Exploring America’s 9th Largest City

This was my second business trip to Dallas—with the company headquarters in the suburbs (a 30-minute drive from downtown), I seized the weekend to wander around the city center, making sure to head back to my hotel before dark (downtown after sunset? Total chills! 😱). Having a rental car this time let me dive deeper into local life, no transit stress required. 📍 Must-Visit Spots: Where to Go Anchor your trip with two key locations—both iconic and packed with Dallas charm: 1. American Airlines Center (Dallas Mavericks’ Home) 🏀 Basketball fans, this is your holy grail! As the Mavericks’ home court, the area oozes game-day energy: Dirk Nowitzki Statue: A towering tribute to the legendary player stands outside the arena—perfect for sports fans to snap a photo. Dirk Nowitzki Way & Victory Avenue: The surrounding streets are named after the Mavs’ legacy, with basketball-themed decor and murals. Even if you’re not a sports fan, the lively atmosphere and modern architecture make it worth a stop. 2. Giant Eyeball & CBD Skyline 👁️ Head to the plaza near the “Giant Eye” (officially called Eye by artist Tony Tasset) for quintessential Dallas skyline shots: The Giant Eyeball: Perched on a lawn in the middle of CBD, this 30-foot-tall sculpture is quirky and divisive—you’ll either love its surreal vibe or find it odd. But paired with the backdrop of sleek skyscrapers, it creates a unique contrast between art and urbanity. Skyline Views: The real star here is Dallas’ skyline—row upon row of modern high-rises with a touch of classic American city flair. Golden hour (1-2 hours before sunset) bathes the buildings in warm light, making it ideal for photography. 📸 Photography Tips: Gear & Hacks My Setup: Camera: Canon 760D (my trusty old friend!) Lens: 18-135mm (versatile for both wide skyline shots and close-ups of details like the Giant Eyeball or building facades) Budget-Friendly Gear Rental (For You!) Lots of friends have asked about affordable camera options—here’s my top tip: rent gear on the “Neisha” app Why it’s great: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting to test different cameras/lenses without buying. How it works: Choose your gear, receive it the day before your rental starts, and ship it back the day after—super convenient. Prices: As low as a few yuan per day! Plus, you can get a security deposit waiver based on your credit score. Variety: Tons of lenses and cameras to pick from—whether you want a wide-angle for skylines or a prime lens for portraits, they’ve got you covered. ⚠️ Safety First: Critical Tips for Downtown Dallas Let’s keep it real—big American cities have their quirks, and Dallas is no exception: Homeless Population: Downtown has a noticeable homeless presence (Pic 6 shows the stark contrast between skyscrapers and encampments). While Dallas’ overall safety is far better than San Francisco, you’ll spot homeless individuals in alleyways, under overpasses, bus stops, or convenience stores. Stay Alert: When passing groups of people (whether homeless, locals, or anyone else), it’s natural to feel a bit uneasy—trust your gut. I’m all for embracing diversity, but it’s smart to stay vigilant in unfamiliar areas. Best Practices: Travel with a buddy if possible. Stick to daytime activities—avoid wandering downtown after dark. Stay on well-lit, busy streets—avoid isolated alleys or underpasses. 🌟 Final Thoughts Dallas’ downtown is a mix of glitz and grit—sleek skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, and unfiltered urban life. Exploring by car gave me the freedom to hop between spots, and chasing golden hour light made for some unforgettable photos. While safety is a valid concern (as it is in most big cities), a little caution goes a long way. If you’re into cityscapes, sports, or just want to experience a bustling American metropolis, Dallas’ downtown citywalk won’t disappoint. Grab your camera (rented or owned!), hit the streets during the day, and soak up the energy of this dynamic city. #US #Texas #Dallas