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Girls weekend getaway: Dallas

Originally printed in the pages of Simply Family Magazine’s January 2018 issue.

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The older I get (more importantly, the older my children get), the more I value friendships. Over the years I've enjoyed book clubs, bunko, holiday parties, and a variety of other bonding experiences with strangers who have morphed into valuable and indispensable allies. These are all good times, but there is something about getting away from it all with the girls, where the focus shifts from family and work obligations to each other. If this sounds like it would be good for your soul, why not check out Billings' newest opportunity to fly direct to a city overflowing with fantastic shopping, food, and culture? American Airlines welcomes you to their newest option; direct flights from Billings to Dallas. According to American Airlines CEO John Brewer, by supporting flights from Billings to Dallas “You’re not only supporting the service we currently have, you are contributing to the potential for future growth in Billings’ air service.” For details on flight times and prices, check out their website www.aa.com.

Now comes the hard part, narrowing down your options.

The top 3 in shopping:

  1. NorthPark Center. Located just north of downtown Dallas, NorthPark Center is a shopping force to be reckoned with. In 1965, NorthPark Center officially opened for business with four anchor stores, and has since grown into one of the top five shopping destinations in the country, hosting more than 26 million visitors annually. Aside from being a spectacular shopping destination, NorthPark offers a wide variety of restaurants/bars, entertainment, and galleries.  
  2. Galleria Dallas. Located in the midst of many other great Dallas attractions, the Galleria is an upscale, multi-level, shopping mecca full of wonder (including an ice skating rink). Those who travel to spend time at the Galleria are eligible for deals and discounts, including hotels. 
  3. Allen Premium Outlets are also worth your while, and located just north of Dallas. Full of the usual (and unusual) outlets shops, details can be found at 

The top 5 in culture:

  1. JFK Memorial and the Sixth Floor Museum/Texas School Book Depository is one of the top tourist attractions in all of Dallas. An unparalleled learning experience about the legendary JFK and his assassin, this stop is worth your time. 
  2. Dallas Museum of Art. So. Much. Going. On. Art, events, programs, “Second Thursday of the Month” drinks and art mix. Check it out at 
  3. Dallas Arts District, AKA "The largest contiguous arts district in the United States," is located just north of downtown Dallas. With too many entertainment, gallery, restaurant, and hotel options to mention, it's best if you check out their website yourself. 
  4. Dallas Farmer's Market is another one-of-a-kind venue worth checking out. In the heart of it all, this oasis boasts of a 26,000sf building containing artisan shops and restaurants, open daily, along with the Market Shed, full of fresh produce and local fare, which is open Fridays and Saturdays. 
  5. Highland Park Village. If high-end, boutique shopping and dining are more up your alley, be sure to check out Highland Park Village, located in prestigious Highland Park. An official historic landmark, having opened in 1931, HP Village boasts being the first shopping center to open in the United States and was the prototype for future malls. 

The top 6 in dining and drinking experiences:

  1. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse Top of the line food, drinks, service, and atmosphere. Pricey, but a worthwhile special night out. 
  2. Ozona Grill and Bar. Fun and festive describe this place. Tex Mex flair with killer margaritas and a fun brunch option.  
  3. The Woolworth is located downtown, and rated one of Dallas’ top places to brunch and/or partake in a specialty cocktail or two and share some tapas during happy hour with the girls.  
  4. Pocket Sandwich Theater is the place to go for a fun, interactive, unique dinner theater experience. They’ve been around forever for good reason. 
  5. Truth and Alibi. Located in the downtown area, this lower level speakeasy is fronted by an over-the-top candy shop. Get your password to get in the door on their Facebook page and enjoy the cool vibe and libations.
  6. The Grape Restaurant has been voted one of Dallas’ top brunch venues, and this cool, urban restaurant also offers a great happy hour with delicious tapas. 

Insider Tip: With so many things to do, your best bet is to start by checking out this Dallas Visitor's Guide. Then start planning your subsequent direct flight trips to actually fit everything in!

about the author...Although a world traveler at heart, Aimee is a born and raised Montanan. After spending a few years exploring, she made her way back to Montana where she raised her kids and worked in both social work and business arenas. Her kids are now grown and exploring their own worlds, which gives her the freedom to combine her work with her passion of travel, writing, and photography.