Dallas

Short History of Dallas

Dallas, located in North Texas, has a rich and vibrant history that spans over centuries. Founded in 1841 by John Neely Bryan, Dallas quickly grew from a small trading post to a bustling city due to its strategic location on various railroad lines.

The city was incorporated in 1856 and quickly became a centre for the oil and cotton industries.

In the 20th century, Dallas was known for its part in the nation's civil rights movement and is famously remembered as the site of President John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963. Today, Dallas is a hub for commerce, innovation, arts, and culture.

FAQ for Dallas

What is the best way to get there?

Dallas can be easily reached by air through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or Dallas Love Field (DAL). It is also well-connected by road and rail networks.

What is Dallas famous for?

Dallas is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Dallas Museum of Art, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza (dedicated to JFK's assassination), the Dallas World Aquarium, and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. It is also renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, especially for its barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine.

What are five interesting facts about Dallas?

• Dallas is home to the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States.
• The city hosted the famous Dallas Cowboys football team and the Dallas Mavericks basketball team.
• The Texas State Fair held in Dallas is one of the largest state fairs in the country.
• Dallas is known for its prominent role in the oil and cotton industries.
• The Reunion Tower in Dallas offers stunning panoramic views of the city's skyline.

How did Dallas get its name?

Dallas was named after George Mifflin Dallas, the Vice President of the United States under President James K. Polk.

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements for visiting Dallas depend on your country of origin. Please check with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa information.

When is the best time to visit Dallas?

The best time to visit Dallas is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and various festivals take place. Summers can be hot, while winters are mild with occasional cold snaps.

Are there local customs I should know for Dallas?

When visiting Dallas, it's good to be aware of the following customs:

• Drinking: The legal drinking age in Dallas is 21. It is prohibited to consume alcohol in public places, except in licensed establishments.
• Greetings: Handshakes are the most common form of greeting in Dallas. It is polite to address people by their titles or last names until invited to use their first names.
• Public Transit: Dallas has an extensive public transit system, including buses and light rail. Make sure to have exact change or purchase a ticket before boarding.

Time Zone for Dallas

Dallas operates on Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6) during standard time and Central Daylight Time (CDT, UTC-5) during daylight saving time.

Voltage/Plug Types

In Dallas, the standard voltage is 120 volts, and the plug types commonly used are Type A and Type B. It is advisable to bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plug types.

Currency

The currency in Dallas is the United States Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are readily accessible throughout Dallas, and you can easily find them in banks, shopping centers, and other public areas.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Dallas. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are commonly used.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, you can use Apple Pay and Google Pay at many businesses in Dallas, including restaurants, shops, and hotels.

How much do I tip in Dallas?

When visiting Dallas, it is customary to tip for certain services. Here are some tipping guidelines:

• Tipping at Restaurants/Bars: It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.
• Tipping at Hotels: It is customary to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around $1-2 per service.
• Tipping Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is common, and it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the fare.
• Tipping Tour Guides: If you go on a guided tour, it is customary to tip the tour guide around $5-10 per person.

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