Your Guide to the Perfect Spring Day Trip
Looking for the ultimate spring escape in Dallas, TX? Dallas gets a bad rap for missing out on natural elements, but the Arboretum would take that personally! It is 66 acres large and right on White Rock Lake. And when you’re staying at SOVA Hotel, located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, you’re perfectly positioned for a refreshing day trip that pairs boutique comfort with botanical brilliance.
This guide will help you plan the perfect spring visit—from how to get there and what’s in bloom, to what to pack, where to eat nearby, and how to wind down back at SOVA. Whether you’re short on time or ready to indulge in a full day of garden-inspired wonder, we’ve mapped it all out for you. We’ll even share insider tips from our team here in Dallas, TX, to ensure your visit is effortless and unforgettable.
Morning Essentials for Starting Your Day in Style at SOVA Hotel
Your spring day trip to the Dallas Arboretum should start with ease, elegance, and maybe a little caffeine.
At SOVA Hotel, our guests love the full coffee menu available in the hotel lobby—a sleek, modern touch that lets you customize your morning exactly how you like it. Enjoy your drink in the calming ambiance of your minimalist room or our thoughtfully designed lounge space. Each room is curated for efficiency and rest, so you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to explore.
Want something heartier? Here are a few walkable breakfast spots our guests frequent:
- The Metropolitan on Main – Classic downtown breakfast with a twist
- Starship Bagels – The best bagels in downtown Dallas.
- The Biscuit Bar in Deep Ellum – Comfort food for morning cravings
- AllGood Cafe – Iconic Texas diner vibes in Deep Ellum
For a comprehensive list of the best breakfast spots in and around Sova Hotel, check out our top breakfast spots near SOVA Hotel.
Fuel up, breathe in that spring air, and get ready to experience one of Dallas’s most beautiful attractions.
The Best Transportation Options to Get to the Arboretum Easily and Stress-Free
Located just eight miles from SOVA Hotel, the Dallas Arboretum is easily reachable via several transportation options. Here’s how to get there—and what to consider for each:
By Car or Rideshare (15–20 minutes)
- Fastest and most flexible option
- Easy pick-up/drop-off at the main entrance
- On-site parking available: $15–$20 (advance online purchase recommended)
By DART Light Rail + Bus
- Take the Green Line from Downtown to White Rock Station
- Transfer to Bus Route 214 or walk 1.5 miles (scenic but only recommended in good weather)
- Cost: Around $6 round trip; great for budget-conscious travelers
By Bike or Scooter
- Adventurous? Rent a scooter or bike for a fun, eco-friendly route via White Rock Trail. That being said, Dallas is an improving bike culture, therefore be cautious!
Pro Tip: Avoid weekday rush hour (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM). For a smooth ride, plan to leave SOVA Hotel by 9:30 AM.
Why May Is the Best Time to See What’s Blooming at the Arboretum
There’s a reason locals and travelers alike say May is the best time to visit the Dallas Arboretum.
Dallas blooms to life in spring—and so do the Arboretum’s 66 acres of meticulously curated gardens. Here’s what to expect:
Featured Gardens in Full Bloom
- Jonsson Color Garden – bursting with tulips, pansies, and snapdragons
- Woman’s Garden – tranquil fountains, architectural symmetry, and vibrant roses
- Trial Gardens – ever-changing with new floral experiments
Seasonal Events
- Cool Thursdays Concert Series – pack a picnic and enjoy live music overlooking White Rock Lake
- Spring Plant Sale – take a piece of the Arboretum home with you
And don’t forget your camera. Whether you’re snapping shots for Instagram or simply soaking in the serenity, May is the Arboretum’s peak season for beauty and fragrance.
The Ideal Half-Day Itinerary at the Dallas Arboretum
If your Dallas itinerary is tight, a half-day visit is absolutely worth it. Here’s a streamlined plan to help you experience the magic without feeling rushed:
Suggested Itinerary (3–4 hours):
- 10:00 AM – Arrive and explore the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden (great for all ages)
- 11:15 AM – Stroll through the Woman’s Garden and relax by the water features
- 12:00 PM – Grab a snack at the Café on the Green (flatbreads, salads, and scenic outdoor seating) or bring along a picnic to enjoy amongst the serenity of the gardens.
