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Modera St Paul will rise 16 stories and house 333 units at St. Paul and Wood streets.

Downtown Dallas, Inc. Announces New Public Safety Partnerships, Operations Plans for Summer

Nonprofit urges people Downtown to use See Say Now app, call 214-741-1151 to report non-emergency quality of life concerns 

Downtown Dallas – Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) on Tuesday announced the launch of its 2022 comprehensive Public Safety Summer Operations Plan. The initiative will proactively address quality of life and public safety challenges as thousands more workers return to the urban core and the convention and tourism industry reports a return to pre-pandemic levels. 

The multifaceted initiative is being conducted in partnership with the Dallas Police Department (DPD), Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) police, and other government and community partners. It formally kicks off as DDI enters its summer programming stretch, with numerous free public events at Downtown parks every week, including movie nights, salsa lessons, yoga, art exhibits, and more. 

“Our city center remains one of the safest Downtowns in the country and we intend to keep it that way,” said Jennifer Scripps, DDI President & CEO. “The majority of our $10 million annual budget is dedicated to our clean and safe initiatives, but we do not do it alone. It takes strong partnerships with the Dallas Police Department, the DART Police Department, and the eyes and ears of our residents, workers, and visitors.” 

Among the key tenets of the 2022 plan: 

  • The expansion of DDI’s innovative “relate and refer” homeless outreach program to include partnership with the DART Police Department. DART officers are now embedded with two DDI Homeless Outreach teams to engage and aid people experiencing homelessness Downtown. Dallas police officers will continue to be embedded with separate DDI Homeless Outreach teams, as they have been for more than 18 months. 
  • Ongoing collaboration with the City of Dallas Office of Homeless Solutions to continue rehousing people experiencing homelessness Downtown. In 2021, DDI contributed $500,000 to support the Dallas Real Time Rapid Rehousing Initiative, which began housing people experiencing homelessness Downtown earlier this year. 
  • The relaunch of the DDI Ambassador position, public-facing customer-service focused employees charged with engaging visitors and residents of Downtown about the best restaurants, retail, entertainment spots, etc., while also focusing on keeping Downtown clean and safe. 
  • The first full summer of operations out of DDI’s new headquarters on the ground floor of The National building adjacent to the DART Akard Station, a more central location for strategic deployment. This is the first time in DDI history that our field operations teams and our corporate employees are located at the same headquarters, helping to streamline our operations and improve communications. 
  • A communications and marketing campaign pushing the DDI “SEE SAY NOW” iPhone and Android app and dispatch number (214.741.1151) for reporting non-emergency quality of life concerns that do not require an immediate police response. 
  • Increased on-duty Dallas police park checks and reminders of City of Dallas Park rules. 
  • Ongoing DDI staff “code walks” to identify and communicate code violations to City of Dallas. 
  • Continued activations and events throughout the summer at Downtown parks managed by DDI, including Main Street Garden, Pegasus Plaza, West End Square, Pacific Plaza, and our newest and biggest park, Carpenter Park. 

The initiative is being led by DDI Vice President of Public Safety & Field Operations Albert Sanchez, a former 10-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department who joined DDI in 2019 and continues to serve as a Dallas police reserve officer. 

“We now have the best overall DDI Field Operations leadership team in the history of this organization, including decades of experience in security, homeless outreach, and customer service,” Sanchez said. “We are constantly meeting and assessing intelligence to better inform our strategies to keep the people of Downtown safe and our parks, streets, and sidewalks clean and welcoming. That intelligence comes in part from the people who live, work, and visit Downtown making sure to call us at 214-741-1151 or download and use our See Say Now app to report non-emergency quality of life concerns.” 

DDI’s Field Operations team members most frequently respond to calls and app requests concerning sleeping in public, smoking in parks, panhandling, and litter, graffiti, and sticker removal. 

“The top priority of the men and women of the Dallas Police Department is keeping our city safe. Partnerships with organizations like Downtown Dallas, Inc. are paramount in our public safety mission. We are committed to maintaining a great relationship with the teams who make up DDI’s Security, Clean, and Homeless Outreach. Together, we work towards keeping our city clean and safer for those who live, work and visit Dallas.” said Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia.  

Garcia visited last week with the DDI Field Operations teams to thank them for their collaboration with his officers, telling them, "You're part of our team," the chief said. "We couldn't do it without you, so thank you for the assistance you give us and the residents of Dallas and the visitors to the city of Dallas."’ 

