Get to Know Five Dallas Neighborhoods

Get to Know Five Dallas Neighborhoods

  • Bradford Coffman
  • 02/19/22
Dallas is a bustling and diverse city known for both its nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment—as well as its renowned public schools and superb environment for young families. Below are five neighborhoods in the Dallas area that prospective homeowners should explore if they’re interested in relocating (or upgrading) in this one-of-a-kind Texan metropolis. 

1. University Park

University Park is a Dallas County neighborhood that, along with Highland Park, is part of what’s known as the Park Cities. This area is home to Southern Methodist University and was built surrounding the large school. University Park is fifteen minutes away from the heart of Dallas, but its picturesque streets are lined with arching trees and the area is full of early twentieth-century architecture that’s reminiscent of a Texan small town within a major city.

The area was developed in the early 1920s and there are plenty of elegant estates available to prospective homebuyers. Despite its proximity to the city, University Park really has a small-town feel and is perfect for those looking to live in a quiet community next to a large metropolis.

Of course, if you want a taste of the city outside of University Park, there’s always Dallas proper, but many residents opt to stay within the neighborhood to take advantage of its acclaimed restaurants and shopping. One such opportunity is the Snider Plaza, a well-kept, three-block shopping zone with restaurants and a great atmosphere. Day spas and nail salons abound in the area, making it easy for locals to relax in their beautiful neighborhood.

2. Highland Park

Highland Park is known regionally as the heart of luxury in Texas. Locals enjoy plenty of posh amenities, including the Spanish-styled Highland Park Village, which is home to a variety of high-end retailers like Hermes, Dior, and Chanel. Locals also enjoy attending movie premieres at the Village Theater and indulging in local food and cocktails.

In the heart of Highland Park are several stunning parks. Lakeside is renowned for the thousands of azaleas that bloom there in the spring every year, an oasis just minutes from downtown. Residents also light a giant pecan tree each holiday season to bring the community together. 

Highland Park homes are known for their expansiveness and opulence. The area is popular with residents who are raising families and sending their children to Highland Park’s top-rated schools. Highland Park also offers a colorful nightlife, centered around dining at the many classically-Texan eateries. After a day of viewing Highland Park homes for sale, review your options with a handcrafted cocktail at one of the neighborhood’s distinct and moody watering holes.

3. Downtown Dallas


Downtown Dallas is the heart of this bustling city, which together with Fort Worth is one of the nation’s largest metropolitan areas. Living in a luxury home in Downtown Dallas while working in the city means short commutes and a convenient lifestyle complete with lots of walking or biking around downtown. Dallas has adopted the Pegasus as their town symbol, which pays homage to the city’s original oil company that existed in the area in the 1930s. 

Downtown Dallas luxury homes are coveted because of their ease of access to the city, and their beautiful architecture. Residents are close to the many amenities of city life but are also just a short drive to the suburbs when they need a break from the hustle.

Beyond sports, dining, and nightlife, Downtown Dallas is a hub for the city’s largest civic celebrations. Every year on Dia de Los Muertos, thousands of people flock downtown to celebrate the passing of their loved ones, it’s an event that truly reflects the area’s dedication to building a diverse community. Downtown Dallas also hosts the YMCA turkey trot every year in November, a popular community event with a race and other family activities to enjoy.

4. Lake and Garden District

Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Gardens, Credit: ArchDaily

The Lake and Garden District, located just outside of Downtown Dallas, is known for the scenic White Rock Lake and is also home to the breathtaking Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. At the lake, locals enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and biking and there are eleven garden displays at the arboretum, including the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Gardens which is a great destination for kids.

For breakfast in the Lake and Garden District, a local favorite is the Green Spot which is located in an old gas station, and offers everything from breakfast tacos (with cage-free eggs), to expertly brewed coffee. For lunch or dinner, make sure to visit Dallas’ oldest vegetarian restaurant, Kalachandji’s, for soups, bread, curries, and dessert. 

5. Mesquite

This small neighborhood is full of country-western vibes, art, and agriculture. There are plenty of outdoor activities to be enjoyed, and Mesquite has been dubbed the “Rodeo Capital of Texas.” Each year Mesquite hosts the Mesquite Championship Rodeo and hundreds of people flock to this exciting event. Another popular attraction in Mesquite is Celebration Station, a place for families of all ages to enjoy attractions like laser tag, paintball, and retro arcade games. To take in some local nature, visit Trinity Forest Adventure Park.

Searching Dallas luxury homes for sale?

The Dallas area is a diverse, luxurious, and exciting community for residents of all ages. With many neighborhoods—each offering its own wide selection of residential styling—luxury homes in Dallas offer something unique in the Texan real estate market. If you’re ready to make the move to Dallas, reach out to trusted local agent Bradford Coffman. Brad's experience and expertise in Dallas luxury real estate will help you find exactly what you’re looking for in the heart of Texas.

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