A WEEKEND IN DALLAS DURING HURRICANE HARVEY

Texas

May 25

I recently took a quick weekend trip to Dallas—not realizing that Hurricane Harvey would be impacting areas just a few hours away. Thankfully, the weather in Dallas stayed mostly calm, with only a brief stretch of heavy rain on Sunday afternoon. In fact, the cloud cover made exploring the city even more enjoyable by keeping the Texas heat at bay.

Where to Stay in Downtown Dallas

During my visit, I stayed at The Adolphus, and it was easily one of the highlights of the trip. Located in downtown, the hotel offers a comfortable and quiet retreat—perfect if you’re looking to relax after a day of exploring.

While downtown Dallas was not very crowded when we visited, that actually adds to the charm if you prefer a more laid-back city experience.

The hotel itself exceeded expectations:

Spacious rooms (some even feature two king beds and a sectional couch!)
A pristine, modern gym
A cozy, uncrowded pool area
Excellent value (around $200/night for this level of comfort)

If you’re planning a trip to Dallas, this hotel is a fantastic option—honestly, you might not even want to leave.

Exploring Dallas Museums (All Close Together!)

One of the best things about Dallas is how conveniently located many of its top cultural attractions are. You can easily explore several museums in a single afternoon.

Dallas Museum of Art

This was my first stop. While the museum as a whole didn’t completely wow me, it’s definitely worth visiting for specific exhibits. Check current exhibits before you go—this museum shines with the right showcase.

Highlights included:

Fashion exhibits like Coco Chanel
African art collections
Interactive installations like Creative Connections

Meso Maya (Lunch Break)

After the museum, I stopped for lunch here—and it did not disappoint. Order the Carne Asada—it’s incredibly juicy and packed with flavor.

Nasher Sculpture Center

This museum has a small admission fee, but it’s worth it for the serene outdoor sculpture garden and beautifully curated exhibits. It’s also a great spot for Instagram photos and if you’re into architecture and design.

Crow Museum of Asian Art

Right across from Nasher, this museum is free and easy to explore. While it’s more low-key, it features a thoughtful collection of Asian art and makes for a quick, worthwhile stop. It sits across from the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Don’t Miss This: A Powerful Historical Stop

If you have extra time, make sure to visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza.

Located near the site of Assassination of John F. Kennedy, this museum offers a deeply moving and informative experience. The audio tour and archival footage make history feel incredibly real—it’s one of the most impactful stops in the city.

Architecture & Performing Arts

If you enjoy architecture, consider walking by:

AT&T Performing Arts Center
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

While these venues are most impressive when attending a performance, their modern design still makes them worth a quick look—especially since they’re just a short walk from the museum district.

Best Brunch in Dallas

One of the standout experiences of the trip was brunch at The Mansion Restaurant by Chef Tom Parlo, located inside Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

This brunch was memorable for several reasons:

A delicious multi-course tasting menu (Brussels sprouts, Angus beef tenderloin, and churros!)
Incredible bread selection (five types, unlimited—yes, really)
Elegant, intimate atmosphere with beautiful décor

It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing, upscale Sunday brunch.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my weekend in Dallas was a great mix of relaxation, culture, and incredible food. Despite nearby storms, the city offered a calm and welcoming atmosphere.

If you’re planning a visit, Dallas is full of hidden gems—from spacious luxury hotels to world-class museums and unforgettable dining experiences. And most importantly, the people make you feel right at home.