While the Dallas - Fort Worth is pretty welcoming of tourists and wanna-be Texans, blending in can be harder than it may seem. There are the folks who buy clothes thinking we still have gunslingers roaming the streets and that horses are our main mode of transportation. Still others take the cosmopolitan image a bit too far. Then, of course, there are tourists that can't begin to fathom the wide-open spaces and entertainment options spread throughout the Metroplex. Here are ways to easily spot a tourist here, but luckily locals are almost always quick to provide a "howdy" and helpful directions!
1. Hanging around Dealey Plaza and taking lots of pictures screams "tourist."
It is the top tourist spot in Dallas, which means throngs of visitors will visit the grassy knoll and the "X" in the street where President Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. Locals understand its history, but hate having tourists step out into the middle of the street and disrupt traffic for photos.
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2. Taking an angry selfie in front of the Sixth Floor Museum seems to be a visitor requirement.
Yes, we're also sad that such a tragic event had to happen in Dallas. In case you're fuzzy on the history, Kennedy's assassin hid in the red building that was then the Texas School Book Depository.
3. Walking in and around the JFK Memorial and leaving with a puzzled look.
Sure, we wonder about this memorial too, but it's not as impressive as others in the area. If you want to see a more striking one, head over to Fort Worth's General Worth Square, where JFK made his final public speech just hours before his death.
4. Yeah, we love Dallas - Fort Worth too, but we don't do this.
Apparently no visit to Dallas is complete without a keepsake photo with "The Ball" in the background. We have to admit, the view from Reunion Tower's observation deck is pretty darn impressive, but we prefer decidedly less cheesy photos.
Unless you using this to block the sun at the lake or beach, this is a big NO. For some reason, tourists parade around Dallas - Fort Worth wearing all sorts of laughable hats that somehow make them feel like a cowboy. Leave the "hand gun" poses at home too, okay?
The only exception is if you are a real cowboy and need to make sure your pants don't get caught up in a saddle... and even that is suspect. (Note the difference between these genuine boots compared to the fake boots above - these are the real deal!)
8. They are overwhelmed by the Dallas World Aquarium's version of "Tunnel of Love."
Locals have to admit a walk through this aquarium tunnel is really cool, but navigating through it sometimes becomes a challenge with so many shutterbug tourists.
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9. They plan a visit to Southfork Ranch, where the hit series Dallas was filmed.
Tourists flock to the memorabilia rooms and walk through the ranch. It's worth the trip if you haven't experienced a live working ranch before, but most Dallasites and Fort Worthians have seen (or worked on) better ones.
10. They pull over to the side of the road when they see Longhorns in a pasture.
Longhorns are not only found at Southfork Ranch - they're throughout the whole Dallas - Fort Worth area. Yeah, we find them impressive as well, but if we stopped to snap a photo every time we saw one, we'd never get anything done.
11. Waiting to hear Big Tex talk is a tourist requirement.
Some say he is creepy to look at, but that's beside the point. Big Tex is a cultural icon, from his big Texas belt buckle and cowboy boots to his booming voice. If you're in Dallas during fair season, be sure to attend! You'll never look at your state fair in quite the same way.
12. They'll insist on eating at a taqueria, even though they have absolutely no idea of what to order.
Locals love taco shops, but we also know the difference between chorizo, pastor, carnitas, pollo, and cabeza. Clueless looks are dead giveaways you aren't from around here.
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13. Yep, every tourist rides - or at least poses - on a mechanical bull.
There's no doubt that traffic in the Metroplex is downright daunting and, to be fair, this can be a particularly intimidating spot. A word of advice, however: keep pace with the traffic flow and don't travel in the left lane... ever... until you earn your racing stripes!
If you have only limited time here, be sure to check out these 12 epic adventures you can have all in a day or less.
