Of the truest Texas experiences, few compare to The State Fair of Texas, hosted annually in Dallas. Natives and tourists alike flock to the fairgrounds every September and October, eagerly awaiting their first glimpse of Big Tex and his signature “Howdy, folks!” in that low Texas drawl, along with that first bite into a Fletcher’s Corny Dog and a spin around the Texas Star Ferris wheel.
Here at The Texas Edit, it’s certainly not our first State Fair rodeo, and we’re sharing an insider tip only a true Texan would know: book a place to kick off your boots in Richardson, and experience the unique gems the city has to offer, with easy access to the State Fair of Texas.
DAY 1
Set up camp at the Drury Plaza Hotel
A chic pool and hints of sophisticated Texas flair set the mood for your State Fair experience.
Dine at TEXAS restaurant
The brainchild of storied Texas restaurateur Del Frisco features local prime beef, fish and fowl. Save the deep-fried everything for tomorrow.
Kick back at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
You’re going to have a big day tomorrow, so take it easy at this movie theater that originated in Texas, known for craft beer and cocktails, and dine-in service.
DAY 2
Wakey, wakey, deep fried bac-y
Head to the DART station bright and early so you can pack in as much State Fair fun as time allows. Hop aboard the metro rail and in just a few quick stops, you’ll be at Fair Park. And yes, there very well could be deep-fried bacon available at the fair. Corny Dogs and funnel cakes are also the breakfast of champions around these parts.
Big Tex(as) Sips at Oak Highlands Brewery
Head from the state’s tallest cowboy to the state’s biggest flag adorning the wall of Oak Highlands Brewery, known for local taps, bbq and live music.
DAY 3
Mi casita es tu casita
Kick your day off with coffee and award-winning pastries at La Casita Bake Shop.
Take home Texas
Take your time at Lone Chimney Mercantile, known for local art and quintessentially Texas finds to commemorate your visit. Just nextdoor, you’ll find Outside, a store dedicated to—you guessed it—outdoor adventures. Even if your idea of the great outdoors is margs on the patio, the brand has gained a cult following for its undeniably cool Lone Star vibe.
Texas Spirit(s)
Lockwood Distilling Co. is a true Texas original serving up “damn good food and damn gooder spirits by damn goodest people.”
Genuine Nostalgia
The midway at the State Fair was just the beginning. Return to simpler times, when a roll of quarters was all you needed for a full day of fun at the arcade. Free Play Arcade is saving arcade culture, one original game at a time. Think Tron, Pong, Space Invaders, and of course, Pac-Man.
Enjoy this blue ribbon State Fair experience for yourself.
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