The operation will run within the Downtown Improvement District (DID), bounded by I-345 on the east, I-30 on the south, North Stemmons Freeway on the west and Woodall Rodgers Freeway on the north. DDI also remains engaged with key stakeholders in surrounding neighborhoods on matters of public safety 

“The Dallas Area Rapid Transit Police Department is committed to working with partners across our 13-city service area to keep our riders safe,” said DART Police Lt. Donovan Collins, commander of Central Business District. “We recognize that criminalizing homelessness is counterproductive, which is why we are so excited to embark on this new partnership with DDI.” 

DDI works closely with the City of Dallas, including the Dallas Police Department, and with DART and its police. DDI personnel share intelligence with DPD and DART police officers and supervisors, often providing key information to help solve crimes. Leadership of those organizations also meet regularly to coordinate strategies. 

How to Reach DDI Clean, Safe, and Homeless Outreach Teams 

You can report incidents through the SEE SAY NOW app, by calling the dispatch number for DDI Security and Clean Team at 214.741.1151, or by texting a report to 972.440.1995. 

Hours of Operation:  

DDI Security: Daily, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.    

Clean Team: Daily, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.  

Homeless Outreach: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. – 5  p.m.  

About Downtown Dallas, Inc. 

Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) is the primary advocate, champion, and steward for Downtown, effecting change by developing strategies, setting targets, and mobilizing resources. DDI manages the Dallas Downtown Improvement District (DID), created in 1992 and renewed most recently in 2020. The DID funds supplemental services and amenities that help create and sustain Downtown Dallas as a clean and safe mixed-use neighborhood. An annual assessment paid by properties in the DID funds safety and cleaning programs, transportation enhancements, park and public space management, economic development plans, promotion of special events, and other services. The current PID term runs until December 31, 2027, with annual budget and assessment rate subject to a public hearing and City Council approval. 

About DDI Security  

DDI launched the Downtown Safety Patrol (now known as DDI Security) in 2004 to supplement as additional “eyes and ears” for local law enforcement partners, serve as a friendly face of security Downtown, and be a resource for the Downtown community. The team contributes over 90,000 hours of proactive security patrols annually. Security team officers wear royal blue uniforms and drive brightly wrapped and lit micro-vehicles (gem cars, T-3s, and bikes). 

In addition to regular patrol seven days per week, DDI Security responds to calls for assistance directly to dispatch and alerts submitted in our SEE SAY NOW app and by text. The team is also available to provide courtesy walks during hours of operation. To provide additional security to our Downtown parks, officers proactively patrol each park, greeting visitors and reminding everyone of the park rules.   

About DDI Clean Team 

The Downtown Clean Team is a group of full-time employees dedicated seven days a week to keeping the Downtown streets and sidewalks clean by picking up litter, maintaining the parks, removing graffiti, and assisting with many public improvement projects in Downtown Dallas. With the addition of new public spaces and parks, the Clean Team plays a vital role in ensuring all spaces are clean, well maintained, and welcoming to all users. Clean Team members wear green polo shirts, and utilize brightly colored trucks, litter vacuums, GEM cars, and push carts.    

About DDI Homeless Outreach 

Developed from a pilot program five years ago, DDI’s program focuses on consistent quality engagement to relate to homeless individuals, then refer those individuals, based on specific needs, to applicable service providers for long-term solutions. Our Homeless Outreach team can be found throughout Downtown in purple polo shirts and a branded purple GEM car or van. 

About DDI Ambassadors 

The DDI Ambassador program will employ a team of high-energy, customer experience agents who engage visitors and residents of Downtown about the best places to eat, shop, and enjoy Downtown Dallas. They provide support for DDI park activations and events, help keep our urban core clean, and collaborate with businesses. 

For more information, visit downtowndallas.com 

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The Best Spots in Downtown Dallas to Celebrate Mother’s Day

The Ultimate Guide to Brunching, High Tea, Pampering, Shopping, and Spending the Day Downtown with Mom

In the past twenty years, Downtown Dallas has undergone quite the renaissance that has created the home of some of our city’s most high-profile dining experiences (Read: Monarch, Catbird, National Anthem, Dakota’s, Sassetta, among others), 150 acres of public parks, boasts more than thirty renowned hotels (with more on the way), and has some of the most sought after luxury retail in a walkable, urban environment that encompasses amazing neighborhoods like the Arts District and Farmers Market. Combine these qualities with Downtown’s central location, convenient proximity to adjacent district’s, such as the Design and Harwood Districts, as well as Uptown, Victory Park, and Deep Ellum. Spending the day in Downtown Dallas means you have all that you need to pull off an exceptional Mother’s Day worthy of the woman herself.