- 1:00 PM – Head back to SOVA refreshed and ready for your next adventure
This short visit offers peaceful walking paths, shaded benches, and just the right amount of sensory bliss.
The Ultimate Full-Day Arboretum Experience
For travelers with more time, spending a full day at the Arboretum is an absolute treat. You’ll gain deeper access to nature, art, and local culture.
Suggested Full-Day Itinerary:
- 10:00 AM – Start at the Entry Plaza and pick up a map
- 10:30 AM – Take a Guided Garden Tour (offered daily, included with admission)
- 12:00 PM – Lunch at the DeGolyer Restaurant (New American fare in a historic mansion) or bring along a picnic to enjoy amongst the serenity of the gardens.
- 1:30 PM – Relax under the Magnolia Allee, one of the most peaceful spots on-site
- 3:00 PM – Visit the Trial Gardens or catch an art exhibit
- 4:30 PM – Enjoy a golden-hour stroll near White Rock Lake
Want a little bonus? The on-site gift shop offers Texas-made products perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Your Practical Spring Packing List for the Arboretum Visit
A little preparation goes a long way to ensure your trip is comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s what to bring:
Must-Haves:
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Lightweight layers or a light jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottle (refill stations available)
- Allergy medication (just in case)
Leave Behind:
- Heavy bags or backpacks
- Umbrellas (unless rain is forecasted)
- Printed maps—they’re available on-site and via the Arboretum app
If you’re traveling with kids or elderly guests, don’t worry: stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the main entrance.
Top Local Dining Spots Near the Arboretum You’ll Love
Looking for a delicious dinner or a happy hour drink after your Arboretum visit? These local favorites are within minutes and offer great ambiance:
Top Picks:
- Smoky Rose – Relaxed patio dining with smoked brisket, wood-fired pizzas, and craft cocktails
- Meso Maya – Upscale Tex-Mex near SOVA, known for mole enchiladas and avocado margaritas
- Garden Café – Quiet neighborhood spot with farm-to-table dishes and leafy outdoor seating
Ending Your Day on a High Note and Unwind Back at SOVA
After soaking in the natural splendor of the Arboretum, arriving back at SOVA Hotel offers a soothing return to serenity.
Relax in your room’s peaceful minimalism, or head to our communal lounge for a nightcap and journaling session. If you’re craving something indulgent, we’re happy to recommend nearby spas like Hiatus Spa + Retreat for massage, facials, and spring renewal.
Or, if you’ve still got energy, head to The Majestic Theater to catch a show or check out Deep Ellum for live music and late-night bites—just 5 minutes from the hotel.
Bonus: Pair It With Other Spring Activities for a Weekend of Wonder
Want to stretch your Dallas weekend? Here are some attractions that perfectly complement a spring trip to the Arboretum:
- Klyde Warren Park – Urban greenspace with food trucks and yoga
- Dallas Farmers Market – Artisan vendors, flowers, and local produce
- Sunday Jazz Brunch at The Free Man Cajun Café – Live music and southern comfort food
All are easily accessible from SOVA Hotel, making it your perfect home base for a Dallas spring adventure.
Insider Tips from the SOVA Team
We’ve helped thousands of guests make the most of their Dallas visit. Here are a few of our best local tips:
- Best time to visit: Arrive before 11 AM to beat the heat and crowds
- Don’t miss: The “Texas Skywalk” in the Children’s Adventure Garden—unexpectedly amazing for adults
- Photo tip: Sunset from the A Woman’s Garden Overlook is pure magic
- Travel tip: Buy Arboretum tickets online to skip the line and save a few dollars
When you stay at SOVA, you get more than a room—you get a team that truly wants your Dallas experience to be memorable.
Make SOVA Hotel Your Spring Home Base in Dallas
The Arboretum is the perfect place to celebrate spring! And when you pair that experience with a stay at SOVA Hotel, you’re choosing style, comfort, and effortless access to the best of Dallas.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer getaway, SOVA puts you in the heart of it all with personalized service and unbeatable location. Book your stay today and feel free to reach out to us anytime with further recommendations from locals! Call us at 682.262.6643 to reserve your room or ask for personalized itinerary planning. We’re here to help you bloom in Dallas.
