If you've ever lived in the Dallas - Fort Worth area, you'll agree there are distinctive buildings and landmarks that will always remind you of home. The Metroplex is filled with beloved places that are instantly recognizable in photos, perhaps even stirring up memories that may tug at your Texas-sized heartstrings! Here are 18 local spots anyone from Dallas - Fort Worth will recognize:
1. Reunion Tower (Dallas)
The 561-foot observation tower and restaurant is perhaps the most distinctive landmark in the Dallas skyline.
Not only is it impressive by day, it lights up the night for city-related celebrations and holiday colors. It even blasts spectacular fireworks on special occasions!
2 & 3. Pioneer Plaza and Bank of America Building (Dallas)
This photo captures two iconic places in downtown Dallas! Pioneer Plaza is in the Convention Center District and is home to the largest bronze sculpture of its kind in the world, featuring 49 bronze steers and three drivers. The green-outlined Bank of America Building is instantly recognizable for its beautiful addition to Dallas' cityscape.
4. Will Rogers Memorial Center (Cultural District, Fort Worth)
Built in 1936, the coliseum and 85-acre complex attract over two million visitors each year for the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo as well as other events.
The adjoining tower to the coliseum is recognizable for its Art Deco architectural style.
5. Texas Star Ferris Wheel (Fair Park, Dallas)
The State Fair of Texas is held each fall for 24 days, but the Texas Star remains in place year-round. It is 212 feet tall and has lit up the Dallas skyline during special events and at the fair since 1985. It is the most popular ride at the fair each year.
6. Fort Worth Stock Yards (Stockyards District, Fort Worth)
The Stock Yards opened for business in 1890, when the arrival of the railroad prompted the area to become an important livestock area. At its peak, it sold a million cattle a year. The area is now a historic district that celebrates the city's tradition. Visitors flock to the area for its entertainment, history, dining, and shopping.
7. Botanic Garden's Rose Garden View (3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth)
The garden was established in 1934 and is the oldest botanic garden in Texas. Admission is free and visitors flock to the rose garden area shown here.
8. Japanese Gardens (located inside the Botanic Garden)
The Japanese Garden area was added in 1973. It is a traditional stroll garden and is home to over 1,200 Koi fish. Festivals and tea ceremonies are held here throughout the year.
9. Six Flags Over Texas (2201 Rd. to Six Flags, Arlington)
This 212-acre theme park opened in 1961 and its towering rides are easily visible on Interstates I-30 and I-20. The park is strategically located in between Dallas and Fort Worth, so it's easily accessible by both cities.
10. Ceiling View of Thanks-Giving Chapel (Commercial Center District, Dallas)
Thanks-Giving Square is both a private park and public facility that was dedicated in 1976. It features a chapel, meditation garden, and exhibits designed to inspire and promote the giving of thanks. The most iconic view is located within the non-denominational chapel; when you look up, you'll see this stunning stained glass window.
11. Fort Worth Water Gardens (Fort Worth)
Constructed in 1974, this free garden area is considered an architectural and engineering wonder that allows visitors to experience various water features throughout the 4.5-acre park.
12. Bass Performance Hall (Fort Worth)
The heralding angels beckon lovers of the arts to enter and become immersed in the experience. The building's design is characteristic of a classic European opera house, with two 48-foot angels sculptured from Texas limestone gracing the exterior and making the building downright inspirational.
13. Building Mural (Sundance Square, Fort Worth)
Fort Worth's namesake of "Cowtown" is celebrated throughout the city. The mural is one of the most photographed icons and is the backdrop to festivals and events held downtown throughout the year.
14. Dealey Plaza (West End District, Dallas)
Dealey Plaza is sometimes called the "birthplace of Dallas." It was the location of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1993 to preserve the plaza, street rights-of-way, and buildings. Numerous museums and landmarks are located here, making it the top tourist attraction in the city.
15. West End (Dallas)
West End features entertainment, dining, and shopping. A neon entrance lets visitors know they have arrived at the area.
16. Eye (1607 Main St., Dallas)
This 30-foot freaky eye sculpture is part of Dallas' Joule Hotel's art collection. Are you feeling watched?
17. Margaret Hill-Hunt Suspension Bridge (spanning Trinity River, Dallas)
This stunning suspension bridge has changed the landscape of Dallas. It is part of the Trinity River Project which, when completed, will feature three similar bridges with thriving parks.
18. The "I" in BIG (multiple locations throughout Dallas)
This campaign is totally marketing genius. It is part of the "Visit Dallas: BIG Things Happen Here" campaign, and the signs are moved throughout the city for special events. This one was photographed outside of the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas. You can track the current locations of the BIG signs around town here
What other iconic places in Dallas - Fort Worth would you add to this list? Let us know you throughts below and don't forget to share your own photos of our beautiful landmarks on the Only In Dallas-Fort Worth Facebook page or on Instagram using #onlyindallasfortworth for a chance to see them featured!
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