Dallas, Texas: Culture, Museums and Shopping

I love horses, and horseback riding was a perfect way to start my day. The Texas Horse Park is just 15 minutes from downtown. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to try taking care of an 18-month-old horse. I gave the horse a bath with warm water and brushed him clean. The horse and I quickly became good friends. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and taught me how to ride a running horse.

During my stay in Dallas, I found that the Dallas CityPASS was very convenient. It includes options for several major attractions at a discounted rate. Of the attraction options, I chose the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, GeO-Deck at Reunion Tower, The Sixth Floor Museum and the George W. Bush Presidential Library.

My first stop was the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, where U.S. President John K. Kennedy was assassinated. The museum’s audio tours really helped me understand the life of President Kennedy.

In the nearby Perot Museum of Nature and Science, with its impressive architecture, I got to “race” against an NFL running back, see one of the largest gold nuggets ever found and admire gigantic dinosaurs, including the largest turtle ever found. It is true that everything is bigger in Texas.

I also toured the George W. Bush Presidential Library. There are tons of pictures and items that belonged to President Bush. I was moved when I entered the 9/11 exhibit. It displays the melted beams from the World Trade Center tower. I’ve never had a chance to visit the White House, but the library had a full-scale replica of the Oval Office! Sitting behind the Resolute desk replica and picking up the phone, I could pretend to be the president for couple of minutes.

When it comes to shopping in Dallas, I could have easily spent a whole day at NorthPark Center with its beautiful collection of contemporary sculptures or the Galleria with its ice-skating rink. Right across from NorthPark are amazing shopping and dining options at the Shops at Park Lane. For discount shopping, try the Grand Prairie Premium Outlets outside the city.

For dinner, I headed to Trinity Groves, a hub for experimental restaurants. I tried the traditional barbecue, but there are several options, including Asian food. Then I walked along Continental Bridge, a pedestrian bridge with one of the best views of the city.

To end my day, I stopped by the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck to sit back and enjoy the beautiful skyline.

From unique museums to great outdoors, I truly enjoyed my vacation in Dallas, Texas. Plan your trip today to experience the big things that happen in Dallas!