South Dallas-Fairpark Dallas, TX

Originally built as an 80-acre fairground for the Dallas State Fair in 1886, Fair Park was designed to be the perfect place for events. As the city of Dallas grew around the fairgrounds, the Fair Park neighborhood became the cultural center of the city. Housing many of the city's most important museums and cultural sites, including the Hall of State, African American Museum and even the Cotton Bowl Stadium, Fair Park has become a popular tourist destination, bringing money and jobs to the neighborhood.

City events take place in Fair Park almost every week, including the yearly State Fair that has been housed here every year since 1886. Whether you love to sing traditional songs at the North Texas Irish Festival, savor bites at the Taste of Dallas or drink at Brewvolution, you should find a perfect event for you.

Nightlife in Fair Park centers around the fairgrounds plaza. Not only do some events put on special nightly extravaganzas, but plenty of bars and lounges surround the complex. The Fireplace Lounge on Samuell Blvd. brings in locals every day for cheap beer and a friendly atmosphere. The Red Light Lounge on Main Street remains another popular place. The large dance floor and crafted drinks make this a great place to frequent with friends, on weekend or weekday nights. Pay close attention to its event calendar as something new happens often.

At the ready to provide meals both day and night, restaurants similarly center around the fair plaza. Stop in the Old Mill Inn restaurant housed in the only non-Art Deco designed building in the area. Originally an exhibit for the Texas Centennial Exposition provided by the flour milling industry, Old Mill Inn resembles a real flour mill from years ago. For an unusual but entertaining night out, attend one of this establishment's murder mystery events. The food maintains the quality you expect from the normal dining experience, but its pairing with skilled actors and community bonding ensures an extra-special evening.

When you want to get away from the bustle of the fairgrounds for a bit, try Ronnie's Catfish and More. Just as you expect from the name, the catfish nuggets at Ronnie's steal the show. Perfectly seasoned and fried without excessive grease, the catfish has gained a reputation as some of the best in the DFW area. Don't let the simple kiosk atmosphere fool you — this place only serves top-notch dishes.

As a cultural hub for Dallas, public transportation provides easy access to and movement around Fair Park. Jump on a DART bus or the Green Line light rail to get to any other location in the city. During the State Fair, DART even runs special event trains from the red and blue lines to Fair Park Station. If you miss your bus or train, you should easily find a taxi or you can call a rideshare through Uber.

Thanks to the well-planned neighborhood, Fair Park has plenty of sidewalks and paths that make the area extremely walkable. Cyclists, however, may find it less bike-friendly due to the large crowds and a lack of dedicated lanes. If you prefer to drive, cars access the area easily from Interstate 30. You may find parking a challenge, however. Spots can be scarce and expensive, especially during events.

With all the perfectly curated greenery in Fair Park, it serves as an excellent place to relax and enjoy the outdoors with the family. However, the large crowds mean that sometimes you may need to escape to a less popular park.

Popular for its many open soccer fields, Lawnview Park keeps neighbors in shape through many pickup games and organized community leagues. When no game is going on, residents use the open spaces to play with dogs or let children run around. Parkdale Park has plenty of attractions for children, including a baseball field and a few small playgrounds. When you want a more natural landscape, Juanita Craft Park and Wahoo Park have a number of trails for jogging through trees. You can even head to the green space beside Parkdale Lake for a relaxing run.

South Dallas offers an array of homes that embody the heart of Texas living. Whether you're picturing a cozy apartment or a spacious house for rent, South Dallas has something to match your preferences. Rental costs in this neighborhood can vary based on location, size, and amenities. On average, a stylish one-bedroom apartment costs $1,430 dollars per month, while a more expansive two-bedroom dwelling costs around $2,000. For those contemplating putting down lasting roots, the average house typically costs around $240,000.

Residents enjoy shopping in the center of the action in the neighborhood, right around Fair Park. With a mix of high-end boutiques and cheap tourist shops, you have plenty to explore. Whether a Texas native or a visitor just passing through, you have to stop by Hollywood Five and Dime owned by Ralph Wildman. With a wide selection of authentic rockabilly menswear, Hollywood Five and Dime stocks unique one-offs collected from around the world, as well as pieces and garments designed by Ralph himself. Make sure to check out the vintage racks for some unbelievable deals you won't find elsewhere.

Another place not to miss, the Pan-African Connection Bookstore sells a lot more than just books. With an eclectic mix of organic beauty products, genuine African art and clothing and educational materials sold alongside important African and African-American novels, the Pan-African Connection Bookstore deserves a leisurely browse. You never know what you may find. Make sure to stop by here if you ever want a rare book by an African author, as it has the best selection of this genre in the city.

When you need to buy affordable everyday groceries, head to the local Dixon Grocery, Aldi or Walmart Neighborhood Market. Plus make sure to keep an eye out for fresh produce and local goods sold at occasional farmers markets in Fair Park.