Dallas Business Travel Guide

How to Get Around Dallas for Business Travelers

The city's multimodal system effectively connects major commercial districts, airports, and suburban areas through coordinated rail, streetcar, and rideshare services. But you’ll want to be smart with which mode you choose. 

Downtown & Uptown: Use the DART light rail or Dallas Streetcar. DART’s Red, Blue, Green, and Orange Lines intersect downtown, with frequencies of 15-20 minutes during peak hours. The Dallas Streetcar (2.45 miles, six stops) links downtown’s EBJ Union Station to Bishop Arts District, while the M-Line Trolley provides free Uptown access via vintage streetcars running every 17–20 minutes. 

Rideshares & Taxis: They're everywhere. Yellow Cab, Elite Cab, DFW Taxi, United Cab, and Cowboy Cab operate extensively throughout downtown. Downtown rides under 15 minutes are feasible given the compact layout, though pricing nuances exist. DFW Airport to downtown taxis cost $55 flat while Dallas Market Center costs $47 flat. 

DART Light Rail: Connect quickly between downtown, Uptown, and surrounding areas with frequent service. DART’s rail network efficiently serves business hubs, with the Orange Line directly connecting DFW Airport to downtown in 50 minutes for $2.50 ($6 for a day pass). The Red Line’s 15-minute peak frequencies ensure rapid transit between Uptown and suburbs like Richardson. A major center like the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center is within walking distance of the station.

Rental Cars: Consider this option if meetings take you to suburban locations like Plano, Frisco, or Arlington. While DART’s Orange Line reaches Plano, Frisco lacks direct rail access, necessitating drives. Arlington’s SUV rentals average $30–66/day, ideal for meetings at venues like AT&T Stadium. Dallas’ sprawl (386 sq mi metro area) makes cars essential for dispersed corporate campuses. 

Airport Transfers: From Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW):

• Taxi/Rideshare to Downtown (25-30 min, $35-45, taxis $57 flat)
• Taxi/Rideshare to Uptown (30-35 min, $40-50)
• DART Orange line light rail to downtown (45-60 min, $3 for a single ride, $6 for a day pass) with late-night service ending at 1:27 am 

From Dallas Love Field (DAL):

• Taxi/Rideshare to Downtown (15-20 min, $20-30, taxis $26 flat)
• Taxi/Rideshare to Uptown (10-15 min, $15-25)
• DART bus connections (35-45 min, $2.50), with late-night service ending at 12:51 am

Dallas Quick Guide by Industry

Dallas Business Travel Dos & Don'ts

Dos (For a Smooth Business Trip)

Account for travel times. Dallas sprawls. The city’s drivers lost an average of 38 hours to traffic delays in 2023, ranking the city 17th worst nationally for congestion. Rush hours (7–9 am and 4–6:30 pm) remain critical periods, with post-pandemic traffic patterns showing prolonged peak windows due to hybrid work schedules.

Stay hydrated. Summer temperatures in Dallas average above 90°F (32°C), with heat indices often surpassing 100°F. Hydration is essential, particularly for outdoor transitions between air-conditioned venues.

Book dining in advance. Don't leave meals to chance. Top restaurants with private dining rooms book quickly during major conventions and business seasons. Plan ahead.

Eat locally. Prioritize the many great local restaurants over familiar chains.

Use hotel business centers. Need last-minute printouts? Major hotels have you covered. Hotels like the Sheraton Dallas offer "business-friendly accommodations" with printing, copying, and presentation prep services. The Omni Dallas Hotel, connected to KBHCCD, also provides 24/7 business facilities

Consider the weather when planning. Dallas experiences 100°F+ summer days and sudden winter cold fronts (e.g., 2023’s 12°F freeze). Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are optimal for outdoor meetings. 

Choose accommodations strategically. Proximity to business hubs is critical. For example, staying near the Medical District reduces transit time to UT Southwestern meetings, while Uptown hotels like the Crescent Court cater to finance professionals. 

Take advantage of networking events. Dallas hosts 175+ monthly professional events, including exclusive mixers and industry-specific forums at venues like the DEC. 

Don'ts (Avoid These Business Faux Pas)

Don't underestimate distances. Dallas’ metro area spans 9,286 square miles, with traffic congestion amplifying commute times. A 15-mile drive from downtown to Plano can take 45–75 minutes during rush hour. 

Don't schedule back-to-back meetings in different districts. You'll be late. The DART light rail connects core districts (e.g., Uptown to Plano via the Orange Line), but suburban areas like Frisco lack direct access. Allowing 45+ minutes between meetings accounts for delays.

