Where to Stay in Dallas
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Dallas
Downtown Dallas
Mid-rangeA bustling central business district with a mix of historic architecture and modern skyscrapers.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Good public transport links
- +Numerous dining and entertainment options
- -Can feel deserted at night and on weekends
- -Limited green space within the immediate core
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with police presence; exercise caution at night, especially in less populated areas.
Bishop Arts District
Mid-rangeA charming, bohemian enclave filled with independent boutiques, art galleries, and diverse eateries.
- +Unique and local shopping experience
- +Excellent and diverse culinary scene
- +Relaxed, artistic atmosphere
- -Limited public transport directly within the district
- -Can get crowded on weekends
- -Further from major downtown attractions
🛡️ Generally safe and pleasant during the day; can be quieter and less populated at night, so stick to main, well-lit areas.
Deep Ellum
Mid-rangeAn eclectic and artistic neighborhood famous for its live music venues, street art, and diverse dining scene.
- +Vibrant music and arts scene
- +Unique independent shops and restaurants
- +Energetic nightlife
- -Can be very loud at night
- -Street parking can be difficult
- -Some areas can feel gritty
🛡️ Active and busy at night, but can attract some rowdiness; stay on well-lit main streets and be aware of your surroundings.
Uptown
LuxuryA trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, boutiques, and restaurants.
- +Abundant dining, shopping, and entertainment
- +Pedestrian-friendly with a lively atmosphere
- +Good public transport options (M-Line Trolley)
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Higher cost of living and accommodation
🛡️ Generally safe with high foot traffic, but be aware of your surroundings due to late-night crowds and potential for petty theft.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Dallas
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Dallas Farmers Market
FREEBeyond the typical tourist spots, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local artisan goods, and a variety of food vendors. It's a great place to sample local flavors and find unique souvenirs.
Trinity River Audubon Center
FREEEscape the city bustle at this nature center offering miles of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. It's a peaceful retreat with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Crow Museum of Asian Art of The University of Texas at Dallas
FREEDiscover a stunning collection of Asian art spanning centuries and cultures. This intimate museum provides a tranquil and enriching cultural experience.
Safety in Dallas
SafeSolo Female Travel
Dallas is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in well-populated tourist areas during the day. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and trust your instincts.
At Night
Stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially in entertainment districts like Deep Ellum or Uptown. Be mindful of increased activity and potential for minor incidents in crowded nightlife spots.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenir shops near major attractions.
- 2Fake charity collectors.
- 3Distraction thefts in busy areas.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Dallas