These cities are known for their distinct characters and offer a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Dallas or the cosmopolitan charm of Houston, we’ve got you covered. From elegant hotels to elevated dining experiences, our guide will show you how to indulge in style while exploring the unique attractions that make these cities so special.

Dallas

As the first stop on our travel itinerary, Dallas beckons with an array of captivating experiences that blend history, culture, and nature. From its lush botanical gardens to upscale shopping, this Texan gem has something for everyone.

Things to Do

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Our journey begins amidst the blooms of the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. This 66-acre wonderland is a year-round spectacle, offering visitors an opportunity to witness the largest floral festival in the southwest, Artscape, as well as mesmerizing pumpkin and Christmas displays during the fall and winter. Walk along the Texas Skywalk, relax on the Moody Oasis rooftop, and relax by the Cascades waterfall.

Reunion Tower

For a panoramic view of Dallas, ascend to the iconic Reunion Tower, located next to the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Enjoy 360-degree views of the city skyline, which are especially gorgeous at sunset. Inside the GeO-Deck observation area, touch-screen displays allow you to learn more about other popular landmarks around Dallas, making this a great spot to visit early in your trip.

George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Delve into recent history at the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The museum offers an in-depth, interactive look at eight years of presidential history at America’s 13th presidential library and museum. Along with a substantial exhibit on the 9/11 attacks, the museum features an exact replica of the Oval Office. The most captivating feature is the strangely addictive Decision Points Theater, where visitors make decisions using the real evidence available to the George Bush at critical moments in his presidency.

AT&T Stadium

AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys, is more than a sports venue; it’s a futuristic masterpiece. This incredible $1.15-billion spaceship looking stadium seats upwards of 100,000 fans and has won multiple awards for its innovative design, making it worth a visit for even the most casual NFL fans. Take a VIP guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium, from the press box to the locker room.

Dealey Plaza National Historic Landmark District

Dealey Plaza is an area that will forever be associated with the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Dive deeper into history at the Sixth Floor Museum, where you can explore the life and assassination of JFK. Stand at the window from which Lee Harvey Oswald fired his rifle, then pay your respects at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza.

McKinney Avenue Trolley

Get a taste of Dallas’s vibrant culture by hopping on the McKinney Avenue Trolley, which meanders through Uptown and the downtown Arts District. The free trolley, which operate 365 days a year, is a quick and fun way to explore the city.

Highland Park Village

No visit to Dallas, a city known for its shopping, is complete without giving your credit cards a serious workout. Embrace retail therapy at Highland Park Village, the first outdoor shopping center in the United States. Known for its Spanish-influenced architecture and haute couture, it’s a shopaholic’s paradise and features luxury brands like Chanel, Dior, and Alexander McQueen. After your outdoor shopping spree, head over to NorthPark Center, an award-winning 235-store shopping mall with annual sales of over a billion dollars!

Where to Eat

BBQ

Satisfy your barbecue cravings at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum. Locals flock here for pit-smoked delicacies, including handmade jalapeño sausages, ribs, and beef brisket. Don’t miss the “hot mess,” a sea salt-crusted sweet potato topped with barbacoa and chipotle cream.

Another option is Cattleack, where tradition meets innovation in the world of barbecue. The menu features unique dishes such as beef bologna, spicy beef boudin, and Wagyu pastrami ribs.

Jose

For a more elegant dining experience, head to Jose. The unique facade and indoor/outdoor patio set the stage for an exquisite culinary journey. Indulge in Jalisco-style cuisine, featuring a variety of tacos, seafood dishes, and an enticing cocktail menu.

Al Biernat’s

Elevate your dining experience at Al Biernat’s, a steakhouse that caters to connoisseurs of fine beef and wine. Choose from a range of steaks, from the demure 8-ounce filet mignon to the impressive cowboy tomahawk. Classic steakhouse dishes like lobster thermidor and lamb chops are also on offer.

Where to Stay

The Rosewood Mansion

Immerse yourself in luxury at The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Located in one of Dallas’ poshest neighborhoods the hotel was originally built as a private residence in 1925, and features European art and architecture. The 128 rooms and 15 suites offer romantic balconies, Nespresso coffee machines, marble bathrooms, and the latest tech. The Mansion Bar and The Mansion Restaurant are ideal for fine dining.

