March 2012

All-Star Views

Whether you’re looking for jaw-dropping aerial views or close-up glimpses of natural habitats, Northern Texas has it all. Spring is the perfect time to experience the state’s top vistas.
 
Located on the 27th floor of the Hilton Anatole hotel in Dallas, Nana is a restaurant where the views and the food are equally unforgettable. With a simple glance through one of the windows overlooking downtown Dallas, you’ll understand why Nana was voted one of America's “Top 50 Restaurants” by Gourmet magazine and the 2011 OpenTable.com “Diners’ Choice” winner. Whether you go during the day or for the evening sunset, the panoramic views – along with the food, service and décor – promise not to disappoint. See the complete menu and photo gallery at www.nanarestaurant.com.
 
If you’re looking for a natural oasis in the Wichita Falls city center, head to the 178-acre Lucy Park. The grounds are positioned at a bend of the beautiful Wichita River, alongside grand cottonwood and pecan trees. Take the 1.7-mile trail to see the best views in the park including a pond frequented by waterfowl and a swinging bridge that stretches across the Big Wichita River. Fifteen acres of Lucy Park are dedicated to the River Bend Nature Center where exhibits and gardens entertain and educate guests of all ages. Get a look at Texas nature at its best in the Center’s Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. The 7,000-square-foot state-of-the-art glass structure is filled with colorful butterflies, as well as native wildflowers and trees from the Rolling Plains. Check the calendar of events at http://riverbendnaturecenter.wordpress.com for exclusive Nature Center happenings. For more about the natural wonders of Lucy Park, visit www.wichitafallstx.gov/?NID=69.
 
In Texas, not all residents and visitors go to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to catch a flight. Founders’ Plaza is a surprisingly serene place where you can have a picnic and watch different types of aircraft take off and land. The Plaza’s observation areaprovides telescopes for close-up viewing, as well as historic information, a commemorative monument and a radio that broadcasts air traffic control communications from the FAA tower. A sculpture of children watching planes in the sky also beautifies the grounds. See photos and read about the history of this one-of-a-kind landmark at www.dfwairport.com/founders/index.php.
 
Northern Texas offers great views – start exploring and watch as the state comes into full bloom this spring.