
17 May Dallas Unplugged: Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts District
Dallas, Texas – where the BBQ sizzles and the street art brightens the city. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Lone Star State and well, it was a pleasant surprise. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that Dallas has a rhythm all its own. Whether you’re drawn to the edgy murals and live music of Deep Ellum or the charming boutiques and eclectic eateries of Bishop Arts District, Dallas is a place you must visit.
Let’s dive into the heart and soul of Dallas, one neighbourhood at a time.
Street art and live music in Deep Ellum, Dallas
Just east of downtown Dallas, Deep Ellum is a neighbourhood with a rich history. Originally established in the late 19th century as a hub for African American and European immigrant communities, Deep Ellum quickly became a centre for blues and jazz music in the early 20th century. Legendary artists like Blind Lemon Jefferson and Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter graced its clubs, cementing the area’s reputation as a musical hotspot.
Today, Deep Ellum retains its artistic soul while embracing a contemporary edge. Our walking tour started at the Deep Ellum Community Center, from where we began our hunt for highlights and hidden gems. The streets are adorned with striking murals (±150 in Deep Ellum) and public art installations, reflecting the neighbourhood’s commitment to creativity and self-expression. Old warehouses have been transformed into breweries, trendy bars, and eclectic boutiques. Live music continues to thrive here, with 25 live music venues hosting local and touring acts (hello Red Hot Chili Peppers), ensuring the area’s musical legacy lives on.
Tips:
- Shop at the concept store Jade & Clover
- Don’t miss the new Blue Alley murals, a dedication to blues
- Look out for ‘The Traveling Man’, a series of three metal sculptures
From street art to the BBQ and taco cuisine
BBQ is big in Dallas – well, to be honest, everything is bigger in Texas. But when it comes to BBQ, Europeans aren’t playing in the same league anymore. For a quintessential Texas BBQ experience you have to visit the Pecan Lodge. This award-winning BBQ joint smokes its meat for at least 16 hours with oak and hickory. They also serve veggie southern comfort food and typical sides like fried okra and mac & cheese. And when you think you can’t take another bite, you try the homemade peach cobbler. Oh my word.
Another big thing in Texas is the taco-eating culture. Having dinner at the Revolver Taco Lounge was a nice way to introduce us to Texas. This local gem isn’t your average taco joint; Revolver Taco Lounge elevates traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Think of tacos with seared duck breast, octopus and wagyu beef. To finish, add margaritas and the Deep Ellum vibe, and you have a nice dinner out!
Exploring the Dallas Arts District
Transitioning from the edgy vibes of Deep Ellum, we found ourselves in the sophisticated embrace of the Dallas Arts District. With the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, and the Winspear Opera House, Dallas is the proud owner of the largest urban arts district in the United States.
The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) includes over 24,000 works of art, from ancient artefacts to contemporary pieces. Work your way from the top level to the ground floor and don’t forget the temporary exhibitions.
Combine your visit to the DMA with a visit to the Nasher Sculpture Center. The collection features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, and Alberto Giacometti, displayed indoors and in a serene outdoor garden setting.
Tip: visit the garden of the Nasher Sculpture Center around lunchtime and enjoy lunch from the food trucks.
Discovering Bishop Arts District
One hop, skip and an Uber away lies the Bishop Arts District. This neighbourhood is charming and eclectic with its tree-lined streets and colourful storefronts. We could spend hours exploring the boutique shops, art galleries and eateries. Most establishments are tucked away in what looks like regular houses. For instance The Wild Detectives – a book store, reading café, a bar, all in one.
Other favourite hotspots are:
- Urban Owl – a fun gift shop which brings a smile to your face
- Society – a beautiful shop with scented candles, home sprays and more
- Spinster Records – for the vinyl lovers out there
Like in Deep Ellum, live music is part of this Dallas neighbourhood. However, it might be more mellow and low-key than the harder sounds in Deep Ellum. To conclude our time in the Bishop Arts District we went for dinner at Stock & Barrel. They call themselves a ‘Kitchen Americana’ with their jumbo shrimp, wagyu meatloaf and other meats from the wooden grill. But, another thing they do really well is their hand-cut pasta dishes. And to top it off: the toffee croissant bread pudding with salted caramel ice cream is a must-try!
Spending 48 hours in Dallas
Deep Ellum has a raw and edgy vibe, whereas the Bishop Arts District is more bohemian and sophisticated. When you are on a road trip through Texas or just going for a city trip, these are the two must-visit neighbourhoods of Dallas.
Both are bursting with creativity – yet there is no comparison possible. Tacos and BBQ are well embedded into the Dallas culture. Along with the art scene, trendy shops and live music, you’ve got a perfect mixture for 48 hours in Dallas, Texas.
Happy travels!
Love,
Danielle
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