What does a world-class samurai collection have in common with a biker gang and invitations to the White House? You can find all three in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.These and 97 other attractions, excursions and diversions are featured in the new book 100 Things to do in Dallas/Fort Worth Before You Die.
Part of a series of similar books about other prominent American cities, 100 Things offers a list of one hundred unique Dallas and Fort Worth must-do’s in a “breezy, easy-to-read style,” said one of the book’s co-authors, Sally Blanton. She wrote the book along with sports writer and longtime author Steve Richardson and fine-dining guru Andrea Alcorn.
“We just tried to hit some things that we think everybody ought to try, to make some good memories,” she told The Daily Campus in a recent telephone interview.
The book features classic attractions such as the Arboretum, Neiman Marcus, the Perot Museum, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and the George W. Bush Presidential Library, as well as some more unusual features —like the samurai collection.
“It’s the biggest one outside of Japan,” said Blanton. “It’s in a favorite place of mine, St. Anne’s Court, a beautiful courtyard and bar area…go there for live music and cocktails.”
SMU-centric entries include “The Battle of the Iron Skillet” and “Boulevarding.”
Other entries that may be of interest to college students include Trinity Groves in Oak Cliff, a new and growing development at the foot of the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge; Barcadia, a bar where you play arcade games; Bowlounge, a Dallas-chic bowling alley; and the Kessler Theatre, which has been dubbed the best listening room in Dallas because of its suburb speaker system.
“It’s perfect for intimate concerts,” said Blanton.
Blanton also emphasized the Bishop Arts District, where many theaters, art galleries, and community events attract Dallas residents from all walks of life.
The book also includes itineraries, such as “Date Night” or “Where to Take Kids.”
These provide a good tool to use when planning your next weekend, and can help introduce new students to life in Dallas at large. The entires also include contact information and helpful insider tips for each establishment.
Check out the book for details on getting an invitation to the White House or hanging out with a biker gang.
Whether you’re new to SMU or just looking for somewhere new to take your family during Family Weekend, this book will be an invaluable tool. You can find it at the SMU Barnes & Noble bookstore.
