Travel Guide to Downtown Dallas

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yur wel-cum]
• Thank youThank ya
  [thank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yuh]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [I aint katch-in on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan I chek out the menu]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I dont do meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck please
  [chek please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [Im lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [Im sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
• I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [just lookin]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [thats too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do better?
  [can ya do bet-ter]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
• MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [eve-ning]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

Dallas was founded in 1841 by John Neely Bryan, who established a trading post in the area due to its strategic location along the Trinity River. The site quickly grew in importance as a hub for commerce, leading to its incorporation as a city in 1856. This early development set the stage for Downtown Dallas to emerge as a vital economic center in the region.

The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed Downtown Dallas into a bustling transportation hub. The Texas and Pacific Railway reached the city in 1873, connecting it to other major cities and facilitating trade. This period saw rapid growth in population and infrastructure, including the construction of grand hotels and commercial buildings that defined the skyline.

The Great Depression had a profound impact on Downtown Dallas, yet it also spurred the creation of iconic structures. The Dallas County Courthouse, completed in 1892, and the Neiman Marcus flagship store, established in 1907, became symbols of resilience. The Art Deco architecture of the time added character to the downtown area, with many buildings still standing as historical landmarks.

On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, an event that forever marked the city and its history. The assassination took place while the presidential motorcade was traveling through Dealey Plaza, located in Downtown Dallas. This tragic event is commemorated by the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which examines the life and legacy of Kennedy.

The late 20th century brought significant urban renewal efforts to Downtown Dallas, aimed at revitalizing the area after periods of decline. The construction of the Dallas Arts District in the 1980s and 1990s, which includes the Dallas Museum of Art and the Meyerson Symphony Center, has transformed the downtown landscape into a vibrant cultural hub that attracts residents and tourists alike.

In the 21st century, Downtown Dallas has seen a renaissance of modern architecture, with the construction of iconic skyscrapers like the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank and the Klyde Warren Park, which spans a freeway and connects various parts of the city. This architectural evolution reflects the growth and modernization of Dallas as a global city, while still preserving its historical roots.

Downtown Dallas is accessible via several major highways, including I-30, I-35E, and US-75. If you're coming from DFW International Airport, the most convenient option is to take the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) Orange or Green Line trains directly into Downtown. Alternatively, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, providing a direct route to your destination.

Downtown Dallas is well-served by public transportation. The DART light rail system offers multiple stops throughout the area. Buses also operate frequently, connecting you to other neighborhoods and attractions. Biking is a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs like Lime and Spin available. Walking is also a great way to explore, as many attractions are within close proximity.

Downtown Dallas is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advisable. Areas such as parts of the West End and Deep Ellum can experience higher crime rates, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuables and stay alert in crowded places. It's recommended to travel in groups, particularly after dark, and to use well-lit and populated streets.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospitals, including Baylor University Medical Center, are equipped for emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital and pharmacy.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking; Downtown Dallas has many attractions that require exploration on foot. Don't wear overly casual or revealing clothing, especially if visiting upscale venues. Religion: Do respect local customs and be quiet in places of worship. Don't engage in loud conversations in these areas. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transit. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly smile and a 'hello.' Don't be overly formal; a casual demeanor is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine. Don't bring outside food or drinks into restaurants or bars.

To experience Downtown Dallas like a local, visit the farmers' market at the Dallas Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with the friendly locals in Klyde Warren Park, where various events and food trucks are present. For a unique perspective, explore the arts district on foot, which offers a variety of galleries and performance spaces. Don't miss out on the hidden gems of the city, like the murals in Deep Ellum or the historic buildings along Main Street.