Indulge with Mom

Downtown Dallas is host to an impressive list of renowned brunch spots that are superb to start the day dedicated to Mom. Toast Mom at the newly offered brunch at Hawthorn, conveniently located in the AT&T Discovery District Downtown, with dragon fruit sangrias or champagne refreshers while enjoying inventive fare, such as Fruity Pebbles french toast

Consider also, adding a little Dallas Arts District flair to your morning with the Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch at Ellie’s in the fabulous HALL Arts Hotel. Enjoy inspired spring creations alongside lively music, or elect for a terrace table along the Texas Sculpture Walk and James Welling mural to fully take in the Arts District’s delights. Make the day extra special with a custom–engraved bottle of Möet Impérial Champagne or Côtes de Provence Rosé available for purchase day-of!

Take the stress out of planning Mother’s Day brunch with the $48 per person, prix-fixe brunch at Sloane’s Corner. Start out with a selection of shared appetizers for the table, then your choice of entrees, and finish with shareable desserts.

High Tea at The French Room

Truly wow Mom with seats at the exquisitely executed Tea at The Adolphus Hotel. Served in the jaw-droppingly beautiful French Room dining space, the high tea service is filled with much delight. 

During each sitting, guests enjoy a three-course menu of classic tea sandwiches and pastries curated by the hotel’s culinary team paired with a special loose-leaf tea blend created just for The Adolphus by local purveyor Zatki. 

Inside the historic Neiman Marcus store in Downtown Dallas, treat Mom to tea at The Zodiac Room for a flowing array of savory canapes, finger sandwiches, pastries and jams, followed by petite sweets. Served with your choice of Dammann Freres freshly brewed teas and additional select specialty wines and beverages available for purchase.

At the Joule Hotel, enjoy an inventive menu of savory fare, pastries, desserts, fine teas, and bubbly—all within the intimate setting of the TASCHEN Library. Plus, as a gift, Mom will receive a copy of a beautiful TASCHEN book befitting the tea’s theme to take home.

Pamper Mom

Show Mom how much she means to you by booking at The Spa at the Joule. Recognized as a Forbes four-star spa and rated as the #1 spa in Texas by Spas of America, this is an experience that will give Mom the pampering she deserves.

Drawing inspiration from geothermal energy, The Spa at The Joule offers a journey of European heat experiences, customized high-performance skincare treatments, and restorative holistic body rituals. Surrender to the sanctuary and slip into tranquility with a cup of steaming Ikaati tea and warm essential-oil-infused towels. Thoughtful amenities include a dry sauna, eucalyptus-infused steam room, Swedish rainfall shower and an ice fountain.

Before you check out, shop an innovative and results-driven range of products from Biologique Recherche, Environ, Niven Morgan, and more.

Another spot Downtown to perfectly pamper Mom, is the lovely Pink Toes Nail Bar. With Mother’s Day specials like a Mani/Pedi Combo or Pink Himalayan Healing Pedicure, Pink Toes is a stop that Mom is sure to love. The resort-inspired space is cozy and sophisticated and lends such an air of luxury. Let Mom sink until lush pillow-top seating while watching movies or listening to music on Pink Toes-provided iPad minis and Beats by Dre headphones. Pink Toe’s talented nail specialists will pamper Mom thoroughly.

Melt away at least a few years worth of childrearing-based exhaustion by booking Mom a much deserved treatment, or two, at The Spa at the Thompson Dallas. Recognize Mom with a luxurious full-service spa with treatments designed to help relax the body, strengthen the mind, and calm the soul. Take advantage of steam showers, infrared saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, and relaxation areas for the ultimate spa day. Complete your spa experience with a visit to the nail salon and blow dry bar. Yes, please!

Spa Adolphus is another idyllic spot to revitalize and rejuvenate with Mom. Explore a carefully crafted menu of treatments featuring plant-based body products and organic fragrances, as well as a curated retail selection, designed to promote wellness and beauty inside and out.

Or, make time for a soothing facial, body treatment, massage, manicure or pedicure with Mom in the refined, quiet oasis that is the Mokara Spa at The Omni. Each spa treatment by Mokara begins in the exquisite relaxation room with sublime views of Downtown Dallas and a soothing fireplace. Whether you're getting pampered with a signature body treatment, a manicure or a visit to the salon, you are sure to enjoy every minute of your time.

The Spa at The Joule | Vitality Pool

Acknowledge Mom with the Perfect Gift

There are so many amazing retail spots Downtown to get Mom a gift that she deserves. Show Mom how much she means to you by visiting one of these spots that will help you show Mom how much she means to you. 

At the iconic Neiman Marcus flagship store Downtown, you are sure to find a gift worthy of Mom. With several floors worth of luxury and designer goods, there’s almost no chance you can walk out without finding a perfect gift that is sure to impress any mother.

A few doors down on Main Street is The Hotel Shop at The Joule, which makes gift shopping for Mom a breeze with the curated selection of ceramics, books, wellness items that make for an amazing gift. 