Don’t wear cowboy boots. You’ll stick out for all the wrong reasons.

Don't rely on impromptu meeting spaces. Popular coffee shops and hotel lobbies fill quickly. Coffee shops near KBHCCD (Open Palette at Sheraton Dallas, for instance) reach capacity during conventions. Private rooms at WeWork Uptown or Common Desk Deep Ellum require reservations. 

Don’t schedule important meetings during major events. Check the calendar. State Fair of Texas, major sports events, and large conventions transform the city. Traffic intensifies. Prices surge. Conventions, such as the SBC Annual Meeting (35,000 attendees) demonstrably strain infrastructure.

Don’t be rude. Which is generally good advice to follow at all times. In Texas, manners are at the forefront of all interactions.

Don’t get caught referring to Dallas as “The Big D.” The Big D is to Dallas what the Big Apple is to New York City: A popular moniker, yes, but one not used by residents.

Don't neglect transportation planning. Downtown parking challenges even locals. Downtown parking costs average $20–40/day, while ride-shares from DFW Airport to downtown cost $35–55. Pre-booking services like Alto Rideshare ensures reliability. 

Don't assume public transit goes everywhere. DART excels in certain corridors but disappoints elsewhere. DART Light Rail serves 93 miles but excludes key areas like Frisco and AllianceTexas (Fort Worth). Verifying routes via DART.org is essential. 

Best Dallas Areas for Business Travelers

When choosing where to stay in Dallas for business travel, consider these top areas:

Downtown: Downtown Dallas is correctly identified as the epicenter for convention attendees and financial industry meetings. The KBHCCD anchors this district with a connection to the 1,001-room Omni Dallas Hotel via skybridge ensuring seamless access for convention-goers. For finance, while Irving-Las Colinas hosts more Fortune 500 headquarters, downtown remains critical. 

Uptown: Uptown’s reputation for luxury is well-founded. The Crescent Court complex and McKinney Avenue’s dining scene (e.g., Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse) provide upscale venues for client meetings. 

Las Colinas: Excellent for meetings with suburban corporate campuses. Irving-Las Colinas’ status as the “Headquarters of Headquarters” is confirmed by its 10 Fortune 500 companies, including ExxonMobil and Kimberly-Clark. The area’s 242-acre Frisco Station development ($1.7B) and Las Colinas Urban Center (Wells Fargo’s 5,000-employee hub) showcase its suburban corporate appeal. 

Legacy/Frisco: Frisco’s “$5 Billion Mile” along the Dallas North Tollway is a hub for technology and corporate headquarters. 

Best Hotels for Business Travelers

Luxury Hotels

Ritz-Carlton Dallas – With extensive business services and Club Level access catered to executives, the Ritz-Carlton offers impeccable service and 24,612 sq. ft. of meeting space, including the largest luxury ballroom in Uptown.

Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas – An expansive property, the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas features two PGA Tour-certified courses: Cottonwood Valley and TPC Las Colinas, the latter hosting the Byron Nelson Invitational. You can expect excellent meeting facilities that will impress clients and resort-level amenities.

The Joule – Boutique luxury hotel downtown. The Joule occupies a 1927 landmark building with 24,576 sq. ft. of event space, including the Fortnight Ballroom. Artworks by Andy Warhol and Tony Cragg adorn the property, as well. 

Conference-Friendly Hotels

Omni Dallas Hotel – Connected to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Omni Dallas provides vast meeting facilities and downtown views. It also boasts a rooftop infinity pool and Mokara Spa to cater to your post-meeting relaxation needs. 

Hilton Anatole – A sprawling property with over 600,000 square feet of meeting space, the Hilton Anatole is also home to several restaurants, including SER Steak + Spirits. 

Renaissance Dallas Hotel – Modern meeting spaces with a central location, the Renaissance Dalles’ City View Terrace offers panoramic downtown vistas and skyline views. 

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Aloft Dallas Downtown – Enjoy modern accommodations with Aloft Dallas Downtown’s tech-forward amenities. Aloft features loft-inspired rooms with free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and proximity to KBHCCD (0.2 miles). 

Courtyard by Marriott Dallas Downtown/Reunion District – Practical rooms near the convention center, the Courtyard by Marriott has rooms that include ergonomic workspaces and complimentary Starbucks® coffee. Plus, you’ll enjoy the rooftop bar, HQ Dallas. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown – Affordable rates with breakfast included. The renovated 1912 building retains historic elements like original woodwork, adding character to your business stay. 

Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown – You’ll be singing the praises of the Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown, a site once home to the Dallas Opera House. Today, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay that blends historic decor with modern amenities like a 24-hour fitness center and business services. 

Walkable & Convenient Hotels

The Adolphus – A 1912 Beaux-Arts landmark, the Adolphus is 0.2 miles from Neiman Marcus and offers 407 rooms with 24-hour room service. 

AC Hotel Dallas Downtown – European-inspired accommodations near Main Street District and downtown offices. AC Hotel Dallas’ European-style breakfast and minimalist rooms cater to business travelers. Located 0.53 miles from KBHCCD, AC Hotel Dallas has a 24-hour fitness center and indoor pool. 

Canopy by Hilton Dallas Uptown – Centrally located in Uptown, Canopy by Hilton Dallas provides easy access to restaurants and McKinney Avenue creates effortless business days. Plus, the hotel offers 3,500 sq. ft. of meeting space. 

Top Restaurants & Networking Spots

Client Meetings

Fearing's Restaurant – Located at the Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Chef Dean Fearing offers Southwestern dishes like maple/black peppercorn soaked buffalo tenderloin and toasted sesame seared Chilean sea bass on jasmine white rice. Take advantage of the restaurant’s private event space to impress clients. 

The Capital Grille – The Capital Grille at Crescent Court is a premier steakhouse in Dallas, celebrated for its expertly prepared dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and impeccable service. Private dining rooms cater to business meetings, offering an elegant ambiance and attentive staff. Signature dishes like the porcini-rubbed ribeye and Kona-crusted sirloin consistently earn praise, while an extensive wine list enhances the dining experience.

Bullion – Located in downtown Dallas, Bullion is a sophisticated spot for business dinners, offering contemporary French cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Bruno Davaillon. Known for dishes like duck à l’orange and lobster thermidor, the restaurant pairs elegant plating with an extensive wine list. Its refined ambiance and attentive service make it ideal for client meetings or upscale networking. Reservations are recommended for this premier dining experience. (Temporarily Closed).

Networking Cocktails

The Woolworth – Housed in the historic Woolworth building, the bar serves signature cocktails like the “Woolworth Mule” (vodka, ginger, lime) in a setting blending exposed brick and modern design. Comfortable seating encourages productive conversation. 

Midnight Rambler – Stylish underground cocktail lounge at The Joule. The Midnight Rambler is a subterranean bar featuring mixologist Gabe Sanchez’s creations, such as the “Pineapple Incident” cocktail. Live DJs and gold-accented decor align with its “distinctive vibe.” It’s available for private events, full and partial buyouts. 

The Henry – Its rooftop happy hour (4–6 pm daily) offers $9 cocktails and views of the Dallas skyline, making the Henry is ideal for informal business connections.

Team Dinners

El Fenix – Founded in 1918, El Fenix’s rooftop patio accommodates 120 guests for events. The “Monumental Nachos” and margaritas reinforce its Tex-Mex authenticity.

Pecan Lodge – A renowned barbecue restaurant in Deep Ellum, the Pecan Lodge was voted “Best BBQ in Dallas” by D Magazine. Its “Trough” platter (brisket, ribs, sausage) serves 4–5 people. 

Meso Maya – The Lakewood location offers a 100-seat private room and chef Nico Sanchez’s “short rib relleno.” You can reserve private and semi-private spaces for meetings. 

Break Winner’s – Although it’s famous for brunch, Bread Winners cooks up delicious plates at all times of the day. The menu, which doubles as poetry, offers smoked gouda fondue as an appetizer and buttermilk fried chicken, among a plethora of options, for a main. You can even have breakfast for dinner, such as fried chicken and waffles, if you so choose. 

Café Momentum – At Café Momentum, you’ll enjoy a delicious array of farm-to-table menu items while supporting a good cause. The downtown restaurant runs a 12-month paid internship program for young men and women exiting juvenile detention. They learn social and professional skills to not only get back on their feet, but also succeed in life. 

Nick & Sam’s – Swanky is the word to describe Nick & Sam’s. The decor matches the no-nonsense nature of the menu, which features classic steak cuts and specialty, one-name cocktails.

Quick Coffee Meetings

Merit Coffee – Merit’s Preston Hollow location provides oat milk lattes and Taco Deli breakfast tacos. Pre-ordering via its app avoids peak-hour lines.

Ascension Coffee – Ascension is one of those cafes built for the modern worker. With multiple locations, you can find a spot that works for you. Knock out those emails as you sample local flavors and tasty bites.

