See This, Skip That: Dallas

March 23, 2014— -- Dallas is the third-largest city in the Lone Star State (after Houston and San Antonio). But it’s at the epicenter of what makes much of Texas buzz: thriving arts, vibrant foods and hot nights. A Dallas visit means a spectrum of experiences, from the historic to the contemporary. And with these unique stops, it can be extra memorable, too.

Do the Float, Skip the MassageThis is no ordinary spa. Located in the north Dallas neighborhood of Preston Hollow, Adrift touts itself as the city’s only state-of-the-art float facility. When you enter your private flotation cabin, you’re enveloped by ten inches of water and more than half a ton of Epsom salts – a purported purveyor of pain relief, improved circulation and enhanced quality of sleep. Hour-sessions -- for singles or couples -- keep you lying suspended and seemingly weightless, encouraging complete physical and mental relaxation. Ask to customize your lighting and music during your float.

Fasten Your Seatbelts, Skip the RestaurantDate night just got a lot easier, and a lot more thrilling. Delta Charlie’s takes the dinner experience to new heights by offering a gourmet meal and a flight for dessert. The eatery features a varied menu of American and Southwestern specialties, from Texas rib eye to tostada nachos, and a fully stocked bar. Aprés -dinner, come aboard for a customized flight over Dallas at dusk, taking in sights like that glittering downtown skyline, Cowboys Stadium and Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Delta Charlie’s is located at Dallas Executive Airport, just south of downtown Dallas off Highway 67.

See Art, Skip the GymInstead of doing reps at the hotel gym, take a walk. Public ArtWalk Dallas is actually promoted as a healthy lifestyle choice – a self-guided 3.3-mile walk that takes you to 30 pieces of art and architecture in the heart of downtown. Highlights include the Nasher Sculpture Center, Main Street Garden and the Dallas Museum of Art, as well as several statues. Buildings of architectural interest include the Magnolia Hotel and the Dallas City Hall. Public ArtWalk Dallas encompasses the Dallas Arts District, which, at 68 acres across 19 contiguous blocks, is the largest arts district in the country. This is Texas, after all.

Hit Hubbard, Skip the TrackAnother cool way to break a sweat is on the waters of Lake Ray Hubbard, a reservoir that straddles Interstate 30 northeast of downtown. The father-daughter team of Dave and Marie Kroll has turned their love for kayaking into a business – Kayak Instruction Inc. – and lead small groups on kayak nature tours along the Texas Paddling Trail to spot bald eagles, great blue herons and coyotes. Hubbard also attracts many a budding fisherman, with its abundant populations of bass and catfish.