About 10 miles west of Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport, Southlake, Texas, occupies an enviable spot on the map. But easy access to big-city life isn’t all this Dallas suburb has to offer. You’ll find a lot of variety when it comes to things to do in Southlake, an enjoyable, small Texas town.
On Foot
Located in the Cross Timbers ecosystem, Bob Jones Nature Center is home to a variety of tree species, wildflowers and other vegetation. Photo Credit: Abigail Diggs
With 20-plus miles of trails winding through the Cross Timbers ecosystem, Bob Jones Nature Center is one of the top things to do in Southlake and gives visitors the opportunity to explore the Lone Star State’s landscape. While hiking the 0.8-mile Bluebird Trail, I try to watch for giant swallowtail butterflies and yellow-rumped warbler songbirds. The center hosts a variety of events, from gardening days to an annual photography contest, so check the website’s calendar before you go. For more greenery, head to Bicentennial Park, a family-friendly spot with tennis courts, playgrounds and a baseball field.
Ready to swap two feet for four? Marshall Creek Ranch offers horseback riding lessons and trail rides. The ranch regularly books up, so I’d recommend making a reservation first.
Experience Friday night lights in Texas
Love of football is part of being a Texan, and if you live in Southlake, chances are you’re a born-and-bred fan of the high school team, the Dragons. To experience this fandom and get a feel for what high school football is really like in the Longhorn State, one of the things to do in Southlake is head over to Carroll High School for a showdown at Dragon Stadium. There’s nothing quite like high school football in Texas, and I love seeing whole towns turn out to show off their school pride.
After witnessing gridiron glory, head over to Southlake Town Square. The one-stop shopping and retail destination features more than 120 stores and dozens of dining options. At Mi Cocina, a beloved local chain, grab Tex-Mex (I suggest the brisket tacos) and a jalapeno-agave margarita, or try a burger and shake at Hopdoddy. You can also catch a blockbuster or indie flick at the Harkins movie theater.
Dig in to Southlake’s best cuisine
Owned by the Lafavers family, Feedstore BBQ has been supplying Southlake with tasty barbecue since 2001. Photo Credit: Feedstore BBQ
From Thai to Italian, Southlake’s food options span the globe. After starting the day off with banana-nut pancakes or lingonberry crepes at Mango’s Breakfast Brunch, grab an afternoon pick-me-up at Buon Giorno Coffee. For dinner, Malai Kitchen specializes in Southeast Asian cuisine, with dishes like stir-fried glass noodles and yellow curry. If you’re craving Italian, the chic Il Calabrese delivers a taste of Italy through entrees like asparagus risotto and seafood bucatini.
One thing I appreciate about Texas is that everyone has their own fiercely held opinion about which barbecue joint reigns supreme. In Southlake, you can’t go wrong with Feedstore BBQ. Since Bill and Phyllis Lafavers opened up shop in 2001, the family-owned operation has been serving its famous pork ribs and flavorful brisket in a building that got its start as a feed store in the 1950s. Don’t skip the sides—the mashed taters and gravy are a favorite.
Southlake is home to one of Central Market’s nine Texas locations. Photo Credit: Central Market
Eager to get in the kitchen yourself? Then one of your top things to do in Southlake should be to visit Central Market, a Texas-based gourmet grocery store chain with specialties from all over the world. Sign up for one of the store’s cooking classes—which sharpen everything from your knife skills to your eye for local ingredients. I always make an effort to swing by for their annual Hatch Chile Festival, held every August. It’s fun to see (and sample!) the new treats that get a spicy update—think everything from cheesecake to beer!
Written by Melissa Flandreau
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