When it comes to decorating your space, you know to turn to the Dallas Design District for inspiration. But there’s more to the Design District than high-end home décor. You'll find a myriad of fun activities—and you barely have to re-park your car to enjoy them. Below you’ll find some of our favorite things to do in the Design District.
Fitness
The Barre Code is a women’s fitness studio offering ballet-inspired classes in intensive strength work, cardio blasts and restorative stretching. Get your legs shaking seven days a week with 45- to 50-minute classes beginning at 6AM most weekdays. Just stroll down Dragon Street to the Trinity Lofts to find this hidden gem.
Haircut
If you’re looking for a salon with a funky interior and seasoned stylists, look no further than Hair by Charlie, off Oak Lawn Avenue. Charlie and his crew will ensure that you leave looking coiffed and feeling fabulous, whether you’re prepping for a night out or going for your regular trim.
Diner
When you’re in the mood for Mama’s home cooking but don’t live close enough to visit, Mama's Daughters Diner is your next best bet. Paula Deen and Southern Living magazines agree this is the place to grab a down-home bite. Sayings such as “Mama said…‘eat your peas and get dessert!’” sprinkled across the walls lend a charming touch.
Art
If you need some art therapy, stop by Conduit Gallery anytime between 10AM and 5PM Tuesday through Saturday. This Design District mainstay typically features three artists for month-long contemporary art exhibits. You’ll need to wrap around Dragon Street to the loading dock of this warehouse to enter Conduit Gallery’s modern space.
Shopping
Again and Again boasts a warehouse full of vintage furniture that includes both repurposed and ready-to-refurbish finds. In addition to sofas and chairs, this unique shop carries tables, casegoods, lighting, mirrors, art and accessories. The craftsmen there can also service your custom-built orders or commission a reupholstering of a piece you already own.
Tacos
We aren’t too fancy for tacos. When you need a quick bite to tide you over, head to Taco Stop on Irving Boulevard from 10:30AM to 3PM. Choose from prime rib, pork carnitas, barbacoa, chicken alambre, chicken little and veggie. Finish it off with some “magic onions,” a side of chips and salsa and a horchata (just trust us). Take your meal to go or take a load off at the picnic tables and people-watch while you chow down.
Market
From a farmers market in the summer to a holiday market in the winter, the Design District is an avid supporter of local artists and designers, providing a convenient setting for them to sell their wares. These monthly events bring together a vibrant community of neighbors, entrepreneurs and creatives and showcase the eclectic side of the District, with one-of-a-kind goods, fresh fare from gourmet food trucks, craft beer and plenty of opportunity to socialize and explore.
Bowling
Bowlounge is a 12-lane vintage-inspired bowling alley, offering a bar with 40 taps, full lunch and dinner menu by Half Baked, retro video games and pool tables. It’s housed in a converted warehouse and opens at 11AM seven days a week. Whether you’re bowling strikes or lamenting gutter balls, you don’t have to go home until 2AM on Friday and Saturday.
Thai
Head back down Oak Lawn Avenue to dine with one of the premier Thai chefs in the country at PakPao Thai. You can’t pass up Chef Jet Tila’s authentic Thai flavors, all served up at an affordable price. The interior makes for cozy dining or enjoy your Pad Se Ew Gai on the covered patio.
Beer
The Community Beer Company boasts its own in-house yeast lab, ensuring the highest-quality yeast. The folks there also partner with local businesses and organizations to host yoga mornings, trivia nights and charity events. Taproom hours are Saturdays from 5 to 9PM, but event times vary.
Find yourself in the 75207 ZIP code for a day? Mix and match a few of these ideas for a one-of-a-kind Design District adventure. If you have any spare time, be sure to peruse the art galleries and showrooms on Hi Line Drive and Slocum Street, and toast your experience with an artisanal cocktail at Oak. Cheers!
