Dallas is an incredibly beautiful city that attracts visitors from all over the world. The metropolis impresses with its scale, unique architecture, and special atmosphere. Today, we’ll talk about walking tours and which landmarks are best to visit in our city. After all, walking tours are considered the best way to get to know Dallas’s history, culture, and character. Read more on i-dallas.com.
Dealey Plaza — A Historic Urban Park
A fascinating place to explore in Dallas is Dealey Plaza. It’s an educational experience for both adults and children. Located in the heart of downtown, this plaza holds an important place in the city’s history.
It was here that some of Dallas’s first buildings were constructed — including the courthouse, post office, and even the first general store. However, Dealey Plaza gained worldwide fame for a more tragic reason: it was the site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963. The plaza is now listed as a U.S. National Historic Landmark and remains one of Dallas’s most visited tourist attractions. On the grounds, visitors can also see a railroad underpass and the former Texas School Book Depository building, now home to The Sixth Floor Museum.
John Neely Bryan Cabin — A Symbol of the City’s Origins
Tour guides and local historians recommend visiting the John Neely Bryan Cabin, considered the birthplace of Dallas. In 1841, pioneer John Neely Bryan built this log cabin to serve as his home, trading post, and gathering place for the first settlers along the Trinity River. Historians note that this is where the first Dallas community began to form.
Originally located on the east bank of the Trinity River, the cabin was moved several times due to flooding and city development. The original structure was eventually destroyed, but in 1936, a replica was built for the Texas Centennial celebration. Today, the reconstructed cabin stands in Founder’s Plaza near Dealey Plaza at 600 Elm Street.
The John Neely Bryan Cabin is a simple wooden log structure with a minimalist, authentic interior — surrounded by modern downtown architecture. This striking contrast shows just how far Dallas has come since its humble beginnings.
Pioneer Plaza — A Green Oasis in Downtown Dallas
Next on the list is Pioneer Plaza, one of the most iconic landmarks and largest green spaces in downtown Dallas. Located next to the Dallas Convention Center between Young and Griffin Streets, the park spans about 4.2 acres. It officially opened in 1994 thanks to the efforts of developer Trammell Crow and the support of the Dallas Convention Center and the Texas Trees Foundation.
The highlight of this park is the monumental bronze sculpture installation that pays tribute to the cattle drives of the 19th century. The artwork features 49 bronze longhorn steers and 3 cowboys on horseback, each more than 6 feet tall. This dramatic display vividly captures the spirit of Texas history and the cowboy era.
AT&T Discovery District — An Innovative Public Space
The perfect way to wrap up your walking tour is with a visit to the AT&T Discovery District — an innovative public and pedestrian space in the heart of downtown Dallas, created by AT&T. Opened in 2021, it has quickly become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The area features a massive 104-foot high-definition media wall that showcases art and entertainment, along with a striking light installation known as “The Globe.”
Of course, these are just some of the many attractions worth visiting in Dallas, but they are among the most essential stops for anyone exploring the city on foot. Enjoy your walk and soak in the vibrant sights, sounds, and stories that make Dallas truly unforgettable.