In Dallas for a Convention?

If you happen to be in town attending a convention, Dallas provides the perfect cultural backdrop to corporate events. Not only does Dallas feature the famous Dallas Convention Center and a wide variety of other Dallas venues, but the city is also engrossed with an interesting range of activities– all conveniently located close to the Downtown area. Whether you’re trying to entertain your employees, or hoping for an afternoon of site seeing, Dallas has plenty to offer.

The Gilley’s Dallas Complex
Conveniently located less than a mile from the Dallas Convention Center, Gilley’s entertainment complex features seven unique spaces– hosting everything from corporate events to live music concerts. The Palladium Ballroom, South Side Music Hall, The Loft and Jack Daniel’s Saloon are all popular Dallas venues that feature a wide variety of entertainment–from indie music to country shows, even corporate or private parties and other large-scale events. If you’re hoping for a true Texas experience, you can eat barbeque, ride a mechanical bull and maybe even listen to local Dallas music–all within the Jack Daniel’s Saloon. The delicious menu also provides an excellent opportunity to break away from the corporate catering that is so often prevalent at conventions.

City Tavern
Located directly in the heart of the Downtown District on Main St., City Tavern serves food and drinks 7 days a week, with occasional live music. Dallas also has a rich abundance of local music, and City Tavern has consistently expressed interest in supporting the scene. Even if there isn’t a show that night, City Tavern is definitely worth visiting and has daily drink specials.

Victory Park
This massive development located in the Northwest Downtown area features several high profile businesses including the American Airlines Center, The W Victory Hotel, WFAA Channel 8 Studio, the House of Blues and more. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during basketball or hockey season, you should definitely plan to see the Dallas Mavericks or the Dallas Stars–both of which are housed in the American Airlines Center.

Historic West End District
South of Victory Park, but still conveniently located Downtown, the Historic West End District definitely provides an interesting glimpse into Texas, and even American history. With an abundance of tall Oak trees and beautifully renovated historic buildings, even just walking around the West End District is entertaining. For those interested in American History, you can always visit the grassy knoll, the site of JFK’s assassination, and then walk over to the Sixth Floor Museum to learn more about the history and conspiracies associated with the high profile event.  You can even get some drinks at Hard Rock Cafe, Gater’s Croc n Roc, Dick’s Last Resort or West End Pub.

Reunion Tower
Often noted as the most recognizable landmark in Dallas, the Reunion Tower is part of the Hyatt Regency Hotel complex, and is definitely worth visiting. Featuring an observation deck, the tower facilitates one of the best views of the Downtown area. Also, you can even visit celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck’s, fine dining restaurant, Five Sixty.

The Dallas Farmers Market
If you appreciate more low-key past times, you should definitely visit the Dallas Farmers Market district, located in Southeast Downtown. Open 7 days a week, this market is consistently buzzing with locals and farmers–most of which travel up to 150 miles. There is a wide variety of foods, from raw bulk fruits and vegetables to speciality and prepared dishes.

Arts District
In addition to the wide variety of concerts and conventions, Dallas also has a very active and intriguing art scene. The Arts District is home to a number of venues, including AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center and more.

So if you need a relaxing break from a corporate event, Dallas provides plenty of enriching opportunity.