Entertainment


Six Flags Over Texas is the world's largest regional theme park company. The first park, Six Flags over Texas opened in 1961, taking its name from the six countries whose flags have flown over Texas throughout its history. The creator envisioned theme parks located all over the country for convenience and affordability for all families. Today, ninety-eight percent of the US population lives within an eight-hour drive to a Six Flags theme park.

Dallas Zoo was founded in 1888 and was the first zoo in Texas. It sits on 95 acres of land three miles south of downtown and is the biggest zoo in the state. The zoo operates seasonally from March 1st to June 15th and the Friday before Labor Day to December 1st. Enjoy a 20 minute safari through all six habitats with live narration.

Dallas World Aquarium houses more than 85,000 gallons of saltwater with marine life from around the world. Enjoy a walk through a 22,000 gallon tunnel and feel like you are in the ocean with all the ocean critters. The aquarium features marine life from around the world including, but not limited to Southern Australia, Indonesia and the Bahamas. Also enjoy a trip through the rain forest, South Africa, and the Yucatan's gulf coast.

Dallas Opera has contributed to North Texas arts and culture for 48 years and continues to be a highlight of the city's reputation. The Opera has presented the American premiers of five operas and the world premiere of two operas. The Dallas Opera hopes to begin performances in their new venue at the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts during 2009.

Dallas Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1900 with a 40 member ensemble to start the tradition of what is now today a large part of Dallas arts and culture. The venue is located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District which is 60 acres in downtown Dallas. The current conductor, Andrew Litton has brought the Dallas Symphony worldwide renown and international acclaim.

Dallas Summer Musicals first opening night was June 12, 1941. Since then, the Summer Musicals have brought in big name productions like Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Lion King. The musicals use several venues for their shows including the Majestic Theatre and the Music Hall at Fair Park.

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens sits on 66 acres of flowers and gardens and overlooks Downtown Dallas and White Rock Lake. The botanical gardens also include sculptures, fountains and two historical mansions. There are several events to choose from at the arboretum including Dallas Blooms, outdoor movies and the Arboretum After Dark. Season passes are available.

Deep Ellum is the renovated warehouse district east of Downtown Dallas. It sits on 170 acres of land and includes shops, restaurants, live music and stylish lofts. Deep Ellum prides itself in being known for being the "dwelling place for the eclectic."

West End is a nationally recognized entertainment district with shops, restaurants, bars and live music. It is a major tourist spot that brings in an estimated 7 million people each year. One of its most famous events is
Texas - OU weekend when Texas fans and OU fans come together the night before the Red River Shootout.