If you want to go the floral route for gift giving, look no further than The Botanical Mix. This award-winning floral-artistry space is known for their unique combination of fresh and preserved botanicals assembled into structures, colors, and textures that delight the senses and are a true botanical mix!

Botanical Mix | Arrangement by Shane Friesenhahn

Spend Precious, Quality Time with Mom

The Mother’s Day Celebration at AT&T Discovery District is a wonderful excuse to spend the day with Mom. After any of the previously listed activities, take a stroll with Mom through The District and check out the beautiful floral photo wall, a gif booth, and a vendor market by Happily Ever Crafty

AT&T Discovery District

If you’re looking for a unique and thoughtful way to share a meal celebrating the woman of the day, look no further than Rise+Thyme. While in The District, consider stopping by the Exchange Hall for Rise + Thyme’s delicious picnic baskets available for purchase on Sunday. Pick up a picnic basket and bring a blanket to place on the sprawling District Lawn, or pack up your picnic and head to one of Downtown Dallas’ parks

Another fabulous option for Mom is to order from La Parada, the grab-and-go window at Mi Cocina at the iconic Klyde Warren Park. Featuring favorite items from the MiCo menu, La Parada makes the best spot to pick up your favorite bites and a MiCo Rita and picnic at Klyde Warren Park. With lovely, warm spring weather forecasted for Mother’s Day weekend, also consider laying out your picnic spread at the newly opened Carpenter Park this Sunday!

A quick trip from the center of Downtown, The Dallas Farmers Market also makes for a wholesome and relaxed Mother’s Day. Spend time with Mom meandering through the shops and wares at The Shed, the Market Shops, and the adjacent retail spaces such as Nikki Smith Designs

The best part is, all of these suggested places and activities are within just several square blocks of Downtown Dallas, which makes Downtown the ideal epicenter to absolutely nail Mom’s wishes for the day. With such a high concentration of world-class hospitality, dining, businesses, and public spaces, Downtown is truly a dynamic environment with something to celebrate every mother. 

Please note that with Mother’s Day this weekend, many of these spots and activities may already be full with reservations. However, we hope that you will enjoy any of the free activities at these Downtown spots and they inspire you to give Mom a Mother’s Day she won’t soon forget. If any one of these experiences is booked, consider buying Mom a gift card to use at a later date!

After a two-year pandemic and virtual events, Dallas Arts Month returns in-person to Dallas this April. Launched in 2013 as Dallas Arts Week, the annual event is a city-wide celebration throughout the entire month. Art lovers can find festivals, plays, concerts, exhibitions, and more all across the city including community events (which are free and open to the public), as well as special ticketed events.

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Jennifer Scripps will assume position in April

DOWNTOWN DALLAS – Downtown Dallas, Inc. (DDI) today announced the hiring of Jennifer Scripps, the City of Dallas director of Arts & Culture, as the next president and CEO of the nonprofit placemaking, advocacy, and economic development group.

Scripps, a Dallas native and civic leader, has held her current post at City Hall since 2016, overseeing a series of significant initiatives that elevated the arts throughout Dallas and across the country. Prior to her time with the City of Dallas, she served in multiple roles with the Perot Museum of Nature & Science, including overseeing the day-to-day construction and business planning of the museum just north of the Central Business District.

“Jennifer has a history of transformational leadership over more than 20 years working in Dallas,” said Mattia J. Flabiano, DDI’s Chairman of the Board. “She is a visionary, a collaborator, and a person of action. Downtown Dallas is thriving and DDI is blessed with incredible talent on our staff. Jennifer is well positioned to guide our team on a path that ensures the vitality of the City Center for the next generation.”

Scripps will take over the 100-employee organization in April, at a time when Downtown Dallas is experiencing historic growth, including more than $4 billion in planned or ongoing development, thousands of new residents, and a string of high-profile corporate relocations.

“I could not be more honored and excited to lead an organization with a nearly 65-year history of success advocating for the heartbeat of our city,” Scripps said. “The DDI team is full of some of the most knowledgeable, creative, hard-working men and women in our city and I am looking forward to doing great work together to advance Downtown.”

Downtown Dallas’ progress has long been guided by DDI’s 360 Plan, twice endorsed by the Dallas City Council. The plan is organized around the creation of a complete and connected City Center for residents, workers, and visitors. It includes three transformative strategies to advance urban mobility, build complete neighborhoods, and promote great placemaking.

Major projects expected to get underway in the coming years Downtown include the Field Street District on the north, Newpark Dallas to the south, and a $2 billion redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas. DDI’s team is also deeply engaged in the Arts District Connect plan and massive mobility projects to reimagine Interstates 345 and 30, with a focus on connectivity, as well as DART’s D2, a second light rail line through Downtown.

