Go Deep! Deep Ellum, that is
You’re not hungover so get up and start early at Mokah Coffee Bar in Deep Ellum. Established in 1873, this neighborhood is now one of the most vibrant entertainment districts in Dallas. Known for live music venues, street performers, galleries, and performance art, it attracts quite a lively crowd. But no worries, you’ll have it mostly to yourself on Sunday morning.
It’s the perfect time to get plenty of Insta-worthy shots of colorful murals adorning most buildings between Malcolm X and Good Latimer on Commerce, Main, and Elm starting with a gorgeous Brinston on the back wall of Mokah. Before you set out on your street art treasure hunt, check out The Umbrella Gallery adjacent to Mokah.
Not Your Every-Day Hotel
After your art walks, head to Virgin Hotels Dallas in the Design District for breakfast at Chef Matt McCallister’s Commons Club. Contrary to the name, there is nothing common about this experience. Everything on the menu is locally sourced and seasonal. Chicken & Waffles is worth every single calorie and the atmosphere is on point. Uniquely curated coves at every turn make the entire space feel like more a modern art museum than a hotel. Do not skip a trip to the loo in the lobby or the Secret Garden on the 4th floor. Both are must-sees!
Urban Art Yard
Next up, is The Fabrication Yard for another urban art photoshoot. One of the more unusual attractions in Dallas, this outdoor gallery is made up of walls of quality aerosol art. The city’s best urban artists have pieces in the yard. You’ll likely get to see artists working as walls are frequently updated. The photo opportunities here are endless.
Avo Good Day and Enjoy the View at Trinity Groves
Some of the best views of the famous Dallas skyline are from the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. At 400 ft high, 1,197 ft long, and designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava, it is equally as impressive. Park at Trinity Groves (Phil Romano’s incubator concept) and walk to the pedestrian trail where you can traverse over the Trinity River soaking in the views along the way. Refuel at Avo Eatery where every dish is made better with a fresh avocado twist.
With Cake Bar, an entire store devoted to cake and Kate Weiser Chocolates, an entire store devoted to chocolate that looks like art, dessert is the toughest decision of the day. Good luck. Regardless of what you decide, you can’t go wrong by topping off this stop with some pretty great street art located around the center. Saving the best for last. There are two original Shepard Fairey murals painted on the side of the, now vacated Off-Site Kitchen building. You’re welcome.
Dallas has a fantastic sober community and way too many entertaining, alcohol-free things to do for just one post. We will soon be bringing you many more days like this from Dallas and cities across the world.
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