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Arts & Entertainment

Dallas’ Best Places for Arts Lovers on a Date

Take advantage of one of the largest urban arts districts in the nation.
By Annie Wiles |
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One of the most powerful ways to connect with someone can often be over a shared passion. If wandering museums and absorbing some culture is your idea of a good time, Dallas-Fort Worth can deliver in spades. These fascinating and romantic places make for a sweet outing.

Late Nights at the DMA

These nights­–the third Friday of every month–include a variety of events, talks, films, and music. The hours are flexible (6 p.m. to midnight), so either start–or end–your night with drinks at Lark on the Park. (The timing depends how much liquid courage you need.) Either way, take advantage of this casual approach to getting to know someone a little better.

The Samurai Collection

This exhibit is perfect for an early evening, post-work date. (Tuesday is the best day; they’re open until 8 p.m.) Even better, you can head downstairs to the Saint Ann Restaurant and Bar afterwards for dinner or drinks on the patio. End the night with a casual stroll around the Harwood District.

Deep Ellum’s Galleries

Spend some time at 500x Gallery, a historic 1916-ish tire factory-turned- artist co-op. Established in the late ’70s, the gallery consistently showcases and promotes local artists. There are plenty of other galleries, all within walking distance, such as Kirk Hopper Fine Art and Barry Whistler Gallery. Bonus points if the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market is going on. At Mokah Art Gallery, you can get your fix of coffee and art. If you get swept up in the feelings/caffeine, grab the open mic and passionately recite the poem you’ve (obviously) already written about your date. Or don’t. Your call.

One of Dallas’ few independent bookstores, The Wild Detectives offers books and beer. Photo by Elizabth Lavin.
One of Dallas’ few independent bookstores, The Wild Detectives offers books and beer. Photo by Elizabth Lavin.

Bishop Arts District

Start the day by popping into one of the many interesting restaurants and specialty shops in the neighborhood. Whether you like artisanal chocolate, specialty pies, or Mexican eats, there’s something for everyone. If your date doesn’t mind shopping, check out a vintage clothing store or buy some unique artwork. For book lovers, bury yourselves in a rare book from a local publishing house at The Wild Detectives. One of the few independent bookstores in Dallas, this place is well worth a visit. Feeling famished? Try their delicious Chilean wine and sandwiches. Depending on the night, you can catch a reading or some live music. Later, hit the historic Texas Theatre for a cult-classic movie night and Prohibition-style drinks.

Just Dance

Modern and thought-provoking, companies such as Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Dark Circles Contemporary Dance never fail to impress. Head to the Texas Ballet Theater for a more classic approach. These dancers might even inspire you to try your own moves.

Fort Worth

Don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum or the Amon Carter. Spend the day in Fort Worth strolling through the galleries and the enchanting Japanese gardens in the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens. You can also visit the Casa Mañana amphitheater (look for a large white dome) to enjoy touring Broadway shows and excellent live theatre. Or sidle over to a restaurant downtown and finish off the night with a (literally) underground play at the wonderfully intimate Circle Theatre.

Elle Carnley, a DMagazine.com intern, contributed to this article.

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