Located in east Dallas, the Lake & Garden District is anchored by its two biggest attractions: the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and White Rock Lake. The arboretum and garden spans 66 acres, with 11 distinct display gardens that remain lush year-round.
Meander through the gardens for a few days, or head to the lake for some kayaking or canoeing. The lake has a nine-mile loop that wraps around the 1,000-acre watering hole. Have kids? Be sure to stop by the award-winning Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, with 150 interactive exhibits.
There’s a lot more to do than just enjoying the outdoors, though. Some of city’s most popular restaurants are also clustered in this district. Check out Hypnotic Donuts for an Evil Elvis and some coffee, then spend the day dining at Alfonso’s (consistently ranked one of the city’s best neighborhood restaurants) or the rustic smokehouse, Smoky Rose. There are many top-rated restaurants near the lake and arboretum.