Bishop Arts District Shopping (Self Guided), Dallas

The Bishops Arts district is located in the heart of North Oak Cliff and is considered to be the best pedestrian area in the entire city. There are more than 60 independent boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, bars and art galleries in the neighborhood, which has a warm and inviting small-town feel.

Turn the clock back to the 1920s and '30s and the area is just getting on its feet, originally developed for warehouses and shops. It was famously the site of the city's busiest trolley stop in the 1930s. Following a period of decline, the area started to get back on its feet from the 1980s and today is a superb location to while away the hours.

View the work of up-and-coming and established artists in a gallery, then stop for refreshments in a welcoming bar or restaurant. There is also some very good shopping here with stores selling clothes, pet supplies and items for the home. Periodically throughout the year there are a number of cultural events on the streets of this shopping and entertainment district, such as concerts and festivals.

The neighborhood was once billed as the best kept secret in Dallas, but that is no longer apt. The secret is well and truly out, because many locals and tourists regularly come here to shop, dine and unwind.