So you want to learn more about all that Dallas, TX, has to offer and only have a day? Whether you’re exploring the town for vacation or trying to decide on renting an apartment in Dallas or even buying a home, we can help you with planning the ideal day.

Here’s the deal: Below is a treasure trove of restaurants, bars, activities, and destinations curated from Dallas locals. Pick one item from each step to create a preliminary schedule for your perfect day. If you want to select more than one option, go for it! The goal is for you to get a crash course in what it’s like to live in Dallas.

Step one:

Select a new experience

When exploring Dallas, it’s important to get acquainted with all the unique experiences to be had in the city. Below is just a small collection of experiences. Pick one or choose a couple to explore during your day. 

Oak Cliff Pottery: “Established in the heart of Oak Cliff in 2016, we offer wheel-throwing classes for beginners and advanced pottery enthusiasts. I have over 24 years of experience designing custom handmade pottery for restaurants and businesses all over the country,” shares master potter James Olney of Oak Cliff Pottery.

Dallas Glass Art: “If you're looking to have a new experience in Dallas, I recommend trying glass blowing! Dallas Glass Art offers both private and public classes and allows you to create your own unique pieces to take home,” recommends Skye Polk, a Dallas-based fashion and lifestyle blogger.

Books and Crystals: “Walk over to Whose Books to find your next read, and then hop over across the street to Luna Metaphysical to build up your crystal collection,” says Claudia Vega, founder of Whose Books.

Dallas Farmers Market: “A visit to Dallas Farmers Market is necessary for the fresh produce and specialty foods available, and you have to end with a visit to neighboring Eden Hill Winery at the Dallas Farmers Market,” states Jeff Cope, founder and owner of Texas Wine Lover. 

Journeyfit: “I love a good calorie-burning fitness class with Coach Brittney Johnson at Journeyfit. Not only does she double as a news anchor, but she also leads an amazing work class that focuses on women's health, meal planning and coaching. Her classes are engaging and beginner-friendly,” says Jessica Taylor, CEO of Ezra Coffee Company.

Explore Dallas’s art studios: “I am also really big into art and truly enjoy the growth we are seeing in Dallas in the art space. Some of my favorite studios are Pencil on Paper Gallery (they even host classes for students), Daisha Board Gallery (she is always highlighting amazing local talent like Jennifer Money Cowley), and the African American Museum as they always have new exhibits from across the country,” recommends Jessica Taylor.

Pottery for the People: “We offer ‘Clay Night’ on Friday and Saturday nights, which is a one-time, 2-hour experience. Clay nights are fun, immersive, and BYOB. These classes act as an intro to clay. The teachers are very hands-on and welcoming, and you can choose from Wheel Throwing or Handbuilding to get creative!” shares Lillian Flint of Pottery for the People

Step two:

Plan your meals for the day

You need fuel for your adventurous day in Dallas, so make sure you've planned all the restaurants you’ll be stopping at during your day. It can be hard to know where to go, but several locals have provided recommendations on their favorite places to visit.

The Wild Detectives: “For a perfect start to your day, grab a cappuccino at the Wild Detectives, a bungalow home turned bookstore, coffee shop, and bar where the locals come to work and play. Here’s a tip: Your drink is on the house if you buy a book!” says Hannah Davis of Taco Y Vino. 

Taco Y Vino: “Taco Y Vino is another historic bungalow home that has been transformed into one of Dallas's most popular restaurants. At Taco Y Vino two of the best things in life come together: handmade tacos and delicious wine. We’re also spinning vinyl records all day and customers can pick their favorite record to spin,” shares Hannah Davis.

Trompo: “Trompo is a small taco shop in the historic Jefferson Tower. This place is no joke! The chef is one of the best in Dallas and he keeps you full at a good price,” shares James Olney. 

Ida Claire: “Whether it's for brunch, dinner, or happy hour – I always recommend Ida Claire! Their Southern comfort food, large cocktail menu, and eclectic interior always make for a fun experience!” says Skye Polk.

Espumoso Caffe: “While in Oak Cliff you can support several locally owned and operated small businesses. Start off with a coffee and pastry from Espumoso Caffe,” recommends Claudia Vega. 

Mutts Canine Cantina: “If you've got a pup (big or small), I recommend stopping by Mutts Canine Cantina! They have two off-leash dog parks. The best part? They also have a full bar and grill that you can enjoy while your dog socializes!” suggests Skye Polk.

Restaurant Beatrice: “Dine at Restaurant Beatrice, a finalist for ‘Best New Restaurant’ by the James Beard Foundation. We serve locally sourced, scratch-made Cajun/Creole cuisine with an upscale twist. Enjoy fine dining service without the pretension inside or casual patio dining outside,” says Restaurant Beatrice.

Smoke’N Ash BBQ: “We’re the one and only Tex-Ethiopian BBQ restaurant in the world, receiving national and international attention for our unique fusion concepts,” shares Smoke’N Ash BBQ.

Roots Southern Table: “I love to have the prime rib at Roots Southern Table. It is one of my favorite restaurants. While the prime rib is a staple, their menu is always changing and oftentimes includes items from around the world with a southern twist. I can’t even wait to see what is coming, and it doesn't hurt that Chef Tiffany is a Food Network “Top Shelf” alum,” says Jessica Taylor.

Check out the full article here!