Ashley Collum, Conference Services Manager at the Fairmont Dallas in Dallas, Texas is GayTravel.com's Local Guru. Read on to find all the best places to go and things to do while visiting her great city!
How long have you lived in Dallas and why did you move there?
10 years – moved with family and stayed for the community
What makes Dallas such a great LGBT destination?
The friendly people, welcoming environment and affordable living
What are the top five reasons for LGBT travelers to visit your city and stay at Fairmont Dallas?
- The People
- Fairmont Dallas is right in the Arts District and a 5-minute uber ride to the Gayborhood
- Fairmont Dallas welcomes all LGBT travelers and their companions and pets with warmth and respect
- Many things to do (food, entertainment, exploration)
- The Pyramid Restaurant at The Fairmont Dallas
What hot spots should the community check out while in your city?
- Dallas Museum of Art
- Winspear Opera House
- Uptown Players Theatre
- The Strip (where all the night clubs are for the LGBT community)
- The Bishop Arts District
- The JFK Museum
Favorite restaurant in Dallas?
Street’s Fine Chicken (located on Cedar Springs Road right in the middle of the club area. This is a new concept restaurant from the creators of the lack-Eyed Pea Restaurant. It’s all about chicken!
Favorite bar/club in Dallas?
Bar – JR’s … Club – S4
Favorite place to unwind in your town?
Alexandre’s Piano Bar or The Pyramid Bar at The Fairmont Dallas
Where’s the best place to enjoy the outdoors?
Klyde Warren Park, Oak Lawn Park, and The Katy Trail
What’s one thing that your city has to offer that you can't find anywhere else?
Alyssa Edwards! .. Also, the JFK Museum
Where is the gay neighborhood in your city? Tell us a little about it?
The gayborhood in Dallas is in the Oaklawn Area on Cedar Springs Road. It is a 5-minute uber ride away and is packed with many things to do (clubs, restaurants, shopping, salons). It is very comfortable and friendly. The people are warm and welcoming to visitors. You may even spot a celebrity or 2 on the strip or in the clubs (Lady Gaga always goes to The Roundup when she is in town)
Best gay club/restaurant/attraction?
Club For Dancing – S4 or The Roundup
Bars for socializing – Woody’s and JR’s
Restaurant – Hunky’s or Street’s Fine Chicken
Attraction – The Rose Room (top show club in the area located on the top floor of S4)
What three things do I have to pack to enjoy Dallas?
- A nice evening outfit for a night at the theatre
- Running shoes (you have to visit Katy Trail)
- Clothes to party (be you and dress how you want to be seen when you go to the club)
Best time of year to visit?
All year round but especially in September for Gay Pride. The parade is always packed each year and the Fairmont Dallas loves to host the Pride attendees while they are in town!
I’m in town for 24 hours: What are 3 things I absolutely have to do?
Go see the JFK Museum, Eat at Street’s Fine Chicken and have a drink at JR’s or Woody’s
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about Dallas?
In 2011, Dallas became the only city to have hosted a World Series game, an NBA Finals game and the Super Bowl in the same year.
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