The 8 best things to do in Dallas Fort Worth 

While America’s East and West Coast cities have traditionally commanded the spotlight, Dallas Fort Worth has slowly but surely manoeuvred itself under the glare. The Big D, as it’s affectionately known, encapsulates the kind of America you see in movies. Leather chaps and lassos at the rodeo, cheerleaders punching pom poms on a football field, and, since this is an emerging business hub, skyscrapers stacked with glitz for any occasion, business or pleasure.  

The destination is also thriving culturally, so travellers with a thirst for the arts and gastronomy should factor in ample time to discover a robust cultural district and an ample waistband for smokin’ Texan barbecue. Up for the challenge? We’ve rounded up eight absolute musts in our guide to Dallas Fort Worth.

1. Cheer the Dallas Cowboys on at the AT&T Stadium

Nothing gets Texans more fired up than sport, and you’ll witness just how much so at the AT&T Stadium , home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys. As the largest domed structure in North America, it holds around 100,000 fans in an Olympics-level fever pitch atmosphere each and every game day. Pick up an official jersey before kick-off, fuel up with a hot dog at half-time and celebrate wins at the bar. Other local sports teams include the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, and the NHL’s Dallas Stars, both of whom play at the American Airlines Centre .

2. Lick your fingers at a barbecue shack

Barbecue is at the heart of Texas’ dining culture – smoky brisket and spicy sausage are flamed and consumed at any opportunity, whether it’s at a casual get-together or lavish wedding buffet. Meat enthusiasts are spoilt for choice in the city, but you can’t go wrong at the Pecan Lodge . This Deep Ellum institution still sees lines around the block for their delicious fall-off-the-bone ribs and handmade jalapeno sausage. Meanwhile, Terry Black’s Barbecue is a state favourite thanks to their rich and tender beef brisket. When it comes to sides, the rule is: the cheesier, the better.

3. Be inspired by the museums and galleries of the Dallas Art District

It’s easy to spend an entire day (or more) in the Dallas Arts District : this walkable downtown area spans 20 square blocks, making it the largest arts district in America. Start at the Dallas Museum of Art , which houses more than 25,000 objects dating back to the third millennium BC, then if the weather’s on your side, wander over to the Nasher Sculpture Center . If not, seek refuge in the Crow Museum of Asian Art or get tickets to a show at the AT&T Performing Arts Center .

4. Hit Deep Ellum for happy hour

Back in the day, Deep Ellum played host to the city’s blues and jazz scene. Today, the music’s only gotten louder. This is where hipsters flock to catch their favourite bands, boogie on down and generally mix and mingle. You’ll find bars at every corner, luring in drinkers with happy hour deals. Stirr has the best rooftop to knock back a seasonal margarita on, while Hide Bar ’s patio is always buzzing with patrons. For laid-back pool vibes, check out Deep End at the back of The Kimpton Pittman Hotel.

5. Shop local at the Dallas Farmers Market

As one of the country’s leading exporters of agricultural commodities, Texas boasts a bounty of goods for your perusal. They’re on display seven days a week at the mighty Dallas Farmers Market , a 26,000-square-foot space dedicated to local vendors dealing in fresh farm eggs, honey, jam and wine. There are four anchor restaurants where you can sample the goods, and the seasons are a burst of colour if you’re looking for photo opportunities, especially during autumn when it’s all pumpkins galore.

6. Master your two-step at the world’s largest honky tonk 

You’ve got the boots, the hat, the plaid shirt…now what? It’s time to learn the two-step. At Billy Bob’s Texas , the world’s largest honky tonk (dance hall), you can really channel your inner cow-person. Line dance lessons take place on select nights of the week, and even if you don’t sign up there are plenty of other ways to immerse yourself, whether that’s bull riding, catching a country music gig or simply chowing down on barbecue. Other notable spots to slip on some dancing boots include Cowboys Dancehall Dallas and The Round-Up Saloon for a fabulous ol’ time. 

7. Get your steps in on the Katy Trail

For those able to stand Southern heat, soak up the almost year-round sunshine in Dallas’ multitude of outdoor spaces. The Katy Trail is where to get active: a three and a half-mile trail that circles a number of the city’s restaurants and bars, ideal for a post-workout reward. Cedar Ridge Preserve is an oasis of native trees, grasses and wildflowers (look out for the spectacular bluebonnets during spring). And for guaranteed beauty no matter the season, head to the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden for acre upon acre of manicured blooms. 

8. Say “Yee-haw!” at the Fort Worth Stockyards Championship Rodeo

The Stockyards Championship Rodeo is Fort Worth’s top draw, a show of bull riding, tie-down roping and entertainment themed around hooved creatures. The Cowtown Coliseum dates back to 1908, and to this day is the only rodeo in the world that takes place all year round (weekends only). For a fun (and free) alternative, watch the cattle drive of Texas Longhorns every day at 11.30am and 4pm on East Exchange Avenue.