As far as metropolitan cities are concerned, Dallas is as diverse as they come! Boasting a wide array of neighborhoods, the city has everything from historical, eclectic, luxurious, modern, and everything in between! We’ve been Dallas residents for eons; however, we only just recently embarked on a journey to discover every nook and cranny of the city, in a quest to unearth hidden gems.
Gentrification notwithstanding, the Dallas West End Historic District has, for the most part, maintained its rich history as the birthplace of Dallas. In recent years, the infusion of modern elements has provided a facelift to the area, now bursting at the seams with innovative measures. Therefore, it’s only befitting that we compiled this Historic West End Dallas: Travel Guide.
- Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions offers interactive, immersive and fun experiences, combining education and entertainment. It’s a place where nothing is as it seems, where the unbelievable truly becomes reality. Learn more and get your tickets here.
Address: 701 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75202
2. West End Square
This is a unique park that recently opened to the public on March 26, 2021. Yes, it’s brand spanking new! Notable attractions and amenities include larger-than-life swing sets; an outdoor workroom with charging stations and Wi-Fi; a game room for foosball and ping pong; a prairie garden; misting water fountains and so much more.
Address: 607 Corbin St, Dallas, TX 75202
3. Dallas World Aquarium
The aquarium houses replica habitats containing exotic birds, mammals & fish. It’s open for public tours & private events. Learn more and get your tickets here.
Address: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202
4. Old Red Museum
The Dallas County Courthouse, built in 1892 of red sandstone with rusticated marble accents, is a historic government building. Also known as the Old Red Courthouse, it became the Old Red Museum, a local history museum, in 2007. Learn more here.
Address: 600 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75202
5. Sixth Floor Museum
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicles the assassination and legacy of President John F. Kennedy and interprets the Dealey Plaza National Historical Landmark District and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. Learn more here.
6. Horse and Carriage Ride
Take a break from the monotony of daily experiences with a laidback horse and carriage ride through the city. North Star Carriage has a variety of tour options, with prices ranging from $45 to $100. Learn more and purchase your tickets here.
7. Wild Bill’s Western Store
Wild Bill’s Western Store has been a part of the Downtown Dallas landscape for 60 years. It stands as a beacon in remembrance of the city’s history and the integrity with which legends are associated. It’s Western clothing, accessories, hat & cowboy boot retailer, set within a historic redbrick building. Learn more here.
Address: 311 N Market St #101, Dallas, TX 75202
8. Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
Founded in 1984 by a group of Dallas area Holocaust Survivors, the Dallas Holocaust, and Human Rights Museum is dedicated to teaching the history of the Holocaust and advancing human rights to combat prejudice, hatred, and indifference. Learn more and get your tickets here.
Address: 300 N Houston St, Dallas, TX 75202
9. The Light Up Arches
The arches light the way for pedestrians walking between the West End & Victory Park. Built with tiny LED lights and controlled by a computer program, the arches’ colors can reflect everything from festive holidays to beloved Dallas sports teams. Get the location here.
10. Local Restaurants
Hill Country-inspired fine dining featuring elk, bison & more in a Western ambiance with a patio. Read reviews here.
Some of the best Mexican food in Dallas! A broad menu of Mexican fare (with American & vegetarian options). Read reviews here.
Their homemade menu has a variety of options including steaks, seafood, Cajun specialties, burgers, Tex-Mex, and a signature wall of frozen drinks. Read reviews here.
Ellen’s is known for its brunch all-day menu. Their mantra is “It’s brunch o’clock somewhere.” Read reviews here.
3eleven Kitchen and Restaurant
Every ingredient has a purpose at 3eleven. Serving farm-to-market fare and scratch cocktails with a vintage twist, 3Eleven is open daily for lunch and dinner service. Read reviews here.
This is a fast casual Thai restaurant that offers comfort food and bistro fare.
Read reviews here.
How to get to Dallas West End
If you choose to drive, be aware that metered parking spots are few and far between. Lot parking is available at the following locations:
333 N. Houston Rd. Dallas, TX 75202
211 N. Austin St. Dallas, TX 75202
Alternatively, you can drive to a DART station and take the train to the West End station. Located on Pacific Avenue, between Market & Lamar streets, West End Station is served by the Central Business District (CBD) segment of the DART Rail Red, Blue, Green, and Orange lines. Learn more here.
If all else fails, Uber and Lyft are great transportation options.
In summation, The Historic Dallas West End neighborhood is chock full of sights to see and experiences to enjoy. It is our hope that you will jump on the opportunity to explore the area too!