What to Do in Oak Lawn
Home to Dallas' LGBT community and one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods in the country, Oak Lawn gives off a trendy vibe amongst its diverse and quaint homes.
Use our guide to the neighborhood to plan your next outing! While we've mentioned a few spots here, there are so many more to explore! Head out and find your new favorites - and tag @VisitDallas on Instagram when you make it there.
Dallas Pride is the mecca of LGBTQ events in North Texas. Join us for a weekend of incredible events, fellowship and fun. And, don't even think about missing the Alan Ross Freedom Parade - it happens each September.
This major halloween happens every October, and thousands come out to celebrate. The event features a costume promenade, with live commentary, music, food, beer and other refreshments offered at seven service booths. Be sure to catch the Live DJ and featured Rose Room performances in the back lot! Admission to the street party is free and all ages are welcome.
Without a doubt, Purple Party one of the best dance parties in the world! The event grows each year in size and influence and has put Dallas on the map as a destination for gay men and women who want to spend an amazing weekend in a BIG city.
There's always a party at one of the many LGBT-geared bars and clubs on Cedar Springs. Grab happy hour drinks at JR's Bar & Grill, or Woody's. Dance the night away at S4, Sue Ellen's, or TMC. Two-step with the cowboys of The Round-Up Saloon. Or take in one of the elaborate drag shows at the Rose Room inside S4.
Woody's is known for its daily entertaining shows from comedy to karaoke to themed nights and sing-alongs – there's something for everyone every night of the week! And if you're into sports, this sports bar is always showing the latest games on the big screen, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds caching a game and a show all in the same night.
Sue Ellen's is one of the only lesbian clubs in the country. With two floors of fun for dancing, concerts, games and more. Relax at the main bar and enjoy tunes from Dallas' best talent. The monthly live music lineup is sure to impress, so expect to be entertained every weekend.
This country-western saloon and dance hall offers a spacious atmosphere with various rooms and bars throughout. Take a round on the dance floor, showing off your best two-step moves, or sing your heart out during karaoke. There's also a game room and an outdoor patio to cool off and take a break from the crowds.
If you're feeling the nightclub vibe, Station 4 is the place to go! This club is massive, utilizing its 24,000-square feet of space with more than 15 drink stations, a large patio and a theater and lounge with nightly shows. So hit the dance floor, enjoy tunes from the city's best DJ's and check out a late-night drag show.
Step foot inside Texas' most successful gay club at JR's. This bar and grill has a long history of pleasing its patrons with heavy drinks and good times. Pick a spot on the upstairs patio for great views and enjoy your favorite cocktail with a pair of light bites from the bar. It's also the best place in town to catch RuPauls drag race when it's in season and is often hosted by one of Dallas' best local drag queens.
The neighborhood is filled with all types of dining experiences and food options to fit any mood. From fast-casual options like La Ventana for street tacos, to a traditional diner-style menu at Lucky's, there's something for everyone.
Featured in our Oak Lawn episode of the DTX neighborhood series, Lucky's is an established landmark in the gayborhood. It features a menu that prides itself on creations from locally sourced ingredients and they serve brunch all day so you can treat your cravings any time of day.
A fast-casual taco spot featuring a variety of simple street taco creations. But the simplicity is not a tradeoff for flavor - each of their tacos is a tasty experience, especially if paired with the fresh guacamole, queso or a cup of elotes.
Eclectic and modern, this Tex-Mex hotspot has a full bar, patio seating and some of the best tacos in the neighborhood. There's a photo op with the VW bus in the parking lot and plenty more Instagram worthy food options on the menu like their Tex-Mex Toast on the brunch menu.
With a combination of sushi, Chinese and Vietnamese options, Oishii is a local favorite. It's been around for more than 20 years and has quite the fan base.
We can honestly say this is the best burger joint between Oak Lawn and Throckmorton, and not just because it's the only one. Hunky's is a classical diner style burger shop with milkshakes and baked goods to go along side.