Photo gallery: Ridin’ the new DART rail ‘round Dallas

by Casandra Haynes

DALLAS — Many people in the world are trying to find more ways to “go green” -- and those in Dallas-Fort Worth are trying to find easier means of transportation. Enter DART, North Texas' light rail that will move thousands of individuals north and south on Interstate 35 -- all the way through downtown Dallas to Fair Park.

On September 14, DART officially opens the Southeast portion of the Green Line rail, finished just in time for the State Fair of Texas, which opens September 25. The sections open to the public are: West End, Victory, Deep Ellum, Baylor University Medical Center, Fair Park, MLK Jr. (You'll be able to ride the southernmost stops on the Green Line -- Hatcher, Lawnview, Lake June, and Buckner – in December 2010.)

And who likes to sit at the bus station? All six stations that are open as of September 14 have ample opportunities to hop off for museums, parks, restaurants, and drinks. Some are kid-friendly; others are geared more towards artists or adults on a date. You'll notice that most have no parking spaces available, with the exception of the MLK Station. So hop on the Green Line and ride on into town.

West End: The Downtown Station

Parking spaces available? No

When you get on the train in this area, it has an old downtown marketplace feel. There are many restaurants including the popular Hard Rock Cafe, recently opened to much fanfare. Other places are available for family amusement: the Old Red Museum, which houses historic art, fossils and exhibits; the marketplace, a great place for concerts, shopping, and dining; and small shops sprinkled throughout the area. West End could also be a nice area for a casual first date -- including interesting activities during the day and a healthy (read: drinking) nightlife.

Victory: The Vacant Station

Parking spaces available? No

American Airlines Center, one of the more popular facilities in Dallas, is located near this station. Nearby are Katy Trail, Ghostbar atop the W Hotel, and empty storefronts that once held overpriced boutique merchandise. Since this station has been open for a few years now (previously for special events only), it comes as no surprise that sporting events at the American Airlines Center is one of the few reasons to come. For those who like cycling and walking trails, it might be worth a jaunt.

Deep Ellum: The Artsy Station

Parking spaces available? No

Deep Ellum is a historical place filled with music and culture. This is the best station for the young and artistic to stop by. Many historic buildings surround this district and other small shops are just walking distance away.

Photographers, models, and other visual artists take advantage of the “old” look of Deep Ellum: It's decorated with murals (such as the new Art Park near the DART station) and graffiti, giving it a jazzy downtown vibe.

Also nearby is the newly-opened Trees.

Baylor University Medical Center: The Sanitary Station

Parking spaces available? No

There ain't much to do here, but if you need medical attention, this is the block for you. Here, Baylor has close branches of the hospital, such as Baylor University Dental School and Baylor Adult Outpatient Therapy Clinic. There is also a fitness center nearby.

It's strange that there's no parking, but here's the consolation prize: Baylor is still fairly close to Deep Ellum, so the entertainment isn't too far away.

Fair Park: The Festive Station

Parking spaces available? No

During the fall, you will get the most entertainment at this station. The State Fair of Texas is located here, along with Broadway shows, car shows, football games at the Cotton Bowl, the Dallas Museum of Nature and Science, and various games and fun for people of all ages. This is definitely a place where the entire family can have a good time, provided that you're ready to spend some money.

Plus, it's the perfect opportunity to eat fried butter.

MLK, Jr.: The Cultural Station

Parking spaces available: 205 spaces

Unlike the other stations, MLK is a family-oriented community. Surrounding this station is a community center, a library and learning center, a senior center, and a health center named after Martin Luther King, Jr. It also has many facilities geared toward the African American community, such as a woman's leadership school and a chamber of commerce. To those from up north, the MLK station is culture shock for people who've never been -- so many find it to be more enjoyable during the day than at night.

Spend a Saturday riding the rails and exploring these fun stops. In December 2010, the Green line will extend north to Carrollton, providing a cheap and efficient way to travel. By then, Dallas will be connected with 28 miles of green rails -- a significant accomplishment for the North Texas area.

• Staff
• Verified User
• Anonymous