various types of flowers and wildly exotic animals. Visualize yourself in a surreal place that seems so far from reality.

    Onto our next excursion:
    SOUTH AFRICA:

    SOUTH AFRICA TOUR:

  • -- South Africa


  • BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE SOUTH AFRICA:
    Featuring both plants and animals in a nine different communities that mimics the African continent. An enchanting adventure that is perfect for the inquisitive minds.

    Well, this wraps up our tour at the Dallas World Aquarium. Should you need more information on the Dallas World Museum, please visit their: website. Don’t forget to visit their gift shop and restaurants that are located conveniently on-site!!!

    Please note: Enclosed pictures are from the Dallas World Aquarium.

    • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 24, 2003

    Dallas World Aquarium & Zoological Gardens
    1801 North Griffin St Dallas, Texas 75202
    +1 214 720 2224

    INTRODUCTION:
    Dallas Museum of Art is an exclusive place that displays matchless collection of artwork who genuinely recognizes the true definition of the word Art. Here, you will find many "collections" that will satisfy your heart’s desire. Welcome . . .

    THE COLLECTIONS:

  • Ancient Mediterranean
  • Asia
  • Pacific
  • European Painting and Sculpture
  • Africa
  • American Painting and Sculpture
  • Americas
  • Contemporary Art and Design
  • Decorative Arts
  • SOME OF THE FASCINATING EXHIBITS:

  • Church’s "The Icebergs"
  • Oldenberg’s "Stake Hitch"
  • Monet
  • Sargent
  • Matisse
  • Sculptures of Roden and Henry Moore
  • And Many, Many More
  • HOURS AND ADMISSION:

    HOURS:

  • Closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day
  • Tuesday-Sunday- 11am-5pm
  • Thursday- 11am-9pm


  • ADMISSION:

  • Adults: $6
  • Children: 12 years and older and Senior Citizens: $4
  • Members, Children with school ID, Children under 12 years: FREE
  • First Tuesday of each month and every Thursday evening from 5 to 9pm: FREE
  • FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE:
    If you’re in the mood to do a little shopping, don’t forget to take advantage of their Museum Store. They are open the same operating hours as the museum. If you prefer, you can shop at their store online.

    For more information on the Dallas Museum of Art, please visit their website.

    OUR CONCLUSION:
    I can’t even begin to tell you how fascinated we were with the Dallas Museum of Art. It is an art lover’s dream comes true!! What impressed us the most was the many "collections" they had on display. We could have stayed here for hours and still not have seen all of their artifacts. We highly recommend the Dallas Museum of Art for people who truly appreciate the true exquisiteness of art.

    Please note: Enclosed pictures are from Dallas Museum of Art's website.

    • Member Rating 5 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 23, 2003

    Dallas Museum of Art
    1717 North Harwood Dallas, Texas 75201
    (214) 922-1200

    Dallas ZooBest of IgoUgo

    Attraction

    INTRODUCTION:
    Dallas Zoo was founded in 1988 and is considered the oldest zoo in Texas. Sitting on 95 acres, this zoo is home to over 2,000 animals, including many rare and endangered species, such as Okapis, Snow Leopards, Tuataras, and so much more. It also has Reptile Collection, Reptile Discovery Center, and a Walk-Thru Rain Forest Aviary. Take advantage of their Picnic Areas, Gift Shop, and Adopt-An-Animal Program, which is all conveniently located at the zoo.

    Within the zoo, is the 25-acre Wilds of Africa exhibit. Featuring in this park, you will find over 90 species of African birds and mammals, and reptiles in their natural habitat. Some other features in this zoo are:

    WILDS OF AFRICA:

  • Monorail Safari
  • Kimberly-Clark Chimpanzee Forest
  • Jake L. Hamon Gorilla Conservation Research Center
  • 1500 foot Forest Aviary Trail
  • Zookeeper Talk Sessions
  • THE HIGHLIGHT(S):
    As mentioned above, we were really delighted with the Monorail Safari. The Monorail Safari takes you on a narrated tour through six habitats. It lasts about 25 minutes and is well worth the time and the little expense they charge for this excursion. Please make note that the Monorail is open during seasonal times, from Sept. 15th through Dec. 1st. It then opens up again from March 1st to June 15th. We highly recommend this tour.

    ZOO NORTH:

  • Endangered Tiger Habitat
  • Snout Route
  • Primate Place
  • Lacerte Children’s Petting Zoo
  • Bird Valley
  • Pierre Fontaine Bird and Reptile Building
  • Zookeeper Talk Session
  • THE HIGHLIGHTS:
    Although I’m not really fond of seeing animals held in captivity, we did enjoy two things at the Zoo North exhibit: 1) Zookeeper Talk Session, which we explained why above. 2) Snout Route.

    SNOUT ROUTE:
    A variety of animals with, you’ve got it, noses or snouts! A one-of-a-kind experience which deserves to be acknowledged.

    LACERTE FAMILY CHILDREN’S ZOO:
    If you have small children, then this is a must do. Some features in this area are:

  • The Wander
  • The Hillcrest Foundation Nature Exchange
  • Discovery House and Yard
  • Foundation Nature Exchange
  • Foundation Farm
  • Levy Tot Spot
  • The Dallas Zoological Society's Woods and Underzone
  • HIGHLIGHTS:
    We did not do this attraction since we didn’t have any small children with us. However, from a friend’s point of view, she said, "It shouldn’t be passed up for the little ones!!"

    IN CLOSING:
    Our overall experience at the Dallas Zoo was very entertaining and delightful. If we had to choose between the Dallas Zoo or the Dallas World Aquarium, I would personally opt for the latter. Whichever choice you make, have a good time regardless!!

    For more information on the Dallas Zoo, please visit this website.

    Please note: Enclosed pictures are from Dallas Zoo’s website.

    • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by smileygirl on June 24, 2003

    Dallas Zoo
    650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway Dallas, Texas 75203
    +1 214 670 5656

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