Travel Tuesday: Dallas, Texas

Today we have a special treat for you all! Diana Oates, social editor at CultureMap Dallas, is here to be your Dallas tour guide. Be sure to follow her @Diana_Oates for even more coverage on this thriving, Texas destination!

Hi ya'll. So happy to pop in and talk about Dallas, a city that I am lucky enough to now call home. Perhaps the most glorious thing about our city is its pockets. Regardless of what you are in the mood for, there is a Dallas scene for that. In fact, its hard to just give one concrete list of all of the places that make me LOVE living here, but I am going to break it down as best as I can.

Pocket: Downtown 

Where to stay: The Joule .. seriously the best place in Dallas. It has everything you need for an amazing home away from home. The rooftop pool is absolutely breathtaking, ESPA is an underground heaven { think cool stone massage } and their coffee shop, Weekend Coffee, is fantastic as well. 

Where to shop: The Flagship Neiman Marcus is located right next to the Joule. Coincidence? I think not. Enjoy floor after floor of luxury shopping then head next door to TRAFFIC LA for fashions that will blow your mind.

Where to eat: Before you leave Neiman's, make sure to make a stop in at the Zodiac Room. This is the ultimate spot for ladies who lunch where everyone sips champagne and noshes on delicious salads and sandwiches. Depending on the time of year, make sure you get a reservation on Open Table. Need a fun spot for dinner? Head over to Savor for a great view and even better cocktails. 

What else can I do? Check out the eyeball statue, explore the sixth floor museum, hang out at Klyde Warren Park with friends. 

Pocket: Knox Henderson / Greenville Ave 

Where to stay: Hotel ZaZa and The Mansion on Turtle Creek are easy cab rides to these areas and both in very fun areas of town. Hotel ZaZa think Las Vegas meets Dallas luxury and The Mansion on Turtle Creek think Palm Springs. Both solid choices

Where to shop: This stretch of shopping is totally hitting its stride right now. Milk & Honey is all the rage right now for affordable clothing for the girl about town, The Bonobos Guideshop is changing the way mean get dressed and the Warby Parker store has even set up shop. On the hunt for accessories? Head over to Gypsy Wagon for the cutest momentos to remember your trip by.

Where to eat: Start your day off at Houndstooth Coffee or Mudsmith. Both of these amazing coffee shops are for those serious about their coffee and the perfect way to get energy for your day on the town. Head over to The Corner Market for a delicious sandwich or if its a nice afternoon go share a pizza with friends while sipping rose on the Taverna patio. Hang out with friends at the Truck Yard for live music and beers. For happy hour hit up HG SPLY CO and head straight up to the roof for a frozen moscow mule and for dinner The Porch is an old favorite that will never let ya down. The strawberry crush will change your life. Finding yourself hungry late night and in need of a night cap? Head over to Victor Tangos for custom drinks and amazing small plates. 

Pocket: Highland Park Village 

Where to Stay: The Highland or The Lumen. Perfect if you have any business to take care of at SMU

Where to shop: Seriously your one stop shopping spot is Highland Park Village. From Tory Burch to Rag & Bone and even an amazing Anthropologie, these high end shops will leave you dreaming all things luxury.

Where to eat: Grab a coffee or a smoothie at Number 1. While you're there step next door to Chapter Two to look at luxury coffee table books. Grab a sandwich and a cake ball at Celebrity Bakery and make sure to save room for half price sushi at Lounge 31 at happy hour. For dinner, you must stop in at Bistro 31 which is just lovely. Regardless of if you are with friends, co workers, your grandmother or on a date, this spot is perfect. If you are craving a steak, head to Al Biernat's. Best steak in town, despite what all the Bob's lovers say. 

What else can I do? Go see a movie at Highland Park Theatre's (think plush, large seating), get a blow out and a makeup application at DryBar & Blushington (neighbors), or take an afternoon to explore The George W. Bush Presidential Library.