As the saying goes, everything’s bigger in Texas—and Dallas is the perfect embodiment of this phrase. As home to the biggest state fair in the country, the world’s tallest cowboy, and (unofficially) the largest patio chair, it only makes sense for Dallas to host the premier annual conference for Smart Business Buying: Amazon Business Reshape 2024.

This year’s conference will center on the growing role procurement leaders play at their organizations. At Amazon Business Reshape 2024, you’ll engage with innovative minds in procurement technology, finance, and strategy to discuss how to navigate the most complex challenges across the procurement landscape and how to tackle its biggest opportunities. 

While you may head to Dallas for this year’s Amazon Business Reshape, we know we’re not the only rodeo in town…literally. In addition to barrel racing and bull riding, you can experience Dallas’ rich arts and culture, green spaces, and an impressive food scene that lives up to the state’s bigger-is-better mantra.

As you plan your trip to Dallas, here are some of the best recommendations from our Texas-based Amazonians.

Arts, culture, and attractions 

The Dallas Arts District is the largest contiguous arts district in the nation, stretching over 20 city blocks. The cultural hub features a variety of museums, performing arts venues, and galleries, including the Dallas Museum of Arts, Crow Collection of Asian Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, and the AT&T Performing Arts Center, home to the Winspear Opera House and the Wyly Theatre

Beyond the Dallas Arts District, there are many other attractions worth a visit:

• Experience Dallas from above at the GeO-Deck of Reunion Tower, which provides 360-degree views of Dallas’ skyline and landmarks.
• Pay tribute to the history of Texas' cattle industry at the Dallas Cattle Drive Sculptures in Pioneer Plaza. This iconic landmark features 49 larger-than-life bronze sculptures depicting trail bosses, Black cowboys, vaqueros, and the iconic Texas longhorns.
• If you’re a history buff, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must-visit. Located in the former Texas School Book Depository, the museum offers an in-depth look at the life, assassination, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
• Dallas has phenomenal shopping as well (it's actually where Neiman Marcus started). Visit NorthPark Center for a mix of luxury brands and popular retailers, the Neiman Marcus flagship store downtown for an iconic shopping experience, or Highland Park Village for upscale boutiques and designer shops.

BBQ, Tex-Mex, and so much more

Dallas has plenty of options when it comes to Texas staples like barbecue, steaks, and Tex-Mex. But the city also offers a wide array of international cuisines and diverse dining experiences.

• If you’re looking for your fix of mouth-watering barbecue, head to Pecan Lodge, named one of the Top BBQ joints in the world by Texas Monthly. You can also get your fill of Central Texas-style smoked brisket, ribs, and sausages at Lockhart Smokehouse or watch BBQ pros in action at the open pit area at Terry Black’s BBQ.
• For a taste of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, check out El Fenix, Dallas' oldest restaurant, which has been innovating and showcasing Tex-Mex cuisine since 1918. You can’t go wrong with other Dallas hotspots like Javier's Gourmet Mexicano, Las Palmas, and Meso Maya Comida y Copas.
• Did you know Dallas is the birthplace of the frozen margarita? The frozen cocktail was invented by Dallas restaurateur Mariano Martinez in 1971. With that historical trivia in mind, embark on the Margarita Mile, a self-guided tour of the city’s top margarita spots.
• If you’ve satisfied your craving for BBQ and tacos, explore the diversity of Dallas’ vibrant food scene. Check out the Bishop Arts District, an eclectic area packed with unique restaurants, bars, and cafes, walk through Knox Henderson, known for its sophisticated and trendy dining options, or pop by one of the many delicious food trucks parked around the city. (Honorary mention to the Truck Yard, a bar garden with a huge backyard, live music, and food trucks).

Parks and outdoor recreation

Soak up the Texas sun at one of many green spaces located throughout the city, including:

• The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden, a 66-acre haven on the shores of White Rock Lake. This spot is perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and admiring the arboretum's diverse collection of native Texas flora and species from around the globe.
• Klyde Warren Park is a lush green space in the heart of downtown Dallas that features playgrounds, a variety of restaurants, live music performances, and dog-friendly areas.
• The historic Katy Trail, which traces the path of an old railroad line for 3.5 miles through lush nature and seasonal blooms. The trail is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging—stop at the Katy Trail Ice House for a meal or drink.

Music, entertainment, and nightlife

Dallas is a bustling city for live music, dancing, entertainment, and, of course, football. Whether you’re looking to catch a local show or try your hand at line dancing, there’s no shortage of fun.

• Listen to country music at the Rustic, which features weekly live music, or visit the Granada Theater, a cozy venue that’s hosted the likes of Willie Nelson, the Wu-Tang Clan, and Adele.
• Hit the dance floor at one of many hotspots in the Deep Ellum neighborhood, grab a drink at the Midnight Rambler or Honor Bar, show off your line-dancing skills at Cowboys Red River, or visit one of the best gay country western dance halls in the country, Round-Up Saloon.
• Texans love football and there’s no better place to watch a game than AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys—and former stomping ground of this year’s Amazon Business Reshape keynote speaker Emmitt Smith. The Cowboys play at home the Sunday before this year’s conference (good timing). Even if you can’t make the game, a tour of the massive stadium is well worth the visit.
• If you're staying in town after the conference, the Texas State Fair opens on Friday, September 27. Enjoy entertainment like the Fair Park Rodeo, pig races, and live performances, and indulge in the famous Fletcher’s corny dog and other classic fair foods.

We’ll see you in Dallas

We’re thrilled to take Amazon Business Reshape to the heart of Texas. Early registration for this year’s conference is open—register now to reserve your spot at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel September 24-25, and before early bird pricing closes.

We can’t wait to see you and so many other procurement and business leaders in Dallas—and all over this great city—for Amazon Business Reshape 2024!