The sole survivor of the 1920's movie palaces, this restored showplace is an honored venue for a variety of performers. It has helped breathe new life into the Arts District. Gilded and ornate, its prestige sweeps patrons into a another time. This venue seats just over 1,600 people. It hosts the Majestic Broadway Series as well as the world-renowned Dallas Black Dance Theater. Additional commercial performers have one-night only or multiple night runs.
The historic Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park features lush, manicured gardens and a recreated Victorian-era town. Nestled near downtown, the expansive park is accentuated with beautiful homes and establishments. Volunteers demonstrate weaving, cooking and welding among other activities from that time period to those looking for an insight into Texan history. The site is an official history museum and is affiliated with The Dallas County Heritage Society. The society plays host to several events throughout the year; the annual Candlelight Country Fair and Old Fashioned Fourth of July draw major crowds.
Pioneer Plaza is more than just your ordinary park. A bronze ensemble of lifelike cattle punctuates this 4.2-acre (1.6 hectare) park overlooking City Hall and the Dallas Convention Center. Nationally-acclaimed artist and native Texan Robert Summers is the artistic force behind the unique sculptures. The 70 bronze steers memorialize the cattle drives that took place along the Shawnee Trail back in 1854.
American Airlines sponsors C.R. Smith Museum, which examines the history of commercial airlines and explores their inner workings. Visitors have ample opportunities to check out seminal principals of flight first hand; they can experience a wind tunnel, see how a jet engine works, try out the pilot's seat in the cockpit or enter the Flight Lab to learn more about air pressure at high altitudes. The IWERKS large-screen theater shows movies about airline history while the patrons sit in authentic first-class seats. Moreover, there is a gift shop.
Travel three blocks east of Downtown Dallas and you will find Deep Ellum. It is a conglomerate of unique shops, eclectic restaurants and residential lofts. Previously deserted historic buildings and warehouses are now alive with people eating, working, living and playing. Deep Ellum is home to numerous clubs, featuring an array of musical genres, from blues and jazz to reggae and alternative rock. It is also home to various theatrical and artistic venues.
One of the largest urban cultural districts nationwide, the Dallas Arts District is home to numerous performing and visual arts venues. Visitors will marvel at unique masterpieces on display in the district's museums and galleries. World-class culture abounds with ongoing art, music, drama and dance performances. The 17-block area also includes the Dallas Theater Center and the Cathedral Santuario de Guadalupe.