Dallas holidays

How to reach Dallas

• Flight time: Direct flights to Dallas from London typically take about 10 hours. Major airlines such as British Airways and American Airlines offer flights from London Heathrow to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

• Transfer time: From DFW Airport, it takes about 30 minutes to reach downtown Dallas by taxi or ride-share, depending on traffic. The DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) Orange Line also connects the airport to the city centre, taking around 50 minutes.

• Price: A taxi ride from DFW Airport to downtown Dallas costs between $50–$60. The DART train is a more budget-friendly option at $3 for a one-way ticket.

Best time to visit Dallas

The city is a good year-round destination, so picking the perfect time for your holidays to Dallas will boil down to your weather and sightseeing preferences.

• March to May is a fantastic time to visit, with mild temperatures averaging 15 to 25°C. Springtime brings lovely blooms and festivals like the Dallas Blooms at the Arboretum (February to April). Rainfall ranges from 60–80mm, and you’ll enjoy about 8 to 9 hours of sunshine daily.

• June to August can be pretty hot, with daily temperatures often soaring above 35°C. This is the low season due to the heat, but it’s perfect for indoor activities and air-conditioned attractions. Rainfall is minimal, averaging around 50–70mm, and there are typically 10 to 12 hours of sunshine daily.

• September to November offers pleasant weather, with temperatures cooling down from 30 to 20°C. This period is ideal for outdoor events like the State Fair of Texas (September to October). Rainfall is around 70–90mm, and there are about 7 to 8 hours of sunshine daily.

• December to February is the coolest time of year, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C. Rainfall averages around 60–80mm, and you’ll get about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language. Spanish is also common.

• Local habits and customs: Dallas is known for its friendliness and hospitality. Tipping is customary in restaurants (around percent) and bars (a dollar a drink).

• Health and safety: Dallas is generally safe, but it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Travel insurance is necessary to cover any medical costs.

• Currency: The US dollar (USD) is used. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are plentiful.

• Getting around: The DART system includes buses and light rail, with single fares costing $3. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, and the downtown area is quite walkable. Dallas also has a bike-sharing program, the Lime, with numerous stations throughout the city.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V, with Type A and B plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Dallas operates on Central Standard Time (CST), 6 hours behind GMT. Daylight Saving Time is observed from March to November.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a valid passport and an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for entry into the US.

Local dishes in Dallas

From classic Texan dishes to unique local drinks, Dallas is a city that knows how to satisfy your taste buds.

Some typical dishes

• Chicken-fried steak: A beloved Texas staple, this dish features a breaded and fried beef steak smothered in creamy white gravy.

• Chilli: Texas-style chilli is all about the beef, with no beans in sight, simmered with a blend of spices for a hearty, spicy meal.

• Barbecue: Think slow-cooked brisket, juicy ribs and spicy sausages, often served with sides like coleslaw and baked beans.

Tapas dishes

• Tex-Mex Queso: This warm, cheesy dip is mixed with spicy jalapeños (and sometimes ground beef) and is perfect for sharing with tortilla chips.

• Guacamole: Freshly made with ripe avocados, lime juice, onions and cilantro, Guacamole is often served as a starter in Dallas restaurants.

Meat dishes

• Brisket: This cut of beef is slow-cooked for hours until tender and is often flavoured with a smoky barbecue rub.

• Fajitas: This dish is typically made with marinated skirt steak or chicken and grilled bell peppers and onions. It’s served with tortillas.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Blackened catfish: Fish fans can look forward to Catfish fillets coated in a spicy seasoning and cooked until the exterior is crispy.

• Shrimp and grits: This Southern favourite (featuring creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp) is usually cooked with garlic and bacon.

Street food

• Tacos: Dallas serves up a variety of street tacos filled with everything from grilled meats to seafood, often topped with fresh salsa and cilantro.

• Corn dogs: This classic fairground treat is essentially a hot dog coated in a cornmeal batter that’s then deep-fried to perfection.

Sweets and desserts

• Pecan pie: This sweet, nutty pie is a Texas mainstay. It is often made with local pecans and a gooey, sugary filling.

• Kolaches: These pastries of Czech origin, popular in Texas, are filled with everything from fruits and cheese to sausage.

Local drinks

• Texas beer: Dallas has a vibrant craft beer scene, with local breweries like the Four Corners Brewing Company leading the charge.

• Frozen margaritas: Invented in Dallas, this refreshing cocktail is a must-try. They’re made with tequila and lime juice and served icy cold.

Best things to do in Dallas

From iconic landmarks to vibrant districts, Dallas offers an array of attractions that highlight the city’s rich history and modern charm. Here’s a rundown of the top sights you won’t want to miss during your holidays to Dallas:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Reunion Tower: Known as ‘The Ball,’ this iconic structure offers a 360-degree view of the Dallas skyline. Visit at sunset for a particularly stunning vista.

• Chase Tower Sky Lobby: Head to the 40th floor of this downtown skyscraper for impressive city views that are free to the public.

The best districts

• Deep Ellum: Famous for its live music scene, this neighbourhood is packed with vibrant street art, trendy bars and fun dining options.

• Bishop Arts District: This charming area boasts an array of boutique shops, art galleries and some of the city's best independent eateries.

• Uptown: A lively district known for its nightlife, high-end shopping and the scenic Katy Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Parks and gardens

• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Spanning 27 hectares, this beautiful garden features seasonal flower displays, walking trails and the enchanting Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden.

• Klyde Warren Park: An urban green space built over a freeway that offers food trucks, free fitness classes, and a playground.

• White Rock Lake: A favourite among locals, this large urban lake is perfect for biking, running or picnicking. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the water.

Historical monuments

• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza: Explore President John F. Kennedy's life and legacy with exhibits in the former Texas School Book Depository, the site from which he was assassinated.

• Dallas Heritage Village: Step back in time at this living history museum, which showcases historic buildings and offers insight into 19th-century Texan life.

• Pioneer Plaza: This public park features a large sculpture of a cattle drive, paying homage to the city's cowboy roots and the importance of cattle herding in the state’s history.

Day trips in the area

• Fort Worth: Just a short drive from Dallas, Fort Worth offers the historic Stockyards, renowned for its cattle drives, rodeos and Western heritage. See our deals on holidays to Fort Worth.

• Arlington: Home to Six Flags Over Texas and the AT&T Stadium, where you can catch a Dallas Cowboys game or take a tour of the impressive facility. Check out our holidays to Arlington for another incredible experience.

• Grapevine: Visit this charming town for its historic Main Street, wine-tasting rooms and the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.

Activities for families in Dallas

Dallas is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities to entertain kids and adults.

• Dallas Zoo: This is one of the largest zoos in Texas, featuring a wide variety of animals, interactive exhibits and a children's zoo.

• Perot Museum of Nature and Science: This museum boasts hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art theatre and a rooftop deck for city views.

• Legoland Discovery Centre: This indoor attraction, Perfect for younger children, offers Lego-themed rides, a 4D cinema and interactive building zones.

• Dallas World Aquarium: An immersive experience featuring marine life, exotic birds and even a few land animals.

Free things to do in Dallas

Exploring Dallas doesn't have to cost a small fortune. There are plenty of free and low-cost activities to enjoy during your Dallas holidays.

• Free events: Throughout the year, Dallas hosts a good number of free events and open-air concerts. The annual State Fair of Texas (September to October) is a prime example, with shows and exhibits galore.

• Free museums: The Dallas Museum of Art is always free, while the Nasher Sculpture Center offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month.

• Explore by public transport: Take a ride on the McKinney Avenue Trolley. This free service runs through the Uptown area and is a unique way to see the city.