DDI also recently launched a national economic development campaign, Downtown Dallas Now, touting the City Center as a destination for business.

Scripps said part of her immediate focus will be to work with the DDI team and key stakeholders to ensure the 360 Plan evolves to remain relevant in the coming years.

“DDI must continue to be the convener and the champion for one of the most vibrant downtowns in the country,” Scripps said.

In her current position, Scripps manages a budget of more than $22 million, including oversight of 19 cultural facilities, and grant programs supporting more than 200 arts organizations and artists. She guided the department through the pandemic, securing more than $4 million in federal funds and launching special micro grant program for African, Latino(a), Asian, Arab and Native American (ALAANA) artists.

She also developed and guided the strategy for the 2018 Dallas Cultural Plan, with a focus on equity. The process included citywide engagement of more than 9,000 Dallas residents.

Earlier in her tenure, she worked closely with then-Mayor Mike Rawlings’ administration on several arts initiatives, including expanding Dallas Arts Week to Dallas Arts Month, an annual city-wide celebration of the arts held in April. She also secured a landmark $10 million gift to establish the Moody Fund for the Arts to support small arts organizations as part of the renaming of the City Performance Hall to the Moody Performance Hall.

Scripps graduated from Ursuline Academy of Dallas in 1995. She has a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.

“Dallas has long been my home and the Downtown area has long been a focal point of my life and career,” Scripps said. “DDI embodies the spirit of collaboration and hard work that is a key to progress in our city. That will continue as long as I am with the organization.”

Former DDI president & CEO Kourtny Garrett left the organization last year to become leader of the Downtown Denver Partnership. DDI Chief Operating Officer Amy Tharp has been serving as interim president and CEO since late last year.

“Amy has long been a dynamic leader in Dallas,” Flabiano said. “She stepped up in a major way in recent months to guide the DDI team and she will continue to be an essential part of the leadership team.”

Dallas-based Victory Search Group managed the DDI CEO search process.

2021 Had You Down? No Sweat!

Downtown Dallas is home to some of the finest gyms and workout facilities around. Burn off those 2021 blues and find a place to call your workout haven. No matter your style, pace, and goals, we can help you find a place to flex your workout fix.

Let’s start off with Trophy Fitness on Pacific Avenue. With three locations to serve you, the Downtown location is their largest. They offer personal training, plus studios for group exercise, private yoga, and spin classes. You will find full-service locker rooms with showers and towel service.  How about trying out the dry sauna, the steam room, or a massage to wind down and relax, or maybe their skin care services are more up your alley. Whatever you desire from a gym, Trophy Fitness can take care of your needs. Check out personal training options as well. Conveniently located Downtown, Trophy Fitness has a parking garage with validation…pretty sweet! Not sure yet? Ask them about a 7-day Trial Membership. Looks like there IS a Trophy for working out!

Next up is Cowboys Fit, located on Jackson Street in the thick of Downtown. You don’t have to be a fan of the Dallas Cowboys to enjoy a good sweat at Cowboys Fit, but you will definitely workout like a pro.  With a first-class staff of Personal Trainers ready to customize a game plan to help you achieve your fitness goals, you will get the pro treatment. Beyond the workout and training, the state-of-the-art recovery facility is something to experience. Cowboys Fit offers Cryotherapy, NormaTec treatments of compression massage, and Hydrotherapy Massage to help your body heal from aches, pains, and minor injuries. Ask about the details and benefits of becoming a member, or try out the 3-Day Guest Pass to give it a trial run before you go pro.

Looking for some total fitness motivation? Evolve is looking for you.  Evolve has developed a new “inside out” approach to not only challenge the body’s physical capabilities but also flex the mental capacity as well. They boast a Total Fitness Transformation. Evolve considers itself a fitness community for you to stretch your limits of fitness in Downtown Dallas. They proudly sponsor the Dallas Stars Ice Girls and the Allen Americans Ice Angels. Find your place Downtown at Evolve and make your own transformation.  Evolve is conveniently located off the corner of Ervay & Young Streets in the heart of Downtown. Ask about memberships and the Met 45 Program.

How about something a little different…try F45 Training on Main Street in Downtown Dallas. The “F” is for functional training, and the 45 is the time it takes to burn up a good, fun workout. At F45 Training, you get motivated and encouraged with every workout, so you can enjoy it while you burn those calories. Good nutrition is vital too, and F45 gives members access to their own free personal nutrition program to achieve health objectives through daily meal plans, tracking, and support. Join the F45 Challenge! Find out more about how to dive into F45 Training and get your sweat on.

