Family Fun Guide To The Bishop Arts District
Are you looking for a stay-cation this summer but can't get past all the tourist traps in the Metroplex? For a wonderful family weekend outing head to Bishop Arts District in the southeast corner of Dallas.
Bishop Arts District is a little funky, eclectic neighborhood in north Oak Cliff. On any given day you can spot people from all ethnicities, all walks of life, and all types of net worth. The buildings in this area can be traced back to the early part of the 20th century and the district has been deemed an historic site. I can't think of any other part of Dallas that it resembles- and that's a good thing, right?
Well, while this area would make for a great date night, with all the great restaurants and bars, Let's assume you can't get a sitter and are willing to take the kids out for a local excursion.
Ride, Sally, Ride
Oak Cliff is very friendly to those on 2-wheels. So friendly in fact, many merchants offer discounts to those who ride up on their bikes. If you don't have a bike, or at least don't feel like packing it up, check out Oak Cliff Bicycle Company for rentals. They rent cruisers to adults only for $25/day. So if you're up for a ride through this historic part of town, throw those little bikes and trikes in the trunk and get the family out for a spin.
Saturday fair and fare
The first Saturday of every month, from September-June, is an open-air, old-world-style market in the BAD. This would be a perfect opportunity to walk around with the kids, maybe even the dog, and shop, eat and listen to live music. There are tents lining Bishop Avenue with lots of different vendors who are selling their art and crafts. There are also food vendors as well as open doors on all the surrounding restaurants trying to entice you to come in. It will be a nice change in scenery from what you see lining the aisles of all the big box stores. Check out their site for more details.
Sugar Rush
There are so many fun and eclectic shops lining Bishop Avenue that you could spend your whole day shopping. But if your kids are in tow, we all know that probably won't be the case. While kids would enjoy looking at some of the galleries and shops, there are a few places that will definitely win them over. Try The Soda Gallery and let your kids try all different kinds of sodas, most of which you've never heard of. If you are overwhelmed by choices, you can't go wrong with a Dublin Dr Pepper!
Another way to buy some more personal shopping time (that is the only reason to allow all this sugar!!) is to take your kids to Dude, Sweet Chocolate. This the haven for all chocolate lovers. One of the perks is that you can sample anything you want before you buy.
Mamma Mia!
There are so many wonderful restaurants in this area but one is mentioned almost anywhere I go. And why is it a good spot to dine with kids, you ask? The answer is, because it's pizza! Eno's Pizza Tavern seems to be liked by almost anyone that goes. Their super-thin crust pizza is great as are their pastas and sandwiches. The beer and wine menu are extensive and fun and the desserts are tempting no matter how full you are. It's sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Picnic in the park
It's probably not within walking distance, but if you wanted to get your "green" fix, check out Lake Cliff Park. This park used to be the home of an amusement park, a casino and a theater, but all of that has since gone away. However, you can still enjoy a wide-open space with a lake in the middle. This might be a great place for a picnic!
Casey Gilliam is a Co-Founder of Dallas Moms Blog. She loves her baby girl and her husband of almost 8 years. You can contact her at casey@dallasmomsblog.org