The most popular Dallas destinations to visit in 2018

In 2017, Uber riders checked out some of Dallas’ hottest spots, from restaurants and bars to parks and attractions. This year, resolve to get out and explore your city by visiting these most frequently visited spots in the greater Dallas area. Whether you’re looking for a date night spot, a place to soak up the sunshine, or an unforgettable performance, you can find what you’re looking for at these popular Dallas landmarks.

Located in Uptown Dallas, The Rustic features savory homestyle meals crafted with locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients. Mouthwatering, made-from-scratch menu options include chorizo quesadillas, jalapeno spoon bread, and hardwood-smoked brisket. There’s plenty to drink, as well—try one of 40 beers on tap, which includes 35 local craft beers. Regular events include Sunday’s Jam and Toast Brunch, blending brunch with live music, and Sunday Supper, a family-style feast with unlimited sides.

Where: 3656 Howell Street Dallas, TX

Enjoy a cocktail under the stars at Happiest Hour, Dallas’ largest patio bar and lounge. This 12,000-square-foot restaurant and bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating options. The bar menu includes more than 50 beers on tap, wines on tap, and plenty of signature cocktails like the rum-based Dallasite. As its name implies, happy hour runs Sunday to Thursday from 4 to 6. Happiest Hour also serves a full menu, offering burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and much more. On weekend nights, it stays open for the late-night crowd, with a DJ spinning music until 2am.

Where: 2616 Olive Street Dallas, TX

Located in Downtown Dallas near the JFK library and Dealey Plaza sits Old Red Museum, a must-visit to learn about local history. The first floor of the museum features changing exhibits that give insight into Dallas’ rich past. Some of these exhibits showcase childhood toys, reflect on Dallas’ postwar culture, and feature objects that speak to the curator’s view of Dallas. Move up to the second floor to walk through exhibits explaining the city’s history, from its prehistory to the World’s Crossroads exhibit.

Where: 100 South Houston Street Dallas, TX

Fair Park, located east of Downtown Dallas, features 277 acres that include cultural, educational, and sports facilities. Take in expansive views of Dallas and Fort Worth at the Top o’ Texas Tower, or ride the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, which is on the state fairgrounds located on site. Six museums are also located in Fair Park, including the African American Museum and Children’s Aquarium. Enjoy a Broadway show at the Music Hall, or experience an outdoor concert at the Starplex Pavilion. With so many entertainment options, Fair Park just might require more than one visit.

Where: 1121 First Avenue Dallas, TX

Best known as the home of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, the American Airlines Center is a versatile entertainment venue offering a little bit of everything for locals. In addition to sports, visitors can attend live concerts by top performers. The 2018 concert schedule includes shows by Demi Lovato and DJ Khaled, Lorde, and Bon Jovi. In 2015, the AAC was named the fifth busiest arena in the US, and the tenth busiest in the world—its robust event calendar speaks to its popularity.

Where: 2500 Victory Avenue Dallas, TX

Named one of the top arboretums in the world, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden boasts 66 acres on the shores of White Rock Lake. Stroll down the Paseo de Flores, lined with stately trees, shrubs and seasonal plants. Take the kids to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, which offers plenty of hands-on play. Don’t forget to pull out your camera when you take in the Margaret Elizabeth Jonsson Color Garden, which is filled with vibrant plants and flowers. Finally, check out the infinity pool in A Woman’s Garden, which offers stunning water-on-water views.

Where: 8525 Garland Road Dallas, TX

If you’re looking for luxury shopping, look no further than NorthPark Center. Anchored by Nordstrom, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, and Dillards, this shopping mall offers stores for every style and budget. It’s the top tourist destination in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and its high-end luxury stores are fun to check out, even if you aren’t going to buy anything. NorthPark Center also offers ample dining options, including Bazille, Kona Grill, Maggiano’s Little Italy, and Season’s 52.

Where: 8687 North Central Expressway Dallas, TX

In 2018, resolve to take in everything that Dallas has to offer. Don’t hesitate to start exploring.