But maybe you like to kick it old school. The T. Boone Pickens YMCA may be just what you had in mind for a workout home. Located on Akard Street in Downtown, the YMCA is a classic when it comes to gyms. You have so many options for your workout needs and the gym is expansive, so social distancing is not a problem. You can do a virtual workout from your own home, you can select the service of a personal trainer to assist in your fitness plan, you can join a group workout, or even participate in other athletic activities onsite. Please visit the website for all of the updated information on policies, hours, and requirements before making a trip to the Y.

Possibly yoga is your thing. V12 Yoga has just what you need. V12 Yoga is touted as a premier yoga studio and fitness experience and is located on Harwood, not far from Dallas Farmers Market. V12 Yoga blends ancient practice with modern living, and the instructors teach you to connect with your inner power self. Their classes will help you link breath with creative, modern power yoga flows for all experience levels. They also offer restorative, deep stretch, high intensity FIT classes and meditation, all with a beautiful view of the Dallas skyline from its 2nd floor studio. Plan ahead and find out the details of current requirements and policies for classes.

How about a little outdoor workout and fitness activity? Klyde Warren Park offers a number of sweat-inducing, heart-pumping FREE activities. Try something new like boot camps, yoga, tai chi, Zumba, or even ballroom dancing. Get outdoors and strut that healthy lifestyle in a fun and active way. Obtain the fitness program that works for you and enjoy the breathtaking view of Downtown while you are at it. Check out the website for details on scheduled fitness activities. Now, find your Zen and get to sweating!

No matter how you like to get your sweat on, Downtown Dallas has something perfect for you. Explore your possibilities and flex those muscles to get you through the upcoming holidays and beyond.

Downtown Dallas has so much to see and do that it can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we created a list of our faves as the go-to resource for all things in and around Downtown. We invite you to Live Like a Local and explore some of our favorite local coffee shops in Downtown. 

Berkeley’s MKT

If you find yourself wandering around the Main Street District or Dallas’ Arts District, be sure to check out Berkey’s MKT for a quick pick me up and pair it with a delicious pastry!

Berni Bean Coffee Company

Costa Rican specialty coffee for your delight, with purpose with breakfast and lunch served ALL day!

Commissary 

We love this place a latte! Order for takeout or delivery via DoorDash, UberEats, and Grubhub. Live within eight miles? Commissary will come straight to you! (No delivery fee, $35 order minimum.) 

Flying Horse Cafe

Dallas’ best-kept secret. Located in The Magnolia Hotel, visit one of the most historic buildings in Downtown and enjoy a variety of coffee selections with an array of artwork featured from local artists. 

Hospitality Sweet

Nested on the first floor of the post office, just blocks from Dallas’ Arts District, Hospitality Sweet is a treat to the eyes, nose and stomach! It serves everything from coffee and cake pops to lunch and on-the-go treats!

Kokopelli 

This isn’t your typical coffee shop. Located in the West End, you can treat yourself to candy, pastries, and more! Then, top it off with some of their delicious coffee. 

Otto’s Coffee and Fine Foods

Located in The Adolphus Hotel, Otto’s is an upscale Viennese-style café serving local Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters brew. Hang out inside or head to the grab-and-go service window on Commerce Street. 

Overeasy 

Stop by The Statler and grab an espresso to go or chill out in the lobby co-working spaces and enjoy free WiFi. 

Palmieri

Fresh, authentic, & natural. They make everything from scratch! Order online for takeout or curbside delivery. 

Parterre

Parterre serves world class coffee by day and craft cocktails in the evening

Rise + Thyme

Located on the first floor of The Exchange Hall at the AT&T Discovery District, Rise + Thyme is a boutique café serving breakfast, fresh pastries, coffee and fresh lunch options.h

Weekend Coffee 

Take a trip to The Joule and pair great coffee with a playful atmosphere. Now open for takeout seven days a week from 6:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Don’t see your favorite coffee shop?  Let us know (info@downtowndallas.com).

Surrounding Dallas neighborhoods for more options - For a full list of Downtown coffee shops, visit our website.

No man’s best friend left behind! Downtown Dallas has no shortage of areas available to keep your dog(s) happy and safe. Here are some recommendations:

For parks that will give your dog a chance for socialization, you can head to Bark Park Central where your dog can get in a quick shower or drink from the community bowl.  My Best Friend’s Park at Klyde Warren is also a great spot to let your dog run free with their fenced-in space. One place you might consider is Mutt’s Canine Cantina if you’re closer to Uptown. Here dogs can chow downright next to you or watch a movie together on the lawn. Some other great places to spend some quality time with your pup include the Katy Trail, Griggs Park, and Main Street Garden.

