(Spencer J Eggers/ The Daily Campus)

See the Christmas lights

Some of the most amazing Christmas lights are right in the SMU neighborhood. Head to Highland Park Village and hop on a horse drawn carriage to view the beautifully lit outdoor shopping area.

Think hot cocoa, blankets and Christmas cheer. Grab your significant other or bring the whole family. Reservations go quickly, so be sure to book as soon as you can.

Watch a movie

This newly renovated movie theater located in Highland Park Village is quite charming Bring the whole family and enjoy baked goods from Celebrity Bakery (sold inside the theater). The theater is a bit small, so all the more cozy.

Become a kid again

Head to North Park Center (preferably on a less busy shopping day) and jump on the train! There’s 2,500 feet of train track and more than 40 locomotives that wind through mini landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Reunion Tower. Plus, the website says adults are welcome too. It’s $6 for adults and the proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas.

Enjoy a hot beverage

Your excuse of being too busy and never making it outside the SMU bubble is history. At Pearl Cup on Henderson Lane, they can make your latte or hot chocolate a piece of art. 

So whether you’re looking for a great spot for a conversation or just a little break, this is the spot to go.

Get cultured

There’s no better way to get in the Christmas spirit than to go see The Nutcracker. The Texas Ballet Theater brings amazing costumes, sets, dancing and of course music that will sure to bring Christmas cheer. See it Dec. 9 to Dec. 24 at the Bass Performance Hall. 

Explore the ice

Since Dallas is lacking in natural snow and ice, head to the Gaylord Texan hotel to see their newest holiday ice exhibit called “DreamWorks’ Shrek The Halls.”

Enjoy an interactive display of impressive colorful ice sculptures carved from two million pounds of ice. And while you’re there, check out their 52-feet rotating Christmas tree, a life-sized Gingerbread House and Santa Claus himself. The ice exhibit is open until Jan. 1.