As they say, everything is bigger in Texas, and especially in Dallas – the state’s third most populous city and the country’s ninth – where the city’s namesake race is recognized as the official marathon of the City of Dallas.
Dallas’ namesake marathon runs through the city’s favorite neighborhoods. (Photo Credit: Jeremy Stewart)
Every December, the Dallas Marathon runs through the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods and entertainment districts, providing a brand-new perspective of all the city’s most iconic landmarks. With an average high of 58 degrees in December, this race is the perfect winter marathon, and an ideal run for trying to finally beat that PR.
If traveling to Dallas for the marathon, we have the best local spots to indulge in post-race, as well as some low-impact activities that will keep you moving before and after the big run.
Just Keep Moving
While it may be tempting to lay in bed the day before the race – you will be running 26.2 miles after all – it’s important to keep moving without overexerting yourself. Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and walk among the lush 66 acres located on the shore of White Rock Lake. Filled with an array of gardens, various historic spaces throughout the grounds will also teach you about the history of Dallas and Texas.
Take a walk through the sweeping Dallas Arboretum to keep moving before the race. (Photo Credit: Christopher Ott)
Klyde Warren Park is a space of greenery amidst the city skyline. (Photo Credit: Bailey Alexander)
Take a walk in the park and grab lunch from the rotating local food trucks. (Photo Credit: Nate Johnston)
Klyde Warren Park in downtown Dallas is an urban oasis, where lush greenery is surrounded by the Dallas skyline. Walking through the five-acre park, you’ll see performances at the Nancy Best Fountain and food trucks galore, with a range of rotating local cuisines including Curbside Culinary, The Butcher’s Son, and Mama Lama.
Iconic spots in Dallas include the Reunion Tower, an observation tower with sweeping views of the city, and The Eye, an actual 30-foot giant eyeball right in the center of downtown. If looking to scope out the race route prior to the marathon, the course typically runs near both of these iconic landmarks.
Post-Race Fuel
You did it – and now it’s time for the fun part. With multiple locations throughout the city, Bread Winners Café & Bakery is one of the most popular brunch spots in Dallas. While the wait is long, it’s definitely worth it – indulge in Julio’s Heuvos or Banana Bread French Toast, because you earned it.
Because, tacos. (Photo Credit: Bilal Karim)
Texas is renowned for their delicious tacos — indulge in your favorites post-race. (Photo Credit: Deborah Rainford)
Also with multiple locations throughout the city, Torchy’s Tacos is a local favorite and is considered to have some of the best tacos in all of Texas. Torchy’s has breakfast tacos along with a range of signatures including the Tipsy Chick and a Fried Avocado Taco, along with a wide range of margaritas – yes please.
Katy Trail Ice House is a pit stop along the Katy Trail – one of the best walking and running trails in Dallas – that serves up burgers and Texas BBQ, along with a rotating beer selection. The Ice House would be a great option for those that want to keep moving the day after the race, and for those who run for beer.
Where to stay: Kimpton Pittman Hotel
