Things To Do
in Southlake
Southlake, Texas is a prosperous Dallas–Fort Worth suburb known for its top-rated schools, master-planned neighborhoods, and a lively Town Square. The city blends family-friendly parks with upscale shopping, dining, and community events in a walkable, tree-lined center. It sits just northwest of Dallas, with easy access to major highways and the lake-lined countryside of Grapevine.
Visitors will find a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that highlights suburban Texas hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at the iconic Café Italia, where you can savor their freshly brewed coffee and traditional pastries. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Southlake Town Square, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant storefronts. Don't forget to stop by some local boutiques to pick up unique souvenirs.
In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Southlake Historical Society, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits. Following the museum, head over to the nearby Bicentennial Park for a relaxing picnic under the majestic oak trees. Take advantage of the walking trails to explore the beautiful natural surroundings and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at the renowned Taverna Rossa, famous for its artisanal pizzas and craft beers. After your meal, enjoy a serene evening stroll around the Town Square, where you can enjoy live music or local performances. Finish your day with a sweet treat from one of the nearby ice cream shops.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at First Watch, known for its farm-to-table approach and fresh ingredients. After breakfast, drive to the nearby Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve, where you can hike the scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species as you explore this peaceful natural habitat.
Post-lunch, embark on a guided nature walk offered by the center to deepen your knowledge about the local ecosystem and wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you learn about the importance of conservation and preservation. Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscapes and vibrant wildlife along the trails.
As dusk approaches, return to Southlake and enjoy dinner at the elegant Brio Italian Grille, where you can indulge in authentic Italian dishes. After your meal, unwind at a local brewery, such as the Southlake Beer Garden, to sample regional craft beers. Share stories of your day's adventures as you relax under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in town center | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-220 |
| 🛒Groceries per person per week | $60-100 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, clean, and family-friendly
- Excellent shopping and dining options in Town Square
- Nightlife is limited compared to nearby urban centers
- Heavily car-dependent outside the Town Square area
Places to Visit in Southlake
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic water features and contemporary architecture provide dynamic reflections and evening lighting for urban photography.
Shaded paths, open lawns, and a pond create serene nature shots and candid family scenes.
Waterfront vistas, especially at sunset, for wide-angle landscape photos.
Wooded trails, creekside scenes, and wildlife for nature photography.
Modern architecture with strong lines and reflections ideal for architectural and street photography.
Food in Southlake
Southlake Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, typically served with pickles, onions, and fresh bread.
Must-Try!
Sizzling marinated beef or chicken with peppers and onions, served with warm tortillas, guacamole, and salsa.
Crispy breaded beef cutlet crowned with creamy gravy, a Texas comfort classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, local honey, jams, baked goods, and small bites from nearby farmers and artisans.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Texans are known for warmth; a friendly greeting, a quick hello, and a polite handshake are common in business and social settings.
Be on time for meetings and reservations; being five to ten minutes early is respectful.
Smart-casual is widely accepted in many venues; upscale places may expect a more polished look.
People are generally friendly but value personal space; avoid overly loud conversations in quiet venues.
Safety
Tipping in Southlake
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, a tip of 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service in restaurants. Rounding up for smaller tabs or exceptional service is common. Bellhops, valet, and bar staff typically expect tips as well.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always an option. Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common, and many venues offer online or app-based payment options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with highs often in the 90s–100s °F (32–38 °C). Hydration, sunscreen, and shade are essential; seek indoor attractions during peak heat and take advantage of evenings on sidewalks and patios.
Pleasant and mild with colorful foliage. Great for outdoor walks, park visits, and photographing autumn scenery.
Generally mild with cold snaps possible. Snow is rare; layering is wise for cooler mornings and evenings.
Warm days with blooming landscapes and increased outdoor activities; watch for seasonal rain showers.
Southlake at Night
Hiking in Southlake
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested, well-marked trails suitable for easy to moderate hikes and wildlife viewing.
Waterfront and bluff trails with scenic views around the lake.
Airports
How to reach Southlake by plane.
Major international hub about 20–25 miles from Southlake with multiple terminals, car rentals, rideshares, and airport amenities.
Smaller, closer airport serving primarily domestic flights; roughly 20–30 miles from Southlake.
Regional airport offering general aviation and some commercial service; convenient for quick trips to the area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, well-educated residential base with strong school systems and community activities.
Many commuters and local professionals who work in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex.
Growing representation of Hispanic, Asian, and other communities contributing to the area's cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and college football are popular locally, with strong community support and events in the region.
Seasonal leagues and school programs provide frequent basketball action.
Several quality public and private courses in the broader area make golf a favored pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southlake.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Southlake’s restaurants typically offer generous vegetarian options, including salads, veggie pastas, grilled vegetables, and meatless entrees. When ordering, request substitutions (no egg, no meat stock) and ask for lighter sauces to fit dietary needs. Many places can accommodate dairy-free requests with advance notice.