By Kennedy Lozano

If you’re new to SMU, you may be wondering when the weather won’t melt your makeup off. But don’t worry; Dallas has a trio of fun places you can explore this fall when the temperature drops.

Klyde Warren Park

A 5-acre oasis where Uptown meets Downtown, Klyde Warren Park is perched on top of Woodall Rodgers Freeway, between Pearl and St. Paul streets. If you’re eager to get out and play this fall, there are events daily ranging from concerts, film screenings, fitness and dance lessons. And if you want to bring your dog along, there’s an area for them too! “I like the dog area best for my dog Sophie,” said Thomas Resendez, a regular visitor to the dog park.

If you work up an appetite after all of the fun, you can tempt your taste buds at the park’s many food truck vendors parked along the perimeter.

Families, couples and friends gather around to enjoy what the park has to offer.

Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is accessible from many spots in the Big D. The trail is roughly 3.5 miles long and runs through parts of Dallas, including Uptown and Highland Park.

Trees overlook most of the path and provide shade throughout the majority of the trail. You will find people running, walking, biking, skating and anything else cardio-related. It is definitely a great place to explore and get a breath of fresh air.

“It’s one of my favorite places because it gives you best of both worlds,” said Abel Saenz, a frequent Katy trail visitor. Saenz said he enjoys walking along the path: “You’re outside getting to experience a good day’s weather, but you’re not so far removed that it becomes a hassle to get out there and enjoy it.”

And if you’re feeling social, stop by the Katy Trail Ice House for a drink.

Trinity Groves

Trinity Groves in West Dallas is history in the making, transforming the Dallas landscape. Trinity Groves is right off of the Margaret Hunt Hill Suspension Bridge and next to the Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge.

It has 15 acres of restaurants, retail and entertainment, ranging from Chinese food to your local urban craft kitchen.

Hugo Gutierrez, eating lunch at LUCK with a group of friends, mentioned that he loves to order the signature pastrami sandwich.

To satisfy your sweet tooth, Trinity Groves has a luxury chocolate bar called Kate Weiser Chocolate, which offers mouth-watering hand painted chocolates to enjoy while exploring the attractions that surround Trinity Groves.

The scenery from the Ronald Kirk Bridge, which is just around the corner, is great for picture taking. Don’t forget to snap a pic while you’re having fun!