Head east and explore a green wonderland and a picturesque urban lake before heading out for dinner, drinks and shopping at one of Dallas' most well-known and busiest districts.
The name perfectly defines the area. Defined by its two major features, the Lake & Garden district is a place to get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy the outdoors. The district's vast trails and picturesque backgrounds are set for adventures in the fresh air.
White Rock Lake in East Dallas is a wonderful spot to picnic, hike and bike, or fish from the piers. Spanning more than 1,015 acres, the urban lake is a hot spot for kayakers, canoers and paddle boarders year-round, and the nine-mile loop around the lake is the place to be on a sunny Dallas afternoon.
The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden features 66 acres with 11 lush display gardens that offer seasonal color all year long. Home of Dallas Blooms, the Southwest's largest outdoor floral festival, the Arboretum provides a tranquil oasis where visitors are surrounded by the beauty of all four seasons.
The Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, located at the Dallas Arboretum, was designed to connect children with nature. Education is a central focus of the mission, teaching life and earth science to school children, teachers and families. Enjoy eight acres of fun overlooking the beautiful White Rock Lake with 150 interactive exhibits, 16 indoor and outdoor classrooms and a Discovery Garden.
Lake Highlands Park is a 36-acre quaint park, located just east of White Rock Lake. Take a stroll around the park or take the kids to the water playground. There's also rugby and soccer fields for all the sport enthusiasts.
The Bath House Cultural Center was originally a social and recreation spot for people to swim in the lake. The cultural center now houses a 116-seat theater, two gallery spaces, the White Rock Lake Museum and several other spaces that offer visual and performing arts programming.
T&P Hill is one of the highest points of land around the lake. The close proximity of the children's playground and picnic tables make this park one of the most family-friendly areas around the lake.
Check out Samuell-Grand Park, an 81-acre park that features an amphitheater, driving range and multiple sports field, making it a great spot to spend the day. This park is home to Shakespeare in the Park, among other activities throughout the year.
Just a short drive from Fair Park is Kalachandji's, Dallas' longest serving vegetarian restaurant, located inside the Hare Krishna Temple. Lunch and dinner buffets feature an array of Indian flavors. Enjoy your meal at one of the tables in the beautiful enclosed courtyard and be sure to check out their hall of fame as you leave.
Make a morning stop for creative and unique donut creations at Hypnotic Donuts. With a wide variety of choices, it's hard to resist just one, so be sure to try some local favorites like the Evil Elvis, Snickerdoodle and The Duke.
Located across the street from the Dallas Arboretum, this rustic-style smokehouse features tasty barbecue meats, salads, sandwiches and more. Start with the brisket queso and go for the smoked meats with the house-made sausage, pulled pork or ribs.
Check out the innovative concept at Dugg Burger, where they dig out the top bun, making plenty of room for all the delicious toppings of your choice. Add an Oreo milkshake or bread pudding to complete your meal.
Treat your seafood craving at 20 Feet Seafood Joint with the freshest fish, shrimp, lobster and more. Try the famous lobster rolls, fish and chips, or go for a shrimp or Cajun chicken po'boy.
Get your morning (or afternoon) coffee fix at Cultivar Coffee. This East Dallas coffee bar features fresh-roasted coffees, espresso drinks and tasty pastries that are made locally.
Go for Italian at one of the best neighborhood restaurants in Dallas. Serving up Italian favorites like chicken parmesan, baked lasagna and pizza, Alfonso's won't disappoint. And save room for dessert with a slice of Italian cream pie or cheesecake.
This cheap taco joint is one of the best spots in East Dallas for street tacos. Try the lengua or pastor for lunch, or go for the breakfast tacos stuffed with potato, egg and bacon.
Check out Goodfriend Burger for tasty burger creations to enjoy on the casual outdoor patio. The impressive beer garden make this spot one-of-a-kind with its myriad selections of local and craft beers.
Jimmy's Food Store is both a market and restaurant, offering delicious Italian meats, cheese and specialty sandwiches made fresh daily. It's a one-stop-shop to grab your meats, stop for lunch and pick our your favorite bottle of wine.
This family-friendly restaurant, located in the heart of East Dallas, offers quality eats, a beer garden and a kids play area. Try the burgers, brisket sliders or fish tacos, and enjoy the patio space for live music on the weekend.
This beautiful bar takes you back to the 70s, with its cool, eccentric vibe that make it unique to Dallas. This hidden gem offers specialty cocktails and craft beers, as well as a full dining menu with small bites, entrees and dessert.
The wood-fire, pizzas are made to order and topped with tasty toppings like pepperoni, sausage and hot soppressata. Finish it with a savory dessert – the s'mores calzone is a must-try.
Located on the grounds of the Dallas Arboretum, Restaurant Degolyer is a great spot to stop for lunch after exploring the gardens. The restaurant is open from 11am - 3pm daily, and offers a classic menu of soups, salads and sandwiches.
This wine bar features boasts an extensive wine selection that you can order by the glass or bottle. Pair your favorite wine with a cheese plate or flatbread pizza to sip on and snack all night long.