If you are looking to supply your puppy with some treats, food, and toys, look no further than Upper Paw in Deep Ellum or Downtown Pawz on Main Street. For all your boarding and grooming needs, we recommend Downtown Dog on Harwood or Dawg Life on Ervay. For all the fancy pups out there, try Dog City in Victory Park where you can see your dog 24/7 via live webcam footage.

Enjoying a good meal with your dog by your side is made easy with Downtown’s many dog-friendly patios. Check out Frankie’s Downtown to enjoy a bi-level sports bar and open patio equipped with many craft beer choices and upmarket pub grub. Although Harlowe MXM may seem bougie, they offer an outdoor dog-friendly patio so you can enjoy some Rockefeller Oysters with man’s best friend. Try Green Door Public House & Taqueria La Ventana at Dallas Farmers Market to give you and your pup some breathing room, or head to Doublewide in Exposition Park to get a glimpse of a Dallas staple from a dog’s point of view. For all the coffee lovers out there, there’s Otto’s Coffee & Fine Goods located in the Adolphus Hotel which offers Viennese style bites and outdoor seating for you and your best friend.

When you’re looking to get some quality time with your dog, where do you go? Check out our full list of dog friendly patios at https://downtowndallas.com/section/dog-friendly/.

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s or Galentine’s, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to spend your weekend safely and socially distant. We invite you to Live Like a Local and check out some of the best things to do this upcoming Valentine’s weekend. Here’s where you can celebrate! 

Dine + Drink:

Catbird

February 12 – February 14

Enjoy special menu offerings for Valentine’s weekend, including Bulgarian Gold Osetra

Caviar, Chilled Cape Hatteras Oysters, 1.5lb TX Wagyu Ribeye, and a Pink Baked Alaska. Dinner reservations at catbirddallas.com

February 12 & 13

DJ Electrophunck, 7:30 – 10:30pm

February 12 – February 14

DJ Picnictyme, 8:30 - 11:30pm

Corrientes 348 Argentinian Steakhouse

Special three-course menu for $89 per person. Reserve your table at their site or call 214-220-0348.

Miriam Cocina Latina  

Three course meal with vegetarian options includes choices from ceviche, chicken sopecitos, lobster tacos, Cuban-style pork chops, chile relleno, and more. 2/12-2/14, 5-10 PM, $60. 

Order curbside pick up at pick-up at www.miriamcocina.com or call 214-855-5275.

Nine at The National

Valentine’s Weekend Brunch 

February 12 & 13. Open 7am-2pm daily

Nineatthenational.com

Open Palette at Sheraton Hotel

Enjoy a special three-course menu for guests and Dallas locals to celebrate love and the holiday. The menu features courses including a salad, ribeye, and lobster with vegetables, and white chocolate mousse as well as a special chocolate cocktail for $69 per person. Available 2/12-2/14 from 4 PM- 10 PM. 

Overeasy

Make your Valentine’s complete with an Espresso Your Love martini followed by a stack of heart shaped red velvet pancakes with warm cream cheese creme anglaise, strawberries, and whipped cream for $11. 

Available 2/12-2/14 for dine-in, pick-up & delivery. 

Primo’s MX Kitchen & Lounge 

Three course pre-fixe menu available 2/13-2/14. The menu features nachos, queso, guacamole, flautas, tortilla soup, and Texas caesar salad for course one. Followed by chicken y verde enchiladas brisket taco, shrimp taco, and more with a red velvet tres leches or churros to end the night. Available for dine-in, carry-out, or delivery. 

Statler Hotel Location - Visit site for full menu. 

Sfereco 

Celebrate with a heart-shaped pizza for two for just $13 and chocolate covered strawberries, two for $4. House red and white wines are offered at half-price.

2/13-2/14. Available for dine-in, pick up, or delivery.

Sloane’s Corner 

Sloane’s is celebrating Valentine’s, Single’s Awareness Day, and brunch all in one!  Stop by for a three-course meal with choices from lobster bisque, short rib tortellini, filet mignon, deviled eggs, avocado frittata, and eggs benedict for brunch. Vegetarian option also available. 2/12-2/14, $75. 

Reservations available via OpenTable or call 214-484-1395

3Eleven Kitchen + Cocktails 

Join them on 2/12 for a special single’s party with a live DJ 10 PM-2 AM. 

 Special three-course menu all weekend, 2/12-2/14. 

Second Floor at The Exchange Hall  

Join The Exchange for the 1st day of Brunch for the second floor with brunch items from Ounce and Ichi Ni San. Brunch Cocktails and Champagne bottle service will be featured. 

Looking for a special staycation?

