When you’re in Dallas, getting the most out of your getaway means experiencing as much of our vibrant art, music and culture as you can. That may seem daunting, but we have you covered with a two-day, must-see, music-inspired itinerary.
BUT FIRST, FOOD
Before heading out for a full-day of music adventures, start with lunch at The Rustic in Uptown. Both restaurant and live music venue, The Rustic serves American-style food with a twist, where you can grab spicy chicken, cheese-stuffed eggs and polenta cakes. The best part? The restaurant offers live music every day of the week on the large outdoor patio showcasing both local and national acts. So you can enjoy your meal with a local beer and great music – it doesn’t get better than that!
SHOP VINTAGE TEES
No stay in Dallas is complete without a stop at Dolly Python to pick up the perfect Dallas souvenir. It could be a music t-shirt from the 60s, an antique oddity from who-knows-when or a pair of vintage cowboy boots. Whatever you fancy, you’ll walk out of Dolly Python with enough stellar swag to convince all your friends to visit Dallas as soon as they can.
STOP FOR SOME VINYLS
Once you’ve got your vintage fix, take your pick of some great record stores in the area. Make your way to Spinster Records in the Bishop Arts District to keep the shopping spree going. In addition to its awesome array of clothing and music memorabilia, Spinster offers a seemingly endless supply of classic and modern records on vinyl. Or check out Off the Record on Elm Street in Deep Ellum to shop for even more vinyl and grab a drink. Since Dallas is only the second city in the United States to merge a music shop with a bar, Off the Record is a can’t-miss stop on any beer or music lover’s Dallas to-do list. They have over 20 beers on tap and more than 2,000 records to sample, all while enjoying the company of fellow music lovers like yourself.
GRAB A SLICE
Before continuing your Dallas music adventure, stick around Bishop Arts and pop into Eno’s Pizza Tavern to refuel. Kick back and order one of their signature pies like the Pig Smiley with ham, sausage, pepperoni and drizzled with local honey, or build a pie of your own. There’s also plenty of craft beer on the menu if you’re ready for a second round.
SEE A SHOW
As the Texas sun sets and your collection of records and souvenirs continues to grow, you’ll be searching for a way to end your first day on a high note, literally. Look no further than the historic Kessler Theater. From folk, to Texas country, jazz and R&B, the marquee is constantly being updated with the latest and greatest sounds to keep your toes tapping long into the night. Just take Grammy nominated artists Leon Bridges and James Bay as an example of this trend.
BRUNCH WITH A VIEW
Rise and shine for day two of your Dallas music adventure. Go for mimosas at Sundown at Granada, a farm-to-table concept connected to the history Granada Theater on Greenville Ave. They offer picturesque views and Instagram-worthy meals made from locally sourced meat and produce. Live music is on the menu six nights a week – check the schedule and come back for a show.
GET ARTSY
Mosey on over to Deep Ellum and explore all the bold colors and artistry that this art-centric neighborhood has to offer with a self-guided tour of the area’s murals. Deep Ellum is home to more than 42 different murals, all impressive and unique in their own way. From the colorful Deep Ellumphants mural on Elm Street to VisitDallas’ own funky mural on Commerce Street, every stop is guaranteed to make for great selfies.
GRAB DINNER AND DRINKS
Walk two blocks over to Bucky Moonshine’s Southern Eats and Bar. This laid-back, casual spot brings all the Cajun and Creole flavors straight from New Orleans with such a tasty menu, you simply can’t wrong with anything you order. Grab a seat outside and enjoy jazz and soul music played by local bands weekly.
ENJOY A NIGHT OF LIVE MUSIC
To end the night, drop by Three Links, a local bar and music house that has hosted everyone from indie rockers to major label players. If you’re lucky enough to stop by on a Tuesday, you’ll bear witness to CoLab, the only improvisational hip-hop group in all North Texas.