Dallas has a formidable reputation. It’s big. It’s really big, and so is nearly everything in it–from the massive barbecue platters overflowing with succulent meats to the expansive city murals created by an impressive arts scene that’s brimming with oversized talent. Known affectionately as the Big D, Dallas jubilantly strives to do everything to a greater degree, including offer its residents a bigger and better way of life.
Perhaps the best thing about Dallas’ bold personality is its sense of self-awareness. Acknowledging the humor in the nickname the Big D, the city also has a refreshing sincerity in its pride. Here are five ways Dallas does it better and bigger than any common whistle stop.
Bigger Parks for Better Play
Sure Dallas is a major metropolitan city with concrete as far as the eye can see. But, it’s not all shades of grey cement. There has been a real push to increase the quality and number of green spaces in the DFW area, and it’s certainly made an impact. The park taking the prize for size and proximity must go to Klyde Warren Park. Measuring three city blocks and butting up against the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center, this lush location also boasts a botanical garden, children’s park and a performance pavilion for events. If that’s not enough, and in the Big D it never is, it’s walking distance to some of downtown’s most thrilling diversions.
Artsy Fartsy in Dallas Forth Worth
The Big D’s selection of cultural and artistic attractions is breathtaking, and the big bold talent residing in this western horse town is certainly intimidating. For instance, the Dallas Arts District is 68 acres of right-brain stimulation, including a symphony, Asian art museum and an annual international film festival. No matter the creative interest, Dallas has an outsized indulgence available.
Getting Physical in the Big D
It should come as no surprise that sports are a big deal in Dallas. Several professional teams call the Lone Star State home, including the Cowboys, Mavericks and Rangers. Though this makes for a colossal advantage when it comes to spectating, there’s also an inherent appreciation for physical activity on the individual front. White Rock Lake is the ideal location for sailing, fishing or bicycling. Surrounded by trails, it’s a popular spot in the summer for recreation. With the famous Texas humidity, hundreds of yoga, fitness and indoor dance studios cater to the fit and foxy residents so nobody has to worry about the consequences of those restaurant power portions.
Farm Fresh and Bursting With Flavor
Food is serious business in Dallas. A lesson in variety, the Big D is home to upscale establishments parading lifted pinky fingers and unabashed hash houses doling out fistfuls of burnt ends onto paper plates. The middle of the road eateries offer just as much confidence and flavor as any place on the edge of the spectrum. Freshly arrived residents should sample around, and the best way to do that is with an eating tour. Instead of consuming one giant burger, you can eat dozens of smaller meals.
A Sizable Place to Call Home
Big living isn’t just about eating, playing and cultivating an attitude; it’s about owning a big crib. Not relegated to square footage alone, big living involves great views, a plethora of amenities and modern conveniences galore. Insiders routinely recommend Southlake, Valley Ranch and University Park as ideal districts, but the latest high-rise buildings in downtown are impressive. The wraparound balconies of the Warrington, floor-to-ceiling windows of Museum Tower and the traditional luxury at Wyndemere at Turtle Creek are serious contenders for Dallas apartments.
Dallas has always held a magnetic allure for the self-assured and experience-hungry population. Sure, everything in Dallas is bigger, but there’s more to this tossed out tagline than meets the eye. Whether it’s a cutting-edge culinary venture or the tallest Ferris wheel in America, Dallas doesn’t just do it bigger, it does it better.