Travel is all about experiencing new things, but sometimes when you've been to so many U.S. cities, they all start to run together with what activities they offer. This is why, when planning a trip, I especially seek out the things to do that are unique.
So, for this blog post, the question I’m going to answer is: What can you do in Dallas that you can’t do anywhere else?
Fort Worth Water Gardens
While many cities have urban parks that are green spaces, Fort Worth's park is different in that it's all about the water. There are areas where it's spraying, pooling and falling, but the main attraction is the steps that go down into a type of pit in which there are rushing, surrounding waterfalls. It's a cool view, and it's free. And although this attraction isn't technically in Dallas, it's less than 30 minutes away, so it's close enough.
Tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds if you want photos.
The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection
Who would have thought a samurai collection would be in Dallas? Even more impressive, it’s one of the most complete of its type in the world and is the only museum focused on samurai armor outside of Japan. You'll learn about the history of the samurai, how their armor was made and the different styles they wore and what they represented. The museum is fairly small and a little difficult to find, as it’s located at the top of a restaurant, but it’s well-kept and the armor is really fascinating. There are also a few more samurai pieces in the lobby of the building next to the museum/restaurant.
Note: The museum is free, but be sure to register online before you go, no matter what day you visit. (It’s open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11a.m. to 5p.m.; weekdays require additional appointments.)
Happiest Hour’s Trash Can Nachos
It’s not every day that you can eat a tower of nachos that has been dumped out of a (clean) trash can for lunch/dinner (unless, of course, you’re Guy Fieri or have the time to make it using his recipe). But in Dallas, this dream can come true at Happiest Hour. This restaurant goes by the well-known phrase "everything is bigger in Texas," and offers large Team Happytizers like a Ferris Wheel of Wings, Barrel of Pickles and more. The Nacho Tower, for example, is meant to be shared by a group, but seeing as our group at the time only consisted of two people, we had leftovers to take home.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
A lot of cities have botanical gardens, but I've noticed that fewer have arboretums. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens was a beautiful place to walk, even in the winter, though Dallas winters still allow for flowers to bloom. What was especially exciting while we were there was that the gardens were decorated for the holidays with 12 gazebos showing the 12 days of Christmas. According to the attraction's website, they change the space with the seasons. Additionally, the arboretum hosts events like festivals, concerts and cooking classes and demos. When we were there, we taste tested cauliflower soup, cauliflower brownies and cauliflower white chocolate icing.
Note: The arboretum and garden is open daily from 9a.m. to 5p.m. Prices vary depending on the month and season, so check the website before you go, and remember that there is a charge for parking ($10 online and $15 in person).
Giant Eyeball
Don’t forget to stop by Downtown Dallas to see the Giant Eyeball. The structure by artist Tony Tasset is about 30-ft tall, though it almost seems small against the skyscrapers surrounding it. You might question what this roadside attraction has to do with Dallas, and there doesn’t seem to be an answer to that, but, oh well. At this point, the eye has watched over the city since 2013, becoming a staple attraction for tourists there.
Museum of Memories
If quirky, themed photoshoots are your idea of a good time, then look no further. The Museum of Memories is an interactive art installation inspired by the imagination and childhood memories, and it's primarily a place to take fun pictures. There are various "rooms" around the museum with different themes (chess, candy, music, food, birthdays and more) and life-size items, most of which can be moved around. I sat on a big blue boombox, hugged a big gummy bear and rode a watermelon seesaw. This museum is exciting and a great idea for a group of friends or you and your significant other. The only downside is that, in my opinion, it's too expensive for what it is ($25 per person).
Tip: Don't forget to bring a tripod for your phone or camera if you are by yourself or want to get your whole group in a photo!
Picolé Pops
This isn't your average frozen dessert shop. Rather than just selling ice cream, Picolé Pops sells ice cream on a stick — and in a variety of flavors. It has fruity, creamy, filled and alcohol-infused popsicles, which can be dipped in your favorite type of chocolate and covered in your favorite topping. The popsicles are also just really good. I tried butter pecan, lime margarita and vanilla bourbon. Check out the shop's Instagram account to get your mouth watering.
*There are a few more experiences that I want to try in Dallas when I go back. The first is Afternoon Tea at Hotel Crescent Court in Uptown where you can enjoy luxury tea, baked goods and champagne. I would also like to visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which showcases the life and assassination of President John F. Kennedy. As I continue to explore Dallas, I’ll be adding to this list.