Oak Cliff

 

 

To the south of Dallas, southwest of downtown, and on the other side of Trinity River, Oak Cliff was once an independent city and is now a Dallas community. One of the most unique areas in the city, the neighborhood is home to many distinct and varied shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Composed of several mini neighborhoods, Oak Cliff attracts residents with its trendy location and beautiful houses.

Kessler Park is found within Oak Cliff and is known for its stunning houses, beautiful trees, and hilly streets. Quickly becoming one of Dallas’ most popular areas, Kessler Park has character and charm. In addition, it is a convenient location with the nearby freeway making the trip to downtown Dallas simple and easy.

 

Both Oak Cliff and Kessler Park are dense suburban areas with a rich history and culture permeating the neighborhood. The atmosphere is artistic, with an emphasis on the local community. People of all ages, interests, and occupations reside there, creating an active and friendly community. Despite their proximity to Dallas, the neighborhoods have their own unique identity.

 

Just five minutes from downtown Dallas, Oak Cliff’s favorite shopping area, Bishop Arts District, provides more than 60 local boutiques, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and theaters. This historical, walkable shopping district is indicative of Oak Cliff’s charm, providing residents and guests alike with an enjoyable experience and a fun environment. Many of the businesses are independently owned, and most shops are open late on weekends for customers’ convenience.

One of the most popular restaurants in the area, Lucia, is known for its fantastic Italian food. Opened in December 2010, the restaurant provides a wide variety of dishes on a rotating menu, including, but not limited to, cavatelli with favas and sea scallops with peas. The meats are house-cured, and the pasta is handmade. The menu serves wild game, seafood, chicken, and mushrooms, providing new and creative meals with the changing seasons. Between the fantastic main dishes and delectable desserts, there is something here for everyone.

Written by the Seasons, a popular and luxurious restaurant, brings a welcoming atmosphere and vibrant color and flavor to its guests. Each meal celebrates the seasons of life by which it is inspired. Ingredients are locally raised and as pure as possible, creating a genuine and delicious experience for all visitors. SER Steak + Spirits also uses locally-sourced ingredients, serving wood-fired steaks and specialized cocktails and whiskey to live music.

 

The Texas Theater became famous for being the site of the arrest of Lee Harvey Oswald, who was suspected of killing President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Afterward, one of the most comprehensive cover-ups in architectural history took place, as everything from the false bridges and wood railings to the star-painted ceiling was hidden behind a Spanish-style design. Since then, the theater changed hands several times and fell into disrepair before being rescued by the Oak Cliff Foundation in 2001. Between then and now, the Texas Theater has been updated, remodeled, and reopened, allowing people to enjoy the movies again.

 

Covering five acres of beautiful Kessler Park land, Twelve Hills Nature Center contains wildflowers, butterfly gardens, Coombs Creek, guided walking trails, and other features which make it unique. It is a place for people to relax and learn about the local ecosystem. Centrally located and easy to access, the center provides many educational opportunities. Founded in 2005, it is dedicated to restoring the Blackland Prairie and providing habitats for wildlife.

Stevens Park Golf Course is a popular, top-quality golf course for the residents of Oak Cliff and Kessler Park. Priding itself on the fantastic amenities, stupendous service, and, of course, incredible golf, the course is one of the area’s best public golf experiences and has become a pillar of the community. The Colligan Golf Design redesigned the course in 2011, and the classic courses wind through tall oaks and over hills to give golfers of all experience levels a challenging and fun time.

Bringing the neighborhood enrichment and power through art and culture, the Oak Cliff Cultural Center puts on eight to ten exhibitions annually, including guest lectures, artistic workshops, and more. When not hosting an event, guests can still drop by to enjoy the beautiful art in the gallery.