The Joule 

XOXO, THE JOULE - Stay anytime in February and enjoy a few tokens of affections with their compliments! One-night package includes chocolate-covered strawberries, complimentary valet, and $50 dining credit at CBD Provisions. Plus, stay Monday–Thursday and receive 15% off services at The Spa at The Joule. (Please note: spa appointments are highly limited; call 214.261.4555 to book in advance of your stay.)


Lorenzo Hotel

Need a staycation? Lorenzo Hotel’s Valentine’s packages are not one to miss. Book any room 2/05 -2/14 and add on a bottle of champagne, 2 Lorenzo Hotel souvenir flutes, and a tray of chocolate covered strawberries for just $75. Use promo code PROVAL to redeem.

Omni Dallas Hotel

Celebrate the month of love with your Valentine or Galentine at Omni Dallas Hotel. A special, early celebration package includes luxurious accommodations for $214 plus breakfast for two at Texas Spice. Book between February 1-11. 

After that, you can reserve the love and luxury package with rates starting at $249, which includes sparkling wine, chocolate delights, and a late check-out based on availability. 

The Thompson Hotel 

February 12 – February 14

Take a mini trip to The Thompson Hotel located in the National. In-room specials include The Lover’s Cocktail Cart – craft cocktails in the comfort of your hotel room, available

through room service. Visit their site to book.

Things to do:

Downtown Dallentine’s Day

Friday, February 12, 2021

Pegasus Plaza

11am – 1pm

  • Botanical Mix will be selling Large arrangements ($95 - $200) while supplies last
  • They will also sell Small arrangements ($15 – 25) while supplies last
  • They will be giving away FREE single rose stems (While supplies last / one per person)
  • For more arrangement options, please visit Botanical Mix at their NEW location at The National

Dallas Farmers Market Texas Wine Tasting

DFM is bringing the best local wineries with awarding-winning vintages out for a relaxed tour of all Texas has to offer. Enjoy wine tastings from Dallas Farmers Market’s classics like Eden Hill Winery, or discover a new favorite from the 10 wineries in attendance. Add in the sounds of talented local musicians and goods from the full line up of Dallas Farmers Market vendors.  Admission $40—includes wine sampling from 10 wineries (2 selections per winery) and commemorative glass. Wine pairings + bottles available separately from fine local makers.

Pre-Tea or Naught-Tea at Mirador

Feeling pre-tea or naught-tea? For the first time ever, Mirador at The Joule is offering tea for two to-go! Enjoy a luxe menu of savory fare, pastries, sweets, and fine teas from The Cultured Cup and endless bubble from Impeccable Rose Brut. Plus, receive a custom tea cup and TASCHEN art book to take home with you. Quantities for both experiences are limited. Tea at Mirador is Feb.13 and tea to-go is available Feb.14.

The Thompson Hotel Happenings

Thompson Lobby

February 12 – February 14

Dallas Symphony Orchestra String Quartet, 6-8pm

The Thompson Lobby Bar 

February 12- February 13 

5:30 – 10:30pm

Enjoy stunning Valentine’s floral from The Botanical Mix throughout the month of February in The Thompson Lobby, Catbird, and Nine at The National.

Reunion Tower Valentine’s Special 

Love is in the air at Reunion Tower! Create a unique and unforgettable night with the Dallas skyline as the ultimate romantic backdrop. Includes two GeO-Deck GA tickets, “Fast Pass to Love” elevator up to GeO-Deck. 360-degree views with a revolving reserved semi-private area with rose petals for 60 mins. & more. 

Exclusive date night packages available from Friday, February 12 – Sunday, February 14. Call (214) 712-7040 to book or for more information.

Galentine’s Day Floral Class

Sip a cocktail and celebrate friendship at The Botanical Mix inside The National while arranging your own beautiful floral design with your take-home floral kit including flowers, a container and supplies. Sign up for your own floral kit to be delivered straight to your doorstep the day of the event.

Deadline to secure your floral kit is Monday, February 8th. You won’t want to miss it!

Looking for other ideas? How about a special stroll through one of the many museums or galleries

Get take out from your favorite Downtown restaurant and settle on a picnic at one of our many parks, Klyde Warren Park, Main Street Garden, Pacifix Plaza, AT&T Discovery District, and more. 

Don’t see your favorite Valentine’s Day specials?  Let us know (info@downtowndallas.com).

For a full list of open businesses in Downtown - click here.

Due to the Presidential visit and police memorial service at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, expect road closures in the Dallas Arts District area on Tuesday, July 12th between 5:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Consider alternative routes to gain access to your office or residence.  No additional information is available.

Despite delays and road closures, Downtown businesses are open and we encourage you to support them.

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Photo Credits Thomas Garza Photography