What other things make it easy to spot a tourist in Dallas - Fort Worth? While locals may find some of the wanna-be attire or antics laughable, just know we're really are truly happy for you to discover what makes the Metroplex so great! Once you experience our Southern charm and discover what the area is like in reality, we won't even be surprised if you start making plans to make North Texas your new home!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Having a hard time deciding on your next vacation spot? If you haven't considered Dallas - Fort Worth, you're missing a great, affordable locale for family and solo travellers alike. The area's mild climate and sun-filled days make it attractive to visit year-round. Not only that, you get two major cities (three, counting Arlington) with one stay... each diverse and unique in its own ways. There are also countless quaint towns worth exploring in every direction as well! The Metroplex promises a vacation with something for everyone, including:
Seriously, boredom here is NOT an option! As this sign suggests, there are things to do in literally every direction. And since the sister cities are only about 30 miles apart, visitors are promised whole new experiences when traveling to other parts of the Metroplex.
The Dallas - Fort Worth International Airport makes getting here easy and stress-free. Its central location means travelers can be at their first fun stop within minutes after leaving the airport. As Texas is famous for its wide open spaces, a rental car is recommended to get you from place to place.
To the surprise of many visitors, this area is overflowing with museums - and many are free! Choices range from quirky to historic and everything in between. Need examples? How about Ripley's Believe it Or Not, a "hands" sculpture collection, the Holocaust Museum, the Sixth Floor Depository Museum... or this bizarre one at the Hall Arts Collection? And that's just for starters.
There's nothing bashful about Big D. The cityscape lights up every evening with a blaze of colors and light shows, which change depending on the season, special events, and activities.
Leave your diet at home when visiting! Dallas - Fort Worth features some of the best Tex-Mex in the land, as well as Texas barbecue and grilled T-bone steaks. Even better, there are numerous locally-owned restaurants with a truly North Texas ambiance that you'll be certain to fall in love with. Check out the renowned Joe T. Garcia's Mexican Restaurant in Fort Worth!
While North Texas continues to attract new businesses and costs remain below average, there's not always an eye on the future here. Both cities pay homage to their Western heritage - these cool cowboys regularly hang out at the Fort Worth Stockyards.
Longhorns can still be seen in pastures throughout area. The Stockyards also conducts twice-daily cattle drives and Dallas has the largest bronze statue of a cattle drive at Pioneer Plaza.
Slow down the pace with a boat ride, fishing trip, or jet skiing adventure on one of the numerous lakes here. You'll definitely want to stay long enough to view a truly breathtaking Texas sunset.
The newly-opened Epic Waters indoor water park lets guests enjoy summer fun all year long. During warm days, the roof opens up for a full outdoor experience. In addition, the area has numerous summertime water parks as well.
Dallas' Klyde Warren Park is actually built over a highway! There is always something going on here; music concerts, yoga, gameboard challenges, playground, and even a dog park area.
When you are ready to escape the big city hustle and bustle, head any which way to visit charming towns with friendly folk and great shopping. The City of Granbury is a popular choice.
The American Airlines Center is home to the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and Texas Stars hockey team. It is also a venue for numerous concerts and special events.
The Dallas Cowboys football team and Texas Rangers baseball team are next-door neighbors in their beautiful stadiums in Arlington. As the Cowboys are "America's Team," it's undeniable that we reign supreme.
This Trinity Groves neighborhood shows its flair with colorful murals, and it's just one example of areas with great personality throughout the Metroplex.
Dallas' Bomb Factory is a popular place for concerts, but locals enjoy shows here in every genre. Country fans will love Billy Bob's, and top entertainers perform to sold out crowds at the AA Center and even at Cowboys' Stadium!
Fun can be free, thanks to all the activities offered around the Metroplex. From trolley rides in Dallas to the Heritage Trails in Fort Worth or a walk through the Water Gardens (pictured above), this area offers tons of entertainment without a price tag!
"Walking to the Sky" at the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas is just one of countless places to enjoy art. The area also features a samurai warrior exhibit, whimsical sculptures (like a 30-foot eyeball on display downtown), and too many other art finds to list.
A word of warning for potential vacationers: visit at your own risk, because it's highly likely you'll want to move and make the Metroplex home!
What other reasons for vacationing in Dallas - Fort Worth should be added to this list? Please share your comments and suggestions below.