Magnolias Sous Le Pont – Located beneath Harwood District’s 2727 building, Magnolias Sou Le Pont combines artisanal coffee with local art displays and a calendar of networking events.

Best Co-Working Spaces & Remote Work Spots

Common Desk – Common Desk operates in Granite Park, Fort Worth, McKinney Square, Dallas Arts District, West End, Energy Square, and Richardson, with day passes accessible across all venues. Enjoy complimentary coffee, fast Wi-Fi, conference rooms, and networking events.

WeWork – Key sites include the Arts District and University Park. Corporate amenities support your productivity away from your home office. Dog-friendly spaces, wellness rooms, and onsite dining (Water Grill at 1920 McKinney Ave) should meet your corporate needs. 

Industrious – Located in One Arts Plaza, Industrious Arts District is easily accessible to highways, downtown, and uptown. Premium features include concierge services, fitness centers, and on-site dining. Soundproof offices and LEED-certified workspaces support focused work. 

NōD Coworking – This North Dallas coworking space does things a little differently. NōD welcomes creative types and independents, specifically video game designers, through its doors. The atmosphere is unsurprisingly upbeat and vibrant. Park for free, and grab a day pass for $20. 

Southern Methodist University – SMU gained notoriety in the 1980s when it received college football’s “death penalty.” That cast a negative cloud over the college, which is a shame because it’s a beautiful campus in the heart of Dallas. A tour of the Meadows Museum can put your mind in the right spot before you settle down in SMU’s ample green space to read through emails or complete miscellaneous tasks.

Old City Park – located just south of Downtown Dallas, Old City Park juxtaposes the city’s humbling beginnings against what it is today. Stroll through the Dallas Heritage Village, which features preserved buildings from a bygone era, fountains, and walking paths. It’s a great place to make a phone call as you soak up some history.

After-Work & Bleisure Plans

Transform your business trip into a bleisure experience. Learn more about the benefits of bleisure travel on our dedicated guide.

Client Entertainment Options

AT&T Stadium Tours – More than just the home of the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium offers self-guided and VIP tours, as well as an art museum and classroom.

Dallas Arts District – World-class performances and exhibitions in one of the largest contiguous arts districts in the nation, featuring the Crow Museum of Asian Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas Opera, Montgomery Arts Theater, and numerous community-driven arts events and settings. It’s perfect for your more culturally minded clients. The Dallas Museum of Art of free, if you’re looking for less expensive ways to entertain business companions. 

Major League Sporting Events – With franchises in the NFL (Cowboys), NBA (Mavericks), NHL (Stars), MLB (Rangers), WNBA (Wings), and MLS (FC Dallas), there are ample opportunities to catch a game while you’re in Dallas. If you find yourself there in the summer, prioritize a trip to Globe Life Field, the sparkling new home of the Texas Rangers.

Quick Recharge Experiences

Klyde Warren Park – An urban green space built over a freeway connecting the downtown Arts District and Uptown, the 5.2-acre Klyde Warren Park hosts numerous events. “The Townsquare of Dallas,” its promenade attracts visitors drawn to its botanical gardens, reading room, event lawn, and interactive water feature. 

The Spa at the Joule – A world-class spa designed for business travelers, the Spa at the Joule offers high-performance skincare treatments and other restorative body care. If your schedule is tight, you can fit in a 30-minute express facial.

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden – Hosting more than 700 weddings and events annually, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens showcase natural beauty across 66 acres. From daffodils and hyacinths in the early spring and tulips in the mid-spring, to cherry blossoms and azaleas in the late spring, it’s a naturalist’s must-see when visiting Dallas from February to May. 

Extending Your Stay

Fort Worth Cultural District – Just 45 minutes from Dallas, the Fort Worth Cultural District claims five world-renowned museums, Dickies Arena, Will Rogers Memorial Center, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, and the top-rated Fort Worth Zoo. The district’s Kimbell Art Museum and National Cowgirl Hall of Fame are also popular attractions. 

Southfork Ranch – Visit the iconic setting for the "Dallas" television series. From tours and horseback riding to curated experiences such as the “Live Like a Ewing” and “Day on the Ranch,” these Texas-sized encounters at Southfork Ranch create memorable extensions.

Grapevine Wine Tours – Explore Texas wineries in nearby Grapevine. Sample vintages from Grapevine’s most acclaimed wineries. These wine tours treat you to aged libations alongside fine art galleries, shops, and restaurants. All-inclusive lunches and dinners are offered.

Dallas Business Travelers Frequently Asked Questions