Historic · Preservationist · Eclectic · Residential
For historic and character-rich estates, head to Old East Dallas. This beautiful, well-established area affords architecturally significant estate homes as well as lively new builds with access to parks. In fact, over 125 years of construction have contributed to the eclectic mix of residences here, including Prairie styles, Craftsmans, and Colonial Revivals.
Flowering crepe myrtles, magnolias, and towering pecan trees, met by wide front porches, friendly faces, and active neighbors, who only add to the appeal, infuse the majority of the neighborhood. With its stately homes, comfortable apartments, and peaceful streets, you won’t even realize Downtown Dallas awaits mere blocks from your door.
Image credit: Matthew T Rader, via Wikimedia Commons
Neighborhood Life
Old East Dallas feels like a tight-knit, small town. Its residents care deeply about protecting the area’s history, while simultaneously keeping an eye towards future growth.
Although best known for the Swiss Avenue Historic District and advocacy group, Preservation Dallas, you can also find new apartments and townhomes cropping up along Henderson and Fitzhugh, making it a great place for renters and buyers of all ages, backgrounds, and price points.
Local Hangouts
Jimmy’s Food Store ranks among the top of Old East Dallas’ most beloved spots. Situated along Bryant Street, this Old East Dallas staple serves up fine delicious Italian meats, sausages, imports, and really good wine.
Take advantage of private weekly tastings in the back of the store – something only customers “in the know” can truly appreciate. Exall Park is another bright spot in the neighborhood, where avid joggers, dog walkers, and bikers enjoy the green space.
Things to know
Old East Dallas is the closest single-family zoned neighborhood to downtown Dallas. The Swiss Avenue Home Tour is one of the most buzzed about events each year, and when the historic district opens its doors for an up close and personal look at the grand and stately architecture of a bye-gone era, curious Dallasites come in droves.
Other historic districts to add to your house hunt should include the ever popular Munger Place, Junius Heights, and Peak’s Suburban Addition.