City Guide / Dallas

Dallas Neighborhood Guide: Richardson

By Bri Hand | Jul 27, 2021
The Prairie Creek Waterfall in Richardson, Texas

If you’re planning a move to Dallas, TX, you’re likely trying to figure out the best neighborhoods in Dallas, and which one would be the right fit for you. Right outside Dallas and Plano is the city of Richardson, TX, a more affluent suburb that is known for its balance between urban and suburban vibes. 

Located in Dallas County, Richardson is a great spot for families and young professionals alike, with restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, along with fantastic parks and other family-friendly activities. And, best of all, you’re never too far from all the hustle and bustle of Dallas! 

Thinking about moving to Richardson? Here’s our guide to the best restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, outdoor attractions, gyms, nightlife, and transportation in the neighborhood. 

Where to go out to eat in Richardson

There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat around the city, no matter what kind of cuisine is calling your name. Experience some fine fireside dining at The Fifth: Fireside Patio and Bar, which boasts delicious cocktails, fresh food, and a stellar patio space. We recommend trying the Smoked Short Rib paired with Bacon Mac and Cheese and Poblano and Cheddar Grits. Add a Strawberry Basil Rum Lemonade to the mix, and you’ve got yourself the perfect night out! 

Want a good old-fashioned burger? Hit up Olive Burger Richardson on Arapaho Road for mouth-watering hamburgers, cheeseburgers, and Beyond burgers. Locals also love Monta Ramen, a Japanese noodle house that serves Kurume-style ramen with a wide array of toppings to choose from. 

Get a taste of the ocean at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, which serves New Orleans-inspired seafood and delicious tropical cocktails. You can also get your taco fix at OMG Tacos, a Mexican eatery open into the wee hours of the morning. Their OMG Chicken, Steak, and Pork Tacos will blow your mind! 

Where to get groceries in Richardson

This community is home to plenty of grocery stores, so it will be always easy to get your weekly shopping done or pick up an item or two. Check out Sprouts Farmers Market, ALDI, Walmart Neighborhood Market, and Tom Thumb, and consider grabbing your organic picks at A-Z Food Grocery on East Spring Valley Road. 

If you’re cooking Asian cuisine, be sure to stop by Hong Kong Market or Good Fortune Supermarket on Greenville Avenue. 

Where to get coffee in Richardson

I Love UA Latte is a wonderful coffee shop to get your caffeine fix and some work done, as the cafe encourages customers to stick around with its comfortable seating and a calm atmosphere. Try their Purple Hazel latte with lavender and hazelnut, or the Crimson Cream latte with rose and vanilla. 

The Communion Neighborhood Cooperative is a cafe, coworking space, and event venue all in one, and is considered a great place to meet new people and network. This cafe serves all your favorite coffee and espresso drinks, along with delicious chai lattes. 

You’ll love Magic Cup Cafe, which serves espresso drinks, specialty coffees, frappes, fruit smoothies, and bubble tea. We recommend adding the Honey Caramel Latte to your must-try list! There are also multiple Starbucks locations throughout the city to choose from, so you can expect to find one nearby wherever you wind up moving. 

Outdoor attractions in Richardson

Spend a hot Texas afternoon at Cottonwood Park, a gorgeous green space with a pond, playground, and walking and jogging paths. Another popular area is Prairie Creek Park and its ultimate attraction, the Prairie Creek Waterfall. Snap some pics of this natural oasis in the middle of the city, and have a picnic nearby amid the soothing sound of running water. 

Other top spots to walk around include the Spring Creek Nature Area, Duck Creek Linear Park, the Galatyn Woodland Preserve, and Breckinridge Park.

Need to cool off? Head to the Heights Family Aquatic Center on Arapaho Road, where you and the kids can splash around to your heart’s content and survive those famous 100-degree days in Texas. 

Local gyms in Richardson

Sneaking a workout into your daily routine is a breeze in this part of Texas, with multiple gyms to choose from throughout the city. You can sign up for a gym membership at Anytime Fitness, LA Fitness, and Gold’s Gym Richardson for all your favorite cardio machines and weights. YouFit Health Clubs offers members state-of-the-art equipment and puts on classes such as Zumba, Hip-Hop Cardio, and yoga. 

The Huffhines Recreation Center on North Plano Road is a favorite among locals, with a full-size gym, cardio and circuit equipment, an outdoor play area, and a sauna. And, if you’re into CrossFit, definitely check out CrossFit Richardson.

Nightlife in Richardson

TGIF! You don’t need to go all the way into Dallas for a great night out. The Tavern on Main Street is a casual pub with live music, foosball, karaoke, and even poker! Or, check out Austin Avenue II, a sports bar known for its pool tables and dartboards.  

Craft beer enthusiasts love Four Bullets Brewery, and you can really get in the spirit at Lockwood Distilling Co., which creates its own whiskey, bourbon cream liqueur, gin, vodka, and rum. 

Pair your night out on this Texas town with a little competition at Free Play Arcade, a barcade featuring retro arcade games, an extensive beer list, and daily specials. 

Things to do in Richardson

The Charles W. Eisemann Center for the Performing Arts is a top attraction, featuring all types of performances, from comedy to concerts to Broadway productions. You’ll also enjoy the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, a bar and movie theater combo showing all the latest flicks. 

You can get the best of everything at CityLine, a new mixed-use development space with dining, entertainment, and retail options. Stay for a concert, or spend an afternoon biking around the various trails in the area. 

Texas locals also love the Richardson Public Library and Richardson Farmer’s Market

Transportation in Richardson

The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system operates within Richardson, so you’ll be able to get around using its bus, light rail, and interurban commuter rail services. There are several DART rail stations located right in the area, including the Spring Valley Station, Galatyn Park, the Arapaho Center, and the Bush Turnpike Center. 

If you bring your own car to Texas, you’ll be pleased to know that this city is located close to two major highways: the President George Turnpike and U.S. 75.

This city is also known to be very bike-friendly, with bike-specific lanes you can use to get around town. 

Land in a great apartment in Richardson

If you like the idea of moving to Richardson, TX, Landing offers fully furnished apartments with flexible lease terms, concierge services, seamless transfers, and all the amenities you need. Browse our available apartments in Richardson, or contact us to learn more about how Landing works.

Still looking for the right Dallas neighborhood for you? Browse our Dallas neighborhood guides, including:

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Bri Hand

Bri Hand is Landing's Content Marketing Manager. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts, with her partner and dog, Arlo, but relishes any opportunity she can to travel so she can try new foods, see gorgeous sights, and daydream about living somewhere new after visiting there for less than 24 hours.