Two Hours in Dallas’ Buzziest Neighborhood

Originally designed in 1916, the historic building housing the Kimpton Pittman Hotel — in Dallas’ buzziest neighborhood, no less — has maintained its Beaux Arts exterior, even as it was transformed to include 165 stylishly modern guest rooms and art-filled common areas.

Stay at the Pittman Hotel when visiting the Deep Ellum neighborhood in Dallas. (Photo Credit: Heather Gill)

With 5,000 square feet of inspiring and flexible meeting spaces, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and Elm & Good, our all-day eatery serving seasonal, American tavern-inspired cooking and elevated cocktails — you can rest easy on your next trip to Dallas. Lounge poolside under a canopy of light-strung trees on our outdoor deck, or sip cocktails by the communal fire pit while you enjoy local live music.

Whether you’re traveling for business or juggling a full vacation itinerary, make time to sneak away and experience the bustling art and music mecca located just steps from your room.

Tune In to the Scene

Deep Ellum, home to over thirty live music venues, is the biggest entertainment district in Dallas. Music is a huge part of this neighborhood’s soul, as it is a region where legendary ’20s blues musicians once played, over 100 years ago.

Live music and bars go hand-in-hand in this neighborhood. (Photo Credit: Heather Gill)

If you find yourself with a free night, see who’s playing at one of the local hotspots — from the renowned, four thousand seat Bomb Factory to the more intimate Club DaDa, you will always get a fantastic show. Don’t want to commit to a ticketed event? Drop in to Off the Record, a bar and record store where there’s almost always a DJ spinning vinyl, or Adair’s Saloon, a honkytonk with a well-curated jukebox and live country music every night.

Toast to Your Health

There is no shortage of bars in Deep Ellum — it’s part of the neighborhood’s charm — ranging from wild dive bars to high-end cocktail lounges. Visit Shoals Sound & Service for a step back in time thanks to retro interior design, along with a throwback soundtrack and classic cocktails. Nearby at Trick Pony, the cocktail bar inside Harlowe MXM, take a trip around the world with 80 different cocktails, each inspired by a different country.

More of a beer person? Deep Ellum has you covered. (Photo Credit: Heather Gill)

Local favorites include Braindead and Deep Ellum Brewing Company. (Photo Credit: Heather Gill)

If beer is more your speed, head to Deep Ellum Brewing Company for a tour (which comes with three beers and a glass) or Braindead Brewing for creative craft brews like Party Pooper Pineapple Upside Down Cake Strong Ale. For a nightcap, head back to the Pittman and swing by Deep End, a cocktail bar on the pool deck beneath a sky of stars.

Get a Taste for the Place

Several Texas culinary sensations got their start in Deep Ellum. It was here that Twisted Root Burger Co. began crafting customized burgers and Cane Rosso developed a massive fan following for its certified authentic Neapolitan style pizza pies before both restaurants opened locations across the state.

After spreading the good word of brisket at the farmer’s market, the couple behind Pecan Lodge opened their first brick and mortar here, drawing attraction and winning awards for their profound use of smoke. Even if you’re stopping in between meals, there’s never a bad time for a snack-sized slice of brisket.

Stop by Elm & Good for American Farmhouse fare. (Photo Credit: @pittmanhoteldallas)

Or just order room service — guest how you guest. (Photo Credit: @amandawarren)

If you’re staying put at the Pittman, grab a meal at Elm & Good, know for its American Farmhouse fare, adventurous cocktails, and a thriving, lively dining atmosphere. You’ll love it — we promise.

Become a (Street) Art Critic

Grab a camera and go on a self-led art walk through Deep Ellum. The neighborhood is known for having the highest concentration of vivid murals and street art in Texas, thanks in part to a project called 42 Murals.

Step outside and experience all the street art the neighborhood has to offer. (Photo Credit: Corey Collins)

The Dallas Maps and Walks app offers a listing of some of the best murals to visit — but wandering aimlessly works just as well. While you’re at it, be sure to seek out the green, red, and yellow neon sign welcoming visitors to Deep Ellum with a glowing streak of Southern hospitality — it’s one of the best spots in town to snap a Dallas selfie.

Where to stay: The Kimpton Pittman Hotel