Introduction
Dallas is the ninth largest city in the United States and a mecca for big business, with more than a dozen Fortune 500 company headquarters in the vicinity. Global brands including 7-Eleven, Chili's and Mary Kay all trace back to Dallas-area industrialists.
Dallas emerged as an agricultural leader in the 19th century and then, in the 1930s, as the hub of the U.S. petroleum. Today, the sprawling metropolitan area flaunts a posh landscape shaped by its financial successes. Palatial mansions along peaceful, oak-shaded streets belong to some of the country's most influential citizens, including former President George W. Bush and Mark Cuban, the billionaire owner of the Dallas Mavericks. Residents also enjoy upscale leisure facilities such as the high-tech AT&T Performing Arts Center, a highlight of the Dallas Arts District, and AT&T Stadium in nearby Arlington, home of the Dallas Cowboys. You name it, Dallas has it: haute couture, award-winning restaurants and top-notch entertainment, all in one dynamic destination.
Getting There
By CarMajor highways provide quick access to the city. US 75 (North Central Expressway) and the Dallas North Tollway approach from the north, I-45 (South Central Expressway) from the southeast, I-20 and I-30 (R.L. Thornton Freeway) from the east, and I-30 (Tom Landry Freeway) from the west. I-35 runs northwest to southwest.
Getting Around
Street SystemBecause the streets of Dallas are not designed in the traditional grid pattern, it is wise to refer to a map when driving downtown. Major thoroughfares run from northwest to southeast and northeast to southwest. The principal street is Main Street, which runs southwest to northeast; other key streets include Elm Street, which is one way northeast.
The speed limit on most streets is 35 mph or as posted. Freeway limits range from 40 to 75 mph as posted. Rush hours are generally from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Most signal lights are on the corners, but be alert for signals hanging in the center of intersections. Right turns are permitted on red; exceptions are marked.
ParkingNumerous garages and parking lots compensate for the virtual absence of on-street parking downtown. Rates range from $3 to $5 each half-hour or $10 to $18 a day. For on-street parking, use the Parkmobile app. Prices range from 5c-$2 and there is a 35c convenience fee.
Dallas, TX
AAA’s in-person hotel evaluations are unscheduled to ensure the inspector has an experience similar to that of members. To pass inspection, all hotels must meet the same rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. These hotels receive a AAA Diamond designation that tells members what type of experience to expect.
Sponsored Listing
Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Hilton Dallas Lincoln Centre5410 LBJ Frwy. Dallas, TX 75240
Book NowSponsored Listing
Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton1914 Commerce St. Dallas, TX 75201
Book NowMembers save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
DoubleTree by Hilton Dallas Campbell Centre8250 N Central Expwy. Dallas, TX 75206
Book NowMembers save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Sheraton Stonebriar Dallas-Frisco5444 State Hwy 121. Frisco, TX 75034
Book NowCity Population
1,232,940
Elevation
420 ft.
Sales Tax
Municipalities may impose additional rates of up to 2 percent on the statewide 6.25 percent sales tax. Sales tax in the city of Dallas is 8.25 percent; rates vary in the suburbs. The hotel occupancy tax is 13 percent.
Emergency
911
Police (non-emergency)
(214) 744-4444
Time and Temperature
(817) 844-6611
Hospitals
Baylor University Medical Center, (214) 802-0111 or (800) 422-9567; Doctors Hospital at White Rock Lake, (214) 324-6100; Medical City Dallas Hospital, (972) 566-7000; Methodist Dallas Medical Center, (214) 947-8181; UT Southwestern University Hospital–St. Paul, (214) 645-5555.
Visitor Information
325 N. St. Paul St. Dallas, TX 75201. Phone:(214)571-1000 or (800)232-5527
Air Travel
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
Rental Cars
Hertz, (972) 453-4600 or (800) 654-3131, at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, offers discounts to AAA members.
Rail Service
Amtrak's Union Station is at 400 S. Houston St. For train schedule and ticket information, phone (214) 653-1101 or (800) 872-7245.
Buses
The Greyhound Lines Inc. bus station, (214) 849-6831 or (800) 231-2222, is at 205 S. Lamar St.; five other bus lines depart from this address.
Taxis
Taxis are metered. The initial charge is $2.25 plus $1.80 for the first mile. Rates are then $1.80 for each additional mile, and $2 for each additional passenger. Taxis leaving from the airport charge an additional $5 departure fee. Yellow Cab, (214) 426-6262, is the main company serving the area.
Public Transportation
The Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) provides light-rail and bus service in the area. Two-hour passes are $2.50 for local routes and $3.50 for system routes including all DART buses and trains. Day passes are $5 for local routes and $7 for system routes. A 7-day pass is available. Exact change is required. Phone (214) 979-1111.
As a AAA member, you'll save even more. Your AAA Travel Agent will check to see if AAA Vacations is combinable with other AAA member benefits, plus cruise and tour past passenger discounts and benefits.