The Ritz-Carlton Dallas

Located on famed McKinney Avenue, The Ritz-Carlton is Dallas decadence. Experience Fearing’s Restaurant, a luxurious spa, salon, fitness center, and heated outdoor swimming pool, and personalized service with the Ritz-Carlton Club Level, which also includes a dedicated concierge and food and beverage presentations from breakfast to night time dessert.

Houston

Our journey continues as we venture to the cosmopolitan hub of Houston. This city, known for its diverse population and modernity, invites you to explore its rich cultural scene, culinary landscape, and natural wonders.

Things to Do

Space Center Houston

The first word spoken on the moon was “Houston,” so it’s fitting that the city is home to one of the most impressive interstellar museums on planet Earth. Space Center Houston celebrates space exploration and features an extensive collection of spacesuits and artifacts. Explore flown spacecraft from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo eras in the Starship Gallery. Take the NASA Tram Tour to get behind the scenes at the NASA Johnson Space Center and visit Rocket Park, where one of the remaining Saturn V rockets is on display. For a truly memorable experience, book breakfast with an astronaut or the Level 9 Tour, a VIP excursion that offers a comprehensive look at space exploration.

Houston Museum District

Discover a world of artistic wonders in Houston’s Museum District, which features 20 museums spread across four walkable zones. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts to view works by renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Jackson Pollock. Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science, featuring captivating exhibits on paleontology and space exploration, including impressive dinosaur skeletons and moon rocks. The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston hosts ever-evolving exhibitions from contemporary artists worldwide, providing a glimpse into the cutting-edge of the art world. There’s truly something for everyone in the cultural heart of Houston.

Buffalo Bayou Partnership

Houston’s natural gem, Buffalo Bayou, is the city’s most significant natural resource. Explore hundreds of acres of parkland and running trails, and discover the bayou’s beauty from the water. Rent a kayak from the Buffalo Bayou Partnership or join boat tours, including history tours and twilight excursions and explore this slow-moving river formed over 18,000 years ago.

Chinatown

Houston boasts the second-largest Indochinese population in the U.S., making a visit to Chinatown a culinary adventure. Savour the rich flavours of Asia at the bustling Hong Kong Food Market, indulge in dim sum at Ocean Palace, or enjoy a steaming bowl of vermicelli soup at Tan Tan. End your day with a peaceful stroll through the serene lotus ponds, statues, and gardens of Jade Buddha Temple.

Where to Eat

Houston BBQ

In the Heights neighbourhood, Truth BBQ transcends the barbecue experience. Enjoy succulent ribs and brisket, accompanied by a selection of unconventional and classic sides. Don’t miss the swoon-worthy cakes, and explore a range of house-made sauces.

Diversión Immersive Cocktails

Immerse yourself in the world of cocktails at Diversión. This immersive experience takes mixology to new heights with creative cocktails crafted from the finest ingredients. Watch skilled mixologists at work in the laboratory-style bar and enjoy their outrageously creative concoctions.

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation

The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation has been delighting the appetites of Houston locals with exceptional Tex-Mex cuisine since 1973. This iconic establishment is a culinary gem with a wildly extensive menu that guarantees a unique dining experience on every visit. From sizzling fajitas and flavourful enchiladas to classic tacos al carbon, whatever Tex-Mex dish you desire, you’ll find it here, and it’s likely to be the best in a city known for Tex-Mex.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Hotel Houston

The Four Seasons in Houston is the epitome of Texas luxury. Its marble and mahogany interiors offer a blend of traditional and contemporary design. The 30-story tower, which carries a total of 468 accommodations, including 289 guest rooms, 115 suites and 64 residences, is an iconic landmark in the heart of downtown Houston. Impeccable staff, outstanding amenities, and a roof-top pool oasis make it a top choice for Texas travellers.

The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston

The Post Oak Hotel 10-acre property is prominently located in Houston’s tony Post Oak Uptown area, just steps away from The Galleria shopping mecca and a short drive to downtown Houston. Among only 19 Hotels and Spas to earn the coveted Forbes Five-Star rating in the United States, and one of 35 properties in the nation honored in the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legends Collection, the hotel offers elegant accommodations, designer fashion, signature dining, and sophisticated amenities.