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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Dallas Downtown Historic District

Unique scenic views

Made for those who seek out unconventional surroundings that offer a distinct visual perspective.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Kessaku image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers spectacular 360-degree city views with an observatory deck for walking and photos. The atmosphere feels intimate and curated, suited for dates with close seating and a unique drink menu. Music and occasional interactive elements like piรฑata shots add to the lively vibe.

Breathtaking 360-degree views from the 50th floor let you see the city from every angle. The setting pairs a gorgeous cityscape with solid cocktails, creating a magical atmosphere for a night out.

Cocktails come with a unique twist and light, expert crafting. The atmosphere and drink menu offer a somewhat unique view paired with good cocktails.

People are saying

"The view of downtown Dallas from the 50th floor is magical."

"The downtown Dallas views from the 50th floor are magical."

"The unique 360-degree view of the city is breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely needed to dine at Kessaku.

2

Valet parking is available for $10 at the Thompson Hotel.

3

Access to the observation deck does not require dining at Kessaku.

02
Giant Eyeball image 1
Tourist attraction

Giant human eyeball sculpture stands as a distinctive art landmark in a lively downtown setting. Colorful lights illuminate the sculpture at night, creating a vibrant atmosphere that invites strolling and photography. Surrounding benches and greenery offer a pleasant spot to relax amid nearby music and urban energy.

The view offers a striking and surreal sight of the Giant Eyeball. It provides a very beautiful and great atmosphere from multiple vantage points, including over the fence.

A Giant Eyeball sculpture stands out as a unique art structure and a distinctive landmark. It offers unique photo opportunities and adds character to the downtown area.

People are saying

"The Giant Eyeball is a pretty cool landmark to see."

"This giant eyeball sculpture is a unique and quirky art installation."

"The Giant Eyeball sculpture offers a striking and surreal view."

Good to know

1

The Giant Eyeball is gated off and closed to the public most of the time.

2

Events occasionally allow visitors to get closer to the sculpture.

3

Parking near the Giant Eyeball can be difficult, especially on busy days.

03
Catbird image 1
Cocktail bar

Rooftop bar with incredible city views and beautiful outdoor patios creates a vibrant, romantic atmosphere. Live DJs and curated music keep energy lively and encourage dancing. Signature cocktails stand out for their creative presentation and balanced flavors.

Outdoor patio offers incredible views that stand out in the city. The terrace view at night adds a magnificent atmosphere to the experience.

Unique cocktails mix flavors like toasted rice rum, taro milk tea, ube, and boba pearls. The menu offers inspired drinks and fun appetizers that stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The service here is attentive and makes you feel genuinely welcomed."

"I loved the unique drink options, especially the ube and taro ones."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

R&B night happens every Thursday with a live DJ.

3

Jazz performances take place on Tuesday nights, starting at 8pm.

04
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza image 1

Building preserves authentic architecture and offers views of motorcade route from the sixth-floor window. Atmosphere feels immersive and chilling, reflecting the gravity of historical events. Crowds create a busy, focused environment with multimedia exhibits and quiet spaces for reflection.

Windows on the sixth floor offer a hauntingly poignant view where the fatal shots were fired. The angle of the motorcade and sights of Downtown Dallas add to the weight of this historic perspective.

Offers a unique perspective on historical events with exhibits like child drawings that stand out. Provides an experience found only in this city, rich with history.

People are saying

"I found the museum interesting and informative about JFK."

"You can see the actual site from the window."

"It's a unique experience that makes history feel real."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is $25 per person.

2

Parking is available on-site for a fee of $10.

3

I recommend purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid additional on-site fees.

05
Renaissance Saint Elm Dallas Downtown Hotel image 1

Hotel combines historic charm with music-themed decor, featuring in-room record players and a large vinyl library. Spacious rooms offer natural light and city views, while downtown street noise and frequent late-night activity create a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere.

Rooms feature large windows that bring in plenty of sunlight and offer fantastic views. Corner rooms on higher floors provide especially great views.

Eclectic vibe shines through the older building with records to check out and a TV always showing Breakfast at Tiffany's. Rooms have a unique charm not found in most modern hotels, and the GM goes above and beyond to make the experience stand out.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are genuinely friendly and professional."

"This place has a unique charm with its record players and vinyl library."

"The large windows offered a fantastic, sunny view."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a great downtown location within walking distance to restaurants.

2

Rooms are larger than typical NYC hotels and well-appointed.

3

Expect early kitchen closure at the hotel bar, limiting late-night food options.

06
The Joule image 1

Glass-bottomed rooftop pool hangs over the street, creating a unique visual experience. Elegant, warm atmosphere blends old world charm with modern luxury and jazz music sets an intimate tone. Upscale vibe includes a speakeasy and distinctive wood and marble dรฉcor.

Rooftop offers a stunning pool view and a clear sight of the eyeball in downtown Dallas. Rooms provide a beautiful cityscape that complements the clean, well-decorated interiors.

Decorative elements stand out with a unique style. A rooftop pool offers a stunning view over the city and adds a special amenity.

People are saying

"The staff truly made me feel cared for and heard."

"The rooftop pool offers amazing city views, especially of the eyeball."

"The rooftop pool offers a unique view over the city."

Good to know

1

The hotel is centrally located near a train line that provides direct access to the airport.

2

Parking is available, but be cautious as tickets may be issued even with valet service.

3

Expect music from events to stop by 11 pm.

07
The Dallas World Aquarium image 1

Multi-level space blends tropical rainforest and underwater tunnel experiences with lush greenery and exotic animals. Crowds create a cramped, busy atmosphere despite thoughtful design and flow. Families and children find engaging interactive displays and diverse wildlife throughout.

An underwater tunnel offers a close-up view of sharks, sawfish, and marine life swimming all around. The overall views are amazing and immersive.

Very unique animals like a Harpy Eagle and a massive salt water crocodile stand out. The rainforest exhibit and underwater tunnel offer distinct experiences not found in typical aquariums.

People are saying

"This aquarium felt more like a zoo with birds and land animals."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots to see and animals to spot."

"It's a captivating journey through diverse ecosystems and animals."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $16.50 if you stay longer than 1.5 hours.

2

Prepaid parking is often oversold, making it hard to find a spot.

3

Expect long wait times even with pre-purchased tickets.

08
Aloft Dallas Downtown image 1

Historic building with unique decor and high ceilings creates a spacious, natural atmosphere. Live music at the piano bar and a rooftop heated pool add lively energy. Rooms vary in design, offering a distinct experience in each stay.

Rooms on upper floors offer amazing views of downtown. West-facing rooms show a fantastic view of Reunion Tower's fireworks on New Year's Eve.

Unique design stands out with quirky rooms and a refurbished building featuring cool old bricks. The lobby hangout, gym, and snack bar add to the distinctive vibe.

People are saying

"The industrial design and authentic old bricks give this place a really cool vibe."

"The city and park views from the rooms were great."

"The building's unique historic details and art were really well preserved."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be challenging to find.

2

The hotel is dog-friendly and does not discriminate by breed.

3

Karaoke night happens on Fridays at the hotel bar.

09
Sandoitchi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small indoor space offers limited seating with loud music and harsh lighting, while outdoor patio provides a pleasant shaded area and a notable view. The atmosphere contrasts sharply between cramped, noisy indoors and relaxed, open-air outdoors. Asian snacks are available for purchase near the register, adding a unique touch.

The patio offers a great view of the Giant Eyeball across the street. Seating inside and outside lets you enjoy this unique sight while eating or working.

Asian flavored chips stand out as a unique treat here. Sandwiches come with very good bread and offer a unique vibe throughout the experience.

People are saying

"The spicy chicken katsu sandwich has a flavor like buffalo sauce."

"The sandwiches here are unique, tasty, and very fresh."

"You've got to see the great view of the "eye" across the street."

Good to know

1

There is only street parking available.

2

Sandoitchi is on the pricier side.

3

It's a small place with very limited seating.

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Dallas Downtown Historic District, Dallas

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